Chapter 2101 - The Shocking “Truth” Divine Limit Realm used to be known as level ten Divine Extinction Realm, but over time, no one in the Abyss was able to become a True God via cultivation once more. That was why level ten Divine Extinction Realm was viewed as the absolute limit one could reach via cultivation and was re-named the Divine Limit Realm. The ten levels of Divine Extinction Realm were reduced to nine levels, and the Divine Limit Realm itself was split into nine minor levels. Every time someone overcame a minor level, they were getting ever closer to godhood with their mortal shells, yet never reaching it. This was why the nine minor levels of the Divine Limit Realm, despite being the hardest levels to increase out of all cultivation levels, did not boast as big of a gap and difference compared to other cultivation realms. Even so, the gaps between the minor levels were by no means easy to overcome, not to mention that Yuchi Nanxing was just a level three Divine Limit Realm profound practitioner, and the Ancestral Abyssal God a level nine peak Divine Limit Realm abyssal beast with many times more mass than Yuchi Nanxing, and the advantage of abyssal dust to boot!Boom— The star formation on his body crumbled and mended itself again and again. Every time he struggled, the world groaned at the calamity he wrought.Crack! Finally, Yuchi Nanxing was able to inflict a rather sizable crack between the Abyssal Qilin God’s scales, but before he could even catch a breather, he noticed that the crack was healing at a visible rate and plummeted into despair. As if that wasn’t enough, his attacks were damaging his own body and organs with every discharge. Although the battlefield was taking place at the edge of the Endless Fog and so boasted a much thinner concentration of abyssal dust compared to the inner regions, it was still within the Endless Fog. The abyssal dust was suppressing his strength and spiritual perception from all sides while empowering an abyssal beast with endless strength and “life force”. “A futile struggle.” The Fog Monarch’s voice resounded once more, but this time it sounded like it came from the distant sky and the bottom of his soul at the same time. Not even Yuchi Nanxing was able to tell where the voice was coming from. “I have only ‘awakened’ for a decade, and I have never carelessly taken a life. Not only that, I have saved countless living beings from perishing to abyssal corruption. You, on the other hand, massacred countless innocent people just to escape! As expected of a knight of a filthy land! As expected of the so-called ‘Pure Land’ of sin and corruption!” Every word the Fog Monarch spoke was the worst blasphemy against an abyssal knight’s ultimate faith. Naturally, Yuchi Nanxing’s fury was so great that it nearly punched through his skull. His eyes shone with starlight as he channeled his profound energy, but right before he could rebuke the Fog Monarch, his clearing vision suddenly centered on something that stole his breath away. He saw a tattered ground covered in cracks and crevices. He saw many wet patches of scarlet blood and even more corpses. Not a single body was intact. His eyes widened as he abruptly turned his head. There at the distance, he saw less than half of the hundreds of thousands of profound practitioners who followed him to this place. Where did the other half go? They were dead, of course. Most of the survivors were carrying wounds and wearing shocked, fearful expressions on their faces. Even Bai Yu had blood dripping down the corners of his lips. However, unlike everyone else, the man was stubbornly getting close despite being thrown far, far away by the shockwaves earlier. For an instant, Yuchi Nanxing’s mind turned completely blank. These people were clearly dead or injured by his desperate outbursts and attempts to break free from the Abyssal Qilin God! An abyssal knight should possess a noble soul, be fair and impartial, loathe evil, tolerate no impurities, and above all else, judge a sinner and only a sinner! They must never indiscriminately kill innocent people! But today... he... That one moment of mental breakdown stopped Yuchi Nanxing from unleashing the full power he had been gathering. In fact, it was dissipating by the second. It was at this moment the Abyssal Qilin God broke its momentary silence. Eyes flashing with deep, otherworldly light, its vast and unparalleled power of destruction abruptly surged into its massive tail and exploded from Yuchi Nanxing’s body.Boom crack— It sounded like ten thousand thunderclaps erupting at the same instant. It was the sound of many Divine Limit bones breaking at the same time. “Nanxing!!” Bai Yu cried out in shock and terror. It was common sense that an abyssal beast possessed no consciousness whatsoever. Naturally, plotting or even thinking was beyond the ability of an abyssal beast. And yet, the Abyssal Qilin God had, despite being far stronger than his knight commander in the first place, accurately caught that instant of weakness in his psyche and dealt him a near fatal blow! Yuchi Nanxing felt every bone, every organ in his body shattering into pieces. His soul sea was a deafening roar of white as well.Bang!! There was a loud bang as the Abyssal Qilin God smashed his broken body against the ground. However, Yuchi Nanxing was ultimately a Divine Limit Realm profound practitioner. His consciousness and strength recovered way faster than that of a normal profound practitioner. The second his body made contact with the ground, he had already snapped out of his daze and got ready to renew his struggle. Unfortunately, his strength was just stirring when an indescribable power that felt as heavy as the heaven itself crashed right on top of him.BOOOOOOM———— It was the Abyssal Qilin God mercilessly slamming its qilin claws against Yuchi Nanxing’s body and splitting the ground into a billion cracks. In fact, the longest one stretched a couple hundred kilometers all the way to the Profound Desert City. The spectators were once again sent flying as well. When the Abyssal Qilin God raised its claws, Yuchi Nanxing in the shadow looked barely human and completely covered in blood. However, this was the beginning of the knight commander’s nightmare, not the end.Boom!! The Abyssal Qilin God raised its claws and brought them down on Yuchi Nanxing’s head.Boom! BoOm! BOom! BOOOM———— Every time the Abyssal Qilin God brought its claws down, it was like it was trying to split the heaven in half, or turn the sea upside down. As if possessed by frenzy, it struck Yuchi Nanxing’s broken body again and again until his broken bones slowly but surely crumbled into itsy bitsy pieces. It was mercilessly dragging his life and soul toward the true abyss of death.BOOMBOOMBOOMBOOMBOOMBOOMBOOM———— To the nearby profound practitioners, the Abyssal Qilin God’s ceaseless strikes felt like the hammer of god itself. As if trapped within an irresistible dimensional storm, they were hopelessly flung about until blood was pouring out of every orifice. Worse, even their deafening, bloodcurdling screams were completely stifled by the deafening rumbles. One person who was still forcing his way toward the center of the battlefield with all his might, however. He was Bai Yu. “Sir knight! Don’t go! You can’t—ugh!” His squires tried to stop him, but they were quickly sent flying by a spatial storm. “Nanxing! Fog Monarch... stop... STOOOOPPP!!!” “If you dare kill an abyssal knight... the Pure Land will fight you to the death!” In his infinite horror and shock, he actually shouted something that could be interpreted as a severe loss of dignity for the Pure Land.BOOOOOOOOM———— The Qilin God’s claws fell on Yuchi Nanxing once more, but this time, it did not continue its relentless assault. Instead, it slowly raised a limp and motionless Yuchi Nanxing into the air and... waited. The titanic disasters rippling throughout this corner of the world slowly subsided. Dozens of kilometers away, the survivors finally managed to arrest themselves and catch a breather, but they were covered in wounds and wearing terrified expressions on their faces. Yuchi Nanxing was lying on the ground, his silver armor having crumbled into silver scraps a long time ago. Even his natural profound glow had vanished completely. If not for the fact that he was twitching from time to time and letting out a soft, painful groan, they would think that he was already dead. He was a Divine Limit Realm profound practitioner and one of the Thirty Six Commanders of the abyssal knights. Despite being stomped on by the Abyssal Qilin God dozens of times, he was somehow still alive. “Abyssal knight,” the Fog Monarch’s voice came from within the deep unknown, “this monarch is never willing to take a life carelessly. However, you dared to offend me, so this is the punishment you deserve.” “Now, this monarch will grant you a chance. Kowtow to me and apologize, and this monarch shall allow you and your companions to leave.” “Hah... haha...” Despite feeling weaker than ever before, Yuchi Nanxing let out a low, unyielding chuckle. “There is... but one person... who deserves my subservience... and He... is the Abyssal Monarch!” “The one true monarch!” “Nanxing!” Bai Yu cried out in worry. He was well aware of Yuchi Nanxing’s willpower and faith. It was why he was terrified that his defiance would rile up the Fog Monarch in full and cause him to kill him where he stood. The Fog Monarch did not get angry, however. He simply let out a cold, scornful laugh and said, “Hehehehe, as expected of a creature of stupidity. You will never know how stupid you truly are.” “I ask you, abyssal knight. Who can be monarch in this world? Who deserves to be monarch?” Yuchi Nanxing raised his head slightly and answered without hesitation, “Only... the Abyssal Monarch!” The Fog Monarch’s voice grew infinitely deep and distant. “The monarch of a world must be one who has supported the world during its time of crisis, or an almighty being who could do what all others could not.” “Answer me, abyssal knight. Who is the one who carved out the Land of the Living in this infinite realm of disasters and abyssal dust? Who is the one who built up the Abyss step by step?” Yuchi Nanxing gritted his teeth and, through sheer willpower, growled out the answer everyone in the Abyss knew, “The Abyssal Monarch, of course! There is no world without the Abyssal Monarch!” The Fog Monarch’s voice grew infinitely scornful and contemptuous then. There was even a hint of tragic sorrow. “Foolish belief, lamentable creatures. Answer me again, abyssal knight. Why is the abyssal dust of the world centered at the Endless Fog? Why has it not spread and devoured the Land of the Living or the so-called Pure Land?” Yuchi Nanxing continued to answer stiffly, “The heart of the Endless Fog... the Primal Abyss of Death keeps it all contained...” “Hahahaha!” As if he just heard the funniest joke in the world, the Fog Monarch let out a laugh that was far more wanton and contemptuous than all the laughter he had let out before. “I see! So this is what you think is the truth! This is the truth of the so-called Pure Land and abyssal knights!” His laugh suddenly ceased, and his voice grew heavy. It pierced everyone’s soul like the voice of the devil as the Fog Monarch declared, “The ancient Abyss is an eternal world of death. I and the abyssal beasts are the only dead people in this dead world.” “Several million years ago, when more and more living beings fell into this world for one reason or another, I decided that I could see these pitiful creatures struggle in despair, perish, and etch their pitiful cries into my world no longer. I decided to muster all the power of the Abyss and divert it toward the center, creating what you would come to know as the Endless Fog. I created a land that is thin with abyssal dust for those who fell, a space full of life and hope.” “Because I used up too much power, I fell into a long slumber and did not awaken until over a year ago. The space of hope I created has become what people know as the Land of the Living and the Pure Land today!” The “truth” proclaimed by the Fog Monarch was so heretical that just listening to it felt like committing heresy. “Absolute... nonsense!” Yuchi Nanxing uttered through gritted teeth, “You dare... claim... the Abyssal Monarch’s divine merit... as you own?!” He had just finished speaking when the sky darkened abruptly. What felt like an infinite amount of abyssal dust rolled in and devoured the space Yuchi Nanxing was in in an instant. Just a few breaths later, it had spread dozens of kilometers and engulfed the distant spectators as well. The Fog Monarch’s voice resounded within the choking space of abyssal dust, “Now answer me again, abyssal knight. Can your Abyssal Monarch control abyssal dust like me? Manipulate the Endless Fog like an extension of his body?” Yuchi Nanxing’s mouth opened, but he could not say a word. He could only stare blankly at the rolling abyssal dust. “If he cannot, then how did he create a Land of the Living in the Abyss?” “If I can do it, then how dare you question my ability to condense the Endless Fog and create the Land of the Living?” Yuchi Nanxing tried again and again to raise his broken neck and utter a retort. His willpower and faith made him instinctively want to open his trembling lips and rebuke all the blasphemous words. And yet, despite clearly having enough strength to roar whatever he wanted, he found himself... unable to even mumble a retort The Abyssal Monarch could not control abyssal dust. No one could control abyssal dust. The most anyone could do in this world was repel and isolate. At the very least, this remained an immutable, unquestionable truth to this day. However, he just witnessed the Fog Monarch controlling the abyssal dust and expanding the Endless Fog in an instant. It wasn’t hearsay. He had seen it with his own eyes and felt it with his own body. It left no room for doubt; no room for optimism. “Another question, abyssal knight.” The Fog Monarch’s voice appeared right beside his ears, and suddenly, Yuchi Nanxing discovered that he had never been more afraid of the Abyssal Monarch than now. It was fear that his unwavering faith... was wavering. “Why do the abyssal beasts of the Endless Fog only roam within the Endless Fog? Barring exceptional circumstances, why do they never leave the Endless Fog and threaten your Land of the Living and Pure Land?” Yuchi Nanxing answered again, but this time, he clearly sounded less than confident. “Because... the abyssal beasts instinctively wanted to stay close to abyssal dust.” “Is that so? Heh!” It was the usual icy remark of scorn, but what happened next caused everyone’s eyes to bulge like they would fall out of their eye sockets. They thought that they couldn’t possibly feel more terrified than they already were, and yet, they did. Large patches of shadows and dark lights began appearing in the sky. Thousands, ten thousands, hundreds of thousands... The silhouettes were abyssal beasts, and the lights their eyes. Not only were they moving in uniform formation, there were so many of them that they blotted out the sky. Not a single one of them was howling or biting or indulging in their destructive impulse in general. Instead, they were stepping out of the Endless Fog and into the Land of the Living with perfect uniformity, eyes staring at the profound practitioners shivering in fear as if ridiculing them. They had never seen the abyssal beasts acting so docile before, and yet this was a thousand, no, ten thousand times more terrifying than even the greatest crisis they had ever encountered in the Endless Fog. Yuchi Nanxing’s trembling eyes had come to a complete standstill as well. The densely packed yet uniform formation of abyssal beasts felt like a million needles that ripped his eyes and his beliefs to shreds. It was ludicrous, impossible, unbelievable. And yet, right here and now, no one could ignore the infinitely terrifying realization that the abyssal beasts... beasts who only knew destruction and impulse... were being controlled by the Fog Monarch! “Now, answer me once more, abyssal knight.” At this point, the Fog Monarch’s voice truly sounded like the vilest devil whispering words of heresy into Yuchi Nanxing’s soul. “Why do the abyssal beasts of the Endless Fog only roam within the Endless Fog? Why do they never threaten your Land of the Living and Pure Land?" Yuchi Nanxing did not answer him. He couldn’t. “Even as stupid as you are, it seems that the answer has dawned upon you.” The Fog Monarch’s voice seeped through heaven and earth and into every corner of every person’s soul. “Allow me to voice the answer you wish to stow away in the depths of your heart then.” “The abyssal beasts of the Endless Fog are my citizens. The reason they do not stray from the Endless Fog is because I commanded them not to before I fell asleep.” “My command is absolute. No citizens of mine—abyssal beast or abyssal ghost, before or after—will disobey it and threaten the land of hope I have specifically created for the foreigners.” “Long have I slept before I awakened from my slumber, and what did I find? A so-called ‘Abyssal Monarch’ has taken the credit of my mercy and even built a so-called Pure Land!” The Fog Monarch’s voice was one-tenth fury and nine-tenths pity. “As if that isn’t enough, he even dispatched you pitiful fools to judge me, the one who created the world you live in!” Chapter 2102 - Abyssal Ghost Knight “Shut... up! Shut... up!” Yuchi Nanxing roared at the top of his lungs. His shout was so hoarse, so shrill that even he himself was surprised by it. Try as he might to deny it, the inner voice murmuring deep within his soul told him that his faith... had wavered. During that moment of utter confusion, he actually believed the Fog Monarch’s words for a brief time. Even an instant was too long and was, to him at least, an unforgivable sin. Even his voice betrayed his true panic. Instead of the cold, solemn rebuke toward filth and sin, he instead sounded like a tortured soul screaming for his tormentor to stop. Yuchi Nanxing bit his tongue, but even that pain was unable to suppress the shock in his heart and soul completely. Slowly, he raised his head and gave his all to clear the murkiness threatening to cloud his eyes completely. Seemingly wanting to show the Fog Monarch and everyone else his unyielding belief, he declared, “You dare slander the Abyssal Monarch and deceive the world so, Fog Monarch? You are severing... the last shreds of leniency the Pure Land has for you!” “Slander? Deceive?” Compared to the abyssal knight’s obviously emotional outburst, the Fog Monarch’s voice remained as cold, scornful, and untouchable as ever. “According to my knowledge, the abyssal knights pride themselves on nobility and impartialness, so answer me and the world with your so-called noble soul and impartial character!” “I can control abyssal dust, but the Abyssal Monarch cannot. Am I deceiving you?” “...” Yuchi Nanxing’s throat trembled, but no sound came. Even the willpower he just gathered in his eyes had crumbled without a sound. Everyone in the world knew that the Abyssal Monarch could not control abyssal dust. However, it was a fact that the Fog Monarch could. He had just witnessed it with his own eyes after all. “I can control abyssal beasts, and the Abyssal Monarch cannot. Am I slandering your Abyssal Monarch’s so-called good name?” “...” Yuchi Nanxing still couldn’t answer him. The clarity he had just regained was shrouded by the gray fog of confusion just like that. “The Abyssal Monarch who could not control abyssal dust or abyssal beast had supposedly created this Land of the Living, whereas the Fog Monarch who could was judged as a sinner by your so-called Pure Land... hehehehe, hahahaha!” “Answer me and the world, abyssal knight. Who is slandering who? Who is deceiving who?” Yuchi Nanxing slowly raised his broken arms, but it wasn’t to struggle to his feet. Instead, it was to clutch his head in pain and groan, “No... no... it’s all fake... stop talking... just stop talking...” Unfortunately, the Fog Monarch’s voice continued to pierce his ears and soul. “This world, this Abyss, is mainly made up of abyssal dust. And yet, a man who cannot control abyssal dust, reject abyssal dust, and even fears abyssal dust dares to call himself a monarch? The creation monarch who supposedly created this world? What a joke!” “You are the true deceiver! The slanderer! If creating the Land of the Living counts as creation, then I am the true creation monarch of this world!” The world was deathly silent. There was no voice save for the Fog Monarch’s. Forget moving a muscle, the profound practitioners watching from afar couldn’t even feel the terrible pain eating away at their bodies. It was because they were completely absorbed in a stunning “truth”. They were doing one thing though. The Profound Imagery Stones in their hands were emitting a weak light and engraving something that would surely turn the world upside down. “And you, the abyssal knights, are the hounds acting on behalf of the deceiver, here to judge the true creation monarch who gave you everything. And you dare call yourselves noble and fair?” The Fog Monarch’s next words gave Yuchi Nanxing and Bai Yu, two great abyssal knights, a near fatal blow. “Before today, you could still call yourselves fools who have been deceived. But today, you have witnessed my power and heard the truth from my own mouth. Who is the savior and who is the deceiver, I’m sure you do not need a high functioning mind or a so-called noble soul to make the distinction. All you need... is common sense.”“Shut up! Shut up!!” The abyssal knight’s roar resembled that of an animal at this point. Step by step, the Fog Monarch was annihilating the glory and faith he had upheld his whole life. He should be fighting it with all his might, and yet... Everything he heard and saw today was shaking his faith and willpower to its core. How could he accept? How could he believe? Yuchi Nanxing uttered through gritted teeth, “No matter how much you try to deceive us... do not think... you can ever unseat our absolute loyalty to the Pure Land and Abyssal Monarch...” The Fog Monarch continued indifferently, “Your words betray you, abyssal knight. Despite now knowing the truth of this world, you still choose to become the dirty hound of a despicable owner.” “These are the abyssal knights of the Pure Land. Your very existence turns the words nobility and fairness into the filthiest, most laughable words in this world! In my eyes, your names and your existence are equivalent to the most hypocritical, vulgar refuse of this world!” It was the worst humiliation Yuchi Nanxing and Bai Yu had heard since becoming an abyssal knight. And yet, it was nowhere as humiliating or scary as the “truth” they learned today. “You lot do not deserve the gift I slumbered a million years to bestow!” After the Fog Monarch judged the abyssal knights guilty, the qilin claw suspended high above Yuchi Nanxing descended once more.Boom— Previously, Yuchi Nanxing refused to black out even though he had been trampled dozens of times until not one part of his body was unblemished. But this time, he simply allowed himself to plummet into darkness... to fall unconscious. It was undoubtedly a pitiful form of escape. If he had a choice, he would never come here in person. Before he blacked out, his greatest desire was for someone to rip out all of the memories he gained today... even if it meant carving out part of his soul. Bai Yu roared. His will as an abyssal knight would not allow him to back down or abandon a companion. He instinctively pounced toward Yuchi Nanxing. As soon as he got close, the Abyssal Qilin God’s other claw descended from the sky. His pupils contracted, and darkness rapidly consumed his vision. Before he fell unconscious, he felt as if ten thousand mountains spanning tens of thousands of kilometers had descended on top of his head. He could vaguely hear the frightened shouts of his squires...Boom! Bai Yu was crushed beneath the Abyssal Qilin God’s foot almost without resistance. Just like Yuchi Nanxing, he had fallen completely still.ROOOOOAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRR———— The Abyssal Qilin God let out a roar, and the distant spectators were all flung away by a terrifying storm. It shrouded everyone’s vision and cut off their perception. Inside the abyssal fog, Yun Che slowly walked up to the Abyssal Qilin God’s feet. The Abyssal Qilin God shifted its forelimbs away, and two completely unconscious abyssal knights appeared before his eyes. Yuchi Nanxing’s condition could only be described as horrific. His bones, his flesh, and his internal organs were almost ground into paste by the Abyssal Qilin God’s sheer power. Despite this, he was a Divine Limit Realm profound practitioner. This level of injury was certainly severe, but it wasn’t enough to take his life. Should he allow Yuchi Nanxing to return to the Pure Land, considering all the resources the Pure Land possessed, it probably wouldn’t take too long for him to recover to full health. Assuming that he wanted to decrease the Pure Land’s strength, now was the perfect time to destroy this knight commander. Yun Che raised his hand and hovered it above Yuchi Nanxing’s forehead. His expression slowly turned cold and dark. “This is not advisable.” It was at this moment Li Suo’s voice appeared in his soul sea. “If he was just an ordinary abyssal knight and a late-stage Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner, then there is a high chance that you would succeed. However... he is in the Divine Limit Realm.” “Even in this state, his physical and soul instincts are beyond scary. Not only are your chances of success almost non-existent... you might receive a terrible backlash.” “...” Yun Che’s hand did not move away. Li Suo continued to try and change Yun Che’s mind, “You’ve already manipulated an impossible number of abyssal beasts and a staggering amount abyssal dust today. I know that you have already reached your limit. There is no need to take an unnecessary risk. Shift your goals. ‘Abyssifying’ the other abyssal knight is enough.” Still, Yun Che’s palm did not go away. He replied softly within his soul, “I destroyed his body with the Abyssal Qilin God and his soul with the words of the Fog Monarch. In this state, he is not as scary as you imagine. It is not impossible for me to succeed!” His finger finally landed on Yuchi Nanxing’s forehead, and his soul gushed into his enemy’s soul sea. Right now, Yuchi Nanxing was in a deep coma. Despite this, his powerful soul still instinctively defended itself and repelled Yun Che’s soul energy completely. However, the moment Yuchi Nanxing’s soul reacted, a ball of silvery white light flashed from deep within Yun Che’s eyes. It looked like a blooming white flower, pure as snow with silver glitters adorning the edges of the petals. It emitted a dreamlike radiance. Yun Che’s lips moved slightly. “Fantasy Queen of the Night.” The teeth Yuchi Nanxing had been clenching tightly even after he fell into a deep coma began relaxing bit by bit. He dreamed that... no, it wasn’t a dream to Yuchi Nanxing. He woke up and found that Bai Yu had safely brought him back to the Pure Land despite his immense injuries. The supreme Abyssal Monarch had personally visited him and treated him using his unparalleled divine powers. The Chief Priest then stepped into the room to inform the Abyssal Monarch that the Fog Monarch had been dealt with. His, no, its true form was just a special abyssal ghost with fragments of consciousness, and it excelled at hiding within darkness and bewitching others with false words. He even tossed out the “Fog Monarch’s” corpse for all to see. As expected, it was a pitch black, ugly, and tiny abyssal ghost. As expected, all the slanders the so-called Fog Monarch hurled against the Abyssal Monarch and the Pure Land were lies. As expected, his faith remained lofty above all else, and his glory remained as unblemished as the sun. He closed his eyes in satisfaction and fell asleep within his sleep... The white cactus flower in Yun Che’s eyes faded and turned into a pitch black dragon. The rampaging dragon soul easily pierced through Yuchi Nanxing’s slumbering soul sea. It met almost no resistance whatsoever. It worked! Perking up, Yun Che immediately lifted his arm and summoned the surrounding abyssal dust to his hand. Then, a darker ball of abyssal dust swiftly condensed between his fingers. One breath... two breaths... five breaths... thirty breaths... Sweat poured down Yun Che’s head like a downpour. His expression was slowly becoming painful as well. Finally, the rush of abyssal dust slowed, and a pure black beam appeared in his palm. The black beam was about one-sixth of a meter long and darker than even the darkest black. It was created from an unbelievable amount of abyssal dust and condensed into a single line. Its density and concentration was beyond anything that anyone could have imagined. Once done, Yun Che flipped his palm around and fired the single beam into Yuchi Nanxing’s forehead. It flew right into his unguarded soul sea. Li Suo did not make so much as a peep despite the insane sequence of actions Yun Che just took. She did not want to disturb him even a little. When the final ray of black light vanished into Yuchi Nanxing’s forehead, Yun Che took a step backward and finally collapsed on his butt. “Hah... hah...” He panted heavily for a moment, but when he finally regained enough strength to lift his head, his eyes were savage, and a mad, wanton laugh burst out of his mouth, “Hahahahaha... ahahahahahaha...” He slowly raised his arm—it was shaking from sheer exhaustion—pointed toward the slumbering Yuchi Nanxing, and said in the deep voice of the Fog Monarch, “Welcome to the Endless Fog, my noble...” “Abyssal... ghost... knight!” No one answered him. He did not need an answer. Next to Yun Che, a formless white silhouette slowly manifested into view. She then raised a hand shining with white light and enveloped his body in a holy power that originated from ancient times. “You pushed yourself too far.” “No,” Yun Che replied smilingly, “I just believed in myself that much.” Yun Che’s depleted energies swiftly recovered thanks to Li Suo’s holy powers. However, Yun Che didn’t relax for too long before he stood up once more. He waved his arm, and thick swathes of abyssal dust rolled forward once more. “You—” Li Suo tried to stop him. “Don’t stop me. Since I have ‘shown’ myself, I must see the last step through.” As Yun Che strode forward, abyssal dust quickly engulfed his whole body. He said, “I am the successor of the Heretic God, Emperor Yun of the God Realm, and the Fog Monarch of the Endless Sea... I am not as fragile as you think I am!” “...” Li Suo did not say anything. She simply let out a quiet sigh. Meanwhile, the Profound Desert City was in chaos. Two great abyssal knights had been dragged into the Endless Fog, and everyone was sure that they had perished under the Ancestral Qilin God’s claws. The profound practitioners of the Profound Desert City were either panicking, wailing in pain and sorrow, or escaping with all their might. Even more of them were still lost in the words of the Fog Monarch, unable to recover. It was at this moment many cries of shock suddenly erupted from the west. When the people looked, they saw a sea of gray, deadly fog rolling toward them. “This... this is...” Mo Xifeng stared blankly at the sky. Today had been an absolute nightmare practically from the beginning until the end. The encroaching fog of death slowly came to a stop, and the Fog Monarch’s eyels appeared in the sky once more. He declared in a cold voice that would accept no rebuttal, “Mo Xifeng, this monarch saved your son’s life, bestowed you a gift, and even granted the entire Profound Desert Realm my protection, but you betrayed my trust and even assisted the Pure Land’s ambush attempt with my gift!” Mo Xifeng felt as if all of his strength had departed his body as he collapsed on his knees, wailing, “There is no one in this world who would dare to disobey the Pure Land’s order, Fog Monarch...” Suddenly, he paused and did not try to defend himself further. Instead, he bowed his head powerlessly and said, “Forget it. Whatever my reasons may be, it is true that I have bitten the hand that saved me. Whatever your punishment may be, I... will accept it without any grievances.” The Fog Monarch’s next words chilled everyone to their core. “This monarch dislikes wanton killing, but that does not mean He will allow the living to push Him around as they please!” “This monarch will grant you ten breaths. Leave the Profound Desert Realm during this time.” “Ten breaths later, there shan’t be a Profound Desert Realm in this world any longer!” “...!?” Mo Xifeng lifted his head in shock and terror. It was at this moment two silhouettes were flung out of the thick fog of abyssal dust. They were none other than the battered and unconscious Yuchi Nanxing and Bai Yu. “Commander! Sir knight!” The seven panicking squires immediately rushed over to catch their comrades. It was at this moment Mo Xifeng finally realized what was about to happen and shot to his feet. He turned around and roared, “Retreat! Retreat to the east! QUICK!!!” One breath... Two breaths... ....... Five breaths... ...... Ten breaths! Abyssal dust rolled across the entire Profound Desert Realm, and the tiny patch of Land of the Living was no more. Now, it was a land of death filled with abyssal dust. The shocking news would quickly spread throughout the Abyss. They would all learn that the Endless Fog had suddenly expanded an entire two hundred and fifty kilometers and engulfed a realm once called the Profound Desert Realm. The resting ground of the profound practitioners was now just another part of the Endless Fog. ...... This time, Yun Che really was utterly exhausted. He made no attempts to recuperate his strength, however. Instead, he fell between the Abyssal Qilin God’s scales and allowed it to carry him to the inner regions of the Endless Fog post haste. Li Suo reappeared and used light divine power to heal his overtaxed body. “What’s the hurry?” Yun Che took a few mouthfuls of air before he finally responded, “The Fog Monarch’s appearance today is unlike any other. When the contents of those Profound Imagery Stones are spread, the entire Abyss including the Pure Land and the Kingdoms of God will face turmoil unlike any other.” “That is why I need to return to the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God as soon as possible. I must sever even the slightest possibility that someone might connect me to the Fog Monarch.” Li Suo replied, “I don’t think that is possible. On one hand, you have the enigmatic Fog Monarch who roams the Endless Fog. On the other hand, you have the Dreamweaver Divine Son who has returned to the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God and resided there for some time. There is just no way anyone has any reason to connect the two of you together. Your actions seem completely unnecessary.” “You are right, but it’s better to be safe than sorry,” Yun Che answered between pants. “Besides, I’m doing this because of Hua Qingying. Don’t forget that she was present during the first appearance of the ‘Fog Monarch’ and the Acestral Qilin God.” “If I am ‘obviously’ in the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God during the Fog Monarch’s stunning appearance, she can be a million times more paranoid than she is, and she would never connect me and the Fog Monarch.” What else could Li Suo say? He was alone and without help in this world. His goal was to battle against the entire Abyss. He did not even have the leeway to fail. That was why he was impossibly and excessively cautious. “Are you sure the ‘abyssal core’ you installed in the abyssal knight will remain undetected?” She asked another question. “I’m sure,.” Yun Che answered with absolute certainty. “Abyssal dust has always been an element that transcends the planes; an existence that was impossible to perceive with one’s divine perception. What the people really thought they detected was the impediment and annihilation abyssal dust wrought to one’s life aura and soul aura.” “Therefore, so long as the ‘abyssal core’ in his soul doesn’t go out of control, the chances that anyone, even the abyssal knight himself, would detect it are next to nil.” Li Suo’s voice softened. “Still, you have pushed yourself too much. Why didn’t you wait a couple years longer? Your mastery of abyssal dust and the abyssal beasts would have matured and grown by leaps and bounds then. You wouldn’t need to tax yourself like this.” Yun Che slowly shook his head. “It’s been a year since I’ve built up the Fog Monarch. This is about the period the Pure Land is beginning to suspect something, but no further.” “In my estimation, the Pure Land was supposed to dispatch abyssal knights already. The appearance of this knight commander, while only a little, is outside of my estimate.” “If I wait a couple more years, if I allow that suspicion and wariness to build up into true attention... then the one I would face would probably not be a knight commander, but a High Priest.” “In that case, there is absolutely nothing I could do to fix the situation.” Chapter 2103 Sowing Dissension Li Suo whispered, “But after what you did today, a High Priest will surely show up in person.” “Just a High Priest?” Yun Che let out an enigmatic chuckle. “I wouldn’t be surprised if the Abyssal Monarch Himself shows up. After all... he would soon watch the rapidly spreading projections and discover something that he previously thought was completely impossible!” “So...” Li Suo asked, “Your goal is to sow dissension in the Pure Land?” “No.” Yun Che’s complexion was ghastly white from weakness, but his words remained frighteningly cold. “I’m sowing dissension... across the entire Abyss.” Yun Che looked up and whispered the advice Chi Wuyao gave him before he descended upon the Eastern Divine Region: “To destroy a realm, you must first sow dissension. To sow dissension, you must first break their faith.” The Abyssal Monarch was unquestionably the highest faith of this world. “After today, the Fog Monarch’s appearance will decrease drastically in the short term. I must carry out my cultivation in the Endless Fog with absolute caution as well.” “So, let’s just watch what happens to the world next.” The “abyssal core” wasn’t just planted in the soul of an abyssal knight. It was being spread to the hearts of every living being by the hands of their very own profound practitioners as well. Not even Yun Che could predict what kind of vile flower this “abyssal core” would bear, but he certainly held high hopes for it. ...... Yuchi Nanxing awakened with great difficulty. The acute pain ravaging his senses and his waking consciousness were all cruel reminders that all the things he suffered earlier wasn’t a nightmare. “You’re finally awake, Nanxing.” Bai Yu’s image slowly became clearer in his vision. He too cut quite the sorry figure and looked seriously injured, but his condition was nowhere as bad as Yuchi Nanxing’s. Not only had he awoken some time ago, he even had the energy to construct a healing profound formation. Despite his awakening, Yuchi Nanxing was just staring blankly at the sky. He did not say a word even though a long time had passed. Residing in his eyes was a kind of grayish defeat Bai Yu had never seen before in his knight commander’s eyes, and he understood all too well the shock Yuchi Nanxing had suffered today. The man had barely gotten a scratch ever since he became one of the Thirty Six Commanders, and yet today he had come so very close to death. However, his physical injuries didn’t even amount to one-hundred-thousandth of the shock the Fog Monarch had done to his faith. “The Fog Monarch didn’t kill us for some reason,” Bai Yu decided to break the silence. “Maybe he didn’t dare.” That was what he said, but he knew just how ridiculous it sounded. Yuchi Nanxing finally turned his gaze and scanned the surroundings. He discovered that he was in a barren wasteland surrounded by profound practitioners wearing all sorts of expressions. However, most of them possessed extremely muddy auras. There were even frail women and children who should be resting inside a barrier, not out here in the open. Their eyes were empty, and their expressions sorrowful. They were all staring blankly at the distant horizon. “Where... is this?” He finally asked. Bai Yu replied with a complicated expression, “The east side of the Profound Desert Realm. What was the Profound Desert Realm... has been devoured by the Endless Fog.” The five words “devoured by the Endless Fog” silenced Yuchi Nanxing for a very, very long time. Finally, he let out a thoughtless murmur, “How... can this be...” “Indeed! How can this be?” Someone repeated his words, but it was trembling and infused with a sort of righteous anger that should never have been directed at an abyssal knight. When he looked, he saw Mo Xifeng walking toward him with heavy footsteps unbefitting a level one Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner. “Please arrange a Land of the Living for my lost people to stay as soon as possible, sir knight. Otherwise, the weaker ones will surely perish in abyssal dust before long.” Mo Xifeng’s tone and expression were nowhere as respectful as they were before. It was obvious that he was trying his best to control his emotions. Bai Yu’s eyebrows furrowed deeply as he said in a cold voice, “Are you ordering me? The one who destroyed your Profound Desert Realm was the Fog Monarch!” Mo Xifeng barked out a laugh that was tinged with a hint of hysteria. “Before today, the Profound Desert Realm was enjoying a major blessing from the Fog Monarch. The abyssal dust in our realm was so thin even the ordinary women and children could temporarily stay out in the open without an isolation barrier. Had this situation continued, the Profound Desert Realm would have become a major hub for countless profound practitioners looking to hone themselves in the Endless Fog. It would’ve become far more prosperous than what it originally was.” “But you. Destroyed. Everything!” Mo Xifeng did not seem to give two fucks anymore. He jabbed a finger at Bai Yu and Yuchi Nanxing and roared with uncontrollable anger and hatred, “You were the ones who forced me to do this! You were the ones who drove the Fog Monarch to withdraw his blessing and enact divine judgment upon us instead!” “The insolence!” The Pure Land’s pressure descended as Bai Yu’s temper flared. “Father!” Mo Qianyou hurriedly ran up to his father and gripped his arm tightly. While doing so, he saluted Bai Yu hastily and said, “Please quell your anger, sir knight. My father gave everything to the Profound Desert Realm, and today his life’s work was consumed by the Endless Fog. That is why he could not control his grief and ramble. Please forgive him!”Bang! But Mo Xifeng sent his son flying with one swing of the hand. “The Profound Desert Realm is gone. Our roots are gone. What else do I have to fear?” Mo Xifeng lifted a finger and pointed at Bai Yu once more. “Watch carefully and remember, Qianyou. These are the abyssal knights, and they are the sinners who destroyed the Profound Desert Realm and our countless generations of labor! Never forget the face of your sworn enemy!” “Hah!” Bai Yu was so angry he had to bark out a laugh. “Is that so? What are you going to do about it then, Profound Desert Realm King?” “Hahaha!” Mo Xifeng’s cold laugh grew even more sorrowful. “Indeed! What can I do about it? I’m just the lord of a small Land of the Living. What can I possibly do against the oh-so-noble abyssal knights?” “Tell me, noble abyssal knights. Not only did you cost us a boon that would have benefited our people for hundreds of generations to come, you even cost us our homeland. So... are you going to uphold the glory and impartialness of the Pure Land, or are you going to just pat your bums and leave? Are you deceivers and liars just like the Abyssal Monarch?!” The first half of Mo Xifeng's outburst was still forgivable considering how emotional he was right now, but the second half was utterly unforgivable to any abyssal knight. Bai Yu’s anger morphed into bloodthirst as he slowly raised his head and said in a voice as cold as the abyss, “You are courting death!”Ding! Cold light condensed into ice, and his pale sword appeared between his fingers. But for some reason... He did not point it at Mo Xifeng. Even his bloodthirst had frozen without warning. It was because he looked up and saw countless pairs of eyes staring at him. They were filled with fear, loss, indifference... and deep-seated hatred. The familiar fervor, admiration, longing, and respect were no longer anywhere to be found. His churning bloodthirst suddenly morphed into a kind of helplessness he had never felt before. He was even feeling faint in a way that was so different from combat. “Bai Yu,” it was at this moment Yuchi Nanxing spoke up, “we’re leaving.” The cold blade between Bai Yu’s fingers disappeared, and he soundlessly supported the grievously wounded Yuchi Nanxing. He took off into the sky. He paused midway, however. A series of deep breaths later, he abruptly tossed a piece of clean jade in front of Mo Xifeng. “This is my knight’s token. Head to the northeast and seek out a Land of the Living named White Chalk Realm. That is my homeland. With this token, the White Chalk Realm will take you in and arrange you accordingly. As for how many of you can live... that is up to your luck.” “When I’m done in the Pure Land, I will personally... return to the White Chalk Realm and settle you in.” He did not remain after that. He took off with Yuchi Nanxing. He moved very quickly as if he did not wish to endure their gaze for even a second longer. ...... The World Piercer profound formation flashed red, and Yun Che returned to his cultivation space. He removed the Ni Yuan Stone from his person, and his aura returned to normal several breaths later. He had returned to the Yun Che everyone was familiar with. After taking a few deep breaths and masking his fatigue and weakness, he left his cultivation space and walked under a kiosk at the courtyard. Then, he ordered Zhanyi to bring him some tea and snacks, and Helu to tidy his appearance. He looked both comfortable and relaxed. Not long later, a familiar presence rapidly approached the Divine Son Palace. Meng Zhiyuan soon walked up to him and reported, “Young master, Divine Son Xi requests a meeting with you.” “Show him in.” It wasn’t long before Meng Jianxi strode up to him with a serious expression. Yun Che instinctively straightened his back and grew serious as well. “What happened?” “Something massive, though it’s not directly related to Dreamweaver,” Meng Jianxi answered directly. “Two hours ago, something strange took place at the Endless Fog.” “Two hours ago?” Yun Che’s frown deepened. “The news spread from the Endless Fog all the way to here in just two hours? This is definitely serious. Tell me.” Meng Jianxi asked, “Have you heard of the ‘Fog Monarch’, Brother Yuan?” “Of course.” Yun Che looked puzzled. “Are you saying... that this matter has something to do with the ‘Fog Monarch’? According to the Xuanji Hall, the Fog Monarch is just a false existence concocted by those who seek to resist the Pure Land. Did they do something again?” Meng Jianxi let out a long, deep sigh. “For the past year, the rumors regarding the Fog Monarch kept coming, and each one was only more exaggerated than the last. Before today, my opinion of the ‘Fog Monarch’ was exactly the same as you. I’ve always thought that only hopeless idiots would believe the ludicrous rumors regarding the Fog Monarch.” “However, the world is sometimes far more complex than you and I can imagine.” Meng Jianxi then handed him a Profound Imagery Stone. “Words cannot describe what is engraved inside this Profound Imagery Stone. You will understand what I mean once you’ve watched it.” “You may stay,” Meng Jianxi called out to Liu Zhanyi and Shangguan Helu before they could take their leave. “Hundreds of thousands of people have witnessed this, and they all hail from different Lands of the Living. The spread of this news cannot be stopped, and it won’t be long before the entire world learns about it, so there is no need for you to give us privacy.” The next moment, a projection appeared from the Profound Imagery Stone. It showed the abyssal knights going up against the Fog Monarch. The Fog Monarch, the Ancestral Qilin God, the trampled abyssal knight, the churning fog of abyssal dust, the sea of abyssal beasts... everything the Fog Monarch wished to present to the world was present in this tiny stone. Although the image was captured from a rather great distance, every instant of the image, every abyssal sound uttered by the Fog Monarch, was enough to shake hearts and souls and flip one’s beliefs upside down. The end of the projection showed the Fog Monarch declaring his punishment upon the Profound Desert Realm. Not long after that, the Endless Fog abruptly expanded and slowly engulfed the realm in its entirety. Yun Che did not move even after the projection had come to an end. He was staring blankly ahead and looked like he had lost his soul. Even though this wasn’t the first time he had watched the projection, Meng Jianxi was just as shaken as he was the first time. He did not speak and gave Yun Che time to process everything. A few breaths later, Yun Che finally looked at Meng Jianxi and asked, “What do you think of this, Divine Son Xi?” Meng Jianxi shook his head. “This matter relates to the Abyssal Monarch. I dare not comment on it.” “Since you do not dare to take a stance, that means you do believe some of the Fog Monarch’s claims. You just do not dare to believe fully,” Yun Che said calmly. Meng Jianxi let out a sigh and replied, “It is a fact that the Fog Monarch can control abyssal dust, and it is a fact that he can control abyssal beasts. If what he claimed is true as well... then the origin story of the Abyss would be the biggest lie in the entire world.” If the beginning was a lie, then everything that came after was the spawn of lies. Yun Che closed his eyes and fell into deep thought. A long time later, he said, “If even you have doubts, then the others can only fare worse.” “Still, this is something for the Pure Land to worry about, not us. Let’s keep the discussion to a minimum both internally and externally,” Yun Che responded with the most logical answer a member of the Kingdom of God should make before asking, “By the way, what are the chances that this Fog Monarch is a fake? A doll puppeteered by another person?” “Zero.” Meng Jianxi shook his head without hesitation. “How can you be sure?” “Who is the greatest person in this world?” Meng Jianxi countered. “The Abyssal Monarch.” Yun Che responded with the only possible answer. “That’s right,” Meng Jianxi replied calmly. ‘There is no one stronger in the world than the Abyssal Monarch, but even He could never control abyssal dust nor abyssal beasts. However, the Fog Monarch can. As he claimed himself, he is most likely a creation and mutation of abyssal dust; a spirit of destruction who far exceeds the level of an abyssal beast. He cannot be a human.” Yun Che thought for a while longer before answering, “As I said, we should leave this to the Pure Land. Since you’re here, do you have any new information regarding the Divine Children?” Seeing that Yun Che was unwilling to discuss the Fog Monarch, Meng Jianxi obeyed his will and answered, “Dian Jiuzhi, the Boundless Divine Son had suddenly entered secluded cultivation three days ago. It’s very possible that he’s trying to enter the eighth level of the Divine Extinction Realm before the Pure Land Meet.” “Hua Caili, the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter is still cultivating inside the Seven Star Heaven Breaker Formation, and her progress is completely unknown.” “There is no news regarding Shenwu Yi, the Eternal Night Divine Daughter. She probably hasn’t left the Eternal Night Kingdom of God this whole time.” “Pan Buzhuo, the Owl Butterfly Divine Son recently attained great completion in his dark profound arts, and Pray Eternal Divine Regent is very happy about it. On top of that, someone accidentally encountered Pan Buwang, the former Owl Butterfly Divine Son in the Endless Fog. The Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God stopped dispatching people to find him after learning this. They seemed to have given up on him completely and did not care if he lived or died.” “The twin Divine Children of the Star and Moon Kingdom of God were stuck at peak level three Divine Extinction Realm for a long time, and they intend to achieve a breakthrough before the Pure Land Meet. So, they are getting ready to venture into the Endless Fog and hone themselves. I wonder if their decision will be affected after what happened in the Endless Fog today.” Yun Che’s heart raced, and he said, “It looks like every Kingdom of God is doing their utmost to ensure that their Godbearers will perform at their best before the Abyssal Monarch.” “But of course they are.” Meng Jianxi tried to comfort Yun Che, “You don’t need to feel any pressure though, Brother Yuan. You are still quite young...” “I feel no pressure, of course.” Yun Che smiled. “After all, you are the Dreamweaver Divine Son, not me. Even if I were to accompany you and the Divine Regent to see the Abyssal Monarch, I would simply be an ordinary follower.” “...” Meng Jianxi shook his head and let out an awkward laugh. He could tell that Yun Che was making him, the official Dreamweaver Divine Son, deal with all the internal and external problems so that he could grow at his leisure without being troubled by anything. After Meng Jianxi was gone, Yun Che stood at the kiosk and remained quiet for a very, very long time.The Star and Moon twins...It looks like I have my work cut out for me. Chapter 2104 - One Day Dawn Will Break The Eternal Night Eternal Night Kingdom of God. Seven overlapping profound formations were running at full power. The colorful abyssal crystals inside the profound formations were emitting a profound light so bright that it pierced the eyes. The quantity and level of these abyssal crystals were such that any profound practitioner would be astonished like they were dreaming. Four women were standing on each corner of the profound formations. The terrible power circling their hands was that of a Divine Limit Realm profound practitioner. It was their power that was fueling the seven profound formations. The energy within the abyssal crystals was being discharged at an insane, violent rate that could easily annihilate a profound practitioner who just entered the Divine Extinction Realm; a Half God. A woman was sitting at the center of this terrifying profound formation. Her long hair and robe were being flung about crazily, and her exquisite countenance was twitching non-stop. It was an instinctive, physical reaction caused by extreme pain. Her expression was extremely calm, however. It stubbornly refused to reveal even a hint of pain. Gradually, her skin began losing its rosy color and grew deathly pale. An indefinite amount of time later, scarlet blood began dripping down the corners of her lips. Shenwu Youluan’s aura hitched a little at the sight of this. Signs of struggles flashed in her eyes until she finally said, “Supreme one, this is a level of intensity not even a late-stage Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner can endure. Even if Wuyi possesses the Nine Profound Exquisite Body, she must surely have exceeded her limit. At this rate—” “Silence!” A ruthless, hoarse, and ice cold voice ripped Shenwu Youluan’s begging in half. “It will stop when I deem it is time to stop!” Shenwu Yi was at level five Divine Extinction Realm right now. If she was anyone else, the spirit energy storm happening inside the seven profound formations would have exploded their profound veins in less than a hundred breaths. The consequences would have been unimaginable. Shenwu Yi had been stuck inside the seven profound formations for fifteen minutes straight. Why were they doing this? Because she possessed a universally known body that had not appeared for far too long, the Nine Profound Exquisite Body. As the Exquisite Worlds inside her body slowly awakened, her profound veins and her body’s endurance toward power and laws became far greater than that of an ordinary profound practitioner. It was also how Shenwu Yi had grown from a peak Divine Master to a level five Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner in just twenty years. The speed of her progress was such that no Kingdom of God even believed when their spies brought the uncertain news back to them. Even fewer people knew what kind of cruelty she went through to obtain such progress. Shenwu Yanye had invested all of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God’s top resources on Shenwu Yi like a madwoman. As a result, given the same amount of time, the number of abyssal crystals Shenwu Yi consumed far exceeded every other Divine Son and Divine Daughter combined. It was a progress and procedure only she could undergo. No other Divine Son and Divine Daughter could replicate this feat even if they knew about it. Shenwu Yanye was a madwoman in every sense of the word. Every man and woman in the other Kingdoms of God knew this, and the Eternal Night Kingdom of God only knew this more. Another fifteen minutes passed, and Shenwu Yi’s face was completely drained of blood. Her body was also spasming even harder than before. Her expression remained as calm and collected as ever, however. It was as if she could feel neither pain nor fear. Shenwu Youluan had long since closed her eyes, unable to look at her for even a moment longer. It was at this moment Shenwu’s body finally started shaking violently. At the same time, her waist and her chest began splitting apart as if they were pushed way past their limit. Her aura had fallen into complete disorder. Pwack! Her consciousness departed her mind, and a shower of blood spurted through her lips. She slowly fell backward. A withered hand finally reached out from behind a black curtain. In an instant, the profound light of the seven profound formations extinguished, and the rampaging spirit energy was suppressed and dispelled entirely. “Wuyi!” Shenwu Youluan dashed forward and caught Shenwu Yi before she could hit the floor. It took a long time before Shenwu Yi’s eyes finally regained their focus. “Hmph. Useless thing!” Shenwu Yanye’s icy, shrill voice rang out. “Is this all the Nine Profound Exquisite Body can do?” “Listen well, Wuyi. You must enter the sixth level of the Divine Extinction Realm before you head to the Pure Land. Otherwise, my wrath will be severe.” Shenwu Youluan tried to say something, but she felt Shenwu Yi grabbing her hand and silencing her. With great difficulty, Shenwu Yi climbed out of Shenwu Youluan’s lap and responded in a weak but respectful and determined voice, “You invested all of your resources and heart’s blood in me, Mother. I would not be able to forgive myself if I let down your expectations.” “As you should,” Shenwu Yanye replied coldly. “Now, get out of my sight and rest! We will continue in seven days!” Shenwu Yi whispered, “Don’t worry, Mother. I only need five days.” She looked up and said in a weak yet obsessed voice that seemed to originate from the bottom of her soul, “Mother does not want the women of this world to be inferior to land. When the Pure Land Meet happens, I promise to defeat all the Divine Sons and make them all prostrate themselves before the Eternal Night. Only then can I live up to your expectations and repay a sliver of your kindness.” “So do not worry about my injuries... this body may die, but your wish... will be done.” As soon as she finished, she shook again and bubbled blood between her lips. Then, she fell completely unconscious against Shenwu Youluan. There was a moment of dead silence that lasted a few breaths. Finally, Shenwu Yanye said in a cold voice, “Take her away, Youluan.” “As you command,” Shenwu Youluan hurriedly responded and rushed off with an unconscious Shenwu Yi. “All of you, get out of my sight!” The Eternal Night Divine Palace emptied as soon as her terrifying voice resounded. It wasn’t long before stifling silence was left. A withered hand searched around in the darkness and flipped open the Secret Tome... just now, a few months after the last time, she had finally expelled another layer of abyssal dust and successfully unlocked a new page. Her withered fingers brushed against the material. Her sharpened four senses could easily identify the old words covered in a thin layer of abyssal dust. Heart of Snow Glazed Glass. It was a page regarding the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass. “Heart of Snow Glazed Glass... A creation of the purest primordial energy at the beginning of Primal Chaos... the purest heart and soul of the entire universe... multiple rumors claiming that a bearer of the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass is protected by the Heavenly Way... unclear if it is true or not...” “It can see the truth of the world... perceive all hearts and souls... heart is so pure it is like fresh snow, clean, white, and unblemished... as such, the bearer’s love, will, heart, thoughts, loyalty... once engraved are constant, never-changing, and eternal...” The withered finger began shaking as she let out a shrill cry, “Love and loyalty... constant, never-changing and eternal, is it? Hahaha... hahahaha...” “There is no true love in this world! No loyalty! It’s fake... how laughable... it’s all fake... hahahaha... hahahahahahaha...” She laughed loudly and wildly like a ghoul who had lost her mind. However, there were clearly tear stains on her withered, bark-like skin. ...... After taking Shenwu Yi back to her bedroom, Shewu Youluan immediately produced a couple of recovery pills—her hands fumbling a few times from how worried she was—and laid down a healing profound formation. Shenwu Youluan slowly closed her eyes as she watched Shenwu Yi’s deathly pale complexion and felt the warmth of the formation’s gentle profound light. She was trying her best to stop her tears from pouring out. “I’m sorry... Wuyi.” she murmured, “If I knew this would happen... I would never have...” “You never need to apologize to me, aunt.” The sudden voice snapped Shenwu Youluan out of her sorrow. There was a flicker of panic in her opening eyes, but she forced herself to stay calm and ask, “You’re... awake, Wuyi?” “I’ve been awake since the beginning,” Shenwu Yi whispered. “I’m sorry to make you worry, aunt.” Shenwu Youluan was caught off guard by the response. However, she replied in a natural tone, “If you’re awake, then you can recover faster. That’s great. What I said earlier... it’s just a ramble. You don’t need to pay attention to it.” “I know,” Shenwu Yi replied softly. Shenwu Youluan had just let out a small sigh of relief when Shenwu Yi continued, “I’ve always known that the one who saved me... was you, Aunt Youluan.” It was like a summer thunderclap. Shenwu Youluan immediately shot to her feet and, despite her panic, did not forget to set up a sound-isolating barrier—or at least she tried to, until Shenwu Yi grabbed her arm and forced it down as if she knew Shenwu Youluan would react like this. Considering how weak Shenwu Yi was right now, Shenwu Youluan hurriedly stopped whatever she was doing. “If you set up a sound-isolating barrier, she will take notice. She must be looking through her Secret Tome right now, so you have nothing to worry about.” “...” Shenwu Youluan’s eyes widened, and for a moment, she could only stare at Shenwu Yi as if recognizing her for the first time. A while later, she finally said in a hushed voice, “You mustn’t say such things, Wuyi!” After confirming that the healing profound formation was fine, she took a step backward and said, “Take good care of yourself. I’ll pretend that I haven’t heard a word of what you said earlier, and you mustn’t breathe a word about it either, understand?” Having said that, she took off as if she were running away. Right as she was stepping out of the door, Shenwu Yi’s soft whispers hit her. “There is no such thing as eternal night in this world. Even the darkest night must welcome the dawn eventually.” Shenwu Youluan abruptly stopped in her tracks. “Aunt, you are the blue luan who’s concealed herself in darkness.” “And your ‘phoenix’, despite all the humiliation she has suffered, did not escape into the darkness alone.” “When the eternal night is broken by dawn, the luan and the phoenix will sing together once more.” “...” Shenwu Youluan trembled. She gritted her teeth with all her might but still couldn’t stop her reaction. She turned her neck but stopped halfway. It was because she didn’t dare to meet Shenwu Yi’s eyes. An unknown amount of time later, she finally managed to turn around... to find Shenwu Yi pressing a finger to her lips.There’s no need to say anything. Shenwu Youluan nodded, and tears finally streamed down her cheeks. ...... The name “Fog Monarch” was engulfing the Lands of the Living once more, but this time, it was a million times fiercer than ever before. In the past, the large majority of profound practitioners would speak of the name with doubt, argument, and ridicule. But now, their voices were infused with never-before-seen shock, horror... and a suspicion they couldn’t voice. Even the abyssal dust of the Abyss seemed to be restless and shaking. The whole world was in an uproar, all of them... except the Pure Land. Contrary to Yun Che and everyone’s expectations, it remained as peaceful and silent as ever. The shallow area of the Endless Fog. Yun Che had altered his appearance and attire and made his aura murky using the Ni Yuan Stone. Hua Caili could pass right next to him, and not even she would be able to recognize him based on his appearance and aura now. He had maintained this posture for sixteen to eighteen hours straight. In fact, he had performed the same actions for over ten days. Finally, he opened his eyes and let out a long breath. Then, he leaned back against the black rock behind him. A white silhouette appeared, and a jade-like hand approached his forehead and soothed him with the holiest light of the world. “It’s been twelve days,” she whispered. “What on earth are you searching for? Not even your soul will be able to withstand this for long if you keep it up.” Yun Che did not answer. He simply closed his eyes and rested. It took him a good amount of time before that bone deep exhaustion in his body finally alleviated somewhat. Instead of answering Li Suo’s question though, he said with a half-smile, “It’s been twelve days, and you still didn’t rebuke me. I’m more curious about your lack-of-reaction than you are regarding your question.” “Rebuke?” Li Suo looked puzzled. “Why would I rebuke you?” Yun Che curled his lips. “In order to show off the Fog Monarch’s power to control the Endless Fog, I had cost an entire people their homeland. Many of their loved ones will die from abyssal corruption before they reach the closest haven as well. With your sacred heart, I thought for sure you wouldn’t be able to accept this and rebuke me for it.” “...” Li Suo did not answer for a very long time. When Yun Che finally closed his eyes and got ready to take a nap, Li Suo’s answer came so softly he almost missed it. “You’re too lonely.” “... Hmm?” Yun Che stared at the face he still couldn’t see clearly after all this time. “No I’m not. I have you to keep my company, don’t I?” Li Suo answered, “I am not He Ling. I can never know your heart, obey your will, and soothe your soul like she could.” “Besides, I cannot manifest my body like He Ling. I am unable to comfort you when you are depressed and lonely. Every time you are gripped by the throes of loneliness and sorrow and unable to find an outlet, I cannot help but feel guilty about it. How can I possibly rebuke you knowing that?” “Er...” Yun Che unconsciously rubbed his nose and asked weakly, “When you say ‘comfort’, you don’t mean that kind of comfort, do you?” Li Suo: “...?” Chapter 2105 - Ancient Silhouette Although he couldn’t see Li Suo’s expression, her puzzlement was as clear as day. “Nothing, I’m just talking nonsense.” Yun Che immediately straightened his expression. A second later, he suddenly said, “You truly are an unlucky woman. Of all the people you could have fallen with, it just had to be me. As a result, you, the Creation Goddess of Life and the holiest, most life-loving existence in the entire world, have to commit grave sins with me in the Abyss.” “If one day you recover all of your memories, I’m sure you won't be able to wait to smite me into light ashes with your Creation God powers.” Li Suo’s hand paused for a moment, and she whispered, “I can vaguely remember some old acquaintances, but the one thing I cannot remember is my own appearance. And now... all of my emotions, recognition, and worldview come from you.” “I have been lonely for a very long time, so I am afraid of loneliness. Your appearance is what freed me from a loneliness that felt like eternity. Therefore, I can tell that my soul is close and grateful toward you. But you, ever since you came to this world, the emptiness and loneliness in your soul has only been increasing day by—” “Enough, enough, you don’t have to say any more.” Yun Che hurriedly silenced her. “I’m the Fog Monarch who astounded the entire Abyss, you know? Do you know how cool I am right now? I’m just experiencing a bit of loss, and you couldn’t even overlook that?” “...” The profound light remained warm and gentle. Li Suo seemed to be deep in thought about something before she nodded. “I will learn to be better.” “Mm...” Yun Che looked up with a bit of astonishment before breaking into a small smile. At the same time, the loneliness Li Suo was perceiving seemed to be lessened somewhat. “I think... not a single person since the beginning of time has ever seen such an obedient Creation God.” Li Suo: “...” It was at this moment Yun Che suddenly narrowed his eyes and sat up. “Our ‘prey’ has finally shown up.” ———— Northern Divine Region, Yama Realm, Bone Sea of Eternal Darkness. This place was as dark as ever. Even after Yun Che had removed all of its Devil Crystals of Eternal Darkness, the dark aura of this place remained the richest of the entire Primal Chaos. It had been several hours since Chi Wuyao came here. None of her Witches were by her side. In front of her was a black stele that she had almost never let out of her sight in recent times.Shred! Suddenly, the barrier she placed around her was violently ripped open, and a pale, unblemished ankle stepped into Chi Wuyao’s view. The Devil Queen looked up and asked in a somewhat helpless voice, “For what reason have you left your post and come to me again, Brahma Heaven God Emperor?” Qianye Ying’er was about to answer when Chi Wuyao interrupted her, “Don’t even try. I haven’t heard anything from him. You should know that it is impossible for him to send anything home.” “But...” Qianye Ying’er refused to give up. “Didn’t you say you gave him a portion of your Nirvana Devil Emperor Soul? It's the soul of a Devil Emperor. Maybe...” “I’m sorry, but no.” Chi Wuyao cruelly stamped out Qianye Ying’er’s almost pitiful hope. Her expectations extinguished, Qianye Ying’er immediately became far more irritated and gloomier than before. She cast a look at the stele standing in front of Chi Wuyao once before grumping, “You came all the way to the Bone Sea of Eternal Darkness just to see this broken stele? You’ve tried for so long already. If it’s really hiding a secret, you would have discovered it a long time ago.” Chi Wuyao shook her head. “My Nirvana Devil Emperor Soul may not be able to form a connection with it, but it can sense that it is hiding something. In recent times, I have tried dozens of methods and even moved it to different environments, all to no avail.” Qianye Ying’er crossed her arms in front of her chest and said uncaringly, “Just because you found it where you obtained your Nirvana Devil Emperor Soul does not mean it's necessarily related to the Nirvana Devil Clan. If you really must find an answer, you can try... breaking it.” “If it works, then hurray. If not, you don’t have to worry about it any longer.” “I knew you couldn’t come up with anything useful.” A small smile crept onto Chi Wuyao’s lips. “You are right that it most likely isn’t an item belonging to the Nirvana Devil Clan. The fact that the name ‘Pan Xiaodie’ is engraved on it is proof. What I cannot let go of is the fact that it was left behind at the Nirvana Devil Emperor Soul’s location despite not belonging to the Nirvana Devil Clan, and in such a pristine condition too.” Suddenly, she looked up and stared at Qianye Ying’er with bright eyes. Qianye Ying’er: “Hmm?” “Qianying,” Chi Wuyao reached out and touched Qianye Ying’er’s finger. “Lend me your blood!” Qianye Ying’er was puzzled, but she did not resist. A bead of blood pooled at her fingertip. Chi Wuyao then splashed it against the dark stele. Qianye Ying’er’s words had reminded her that she possessed the blood of the Devil Emperor Yun Che had given her back then. The Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor possessed the purest dark profound energy out of the four devil emperors. Not only could her devil blood accommodate any dark profound energy, the “Calamity and Misfortune” cast using the Heaven Smiting Devil Blood could be used to amplify other dark energies as well. That included the three Devil Emperor’s dark energy. The Nirvana Devil Emperor Soul might not be able to awaken this stele, but maybe Heaven Smiting Devil Blood could...Buzz! As soon as the bead of blood touched the stele, it immediately burst into thick, dark light. “It worked!” Chi Wuyao whispered, eyes shining brightly as she had not held much hope that it would work in the first place. Qianye Ying’er’s lips were slightly parted in surprise as well. The dark light circled around the stele for a very long time. Finally, something crumbled into nothing on the stele, and the profound light turned into an extraordinarily clear projection. It was a scene from untold years ago. “A projection!?” Chi Wuyao and Qianye Ying’er exchanged a glance with each other. They both saw the astonishment and severity in each other’s eyes. The land within the projection was a land of darkness. Even considering how much time had passed, they could still feel an intimidating, demonic might from it. A woman in black dress appeared inside the projection. Her face could not be seen clearly, but judging from her figure and the infinitely noble aura she naturally exuded, no one doubted that she possessed a calamitous countenance. Next, a man appeared inside the projection. He was wearing a blue robe. His hair was as dark as the night, and his eyes as deep as the abyss. He was extraordinarily handsome in a devilish way. When he looked up, his eyes shone with a kind of arrogance that towered over even heaven and earth, but it transformed into tranquil pools immediately after his gaze met the woman in the black dress. The woman in the black dress stopped in her tracks and dropped to her knees. The blue-robed man froze for an instant before his endless nobility and arrogance all transformed into panic and confusion, “Xiaodie, you... what are you doing?” “Brother Nie, please... Please help me.” The woman sobbed with every word. The blue-robed man strode up to her and tried to lift her to her feet, but the woman refused to stand. He grew even more panicked as he asked, “Stop... stop crying! What on earth happened? Whatever it is, I’ll help you, so get up already!” The woman still refused to stand up though. It was because she knew just how selfish and wanton her request was. “The Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor, he... he’s planning to kill big brother Mo Su!” The blue-robed man’s eyes shivered violently when he heard the name. “The Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor is planning to sink big brother Mo Su into the Abyss of Nothingness with his own hands... he’s already announced this to the entire God Race. He is as stubborn as he is truthful. There is no way he would change his mind after making such an announcement.” “Just now, the Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor has taken big brother Mo Su to the Abyss of Nothingness! He will die... he’s really going to die...” The woman’s voice was brimming with marrow-deep pain. The eyes of the blue-robed man grew discolored as he replied powerlessly, “That is the God Race’s business. Besides, you know how powerful the Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor is. No one can stop him if he wishes to execute his own son. Besides, this is a...” He wanted to say that this was a good thing for the Devil Race since Mo Su was the strongest god of the younger generation of the God Race, and the two races had been enemies since ancient times, but... he could not possibly say such cruel words to the woman who was already suffering so much. “No! There is still a way to save him!” Still kneeling, the woman clutched the blue-robed man’s clothes and cried, “Big brother Nie, please lend me your ‘Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl’. I only need it for a moment. I have the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror. If I freeze the wheel of time temporarily with the pearl and pierced the void with the mirror, then I can save big brother Mo Su even from the clutches of the Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor.” The blue-robed man swayed on his feet before crying, “Xiaodie, have you... have you gone insane?! Do you even know what you’re talking about?!” “This is the Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor we’re talking about! The strongest champion of the God Race! The Creation God that could least tolerate us out of all the Creation Gods! Do you know what will happen if you fail? Do you know what the consequences might be if the Nether Mirror and the Devil Pearl were to fall into the God Race’s hands? You will become the eternal sinner of the Devil Race... all for the sake of a mere God Race prince!” “I... have gone insane... but... but...”Drip...Drip drip... Despite having happened untold years ago, the sound of her tears was still so clear that it broke one’s heart. “He is my Mo Su... I can’t... I can’t watch him die... I can’t...” The blue-robed man’s eyes were dazed. The Pan Xiaodie he was familiar and in love with boasted a toughness and arrogance that towered over all men. Even her temper was as violent and fiery as a devilish flame. Today, she was weeping so sorrowfully in front of him... for a man from the God Race. “You should really... beg your father for help...” The blue-robed man’s voice gradually turned painful. The woman in black dress shook her head immediately. “Father does not want us to be together to begin with... he would never agree to this... he even went so far as to try and lock me up. Without the Nether Mirror, I would not have been able to escape, and there would be no chance for me to save Mo Su...” “Since you know he disapproves, what can you do... even if you managed to save him?” The woman in black dress murmured, “I promised him that we would work together to break any shackles, overcome any trial if the world accepts our union. If not... then we will escape this world, seek out and build a paradise that belongs to us and us alone.” The blue-robed man wobbled. “I... will take him back to the Devil Race. If neither father nor the Devil Race can tolerate him, then I will... remove his divine powers so he may never threaten the Devil Race. I will protect him forever and ever.” “If still they cannot tolerate us... then we will dispel all our powers and vanish into a distant lower realm. We will find a paradise where no one can find us.” The blue-robed man slowly closed his eyes. It was impossible to say if he was in pain or struggling. The Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl isn’t just the Nirvana Devil Race’s most powerful time devil artifact, it is the ultimate devil artifact that guarantees our race’s safety. No harm must come to it... and so I cannot give it to you no matter what.” “Big brother Nie...” “Don’t bother.” The blue-robed man abruptly turned away and uttered through gritted teeth, “I cannot!” Although only her back could be seen, her aura withered so much that Chi Wuyao and Qianye Ying’er could almost imagine her eyes losing all of their color and light in an instant. She knelt there in silence for a very long time. Finally, she climbed to her feet and said weakly, “I’m sorry, big brother Nie... It’s I who made a most unreasonable request... in the future, do make sure to take care of yourself. Do not repeat my mistake.” She turned away to leave... but a hand caught her arm with a death grip. “What are you doing?” The blue-robed man was almost snarling. “You think you can save him with the Nether Mirror alone?” The woman’s voice was soft, but every word she spoke was infused with unbreakable determination. “If my other half lives, then I will live. If my other half dies, then I will die.” “...” The blue-robed man looked away. It took him a long time to squash the deep pain in his eyes before he said, “I said I wouldn’t give you the devil pearl, but I never said that I wouldn’t help you.” He raised his hand and summoned a devilish pearl surrounded by a strange black light. “You are not a member of my Nirvana Devil Race, so unlike me, you can just barely use the devil pearl. So, I’ll come with you.” The woman in black dress stared at him blankly for a while. Finally, she closed her eyes and whispered, “Thank you, big brother Nie. A lifetime isn’t enough for me to repay the debt I owe you.” Her tearful whisper entered the blue-robed man’s ears. The next moment, he flinched. It was because he realized that he could not move even a muscle. Even his profound energy was firmly locked within his body. This was... the spatial shackle of the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror! “Xiaodie... what are you doing?!” The woman in black dress reached out and took the devil pearl from his hand. “Xiaodie... Xiaodie! Don’t be stupid!” The blue-robed man’s pupils dilated to the max. His voice was filled with infinite terror as well. “Let me go! I already promised to come with you! Let me go now!” The woman in black dress slowly stepped back as she said in a sorrowful voice, “I know what I’m doing, but I cannot... no matter what... watch him fall into the Abyss of Nothingness and do nothing. This is our sin, and I cannot drag you down with me.” She turned toward the projection and said, “This Projection Stone has engraved everything. Whether I succeed or fail, it will prove that I am the one who took the devil pearl from you. It has nothing to do with you.” “I’ll come back very soon, big brother Nie... when that happens, big brother Mo Su and I will beg for your forgiveness together. We will receive any punishment.” Her black sleeve cut a hole in space, and she stepped right through the gap. After she disappeared, the spatial gap disappeared as if it was never there. “Xiaodie! Xiaodie! Someone... father... Elder Nie Yuan... Xiaodie is in danger... someone... someone head to the God Realm of Absolute Beginning and save Xiaodie!”“Ahhhhhhh——!!!” The projection ended with the Nirvana Devil Crown Prince’s despairing scream. Chi Wuyao and Qianye Ying’er’s reactions greatly differed from each other. “A lovesick fool and another lovesick fool.” Qianye Ying’er curled her lips seemingly in disdain. “I cannot believe the one thing that is perfectly preserved since ancient times is this utter—Hmm?” It was at this moment she noticed Chi Wuyao’s strange look and frowned abruptly. “What did you discover, Devil Queen?” Chi Wuyao let out a quiet sigh and said in a heavy voice, “Nether Mirror... Devil Pearl... To think that my initial assumptions all came true.” She wondered how the Nirvana Devil Crown Prince felt when he sealed the projection into the stele. “What came true? What are you saying?” Qianye Ying’er’s heart grew heavy before she knew it. “I’m saying...” Chi Wuyao reached out and lightly brushed a finger across the three words “Pan Xiaodie”. “That his opponent is the son of a Creation God, one who wields the two most powerful devil artifacts in the world too.” “...” Shock and horror slowly spread out in Qianye Ying’er’s eyes. She would not speak for a very, very long time. Chapter 2106 - Sha Xing, Xian Yue “Prey?” Li Suo asked. Yun Che rose to his feet and said sinisterly, “The Star and Moon twins.” Li Suo withdrew her hand and extinguished her light. “I see. Now I understand why your emotions are at its strongest whenever Meng Jianxi brings up the Star and Moon Kingdom of God. You were very concerned about them.” While adjusting his aura, Yun Che extended a hand and made a grabbing motion. The surrounding abyssal dust immediately gathered into a mild whirlpool and flowed into Yun Che’s palm. The Endless Fog was infinitely vast. Not even a High Priest would be able to locate a specific aura or anomaly. In other words, so long as the Fog Monarch did not reveal himself of his own accord, not even a True God could detect him in the Endless Fog. Even so, Yun Che acted with the utmost caution. “Looking at the location of the Star and Moon Kingdom of God and the Star and Moon Divine Children’s previous track record, this is the area they would most likely appear... it was worth searching for them non-stop for the past few days!” Li Suo asked, “You haven’t made contact with anyone from the Star and Moon Kingdom of God since entering the Abyss though. How were you able to recognize their presence?” “It is true I haven’t made contact with anyone from the Star and Moon Kingdom of God, but... I recognize the presence of the Heavenly Wolf and the Purple Pylon!” As he spoke, the whirlpool of abyssal dust had been compressed into a long, narrow line. “You are facing two Divine Children this time, and they must have a protector,” Li Suo said worriedly. “The risks of targeting them are extremely high.” “You’re overthinking this.” Yun Che smiled. It was at this moment a middle-sized abyssal beast walked over and stopped in front of him. Yun Che had selected this abyssal beast half a month ago, and it had been crouching not far away from him this whole time. It was only now Li Suo finally understood what it was for. Yun Che grabbed its claw and drilled open its limb. Then, he injected the compressed abyssal dust into it. ...... “This time, we’re going to be practicing in the Endless Fog for six months at least. Are you afraid, Sha Xing?” “Afraid? Is that a joke? If it wasn’t for the Star Sovereign’s order, I would have wanted to see what the inner region looks like.” “You may not fear the Endless Fog, but... what about the Fog Monarch? Rumors have it that the Fog Monarch is omnipresent in the Endless Fog. He might be listening in on our conversation right now.” “Oh, I’m not worried about the Fog Monarch at all. The rumors also say that the Fog Monarch bestowed many favors and rescued many people from abyssal corruption. You saw the projection just like me. He punished the two abyssal knights who offended him gravely, but he ultimately did not take their lives. We cannot possibly know what he truly thinks, but on the surface at least, he is a merciful existence. In that sense, he's even less scary than an abyssal beast.” The two youngsters were walking shoulder to shoulder. One of them had eyes that glittered like stars, and another eyes that looked as clean as the moon. Their attire was similar, their figures were similar, even their footsteps were astonishingly similar. Upon closer inspection, one would discover that the strength of their profound qi, circulation of aura, and even breathing rhythm were virtually identical as well. If not for their different appearances, one could mistake them for a mirror reflection of each other. They were Sha Xing and Xian Yue, the twin Godbearers of this generation’s Star and Moon Kingdom of God[1]. The twin Divine Regents of the Star and Moon Kingdom of God, Wu Shenxing and Wu Shenyue, were a pair of twins. Their parents carried the power of the Star God and the Moon God in them, and they had awakened their divine essences, adjusted their innate powers to become compatible with the Heavenly Wolf Star God and the Purple Pylon Moon God’s power, and inherited their divine powers at the same time. Together, they were known as the Star and Moon Divine Regents and were once renowned as the miracle twins of their generation. Sha Xing and Xian Yue weren’t twins. In fact, they didn’t even share the same parents. However, they had grown up together and were chosen to become Godbearers at the same time. Throughout the years, their compatibility and “balance” crept ever closer toward perfection. Today, they had already reached the level of the former miracle twins. Naturally, the Star and Moon Divine Regents were quite impressed with them. The two Divine Children slowed down at the exact same time. “We won’t be able to leave easily once we enter the middle region. Let us make one last preparation before we depart.” It was at this moment a dangerous aura suddenly appeared in front of them. It closed the distance in just the blink of an eye. The two Divine Children exchanged a look with each other. “I guess that preparation will have to wait.” “Divine Extinction Realm... level two?” Sha Xing frowned a little. “Why would there be a Divine Extinction Realm abyssal beast in this region?” “It is pretty rare,” Xian Yue said. “It’ll be a good warm-up.” The abyssal fog split open to reveal an abyssal beast surrounded by gray fog in mid-pounce. At the same time, azure blue starlight and dark purple moonlight shone at the same time. One twin unsheathed a forceful, heavy sword, and the other an agile, purple sword. Despite this, they achieved perfect compatibility in an instant. The power of the star and the moon shone at the same time.Boom! The heavy sword broke the shielding, and the purple sword pierced the heart. In just one exchange, the Divine Extinction Realm abyssal beast was spilling blood and losing its balance. The abyssal beast let out an instinctive howl. Since it couldn’t feel pain, it twisted its body at an angle that would’ve snapped the spine of an actual profound beast and thrust a pair of abyssal claws at Sha Xing’s solar plexus. The heavy sword was the fiercest and most straightforward weapon of them all, but what if it was combined with the illusory Star God’s Broken Shadow?Shred! The abyssal beast’s attack missed, and Xian Yue had predicted all of Sha Xing’s movement. As soon as his sword pointed at a certain angle, a purple moon exploded where Sha Xing was a moment ago and engulfed the abyssal beast completely, annihilating both its body and its auric perception. At the same time, Sha Xing appeared above the abyssal beast and gathered his strength in just half a breath. While the abyssal beast was struggling to break free from the purple moon, the angry, howling silhouette of the Heavenly Wolf manifested behind his back. “Heavenly Star Lamentation!”Rumble! The attack felt like an actual star crashing to the earth. The Divine Extinction Realm abyssal beast let out a mournful howl as its spine snapped in half, and its body struck the ground so hard that it formed a huge, deep pit. Considering how impossibly tough the ground of the Endless Fog was, this was quite an impressive feat. It wasn’t over, however. Starlight and moonlight descended once more, their destructive power crisscrossing and merging with each other. Together, they painted a brilliant light web of destruction so colorful that it blinded even in the dark Endless Fog.Boom boom boom boom— Twelve explosions later, Sha Xing and Xian Yue withdrew their power at the same time and returned to the sky, backs facing each other. Then, the heavy sword and purple sword disappeared from their hands. The perfect synchronicity of their movements and pacing would have stunned anyone who saw it for the first time. However, it was just another day to the duo who had been working to improve their compatibility for the past thousand years. “I remember the first time we encountered a Divine Extinction Realm abyssal beast in the Endless Fog. It was a hard won victory where both of us were covered in wounds. Today...” Sha Xing smiled lightly. “I feel like we can fight even a level four Divine Extinction Realm abyssal beast. Together.” “Just that?” Xian Yue lifted his head with a proud smile on his face. “We may not be at level four Divine Extinction Realm yet, but there is no level five Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner in the entire Star and Moon Kingdom of God that we cannot defeat together... including abyssal beasts!” Sha Xing cast his gaze down at the abyssal beast they had hacked into pieces. “It’s time to collect our loot.” They could sense its abyssal crystal since its body was cut open. Sha Xing descended toward the abyssal beast. He was just about to rip it open with his hand when suddenly, the upper torso of the abyssal beast abruptly pounced up and thrust its claw at his solar plexus. Abyssal beasts had no consciousness. Naturally, it couldn’t think for itself, much less play dead. It was one thing if their quarry was a dead man, but an abyssal beast that had been hacked into pieces? Who would think that it was still alive? Who would still be on their guard? The attack happened so unexpectedly that Sha Xing blanched. Xian Yue was spinning around in shock as well. However, not only did the abyssal beast hold the element of surprise, Sha Xing wasn’t prepared at all. Forget using Star God’s Broken Shadow, he didn’t even have time to channel his profound energy. So, the abyssal beast’s sharp claw pierced right through his chest and out of his back. For an instant, Sha Xing’s pupils contracted to pin-heads. Then, they dilated into sheer violence.Bang! The Star God’s power erupted from his chest and ejected the abyssal beast’s claw with vengeance. At the same time, the Purple Pylon divine power descended and blasted its broken upper torso far, far away from Sha Xing. Then, a series of follow up explosions turned it into bits and pieces. “Are you alright?” Xian Yue asked with a frown while kicking away the abyssal beast’s lower half. “I’m fine. It’s just a minor injury.” Sha Xing lifted his hand and sealed his wound with profound energy in no time. He was frowning just as deeply as Xian Yue. “It’s strange though. If an abyssal beast were still alive, then its destructive impulse would drive it to fight to the death. However, its body was blasted to pieces, and it was, for a time, completely motionless. Why would it gain a second wind out of nowhere?” “I don’t know.” Xian Yue replied, “The Endless Fog is vast, and the abyssal beasts are endless. Anything can happen here. Still, look at the bright side. We now know not to let our guard down even against an abyssal beast that seems to be completely dead. Better to learn this lesson now than after we enter the middle region.” “Indeed.” Sha Xing sat down. “I’m going to recover for a bit. Guard me.” Sha Xing closed his eyes and slowly circulated his profound energy. The next moment, he opened his eyes and let out a cry of surprise and pain. “What’s wrong?” Xian Yue moved closer. “Abyssal... corruption!” Sha Xing spat slowly. Xian Yue let out a huge sigh of relief. They could easily dispel the abyssal corruption of an early-stage Divine Extinction Realm abyssal beast unless they allowed it to fester for too long. Unfortunately, he quickly noticed that Sha Xing’s expression was ugly. He quickly reached out and felt Sha Xing’s wound with his profound energy. He blanched. To Xian Yue’s shock, the abyssal dust that invaded Sha Xing’s body was so thick that his soul was trembling just touching it with his profound energy. Xian Yue quickly shook off his shock and stopped hesitating. He abruptly rose to his feet and shouted, “Senior Stellar, please show yourself! Sha Xing is afflicted with abyssal corruption! It has entered his profound veins!” “Senior Stellar!” Several shouts later, a rugged voice finally responded, “A mere Divine Extinction Realm abyssal beast is enough to cause you two to panic to this extent?” His voice was full of disappointment. “Stellar... Star Sovereign...” Sha Xing turned his head with a painful groan, “This... is different...” A middle-aged man with a fierce-looking face and a white beard that was shaped like a halberd descended. He was wearing a star robe. He extended a finger and touched Sha Xing. Just a moment later, his disappointment was replaced by rapidly swelling shock and horror. He abruptly raised his finger and gathered the power of the Divine Limit Realm at his fingertip. Then, he shot it through Sha Xing’s solar plexus. Sha Xing turned white and threw up a mouthful of dirty blood, but the Stellar Star Sovereign’s eyebrows remained tightly knitted. Not only did he not withdraw his power, but he continued to rummage around with the utmost caution. As the wound in Sha Xing’s solar plexus slowly widened until it was starting to damage his internal organs, the Stellar Star Sovereign finally withdrew his energy and stared at the shattered remains of the abyssal beast. He exclaimed in shock, doubt and disbelief, “It’s just a Divine Extinction Realm abyssal beast... How can this be? How can this be?” “Not even you can help him, Senior Stellar?” Xian Yue exclaimed. The Stellar Star Sovereign’s eyebrows twitched. It took him a while before he finally answered, “This level of abyssal corruption should not belong to an early-stage Divine Extinction Realm abyssal beast at all. It is something... only a Divine Limit Realm abyssal beast could produce.” “What!?” Sha Xing and Xian Yue burst out in shock and horror. “If I was the afflicted one, I could dispel it with ease. But...” He looked at Sha Xing with deep worry. “Sha Xing is the one who is afflicted, and the abyssal corruption is nestled in his profound veins no less. If I were to dispel it by force, it would do irreversible damage to his profound veins.” “Just now, I dispelled the abyssal corruption outside his profound veins. As for the part inside his profound veins... I can only seal it temporarily. I believe... the two supreme ones are the only ones who stand a chance at dispelling the abyssal corruption without hurting your profound veins.” He grabbed Sha Xing’s shoulder. “The trial ends here. You must return to the Kingdom of God immediately.” “But...” Sha Xing clenched his teeth tightly. “No buts!” The Stellar Star Sovereign said in a tone that wouldn’t accept no as an answer. “Do you understand what the consequences of permanently losing your profound veins are!?” Sha Xing stopped arguing then. He cast Xian Yue an apologetic look before leaving together with Stellar Star Sovereign. ...... Author’s Note: The Pure Land Meet is nigh. Did we miss anything? 1. TL-Disclaimer: Mars did NOT make it clear what their gender is. I’m assuming they are both male because of the word 他 but it’s entirely possible that isn’t the case. ☜ Chapter 2107 - Imbalance Just like that, the Star and Moon twins’ trial to achieve a breakthrough was shattered before it could truly begin. Yun Che did not dare to stay close with the Stellar Star Sovereign close by. He walked out of the shadows as a sinister smile slowly spread across his face. “What was the point of that?” Li Suo asked. Yun Che dispelled the abyssal dust surrounding his body and returned his aura and state to that of an ordinary profound practitioner. “I’m just creating a chance for one of them to come to the Endless fog alone.” “Alone?” Li Suo rejected the idea knowing what she knew about the Divine Children of the Abyss. “The Divine Children literally represent the future of the Kingdoms of God. Their safety supersedes everything. There is no way a Divine Son would appear alone outside the Kingdom of God, much less the Endless Fog.” “He will,” Yun Che declared with confidence. “Considering the amount of time it would take for them to return to the Star and Moon Kingdom of God, the abyssal corruption I planted has more than enough time to seep deep into his profound veins. In that state, not even the Star and Moon Divine Regents could dispel the abyssal corruption perfectly.” “You’re saying...” Li Suo seemed to realize something. “You’re forcing him to come to the Endless Fog in search of the Fog Monarch, the one existence who is rumored to be capable of curing abyssal corruption perfectly?” “That’s right.” Yun Che’s answer failed to convince Li Suo, however. She replied after a moment of thought, “Even with everything you did, the Fog Monarch is still too enigmatic and ephemeral an existence to the public. The only real proof regarding the Fog Monarch is his hostile stance toward the Pure Land... since your scorn and blasphemous words against the Pure Land must be known to the entire world by now.” “The six Kingdoms of God exist only thanks to the Abyssal Monarch. Their power exists because it was bestowed by the Abyssal Monarch. While the Star Divine Son’s abyssal corruption can only be dispelled via damaging his profound veins, if the treatment was handled by the two Divine Regents, the permanent damage he suffers cannot possibly be too great.” “Therefore, I don’t think that the Divine Son of a Kingdom of God would make a choice that goes against the Pure Land... not to mention that whether or not he can find the ephemeral Fog Monarch, from his perspective, is a question to begin with.” Yun Che smiled. “If he was the Divine Son of any other Kingdom of God, then you would be perfectly right. However, this is the Star and Moon Kingdom of God we’re talking about.” Li Suo: “...?” “I have a question for you,” Yun Che said suddenly. “A multiple choice question.” “Which situation do you think is most unacceptable to a person? One, a stronger rival suddenly soaring to a height they could never hope to reach; two, an equal who slowly but surely surpassed them; or three, a weaker rival who gradually surpassed them in the future?” “The third situation,” Li Suo answered immediately after Yun Che finished his question. “That is a very good answer,” Yun Che answered, “but in the case of Sha Xing and Xian Yue, it is the second situation.” “Why’s that?” A hint of complex emotions flashed in Yun Che’s eyes as he gazed forward. “If I was who I was many years ago, my answer would have been the same as yours. But then... I had a friend when I first entered the God Realm.” “His name, is Huo Poyun.” Li Suo knew Huo Poyun. She had witnessed his Nine Heavens Cry of Dead Crow and Shattered Jade through Yun Che’s eyes. However, she could never understand his words back then. “Huo Poyun wept when he heard of my death, hated when he heard of my return, saved my life when the entire world turned against me, tried to kill himself through me when I invaded the world with my devils... and finally, sacrificed himself using Nine Heavens Cry of Dead Crow and Shattered Jade when I was at my most desperate.” He did not explain Huo Poyun’s complex feelings and changes toward him. There was no way Li Suo would understand even if he did. “Nothing he did has ever been within my expectations. If I have to say why, it was all because of ‘imbalance.’” “You saw how amazing Sha Xing and Xian Yue’s teamwork was. Their compatibility is at a level even I find terrifying. But if one of them experiences ‘imbalance’... then the ‘heart devil’ he would suffer would far, far surpass Huo Poyun’s.” Li Suo did not say anything for a very long time. She seemed to be trying to refresh her view of humanity through Yun Che’s words. “I very much look forward to the evil flower that will bloom from the seed I planted. I sincerely hope that you will not disappoint me, bearer of the Heavenly Wolf divine power and prideful Divine Son of the stars.” When he exited the abyssal fog once more, a fierce battle was happening ahead of him. Pan Buwang was surrounded by thick black energy, but the dirty blood covering his entire body was even thicker. The viciousness in his eyes was sharper and more soul-wrenching than an abyssal beast’s eyes as well. A dark storm rose without warning and devoured the abyssal power of the two Divine Extinction Realm abyssal beasts before him layer by layer. Once they were out of power, it began devouring their bodies as well. Pan Buwang growled animalistically as a pitch black spear drew a black scar in the air before penetrating both abyssal beasts in an instant. The black scar that erupted into layers of black storm and dragged the severed abyssal beasts into the abyss of death. With that done, Pan Buwang slowly rested his spear on the ground and dropped to one knee. He bowed his head and greeted Yun Che, “This disciple greets his master.”Drip.. drip drip... The sound of dripping blood was unbelievably clear in the deathly silent Endless Fog. Pan Buwang’s face was expressionless, however. He wasn’t even looking at the pools of blood beneath his body. Despite feeling so fatigued he could fall over, he maintained his posture and did not move a muscle. “Very good.” The Fog Monarch praised him simply. “It looks like you have mastered the fourth level of mutation. Revenge truly is the most magical power in the world.” “Today, this monarch shall teach you the fifth level of mutation.” Pan Buwang looked up immediately, the fatigue in his eyes instantly replaced by the demonic glint of excitement and desire. As he kowtowed to Yun Che in thanks, he suddenly asked, “Master, will I... have the privilege of seeing your true self one day?” “True self? Hahahaha!” The Fog Monarch sneered. “This monarch is the monarchical spirit born from the abyssal power of the Endless Fog. As such, I do not have a so-called true self. If I must define myself, then I suppose every speck of abyssal dust in this Endless Fog is me.” “No,” Pan Buwang stared at the twisted, misshapen pupils in the abyssal fog, “I know you’re really a human, master.” Fog Monarch: “...” Pan Buwang remained kneeling as he explained honestly, “The devil arts I practice are the strongest dark profound art in the entire world. However, you only need one demonstration to be able to learn them perfectly, and mutate them into more powerful versions in just a matter of days.” “Not only that, the mutated devil arts are always more compatible with my body and profound veins. At the same time, in order to maximize the power of the devil arts, executing the mutated devil arts requires perfect utilization of all fifty four profound entrances in one’s profound veins.” “Before you mutate a devil art, you always adjust them to be compatible with your profound veins first... and the only race who has fifty four profound entrances is humans. The beasts and the spirits all channel their power in completely different ways.” “If you are not a human who possesses fifty four profound entrances in your body, there is no way you could mutate each level of the devil arts to be perfectly compatible with the fifty four profound entrances.” “...” Yun Che hid a gasp.That counts as a mistake? Are you fucking kidding me right now? For several instants, Yun Che was sorely tempted to silence Pan Buwang. “Hehehe!” The Fog Monarch let out a cold chuckle. He neither confirmed nor rejected Pan Buwang’s theory, but his raspy voice abruptly grew several times colder. “Pan Buwang, you are smarter than I thought you were. However, someone as smart as you should also know when to feign stupidity.” Suddenly, Yun Che recalled that his master had said the exact same thing to him. “This disciple is aware.” Pan Buwang wasn’t afraid despite the oppressive cold. He stared straight at the Fog Monarch’s eyes and said, “If you hadn’t saved me, I would be no different from the dead even if I was still alive.” “My Mother taught me that a man should not betray love or forget favors... and your favor to me is as big as my Mother, the one who gave birth to me. With that in mind, how can this disciple possibly fake his words and heart before you?” His eyes were full of violence when he was facing the Abyss, and as dead as the abyss of death when he was facing darkness. It was only when he was facing the Fog Monarch that his eyes were humanely pure... almost perfectly pure. Pan Buwang was definitely a man of passion. Otherwise, he could never have come this far—not for the sake of his mother and lover at least. He said sincerely, “This disciple vehemently desires to know what kind of person the master who saved him and taught him is... one could even say it is my greatest desire besides taking revenge.” Pan Buwang did not say that he would never leak the Fog Monarch’s true identity, but every word he spoke, every twitch of his face, and every twinkle in his eyes told the Fog Monarch that Pan Buwang would die a million deaths before he committed something that would betray his master even a little. A cold, bloody wind brushed against the nostrils. Finally, the Fog Monarch answered, “You will know one day. Perhaps you will have completed your vengeance by then.” “This monarch will allow this insolence one time, but you shall not speak of this again. Do not forget what you must do!” Pan Buwang lowered his head and responded heavily and obediently, “As you command.” He slowly rose to his feet and summoned his spear back into his hand, causing it to shine with a black light. Despite being covered in wounds and injuries, he did not ask to take a short rest. He simply stared at the Fog Monarch with bright, fiery eyes and said, “Please, give me your guidance!” ...... Time stirred and churned senselessly under the black tide. Carrying the weight of age in its belly, it spurred many a growth, treated many a wound, and cleansed many a heart and soul. But to the Star Divine Son, time... was torture. For the umpteenth time, Sha Xing gripped his solar plexus with a death grip. Six months had passed, but the abyssal corruption still pained him like no other every time he channeled his profound energy. What was even worse than the pain was the impediment to his circulation and the snail’s pace at which his profound energy had been progressing. Today, an invigorating bit of news had spread throughout the Star and Moon Kingdom of God like wildfire. The Moon Divine Son Xian Yue had successfully entered the fourth level of the Divine Extinction Realm this morning. The Star and Moon Kingdom of God held a celebration every time the Star and Moon Divine Sons made a breakthrough, but it was different this time. This time, the twin Divine Sons who used to achieve a breakthrough at the exact same time... were no longer in synchrony. This time, only the Moon Divine Son achieved a breakthrough. When the news broke, Sha Xing wore a smile on his face, but bled through his fingers. He had just arrived at the Star God Palace where the Heavenly Star Divine Regent resided when he ran into the Stellar Star Sovereign, who just walked out of the entrance. The Stellar Star Sovereign saw through Sha Xing instantly and sighed. “If you are here to ask the Divine Regent to sever the abyssal corruption inside you, then I will not stop you. But if you came today harboring delusional dreams... then I would ask you not to disturb him. It’s been half a year. You should accept reality by now.” “Reality...” Sha Xing clenched his teeth tightly. “The Divine Regent is strong. I’m sure he has a way. I’m sure...” The Stellar Star Sovereign shot him a look. “The supreme one has messaged High Priest Ling Xian several times and even visited the Pure Land in person for you. You already know what the answer is. The supreme one is infinitely powerful, but this level of abyssal corruption inside your profound veins... no one can solve it. No one.” He reached out and gave Sha Xing a pat on the shoulder. “The supreme one has expended countless time, effort, and abyssal crystals to seal the abyssal corruption and prevent it from worsening for half a year. At this rate, you are simply wasting resources holding out for a miracle that will never come true... You should know that many Star Sovereigns and Star Officials are growing dissatisfied.” Sha Xing’s lips trembled. He immediately bowed his head so no one could see his loss of composure. Stellar Star Sovereign continued, “A lizard cuts off its tail for survival. By no means is it an act of weakness; simply one of necessity. Moreover, the supreme one promised that, together with the Sky Moon Divine Regent, they could ensure that the permanent damage done to your profound veins is under ten percent.” “Ten... percent... heh.” Sha Xing whispered and let out a self-derisive, pained chuckle. To lose ten percent of his profound veins permanently was to fall behind in terms of cultivation level, progress, profound energy circulation, his future ceiling... everything. Permanently. It also meant he would become his equal’s eternal burden. Sha Xing did not continue toward the Star God Palace. Instead, he turned around and said softly, “I understand. I will consider this carefully. I won’t burden the Divine Regent and the Star Sovereigns any longer.” “Mm.” Stellar Star Sovereign nodded and stopped there. As the protector who was supposed to ensure such an accident never happened in the first place, he had been wrestling with guilt and regret as well. Chapter 2108 - Abyssal Ghost Divine Son Sha Xig didn’t know when, but he found himself standing before the Star and Moon Thousand Opportunities Tower. He looked up and stared at the mingling, glittering light of the stars and moon. He recalled he and Xian Yue climbing the tower together and exchanging hearty laughter with each other for every floor they climbed. Now, all the memory brought was infinite sorrow. A long, long, long silence later, he finally jolted back to reality and prepared to leave. It was at this moment a pair of Star God disciples exited the tower, arm in arm. They were covered in sweat and wounds, but their excited expressions made it clear that they had achieved a breakthrough. “You know, I heard that the tower guard disciples saying that the Moon Divine Son singlehandedly reached the fiftieth floor after his breakthrough.” “As expected of the Moon Divine Son. It’s a shame... a shame that the Star Divine Son has not set foot in the Thousand Opportunities Tower since half a year ago. Say, junior brother, do you think that the Star Divine Son is really... half-crippled?” “That would be an exaggeration, but the abyssal corruption has reached into his profound veins. Unless that portion of his profound veins was completely removed, not even the supreme Abyssal Monarch could do anything about it. Unfortunately, the Star Divine Son refused to give up and kept searching for a way to expel the abyssal corruption perfectly... sigh...” “To be honest, I heard from my senior brothers on the Moon God’s side that the Moon Divine Son’s pain was no worse than the Star Divine Son’s. In fact, the Moon Divine Son could have achieved a breakthrough three months ago, but he kept it suppressed for fear of agitating the Star Divine Son. It wasn’t until his profound energy was dangerously close to going out of control that he finally made his breakthrough.” The cool-eyed Sha Xing slowly clenched his fists when he heard this. “The Star Divine Son and Moon Divine Son have grown up and even become Divine Sons together. They may not be blood-related, but their relationship is beyond anything we outsiders can imagine. In any case, it’s looking more and more like the Star Divine Son will submit to fate and remove a portion of his profound veins, and the Moon Divine Son will slow down his own progress for him...” “That wouldn’t be so bad, but if the Star Divine Son were to become the Divine Regent in the future... doesn’t that mean we would have a semi-crippled Divine Regent?” “Besides, the inheritance of the Star and Moon divine power must be carried at the same time, and the two Godbearers must achieve a sufficient level of compatibility. Even if the semi-crippled Star Divine Son shares the same cultivation level as the Moon Divine Son... can you really call it perfect compatibility anymore?” The worry-filled discussion was, in fact, a reflection of what many people in the Star and Moon Kingdom of God shared were thinking. “Speaking of which,” the speaker suddenly lowered his voice and scanned his surroundings warily, “I heard from my uncle that a baby boy with eighty percent divine essence was just born in the Star God Clan to the north six days ago.” “What? Wait, if that is true, then why’s there no news about it?” “Because the Heavenly Star Divine Regent commanded that the birth was to remain a secret. The only reason I know is because my uncle happened to be present when the Star God child was born.” “If the Heavenly Star Divine Regent himself gave such an order, does that mean... he has personally paid the newborn a visit?” “That’s why my uncle said that the Star God Clan may be experiencing an upheaval very soon, and that I should watch out for any movement. You are the only one who heard of this from me, understand? So you better—” Suddenly, the speaker’s voice trailed off. It was because he and his companion felt a sudden chill behind their backs. They turned around just in time to see Xian Yue staring at them coldly. “Moon... Moon Divine Son.” The duo immediately tensed up, hearts beating twice as fast as before. There was a blur, and Xian Yue was standing right in front of them. His eyes were so cold his gaze felt like moonlight knives that could carve out their hearts. “I’m only going to say this one time. I don’t care if what you said is real or fake, but so long as I, Xian Yue, am still the Moon Divine Son, the Star Divine Son can only be Sha Xing! No one, not even a Star God child with perfect divine essence, will ever make me change my mind!” “From now on, I will not hear any absurd rumors regarding the Star Divine Son anymore. Otherwise... you don’t want to know how I am when I’m angry!” “P... please calm down, Moon Divine son. It was just a slip of the tongue, a... careless conversation. We don’t mean any disrespect...” “Get lost!” The two disciples immediately shut up. They ran off in panic, afraid to breathe a single word. Xian Yue stood there for a long time before the ice in his eyes finally faded. He then let out a long sigh. He was about to turn away when he suddenly sensed something and turned back. There, he met Sha Xing’s eyes. There was a brief flash of panic in his eyes, but he quickly calmed down and took to the sky. When he landed in front of Sha Xing, he said smilingly, “It’s not really my jurisdiction, but I decided to release those two idiots. It’s because I’m sure you are above their foolish, petty words.” “Congratulations on your breakthrough.” Sha Xing returned a smile. Xian Yue’s expression did not change as he said, “I got ahead of you this time, but I’m sure it won’t take long at all for you to achieve your breakthrough once your abyssal corruption is removed.” Sha Xing looked into his eyes. “Do you think I should give up and just remove the abyssal corruption as well?” Xian Yue countered, “If I was the one who inspected that abyssal beast’s body half a year ago, then I would be in the exact same situation as you. Would you abandon me if I was the one who had to sever my profound veins permanently to remove the abyssal corruption?” Sha Xing’s face grew a little stern. He replied without hesitation, “Never.” “Would you be willing to slow down your footsteps and delay your progress for me, who is now a burden?” “I would.” “Would you resent me for it?” “... I wouldn’t.” “So...” Xian Yue broke into a sunny, carefree grin. “What are you worried, hesitant, and afraid of? Our compatibility is hardly something shallow like our cultivation, aura, and behavior. It is in our resolve to share fortune and misfortune, glory and humiliation together.” He grabbed Sha Xing’s wrist and spoke, every word coming from his soul, "This tribulation is just one slightly bigger tribulation in our long journey together. We have been one for over a thousand years. There is no way one small tribulation can defeat us, is there?” “Besides, I’ve already made up my mind. If the damage to your profound veins truly prevents us from synchronizing as perfectly as we did before, if we are unable to become the Star and Moon twins of old times, then I will sever my own profound veins to achieve perfect compatibility with you once more! I am certain you would do the same thing if you were in my position.” Xian Yue’s decision to compromise and even sacrifice himself and his constant talk about being in his shoes so as to avoid hurting his pride... Sha Xing would be lying if he said if he wasn’t warmed by it, but this indescribable feeling choking him from the inside out was so, so much worse. “Hahaha!” Sha Xing barked out a laugh. “Have all our years together been for naught, Xian Yue? I can’t believe you’re looking down on me like this. This level of abyssal corruption would cost me ten percent of my profound veins at most. Do you really think this level of loss can break me?” He counter-grabbed Xian Yue’s wrist and gave him a strong squeeze. Then, he let go and turned away, saying, “It’s just that people can’t help but dream about fantasies from time to time, believing that they could do what others could not do. I am no exception, so... give me another three months. If I cannot find a way to purify the abyssal corruption during this time, then I will sever it without regrets.” “Worst case scenario, I’ll let you drag me all the way to the finish line. I won’t feel any regret if it’s you!” “Okay!” Xian Yue nodded smilingly. “It’s a promise!” Xian Yue left after that. It wasn’t until he was completely out of sight that Sha Xing’s fearless mask of pride abruptly shattered into a million pieces. He abruptly turned around, teeth shaking slightly from how hard he was clenching them. “I can tolerate... being a cripple for the rest of my life. But becoming your burden...? Never... never!” He lifted his head and looked at a certain direction, never-before-seen determination nestling in his eyes. It was the direction of the Endless Fog. He told no one about his intentions. He avoided the surrounding people as best he could and stepped out of the divine region and eventually, the borders. Outside the borders, Sha Xing said coldly, “I need time alone. Don’t follow me!” The silhouette who had been protecting him this whole time did not. He sneered. “What’s wrong? Have I fallen so far that even you won’t listen to me anymore?” The silhouette shadowing him let out a sigh before withdrawing. He waited for hours, but Sha Xing did not return. Hours turned into days, and still Sha Xing did not return. When he finally set his mind to search for Sha Xing, he discovered that he was too late. Not a speck of Sha Xing’s aura could be found anywhere. ...... The scent of death was everywhere inside the grayish Endless Fog. This was the first time Sha Xing entered the Endless Fog alone. It was also the first time he rebelled against the orthodoxy. All... for that sliver of hope. He avoided the profound practitioners and the abyssal beasts. Finally, he arrived at the nightmarish place that had damned him half a year ago. Even as the trauma struck him like a physical object, Sha Xing gritted his teeth and pushed forward. As the density of the abyssal dust grew, the number of profound practitioners he could sense kept decreasing as well. It would continue until he could no longer sense anyone. Finally, he stopped in his tracks, sucked in a deep breath, and let out a somewhat trembling roar, “Star and Moon Divine Son Sha Xing requests an audience with the Fog Monarch!” He knew that countless people corrupted by abyssal corruption came to the Endless Fog praying for a miracle from the Fog Monarch everyday. He also knew how hopeless their pleas were. However, they also claimed that the Fog Monarch was omnipresent inside the Endless Fog, and every speck of abyssal dust was his eyes and ears, so he shouted his title. He hoped that the Fog Monarch was truly omnipresent, and that his title was special enough to draw the Fog Monarch’s attention, any attention at all. Unfortunately, his shout did not summon the Fog Monarch. Instead, it summoned a massive wave of abyssal beasts. Continuous howls erupted from deeper within the abyssal fog. Frowning, Sha Xing summoned his heavy sword and circulated his Star God power throughout his body. When the abyssal beasts’ terrifying aura hit him though, the solemn determination in his eyes instantly morphed into terror. It was because he had drawn not one, not two, but three level five Divine Extinction Realm abyssal beasts! The Heavenly Wolf howled angrily as he swung his heavy sword, but his movements also awakened the abyssal corruption trapped inside his profound veins. It stabbed at his nerves like swords and impeded the flow of his profound energy, causing the momentum of his sword to become distorted. He was already at an absolute disadvantage in the first place, and this made things so much worse.Crack! His heavy sword was knocked aside before the abyssal beast’s teeth could even reach him. Pitch black claws ripped apart his Star God power and tore a hole in his chest. As abyssal power erupted cruelly from his body, Sha Xing executed Star God’s Broken Shadow and just barely dashed away to safety. However, two more abyssal beasts reached him and inflicted four black scars on his person before he could even stand still. Blood pouring between his teeth, Sha Xing and the silhouette of the Heavenly Wolf let out a furious roar together. He rushed forward with fatal determination and the fifth sword of the Heavenly Wolf, Azure Wolf Claw in his hand.Boom— Unfortunately, his Heavenly Wolf power was ripped apart by even greater abyssal power. He was able to push back the two Divine Extinction Realm abyssal beasts somewhat, but he also earned several more bone deep wounds on his arms and chest. At this point, he no longer had any strength left to defend against the third abyssal beast. A claw struck his heart, and his heavy sword left his hand. He flew across the ground while spraying blood like a leaking blood bag. Even if he hadn’t been afflicted with abyssal corruption, even if he was at tiptop condition, he could not have fought even one level five Divine Extinction Realm abyssal beast alone, much less three of them. He didn’t even hit the ground before he was swept away by an abyssal storm once more. Primal destructive instinct drove the abyssal beasts to attack the Star Divine Son without any reservation whatsoever. Like a withered leaf that had fallen off its branch, the Star Divine Son could do nothing but be ripped apart piece by piece by the cruel storm of destruction. He was covered in wounds and bleeding everywhere in no time.Bang! When he finally hit the ground with a heavy thud and subconsciously tried to stand up, he discovered that his legs were broken and shattered already. Not a moment too soon, an abyssal claw stomped down his upper torso and smashed his head against the ground. His internal organs were crumbling piece by piece under the immense pressure as well. Sha Xing’s pupils dilated to the max. He refused to give up and die here, but his injuries were so severe that the starlight in his eyes was fading rapidly despite his will. It was slowly but surely turning as gray and dark as the Endless Fog.I... cannot possibly... die here... He struggled with all his might, but his consciousness gradually turned white, then into nothingness... When his consciousness had completely disappeared, the three rampaging abyssal beasts abruptly ceased their attacks and slowly backed away from Sha Xing. They fell into complete and absolute silence. Inside the darkness, a shadow surrounded by thick abyssal dust leisurely walked out of the abyssal fog and stood in front of Sha Xing. He raised his hand, and the surrounding abyssal dust quickly converged above his palm until a long, dense line of black was formed. “Welcome to the Endless Fog, my noble abyssal ghost Divine Son!” He whispered and injected the black scar mercilessly into Sha Xing’s forehead. Chapter 2109 - Pure Land is Nigh Abyssal dust mixed with Yun Che’s soul imprint sank to the bottom of Sha Xing’s soul sea without resistance. As Yun Che said earlier, no one in this world could perceive abyssal dust via spiritual perception except him. They could only sense if abyssal dust was impeding their energies or corrupting them. Therefore, abyssal dust could both isolate his energies and his soul aura. Unless someone stabbed their perception straight into the inner depths of Sha Xing’s soul sea, it was impossible for anyone to perceive anything from outside, much less Sha Xing himself. Although the Star and Moon Kingdom of God had suppressed the news regarding the Star Divine Son’s disappearance as quickly as possible, the Xuanji Hall still managed to capture it and transmit it to Yun Che as a packet of unimportant but confirmed intel. So, Yun Che began waiting for Sha Xing to show up after he deemed that the time was right. Driven by human nature, he determined that it was only a matter of time before Sha Xing would return to the Endless Fog. In fact, there was a high chance he would return to the nightmarish place that had afflicted him with irreversible abyssal corruption. He was right. It only took a few days of waiting for Sha Xing to enter his detection range. Converting him into a hidden “abyssal ghost” was much easier than that Yuchi Nanxing as well. When Sha Xing woke up, he felt that his whole body was in pain. He opened his eyes and found himself staring into the silent, grayish world that was the Endless Fog.I’m... still alive? He sat up and subconsciously circulated his profound energy to control his injuries... It was at this moment his heart skipped a beat, and his eyes widened like saucers. He swiftly inspected his own profound veins. His profound energy circulated through fifty four profound entrances and all of his divine essence, and... he could not feel any pain or impediment whatsoever. The abyssal corruption that had invaded his profound veins had disappeared. Not one speck of it could be found. All that was left behind was some minor damage that could be treated swiftly. For a moment, he just sat there and thought about nothing at all. He was so agitated that his body was trembling slightly, and he couldn’t shake off the feeling that this was all just a dream for a long time. It had only been half a year since he fell to abyssal corruption, but no one, not even his other half, could understand what kind of torment his soul had gone through. It was easily the longest, most unbearable half a year of his life. And now, the terrible pain ravaging his whole body told him that it wasn’t a dream. That he really had been cured. It was at this moment Sha Xing finally sensed something and looked up. Hidden behind the abyssal fog, he saw a pair of eyes silently looking down on him. Sha Xing opened his mouth, and it took him a long time to whisper, “Fog... Monarch...” “The abyssal corruption is removed. You should leave now.” The Fog Monarch had responded, but it wasn’t what he had thought the mysterious entity would say. The memories from before he fainted rapidly surged into his head. He shook his head and tried to stand up, but his broken leg bones caused him to fall on his knees once more. Still, the pain was practically nothing compared to when his profound veins were afflicted by abyssal corruption. He immediately looked up and asked, “What... do I need to pay?” “Pay? What, you wish to repay this monarch’s favor?” There was no praise behind his dignified voice, only scorn. “I am the reason you living creatures get to live in this world, but when have you ever repaid that favor? How can you even begin to repay such a favor?” Sha Xing’s lips moved, but he didn’t know what to say. At this point, there was no one in this entire Abyss who didn’t know of the Fog Monarch’s angry words against the abyssal knights. “This world is the world of the Abyss. I granted you the Lands of the Living and even restricted my people to the Endless Fog. Despite this, you venture into the Endless Fog repeatedly and hunt my people for your so-called trials and resources. The abyssal corruption you suffered is the retribution you deserve!” “...” Sha Xing still had nothing to say, though his eyes were growing lost and doubtful. “Unfortunately, this monarch ultimately can't be as ruthless as you humans. If you really feel grateful toward me, then get out of the Endless Fog and never return again.” Sha Xing opened his mouth and asked a stupid, untimely question, “Is that... all?” “Get lost!” The Fog Monarch erupted, and the gray eyes in the abyssal fog disappeared into nothing. The world returned to infinite abyssal dust. The Fog Monarch was nowhere to be found. This time, Sha Xing was completely stunned. It would be a long time before he recovered his senses. Before he came here, he had mentally prepared himself in every way and was resolved to die here. If he truly encountered the Fog Monarch, and if the Fog Monarch truly could cure him of abyssal corruption, he was ready to give up even half of his lifespan. As it turned out, he did encounter the Fog Monarch, and his abyssal corruption really was cured like it was nothing. Even better, it cost him nothing at all. Well, that wasn’t quite right. The price the Fog Monarch demanded him to pay was to get out of the Endless Fog. That was all. Right here and now, the biggest emotion entrenched in his heart wasn’t joy, but loss and doubt. His faith and belief were shaken greatly as well. He floated into the sky and began flying away from the Endless Fog. It was an unbelievably smooth journey. From the start until the end, he did not encounter a single abyssal beast. After he was out of the Endless Fog, Sha Xing looked back with greater complex feelings than ever before. There were several great favors in life. The favor of being born to this world was one. The favor of being taught was another. And the third was the favor of being saved. The Fog Monarch seemed scary, and yet he had done him an unimaginable favor. He did not demand any price either. He also seemed disgusted by his presence, and yet he had protected him and ensured that he left the Endless Fog safely. Right here and now, the stunning words the Fog Monarch had said in the projection, the claims that he had created the Land of the Living and suppressed the abyssal beasts so that they would not harm the living... It felt truer than ever before. Truer than even his massive incredulity when he first saw the projection. “Star... Star Divine Son!” It was at this moment a cry of shock and joy erupted from the distance. It came from a group of Star God disciples. They quickly formed a protective wall around him and voiced their concern for him. These Star God disciples had come to the Endless Fog in search of Sha Xing knowing that their chance of success was less than finding a needle at the bottom of the sea. But the gods must be favoring them today, for they had found him before they even set foot in the Endless Fog. Sha Xing shot the Endless Fog one last glance before relaxing his aura and nerves. Then, he let out a long sigh and commanded, “Let’s go.” ...... Inside the Star and Moon Divine Palace, the atmosphere was so cold that space was almost frozen solid. “Do you realize what you have done, Sha Xing?” At the center of the divine palace were two interconnected thrones. The throne to the right sat a man overflowing with divine light. His face was white like porcelain, and his hair was so long that it reached the waist. His facial features boasted both the ruggedness of a man and the beauty of a woman. Even his voice was gentleness with an undertone of masculinity, making it difficult to distinguish if he was male or not. He was one of the two Divine Regents of the Star and Moon Kingdom of God, the Heavenly Star Divine Regent Wu Shenxing. Wu Shenxing was rarely angry. It was why his normally gorgeous countenance looked so horribly twisted right now. He couldn’t help it. After all, Sha Xing had escaped from the Star and Moon Kingdom of God and sought out the Fog Monarch alone. How could he not be angry at such disgraceful behavior and action? On his knees, Sha Xing bowed his head deeply. “This disciple could not overcome his obsession and clung to his course despite all advice. This disciple understands that he has worried and angered the divine regents, and that his grave mistake is difficult to forgive. This disciple is willing to accept any punishment.” He felt deeply ashamed and guilty for his actions, but he did not regret it. Wu Shenxing stared at him for a moment. Even he must admit that his first emotion after confirming that the abyssal corruption afflicting Sha Xing really had disappeared completely was joy. The growing sense of unease only came afterward. “Tell me,” he pushed down his anger and forced himself to stay calm, “how did you find the Fog Monarch? How did you eliminate the abyssal corruption in your profound veins? And... what price did you pay to do it?” Sha Xing proceeded to tell the Heavenly Star Divine Regent his experience from the start until the end. After he finished, the Heavenly Star Divine Regent was silent for a long time. “Is that... all?” The Heavenly Sar Divine Regent said the exact same words Sha Xing had said when he was facing the Fog Monarch. “That is all, divine regent.” Sha Xing looked up and met Wu Shenxing’s gaze directly. “This disciple may have just committed a grave mistake, but he would not dare to breathe a single lie in your presence.” The Heavenly Star Divine Regent fell silent for a moment longer. When he spoke up again, his voice had grown as cold as a cold star, “Tell me, what price were you going to pay originally?” Sha Xing answered, “According to the rumors, the Fog Monarch had cured countless terminal abyssal corruptions without asking anything in return. It is pure benevolence without asking anything in return. As shameful as it is to admit it, this disciple was, at the bottom of my heart, hoping for the same outcome.” “Of course, if the Fog Monarch did demand a price of me, this disciple would give up anything but something that would damage the Star and Moon Kingdom of God!” “What a joke!” The Heavenly Star Divine Regent said coldly, “Is there anyone in this world who doesn’t know of the Fog Monarch’s hostility and slanderous words against the Abyssal Monarch? The Six Kingdoms of God have existed and endured only thanks to the Abyssal Monarch. You are the Divine Son of my Star and Moon Kingdom of God, and you would stoop so low as to beg the Fog Monarch to save you? Do you know how the world will view you once the news is spread; how the Pure Land will scorn us once they find out about this?!” “This disciple is aware,” Sha Xing bowed his head again, “but this disciple’s mind and body were tormented greatly during this period. Although the abyssal corruption only existed in my body, it negatively affected Xian Yue, the Star God lineage, and even the future of the Kingdom of God. Even you had to divert away from your duties and invest much time and effort in me... all these worries kept growing endlessly in my heart, and this disciple heard that the rumored Fog Monarch was the only one who could—” “Enough!” Wu Shenxing slapped the armrest angrily. “I know very well what kind of torment you went through. I know even more than the rumors that the Fog Monarch could cure abyssal corruption is true. Despite this, I have never considered seeking out the Fog Monarch to save you for even a moment. Are you really going to tell me that you don’t understand why?” Sha Xing’s gaze shifted upward. “This disciple understands. In fact, this disciple’s disgraceful departure was just to pacify the defiance inside my heart. Honestly, I did not think for a moment that my wish would come true, but to my surprise... From what I can tell, the Fog Monarch is definitely not an evil being. On the contrary, he—” “Silence!” Wu Shenxing rebuked, and his oppressive aura annihilated the words inside Sha Xing’s mouth. Eyebrows pursed together like a sword, he said, “Listen well, Sha Xing. There is no such thing as absolute good or evil, right or wrong in this world. These concepts could be completely reversed when viewed from a different perspective.” “And what is your perspective? The Divine Son of the Star and Moon Kingdom of God! Your immediate calling is the Star and Moon Kingdom of God, and your higher calling is the Pure Land itself!” “There is no need for such anger, Xing.” It was at this moment a gentle voice interrupted, and a man wearing a moon robe slowly walked into the hall. He boasted the exact same countenance as Wu Shenxing, but due to the way he carried himself, he looked even more feminine than his twin brother. His footsteps were confident and relaxed, and the way his hips swayed as he walked did not feel disconcerting one bit despite his gender. His voice in particular felt like a soothing wind that blew away the frigid atmosphere and the Heavenly Star Divine Regent’s anger before he knew it. He was the second Divine Regent of the Star and Moon Kingdom of God, the Sky Moon Divine Regent Wu Shenyue. The Star God lineage’s original surname was Xing (Star), and the Moon God lineage’s Yue (Moon). When the Star and Moon Kingdom of God was founded, and the Abyssal Monarch passed on the Star and Moon divine powers to their successors, he had bestowed them the surname Wu. It was a warning to the descendants of Star and Moon to always be united in heart and rule the Star and Moon Kingdom of God as one. Separation would not be tolerated. That was why their original surnames were subsumed into their divine title instead. It was the same for the Divine Children. Xian Yue was following closely behind Wu Shenyue. As he hurried forward and knelt beside Sha Xing, he secretly shot his companion a cheerful and reassuring smile. “Did you even hear what he said, Yue?” Wu Shenxing ranted, “In this world, there is nothing more worrying than a massive favor that demands no recompense! And Sha Xing... he actually defended the Fog Monarch!” “I heard.” Wu Shenyue said softly, “No one can predict what the future brings, but at the very least, the current outcome is an excellent one, is it not?” “...” Wu Shenxing did not deny that. Wu Shenyue raised his hand and enveloped Sha Xing in a sheen of moonlight. A moment later, he withdrew it. He said smilingly, “Not only is Sha Xing’s abyssal corruption completely gone, I do not detect any unusual aura or imprint in him. The rumors regarding the Fog Monarch all said that he never demanded compensation from the people he saved, so there is no reason to think that he is not plotting something. In that case, all we need to do is to suppress the news and forget that this ever happened. In fact... we should be glad that things have turned out this way.” Wu Shenxing was still frowning. “You cannot possibly put those specks of dust to the Divine Son of my Star and Moon Kingdom of God on the same pedestal.” “Perhaps, but it is likely that it makes no difference in the eyes of the Fog Monarch,” Wu Shenyue said slowly. “The reason he saved Sha Xing is probably the same reason he saved all those before: he had the ability, and he just happened to be at the right place at the right time.” Wu Shenyue continued, “I have already ordered the men to spread the news that Sha Xing’s abyssal corruption had been removed by our combined efforts. The cost was five percent of his profound veins. However, the bond between Star and Moon originates from the Abyssal Monarch’s teaching and favor, and it is the foundation of my Star and Moon Kingdom of God has always upheld. So, Xian Yue would slow down his footsteps slightly to maintain his compatibility with Sha xing. No matter what happens in the present or the future, Star and Moon will remain united even if a greater obstacle happens to await us ahead.” Wu Shenxing’s expression gradually relaxed as he listened to his twin. A moment of thought later, he finally said with a bit of helplessness, “So it shall be... I can only pray that my worries are unfounded.” “Sha Xing, you will not breathe a word about the Fog Monarch! You will find a way to explain your sudden disappearance as well! You understand why!” “I will. Don’t worry, Divine Regents,” Sha Xing bowed his head and promised. After they stepped out of the Star and Moon Divine Palace, Xian Yue immediately asked excitedly, “What does the Fog Monarch look like, Sha Xing? Is he really just a glob of fog as the rumors say? How did you run into him?” Sha Xing repeated what he told the Heavenly Star Divine Regent. The story was short and summarized, but it was still enough to plunge Xian Yue into long, disbelieving silence. “Xian Yue,” Sha Xing said a little distractedly, “From what I witnessed with my own eyes, I feel that what he told to the abyssal knights was most likely real. In that case, the tale of the Abyssal Monarch creating the world at the beginning of the Abyss can only be a lie—” “Sha Xing!!” Xian Yue suddenly stopped in his tracks and barked out a warning. “...” Sha Xing immediately zipped his mouth. Eyebrows knitting, Xian Yue said in a hushed voice, “Never say that to anyone again... anyone, you get me?” “I get you.” Sha Xing’s expression didn’t change. “You’re the only one I spoke my thoughts to. Not even the Divine Regents are privy to them.” Still keeping his voice soft, Xian Yue said, “To us... or should I say, to almost everyone, where you stand is far more important than true or false, right or wrong. You and I are Divine Sons of the Star and Moon Kingdom of God. You must never... ever... allow a favor to twist your beliefs.” “I know. Don’t worry.” Sha Xing nodded with determination. “You are the only one whom I speak my full, unfiltered thoughts to, and that is just what they are, thoughts. I am not so immature as to allow my personal thoughts to prevent me from doing what is right.” Unfortunately, a human could control their actions and behavior, but they could never truly control the direction of their thoughts. When a hole had suddenly appeared in the unwavering, unquestionable faith one had upheld their whole life, the hole wouldn’t just heal over time. On the contrary, it would grow bigger and bigger until what seemed like basic common sense, what felt like the purest, indisputable truths in the world, would be devoured by this hole as well. ...... Time passed quickly, and it was almost the third year since Yun Che had “returned” to the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God. All six Kingdoms of God were very quiet during this period. It was because the day of the Pure Land Meet was close. This was the first Pure Land Meet ever; since the very first time the Abyss made contact with the “Eternal Pure Land”. Naturally, it was going to be a meeting like nothing the Abyss had ever seen. It might even be the meeting that determined the fate and future of the Abyss. Dian Jiuzhi, the Boundless Divine Son, had completed his secluded cultivation. Intelligence claimed that he had successfully entered the eighth level of the Divine Extinction Realm, though the Xuanji Hall expressed their massive doubts regarding this rumor. The two Divine Sons of the Star and Moon Kingdom of God had broken through to the fourth level of the Divine Extinction Realm as well. They were currently resting and recuperating after completing one last trial at the Star and Moon Thousand Opportunities Tower. Clearly, they were planning to face the Pure Land Meet in their most optimal condition. The Eternal Night Kingdom of God was as deathly silent as ever. It was impossible to say what they were doing. Pan Buzhuo, the Owl Butterfly Divine Son, had long since entered the fourth level of the Divine Extinction Realm. As such, he spent the past two years solidifying his foundation. Today, he is firmly a level four Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner, and he has made major breakthroughs in his dark devil arts as well. Hua Caili, the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter, still hadn’t emerged after entering the Seven Star Heaven Breaker Formation three years ago. Everyone was wondering if she would break out of the formation in time to attend the Pure Land Meet. As for the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God, Meng Jianxi had finally broken through to the fourth level of the Divine Extinction Realm as well, though he knew very well that the eyes of the public had long since shifted away from him to “Meng Jianyuan”, the prince with perfect divine essence. This was a fact even though “Meng Jianyuan” was just a Divine Master. Everyone was secretly paying attention to the Pure Land since the Fog Monarch emerged, but the Pure Land had never made any announcements regarding the entity. It almost felt like they were treating it as air, or they could not be bothered to acknowledge its existence. At least, that was what it felt like from an outsider’s perspective. The Pure Land definitely wasn’t taking the Fog Monarch lightly though. After all, they had gone so far as to dispatch a knight commander to lure out the Fog Monarch and ambush him. No one knew what the Pure Land was plotting against the Fog Monarch after that incident. At the very least, no notable incidents had happened during this period. The Abyssal Monarch... was absent for the past years. Not a soul had seen him during this time. Like a mythical god of legends, he continued to look down on the world from the highest point of the Abyss, silent yet unmissable. The Black Tide of Time continued to roll forward toward an uneasy future. Soon, it was less than a month away from the Pure Land Meet. Chapter 2110 - Flash of Gray Flame Dreamweaver Kingdom of God, Divine Son Palace. This was the first time Hua Fuchen set foot in this place. Beside him was a beaming Meng Kongchan. “See, brother-in-law? The heavens as my witness, I have never mistreated your son-in-law even a little.” Hua Fuchen side-eyed him and said huffily, “As expected of the Dreamless Divine Regent. It’s not everyday someone tries to fish for a compliment by pampering their own son. The thickness of your face is truly unparalleled.” “What are you talking about?! A son-in-law counts as half a son, so if you really think about it, I’m pampering your son. In that case, it’s perfectly reasonable for me to fish for a compliment, right?” “Hardy har har!” Hua Fuchen laughed dryly. He noticed this a while ago, but Meng Kongchan’s attitude toward him had changed completely ever since he regained “Meng Jianyuan”. The guy was beaming all day everyday to the point where you couldn’t see his eyes. When Meng Kongchan was younger, he had sucked up to him like crazy because he wanted to court Hua Qingying. After they became Divine Regents, Hua Caili a.k.a his daughter turned out to be the miracle daughter with perfect divine essence, whereas Meng Kongchan wasn’t able to produce a qualified Godbearer for ten thousand years. Naturally, the man felt shorter than his peers regardless of their relationship. It was different now. He, the Dreamless Divine Regent, now had two Divine Sons in the same generation. One of them boasted perfect divine essence as well. As if that wasn’t enough, Hua Fuchen’s daughter was absolutely head over heels over Yun Che... His back had been bent before Hua Fuchen for half a lifetime, but now, it was so straight it could pierce the heavens. Such was Meng Kongchan’s attitude that Hua Fuchen could practically imagine how the guy was going to boast the crap out of his son in front of the other Divine Regents. They stepped into the palace, and Meng Kongchan asked smilingly, “Is Yuan’er present?” Meng Zhiyuan hurriedly strode up to him and saluted him. “Divine Regent! The young master is cultivating right now. We don’t know when he’s going to return.” “Cultivate?” Hua Fuchen shot Meng Zhiyuan one look and looked visibly annoyed. “I wonder, considering how pretty his female attendants seem to be! Tell me the truth, he’s busy sowing the seeds of the Meng Clan, isn’t he?” “Brother Fuchen!” Meng Kongchan immediately defended Yun Che. “I understand your scepticism, but that is pure slander! Every single attendant in this palace has been assigned by yours truly, and I can assure you that Yuan’er has never laid a single finger on them. Seriously, I would love it if my dear son chose to grow the Meng Clan, but alas, no!” Meng Zhiyuan was an intelligent woman. She immediately got the hint and said meekly, “Young master is noble and dignified, but he is also extremely hardworking. He spends over ninety percent of his time inside his cultivation space.” “This female attendant became young master’s for life from the moment I set foot in the Divine Son Palace. Young master treats us all very well, and he has never even raised his voice against us, much less bullied us.” “If there is one thing we are aggrieved with him about, it’s the fact that he refuses to allow us to... get close to him. Not even a little. The most we’ve ever done for him is to dress him, and even that only happens once in a while.” Near the end, her voice was tinged with barely concealed disappointment. The ugly expression on Hua Fuchen’s face disappeared in an instant. He then looked left and right pretending that he wasn’t concerned one bit. Meng Kongchan sighed quietly. “I’ve tried speaking with Yuan’er about this multiple times, and I’ve told him that he didn’t need to push himself so hard. He listens to me about everything except this one, and his reason...” He cast Hua Fuchen a long look. He didn’t say anything, but the picture was worth more than a thousand words. “Come,” Meng Kongchan grabbed Hua Fuchen’s arm and dragged him toward Yun Che’s cultivation space, “I’ll call the boy.” Hua Fuchen turned him down. “It’s fine. I came here today only because I was passing through. There is no real need for us to meet, and who knows, maybe he’s at a critical point in his cultivation. I wouldn’t want to disturb him.” “Hahahaha!” Meng Kongchan guffawed instantly. “See?! You keep saying you don’t care, but your love for your son-in-law is practically etched on your face!” Hua Fuchen sneered. “You shouldn’t count your chickens before they hatch. There is still a chance he might not become my son-in-law.” “I refuse! One way or another, Jianyuan will become your son-in-law, and your daughter will become my daughter-in-law!” Meng Kongchan declared firmly. “I won’t accept anyone else! Even if there are more in the future, they’ll never be anything but Jianyuan’s concubines to me!” “Oh right, speaking of which, how is my daughter-in-law doing? Is she making good progress?” Hua Fuchen rolled his eyes at Meng Kongchan and just barely resisted the urge to slap him in the face. He declared with a tinge of pride, “Caili has, in fact, defeated the Seven Star Heaven Breaker Formation half a year ago. The reason she hasn’t emerged yet is because Qingying has added an eighth star formation for her to overcome.” Meng Kongchan was silent for a brief moment before he laughed even louder than before. “HA HA HA HA! As expected of my daughter-in-law, my worthy—” Hua Fuchen elbowed him in the arm. “Shut your trap! The Pure Land Meet is still on the horizon, and we have made exactly zero progress with Old Dian! Keep your mouth shut if you know what’s good for you!” “Sure, sure, whatever you say, brother-in-law. By the way, how is Qingying—” “Don’t ask me. Ask her yourself if you dare!” As the two Divine Regents stepped away, Meng Zhiyuan could only stare at their backs with her imagination running wild. ...... At the same time, deep within the Endless Fog. Pitch black Devil Flame of Eternal Calamity was illuminating Yun Che’s face. Again and again, he gathered abyssal dust in his palm and pressed it to the flame. However, he just could not produce the reaction he was expecting. He had performed similar tests countless times at this point. His affinity and mastery of abyssal dust had been growing day by day. His knowledge of abyssal dust was growing by leaps and bounds as well. Then, one day, he suddenly had this vague sensation that he could apply abyssal dust for his own benefit. This feeling was only growing clearer as time passed, but no matter how hard he worked, no matter how many times he experimented, it was as if a door was blocking his way. He just could not cross over the threshold no matter what. The Devil Flame of Eternal Calamity disappeared, and he slowly closed his eyes. He held a crimson flame on one hand, and blue ice on the other. With just a bit of concentration, he was able to perform an impossible combination and merge them into an ice flame. When he tried to do the same with abyssal dust, nothing happened. The transcendent element simply passed through the ice flame and elicited no reaction whatsoever. The ice flame disappeared, and Yun Che let out a huge sigh of exertion. He was covered in sweat. “What... am I missing?” He asked himself quietly. “Am I lacking in cultivation... or am I lacking in comprehension regarding the Laws of Nothingness?” Li Suo’s voice came from within his soul sea. “This is the thirty thousandth time you’ve performed the experiment. When are you going to give up?” “There is no reason to,” Yun Che whispered. “In essence, abyssal dust is the transcendent power of extinction. I am just controlling it, and I can already cause such havoc and annihilate countless beliefs. If I can draw out its power of extinction as well, then perhaps... No, I will certainly gain the power to kill a god!” Li Suo replied, “You said it yourself. How can obtaining the power to kill a god be easy?” “Besides even if you can draw out the power of extinction within abyssal dust, at your current cultivation and physique, you would kill yourself first before you kill a god.” Yun Che did not refute her. He knew she was right. However, the feeling that he could make contact with the primal power of extinction was growing clearer and clearer. It originated from his invisible comprehension of the Laws of Nothingness. Although he could never capture it for real, that feeling had never lied to him.Boom! He activated Hell Monarch and ignited the Devil Flame of Eternal Calamity once more. Then, he blasted it at the abyssal dust in his left hand. The devilish flame exploded, and the ball of abyssal dust scattered. Then, Yun Che withdrew his energies completely. After one last attempt that was more an outburst of frustration than true experimentation, Yun Che climbed to his feet, surrounded himself in abyssal dust, and walked toward the inner depths of the Endless Fog. The Devil Flame of Eternal Calamity that hit the ground continued to burn violently. It would continue to burn for a long time before it finally began to diminish. No one noticed that a speck of grayish flame—so small it was barely a spark—had appeared within the pitch black flames. As soon as the grayish flames appeared, it immediately plummeted toward the ground and cut the terrifying Devil Flame of Eternal Calamity in half. The cut was impossibly even and perfect, and the two smaller flames did not rejoin into one for a very, very long time. No one noticed that the gray spark that hit the ground was melting through the impossibly tough substance like it was snow either. It would continue to plummet downward at an insane speed for heavens-know-how-long before it finally, inevitably, disappeared. ...... Pan Buwang was completely surrounded in darkness. His aura remained so faint that it was almost undetectable despite the heavy interference originating from the thick abyssal dust around him. It meant that his compatibility with dark profound energy was becoming more and more perfect. The Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God was the one and only Kingdom of God that practiced dark profound energy. The Pan Clan especially represented the pinnacle of dark profound energy in the Abyss. Therefore, as far as the Pan Clan was aware, it was an immutable fact that dark profound energy was violent and difficult to control. Only by becoming a Divine Regent could one realize near perfect mastery over dark profound energy. Oddly, the dark profound energy surrounding Pan Buwang’s person was unbelievably tame. In fact, the last time he lost control and suffered a backlash was over a year ago. Even then, that was an incredibly minor backlash that he easily controlled. This was a kind of affinity that only the Owl Butterfly Divine Regents had enjoyed, and it was all thanks... to his master, the Fog Monarch. As soon as Pan Buwang sensed the Fog Monarch’s approach, he immediately dispelled his cloak of darkness and dropped to his knees. He said respectfully, “Disciple Buwang greets his master.” His reverence, gratitude, and admiration toward the Fog Monarch all came from the bottom of his heart. “Remove your profound energy. All of it,” the Fog Monarch ordered in a tone that would not accept no as an answer. “As you command!” Pan Buwang did not resist. The black fog surrounding him quickly disappeared. Even his natural protective profound energy was fully withdrawn. The abyssal fog twisted, and what looked like an arm lifted into the air. The next moment, a tremendous power dropped the defenseless Pan Buwang to the ground. Despite this, Pan Buwang did not try to resist. He had raised his protective profound energy instinctively, but he quickly withdrew it all once more. He felt his master approaching as he lay on the ground. He neither lifted his head nor said a word, much less resisted. Abyssal dust enveloped him and began eating away at his life force at a rapid pace. A hand that seemed to be devoid of temperature touched him on his back where his heart was, and both his flesh and his bones abruptly exploded. He felt a power tearing through his body and piercing his profound veins without mercy. Pan Buwang clenched his teeth in pain, but he did not let out a single cry, much less make a break for it. Any other profound practitioner would be terrified to their core and fight back with all their might if their profound veins were pierced like this. After all, one thought was all their tormentor needed to destroy their profound veins. Best case scenario, they would lose a portion of their profound veins forever. Worst case scenario... they would live their whole life as a cripple. Pan Buwang’s teeth were chattering from severe pain and instinctive terror, but still he did not resist. No sound came from his mouth at all. He was a man with a clear distinction of love and hate. Everything he had today was thanks to the Fog Monarch, so he had no regrets even if the Fog Monarch were to take it all away; including his life.Bang! Bang! Bang— Repeated explosions accompanied by soul-tearing pain erupted from his body and profound veins. He could clearly feel holes being ripped open inside his body. Finally, the pain exceeded his limit of endurance, and he let out a raspy groan. As if on cue, he was tossed away like a burst blood bag. Pan Buwang lay on the ground and panted heavily. He was sweating so much it looked like it was raining. The Fog Monarch said coldly, “I’ve unlocked your final divine essence by force. You are now a ‘miracle child’ with ‘perfect divine essence’ in the eyes of the masses.” Pan Buwang abruptly stopped shaking and looked up. He had gone through so much that he rarely showed emotion anymore, but right here and now, he couldn’t help but be overwhelmed. He just could not believe what he was hearing. It was because “perfect divine essence” was an exceedingly rare occurrence even in the long, long history of the Abyss. It was to the point where it was described as a miracle every time it appeared. As the former Owl Butterfly Divine son, his natural talent was among the best of the best as a matter of course. However, not even he dared to dream of obtaining such a miracle. When he circulated his profound energy though, he could clearly sense the special profound entrance that had appeared in his profound veins... it was without a doubt the profound entrance the Kingdoms of God called the tenth divine essence! “...” He stared at the twisting gray eyes in the abyssal fog for heavens-know-how-long. Finally, he jolted back to reality, struggled to his feet, and kowtowed heavily to the Fog Monarch. “Disciple Buwang thanks his master once more.” He was sure that the Fog Monarch was a human... but the more he knew him, the less he could imagine what kind of human he was. The difference between one extra divine essence and not was almost a chasm that could not be overcome for any Divine Son or Daughter. One could even say that it directly impacted a Kingdom of God’s reputation in the next generation. After all, a Kingdom of God could toss away a Divine Child they had invested countless time and resources in without any hesitation if a Divine Child with better divine essence were to appear. They would simply cut off their losses and invest in the newer, better Divine Child. Amazingly, the Fog Monarch... could unlock divine essence by force! In the beginning, he had forcefully made him a ninety percent divine essence Godbearer. Today, he had unlocked the last portion of his divine essence and made him a perfect Godbearer. This was something not even the unparalleled Pure Land could do.Who... Who on earth is my master...Why is he helping me to this extent... Why is he giving me such special treatment... In reality, Yun Che could not do this for every profound practitioner. It was strictly limited to dark profound practitioners only. Besides that, he could only do it after increasing the compatibility between one’s body, profound veins and dark profound energy to a certain extent. As the master of the Laws of Nothingness and Eternal Calamity of Darkness, he was the true overlord of darkness. That was why he could master any body of darkness to the maximum degree. “The key figures of the six Kingdoms of God will gather at the Pure Land in another month. Tell me, Pan Buwang. What are you going to do when the time comes?” Pan Buwang slowly raised his head and declared confidently, “I will crush Pan Buzhuo, make Father regret his choice, and take back my title in the most unquestionable fashion!” “Is that all?” The Fog Monarch asked, “Even if you retake your title, when will you finally gain the power necessary to claim vengeance?” Pan Buwang bowed his head deeply. “Please teach me, master.” The Fog Monarch lifted his hand. The world immediately plunged into lightless darkness. “This monarch wants you to temporarily set aside your disappointment and hatred toward your father. Instead, you will be fighting for the honor of the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God. You will show the entire world that you, Pan Buwang, are more worthy of becoming the Owl Butterfly Divine Son than Pan Buzhuo. You will astound the entire world by showing them that you are a living dark miracle of the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God!” “Remember, Buwang, the most convenient emotion to exploit in this world isn’t regret, but guilt and shame!” “The bigger the guilt and shame you can inflict in your father, the more you’ll be able to master your own fate, and sooner you’ll be able to thrust your spear of vengeance at Shenwu Yanye!” The Fog Monarch was no longer just a master to Pan Buwang. He hadn’t been since a long time ago. No, he was a god who surpassed even the Abyssal Monarch Himself. So, Pan Buwang engraved every word onto his heart and said, “I have memorized every word you speak, master!” “Very good,” Fog Monarch praised in a cold voice. “You are a smart man. I’m sure you’ll know what to do.” “For the next seven days, you will halt your cultivation and focus solely on recovering. Seven days from now, you will leave the Endless Fog and enter the Pure Land. However, you are not to enter the Pure Land through the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God. As for how, you are going to do this...” He paused for a moment, and Pan Buwang replied resolutely, “Don’t worry, master. If I can't even accomplish such a small task, then how can I call myself your disciple?” “No,” The Fog Monarch said slowly, “I want you to enter the Pure Land through the Star and Moon Kingdom of God—one way or another!” Pan Buwang was caught off guard, but he didn’t ask unnecessary questions. He simply replied resolutely, “As you command!” The Fog Monarch raised his hand and dropped a couple shiny mutated abyssal crystals in front of Pan Buwang. They were all glowing with a dark light. “Darkness erodes the heart. Not even your Father is completely immune to them. How you will exploit these resources depends solely on you.” The Fog Monarch’s voice faded. It wasn’t long before it disappeared completely into darkness. Pan Buwang reached out and carefully picked up the mutated abyssal crystals. Then, his hands clenched into fists.Wuqing... wait for me...Whether you’re still alive or in the afterlife, wait for me...Even if all my efforts amounted to no more than an instance of tragedy, I still will not allow our lives to be dyed only by helplessness and dismay...As for what price I have to pay to see this done...It no longer mattered from the moment I heard of your death! Chapter 2111 - The Night Before Yun Che did not dispel his abyssal dust despite leaving Pan Buwang’s area. Instead, he continued toward the deeper areas of the Endless Fog. “Where are you going?” Li Suo asked suddenly and with undisguised suspicion. Yun Che’s footsteps never slowed even a little as he stared at the deepening abyssal dust ahead of him. “It’s time I check out the deeper regions.” Li Suo fell silent for a moment before asking uncertainly, “Are you planning to...” “That’s right. It’s exactly what you think.” Yun Che lifted his hand and smiled like he was talking about a trivial matter. “It’s time to try controlling a Divine Limit Realm abyssal beast.” For the past few years, Yun Che’s maximum ability to control abyssal beasts had gone from the early stage of Divine Extinction Realm to the late stage Divine Extinction Realm. It hadn’t even taken him four years to reach this level. His speed of growth was terrifying to say the least. That was all. The Abyssal Qilin God was an exception born from a happy accident. He hadn’t been able to control a single Divine Limit Realm abyssal beast besides it. “You’ve been suppressing your cultivation level this whole time. At your current level, encountering any Divine Limit Realm abyssal beast is a risk that will put you in grave danger,” Li Suo tried to persuade him, even though her persuasion had not worked even once on Yun Che. “I wouldn’t go so far,” Yun Che said casually. “Although I’m not too confident that I could master a Divine Limit Realm abyssal beast myself, I am confident that I can make sure that their destructive instincts will not work against me. I am the monarch of the Endless Fog after all.” Li Suo was still worried, “That’s a title you gave yourself. The abyssal beasts of the Endless Fog have never acknowledged it. You cannot let your guard down no matter what.” “... So, what if they don't acknowledge me?” Yun Che’s eyes grew darker as if Li Suo’s words had provoked him. “How dare you question this monarch’s infinite power, you trivial Creation Goddess of Life! Just you wait, you will see a Divine Limit Realm abyssal beast lick my palm like a pet dog by the end of this little excursion!” Li Suo: “...” Twelve hours later... Yun Che emerged from the abyssal fog while covered in dirt. He sat on the ground and panted for a very long time before he barely got a grip on his breathing. If Yun Che could control a Divine Limit Realm abyssal beast, he would surely be in a much better position than he currently was. Unfortunately, Yun Che’s body was just far too frail before the likes of Divine Limit Realm beasts. Even a tiny loss of control could result in absolute disaster. Li Suo appeared and showered Yun Che in the purest, holiest divine power. As if he was taking a bath in a sacred spring, his injuries began healing at a visible rate. Even his severed hair had regrown back to its usual length. “If you wish to try another time, you should bring the Ancestral Qilin God with you,” Li Suo advised. In the ears of the Fog Monarch, this was practically a barefaced taunt against his arrogant claims of “infinite power” just now. A chill settling in his eyes, he said quietly, “The attempt only failed because of a slight error in judgment. In a month at most, before I enter the Pure Land at least, I will control at least...” He paused for a few breaths before continuing with the same confidence and volume, “One Divine Limit Realm abyssal beast!” Li Suo thought for a second before choosing to console him. “Sure. You will succeed.” Wisely keeping his mouth shut, Yun Che sat up and manifested the Heaven Smiting Devil Slayer Sword in front of him in a flash of vermillion. Then, he lowered his hand and manifested... another “Heaven Smiting Devil Slayer Sword”. He pressed it against the original so that their sword light and aura would merge. The tip of the sword, the blade, the handle, and even the round bead on the handle, the second sword looked exactly identical to the first. Both swords were emitting near identical vermillion sword light and faintly discernible holy aura. Judging from their appearance and sword aura alone, it was extremely difficult to distinguish which was real and which wasn’t. Of course, Yun Che could distinguish them in an instant. In particular, the difference between the sword’s power was like night and day. After staring at the two “Heaven Smiting Devil Slayer Swords” for a long time, Yun Che suddenly furrowed his eyebrows and grabbed the sword to the right. Then, he brought it down on the other “Heaven Smiting Devil Slayer Sword”. The explosion of power was followed by the heart-shivering noise of breaking. The vermillion blade was split at the center as the shockwave flung it into the air, cracks appearing across its surface. By the time it landed back on the ground, the sword had disintegrated into countless vermillion fragments. The Heaven Smiting sword aura and sacred aura of light sealed within the blade were gone as well. Li Suo looked very surprised by Yun Che’s sudden action. “You spent energy to search for the vermillion-colored abyssal crystals necessary to forge this sword. You contaminated and sealed the sword aura of the Heaven Smiting Sword for two years and injected light profound energy into it a couple hundred times before it finally evolved to what it is today. What possessed you to destroy it all?” Yun Che explained, “The reason I spent all this time and effort to forge a sword that looks exactly the same as the Heaven Smiting Sword in terms of appearance and aura is so to avoid leaving behind holes in my story, but after a long consideration... I believe that its existence itself is a bigger hole.” “After weighing the pros and cons, I ultimately decided that the other option is better.” He put away the Heaven Smiting Devil Slayer Sword and cleaned up the vermillion debris on the ground. Then, he said in a hushed tone, “I’m going to ‘abandon’ it at a suitable time.” Li Suo sighed quietly. He spent all day every day thinking like this. She truly worried that he would one day scrape the bottom of his mental energy and collapse... ...... Heaven Breaker Kingdom of God, the Seven Star Heaven Breaker Formation. The star formation was shining brightly. Infinite sword beams were rotating within. Each and every sword beam came from Hua Qingying herself, and every sword beam represented a cruel trial. If the challenger could not understand its intent and subsume its power, if the challenger was lacking in either area, then they would never be able to breach the formation. Today, the sword light emitted by the massive sword formation was akin to tens of thousands of stars shining at the same time. It was so bright that the pale sky of the Heaven Breaker Kingdom of God looked like it was shimmering. Finally, one last sword beam lit up and filled the last gap in the massive star formation. The next moment, tens of thousands of swords rang in unison, and the entire sword formation flipped around and flew into the air. Floating at the center of the sword formation—like the center of the universe surrounded by countless stars and moon—was a young woman. When the young woman lifted her eyes, the glimpse of beauty was such that it outshone the countless sword lights. The divine light circulating in the jade sword in her hand was much brighter than before as well. When she pointed her sword forward, every sword beam in the star formation slanted upward and flew toward Hua Qingying in the sky. Hua Qingying did not move. She waved her hand slightly, and the sword beams immediately came to a standstill like obedient children. Then, they all melted away like snow; like a passing dream that had never existed. “Aunt!” The young woman was already flying up to Hua Qingying and jumping into her lap like a jade butterfly. “I missed you so much.” Hua Qingying gently wrapped an arm around her back and whispered, “To think you have grasped the Third Heaven Breaking Sword. The Abyssal Monarch will most certainly be impressed when he sees this.” The young woman looked up, but it wasn’t because of joy for having received her aunt’s praise. Instead, she asked rather abruptly, “How is big brother Yun doing? Was he... stumped or bullied during his time at the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God?” This was the second line she spoke since breaking out of the star formation. To say she couldn’t wait would be an understatement. Ha Qingying was thinking that her sword heart would become firmer and stronger than before after three years of practice. She thought that she might grow distant toward emotions like her. Clearly, she was wrong. “He’s doing well. Much better than you imagined. He even found his birthplace, past and home.” If the first half of Hua Qingying’s reply extinguished the large majority of the worry in Hua Caili’s heart, then the second half filled it with shock and confusion. “Big brother Yun’s... birthplace and past?” “It was a mighty coincidence by your father... or perhaps it was just the attraction of fate.” Hua Qingying said, “After Yun Che arrived in the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God, he discovered that he was none other than the Dreamweaver Divine Son who went missing back then, Meng Jianyuan.” “Huh? What?” Hua Caili was clearly stunned by this. “I know it sounds unbelievable, but this was confirmed by the Dreamless Divine Regent himself. There can be no mistake,” Hua Qingying said calmly. “Not only that, he displayed perfect divine essence just like you during his divine essence test. The news shook the six Kingdoms of God for a time.” “During the three years you were practicing inside the formation, he has become famous throughout the Abyss. There is no one who hasn’t heard about him. Therefore, not only is he immune to harassment inside the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God, he’s the one doing the harassing without consequences. Therefore, you don’t need to worry about him one bit.” Hua Qingying’s reply was short and succinct, but it still took Hua Caili a while to regain her wits. She asked a bit dazedly, “So, big brother Yun... is currently... the Dreamweaver Divine Son?” Hua Qingying sighed. “As you know, he does not possess any memory from before he was ten. To this day, he can’t recall any memories from when he was Meng Jianyuan. Not only that, he values his master’s favor above anything else. That's why he declared before the Dreamless Divine Regent that he would never abandon the name ‘Yun Che’ until he recovered his memories. He was unwilling to become the Dreamweaver Divine Son either.” This time though, Hua Qingying’s words failed to elicit even a hint of surprise from Hua Caili. She broke into a smile as she replied dreamily, “That’s how Big Brother Yun is. There’s nothing he values more than bonds, which makes him look like both the smartest and most foolish man in the world. Not even a title most people didn’t even dare to dream of could threaten his belief one bit.” Hua Qingying continued, “Although he wasn’t the Dreamweaver Divine Son, he still possesses perfect divine essence and the undisguised favoritism from the Dreamless Divine Regent. He might as well be one, just not unofficially. Not only that, I heard that Meng Jianxi, who was originally extremely hostile and wary of Yun Che at the beginning, has done a one-eighty and become subservient to him instead. I’m not sure what he did, but Meng Jianxi has declared more than once to his own clan that he will serve Yun Che with all his might.” At this point, the young woman’s eyes had melted into an endless and beautiful sea of stars. Blazing stars of joy, shiny stars of pride, teary stars of excitement... they filled up her heart and soul to the brim. But regardless of her emotions, every single star was reflecting the name Yun Che. “Aunt... so... Big Brother Yun and I...” “Yes.” Hua Qingying gave Hua Caili a light pat on her shoulder and felt the waves of infinite joy emanating from the young woman. She was happy for her, but at the same time, her heart ached for her a little. “There is no longer any problem between your statuses. If not for the fact that your engagement was bestowed by the Abyssal Monarch Himself, your union would not have garnered any criticism whatsoever. You are both perfect Godbearers after all.” “The biggest obstacle still exists, but the situation is far better than what it was three years ago. Your Father’s acceptance of Yun Che is also much, much better than what it was before. Not only has he been paying close attention to Yun Che for the past three years, he even paid him a visit not long ago.” Hua Caili’s slender eyebrows curled proudly. “Father has always been like this. He loves saying harsh things even though he’s really a softie inside.” Nursing a light giggle between her lips, she descended toward the floor while saying, “I’m going to see Father. It’s been a while since I’ve seen him, and I really miss him.” Hua Qingying did not follow her. Instead, she simply watched Hua Caili’s departing back until she almost forgot where she was. She had always believed that a sword heart must remain pure at all times. She believed that someone who desires to reach the pinnacle of the sword way must first eliminate all desires and unnecessary emotions from their heart. To be fair, the speed at which she progressed in the way of the sword was faster than even Hua Fuchen. Not only that she gradually surpassed all who came before her until she became the undisputed greatest swordsman in the entire Abyss, winning even the unbridled praise of the High Priests. As a result, she grew even more certain that her “Heartless” Sword was the right way. In Hua Qingying’s eyes, Hua Caili was a true monster whose talents surpassed her in every way including her talent in the sword. She could also sense that the pivotal point where her way of the sword underwent a complete transformation was after she met Yun Che. Hua Caili’s sword heart was dustless at the beginning due to her guidance. She had isolated all unnecessary thoughts and desires from her heart. But now that Yun Che’s silhouette was engraved on that heart... When before she was barely able to make any progress, she had grasped three Heaven Breaking swords in just the span of three years.Was my Heartless Sword that discards all desires and emotions...Wrong...? “Hahahaha! Congratulations for breaching the eighth star formation, Caili! Your achievements truly make us old people look—hmm? Where’s Caili?” It was at this moment the Sword Sovereigns showed up, all seven of them. Hua Caili was nowhere to be seen, however. They knew better than anyone what the eighth star formation created by Hua Qingying herself meant. Hua Qingying replied, “Return to your sword pavilions and stand by for orders. The Divine Regent should be announcing the details regarding the Pure Land Meet very soon.” “Qingying,” the Tianshu Sword Sovereign asked in a meaningful tone while stroking his white beard, “are you attending this year’s Pure Land Meet?” A few breaths passed, and Hua Qingying declared in an indifferent voice, “Yes.” ...... Star and Moon Kingdom of God. “It’s really you, Brother Buwang!?” Sha Xing strode up to Pan Buwang and looked him up and down. His eyes were a blend of complex emotions. Pan Buwang’s life was a tragedy. Not only did he lose his title, it was followed by his Mother’s passing, his Father’s loathing, and even the removal and death of his beloved. From Owl Butterfly Divine Son to Owl Butterfly the discarded one. The trajectory of his fate perfectly described what a fall from grace was. Right now, Pan Buwang looked nothing like the young, hopeful, and confident man he used to be. His entire being exuded darkness and loneliness. Forget looking like a Divine Son, his outfit was in tatters and covered in blood. He looked like he had just stepped out of a swamp of darkness and blood stench. His eyes were no longer black stars that looked down on all things from the heavens either. Instead, they were grayish, murky blurs with only spots of light here and there. Sha Xing sighed internally. A prince should be far above most people even without the title of Divine Son, but to think that Buwang... would fall to this extent... As if to add insult to injury, the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God openly declared their abandonment of Pan Buwang after learning of his escapade to the Sinking Dream Valley and later the Endless Fog. Dead or alive, they declared that they had given up on all attempts to find him. Ultimately, the main reason Pan Buwang was met with tragedy after tragedy was the fact that he refused to bow his head to the new Divine Son, nor could he let go of his Mother’s death. His temperament was either foolish or praiseworthy depending on how you looked at it, but if someone were to judge based on the outcome alone, then it could only be foolish. Pan Buwang smiled. “I am beyond grateful that you are still willing to see me even though I am now a discarded pawn and far from having the right to speak with you as equals, Star Divine Son.” “What are you saying, Brother Buwang?” Sha Xing shook his head. “I have experienced pain, misery, and helplessness before. It is not your wish, much less your fault. No one should look down on you because of this, much less yourself.” Pan Buwang was moved by this and said gratefully, “It is my great honor to be able to make your acquaintance, Star Divine Son.” Sha Xing had clearly undergone some changes since his experience with abyssal corruption. He said frankly, “Brother Buwang, I’m sure you came today for important business. Please do not hesitate to speak frankly.” “Very well then. I shan’t beat around the bush.” Pan Buwang began, “I would like to accompany the Star and Moon Kingdom of God to the Pure Land Meet.” Sha Xing looked surprised. It quickly turned into a frown and a shake of the head. “I’m sorry, but I can’t help you with this, Brother Buwang. You should know better than anyone that this year’s Pure Land Meet is like no other. As a result, the number of attendants per Kingdom of God is limited to one hundred people only.” “The Star Halls and Moon Cities have organized multiple large-scale competitions to select these one hundred people. If I bring you with us, it would be unfair to the competing disciples, and the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God would have opinions as well. If this causes a rift between our two kingdoms... even a small crack is still a sin, you understand?” Sha Xing’s argument was perfectly logical and reasonable. Pan Buwang nodded slowly without disappointment as if he never expected anything different to begin with. “You are right, Star Divine Son. I was shortsighted to ask something so excessive.” “I’m really sorry that I can’t help you, brother Buwang,” Sha Xing apologized again. “If you must enter the Pure Land, you would have to find another way. Or perhaps...” He shot Pan Buwang a glance before continuing, “Forgive me for being blunt, but it doesn’t look like you were very determined to attend to begin with.” Pan Buwang smiled in a self-derisive fashion. “Your eyes are as sharp as your mind, Star Divine Son. I’ll be frank with you. As you say, it is not my wish to attend the Pure Land Meet. I am simply obeying the Fog Monarch’s will.” Sha Xing visibly stiffened when he heard this. A full second passed before he finally asked in a completely different tone from before, “Did you say... the Fog Monarch?” “That’s right.” Pan Buwang answered honestly, “Three years ago, I was in complete despair and was planning to abandon myself in Sinking Moon Valley forever. Perhaps the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God was worried about my status, but they did not put me into Sinking Dream after I fell asleep. When I awoke from my slumber, I found myself in the Endless Fog.” He said with feelings, “To tell you the truth, Star Divine Son, the reason I was able to pull myself away from utter despair and be ‘reborn’ is all thanks to the Fog Monarch. For the past three years, I’ve been secluding myself in the Endless Fog all to repay the Fog Monarch’s favor.” “To break off from one’s heart abyss, one must face the heart abyss head on. The reason I desire to travel to the Pure Land is because of him.” He took a step back after saying this, “Anyway, Buwang shall not occupy your time any longer. May we meet again, Star Divine Son.” He was turning around when suddenly, Sha Xing’s cold voice came from behind him. “Wait!” Pan Buwang paused his tracks—not that he truly intended to leave in the first place. Sha Xing’s face darkened. “There is no way you wouldn’t know that the Fog Monarch and the Pure Land stand opposed against each other, and yet you are speaking of the Fog Monarch openly in front of me. You must know that I have received the Fog Monarch’s boon.” Pan Buwang wore a strange expression. He neither denied nor confirmed Sha Xing’s accusation, and that in itself was a confirmation. “Are you threatening me?” Sha Xing’s voice grew even colder. “No,” Pan Buwang smiled, “revealing the fact that you have received the Fog Monarch’s boon may cause you some problems, but it does me no good whatsoever. I am simply helping you to repay the Fog Monarch’s favor.” “I’m sure that someone as prideful as you would feel that a favor you need to repay is like a bone that is stuck in your throat, not to mention that the favor you owed and the person you owed the favor to is... well.” Sha Xing remained cold and silent. He did not say anything for a very long time. Pan Buwang’s expression remained unchanged as he continued, “Of course, the decision is completely in your hands, Star Divine Son. I may not be the Owl Butterfly Divine Son anymore, but I have not yet fallen so low that I would harm an old friend. You have nothing to worry about.” Sha Xing stared fixedly at Pan Buwang for a while before saying, “You’ve changed.” Pan Buwang returned the stare calmly. “Everyone changes. If someone doesn’t change, that’s simply because they don’t need to.” Sha Xing’s lips trembled for a moment. Then, it spread into a smile. “I’m suddenly curious. What on earth are you, a man who was discarded and abandoned in every way possible, planning to do in the Pure Land? Are you going to cry about the injustices you suffered before the Abyssal Monarch? Are you attempting to prove that your Father chose wrongly at the Pure Land? Or are you simply planning to become an eyesore to your Father?” Pan Buwang: “So...” “So yes, I agree. I will take you to the Pure Land with me,” Sha Xing replied slowly. He was one of the Star and Moon Divine Sons, so of course he had the authority to make such a decision. “You are absolutely right about one thing. There is nothing more I loathe than favors owed!” “However...” “No need to remind me.” Pan Buwang pre-empted Sha Xing’s words. “We have never met the Fog Monarch before, much less have anything to do with him.” He looked up where the Pure Land was located. The blood of darkness inside his body was boiling restlessly, but its activity did not leak outward even a little. ...... Deep inside the Endless Fog, Yun Che slowly rose to his feet. When he opened his eyes, his eyes were radiating a stunning gleam. For the past few days, he had fallen into meditation not because he was preparing to condense his profound energy and make a breakthrough, but the complete opposite. He had once again forced down the profound energy that was threatening to break through to the next level. Anyone else would have suffered tremendous damage to their profound veins considering how brutal and ruthless his methods were. At this point, Li Suo could no longer be bothered to ask him why he kept suppressing his cultivation level. Three years had passed since he entered the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God, and Yun che had only grown from a level three Divine Master to a level four Divine Master. He had perfect divine essence and the unreserved investment of the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God. Despite this, “Meng Jianyuan” was progressing at a pace that was “okay” for a Divine Son, but definitely incomparable to his peer in divine essence, the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter Hua Caili. It might look reasonable from an outsider’s perspective, but Li Suo knew better than anyone that Yun Che was Yun Che. To judge him by reasonable standards was pure folly. “I’m finally going to meet him,” Yun Che whispered. Li Suo said, “Remember that Ni Xuan specifically warned you not to approach him too soon. He will easily recognize the Heretic God inheritance in you.” “I haven’t forgotten,” Yun Che replied before saying something strange, “He is the strongest existence in this world. At my current level, he can probably eliminate me with just the flick of a finger.” “However, from a certain perspective, he might also be... the easiest person to deal with out of all of them.” “...” Li Suo could not understand at all. “Our meeting will decide what kind of storm I’m going to ignite in the Abyss.” Yun Che exhaled lightly. “I hope that everything will go smoothly.” He hoped that the Abyssal Monarch would not stray too far from his guesses and predictions. This was doubly true regarding his behavior and his obsession. He hoped that the Eternal Kingdom of God he had never been able to make contact with, much less plant any “seed” would be as dead and uncaring as the rumors claimed to be. He hoped... Chapter 2112 - Brahma Sound As soon as Yun Che stepped out of his cultivation space, he immediately saw Meng Kongchan waiting for him with his hands clasped behind his back. It was impossible to say how long he had been waiting for him. “How is your progress?” Meng Kongchan turned around and asked casually. “It’s passable,” Yun Che replied respectfully. “Have you come because the Pure Land Meet is near, Divine Regent?” "There’s no hurry. One cannot enter the Pure Land early anyway. We will depart in three days.” Meng Kongchan chuckled. “But before that, there is something I need to warn you about.” Yun Che said seriously, “Please speak, Divine Regent.” Meng Kongchan hadn’t lowered his voice, but no one beyond ten meters of them could hear a word of their conversation, “Do you remember the time you showed off a Primal Flame Crystal? After that, I commanded the nine Dream Halls to keep its existence a secret.” Astonished, Yun Che said thoughtfully, “Could it be...” To him, the Primal Flame Crystal was just one of the many types of mutated abyssal crystals he found in the Endless Fog. Before that incident, he didn’t know what it was called. “Mm.” Meng Kongchan nodded slightly. “There is a High Priest in the Pure Land who needs it.” Yun Che’s heart skipped a beat. “If I hadn't suppressed the news immediately, someone from the Pure Land would have shown up to take it.” Meng Kongchan specifically used the word “take”, not “request”. After all, who would dare to reject a High Priest? “The High Priest would be indebted to you in either case, but I’m sure you can see the difference,” He said smilingly. “On one hand, the debt would be shared between you and the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God. On the other hand, you would win her attention and even her good graces. It will be hugely beneficial for your future.” Yun Che nodded gratefully. “I understand. Thank you for your painstaking efforts, Divine Regent. If I may ask, who is this High Priest who requires the Primal Flame Crystal?” “High Priest Ling Xian.” Meng Kongchan explained, “High Priest Ling Xian is one of the three ancient flame gods and the daughter of the Vermillion Bird Spirit—though not strictly. What I mean is that her father is the Vermillion Bird Spirit, and her mother is the Thunder Cloud Immortal Bird. As a result, she was born with three elemental divine powers—fire, thunder and wind. Unfortunately, she was also deeply disturbed by it. Her wind and thunder rebelled against her, and her flame ate away at her heart.” Yun Che: “...” “Later, she accidentally obtained a Primal Flame Crystal and discovered that it could easily suppress the backlash of the flame of the Vermillion Bird. As fire was her main power, she easily weathered the backlash of her minor elements. Unfortunately, the suppression of the Primal Flame Crystal was not permanent, and the backlash began anew once it ran out of energy.” “For countless years, High Priest Ling Xian has searched high and low for the Primal Flame Crystal. She jotted down its characteristics to the finest details and announced her search for it time and time again. That was why most people could probably recognize the Primal Flame Crystal at first glance despite not having seen it before.” Meng Kongchan sighed. “The Primal Flame Crystal back then was like a dream. Never has a second Primal Flame Crystal appeared since. This is a heaven-given opportunity, Yuan’er. You must grasp it.” Yun Che was far more sensitive toward the name “Vermillion Bird” than Meng Kongchan knew. Of the Three Supreme Fire Attribute Beasts, Yun Che had made contact with two of them and received many boons as a result. However, he had never encountered any remnant of the Vermillion Bird before. The closest thing to them was the Vermillion Bird Sect of the Flame God Realm. The descendants' bloodline was extremely diluted, and divine arts were incomplete and missing. According to the ancient records of the God Realm, the Vermillion Bird was the first flame god of the three to go extinct. If High Priest Ling Xian, one of the four High Priests of the Pure Land, really was the daughter of the Vermillion Bird, then... the Vermillion Bird lineage had not actually gone extinct. Instead, they had survived in the Abyss to this day! As the bearer of the phoenix and the golden crow’s flame, Yun Che knew very well why the powerful High Priest Ling Xian was experiencing elemental backlashes. Back when the Golden Crow Spirit had bestowed him with the Golden Crow Inheritance, it had forcefully demanded that he strip himself of all traces of the phoenix’s bloodline. It was because this was a matter of pride of an ancient flame god and a Supreme Fire Attribute Beast. It could not tolerate even the existence of another divine flame, much less other elements. His Ancestral Holy Body was the one body in the world that could tame every form of power in the entire universe. In this regard, High Priest Ling Xian was destined for hardships from the moment she was born. “As for how you are going to request an audience with High Priest Ling Xian...” Meng Kongchan smiled meaningfully. “That is easy since you have Caili.” There was no one in all six Kingdoms of God who did not know that Hua Caili was High Priest Ling Xian’s favorite. The sea of colorful flowers in Hua Caili’s backyard had been given by High Priest Ling Xian herself. “Got it!” Yun Che responded with a smile of his own. “I will make sure to grasp this opportunity.” “Haha, I’m confident that you’ll succeed. After all, you could even make Qing... ahem, your aunt see you in a new light. High Priest Ling Xian has no choice but to like you.” “Rest and prepare for the next few days. Then, I will take you to the Pure Land.” He turned around when a wistful thought suddenly struck him. “Yuan’er, I am very glad that you are able to interact peacefully and cordially with Jianxi. You have no idea how worried I was before I had you and Jianxi. Even in my dreams I was worrying about the future of Dreamweaver. But now... all that worry has morphed into gratitude.” “Right now, my biggest wish is for the two of you to be safe and sound; that no more disasters will befall you two. Progress and cultivation are great, but nothing is more important than your safety.” He cast Yun Che a sideways glance and accidentally caught a glimpse of the soul ring engraved to Yun Che’s little finger... Of course he hoped that the soul ring would never break. “This junior will remember the divine regent’s teachings deeply,” Yun Che said seriously. “Don’t worry, Divine Regent. I cherish my life far more than you can imagine. I will never willingly place myself in danger.” Meng Kongchan nodded smilingly and prepared to leave. “Wait, Divine Regent. This junior... has a gift for you.” Meng Kongchan turned around in confusion and saw a rare look of trepidation on Yun Che’s face. He was holding a pendant with a red crystal, a blue crystal, and a yellow crystal on it. “What is this?” Yun Che said in a hurry, “Master once told me that the collision of Brahma Sound Stones could cleanse one’s soul. It is most beneficial for a soul cultivator. I happened to have a few Brahma Sound Stones on hand, so I decided to make this pendant to alleviate some of my gratitude toward you... I hope you won’t mind its shoddy craftsmanship.” Meng Kongchan’s eyes flickered a little before he accepted it. He said smilingly, “I am more than happy to accept your gift.” He immediately tied the pendant to his waist. As he moved, the stones collided with one another and emitted melodious, soulful sounds. “Mm! I love it! Hahahaha!” He barked out a laugh and finally turned to leave. Meng Zhiyuan hurriedly caught up to the Dreamless Divine Regent and escorted him to the palace entrance. A breeze blew and caused the Brahma Stones to collide once more. It was at this moment Meng Kongchan commented, “These things really do cleanse the soul. I can’t believe how much better I feel just listening to them.” Meng Zhiyuan chuckled on the inside as she replied respectfully, “Young master would be most happy to hear this, Divine Regent. I should tell you something though. The young master made it sound like he acquired these Brahma Sound Stones with no effort, but in reality... it was the opposite.” “Oh?” Meng Kongchan stopped in his tracks and looked back, gesturing for her to continue. Meng Zhiyuan bowed her head and continued a bit nervously, “The young master only had one crimson Brahma Sound Stone at the beginning. However, he believed that only by gathering three different-colored stones could the collisions produce a perfect, heart-cleansing Brahma sound. In order to find a yellow and a blue Brahma Sound Stone, the young master ordered the men to look for it about two years ago. The search never stopped until last month when the final Brahma Sound Stone was discovered. He did not hesitate to pay a mutated abyssal crystal for it.” Meng Kongchan: “...” Meng Zhiyuan snuck a look before continuing, “You may not know this, Divine Regent, but the young master has always been extraordinarily grateful and respectful toward you. He also carries a lot of guilt. He often complains that he is unable to recall his old name and so could not address you as Father from the bottom of his heart. That is why he feels guilty, especially considering everything you’ve done for him.” “You are the supreme one. There is nothing in the world that is up to your standards. Thankfully, the young master’s delicious food delights you, which is why the second most common activity young master performs besides cultivating is cooking.” “He does not allow anyone to help him when he cooks, which is why every snack you eat, every soup you drink is filled with his pure, unadulterated sincerity.” “...” Meng Kongchan remained still for a few breaths after Meng Zhiyuan had finished her story. It was only then that he departed without a word. He would walk for a long time before he looked up at the clouds with faint mist in his eyes. “It’s enough...” he whispered, “Even if you could never address me as ‘Father’, it is enough...” When Meng Zhiyuan returned to the palace, she immediately saw that Yun Che was standing nearby. She hurriedly walked up to him and said a bit timidly, “Young master, I'm only a servant girl but took the initiative to praise you in front of the Divine Regent just now. If... you think I have overstepped, then please mete out my punishment.” Yun Che smiled gently. “In my Divine Son Palace, there is nothing that can’t be said unless there are specific orders not to, so what are you talking about?” Yun Che had never put on airs in front of his subordinates, much less gotten angry with them. That was why at least ninety percent of Meng Zhiyuan’s timidness—which wasn’t a lot to begin with—was fake. As soon as she received Yun Che’s reply, she immediately broke into a wide grin and asked boldly, “Can I really say anything, young master? In that case... May I ask when you are finally going to love me?” She refused to look away from Yun Che’s eyes. Yun Che was still smiling. Meng Zhiyuan’s eyes sparkled with hope when he raised his hand... but instead of her face, it landed on her head instead. He gave her an affectionate head rub as he said, “Your life is just beginning, little one. You should never seek to bind your life to a bad person.” Meng Zhiyuan pouted with undisguised disappointment, “If the young master is a bad person, then there is no good person in this entire world.” “That’s why you’re a little one.” Yun Che’s expression did not change. Hidden deep within his pupils was a sea of darkness Meng Zhiyuan would never truly understand. His fingers lifted away from the girl’s head, and Yun Che turned around to leave. Meng Zhiyuan stared at his back and called out with determination, “I know that I am humble, and I don't seek to have an official status. All I ask is the honor to serve you in this lifetime, young master...” She knew very well that she did not have the right to love him as an equal. All she asked was the right to stay by his side forever. She wasn’t expecting a response, but Yun Che said, “A lifetime is long, Zhiyuan. You must not use the word lightly. A paper kite (Zhiyuan) is small, but it can still ride the winds and soar high in the sky. Never seek to bind your life so carelessly.” Meng Zhiyuan stood still. She would not say a word for a very long time. ...... The Dreamweaver Divine Ship floated into the air, and the aura emanating from within drew the attention of the entire Dreamweaver Kingdom of God. Meng Kongchan was standing at the bow with the nine Lords of Nine Dream Halls. Behind them were the most outstanding juniors of their Dream Halls. Without exaggeration, the key figures of this generation and the next were all in one place. In Yun Che’s opinion though, the fact that only a hundred people out of the entire Kingdom of God could enter the Pure Land... seemed to hint that the Pure Land was far more miserly than they were made out to be. After the giant ship rose into the air, it flew straight toward the Pure Land. Yun Che was currently standing right next to Meng Jianxi. Meng Jianxi explained smilingly, “Brother Yuan, this is the first time you've left the kingdom after you returned home, isn’t it? It doesn’t look like you are too excited though.” “When I was wandering, all of the world was and wasn’t my home. That's why my taste and expectation toward a new, unknown frontier have long since diminished. But of course, the Pure Land doesn’t fall under this category.” Yun Che asked with a curious expression, “Have you met the Abyssal Monarch before, Divine Son Yuan?” “One time, yes.” Just like everyone else, Meng Jianxi immediately adopted a reverent expression when he spoke of the Abyssal Monarch. “In my imagination, the Abyssal Monarch is an imposing yet merciful man. His monarchical aura is unparalleled, and His mere presence causes all living beings to cower in fear and submission.” “When I actually met Him in person though, I realized that the Abyssal Monarch was nothing like who I imagined Him to be.” “Really?” Yun Che looked very doubtful. Meng Jianxi looked hesitant, but he ultimately said, “This might sound offensive, but when I met the Abyssal Monarch, I... could not feel any aura or imposingness from him. I couldn’t even feel any emotional changes from him at all... even when he was smiling.” Yun Che: “...” “To me, the Abyssal Monarch feels like a drifter who is disassociated from the world,” Meng Jianxi voiced his honest thoughts of the Abyssal Monarch directly. “Maybe it’s because the Abyssal Monarch truly exists in a plane the likes of me cannot possibly understand. It's to the point where even ‘perception’ becomes impossible.” “In contrast, the Chief Priest was far, far more imposing and scary than Father. You best be prepared for a shock when you face him.” The two men were chatting casually and exchanging smiles with each other like close brothers. It was a sight that made the Dream Lords feel quite complicated. “Ai.” Meng Cangji let out a long sigh inside his heart. What could he do if Meng Jianxi was determined not to fight against Yun Che? “Speaking of which, Father is going to be absolutely ecstatic when we reach the Pure Land, Brother Yuan. It’s all because of you, of course,” Meng Jianxi said from the heart. He did not care that Meng Kongchan was within hearing range of their conversation. Meng Kongchan was currently standing at the bow and gazing forward. His appearance was perfect, and he did not react to Meng Jianxi’s remark at all. Yun Che replied humbly, “I’m just a Divine Master who does not deserve anyone’s eyes in the Pure Land. I am participating as a humble follower seeking to broaden his horizons. In the end, the one who must show off the true strength of my Dreamweaver Kingdom of God is you, Divine Son Xi.” Meng Jianxi shook his head with a bitter smile on his lips. “You underestimate the power of perfect divine essence too much. As for me... it is going to be difficult.” “Hmm?” Suddenly, Meng Kongchan glanced toward the east. Then, he made a hand gesture and altered both the energies and the trajectory of the ship. It began to move east. Very soon, another giant profound ark emanating an immense aura entered their vision. “The Heaven Breaker Star Ship,” Meng Jianxi remarked. “It’s the Heaven Breaker Kingdom of God.” The two profound arks rapidly closed the distance until they were seamlessly joined with one another. “Har har, what a coincidence, Dreamless Divine Regent.” “Coincidence? More like predestined, considering the karma between us! Hahahahaha!” The two Divine Regents approached one another. Hua Fuchen’s smile did not quite reach the eye, and Meng Kongchan’s laugh was as loud as it was meaningful. Yun Che’s gaze swept across Hua Fuchen and landed on the young woman standing beside him. For a few brief instances, he was actually lost in her appearance. It had only been three years since they last met, and yet it looked like she had undergone a complete transformation. Chapter 2113 - Nameless Tower The two profound arks were noisy and shaking the surrounding sea of clouds they were passing through. The two Divine Regent’s forcefield and voice were even more imposing. However, every single person felt like they were in an extraordinarily quiet place right now. Why? Because their eyes, heart and soul were irresistibly drawn toward the young woman next to Hua Fuchen, the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter. Once upon a time, she was the moon in the sky and the snow between clouds, gorgeous yet distant. Still, she gave off the impression that one might be able to reach her one day. But today, she had become the moon in one’s dreams and the snow beyond the sky. Having shed the final vestiges of her childish innocence, Hua Caili’s magnificence could no longer be covered up. Every glimpse of skin, every line of her countenance was so beautiful, so flawless, that it should have been a luxury beyond mortal reach even within a fantastical dream. Every flicker of her gaze, every turn of her eyes seemed to draw from the surrounding light, dimming a thousand stars and causing even the bright moon to hide itself in shyness. Having officially entered her twenties and reforged her determination and her sword art, she was beginning to look divinely aloof, proud, and untouchable like Hua Qingying. As such, when Yun Che and Hua Caili’s eyes finally met, they both felt a degree of unreality in regards to their past. “...” Meng Jianxi was lost in Hua Caili’s beauty for a long time before he finally jolted back to reality and hurriedly lowered his gaze. He sighed a bit raspily, “As expected... of the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter. She was already astounding back in the day, and now... now she’s even more...” As intelligent as he was, he could not conjure a single adjective that Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter deserved despite trying for a long time. It was at this moment Hua Caili stepped forward and bowed to Meng Kongchan. “Caili greets the Dreamless Divine Regent. It’s been too long.” “Ai ai, don’t call me Divine Regent! It’s far too estranged a term.” Meng Kongchan’s eyes were curled to the point where all one could see were thin, long slits. “For now... call me uncle.” In the past, Meng Kongchan always viewed Hua Caili with unbridled admiration and astonishment, but today it was very different. From Hua Fuchen’s perspective, the look on Meng Kongchan’s face was that of a loving father, and that deeply annoyed him. “Of course, Uncle Meng.” Hua Caili obeyed without hesitation and took another small step forward. She held out what looked like a small and delicate jade inkstone and said, “I heard that you enjoy calligraphy and often practice to refine the heart and cultivate the soul. It so happens that I have a River Green Jade that is said to be the ‘Gentleman of Inkstones’, so I fashioned it into an inkstone as a gift for you. I hope you will like it, Uncle Meng.” “Caili sculpted this with her Glazed Cloud Sword, you know~~” Hua Fuchen muttered through gritted teeth... This old fart does not deserve any of this! “Ah... I... Your sincerity moves me, Caili, truly!” Meng Kongchan happily accepted the gift. The Dreamless Divine Regent should look dignified at all times, but right now he was practically grinning from ear to ear. “Such a flawless and gentle River Green Jade is already one of a kind. For it to be sculpted by Caili’s own hands? It is no exaggeration to say that it is a priceless treasure.” Meng Kongchan racked his brain for compliments as he put away the River Green Jade and searched around his body for a bit. When he discovered that he did not have a suitable or worthy gift to return the favor, he had no choice but to bear his embarrassment and said, “Look at me! I was so anxious that I forgot to prepare a meeting gift for you! This is my mistake, Caili. When this Pure Land Meet is over, uncle will prepare a big gift for you.”Meeting gift?The Divine Regent was clearly speaking and acting abnormally? Meng Jianxi felt his eyebrows twitching violently as a ludicrous thought entered his mind. Then, his rationality snuffed it out almost as quickly as it appeared. Hua Caili nodded slightly with a blossoming smile. “As long as you like it. Besides, you have already given me the best gift in the entire world, Uncle Meng.” “Cough cough cough cough!” Hua Fuchen coughed as if he accidentally choked on a gust of wind and said with a straight face, “There’s something we need to talk about, Dreamless Divine Regent. Yun Che, you come as well.” “As you command.” Yun Che obediently stepped forward. As soon as he arrived beside Meng Kongchan, Hua Fuchen waved his hand and surrounded them all in an isolation barrier. It was perfectly normal for a discussion between Divine Regents to be shielded behind a barrier, right? Hua Fuchen knew that Hua Caili had been putting a lid on her emotions from the second she saw Yun Che as a matter of course. However, her emotions were such that her so-called sword heart and clear soul might as well be non-existent. As time passed, and the chaos within her soul kept worsening, he seriously worried that his daughter would say fuck it and jump Yun Che in front of everyone. As expected, the second the isolation barrier took form, Hua Caili’s perfect show of etiquette until this point instantly collapsed. She leaped toward Yun Che like a young swallow who had returned to her nest and wrapped her arms around his waist with all her might. “Big Brother Yun, I... I miss you so much... Uu...” She was sobbing even before she could finish what she was trying to say. “Me too,” Yun Che replied softly as he wrapped his arms around her back. Hua Fuchen turned away, his face as black as coal. “Haha, young love is always so direct and passionate. How envious I am,” Meng Kongchan chuckled. He walked up to Hua Fuchen. As he did so, the Brahma Sound Stones around his waist collided and emitted a soothing noise. Hua Fuchen turned to look at Meng Kongchan, but before he could say anything, the Dreamless Divine Regent said with a straight face, “As expected of you, Brother Fuchen. You figured out immediately that these are the Brahma Sound Stones gifted to me by Yuan’er.” Hua Fuchen: “??” “Oh.” Hua Fuchen replied indifferently and cast the tri-colored Brahma Sound Stones on Meng Kongchan’s waist a perfunctory glance. From the perspective of a Divine Regent, the toy was so ordinary it did not even deserve the word ordinary. His reaction gave Meng Kongchan the excuse to spin around and say soulfully, “It is said that the Brahma Sound Stone is most beneficial for soul cultivators, and Yuan’er spent two whole years gathering them all for me. It was personally selected and fashioned by Yuan’er’s own hands too. Every time they collide, what I hear is the crisp sound of the Brahma sound, but what enters my soul is Yuan’er’s soundless concern. This is what they call the bond between a father and his son, you know?” The Heart Painter Divine Regent’s eyebrows slowly knitted together. Meng Kongchan was still ranting, “If you want one, I can ask Yuan’er to make a new one for you. You are his future father-in-law after all. However, gathering the right three colors probably going to be troublesome, and—” Hua Fuchen finally couldn’t hold it in any longer and growled at Yun Che and Hua Caili, “How much longer are you going to stick together? We’re still here! This is unbecoming behavior for a prince and a princess!” “Don’t wanna!” Hua Caili retorted and hugged Yun Che even tighter. She only wished she could rub herself into his chest. “Brother Fuchen! How can you do this?” Meng Kongchan lifted a hand to stop Hua Fuchen. “It’s been many years since they last met. It’s perfectly normal for them to lose themselves in passion. Besides, isn’t it hypocritical for you to act like this when you and Qu Wanxing were way closer back then?” Hua Fuchen’s lips twitched. He flung his sleeve and stopped talking. “So, when are we going to confess to Old Dian?” Meng Kongchan finally turned serious. Hua Fuchen furrowed his brow slightly before answering, “After the Pure Land Meet is over.” “I’m in agreement.” Meng Kongchan stood next to him and looked down on the barren wasteland below. “Assuming that nothing plagues us during this Pure Land Meet, then it is best we settle this decisively and immediately... say, do you really think Old Dian felt nothing from all the probings and hints we dropped for the past two years?” Hua Fuchen replied, “Anyone else would have thought deeper into our words and be mentally prepared, but... Old Dian is Old Dian.” “He is as upright as iron and as fiery as flames. He prefers to deal with things directly and scorns detours above all else. Besides, he may be subconsciously resisting the idea that the two of us would...” He paused for a long time before saying the damning word, “... Betray his trust.” “Betrayal, huh?” Meng Kongchan’s expression grew severe as well. He wanted to say that the love between a man and a woman was never a controllable thing, and that it definitely wasn’t something that could be bound by mere words. On top of that, Hua Caili had never thought of Dian Jiuzhi that way... but really, if he were to put himself in Dian Rahu’s shoes, and if Dian Jiuzhi had been Meng Jianyuan, could he really, wholeheartedly, accept this outcome? No, he couldn’t. As if that wasn’t enough, Hua Fuchen was the one who requested the engagement between Hua Caili and Dian Jiuzhi... Naturally, the mental burden he was facing was far greater than Meng Kongchan’s. “When the time comes, I will head to Boundless alone.” Hua Fuchen said with a calmness that meant that he had thought this through over and over again. “I will tell him the truth directly.” Meng Kongchan said, “I’ll come with you.” “No,” Hua Fuchen rejected him. “If we head there together, Old Dian will only feel worse. Don’t worry. I have already thought things through. Best case scenario, Old Dian and I will head to the Pure and together and request the Abyssal Monarch to cancel our engagement. Worst case scenario... I am prepared for that as well. In any case, it is not your turn until mine is done and over with.” Meng Kongchan thought for a moment and nodded. Then, he let out a heavy sigh. “No matter what happens, it doesn’t change the fact that we have let down Old Dian.” They both knew that, when the ugly truth was finally unveiled in full, their relationship would never be the same again. “How many soul stars do you have left, Caili? Have you used them all already?” “To be honest, I did not use a single star.” “Huh? Does that mean... you don’t really miss me?” “Of course not. Although I’ve been stuck inside the sword formation for the past three years, I see you every time I swing my sword. When I close my eyes, all that appears in my heart are your many expressions. Therefore, I feel that you’re with me even without your soul stars.” “Moreover, every single star contains a bit of your soul. They may be insignificant, but I am still unwilling to let them disappear.” The two Divine Regents felt their scalps turning unbearably numb at the same time. Their toes desired nothing more than to dig a hole in the floor. “That cloth on your arm... is that the belt I left behind for you?” “Yep! It’s the first... gift you gave me. Of course I’m going to treasure it.” “But... you deserve better than such a shabby belt...” “Hmph! Says the guy who left behind the message that says, ‘Our meeting is already the best possible outcome. Why should our fond memories become a permanent scar?’... This is why I’m going to wear it forever! I’ll forever remind you about the crime you committed against me! Hmph!” “I already promised you a couple hundred times that I won’t leave you... fine, I’ll swear it again, my dear Caili...” Both Divine Regents inhaled and exhaled at the exact same time. After the unrehearsed but perfectly identical reaction, they exchanged a glance with each other and nodded. “Dreamless Divine Regent, I guess this is where we leave off our discussion,” Hua Fuchen said loudly, his voice penetrating the barrier so that everyone outside could hear his words. Meng Kongchan responded just as loudly, “A meeting with you is always enlightening, Heart Painter Divine Regent. I look forward to the Heaven Breaker’s illuminating radiance during the Pure Land Meet.” At the same time, the power of two Divine Regents forcefully separated Yun Che and Hua Caili from each other. The barrier disintegrated, and they both returned to their ships with their children proverbially tucked under their elbows without a care for their longing and misery. “Father is terrible.” Hua Caili’s resentment did not end even after she had returned to her aunt’s side. Her eyes kept straying to the departing Dreamweaver Divine Ship as she spoke. Hua Qingying whispered, “Life is long. There is no need to indulge in a moment’s happiness when the resistance stopping your union is slowly but surely weakening. What’s most important is that your heart only has him, and his heart only has you. This alone puts the two of you far ahead of the fickle ones, the false ones, the betrayers, the indifferent ones, and those who love but could never obtain it.” “When all of the obstacles are gone, and your love is sealed by marriage, you may stick to him for tens of thousands of years like glue, and no one will try to stop you.” The word “marriage” was too much for Hua Caili right now. As soon as the word floated out of Hua Qingying’s mouth, it sat inside her heart and refused to fade. Hua Caili sat beside Hua Qingying with her hands cupping her cheeks, seemingly thinking about something. Over time, her cheeks grew rosier, and a small smile spread across her face. The young woman’s yearning seemed to touch Hua Qingying. As she stared at her niece’s increasingly unfocused eyes, the corner of her lips curled up just a little without her noticing.Wanxing, I was deeply worried about their beginning... but thank goodness your daughter ultimately steered away from the tragedy and hardships you faced back then.Perhaps the heavens are planning to bestow all the blessings they owed you to your daughter instead... She and Yun Che will be safe and sound. They will make up for you and brother’s loss ten thousand times over. ...... The Dreamweaver Divine Ship began to slow down. The concentration of abyssal dust in the air began decreasing at an astonishing rate as well. It wasn’t just abyssal dust either. Even the elements had become extraordinarily pure. Over time, since the first day he fell into the Abyss, Yun Che felt as if the air was refreshing. Yun Che opened his eyes and gazed toward the horizon... it looked like the Pure Land was near. Inside the Abyss, visibility was always poor due to the existence of abyssal dust. But now, Yun Che could see a gigantic black scar reaching out from the earth and pushing all the way through to the sky. The sky was untainted by grayness or darkness. It was so pure that it was almost luxurious and illusory. As the Dreamweaver Divine Ship got closer, the black scar rapidly grew in size. In his vision, it stretched from several kilometers to a dozen kilometers, then a dozen kilometers to several dozen kilometers... it was only then Yun Che finally realized what it was. It was a gigantic tower that connected the sky and the earth. “Divine Son Xi,” Yun Che asked with a frown, “Does the Pure Land... exist atop this tower?” “Of course.” Meng Jianxi shot him a strange look. “You don’t know?” Yun Che shrugged. “As far as I know, the Pure Land is suspended above the sky. So, I have always imagined it as a floating paradise. I did not think that it existed atop a tower.” Meng Jianxi smiled. “You’ve never visited the Pure Land before, so it makes sense that you would have such a misconception. This tower has existed since the day the Abyssal Monarch created the world. It is said that the Abyssal Monarch built it with his own two hands. This is the tower that lifts the Pure Land into the tall sky so it may look down upon the entire Abyss.” Yun Che asked a natural question, “No matter how big the Pure Land is, it should be easy to make the Pure Land float permanently in the sky considering their resources and the High Priests’ power. Why do they need this tower?” Meng Jianxi asked, “Are you trying to ask what exists within this tower, Brother Yuan?” Yun Che nodded. “Hahaha.” Meng Jianxi laughed. “To be honest with you, I have asked Father that exact question many times. Unfortunately, his answer has never changed, ‘I don’t know, and there is no need to know.’ It is the Pure Land.” “I understand.” Yun Che nodded smilingly and stopped asking. Forget the God Realm, even the lower realm where he was born possessed the power to float a city. That was why he never expected the legendary Pure Land to exist on top of a tower when it could simply float eternally in the sky. Something was clearly incongruous about this. “This tower is called the Nameless Tower,” Meng Jianxi said while staring ahead. “It’s what it sounds like. This tower doesn’t have a name because the Abyssal Monarch has never named it. Since it was built by the Abyssal Monarch’s own hands, no one has the right to name it either. That is why it's called the ‘Nameless Tower.’” As they got closer to the Pure Land, both the sky and the ambient air became increasingly pure. Gradually, the space in front of them began to exude a white light that should not belong in this world at all. A hint of bright gold was mixed within the white as well. Finally, the Dreamweaver Divine Ship came to a stop. Three men wearing silken robes stepped forward at the same time. “Welcome, Dreamless Divine Regent. Welcome, honored guests from the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God. We have been waiting for you. Welcome to the Pure Land.” The three men bowed, though they were neither obsequious nor supercilious even before a Divine Regent. “Thank you for your service.” Meng Cangji nodded lightly before taking the lead. “This way please, supreme one.” After they exited the Dreamweaver Divine Ship, they were met with a gigantic light barrier. Behind the light barrier was the most venerated and lofty place of the entire Abyss, the place they called the Pure Land. Chapter 2114 - Final Memory of the Heretic God “Are they the Pure Land Divine Guards?” Yun Che asked in a hushed voice. The three men were wearing silk robes instead of armor. They obviously weren’t Abyssal Knights. “That’s right,” Meng Jianxi responded via sound transmission, “They do not possess the right of adjudication, and they rarely leave the Pure Land, if at all. They are responsible for all things major or minor within the Pure Land. The people view them as below the Abyssal Knights, but you must not look down on them or underestimate them no matter what.” Those who failed the trials of the Pure Land did not qualify to become an Abyssal Knight and so were expelled from the Pure Land. However, those who passed the test of character were given an additional choice. They could leave, or they could remain in the Pure Land and become a Pure Land Divine Guard. Becoming a Pure Land Divine Guard wasn’t all good though. They might never be able to set foot outside of the Pure Land ever again. It was the same as abandoning their past and cutting off all future paths except one. The large majority of Pure Land Divine Guards were people who chose to remain in the Pure Land forever. As they rarely left the Pure Land after becoming a Divine Guard, the outsiders naturally knew very little about them. Their degree of freedom, authority and status were all inferior to an Abyssal Knight's as well. Yun Che learned from Hua Caili a long time ago that there existed a small but very special subset of Divine Guards in the Pure Land. They were raised by the four High Priests themselves. There were a total of eleven peak Divine Limit Realm profound practitioners below the True Gods of the Abyss. Six of them served the six Kingdoms of God, and the remaining five all served the Pure Land. One of the five peak Divine Limit Realm profound practitioners who served the Pure Land was an Abyssal Knight. The other four were all Pure Land Divine Guards. The Pure Land Divine Guard serving under the Chief Priest was Donghuang. The Pure Land Divine Guard serving under High Priest Wandao was Changying. The Pure Land Divine Guard serving under the High Priest Lingxian was Sushang. And the Pure Land Divine Guard serving under the High Priest Liu Xiao was Yuanying. Yun Che replied with feeling, “Even the lowest person in the Pure Land is someone no one dares to look down upon.” Even the most ordinary Pure Land Divine Guard was a squire who failed the trials... but one of the prerequisites to participate in the Pure Land trials was to be at the Divine Extinction Realm. In other words, every Pure Land Divine Guard was at least a divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner. In the Land of the Living, they were all powerful existences who could found a sect or create a faction should they so choose. This concept alone was enough to strike terror in anyone’s heart. The world changed as soon as they passed through the light barrier. Yun Che’s very first look and impression of the Pure Land was this: Simple. It did not look as luxurious or glorious as an imperial realm should. It did not feel as solemn and imposing as a supreme land naturally felt either. At first glance, there weren’t even many structures at all. Instead, it was filled with all kinds of flowers, trees, and other plants. Every single bit of energy circulating in this place was extraordinarily gentle. He could not feel any anxiety or irritation from any living being whatsoever. The light here seemed gentle enough to shine into one’s heart and pacify any negative emotion with ease. Yun Che looked around. He could clearly feel everyone’s breathing slowing down unconsciously. The younger disciples especially were exclaiming in surprise and looking intoxicated. It was because this was the Pure Land, a realm where abyssal dust did not exist. It was the dreamland all living beings of the Abyss revered and longed for. Meng Jianxi sucked in a deep, long breath and exhaled just as much. Finally, he let out a barely controlled sigh of admiration, “This isn’t my first time coming here, but it always feels like I’m entering an immortal realm... a world without abyssal dust.” “I heard that the ‘Eternal Pure Land’ is an entire world without a speck of abyssal dust. I can’t even imagine what kind of beautiful world that is.” “In that world, no living being ever needs to worry about being eroded by abyssal dust at all times. The plants grow naturally, the beasts run freely, countless races are being born, and even a newborn may cry to their heart’s content... the living beings of that world must be unimaginably peaceful. There cannot be any terror, struggle, or misery. Even natural malice would be pacified by purity. I cannot imagine that there exists cruel conflicts and murder in that world.” Yun Che said nothing at all. Meng Jianxi continued, “I heard that the Abyssal Monarch may very well speak of the Eternal Pure Land during this Pure Land Meet. Are you looking forward to it, Brother Yuan?” Yun Che put on a look of longing. ‘Who doesn’t look forward to a world without abyssal dust?” “The dream will come true.” Up ahead, Meng Kongchan suddenly said indifferently, “Once upon a time, that world only existed in our dreams. But today, it is within our reach. Who knows, maybe it will only take a couple more decades for all of you to be able to set foot in the Eternal Pure Land, create, and continue the future of Dreamweaver, hahahaha!” Yun Che and Meng Jianxi wore the same expression as Meng Kongchan laughed, but the tidal waves of emotions splashing inside their hearts could not be anymore different. Suddenly, Yun Che’s face stiffened without warning. His footsteps came to a complete halt as well. “Brother Yuan? What’s wrong?” Meng Jianxi asked while stopping in his tracks. “... It’s nothing.” Yun Che shook his head and replied calmly, “I just lost focus for a moment.” Meng Jianxi nodded in understanding. “That’s perfectly normal. For someone who was used to abyssal dust, to enter a world without abyssal dust is like stepping into a whole new world. I am not ashamed to admit that I lost myself several times when I first entered the Pure Land.” For a profound practitioner of the Abyss to enter the Pure Land was like a fish used to a stinky swamp suddenly entering a spring that was perfectly clear. Of course they would be shocked by it. Setting the ambient energies aside, what was an immortal sanctuary to the people of the Abyss was nothing more than an ordinary corner of the world to Yun Che. So why had he reacted the way he had earlier? Because a divine perception had enveloped him just now. At that moment, he had felt as if his five senses had sunk into an endless sea. For an instant, he did not know where he came from, did not know where he was going, and could not see the end of the strange world he suddenly found himself in. It was just a person’s divine perception, and yet it felt powerful enough to flood heaven and earth and devour worlds. The divine perception had only hovered over him for a brief moment, but Yun Che felt like he had endured centuries in nowhere. “What... was that?” Li Suo asked very, very quietly. This was her greatest expression of gravity and severity since she awakened from her slumber. She knew the answer even as she voiced the question. “He found me,” Yun Che replied calmly. Li Suo could tell that he was equally calm on the inside. “Are you... truly prepared to face him?” Li Suo asked. Despite Yun Che’s calmness, she could not help but speak with thick worry. “Yes, there is nothing to be worried about,” Yun Che replied calmly again, though he was more speaking to himself than Li Suo. It was at this moment he felt a pinprick of pain from the depths of his soul sea. It was worsening as well. It was the final two memory fragments of the Heretic God, Ni Xuan. To think that the trigger to unlock them... was “His” presence. The pain was telling Yun Che that the emotions within the final two memory fragments were far stronger than the previous three. The Pure Land Divine Guards led them to a simplistic courtyard. It was lacking all the indulgences a guest might expect from their host. There were only dozens of profound formations used for meditation, and the flora remained the most conspicuous thing about the entire courtyard. Still, not a single person dared to touch the plants. They were worried that it would constitute blasphemy. A Pure Land Divine Guard said gently, “It is still early, so please catch a break in this courtyard, Dreamless Divine Regent, honored guests. The Abyssal Monarch will summon you all when it's time. Also, the Pure Land is rigidly structured and boasts a lot of forbidden areas, so please do not move about carelessly.” “Understood.” Meng Kongchan nodded. “Have the other Kingdoms of God arrived?” The Pure Land Divine Guard said, “Right now, only Dreamweaver and Heaven Breaker are present. The other four Kingdoms of God and the guests from the dragon race are still on their way.” The Pure Land Divine Guards took their leave then. Not a single attendant had stayed behind to attend to their guests. Still, not a single person thought that the Pure Land was being impolite. Meanwhile, the pain in Yun Che’s soul sea was still worsening. He decided that he might as well reflect it on his face as anxiousness. Meng Kongchan had long since noticed that something was wrong and said concernedly, “It’s easy for those who enter the Pure Land for the first time to feel uneasy. This is especially true for someone with light cultivation. If you cannot bear the discomfort, then why don’t you take a moment to meditate and get used to the surrounding energies?” “Okay,” Yun Che replied obediently before adding in a much smaller voice, “If Caili shows up later, please help me and don’t let her see me like this, Divine Regent.” “Oh?” Meng Kongchan looked surprised. He broke into a guffaw, “You stubborn boy. You don’t want to show any weakness to your lover, eh? Worry not! I shall guard you myself.” Yun Che stopped talking and sat down at the center of a profound formation. Then, he activated an isolation barrier and allowed his consciousness to sink into the memory fragment that just broke. ...... A disastrous storm was blowing in a vast world. The sky was out of place, the earth was shaking, and countless spatial cracks were forming every instant. From a distance, it looked like countless lightning was dancing through the air at all times. Although the era of this memory was far, far before his time, Yun Che still recognized through the unique grayish white sky that this memory took place in the God Realm of Absolute Beginning. Right now though, an ancient disaster of unimaginable proportion was taking place in the God Realm of Absolute Beginning. Ni Xuan’s long hair was disheveled and hanging loosely behind his back. The face that once boasted unparalleled handsomeness now looked grayish with defeat, and his entire body was covered in overlapping stacks of horrifying wounds. His clothes looked like they had just been scooped out of a pool of blood, utterly drenched and reeking of blood. He slowly lifted his upper body, his movement so slow and difficult it was like he was a dying old man. The next moment, he collapsed on his knees, the blood of a Creation God pouring wildly out of his countless wounds and dyeing the ground red. He was the Creation God of Elements, the supreme existence of Primal Chaos. No one, not even himself, could imagine that he would one day be hurt this badly, look this terrible, suffer so much pain. Standing in front of him was a huge, tall man wearing a golden outfit. His facial features gave off the distinct feeling that they were carved using a sword. The first and immediate impression one got when looking at his face was “justice”. It was as if no laws could be violated, no rules could be trampled, no wrong could be tolerated, and no sin could exist before this face. He was the first of the Four Creation Gods and the highest existence in the entire universe... The Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor, Mo E. He was wielding a sword with a broad blade. The blade was bronze-colored and looked no different from an ordinary slab of metal. Its edge was dull, its surface was dim, and it did not exude even the slightest bit of pressure. It was as if it truly was an ordinary slab of metal that not even the profound practitioners of the mundane world would afford a second glance. The sword had a stunning name, however. The Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword. It was ranked first of the Seven Heavenly Profound Treasures. It was the first sword of Primal Chaos and the literal ancestor of all things. He stood quietly with the Ancestral Sword in his hand. Although the world was crumbling, and the surrounding storm threatened to turn the world upside down, he remained as unmoving as a mountain that connected heaven and earth. He was looking down on the bloodied Ni Xuan, Creation God of Elements, without any expression whatsoever. Not a single line had shifted out of place from the beginning until the end. “To think you would muster the Ancestral Sword’s power a second time to defeat me.” Ni Xuan’s voice was so dry it was unthinkable that it was the voice of a Creation God. “Is this all for the so-called ‘righteous way’ in your heart?!” If a mortal were to activate the Ancestral Sword’s power, they would die instantly. If a True God were to activate it, they would lose ninety percent of their lifespan. Even a Creation God must pay the hefty price of thirty percent lifespan to activate the Ancestral Sword’s power. Since this was the second time the Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor used the Ancestral Sword, it meant that he had used up sixty percent of his lifespan. He did not hesitate for even a moment though, much less regret his decision. Ni Xuan simply could not understand Mo E’s determination, just like he could not understand why the man must kill Mo Su, his favorite son, the Heaven Punishing Crown Prince, the chosen inheritor of his power and will. Even if Mo Su had violated the taboo, surely he did not deserve to die for it... much less deserve to be executed by his own father! “You killed Mo Su, ambushed Jie Yuan, and kidnapped my daughter... I suppose it’s my turn now.” Ni Xuan let out a horrible laugh as hopeless despondence colored his grayish complexion. “Do it.” Mo E replied in a voice lighter than smoke itself, “I hate you, but I have no reason to kill you.” “Hah!” Ni Xuan chuckled. “You will execute even the son you poured all your love and hope into just because he defied your ‘righteous way.’ Why on earth would you allow a complete rebel like me to live?” The storm swept up some of Mo E’s hair and slapped them against his face. It gave him a look of deep sorrow buried deep within his soul. Mo E did not raise his sword. He did not summon his energy either. A long, long time later, he finally spoke up in a tone that Ni Xuan had never heard before, “Do you have any idea how much I envy you, Ni Xuan? How long have I dreamed of putting myself in your shoes?” Ni Xuan: “...?” “When the Ancestral God named you, she gave you the word ‘Ni (Rebellion)’. The personality she bestowed you is one that fits the word completely. You live free and true to yourself. You are ever unwilling to bind yourself to any rule, and you never stop defying and rebelling against those rules or situations that in your opinion seem old-fashioned, ridiculous, unfair, and wrong.” “The world needs a Creation God like you because the world is constantly evolving, and the times are always changing. It has to change. It has to break the old rules again and again and get rid of the filth and shackles of each era.” “From a barren universe of nothing to a prosperous universe filled with countless worlds and even more lives. This could not have been possible without countless corrections and changes.” Ni Xuan just stared at Mo E. Perhaps he could not believe that such words could possibly come from Mo E’s mouth. “Someone needs to change the world.” Mo E was also staring at Ni Xuan. “But just the same, someone needs to preserve the world.” “Is that so?” Ni Xuan growled, “Is that what you told yourself when you decided that the God Race and the Devil Race must never mix? That it is a rule that must never be violated? Even if the involved is your son Mo Su, even if the involved is a Creation God and a Devil Emperor, even if it must cost you most of your lifespan to do so? You must eliminate the violation and violators no matter what?!” Compared to Ni Xuan’s sorrow, anger, pain, and confusion... Mo E’s eyes were as calm and dead as a pool of dead water. Or maybe, he was so sad that he could not feel any sadness at all. Mo E continued, “The world is split into Existence and Extinction, and Existence is split into yin and yang. When yin and yang are balanced, the worlds are in harmony and peace.” “The Ancestral God created the universe based on balance, so the universe began from balance. Without balance, a man would fall on his feet. Without balance, a world would fall apart.” “That is why there are four Creation Gods and four Devil Emperors at the beginning of the universe, not eight Creation Gods or eight Devil Emperors.” The Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor spoke words that he had never spoken before almost woodenly and completely without expression. “Since ancient times, the God Race and the Devil Race have always been the supreme existences of this universe. Their actions could easily decide the fate of countless realms. What is a small accident to a God or a Devil could be the end of the world to everyone else.” “The God Race and the Devil Race each occupied a corner of the world, rejecting and keeping each other in check. Over time, this state became a sort of balance as well. Everything in this world can change, everything... except. This. Balance.” The storm was finally subsiding, and the shrieks of space were finally decreasing in intensity and frequency as well. All that was left was the natural storms inflicted by the existence of two Creation Gods’ souls. Ni Xuan’s voice pushed the storm in Mo E’s direction. “You only know rejection and control. Whoever said that union could not possibly be a better form of balance?” “You are correct. Union could be a better form of balance.” Ni Xuan could not believe that the stubborn bastard who had never changed in an eternity actually agreed with him. “However, all major changes should begin from the smallest tests, much less a change that involves the two races whose every whim could threaten the integrity and existence of the universe itself.” “It could begin with the mortals from a God-created world and a Devil-created world. It could begin from the lowest God and Devil... but it cannot begin from Ni Xuan, it cannot begin from the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor, and it definitely... cannot begin from the son of Mo E!” Ni Xuan’s pupils froze for a brief moment. He could actually feel himself being drawn by Mo E’s words. “Even so...” These two words were enough to reveal that Ni Xuan... did not reject Mo E’s statements completely. “You did not need to be so ruthless to Mo Su or yourself!” Mo E finally moved for the first time since the beginning of this memory. His arm curled as he slowly crossed the Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword in front of him. “Four Creation Gods, four Devil Emperors. We are the highest beings of this universe, but we don’t possess the highest powers.” “In fact, the highest powers of this universe are the Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword and the Evil Infant's Wheel of Myriad Tribulations.” “Ni Xuan,” he called out the Creation God of Elements’ name without sorrow or hate, resentment or wound, “do you know why they are bestowed such inauspicious names—‘Heaven Punishing’, ‘Myriad Tribulations’—despite possessing the highest powers of this universe?” Chapter 2115 - Right And Wrong There weren’t many things about the universe that the Creation Gods didn’t know. The reason the Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword and the Evil Infant's Wheel of Myriad Tribulations were named like this was one of them. Creation God or Devil Emperor, no one could possibly know this since the Ancestral God was long dead, and yet Mo E was claiming that... “You... know?” Ni Xuan croaked. Once upon a time, both Mo E and Ni Xuan believed that they were the person who understood the other Creation God the most. Ni Xuan once told Mo Su this, “I know exactly what kind of Creation God fart your stubborn old coot is going to eject every time he flaps his mouth... that’s right, Creation God needs to fart as well. By the way, did you know that your old fart farts six times every one hundred thousand years on average?” “Hmm... Hmm!? Li Suo? Screw you! Like an immortal among gods like Li Suo could be compared to the likes of us! Another word, and I will throw you into the Divine Palace of Life this instant!” However, he had never heard even half a word about this since the first day he met Mo E. Mo E revealed a truth only he in this entire universe knew in his dead, unflappable voice. “Born from nothingness, the great Ancestral God created profound energy, rules, the shape of the universe, the first appearance of all living beings, and more during her long existence. She did not stop until she had created every aspect of the universe.” “Unfortunately, the universe could not be created until she destroyed herself. On top of that, as she was an existence who was born from nothingness, she did not have anything she could refer to when she created the universe, much less predict which direction it was headed in and what its future would be. If the universe was destined for distortion, collapse, and annihilation... then she, someone who was already dead, could not interfere and fix it.” “That was why the great Ancestral God left behind two... corrective artifacts before she returned to nothingness.”Corrective... It was a perfectly mundane word, and yet the fact that it involved the Ancestral God and the beginning of the universe was enough to inflict unease in anyone. “The first corrective artifact was bestowed with the power of absolute yang and an old and wise spirit. It was called the Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword.” “The second corrective artifact was bestowed with the power of absolute yin and the purest, most childish spirit. It was called the Evil Infant’s Wheel of Myriad Tribulation.” By now, the storm ravaging the God Realm of Absolute Beginning had subsided. Even the surrounding space had stopped shaking. The disastrous phenomenon and noise had all disappeared. All that was left... was the sound of a heart thumping as loud as thunder. “The Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword’s mission is to monitor the stability and balance of the rules of the universe. It is what people knew as the ‘Heavenly Law’. If the Heavenly Law is in disorder, the laws of the universe will collapse, and the worlds will plunge into infinite disasters until they are ultimately destroyed.” “Everyone believes that the ‘Heaven Punishing’ in the name refers to ‘power great enough to punish heaven and earth’, when in reality it was the opposite. It is the ‘power to punish the Heavenly Law’... to destroy it.” “If one day the Heavenly Law falls into disorder, the Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword will unleash its ultimate power and annihilate the Heavenly Law. This is so that the universe can reform a new Heavenly Law, create new laws, and naturally stop the universe from sliding toward inevitable and utter destruction.” “But Ni Xuan... you should know what kind of tragedy would occur should the Heavenly Law be destroyed. You and I would not lose even a hair on our persons, but the myriad beings who live in the myriad worlds cannot say the same thing. By the time the Heavenly Law and the natural laws are reformed, the new universe would surely be completely different from the old.” “Right now, the two biggest races holding the Heavenly Law together, supporting it, and maintaining the balance... are the God Race and the Devil Race.” “......” Ni Xuan could not say anything for a long time. His heart kept beating faster and louder. Mo E continued, “Today, the universe has become infinitely more prosperous than what it was in the beginning. The Ancestral Sword Spirit has long since become attached to this universe as well. However, no amount of attachment can supersede the mission the great Ancestral God engraved into its very existence.” He was looking down on his bronze sword as he spoke. His gaze and face were calm and gentle like he was facing a close, old friend. “The Ancestral Sword Spirit is like a friend and a teacher to me. One day, he finally told me about the reason it existed and the mission it bore. It told me that even the omnipotent Ancestral God could not predict how the universe would develop. If the great Ancestral God’s consciousness was still present, she would not have wanted to reform this wonderful world even if the Heavenly Law were to plunge into disorder.” “The Ancestral Sword Spirit was full of fear when it said this. If one day the Heavenly Law really does fall into disorder, its mission would surely overtake its consciousness. It would surely unleash the power that destroys the Heavenly Law.” “That is why... it chose to kill itself... after telling me everything.” His sword was both his mentor and his old friend... but he could speak to it no longer. No one knew except Mo E that the Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword had long since lost its sword spirit. All that was left within was its final Ancestral Sword power. “Once, I asked if there was a possibility for the God Race and the Devil Race to coexist in harmony.” “It told me that the God Race and the Devil Race are like two sides of a scale, rejecting, controlling, and balancing each other out. Despite having witnessed countless eras, it was always thanks to their rejection and opposition of one another that the two titanic races never fell into internal strife. It is why they were able to stand united indefinitely within their own race.” “But if the two races were to combine, then both sides... would lose the one thing that kept them in check.” “It's impossible to predict what may arise from this union, but there is no denying that there is a chance that the Heavenly Law may plunge into disorder if the balance were to be broken. An exceedingly huge chance.” “It's such a chance that the Ancestral Sword Spirit was unable to accept it. So, before it extinguished its own consciousness, it made me promise it one thing... It wanted me to swear that I would never break the balance between the God Race and the Devil Race until the day I die. So long as this foundation is still secure, then the Heavenly Law will never fall into disorder.”Bang! Ni Xuan’s half-lifted knee hit the ground heavily. “How can I not agree to its one and only request of me? How can I not fulfill my promise?” Mo E murmured, “After all, ‘Heaven Punishing’ is both its name... and my title.” “From the very moment I was created, my mission was engraved into my soul, my blood, and my bones.” A bleak wind blew, and this time, it kicked up every strand of the Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor’s hair. “But why did it have to be my only friend? Why did it have to be the son I loved the most?” His voice still did not carry even a hint of sorrow. It was because he was so hurt that he could produce no sorrow; so sorrowful that he could produce no tears. “And why did it have to be me... the one and only person in this universe that cannot be stopped by you or my son?” His voice softened into a murmur, “Rebellion is engraved into your soul. Stopping you by force would only incite you to rebel harder. That is why I had no choice but to exile the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor and sever your bond permanently.” “Mo Su seemed soft and timid on the outside, but he was terrifyingly stubborn on the inside. Once he has made his mind up about something, he would throw everything he had at it, damn the consequences. That is why I had no choice but to execute him by my own hands.” He hated himself and Ni Xuan. “Back then, I sent him to your side partially to train him in the Heaven Breaking Swords, but really to change his obsessive ways with your laid-back personality. To think... that would be the biggest mistake of my life.” Ni Xuan’s fingers dug deep into the blood-stained soil. He was covered in wounds, but he could not feel even a hint of pain from it. The eyes that were always smiling and full of freedom were now overflowing with sorrow and loss instead. The Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword and the Evil Infant’s Wheel of Myriad Tribulations’ mission was without a doubt the most terrifying truth of this universe, and Mo E was the only one who knew about it. For countless years, he had borne the burden alone without telling everyone... because not even a Creation God could learn about this truth without feeling bound and burdened by it for eternity, unable to even breathe. No wonder. No wonder he, the greatest Creation God of this universe, had stubbornly clung to his rules and never overstepped his boundaries. It was to the point where one could say that he was excessively cautious. Finally, Ni Xuan asked in a voice that was countless times drier and raspier than before, “Tell me, if the Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword’s mission is to reform the Heavenly Law, then what is the mission of the Evil Infant’s Wheel of Myriad Tribulations?” Mo E replied simply yet succinctly, “The purification of all life.” “...” Ni Xuan’s blood came to a complete standstill. “On the spectrum of good and evil, ‘Evil Infant’’s spirit exists in the middle. An infant is the beginning of all living beings and the ultimate symbol of purity, which is why she could directly perceive and accept all the good or evil of the universe.” “If the love and goodness she receives from the universe outweighs the bad, then she would fall in love with the universe and protect it with her life. She would become the wheel that protects the universe.” “On the other hand, if the hatred and evil she received from the universe outweighs the good, then she would view it as tainted and evil and enact ‘Myriad Tribulations’ to cleanse it all.” Mo E continued woodenly, “Unfortunately, by the time I learned everything from the Ancestral Sword Spirit, the Devil Race had already committed the biggest, most foolish mistake of their existence.” “‘Evil Infant’ cannot quite control her childish temper, and her power is so terrifying that she has unwittingly committed many disasters. Still, if the Devil Race could afford her prolonged tolerance, guidance, and love, then it is only a matter of time before she identifies herself as a member of the Devil Race and becomes the wheel that protects them.” “Unfortunately, she is an uncontrollable power that surpasses even the Devil Emperors, and the Devil Race could not help but feel deeply wary and afraid of her. In the end, they chose to exploit her childish nature, lure her into a formation, and lull her into sleep. Then, they gathered all the powers of the Devil Emperors and the Devil Gods to seal her for eternity.” “It better be an eternal seal, because even I cannot imagine what kind of ‘Myriad Tribulations’ she is going to enact upon the world when she breaks out, overflowing with violence and hatred.” Mo E slowly lowered the Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword until it touched the ground with a soft thud. As he turned around and revealed a back as forlorn as the gray sky of Absolute Beginning, he said, “Ni Xuan, you and I fought today to decide the fate of your daughter, a heretic born from the union between a Creation God and a Devil Emperor. That is why I must win even if I must resort to despicable tactics.” As he slowly walked away, the heavy blade of the Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword cut a long wound on the ground of Absolute Beginning. His voice heavily resounded throughout this colorless world of Absolute Beginning as well. “After all that has happened, I can no longer witness what kind of fruit my labors would bear. However, the union between God and Devil will not happen while I still draw breath.” “I, Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor Mo E, am a disappointment to Mo Su, myself, and you.” “At the very least, I did not bring shame to the title ‘Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor’, did not disobey my promise to the Ancestral Sword Spirit, did not let down the mission the great Ancestral God bestowed on me.” “Wait.” Ni Xuan called out to Mo E’s distant back. “You still... owe me a bet!” Mo E froze in his tracks, and it was as if the entire world had frozen as well. Finally, the frozen world moved, and Mo E lifted his hand. Space broke, and a golden barrier flew out from within and landed beside Ni Xuan. The barrier was circulating with the divine power of a Creation God. Inside the barrier, the silhouette of a young girl could barely be seen. “She may live, but her devilish part must be removed... this is my final compromise.” Ni Xuan’s hands shook like a leaf as he touched the barrier. Tears fell like spring from his grayish, despondent eyes. Suddenly, he realized something and growled, “You said... you can no longer witness what kind of fruit your labor would bear... what do you mean by that?” Mo E did not stop walking this time. His voice grew as faint as smoke as he answered, “This isn’t the second time I unleashed the power of the Ancestral Sword.” “It is the third.” Ni Xuan: “!?” “The time I exiled the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor and her Devil Clan was in fact, the second time.” “The first time...” His emotions should have turned into stone and death, and yet his voice still hitched for an instant. “Was when I executed Mo Su.” “Pan Ming’s daughter had teleported into the God Realm of Absolute Beginning next to Mo Su using the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror, and I was prepared for this. What I wasn’t prepared for was the Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl.” “Even I am unable to break out of the power of two ultimate Devil Artifacts by force; a prison created from both the power of space and time. Seeing that she was on the verge of saving Mo Su, I had no choice but to employ the Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword.” Ni Xuan’s arms hung limply by his sides as he slowly closed his eyes. To use the Ancestral Sword three times... was to use up ninety percent of a Creation God’s lifespan. “We are all living beings created by the great Ancestral God herself, but I have personally ruined the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor and destroyed her clan. My sin cannot be forgiven, and I will make up for it by paying with my own life. The Heaven Punishing bloodline will forever end here as well.” “For my obsession, I killed my son by my own hands. I do not deserve to be a father, do not deserve to be a god, do not deserve to be a person, do not deserve to continue living in this world.” He turned around and cast Ni Xuan one last look. “This is our last goodbye. Take care, my only friend.” A cold wind blew as his footsteps resumed, lifting his long hair into the air and revealing the patches of white within. Soon, the only one left in this grayish world was Ni Xuan. Lover... friend... brother... belief... right and wrong... He lifted his hands and clutched his face with all his might. He was using so much strength that his finger bones snapped and broke into pieces. Still, he could not suppress the sobs leaking out of his throat. ...... The Divine Palace of Life. He once promised Jie Yuan that he would never meet the Creation Goddess of Life Li Suo nor approach the Divine Palace of Life ever again. He broke his promise. Strangely, the Li Suo in Ni Xuan’s memory fragment was a blurry, indistinct silhouette. It was impossible to see the divine countenance that was said to have caused both Gods and Devils to swoon on their feet. Maybe it was because Ni Xuan was purposely obscuring his vision of Li Suo. It was to keep his oath to the best degree possible. “Ni... Xuan?” If it wasn’t for the unique aura of the Creation God of Elements, Li Suo could never believe that this dirty, ragged-looking, disheveled hair man was Ni Xuan. This was a man who cared about his appearance so much that he would control even where a single strand of hair was floating, but now... Ni Xuan did not answer her. He slowly walked forward with stiff, heavy footsteps. Then, he placed the “ice coffin” in his arms on the floor. Inside the coffin was a sleeping girl who looked as exquisite and beautiful as a doll. Yun Che immediately recognized her as Hong’er. “The Coffin of Eternity...” Li Suo whispered. “Who’s she?” “She is... my daughter...” It looked like it took an unbelievable amount of effort for Ni Xuan to open his mouth, and his voice was so raspy that it sounded like the screech of metals. Li Suo could not say another word for a very long time. “I have... reforged the missing portion of her soul, but I cannot make it perfectly compatible... especially... the sword soul that must exist...” It was because her mother, the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor, possessed a sword soul. Therefore, the foundation of Hong’er’s soul must have a sword soul as well. “You’re the only one, who can do it, Li Suo.” “... I understand.” Li Suo did not ask too many questions. She simply nodded. “Thank... you...” He murmured the two words and stared blankly at the girl in the Coffin of Eternity for a moment. Then, he turned around and woodenly walked toward the exit, dragging his feet the whole way. “Ni Xuan!” Li Suo called out to him, “What... happened to you?” Ni Xuan responded in a voice that did not belong to the Creation God of Elements, “I committed... a grave mistake...” “So what if you did?” Li Suo replied softly, “You once declared that there exists no living being who can do no wrong. So long as your intention isn’t malicious, there is no need to be bound by it. Instead, one should seek to correct their mistake, remind themselves that they shouldn’t make it again, and make up for that mistake.” Ni Xuan murmured, “That’s because... some mistakes can be forgiven... and some... never can be.” Li Suo was caught off guard for a moment. She tried to console him, “You have always been, and will always be, the most revered Creation God in the God Realm or the lower realm. The number of races who owe you favors are innumerable. Such is your karma that they are willing to sing your praise for eternity.” “Creation... God...” He whispered the title he was most familiar with but without any color in his eyes whatsoever, “I no longer deserve to be a Creation God... there will never be a Creation God of Elements from now on...” Li Suo: “...” Ni Xuan looked ahead with empty eyes. “The grave error I committed is such that I no longer deserve to be orthodox. However, I have never... fallen into evil. If I still deserve a title, then let it be...” “The Heretic... God...” The Creation Goddess of Life felt extreme despair and despondency coming from Ni Xuan. She also sensed extreme regret and extreme hatred... hatred toward himself. Suddenly, Ni Xuan’s footsteps came to a stop. “Li Suo...” He asked, “Do you know... a place that is suitable for sleep? A place... that won’t be disturbed?” Every word he spoke was beyond raspy and fatigued. Even through the ages, Yun Che could clearly sense Ni Xuan’s pain and decision to escape from reality and fate. Li Suo’s perception of his feelings could only be a thousand times, ten thousand times clearer than his. She did not try to stop him. She simply said, “The southern region, beneath the Sky Sea Tower... How long do you plan to sleep?” Ni Xuan answered, “I don’t know. Maybe a million years. Maybe ten million years... Maybe until I’m willing to wake up... or maybe I’ll never wake up again.” Li Suo: “...” “I entrust my daughter to you. Please find her a suitable identity and home. Don’t tell her about her origin. I just want her to enjoy life without worry forever.” “I’m sorry. I may never be able to repay this favor.” He turned around and faced Li Suo, the corners of his lips tugging a little... He was doing his best to smile and express his gratitude. He wanted to give Li Suo a proper goodbye. And yet, the man who had smiled his whole life... could no longer do so. It was as if he had forgotten how to smile. Chapter 2116: Shadow of Ni Jie The picture disappeared, the fragments scattered, and Yun Che’s soul sea returned to dead silence. A never-before-experienced dead silence. For a time, neither Yun Che nor Li Suo said a thing. Finally, Li Suo broke the silence, “If Mo E revealed the truth regarding the Ancestral Sword and Myriad Tribulations sooner, would the course of fate have followed a different trajectory?” Yun Che replied in a distracted voice, “Impossible.” “But why?” “There are many reasons...” Yun Che explained, “For starters, neither the four Creation Gods nor the four Devil Emperors were aware of the truth regarding the Ancestral Sword or Myriad Tribulations at the beginning. Considering that they exist to ‘correct’, it made sense that the Ancestral God would not reveal this to them.” “Mo E only learned about it because the Ancestral Sword Spirit told him. It was both an expression of absolute trust and its final will. Considering how upright Mo E was, he was far more likely to take this secret to the grave than reveal it to anyone.” “Besides, the fact is this truth is far too heavy. The moment someone learns about it, it is inevitable that they view the two absolute artifacts in a completely different light. Specifically, they would view it as a guillotine that hangs above their necks for as long as they live, and the higher the person, the more they will feel its inescapable pressure.” “I’m sure Mo E himself would choose to stay forever ignorant if he was given a second chance. I’m even more certain that he never thought of telling Mo Su the whole truth even until the very moment he plunged him into the Abyss of Nothingness.” “But... why?” Li Suo repeated the two words. Yun Che’s soul sea contracted violently for a bit. It took a good while before Yun Che seemingly mastered his reactions, and he answered in a soft voice, “Mo E ultimately loved his son. He may have chosen to bury him with his own hands, but I am sure he would rather his son pass away believing in his own righteousness and without regrets than otherwise... in fact, he would rather his son hate him single-mindedly.” He recalled the final line of the entry regarding the Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor Mo E in the Ancient Records of the Dragon God. [The head of the True Gods, the Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor, went to his rest. His lifespan reached its end and the last divine words he uttered were “Mo Su”, his deceased son’s name.] Back in the day, he and Qianye Ying’er were shocked when he read the entry, but even more scornful and disbelieving of Mo E’s reaction. As a father himself, Yun Che could not imagine any scenario where a parent could be convinced into believing that the murder of one’s child was in any form acceptable. Just the same he could not imagine the gall of a parent who had resolved to murder their own child to cry out their murdered child’s name during their final moments. Yun Che murmured listlessly, “Since I obtained the Heretic God’s inheritance, the pieces of these ancient ‘truths’ have been coming together bit by bit like a puzzle.” “In the beginning, I believed that the Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor was a Creation God who was upright to the point of foolishness. There are countless message fragments and records that pointed toward him being the beginning of all tragedies. It was his arbitrary actions and coldbloodedness that ultimately destroyed the Era of Gods and Devils and nearly damned the current generation to the ‘crimson calamity.’” “Just the same, I’ve always believed the Heretic God to be the savior of the Primal Chaos. He single handedly cleaned up the mess left behind at the end of the Era of Gods and Devils, pacified all of the calamities, and sealed the Moon Slaughter Devil Sovereign and the Evil Infant's Wheel of Myriad Tribulations. Not only that, he also left behind his inheritance and will and entrusted his successor, me, to stop the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor, indirectly saving the current era.” “The Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor’s hate and anger toward Mo E also increased my loathing for the Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor.” “But...” Sorrow tinged Yun Che’s voice. “When I saw the shadow of the Heretic God, I could not believe how despondent and horrible he looked. When I asked him if he hated Mo E, he answered that he had ‘no right to hate’. I was confused for so, so long...”“No, no, no, all of the fault lies with me, not him. I am the one who wronged him.”“I didn’t discard my title because I had lost all hope. It was simply because I no longer deserved the title. Just the same, I went into seclusion later on because I... was too ashamed to face anyone.”“I am the reason the world is like this. It is all my fault.” He finally had a clear answer as to the words he could not understand back then. “The Heretic God did not hate Mo E. He hated himself. If he hadn’t become lovers with the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor, if he hadn’t led Mo Su into breaking free of his shackles step by step, if he hadn’t encouraged him to fall in love with Pan Ming’s daughter and break the taboo of god and devil... nothing that happened afterward would have happened. That was what he believed. He believed that it was he who damned the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor, damned their daughter, damned Mo Su, damned Mo E... and the true reason that the Era of the Gods and Devils came to an end.” “The Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor Mo E hated himself as well. He swung the Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword three times in history. The first strike was aimed at his own son, plunging Mo Su into the Abyss of Nothingness and severing his familial bond.” “The second strike was aimed at the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor, exiling her from Primal Chaos and severing his friendship.” “And his third strike seemed to be aimed at the Heretic God, but was really at himself. It was an act of suicide.” Yun Che let out a long sigh. “Mo E abandoned his son and even himself to protect the foundation that preserved the balance of the Era of Gods and Devils. Ni Xuan never stopped worrying about the fate of the universe until he passed away... but why are their lives like this? Why have they all met such tragic endings?” “What is right, and what is wrong... what is truth, and what is false...” “Why are the lines growing increasingly blurred the more truths I learn...” “If that’s the case, am I really correct in my beliefs... I thought I was doing the right thing, but am I... I thought I knew what was wrong, but do I really... I thought I knew the truth, but do I really... who can say it’s not just my one-sided delusion...” “If even the Heretic God and the Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor are like this... is my so-called unwavering determination... really pointing toward where I think I’m going...” “Yun Che...?” “Yun Che!” “Yun Che!!” A dazzling holy light abruptly flashed within Yun Che’s soul sea and finally suppressed the excessive turbulence within. Shrouded by white holy light, Li Suo’s blurry silhouette appeared within Yun Che’s soul sea and emanated a warmth that could have nourished all souls in the universe. Her gentle voice slowly yet firmly entered every strand of his soul, “You once said that there might not exist true good or evil, right or wrong in this world. However, what’s more important than these concepts is to know where one is standing and be unfailing firm about it.” Yun Che: “...” “At first, I could not understand your words. After all, the boundaries between right and wrong, good and evil, have always been perfectly clear to my recognition.” “That is until I see you committing one villainous act after another and feel the pain in your soul.” “If there is no goodness within you, then why would you be pained by the villainous acts you commit?” “If you are good, then why do you ceaselessly step toward the abyss of evil?” Her voice grew even slower and gentler like a soft breeze brushing against the clouds, or a morning dew condensing on leaves. “My cognition is still fragmented, and my thoughts are as slow as you claim them to be. Despite this, I was ultimately able to understand what you said back then through observing your every action and feeling your every emotion.” “The things you stand for, the things you fight for, the things you will give everything to protect. In your eyes, those concepts are more important than good or evil, right or wrong, and even yourself. That is why you never hesitate or stop for even a moment despite treading a thorny path where every step cuts deep into your soul.” When she first entered the Abyss, she couldn’t stop doubting, couldn’t stop sighing, couldn’t stop feeling puzzled and helpless again and again. Later, she spent most of the time watching him in silence and giving the occasional warnings and consolations. Sometimes, she would even provide him with suggestions—even if he never never accepted any of them. “If even I am slowly recognizing and accepting what you must do, why should you doubt the belief you have faithfully upheld your whole life?” There was a long silence inside his soul sea. Finally, Yun Che replied in a rather strange voice, “I never knew you had a talent for consoling others.” “...” Li Suo asked a bit uncertainly, “Does that... count as a compliment?” Yun Che let out a natural chuckle. “Don’t worry. I’ve experienced all sorts of bullshit in my life. My willpower is not as weak as you think. I was just a little lost, that’s all.” He wasn’t just “a little” lost, but Li Suo did not expose his lie. “Speaking of which, did a Creation God symbolizing holiness and the pinnacle of goodness just acknowledge that standpoints exceed the concept of good and evil? Your worshipers are going to have a faith crisis or even faith collapse if they learn about this.” Yun Che said in a strange voice, “I’m curious. What is your standpoint, exactly?” To his surprise, Li Suo answered immediately and without hesitation, “My standpoint is you, of course.” “...” Yun Che was caught off guard by this. “If the end of your path is a terrible fruit of sin, then I will bear it with you. I am, as you say, your ‘accomplice’ after all, a broken Creation God no less.” “So do not lose yourself to hesitation and confusion. You are neither Ni Xuan nor Mo E. You are the one and only Yun Che. I look forward to and believe that you are walking toward a different fate from them.” “Hmm...” Yun Che pretended to think. “Now you are acting a bit like a true Creation God... You were so divine just now I almost shed a tear.” Li Suo: “...?” It was at this moment a speck of white light shone from the depths of his soul sea. It was the final memory fragment left behind by the Heretic God. The soul aura given off by this soul fragment was completely different from before, however. “This soul aura...” Li Suo looked deeply confused. “Belongs to... me?” “Strange!” Yun Che was surprised as well. “Why would the Heretic God have your memory fragment? Unless you gave it to him?” “...” Li Suo could not recall anything. The soul aura given off by this memory fragment was extremely weak and broken. Maybe it was because time was a merciless eraser, or maybe it was because it was damaged by an outside force. Regardless, the white light quickly spread and filled Yun Che’s consciousness with pure white light. When the world slowly grew clear once more, Yun Che once again saw the Divine Palace of Life. However, the image was exceptionally blurry and broken everywhere. Inside the image, a white, fairy-like silhouette was slowly walking toward the Coffin of Eternity. She was as blurry as mist just like before, but there was no mistake. She was the Creation Goddess of Life Li Suo. She reached out and enveloped the slumbering girl in the Coffin of Eternity, murmuring, “Not mortal, not god, not devil. To think that such a special soul base and soul origin could exist.” “Is this the outcome of a union between god and devil?” It was at this moment the white light surrounding the girl suddenly disappeared. There was a light distortion in space, and a semi-transparent silhouette actually took form above the girl. Yun Che could not see her appearance clearly, but he could vaguely make out the image of a girl with long hair as dark as the night and skin as fair as snow. It wasn’t Hong’er’s hair color or body shape though. The sudden appearance of the girl caused Li Suo’s hand to freeze in the air. She did not move for a very long time. To think that she, the Creation Goddess of Life, would be lost for words for so long. The girl spoke up first, and her voice was as sweet as a fantasy. “Greetings, senior Li Suo. It’s a pleasure to meet you. I am the daughter of my father, Ni Xuan, and my mother, Jie Yuan.” It was only then Li Suo lowered her hand, but she was still staring at the girl fixedly. “To think... that such beauty could possibly exist in this universe...” She, the Creation Goddess of Life, was the culmination of all that was beautiful in the ancient era, and yet she was making a remark that others usually made when they faced her. The girl continued with a bit of urgency in her voice, “I secretly hid a wisp of my soul before my father removed the devilish portion of my soul. He was so confused that he did not notice. Even so, I can only exist for a few dozen breaths longer.” “I beg you, the kindest and most beautiful senior Li Suo. Please do not replace my soul base and soul origin completely when you reinforce my soul later. Please leave behind a tiny gap.” Li Suo stared at her. “Why?” “Because my father ultimately did not eliminate my devilish soul in the end. He chose to hide it instead. Therefore, so long as there is still a gap in my soul base, and so long as my soul origin still exists, I may yet one day rejoin with my devilish half and become whole.” A short pause later, Li Suo slowly shook her head. “No, I cannot do that.” “I may not know what happened, but the fact Ni Xuan could bear to remove a portion of your soul in the first place is most likely because of a promise he made to Mo E. Ni Xuan isn't a man who breaks his promise, much less Mo E.” “You’re so smart, senior Li Suo,” the girl praised with what looked like a smile on her face. She did not seem to be afraid even though Li Suo had basically sentenced her to permanent disappearance. “However, I’m just a little girl who doesn’t understand anything. I care nothing for the promises of adults. Besides, no number of promises is more important than father’s safety.” “Father’s... safety?” “Didn’t you notice, senior Li Suo? Father’s soul is broken.” “...” Li Suo did not deny this. “He is wracked with so much pain, regret, and guilt, that even his Creation God soul is cracked in countless places. All he wants to do now is sleep and avoid facing reality... if his soul continues to break like this, he will slumber for a very, very long time. He may not awaken for even a hundred years for every one million years he sleeps.” “There... is nothing I can do to help him.” Li Suo’s voice was tinged with deep helplessness and apology. She could save anyone, but not even she could save a Creation God whose soul was broken. “But I know a way to repair father’s soul.” The girl’s silhouette suddenly became more transparent than before, and she spoke with added haste and urgency, “Besides, I personally heard from senior Mo E’s mouth that his promise to the Ancestral Sword Spirit that gods and devils will never merge will only last until the end of his life... In other words, all the promises, grievances, and stubbornness will be resolved once he passes away.” “I won’t put you or my father in a difficult position. Even if one day I seek to become whole once more, I will wait until senior Mo E has passed away, so please, senior Li Suo. Otherwise... Father really will never awaken.” “But...” Li Suo hesitated. “If I do not replace your soul base and soul origin completely, then both your new body and your mind will be forever stuck in childhood. Not only that, your chances of becoming whole again are, frankly, extremely small. Do you still want to do this despite knowing this?” “Mm!” The girl answered without hesitation. “I cannot allow my father to keep suffering like this. If there is even a tiny bit of hope to save him, then I will. This is my natural duty as his daughter. Otherwise, mother would be very sad when she returns...”She thinks her mother can still return? Li Suo wisely did not correct her fantasy. The girl’s silhouette grew even blurrier and indistinct. Now, she was no more than a faint sheet of mist. “You must help me, senior Li Suo. In exchange, I’ll tell you a massive secret. When father was fighting against senior Mo E, I realized I could sense the... Heaven... Punishing...” The girl’s silhouette and her voice disappeared then, leaving behind a dazed Li Suo. Chapter 2117 - Break (1) Ripples washed over the distorted and blurry image, and a new scene appeared. The background was still the Divine Palace of Life. “Who is she, master? She’s so cute.” A young woman let out a cry of admiration as she watched the girl slumbering in the Coffin of Eternity. Yun Che’s soul twitched. Although the image and voice were severely distorted and torn, he still recognized immediately that the voice belonged to Shen Xi, even though it was filled with youth instead of the ephemeralness he was familiar with. Li Suo said gently, “She is my future adopted daughter and your friend. However, I haven’t thought of a name for her yet.” “A name...” Shen Xi thought for a moment before answering a bit mischievously, “Well, the Wan Hu Flowers in the Holy Garden today are in full bloom today almost as if they are welcoming her awakening. In that case, let’s call her Wan Hu!” Li Suo smiled and nodded. “Very well.” Her ever gentle voice was now mixed with a bit of doting love, though it was missing the imposingness that a supreme divine being should possess. It was at this moment a voice came from outside. “Ling Zhen, the current chief of the Sword Spirit God Clan, has come to answer your summons, Lady Li Suo.” “Xi’er, please excuse yourself for a moment.” “Yes, master.” A huge, tall man whose righteousness could not be concealed even by the distorted, blurry images of the memory fragment stepped inside and bowed. “Minor God Ling Zhen greets Lady Li Suo. So, why have you summoned me today, Lady Li Suo?” Instead of answering immediately, Li Suo turned her gaze to the girl inside the crystalline coffin. Ling Zhen followed her gaze and immediately let out a cry of surprise, “The Coffin of Eternity!?” “This minor god remembers that the Coffin of Eternity is a gift by Lord Xi Ke to Lord Ni Xuan. With it as the base, it could ensure that the Creation God of Elements Tower remains standing for eternity. Why is it here? And who is this...” He abruptly cut himself off realizing that he was one word away from overstepping. Li Suo answered, “There is no longer a Creation God of Elements in this world, nor a Creation God of Elements Tower.” Ling Zhen’s eyebrows knitted together, and his face instantly morphed into infinite astonishment. “Do not ask. Such is fate, and no one can change it,” Li Suo added, her voice tinged with a kind of sorrow and helplessness that was exceedingly rare for a Creation God. “The reason I summon you today is to entrust this girl to you.” Ling Zhen replied respectfully, “This minor god sees no reason to disobey your order, but why me?” Li Suo explained indifferently, “This girl is named Wan Hu, and she possesses an extremely special body and soul. I have reforged both of them, but a portion of her soul is a sword soul. This sword soul is extraordinarily special even though it is missing half of itself. I originally intended to repair and complete the gap with light profound energy, but I wasn’t able to make it so that it was compatible with her body no matter what I tried.” “Clan Chief Ling Zhen, I remember that your youngest daughter, Siyao, passed away at a young age due to a tragedy. You preserved her sword soul in order to remember her. I would like to merge Siyao’s sword soul with this girl’s sword soul so that the newborn sword soul would be compatible with her body. Once she awakens, you will take her as your daughter.” Ling Zhen’s eyes trembled violently for a moment before he collapsed on his knees and stammered, “You know that I am willing to fulfill any order you give me, Lady Li Suo, but... My daughter, Siyao, has had a short and tragic life, and I, her father, have failed her from the start until the end. I am ever possessed by pain and sorrow whenever I think of her, and her sword soul is my one and only memento of her.” “I beg you, Lady Li Suo. This is the one order I must disobey. Please withdraw your—” Li Suo said quietly, “She is Ni Xuan’s daughter.” Ling Zhen’s voice came to an abrupt stop, and he turned to stare at the girl inside the Coffin of Eternity for an indefinite amount of time. Then, he shook his head once and declared, “Lord Ni Xuan’s favor to the Sword Spirit God Clan cannot be repaid even with ten thousand lifetimes. From now on, she will become my daughter; the noblest princess of my Sword Spirit God Clan!” “I, Ling Zhen, swear on my life that I will give her an eternity of peace and happiness. I will not allow her to suffer even a bit of sorrow even if the entire clan must perish to do so!” Every word was spoken like the mandate of heaven itself. “Good.” Li Suo nodded slightly. “Ni Xuan would be happy if he was here to hear this.” “One thing. No one must find out about her origin, not even she herself.” “Do not worry, Lady Li Suo.” Ling Zhen’s voice was still shivering. “I won’t ask anything. No one will find out about this.” ...... With that, the images turned into white fog and crumbled completely. “You’re definitely the one who gave senior Heretic God this memory fragment,” Yun Che said with complicated feelings. “It’s probably to inform him of your arrangements for his daughter, and senior Heretic God has carefully preserved it throughout the times. To think that he would continue to preserve it even when only a wisp of his soul was left... perhaps it was his only comfort during his final moments.” So this was how Hong’er joined the Sword Spirit God Clan. Her sword soul was also unbelievably complicated. First, she had inherited a sword soul from the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor. Afterward, it became a broken sword soul because the dark portions were removed. Later, it was reforged by Ni Xuan’s power and repaired by Li Suo’s holy power. Finally, it merged with the Sword Spirit clan chief’s daughter's complete sword soul. As it turned out, the holy power Hong’er displayed when she transformed into a sword did come from Li Suo... the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor’s teeth-clenching guess back then was spot on. Speaking of which, was her anomalous ability to eat swords and subsume the swords she ate the heretical result of the mixture of the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor, the Creation God of Elements, the Creation Goddess of Life, and the Sword Spirit Sword Clan’s powers? “I’m curious,” Li Suo whispered, “what was the secret Ni Jie was trying to tell me?” To her surprise, Yun Che was uninterested in it. “The Era of Gods and Devils has long ended. No secret from that dead era is of any importance now.” It was then he recalled a question the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor had asked him before: “Yun Che, say... should I merge their souls together again?” At the time, his answer was rejection because both Hong’er and You’er had developed their individual personalities. To merge them was to wipe out their existence. It was because of his words that the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor had chosen to give up on the thought. Now that he thought about it, it was clear that the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor was able to tell at first glance that Hong’er and You’er could merge again, and the result was the Ni Jie of the old. In other words, Li Suo did accept Ni Jie’s request after all. This was also why Hong’er was a child in both body and mind from the moment he met her. It was as if she could never grow up. Back then, he had advised the Heaven Smiting Devil Emperor not to merge Hong’er and You’er. Today, he was even firmer in his decision as a matter of course. That was why the possibility Ni Xuan had begged for and mercy Li Suo had left behind did not really move him. In fact, he could not help but wonder that, even if Hong’er and You’er could combine into one, considering all the drastic changes Hong’er had gone through, would the returned Ni Jie really be the Ni Jie of the past? “It is not too important,” Li Suo echoed in agreement. “So, did the memories left behind by Ni Xuan give you any major revelations? For example... did it change your frame of mind, your understanding, or your... solution toward ‘Him’?” Yun Che did not answer immediately. A long, long time later, he murmured seemingly to himself, “The Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor mentioned two names... the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror and the Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl.” “He called them the ‘supreme devil artifact, and that the combination of their power over ‘space’ and ‘time’ is such that even he could not break out of it.” “To think that the Devil Queen’s guesses would all come true. They can only be the ‘Nether Mirror’ and ‘Devil Pearl’ she spoke of.” “The pierced abyssal passage, the Black Tide of Time, and the Cradle...” Yun Che let out a long sigh. Li Suo asked, “Are you worried that the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror and the Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl are both in ‘His’ hands?” “Worried?” Yun Che’s voice grew a little heavier. “It is practically confirmed. Everything I know is pointing toward that possibility.” “Even so, there is no need to worry too much,” Li Suo consoled. “The Abyss is definitely at a higher level than the God Realm, but it is still far behind the Era of Gods and Devils. Therefore, the two devil artifacts cannot possibly boast the power they originally possessed.” “Besides, the Nether Mirror and the Devil Pearl are ultimately Devil Artifacts, and ‘He’ is a God. He cannot master them fully no matter what. That is why ‘He’ needed to assemble every True God’s power to activate the Nether Mirror.” Yun Che fell silent once more. The only sound in his soul sea was his slow, even rhythm of his heartbeat. “It looks like I need to adjust my strategy a little.” ...... Inside the Still Heart Profound Formation, Yun Che slowly opened his eyes. As soon as he stepped out of the formation, he immediately came face to face with Meng Kongchan. The Divine Regent was smiling meaningfully as he said, “As expected. You are a young man after all.” Yun Che was confused by his reaction for an instant. The answer appeared to him right after that. He could sense Hua Caili’s aura pacing back and forth not far away from him. She had clearly been waiting for him. However, she waited for him to meet her instead of approaching herself. Yun Che went with what Meng Kongchan thought was happening and asked, “Senior Divine Regent, would it be too much to...” “It’s fine! It’s not a problem at all!” Meng Kongchan declared without hesitation. “The two of you are perfect God Bearers who had appeared in the same generation; the first in the long history of the Abyss. It is perfectly natural for the two of you to interact with each other.” “That said, I would advise you to watch yourself when the other Kingdoms of God show up; especially the Boundless Kingdom of God. You still have a long future ahead of you, so there is no need to mind one moment.” “I understand. Don’t worry, Caili and I would not do anything untoward before you have finished paving the path ahead for us.” After Yun Che was done speaking with the Divine Regent, he turned to Meng Jianxi and said, “Divine Son Xi, please keep an eye on the other Kingdoms of God. Inform me immediately if any one of them shows up.” The first thing he saw after stepping out of the courtyard was Hua Caili. Her silhouette was such that it tickled the heart and stirred one’s soul to no end even in this fantasy land of the Abyss known as the Pure Land. Hua Caili’s eyes flickered as she bloomed into a wide smile. There was a gorgeous flash of sword light, and she was standing in front of Yun Che. “I’m surprised your father allowed you to come,” Yun Che said smilingly. As there was an audience nearby, they made sure to maintain a distance of three steps between each other. “I had to give him a lot of promises before he caved. And I have to go back as soon as the other Kingdoms of God arrive.” Hua Caili was complaining, but her eyes and eyebrows were still curled into crescents. “Come with me, big brother Yun. I want you to meet someone.” “Er... okay. By the way, where is aunt?” “Aunt went to meet the Chief Priest. There is no danger in the Pure Land, so why would she follow me around?” A bright smile on her face, she took to the skies and led Yun Che toward a lustrous white land to the north of the Pure Land. At the same time, a loud noise came from the light barrier covering the Pure Land. The main profound ark of the Boundless Kingdom of God had arrived. Chapter 2118 - Break (2) The Pure Land was massive and spacious, clean and tranquil. It felt like an independent world that was completely separate from the Abyss, forever free from contaminants and dust. Anyone would conduct themselves with the utmost caution and respect in this world—but clearly, Hua Caili was an exception. Hopping, skipping and jumping across the Pure Land with a sunny smile on her face, she was extraordinarily familiar with every corner of this world. She could even put a name to most of the abyssal knights and Pure Land Divine Guards she ran into. The abyssal knights and Pure Land Divine Guards treated her just as respectfully. Some even broke into smiles. No one tried to stop her or question her about her intention or destination. They passed through another spacious area when suddenly, the world turned bright, colorful, and full of flora. It was as if they had entered an immortal realm in an immortal realm. The elemental aura in the Pure Land was pretty rich to begin with, but now it had become several times thicker as soon as they entered this place. Specifically, it was the elements of fire, thunder and wind that became richer... Yun Che could sense an unusual, somewhat out-of-place cold air as well. There were a few small houses amidst the jungle of plants. It looked like a little slice of hidden paradise. It was too bad that this world was completely devoid of any beasts or insects. “Is this where High Priest Ling Xian is staying?” Yun Che asked while looking straight ahead. Hua Caili exclaimed in surprise, “You’re incredible, big brother Yun! I didn’t think you would figure it out immediately on your first visit!” It was at this moment the space ahead of them rippled, and a woman stepped out from behind a tree and greeted them with a smile. “You’re here, little Caili.” The woman was wearing a plain, long white shirt with spots of light pink plum petals. Her skin was fair and smooth, and her features were such that it was difficult to identify her true age. Her long hair was tied up using a simple ribbon, and her gaze was gentle, refined, and calm. She resembled an ascetic who had long secluded themselves in the mountains and stayed away from all mortal affairs—or at least, she would have, if not for the fact that the spiritual pressure she was giving off was absolutely terrifying. “Aunt Su Shang!” Hua Caili let out an affectionate cry and strode up to her immediately. When she got close, she sensed the cold energy and turned serious. “This cold energy... is Grandma Ling Xian...?” “Yes.” The woman nodded. “Master knew that you were coming and was very much looking forward to meeting you again, but alas, her ‘old illness' relapsed...” Once she finished explaining what happened, the woman looked at Yun Che and asked, “And who is this?” Yun Che stepped forward and saluted her respectfully. “Yun Che of the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God greets senior Su Shang.” He could not help a violent tremor in his heart when he heard Hua Caili calling out the woman’s name. It was because “Aunt Su Shang” was one of the four strongest Divine Guards of the Pure Land below the True Gods of the Abyss, and the divine attendant of High Priest Ling Xian! Looking at her appearance alone, no one would think that she was such a terrifying existence. “Yun Che?” Divine Attendant Su Shang let out a small exclamation of surprise before nodding. “I see, you are the lost son who returned to the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God, Meng Jianyuan. You are as handsome and impressive-looking as the rumors claim you to be. Setting aside the fact that you have perfect divine essence, your appearance alone puts you far above your brother, Meng Jianxi.” Her words were shockingly direct considering that she was talking about the Divine Sons of a Kingdom of God. Yun Che replied evenly, “You flatter me, senior. I came today in the hope that Divine Daughter Caili’s recommendation would be enough to earn me a short meeting with High Priest Ling Xian.” Su Shang’s smile remained light and indifferent. “Apologies, young master Yuan, but my master is inconvenienced right now.” “It’s fine, it’s fine!” Hua Caili hurriedly interrupted, “We shan’t disturb her then! We’ll come and visit Grandma Ling Xian when she’s better!” Yun Che did not step away, however. He produced a small jade box and said, “In that case... this is the meeting gift this junior has specifically prepared for High Priest Ling Xian before coming to the Pure Land. I ask that you accept it on behalf of her, senior Su Shang.”Huh? Hua Caili looked surprised. She did not think that Yun Che had prepared a gift for High Priest Ling Xian. “You’re welcome, but there is no need.” Su Shang said indifferently, “Master does not involve herself with mortal affairs, nor does she accept mortal gifts. However, I will pass on your kind regards to her.” Hua Caili reached out, grabbed Yun Che’s gift box, and shoved it into Divine Attendant Su Shang’s hands by force. She said mischievously, “Aunt Su Shang, this is a gift big brother Yun purposely prepared for Grandma Ling Xian. He must have spent a lot of effort preparing it. Grandma Ling Xian is so kind, so I’m sure she couldn’t bear to reject it. Please accept it on Grandma Ling Xian’s behalf, please~” “...” Su Shang looked at the box that was forcefully shoved into her hands and shook her head smilingly in helpless indulgence. “Very well. If you have the time, you may take young master Yun to the Ling Xian Rainbow Cloud Realm for a visit. Just remember not to come too close to this place, okay?” “It’s fine. I would not want to disturb Grandma Ling Xian.” Hua Caili bowed daintily. “We’ll be taking our leave now, Aunt Su Shang. We’ll come see you after we’re done meeting Uncle Abyssal Monarch!” After Yun Che and Hua Caili left, Divine Attendant Su Shang tilted her head thoughtfully as she recalled Hua Caili’s obviously unusual gaze and words. As she thought, she casually opened the jade box she just received. Spiritual energy seeped out of the box, and her indifferent expression stiffened for a moment. She immediately lifted the box and stared at its contents, eyes coloring red from the light emitted by the gift and dilating rapidly from excitement and disbelief. “This... this is...” She immediately turned around and made a beeline for the icy barrier she was guarding... “I heard from the Dreamless Divine Regent that Divine Priest Ling Xian often suffered from elemental backlashes due to the unusual constitution she was born with. When Divine Attendant Su Shang said that her ‘old illness relapsed’... is she referring to that?” “Yes.” Hua Caili nodded with clear worry. “Not only that, the backlashes seem to be happening more and more frequently... The last time it happened was right before I left the Pure Land a little over four years ago.” She cast a worried look behind her back briefly before saying softly, “I once saw Grandma Ling Xian relapsing with my own eyes, and it was truly terrifying. I could not believe she could make such a painful face considering how strong she is.” “She once told me that a long lifespan might be the desire of countless living beings, but to her, it was nothing more than extended torture. However, she can’t die yet because someone needs her.” Yun Che: “...” Hua Caili sighed quietly. “Barring exceptional circumstances, Grandma Ling Xian almost never leaves the Pure Land. She even said that she might be a noble and powerful High Priest in everyone’s eyes, but she is really just a perpetually sick bird trapped inside a cage.” “Grandma Ling Xian is so gentle and kind. Why must she suffer such pain for so long?” Yun Che hummed. “The reason she couldn’t leave the Pure Land... is it because she is really a beast?” “Huh?” Hua Caili looked surprised. “You knew, big brother Yun?” She then moved closer to Yun Che and lowered her voice, “You mustn’t say it outside, okay? You especially mustn’t mention it in front of Grandma Ling Xian. She is extremely disturbed by it.” “Hmm? Why’s that?” Yun Che was puzzled. She was the descendant of an ancient God. Pride toward her own origin must be engraved to her blood and bone. Besides, she was a High Priest serving the Abyssal Monarch and a supreme existence that existed above all others except one. It would far make sense if she were exceedingly proud and considered all other beings beside herself, her peers, and the Abyssal Monarch to be ants. But to be disturbed by her own origins? That made no sense. Unless... Hua Caili looked left and right and hesitated for a moment. However, she ultimately chose to stay quiet and whispered, “I’ll tell you in secret after we’re out of the Pure Land.” “I see... very well.” It was at this moment Yun Che suddenly stopped in his tracks. Hua Caili followed suit and looked at him in confusion. Then, Yun Che abruptly stepped forward and closed the distance they had purposely maintained until now in an instant. They were so close that they could feel each other’s warm breath. “Big brother Yun...” Hua Caili’s breathing was thrown into disarray immediately, but she unwisely did not step away. Yun Che looked down, his soft, warm gaze falling into Hua Caili’s eyes. “Everything can wait until after we leave the Pure Land, but there is a gift that I have prepared for three years, and I... cannot wait to give it to you.” “What... what is it?” They were so very close, and he was showering her with a voice and look that he afforded her and only her. It was undoubtedly stirring the emotions and longing she had suppressed for three years and causing her heartbeat to race faster and faster. She was slowly but surely losing her sanity. “You... why don’t you close your eyes first?” Yun Che said in a mysterious voice and with just the right dose of nervousness. Hua Caili slowly closed her eyes as he told her too, her fair face full of expectation. “Mm... no, this isn’t enough. I want you to withdraw your spiritual perception completely as well. You’re not allowed to probe the gift in secret.” The mystery and nervousness in Yun Che’s voice grew even stronger. “I did not!” She pouted, but she obediently withdrew all of her spiritual perception and slightly bent her head backward. “Surely this is enough?” Mystery begets expectation. Even if she hadn’t withdrawn her spiritual perception, Hua Caili’s focus was more or less completely on her rapidly beating heart and Yun Che’s breathing. There was nothing else. Yun Che’s breaths grew closer and closer. She could feel his warmth touching her forehead, sliding down to her cheeks, and finally landing lightly on her dainty lips. She sneakily opened her eyes just a tad and found Yun Che staring right back at her with a mischievous smile on his face. “Did you receive it?” Yun Che smirked triumphantly and mischievously. “The thoughts and wishes I’ve collected for three years straight?” The girl opened her eyes completely, but there wasn’t a sliver of disappointment or frustration on her face whatsoever. Suddenly, she stepped forward, wrapped her arms around his neck, and kissed him back strongly. She even bit his bottom lip lightly with her dainty teeth so that he would not be able to break away from the kiss easily. A while later, she finally let go and pulled away from him. Her cheeks were dyed pink, but she declared in a victorious voice, “See? I’m the one who missed you more!” The young woman was so absorbed in romanticism and fantasy that she did not notice that two blurry silhouettes had appeared in the distance and were walking straight toward them. “Brother Jiuzhi, you came here immediately instead of visiting the Heaven Breaker Kingdom of God’s accommodation. Are you that sure that the Rainbow Glass Divine Daughter is here?” Dian Sansi (Three Thoughts) asked excitedly while looking left and right, admiring the Pure Land’s beauty. Out of everyone among the younger generation, Dian Sansi was the most outstanding prince of the Boundless Kingdom of God besides Dian Jiuzhi himself. He wasn’t even a hundred and eighty years old, but he was already a level three Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner. Strictly speaking, he was better than Dian Jiuzhi when the Divine Son was his age. He had reached the initial stages of the Boundless Manifestation Art as well. Dian Sansi was still young, and he had never gone through the terrible life experiences Dian Jiuzhi had. Dian Sansi respected and admired Dian Jiuzhi deeply. Dian Jiuzhi was smiling with obvious cheer as well. “Caili always visits High Priest Ling Xian as soon as she is able after arriving at the Pure Land. There's no reason she would make an exception this time.” Dian Sansi sighed. “Although you and the Rainbow Glass Divine Daughter spend more time apart than you do together, you still know her as well as the back of your hand. She is truly lucky to have a man like you.” “No, you got it the other way around.” But Dian Jiuzhi shook his head smilingly. “I’m the one who was lucky from the beginning until the end. If Caili did not exist, I would not be who I am today. Besides, it’s not really good luck to be admired by someone. The great luck of a lifetime is finding someone you are willing to give up everything for.” “Mm!” Dian Sansi nodded. “I will remember everything you say, Brother Jiuzhi. Still, I don’t believe there exists a woman in this world who will make me wholeheartedly treat her the way you treat the Rainbow Glass Divine Daughter.” “Hahahaha!” Dian Jiuzhi laughed. “You’re still young. I thought the exact same thing when I was your age.” Dian Sansi looked expectant. “I haven’t had the honor of meeting the Rainbow Glass Divine Daughter in person, but I have seen all the images and projections you have of her. She truly is gorgeous like no other. I wonder if meeting her in person will change that impression.” “It will. You will discover that no portrait or image can measure up to even one-ten-thousandth of the real person.” Dian Jiuzhi chuckled. “When you meet her, you will truly understand what it means to fall... for...” His voice suddenly slowed down until it became completely stuck inside his throat. His footsteps had come to a complete standstill as well. Dian Sansi followed suit and was just about to ask what happened when he saw two silhouettes not far ahead of them. The two silhouettes were hugging each other and looking into each other’s eyes. They were so affected by their feelings that they seemed to have forgotten that they were in the supreme Pure Land. The man was unbelievably handsome, so much so that, in terms of appearance alone, he was actually the better of Dian Jiuzhi. As for the woman... her beauty and radiance were such that even the Pure Land was just a foil to her. The woman was staring at the man before her and only him. It was as if she could not see anyone else’s silhouette besides his. Dian Sansi’s eyes widened into saucers as astonishment filled him. It was because the woman’s appearance clearly... belonged to...No! It can’t be! He hurriedly turned to look at Dian Jiuzhi only to discover that his older brother’s face had turned deathly white. His hands were clenched, and his whole body was trembling uncontrollably. His eyes were filled with gentleness earlier, but now they were trembling so much that they threatened to shatter into pieces. His dilating pupils had nearly spread across the entire eyeballs as well. “Bro... Brother Jiuzhi?” Dian Sansi’s throat suddenly turned a little dry. His soft cry seemingly drew Dian Jiuzhi out of the nightmare he was trapped in. He slowly, painstakingly, pulled his gaze away and closed his eyes for a moment... When he reopened them, they continued to shake with indescribable pain. He was clenching his fists with all his might, but it still could not stop the tremblings that were coming from the bottom of his soul. “We’re... leaving,” He uttered with a shockingly dry voice. He did not dare to look in that direction even a little. “Brother Jiuzhi!” Dian Sansi stepped forward and grabbed Dian Jiuzhi’s trembling arm. “Is that woman... is she... could she be... could she really be...” “... We’re leaving!” Dian Jiuzhi’s voice grew even drier, though it was very soft as if he was afraid of alerting the distant figures to their presence... even if his heart and soul were threatening to shatter on the spot. At this point, Dian Sansi could not deceive himself even if he wanted to. He furrowed his brow and found a hot rage growing inside his heart. “How dare she... how dare she?! You love her so much, your engagement was bestowed by the Abyssal Monarch Himself, and she dares... she dares to treat you like this!” “No! We need to—” A hand grabbed his shoulder with barely suppressed rage and aura. “Will you disobey me!?” Dian Sansi had never seen such a face or heard such a voice from Dian Jiuzhi. “Forget what you just saw. Do not speak of it to anyone... especially Father, do you understand?” Dian Sansi stared at Dian Jiuzhi’s face, the face that was still contorting uncontrollably despite his best attempts to wrestle his reaction for a long while before he finally nodded. “I've got it... Don’t worry, Brother Jiuzhi. I won’t speak of this to anyone.” Dian Jiuzhi’s chest heaved up and down once before he let out a long, shuddering breath. Then, he grabbed Dian Sansi, suppressed his aura, and soundlessly departed the area. His footsteps had never felt this heavy... not even when he was drowning at the bottom of the mud. It wasn’t until they were far, far away that Yun Che finally let go of Hua Caili. The corner of his eyes brushed the space Dian Jianzhi appeared a moment ago for an instant before he looked away. The small but warm smile on his face never faltered even a little. “Say, what if someone from the Pure Land saw us just now?” “Hmph! Says the guy who initiated it in the first place?” Hua Caili’s finger drew a couple of circles in Yun Che’s palm before she finally, reluctantly, let go of him. She stepped three steps away from him before saying, “Grandma Ling Xian’s immortal realm is the quietest place in the Pure Land, and no guards are posted here, so your worries are unfounded. Still, it’s best if we don’t act like this anywhere else. Otherwise, I’m afraid we will disrupt Father and the Dreamless Divine Regent’s arrangements.” “Mm, got it,” Yun Che replied with a straight face, “I swear to stay at least three steps away from you.” “Come, there’s one more place I’d like to take you to. I’m sure he will adore you.” The corners of Hua Caili’s lips curled up a little into a mysterious smirk. Chapter 2119 - Liu Xiao The Star and Moon Kingdom of God group had arrived in the Pure Land. Out of everyone in the group, Pan Buwang was the one person who appeared to be completely out of place. To say that his situation was awkward would be an understatement, especially since the younger Star and Moon disciples were all shooting him hostile glares. As soon as they arrived in the Pure Land, Sha Xing grabbed Pan Buwang’s arm and stepped out in a timely fashion. “You’re once again in the Pure Land, Brother Buwang. How do you feel?” Pan Buwang said while staring forward, “Everything in the Pure Land feels like it would never change. As I look around, I am surprised to discover that the most unfamiliar thing in this world... is myself.” “Oh?” Sha Xing was a bit surprised by his lamentation. Pan Buwang smiled. “It’s just a bit of pathetic whining is all. You don’t need to pay it any heed, Star Divine Son, I’m sure you’ve encountered quite a bit of resistance to get me where I am today. I, Pan Buwang, will forever—” “Hold it!” Sha Xing cut him off before he could finish. “I’m just repaying a favor, so you can save it. Also, if you really are grateful, then why don’t you reveal some of your... relationship with ‘him.’” Pan Buwang replied with a straight face, “Officially, there is no relationship. Privately, it is the same as yours, the relationship between a benefactor and a receiver.” Sha Xing curled his lips. “Forget what I asked.” He gave the former Owl Butterfly Divine Son a long side-eye and said, “You’ve changed a lot, Brother Buwang. You’ve changed so much I can barely tell you’re the same person. It makes me even more curious though. What on earth drove you to painstakingly attend this Pure Land Meet?” He did not demand an answer despite saying this. He simply continued in a meaningful tone, “Whatever it is, I look forward to it.” Suddenly, the air turned chilly, and even the light of the Pure Land dimmed a little. It was a natural sensation when dark energy was near. Sha Xing and Pan Buwang stopped in their tracks at the same time. Up ahead was the Pray Eternal Divine Regent Pan Yusheng, and standing next to him was the Owl Butterfly Divine Son Pan Buzhuo. Led by three Pure Land Divine Guards, the duo were slowly walking toward them. Pray Eternal Divine Regent’s spiritual perception was out of the world as a matter of course. Naturally, he had sensed Pan Buwang’s existence from the beginning. Despite this, he never so much as glanced at the man for even an instant. One would think that he had missed Pan Buwang completely. Sha Xing swiftly greeted Pan Yusheng, “Sha Xing of the Star and Moon Kingdom of God greets the Pray Eternal Divine Regent and all other seniors.” Pan Buwang also bowed a little and whispered, “Father.” “Mm.” Pan Yusheng gave Sha Xing a nod but ignored Pan Buwang’s greeting completely. There was a small flash of astonishment in his eyes when Pan Buwang bowed to him, but it only lasted an instant. It was because Pan Buwang’s attitude toward him had become increasingly enraged, disappointed, screechy, and finally insane. Forget treating him with respect, Pan Buwang had strayed to the point that he dared to taunt him, the Divine Regent, to his face. It was why this simple and obedient greeting—the word “Father”—felt so unfamiliar and almost like a blast from the past. That was all though. He had given up on Pan Buwang a long time ago. He had even declared his utter abandonment of his son; that he would not care if he lived or died. As the Owl Butterfly group were about to pass by Pan Buwang, Pan Buzhuo stopped in his tracks and looked Pan Buwang up and down curiously. He said, “Yo! Long time no see, stray dog who left our Owl Butterfly wailing at the top of his lungs. I heard you were going to drown yourself in the Sinking Moon Valley of Dreamweave but were chased out like a dog as well. Hah!” “Who would’ve thought that the Owl Butterfly Divine Son would choose to become a cripple who knew nothing but intoxication and dreams? Thank goodness Dreamweaver had the sense to toss you out. Nobody cares if you embarrass yourself, but that action would have brought shame to the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God as well!” Pan Buwang did not say a single word. “Oh? It looks like you’ve gotten a little steadier.” Pan Buzhuo seemed surprised by Pan Buwang’s lack of response, but he quickly followed up with a disdainful chuckle. “Have you changed after mucking around in the Endless Fog for a few years? I’m surprised to see you in the Pure Land. Are you planning to prove yourself in front of the Abyssal Monarch and convince Father to accept you once more?” Pan Buzhuo cracked a rather vile grin and lowered his voice, “Quit dreaming already, you embarrassing piece of shit. Right now, you’re no different from a stray dog who’s halfway being rotted by abyssal dust. I can literally smell the pitiful stench of decay on you.” “......” Pan Buwang continued to keep his head lowered and stay silent. There was no discernible expression on his face either. “Brother Buzhuo,” it was at this moment Sha Xing spoke up coldly, “a Divine Son should be above such pettiness.” Pan Buzhuo withdrew his scornful smile and looked at Sha Xing. “Pan Buwang did nothing of note when he was a Divine Son, and he has repeatedly damaged Owl Butterfly’s reputation in recent years. I wasn’t expecting to meet him today, so I simply could not control my outburst. I apologize for making a fool out of myself in front of you, Star Divine Son.” He smiled and finally began to leave. As he walked away though, he did not forget to leave one last scathing remark. “You are an honorable man, Star Divine Son. I would advise you to stay away from such filth. It could cause you bad luck.” Walking at the forefront, Pan Yusheng never looked back or stopped Pan Buzhuo from making such remarks. Most of the people of the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God were shooting Pan Buwang indifferent or sympathetic looks as well. After all, Pan Buwang was still the bright moon in the sky the last time they came to the Pure Land. After the Owl Butterfly group was out of earshot, Sha Xing finally furrowed his brow and said a bit angrily, “Pan Buzhuo is seriously out of control!” Pan Buwang replied expressionlessly, “His mother had my Mother killed not long after she ascended the throne, so there was no way he and I can ever stand on the same side. On top of that, the beatdown and humiliation I suffered overtly and covertly during the years he has been the Divine Son... I’m sure someone with your personality cannot even imagine them.” “If not for my promise with Wuqing, I would have crumbled into pieces long ago.” Sha Xing was unable to detect much hatred from Pan Buwang’s voice. Which was precisely why he was surprised, though he did not reveal his emotions on the outside. Sha Xing gave Pan Buwang a clap on the shoulder and said seriously, “Just wait. I will put a lid on his flame when we are before the Abyssal Monarch. It’s not just to get one back for you, but also because that guy is just loathsome.” “Thanks.” Pan Buwang smiled back, the depths of his eyes a dark abyss Sha Xing could never reach. “I look forward to witnessing the power of your Heavenly Wolf once more.” There was a buzzing noise from the distance, and the light screen of the Pure Land opened once more. “It looks like the Eternal Night Kingdom of God has arrived as well.” As soon as he said this, Sha Xing glanced at Pan Buwang out of the corner of his eye. The hatred and killing intent he sensed for a few instants were so strong that he could not miss it even if he wanted to. Pan Buwang had faced Pan Buzhuo’s wanton insults without batting an eye, and yet the word “Eternal Night” alone was enough to cause his killing intent to spiral out of control. Sha Xing gazed toward the distance and said expectantly, “We can finally witness the true countenance of the newly appointed Eternal Night Divine Daughter, Shenwu Yi. It best not be too disappointing considering how much effort they went through to hide her.” ......Kaboom! Yun Che and Hua Caili had just entered the area when they heard a kaboom coming from the stone house in front of them. The next moment, clouds of black smoke began pouring out of the doors and windows of the house. It was unbelievably conspicuous considering that the Pure Land was mostly pure white. “No! The heat control is all wrong! Annoying thing, get out get out get out!” A young man walked out of the smoking stone house. As soon as he saw Hua Caili, he said smilingly, “You’re here, little Caili.” As he spoke, he elegantly brushed off the soot on his sleeve. “Uncle Yuan Ying.” Hua Caili greeted him politely before launching an introduction, “This is big brother Yun, the previous Divine Son of the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God. His previous name is—” “Oh! Meng Jianyuan, right? I’ve heard about him.” Divine Attendant Yuan Ying said smilingly and innocently, “You’re a perfect God Bearer just like little Caili over here. The two of you are quite compatible in terms of talent... and even in terms of appearance. It’s too bad Jiuzhi got to Caili first, eh?” Yun Che thought, "He has a pair of sharp eyes... and an even sharper tongue." “Yun Che greets senior Yuan Ying. This is my first time coming to the Pure Land, but not the first time I've heard of your sterling reputation, senior Yuan Ying. I’ve wanted to meet you for a long time.” “Ah, such secular words and customs! Save it, save it.” Yuan Ying tried to wave Yun Che off when he realized that his smooth white hand was currently as black as the bottom of a pan. So, he slowly clasped the hand behind his back and said, “Master is currently in the middle of something. I would advise you not to disturb him during this time. Otherwise—”Boom! As if on cue, another muffled boom came from the stone house, followed by even thicker columns of black smoke. Right after that, an excited shout boomed from the stone house. “Oh ho! I did it! I did it! Come in quick, little Caili! I have some good stuff to share with you!” Helplessness colored Yuan Ying’s face as he let out a long sigh. “Big brother Yun, uncle Liu Xiao is calling for us. Let’s head inside!” Hua Caili pushed off the ground and was inside the stone house in a flash. Yun Che gave Divine Attendant Yuan Ying a polite nod before following suit. Divine Attendant Yuan Ying did not try to stop them. He simply let out a quiet sigh. “That’s another poor youngster’s mind about to explode to smithereens.” The stone house wasn’t big, but it was absolutely packed with all sorts of items. Inside the rolling black smoke was a thin, short old man wearing a coarse and shabby gray outfit. Right now, he was crouching on the floor and rubbing his thin, dry hands around a crimson flame boasting unusual energy. His eyes were shiny, and his mouth was muttering something. From Yun Che’s perspective, the old man looked like a toad with its forelimbs raised up into the air. “Uncle Liu Xiao,” Hua Caili called out to the old man affectionately. The toad... oops, the old man in gray clothes immediately bounced to his feet and strode straight toward Hua Caili. “You came just in time, little Caili! Quick, taste it! This is a recipe I just finished improving! It took begging that old woman, Ling Xian, to lend me her flame periodically for far too long, but I finally finished it!” “This is absolutely my greatest masterpiece in the past one thousand years! I promise that one bite is all you need to fly straight to the heavens!” The old man had a haggard face and sunken eye sockets. However, his eyes were blazing with passion and vitality. Even the loose hair strewn across his head was all standing in excitement. His dirty old hands were palming an equally dirt-looking ball of something that was, despite its appearance, giving off a faint fragrance that stirred the soul. “...” Yun Che was standing quietly behind Hua Caili, his lips twitching here and there despite his self-control. If he hadn’t heard Hua Caili addressing this poorly dressed, seemingly insane old man as “Uncle Liu Xiao”, he would never have believed that he was a High Priest! Also, why did Caili address High Priest Ling Xian as “Grandma”, but this shriveled old man as “Uncle”? “Wow! Really?” Hua Caili’s eyes curled into crescents. She did not hesitate to grab the shabby looking ball from the old man’s dirty hands and eat it. Upon taking the first bite, Hua Caili’s eyes widened with pleasant surprise, “Mmh! It’s delicious! It’s the same Liu Xiao Immortal Climbing Flaky Biscuit as before, but a lot tastier... Mmh! Even the number of changes in taste have increased considerably.” “Right? Right!? Huohahahahahahahaha!” Hua Caili’s acknowledgement and praise nearly caused the old man to combust on the spot, and his crazed laughter was such that it looked like his soul was about to leave his body. “As expected of me!! As expected of the greatest Chef God of the Pure Land—oh no no no, of the entire Abyss!!” “Oh right!! From now on, I’m going to change its name to ‘Liu Xiao Immortal Soaring Flaky Biscuit’! Anyone, be it true immortals or fake immortals, are going to fly once they eat it! Huohahahaha!” Hua Caili was still chewing and tasting the Flaky Biscuit when she spoke up in the midst of the old man’s crazed laughter, “It is better than before, but it is just a little inferior compared to big brother Yun’s flaky biscuit.” It was as if someone had cut off the old man’s mad laughter with a saber. The old man’s eyes were originally tiny, but now they were as big as bells. “Y-Y-Y-Y-Y-You... What did you just say? Me? My Liu Xiao Immortal Flying Flaky Biscuit? Is just a bit inferior?!” Even as he spoke, his eyes kept widening. It was as if her remark had unintentionally touched on the biggest taboo of his life. “Yeah.” Hua Caili nodded without any hesitation. Her eyes were as clear as mirror lakes, naive with a hint of innocence. Her words and her expression were so natural, so matter-of-fact, that at that moment, Yun Che swore that he heard the sound of something shattering inside the old man’s heart. The old man then jumped to his feet and screamed, “Impossible!! It took me a thousand years and tens of thousands of times of adjustment to finally create this legendary Liu Xiao Immortal Flying Flaky Biscuit! I only wish I could give myself a kiss!” “Who is that Yunonymous? How could an unlucky name like this possibly make a flaky biscuit that beats my masterpiece?!” “His name isn’t Yunonymous.” Hua Caili hurriedly corrected Liu Xiao. “And his flaky biscuit really is better than what you made, Uncle Liu Xiao. It’s not just flaky biscuits either. There are a lot of foods big brother Yun makes that are way better than yours.” “...” Once again, Yun Che could hear the sound of something shattering into itsy bitsy pieces. Chapter 2120 - Chef God From The Beyond The corners of the old man’s lips tugged as he leaped to his feet. “You, little girl! It’s only been a few years since we last met. When did you learn how to tell lies?” “Do you know how long I’ve devoted myself to the way of cooking? Ah? Over a million years! Do you even grasp how long a million years is? In my eyes, those so-called chef masters serving in the Kingdoms of God don’t even count as initiates in my eyes!” “There are only a handful of people in this world who have lived longer than I, and out of all these people, there isn’t a single person whose attainment in the way of cooking is greater than mine! Not even close!” His beard nearly stood up in reverse as he jumped. His reaction was such it was like someone had touched his reverse scale. Yun Che looked thoughtful. “But...” Hua Caili showed no signs of having received her “education”, however. She said both innocently and honestly, “I respect and love you so much, Uncle Liu Xiao. I would never lie to you. It’s simply the truth that Big Brother Yun’s food is tastier than yours.” Before the old man could puff up like a cat’s tail again, she moved next to Yun Che and stood so close that they were almost pressed up against each other. “Right, big brother Yun?” It was only now that the old man glanced at Yun Che as if he just noticed his existence. One look was all he needed for all of his puffed hair to relax, and him to cackle wildly like a demon: “This boy? Huohahahaha! He’s not even older than a speck of dust under my fingernails, and you dare to say that his cooking skill is greater than mine?” “Your cultivation has improved by a lot, so why is it that your intelligence seems to have receded instead? If he can make a Liu Xiao Immortal Soaring Flaky Biscuit that’s more delicious than mine, then I’ll write my name in reverse from here on out!” “You’re trying to cheat again, Uncle Liu Xiao!” Hua Caili’s eyes curled into crescents. “So what if you write your name in reverse? It’s not like your name is going to change, nor is it going to cost you anything! If you’re this unconvinced, then dare you make a real bet with me?” “Another bet?” The old man’s eyes clearly widened a little. “We’ll be betting on your greatest skill, cooking.” Hua Caili smiled. “I bet that big brother Yun will make a Liu Xiao Immortal Soaring Flaky Biscuit that’s tastier than yours. Of course, if you don’t dare, then forget it. I’m just a small junior. I wouldn’t dare to put my senior in a difficult position.” “Hahaha...” The old man bared his full mouth of yellow teeth and let out a strange laugh. “You think you can spur me into following your bet?... You’re on!” “If this boy can beat my cooking, then I’ll call you uncle—fah! I’ll call you grandma from now on!” Hua Caili hurriedly waved her hands. “Oh no no, you are my most respected senior, Uncle Liu Xiao. I cannot make you address me like that. If... I’m just saying... if you really lose to big brother Yun, then all I ask is that you grant a small wish of mine. Hehe.” “You actually think I would lose??” He let out another strange cry, but he was no longer laughing. Instead, he looked Yun Che up and down as if recognizing him once more. He knew very well that Hua Caili wasn’t one to talk without thinking, nor was she one to make a baseless lie. Still, to say that this brat could beat him in cooking? He would rather believe that this boy’s cultivation was strong enough that he could crush him, a High Priest, with one finger. “Boy!” The old man did not ask for Yun Che’s name or origin. He simply side-eyed him and said, “When I was your age, I was still playing with mud. It would be pure bullying if I were to duel against you seriously, so...” He pointed to the back. “This old man has nothing except the greatest hoard of food ingredients in the entire Abyss! Use them to make a dish, any dish. If you can make a single dish that can earn a passing grade from me, then I’ll judge that the girl has won the bet! Just look at that bratty smile of hers. She must be plotting something nefarious!” The old man’s words were casual and boorish, but it was clear that Hua Caili held a very special place in his heart. He knew that Hua Caili was looking to make a request from him and so gave her the opportunity directly. After all, he was the judge and jury in this bet. If he wanted to, Yun Che could give him a rock, and he could still say that it had earned a passing grade. Yun Che bowed but did not respond. Instead, he scanned his surroundings for a bit before lifting his hand and sending out a dozen gentle cyclones. They flew toward the piles of haphazardly placed food ingredients, rummaged around for a few breaths, and brought thirty seven food ingredients of all shapes and colors back to the trio. “Senior, these are the thirty seven ingredients you used to create the ‘Liu Xiao Immortal Soaring Flaky Biscuit’, am I right?” “...” The old man, one of the four High Priests of the Pure Land, the one they called High Priest Liu Xiao, did not answer immediately. His ancient eyes kept widening until he looked like he had seen a ghost in broad daylight. Hua Caili’s lips were opened slightly, and her eyes were quivering with deep astonishment as well. It did not take a genius to notice High Priest Liu Xiao’s excessive reaction to know that Yun Che had deduced the ingredients of the “Liu Xiao Immortal Soaring Flaky Biscuit” correctly. There were thirty seven ingredients though! How did he get every single one of them correct!? She only knew that Yun Che was a master at cooking whose food was better than even High Priest Liu Xiao. However, even she did not realize he was this good until now. High Priest Liu Xiao suddenly turned around and shouted, “Yuanying, get over here!” Divine Attendant Yuanying had just finished cleaning up when he answered his master’s call and dashed inside the building. “You asked for me, master—” "Did you tell him the recipe of the Liu Xiao Immortal Soaring Flaky Biscuit?!” “What?” Yuanying looked confused and innocent. “You disparage me, master! I would not dare to leak your recipes even if he has the gall of the heavens... wait a second. Didn’t you finish the Liu Xiao Immortal Soaring Flaky Biscuit like, just now? You also just named it. Where would I find a recipe to give away even if I wanted to?” “... Get out.” “Kay!” Yuanying zipped out of the house as quick as lightning. After Yuanying was gone, High Priest Liu Xiao looked back and forth between Yun Che and the thirty seven food ingredients, muttering, “Not bad. No wonder the lass dares to taunt me so.” Yun Che hurriedly expressed humility. “You flatter me, senior. I am just exceptionally sensitive toward smell, that’s all. Anyway, I shall now attempt to recreate your Liu Xiao Immortal Soaring Flaky Biscuit using the same ingredients.” With that said, Yun Che took a step back and summoned a cyclone. One by one and following a certain order, the thirty seven ingredients were crushed, refined, and purified. When Cang Shuhe taught Yun Che how to cook, she once praised him saying that his advantage in this way was unparalleled under the heavens. It wasn’t flattery. It was an irrefutable truth. It was because he possessed the universe’s greatest power of tempering and purification, the Sky Poison Pearl. It could easily process any food ingredient into its ideal, perfect form. The other important factor of the way of cooking was heat control. As the bearer of the Heretic God Profound Veins, he too possessed an unrivaled advantage in this regard. Anyone else could train for ten lifetimes and still never reach his level. The Sky Poison Pearl existed at a level where even a High Priest could not possibly perceive its tempering and purifying aura even though it was right in front of him. Therefore, all High Priest Liu Xiao saw was the ingredients being stripped, cut, and blown until only the essence was left by Yun Che’s profound energy. Not only was the process impossibly elaborate and precise, it was happening at an unbelievably fast rate as well. High Priest Liu Xiao literally did not have the time to catch his breath from the start until the end. Next, a crimson flame appeared on Yun Che’s palm. As he flipped his palm around and moved his fingers rapidly, the flame split into dozens of fiery snakes—all of them boasting a different size and heat level—and swirled around the food ingredients for a time. At times, they would move closer to the ingredients. At times, it would go away. The fiery snakes burned bright or extinguished themselves from time to time as well. Finally, the fiery snakes returned to Yun Che’s palm. A few breaths later, they were all gone. Yun Che slowly opened his hand. Sitting at the center of his palm was a pair of flaky biscuits that were exactly identical in terms of color, but completely different in terms of shape. A faint aroma spread throughout the building. When it reached High Priest Liu Xiao’s nostrils, the old man actually gulped involuntarily. “I'm done.” Yun Che passed the first biscuit to Hua Caili. “You first, Caili.” This flaky biscuit was unbelievably exquisite compared to the dirty, ugly-looking lump High Priest Liu Xiao had fed Hua Caili earlier. It was shaped like a girl holding a moon, and the moon was half hidden behind some clouds. It was both beautiful and meaningful. “Wah! It’s so cute!” Hua Caili’s eyes glittered like stars as she carefully, very carefully held it between her palms. “It’s so cute I don’t even want to eat it anymore.” Yun Che smiled. “Delicious food should be excellent not just in taste and smell, but also appearance. It's a bigger factor than most people think. That's why I decided to go a little overboard.” “Although the food ingredients are the same, my methods and combinations are quite different from senior’s. Therefore, I dare not call it the ‘Liu Xiao Immortal Soaring Flaky Biscuit’. Instead, I’ll name it the... ‘Moon Reflects Cloud Flaky Biscuit’.” While Yun Che was talking, Hua Caili was already taking a small bite. She immediately looked up with a look of wonder, the starlight in her eyes shining so bright it was blinding. “It’s good! It’s so. Good! Not only does it look good, smell good, and have a good name, its taste is... many a bit[1] better than Uncle Liu Xiao’s Soaring Immortal Flaky Biscuit!” It was only now that High Priest Liu Xiao’s bulging eyes slowly slid back into his eye sockets. As a man who had devoted himself to the way of cooking for over a million years, he knew far more than Hua Caili just how unbelievable Yun Che’s cooking technique was. Before Yun Che could even say a thing, he grabbed the other biscuit from Yun Che’s palm—his movements stiffening a little when its fragrant aroma hit his nostrils again—and tossed it into his mouth. He took a bite... and his old eyes threatened to fall out of his eye sockets once more. Over a dozen different flavors had exploded inside his mouth and radiated across his taste buds in an instant. He could clearly feel his own soul tingling in response to the wonderful explosion of flavor. As the man who believed that the title of ‘Greatest Chef God of the World’ was far more important than ‘High Priest’, he of course had the skills to match his self-proclaimed title. He could accurately identify exactly which taste came from which food ingredient, and as far as he could tell, the sensual adjustments Yun Che made could only be described as perfect. The mixture especially made his soul feel intoxicated, and his body numb to the very core. It was a feeling of "immortal soaring" that not even his “Liu Xiao Immortal Soaring Flaky Biscuit” could truly achieve. He was stunned. Well and truly stunned. He stammered as he stared fixedly at Yun Che, “I-Is this really an impromptu creation?” He had spent over a thousand years and tens of thousands of attempts to create his perfect “Liu Xiao Immortal Soaring Flaky Biscuit”, and this boy... Yun Che seemed to have mistaken his words and said, “Junior has spent most of this life wandering and so rarely had a chance to experience this many precious food ingredients. Therefore, I can only do what I can do and hope for the best. I’m sorry to have disappointed you.”He thinks he disappointed me? High Priest Liu Xiao only wished that the boy had disappointed him. Not only was this the boy’s first attempt at his biscuit, he had completed it in an unbelievably short time using whatever method he felt was best. And yet... the flaky biscuit he created had crushed the hard work he had poured over a thousand years to create and even the million years he invested into this way. Who was disappointing who, really? Before High Priest Liu Xiao could say anything, Hua Caili said, “Big brother Yun, why don’t you make a Four-colored Rainbow Cloud Soup for Uncle Liu Xiao? I bet he’ll be very surprised by it.” “Sure.” Yun Che smiled and produced four dark-colored leaves on his palm. When High Priest Liu Xiao looked, he was surprised to find that it was four Bitter Leaves, one of the most common plants in the Abyss! It was impossible to grow the kind of plants found in the Pure Land and the Kingdoms of God anywhere else. Naturally, the few plants that could survive the harsh environment of the Abyss were resistant toward abyssal dust to an extent and boasted extreme resilience. Unfortunately, they were also extremely bitter, and while they could be used to adjust the taste of a food, only the most desperate could bear to eat them as they were. “Just... four Bitter Leaves?” High Priest Liu Xiao stammered like a student who was just embarking on the way of cooking. “Four is enough.” Yun Che swiped his fingers across the four leaves repeatedly, tempering and purifying them without a trace. Dozens of profound qi rotations later, the four Bitter Leaves had been ground into four tiny globes of juices of differing color and size. Yun Che summoned the cold into his palm and formed a small and delicate ice bowl. Then, he made a grabbing motion and somehow filled the bowl with half a bowl of clear water. Next, he poured the four globs of leaf juice into the ice bowl one after another, allowing them to scatter and blend naturally. With that, a bowl of four-colored ice soup was complete. He handed the ice bowl to High Priest Liu Xiao and said, “The Four-colored Rainbow Cloud Soup is complete. Please give it a taste, High Priest Liu Xiao.” 1. Not a mistake. She didn’t want to say it’s a billion times better so she used ‘a bit’, but put many in front of it. ☜ Chapter 2121 - Liu Xiao Look Askance At Vicissitudes Gray, blue, green, and red. In the ice bowl, four different colors could be seen floating and mingling beneath a layer of thin white mist. They looked like natural iridescent clouds imbued with slivers of charm and fantasy. High Priest Liu Xiao’s ancient eyes were fully widened at this point. They were also colored by a level of shock that should never occur to a High Priest who overlooked the entire world. Appearance, aroma, and taste composed the full facade of the culinary arts, and out of all the attributes, appearance was the most important of them all. Despite having studied the culinary arts for all his life, High Priest Liu Xiao could not imagine that the four Bitter Leaves—literally one of, if not the most common and mundane plants that existed in the Abyss—could possess such an appearance after they were tweaked by a certain man. “Er...” Putting on a puzzled expression, Yun Che repeated himself, “This is the Four-colored Rainbow Cloud Soup. Please give it a taste, senior Liu Xiao.” High Priest Liu Xiao’s eyeballs finally twitched in response. He snatched the ice bowl from Yun Che’s hands like lightning, but as soon as the ice bowl entered his hand, his movement and even his aura immediately turned gentle. After giving the iridescent cloud in the bowl a long, hard look, he finally lifted it to his mouth and slowly took a gulp. In an instant, icy coolness and bitterness bloomed from the tip of his tongue. It then spread into countless bitter streams that permeated his taste buds and radiated all the way into his soul sea. His spirit and even his five senses felt clearer as a result. Each stream seemed different in its own way. Some were strong, and some were weak. Some were faint, and some were intense. Some were inconspicuous, and some were obvious. It felt like he was tasting an endless, ever-changing cloud that caused his soul to thrum again and again. He literally could not stop himself from chasing each and every wisp of change like a maniac. This lasted until the soul waking bitterness turned into faint sweetness before he knew it, like a sky that grew clear after the cloud had faded away. It intoxicated his soul to say the least. High Priest Liu Xiao did not know when he closed his eyes, but when he opened them once more, he found himself staring fixatedly at Yun Che. They both had a pair of hands and legs, a mouth and a nose, and yet the high priest was looking at Yun Che like he was a monster who should not exist in this world. Before he came, he never even knew that bitterness could be this delicious... so delicious that his soul would drown in it. Rainbow colored Hua Caili’s eyes. She knew how obsessed High Priest Liu Xiao was with the culinary arts, but his reaction still far surpassed her expectations. Leaning forward curiously, she smiled and said, “You’re wearing an odd look on your face right now, Uncle Liu Xiao. Does Big Brother Yun’s Four-colored Rainbow Cloud Soup really taste that strange?” High Priest Liu Xiao couldn’t seem to hear her question and just kept staring at Yun Che. His voice sounded a little garbled when he finally spoke, “You... you really made this with just four Bitter Leaves?” He was standing about two steps away from Yun Che. He had watched him make the soup with four Bitter Leaves from start to finish. Who in the world could trick him from right under his nose, much less a mere Divine Master brat? And yet, he still asked the insane question. That was just how shocked and disbelieving he was. To his knowledge, this should be impossible. Yun Che answered with a serious expression, “The Bitter Leaves are the key ingredients, but a suitable amount of coolness is also very important. The ice bowl is not just a utensil for carrying soup, but also a key supporting ingredient in the Four-colored Rainbow Cloud Soup. Bitterness wakes the soul. If the coldness were to fade, and the bitterness were to turn warm, then it would taste much, much worse.” After he was finished, Yun Che hurriedly added as if realizing something, “Senior Liu Xiao has been studying the culinary arts for over a million years. I am sure that you are at a level that I cannot hope to reach. My thoughts about the soup must seem like child’s play to a master like you. If you would be so kind as to offer me your insights and teachings, I would be ever grateful.” If these words had come out of another person’s mouth, High Priest Liu Xiao would simply snort through his nose. But facing Yun Che’s “sincere” gaze, it was all he could do not to turn red. “Who taught you this Four-colored Rainbow Cloud Soup?” Yun Che replied with an expression that was overflowing with truthfulness and sincerity, “My master is the one who built the foundation of my culinary arts, so half of my culinary attainments go to him. The rest, I developed myself. In this case, I’m the one who invented the Four-colored Rainbow Cloud Soup.” As if he did not notice the changes in High Priest Liu Xiao’s gaze, Yun Che continued, “Before this junior returned to the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God, I spent many years wandering this murky world alone. The amount of bitterness and suffering I have endured is indescribable.” “However, just because life is bitter does not mean one cannot make joy out of it. Although there exist countless sorrows and pains, bitterness and hardships, helplessness and falsehoods in this world, I also discovered that delicious food is the one thing that never betrayed me.” As anticipated, High Priest Liu Xiao’s pupils dilated dramatically when he said this. An indescribable, uncontrollable passion was swelling inside his chest—it was the wild beating of a heart that had finally found its soul mate after a million years of searching. “This is why this junior never stopped studying the culinary arts throughout my travels. It was both to comfort myself and others during times of hardship.” By now, the hidden light in High Priest Liu Xiao’s eyes had undergone a slight change. After taking another sip of Four-colored Rainbow Cloud Soup, he said slowly, “Bitter Leaves cover all lands infected by abyssal dust. It is the easiest object to obtain in this world, just as it is so bitter that one could feel it in their marrow. However, nothing is unending, and sweetness lies at the end of bitterness. This faint wisp of sweetness hidden amidst all the bitterness is like reaching the light at the end of the tunnel, or successfully trading countless years of hardship for the final laugh.” “Wah!” Hua Caili let out a slightly exaggerated cry of surprise, “That’s almost exactly what Big Brother Yun said word for word when he described the Four-colored Rainbow Cloud Soup to me back then! As expected of Uncle Liu Xiao!” High Priest Liu Xiao gave her a look. “I can tell you’re not paying me a compliment, you know? You’re obviously using me as a foil to uplift your Big Brother Yun!” Hua Caili blinked at him innocently. “I wouldn’t! Big Brother Yun has cooked fifty-six types of soup for me, and the Four-colored Rainbow Cloud Soup is the simplest and most ordinary of them all. If I really wanted to uplift him, I would have chosen better delicacies such as the ‘Cloud-stained Plum Fragrance Soup’, ‘Star River Fall Dew’, ‘He Heart Dream Cloud Lamp’, ‘Deep Sea Pearl Tear’... and of course, the dish Big Brother Yun specifically invented for me, the prettiest, tastiest, and most nice-sounding of them all, the ‘Cloud Pleases Glazed Glass One Heart Porridge’!” [1] High Priest Liu Xiao had just barely picked up the broken pieces of his cool composure before Hua Caili shattered it once more. Eyes widening, he stammered, “Fif... fif... fifty-six? And each... each one of them is better than the Four-colored Rainbow Cloud Soup?” The fact that the name “Cloud Pleases Glazed Glass One Heart Porridge” could be seen as inappropriate never even crossed the guy’s mind. “But of course!” Hua Caili spoke ahead of Yun Che, “As amazing as the Four-colored Rainbow Cloud Soup is, it’s ultimately created from four Bitter Leaves only. There is no way it can sit anywhere but at the bottom of Big Brother Yun’s list of soups[2].” Every word she spoke was sparkling with purity and matter-of-fact naivety. Her rainbow glass eyes were literally blinking as if she could not understand why High Priest Liu Xiao would ask such a strange question. High Priest Liu Xiao opened his mouth, though nothing but a strange, almost guttural sound came out of his throat. After staring fixatedly at Yun Che for several breaths straight, he finally said, “You’ve already heard this, boy. My abode is terribly lacking in countless areas, but food ingredients? What you’ve seen, I have them. What you haven’t seen, I have them too! I hereby allow you to use any food ingredient in my possession to create a dish you are most proud of and that best displays your culinary skills!” “If you can win me over, forget admitting defeat to Caili, I will even... even...” His words were oozing with agitation and urgency that not even Hua Caili had ever heard before. The reason he was stammering was that he was desperate to witness the true extent of Yun Che’s culinary skill, and yet he had just realized that he hadn’t even considered what kind of reward he should pay Yun Che for his efforts. Yun Che immediately replied, “You flatter me, senior Liu Xiao! This junior would not dream that I could ‘win you over’ with my culinary skills.” He scanned his surroundings before confessing, “Your divine abode looks humble, but the food ingredients it contains probably surpass that of the six Kingdoms of God combined. You are already doing me an unimaginable favor by allowing me to use them as I please. This junior promises that I will do my best to not disappoint you.” After throwing a bunch of respectful words at High Priest Liu Xiao, Yun Che turned away and rid his eyes of all distractions and unnecessary thoughts instantly. It was such a look that the old man stopped whatever he was going to say. Once more, High Priest Liu Xiao examined Yun Che. The young man was only two-sexagenary-years old and a Divine Master, but not only was he able to rid his mind of all distractions and concentrate on the task in front of him, he could do it despite standing in the abode and presence of a High Priest. High Priest Liu Xiao had seen countless generations of Divine Sons and Daughters in his life. Every one of them was a pinnacle, nigh untouchable existence among their peers. However, none of them could ever do what Yun Che had done. This boy... A moment of silence later, Yun Che’s gaze abruptly solidified, and his hand shot forward. Dozens of mini cyclones spiraled out of his fingertips and carried sixty-six types of food ingredients of all shapes and colors to him. So swift was his movement that Hua Caili could barely tell what was going on, and she couldn’t put a name to over eighty percent of the food ingredients. A fire ignited and engulfed all of the food ingredients. Then, Yun Che’s hands began dancing in the air. Wherever his fingers went, wind blades leaped into action. However, each wind blade seemed to possess a different attribute. Some were gentle, and some were delicate. Some were vigorous, and some were intense. They broke, cut, purified, and merged various food ingredients in different ways all at the same time. Even more amazing than the wind blades was the fire. From the outside, it looked just like a ball of fire. And yet, it seemed to contain dozens of differing flames. The flames were obviously connected, yet their temperatures and intensities were dramatically different. It was as if there were imperceptible, inviolable barriers within the fireball that firmly kept them from interfering with each other’s domain. In fact, High Priest Liu Xiao already sensed this oddity when Yun Che was creating the Moon Reflects Cloud Flaky Biscuit. Now, it was presenting itself to his five senses at several times the clarity. Wind and fire mingled as fire scorched the wind, and wind whipped up the flames. The sixty-six food ingredients were completely engulfed to the point where even their aroma could barely leak into the surroundings. One could only hear the sounds of overlapping sounds of wind blades and scorching flames. Hua Caili watched it all with bright, starry eyes. The flames reflected the deep longing, admiration, and expectations in her eyes. Right now, anyone with even a bit of experience would notice that Hua Caili was staring at Yun Che with extraordinary affection. However, High Priest Liu Xiao did not sense a thing. His eyes were completely fixed on Yun Che, and his aura was withdrawn entirely. Forget breathing loudly, his eyeballs hadn’t even moved a millimeter. However, not even a High Priest like him could sense the absolute purifying power of the Sky Poison Pearl that was hidden amidst the storm of fire and wind blades. There was a soft bang, and both fire and wind ceased abruptly, leaving behind only puffs of white mist. As the white mist slowly fell to the ground, an icy bowl that was formed god-knows-when appeared. When High Priest Liu Xiao looked, he saw what looked like a bowl of poetic morning glow. Its light was simple and plain, but it was also extraordinarily vibrant and red. When he took a step forward and shifted his gaze slightly, the morning glow abruptly spread into a sky of flowing gold like the final radiance of the setting sun. This caught him off guard. When his gaze turned again, the flowing gold vanished, and the scenery in the bowl transformed into the ice of the beginning of spring. The translucent, sparkling soup seemed to shimmer with faint spring ice. He turned his gaze a third time, and the ice melted into a full bowl of emerald green. It was the kind of purity and vitality only the Pure Land could afford to cultivate. “Beautiful. It’s so beautiful!” Hua Caili let out an involuntary cry of surprise and wonder. “You can see a completely different view from a different angle!” Holding the ice bowl with his hand, Yun Che said smilingly, “Master once said this to me. Taste is important when it comes to food, but appearance should not be neglected either. That's why I enhanced its appearance a little. I used the original colors of the food ingredients as the base, and ice mist as a supplement to create a six-layered appearance for the soup. Depending on the distance, you can see six different scenes in total. They are morning glow, dusk, early spring, late summer, quiet night, and thin clouds, respectively.” Hua Caili pursed her lips together and declared with unbridled pride and admiration, “You are the only one in the world who would create such a wonderful appearance for food, Big Brother Yun.” Yun Che returned a smile and tried to say something. However, the burden on his hand abruptly disappeared. It was because High Priest Liu Xiao had snatched the ice bowl from his hand. “What is the name of this soup?” He asked, though his eyes were completely stuck to the ice bowl. The question was short, but his nose twitched at least five to six times during that time. Yun Che replied gently, “This soup is called... Liu Xiao Look Askance At Vicissitudes.” High Priest Liu Xiao lifted his ancient, millions-of-years-old eyes and stared at the junior who was only “two-sexagonal-years” old. “Sixty-six food ingredients, six layers, six scenes... In other words, this isn’t your signature dish. This is just a dish you whipped up on the spot. Am I right?” “Correct.” Yun Che nodded and said honestly, “A long time ago, I heard from Caili that senior Liu Xiao often quoted, ‘Laugh at others, laugh at yourself, laugh at the past and present; laugh at the heavens, laugh at the earth, laugh at the Buddha.’” “This junior is inexperienced, but I can still sense a kind of transcendent detachment and freedom from this quote. I can feel that the entire world looks up to you, just as you look askance upon all of them.” “Today, I finally have the honor of meeting you in person. Despite being a mighty High Priest, you neither feel intimidating nor arrogant. You could stand in the middle of the mortal coil, and no one would even recognize you. All living things in the world obey the status quo, the rules, and the etiquette, but you see it all as the plays of the vicissitudes of life. Such a mindset is something this junior can never hope to reach. Naturally, my respect and admiration for you have grown by leaps and bounds.” “This is how I was inspired to create the ‘Liu Xiao Looks Askance At Vicissitudes’. It is my show of respect to you. I hope you can give it a taste, senior Liu Xiao.” Although Hua Caili already knew that Yun Che was a silver-tongued “bastard”, she still couldn’t help but smile when she listened to him until the end. Even High Priest Liu Xiao’s dirty, dusty beard shook once as he clicked his tongue in praise, “What a boy, what a Liu Xiao Looks Askance At Vicissitudes, what an exquisite payment of flattery.” After he said this, he raised his head and lifted his hand. His movement was big, but he really only took a small sip of the Liu Xiao Looks Askance At Vicissitudes. Not a single drop of the contents poured out of the bowl either. Then, he froze in place. 1. TL note: I’m pretty sure most of these names have to do with his lovers, like “He Heart” is really Shuhe Heart. Even the porridge he supposedly made for Caili is really more related to Xia Qingyue. He is totally going to use this as the heartbreaker bomb down the line. ☜ 2. TL note: You foolish girl, YOU are the Four-colored Rainbow Cloud Soup. ☜ Chapter 2122 - High Priest Greets His Master Hua Caili stepped forward and asked expectantly, “How does it taste? Did it win you over? You are the High Priest of the highest honor. You mustn’t speak falsehood, no matter how much you want to!” High Priest Liu Xiao did not say anything. His wizened eyes were slowly losing focus, and his sparse hair was standing up at a visible rate. Soon, they were all standing like he had been electrocuted by lightning. “Huh?” Hua Caili was so astonished that her mouth parted slightly. Yun Che gently tugged her sleeve and motioned for her to keep quiet, but she responded by brushing a dainty finger against his palm. She dared to convey physical affection right under the nose of a High Priest. High Priest Liu Xiao slowly closed his eyes and let out a long, shuddering moan. It sounded strange to say the least. When he finally opened his eyes, his gaze was still affixed to the ice bowl in his hand. His old eyes seemed to be shrouded by a layer of thin, icy mist, and he did not move for a very, very long time. High Priest Liu Xiao seemed reluctant or unwilling to take a second sip. It was because his culinary knowledge told him that the soup was a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, the kind that could never be replicated. If he drank it all, then he might never be able to experience something like it again. So, he gently pushed with his hand, sealing the ice bowl in a layer of profound qi. When he turned around, he stared at Yun Che with eyes so bright they were scorching. “Who on earth is your culinary master, boy? I have lived for millions of years, and yet I never knew that an old monster like him existed!” Yun Che responded swiftly, “Senior Liu Xiao, my master comes from the outside. He had never set foot in the mortal coil because he was unwilling, and he specifically warned me not to tell anyone about him prior to his passing, so...” “Fine, fine. If you don’t want to tell me, so be it.” High Priest Liu Xiao waved him off. He did not try to pressure Yun Che in the slightest. On the contrary, the light in his eyes only grew stronger as he said, “The old monster may be gone, but this young monster is right in front of me!” High Priest Liu Xiao proceeded to appear before Yun Che so fast that he literally left behind an afterimage. As if afraid that Yun Che would escape him, the thin, frail-looking man grabbed Yun Che’s arm with a speed that completely exceeded his ability to react and stared at him with blazing eyes, saying, “Boy, how on earth did you make this Liu Xiao Look Askance At Vicissitudes, Rainbow Cloud Soup, and Cloud Flaky Biscuit? Please teach me!” “Ah!” Hua Caili let out a cry of astonishment and hurriedly shifted forward. She grabbed High Priest Liu Xiao’s sleeve and said with poorly concealed urgency, “You... You’re acting too aggressively, Uncle Liu Xiao! What if you accidentally hurt Big Brother Yun! Also... Culinary arts are the same as profound arts in that they follow the custom of inheritance. You can’t possibly expect him to teach you for free.” High Priest Liu Xiao’s eyes bugged out for a moment before he withdrew his hand like lightning. Then, he gave himself a huge slap in the face. “Right right right right right!” High Priest Liu Xiao stomped his feet in frustration after he was done slapping himself. “Look at me! I nearly broke a taboo because I was too excited! This shouldn’t be, this shouldn’t be!” After circling the area once, he suddenly thought of something and stared at Yun Che once more. The excitement in his eyes completely transformed into passion as he declared, “Oh, right! I can become your disciple! That way, you can teach me to your heart’s content!” Before Yun Che or Hua Caili could react, he appeared before the young man once more. This time, he grabbed both of Yun Che’s hands tightly and begged him with an expression overflowing with desire and excitement, “Boy—oh, screw me, I mean little monster... No! I mean, little master! I humbly ask you to accept me as your disciple! Please don’t reject my request... Oh, right, how could I forget? A gift! A gift for my master!” As he spoke, the old man swiftly bent down. It was clear he was planning to kneel before Yun Che. This unexpected development caught Hua Caili completely off guard as a matter of course. When she actually realized what High Priest Liu Xiao was planning to do, she paled and hurriedly tried to stop him. It was at this moment that a windy howl and a beyond-horror-scream cut through the air, “Master! You mustn’t!” Wreathed in a storm, Divine Attendant Yuan Ying pounced onto the space in front of High Priest Liu Xiao in exceedingly inelegant fashion and blocked his knees from bending. It was only then that he managed to stop the man from kneeling. “You are a High Priest of the Pure Land, master! No one besides the supreme Abyssal Monarch possesses the right to command your head and knee! How can you possibly perform such a big salutation to a junior from a Kingdom of God?! You mustn’t! You absolutely mustn’t!” Right now, Divine Attendant Yuan Ying was holding up High Priest Liu Xiao’s upper body with all he had while screaming without an ounce of grace whatsoever. Sweat was pouring down his head like crazy, and his face was full of shock and panic. In response, High Priest Liu Xiao rolled his eyes at him and sent him flying with one kick. Yuan Ying was one of the Four Divine Attendants of the Pure Land and a proud Divine Limit Realm profound practitioner. However, High Priest Liu Xiao had literally kicked him away like a ball. In the air, the attendant let out a hoarse scream, “Yun... Che...” High Priest Liu Xiao never even glanced at his poor attendant as he remarked, “This brat never fails to annoy me with his don’t-do-this-and-thats.”Bang! The next moment, Divine Attendant Yuan Ying punched through the wall and crashed god-knows-how-far-away. Hua Caili was frightened, and Divine Attendant Yuan Ying was horrified. Yun Che was the only one who, inexplicably, remained as calm as a lake. Facing High Priest Liu Xiao’s passionate, near uncontrollable gaze head on, he said slowly, “There is a saying that goes something like this: There is no Way that comes before or after, or is better or worse than the other. If someone is accomplished, then he is the master. You are a worldly-wise and insightful man, senior Liu Xiao. If you willingly choose to become my disciple, then it must mean that this junior’s culinary attainments are above yours. Hence, I am qualified to teach you.” Hua Caili’s eyes bugged out, but she believed in Yun Che too much to interrupt him. High Priest Liu Xiao’s eyes blazed even more, and his facial features arranged into a grin so bright it was like a withered flower that was given a new lease in life. “Hahahaha! Well said! Perfectly said, my boy! You are truly... ah pui! This stupid old mouth! What I meant to say is, I’m liking you more and more, little master. So, does this mean you accept me as your disciple?” Yun Che shook his head. “No.” “Huh?” High Priest Liu Xiao’s voice and expression stiffened at the same time. Yun Che paid him a respectful salute before saying slowly, “I am most impressed by your unfettered soul and obsession toward culinary arts, senior Liu Xiao, but you are a High Priest of the Pure Land. Although this identity is infinitely noble, it is also shackling in some ways. This is one such occasion. If you, a High Priest, came under me, a junior of a Kingdom of God, as a disciple, then the supreme dignity of the Pure Land would surely be damaged. This may be an unparalleled honor to this junior and the Dreamweaver of God, but what awaits behind that honor is an even bigger disaster.” “Therefore,” Yun Che bowed slightly, “As honored as this junior feels, I humbly request you withdraw your request.” “Yeah, yeah!” Hua Caili moved forward and stood next to Yun Che. She then supported his statement like an obedient wife, saying, “If you really became Big Brother Yun’s disciple, Uncle Abyssal Monarch would probably get angry no matter how mild-tempered he is, and Uncle Meng would not be able to catch any shut-eye for the rest of his life. So, let’s forget about this, okay? All you need to do is admit defeat.” “Besides, Big Brother Yun would be much higher than me in terms of seniority if he became your master. I don’t wanna!” Hua Caili was currently standing very close to Yun Che, so much so that their clothes were almost touching. She also showed no restraint whatsoever when displaying her affection for Yun Che. High Priest Liu Xiao twisted his lips for a moment. Finally, he swung his arm in frustration and grumbled somewhat incoherently under his breath, “Oh, forget it. High Priest, my fart, can’t even become someone’s disciple... grumble grumble... mumble mumble... Ptooey!” Meanwhile, Divine Attendant Yuan Ying was just climbing out of the pit he made. He let out a huge sigh of relief and wiped away the cold sweat on his forehead when he heard this. As High Priest Liu Xiao’s divine attendant, he knew the old man’s temperament better than anyone else. He knew that the old man scoffed at his identity and prestige and disdained all respect and etiquette. He acted and spoke according to his own wishes only and did not carry himself with the dignity befitting a High Priest at all. It was not unusual for him to do something earth-shattering out of nowhere. Despite all that he had endured, today’s incident still nearly broke his psyche. Even now, his scalp was still numb with fright. Even Hua Caili was letting out a mental sigh of relief as she said, “Anyway... when are you going to admit defeat, Uncle Liu Xiao?” “I was just getting to it. I admit defeat. This is your complete and utter victory, little master,” High Priest Liu Xiao declared without any hesitation whatsoever. He did go so far as to beg Yun Che to take him in as his disciple after all. Of course, he had no qualms admitting that he was Yun Che’s inferior in terms of culinary arts. The high priest then glanced sideways at Hua Caili and said, “You naughty lass. The reason you put on this whole act is to convince me to support you in your cancellation of your engagement with Dian Jiuzhi, isn’t it?” Hua Caili’s eyes and face glowed with admiration as she exclaimed, “Wow!! As expected of Uncle Liu Xiao. You figured out everything without needing me to say a word.” “Come now!” High Priest Liu Xiao clicked his tongue audibly. “You may not have said a word, but you’ve been hinting at me with your gaze and little gestures all day long! You only wish that you could slap your intentions on my face!” “N... No, I didn’t.” The beautiful goddess replied with an expression of pure innocence and obedience, “I’m just a young and inexperienced girl. I cannot possibly hide my intentions from you, Uncle Liu Xiao.” “Young and inexperienced girl? Hmm...” High Priest Liu Xiao cast her a sideways glance before grinning. “You were a young and inexperienced girl, sure, but judging from how you’re looking at him like you wish that there was a thread that permanently connected your eyes, I bet the two of you have already fucked, haven’t you? Yes, you’re a full-grown adult now!” Yun Che: “...” Hua Caili’s face instantly turned as red as the evening glow as she subconsciously backed half a step away from High Priest Liu Xiao. “Uncle Liu Xiao! You... that’s so vulgar.” High Priest Liu Xiao snorted through his nose. “If you fucked, you fucked. What’s there to be ashamed about? Besides, sex is just two sacks of rotten flesh mixing with each other. It is vulgar. It does not possess even one whit of the elegance of delicious food.” “You... are right, senior,” Yun Che forced himself to say. High Priest Liu Xiao turned his gaze back to Yun Che. It was clear that a tinge of reluctance still lurked behind his eyes. The guy really, really wanted to become Yun Che’s disciple in the culinary arts. “Boy... your name is Yun Che, but you’re also the Meng Jianyuan of the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God; the prince who came back to life, right?” Hua Caili chose this timing to pay a compliment, “As expected of Uncle Liu Xiao, you figured out—”. “Oh, save it. How many people have the surname Yun and are famous in the past two years? Who else is called Yun Che besides the one from the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God? Not only did he come back from the dead, but he even possesses perfect divine essence! Even a shitty old man who hasn’t taken a single step out of the Pure Land for the past eighty thousand years like me has heard about him more than eight times!” “That said...” High Priest Liu Xiao suddenly changed his tone, and his gaze gained an inkling of understanding. “Caili’s action is audacious to put it mildly, but I cannot deny that her eye for men is keen. This boy... he may not have grown into his power yet, but he is certainly superior to Dian Jiuzhi in countless ways. Mm... his culinary attainments especially can stomp Dian Jiuzhi’s dad eight million times over!” These were undoubtedly the sweetest-sounding words Hua Caili had heard from High Priest Liu Xiao today. Half-overjoyed and half-anxious, she asked urgently, “Does that mean you will support our union, Uncle Liu Xiao?” “Support your union?” High Priest Liu Xiao half-turned toward her while carefully—very carefully—storing the Liu Xiao Look Askance At Vicissitudes that he had only taken a sip of, into his portable space, saying, “I lost the bet, so I will pay my dues. Naturally, I will lend you my aid when the time is right. However, I have a feeling that even you, the person at the center of this maelstrom, only understands about a-third of how big this matter is.” “Still, you know enough that I am probably the only one you dare to speak about this openly, so I’ll be frank: I do not have the ability to guarantee your union.” “That’s fine.” Hua Caili’s smile was unusually joyous. “Caili is already infinitely grateful and delighted that you are willing to help.” “This junior is infinitely grateful as well.” Yun Che bowed to the old man. High Priest Liu Xiao opened his mouth as if he wanted to say something, but he ultimately did not do so after a complicated glint flickered in his eyes. He simply waved his hand and turned his back on them, saying, “Alright, you’ve accomplished your objective. You may leave now.” Right now, the man’s head was still full of Liu Xiao Look Askance At Vicissitudes. He desperately wanted to try to reproduce the dish using the food ingredients Yun Che selected and whatever methods he managed to glimpse during the process. Her objective was fulfilled, and both Yun Che’s performance and High Priest Liu Xiao’s astonishment completely surpassed her expectations. Naturally, Hua Caili no longer had a reason to stay. So, she said in a hurry, “Okay. I shan’t disturb you any longer, Uncle Liu Xiao. Big Brother Yun and I will come see you after our meeting with Uncle Abyssal Monarch is over.” Suddenly, Yun Che spoke up, “Can this junior stay here a little longer, senior Liu Xiao?” “Hmm?” High Priest Liu Xiao cast him a sideways glance but did not turn him down. Having obtained his permission, Yun Che silently produced a jade strip right in front of the duo and summoned a dot of profound light at his fingertip. It looked like he was engraving something into the jade strip. For a moment, only the occasional sounds of engraving could be heard. A long time later, Yun Che finished what he was doing and closed the jade strip. Then, he presented it to High Priest Liu Xiao respectfully, saying, “This is my first visit, and yet I have not prepared a gift. It makes me quite anxious, to say the least. I hope this will make up for my mistake, and I pray that you don’t find it unsavory.” High Priest Liu Xiao’s old eyes flashed. He had a feeling he knew what it was, though he could not be certain until he checked out the jade strip’s contents. Without hesitation, he grabbed the jade strip and scanned it. The next instant, he shuddered from head to toe and actually jumped a meter into the air, exclaiming, “THIS! T-T-T-T-T-T-T-This is...” Yun Che said unhurriedly, “Don’t worry, senior. These recipes... including the Four-colored Rainbow Cloud Soup and the Liu Xiao Look Askance At Vicissitudes are all my inventions. Naturally, it does not break any taboo or custom.” “Now that that’s done, I shan’t disturb you any longer. This junior bids you goodbye.” Over two hundred recipes were engraved on the jade strip. To a normal person, they probably weren’t even worth looking at. But to High Priest Liu Xiao, especially after he experienced Yun Che’s culinary skills, it was a priceless treasure among priceless treasures. “Wait!” This time, it was High Priest Liu Xiao who stopped him in his tracks. While clutching the jade strip with both hands and ten wizened fingers that were trembling slightly, he asked, “What do you want in exchange for this item?” Chapter 2123 - Eternal Night Descends Seemingly surprised, Yun Che hurriedly said, “You are exaggerating, senior Liu Xiao. A recipe is ultimately just an object. The same recipe and food ingredients can produce different appearances, aromas, and flavors in different hands. Although they are my gift to you, I am certain that my recipes are beyond honored to have an owner like you.” With that said, he took one step forward and bowed respectfully. “I bid you goodbye.” High Priest Liu Xiao watched the duo leave with complicated eyes. After they were gone, his gaze returned to the jade strip and burned with barely concealed zeal once more. It was at this moment that Divine Attendant Yuan Ying entered the abode in neat attire once more. Wearing a bitter expression on his face, he said, “My master, my liver is still shaking from your latest antics. Can you please sympathize with this poor attendant and not do something this scary ever again?” High Priest Liu Xiao ignored him completely. He simply stared at the jade strip as if submerged in a sea of dreams he wasn’t willing to awake from. “That said...” Divine Attendant Yuan Ying was clearly used to being ignored. He continued talking to himself, “Caili’s matter... I cannot see any way it will end peacefully and without fanfare. It will be a riot the moment it is revealed.” This comment finally spurred High Priest Liu Xiao into lifting his head and murmuring, “Yun Che, Meng Jianyuan... this boy is seriously extraordinary.” “Oh?” Divine Attendant Yuan Ying’s interest was piqued. “This is the first time I heard you giving a junior such lavish praise, master. I’m sure you don’t just mean his culinary skills, right?” “Of course not.” “When a God Bearer of the Six Kingdoms of God first meets a High Priest, they usually act reserved, afraid, or excessively respectful. Only a rare few are able to maintain their composure by force, or steer clear from obsequiousness or superciliousness.” “This boy though, his confidence and composure came from the heart. Even his flattery, every single word of it, was just right.” He lifted the jade strip he was holding and said, “He gave me this after I promised to help him, not before... Can you tell how big the difference is between the two?” “When I asked him what he wanted in exchange for this jade strip, his response was both modest and polite. Every single line he spoke was a show of respect and flattery to me. He made it sound like I would be burying it in obscurity if I dared to reject it. However... he never said he didn’t want something in exchange, did he?” High Priest Liu Xiao narrowed his eyes. “And there is nothing more expensive than ‘free’, is there?” Divine Attendant Yuan Ying looked thoughtful. “If you know the game he’s playing, then why didn’t you turn him down?” High Priest Liu Xiao rolled his eyes at him. “Like hell I would! You’ve been my attendant for countless years, so how is it that a boy who only met me today understands me better than you? Do you think it’s even possible for me to turn this down?! This is a priceless treasure! A true priceless treasure!” Divine Attendant Yuan Ying pressed the tip of his nose. What could he even say to that? “I wonder who the old monster who taught him is. To think he’s capable of creating a little monster like him in just a century. Even better, this little monster was picked up by Meng Kongchan of all people. This is easily the biggest dogshit luck the Dreamweaver of this generation had stumbled upon, tsk tsk.” “I wouldn’t say that just yet.” Divine Attendant Yuan Ying said leisurely, “His Majesty is the one who confirmed the engagement between Caili and Dian Jiuzhi. The entire world knows and has witnessed this. Equally as famous is Dian Rahu’s fiery temper. But worst of all... His Majesty is normally magnanimous to fit the entire Abyss in his chest, but if there is one thing that one may consider His absolute taboo, it would be unfaithfulness.” He shook his head. “Oh, this is going to be so difficult. Is this what they mean by ‘fortune and misfortune are two sides of the same coin’?” “What the fart does it have to do with you? Get lost!” High Priest Liu Xiao could not be bothered to listen to his ramblings any longer and slapped him aside. “Do not delay me from researching this treasure any longer.” “Er, there’s just one more thing.” Divine Attendant Yuan Ying hurriedly added, “I’m sure you noticed that Yun Che’s ability to control flames was beyond unusual. It’s on the level where even Lady Ling Xian—” “I said, getlost!” An impatient High Priest Liu Xiao launched a kick at Divine Attendant Yuan Ying’s butt. The next thing he knew, he had landed several kilometers away from his original spot. At the same time, High Priest Liu Xiao’s scolding drilled into his ears, “How many times have I told you that one should not bother or be caught up in worldly affairs? Who gives a shit if he’s unusual? You would ignore him even if he were the reincarnation of a Creation God!” Divine Attendant Yuan Ying climbed to his feet and carefully brushed away the dust on his clothes. Only then did he say slowly, “Yes, yes, this servant will obey your teaching.” After he said this, the divine attendant’s gaze shifted toward the direction Yun Che and Hua Caili had disappeared into. While perceiving the changes in the air of the Pure Land, he mumbled to himself, “I have a feeling that this Pure Land Meet is going to be a riotous one.” Inside his divine abode, High Priest Liu Xiao was bending his back and reading the jade strip again and again. His mouth muttered things from time to time. “The names this boy came up with are surprisingly flamboyant. This is the one part where he’s like a woman.” “This boy has eyes as deep as the abyss, and a heart as bright as a flame. He got one thing wrong, though. Who could live freely when they are trapped in a false world... still, delicious food is the one thing that never betrays, huohahahaha—burp!” ...... “You’re amazing, Big Brother Yun. I thought you were just a tiny bit better than Uncle Liu Xiao, but to think you would shock him so much his jaw almost hit the floor! He even wanted to become your disciple, hehehe!” Her joyous laughter was purer and more soothing than even the skylight of the Pure Land. Even the clear wind seemed to be mellowed out by the smile as it sneakily brushed past the curves of the corners of her lips. Yun Che unconsciously avoided her smiling face and looked straight ahead. He said, “So this is why you took me to visit the High Priests. Aren’t you worried that our affair will be revealed overly early, and your Father and Dreamless Divine Regent will be caught off guard as a result?” Hua Caili replied without any worry whatsoever, “Uncle Liu Xiao is obsessed with culinary arts and absolutely refuses to get involved in any matter that doesn’t concern his own. Our secret could be a thousand times bigger, and he still couldn’t be bothered to say a single word. The one thing that could move him is culinary art, and it so happens that this is one of your best skills. That's why I decided that the attempt is worth it. Even if the attempt had ended in failure, he would not have stuck his nose where it doesn’t belong.” “As for Grandma Ling Xian, there is no one she pampers more than me. She will never do something detrimental to me. Also...” She snuck a glance at Yun Che and lowered her voice slightly, “In fact, after Uncle Abyssal Monarch bestowed the engagement, Grandpa Ling Xian remarked that the engagement should not have been set before I understood what romance is. She declared that it is difficult to determine if the engagement would be a good or bad thing. She was worried that I may come to regret the engagement, and that the regret may plague my whole life.” Yun Che: “...” “As she said, I understood nothing back then. It wasn't until I encountered Big Brother Yun that I truly understood her words. In my opinion, if Grandma Ling Xian predicted my future and worried about me that long ago, then she must understand my feelings and current situation better than anyone. Out of everyone, she must be the one who is most willing to help us as well.” “Unfortunately, she just happened to fall ill during our visit... I hope she will recover soon.” Yun Che smiled and put on a touched expression, “This problem came from me. Honestly, I should be the one to—” “There is no you and me anymore. There is only us,” Hua Caili interrupted him and declared half-jokingly and seriously. Yun Che fell silent before nodding his head firmly. “Mm! There is only us now. Besides, we have your Father and the Dreamless Divine Regent to rely on, and High Priest Liu Xiao just agreed to lend us his aid. The future must go smoother than we imagine.” “Of course it will.” The girl broke into a light smile and looked at him with flowing eyes. There was a moment where she unconsciously stepped closer to him, though her reason immediately took over and pulled her away. To her, the joy of having met and fallen in love with Yun Che and the remorseless resolve to see it fulfilled far exceeded her worries of the future. High Priest Wan Dao was the supervisor of the core resources of the Pure Land. He was extremely cautious, upright, and plainspoken. Naturally, Hua Caili wasn’t dumb enough to ask for his help. The Chief Priest was even less of a question. He was the only person Hua Caili feared in the Pure Land. The fact that she could wrangle a promise out of High Priest Liu Xiao was already delightful. The two of them walked together for a long time before finally, inevitably, Hua Caili reluctantly parted ways with Yun Che. She then returned to Hua Fuchen’s side. Yun Che was still walking slowly. His eyes were calm as he perceived every wisp of aura and its changes around him. Although the direction he was headed was not the Dreamweave Kingdom of God. “What are you thinking about?” Li Suo asked suddenly while perceiving his emotions. His footsteps never stopped as Yun Che muttered in a low tone, “Laugh at others, laugh at yourself, laugh at the past and present; laugh at the heavens, laugh at the earth, laugh at the Buddha.” The first few lines all bespoke a kind of freedom and unruliness that disdains all things equally, but the last line, ‘laugh at the Buddha’...” “When Caili and I first met, I already felt that something was off with the quote. Incompatible, to be more accurate.” “But now that I’ve met High Priest Liu Xiao, I think I’m beginning to understand why he said, ‘Laugh at the Buddha.’” Li Suo quietly awaited his answer. Yun Che did not give her a direct explanation. Instead, he gave her an answer with hidden meanings. “A person who looks askance at the vicissitudes of life may not necessarily do so because he has seen through everything and so attained enlightenment and become unfettered from them. It can also be because... the truth is so bleak that he became utterly discouraged and decided to hide from it all.” “...” Li Suo thought for a long time before whispering, “You’re saying that High Priest Liu Xiao is the way he is not because he has attained freedom of self, but because he is disheartened to the point that he doesn’t want to interact with the world at all? He is a lofty High Priest. He naturally towers over the heavens and disdains the world. There seems to be no reason for him to act like this...” “Even if there is, how does it correlate with the phrase, ‘Laugh at the Buddha’?” Yun Che let out a light chuckle. “What sounds like the most profound words of the sentence may actually be the most blunt. It is exactly what it sounds like. But of course, I could be wrong. This is just our first, terribly shallow meeting after all. I dare not infer anything from it.” However, Li Suo said, “If your inference is really that baseless, then your heart would not be so heavy. Clearly, you are very confident in your guess, and you are very likely going to use it to your advantage.” “Oh?” Yun Che narrowed his eyes slightly before showering her with unreserved praise. “Are you getting smarter, or are you understanding me better, Little Li Suo?” “...” Li Suo let out a hushed sigh and refused to respond A long while later, she spoke in her fairy-like, dreamlike voice once more, “At the very least, please do not try to manipulate a True God too soon. It is easy to burn yourself. To a High Priest, you are but an insignificant blade of grass or speck of dust. They don’t even need to use fire. A single spark is enough to burn you into irreversible ash.” “Don’t worry. I understand.” Yun Che’s voice was packed with clearly discernible seriousness. “Allow me to emphasize again... and make you a promise, I suppose. I cherish my life a lot.” It was at this moment that the gentle breeze of the Pure Land suddenly came to a halt, and the world before Yun Che’s eyes dimmed a little. It wasn’t because light had suddenly diminished; it was because his senses had run into a sudden obstacle. When Yun Che looked up, he saw a row of figures passing through the sky. It was the unique divine pressure of a Kingdom of God, but it was heavy and oppressive in a way that the Heaven Breaker Kingdom of God and Dreamweaver Kingdom of God could never be. Although they were far, far away, Yun Che could still tell at first glance that the group of a hundred were all women. A single name appeared in his mind in an instant. It was the name of the most unique, mysterious, and infamous Kingdom of God. It was the one Kingdom of God, Meng Kongchan, Hua Caili, and Hua Qingying all warned him to stay away from: The Eternal Night Kingdom of God! Chapter 2124 - Wuyi’s Resolve A Divine Regent was powerful, commanding all living beings like ants beneath their palm. However, they were coupled with equally powerful dignity, status, and bearing. Barring exceptional circumstances, they would never demean themselves by attacking a weakling, much less stain their divine name for a weakling. That was only if the Divine Regent wasn’t crazy, though. Having received all the warnings he received, not to mention that he was alone right now, Yun Che wasn’t going to cause unnecessary trouble right now. So, he stopped in his tracks and slowly withdrew his aura. This soul-stunning pressure that stood out among all the Kingdoms of God alone was proof of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God’s infamy. It wasn’t until the group of women was completely out of sight that Yun Che finally let out a small sigh of relief and continued along his original way. When the people of the other five Kingdoms of God set foot on the Pure Land, they were usually half parts respectful and half parts excited. However, the atmosphere of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God was completely different. The group of hundreds carried themselves in a uniform manner and firmly kept their auras in check. Even those who came to the Pure Land for the first time looked nowhere but straight ahead; as if they did not carry even an ounce of the natural excitement or curiosity all other profound practitioners possessed. Even their footsteps were infused with puzzling slowness and caution as if one misstep would plunge them into a bottomless abyss of no return. The extreme silence and oppressiveness they exuded were positively stifling. Even the cool breeze of the Pure Land could not dispel it. At the center of the group was a palanquin that had fallen out of usage in the other Kingdoms of God long ago. It was a vehicle that could only be found in a small country of a low-level Land of the Living, and only rarely. All four sides of the palanquin were covered by pitch-black curtains that prevented anyone from looking inside. However, it could not cut off the icy, soul-chilling divine pressure emanating from behind the curtains. If someone were to remove the curtains, they would still find a black veil preventing them from catching even a glimpse of the passenger’s face. Shenwu Yanye, the Lightless Divine Regent. Too many years had passed since she revealed her true appearance to anyone. No one was foolish enough to probe the true countenance hidden behind the black curtains either. Sha Xing and Pan Buwang were currently gazing at the formation from far, far away. Despite the distance, they were unconsciously holding their breath. If he had a run-in with any other Divine Regent, Sha Xing would have taken the initiative to greet them. It was his duty as a Star Divine Son. Not so for the Eternal Night Kingdom of God. He stayed far away from them like they were plagued. The warning he received as the Star Divine Son was no different from Yun Che’s: Do not make contact with the Eternal Night Kingdom of God. So, it wasn’t until the formation was far away that he finally turned around. He looked at Pan Buwang for a long time before saying in a meaningful tone, “Your growth in recent years is truly astonishing, Brother Buwang.” Earlier, when Pan Buwang first heard the name “Eternal Night Kingdom of God”, the bloodthirst he exuded was so intense it was shocking. But when the formation was within sight, his expression was indifferent and calm, and the stunning hatred that had seeped into every bit of his marrow did not leak even a little. Eyes glued to the direction the Eternal Night Kingdom of God formation had disappeared in, Pan Buwang said indifferently, “My will does not stray[1], my hatred is not forgotten.” Sha Xing stared at him for a while longer before exhaling slightly. “I’ll be frank with you, Brother Buwang. You are more of an enigma now than when you were still the Divine Son. Before this, I was hoping to find out why you must come to the Pure Land ‘no matter the cost’, but now I’m actually worried about what you have planned.” Pan Buwang withdrew his gaze and replied, “I wasn’t expecting to find the one person in the world who still cared about my welfare after I was stripped of my title.” It was impossible to distinguish the emotions behind this sentence, and so it was impossible to tell if he was confessing his sorrows or expressing relief toward Sha Xing’s concern. Sha Xing smiled and said sincerely, “We are friends. What does our bond have to do with our status and identity?” “Mm. Friends.” Pan Buwang also smiled and naturally shifted his gaze away from the Star Divine Son. At this time, Sha Xing could not understand the complex meaning hidden behind the smile. “The woman flying next to the Lightless Divine Regent’s palanquin is probably the new and mysterious Eternal Night Divine Daughter, Shenwu Yi. Unfortunately, she is too far away and wearing a black veil. There is no way to glimpse her true countenance.” “That said, the audience with the Abyssal Monarch is near. When the time comes, the Divine Daughter whom the Lightless Divine Regent has hidden for so many years will reveal her true appearance. I look forward to it.” Shenwu Yi’s appearance marked the death of Shenwu Qing. So, Sha Xing thought that Pan Buwang would grow agitated after hearing his words. But to his surprise, Pan Buwang’s expression and aura were utterly unmoved. It was like a pool of dead water that refused to budge. Sha Xing could not help but frown a little. To have changed so much... Just what on earth did Pan Buwang go through after he left the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God and spent three years in the Endless Fog?“To break off from one’s heart abyss, one must face the heart abyss head-on. The reason I desire to travel to the Pure Land is because of him.” Sha Xing recalled Pan Buwang’s words even as his curiosity and anticipation, worry and unease grew silently in his heart. The pitch black palanquin came to a stop, and the entourage of hundreds rose to their feet uniformly. They did not elicit a single sound. “Wuyi.” A hoarse, raspy voice slithered out of the palanquin, stabbing and cutting everyone’s eardrums, heart, and soul. Shenwu Yi stepped forward and performed a respectful salute. “What are your orders, Mother?” “Now that the Pure Land is beneath your feet, tell me again why you have come to the Pure Land!” Her jade-like countenance half-concealed by her veil, Shenwu Yi lifted her eyes and declared firmly, “To trample over all Divine Sons!” This was the first Pure Land Meet after an abyssal passage was successfully created. It must be meaningful beyond imagination. As the prelude to the legend of the “Eternal Pure Land”, it could very well decide the trajectory of the fate of the Abyss. Naturally, all the Kingdoms of God were looking forward to this meeting... ... All, except the Eternal Night Kingdom of God. The reason was simple. It was because Shenwu Yanye was a Divine Regent whose behavior and conduct could not be fathomed or predicted by her title, or otherwise. In the eyes of the other Divine Regents, she was closer to a madwoman who had completely lost her mind than a Divine Regent. The Lightless Divine Regent’s soul-shaking voice came once more. “From the day I changed the kingdom’s name to Eternal Night, the other five Kingdoms of God have isolated us. They address me as Lightless Divine Regent, but they really look down on me, scorn me, call me mad, and shun me like vermin. All men in this world, be it Divine Regents or Divine Sons—their flesh and blood, their lips and tongues, and even their souls—are filthy beyond imagination; so hypocritical and cheap that you can’t help but throw up!” Her voice only grew raspier and more heart-rending as she spoke. “Wuyi, today is the reason I spent twenty years nurturing you regardless of the cost!” “In this Pure Land Meet on this so-called highest land, you will rip off all the faces of the Divine Sons; trample all over their dignity until not one speck is left! You will straighten the ugly faces of the filthy idiots who look down upon my Eternal Night Kingdom of God from their high pedestals and witness just how cheap they truly are!” She didn’t just want Shenwu Yi to defeat her opponents; she wanted her to crush, trample, and humiliate them utterly. If a member of another Kingdom of God were to hear this, they would be astonished and horrified beyond measure. Shenwu Yi had gotten used to this long ago. Expression unperturbed and voice weighed by flawless determination and unhesitating confidence, she declared, “Pan Buzhuo of Owl Butterfly, Meng Jianxi of Dreamweaver, Xing Xuanyue of Star and Moon, Dian Jiuzhi of Boundless... Wuyi will make sure to trample over all of them!” “When today is done, there won’t ever be a ‘number one Divine Son’ ever again! There will only be Wuyi, the name that Mother bestowed and tramples over all Divine Sons!” The icy, terrifying voice of a god came from the palanquin like the groan of hell, “Failure will not be tolerated.” Shenwu Yi bowed her head and said softly, “I will tolerate failure less, Mother.” “Very good.” The two low, raspy words sounded uncaring, but it was really the highest praise the Lightless Divine Regent could give anyone. In front of the palanquin, Shenwu Youluan and Shenwu Mingque exchanged a secret look with each other before hiding their worry and anxiety the next instant. However, none dared to cast their gaze in Shenwu Yi’s direction. When would the Kingdom of God of eternal night finally welcome dawn? Dian Jiuzhi was currently seated on the floor with his eyes closed. He was not surrounded by profound qi. On the surface, he looked calm and collected. Only the occasional twitching of his eyebrows showed that he was nowhere as calm as he projected. A silver barrier was isolating this place. Only Dian Sansi was accompanying him. However, Dian Sansi was nowhere near as quiet as Dian Jiuzhi. He was constantly pacing back and forth with twitching, spasming features. Sometimes, he would stop and calm his breath by force, but the irritation brewing within was only growing increasingly out of control. It was at this moment that the cry, “Divine Regent!” came from outside the barrier. Dian Sansi skidded to a stop, and a kaleidoscope of emotions boiled behind his eyes for a moment. Then, he clenched his teeth and charged toward the exit. A hand appeared from behind and caught his wrist in a vice grip. Dian Jiuzhi’s voice came next, “Are you really going to ignore my words and report to Father about this?” Dian Sansi spun around and stared at his brother with widened eyes. His voice tremored as he said, “Brother Jiuzhi, you are the number one Divine Son of the six Kingdoms of God. You are the future Divine Regent of the Boundless Kingdom of God and the person I admired and respected the most in my life... You do not deserve to tolerate such a terrible stain on your honor!” Dian Jiuzhi’s expression did not change as he said evenly, “This is my choice. You promised me, re—” “I DON’T UNDERSTAND!!” Dian Sansi had almost never interrupted Dian Jiuzhi in his entire life, much less with such force and volume. His eyes reddened a little as he uttered, “Father and the Heart Painter Divine Regent were the ones who encouraged the engagement between you and the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter! The Abyssal Monarch himself even acknowledged it! So how could she... and how dare Meng Jianyuan...” His chest heaved visibly as his anger grew. “We are absolutely the ones in the right here! Why should you be the one to endure when they are the ones who have committed such an ugly affair?!” “Sansi!” Dian Jiuzhi raised his voice slightly, and his profound sound entered Dian Sansi’s soul and scattered most of the irritation and anger boiling in his heart. Dian Jiuzhi let out a quiet sigh. He was the one who was enduring heart-wrenching pain and soul-piercing humiliation, and yet his voice was calm as a stream. “Do you still remember why Father bestowed you the name Sansi (Think Thrice)?” The light in Dian Sansi’s eyes stilled, and his voice ultimately softened. “Of course I remember. I was born with more talent than most, and I became quite arrogant and impulsive because of it. As a result, I have committed countless mistakes, big and small, since I was young. That's why Father changed my name to Sansi. He permitted me to be impulsive in small matters, but demanded that I think thrice and practice self-restraint in big matters.” “Very good.” Dian Jiuzhi nodded lightly. “Now, I want you to think carefully. What would happen if you were to expose this matter?” “...” Dian Sansi was unable to answer immediately because his thoughts were still in chaos. Dian Jiuzhi continued, “Allow me to tell you. Among the six Kingdoms of God, Boundless, Heaven Breaker, and Dreamweaver are the closest. This bond originates from the friendship between Father, the Heart Painter Divine Regent, and the Dreamweaver Divine Regent, and it has remained unbreakable despite the passage of time and the burden of their titles.” “So long as this bond still exists, if one Kingdom is in danger, the other two will lend them their unreserved aid. This is an invisible protection that the other three Kingdoms of God only wish they could obtain.” “However...” Dian Jiuzhi’s voice grew heavy, and he shifted his gaze slightly. “If today’s matter were to be exposed—and during the Pure Land Meet no less—then this precious friendship would be broken in a single day... and this trust that our three kingdoms rely on would collapse irreversibly.” “Even worse, our bond would become a laughingstock for god-knows-how-many-years.” Dian Sansi’s lips trembled, and his mind buzzed at just the mere thought of that future. Despite knowing every sentence Dian Jiuzhi spoke was correct beyond measure, he still gritted his teeth and argued, “What about the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter and Meng Jianyuan then? How could they... Why would they...” Dian Jiuzhi raised a hand and patted Dian Sansi’s shoulder lightly. “Meng Jianyuan is two-sexagenary-years old and has just returned to the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God. Caili... in terms of worldliness, is not even half-a-sexagenary-years old. They are ultimately too young and inexperienced. Their understanding of the word ‘Kingdom of God’ is superficial at best. It's natural that the gaps in their cognition would lead to mistakes.” “However... They can afford to make mistakes, but I cannot...” “Brother Jiuzhi!” Dian Sansi interrupted him once more and stared at Dian Jiuzhi’s seemingly calm expression. “If you really are holding yourself back for the greater cause, if what you say really comes from the heart, then why are you avoiding my eyes when you say all this?!” Dian Jiuzhi’s lips moved, but this time he could not say anything. Dian Sansi said, “I’m currently three-sexagenary-years old. I’m no longer the bull-headed child who requires your teaching in everything. On the contrary, I have never stopped chasing after your back my whole life, so I dare say that I understand you better than most.” “You... are really doing this to protect the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter, aren’t you?!” His words were slow and phrased as a question, yet infused with absolute conviction. Dian Jiuzhi subconsciously shook his head and opened his mouth, but when his eyes met Dian Sansi’s, when he saw that more pain than anger in his brother’s eyes, whatever he was about to say became lodged in his throat. In the end, he smiled lightly and said, “You grew up before I knew it, Sansi.” This time, his smile was colored with undisguised bitterness. Dian Jiuzhi’s words more or less validated Dian Sansi’s accusation as well. However, Dian Sansi did not feel the slightest relaxation or relief. On the contrary, he felt more and more aggrieved, his hands clenching unconsciously. Looking up at the sky, Dian Jiuzhi’s vision grew blurry before he knew it. He whispered, “She... can hurt me thousands... even tens of thousands of times, but I will never... ever... hurt her. Not even once.” Dian Sansi copied his gesture and responded in a tone full of puzzlement and confusion, “I don’t understand.” “You haven’t encountered your ‘Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter’ yet. Of course, you don’t understand.” Dian Jiuzhi’s voice became as unclear as his gaze. “Do you still remember what I said to you at Ling Xian’s divine abode?” It took him a while, but Dian Sansi ultimately nodded. “I remember. You said, ‘It’s not really good luck to be admired by someone. The great luck of a lifetime is finding someone you are willing to give up everything for.’” Dian Jiuzhi lowered his head so that Dian Sansi could clearly see the determination residing in his eyes. “I meant every word I said. She can hurt me ten times worse than this, and still I wouldn’t voice half a word of complaint. After all, she is not just a woman I fell in love with. She is also my idol, my savior, and my benefactor.” “Without her, I would not be standing before you, wearing the honor I am wearing today. I may have become a corpse in a pool of forgotten mud long ago.” “So... ignore the talk about the bigger picture. Can you do it for me, Sansi? For the sake of this immature brother of yours, can you please pretend that this matter does not exist until the Pure Land is behind us?” For the first time ever, Dian Jiuzhi looked at Dian Sansi with begging in his eyes. Dian Sansi hurriedly looked away because he could neither endure such a gaze nor say no after receiving it. They both knew all too well what Dian Rahu was like. He was fiery as fire and cherished comradeship and honor above all else. If he were to learn about this, his anger would surely paint even the skies of the Pure Land red. “I... understand.” Dian Sansi’s voice was pained not because the promise was difficult to give, but because he felt terribly, terribly sorry for Dian Jiuzhi. Everyone had their weaknesses, but he never knew that Dian Jiuzhi’s weakness went so deep that it was rooted in the deepest parts of his life vein and soul. “Allow me to give you another reason.” He clapped Dian Sansi’s shoulder once more. He said in a gentle voice, “Although I am called the number one Divine Son of the six Kingdoms of God, everyone knows that the main reason is because I am backed by the strongest Kingdom of God, the Boundless Kingdom of God; that my Father is the number one Divine Regent of the six Kingdoms of God.” “Even my so-called highest cultivation is also just the product of age.” “In terms of talent... forget Caili or Meng Jianyuan, both of which are perfect God Bearers, even you are far more talented than I was when I was your age.” Dian Sansi panicked and hurriedly said, “Do not say that, Brother Jiu Zhi! You possess the one and only Divine Vein of Great Rage in this world! You just started a little later than—” “This is a fact. You do not need to argue on my behalf.” Dian Jiuzhi smiled. “That is why I don’t dare to grow lax for even a moment. Every day, I am working to prove that I am deserving of my undeserved title. With such a heavy weight on my shoulders, I cannot bear to sustain damage in any form, be it physical, reputation, or dignity... Do you understand?” “I understand.” This time, the words came out much easier than before. Gritting his teeth and exhaling deeply, Dian Sansi gathered a sufficient amount of determination in his eyes and declared, “Brother Jiuzhi, I hereby swear to you that I will not tell anyone what happened today, including Father, before we leave the Pure... no! I won’t tell anyone unless you expressly give me permission. If I break this promise—” “Sansi, thank you.” Dian Jiuzhi smiled and said gratefully, “I am truly honored to have a younger brother like you.” It was at this moment that an unexpected voice came from outside, “Yun Che of Dreamweaver has come to pay a visit to the Boundless Divine Regent and the Boundless Divine Son. I humbly beg your forgiveness if my presence at this time is intrusive.” The voice was gentle, refined, and harmless like the wind, and yet it struck both Dian Jiuzhi and Dian Sansi like lightning, freezing them in place. 1. His name, Buwang, means ‘does not stray’. ☜ Chapter 2125 - Malice Dian Sansi’s hands abruptly clenched his fists, the emotions he had just suppressed suddenly blazing through the roof of his skull like an explosion. However, a warm, gentle, profound qi enveloped his body and soul sea just in time to quell his rising anger gradually. “I do not wish to see him right now. Please deal with him for me.” Dian Sansi looked up. “I...” “Thinking thrice and maintaining self-awareness are just the beginning of one’s growth. To truly become an independent grown-up, one must learn to control one's emotions, behavior, and conduct. You must have control over both your emotions and your appearance. Hellfire may burn in your heart, but your expression must remain as calm as a mirror lake. Hatred may stew in your very marrow, but you still must speak and smile like nothing is amiss.” Dian Jiuzhi said calmly and collectedly, without any dark spots in his eyes. He was acting like an older brother, gently and patiently educating an immature sibling at the right time. “I believe you can do it.” Dian Sansi shook his head and quickly calmed himself down. He nodded firmly and said, “Don’t worry, Brother Jiuzhi. I won’t disappoint you.” ...... Yun Che’s arrival immediately attracted the gaze of many Boundless Kingdom of God experts. This was the first time Yun Che saw the legendary number one Divine Regent of the Six Kingdoms of Gods. His eyes blazed like a torch, his beard resembled a lion’s mane, and his arms shimmered in the light like refined metal. No one doubted that they possessed the strength to rip open the sky. When his gaze landed on Yun Che, Yun Che felt like a mountain so tall its peak could not be seen was collapsing on top of him. Despite his mental preparation, his breathing still stalled for an instant, then another. After casting Yun Che a measuring glance, Dian Rahu let out a bark of laughter containing none of the dignity the number one Divine Regent should possess whatsoever. Then, he personally walked over to Yun Che while declaring, “You’re the boy from Old Meng’s clan, right? I’ve been hearing your name so often my ears are growing calluses!” His voice boomed like a great bell. Every word he spoke impacted the soul. As he walked, the entire world seemed to be shaking in response. Yun Che swiftly performed a standard-compliant junior’s salute and spoke with one-third humility and two-thirds composure. “Junior Yun Che greets the Boundless Divine Regent. When I was wandering the world, your title was already as loud as thunder. After I returned to the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God, the Dreamweaver Divine Regent often mentioned you. Now that I finally get to meet you, I find myself excited and fearful beyond words.” “Mm...” Dian Rahu’s gaze roamed around and around Yun Che several times before he let out a peal of laughter. “Hahahaha! You call yourself ‘Yun Che’ and Old Meng ‘Dreamless Divine Regent’, huh? You are definitely as stubborn as he claims. That said, I believe I understand why he just can’t stop praising you to the heavens every time we speak. Forget your perfect divine essence, just this sack of flesh of yours is many times better than the spoiled brat your dad used to be!” “Way back when I was carrying you in my arms, you weighed only four kgs or so and looked as wrinkly as a monkey. You have no idea how much face you’ve won for Old Meng by looking as good as you are today, hahahahahaha!” His laughter was deafening, but it contained not an ounce of superiority or seniority toward a junior. There was only sincere appreciation for the son of his best friend. Yun Che gave him a small smile. “I do not deserve such praise, senior Divine Regent. You are the one whose power is as vast and intimidating as the rumors claim. Anyway... is the Boundless Divine Son available right now? This junior has had the good fortune to speak with him once, and I was quite fond of our conversation. That's why I came to pay him a visit as soon as I could.” It was at this moment that Dian Sansi stepped out of the barrier and declared, “Your timing is unfortunate, Divine Son Yuan. Big Brother Jiu was basking in the divine aura of the Pure Land when suddenly, he sensed the possibility of enlightenment and hurried to capture it. I have been guarding him until now.” “Oh?” Dian Rahu’s eyebrows twitched in surprise. However, he suspected nothing and responded with pride, “How fortunate! Good. Very good!” “I see.” Yun Che said smilingly, “As expected of Brother Dian. Fortune comes to him as easily as breathing. I am most envious.” He looked at Dian Sansi for a moment before asking, “Forgive me if I’m wrong, but are you Brother Sansi?” Dian Sansi and Yun Che had never seen each other before, and yet Yun Che had somehow identified him accurately. Hiding his astonishment, Dian Sansi responded, “I am Sansi, yes, but you absolutely mustn’t address me as ‘Brother Sansi’, Divine Son Yuan. You are too lofty for that. Just call me Sansi.” Yun Che responded with a harmless, graceful smile. “The Divine Son of Dreamweaver is Meng Jianxi. I am just a lost son who recently returned home, and so do not deserve the title. You are one sexagenary year older than me, and your good reputation is like thunder piercing the ears. I find no problems addressing you as a brother whatsoever.” “Hahahaha!” Dian Rahu let out another peak of laughter. “Your skill in the art of conversation, inflexibility in regard to conventions, and dawdling way of speech resemble your dad, alright.” Yun Che gave Dian Sansi a friendly nod before saluting Dian Rahu again. “It is a shame, but this enlightenment is, without a doubt, a good thing for Brother Dian. This junior shan’t take up any more of your time. I will catch up with Brother Dian at another time.” “Yes, the essence of comradeship lies in persistence and endurance. There is no need to shackle oneself to one moment.” Dian Rahu did not try to keep Yun Che around. “Sansi, will you please escort Divine Son Yuan out?” Clearly, Dian Rahu was facilitating a friendship between Dian Sansi and Yun Che. It didn't matter whether Yun Che was the Dreamweaver Divine Son or prepared to embrace his identity as Meng Jianyuan. His perfect divine essence was an indisputable fact that wowed the entire world. Meng Kongchan’s guilt, regret, and fondness for Yun Che were clear as day to Dian Rahu as well. If Meng Jianyuan (Yun Che) had not encountered a fatal accident when he was young, he would have been the next Dreamweaver Divine Regent for sure. Inside the barrier, Yun Che’s departure caused Dian Jiuzhi to let out a long, long sigh of relief—even though he was the one betrayed, and Yun Che the betrayer. Alone and isolated, Dian Jiuzhi allowed his pain and dejection to surface in full. His facial features kept spasming even though a long time had passed. “When a tree is tall, phoenixes will come. When a flower smells nice, butterflies will arrive. You are the flower, but it would appear that I... am not the tree.” “...” “The phoenix once granted me its light and painted colors into my gray life... What is there to hate... What is there to resent...”Drip... There was a faint chill on the back of his hand. Through the blurriness of his eyes, he saw a wet mark slowly making its way toward the ground. It was pure and limpid, and yet the faint light it reflected pierced his eyes and stabbed his heart. He closed his eyes and whispered to himself, “The great luck of a lifetime is finding someone you are willing to give up everything for... This is fine. If you are certain that he is the one in your life; if you, someone who has never crossed the line, are willing to do so for him...” “Then I... will never become an obstacle in your path.” “I will only help you... Caili.” ...... The escort was taking longer than Dian Sansi expected. More accurately, Yun Che just would not stop asking him about things everyone should already know about the Boundless Kingdom of God. He never told him to stop, either. So, Dian Sansi had no choice but to keep answering his questions and continue escorting him. Before they knew it, they had gone far, far away from the Boundless Kingdom of God’s area. Suddenly, Yun Che changed his tune and asked, “You and Dian Jiuzhi saw what happened in front of Ling Xian’s divine abode, didn’t you?” Dian Sansi’s footsteps came to an abrupt stop. Looking at the faint smirk plastered on Yun Che’s face, Dian Sansi gradually came to a terrible realization. He felt his shock rapidly transforming into stone-cold chillness as he asked, “You... That was on purpose?” “Of course.” Yun Che’s smirk spread wider and wider with undisguised scorn. “We are in the Pure Land. Did you think I would have acted so recklessly if I hadn’t sensed Dian Jiuzhi’s approach?” “You!!” Dian Sansi had been doing his best to stay cool and calm before Yun Che this whole time, but now, cracks were forming in his expression and composure. He just wasn’t expecting Yun Che, the man who wasn’t the Dreamweaver Divine Son but might as well be better, to suddenly act like this. It was just so unexpected and bare! While suppressing his anger by force, Dian Sansi let out a peal of cold laughter. “Should I take this as a taunt against Brother Jiuzhi and the Boundless Kingdom of God!?” “Oh no no no, I am just a small junior of Dreamweaver. Who am I to taunt a vast and powerful kingdom like the Boundless Kingdom of God? I am simply...” It sounded like he was backpedaling until his smile suddenly turned malicious. “Looking down on Dian Jiuzhi, that’s all.” “After all, who would have thought that the so-called number one Divine Son of the Six Kingdoms of God... is really just a pitiful and pathetic coward?”Bang! Dian Sansi lost control of his aura, and the surrounding air currents abruptly roared with deep anger. There was even a faint but unmistakable wisp of killing intent mixed within them. “Oh?” Yun Che crossed his arms in front of his chest and looked at Dian Sansi curiously. “Are you angry, Brother Sansi? Did I say something wrong?” “Dian Jiuzhi was probably a thousand, no, ten thousand times angrier than you are now when he saw what happened before Ling Xian’s divine abode. Any normal person—any man with even a bit of spine or hot blood in him—would have roused in anger and challenged me with gritted teeth.” “Unfortunately... Excuse me, what I mean to say is, as expected of the Boundless Divine Son. Despite being so angry that his skull should have shattered from sheer fury, and despite facing shame so deep it is a miracle his liver and gall are still intact, he still chose to withdraw his head back into his turtle shell, swallow all of that humiliation, and run away with you.” “Do you know what’s better? A humiliated dog at least knows to bark a couple of times in defiance before running away. However, forget barking, the so-called number one Divine Son didn’t even dare to stir up the air around him as he ran away! Tsk tsk tsk tsk, hahahaha!”Crack! Crack! CRACK!! The sounds of teeth breaking and bone dislocating were mixed within Yun Che’s laughter. They came from Dian Sansi, of course. It took him nearly all of his willpower to push down the urge to punch Yun Che out of existence. His originally pale and handsome face had become so reddened that it looked like he was covered in blood. “Hmm? What’s that noise?” Yun Che remained calm and unruffled as he stared at Dian Sansi. “Are you angry? Are you going to take it out on me on behalf of your Brother Jiuzhi?” “I heard that you are a third-level Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner despite only being three-sexagenary-years old. On the other hand, I am just a Divine Master. It would probably take you no effort whatsoever to crush me in a fit of anger. Oh, I’m so scared...” That was what he said, but his eyes were taunting, ridiculing, and not afraid in the slightest. The only reason that a beam of reason still shone through the haze of fury choking Dian Sansi’s mind was Dian Jiuzhi’s advice to him, and his own promise to Dian Jiuzhi. His aura of anger disappeared, and Dian Sansi forced out the trace of a cold sneer. However, before he could mouth a retort, Yun Che suddenly put on a clearly exaggerated look of surprise: “Oh... I get it now. You don’t dare. Your Brother Jiuzhi must have told you repeatedly to keep quiet about this and feign ignorance, no matter what. I can even imagine the reason he gave you. It must be about the bigger picture—the bond between the Kingdoms of God and the dignity of a Divine Son. He probably also told you that appropriate actions can be taken after you leave the Pure Land, didn’t he?” The insults Dian Sansi was preparing died like someone had struck him in the throat. The redness that just receded from his face—and only barely—immediately swelled into a horrifying bluish purple. Yun Che beamed at him. “Ooh, look at that complexion. I must have gotten it right then. What did I expect, really? No one comes up with excuses better than a useless person.” “Yun... Che!” The murderous glint in Dian Sansi’s eyes was almost tangible at this point. “You may be the Dreamweaver Divine Son, but even you will regret insulting Brother Jiuzhi and the Boundless Kingdom of God for life!” Yun Che’s response to his guttural growl was, “The next best skill of a useless person is barking. They’re useless after all. What else can they do besides bark?” “...” Dian Sansi nearly crushed his teeth there and then. It took replaying Dian Jiuzhi’s words and especially his brother’s begging to finally push down the nigh uncontrollable flames of anger scorching his insides. “Anyway, what were you talking about? Right, you want me to make me regret for life. That’s easy enough. You simply need to tell your Father word-for-word what happened today. I’m sure the Boundless Divine Regent’s anger could easily burn me to ash. Or...” Yun Che frivolously raised a finger and tapped his own skull. “You can punch me in the head right now.” “Although the price of attacking in the Pure Land is severe, and no one, not even a Divine Regent, can get away without severe punishment, you are a man, aren’t you? Nothing is greater to a man than his dignity and the hot blood coursing through his veins, right? What do you think, Brother Sansi?” As he spoke, Yun Che actually took two steps closer to Dian Sansi and allowed the man’s anger—so hot and boiling that it was practically tangible—to wash over him unhindered. His smile remained easy, and he showed no fear whatsoever. Dian Sansi clenched his hands tighter and tighter. Beads of blood were seeping through the gaps. “You... are agitating me on purpose!!” “Correct.” Yun Che admitted generously, “I want to see exactly how useless the two most outstanding talents of the Boundless Kingdom of God are with my own eyes, and what do you know? I'm not disappointed.” “You are the same as that pitiful Boundless Divine Son. You are both spineless wimps through and through!!” Accompanying those toxic words was the most malicious, mocking smile he could muster. Yun Che let out a cold chuckle and turned around. He strode away while Dian Sansi’s murderous, devouring gaze was glued to his back. “To think that a useless piece of garbage like this dares to dream of my Caili. I would laugh if it weren’t so pathetic. Return to Dian Jiuzhi and tell him that a toad should remain in the filthy mud where it belongs. No matter how high it jumps, it will never be able to change its filthy and pathetic nature.”Crack!! Several beads of blood leaked out of Dian Sansi’s teeth. Still, he restrained himself with all his might. He just stared through the red haze at Yun Che’s back until the monster was completely, utterly gone from his vision. After Yun Che was sure he was out of Dian Sansi’s vision and perception, his disdainful expression faded and relaxed into perfect calm. “Why did you... anger him like that? Weren’t you afraid that he would lose control and attack you without warning?” Li Suo asked with deep worry. Yun Che replied, “Don’t worry. I know what I’m doing.” The Devil Queen was most proficient in perceiving emotions and thoughts. Judging if a person’s anger was close to spiraling out of control was just the most basic and straightforward technique of them all. Li Suo asked, “You are that certain that no one would dare to attack another in the Pure Land?” “Oh no,” Yun Che shook his head, “that is one reason, but it isn't the most significant one. What I truly counted on was Dian Jiuzhi’s single-minded infatuation with Hua Caili.” The rarest and most precious emotion in the world was infatuation. The easiest emotion to exploit was also infatuation. Therefore, the most despicable and unforgivable crime one could commit under the heavens... was exploiting infatuation. These words were clearly etched in Chi Wuyao’s cognition. Li Suo could not understand him. “What makes you so sure that Dian Jiuzhi’s infatuation for Hua Caili would push him to stomach even such lows?” Yun Che did not try to act mysterious this time. He answered frankly, “Before, I had only heard of his infatuation with Caili. But during our meeting at the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God... everything about him shone with the proud radiance of the number one Divine Son, except when he was asking me how he could win the favor and affection of a beloved. It was during that moment that I saw the terrible, deep shame and self-abasement that are rooted in his very marrow.” Despite his words, not a hint of ridicule existed in his eyes. On the contrary, it was shrouded by a hidden layer of gloom. Yun Che’s explanation only puzzled Li Suo even more, but she did not press him about it. It was because she knew that her understanding of the love between a man and a woman was terribly shallow. In this regard, every line of the pitiful sketching that currently formed her canvas of knowledge came from Yun Che only. Yun Che lifted a hand and clenched his fingers slightly. “Right now, Dian Sansi is more or less on the brink of explosion. The pressure is so fierce that it screams for release, and yet he must endure that shame and anger. It is not something one can dispel in a short time.” “When the time comes, when I feel that the timing is right, one poke is all it takes to...” “Pop it.” Yun Che mimicked an eruption with his fingers while wearing a spine-chilling grin on his face. Li Suo was silent for a long time before she said quietly, “Your current expression is a little scary.” “Mm.” Yun Che admitted without guile, “It’s looking more and more like your standard-compliant smile of a devil, isn’t it?” “Perhaps,” Li Suo answered. An instant later, she said lightly, “Still, you should tread carefully. Very carefully. This is the highest plane of existence of the Abyss. Any misstep will result in eternal tribulation.” From the moment they set foot in the Pure Land, Li Suo had tirelessly warned and persuaded him to be careful over and over. Maybe it was because even her exceedingly faint soul of a Creation God sensed something concerning in this supposed land of purity. “Mm. Don't worry.” Once again, Yun Che offered her words of consolation and promise, “To me, the Pure Land is actually the safest place in the entire Abyss.” Yun Che’s footsteps were slow. Was it on purpose, or was it because he was thinking about something that slowed his footsteps? Out of nowhere, he asked Li Suo a question she could never answer, “Say, do you think that someone who exploits another’s sincerity... no matter the reason behind their exploitation... deserves forgiveness?” As expected, he received no answer from Li Suo despite waiting for a long time. She was simply incapable of answering that question. Clearer than ever before, she could feel a twitch in his soul as he said those words. It was just a twitch; insignificant and expelled from Yun Che’s soul almost the instant it appeared, and yet it pierced Li Suo’s soul and filled her with unfamiliar, never-before-felt pain. It was such a pain that it nearly permeated her entire soul. It felt like a kind of... soundless breaking that came from the bottom of the soul. Yun Che’s pace did not change, nor did he say anything after the sudden question. This lasted until a certain moment where his spirit suddenly became taut as a wire. It did not relax one bit for several breaths straight. Yun Che did not stop moving, but he consciously lightened his footsteps and even his external aura. He seemed to be deliberately reducing his presence. The Pure Land was pure and quiet, so his heartbeat sounded a lot louder than usual. Ahead of him, a tall, massive, and formidable figure slowly walked toward him. He was almost three meters tall, and the pressure he carried within him was indescribable. Not even a ten-kilometer-tall giant of a mountain could hope to measure up to even one-ten-thousandth of his pressure. In fact, this pressure seemed greater than even the Boundless Divine Regent’s! If the Boundless Divine Regent’s body was like refined steel, then the exposed parts of the man before his eyes resembled ancient bronze that had been tortured by the relentless march of time countless times over. He exuded a kind of extreme divine pressure that heralded from the ancient past and naturally superseded all things. Yun Che angled his feet sideways and chose not to cross paths with the man. However, the man’s footsteps halted all of a sudden, and a terrible gaze struck Yun Che the next instant. Accompanying that gaze was a terrible pressure that nearly snapped his bones and crushed his soul in an instant. Realizing that there was no avoiding this encounter, Yun Che turned toward the man and bowed respectfully in his direction. “Yun Che of Dreamweaver greets the Chief Priest.” Considering his appearance and pressure, there was only one person this oppressive man could be. He was the chief of the Four High Priests and the man who truly answered to one man only and towered above all else, the Chief Priest. He was also the only man in the Pure Land Hua Caili truly feared. Yun Che’s voluntary offering of his identity failed to shake the man’s gaze in the slightest. Speaking of... his gaze was so scary that it felt like sharp blades piercing through every inch of his flesh, blood, and bone. The Chief Priest opened his mouth, and his words struck his soul like a divine hammer. “Where did your power of Buddha come from?” “...!” Yun Che’s brow twitched. Chapter 2126 - Eden's Crown It was at this moment that a silver shadow descended from above and dispelled the terrible pressure encompassing Yun Che in an instant. The next moment, Meng Kongchan fell from the sky and stood in front of Yun Che. He asked with a light smile on his face, “This one was just about to pay you a visit. I wasn’t expecting to run into you by accident. Long time no see, Chief Priest. How have you been?” The Chief Priest did not react at all despite receiving a greeting from the Dreamless Divine Regent. He continued to stare straight at Yun Che. Meng Kongchan frowned a little and said, “This clumsy boy here is my son, Jianyuan. He was lost for over a century before I finally found him. As a result, he is lacking in education. This is his first time visiting the Pure Land, so it is inevitable that his ignorance and recklessness may lead to unconscious acts of transgression. If he offended you in any way, I ask that you forgive him and overlook this for now, Chief Priest. When this Pure Land Meet is behind us, I will definitely bring Jianyuan with me to pay you a formal apology.” Still, the Chief Priest did not react. His eyes resembled pits of bottomless darkness. He opened his mouth once more, and his pressure grew severalfold. “Answer me. Where did your power of Buddha come from?” The space between the Chief Priest and the Dreamless Divine Regent abruptly grew warped. His terrifying voice also lifted some corners of his clothes and caused them to float aimlessly. “The power of Buddha?” Meng Kongchan cast Yun Che a sidelong glance, clear shock residing in his eyes. Despite being protected by the Dreamless Divine Regent, the ungodly divine pressure still gave Yun Che a head-splitting migraine. His mind was ice cold and whirling at top speed as he reorganized the response he had initially prepared. He was going to reserve this response for when he faced the Abyssal Monarch directly. Ni Xuan, the Heretic God’s memory, had informed him exactly who the Abyssal Monarch was. It also informed him just as clearly that the Great Way of the Buddha he was practicing was invented by none other than the Abyssal Monarch himself. On a side note, the Rage Gods were gods “created” from the Great Way of the Buddha during the Era of Gods. Therefore, assuming he wasn’t wrong about the identity of the Abyssal Monarch, the Abyssal Monarch could surely sense the power of Buddha he carried effortlessly. However, he had stumbled onto the Chief Priest before he met the Abyssal Monarch. With only a few seconds to spare, he needed to determine if the response he prepared for the Abyssal Monarch was “applicable” to the Chief Priest as well. Yun Che looked up and met the Chief Priest’s gaze directly. It was only now that he got a good look at the man’s appearance. His face, no, his whole body was engraved with tyranny and tenacity. These qualities were so powerful that they overwhelmed almost all other features. It was to the point where Yun Che could not even determine his age. His facial features seemed sharp enough to cut apart age itself, and the darkness residing in his eyes seemed deep enough to consume the entire Abyss. Right before Yun Che could open his mouth, a voice came from somewhere. “Rage, withdraw.” The voice was as soft as a drizzle and as gentle as a breeze. It felt both real and unreal. It was clearly devoid of any emotion, and yet it instantly soothed the mind like a clear spring. The divine pressure vanished in an instant. The Chief Priest’s gaze seemingly lingered on Yun Che for an instant longer before he turned around and left just like that. He did not say a single word. Meng Kongchan looked puzzled, but his relief was greater. He said loudly, “Farewell, Chief Priest.” Slowly withdrawing his external aura, Meng Kongchan turned around to face Yun Che and asked gently, “Yuan’er, the power of Buddha the Chief Priest mentioned... Do you actually have it?” Yun Che hesitated for an instant but nodded his head. He explained, “Of the many things master taught me, there was a body tempering profound art called the ‘Great Way of the Buddha’. I assume that the power I gained from this art is what the Chief Priest called the ‘power of Buddha’.” “Master warned me not to leak anything about his existence, so I do not understand how the Chief Priest was able to identify this power in just a glance...” He muttered under his breath, “Could my master have shared a connection with the Chief Priest in the past?” “...” Meng Kongchan frowned, his expression thoughtful. “Senior Divine Regent, that voice just now. Could it be... ?” Yun Che did not finish his sentence. It was as if he was afraid of pronouncing that supreme’s name. “Voice? What voice?” Meng Kongchan realized the answer as soon as the question left his mouth. He exclaimed in realization, “No wonder he left so suddenly. To think...” His gaze immediately grew complicated, but he was in the Pure Land right now. For now at least, the Divine Regent did not dare to make a conjecture, much less infer anything from this.Yuan’er, that master of yours is probably greater than even your wildest imagination. “Your master may not wish to be a part of this mortal coil any longer, but here in the supreme Pure Land, all secrets are revealed, no matter how well hidden they are.” Meng Kongchan did not press Yun Che. Instead, he said with a sigh, “However, this isn’t a bad thing for you. In fact, judging by what I just saw... it may be beneficial beyond imagination for your future.” “Mm.” Yun Che’s eyes shone with emotion. “Master’s protection is with me even now.” Meng Kongchan smiled. “Now, let us return. Although your safety is absolutely guaranteed in the Pure Land, your absence still makes me feel uneasy.” “Yes, let’s.” Meng Kongchan carried Yun Che. He had just risen in the sky when a gust of sword wind cut through the air and reached them in an instant. Following right behind it was a cool, celestial-like beauty. Meng Kongchan’s expression was serious, but the sight of her caused his lips to split into a wide grin instantly. “Qingying...” Hua Qingying scanned Yun Che’s whole body in an instant and asked in a frigid voice, “Did the Chief Priest’s divine perception lock onto you just now??” Clearly, she had sensed the disturbance and came as soon as she could. “Sorry for making you worry, Aunt.” Yun Che hurriedly said, “The Chief Priest was just asking me a question. Perhaps he sensed something odd with my aura? In any case, he did not mean any harm.” Hua Qingying’s deeply furrowed, crescent-shaped eyebrows did not relax, however. Yun Che did not know this, but she was the outsider with the most contact with the Chief Priest. In fact, she dared to say that she understood him better than even the six Divine Regents. If the Abyssal Monarch was kind to a fault, then the Chief Priest was indifferent to the extreme. He had almost never treated anyone from outside the Pure Land favorably. Even Hua Caili, the girl with a world-shattering countenance, a pure and innocent heart and everyone’s favorite, had only ever received a cold stare from him. In Hua Qingying’s memory, the Chief Libationist had never concentrated his divine perception on a single junior of a Kingdom of God so thoroughly. After casting a glance in the direction the Chief Priest’s aura had disappeared to, the cold focus in Hua Qingying’s eyes finally relaxed a little. “This is for the best. Prior to this, you paid Dian Rahu and Dian Jiuzhi a visit, didn’t you?” “I was just about to ask you about this as well,” Meng Kongchan. Yun Che answered honestly, “I did. This is Caili's and my business. It’s inevitable that I will face down the Boundless Divine Regent and Boundless Divine Son one day. Considering the opportunity, I thought it would be wise to learn about them as best I can.” Meng Kongchan let out a quiet sigh and said half-proudly and warningly, “Yuan’er, I know you are far more mature and responsible than your age suggests, but—” “Just leave this to Dreamless and Heart Painter.” Hua Qingying interrupted the Divine Regent. Staring at Yun Che, she said in a cold but not hurtful voice, “Yun Che, the resistance preventing your union with Caili is countless times weaker than it was before your identity underwent a massive change, and your perfect divine essence was made known to the world. I know that your heart for Caili is true. I know you wish to do everything in your power to improve your odds even a little. However, there are tangled messes to this situation that you simply are not capable of dealing with right now.” “Overreaching is just as bad as underreaching.” Yun Che bowed his head and said a bit guiltily, “You are right, Aunt. I did let my impatience get to me. I’m sorry for worrying you, Aunt.” “Er... yeah... right.” The poor Dreamless Divine Regent, who was ignored by both his son and his unforgotten love, could only smile awkwardly like a simple, reticent father. “It is not wrong to be driven by emotion. You do not need to blame yourself. As long as you understand the stakes, then all is well.” Hua Qingying turned away and gave him one last piece of advice, “This Pure Land Meet is meaningful like no other. There will be conflicts between the Divine Children. You'd best stay out of it and stick close to your Father at all times.” “I will remember your advice, Aunt. Thank you, and farewell.” Meng Kongchan would look longingly at Hua Qingying’s back until it was entirely out of sight. Although Yun Che had acted incredibly obedient before Hua Qingying, he did not feel jealous in the slightest. On the contrary, he was glad for it. “Your aunt is right. Just leave the matter of Caili and you to your elders. We’ll handle it all.” Yun Che suddenly asked, “There is a question I’ve been wanting to ask for the longest time, Senior Divine Regent. However, I could never muster the courage to voice it.” Meng Kongchan replied smilingly, “We are father and son. There is no need to act reserved.” “My question is...” Yun Che’s gaze grew a tad worried and apprehensive, “Assuming the best case scenario... What will become of your bond with the Heart Painter Divine Regent and the Boundless Divine Regent?” Meng Kongchan’s easy smile fractured for just an instant. The Divine Regent did not try to give a half-hearted answer or gloss over it. Instead, he let out a quiet sigh and said, “No one understands Dian Rahu better than Hua Fuchen and me, and our conclusion is the same. No matter what happens, a permanent, irreparable scar will appear in our relationship.” “In the best-case scenario, a crack will appear in our relationship, but our comradeship will still be there. However, it will take a lot of patience and setup to achieve this outcome. It will especially require Hua Fuchen and me to basically throw our faces before his feet. Well, we are in the wrong here. It is only right that we pay our dues. Dian Rahu deserves this much.” “In most other cases, the comradeship between Dian Rahu and us will disappear, leaving behind only cold indifference. Considering Dian Rahu is a man who would rather break than bend... this is the possibility Hua Fuchen and I believe has the highest chance of happening.” He paused for a second before continuing, “That said, the only difference in these two outcomes is the bond we share. You and Caili will always be together, and your union will no longer face any resistance. All things considered, both are excellent outcomes.” Yun Che looked almost aghast as he lowered his gaze. His voice was much lower as he said, “But your comradeship survived the passage of ten thousand years. To call it valuable would be the understatement of the era... Is it really worth losing it for just Caili and me?” “Hahahaha!” Meng Kongchan interrupted his guilt-ridden words with a peal of laughter. “Yuan’er, your and Caili’s love was tested and proven true by a trial of life and death. You are also both perfect God Bearers. When the two of you have become Divine Regents, there probably won’t be anyone in the entire history of the Abyss who is as perfectly matched as you two.” “Most importantly...” He reached out and gently rested his hand on Yun Che's shoulder. “You are my son; my Yuan’er. This is your life and future we’re talking about. Is there anything a father wouldn’t do for his son? It is the same for Hua Fuchen and Caili, so you do not need to be concerned with this.” “You will understand my feelings when you have become a father yourself.” Yun Che’s lips trembled for a good while. Finally, he asked softly, “And... What is the worst-case scenario?” Meng Kongchan’s smile slowly faded, and his gaze shifted to the emptiness beyond the horizon. “If we confess to him directly without any preparation whatsoever, then it will surely result in a complete severance of our bond. It will be difficult to predict the consequences of his uncontrollable rage.” “Even so, this is still not the worst-case scenario. Worse than this... is Dian Rahu finding out about the truth before we have sufficiently guided, laid the groundwork, buffered, and compensated him... then he would view Hua Fuchen and my actions as an act of utter deception, cover-up, betrayal, and even humiliation.” He slowly closed his eyes. “In that case, the consequences would not be as simple as explosive rage. It might very well be accompanied by hatred... bone-deep hatred.” “He will die for those he considers comrades; hate a betrayer more than he hates a sworn foe, hate them so much he wishes they would die a thousand times over.” Yun Che said in a low tone, “The Boundless Divine Regent of the rumors... sounds more or less identical to your impression of him.” Sensing Yun Che’s worry and apprehension, Meng Kongchan withdrew his gaze and grew relaxed. “Hahaha. This is why Hua Fuchen and I have been visiting the Boundless Kingdom of God for the past couple of years, and why we forbade you and Caili from seeing each other. Do not worry though. Hua Fuchen and I have planned thoroughly for this. Barring an exceptionally terrible accident, this so-called worst-case scenario will never come true.” “That said, I need you and Caili to control yourself as best you can. When the Pure Land Meet is over, you still need to return to your respective kingdoms and keep your meetings to a minimum before the dust is settled... though I am sure that someone as wise and intelligent as you already understands this.” “One more thing. Before we leave the Pure Land, Hua Fuchen and I will bring you and Caili to the Abyssal Monarch in secret.” Yun Che looked astonished. “Caili and I?” Yun Che predicted that Meng Kongchan and Hua Fuchen would secretly meet with the Abyssal Monarch and confess about the matter between him and Hua Caili. However, he did not anticipate that they would bring him and Hua Caili with them. “That’s correct.” Meng Kongchan nodded. “In fact, we arrived at this decision a year ago. The reason...” “A small part of the reason is that the Abyssal Monarch is quite fond of Caili. When the time comes, we hope that her presence will quell his anger at least a little. But the biggest and most important reason...” His eyes were smiling as he said this, “Both Hua Fuchen and I believe that you are capable of winning at least some of the Abyssal Monarch’s affection yourself.” “Er...” Yun Che replied in a modest tone, “What existence do you think the Abyssal Monarch is? You really think too highly of me.” “Hahahaha!!” Meng Kongchan laughed uproariously. “Caili is a good, obedient girl who has never broken a rule in her life, and yet she went so far as to break her engagement and even challenge her own Father, the one man she used to obey absolutely and without question, for you. I have watched Jianxi since he was young, so I know very well how competent he is. And yet, you have dominated him thoroughly in an unbelievably short time.” “You speak modestly, but both of us feel that you are far more capable than we can imagine. Hahaha!” By the time Meng Kongchan laughed, he had already brought Yun Che back to their courtyard. Yun Che did not leave after that. He sat next to Meng Kongchan and meditated quietly, waiting for the audience with the Abyssal Monarch to begin. As he withdrew his senses, the noises of the outside world faded completely into silence. All that was left in his soul sea was countless streams of thoughts mixing with each other and calculating all kinds of possibilities. This lasted until a burst of profound qi suddenly descended from the distant sky. A low and intimidating rumble accompanied it. Every Dreamweaver member opened their eyes at the same time and rose to their feet with solemn expressions. “It is time, Brother Yuan.” Meng Jianxi’s voice rang in his ears, and Yun Che stood up. He put on a suitable mask of nervousness, anticipation, and excitement. “No need to be nervous. Just act normally.” After sending Yun Che a sound transmission, Meng Kongchan proudly rose to his feet while the divine pressure of a True God brimmed around him. “It is time. Let us head to Eden's Crown!” The Pure Land was unquestionably the purest land in the entire Abyss, and this place was the purest place in the Pure Land. The only color one could see in this place was pure, flawless white. The clouds beneath their feet, the sky around them. Excluding the people, one could not find even the slightest speck of impurity, no matter where they looked. The air especially felt like it had been cleansed by the purest spring. Forget abyssal dust; one could not even find a speck of ordinary dust in this place. Such a place was exceedingly rare even in the God Realm. They called it—Eden's Crown. If the Pure Land was the highest place of the Abyss, then Eden’s Crown was the highest place of the Pure Land. It was also where the Abyssal Monarch resided. Behind the countless cloud layers sat a lofty audience hall that even the six Divine Regents didn’t seem to look at directly—Eden’s Temple. “What an odd place. It’s so pure it actually feels discomfiting.” The remark came from the woman who represented the absolute purity of the universe, the Creation Goddess of Life Li Suo. His thoughts interrupted, Yun Che replied, “It’s obvious that this space wasn’t formed naturally. To go so far as to create such an extreme place of purity... it feels like a reflection of some kind of obsession.” “Obsession?” Li Suo asked in confusion. “Er... this is going to be a long and difficult explanation, and right now I have to focus on the important matters in front of me.” Yun Che cast his gaze forward and encountered many foreign gazes along the way. Soon, the core power of the six Kingdoms of God and the only existing Beasts in the Abyss—the dragons—would be gathered here. Unfortunately for these lofty, supreme existences who stood at the peak of the Abyss and ruled over all abyssal worlds, they had no idea that a demon god who swore to destroy the Abyss at all costs lurked within their ranks. Chapter 2127 - Arrival of the Kingdoms Until a century ago, Meng Kongchan would always be the last person to show up at the Pure Land Meet. At the time, his was the only Kingdom of God that did not yet have a God Bearer. Every time he met the eyes of another Divine Regent, he could feel his head lowering so deeply that it was sunk into dust. It wasn’t until after Meng Jianyuan was born and lost, and after Meng Jianxi underwent a latent awakening, that he could finally keep his head up. It was different this time. Not only did he have two Divine Sons, but one of them was a perfect God Bearer. His hands clasped behind his back, the Dreamless Divine Regent had set foot in Eden’s Crown with his head high and his strides long. Even his eyes were raised so high he only wished they could sit higher than his own skull. When he finally lowered them and scanned his surroundings, he discovered that none of the other five Kingdoms of God had shown up yet. “Our lord’s head is practically floating above the clouds,” the second Dream Lord, Meng Chaoyang, remarked with an involuntary chuckle. The fifth Dream Lord, Meng Chaofeng, said in a low tone, “After ten thousand years of frustration and self-abasement, he is finally graced by the presence of two Divine Sons. One of them even has perfect divine essence, a feat that illuminates the Abyss. Of course, he’s going to vent it all.” The brother and sister exchanged a glance before chuckling together. They could already foresee how “arrogant” Meng Kongchan was going to act when they encountered each other. Divine Regents were people who inherited the power of True Gods after all. Dreamweaver was the first Kingdom of God to show up, but not the first faction. Three figures had been waiting in the pure white world for god-knows-how-long. When they showed up, the trio waited for the right moment before respectfully and politely walking up to them. The leader of the trio, an old man, greeted them smilingly, “Haha, it has only been a few years since we met, and your divine appearance is so much fiercer than before. How envious I am.” As excited as he was, Meng Kongchan did not actually let his “arrogance” go to his head. He smiled and returned the salute. “Your race has been welcoming great news one after another as well. Congratulations to you as well, Dragon Lord.” The dragon race was meek and far inferior to the Six Kingdoms of Gods, but as the only existing Beast left in the Abyss, they were unique in a way that could not be ignored. In terms of seniority and experience, the Dragon Lord was greater than all current Divine Regents as well. Therefore, the Dragon Lord was qualified to be treated as an equal by a Divine Regent. Behind the Dragon Lord, two people took half a step forward and saluted respectfully. “Left Attendant Dragon Chixin greets you, Dreamless Divine Regent.” “Right Attendant Dragon Long Qianxin greets you, Dreamless Divine Regent.” “Chixin (Devotion), Qianxin (Piety)...” Yun Che muttered the two names under his breath and sighed. “It looks like the matter of succession concerns the dragon race deeply.” “It has always been so.” Meng Jianxi replied, “It is rumored that the ancient dragons from beyond the Abyss experienced great difficulties in reproducing in the first place. After they fell to the Abyss, the ever-present erosion of the abyssal dust has only made their condition so much worse.” “The Dragon Lord is exceedingly old; so old that there are only a few people left who still remember his true name. It isn’t until eight sexagenary years ago that he finally had a descendant, namely the current Young Dragon Lord, Long Wangchu. The Young Dragon Lord is also the one and only direct heir of the Ancestral Dragon’s bloodline. It is pitiful.” “However...” Meng Jianxi changed his tune and lowered his voice even more, “The dragon race is not to be underestimated. Although the Dragon Lord is only at the middle-stage of the Divine Limit Realm, his draconic body far surpasses that of a human body. Grandfather (Meng Cangji) once told me that he, a peak Divine Limit Realm profound practitioner, still isn’t sure if he could defeat the Dragon Lord.” “The Dragon Lord’s Dragon Attendants, Long Chixin and Long Qianxin, are also at the Divine Limit Realm.” “Alas, it is an undeniable, unstoppable fact that the dragon race is declining with every generation. I can only imagine how much worse the dragon race will become after Long Wangchu succeeds his father.” Meng Jianxi’s tone was clearly scornful when he spoke of Long Wangchu. It was because everything the Xuanji Hall told him in the past few years revealed to him that the Young Dragon Lord was an idiot and a failure through and through. Unfortunately for the Ancestral Dragons, the idiot failure was their only direct heir and option. They literally could not choose another heir even if they wanted to. What a pitiful and lamentable fate it was. It was at this moment that the Dragon Lord set his gaze on Yun Che. “Unless my eyes are gravely mistaken, this young man here is the son you lost and found, the Divine Son Yuan who shocked the world with his perfect divine essence, am I right?” Meng Kongchan smiled. “Your eyes do not deceive you, Dragon Lord. He is indeed my clumsy son, Jianyuan. He calls himself Yun Che.” Yun Che stepped forward and said respectfully, “Junior Yun Che greets you, Dragon Lord. I have heard of the dragons for a long time. I am honored to finally meet you, lord of the dragons, in person.” The show of etiquette was proper and respectful. The Dragon Lord was so used to bowing his head before the Kingdom of God for so long that he was taken aback for an instant. The ancient creases on the Dragon Lord’s face smoothed out considerably as he smiled and nodded at Yun Che. “There is nowhere you can go without capturing eyeballs with manners and bearing like yours, Divine Son Yuan.” Meng Kongchan gladly accepted the old dragon’s praise of his son and chuckled. “You flatter him, Dragon Lord. He has only returned for a few years. He is still oh-so-soft and wet behind the ears.” The Dragon Lord shook his head. “His bearing resembles the clouds, his appearance resembles the sun, and his perfect divine essence is practically a god-given miracle. No praise is too much when applied to Divine Son Yuan. In comparison, my unworthy son is...” The Dragon Lord paused for a moment as his smile turned bitter. He shook his head and said, “Forget him.” Meng Kongchan returned politely, “You are too humble, Dragon Lord. Although I haven’t had the time to pay the Ancestral Dragon Mountain Range a visit in the past couple of years, I still know that the Young Dragon Lord has been growing by leaps and bounds as of late. I assume that he must have experienced enlightenment, and that the years of hard work and study have finally begun to pay dividends. I can only imagine that his future is bright.” “Haha.” The Dragon Lord let out a chuckle and concealed the embarrassment in his eyes without a trace. “I am truly ashamed to accept such words from you, Dreamless Divine Regent.” Another person might think the Dragon Lord was just being modest, but not Chixin or Qianxin. The word “ashamed” rang completely differently for them. “Now this is a rare sight. I did not expect you to show up so soon, Dreamless Divine Regent.” It was at this moment that a half-teasing voice rang, and the pure white world gained a new sheen of divine light. Starlight and moonlight shone down from beyond the skies, then mingled into a fantastical curtain of radiance. Then, two identical divine figures emerged from it. They possessed the exact same countenance and body figure. Even the way they stepped across the clouds, the way they breathed, even the way the light in their eyes swirled and unfolded, were identical. It was as if they were mirror figures of each other. Their auras were most familiar to Yun Che. It was the power of a Star God and a Moon God! This also meant one thing. They could only be the Twin True Gods of the Star and Moon Kingdoms of God, the Heavenly Star Divine Regent Wu Shenxing, and the Sky Moon Divine Regent Wu Shenyue! “Dreamweaver has just received the enviable boon of perfect divine essence. It is only natural that the Dreamless Divine Regent’s spirit would be renewed like he just received a new lease on life.” After Wu Shenyue spoke, exactly who Wu Shenxing and Wu Shenyue were became clear. As the rumors claimed, Wu Shenyue’s voice was soft, gentle, and feminine in a way that most women could not hope to compare. “What’s wrong?” Meng Kongchan turned around and grinned at them. “Am I not allowed to lift my head high and flaunt my feathers like a peacock for once after being showered with sympathetic gazes by the likes of you for over ten thousand years?” “Hahahaha!” A peal of laughter escaped Wu Shenxing, though his eyes were on Yun Che. He did not hesitate to shower the young man with praise, “And what a man your Divine Son Yuan is! He has only recently returned to his Kingdom of God, and he is only a Divine Master. And yet, he remains calm and composed before our appearance, and his countenance... actually surpasses the rumors. If given a couple more years to come into his power, I have a feeling that he might even snatch the title of number one Divine Son from Divine Son Dian!” Yun Che swiftly stepped up to the two Divine Regents and saluted them. “Yun Che of Dreamweaver greets the Heavenly Star Divine Regent and Sky Moon Divine Regent. Heavenly Star Divine Regent, your praise is far too great for me to bear. This junior desperately and fearfully requests you to withdraw it.” Meng Kongchan disagreed. “Every word spoken by a Divine Regent is worth ten thousand sacred tripods. If he says you are worthy, then you are. You must accept it even if Old Dian is present.” The chit-chat between Divine Regents wasn’t too different from that of ordinary people. Their juniors were naturally interacting with each other as well. “Brother Yuan, this is the Star Divine Son, Sha Xing, and this is the Moon Divine Son, Xian Yue.” Meng Jianxi introduced them to Yun Che. “I have long heard of the famous Star and Moon Twins.” Yun Che greeted them. “I am Yun Che. Please feel free to address me by my name.” Pan Buwang was sitting in a corner behind the two Divine Sons, but Yun Che never even looked in his direction. It was as if he hadn’t noticed his existence. Sha Xing and Xian Yue exchanged a look with each other before Sha Xing replied smilingly, “We have heard of your story and more or less know why you insist on going by that name, but we still feel that addressing you as Divine Son Yuan is for the best. We hope you don’t mind.” “You exaggerate, Star Divine Son, Moon Divine Son.” Yun Che replied with a polite smile on his face. It was a perfunctory interaction, neither too friendly nor estranged. It was at this moment that Meng Kongchan’s gaze settled on the one figure that did not fit the Star and Moon Kingdoms of God’s entourage whatsoever. “Hmm?” He lifted his eyebrows slightly. “You are?” Sensing the Dreamless Divine Regent’s gaze, Pan Buwang rose to his feet and stepped forward. He said respectfully and calmly, “Junior Pan Buwang greets you, Dreamless Divine Regent.” Pan Buwang was the former Owl Butterfly Divine Son. Of course, Meng Kongchan recognized him. He looked at Wu Shenxing and Wu Shenyue with puzzlement, astonished that Pan Buwang was accompanying them. Before either Divine Regent could speak, a cold harrumph came from behind them. “Hmph. The Star and Moon Kingdoms of God must have a lot of free time on their hands as of late. Not only did you pick up our castaway, but you even wasted a slot to bring him to the Pure Land? Should I take this as an intentional slight against Owl Butterfly?” Darkness abruptly invaded the light, and the Pray Eternal Divine Regent, Pan Yusheng, arrived without a sound. His demonic pressure possessed no form, and yet it chilled the surrounding space and shook all nearby souls instantly. Wu Shenxing side-eyed the man and let out a light chuckle. “Pan Buwang may be a castaway to you, but he is an honored guest to us. How can we treat an honored guest’s request lightly?” Sha Xing was the one who requested that they bring Pan Buwang to the Pure Land. He was surprisingly insistent as well. In the end, Wu Shenxing accepted it. “Pray, Eternal Divine Regent.” As if worried that Star, Moon, and Owl Butterfly would clash against each other, Meng Kongchan interrupted, “Whatever mistake Buwang committed, he is ultimately your son and the former Owl Butterfly Divine Son. There is no need to act so estranged and ruthless to him, is there?” “Hmph. Sort out your own family matters before you stick your nose into mine, Meng Kongchan.” Pan Yusheng side-eyed Yun Che and said coldly, “Don’t lose your head just because you obtained a perfect God Bearer. Everyone knows that this so-called ‘Divine Son Yuan’ not only refuses to become a Divine Son, but he even rejects his birthname, ‘Meng Jianyuan’. He is only willing to address himself as ‘Yun Che.’” “A ‘Divine Son’ who refuses to become a Divine Son; a son who refuses to acknowledge his origin and surname. Heh. What a joke.” The insult was frank and terrible, and yet it failed to elicit the slightest anger on Meng Kongchan’s face. On the contrary, a proud smile appeared on the Divine Regent’s face as he declared, “You are exactly right, Pray Eternal Divine Regent. Yuan’er is such a person.” “During the one century he was lost, Yuan’er was rescued by his master and bestowed the name Yun Che. Although he has returned to Dreamweaver, he still hasn’t regained his memories. Naturally, he could not truly acknowledge his identity as Meng Jianyuan. More than that, he could not forget the life and name his master gave him.” Staring straight at Pan Yusheng, Meng Kongchan declared proudly, “Is there any man under the heavens who does not desire to be born as the son of a Divine Regent? To be known as a Divine Son? There is none. However, there is one man who, despite facing the world’s greatest temptations, refuses to commit any act that would violate the sanctity of this favor and bond even a little, and he is My Yuan’er! What a model of loyalty, integrity, and character! As expected of a man of Dreamweaver! As expected of my son!” His head held high, he cast an ashen-looking Pan Yusheng a sideways glance and declared, “I do not find anything wrong with Yuan’er’s words and actions. If anything, it is yours that confounds me greatly, Pray Eternal Divine Regent. Do you truly believe that a man is someone who chooses fame and fortune over kindness and loyalty without hesitation?” “Well said! Well fucking said! Hahahahahaha!” A boisterous laugh abruptly deafened everyone’s ears to the point where they felt like throwing up blood. At the same time, the Boundless Divine Regent Dian Rahu and the Heart Painter Divine Regent Hua Fuchen arrived shoulder-to-shoulder. Their combined divine pressure instantly dispelled the yin coldness unleashed by the Pray Eternal Divine Regent. “When did you become so eloquent, Old Meng?” Dian Rahu arrived next to Meng Kongchan and spoke loudly, “In the past, trying to get more than two sentences out of you was like trying to pry open a clam, but now... as expected, Jianyuan gave you a ton of confidence, didn’t he? Hahahaha!!” His volume was booming, his words were unrestrained, and his gestures were uncaring. He did not possess the bearing that was expected from a Divine Regent whatsoever. Despite having his shameful past exposed in public, Meng Kongchan did not appear embarrassed in the slightest. He admitted frankly, “But of course. They say that a father’s pride is his son, don't they? I find nothing wrong with mooching off my son’s successes.” The two Divine Regents exchanged grins with each other, and Pan Yusheng turned away with a heavy grunt through their nostrils. He said nothing more. As for Yun Che, he locked eyes with Hua Caili from a distance for an instant before looking away. The young woman was the same. Just like Yun Che, she had received repeated warnings to watch herself from both Hua Fuchen and Hua Qingying prior to coming to Eden’s Crown. The Divine Regents surrounded them, and the Abyssal Monarch sat above them. For their common future, they must maintain the highest level of restraint and reveal no openings whatsoever. Yun Che leisurely turned his head and “accidentally” met Dian Sansi’s eyes. His face was amiable, and his eyes were calm. However, Yun Che knew better than anyone that hidden behind those eyes was an inferno that was suppressed by sheer willpower and reason. The corners of Yun Che’s lips turned up slightly into a small smile. From an outsider’s perspective, smiling when one’s eyes met with another person was just common courtesy. However, Dian Sansi’s hands abruptly clenched under his sleeves. He knew far too well what kind of scorn and disdain were hidden behind Yun Che’s seemingly warm and harmless smile. Even now, his vile words and humiliating insults were stabbing away at his soul like a million poison needles. No matter how well he maintained his facade on the surface, the horrible humiliation stewing inside his soul refused to truly fade. It was at this moment that Dian Jiuzhi stepped forward of his own accord and smiled at Yun Che. He said, “Brother Yun, Father told me that you tried to pay me a visit earlier. Regretfully, I missed it. I learned much from our previous meeting at Dreamweaver, and I only wish we had gotten to know each other sooner.” “When this Pure Land Meet is over, I will visit you at Dreamweaver in ten days. When the time comes, I would like to converse with you to my heart’s content. Are you free during that time?” To be honest, Dian Jiuzhi’s response greatly exceeded Yun Che’s expectations. The Divine Son’s eyes especially... for some reason, he could not find any hatred anywhere. There was only honesty. Maybe the Divine Son was just that adept at hiding his hatred, maybe Yun Che’s ability to see through the heart was still lacking, or maybe... Yun Che swiftly put on a smile and said, “What are you saying, Brother Dian? Nothing matters more than your arrival. I look forward to it.” At the side, Dian Rahu laughed boisterously. “Tsk tsk, I wonder when these two started addressing each other as brothers?” Grabbing Meng Kongchan’s hand with his left hand and Hua Fuchen’s with his right, the big man declared with a flying beard and a slightly reddened complexion, “It seems that our comradeship is destined to never break. Even our heirs are either marriage partners or brothers. Good. Very good! Huohahahaha!” “But of course.” Hua Fuchen smiled. “We swore to be friends forever from a young age. No matter our identities or grievances, this is the one oath we will never forget.” Every word he spoke was true, but his and Meng Konchan’s smiles were not nearly as natural as Dian Rahu’s. Now, the five kingdoms of god were gathered in one place. Only the Eternal Night Kingdom of God was absent. However, as if having entered a silent agreement beforehand, not a single man or woman breathed a word about them. The crowd was still conversing with each other when Yun Che walked over to the smallest and most neglected group in the temple: the dragon race. “If I may dare ask, senior Dragon Lord, is there a woman named ‘Long Jiang’ among your people?” Chapter 2128 - Shenwu Yi, Sleepless Moon [1] Once again, the Dragon Lord was overwhelmed by the favor the Dreamweaver Divine Son was showing him. He did not expect to be talked to a second time. “Long Jiang?” The Dragon Lord’s astonishment only lasted a moment. He had an inkling what this was about, but instead of answering the question, he asked tentatively, “May I know why you are asking about her, Divine Son Yuan? Do you happen to be acquainted?” “I wouldn’t say that we are acquainted,” Yun Che said with an expression of honesty, “but before I returned to Dreamweaver, I was wandering the world alone. One time, this junior encountered a grave situation that might have cost me my life if not for the timely assistance of a woman named ‘Long Jiang’. She disappeared after saving my life.” “Since returning to Dreamweaver, this junior has been seeking to repay her kindness. However, the Xuanji Hall claimed that no such name was recorded within the dragon race. Since I was fortunate enough to make your acquaintance today, I thought that I might as well ask you about it.” “I see.” The Dragon Lord relaxed and let out a chuckle. “It is true that there is no woman named ‘Long Jiang’ among our ranks. However, there is a dragon woman who often calls herself ‘Long Jiang’ while wandering the world.” Yun Che put on an expression of urgency, “May I know what her real name is?” The Dragon Lord answered, “I’m sure you have already heard of her name, Divine Son Yuan. Her name... is Long Xi.” A suitable amount of astonishment flashed across Yun Che’s face. “Long Xi... the Scarfaced Dragon Girl?” At the same time, realization slowly took over his expression. “No wonder. I thought that her cultivation was unbelievably high considering her age. To think that...” He suddenly changed his tune and said in a puzzled voice, “This junior has long heard of the Scarfaced Dragon Girl. Not long ago, I heard from the Xuanji Hall that she has successfully entered the Divine Extinction Realm. Is this true?” “It is.” The Dragon Lord nodded with pride, though his expression rapidly waned after a moment. Yun Che exclaimed in admiration, “I heard that a dragon’s cultivation progresses much more slowly than humans. The Young Dragon Lord, for example, possesses the Ancestral Dragon’s bloodline and talent that towers over all of his clanspeople. Yet, it still took him five sexagenary years to become a Divine Master. Although he had been progressing swiftly as of late, he is still unable to reach the Divine Extinction Realm, isn’t he?” “On the other hand, Long Xi has become a Half-God even though she is less than two sexagenary years old. As far as the Xuanji Hall is aware, such a feat is unprecedented for the dragons.” “Considering how astonishing she is, why have you not brought her to this Pure Land Meet, Dragon Lord?” Behind the Dragon Lord, the expressions of Long Chixin and Long Qianxin grew complicated at the same time. The Dragon Lord let out a bitter chuckle as he explained, “You do not know this, Divine Son Yuan, but the dragon race has always been helmed by the Ancestral Dragons. Wangchu isn’t just my only son; he is also the last descendant of the Ancestral Dragons.” “Long Xi’s talent is indeed out of the world. I have never known anyone in the history of the dragon race who could compare to her. She even possessed the bloodline of the Ancestral Dragons.” “Alas, she is not of the clan. To this day, this old one is unable to figure out the origin of her Ancestral Dragon bloodline.” Eyes murky, the Dragon Lord said self-derisively, “Wangchu’s profound talent is passable in the dragon race, but compared to the Divine Son... Heh. Bringing him here would only embarrass all of us.” “This junior understands.” Yun Che nodded his head understandingly. “Since the Young Dragon Lord himself hasn’t shown up, it doesn’t make sense to bring another junior over.” “It shames me to admit it, but it's the truth.” The Dragon Lord let out another quiet sigh. The Dragon Lord had met countless people throughout his life. His feelings toward everything besides succession had faded into a faint impression long ago. However, not only was the young man before him a prestigious soul possessing a miraculous divine essence, but his countenance was warm and friendly, and his behavior was refined and cultured. His confidence was sublime, but not so much that it strayed to the territory of arrogance. He was famous for his righteousness and loyalty as well. As a result, the Dragon Lord could not help but get a good impression of him despite this being their first meeting. So, the Dragon Lord volunteered, “To tell you the truth, this old one tried multiple times to take Long Xi as my adopted daughter. However, she always turned me down. It was a kind of absolute rejection that leaves no doubt as to the truthfulness of her words either.” The old dragon remarked in self-derision, “Had she accepted my offer, then maybe I could have brought her to the Pure Land to meet with the Abyssal Monarch. Sigh.” “Why is that?” Yun Che wore a perfectly understandable look of doubt on his face. “Isn’t it the highest honor for any dragon woman to be your daughter?” “That is true for any other dragon woman, but Long Xi...” The Dragon Lord shook his head. “The girl is not just reclusive and eccentric to an extreme; she is so extraordinarily stubborn you have to wonder where it even comes from. She is unwilling to socialize with anyone, just as she cannot be bothered to put on pretenses or speak falsehoods, no matter who she is facing. This has been the case for decades, and I am no exception.” Yun Che asked seemingly casually, “If that is true, does that mean that she is rather disliked by her kind, and that her situation among the dragons is rather concerning?” “I wouldn’t go that far.” The Dragon Lord said with a smile, “Because she is reclusive and eccentric, I gave her a remote place of her own and forbade anyone from approaching her without her permission. If she isn’t out exploring, she is living inside this place. This has been the case for many years. Everyone in the dragon race is aware of her nature and has never provoked her out of their own accord.” “So, despite everything, we are able to co-exist in relative peace and harmony.” He wondered if it was his imagination, but the Dragon Lord felt that Yun Che’s aura had grown just a tad softer after hearing these words. Yun Che raised his hands and paid him a respectful salute. “Thank you for informing me about all this, senior Dragon Lord. Now that I know that Long Jiang is Long Xi, this junior would like to pay her a visit at the Ancestral Dragon Mountain Range one day. Is that okay?” The Dragon Lord hurriedly raised a hand. “You do not need to pay me such respect over such a small matter, Divine Son Yuan. The dragon race more than welcomes your presence, of course. You are free to visit us at any time. However, I must warn you that Long Xi may not... I would advise you to be mentally prepared, Divine Son Yuan.” “Of course. Whether she accepts my visit is her choice. This junior would not try to force a meeting, much less barge into her home,” Yun Che said with an expression of sincerity. This was a good point to ask about another thing that concerned him, so Yun Che said, “Speaking of which, during my brief interaction with Long Jiang—I mean, Long Xi, I discovered that she seems to be searching for something.” The Dragon Lord’s eyebrows twitched a little. “Would you happen to know what she is searching for, or if she has completed her search yet? If not, then this junior would like to lend her my full assistance and repay the favor I owe her.” The Dragon Lord did not claim that Yun Che was wrong. “Long Xi is painstakingly searching for certain objects, but this matter also involves some of her secrets. This old one may be the Dragon Lord, but I still would not like to divulge her secrets without permission. I beg your understanding and forgiveness, Divine Son Yuan.” “No, I’m the one who overstepped my bounds,” said Yun Che. Yun Che caught a glimpse of something strange behind the Dragon Lord’s eyes when he gave him his response. This aroused a little suspicion, but given how the line of questioning ended, he could not press the Dragon Lord for more answers. In any case, the information he probed out of the Dragon Lord was identical to what the Xuanji Hall had found out in the past couple of years. The Dragon Lord was rather fond of Long Xi and had tried to adopt her many times. The Dragon Lord allowed Long Xi to own a private territory where everyone was forbidden from approaching. The Dragon Lord never permitted anyone to harass or bully her either. So—at the Ancestral Dragon Mountain Range at least—he now knew that she was safe, sound, free enough to do what she wanted, and even protected by the Dragon Lord. Right now, Yun Che’s salute toward the Dragon Lord did not contain a speck of falsehood in it. Not only that, it was infused with respect and gratitude that came from the bottom of his heart. Suddenly, the surrounding air froze without warning. Even the surrounding volume had shrunk without anyone knowing. Yun Che subconsciously looked at the source of this unnatural change, and through the many layers of cloud and mist, he saw a group of shadows. They were rapidly approaching. The next moment, Meng Jianxi quickly went over to Yun Che’s side and muttered, “Eternal Night is coming. Brother Yuan, remember that there is no need to greet anyone from the Eternal Night Kingdom of God, not even the Lightless Divine Regent. In fact, it is better not to approach them at all.” “...” “... Brother Yuan?” After waiting for a moment but receiving no response, Meng Jianxi gave Yun Che a confused look and noticed that his eyes were dazed and unfocused for some reason. Noticing his own strange behavior, Yun Che met Meng Jianxi’s eyes and nodded. “I understand. It’s just... the Lightless Divine Regent’s divine pressure is quite strange, isn’t it?”Thump! Thump! Thump!! He could hear that his heartbeat was thunderous and intense.What’s going on? Am I reacting like this because I feel pressured by the Lightless Divine Regent’s appearance?No... I did not react like this even when the Abyssal Monarch was gazing down on me, or when I came face to face with the Chief Priest... He subconsciously placed a palm on his heart.What is this... What else is there in the Abyss that can make my soul tremble so...? Yun Che exhaled until his lungs were completely devoid of air, and still his heartbeat would not slow down. On the contrary, it was only growing more intense. “Of course, you are feeling weird. You can think of it as an aura of violence and hatred that rejects everything,” Meng Jianxi explained in a hushed voice. He did not notice Yun Che’s strange reaction. By the time the group looked, the shadow had already descended on top of Eden’s Crown. To say that they stood out like a sore thumb in this world of pure white would be an understatement. Like the cold spring of the Netherworld, their auras crashed down like a waterfall and chilled everyone. If Pray Eternal Divine Regent’s dark divine pressure was cold and oppressive, then this was a kind of icy chillness that seeped into one’s bones and gnawed at the very fabric of their souls. It felt like a viper was pressing its fangs against their throat. The juniors of every Kingdom of God shuddered violently despite themselves. The footsteps of the women of Eternal Night were perfectly silent, just as their expressions were utterly devoid of emotion. They looked like a group of wandering souls who were dressed in black. At the center of the entourage was still the black palanquin. Despite having set foot on Eden’s Crown, the Lightless Divine Regent remained seated inside her vehicle and refused to show her true face. This had been the case for many years, and the Abyssal Monarch had never taken offense. Even her fellow Divine Regents could not be bothered to say anything. This time, though, at nearly the same time, all six Divine Regents turned their heads and centered their gazes on the woman standing to the right side of the palanquin. It was the same for the experts of the Kingdoms of God. They were all wearing varying degrees of shock on their faces. The right side of the palanquin was reserved for the Divine Daughter of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God. Twenty years ago, the former Eternal Night Divine Daughter, Shenwu Qing, was discarded and replaced by the current Eternal Night Divine Daughter, Shenwu Yi. It was known to every man and woman living in a Kingdom of God. However, no one had seen the new Divine Daughter with their own eyes until today. Her profile was so low that no one was able to acquire much information about her, and the few rumors that did spread were so outlandish and ridiculous that no one could believe them. It was literally the kind of rumors that someone would dismiss as false at first glance. It was rumored that the former Eternal Night Divine Daughter, Shenwu Qing, was executed a couple of years ago. This rumor was most likely true. It was rumored that the Lightless Divine Regent had found Shenwu Yi within the Shenwu Clan. She was half a sexagenary years old at the time, but already a peak Divine Master... It was rumored that she took less than three years to overcome the threshold of Half-Step Divine Extinction Realm and become a half God... It was rumored that Shenwu Yi was currently a fifth-level Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner... It was rumored that the group of people who found Shenwu Yi at the beginning had all been silenced by Shenwu Yanye. The reason was unknown... One of the rumors regarding Shenwu Yi was confirmed to be true. When Shenwu Yanye was taking Shenwu Yi back to her divine hall, they had made contact with a certain Kingdom of God’s spy. They confirmed that she was definitely a peak Divine Master. However... it was absolutely impossible for her to be a peak Divine Master at half a sexagenary years old. It was even more outlandish for her to overcome the Half-Step Divine Extinction Realm threshold and four Half-God minor levels and reach the fifth level of the Divine Extinction Realm in just two decades. Not even the most audacious bullshitter would dare to bullshit like that. However... when the Eternal Night Divine Daughter Shenwu Yi, who had stowed away for twenty years, finally appeared before them... the profound aura she released... was that of a level six Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner! “Level six Divine Extinction Realm? How... How is this possible?” Meng Xuanji, Dream Lord of the Xuanji Hall and master of the biggest intelligence network of the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God, murmured in utter disbelief. “Wh... What!?” Meng Jianxi exclaimed in shock and disbelief. Not long ago, Meng Jianxi had mentioned the Eternal Night Divine Daughter during his regular reports of the Divine Sons and Divine Daughter to Yun Che. He had reported that her cultivation level had reached the fifth level of the Divine Extinction Realm with a chuckle. He could remember clearly how the corners of his mouth had twitched with mirth when he first received the intel, and his tone was anything but serious when he mentioned it to Yun Che. He even laughed in self-derision, saying that the intelligence of Xuanji Hall was reliable right until the moment it decided to tilt off a cliff. Not even in his wildest dreams did he imagine that the actual Eternal Night Divine Daughter was even more insane than the rumor, so exaggerated that one could not help but laugh at its ridiculousness. “Was the intel about her being a peak Divine Master at the age of half a sexagenary years... false?” He unconsciously murmured. It was the only reason he could think of to convince himself that he wasn’t dreaming. Meng Jianxi was so lost that he did not notice Yun Che’s bizarre silence and utterly unfocused eyes. The voices around him grew more and more distant, and the colors slowly faded, warped, and disappeared as he stared at the woman in a black dress. The entire world gradually turned into a chaotic, empty white, until all that was left was the eyes that shone into his soul sea through his own eyes. Those eyes were once the most dazzling color that invaded his life, the most painful and sorrowful tears of his soul, and the fantastical dream he forever sought... and the miracle and luxury he desired to no end. To think it would appear so suddenly and without warning in his eyes; in his life once more! But... those eyes were so cold and indifferent, they were like frozen lakes. When their eyes met, it failed to elicit even the slightest ripple, much less reflect his figure.It’s her...It’s not her... He felt himself losing control over his body more than ever before. He felt his consciousness wandering even more aimlessly and uncontrollably. “Yun Che... Yun Che! What’s wrong with you!? Calm your mind, still your breath, and focus your spirit! Your armor must be perfect, no matter when and where!” Li Suo’s voice rang again and again in her soul sea. Each cry was more urgent than the last, and each emotional expression was more explicit than the last. However, her attempt to jostle him awake failed to quell the stunning waves in his soul sea this time. She had never seen him in such a soul state before. It was like taking a stroll in the park and suddenly entering an all-too-outlandish, fantastical dream. His reason wished to stir him awake, but he both desired the dream and feared that it would pop like a bubble, throwing him back to cold, stark reality. “Hmph!!” Pan Yusheng concealed his astonishment behind his eyes and let out a quiet harrumph. “So this is the pleasant surprise you spent twenty years preparing for us. How kind of you.” “Pleasant surprise. Hah! As if you rotten men deserve such a thing!” A shrill, raspy response screeched out from the palanquin, and it was so terrible that the juniors grimaced in pain and nearly covered their ears. “Today is the day, Wuyi. Show them your face and tell them your name! Make sure that they will never forget it for as long as they live!” The Dreamless Divine Regent’s voice was practically a blight upon the living. Every sound wave was like a blade that sawed at the threads of their soul. This was doubly true for the juniors who were meeting her for the first time. For all their mental preparations, they still could not believe that a person’s voice could be this horrifying. “Yes, Mother.” While being showered by all sorts of gazes, Shenwu Yi slowly stepped toward the crowd. The moment she stopped in her tracks was the moment her black veil fell off her face without a sound. “This is the first time Shenwu Yi of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God greets the Divine Regents and all seniors of the Kingdom of God. I request guidance from all of you.” Gasps broke out all across the temple when the Eternal Night Divine Daughter’s true appearance was revealed to the ground—BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM———— Yun Che’s world exploded like a million stars shattering at the same time. The women of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God were only allowed to wear the simplest, plainest clothes. The only color they were allowed to wear was black, and they could not dress up, dye their hair, or wear even a speck of makeup. It was because the Lightless Divine Regent believed that colorful clothes, makeup, and whatnot were all ways to pleasure men. How could she possibly permit or tolerate them? Light shone through the clouds and spilled onto her pitch-black sleeves and skirt, like the sheen of a silver halo. Her attire was so plain, so simple. One might even call it crude and coarse. And yet, it had never looked more luxurious and beautiful. It was because its master was too beautiful. She was so beautiful that she looked like a celestial painting that was emanating the light of divinity; so stunning that even the most eccentric person would be enraptured by her beauty. The clean clouds gently brushed against the icy skin and delicate bones of her neck as if naturally drawn to her. Every inch of her skin seemed to shimmer slightly with a light that resembled moonlight, but clearer. Her eyes were as beautiful as the ground pieces of starlight, and yet they were so cold and indifferent that they resembled a lonely lunar reflection in a frozen pond. They did not ripple even a little when encountering the presence of a whole group of Divine Regents. She hadn’t applied any make-up, and yet her lips were a pair of light pink that even the most luxurious cosmetics could not hope to portray. Like a dot of crimson in a field of snow, one look was all it took to pierce the heart and soul. But just like her eyes, they were pressed in indifference and estrangement. “So... beautiful...” The whisper came from Hua Caili as she stared blankly at the woman. She was dressed in black, and yet she looked like an icy fair under the moon. She was as stunningly beautiful as she was untouchable. “To think... that such beauty could...” Sha Xing murmured. The lonely pride of a Divine Son demanded that he look away, and he tried. He really did. However, despite veins bulging near the corners of his eyes, he could not do it.Gulp!Gulp! The sounds of gulping happened here and there. Even the gazes of the Divine Regents went blank for an instant, much less the young juniors. Prior to today, they could not believe that there existed a woman whose beauty rivaled that of the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter. Even more unbelievable was the fact that she hailed from the Eternal Night Kingdom of God. With such an appearance, no one doubted that she could woo the entire Abyss even if she were a mundane woman with no cultivation whatsoever. Meng Kongchan looked away and said to Yun Che, “To think that this woman’s countenance is on par with Caili’s. It is truly stunning. Still, she is a woman of Eternal Night, so make sure you never...” Before he could finish, he suddenly sensed something and wheeled around to look at Yun Che. It was only now that he noticed that his son’s pupils had become so dilated they nearly encompassed his entire eye sockets, and his aura, soul aura, body... they were shaking so violently that they were nearly at the brink of collapse. He instantly appeared next to Yun Che and asked urgently, “Yuan’er? What’s wrong?” “...” With significant difficulty, Yun Che forced out a murky breath and grabbed Meng Kongchan’s wrist. “Senior, I need a barrier... ten breaths... twenty breaths will be enough.” Astonishment flickered in Meng Kongchan’s face, but he did not say anything. He simply flipped his palm and isolated Yun Che in a barrier woven from the power of a True God. It was completely isolated from everything. 1. Translator’s Note: Alternate Title: UGH AH AH AH AH AH ☜ Chapter 2129 - Abyssal Monarch (1) The appearance of a True God-level barrier immediately distracted everyone from the sight before them. At the same time, the Lightless Divine Regent let out a cold snort. “This is the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God’s so-called perfect God Bearer? How pathetic! Positively laughable!” Although the Lightless Divine Regent could not see, her spiritual perception was scarily sensitive. She could clearly capture everyone’s aura and every minute change in their facial features. To an outsider, the reason Meng Kongchan had suddenly created the barrier was that Yun Che could not endure the collective divine pressure that had gathered in this temple. He needed time and space to neutralize and adjust to the effects. Meng Kongchan had no goodwill to offer Shenwu Yanye, so he said in a heavy voice, “My son has only returned for a few years, and he is merely a fourth-level Divine Master. Naturally, the spiritual pressure in this place is difficult for him to endure.” “Speaking of which, I am surprised that a Divine Regent would stoop so low as to attack a junior she just met. What’s wrong? Did the appearance of a man with perfect divine essence touch a sore spot, Lightless Divine Regent?” Shenwu Yanye was hurt by her beloved and so came to loathe men like no other. This was something the entire world was aware of. However, only a handful of people dared to taunt her with it to her face... and Meng Kongchan was one of them. Shenwu Yanye did not get angry, however. Instead, she let out a low, spine-chilling chuckle. “A man with perfect divine essence, is it? That's impressive. You best guard him well and make sure that he does~ not~ die~ again, Dreamless Divine Regent.” “...” Meng Kongchan let out a silent hmph as if he could not bring himself to respond to such a taunt. In reality, a silver glint flickered coldly and murderously behind his eyes. Shenwu Yanye’s taunt had undoubtedly touched his reverse scale. Still, this was a verbal clash between Divine Regents. Although his disgust for Shenwu Yanye had grown by leaps and bounds after receiving such a taunt, it wasn’t enough to make him lose decorum. This was a problem. Despite being a Divine Regent, he had ultimately underestimated Shenwu Yanye. More accurately, he could not understand the terrifying madness born from the woman’s utterly warped psyche. Inside Shenwu Yi’s soul sea, the Lightless Divine Regent’s sound transmission resounded: “Seek out the right time and opportunity and cripple Meng Jianyuan.” She was more of a complete madwoman than a Divine Regent. “As you command.” The order was unwise to the point of being terrifying, and yet Shenwu Yi did not hesitate to say yes. Forget fear, her face hadn’t so much as twitched. It was as if cool indifference was the only expression she was capable of mustering. Meanwhile, Hua Caili could no longer maintain her mask of calmness. In just the span of a few breaths, she had repeatedly tried to get close to Meng Kongchan and ask how Yun Che was doing. “Relax.” Hua Fuchen consoled her for the umpteenth time, “With his Father by his side, it would take a miracle for him to experience any difficulties. Your worries are understandable but unnecessary.” Inside his head, he lamented the fact that his daughter was so lovesick that her mind turned to mush, and her heart became as frail as glass in all matters relating to Yun Che. However, he was also puzzled. He had experienced Yun Che’s supernatural strength and extraordinary fortitude before. Logically speaking, just this bit of pressure should not cause him to crumble... There was only emptiness inside the barrier. The only sound that could be heard was Yun Che’s heavy panting.Bang! His knees hit the floor heavily as he pressed a hand to his solar plexus. His whole body was shaking like a leaf, and his chest was heaving up and down like something was trying to burst out. “Heh... hehe... ha... sob... ugh...” His head was lowered, and disheveled strands of hair were covering up his twitching facial features. He seemed to be laughing, but the voices spilling out of his mouth could only be described as broken sobs. “Ah... haha... sss...” “The heavens... have mercy... you... are still alive...” “You really are... still alive...” Once again, fate had bestowed him a fantastical gift. Li Suo slowly appeared in front of Yun Che and watched him silently. From the moment he set foot in the Abyss, she had been sensing his every emotion. She had experienced his determination and loneliness, felt the immense pressure that accompanied every footstep and decision, and shouldered the burden of maintaining absolute rationality, caution, and cold, calculating awareness at all times. Right here and now, at the highest place of the Abyss, in the Eden’s Crown, where he absolutely could not allow himself to reveal even a hint of weakness or make a single mistake, he was letting his emotions run free without any control whatsoever. It was all because of that woman named Shenwu Yi... “Is she... Xia Qingyue?” Li Suo asked softly. Xia Qingyue had already fallen into the Abyss of Nothingness by the time she became attached to Yun Che through the Primordial Seal of Life and Death. Therefore, she had never seen Xia Qingyue before. However, she had heard the dialogue between Yun Che and the Ancestral Will and had walked with Yun Che through those moonlit memories, entangled with far too many emotions and karma. She might not truly understand the love between a man and a woman yet, but she knew exactly how much the three words “Xia Qingyue” meant to Yun Che. If she were to summarize that feeling, it would be absolute pain, absolute regret, absolute trauma, and absolute love. From the moment he learned that it was possible for another world to exist on the other side of the Abyss of Nothingness, the very first desire that sprouted in his heart was the potential survival of Xia Qingyue. From the moment he set foot in the Abyss, he had called himself Yun Che and did everything in his power to join the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God. Despite facing heavy resistance, he still insisted on using his actual name. One of the biggest reasons he did this was that he hoped Xia Qingyue was still alive and would hear his name. He had used the Xuanji Hall to look for her as well. However, the surname Xia did not exist in the entire Abyss, much less another woman whose countenance could rival that of the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter. After that, he stopped searching. Xia Qingyue had fallen into the Abyss four years earlier than him. In the Abyss, that was forty years due to the effects of the Black Tide of Time. If she were still alive, there was no way she would remain nameless. Her outstanding appearance, talent, and cultivation all ensured that. Even if she had changed her name from the start, locating her should not be difficult at all. Therefore, the answer had appeared in his subconscious long ago. However, Yun Che dared not touch the truth. He never brought it up after that. He forced himself to hold onto that sliver of hope so ephemeral that it was comparable to the long-faded trail of a shooting star. Then, the absurd fantasy he deep down believed to be shattered and dead appeared before his eyes out of nowhere, intact. “It’s her... it’s her...” He murmured in a shaky voice. It was both a response to Li Suo’s question and a confession to himself. “I will never... never mistake her for someone else... she’s still here... she’s still here...” “Thank goodness...” “Thank... goodness...” “I... finally... I...” He was incoherent at this point. “I can feel that you are very agitated right now.” Li Suo said softly, “Your soul is chaotic and warm. You feel so warm it’s as if you may burst into flames.” “All of the joy and satisfaction I picked up from you in the past couple of years combined may still not compare to what you’re feeling right now.” “So...” Li Suo reached out and tapped Yun Che’s shuddering forehead with a pale fingertip that was glowing white. “Now more than ever, you must not fail in your mission, am I right?” “If you fail, your homeland will face an existential crisis, and even this beautiful dream will pop like a bubble.” Her light soothed Yun Che’s soul and rapidly quelled the stunning waves raging inside Yun Che’s soul sea. One breath... two breaths... three breaths... Soon, his chest stopped heaving, and his breathing slowed. The tremors wracking his body gradually disappeared as well. There was still mist in his eyes when Yun Che’s eyes slowly lifted his head. However, they disappeared the next instant, and the pair of forever wakeful eyes finally reentered Li Suo’s view. “Mm. Of course,” Yun Che said with a smile. It was the first smile he ever wore that wasn’t mixed with some other emotion since he entered the Abyss. He was more fragile than he thought, as the tears he had just vaporized reappeared once more. He had no choice but to dispel them again. Confirming that Yun Che was no longer in a state of disarray, Li Suo stopped worrying and disappeared without a trace. She left behind only two words, “Be safe.” Yun Che closed his eyes for a moment. When he reopened them, he cut his alone time short and touched the barrier with his palm. The barrier shattered with a soft ping, and Yun Che reappeared in everyone’s vision looking just as handsome and refined as he was before. He was now wearing a faint, warm, and harmless smile, and his composure was as perfect as it was sublime. The “awkwardness” he displayed earlier was nowhere to be found. Yun Che’s appearance caused Meng Kongchan to relax, and he asked with a smile, “How do you feel?” “Better than ever,” Yun Che replied smilingly. His words were chosen deliberately, though they could describe even one-ten-thousandth of the true joy that filled his soul right now. “Mm.” Meng Kongchan nodded. “If you feel further discomfort, then do not hesitate to tell me. There is no need to force yourself to endure, much less care about what other people think.” “Do not worry, senior.” Yun Che beamed. “With you by my side, what is there to endure?” “Hahahaha!” Meng Kongchan guffawed loudly. He clearly enjoyed Yun Che’s answer. He also had a vague feeling that Yun Che’s soul state had changed ever so slightly after leaving the barrier. It was as if some sort of switch that was shut tight this entire time had suddenly been flung open in full. On the other side, Pan Buzhuo was staring blankly at Shenwu Yi when, suddenly, he shivered and turned his head backward. His eyes immediately met Pan Yusheng’s cold gaze. “Buzhuo,” Pan Yusheng said with a dark expression, “she is a woman of Eternal Night. Do not forget the lesson my unfilial son learned the hard way!” Pan Buzhuo swiftly gathered his wits and said seriously, “That woman’s countenance is outstanding beyond imagination. This child admits that he was caught off guard when he first saw it. However, rest assured that this child is aware of her demonic nature. She can be ten times prettier, and this child will still avoid her at all costs!” Pan Yusheng watched him for a bit before finally nodding in satisfaction. “As long as you know.” Meanwhile, Yun Che idly scanned his surroundings, feeling the world was much more colorful and bright than usual. The pure clouds and white mist no longer felt oppressive. No, it now felt like a celestial paradise that lifted the spirits and soothed the heart. He first gave Hua Caili a comforting look. Then, his eyes subconsciously strayed toward Shewu Yi as if drawn by an uncontrollable, invisible string. Every time he reunited with her, she would undergo a slightly different change. It wasn’t until later that he learned that it was due to the gradual awakening of the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass and the growth and fusion with the Nine Profound Exquisite Body. Once again, they had reunited, and once again she had changed. Her eyes and her body were now dimly glowing with a faint divine light that had not existed before. It was like a moon was permanently casting a beam of moonlight on her. She had become so beautiful. The moon god that once visited his dreams when he was a youngster could not hope to compare to even a hair on her person. Looking back, his sixteen-year-old self had always needed to hide the sense of inferiority he couldn’t quite dispel completely with a facade of nonchalance. After that, he worked hard to prove that he was worthy of being her husband as well... If the youngster he once was faced the current her, he wasn’t sure whether he could even muster the courage to look her in the eye. Sensing the gaze of a man, Shenwu Yi abruptly turned in his direction and stabbed Yun Che’s eyes with a gaze that could only be described as a beautiful, glassy spike of coldness and heartlessness. It was a look that could chill anyone to the core. And yet, Yun Che did not avoid her gaze. He even curled his lips into a small smile. “Is that really her?” It was at this moment that Li Suo’s voice rang inside his soul sea. She did not wish to break his dream, but she still chose to voice her doubts. “There is no emotion or sense of familiarity in her gaze whatsoever. Her eyes exist in a temperature that is devoid of any warmth.” “Even you nearly lost control of your emotions when she suddenly appeared before your eyes. I cannot believe that she can conceal her emotions so perfectly after reuniting with you so suddenly and without warning.” “Mm. You are right. But... that is her. My soul may break until only a fragment is left, and I still will not forget her or mistake her for someone else.” He did not immediately deny her doubt. Instead, he explained in an even tone, “Right now, she is called Shenwu Yi (Without Memories). She probably lost her memories as the rumors claim.” One of the rumors regarding the current Eternal Night Divine Daughter was that she had lost all her memories prior to becoming a Divine Daughter. It was possible that she had suffered some sort of injury and lost her memories as a result. However, even more people believed that the Lightless Divine Regent had stripped her of all memories and traces of her past to create a flawless Divine Daughter. Yun Che recalled the words the Ancestral Will had said before she disappeared, “Now that the ‘Artifact of Fate’ is deceased, the Chain of Fate between the two of you has disappeared as well. There is no longer any reason for me to remain in this world. Starting today, I will return to my slumber in order to recover my lost origin power as soon as possible.” She was born to be an Artifact of Fate. After the Chain of Fate between him and her had broken, the reason for her creation and the meaning of her existence had all come to an end as well. In that case, was it possible that the life she led as the “Artifact of Fate” had disappeared alongside the completion of her “mission”? Was it possible that, after her past and memories were completely severed, she was restored as a wholly independent and free lifeform?No... it doesn’t matter... it doesn’t matter what the truth is or whether or not you still remember... So long as you still exist, so long as you are still alive, then it is already the best outcome. “The time doesn’t seem to fully match either.” Li Suo was still voicing her doubts. When it came to Shenwu Yi, she was clearly the more rational one between the two of them. “Xia Qingyue entered the Abyss four years earlier than you. Due to the effects of the Black Tide of Time, this means that forty years have passed since she entered the Abyss.” “However, Shenwu Yi became the Eternal Night Divine Daughter two decades ago.” “Therefore, she should be one sexagenary year when she became the Eternal Night Divine Daughter, not a half.” “Shenwu Yi was a peak Divine Master twenty years ago. Her cultivation is identical to Xia Qingyue’s when she fell into the Abyss, at least. However, Xia Qingyue is the owner of the Nine Profound Exquisite Body. She does not have bottlenecks in her cultivation. There is no way she hasn’t broken through during the twenty years she lived in the Abyss...” Li Suo did not want to agitate Yun Che, so she kept her words as slow and gentle as possible. But at the same time, she understood that there was no way Yun Che had not realized these inconsistencies already. They were so glaringly obvious that even she noticed them after all. “Maybe... the rumors were wrong. Her age and cultivation when she became the Eternal Night Divine Daughter could be something else.” Yun Che looked away from Shenwu Yi after a suitable time. He was still smiling, though. “I am aware of all of your concerns, but... it doesn’t matter at all.” “The fact that she is still alive is better than everything... One day in the future, she can tell me herself what happened to her during those twenty blank years... one day.” [1] 1. Translator’s Note: You wanna know what I think now? I think Xia Qingyue is dead. I think Shenwu Yi is her daughter. I think Xia Qingyue gave Shenwu Yi everything prior to her death. No wonder Mars said that Xia Qingyue’s life is a tragedy. ☜ Chapter 2130 - Abyssal Monarch (2) “Although the Eternal Night Divine Daughter is at the sixth level of the Divine Extinction Realm, we may not need to be too shocked or concerned about it, BrotherYuan. It’s highly possible that she is just a rotten, empty shell,” Meng Jianxi went over to Yun Che’s side and said in a low voice. Yun Che cast him a sideways glance. “What do you mean?” Meng Jianxi said seriously, “I took some time to compile some of the intel related to the Eternal Night Kingdom of God just now and noticed something. In recent years, they have been scouring and trading for abyssal crystals containing massive quantities of energy, but they are extremely difficult to control.” “The energy contained within these types of abyssal crystals is so volatile that it’s nigh impossible to use them to accelerate one’s cultivation. Instead, they are normally used to forge energy and offensive-type profound formations.” “I had wondered why the Eternal Night Kingdom of God was scouring these abyssal crystals, and now...” His gaze shifted toward the Eternal Night Kingdom of God’s group. “The Lightless Divine Regent is an unusually crazy woman. Father once said that the reason she became a Divine Regent wasn’t to lead the Eternal Night Kingdom of God, but to vent her hatred upon all men under the heavens... To this end, she could do anything; sacrifice anyone.” “Therefore...” At this point, Yun Che more or less figured out what he was trying to say. “You’re saying...” “Overaccelerated growth leads to the end of potential.” Meng Jianxi narrowed his eyes slightly and said in a ridiculing voice, “This was recorded in the Xuanji Hall. Right after Shenwu Yanye became a Divine Regent, she invented a profound cultivation formation that could stimulate one’s profound veins and profound entrances and forcefully increase one’s cultivation in just a short time.” “However, this profound formation is violent to the point of cruelty. It does not just go against the laws of the profound way; it goes against the natural order itself. Although it can rapidly increase one’s cultivation in just a short time, it deals permanent damage to the profound veins and ruins the profound practitioner’s lifespan and future. That is why the Lightless Divine Regent abandoned the profound formation.” “It is mentioned in the records that the core necessary to empower the profound formation was none other than all types of volatile abyssal crystals.” “I understand.” Yun Che nodded and drew his own conclusions. “To put on a show of force and prove that her Divine Daughter—in terms of cultivation at least—is superior to all Divine Sons, she went so far as to reactivate the profound formation and forcefully increase Shenwu Yi’s cultivation to this extent... All things considered, your theory is most likely true.” To any Kingdom of God, a Divine Son or Daughter was a priceless jewel. They would not want them to suffer even the slightest bit of damage. However, the Lightless Divine Regent was a madwoman who could resort to unimaginable means just to one-up the Divine Sons and step on the faces of the men of the other Kingdoms of God. This was absolutely the kind of atrocity she could commit. However, the words that came out of Yun Che’s mouth sounded perfectly calm and collected. There wasn’t a speck of worry in his heart either. “Yes, I believe it to be the truth.” Meng Jianxi nodded slowly. “Unless the information regarding Shenwu Yi’s beginning was completely false... I simply cannot imagine any other possibility.” Forget this era, there has never been a person in the entire history of the Six Kingdoms of God who grew from a peak Divine Master to a sixth-level Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner in just two decades. Yun Che echoed in agreement. “There is common sense, and then there’s fundamental laws of the world.”Common sense and fundamental laws apply to most people... but my Qingyue... was created by the Ancestral God herself, just like the Creation Gods and the Devil Emperors. She was born from the most primal and fundamental power of nothing. Her heart resembles glazed glass, and her vessel is uniquely exquisite and profound. She exists beyond common sense and fundamental laws. It was at this moment that a cool breeze washed through the area and eliminated all of the noise. The world suddenly became impossibly silent; so silent that Yun Che could hear his heartbeat once more. Unlike the first time, though, it was unusually calm and even. An unspeakable feeling enveloped his spiritual senses. It was soft and light, existing yet not existing. It reminded Yun Che of the swelling water of a clear spring; the faint mist that accompanied the first glimmer of dawn. As ephemeral as the thing was, it silenced everyone instantly. Their gestures unconsciously grew reserved and respectful, and their thoughts settled into tranquility. It was as if any unusual noise, movement, or even thought was an unforgivable act of transgression and blasphemy. Everyone looked in the same direction as if their eyes were drawn by an invisible force. The pure white clouds peeled off layer by layer, and a white silhouette slowly approached... Suddenly, Yun Che’s vision blurred as if his subconscious had turned off for an instant. When it cleared, the silhouette was already standing clearly and perfectly before all of them. His pupils contracted slightly, and his gaze was glued to the silhouette for a very, very long time. The Divine Regents and the Dragon Lord all stood up straight. Even the Lightless Divine Regent in her palanquin had obediently risen to her feet. Then, they and their entourages all bowed to the white silhouette and said in greeting, “We greet you, Abyssal Monarch.” The greeting was simple, and the salute was simpler. There was no welcoming ceremony, no flamboyant display of courtesy, and definitely no heaven-shaking sounds or world-illuminating lights. This was all the etiquette one needed to perform when having an audience with the supreme Abyssal Monarch—a simple bow. Even the weakest king in the smallest nation of the poorest Land of the Living would demand ostentation far greater than this. The Abyssal Monarch wasn’t the highest ruler of the Abyss; he was the person who had created this world and the supreme existence all who lived in the Abyss looked up to. To the denizens of the Abyss, his existence was like the light that filled the sky. He was the symbol of ultimate power, status, influence, and dignity. Those who personally met the Abyssal Monarch would know that he never cared for complex rites or carried himself with any imperial bearing whatsoever. He did not need Abyssal Knights or Pure Land Divine Guards to open a way for him. He did not even need anyone to announce his arrival. He simply showed up. In Yun Che’s vision, the Abyssal Monarch was dressed in a plain white robe. It was spotlessly clean and white as snow. He did not wear any pendants. His belt was spotlessly white just like his robe, and his wide sleeves hung naturally below his waist like clouds. It was such a plain and pure outfit that one could not believe that it was the clothes of a supreme monarch. A gust of faint mist approached the man without any fear whatsoever and lingered longingly in front of him. It was only then that it reluctantly left his side and revealed a handsome countenance that looked like it had been carved out of mutton fat jade. His facial features were sculpted with grace and refinement that even a girl could not hope to possess, and his eyebrow arches resembled distant mountains with a spot of umber-black dye. His long eyelashes cast faint shadows beneath his eyes, and yet he did not exude the authority or prestige of a supreme monarch whatsoever.It’s him... As expected, it’s him... This was the first time Yun Che met the Abyssal Monarch, but this was not the first time he saw him. Long before this, Ni Xuan’s memory fragments already told him who the Abyssal Monarch was and entrusted him with a duty the Heretic God never vocalized. This was just confirmation and the utter annihilation of all other vague and unlikely possibilities. Right now, His name—the Abyssal Monarch’s name—was stirring up violent, chaotic waves inside Yun Che’s soul sea. He was the son of the Chief of the Four Creation Gods, the Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor Mo E. He was the Heaven Punishing Crown Prince of the ancient god race. He was the sinner whom Mo E had personally buried in the Abyss of Nothingness. He was the True God who should have long perished to nothingness... Mo Su! His appearance looked almost identical to the one he saw in Ni Xuan’s memories. Even after countless years had passed, even though the memory fragments were faint and weak, he had left an unforgettable and indistinct mark in Ni Xuan’s soul fragment. After all, this name and appearance embodied a kind of regret and guilt that Ni Xuan could not let go of right to the moment he died. That said, the man’s appearance was the only thing that remained mostly unchanged. Everything else about him was different. Right now, his eyes were clear and bright like pools of stars. They also seemed warm enough to contain all the stars in the universe. However, the confusion, yearning, and soul ripples that used to plague him were nowhere to be found. Besides that, Yun Che vaguely sensed a faint mist shrouding his eyes. It seemed to be isolating something. His emotions? His thoughts? Everything? He was Mo Su, the Heaven Punishing Crown Prince. No one in the entire God Realm knew that he had not perished, even though he was buried in the Abyss of Nothingness by his own Father during the ancient era, before the titanic war between gods and devils broke out. He even survived and created the world that would be known as the Abyss. It was thanks to him that the Abyss and the Six Kingdoms of God existed. It was also because of him that his original universe was facing an existential crisis. “At ease,” the Abyssal Monarch said lightly. His voice resembled a warm sun that tickled the snow. It was so warm and gentle that one could not help but relax their breathing. The crowd did as he said and straightened their backs. Then, they raised their heads slightly to look up to the Abyssal Monarch. “Do you remember him, Li Suo?” Yun Che calmed his emotions and asked softly in his soul sea. Li Suo quickly responded, “He is Mo Su, the Heaven Punishing Crown Prince.” “How much about him do you still remember?” A short silence later, she answered, “Only his name and appearance. Everything else I know about him came from you.” “He is Mo E’s son, heir of the Creation Gods. In ancient times, he was the greatest True God of them all. In this day and age, his body, his strength, his soul, his knowledge and experience... everything about him surpasses what the current plane possesses. Are you sure... he is someone you can defeat?” “...” Yun Che did not answer her. It wasn’t until after the crowd readjusted their postures that they realized the Abyssal Monarch had not come alone. Three figures were flanking him. The foremost figure boasted a divine appearance that oppressed the soul and a pressure that resembled the heavens. It was the Chief Priest Yun Che encountered a while ago. Behind him was another man whose appearance and bearing resembled the Chief Priest greatly. Yun Che did not even need to ask to know that he was the Chief Priest’s Divine Attendant and the head of the Four Divine Attendants of the Pure Land, Dong Huang. Su Shang, High Priest Ling Xian’s Divine Attendant, was elegant and refined like water. Yuan Ying, High Priest Liu Xiao’s Divine Attendant, was cheerful and undisciplined. The Divine Attendants’ personality all resembled their master, and the Chief Priest’s Divine Attendant was no different. Cold, indifferent pressure resided in his eyes. It seemed capable of freezing one’s soul and breaking one's bones apart. Standing on the other side was a man in silver armor. Not even the pure clouds could conceal its cold, sharp radiance. His lips were tightly pursed, and his facial lines looked like the sharp edge of a sword. His eyes especially looked as sharp as a cold star. The man carried a silver heavy sword behind his back. His whole being seemed to be enveloped in a sheen of silver light, and he only needed an instant to unleash supernova levels of divine power. Yun Che immediately recalled someone. He was the highest-ranking abyssal knight on the abyssal knight ranking and the chief commander of all Abyssal Knights in the Pure Land... Dugu Zhuyuan! The Abyssal Monarch was floating in the air and wearing an expression that resembled warm jade. He was looking ahead, and yet every person felt as if the Abyssal Monarch was staring directly at them. Suddenly, Yun Che’s eyes shivered. The Abyssal Monarch raised his left arm slightly, and it was at that moment that Yun Che’s vision caught a flash of piercing black. It was a jade bracelet of indistinguishable material. It was as dark as night, yet dim and lightless. The moment Yun Che saw the bracelet, both his heart and soulstring twitched violently. Inside his profound veins, an unnatural ripple had appeared in the Eternal Calamity of Darkness as well. It only lasted an instant though. Everything returned to normal after that. It was so brief it was like an imagination. Chapter 2131 - Rebirth Is Close At Hand “The last time this lone one summoned you for a meeting was less than a decade ago, Divine Regents. Now that we are gathered once more, I’m sure you already know the reason.” His voice was soft, but it seemed to come from the deepest part of one’s soul. It was also impossibly clear to the point where it resembled an etching on one’s heart and soul, never to be forgotten. He was standing right in front of them, and yet it felt as if he really existed in an ancient painting, the sky beyond the highest clouds, the end of a dream... It was as if he were an existence everyone recognized as an “untouchable existence” from the bottom of their souls. Perhaps this was what Li Suo had meant. In this era, he truly was an existence who stood above all planes in every sense of the word; a true god who was unlike the Divine Regents, who inherited their divine powers. If one must use words to describe this ephemeral feeling of untouchability, then it would be something like the “face of god” and “divinity”. All living beings knew these concepts, but could not actually perceive them. "As you are all aware, we have finally opened a spatial passage to the 'Eternal Pure Land' during the previous Ritual of Void Breaching, also the thirty thousand and eleventh attempt containing the history, power, and will of the Abyss." "Our pioneers have successfully entered the Eternal Pure Land through this thirty thousand and eleventh spatial passage." Although they already knew about this, the infinitesimally small possibility that it was just a fabricated rumor was eliminated when the words came out of the Abyssal Monarch’s own mouth. For a time, tidal waves of emotions were crashing in everyone’s heart, be it the highest Divine Regents or the lowest profound practitioners. They knew very well what this meant. It meant a dramatic change in the course of fate and an eternal break from the nightmare that was abyssal dust. It meant that their one million years of effort had finally borne fruit. This was especially true for the Dragon Lord. His ancient features were trembling, his lips were opening and closing unconsciously, and his old eyes were so blurry that he almost couldn’t see anything. However, he was still in the presence of the Abyssal Monarch. They all were. No matter how agitated they felt, not one person lost control of their emotions or reacted in an unsightly manner. The only visible change that could be observed was their eyes; all of them blazing like an inferno. The Abyssal Monarch’s holy decree settled the dust and announced an actual turning point and rebirth for the Abyss. What this “rebirth” would mean to the “Eternal Pure Land”... no one cared. No one even thought about it. No one, except for the one true monarch of the “Eternal Pure Land”; the man everyone saw, but no one recognized. “Thirty thousand and eleven attempts, countless generations of contribution and effort from the Kingdoms of God, and the sacrifices of one hundred ninety-six thousand and fifty-seven pioneers. Without them, we could not have excavated the one passage that would lead to rebirth.” The Abyssal Monarch raised his palm; his slightly stretched fingers looked like they encompassed the entire Abyss. “This honor and reciprocation, this ray of dawn that hails from the ‘Eternal Pure Land’, does not just illuminate the Pure Land. It also illuminates all of you.” Everyone’s heartbeat grew louder and louder. Dian Rahu, the Divine Regent who was least adept at controlling his emotions, lost his cool first and stepped forward with a bow. He asked, “If I may be so bold, Your Majesty, does this mean that we will be able to set foot on the ‘Eternal Pure Land’ during the next Ritual of Void Breaching?” The Abyssal Monarch replied with a smile, “Naturally.” It was just one word, but it was an unquestionable, undeniable truth. Dian Rahu asked another question, “In that case... how many of us can enter the spatial passage when it opens once more?” Everyone tensed up and stared at the Abyssal Monarch nervously. This was, without a doubt, the question they were most concerned about. The Abyssal Monarch’s gaze turned, and everyone felt a ray of divine light that seemed to hail from the beyond brushing gently against their body and soul. “Each Kingdom of God may send up to one thousand people. As for the dragons, they may send a hundred people.” He did not mention how many the Pure Land would be sending. He did not need to. Dian Rahu abruptly lifted his head. He looked like he couldn’t believe his ears. When the shock passed, uncontrollable joy flooded into everyone’s expression. Even the Divine Regents were clearly wearing unnatural expressions. One thousand people... was a terribly small number considering how many people the Kingdoms of God harbored. However, it was a number that far exceeded their expectations. Every fifty years, the Kingdoms of God and the dragons would come together to execute the Ritual of Void Breaching. The spatial passage they excavated was usually so small that it could only fit a handful of people. However, the previous attempts—all thirty thousand and eleven of them—were also just probing attempts. Naturally, they hadn’t gone all out. Now that the path had been confirmed, they could, of course, create a spatial passage much bigger than before. Still, they hadn’t expected to be able to bring so many people. For this Pure Land Meet, each Kingdom of God was allowed to bring a hundred people to the Pure Land. They had thought that this was a hint and an early notice. They had thought that this was the Pure Land’s way of saying that they could dispatch one hundred people to the Eternal Pure Land. For once, though, the truth turned out to be far more pleasant than their expectation. To be fair, a quota of one thousand people was fairly small. However, it was definitely enough to fit the nucleus of a Kingdom of God. So long as their nucleus existed, the Kingdom of God would be able to settle, take root, and propagate without trouble in the Eternal Pure Land. The Ritual of Void Breaching took place once every fifty years. This meant that each Kingdom of God could transport one thousand people to the Eternal Pure Land every fifty years. Even if the Ritual of Void Breaching were carried out indefinitely, they could only move twenty thousand people to the Eternal Pure Land in a thousand years, or two hundred thousand people in ten thousand years. This wasn’t important. After all, no matter the plane of existence or status quo, the weak could always be sacrificed and discarded without thought, even if the weak were the ones who had a greater need for the “Eternal Pure Land” compared to the strong, who possessed at least some measure of resistance against abyssal dust.Thump! The Dragon Lord dropped to his knees heavily, while tears streamed down his ancient face like a waterfall. “On behalf of everyone in the dragon race, Long Zhiming[1] thank you for granting us a new lease in life, Your Majesty!” Abyssal dust ate away at Beasts far faster than humans. If they could travel—or more accurately, return to the “Eternal Pure Land” their ancestors once resided in, then the dragon race might not need to wallow in despair in the face of the threat of extinction once more. In the far future, they could even become the sovereign of all races once more. The “Eternal Pure Land” carried far more meaning to the dragons than the humans. Naturally, his agitation was many, many times more than the Six Kingdoms of God as well. “You do not need to act this way, Dragon Lord.” The Abyssal Monarch smiled faintly. “Without the dragon race, today’s fruit could not have happened. There is no need to thank this lone one.” A million thoughts and emotions were racing inside Yun Che’s head when suddenly, he felt a warmth on his shoulder. It was Meng Kongchan grasping his shoulder lightly while staring ahead. He said quietly, “How lucky I am to benefit from the blessings of my ancestors, and to be succeeded by you, Yuan’er. When I send you to the Eternal Pure Land... this father will have no regrets left in this life.” “...” Yun Che did not look at him. Instead, he said in a quiet voice, “I dare not speak of the future lightly, but... if I can set foot on the Eternal Pure Land safely, then I will do everything in my power to protect all that is dear to me... no matter the toll on my body or soul.” Meng Kongchan tapped Yun Che once on the shoulder and broke into a smile. “Well said. Even without executing my soul arts, I can tell just how much you mean what you say. I believe in you, Yuan’er. Be it the Abyss or the Eternal Pure Land, this father believes that everything will go as you wish.” “It will.” Yun Che smiled back. In a corner far behind the Star and Moon Kingdom of God’s entourage, Pan Buwang slowly lifted his head. Everyone else looked excited and overjoyed, but not him. There wasn’t even a hint of light in his eyes.The Eternal Pure Land, huh... heh...Mother... Wuqing...A world without the two of you is just another hopeless abyss of death, no matter how dazzling or wonderful it is...Pan Buzhuo, Shenwu Yi...This body of mine lives for vengeance only... and I will not let you have your wish!Before you set foot in the “Eternal Pure Land” of your dreams, I will do everything in my power to drag you into a deeper, more painful, and more despairing abyss of death than the one I’m in! No one noticed this, but the Chief Priest chose this moment to turn his head slightly and stare at the Abyssal Monarch’s back. The light in his eyes did not change, so no one could possibly capture or understand the ripple of determination and karma lasting several million years concealed within them. “This lone one has another thing to announce.” The Abyssal Monarch spoke up, and all of the noise vanished into nothing once more. “This time, we will be creating a spatial passage big enough to move thousands of people using the Void Breaching Great Formation. Naturally, the energy necessary to fuel the Ritual of Void Breaching will be far greater than before. The Kingdoms of God will need to contribute their resources, and the Divine Regents their power as much as possible.” Hua Fuchen replied, “This is a boon of fate that will benefit us and all who come after us for many thousand autumns. Naturally, we will spare no effort to see it done.” “That’s right.” Meng Kongchan followed next, “Just give us the word, and we will surrender everything we have, Your Majesty.” The rest of the Divine Regents said more or less the same thing. They were a united front when it came to the “Eternal Pure Land”. No one, be it the Kingdoms of God or the dragon race, would even think of skimping. “There is no need to go that far.” The Abyssal Monarch seemed to be smiling, but it also looked like his face hadn’t changed a bit since the beginning. “In order to pave the way to the ‘Eternal Pure Land’ and to recreate the base of the Ritual of Void Breaching, I will require the power of all Divine Regents.” “Boundless End Divine Regent of Boundless, Heart Painter Divine Regent of Heaven Breaker, Dreamless Divine Regent of Dreamweaver, Heavenly Star Divine Regent and Sky Moon Divine Regent of Star and Moon, Lightless Divine Regent of Eternal Night, Pray Eternal Divine Regent of Owl Butterfly, and Long Zhiming, Lord of Ancestral Dragons.” His gaze swept across each and every person as he addressed the names of the seven Divine Regents and the Dragon Lord. “Ten years from today, you will all gather here and recreate the Void Breaching Great Formation. Your attendance is mandatory.” His words were exactly the same as before, light and completely devoid of presence or pressure. Most of what he said was an announcement and a confession... but the last four words, “Your attendance is mandatory,” were unquestionably the order of a monarch. It must not be disobeyed! The seven Divine Regents and the Dragon Lord straightened their expressions and received the command with immeasurable reverence. “As you command, Your Majesty!” Ten years from today... recreate the Void Breaching Great Formation... Yun Che’s expression did not change, but he engraved these words into his heart. According to the memories Chi Wuyao stole from Mo Beichen, the anomalous mirror the Abyssal Monarch used to create a spatial passage would fall into slumber every time it was used. It could only recover its strength fifty years later. Besides that, the anomalous mirror was most likely the spatial artifact that had fallen into the Abyss together with the daughter of the Original Nether Devil Emperor, the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror. It was mentioned in Ni Xuan’s memory fragment. The names “Ritual of Void Breaching” and “Void Breaching Great Formation” were all excellent circumstantial evidence that supported this theory. If the information he received and his guesses were accurate, then the next time the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror awakened was over forty years later. So... why was the recreation happening in a decade? Of course, the Abyssal Monarch was not necessarily planning to create a spatial passage ten years later. He would have just said it outright if that was the case. This was just to recreate the base of the formation... right? “Heart Painter Divine Regent,” the Abyssal Monarch’s warm words floated across Eden’s Crown once more. “For the past ten thousand years, you have repeatedly damaged yourself in order to rescue Caili. As a result, you have lost over two hundred sexagenary years of lifespan, and your divine power is rejecting your physical body more and more. Only you know how much pain it causes.” “... !” Hua Caili abruptly turned to look at her father, face turning deathly pale in an instant. “Father! Y... You...” She knew that her Father endured a tremendous amount of pain every time he saved her during the ten thousand years she spent in the “Cradle”. However, she never knew—nor did anyone tell her—that acute pain wasn’t the only thing that tormented him. He had also lost a tremendous amount of lifespan and faced mind-numbing torture that could happen at any moment as well. Hua Fuchen simply gave his daughter a gentle smile and, with his eyes, told her he was safe and well. “You will rest and recuperate in the coming ten years. You will not use your divine power during this time.” Hua Fuchen bowed to the Abyssal Monarch and replied, “As you command. Fuchen promises to be in the best condition ten years from now.” The Abyssal Monarch shifted his gaze slightly. “Eternal Night Divine Regent, the divine power you bear has done great damage to both your body and soul. Already, you have lost seventy percent of your lifespan. In your case, the remedy to save yourself is to pass down your divine power to another as soon as possible.” “If you pass down your divine power now, you will still have two hundred sexagenary years to live. Your eyesight may recover as well. But if you continue to cling to your divine power, every day could be your last in merely forty sexagenary years.” Behind the black curtain, Lightless Divine Regent answered in her raspy voice, “Shenwu thank you for your guidance, Your Majesty. Shenwu knows what to do.” Despite what she said, everyone knew that Shenwu Yanye was the last person to pass down her divine power to an heir, no matter the pain she suffered or the lifespan she lost. That was all the Abyssal Monarch said before falling silent once more. “The Abyssal Monarch is in an excellent mood today. The ‘Eternal Pure Land’ really must be close at hand,” Meng Jianxi said smilingly. “How can you tell?” Yun Che looked surprised. Meng Jianxi took a moment to organize his words before speaking to Yun Che via his soul voice, “The Abyssal Monarch’s presence is, in fact, quite weak throughout the history of the Kingdoms of God. The Ritual of Void Breaching, where all Divine Regents gather in His presence, might be the only time He interacts with anyone from the Kingdoms of God.” “Besides that, the Abyssal Monarch has never gotten involved in the matters of the Kingdom of God unless he was requested to. He had almost never even asked about them before. Take the Eternal Night Kingdom of God, for example. The Abyssal Monarch has never cast them a single glance, even though the kingdom practically changed overnight... The only exception might be the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God, and even then, His involvement was minimal.” “But today, the Abyssal Monarch had offered not one, but two Divine Regents His personal advice.” Meng Jianxi’s eyebrows were clearly smiling. “I saw how astonished Uncle and the others looked, you know. This is probably a first time for them as well.” “...” Yun Che looked straight ahead without giving Meng Jianxi a response. For whatever reason, the Divine Son’s careless remark caused his heart to sink a little. 1. The Dragon Lord’s true name, also means Fate Knowing. ☜ Chapter 2132 - Fight Between Divine Sons “From what I heard, the Abyssal Monarch has just given a reasonable announcement, so why is your heart suddenly sinking?” Li Suo asked when she sensed the unusual stirrings of Yun Che’s heart. Yun Che calmed himself and answered, “I don’t know either.” “You don’t?” Yun Che thought for a moment before answering, “The Abyssal Monarch never paid any attention to the Six Kingdoms of God before, but today he went out of his way to advise two Divine Regents. From what I knew about his personality, this could not be explained with just ‘excellent mood’. I fear that there exists some sort of variable that is hidden from my knowledge and calculation.” Li Suo pondered for a long time before asking, “But that is just your assumption, right?” “Yes...” “Your footsteps are too cautious. If you must wear a set of shackles every time you take a step, you may collapse under the pressure you put on yourself before you reach the final destination. There may be questions that you cannot find answers to right now, but that is fine. You can set them aside first and focus on completing what requires your greatest attention right now.” “Mm...” Li Suo’s words helped Yun Che relax gradually. “Okay. You are right.” A while later, Li Suo’s ephemeral, fairy-like voice rang in Yun Che’s soul sea once more, “Do not act so lonely all the time, Yun Che, much less add heavier shackles to your already burdened body.” “In this world, you aren’t just a monarch responsible for saving the world. You are also a father and a husband. Your daughter may not be accompanying you, but there exists a bond between you and her that absolutely nothing can sever. Your wife may have forgotten about you, but the karmic bond and the past that exist between you two cannot be buried even by the abyssal dust of the Endless Fog.” “Hmm?” Yun Che raised his eyebrows in surprise. He wasn’t expecting to hear something like this from Li Suo. “What a touching speech. Have you... secretly awakened the divine trait of the Creation Goddess of Life known as universal love while I wasn’t looking?” “I am just stating a fact that both you and I are aware of.” “... Forget it.” Yun Che’s eyebrows dropped back to their usual position, and he mumbled, “What a boring answer... You are you after all.” “Is it boring?” Li Suo seemed concerned about this evaluation. A moment of silence later, she whispered, “They are not the only ones who support you. Success or failure, I will accompany you to the end of this journey as well.” Yun Che’s chuckle rang inside his soul sea. It sounded both a little exasperated and teasing. “I’m going to spend some time educating you in the art of speaking when we return to our original world, but just so you know, you should never say the word ‘failure’ when you’re consoling someone, even if everyone knows it to be a real possibility.” “... Got it. I’ve remembered this,” Li Suo replied softly. Regardless of Li Suo’s ineptitude, it was undeniable that the conversation helped to loosen Yun Che’s nerves a lot. Back in the real world, the Abyssal Monarch declared, “That is all this lone one had to announce.” With that, the meeting had come to an end. Although it was incredibly simple and short, looking back at the countless Pure Land Meets that had taken place in the long, long history of the Abyss, the Abyssal Monarch was unusually “long-winded” today. Yun Che hid the unnatural glint in his eyes. The Abyssal Monarch had said all he wished to say, and yet he never mentioned “Fog Monarch”. For the past couple of years, Yun Che had done everything he could to create momentum for the “Fog Monarch” in the Endless Fog. By exploiting his unique capabilities to manipulate abyssal dust and the information gap between those in the know and those who weren’t, he was able to sow significant doubt in the people of the Abyss and make them question if the Abyssal Monarch had truly saved and created the world. As a result, their once flawless faith in the Abyssal Monarch was now shaken and tainted, and this erosion was only growing day by day. Faith was, without doubt, the greatest foundation of any institution. No monarch could stand anyone or anything undermining the people’s faith in them. However, the Abyssal Monarch had not ordered the Six Kingdoms of God to suppress the spread, nor did he attempt to explain that the Fog Monarch’s slander was just that, slander. From start to finish, he never mentioned a single word about it. It was almost as if he did not care about the Fog Monarch’s existence or the damage he caused at all. It was at this moment that the Chief Priest spoke up, “Your Majesty, it’s been a while since an audience of this scale has happened. The Godbearers of the Kingdoms of God have undergone some changes as well. Are you interested in observing the Godbearers this time?” Excluding the Ritual of Void Breaching that happened once every fifty years and was attended only by the Divine Regents and the Dragon Lord, there was always a Godbearer competition during a formal Pure Land Meet like this one. “Of course.” The Abyssal Monarch smiled faintly. His gaze did not shift, and yet it seemed to touch every Godbearer equally. “The Godbearers of this generation aren’t just the foundation of the Kingdoms of God of the future. They are also new buds who are destined to bloom in the Eternal Pure Land.” “Your performance today shall decide what kind of flower you will bloom in the first era of the Eternal Pure Land.” In the past, the Abyssal Monarch was mostly just an observer. He rarely voiced such warm and heavy expectations. Naturally, it caused every Divine Son and Divine Daughter’s eyes to become ablaze with fighting spirit. He was right. After millions of years of sacrifice and effort, they would become the first generation of Divine Children to enter the Eternal Pure Land. They would also become the first Divine Regents ever to be crowned in the Eternal Pure Land! Such honor and fortune must be paired with the greatest show of power, grace, and splendor as a matter of course! The Chief Priest accepted his order with a nod. He then took half a step forward, lifted his giant arm into the air, and dropped it just as quickly. A shimmering barrier instantly descended from above and landed at the center of Eden’s Crown. The barrier was almost invisible, save for a faint, bronze-like glow slowly flowing across its surface. “This barrier isolates power, but not the physical body. Going out of bounds is considered defeat.” “The person who is challenged can surrender a fight, but they cannot refuse the challenge!” “If the combatants’ cultivation levels are different, the weaker combatant may request the stronger combatant to fight at their cultivation level!” “This fight is meant to show off a Godbearer’s splendor. This is not a clash for supremacy, and evil intentions will not be tolerated!” “The combatant who shows off the greatest splendor can receive a wish from the Abyssal Monarch Himself.” The rules the Chief Priest was reciting were succinct and to the point. Every word felt like an oracle. He did not mention basic rules that every competition practiced, such as no external interference, no use of means that did not belong to the combatant themselves, no malicious use of excessive force, and so on, not just because he didn’t need to, but also because no one would dare to overstep their boundaries right under the Abyssal Monarch’s nose. The barrier was less than thirty kilometers wide and unbelievably small. It was more or less the same size as the arena battles that were held in the past. It was clearly built with quick matches in mind. “It has begun.” Meng Kongchan said softly, “You are not a Divine Son, Yuan’er, so this fight has nothing to do with you. Still, you should observe it carefully. This is your best chance to understand the Godbearers of the Kingdoms of God.” “Profound energy is not the only thing that circulates in every move and technique. There is also their will and temperament. You will understand this when you have made some progress in the Dreamweaver Canon.” On the other side, Meng Jianxi’s eyes were already covered in a silver hue. He looked eager to leap into battle. Yun Che then turned to look at Hua Caili. As if their hearts were connected, Hua Caili’s eyes happened to look in his direction at the same time. When their gazes met, Yun Che instantly understood the meaning behind the sword intent glinting in her eyes. Hua Caili wished to challenge Dian Jiuzhi. At the second level of the Divine Extinction Realm, she was, of course, no match for Dian Jiuzhi, who was at the eighth level of the Divine Extinction Realm. However, she could request Dian Jiuzhi to fight her at her cultivation level. Assuming their cultivation levels were equal, she was confident that she could defeat him. Even if her confidence proved to be unfounded later, she was determined to try. Perhaps she naively believed that defeating Dian Jiuzhi would further improve her odds of securing a future with him. However, Yun Che thought that it did not matter if she won or lost. The only one who would receive a wish from the Abyssal Monarch was the one who “showed the greatest splendor”, and clearly Hua Caili wanted to wish for the Abyssal Monarch to withdraw the engagement he promised. Someone set foot on the battlefield before her, though. There was a flash of starlight, and a tall, handsome figure appeared inside the barrier using Star God Broken Shadow. “Sha Xing of the Star and Moon Kingdom of God dares to go first!”Boom! A deafening explosion echoed throughout the peak of Eden’s Crown, and a colossal silver sword bigger than the man himself appeared in front of him. Without the slightest hesitation whatsoever, Sha Xing lifted the greatsword and pointed it straight at the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God. “I request your guidance, Ow Butterfly Divine Son Pan Buzhuo!”ROAR— The shadow of an Azure Wolf appeared behind Sha Xing’s back. As it lifted its head and let out an ear-piercing howl, profound shadows brimming with endless pressure enveloped the Heavenly Wolf greatsword in azure blue power. Pan Buzhuo stepped out as black light surged from his body, flickering erratically and violently like a blazing inferno. The person who was challenged could not refuse a challenge. A Divine Child could lose, but not avoid a battle! In a flash, Pan Buzhuo appeared inside the barrier and stood on the opposite side of the Star Divine Son. At the same time, in the rear of the Star and Moon Kingdom of God entourage, Pan Buwang slowly raised his head and stabbed Pan Buzhuo with a look of infinite hatred. However, all those emotions were rapidly pulled back into his eyes and concealed perfectly, leaving not a speck behind. Meanwhile, the Pray Eternal Divine Regent and the Heavenly Star Divine Regent’s gaze clashed in mid-air. The Pray Eternal Divine Regent’s divine voice pointed straight at the Heavenly Star Divine Regent. “To think that your Divine Son would engage in a pointless fight for the sake of a castaway of Owl Butterfly. The heir you’ve painstakingly raised is ‘better’ than I expected, Heavenly Star Divine Regent.” Wushen Xing responded with a careless smile, “I think it’s fine to follow one’s heart once in a while. Even assuming the worst, such a person is still far better than an animal that could discard their own blood relative without mercy. Don’t you agree, Pray Eternal Divine Regent?” Pan Yushang let out a cold grunt and stopped talking. “Sha Xing of Star and Moon, Pan Buzhuo of Owl Butterfly. You are both at the fourth level of the Divine Extinction Realm, so there is no need for balancing. Begin.” As soon as the Chief Priest finished, Pan Buzhuo immediately took action. A demonic black beam immediately ripped through the air and stabbed toward Sha Xing. Meng Kongchan said in a low tone, “The Heavenly Wolf Hell God's Tome the Star Divine Son practices uses a greatsword as the weapon. Its techniques boast incredible range and unparalleled power, but it is harder to master than most. The ways to counter it are one, seizing the initiative, and two, avoiding the brunt of its power.” Yun Che nodded slightly to indicate that he had received Meng Konchan’s instructions. “The sword the Star divine Son is wielding is called the Heavenly Wolf Holds A Star. Out of all the weapons wielded by the Divine Sons, it is the heaviest and most powerful bar none.” “The spear the Owl Butterfly Divine Son is wielding is named ‘Cold Crow’. Those stabbed by it would be invaded by darkness and become as sad as a crow’s cry.” He was the Dreamless Divine Regent, and yet he was meticulously and tirelessly explaining every detail to Yun Che.Clang! Sword and spear clashed as countless pitch black demonic runes bloomed across space. It sounded like the mournful cries of countless demonic crows, and it consumed Sha Xing’s body and soul. Even the surrounding light was fading rapidly. However, the Heavenly Wolf let out an angry snarl the next instant, and the Heavenly Wolf divine power annihilated all of the demonic runes and demonic crows.Boom! There was a crack that sounded like heaven itself was collapsing, and the Heavenly Wolf devoured most of the darkness in just an instant. It looked as if the one wielding the upper hand had already been decided in the first exchange, but Pan Buzhuo’s first, initiative-seizing attack was, in fact, a ruse. While the Heavenly Wolf was devouring the demonic crows, a small opening had appeared in its form. At the same time, Pan Buzhuo appeared in the air like a phantom and pointed his spear downward. Countless pitch black patterns abruptly spread out in every direction like a spider web. Black light erupted in his eyes, and countless demonic crows flew out of the demonic runes. Their cries were shrill, bleak, and ear-piercing like the wails of a dead soul, but also resentful and overflowing with hatred like a curse that would melt the very bones. They flew toward him like a thick, inescapable net that swore to rip his flesh and penetrate his soul at all costs. Chapter 2133 - Stray Not, Most Strayed (1) Despite facing Pan Buzhuo’s unpredictable fake-out and sudden instantaneous movement, despite being extremely exposed right now, Sha Xing did not panic in the slightest. He abruptly spun around and drew the nimble arc of a crescent in the air despite Heavenly Wolf Holds A Star being as heavy as it was. The howling shadow of a Heavenly Wolf raced out of the crescent scar and charged straight toward the skyful of demonic crows. It was none other than the Heavenly Wolf’s First Sword Style, the Heavenly Wolf Slash! High up in the sky, Pan Buzhuo’s figure blurred once more. His true body was plummeting diagonally like a dim star that was stripped from a lightless abyss. Cold Crow tore a bizarre, pitch black orbit through the air and stabbed straight toward the back of Sha Xing’s heart.Kaboom! Thang— The howling Heavenly Wolf pounced into the sea of crows at the same time the greatsword clashed against the demonic spear. Heavy, oppressive energy, noises of destruction, and ear-piercing explosions rippled across the gray sky like sudden thunderclaps. It vibrated everyone’s eardrums and shook their souls. The demonic crows were hunting the Heavenly Wolf, and the Heavenly Wolf was ripping them to pieces. Pan Buzhuo’s demonic spear moved so fast that it spawned a flurry of afterimages in an instant, driving Sha Xing back again and again. However, he failed to truly pierce through the giant strength of the Heavenly Wolf. The demonic crows’ shrill cries grew bleaker as pitch black scars ripped open throughout the Heavenly Wolf’s azure blue body. Every time the Heavenly Wolf swung its claws, a demonic crow would explode into black powder. Even through the barrier, the spectators could sense the suffocating power and bone-piercing cold of the battle. One might say that no one expected Pan Buzhuo to gain the upper hand in this battle. “Now I understand why Pray Eternal Divine Regent discarded your original Divine Son, Pan Buwang, and even took measures to prevent him from causing any trouble to the newly appointed Divine Son. To this end, you even exiled him from the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God ruthlessly.” The Sky Moon Divine Regent Wu Shenyue spoke in a leisurely voice. His soft, fluffy voice made it hard to tell whether the compliment was wholehearted or veiled in scorn. “Pan Buzhuo’s divine essence did not just exceed Pan Buwang’s; his natural talent for darkness is much greater as well.” Pan Yusheng did not look at the Divine Regent. It was as if he hadn’t heard him. Wushen Xing smiled but did not seem worried in the slightest. In fact, he wasn’t. Although Pan Buzhuo was holding the upper hand right now, everyone knew Pan Buzhuo would ultimately be defeated. Although dark profound energy boasted immense power, the element of darkness was sparser in the Abyss. This made it harder to cultivate than all other profound energies. Worse, dark profound energy was difficult to master and liable to backfire against its own master. Not even the Divine Regent could possess perfect affinity with dark profound energy. Because of this, it was nigh impossible for a profound practitioner of the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God to defeat a peer from another Kingdom of God, assuming that their cultivation level was the same. This did not change even at the level of a Divine Child or even Divine Regent. This was why the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God’s strength sat at rock bottom throughout the entire history of the Six Kingdoms of God. This was also why Sha Xing’s challenge against Pan Buzhuo was nothing to be proud of. If he won, it was simply the expected outcome. If he lost, then he would lose significant face.Kaboom! The Heavenly Wolf faded, and the demonic crows were all destroyed. Azure blue and darkness mixed violently while exploding at the same time. As light lost and regained its intensity, the two Divine Sons finally separated from each other and landed on their feet at the same time, looking at each other from afar. Sha Xing was wielding his greatsword in the same posture as before. Neither his body nor even his sword's tip moved even a little. The only thing that had changed about him was his eyes, bloodthirsty and cruel like those of a wolf. On the other hand, Pan Buzhuo’s spear arm was shaking a little. It took him a few breaths before he finally managed to make it stop. Dark light surged around him like the ripples caused by a chaotic windstorm. Although it was cold, eerie, and demonically suffocating, it was also a sign that his dark profound energy wasn’t entirely under his control. “Heh!” Pan Buzhuo let out a cold chuckle. “I’m curious, Star Divine Son. What on earth did that useless piece of trash, Pan Buwang, offer you to make him ‘sell’ yourself like this? Or did he know a weakness that he threatened you with?” His sneers did not move Sha Xing in the slightest. “He is my friend. Be it in the past, present, or future, this will never change.” “To slight my friend is to slight me!” Sha Xing raised his sword and pointed it straight at Pan Buzhuo’s black eyes. “Are you satisfied with this answer?” “Hehe! How laughable!” Pan Buzhuo let out a low, scornful chuckle. “Before Pan Buwang was exiled, he was a useless piece of trash that even a dog could step on. But you, you are a Divine Son... Tsk, it certainly is an eye-opening experience to see you acting and speaking so far below someone of your status.” “Heh!” The corners of Sha Xing’s lips curled up like he was smiling, but his eyes were bursting with violent bloodthirst. “It would seem your Father hasn’t taught you the price... of angering a Heavenly Wolf!” “Is that so?” Pan Buzhuo was fearless. “I heard that your back was broken in the Endless Fog not long ago, and you nearly lost your destiny as a Divine Son as a result. What if your moment of egoism causes a relapse?” “Even a wolf whose back was broken could easily crush a crow with rotten feathers like you!”ROOOOAAAAAAARRRRRRR— A wolfish howl boasting unparalleled tyranny and divine might that looked askance upon all things exploded from Sha Xing, and his profound light formed the shadow of a Heavenly Wolf once more. However, this one was several times bigger than before, with blood red eyes and spine-chilling fangs. The torrent of energy circulating around its body was so powerful that it felt almost tangible. “Hmph!” Pan Buzhuo slowly rotated his arm as he built up a web of dark, demonic runes throughout his body. It instantly transformed into thousands upon thousands of pitch-black crows that engulfed him. This time, it was Sha Xing who made the first move. Seven Star God’s Broken Shadow, seven instantaneous movements in an instant allowed him to come within thirty meters of the Owl Butterfly Divine Son. The Heavenly Wolf Holds A Star slashed ripples into space before crashing down on top of Pan Buwang. Behind him, the gigantic shadow of an azure wolf also followed the same trajectory and bit down on the man with its giant maw.Rumble! A storm blew in Eden’s Crown, and both smoke and clouds were blown away completely. Amidst the thunderous noises and roars, a black figure and a blue figure passed by each other again and again amidst the storm. Space shuddered every time they clashed, and the cries of the Heavenly Wolf and the demonic crows sounded like the symphony of disaster, brutalizing everyone’s ears continuously. Everyone kept watching the battle without a sound. This lasted until Meng Kongchan’s voice appeared in Yun Che’s ears once more, “Pan Buzhuo’s offense is spent, and his defense is close to collapsing as well. The victor will be decided in ten breaths.”Roar!! Meng Kongchan had just finished when an angry, wolfish howl far greater than the one before erupted without warning. It was so powerful that the clouds were shattered, and distorted ripples appeared in space. At the same time, a massive hole burst out of the shower of dark profound light, and Pan Buzhuo plummeted from it. He just barely caught himself in mid-air, but multiple streams of bright red blood could be seen spilling down his mouth. Pan Buzhuo gritted his teeth, and darkness exploded out of his body once more. However, what accompanied the eruption of power was a terrible backlash that felt like his profound veins were being stabbed by thousands and thousands of needles. He lost focus for just an instant, and the next thing he knew, the silhouettes of a massive blade and the shadow of a Heavenly Wolf were rapidly swelling inside his eyes. His dark aura instantly receded like a tidal wave, and even his heart and soul had flinched for an instant. Pan Buzhuo leaned backward as veins bulged on his forehead and his arms. His demonic spear lashed out at the incoming strike and summoned a thousand spear afterimages in an instant. Once again, demonic light and blue shadow clashed chaotically, but this time, only the explosive noises of destruction could be heard. Both the devouring noises of darkness and the flurry of spears were disintegrated layer by layer. Even the light of Cold Crow was dimming rapidly.Bang—! When the last ray of demonic light was crushed into dark ash and his protective profound energy was completely destroyed, Pan Buzhuo was sent flying with a muffled groan. A large portion of his pitch black outfit was ripped to pieces, revealing bone-deep wounds. However, even before his feet could touch the ground, Sha Xing was already pursuing him with Star God’s Broken Shadow and swinging the Heavenly Wolf Holds A Star without mercy. The destructive strike was aimed straight at Pan Buzhuo’s head. Pan Buzhuo gritted his teeth, blood and terrible pain reigniting the dark powers that were already receding from his body. A hoarse scream escaped his mouth as a dark shadow exploded from his demonic spear. When it extended its wings, it transformed into a three-hundred-meter-wide demonic crow with feathers as black as ink, and beak and talons that emanated a dark glow. For an instant, black crow feathers engulfed both Sha Xing and the Heavenly Wolf’s shadow completely and blotted out the light. The next moment, bright light pierced through the darkness. A curving beam of dazzling azure pierced through heaven and earth and split the three-hundred-meter-wide demonic crow at the center like divine judgment. The attack was such that the demonic crow let out a horrifying scream, and its feathers fell from the sky like black snow. At the same time, the shadow of a wolf appeared above the demonic crow. It was over three kilometers tall and sported a pair of angry eyes that looked as deep as the abyss. Its massive claw ripped through crumbling powder of darkness and crashed down on Pan Buwang.BOOOOOOOOOOOOM— There was a huge boom as Cold Crow slipped free from its wielder’s grip. Its demonic light flickering like a dying candle, the spear flew out of the barrier and plunged into the clouds, kicking up a muffled rumble. However, it looked like there wasn’t much force left behind the attack. The remaining energy was just enough to make Pan Buzhuo stagger. Pan Buzhuo had just found his footing—he literally didn’t even have half an instant to breathe—when Sha Xing’s eyes suddenly overflowed with malice. “Those who humiliate others shall be humiliated by everyone in return!”Boom! The quiet words entered Pan Buzhuo’s soul before Heavenly Wolf Holds A Star smashed heavily against his head. The Divine Son felt like a million wasps were buzzing inside his skull as he spun like a top in mid-air. Then, his face smashed into the floor and dug a trench over thirty kilometers long before he finally skidded to a stop. “Owl Butterfly Pan Buzhuo has gone out of bounds. Star and Moon Sha Xing wins,” the Chief Priest announced the result of the fight expressionlessly and stiffly. The Abyssal Monarch did not say anything. No one was surprised that Pan Buzhuo would lose, but few people thought that he would lose—or more accurately, the Star Divine Son would defeat him—in such an ugly manner. The sword strike had literally smashed the Owl Butterfly Divine Son’s face into the ground and made it dig a shallow trench spanning over thirty kilometers across Eden’s Crown! By the time Pan Buzhuo climbed back to his feet, the right side of his face was bloodied and mutilated. The injury was minor, but the humiliation was intolerable even to the commonfolk, much less a Divine Son! Pan Buzhuo slowly turned his head toward Sha Xing. Even knowing that the Abyssal Monarch and the Chief Priest were watching, he was unable to conceal the teeth-gnashing anger and hatred boiling inside his pupils immediately. “Impressive!!” Dian Rahu paid Sha Xing a compliment without hesitation or reservation, “To unleash the forcefulness and brutality of the Heavenly Wolf Hell God's Tome to this extent at this age and cultivation! I feel that the boy has surpassed you when you were his age, Heavenly Star Divine Regent!” Wushen Xing replied smilingly, “You flatter him, Boundless Divine Regent. His mastery of the Heavenly Wolf divine power aside, this boy is still too young and immature. Otherwise, he would not have lost his composure.” “Sha Xing.” Wushen Xing’s voice grew heavy and solemn. “The battle between Divine Children is meant to show off the splendor of the Divine Children to the Abyssal Monarch. Sparring is the main focus of this event, not hurting others! How could you allow yourself to lose control to the point where the Owl Butterfly Divine Son was injured?! Apologize now!” “At once, master!!” Sha Xing replied immediately and bowed in the direction of the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God. “I did not mean to hurt you so. It is all because my mastery and skill are still lacking in many ways. I am ashamed and horrified by my actions. I humbly beg for your understanding and forgiveness.” “If my mistake proves too much for forgiveness, this one promises to pay you a visit at the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God and offer you a formal apology later.” Pan Yusheng said indifferently, “Your reactions are exaggerated, Heavenly Star Divine Regent, Star Divine Son. One should not hold back during the battle between Divine Children. Injury will inevitably occur. There is no need for you to be concerned about this. If anything, you are making it seem like Owl Butterfly is petty and narrow-minded.” Sha Xing immediately responded, “This junior would not dare! That is not my intention whatsoever.” Everyone could tell that Sha Xing’s final strike was to give Pan Buzhuo an ugly defeat; to humiliate him before everyone. They could also tell that Sha Xing’s apology was really a veiled insult. They also knew that Owl Butterfly knew that it was an insult. Despite this, no one in the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God’s entourage tried to speak up. It was because the loser automatically forfeited the right to speak of dignity. To defend themselves now was akin to throwing away whatever shreds of dignity they had left. Meanwhile, Pan Buzhuo had already climbed back to his feet. Despite being covered in wounds and cracks, despite the right side of his face being drenched in blood, his back was perfectly straight, and his face was devoid of the anger, frustration, or ugliness one was expected to display in such a situation. “Pan Buzhuo has received your guidance, Star Divine Son. I will remember today’s lesson and make sure to perform better the next time we fight.” “This one will surely have learned to master his strength as well. This one also promises to... dress up your defeat the next time we fight.” Sha Xing stared straight into Pan Buzhuo’s eyes as he said this. His tone was warm, courteous, and matter-of-fact. He was such a man. From the moment he decided that someone was his friend, they would remain his friend no matter what became of them. Just the same, from the moment he chose to offend someone, he made sure to offend them thoroughly and burn all bridges with them. He was the Star Divine Son after all. Who besides the Pure Land could make him reconsider his decision? “...” Pan Buzhuo’s eyebrows furrowed, and a crack appeared on the facade of calm and pride he was barely maintaining. “I, Sha Xing, still have a long way to go, but...” Sha Xing’s appearance remained calm and courteous, but his words were unquestionable and firm. “I am not so immature that I will lose to an Owl Butterfly Divine Son on the same cultivation level as me.” “Sha Xing!” Wushen Xing rebuked him, “You have spoken enough nonsense! Withdraw now!” Pan Yusheng’s face darkened slightly, but he said nothing. This was a conflict between juniors. As a Divine Regent, Wushen Xing could rebuke Sha Xing, but he could not. Pan Buzhuo did not say anything, though his hands were trembling a little. A terrible grudge had never existed between the Kingdoms of God. As such, the winner always offered the loser at least some face... not counting Shenwu Yanye’s Eternal Night Kingdom of God, of course. Pan Buzhuo had never received such naked disdain and humiliation since he became the Owl Butterfly Divine Son, much less on the Pure Land, and much less before the Abyssal Monarch and the Six Kingdoms of God! Perhaps the worst humiliation of it all was the fact that Sha Xing wasn’t afraid to make an enemy out of him in the slightest. He could only imagine how much his pride and face had been trampled in the eyes of everyone. As if that wasn’t enough, the one behind all this was the defeated dog, Pan Buwang! He slowly sucked in a deep breath and forced himself to calm down. He was just about to mouth a retort when a cold, dark voice echoed in the air, “You dare humiliate my Owl Butterfly Divine Son so, Star Divine Son? Aren’t you worried that your arrogance could backfire on you?” The voice caught Pan Buzhuo off guard. Sha Xing was especially stunned and speechless. For an instant, confusion flashed in his eyes as if he could not believe what he had just heard. Sha Xing slowly turned around to face the speaker. So slow was his movement that one could see how stiff he was. When his gaze finally landed on the speaker, he saw a familiar figure wearing a black outfit slowly stepping out from behind the Star and Moon Kingdom of God’s entourage. The speaker... was none other than Pan Buwang! This sudden happening caught everyone by surprise. The eyebrows of both the Heavenly Star Divine Regent and the Pray Eternal Divine Regent sank... though the emotions brewing inside their hearts were completely different from one another. “What... What did you just say, Brother Buwang?” Sha Xing stared at Pan Buwang. He had faced down even the Pray Eternal Divine Regent with pride, but now his eyes were rippling uncontrollably. He would rather believe that his hearing had gone crazy for a moment than believe that the one who rebuked him was none other than the friend he was willing to take revenge for, even at the cost of offending a Divine Son, Pan Buwang. Chapter 2134 - Stray Not, Most Strayed (2) Stray Not, Most Strayed (2) Pan Buwang did not look away from Sha Xing’s eyes even a little. His expression was indifferent, and his voice was perfectly calm and collected. “You dare humiliate my Owl Butterfly Divine Son so, Star Divine Son? Aren’t you worried that your arrogance could backfire on you?” He repeated every word he said as if afraid that the Star Divine Son hadn’t heard him clearly. He even stressed the words so that there could be no doubt as to his meaning. In just the span of a short breath, Sha Xing’s eyes experienced the most complicated change of emotions ever in its existence: astonishment, puzzlement, befuddlement, shock, disbelief, incomprehension, denial... All sorts of emotions mixed haphazardly until they ultimately settled and transformed into overlapping layers of disappointment, derision, and... anger. “Heh... hehe.” Sha Xing let out a raspy laugh. One-third of it was aimed at Pan Buwang, but the other two-thirds was aimed at himself. His eyes no longer looked clear as he met Pan Buwang’s eyes, “So? What will you do, Pan Buwang? Could it be...” Pan Buwang raised his right arm and summoned a pitch black demonic spear. He slammed it against the ground with a dull bang, causing a burst of demonic light and an eerie howl unique to dark profound energy. “You and I may share a deep bond, but I am ultimately still a son of the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God! To me, a Kingdom of God’s honor and pride surpass everything else. Since you humiliated my Owl Butterfly Divine Son, you leave me no choice but to point my spear at you.” “Aiya, aiya.” Wushen Yue shook his head regretfully while saying slowly, “What a good performance this is. A pity that my Xing’er’s sincere loyalty was misplaced on a wolf with a blackened soul.” Wushen Xing let out a light harrumph and said uncaringly, “As expected, you cannot find two types of rats from the same rathole. Still, this is a good thing for Xing. The sooner he understands what human nature is, the sooner he will grow.” “In fact, this regent should thank this pitiful Pan Buwang for teaching Xing a good lesson. This one stab from the back alone is far more effective than thousands of my lessons.” “That is true.” Wushen Yue nodded in agreement. “Hehe... hahahaha!” Sha Xing allowed himself a cold chuckle, but it quickly devolved into uncontrollable laughter. “I viewed you as a close friend because I respected the fact that you loved and hated without disguise, that your actions and words are one... I guess I really am too naive. I was blind this whole time, and I didn’t even recognize it.” “You claimed that you loathed them to the core and hated them so much that your heart is gray like the abyss... but in reality, you can’t wait to crawl back under their feet, can you?” Whatever respect that once resided in his eyes vanished completely, and he stopped veiling his insults any longer. “What a shame that this is a fight between Divine Sons, meaning that you do not have the right to fight against me! Oh no, no, I almost forgot. You were exiled from the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God, weren’t you? Forget the Owl Butterfly Divine Son, you are not even a citizen of Owl Butterfly anymore!” Pan Buwang’s expression didn’t change. He said coldly, “You are wrong, Star Divine Son. Father’s deposition of my title is only verbal. He has never carried out a deposition ceremony.” Everyone stared at him with a bit of astonishment as he said calmly, “Assuming that the rules are followed to the letter, I, Pan Buwang, am still the Owl Butterfly Divine Son!” His declaration caused a good number of people to burst out laughing. It was natural to hold a conferral ceremony to announce to the world that a Kingdom of God had appointed a new Divine Son. Just the same, it was natural not to hold a deposition ceremony to depose a Divine Son. What would even be the point? “Get lost and stop being an embarrassment even more than you already are, Pan Buwang!” The Pray Eternal Divine Regent finally spoke up, but every word he spoke was infused with disgust and impatience. He did not even favor Pan Buwang with a side-eye. Pan Buwang did not move. It was at this moment that the Chief Priest spoke loudly like a gong, “Pan Buwang’s name is still recorded in the Six Kingdoms Divine Children Record. His name has not been removed.” “If Pan Buwang is no longer the Divine Son, then High Priest Wan Dao shall remove his name from the record after this meeting. But as of now, he is qualified to partake in this battle.” The Chief Priest’s word was the deciding factor, and Pan Yushen was helpless to change it, no matter how much he wanted to. Pan Buwang was a useless piece of trash who was abandoned not just by everyone around him, but also by himself. Naturally, there was zero reason the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God would dispatch someone all the way to High Priest Wan Dao at the Pure Land just to depose him. It was a mistake that didn’t really count as a mistake, and yet the castaway had seized it with both hands and used it to stir up trouble. Pan Buwang’s counter-challenge against Sha Xing in defense of Pan Buzhuo would not make anyone think better of the Owl Butterfly Divine Son. On the contrary, it would only earn him greater scorn. He could already predict what was going to happen. Having bestowed Pan Buzhuo a humiliating defeat only to be betrayed by his close friend, Sha Xing was naturally going to dish out an even more humiliating defeat to Pan Buwang. This was going to humiliate the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God even more than it already was. Pan Yusheng could not refute the Chief Priest, so he said again, “I’m going to say this one more time, Pan Buwang. Get. Lost!” His last two words were imbued with the fury of a Divine Regent. However, Sha Xing spoke up before Pan Buwang. “Divine Son Buwang stood up in order to defend the honor of the Owl Butterfly Divine Son. You should be praising him, not stopping him or getting angry with him, Pray Eternal Divine Regent.” His scorn was positively dripping when he said the words “Divine Son Buwang”. “Anyway, let’s get this over with.” Sha Xing raised the Heavenly Wolf greatsword he had just lowered a short while ago and pointed it at his former close friend. “I accept your challenge. Do give me your guidance, Divine Son Buwang.” Pan Buwang looked up and said indifferently, “You seem to be misunderstanding something, Star Divine Son. I do not intend to challenge you. I intend... to challenge the Twin Stars!” “...” Sha Xing was speechless for an instant. Then, a dark storm brewed on his face. “What... did you say!?” Xian Yue, the Moon Divine Son, wasn’t looking too good himself. As if he could not feel Sha Xing’s erupting anger, Pan Buwang continued in an indifferent tone, “Everyone knows that the Star Divine Son and the Moon Divine Son of the Star and Moon Kingdom of God are not unleashing at their full strength unless they fight as one. To me, fighting one of you alone carries no meaning whatsoever.” A commotion immediately broke out throughout Eden’s Crown. Scoffs and low chuckles were everywhere. The crowd was already looking down on Pan Buwang before, but now it looked as if they were looking at a clown. An ugly and pathetic clown. “Aiya, your actions are really starting to intrigue me.” Wushen Yue’s curiosity was clearly piqued. “It’s starting to seem like you’re not capitulating to the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God after all. It looks more like you’re trying to anger Xing’er... or is this an attempt to humiliate Owl Butterfly further at the cost of yourself?” Wushen Xing narrowed his eyes. “It’s probably the latter... no, it’s probably both. After all, angering the Heavenly Wolf would allow the latter objective to be fulfilled more thoroughly. Well, whatever the truth is, this is quite interesting, isn’t it?” “Oh yes, it is most interesting.” Wushen Yue’s eyes were narrowed into a pair of seductive slits. While clutching his right face, Pan Buzhuo walked over to Pan Yusheng and said hoarsely, “He’s not trying to repulse the Star and Moon, father. He’s repulsing us—” Pan Yusheng said coldly, “Shut up.” Pan Buzhuo immediately fell silent. “Heh... hehehehe!” Sha Xing laughed... For the first time, he understood why some people laughed when their rage had reached its peak. “Challenge the Twin Stars, you say? Who do you think you are?” The way he looked at Pan Buwang was unfamiliar and icy. “Still, if you dare to issue us the challenge... how could we bear to turn you down?”Bang! The Heavenly Wolf Holds A Star struck the ground hard, causing a stunning shockwave imbued with the fury of the Star Divine Son to wash out to the surroundings. Pan Buwang’s black hair and black clothes fluttered wildly because of it. “If you are able to defeat me first, then I will invite the Moon Divine Son onto the battlefield and graciously show you the true power of the Twin Stars. Is this term acceptable to you, Divine Son Buwang?” “Defeat me first.” “Graciously.” Both words were stressed with dripping scorn. “Accepted.” Pan Buwang agreed to it without any hesitation whatsoever. “This is the Pure Land, and the Abyssal Monarch is watching. You will not go against your promise!” As soon as he finished, he morphed into a shadow and entered the barrier. He stopped about three hundred meters away from Sha Xing and met his eyes. One moment ago, they were still close friends. Now, it was as if a million chasms were standing between the two of them. “Do you know what you look like to me right now, Pan Buwang?” Sha Xing let out a low chuckle. “You look like an ousted dog whose skin has been stripped and whose back was broken before it was tossed out of the front door, but it still barked and wagged its tail for its master in hopes of crawling back to its former home one day.” Before this, Sha Xing never thought that he would one day voice such horrifying insults to anyone... much less imagine that he would aim them at Pan Buwang. Pan Buwang did not grow angry or annoyed, however. His eyes resembled pools of dead water, and his heart was just as calm as his expression. Buoyed within his soul were the Fog Monarch’s words to him many days ago. ...... Buwang: “What should this disciple do after I go to the Pure Land, master?” Fog Monarch: “Wait! You will wait until the battle of Divine Children begins, and Sha Xing dishes out a humiliating defeat to Pan Buzhuo and breaks his divine dignity for your sake.” Buwang: “But... I already owe Sha Xing a huge favor by asking him to bring me into the Pure Land. Why would he take it further and offend the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God for me?” Fog Monarch: “If you tell him that you are the Fog Monarch’s disciple, then he will. After all, you won’t just be a friend who trusted him and asked him for help anymore. You would be accomplices who share a secret called the ‘Fog Monarch’.” “Nothing improves a person’s bond in an invisible manner better than a shared secret. The bigger the secret, the stronger the bond.” “Combined with the fact that he is desperate to repay his debt and favor to the Fog Monarch... Sha Xing is a man who will do what he believes is right.” Buwang: “Your judgment is never wrong, so I believe you, master. So, what should this disciple do after that?” Fog Monarch: “After Pan Buzhuo is defeated, you will challenge Sha Xing to a fight as an Owl Butterfly Divine Son! You will claim that your reason for doing so is to defend the Owl Butterfly Divine Son’s honor!” Buwang: “What? But... But Sha Xing is the only one who treated me like he used to, despite my fall from grace. Such loyalty is beyond precious, not to mention that he is my one and only true friend in this world.” “If he really would go so far as to offend the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God for me, then his spirit of loyalty truly is as heavy as a mountain. How can I possibly betray such—” Fog Monarch: “Silence! For the sake of solidifying his position, your own brother went so far as to trample your dignity into the mud and kill your mother! To protect your brother, the father who once protected and cherished you, tossed you out of the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God like trash! After what your own blood relative did to you, you, someone who has lost absolutely everything, dares to act so weak and pedantic for so-called friendship?!” “It would seem that I was mistaken about you after all! A useless piece of trash is all you are destined to be! Now get out of my face with that so-called ‘spirit of loyalty’ of yours!” Buwang: “... Please calm down, master! Your words are a wake-up call to me. I understand my mistake, and I promise I will never do it again. I beg for your forgiveness, master! I promise I will do my utmost to defeat Sha Xing at the Pure Land!” ...... Pan Buwang slowly crossed his spear in front of him while ripples of darkness slowly circled his body. In the Endless Fog, he was growing every day. Out of everything, his profound strength grew the slowest, and his talent for darkness and mentality grew the fastest. It would not be an exaggeration to say that he was a completely different man from before. To the spectators, this unexpected duel wasn’t a part of the battle of Divine Children. This was just a comedic interlude. Even Pan Buzhuo had suffered a horrible defeat in the hands of Sha Xing, so how could Pan Buwang, someone whose divine essence and talent for darkness were all inferior to his brother, possibly defeat Sha Xing? His desire to witness the Twin Stars in action was an even bigger joke. Seeing Pan Buwang’s spear, Sha Xing let out another disdainful laugh. “This spear is probably undeserving of your identity as an Owl Butterfly Divine Son. Perhaps you should borrow Cold Crow from your other Divine Son. I do not want to hear complaints that you lost because your weapon isn’t up to snuff later. He will lend it to you, right? You are both Owl Butterfly Divine Sons, and you are brothers who are connected by blood. Surely he won’t turn you down... right?” “There is no need.” Pan Buwang said indifferently and softly, “This spear is called ‘Chang Geng[1] of the Silent Night’. It was the spear my mother used when she was still alive. When she entrusted it to me, she once said that Chang Geng is the light-bringing star. Even if I lose everything, even if I plummet into the silent night, so long as her spear is with me, she will always be with me and illuminate my path for me.” The eerie, black light circulating the spear seemed to gain a warm color as he spoke of his mother. Pan Yusheng looked away without a shred of guilt or regret in his eyes whatsoever. “...” Sha Xing did not taunt Pan Buwang further. He still let out a low shout and summoned the Heavenly Wolf’s shadow. The shadow bared its fangs and displayed power and pressure greater than when he was facing Pan Buzhuo. “For the sake of our old friendship, I will grant you one last dignity... the most terrible defeat you shall ever receive in your life!” “ROAAAAARRR!!!” The Heavenly Wolf looked up at the moon and shook the skies with its howls. The next moment, a greatsword wreathed in destructive energies crashed down on Pan Buwang. The stunning divine light of the Heavenly Wolf crossed the three hundred meters between the two combatants in just an instant. The Heavenly Wolf’s pressure hadn’t approached yet, and already Pan Buwang was forced back a small step. A deep, dark glint smoldered behind his pupils as the reflection of the Heavenly Wolf’s shadow rapidly grew bigger in his eyes. ...... Buwang: “... I promise I will do my utmost to defeat Sha Xing at the Pure Land!” Fog Monarch: “No, you will not defeat him. You will crush him!” Buwang: “Crush? Can you be more specific, master?” Fog Monarch: “You will defeat him utterly in the span of three exchanges!” Buwang: “Master, please believe that I am not denigrating myself when I say this. I am fully confident that I can defeat Sha Xing, but three exchanges... this disciple simply cannot do it.” Fog Monarch: “In a fair fight, of course you cannot do it. But don’t forget that you hold a huge advantage over Sha Xing in the duel. It's called information!” “Right now, your body is perfectly compatible with dark profound energy. Such an affinity has never appeared in the Abyss before and is something even your Father can only dream of. Therefore, anyone who fights you for the first time will sorely misjudge your control over darkness.” Buwang: “You’re saying... I should win by a surprise move?” Fog Monarch: “Correct. This is an advantage that will only work once. Naturally, you should maximize what you can gain from it!” “The duel between Divine Children is not entirely the same as a common duel. According to past regulations, you will be fighting within a barrier that’s only thirty kilometers wide.” “The first thing you should do is to anger Sha Xing. Your open betrayal will apply the first layer of anger on him, and your wish to challenge the Twin Stars will add the second layer.” “Anger consumes the mind. A mature champion will do their best to appease their anger during combat, but a Heavenly Wolf is different. Anger fuels a Heavenly Wolf’s strength, so not only would he not appease his anger, he would allow it to burn him freely.” “In his anger, he will try to grant you the most terrible defeat in the shortest amount of time possible. Therefore, his chosen sword style will be one that fits his rage.” “He will attack you first. His first attack will be one-fifth ‘Heavenly Wolf Slash’, two-thirds ‘Wild Fang’, and one-tenth ‘Instantaneous Hell Calamity’... I will now teach you how to identify the cues of these sword techniques.” ...... Everything was going exactly to the script his master wrote. From the instant Sha Xing raised his sword, Pan Buwang immediately recognized that he was using the Second Sword Style of the Heavenly Wolf Hell God’s Tome, Wild Fang! Pan Buwang had no idea how his master was familiar with the Star and Moon Kingdom of God’s Heavenly Wolf Style to a degree that could only be described as horrifying. He didn’t dare to ask about it either. ...... “If his cues indicate that he is unleashing ‘Wild Fang’, you should take half a step to the left and pretend to be pushed back somewhat when you receive the attack.” “Seeing that Wild Fang is able to press you to this extent, there is over a ninety percent chance that Sha Xing would follow up with ‘Heavenly Star Lamentation’.” “‘Heavenly Star Lamentation’ is as powerful as it is full of openings. However, this flaw doesn’t matter assuming that the opponent is sufficiently suppressed by the previous technique.” “As far as Sha Xing knows—as far as everyone in the Abyss knows—even if you give up on defense completely and throw yourself into an utterly reckless offensive, you still cannot unleash enough dark profound energy to take advantage of an opening while in a suppressed state.” “So, as soon as his Heavenly Star glimmers a little, you will strike the spot three fingers below his right shoulder bone with an explosion of dark energy. This one explosion is enough to collapse his building Heavenly Star power completely and create a massive backlash!” 1. classical Chinese name for planet Venus in the west after dusk. ☜ Chapter 2135 - Fighting the Twin Stars Alone Cultivation, weapon, even control over profound energy. Sha Xing was superior to Pan Buwang in terms of everything. As if that wasn’t enough, he was also in a state of fury. As a result, he was able to suppress Pan Buwang in one strike. This... was the outcome everyone expected. There was nothing out of the ordinary whatsoever. Before Wild Fang’s power was spent, Sha Xing’s sword style suddenly underwent a change. The azure wolf's shadow let out a mournful howl with eyes that shone like a heavenly star, and a pressure that threatened to break open the heaven itself... It was none other than the Heavenly Wolf Third Sword Style, “Heavenly Star Lamentation”! This sword style descended like a meteor that would set civilization back a couple of millennia. He was fully confident that this one attack would drive Pan Buwang into a corner and kill off any chance for him to make a comeback, leaving naught but defiant, useless struggles. In fact, that seemed to be the case. Pan Buwang was pressured to the point where his posture was slightly off balance. When he raised his arm seemingly to block the attack, his movement looked strained and slow. Rather than a counterattack, it looked more like a person’s instinctive reaction toward encroaching danger. Then, the arm that seemed to have been raised in futility suddenly unleashed a burst of dark profound energy. Although it lasted only an instant, the dark profound light was unbelievably pure and dark. It engulfed most of the light that existed in the space they were fighting in immediately. “...” The Abyssal Monarch, who had been watching the battle with casual ease so far—not interfering or commenting to the point where he felt like a foreign spectator—reacted for the first time. Specifically, a tiny flash had appeared in his eyes before it disappeared like it never happened. When the world suddenly darkened, and surprise caught him out of nowhere, Sha Xing’s pupils contracted to pins. That was all the reaction he managed to muster before a pitch black palm struck him three fingers below his right shoulder bone. He was completely unable to defend himself.Bang! The explosion of energy wasn’t intense by any means, but it completely destroyed the energy Sha Xing had just accumulated and would have unleashed the next instant. As a result, the “Heavenly Star” that should have engulfed Pan Buwang died inside his body and eyes instead. The consequence of failure was a backlash that was almost as bad as his strength slamming into an immovable wall and rebounding upon himself.Crack! His bones broke like an avalanche, and his arm was mutilated all the way to his right chest. Even worse than the physical injury was his own profound energy running rampant as it died. A muffled groan escaped his lips as he hit the ground with a terrible thud before rebounding high up into the sky. The unwanted faux flight would continue for a while until Sha Xing finally managed to arrest himself, albeit just barely. The Heavenly Wolf’s will and the pride of a Divine Son were engraved into Sha Xing’s marrow. That was why he ultimately did not let go of Heavenly Star Holds A Star despite suffering a terrible and unexpected blow. However, the world darkened once more, and the next thing he knew, Pan Buwang’s deep, black, and ice-cold eyes appeared right before his own. His right arm had not yet regained its feeling, and his energies were running out of control inside his body. As a result, he only managed to muster one-fifth of his strength and held his greatsword in front of himself.CLANG!! Wreathed in dark profound energy, Chang Geng of the Silent Night drew a twisted arc of darkness across the air before smacking Sha Xing right across the torso. The arc would not fade for a very, very long time. Sha Xing immediately crashed toward the ground like a meteor fragment, his afterimage lingering in the air, and his descent causing an ear-piercing shriek that grated on everyone’s ears. When he finally hit the ground, the ensuing bang was such that the echoes would linger in Eden’s Crown for a long, long time. The rumbles were utterly devoid of any other noise. It was because no one was speaking at all. Every single person present at the venue was notable. Right now, though, they were all wearing different expressions of astonishment or even shock. Pan Buzhuo’s eyes were wide like saucers. He had no idea that the hand he used to cover up the right side of his face was hanging by his side. Pan Yusheng, the man who never gave Pan Buwang so much as a side-eye from the start until the end, was now staring straight at him. Such was his shock that he had even taken an unconscious step forward. As the Pray Eternal Divine Regent and the man with the strongest dark profound energy in the world, no one knew better than him what that instantaneous burst of darkness meant. Yun Che was the only person at the scene who felt nothing from this outcome. There was neither astonishment nor pleasant surprise. To him, Sha Xing was far too predictable for his own good. “Hah!!” Sha Xing let out an explosive roar and bounced back to his feet. Wielding his sword with his left hand and wearing a pair of eyes that could only be found in a cornered wolf, he glared at Pan Buwang and uttered, “What a pleasant surprise you have given me, Pan Buwang!!!” Although his right arm was mutilated, Sha Xing had recovered from the sudden collapse of his internal energies. His aura was at least several times more stunning and intense than before, and the Heavenly Wolf’s shadow behind his back was carrying itself in an unprecedentedly violent fashion. It was at this moment that a warm hand slowly grabbed his arm. Like a basin of cold water, the sensation rapidly extinguished his anger and awakened his reason. It was only then that Sha Xing realized that he was standing next to Xian Yue... and outside the barrier! In other words, he had lost. He had lost at the hands of someone he could never lose to... and in a single exchange no less! Xian Yue gave Sha Xing a long look and tightened his grip slightly. Then, he declared, “Your surprise move is beyond stunning, Divine Son Buwang! This is our defeat!” If you lost, you lost. No matter how surprising the defeat was, no matter how reluctant he was to accept it, he must accept it. This was the minimum level of dignity and bearing a Divine Son was expected to display in public. “...” Sha Xing was gritting his teeth, and the wolfish shadow in his eyes looked distorted enough to rend itself apart. Still, he did not say a word. He, a Divine Son of Star and Moon, had lost to a castaway of Owl Butterfly in one exchange! Hah! How laughable! How humiliating! So what? This was the Pure Land and the rules of the battle between Divine Children. What did his feelings amount to? Meanwhile, Wushen Xing and Wushen Yue were exchanging glances with each other. Even now, the astonishment in their eyes hadn’t faded completely. “The power he unleashed was standard, but it struck the ‘seventh inch’ of Sha Xing’s technique perfectly.” Wushen Xing muttered under his breath, “If this is a coincidence, it is too much of a coincidence. If it is not... I would rather believe that it is a coincidence.” “Setting aside whether or not it is a coincidence,” Wushen Yue’s long, narrow eyes narrowed even further until they resembled a pair of beautiful and dangerous new moons. “Could Pan Yusheng unleash his dark profound energy instantaneously without showing any signs beforehand?” Wushen Xing replied without hesitation, “No.” Everyone walking the way of the profound knew that mastering ordinary profound energy was akin to wielding a weapon. No matter how complicated or heavy it was, assuming that the profound practitioner gave it his all, it was only a matter of time before they mastered it. However, mastering dark profound energy was like trying to control a powerful but vile beast that was always struggling and rampaging against its wielder. One misstep, and this damned beast would bite them in return. Pan Buwang’s release of dark, profound energy just now... looked so easy, casual, and unimpeded; it was as if he were moving his own body. “Could it be... darkness affinity?” Behind Pan Yusheng, an Owl Butterfly elder let out an unconscious, trembling remark. However, he immediately rejected his own assumption, “No, that is impossible. Not even the Divine Regents could pull off such a thing, so how could he... It's just impossible!” “Of course it’s impossible. It’s probably just a coincidence. After all, even the wildest, craziest beast cannot be rampaging all the time, right?” It took no effort for the speaker to convince everyone that this was the truth. After all, who could, would, or was willing to believe that the Divine Son they had cast away would possess an unthinkable darkness affinity that even the Divine Regents of Owl Butterfly only dreamed of having? “Sha Xing is out of bounds. Pan Buwang wins!” The Chief Priest announced the result indifferently, catching everyone by surprise. Sha Xing was still panting heavily, but he ultimately managed to put a lid on the anger that was still boiling like an out-of-control volcano. Glaring at Pan Buwang and gritting his teeth tightly, he uttered, “Congratulations on reclaiming the honor of the Owl Butterfly Divine Son, Divine Son Buwang. Heh... hehehe... You finally... have a real shot at returning, don’t you? What are you waiting for? Go take credit for your achievement and beg for a reward already!” Pan Buwang did not withdraw his strength, however. Darkness still circling around his spear, he looked at Sha Xing and said, “You seem to have forgotten something, Star Divine Son.” “Before our fight, you promised me that you would invite the Moon Divine Son onto the battlefield and graciously show me the true power of the Twin Stars.” “...!” Sha Xing’s expression stiffened in an instant. Xian Yue did not look astonished or annoyed, however. Smiling, he said, “Of course not. The Star and Moon Kingdom of God value promises like gold, and the Star Divine Son and the Moon Divine Son have been one for many generations.” “Sha Xing’s promise is no different from my promise. Since we lost, we will fulfill our promise as a matter of course.” Sha Xing looked at Xian Yue. The moment their gazes met, they understood each other without communicating a single word. Sha Xing was soundlessly apologizing to Xian Yue, and Xian Yue was telling him there was no need. The Twin Stars came into being when the Star God and the Moon God began sharing a single artifact of inheritance. Every generation, the two Divine Sons were required to achieve synchronisation of cultivation, breath, and even soul. Because the requirements for compatibility were so strict, the power they unleashed when they worked together went beyond simple multiplication. For the two of them to fight Pan Buwang together... Their victory was synonymous with defeat. However, a promise given must be kept no matter what. So, they entered the barrier together and faced Pan Buwang shoulder-to-shoulder. Light and shadow circulated in Xian Yue’s hand, and a gorgeous-looking purple sword manifested. Drawing an elegant crescent with the blade, Xian Yue pointed the tip of the sword at Pan Buwang and declared, “Xian Yue of the Star and Moon Kingdom of God requests your guidance!” For a time, purple radiance illuminated the sky, fantastical and dreamlike. It was at this moment that a ripple stirred in Shenwu Yi’s dead, silent eyes. It looked like befuddlement and puzzlement, but it lasted only an instant before vanishing like it never was. Back on the battlefield, Sha Xing did not say a word. Heavenly Wolf Holds A Star was pointed soundlessly toward the floor, and his power was perfectly contained within his body. However, everyone outside the barrier felt a terrible pressure from him. The only thing scarier than a wolf was an angry wolf, and the only thing scarier than an angry wolf was a wounded wolf. The twins’ postures were different, and their sword styles looked contradictory. And yet, they gave off a vague but strange feeling of flawless synchrony when they stood together. It was as if they were originally one person. It was a kind of wholeness that could not tolerate any foreign object or even the slightest bit of separation. Just now, everyone was laughing at the idea of Pan Buwang challenging the Twin Stars. Now, just the blink of an eye later, it was actually happening. Whatever the outcome of this battle was, this scene alone was enough to blast the name of Pan Buwang—even if the title of Divine Son had been stripped from him—throughout the Abyss. “Tsk!! A fool cannot help but be a fool. He could have stopped here after achieving an unlikely victory, but no, he just had to overdo it and ruin everything he had gained...” Pan Buzhuo muttered hatefully to himself before sneaking a glance at his Father. It was then that he realized Pan Yusheng was wearing a deep frown. His eyebrows were knitted together, and his eyes were focused to pins. The Divine Regent wasn’t wearing an expression of annoyance and disgust that he expected at all. “Don’t underestimate him.” Wushen Xing’s unexpected sound transmission startled both Sha Xing and Xian Yue. “Something is off about this Pan Buwang... Do not underestimate him.” They were going to face down Pan Buwang as a pair, as the Twin Stars, and yet the Heavenly Star Divine Regent decided to warn them not to underestimate him? The shock the duo felt at this moment was probably greater than even the shock of Sha Xing being defeated by Pan Buwang in one exchange. The duo’s mindset and even the way they looked at Pan Buwang shifted a little. Then, they entered a state of complete focus. Their profound qi merged seamlessly, and their breathing matched perfectly. They could even feel their heartbeats overlapping with each other. “Begin,” The Chief Priest declared indifferently. Pan Buwang said nothing. The only thing that got stronger was the ripples of darkness flowing around his body. ...... Buwang: “Assuming this disciple successfully crushes Sha Xing, what should I do next?” Fog Monarch: “What else? You should crush the Twin Stars next, of course!” Buwang: “... The first time this disciple visited the Star and Moon Kingdom of God, I was lucky enough to witness the strength of the Twin Stars. Forgive me for saying this, master, but this disciple... has no chance of winning against them.” Fog Monarch: “Of course, you cannot beat them in a fair fight, but again, you hold a massive advantage over first-time opponents. It’s the exact same one that allows you to beat Sha Xing: information.” “Not only that, they have a massive disadvantage that you can exploit.” Buwang: “Disadvantage? Please enlighten me, master.” Fog Monarch: “Their advantage is their greatest disadvantage!” Buwang: “Huh?” Fog Monarch: “Engrave this into your memory, Buwang: A person is most unguarded in their proudest and greatest area of expertise. The Star and Moon Divine Sons are in perfect harmony. It is also the biggest source of pride.” “When they are united, it is as if invisible threads are linking them together. These threads connect their aura, perception, and will seamlessly to create a level of power that is far greater than if they were fighting individually.” “However... if these ‘threads’ were severed from the get-go, then the two powerful divine Sons will turn into headless flies who have lost all of their senses.” “That will be your chance to carve your path to victory!” Buwang: “... What should this disciple do?” Fog Monarch: “Dark profound energy naturally devours. It is, in fact, the bane of their ability to ‘harmonize’. Unfortunately, the ‘’Original Abyss Pray Eternal Art’ practiced by the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God is great at devouring life, but lacking in the ability to devour the soul.” “This is why I am going to teach you a new technique. A soul-devouring Profound Skill I invented based on your ‘Original Abyss Pray Eternal Art’. I call it the ‘Original Abyss That Severs The Night’!” “Remember. You are the one who discovered and invented this Profound Skill!” ...... The Star Divine Son and Moon Divine Son attacked at the same time. The Heavenly Wolf shook the sky, and the purple moon illuminated the soul. The two powers were completely different, yet they enveloped and completely locked down the space Pan Buwang existed in. Not a single flaw could be found internally, nor could any be seen externally. It was like a pair of hands naturally and easily casting a forcefield that made up for each other’s weaknesses. Darkness leaped across his body as Pan Buwang slowly raised his head. It looked like he was channeling his profound energy, but his eyes had turned into black abysses containing thousands of layers of dark nights a long time ago.RUMBLE— The air currents were pushed aside by force as Sha Xing’s silhouette appeared in the sky, and the might of the Heavenly Wolf descended in rage. Behind the Heavenly Wolf, a purple beam followed closely and seamlessly. The first strike was the only time the two powers were working separately. After that, the Heavenly Wolf and the Purple Pylon would harmonize and unleash a flurry of unending, seamless attacks. Unless the defender was overwhelmingly greater in terms of cultivation, they would face an unending torrent of attacks that resembled a downpour. Forget retaliating, they would not even have an instant to breathe. Still, Pan Buwang’s Chang Geng Of The Silent Night did not move. It wasn’t until the Heavenly Wolf greatsword was less than thirty meters away from him that the black light in his eyes finally reached peak saturation. In an instant, darkness engulfed everything. There was no sound or sign whatsoever. A second ago, everything was still normal. Next, everything inside the battlefield had transformed into darkness. Cries of shock erupted everywhere. Even the Pray Eternal Divine Regent could not conceal the explosive shock in his eyes. The darkness spilled into Yun Che’s eyes, but could not touch the bottomless abyss that resided within. This move was taken from the Illusory Devil Tome of Eternal Night. It was called Lightless Eternal Night. By combining the power of Eternal Calamity of Darkness and Original Abyss Pray Eternal Art, he turned it into the “Original Abyss That Severs The Night”. He also transformed the Profound Skill enough that even someone who knew the Illusory Devil Tome of Eternal Night would not be able to put two and two together easily. Chapter 2136 - Child of Darkness Complete darkness engulfed Sha Xing and Xian Yue’s worlds. Even the divine blaze of the Heavenly Wolf and the beautiful radiance of the Purple Pylon were devoured by the impossibly thick and anomalous darkness completely. They weren’t worried, though. If this darkness only muted their five senses, then the most it could do was astonish them for an instant— The next moment, an involuntary shudder coursed through their souls. The soul aura they had projected beyond their physical bodies, and the soul strings that seamlessly linked them together, were suddenly under attack, as if countless pitch-black, demonic blades and saws were tearing and sawing at them. By the time terrific soul pain and fear gripped them, before they could even react to the sudden attack, the link between them had already been violently severed.Buzz— Buzzing echoed throughout their soul seas before everything plummeted into borderless darkness. If Sha Xing or Xian Yue had experienced the “Original Abyss That Severs The Night” without the other, assuming that it was the first time they ever encountered this technique, and assuming that they were completely caught off guard, then it still wouldn’t be a crippling blow. At worst, they would lose their five senses for several breaths, and their minds would turn blank for several instants. In a straight fight, the technique would cost them dearly, but it would not kill them. However... Two-fifths of the perfect harmony between the Star Divine Son and the Moon Divine Son was founded on profound energy and aura, and the rest was their soul auras. When their soul auras were perfectly synchronized, each of them was bearing two people’s worth of perception. In this state, if they were to lose their link in a completely unexpected and instantaneous fashion... then the soul collapse they received was over twice as severe as a matter of course. As a result, both Divine Sons lost their consciousness for nearly a full breath! Pan Buwang did not move his feet. All he did was swing Chang Geng Of The Silent Night and draw a black arc in the air that severed even the darkness. The darkness devoured the light, devoured the aura and soul, devoured all the sounds. As a result, the spectators only saw two bent figures hurtling out of the darkness-filled barrier and hitting the floor in the same stiff fashion. They did not get back up immediately either. They were stiff and frozen like a pair of soulless puppets.Bang! Clang! Two heavy noises followed as the Heavenly Wolf greatsword and the Purple Pylon sword flew out of the darkness and stabbed into the floor next to the duo with great accuracy. It was only now that the eyes of the two Divine Sons regained their clarity and focus and stood up. They instinctively reached out and grabbed their weapons once more, but their bodies and expressions stiffened again when they found themselves staring at the barrier. The darkness faded, and Pan Buwang’s silhouette reentered everyone’s view. He was still standing there. It was almost as if they hadn’t moved a step. For a moment, shocked and frozen, silence encompassed the whole temple. Then, it exploded into an uncontrollable uproar like the dissipating darkness. “What... What just happened?” “Did the Twin Stars just... lose instantly? How... What...” “It looks like the soul connection between the Twin Stars was instantly severed. That is why they suffered a soul collapse.” “It was mentioned in the records that dark profound energy possesses the strongest potency for soul-devouring out of everything. However, the dark profound arts of the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God clearly exhibited no such characteristics. Forget seeing, I have never even heard of a soul-devouring domain of darkness like Pan Buwang’s before!” “The most terrifying thing about this domain is that it was unleashed almost instantaneously... forget two youngsters, even this old one would be caught off guard for a bit.” “...” Meanwhile, Pan Buzhuo had just finished picking up the jaw he had left on the floor. Forcing himself to stay calm, he asked in a low tone, “Father, this... this isn’t our technique at all! What... in the Abyss is this?” He waited for a moment but received no response. When he finally turned to look at his Father, he saw for the first time a true expression of utter shock on his face. When his gaze shifted backward, he saw that every Owl Butterfly elite was wearing a shocked expression as well. “Sha Xing and Xian Yue are out of bounds. Pan Buwang wins!” It wasn’t until the Chief Priest declared Pan Buwang’s victory that the cacophony was finally settled. While he was announcing, the Chief Priest’s gaze had briefly lingered on his person as well.Clap! Clap! Clap! It was at this moment that Wushen Xing rose to his feet and clapped his hands. He said, “Although this was yet another incredibly swift fight, it was no less exquisite and eye-opening than the first one. Even this Divine Regent must offer my praise.” As a Divine Regent, his words were spoken without any veiled meaning or insult. His compliment was wholly unreserved as well. “Xing, Yue.” He looked at the two Divine Sons who still couldn’t quite process what just happened. “From the day you achieved perfect harmony, you have never suffered defeat in the hands of an opponent who is one minor level above you. But today, you have lost to an opponent at the same cultivation level as you in one breath.” “Do you think that this outcome is unfair?” After the Heavenly Star Divine Regent’s voice dispelled the darkness entrenched in their souls, their expressions gradually turned solemn, and they performed a bow at the same time. “No. This disciple accepts this defeat wholeheartedly. This disciple will engrave this defeat into his heart.” Admitting defeat without fanfare was, in fact, the best way to pick up one’s shattered dignity. “This is nothing.” Wushen Yue consoled them smilingly, “Today’s defeat may become the foundation of tomorrow’s success. Now come. Clear your mind of stray thoughts and concentrate.” Everyone’s gaze was focused on Pan Buwang. Wushen Xing said frankly, “My immature disciple, Sha Xing, lost sight of himself and insulted Divine Son Bu Zhuo recklessly after achieving a minor victory over him. His mistake has been punished by Divine Son Buwang. I doubt he will forget this slap to the face even after many years.” “I hereby offer my congratulations to the Pray Eternal Divine Regent and Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God. Such an excellent Godbearer is rare, even if you search throughout the history of the Abyss. Do color me envious.” Although Sha Xing had defeated and humiliated Pan Buzhuo in combat, Pan Buwang had instantly defeated Sha Xing in return. This alone had earned back the face the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God had lost several fold. But his feat of defeating the Twin Stars alone... without exaggeration, as the weakest Kingdom of God of the six, they had never produced a single Divine Child who could measure up to even a sliver of what Pan Buwang had achieved today. This was easily the greatest show darkness had put on this stage so far, and yet not a single man or woman in the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God could wear a smile on their faces. Their pride and excitement should be bursting right now, and yet not an ounce could be seen anywhere. The Pray Eternal Divine Regent’s reply was unbelievably stiff as well. “You exaggerate, Heavenly Star Divine Regent. Fortune decided to favor us today, that’s all.” No one was surprised by the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God’s reaction. After all, everyone generally knew what happened during the replacement of a Divine Child. If Pan Buzhuo were the one who achieved this feat, every Owl Butterfly member would probably be screaming themselves hoarse and dancing like no tomorrow, decorum be damned. But Pan Buwang? All they felt from his success was indescribable discomfort. Pan Buzhuo was gritting his teeth. He was clearly trying to stay calm and collected, but the uncontrollable, constant twitching of the corners of his mouth betrayed how he really felt. He knew perfectly well what was going to happen. He would still be the Owl Butterfly Divine Son, and Pan Buwang was still going to be the castaway. But after today, not only would Pan Buwang’s reputation surpass his, he would become the man’s foil... or even laughingstock for a long, long time to come. “Pan Buwang,” it was at this moment that the Chief Priest spoke once more, “you can now choose another person to fight, or take a short break.” Pan Buwang did not move. He was staring straight ahead. However, the corner of his eye was being drawn uncontrollably toward Shenwu Yi again, and again, and again. “You must withdraw decisively after defeating the Star and Moon Divine Sons. You will not hesitate or dilly-dally, and you will not stir up unnecessary trouble no matter how much you hate Pan Buzhuo, or how much you wish to kill Shenwu Yi.” Master’s advice rang inside his soul sea again and again. In the end, he was able to tear the edge of his vision from Shenwu Yi. However, the figure he had just decided to tear away from abruptly appeared in front of him in full. Shenwu Yi herself had entered the barrier to face Pan Buwang! “Shenwu Yi of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God requests your guidance.” The celestial-like voice hit him like a hammer. She looked like snow floating under the moon, soaking one to the bone in coldness and desolation. And yet, she was also indescribably pure and lofty. When Pan Buwang’s eyes met hers... her exquisite countenance and dreamlike aura did not stun him. On the contrary, it very nearly caused him to lose control and reveal the terrible bloodthirst he kept hidden in his marrow. “Withdraw decisively... You will not stir up unnecessary trouble... no matter how much you wish to kill Shenwu Yi...” “You will not stir up unnecessary trouble...” “You will not...” All ten of his fingers curled up a little. It wasn’t until a few breaths later that they finally relaxed bit by bit. “Apologies,” he said in a voice as cool and sonorous as the chime of a night bell, “but I have no reason to fight you. Since the rules dictate that the challenged person must accept a challenge or surrender...” “I choose to surrender.” These four words were easily the hardest words for any Divine Son or Divine Daughter to say in this battle, much less the battle between Divine Children, and yet they had tumbled out of his mouth as smooth as butter. Not a hint of defiance, hatred, or resentment could be detected in his voice. There was only cool indifference that resembled a cold spring on an autumn night. “...” Shenwu Yi did not respond. The spectators were exchanging looks as well. Yet again, Pan Buwang had surprised them. They could no longer understand or predict Pan Buwang’s behavior. Just what on earth was he trying to do? And what in the Abyss had happened to him during the years he “vanished”? The Chief Priest’s gaze settled on Pan Buwang once more. “You may receive a wish from the Abyssal Monarch if you perform splendidly in battle. Are you sure you want to surrender without a fight?” The Chief Priest never wasted his breath, and yet he was encouraging Pan Buwang to keep fighting. Clearly, more than most people at the scene, he understood just how extraordinary Pan Buwang’s performance was. “Yes. I surrender.” However, Pan Buwang did not hesitate for even an instant. While showered by puzzlement and shock from all sides, he gave his answer right after the Chief Priest had asked him the question. The Chief Priest stopped trying after that. He announced, “Pan Buwang has surrendered the fight. Shenwu Yi wins.” Once a participant had lost, they were not allowed to enter the battlefield once more. However, the Abyssal Monarch’s choice was not decided by victory or defeat. Pan Buwang turned around, and it looked like he was going to step out of the barrier. It was at this moment that a voice echoed in everyone’s ear, eliminating all noise in Eden’s Crown, and freezing every wisp of aura instantly. “Come to me, Pan Buwang.” Pan Buwang froze in his tracks and turned completely blank in both expression and gaze. He did not move for a very, very long time as if someone had cast a freezing spell on him. Eden’s Crown itself was so silent that a pindrop could be heard. Everyone at the scene, from the highest Divine Regent to the youngest profound practitioner, was frozen as well. No one dared to say a word, even though their hearts were thudding like drumbeats. Pan Buzhuo was utterly speechless. He looked like his soul had been stolen from him. However, the Pray Eternal Divine Regent’s shock and befuddlement were almost ten times greater than his. “Yes.” It was only now that Pan Buwang seemingly regained his senses and forced the word out of his mouth. Then, he turned around and began walking toward the Abyssal Monarch. His footsteps were slow and cautious as if he was treading on the edge of a cloud belonging only in the dream world. For the longest time, the Abyssal Monarch had only played the role of a spectator in the battle between Divine Children. Forget speaking, his expression hadn’t so much as twitched even once throughout the event. Not a single time. But today, he spoke up and addressed Pan Buwang directly. No one dared to guess what this could mean. Finally, while everyone’s gaze was glued to his person, Pan Buwang arrived before the Abyssal Monarch and dropped to his knees. The Abyssal Monarch descended from the sky and landed just one step away from Pan Buwang. Then, he extended a hand—a hand that looked like sacred jade and flowed with indistinct divine light—and touched Pan Buwang on the shoulder. The contact only lasted a moment before he pulled away. “Pan Buwang,” he addressed the young man directly. Although it was the voice of the monarch, it sounded as relaxing, elegant, and gentle as the sound of heated jades striking against each other. “If it is okay with you, can you tell me where you obtained the soul domain of darkness you just used?” He did not order. He specifically said, “If it is okay with you,” and gave Pan Buwang the option to say no. After that, the world fell so utterly silent it was as if everyone had forgotten how to breathe. Pan Buwang lifted his head slightly. Although he did not avoid the Abyssal Monarch’s gaze, he didn’t dare to meet it directly as he was a junior. “I learned it myself, Your Majesty.” He did not refuse to answer, and the answer he gave stunned everyone. If he really learned and invented it on his own... then just how shocking was his natural talent for darkness that he could create a surprise move that instantly defeated the Twin Stars? As he said this, an overwhelming sense of sorrow and melancholy, one that he was clearly having difficulty suppressing and was only spiraling out of control over time, flowed out of Pan Buwang. ...... Fog Monarch: “Before you enter the Pure Land, there is one thing you must mentally prepare yourself for, Buwang. After you defeat the Star and Moon Divine Sons, there is a chance the Abyssal Monarch may set his gaze on you and ask you about the origins of your ‘Original Abyss That Severs The Night’.” Buwang: “This disciple dares not question your words, master, but if I may speak up, the Abyssal Monarch has never shown interest even when a Kingdom of God is in peril, and Divine Regents were replaced with little warning. This disciple just can’t see him paying me any—” Fog Monarch: “I only require your obedience!” Buwang: “As you command, master.” Fog Monarch: “Assuming this scenario takes place, you know what to say, don’t you?” Buwang: “I have learned it myself during my darkest moments... but how can my lie possibly fool the Abyssal Monarch?” Fog Monarch: “If falsehood isn’t enough, then self-destruction will do.” Buwang: “... I request your guidance, master.” Fog Monarch: “Think of your mother, think of Shenwu Qing, think about everything you have lost! Think about your pain, your sorrow, your defiance, your despair! Let it consume your soul until all other emotions are blotted out... including your lies!” ...... Pan Buwang’s fingers curled unconsciously, and his body trembled uncontrollably as the all-too-painful memories spread inside his soul sea. “Buwang... lost his mother... his beloved mother... and so fell into gray despair for a time. I once traveled to Dreamweaver, wishing only to fall into an eternal dream... but was cast out instead. So, I roamed the Endless Fog...” His voice grew hoarse, and every word seemed to be infused with tangible despair that stabbed at every listener’s soul. “One time, I was near death in the Endless Fog. In my dreams, I wished only to fall to slumber within the eternal darkness... When I awoke, I discovered that I was surrounded by all-consuming darkness that blotted out the sky itself. Only my spear, ‘Chang Geng of Silent Night’, rang and trembled in my hand. It pulled me back from the eternal night like my mother’s hand...” “As if reborn, I rose to my feet and cut the night with my spear... At that moment, I experienced enlightenment and named the technique, ‘Original Abyss That Severs The Night’.” Everyone knew more or less what had happened to Pan Buwang. It was clear he was doing his utmost to control his emotions before the Abyssal Monarch. Still... the bone-piercing despair, the heart-searing pain, the blood-soaked words... all of it made them feel deep sympathy for him. The “Original Abyss That Severs The Night”... an enlightenment he experienced while being moments away from soul death. No wonder it possessed such potent soul-devouring ability. The Abyssal Monarch nodded slightly and raised his hand. Then, he lightly tapped Pan Buwang twice on the shoulder. This was the monarch’s way of comforting his subject; a favor countless Divine Children could not even dream of having... It made Pan Yusheng’s eyebrows jump like crazy, and every man and woman of Owl Butterfly felt like a storm was churning inside their heart. Then, the Abyssal Monarch’s following words flipped their world upside down. “This lone one once thought that it’s impossible for this world to birth a pure Child of Darkness anymore. To think... that this impossible wish of mine would be fulfilled in this era.” Chapter 2137 - The Sword Points At Jiuzhi The Abyssal Monarch’s words felt like the voice of heaven, shaking the soul and stunning the people beyond their wildest imaginations. A pure Child of Darkness... The highest, greatest people of the Abyss were gathered here in Eden’s Crown today. So, they knew very well what this meant. According to the records of dark profound energy, it referred to someone with perfect affinity and mastery of dark profound energy... a pure body of darkness that only existed in the records before today! Without exaggeration, such a person had never existed in the history of the Abyss. Who would have thought that Pan Buwang, former Owl Butterfly Divine Son who was deposed and even subsequently tossed out of the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God like trash, would accomplish an unprecedented miracle of darkness that earned even the attention of the Abyssal Monarch?! Pan Yusheng took a step forward. He was the Pray Eternal Divine Regent, and yet his throat bobbed up and down chaotically, and the corners of his mouth were visibly twitching against his will. Despite all this, he could not make a single sound. As for the Owl Butterfly experts behind him, their expressions could only be described as terribly diverse and utterly spectacular. Wearing a perfectly reasonable look of surprise and curiosity, Yun Che asked Meng Kongchan in a low tone, “Can you give me an idea of how rare this pure Child of Darkness is, senior?” Meng Kongchan responded simply, “It is unprecedented in the past or the present.” Shock bloomed across Yun Che’s face. A while later, he said softly, “Does that mean that the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God has tossed away a bright pearl that would have made history with their own hands? Actually, scratch that. After today, the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God’s attitude toward Pan Buwang is going to change dramatically. They will most likely appoint a new Divine Son.” Meng Kongchan slowly shook his head and sighed quietly. “Unfortunately, Owl Butterfly went too far and did too much for Pan Buzhuo. The things they did to Pan Buwang... they have cut off that possible future with their own hands.” The Abyssal Monarch’s eyes were still firmly glued to Pan Buwang, but a closer look would reveal that he wasn’t actually looking at his face or his eyes. He was really staring at the natural darkness wafting above his head.It’s so pure... so gentle and calm...There are even traces... of Original Nether...Are you blessing me in your dreams...Is this a sign that you will soon return...I knew it... I knew it...This must mean... that the Eternal Pure Land... is the final end of this abyss of dreams... “Pan Buwang,” the Abyssal Monarch spoke up again in the same gentle voice as before, “I have heard a little about your story. I can empathize with your pain and sorrow as well. Maybe you are naturally talented, or maybe the grayish despair you experienced was so deep that it culminated in the miracle of darkness you are experiencing right now.” He did not ask when or what cultivation level Pan Buwang was at when he achieved perfect compatibility with darkness. Maybe the answer wasn’t important, or perhaps he did not wish to hear an answer that went against his hopes and expectations. “You have fulfilled a wish this lone one thought would never be fulfilled. This lone one is delighted. As such, this lone one promises to fulfill one wish for you. If there is anything you would like to wish for, then say it. So long as it does not harm the natural order, then this lone one will satisfy it.” For a time, silent gasps appeared all over the place. This was a promise from the Abyssal Monarch Himself, and he had given it in front of everyone. It was a kind of honor and favor that countless Divine Children dared not even dream of obtaining in their lifetimes. The blood drained from Pan Buzhuo’s face instantly. The expressions of the members of Owl Butterfly also became a million times more colorful and varied than before. They could already predict what Pan Buwang’s greatest desire was: to regain his identity as the Owl Butterfly Divine Son... to become the one and only. Otherwise, why would he go so far as to enter the Pure Land via the Star and Moon Kingdom of God? Why would he backstab Sha Xing and “fight for the honor” of Owl Butterfly? His objective was as clear as day at this point, and the Abyssal Monarch’s promise was the nail in the coffin. Even if that wasn’t the case, Pan Buwang was currently the possessor of a miraculous body of darkness, the awe-inspiring achievement of victory over the Twin Stars, and even the mild but irrefutable attention of the Abyssal Monarch. Who in the world dared to say that Pan Buwang did not possess the right to replace Pan Buzhuo even if his divine essence was poorer than the latter's? As expected, Pan Buwang looked terribly agitated after hearing the Abyssal Monarch’s promise. His body trembled, and his voice trembled harder as he spoke, “The reason Buwang did everything I could to enter the Pure Land... and even go so far as to reveal my hidden skills... is all to earn some favor with Father... and obtain just one item...” He half-turned in Pan Yusheng’s direction and met his father’s gaze briefly. Then, he slowly bowed his head and said slowly, “I ask that... you give me...” Pan Yusheng’s complexion was ashen, and Pan Buzhuo’s face was positively bloodless. In fact, the Owl Butterfly Divine Son was swaying a little as if he could faint at any moment. After becoming the Owl Butterfly Divine Son, he resorted to all sorts of unspeakable methods to utterly remove the potential threat that Pan Buwang posed. In the end, he was able to dye the man in total despair and even exile him from the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God. He never dreamed that the potential threat he thought he removed completely would somehow make a comeback, much less one as absolute as this. It was blindingly obvious what was going to happen after Pan Buwang made a comeback. He was going to— “... the Forever Bond you made with Mother... when the two of you wed.” Pan Yusheng’s expression froze instantly, a ray of absent-mindedness and... bewilderment? Shooting out of his eyes. Every Owl Butterfly member was stunned. Pan Buzhuo stopped trembling and froze from head to toe as if he had just heard the most ridiculous thing in the entire world. This was truly an answer that no one had anticipated. The Abyssal Monarch’s expression did not change. He asked indifferently, “Is that all you want?” “Yes.” Pan Buwang answered without hesitation, “Once upon a time, Buwang sought to end it all. However, that is no longer the case. Now, I only wish to spend the rest of my life with something to guide my heart and will.” “Everything I could have inherited from mother... besides the Chang Geng of the Silent Night... was destroyed. The only thing that still exists... is the Forever Bond. It also contains... the last wisp of her soul... the only wisp that still exists in this world...” Facing toward Pan Yusheng, Pan Buwang dropped to one knee and bowed his head deeply. “Very well.” In two words, the Abyssal Monarch had made Pan Yusheng’s choice for him. “Yusheng.” The monarch looked at the Pray Eternal Divine Regent and said two words. He didn’t give an order, but it was an irrefutable order all the same. Without a word, Pan Yusheng reached into his portable space and pulled out what looked like a dot of black light. Then, he pushed it in Pan Buwang’s direction. Pan Buwang stumbled and nearly pounced toward the dot of black light on all fours. He hurriedly yet carefully caught the dot of black light in his hands. It was a small and delicate jade bond. At the center of the jade bond was a tiny soul crystal that glimmered weakly. The Forever Bond was sealed into a soul thread during the wedding of a man and woman of the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God. It symbolized the eternal bond of their hearts and souls. However, Pan Yusheng’s soul thread was missing from the Forever Bond. He had either removed it earlier... or just now. Sensing the soul presence belonging to his mother—so weak yet so warm—Pan Buwang instantly burst into tears. Hands trembling, he slowly pressed the tiny jade bond against his solar plexus so hard it was as if he was trying to mold it into his heart. At that moment, the emotional outburst touched everyone. It was simply impossible for this to be an act or some sort of deception. Pan Buwang... he truly just wanted to obtain and preserve the final wisp of his mother’s soul. “Thank... Thank you... for bestowing this favor... Your Majesty... Thank you... for giving me this... Father...” Right now, every word he spoke was shuddering with tears. Coming from the man who showed no emotion whatsoever even when he defeated the Twin Stars in an instant, it said a lot of things. “...” Even the anger and humiliation residing in Sha Xing’s eyes earlier had been replaced by something indescribably complex. “Rise.” As soon as the command was given, Pan Buwang found himself lifted to his feet by a gentle but irresistible force. Looking at the tear stains on his face, the Abyssal Monarch asked, “Where will you be going next, Pan Buwang?” The fact that the Abyssal Monarch was asking this implied an offer. If Pan Buwang said, “I wish to remain in the Pure Land,” then the Abyssal Monarch would accept it for sure. Hands pressed together and holding the last bit of warmth that existed in this world, Pan Buwang whispered, “Buwang has fulfilled his wish and no longer has a reason to impose on the Pure Land, so... this is where I will take my leave.” He bowed deeply to the Abyssal Monarch, voice free yet determined. “Mm.” The Abyssal Monarch nodded. Before the young man left, he gave him one last piece of advice: “Never submit to fate, no matter what circumstances you are facing.” With that, Pan Buwang left Eden’s Crown. There was no hesitation or yearning in his body language whatsoever. However, the feelings he stirred in everyone’s heart would not fade until a very, very long time later. “Yusheng,” the Abyssal Monarch looked straight ahead and spoke in a voice that reached the top of the clouds, “This lone one has never desired to get involved with another person’s karma, much less interfere with another family’s business. I only hope... that you will not regret your choices.” Pan Yusheng bowed respectfully to him. “Yusheng receives your guidance.” Yun Che narrowed his eyes slightly and hid a sigh of relief. As expected, the Abyssal Monarch did not say anything even though he surely must have noticed Pan Buwang’s perfect divine essence. It was because the pure body of darkness was the one thing that truly deserved his attention. The rest... well, it did not deserve his comments to put it mildly. Yun Che preferred it this way. It wasn’t like this “pleasant surprise” could not be revealed at this time, but it would be far more effective if it were revealed at a later date. Inside the barrier, the plainly-dressed Shenwu Yi was still carrying herself with an air of lofty, lonely dignity. Meng Jianxi took a step forward and said unhurriedly, “I will face her.” However, Yun Che immediately grabbed his arm and said, “There is no hurry. You can decide whether you want to enter after watching a match.” “... Why not?” Although Meng Jianxi was astonished, he saw no reason to refute Yun Che’s words. Meanwhile, the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God was still drowning in a bizarre atmosphere. At some point, the old man standing behind Pan Yusheng finally lost his cool and sent his Divine Regent a sound transmission, “Are we seriously not going to pursue Pan Buwang, supreme one?” “Hmph!” Pan Yusheng let out a cold harrumph. “He’s just posturing. I’m sure he’s waiting for us to ask him to return.” “Leave him be. We can look for him in an hour... Maybe only half an hour. He won’t have gone far.” At the same time, Sha Xing suddenly clenched his teeth and left the scene at high speed. Xian Yue subconsciously reached out to catch him, but he thought better and withdrew his arm halfway. Wushen Xing was frowning slightly, but just like Xian Yue, he chose against commanding Sha xing to come back. It was at this moment Shenwu Yi finally chose an opponent. Eyes staring straight at the Boundless Kingdom of God’s formation, she declared: “I have long heard of the number one Divine Son. I request your guidance!” ...... Pan Buwang wasn’t just leaving Eden’s Crown, he was leaving the Pure Land altogether. Chest filled with excitement for having obtained his mother’s final personal belonging, and more profound fear and respect toward his master, he didn’t stop for even an instant. He was less than fifty kilometers from the boundary of the Pure Land when an unexpected voice called out to him. “Brother Buwang!” Pan Buwang gradually slowed to a stop, but he did not turn around. His back facing toward Sha Xing, he said indifferently, “You treated me as a friend and helped me a lot, and yet I used you as a stepping stone... therefore, you no longer need to address me as Brother Buwang.” “Brother Buwang.” Despite what he said, Sha Xing continued to address Pan Buwang as a brother. The anger and scorn that resided in his eyes during their earlier combat were gone, replaced by sincerity and purity that were exactly the same as before their fallout. “I was consumed by anger earlier and lost all of my reason. I have said too many things that hurt you deeply.” Pan Buwang: “...” “Now that I have regained my calm, I finally understand that you weren’t planning to use me as a stepping stone to return to the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God... On the contrary, knowing how deep your love for your mother runs... there is simply no way that you are a cold and heartless person.” Pan Buwang finally turned around to face Sha Xing, but there was no emotion in his eyes whatsoever. “What are you trying to say? Or more accurately... What are you trying to prove?” Sha Xing sucked in a deep breath before beginning, “Do you still remember how we came to be friends, Brother Buwang? You had injured one of your own to protect the ordinary citizens of a Land of the Living. You had admitted your mistake and apologized to me without hesitation. You are also the only one who dared to befriend the Eternal Night Divine Daughter (Shenwu Qing) so that she would not be alone.” “I was delighted to become your friend. My image of you has never faded after you lost your status as a Divine Son. More than anything, I want to believe that a person’s true nature does not change easily.” “So, Brother Buwang... You must never do something like giving up on yourself or committing an act that you know you will regret. If you ever need my help... even if it’s just to serve as your stepping stone again, please do not hesitate to seek me out. If it’s you... One time, ten times, I will not hesitate to help you!” Sha Xing knew Pan Buwang’s greatest secret. He knew that his master was the Fog Monarch. So, when Pan Buwang surprised everyone by not using the Abyssal Monarch’s wish to ask to return to the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God, Sha Xing immediately had a vague, unsettling feeling that Pan Buwang... was willingly sinking himself into a terrible, dark abyss. “Hah!” Pan Buwang’s response to Sha Xing’s kind words was to let out a cold, ugly bark of laughter. “Allow me to ask you a question, Divine Son Xing.” He said coldly, “Have you ever experienced being stomped into the smelliest, rottenest swamp for one thousand and four hundred hours by over a hundred people?” “...” Sha Xing froze. “I have. It happened right in front of my mother’s grave. I could not put on even a sliver of resistance, because they would shatter the gravestone I just carved for my mother otherwise.” “...” Sha Xing’s breathing grew heavy, and his mouth opened and closed wordlessly like a fish. He did not know what to say. Pan Buwang’s mouth split into a chilling smile. He then raised his little finger and covered it with his hand so only the barest tip was poking out of the surface. “This is but the tiniest wisp of humiliation I have received throughout the years.” “But... why?” Sha Xing subconsciously asked, “Just what kind of terrible grudge exists between you and Pan Buzhuo for him to treat you like this after he became the Divine Son?” “That’s a good question.” Pan Buwang’s smile grew even more ridiculing. “Unfortunately, the answer is nothing.” “This all happened purely because... I am a potential threat. Let’s use you as an example, Star Divine Son. You’ve grown accustomed to being the noble and unparalleled Divine Son for a long time, haven’t you? Can you accept suddenly losing it all one day?” “...” Sha Xing could not say the words, “I can.” Pan Buwang continued, “I am the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God’s first Divine Son of this generation. I grew up in a shower of flattery and praise. I was accustomed to all this and believed that this was how the world should be. I believed my life would never change. The only ‘potential threats’ I was ever concerned about were cultivation bottlenecks and Father’s disappointment.” “Now that I think back, how foolish and laughable I was.” “However, Pan Buzhuo is my successor. He understands what a potential threat truly is, and he is afraid that he will one day be replaced. He is afraid that I, like all the latent Godbearers who awakened their divine essence after they were born, would surpass him. Even if the possibility of this happening is minuscule.” “That is why he gave everything he could to wipe out the greatest potential threat to his position... me. He could not kill me, but he could take everything away from me. He could wipe out everything I ever depended on and even destroy me mentally and spiritually.” “... Is that... all?” Sha Xing murmured in disbelief. “Yes. That is all.” Pan Buwang continued in an indifferent tone, “Do you know why not a single man or woman in Owl Butterfly is able to smile even though I defeated you and the Moon Divine Son and earned the Kingdom of God an unprecedented amount of face?” “It’s because too many of them—maybe it was themselves, maybe it was their children, or maybe it was their juniors—partook in my trampling in order to curry favor with Pan Buzhuo. All these so-called brothers and sisters who used to admire me, curry favor with me, and praise me changed their faces into something utterly unrecognizable overnight... heh... hehehehe!” He laughed. It was a cold, terrible laugh. “There is one thing I must give Pan Buzhuo, though. His methods are beyond vile, and he deserves to die a million deaths for doing it, but there is no question how effective they are. After all, even though I had gained the qualifications to surpass him, there is no one in Owl Butterfly who would dare to make me a Divine Son once more, would they?” “But...” “My Father,” Pan Buwang interrupted whatever Sha Xing was trying to say, “the Father who once showered me with love and care only had a few harmless rebukes to offer my abusers... Later, he did not even bother to rebuke them... Later still, I was the one who was rebuked. In the end... Well, you know what happened. Hehe, the diverse faces of humanity are truly interesting, aren't they?” Sha Xing: “...” “Wuqing was the only thing keeping my spirit intact during the most difficult time of my life, and she died... Have you ever known what it’s like to have your faith crumble into nothing, Star Divine Son? This feeling that everything in the world had turned into gray... it is most curious.” “Oh, sorry. I forgot that your beloved is the thirteenth princess of the Shining Star Realm, and your love for each other is as deep as it is reciprocated. Now that I think about it, your wedding date is near, isn’t it? I should not be talking about such inauspicious things.” “...” Sha Xing raised his hand, but his throat was parched. “Have you ever experienced the helplessness and despair of your father doing everything in his power to protect your mother’s murderer, even though he knew full well that she was murdered and who did it? Have you ever known how painful it is to see your mother’s belongings being destroyed one by one, unable to do anything to stop it? You can stir up my insides with your Heavenly Wolf Holds A Star, and I promise you it cannot hold a candle to even an instant of what I felt at those moments...” “Enough. Enough already...” Sha Xing’s hands started shaking slightly... just listening to Pan Buwang’s words and imagining himself in his shoes for even an instant... was enough to make him cease all such imaginations forever. Pan Buwang turned his back on Sha Xing once more. “So, for someone who is still a Divine Son, whose parents and beloved are still alive and well, whose greatest pitfall in his life is just getting injured in the Endless Fog... what right do you have to console me?” “And who gave you the gall to say that a person’s nature would not change easily?” Sha Xing’s eyes were utterly blank at this point. Pan Buwang’s chest heaved heavily for a moment. When he spoke once more, his voice became even and gentle. “That said, do not hesitate to enjoy your nobility and innocence, Star Divine Son... I hope there will never be a day when you have no choice but to shed your innocence and goodness.” He took one step forward before stopping in his tracks again. “Here is one last piece of advice for you. Do not try to approach me again, and definitely do not morally kidnap yourself with our so-called ‘bond’. You shouldn’t, and I am not worth it.” Pan Buwang sped off toward the horizon once more. He was gone in just the blink of an eye. Sha Xing did not chase after him. He simply stood where he was for a very, very long time. ...... At Eden’s Crown, Dian Jiuzhi slowly stepped out of the group. All eyes were on the number one Divine Son. No one, including himself, expected someone to challenge him this quickly. Although this was a battle between Divine Children, and the combatants would be fighting on the same cultivation level... Dian Jiuzhi was still the oldest and most powerful of them all. His profound accumulation, experience, and knowledge far exceeded any other Divine Child. In other words, assuming that their cultivation levels were equal, Dian Jiuzhi was unquestionably invincible no matter who he faced. Chapter 2138 - Ice Heart Nine Profound (1) “That demonic grandma probably ordered this pitiful girl to make an example out of you.” Dian Rahu said indifferently, “Go. There is no need to show any mercy to a girl serving that old, demonic grandma.” No one thought he was wrong to address Shenwu Yi as a “pitiful girl”. In another Kingdom of God, being chosen to be a Godbearer was the honor of a lifetime. But a Godbearer who Shenwu Yanye chose... how else could they describe her besides pitiful? The previous Eternal Night Divine Daughter, Shenwu Qing, had carried herself with a kind of soul-piercing loneliness and gloominess. Perhaps the only warmth she ever felt came from the once arrogant and fearless, the “one who faced hardships head on,” Pan Buwang. Today, her corpse was still cooling... actually, scratch that. Considering that Shenwu Qing committed what Shenwu Yanye considered the “gravest error” a woman could ever make, and refused to admit her mistake until the moment she died, it was entirely up for question whether she even left a corpse behind. Dian Jiuzhi leaped into the air and landed inside the barrier as light as a feather and as elegant as a poem. Although Dian Rahu told him not to show mercy to a daughter of Eternal Night, the self-cultivation that was etched in his very bones still caused him to give Shenwu Yi a polite salute. “Boundless Dian Jiuzhi greets you. I am honored to receive the guidance of the newly appointed Eternal Night Divine Daughter.” Shenwu Yi did not say anything. She only turned her wrist and caused a soft ding to echo in everyone’s ears. There was a dark, crimson-colored flash, and a thin, long sword appeared in Shenwu Yi’s hand. The hilt of the sword was pitch black in color. The blade was about 1.3 meters long and pitch black. It was etched with dark red patterns that glowed faintly like bloody pupils that were peering into the world from the darkest night. Meng Jianxi explained to Yun Che softly, “This sword was originally the sword of the Divine Son of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God, ‘Crimson Pupil’.[1] However, Shenwu Yanye gave it an intolerably vulgar name after she became Divine Regent.” “She named it the Heartless Sword.” Yun Che: “...” Yun Che wore a look of dumbfoundedness that Meng Jianxi clearly approved of. He continued, “The Eternal Night Kingdom of God has another Divine Son weapon called ‘Profound Sky Cleansing Moon’. It is a beautiful skybreak sting with spatial powers. Shenwu Yanye later changed its name to ‘Heartbreak Sting.’” He shook his head with a regretful look on his face. The Chief Priest raised his palm, and old, bronze-colored, profound light shone out of it. “Shenwu Yi of Eternal Night is at the sixth level of the Divine Extinction Realm. Dian Jiuzhi of Boundless is at the eighth level of the Divine Extinction Realm. For this battle, Dian Jiuzhi must accept the Profound Rage Seal so that his cultivation level is equal to Shenwu Yi’s.” “I’m in your care, Chief Priest.” Dian Jiuzhi turned around to salute him. However, a cold, indifferent voice rang beside his ears. “It is unnecessary.” Dian Jiuzhi side-eyed Shenwu Yi with a slightly odd expression. After the initial shock had passed, the crowd was chuckling lightly or shaking their heads in silence. Dian Rahu, one of the few men who did not give a shit about the right place and time, was laughing out loud. “Hahahaha! This girl... how interesting! Hahahaha!” “Hmm? This woman... Just what is she thinking?” Meng Jianxi frowned deeply. “Is she thinking about fighting Dian Jiuzhi at his strongest? Does she know who she is facing?? Has she gone mad?” “...?” Yun Che was frowning slightly as well. It did not disappear even after a long time. Dian Jiuzhi’s astonishment only lasted a moment. He did not jeer at her or get frustrated with her. Instead, he said calmly, “You are a permanent resident of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God, and today is our first meeting. I understand why you would not know much about me, Eternal Night Divine Daughter.” “I am Dian Jiuzhi. I am currently fifty-two sexagenary years old and an eighth-level Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner. In terms of the profound way, I am fifty-one sexagenary years more experienced and knowledgeable than you. In terms of physical body, I possess the Divine Vein of Great Rage. It is fairly compatible with the Boundless Manifestation Art of the Boundless Kingdom of God.” “In other words, even if my cultivation level is suppressed to your level, I still hold a great advantage in terms of the profound way and the physical body... Or more accurately, an unfair advantage.” He did not conceal anything. He told Shenwu Yi exactly how big his advantage was. “So I advise you to reconsider your words, Eternal Night Divine Daughter.” However, Dian Jiuzhi’s kind words did not move Shenwu Yi’s expression in the slightest. When she spoke again, her tone was exactly as indifferent as before. “I said, it is unnecessary.” The yellow light in the Chief Priest’s hand vanished, and he did not attempt to persuade Shenwu Yi. He said in a heavy voice, “In that case, the Profound Rage Seal will not be applied. Begin!” There was no turning back once the Chief Priest had given his word... it would appear that even the Chief Priest disliked the Eternal Night Kingdom of God. Dian Jiuzhi had more to say, but the Chief Priest’s verdict forced him to swallow it. Facing Shenwu Yi and hiding a sigh, he clasped his right hand behind his back and slowly raised his left hand. “My age, cultivation level, and physical body are all greater than yours. Even if I win, it would not be a fair victory. Rather than winning, I would rather learn from you and witness the celestial appearance of the Eternal Night Divine Daughter with my own eyes. Only then will this fight be worthwhile[2].” “So, I’ll allow you ten breaths to attack first. Ten breaths later, I will stop defending and start attacking.” Ten breaths... At the level of the Divine Extinction Realm, being able to attack without retaliation for ten breaths straight was a significantly stupid handicap to say the least. If not for the fact that Dian Jiuzhi’s character was known to the entire Abyss, and that his expression and body language were completely honest... it would have been interpreted as a thorough insult. “Hahahaha, good.” Dian Ranhu let out another bark of laughter and said to the juniors standing next to him, “With this statement, Jiuzhi both showed off the generosity of Boundless without giving up any pretext for gossip, and humiliated the bitches of Eternal Night in the same sentence. This way, they can’t even make an excuse after they lose without looking ugly.” Dian Sansi replied, “Actually, I think Jiuzhi is allowing the Eternal Night Divine Daughter the chance to show off the splendor of Eternal Night to everyone during these ten breaths. He hopes that this will allow her to wow the crowd and spread her name throughout the Abyss. Even if she ultimately loses, her journey to the Pure Land would not have been in vain[3].” He added after a pause, “Jiuzhi has always been like this. He habitually hands out kindness to both familiar faces and strangers.” Smile stiffening, Dian Rahu slowly shook his head. “Ah, dammit. He seriously is inflexible in this regard.” Shenwu Yi did not say anything. One hand clasped behind her back, she slowly raised her sword and pointed it at Dian Jiuzhi, who was still unarmed at this point. As the crimson markings on the blade grew dangerously deep, Yun Che snuck a glance at the cold, black, and oppressive-feeling palanquin. From start to finish, Shenwu Yanye did not react at all. The crowds were scoffing or snorting. Dian Rahu was openly laughing. The Lightless Divine Regent’s temper was legendary to put it mildly, and yet she remained unnaturally calm this whole time. What was the Divine Vein of Great Rage? Yun Che knew it very well. Extraordinary physical strength and toughness weren’t the only qualities it bestowed. The quantity and quality of profound energy of a profound practitioner with the Divine Vein of Great Rage far surpassed that of a peer at the same level as well. Even for her... Could she really defeat an eighth-level Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner at the sixth level, much less the possessor of the Divine Vein of Great Rage, Dian Jiuzhi? The Chief Priest’s eyelids were lowered. He seemed to think that it was beneath him to watch this upcoming battle directly. His understanding of the Divine Vein of Great Rage was far more profound than Yun Che’s. That was why he found it beyond laughable that the Eternal Night Divine Daughter was planning to challenge it without any handicap whatsoever. It was at this moment that an ephemeral voice rang in his ears. “Rage, watch this girl closely.” “...!” The Chief Priest’s gaze abruptly solidified.Ding! Shenwu Yi moved, the Heartless Sword drawing a crimson line in the air and moving straight toward Dian Jiuzhi. However, the crimson line came to an abrupt stop an instant before it could reach the Divine Son. Dian Jiuzhi was currently holding two fingers in front of himself, and sitting between them was the shockingly cold tip of the Heartless Sword. The blade stopped in mid-air, unable to move even an inch further. Shenwu Yi’s figure was frozen in place as well. Dian Jiuzhi’s expression did not change. His fingers weren’t covered in profound light. Not a single wound or a bead of blood could be seen either. The youngsters who were witnessing Dian Jiuzhi’s strength for the first time were all crying out in astonishment. It was because Shenwu Yi’s sword was imbued with the terrifying, profound power of a sixth-level Divine Extinction Realm practitioner. The light in Shenwu Yi’s eyes didn’t change. She abruptly spun on her feet and drew a crimson crescent next. The shrill noise of a blade cutting through the air was so sharp that it felt like the very space of Eden’s Crown was cut.Ding!! There was a soft ding, and Dian Jiuzhi’s left hand appeared before his forehead. He had lifted a single finger and caught the tip of Shenwu Yi’s sword with it. That was the only move he made, but it was enough to wipe out the crimson scar in an instant. Shenwu Yi’s form changed again. Like a stunning shadow, she spun in retreat before the Heartless Sword shone crimson and unleashed dozens of sword scars in an instant. Every single one of them contained the terrible power of a sixth-level Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner. Some of the scars looked like crescents, and some like bloody shadows. They wove a web that surrounded Dian Jiuzhi, causing the surrounding space to groan. The web of slashes caused even the spectators to feel chilled to their core, but Dian Jiuzhi remained where he was. He did not move a muscle, and his expression did not change one whit. His right hand still clasped behind his back, he moved his left hand so fast that it left behind afterimages, and his fingers so swift that they looked like illusions. Showing exactly zero signs of panic or inelegance, he danced through the web of swords like a graceful butterfly.Ding, ding, ding, ding... A series of metallic clangs occurred as Dian Jiuzhi blocked the blade with his fingers. It sounded like metal rain. Each sound accurately matched a sword shadow, and each crimson scar was wiped away completely by his fingers. Forget leaving a wound on his person; the assault had failed to move even his sleeve. This was the case from the start until the end. Gasps and cries of astonishment came from the crowd. “Sss...” Meng Jianxi drew in a long, deep breath before exclaiming in surprise, “Earlier, I thought for sure that Shenwu Yi’s sixth-level Divine Extinction Realm was just a pretty shell with a rotten core that the Lightless Divine Regent had forced into existence by her terrifying obsession, but I was wrong. Her cultivation is as genuine as it gets!” “Even through the barrier, I feel like those sword shadows could skewer me.” “In comparison... it would appear that Dian Jiuzhi’s terrifying strength needs to be reevaluated yet again.” Concealing his shock, Meng Jianxi lowered his voice and said, “It’s clear that his Divine Vein of Great Rage has ascended to greater heights not long ago... I can hardly believe that he’s handling the power of a sixth-level Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner like child’s play.” Yun Che did not give him a response. Instead, he looked in the direction of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God once more. The stifling cold and quiet indifference that occupied that space hadn’t changed one bit.Ding ding ding ding ding ding... Again and again, Shenwu Yi attacked Dian Jiuzhi. Without exception, Dian Jiuzhi blocked it all with one hand. It was, as Meng Jianxi said, child’s play. The gap was so large that the crowd gradually grew bored with the show. Xian Yue withdrew his gaze and kept shooting glances behind his back. “Don’t worry.” Wushen Yue said, “Xing’er is removing a weight in his mind. He will return.” Xian Yue regained his senses and fell into thought for a moment. Then, he blurted out, “Although Sha Xing and Pan Buwang were friends since long ago, why do I feel... like they share some sort of unknown story between them?” The word “Fog Monarch” appeared in his head without warning, though he wiped it away just as quickly. Then, he turned around and asked, “Do you think Pan Buwang will be reappointed as the Owl Butterfly Divine Son after today, master?” “Impossible.” Wushen Yue’s answer was the same as Meng Kongchan’s reply to Yun Che. “But why?” Xian Yue couldn’t understand. He understood why the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God would have qualms, but impossible was such a strong word that there could be no doubt. Wushen Yue said quietly, “When a person crosses a line that should never be crossed, it is only natural to fear the consequences that come of it. That same fear will drive them to do everything in their power to stop those consequences from becoming true.” Wushen Xing looked at Xian Yue and explained, “Simply put, Pan Buzhuo acted too ruthlessly against Pan Buwang. He did not kill him, but he committed basically every vile act one possibly could to the man.” “If it were just him, this could still be remedied. However, countless others have actively or passively become his accomplices in order to curry favor with Pan Buzhuo, the new Divine Son.” “As if that wasn’t enough, the Pray Eternal Divine Regent ignored and indulged their actions. Sure, he never played an active role, but the pain he inflicted on Pan Buwang was possibly the worst out of all of them.” “You’re aware of the final outcome. If Pan Buwang had not been kicked out of the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God, he would have succumbed to utter despair and committed soul suicide already.” “So, knowing all that they have done to him, literally cornering him to the point where he was half a step away from self-destructing... who would dare to accept Pan Buwang’s return? Even if they compensated him as best they could, even if he acted perfectly friendly on the outside... who would dare to believe that his hatred had truly disappeared?” “Let’s assume that he becomes the Divine Son once more, and the day comes where he inherits his divine power from Pan Yusheng... who could say he would not reveal his hidden hatred and enact bloody vengeance upon everyone who slighted him then? Heck, the first person he would kill could very well be Pan Yusheng.” “... I see.” Xian Yue seemed to get what they were saying. “That said, although they could not make Pan Buwang the Divine Son once more, I am sure the Pray Eternal Divine Regent would spare no effort to bring him back to the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God. Not only that, he will do everything in his power to repair their relationship.” Xian Yue thought for a moment before asking, “Is it because of the Abyssal Monarch... and because he is afraid that Pan Buwang would become a deadly, uncontrollable threat?” “Those are two valid reasons.” Wushen Xing narrowed his eyes slightly. “But personally, I believe that the most important reason is...” Wushen Yue finished his sentence in a dark tone, “The ‘Original Abyss That Severs The Night’. That dark soul domain is good enough to be passed down in the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God for eternity. Not only that, Pan Buwang’s perfect body of darkness... Tsk. If they could somehow figure out its secrets, if they could find a way to replicate it... Pan Yusheng’s heart probably isn’t even here anymore. If not for the fact that the Abyssal Monarch is right here, I bet he would leave the Pure Land immediately and escort Pan Buwang back to the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God in person.”Riiing!! Suddenly, an ear-vibrating screech of space erupted from the battlefield. Shenwu Yi’s Heartless Sword was shaking violently. Its crimson light withdrew into itself until it formed a crimson sword projection so dense that it might as well be tangible. She turned slightly, and the thin, long sword bent dramatically like a bow. Then, it lashed out violently and unleashed a crimson blast in the sky, smoothly severing the world before everyone’s eyes from the very center. It looked as if she had poured all of her power into the attack. The light in Dian Jiuzhi’s eyes finally changed a little. He raised his left arm slightly, but he wasn’t just blocking with his fingers anymore. Instead, he spread his fingers wide and, amidst countless shocked gazes, grabbed the crimson sword projection with his bare hand.CHICHICHICHICHICHI— A terrible ripping sound exploded from the center of Dian Jiuzhi’s palm. Countless twisted, thin, and narrow red scars were erupting in the space as well. His face remained calm as he slowly clenched his fingers and rapidly extinguished it all, leaving behind only tiny fragments of light.SHREEED!! The sword projection wasn’t destroyed yet, but Shenwu Yi abruptly appeared beside Dian Jiuzhi. The light currently projected by the Heartless Sword was actually stronger than the sword projection she unleashed. This time, Dian Jiuzhi moved. He leaned backward and moved the right hand he had been clasping behind his back this whole time. His movement seemed light and slow, but it accurately caught the blade at the same time a silver white light flashed out of his person.Boom!! There was a loud boom, and both the sword projection and the light of the Heartless Sword crumbled. Dian Jiuzhi flipped backward and landed on the floor as lightly as a falling leaf. Before him, Shenwu Yi was propelled several kilometers in an instant. It wasn’t until she stabbed the sword into the floor and carved a three-hundred-meter-long scar that she finally arrested her momentum. Ten breaths had passed, and Dian Jiuzhi hadn’t suffered a single wound. In everyone’s opinion, this was the end of this battle. Dian Jiuzhi looked down at the slightly disheveled corner of his sleeve. He then paid Shenwu Yi a heartfelt compliment, “I’ll be honest, Eternal Night Divine Daughter. I had harbored doubt regarding your cultivation, thinking that it was the product of hasty accumulation and an unsteady foundation. I am deeply ashamed to have misjudged you this much.” “One sexagenary year, the sixth level of the Divine Extinction Realm... I cannot hope to match even a sliver of your talent for the profound way. If we were the same age, I would not even have the right to face you in combat. Not even a little.” “Ai.” Dian Rahu covered his face and sighed deeply. “I told him that there is no need to be courteous with a demoness of Eternal Night! Ai ai ai!” Dian Sansi was looking at Dian Jiuzhi with respect and admiration, though. “This is how Brother Jiuzhi is. He would not change just because others push him to.” Suddenly, his heart seized inside his chest, and he found himself casting Yun Che a sideways glance before he knew it. Brother Jiuzhi was such a good person, but to think... to think... Dian Jiuzhi’s compliment to Shenwu Yi was heartfelt. He had also offered her more than enough face. Even if she were going to lose horribly, she would only lose a minimal amount of dignity now. Shenwu Yi’s response was, “You talk too much.” Dian Jiuzhi let out a small sigh before breaking into a relaxed smile. White light was circulating between his fingers when he raised his hand once more. An invisible, formless pressure was slowly spreading to the surroundings. Ten breaths. That was the kindness he gave Shenwu Yi, knowing that there was no way he was going to lose. However, he had no idea that Shenwu Yi did not care about the ten breaths of “advantage” her opponent gave her at all. 1. Ed Note:I fought hard for "eye" here and above, but TL wouldn't budge! ☜ 2. TL note:I gotta say, Dian Jiuzhi is insensitive to the max. He thinks he’s being courteous, but he’s really actively worsening Shenwu Yi’s situation. Assuming Shenwu Yi loses, Shenwu Yanye is going to rip her a few holes as compared to just one if he had just gone all out from the start. The guy really doesn’t use his head. ☜ 3. TL note:I take it back, this whole goddamn kingdom is made of idiots. She would literally be tortured to death by Shenwu Yanye’s hand if the scenario you imagined happened, you stupid... ☜ Chapter 2139 - Ice Heart Nine Profound (2) “Apologies.” Dian Jiuzhi stopped wasting his breath and covered both his arms in silver profound light. Gradually, even his eyes were covered in a sheen of silver. Although the profound light of Boundless and Dreamweaver were both silver, their actual qualities could not be any more different. Dreamweaver’s profound light invaded the soul and disturbed the heart, while Boundless’... represented the greatest strength under the Pure Land. Even before he took action, an invisible pressure had nearly frozen the entire battlefield. Even the air was perfectly still. Shenwu Yi was the Eternal Night Divine Daughter, so Dian Jiuzhi could understand her indifference. However, he could not understand why she was completely unperturbed by his display of power. Dian Jiuzhi raised a palm. He was just about to crush the space where Shenwu existed remotely when his vision blurred strangely and without warning. In fact, everything around him was turning blurry as if some sort of invisible power had sealed the surrounding space. The only thing he could see clearly was Shenwu Yi’s eyes. She was looking at him from several kilometers away, yet Dian Jiuzhi felt as if her eyes were right in front of him. Speaking of which, her gaze was cold and silent from start to finish. As far as he could tell, it hadn’t changed one bit. And yet, Dian Jiuzhi felt as if those eyes saw through his very soul. Those icy, still eyes were so pure and flawless that they resembled the most perfect and limpid glazed glass in the world. It was so pure that not a speck of common dust could be found, much less abyssal dust. Those pure eyes seemed to be peering into his soul sea through his eyes and illuminating every soul string and corner of his soul. It shed light on the darkness, filth, and even wounds he never wanted to touch again, down to the finest detail. He began feeling ashamed and humbled. He felt as if the pure gaze revealed the filthy and embarrassing existence he really was. Dian Jiuzhi abruptly realized that something was wrong and looked away from Shenwu Yi’s eyes. However, the strange feeling that his soul was completely seen through remained. Was this... a soul attack? No! Not at all! He could not find any sign that his soul was invaded in any way. This feeling of shame and self-abasement... were they naturally appearing from the depths of his soul!? Dian Jiuzhi’s sudden hesitation and unusual eye movements caused Dian Rahu to furrow his brow slightly. Everyone else looked puzzled as well. “What’s going on?” Meng Jianxi asked softly, “Is it just me, or does Dian Jiuzhi look a bit distracted?” “...” Yun Che was staring at Shenwu Yi unblinkingly, unwilling to lose focus for even a moment. It was at this moment that Shenwu Yi moved. Her right hand—her sword arm—was lowered, and her left hand was raised. A white flash later, a sting about two-thirds of a meter long appeared. The sting was gem white, covered in a kind of divine radiance that resembled moonlight. Strange light would occasionally flash from its tip. It was so cold that it was unbearable to look at directly. “It’s the Profound Sky Cleansing Moon.” Meng Jianxi corrected himself, “Scratch that, I mean the ‘Heartbreak Sting’. Looking at her form... is she going to use it as a weapon?” Heartbreak Sting was a Divine Child armament possessing the power of space. Its main functions were spatial travel and escape. It was a lifesaving artifact meant to protect the Eternal Night Godbearer from danger, but this was the Pure Land, a perfectly safe realm where no threats existed. Therefore, there was no reason to bring it whatsoever. Moreover, space was a higher law compared to water, fire, wind, thunder, earth, light, and darkness. It was challenging to grasp and harder to master. It was also slow to activate and cost an insane amount of energy. Because of this, it was basically impossible to use for combat. When activated during a crisis, a Godbearer mostly relied on its inherent spatial divine powers to swiftly activate the spatial profound artifact. The Abyss’s power level far exceeded that of the God Realm, and its space was just as tough. It was challenging to pass through or break. That was why everyone was confused by Shenwu Yi’s decision to bring the Eternal Night Kingdom of God’s spatial artifact into the battle of Divine Children. It was at this moment that Yun Che knitted his eyebrows a little. The space surrounding Shenwu Yi was growing transparent. Then, what looked like seven... colorless, luminous clouds? Emerged from it. “What... is that?” Meng Jianxi voiced his puzzlement. The luminous clouds kept flickering in and out of existence. They did not possess any perceptible aura whatsoever. If not for the fact that they obviously distorted one’s vision when looked upon directly, no one would even realize they were there. Puzzlement colored everyone’s faces, including the Divine Regents. Then, surprise bloomed across Hua Fuchen’s expression as he blurted out in astonishment, “Could it be... the Exquisite Profound World!?” The moment the three words escaped his mouth, the expressions of every elite changed dramatically. Even those ancient eyes that had seen everything too many times to count abruptly widened to the max. A loud, chaotic commotion instantly erupted within the temple. “The Exquisite Profound World? But... how is this possible??” Meng Jianxi muttered to himself in shock. Meng Kongchan was watching the strange luminous clouds closely and replying in a low tone, “It is pretty unbelievable, but this spatial phenomenon... it matches the description in the ancient records perfectly.” “But didn’t the legends claim that it is a spatial divine body that only an ancient True God may awaken? Shenwu Yi... She’s just...” Meng Jianxi stammered. Even he could not believe that there would come a day when he would question his own Father’s words. “What is the ‘Exquisite Profound World’?” Yun Che asked dumbly. Meng Jianxi shook his head and sucked in a deep breath. Only then did he manage to recover from his shock. “Brother Yuan, remember that time you asked me if someone possessing the Nine Profound Exquisite Body could possibly exist in this world nineteen months ago? According to the records, the ‘Exquisite Profound World’ is a special space only a person possessing the Nine Profound Exquisite Body could create.” Yun Che: “...” “However...” Meng Jianxi’s tone changed. “According to the records, everyone in the world could have a Nine Profound Exquisite Body, and the ‘Exquisite Profound World’ still should never appear. If Shenwu Yi really is bearing the Exquisite Profound World, then... the ancient records must be terribly wrong in regards to this.” “As for what is so special about the Exquisite Profound World...” Meng Jianxi shook his head. “All I’ve seen in the records is the name. I know nothing about it.” It was at this moment that Meng Kongchan spoke up. “Yuan’er, Jianxi. Most people believe that the Nine Profound Exquisite Body is special because spaces would naturally form inside their profound veins after it awakened and matured. It accelerates their cultivation speed and makes it so that they don't encounter any bottlenecks.” “They are both profound vein mutations, but Dian Jiuzhi’s profound vein is named the ‘Divine Vein of Great Rage’, and the Nine Profound Exquisite Body is named the way it is instead of the ‘Nine Profound Exquisite Vein’. Why do you think this is the case?” Meng Jianxi did not know the answer, and Yun Che was no different. The “Nine Profound Exquisite Body” was a widely known concept. Even in the lower realms, Yun Che had long heard about it. However, he only knew that it was a profound vein that was a world unto itself, and... women possessing the Nine Profound Exquisite Body were excellent, if not the best, cultivation incubators. As for why it obviously sounded like some sort of mutated profound vein but was named the ‘Exquisite Body’... he never thought about it until now. While observing the luminous clouds surrounding Shenwu Yi, Meng Kongchan explained in a low tone, “According to the records, the Nine Profound Exquisite Body originates from the profound veins. When it first sprouts, it imbues the profound qi with a kind of special aura that is easily distinguishable. As a result, a woman possessing the Nine Profound Exquisite Body commonly experiences two types of fate. If their family background is prestigious enough that no one dares to offend them, then their Nine Profound Exquisite Body will mature, and they will surely become a hegemon of a corner of the world. But if their family background isn’t strong enough... then they will choose to... or be forced to become a cultivation incubator. It is a pitiful fate to say the least.” “When the Exquisite Body has matured, an Exquisite World will be formed inside its profound veins. Not only will their cultivation speed increase, but they can also exceed the laws to a certain extent and possess a ceiling that is far greater than that of an ordinary profound practitioner.” “However, this is not the true form of the Nine Profound Exquisite Body. It is just the seed... a seed that could not break through the earth.” “A seed?” Yun Che could not help but interrupt, “All that... and it’s still just a seed?” “Yes, it’s just a seed. It can only be a seed.” Meng Kongchan explained, “It’s because a mundane body can't withstand the Nine Profound Exquisite at all... Even among the ancient God race, the chances that a possessor of the Nine Profound Exquisite Body could create the ‘Exquisite Profound World’—and that is assuming that they can perfectly inherit the Nine Profound Exquisite—is less than one in a hundred!” “Yun Che: “...” Exquisite space... Exquisite Profound World... in the profound way, the word “exquisite” was often linked to space. For the longest time, Yun Che thought that the “Nine Profound Exquisite Body” referred to the Exquisite World within their profound veins... it was only now that he realized it was a spatial divine body that even an ancient True God could only pray to obtain. Meng Kongchan continued, “Nine Profound Exquisite Body owners are rare, but it’s not like they had never appeared in the history of the Abyss. But one possessing the ‘Exquisite Profound World’ has never appeared... because it's outright impossible. It’s why the concept has blurred for many people.” “If it has never happened before—if it is outright impossible—then why do you and every other senior seem to think that it is the Exquisite Profound World, Father?” Meng Jianxi asked. Meng Kongchan explained, “When the power of space is unleashed, it is inevitable that one will leave behind traces of laws, energies, and dimensions. There are only two exceptions.” “The first exception is the ancient profound treasure, the World Piercer. It could traverse ten thousand realms without leaving a single trace behind. The second exception is the ‘Exquisite Profound World’. Its existence seems to flicker between the real and unreal, and it is perfectly untraceable.” “Shenwu Yi...” This wasn’t the first time he said the name of the Divine Daughter of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God, but the gaze he cast in her direction had changed dramatically compared to before. “She intentionally manifested these seven spatial ripples so that we can see them, but I am unable to detect even the slightest spatial laws from them.” “That’s not all. Not only did she manifest the true Nine Profound Exquisite Body that only a True God should be able to manifest at the sixth level of the Divine Extinction Realm, she had even reached the level of Seven Profound... that’s seven Profound Exquisite Worlds in total.” “According to the ancient records, only eight people had ever attained perfection and reached the level of Nine Profound in the vast history of the God race. She... is not far away from that level either.” “As for what is so powerful about the ‘Exquisite Profound World’, you’re going to find out very soon.” The Divine Regent looked at the battlefield closely... and it wasn’t just him. This was the first time the battlefield of the battle between Divine Children received this much attention from the Divine Regents. The noises outside the barrier sowed doubt in Dian Jiuzhi’s heart and caused him to stare at the luminous clouds surrounding Shenwu Yi. They were clearly spatial ripples, but he could not feel any spatial disturbance at all. He was still astonished and puzzled when suddenly, the luminous clouds disappeared all at once, and a sword beam shone into his eyes.Shred! A sharp sword pierced through space and elicited an impossibly shrill noise. Still, just like before, this level of power was completely useless against Dian Jiuzhi, whose physical strength and cultivation exceeded hers by two whole levels. Dian Jiuzhi reached out to grab the sword beam, but unlike before, he wasn’t just defending anymore. Instead, he unleashed a merciless blast of power that vowed to crush her in one strike. Every inch of space near his fingers rapidly warped and distorted under pressure... The terrifying spatial distortion and aura revealed the seven luminous clouds that looked like illusory profound shadows. Dian Rahu subconsciously took a step forward to warn Dian Jiuzhi about the dangers of the Profound Exquisite World, but he forced the words back down right before they would exit his throat. So what if that really was the “Profound Exquisite World”, and it was truly as miraculous as the legends claimed? They were two whole cultivation levels apart. It was a gap that could never be overcome. He might actually make things worse for the boy if he tried to warn him.Bang boom!! The forceful power of the Boundless Manifestation Art erupted, and the space in front of him underwent an extreme distortion for an instant. Shenwu Yi’s sword and figure instantly crumbled like dead leaves... before scattering into a cloud of afterimages. “...!?” Dian Jiuzhi’s astonishment lasted only an instant before his heart turned cold. He felt a cold beam heading straight toward his skull. He barely had enough time to think that this was not an instantaneous movement... because there were no traces of a physical or auric dash at all. In fact, the cold beam hadn’t slowed down even a little. It was as if... her attack had suddenly undergone a spatial curve!Thang! The Heartless Sword struck Dian Jiuzhi’s skull with a metallic clang, and the man’s severed hair scattered everywhere. Both his cultivation and body were so strong that the skull-piercing attack wasn’t able to penetrate his protective profound energy completely, but even so, that one instant of pain and surprise was enough to shake Dian Jiuzhi greatly. Chapter 2140 - Ice Heart Nine Profound (3) Shenwu Yi was using the recoil to float in the air. Then, she froze suddenly and spun around like a bent willow. Enveloped in dark red, profound light that resembled condensed blood, the Heartless Sword stabbed toward the back of Dian Jiuzhi’s neck like a stream of phantom light. Dian Jiuzhi instinctively turned around and swung his hand upward, creating a silver domain of destruction that instantly spread out and locked down the space Shenwu Yi existed in like a sky dome. There was a muffled explosion, and he saw her silhouette and aura being consumed by the destructive energies. At the same time, a cold chill touched the left side of his neck. Chiang! Although Dian Jiuzhi didn’t use all of his strength, he had just launched an attack. Despite his protective, profound energy, Shenwu Yi’s sword was able to pierce his flesh and drew a thin, disjointed arc of blood in the air. When Dian Jiuzhi hastily turned his head and looked, he saw a single bead of blood and the dark red sword that pierced the left side of his neck. However, he ultimately possessed fifty-two sexagenary years of knowledge and experience. A sufficient amount of profound way instinct had been engraved into his body long ago. The moment his spiritual senses locked onto Shenwu Yi once more, his body and power almost reacted before his thoughts. His left hand made a reverse grab for the sword while his right arm spun his torso around and launched an upward palm strike.Kaboom! The power of Boundless was unquestionably forceful. Dian Jiuzhi had barely gathered any strength before launching the palm strike. Yet, the attack still elicited a thunderclap and pushed away Shenwu Yi and the Heartless Sword, both of which had not yet managed to slip away, instantly... ... or did they? Once again, both the wielder and her weapon scattered into a shower of afterimages. “...!?” Dian Jiuzhi’s pupils contracted into pins. A familiar chill appeared behind him, and it was less than a third of a meter away from his back. As he had literally just spun his body, he could not even perform an instinctual dodge or block.Chi! There was a ripping noise, and Dian Jiuzhi’s snow white outfit was cut open. At the same time, a red mark almost one-third of a meter long appeared on his back. It was almost... almost deep enough to draw blood. Dian Jiuzhi’s mind turned blank for a short period. It was like he had just encountered a phantom who shouldn’t exist. His whole life, Dian Jiuzhi had accumulated experience and knowledge. He had fought countless battles and visited the Endless Fog dozens of times. He had also witnessed innumerable swift or unusual movement arts of the Abyss. No matter how potent a movement art was, it must be fueled by profound energy, and it was always traceable in some way. Just the same, no matter how skillful a movement art was, there must be a lull after an instantaneous movement was performed, long or short. If the movement art was executed poorly or seen through by the opponent, then it was no different from giving the opponent a moderate opening. Shenwu Yi’s movements were different, though. She had performed multiple instantaneous movements at this point, but not only were they untraceable, she hadn’t paused even once throughout the fight! During the brief period when his mind turned blank, Shenwu Yi had landed a stab on his forehead. As shallow as the wound was, it knocked him backward and drew blood. Intense pain jolted him back to his senses. When his eyes regained their focus, Shenwu Yi’s ice-cold eyes appeared right before him once more.Slap! Dian Jiuzhi’s grab missed, and the sword that should have been coming toward him from the forward-left position suddenly and bizarrely appeared in his right flank position. This time, the sword was swinging like a whip and slapped him across the face. Just as before, the attack failed to deal a significant wound to Dian Jiuzhi. However, it was unbelievably loud, like the heaviest slap in the world, and it landed squarely on the utterly shocked and dazed face of the number one Divine Son before everyone’s eyes. Earlier, Dian Jiuzhi had given Shenwu Yi ten breaths of unchallenged offense as a show of courtesy. Despite facing a storm of attacks, he had caught it all without taking a single injury. He looked strong and insurmountable, elegant and refined. But after that, Shenwu Yi launched seven strikes... and landed all of them. As intense pain seared him, Dian Jiuzhi came to the perfect realization that Shenwu Yi had been as lax and unserious as he when he was only guarding against her attacks. More accurately, she found it utterly beneath her to accept his act of courtesy. Dian Jiuzhi was hardly the only one who was stunned speechless. Dead silence hung outside the barrier like a suffocating blanket. The experts were all standing stiffly, like their souls had been sucked out of their bodies. “At this point, there can be no doubt.” Meng Kongchan said in a somewhat calm voice, “It definitely is... the Exquisite Profound World.” He finally understood why Shenwu Yanye had gone to the lengths she did to conceal Shenwu Yi, refusing to let anyone see her face for two whole decades. It was because the woman would stun the world the moment she revealed her actual ability, more so than even the Child of Darkness that won the Abyssal Monarch’s attention, Pan Buwang. At this point, Meng Jianxi had figured out a little of what was happening on the battlefield. He asked uncertainly, “Her unnatural movements aren’t caused by any movement art. It’s... a spatial curve caused by the Exquisite Profound World, right?” Meng Kongchan replied, “Making contact with one Exquisite Profound World allows one to move seamlessly to the other six Exquisite Profound Worlds. Therefore, being at the level of Seven Profound... means that she owns seven portable spaces she can traverse anytime she wants!” It was common knowledge that the only function of portable spaces was to store objects. Not even the powerful Divine Regents had ever thought of using it to perform spatial leaps. “Space is the hardest power to grasp of them all, and yet she is using her seven Exquisite Profound Worlds like seven fingers.” Meng Kongchan continued, “The most shocking thing of them all, she is the only one who knows where her seven Exquisite Profound Worlds are located after she conceals them. She’s performed multiple spatial curves at this point, and yet I wasn’t able to detect any sign of the Exquisite Profound Worlds at all.” Meng Kongchan exhaled silently before remarking, “I did not think that there exists another junior who can so open my eyes besides Yuan’er.” Meng Jianxi murmured, “Am I right to say that Dian Jiuzhi is fighting only one Shenwu Yi, but it’s like he’s facing seven of her at once?” “No.” Yun Che’s gaze followed Shenwu Yi closely, not straying for even an instant during his speech. “If he were really fighting against seven opponents, he could at least detect all seven people’s presences and positions. But she... nothing about her movements is predictable. No amount of battle experience or knowledge is effective against her.” If even the Dreamless Divine Regent was this surprised, everyone else could only do worse. Dian Jiuzhi’s sorry state was bare for all to see, but no one was ridiculing him or jeering at him. Dian Rahu’s eyebrows were tightly knitted, and his eyes were shining with shock as well. That said, his aura was still steady. Shenwu Yu’s bizarre spatial curves completely defied instinct and common sense. Forget Dian Jiuzhi, even he, the Boundless Divine Regent, would be stumped for a while, assuming that he had never encountered it before. However, he was equally confident that Dian Jiuzhi would discover the best way to deal with this tactic as soon as he regained his cool... and it so happened that this method fell under his strongest expertise. “Exquisite Profound World, spatial... curve?” Hua Caili whispered the completely unfamiliar concept. The surprise on her face refused to fade for a long time. Hua Fuchen sighed. “Forget you, this is the first time I've witnessed something like this.” “In that case... Can Shenwu Yi actually defeat the Boundless Divine Son?” Hua Caili could not help but say this expectantly. Hua Fuchen knew what she was thinking, of course. Still, he shook his head slowly and said, “If their cultivation levels were the same, then there would be almost no chance for him to defeat Shenwu Yi even if he held the absolute advantage in terms of profound vein, body, and knowledge in the profound way.” He said “almost”, not “absolutely”. It was because he was well aware of how powerful the Divine Vein of Great Rage was. “However, cultivation is an insurmountable gap, not to mention that this battlefield is only thirty kilometers wide.” Hua Fuchen declared a conclusion that, to his knowledge and experience as a Divine Regent, was irrefutable[1]. “Dian Jiuzhi only needs to employ one method to cement her defeat.” “I know! He just needs to ignore everything she does and defeat her with sheer brute force!” Hua Caili’s expectation dimmed considerably after she thought she figured out the trick. Then, she unconsciously and involuntarily snuck a glance at Yun Che. Before this, Yun Che could always sense her gaze. He would instantly return her gaze or curl up the corners of his lips slightly in response. He never failed to make her feel happy, and her heart pounded in elation. This time though, Yun Che’s gaze was focused entirely on the Eternal Night Divine Daughter with a ruinous countenance and a succubus’ form. His gaze chased her every move as if he were afraid of missing even an instant of her poise. His eyes shone with familiar brightness and clarity, but for some reason, Hua Caili thought they hid a layer of invisible mist. It made his gaze look obsessed and misty to the point where it could not tolerate any other scenery... not to mention that he completely failed to sense or respond to her gaze despite how long she had been looking at him. “...” For a time, Hua Caili was stunned. She completely lost interest in the fight as an exceedingly unfamiliar sense of unease and emptiness began to fill up her heart. “Moreover, it looks like Shenwu Yi is manipulating her Exquisite Profound Worlds like her own limbs, but it’s not as easy as it seems.” Hua Fuchen observed the battlefield with sword-like clarity. “Her aura is clearly weaker after executing multiple spatial curves in a row. It is the power of space. Maintaining the Exquisite Profound Worlds must come at a gigantic cost.” “But whatever the outcome may be, this duel... and especially the emergence of the Exquisite Profound Worlds will surely enter the history books of the Abyss.”Thang!! Hua Fuchen had just finished saying this when a heavy, deafening clang came from inside the barrier. After taking seventeen hits in a row, Dian Jiuzhi finally recovered from his daze and unleashed a thick aura of profound light that looked as dense as crystal. It was at least a meter thick and repelled the Heartless Sword when it was about two-thirds of a meter away from him. Even Shenwu Yi herself abruptly jumped away from Dian Jiuzhi and hovered in the air, halting her relentless assault completely. By now, Dian Jiuzhi’s white shirt was torn in several places, and his exposed skin showed wounds of varying depths. Even his face was covered in several bloody gashes. His eyes, however, were unnaturally calm and cold. He had forcefully removed the shock and panic brought by the illogical Exquisite Profound World, his arrogance, and his gentle nature from his person, leaving behind only the master of his arts. He stopped holding back and unleashed the power of Great Rage in full, shaking the space around him. Dian Rahu’s complexion didn’t change, but the mild tension that had gripped his body until now vanished entirely. “I have never witnessed or heard such a movement art. My horizons are greatly broadened today.” Even his voice sounded dramatically different from normal, imposing and powerful. “If our cultivation levels were the same, then you may have defeated me easily. But for this bout... I shall employ my unfair advantage to win!” Despite the blood and gashes on his face, Dian Jiuzhi looked every bit the number one Divine Son he was, considering his appearance and spiritual pressure. Once he was done speaking, he launched an all-out attack that consumed an insane amount of profound energy. The power of Great Rage instantly blotted out the sky and enveloped the thirty-kilometer space in front of him like a tidal storm that had appeared out of nowhere. There was no doubt about it. He was going to defeat Shenwu Yi’s impossible technique with sheer power! Shenwu Yi covered herself with her sword and switched to defense, but the power of Great Rage was such that she was still blasted several kilometers away like a lone boat that was tossed helplessly by the storm before she was able to steady her form. Even so, she was being pushed back rapidly. It wasn’t until she was less than three hundred meters away from the barrier that she finally found the leeway to launch a counterattack of her own. In her left hand, the Heartbreak Sting suddenly left her hand and shot toward Dian Jiuzhi’s forehead against the tidal wave of energy. Wherever it went, it let out an ear-piercing shrill that caused everyone’s heart to skip a bit. The power of Great Rage could not completely stop it in its tracks, but it stripped it of its speed and strength layer by layer. Dian Jiuzhi did not withdraw his power to defend against the counterattack. Instead, he tapped his foot and casually shifted past ten positions and watched the Heartbreak Sting still following its original trajectory and stabbing into his original position out of the corner of his eye. Right before the sting would make “contact”, it suddenly disappeared amidst a flash of light. By the time Dian Jiuzhi’s pupils contracted slightly, the dangerous screech sounded right next to his ears.Bang!! Blood mixed with countless bits of flesh spilled through the air. The anomalously “disappearing” Heartbreak Sting had reappeared behind Dian Jiuzhi’s defenseless back and slammed into his spine. “What...?!” Dian Rahu had just relaxed for half a breath when the shocked cry escaped his lips. His eyes especially widened so much that they threatened to rip apart at the corners. The Heartbreak Sting, a Divine Children armament, could be spatially curved through the Exquisite Profound World as well?! The scene did not just stun the Divine Regents. Even the Chief Priest’s eyebrows had visibly twitched at the unexpected turn of events. The shock Dian Jiuzhi just forced down battered his mental defenses once more. During that instant loss of concentration, a blur covered his vision, and the woman he had nearly driven all the way to the edge of the battlefield reappeared right before his eyes. She was aiming straight for his heart.Thang!! Dian Jiuzhi’s back might be defenseless, but his front was full of power. The pain stabbing his soul cleared his mind way faster than last time as he clenched his teeth a little and muttered under his breath, “Boundless Manifestation... master of all martial arts... Hah!!” Thick silver radiance burst out of his body and blazed like a silver inferno. As his arm moved, the silver light transformed into a three-hundred-meter-long sword that horizontally cut the space in front of him.BOOOOOMMMM— The three-hundred-meter-long sword unleashed a sword projection that was over thirty kilometers long. It engulfed every inch of space within the barrier. In fact, the barrier was the only reason it did not slice off half of Eden’s Crown. Shenwu Yi disappeared and reappeared three thousand meters above ground. The Heartbreak Sting had also returned to her hand before shooting out once more. Following an unpredictable trajectory, the human and the sting attacked Dian Jiuzhi from the front and the back simultaneously. However, Dian Jiuzhi closed his eyes directly and concentrated his spiritual senses on himself. In fact, he stopped perceiving Shenwu Yi altogether. His grip shifted a little, and the silver light took on the shape of a giant halberd instead. The giant halberd was descending from above. Soon, the power of the Great Rage would engulf the entirety of the battlefield. It would cover every blind spot... even himself. To fight strength with strength, to trade wound for wound... Considering the absolute advantage he held in terms of cultivation level and physical prowess, and considering the fact that the battlefield was an enclosed space merely thirty kilometers wide, there was zero chance Dian Jiuzhi could be defeated. “......” Yun Che’s fingers clenched tightly. “It is an unfair win, all right.” Meng Koonchan sighed. “However, it is the best way to deal with this tactic.” Shenwu Yi abruptly stopped in her tracks. It was because she realized instantly that the resulting explosion would engulf the entire battlefield. She could possess an infinite amount of Exquisite Profound Worlds, and she still wouldn’t be able to find a safe space in this enclosed battlefield.BOOOOOMMMM!!! Silver light illuminated the sky, and space shuddered violently. This wasn’t just the power of the number one Divine Son; it was the most forceful power there existed in the Abyss. Everyone knew about Dian Jiuzhi and his Divine Vein of Great Rage, but few had ever witnessed, much less experienced, the man going all out. For a time, every profound practitioner in the temple felt chilled to the core. Those at the same cultivation level as Dian Jiuzhi, especially, blanched. They could hardly believe that the power had been unleashed by a peer in terms of cultivation. “Isn’t this... a little too brutal?” Xian Yue could not help but speak up in a low tone, “Shenwu Yi is two cultivation levels below him. This level of power will probably injure her se... huh?” Xian Yue’s voice suddenly became caught in his throat as he looked up into the sky, eyes dazed. He could not say anything for a very long time. As the silver light waned, Dian Jiuzhi slowly lowered his arm. It was at the halfway position when suddenly, his movements stiffened, his eyes opened wide as saucers. He, too, was looking up into the sky. High in the sky, a black figure stood tall with fluttering clothes. The pair of beautiful eyes looking down at the earth looked as cold and indifferent as before, as if they were made from ice. Shenwu Yi... was completely unharmed. No matter how mentally robust Dian Jiuzhi was, he could not help but be stupefied by this outcome yet again. Outside the barrier, the crowd fell into a dumb and stupefied trance as well. The Exquisite Profound World wasn’t something that could be dealt with using common sense. That was why everyone could tell that Dian Jiuzhi had more or less gone all out. The power of Great Rage was indescribably potent and terrifying. Faced against such power, Shenwu Yi should have been injured even if she defended against it with all her might at first notice... if not severely injured. The one scenario that could not have happened... was for her to be perfectly unharmed. Yun Che’s vision blurred for an instant as he looked up at the fairy-like figure in the sky. When his vision regained its clarity, he thought he saw what looked like an odd refracted ray of light about 1.5 meters in front of Shenwu Yi. It was... ice? “...” The Chief Priest stiffened for an instant. It was only an instant, but it caused the man standing behind him, Donghuang, to lift his head abruptly. Heart beating wildly, he asked, “Master, why... ??” A long silence followed. It lasted a few breaths straight before the Chief Priest finally said a few words, “Glazed Glass Ice.” “...?” Dong Huang did not understand. For the first time, the man who never looked up to anyone besides the Abyssal Monarch arched his head and stared at the woman standing high up in the sky. “Exquisite Profound World... Glazed Glass Ice...” “This woman... she’s an Ice Heart Nine Profound!” “Ice Heart... Nine Profound?” Dong Huang was only more confused. 1. You think Shenwu Yanye would let Shenwu Yi enter the battlefield knowing that she can’t win? I swear, sometimes this just doesn’t make sense... ☜ Chapter 2141 - Glazed Glass Ice The Chief Priest eventually shifted his gaze away and looked at the Abyssal Monarch. He asked him via sound transmission, “Monarch, it is colorless and flawless, pure and clean to the extreme. It can only be the Glazed Glass Ice.” “However, the Glazed Glass Ice disappeared a long time ago. It can never reappear. Could I be wrong?” The Chief Priest was questioning himself, a man whose knowledge and experience were unfathomable. The Abyssal Monarch replied, “This woman possesses the Nine Profound Exquisite Body and the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass. Her Nine Profound has matured, and her Glazed Glass has bloomed. That is how her Exquisite Profound Worlds and Glazed Glass Ice came to be.” The Chief Priest fell silent for a long time before asking, “But... how?” “I do not know. There is no need to know.” The oddities regarding Shenwu Yi were world-shattering to put it mildly, and yet the Abyssal Monarch’s reply was overflowing with inexplicable indifference. Still, the Chief Priest did not ask further.A causeless person... The thought surfaced in the Abyssal Monarch’s mind before he carelessly wiped it away and returned to indifference. More and more people noticed the strange, icy light shining around Shenwu Yi. As the light kept refracting, they eventually realized that it was a protective barrier of some sort. It gave off a faint trace of ice, but the icy light it exuded looked like nothing they had ever seen. Instead, it was transparent to the point of being colorless and invisible. “Ice?” Meng Jianxi looked completely confused. “None of the profound arts practiced by the Eternal Night Kingdom of God involves ice, and... the profound light emitted by an icy aura is varying degrees of blue, right? Why is this ice completely transparent?” Meng Kongchan did not answer because he had never seen such an icy aura himself. He especially did not understand how such a weak ice barrier was able to block Dian Jiuzhi’s power of Great Rage. Yun Che looked up into the sky with a deep frown on his face. Ice... is it the Ice Phoenix God Investiture Canon she used to practice?No, that’s completely wrong. Besides, why is it colorless? Natural ice was colorless, but the ice energy created from profound energy emitted a blue light. This was common knowledge. As the greatest master of ice profound energy of the universe, Yun Che knew this better than anyone. The ice blue color that everyone knew about in the profound way was the natural effect of ice profound energy. That was why there had never been any record of a colorless profound ice. “Pale Flame... Glazed Glass Ice...” Suddenly, a whisper appeared in Yun Che’s soul sea. Yun Che withdrew his thoughts and asked, “What did you say?” Li Suo took her time to tidy the memory fragments that were triggered before answering very, very slowly, “When the Ancestral God created the universe, she left behind Three Tribulations and Three Boons.” “One of the Three Tribulations is the fiercest fire, the Pale Flame, and one of the Three Boons is the cleanest water, the Glazed Glass Ice.” Three Tribulations and Three Boons? It was something Yun Che had never heard, and a concept that no longer existed in any known record. It was because their existences dated back to a time when the god race and the devil race weren’t fully formed yet. “The Pale Flame, the fiercest fire in the universe, could burn through space and scorch a god’s body until it broke. Pale white in color, anyone who touches it would turn to ash. Ni Xuan ultimately extinguished this tribulation, and an indestructible origin seed was left behind.” “At first, Ni Xuan tried to master the power. However, his efforts ended in failure. So, he had no choice but to break it down into three fragments using the most extreme power of the Creation God of Elements. He later gifted these three fragments to the three Beast races, and they are the Vermillion Bird, the Phoenix, and the Golden Crow.” The revelation struck a chord with Yun Che. The Vermillion Bird, the Phoenix, and the Golden Crow. They were the names of the famous Three Supreme Fire Attribute Beasts of the Era of Gods. No wonder the three Beast races respected Ni Xuan so much. “During the karmic balancing at the very beginning of the universe, the cleanest Boon that stands opposed to the fiercest Tribulation is the Glazed Glass Ice.” “The Glazed Glass Ice is absolutely clean, pure, colorless, and flawless. It is the Ancestral God’s gift to the universe when she first created it. It could illuminate and purify all filthy and tainted objects in the universe.” “The source of the Glazed Glass Ice is the Glazed Glass Divine Aura that roams the universe. It can bless a newborn girl with the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass. When the heart has reached full maturity, it will form the Glazed Glass Ice.” A woman of Glazed Glass could perceive good or evil with their heart, and discern truth and falsehoods with their eyes. Their body, soul, and aura are all flawless and pure. If she is near the heavenly law, it would grant her its protection. If she is near profound energy, it could not bear to harm her. If she is near sin, sin would naturally feel guilty and ashamed...” “However...” Li Suo’s tone changed into one of regret. “This particular Boon had permanently disappeared before the fiercest Tribulation.” “Why’s that?” Li Suo explained, “The gods created life, and life filled countless worlds. However, this also gave rise to endless malice, greed, desire, and slaughter. It all turned into countless layers of dirty dust that enveloped heaven and earth.” “The filth and dust that even the Ancestral God failed to predict contaminated the universe’s aura layer by layer. Over time, more and more of the Glazed Glass Divine Aura was eroded and destroyed until only wisps of it remained. Today, they could only be found deep within the primordial energy where all things began.” “The universe could not return to what it was before once the contamination passed a certain threshold. Although women with the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass still appeared every once in a while thanks to the divine aura’s blessing, they could no longer form the Glazed Glass Ice and become true women of Glazed Glass. As they grew up in a contaminated universe, they would lose even their Heart of Snow Glazed Glass and revert to mundane women.” Yun Che patiently and quietly listened to Li Suo’s explanation until the end. It was only now he asked, “So... you’re saying that the colorless ice she’s using is the Glazed Glass Ice?” Li Suo answered, “Its color, shape, and aura all match what I know... but there is a huge discrepancy.” “How so?” “The ice may be Glazed Glass Ice, but her aura does not belong to that of a woman of Glazed Glass at all.” Naturally, Yun Che could not fully understand her words. He asked urgently, “She does possess the one and only Heart of Snow Glazed Glass in the entire world, but didn’t you say that the Glazed Glass Ice cannot reappear anymore??” “Besides, the world back then cannot possibly be more filthy and tainted than the Abyss.” Li Suo fell silent for a moment. She was searching for the blurry memory fragments she had recently awakened. To Yun Che’s surprise, she was able to give him a somewhat clear answer, “There is one possibility.” “She has the Ancestral God’s sacred aura on her... and she is a causeless person.” Yun Che: “What do you mean by... causeless?” Li Suo replied, “She did not come to be naturally. Excluding the four Creation Gods and four Devil Emperors, she is the ninth living being to be created by the Ancestral God herself. The Creation Gods and the Devil Emperors were all created for a reason, and she is no exception.” “...” Yun Che’s heartstrings shook uncontrollably for a few breaths. “The God Realm and the Abyss were two isolated universes. When she fell into the Abyss, the karmic bond between you two was completely severed. Combined with the fact that she lost her memories, her existence... no longer as a cause.” “As a result, she became a pure ‘causeless person’ who should not exist in the universe’s concept or laws.” “Perhaps this purity that transcends even concepts and laws is why her Heart of Snow Glazed Glass is able to bloom and form the Glazed Glass Ice.” This was her guess. This was also the only possibility she could think of after searching through everything she knew as a Creation God. Cries of surprise and puzzlement rang out here and there, but no one could say the name “Glazed Glass Ice”. It was because this concept did not exist among the Six Kingdoms of Gods. Looking up at the black, fairy-like figure, Dian Jiuzhi once again felt an inexplicable sense of shame and self-abasement. The emotions were rapidly flooding over his mind like tidal water, so he had no choice but to look away, push away the stray thoughts, and resummon the silver radiance that had just waned. This time, he created a giant silver bow and drew it. It looked like a full moon at full draw. When he released the bowstring, silver arrows filled the sky and enveloped the entire battlefield like a hanging river, covering every inch of blind spot. Shenwu Yi did not move from her position. She simply swung the Heartless Sword like a cloud brushing against the sleeve. This time, everyone saw as clear as day that a layer of colorless ice had encompassed her blade. Its crystalline light was pure, cold, and sharp. Just when everyone thought that Shenwu Yi would evade at full force using her Exquisite Profound Worlds, she swung her ice-encased sword at the sea of silver light arrows shooting toward her.Ding!! The icy crystal made contact with the first light arrow, but instead of the devastating explosion of the Divine Vein of Great Rage, it clinked like jadeites smacking into one another. When the icy light flashed, the exceedingly volatile arrow aimed at her heart actually shifted off course and flew past her torso. It wasn’t until it struck the barrier at the edge of the battlefield that it finally unleashed its destructive light and power. Dian Rahu’s eyes were as wide as bells at this point. He cared little about controlling his expression in the first place, and right now every inch of his face was arranged into a look of utter shock. He was the bearer of the greatest Boundless Divine Power in the world, and he had practiced the Boundless Manifestation Art for over twenty thousand years. However, he never knew that the power could be so... tame?! The second arrow followed right after the first and clashed against the ice-encased blade once more. Just like before, the contact only elicited a soft clink, and the light arrow was parried just like that. The third, fourth... tenth... hundredth... thousandth arrow came, and still Shenwu Yi parried them all.Clink clink clink clink clink clink... Her form was divine, and her sword dance was exquisite. The mixture of silver and icy lights looked like a phantasmal cloud that naturally surrounded her person. It was such that the stunned gazes of the crowd gradually transformed into dreamlike infatuation.BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM— In the end, the last light arrow too struck the barrier and unleashed a devastating silver explosion that scorched the sky. It clearly illuminated Shenwu Yi’s spotless clothes and unblemished face. Throughout the attack, Dian Jiuzhi’s arms remained exactly where they were. He did not move even after the silver light had faded entirely. Everything that had happened today was too illusory and ludicrous. Again and again, shock had overwhelmed him, and his common sense was crushed to smithereens. At this point, his shock and confusion could no longer be quelled by mere reason. “What... demonic art... is this?” A Boundless elder murmured unconsciously. This was a man of unimaginable power and influence, and yet he had said something utterly ridiculous. That was just how shocked he was. Shenwu Yi did not give Dian Jiuzhi any time to recover his senses. After she was done parrying the attack, she drew what looked like a profound seal with her sword. It was only about one-third of a meter long, but it gave off an intimidating aura as it rapidly took form. “The Purify God Seal!” Meng Jianxi let out a low cry. Yun Che was well aware of the Purify God Seal. It was the Eternal Night Kingdom of God’s strongest and most critical profound art. The profound practitioner would be able to create seven great profound seals in total as they progressed through the profound art. They were Break the Delusion, Overcome the Misfortune, Remove the Dust, Cleanse the Heart, Still the Soul, Trace the Light, and finally, the seal that only a Divine Regent could manifest, the Shenwu World Purifying Seal! “Shenwu Qing never earned the qualification to cultivate the Purify God Seal until she died, and Shenwu Yi did it in just twenty years? Sss!” Meng Jianxi sucked in a cold breath before continuing, “Then again, compared to the Exquisite Profound World and the strange ice, this much is nothing. I wonder which level she’s at though?” “Wait a second!! Why is her Purify God Seal... colorless!?” The profound seal Shenwu Yi was carving was crimson at first, but the color gradually faded away as the icy light flickered. When the seal was fully formed, it looked pure, limpid, and perfectly transparent. The Heartless Sword swung, and the transparent profound seal descended toward Dian Jiuzhi. Most people recognized it as the first seal, Break The Delusion. However, it was also massively different from the one they knew. It was because the colorless, icy light had completely overwritten Shenwu's powerful energy. The icy profound crystal emitted the presence of a sixth-level Divine Extinction Realm. Normally, it was of no threat to Dian Jiuzhi. However, after all the “lessons” he had received, Dian Jiuzhi decided to take the attack seriously. He split his power of Great Rage into two. One-fifth of his power was used for defense, while four-fifths was used for offense. The moment he lifted his arm, his silver light transformed into a massive, three-hundred-meter-long whip. The moment he swung it, it would whip up a titanic storm that engulfed dozens of kilometers at once. In other words, the storm of destruction would envelop the entire battlefield. He really wanted to know how Shenwu Yi would dodge this one. The icy profound seal moved really, really fast. Dian Jiuzhi’s forcefield slowed it down a little, but that was all it did before it struck him directly. Dian Jiuzhi trusted his defenses to hold as he prepared to unleash his own attack. However, his protective profound energy had just burst into life when it suddenly dimmed without warning.Bang! The icy seal exploded, and Dian Jiuzhi’s movement stiffened. His complexion had changed dramatically as well. He felt a piercing cold exploding across his right chest before invading his body. He felt as if billions of icy needles had stabbed into his flesh, blood, and veins. It instantly numbed his right arm and froze nearly half of his surging profound energy. Dian Jiuzhi did not swing the long whip he conjured. Instead, he slowly looked down at his right chest with a stupefied expression. His protective, profound energy was still shimmering on his torso. It hadn’t crumbled at all. During that brief instant of shock, cold air hit him from above. Then, the second seal—Overcome the Misfortune—crashed against his head with twice as much power and light as before. “If she is near the heavenly law, it would grant her its protection. If she is near profound energy, it could not bear to harm her. If she is near sin, sin would naturally feel guilty and ashamed...” Li Suo’s words reverberated inside Yun Che’s soul sea. He was watching it right now. Be it destructive or defensive, profound energy, the Glazed Glass Ice had “tamed” them all. Chapter 2142 - Heart of Rage Breaks Like A Halberd The profound energy phenomenon created by the Glazed Glass Ice was, in fact, not unfamiliar to Yun Che. As the bearer of the original Dragon God bloodline, he was the absolute bane of all existing dragons. His soul did not just terrify the dragons; any power they flung his way would shrink of its own accord. In the God Realm, the late Long Bai was the possessor of the Dragon God bloodline and the supreme overlord of Primal Chaos. However, the dragon’s attacks were weakened by one-third before they even got close to him. The outcome produced by the Glazed Glass Ice was similar, but the nature was completely different. The Glazed Glass Ice did not cause profound energy to cower or wane. Instead, it was as if the profound energy... gained some sort of sentience and chose to avoid the Glazed Glass Ice, unwilling to damage it or block its way. The Glazed Glass Ice itself wasn’t strong, but its origin, exceedingly special and pure Way conceptually “diminished” another person’s strength to an incredible degree. It allowed Shenwu Yi, a sixth-level Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner, to easily defend against the power of level eight Divine Extinction Realm Great Rage and pierce Dian Jiuzhi’s defenses. It was all because the Divine Son’s profound energy had suddenly become “lazy”. Yun Che whispered, “So this is the true face of the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass...” Just like the Nine Profound Exquisite Body, he had learned about the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass a long time ago. Rumors and records regarding the heart were numerous and disorderly. Generally speaking, everyone agreed that a person born with the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass possessed a transparent heart and soul and was protected by the heavenly laws. When they “awakened”, they would definitely become a sovereign of some sort. It was also agreed that they possessed powerful fates. Out of the many commonly agreed-upon theories, the protection of the heavenly law was the most popular of them all. Some people believed it with all their heart, and some people disregarded it completely. These rumors and records were the sum of all special characteristics every person with the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass had ever displayed throughout history. However, no one knew where the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass originated from or why it was named “Glazed Glass”—none of the records ever mentioned anything like that. It wasn’t until now that he discovered the truth. No one ever knew about its true essence because said essence had been wiped out by the dirty dust of the mortal coil even before the Era of Gods had truly arrived. Her “Exquisite Body” and “Glazed Glass Heart” had explicit expressions in her original world. They allowed her to overcome laws, see through the dangerous jungle of a person’s heart, and plan the bigger picture, even though her knowledge and experience were exceedingly shallow compared to her peers'. However, neither quality had fully explained why the “Exquisite Body” was exquisite, or why the “Glazed Glass Heart” was named “Glazed Glass”. To think that it was because both qualities were just “sprouts” when she was still in the God Realm. But... Why did this happen? How did this happen? What happened to her during the decades she fell into the Abyss? How on earth did she undergo such a dramatic change? A being created by the Ancestral God... the Ancestral God’s holy aura... a causeless person... isolated from her original universe and severed from karma forever, she was no longer an Artifact of Fate. She no longer had any past or her previous memories...Is she still herself then? Should I call her Shenwu Yi as she is now, or should I... selfishly... remind her of the name Xia Qingyue, and drag her back to her old fate...? Dian Jiuzhi’s response to the second glazed glass profound seal was to make a grab for it. He seemed to be trying to prove something. The glazed glass profound seal wasn’t spatially curved. It slammed directly against Dian Jiuzhi’s arm. There was an icy explosion, and the glazed glass profound seal shattered to smithereens. However, the terrible cold still invaded his marrow, froze the blood in his arm, and condensed his profound qi. As a result, he could not move the limb for a time. This time, though, Dian Jiuzhi clearly sensed that his power of Great Rage had blocked only about half of the attack, an attack at only the sixth level of the Divine Extinction Realm. His extraordinarily powerful body had also become frozen as if it had lost most of its natural instinct to reject foreign forces. It had become so lazy that it allowed the cold energy to invade as it pleased. The endless wave of absurdity just kept stacking up inside his soul sea. The world inside the barrier felt like a bizarre and fantastical dream. A sharp, cold light stabbed his eyes once more. Shenwu Yi had conjured her third glazed glass profound seal while he was distracted. Brimming with the immense power of Remove the Dust, the three-meter-wide seal enveloped everything within a three-kilometer radius with icy power. Dian Jiuzhi closed his eyes. In fact, he sealed off all five of his senses. The attack could not be dodged, perceived, or blocked... in that case, he shall not see, hear, or feel! This way, he would not feel pain, surprise, or fear. He had already made a fool of himself. He would not allow the Boundless Kingdom of God’s dignity to be trampled as well!Bang! The power of Great Rage surged out like a flood, bursting the blood vessels of his arms and breaking the skin and flesh. It had penetrated his frozen arms almost cruelly. The silver light that dimmed just a moment ago also swelled like a silver sun and enveloped his whole body. The glazed glass “Remove the Dust” seal descended from the sky and sealed off the space he was in. However, Dian Jiuzhi could not feel it as he was currently senseless. His rampaging power of Great Rage morphed into a massive shadow that was a little over thirty meters tall. However, the spiritual pressure it unleashed could not be outmatched even by a thirty-kilometer-tall mountain of mountains.Bang!! The next moment, “Remove the Dust” crashed down on Dian Jiuzhi like a meteor from the Beyond. Affected by translucent ice, strange ripples washed across the surface of the thick silver light like neatly cut water. When “Remove the Dust” passed through the silver light, the intensity of its icy light had only diminished by sixty percent. The rest struck Dian Jiuzhi’s body and exploded violently. Icy light bloomed amid the silver radiance, distorting it significantly. The freezing of profound energy caused the thirty-meter-tall shadow to shrink to just twenty-one meters. This time, the ice did not just freeze the bones, but also the soul. It no longer surprised Dian Jiuzhi or caused him to recoil, though. He did not even bother to dispel the cold energy. Still keeping his five senses sealed, the twenty-one-meter-tall shadow punched upward with the rampant power of the Divine Vein of Great Rage. “Boundless Manifestation... Great Rage Consumes The Star!”BOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMM— Silver light enveloped the sky. At that moment, not even the barrier was able to isolate the destructive blaze of destruction that illuminated the entire Eden’s Crown. Cries of surprise filled the temple as Yun Che’s gaze sharpened. He clearly saw a three-meter-wide gap embedded in the middle of the sky of destructive silver. It shimmered like pure, flawless ice, keeping Shenwu Yi untouched. Wherever the raging torrent of destruction made contact with the icy light, it automatically transformed into gentle, harmless beams that circled it. Not a single wisp could make an entry. One breath... two breaths... three breaths... the power was great enough to destroy heaven and earth, and yet it just could not break or even damage the fragile crystal. As the silver light waned, the battlefield was revealed once more. Everyone saw Shenwu Yi create ice with her sword and weave a profound seal resembling four leaves. As soon as the seal took form, it immediately shed all of its color and became perfectly transparent. “Cleanse the Heart... sss! Just how far into the Shenwu World Purifying Seal is she!?” Meng Jianxi exclaimed in shock. At the same time, the temporarily resting power of Great Rage exploded once more. In fact, it seemed more berserk than before. The silver light tangled around Dian Jiuzhi’s body looked like waves of roaring thunder or raging sea. His power detonated at the same time Cleanse the Heart descended. He chanted words that came from his soul sea and only he himself could hear clearly, “Boundless Manifestation... Ruin of Rage Crushes the Sea!” The instant the power of Great Rage surged, the space within the barrier and even the gazes cast into it were warped instantly. The Purify God Seal and the power of Great Rage engulfed their targets at nearly the same time. Icy explosions echoed inside Dian Jiuzhi’s soul sea, and he could clearly sense that his soul had become as cold as his body. His profound energy was also flowing unbelievably slowly and stutteringly as if it was impeded by countless layers of ice. Still, he did not release his five senses and check out his physical wounds. Instead, he gathered all of his concentration and focused on channeling the power residing within his Divine Vein of Great Rage. Eighth-level Divine Extinction Realm versus sixth-level Divine Extinction Realm... even if he was going to lose, he wasn’t going down in an ugly fashion. Uglier than it already was anyway. The wavy, destructive power annihilated everything within the barrier. The space of Eden’s Crown was impossibly resilient, and yet shallow marks were appearing here and there as if it was threatening to break apart. As the power covered the whole battlefield, it did not matter where Shenwu Yi was standing. Just like before, the waves of destruction suddenly split apart like cut water as soon as they made contact with the icy, glazed glass crystal. Ice was spreading across Dian Jiuzhi’s body, and it was only growing thicker over time. His face was rapidly losing its color as well. However, for the first time, Shenwu Yi’s glazed glass barrier lost its perfect tranquility. Cracks could be seen forming on it. Although the cracks were minor at best, they were all the more conspicuous due to how excessively flawless the crystal was. Shenwu Yi’s expression did not change. Deeper light shone out of her icy pupils, and the cracks on the glazed glass crystal began healing... only to spread open again. It looked as if a temporary balance was achieved. The silver light dimmed once more, and the waves of destruction began receding. It was at this moment that Dian Jiuzhi slowly raised his right arm—his movements were clearly stiff and painful—and the fading silver light abruptly swelled to full intensity once more. When he punched the ground with his right arm, his body—the power of the previous skill still flowing out of him—unleashed a level of destructive power that wasn’t inferior to his previous showing in the slightest. “Boundless Manifestation... Eight Rages Shatter the Realm!” At that moment, space shuddered violently, and silver light filled every inch of the sky. It looked as if heaven and earth had been flipped upside down. As an endless amount of power of Great Rage flooded out of Dian Jiuzhi’s body, the icy cracks that had almost entirely disappeared from the glazed glass barrier abruptly split wide open and spread to most of the barrier. Then, they slowly grew, unstoppable, until they encompassed the entire crystal. One breath, two breaths, three breaths... four breaths... five breaths!!Plink! The silver light finally faded, but just before it did, the mysterious glazed glass barrier shattered as well. As the final wisp of power of Great Rage swept across Shenwu Yi, her healthy complexion instantly turned white, and a thin stream of blood trickled down the corner of her lips. However, that was all. The next moment, ten thousand ancient eras' worth of cold gathered inside her eyes. Shenwu Yi thrust the Heartbreak Sting forward and unleashed a burst of colorless ice. Countless icy petals took form as it shot through the air. By the time it approached Dian Jiuzhi, it had transformed into a fantastical, icy snow lotus in full bloom.BAAAAAAAAANNNNNNGGGGGGGGGG— The snow lotus of ice exploded against Dian Jiuzhi’s body and sent icy crystals flying all over the place. The light they refracted looked gorgeous beyond words. Dian Jiuzhi was in the middle of forcing out the power of Great Rage once more when his body suddenly stiffened, and the beating silver light giving its all to last just a little longer froze in place. Then winked out like a mirage and died completely. It was a frozen hell inside Dian Jiuzhi’s soul sea. Wherever he probed, he could only find endless cold. He struggled with all of his willpower again and again... but in the end, he let out a quiet sigh. “So be it...” As soon as his five senses returned to normal, he fell backward like a mindless ice sculpture and hit the ground with a heavy thud. It was dead silent throughout Eden’s Crown. His flesh, blood, marrow, and even profound energy were frozen solid. It numbed him from the pain and even the existence of his physical body. Amidst the frozen nothingness, only one last sliver of clarity remained. He did not allow his mind to slip into unconsciousness, however. Instead, he opened his frozen lips and voiced out as clearly as he could, “I... surrender[1].” “...” Shenwu Yi quietly put away the Heartless Sword and the Heartbreak Sting. The thin stream of blood coloring the corner of her lips was soundlessly wiped away as well. The Chief Priest’s announcement followed right after, “Dian Jiuzhi of Boundless surrenders. Shenwu Yi of Eternal Night wins.”Rumble! Throwing all caution to the wind, Dian Rahu leaped into the barrier with a thunderous boom and held up the frozen Dian Jianzhi. Then, he enveloped the man’s whole body with thick, warm waves of profound energy that swiftly dispelled the cold. “Brother Jiuzhi!” Dian Sansi’s face was deathly pale. His foot kept moving forward and backward, and he fought against the impulse to join his father. Dian Jiuzhi had lost... despite his absolute advantage in cultivation, age, and physical strength, he had lost. It was an outcome that too many people could not imagine, even in their dreams. Judging from Dian Rahu’s shocked expression, Dian Jiuzhi hadn’t just lost; he had suffered a significant amount of injury. That said, many people lamented, but no one laughed at his defeat. Shenwu Yi’s Exquisite Profound Worlds and strange ice crystal were both things that broke, no, ripped common sense to shreds, so as shocking as Dian Jiuzhi’s defeat was, it wasn’t undeserved. One thing was sure: the “number one Divine Son” of Abyss was no more after this battle. Instead, the name of the Eternal Night Divine Daughter replaced it. From now on, it would live in everyone’s memory, heart, and soul as a brand. “Hahahahaha!! Hahahahahahahaha!” Hoarse, insane laughter suddenly erupted out of nowhere and stabbed into everyone’s eardrums like countless poisoned needles. It pierced the ears and shook the soul. “This is the so-called number one Divine Son? This is the so-called Divine Vein of Great Rage?? He’s an eighth-level Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner, and yet he lost to my sixth-level Divine Extinction Realm Divine Daughter like a frozen dog. What a joke! Hahahahahaha!” No one present would choose this moment to taunt the Boundless Kingdom of God, nor would any Divine Regent deign to make such a venomous and lowly insult... no one, except the Lightless Divine Regent of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God. Her vile laughter and taunt were, to be fair, completely expected. If he were any other Divine Regent, they most likely would choose to restrain their temper and not stoop to the level of a madwoman. However, he was the Boundless Divine Regent, the most fiery of them all. After lifting Dian Rahu to a sitting position, Dian Rahu abruptly glared in the Lightless Divine Regent’s direction and erupted, “Silence!!” “Hahahahaha!” Shenwu Yanye continued to laugh, though, and each bark was only shriller and more soul-rending than the last. “What a Boundless Divine Son! Just a while ago, he dared to give ten breaths to his opponent, so I thought he must be oh-so-capable. But no, he is just a useless, ugly piece of garbage whose true self is exposed as soon as he encounters the slightest bit of resistance!” “You are the man who raised this laughable idiot who shamed himself and his kingdom, Dian Rahu, so who are you to bark at me!?”Bang!! Blue veins bulged big and scary on Dian Rahu’s arms, and his eyes looked like they would explode with berserking fury at any moment... However, this was the Pure Land. As angry as he was, he ultimately chose to push down his anger. Besides, the loser should calmly accept the shame that came with defeat... That was how he taught Dian Jiuzhi. The Boundless Divine Regent’s endurance did not earn the Lightless Divine Regent’s restraint. Sudden movement came from the pitch black palanquin she was sitting in, and a wisp of profound energy shot out. Amidst everyone’s shocked and puzzled gazes, the profound energy penetrated the barrier and struck Shenwu Yi squarely. There was a boom, and Shenwu Yi was sent flying at least a hundred meters before she arrested herself. Without a word, the Divine Daughter landed on the floor and bowed. She said, “This useless Wuyi has disappointed you, Mother.” “...” Yun Che’s eyes instantly turned as cold as ice. “And here I thought you were unaware!” Shenwu Yanye’s voice sounded like that of a howling ghost from the depths. It was so terrifying that it shook everyone’s soul strings. “Your opponent is just Dian Jiuzhi, an ignorant, arrogant, and worthless piece of garbage from Boundless, and you took this long to defeat him and even suffered some minor injuries? Do you know that he could wring out every drop of his smelly, filthy blood into a bowl, and it still would not be worth a single drop of yours?!” Shenwu Yi bowed her head and replied, “Wuyi knows she has erred.” Around the palanquin, the women of Eternal Night were utterly silent. Their expressions were also unchanged, as if they had long gotten used to this sight. Shock, befuddlement, and disbelief appeared on everyone’s faces in varying degrees. Then, it all morphed into sighs of pity and regret. If Shenwu Yi had appeared in any other Kingdom of God, she would have been cherished and even worshiped like a god. The Eternal Night Kingdom of God? The radiance so bright that it blinded even the Divine Regents was no more but a tool for the madwoman, Shenwu Yanye, to vent her hatred at the world. “You better! In the next battle of divine children, I expect you to crush all other Divine Sons in ten breaths! Let these men who think themselves oh-so-noble and lofty know just how humble and cheap they really are!” “As you command!” Shenwu Yi replied without hesitation, “I will accept any punishment from you if I fail, Mother.” The other Divine Regents wore varying shades of ugliness on their faces. Shenwu Yanye might be rebuking Shenwu Yi, but she was also humiliating the other five Kingdoms of God at the same time. But what could they do? Out of everyone, the heavens had chosen to bless the madwoman and the isolated Eternal Night Kingdom of God. This term’s Eternal Night Divine Daughter had undoubtedly surpassed the former number one Divine Son, Dian Jiuzhi. Naturally, she had surpassed all other Godbearers as well. The Abyssal Monarch continued to float in the air and observe everything in silence. Forget offering advice, he did not even speak a word. His expression looked as calm as an eternal ice peak, though hidden deep within his pupils were specks of dim light no one could understand. 1. Probably the greatest defeat he could ever receive in his life. From this point onward, only hell awaits. It’s tragic. ☜ Chapter 2143 - Duel of Divine Daughters “Your mood is in a state of disquiet...” Li Suo warned Yun Che. “I know.” Yun Che did not deny this. “I just can't help but wonder what happened to her while she was in the Abyss.” Li Suo sighed quietly. “I know far too little about her, but a woman of glazed glass... as I mentioned before, she did not possess the pure aura of a woman of glazed glass, despite being capable of creating the Glazed Glass Ice. At the very least, a woman of glazed glass would never exude coldness or indifference.” “However, now is not the time to find the answer to these questions, not to mention that you lost yourself to bloodthirst for an instant just now. Did you forget that Meng Kongchan is right next to you? If not for the fact that everyone’s attention is on Shenwu Yi and Shenwu Yanye right now, there is a huge chance he would have discovered your odd emotion... This is the first time you made such a massive mistake since entering the Abyss.” “Relax,” Yun Che said, “Even if I was found out, I know many excuses that can assuage his suspicion.” He paused for a moment to calm himself before he stopped trying to defend himself. He admitted, “Okay, you’re right. I am acting rather... pathetic today.” “You are not pathetic. On the contrary, you are acting more like ‘Yun Che’ instead of the ‘Emperor Yun’ you constantly caution yourself to be countless times per day.” Li Suo’s voice was exactly as soft and ephemeral as before, and yet it had temporarily stunned Yun Che. A short while later, he shook his head and let out an involuntary chuckle. “Your words are quite warming. I’m sure it’ll be quite effective against young and inexperienced women. It’s too bad that I’m carrying a burden that makes the mere act of being myself in this world an unforgivable sin. In the future, I will make sure to watch myself closely.” Li Suo fell silent for a moment before speaking up once more, “There is one more thing I need to warn you about. Hua Caili has been staring at you for as long as you were staring at Shenwu Yi.” Yun Che’s heart skipped a beat. Not good! No matter how many times Yun Che warned himself to keep a clear head and fortify his mental defenses, he ultimately wasn’t a soulless abyssal beast. Even in this unfamiliar universe, there were always things that could create a chink in his mental armor... Xia Qingyue was one such example. Luckily for him, Hua Caili was too simple and unsophisticated. In the Abyss, she was the easiest kind of person for him to handle. He closed his eyes for a short while as if he was pondering something. Then, he suddenly opened his eyes, “instinctively” turned his head in Hua Caili’s direction, and “coincidentally” met her gaze. Right now, a thin, hazy layer of mist was covering Hua Caili’s pupils. It refracted her chaotic and indescribable feelings and panic. Yun Che lightly blinked at her before curving his mouth, looking away naturally, and looking in Dian Jiuzhi’s direction. The one gaze and shallow smile were all it took to melt the tangled streams in Hua Caili’s heart and melt the icy mist shrouding her eyes. Soon, her pupils had returned to flawless stars. Hua Qingying had been perceiving Hua Caili’s emotions this whole time. It wasn’t until now that she finally said, “The oddities displayed by Shenwu Yi are simply too stunning. Even your Father and I cannot help but feel shaken by her. It is perfectly normal that Yun Che would stare at her. There is no need to act sensitive or brood over his actions.” The sudden exposure of her true feelings caught Hua Caili off guard and made her blush slightly. She hurriedly retorted, “I... I was not! I... I know best how big brother Yun thinks of me. I wasn’t brooding or anything! Don’t try to start something when there is none, Aunt!” “... I guess I sensed wrongly.” “You did!” “...” Beside them, Hua Fuchen shook his head with a wry smile on his face. When he caught Dian Rahu dispelling the cold plaguing Dian Jiuzhi out of the corner of his eye, that smile morphed into a hidden sigh. As the greatest Divine Regent of the Six Kingdoms of God, Dian Rahu’s power was immense as a matter of course, not to mention that Dian Jiuzhi’s cultivation was strong. It wouldn’t take long for him to achieve a full recovery. Despite this, Dian Sansi continued to support him carefully. It was at this moment that Dian Sansi suddenly sensed a gaze stabbing his back like a needle. It was overtly invasive and absolutely careless... because the owner of the gaze wanted him to sense it. Dian Sansi was second only to Dian Jiuzhi among the younger generation of the Boundless Kingdom of God, so of course, he could not allow such a taunt to slide unchallenged. His eyes turned sharp as he traced the source of the gaze and looked. His gaze immediately clashed against Yun Che’s in mid-air. Yun Che narrowed his eyes slightly, and the corners of his mouth twitched almost imperceptibly. Then, he very casually looked away from Dian Sansi. Dian Sansi’s hands abruptly clenched tightly. It was because he could see the taunt in Yun Che’s eyes and especially the soundless words he spoke: Trash. Dian Jiuzhi was in a fragile state right now. As a result, Dian Sansi’s sudden clenching of his fingers inflicted intense pain on him. He turned his head and asked, “What’s wrong, Sansi?” Dian Sansi hurriedly relaxed his grip and forced a smile onto his face. “It’s nothing, I just... found it difficult... to accept. That’s all.” He was gritting his teeth uncontrollably when he said the last few words. Dian Jiuzhi thought that Dian Sansi could not accept the outcome of the fight and consoled him smilingly, “My skill is inferior, so I lost. That is just how it is. As for the verbal humiliation I received... This is the Lightless Divine Regent we’re talking about. There is no need to pay it any heed.” Dian Sansi opened his mouth to explain, but this was the Pure Land; the Divine Regents and even the Abyssal Monarch were all present. He simply could not say a single word. It was at this moment that thorny gaze stabbed his heart once more. Violence brimmed in Dian Sansi’s eyes as he glared hatefully at Yun Che. Despite this, Yun Che showed no fear or surprise. On the contrary, the corners of his lips split even wider. The expression was soundless and wordless, but his scorn, disdain, contempt... it all poured right to the bottom of his soul.See? I stole his fiancée, Hua Caili, and yet Dian Jiuzhi didn’t even dare to make a peep... trash!See? People call him the number one Divine Son, but who’s the one lying on the floor like a frozen dog? Trash!See? You know everything, and yet you didn’t dare to do anything... Trash!Number one Divine Son, hahahaha... more like the number one coward of the Kingdoms of God! In my eyes, he’s nothing more than a laughingstock!All you can do is rage impotently... then again, that’s precisely the kind of behavior I would expect from trash like you. Wanna know why you’re worse than a stray dog? Because a stray dog would at least bark at their enemies! You, and everyone around you, don’t! Dian Sansi felt like fainting from sheer fury. The eye contact only lasted an instant, and yet Yun Che’s gaze was so painful, so scornful... it wasn’t even the contemptuous gaze of a person looking down on a weakling. It was a look of pity one reserved only for a pitiful, pathetic worm... Such was Yun Che’s contempt that the hatred that had never stopped scorching his inside took nearly all of his willpower to suppress, and almost burst through his lid. “Hmm?” Dian Rahu suddenly side-eyed Dian Sansi. His breathing had turned haggard and disorderly out of seemingly nowhere. Dian Sansi sucked in a deep breath before bowing his head. “No one had ever dared to humiliate Brother Jiuzhi so, Father. I... I simply...” Dian Rahu withdrew his gaze and said heavily, “A loser should have a loser’s resolve. If you find this difficult to swallow, then work hard to return this humiliation ten times over in the future. As for that madwoman from Eternal Night, you simply need to ignore her.” Dian Sansi responded affirmatively and stopped talking. He would not lift his head for a long, long time. Throughout this time, his teeth were clenched tight as a vice.Why... Why is this happening... even though the Boundless Kingdom of God is clearly the strongest Kingdom of God... even though Brother Jiuzhi was the former number one Divine Son despite his defeat... even though he did not do anything wrong... even though he was tolerating and enduring this unimaginable indignity for everyone’s sake... even though Yun Che and Hua Caili; Dreamweaver and Heaven Breaker were the ones in the wrong...Why Brother Jiuzhi? Why are we the ones who are suffering such humiliation?Crack... crack... He could vaguely hear the sound of his teeth breaking under pressure. Meanwhile, Shenwu Yi had returned to the center of the barrier. However, no one challenged her even though she waited for a long time. So, she cast her lake cold gaze at the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God group. “I request your guidance, Dreamweaver Divine Son Meng Jianxi.” Meng Jianxi expected this and so did not panic in the slightest. He took a step forward and declared frankly, “I have a high opinion of myself, but I’m well aware that I am absolutely no match for the Boundless Divine Son, even assuming our cultivation levels were the same. Naturally, I would only be a worse match for you, Eternal Night Divine Daughter.” “Therefore, I will shamelessly offer my surrender.” Meng Jianxi’s reply wasn’t surprising at all. The Exquisite Profound World that had no answer, the anomalous ice that overturned common sense... The only reasonable and not at all shameful answer to such overwhelming advantages was not to enter into a fight with Shenwu Yi in the first place. “Hahahahaha!” Just as expected, a shrill, horrible laugh echoed throughout Eden’s Crown. “Is this the Divine Son of the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God? A coward who doesn’t even dare to answer a challenge? Are you all seriously going to pass down your Kingdoms of God to such useless pieces of garbage?” Meng Kongchan replied indifferently, “As expected of the Lightless Divine Regent, you are the only one who would stoop to the level of insulting a junior. Under your leadership, I am sure that your Kingdom of God will prosper, and all of your citizens will rejoice.” Shenwu Yanye let out a cold cackle. “A Kingdom of God whose dreams are just as rotten as their reality, and a Godbearer who doesn’t even dare to answer a challenge. In the future, the only place for the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God is beneath the feet of Eternal Night! So what makes you think you have any right to criticize my Eternal Night Kingdom of God?!” Meng Kongchan’s only response was to harrumph lightly. The provocation had failed to ruffle his feathers even a little. Since Meng Jianxi had admitted defeat, the only Kingdom of God that hadn’t entered the battlefield yet was Heaven Breaker. Just when everyone thought that Hua Caili would make the same choice as Meng Jianxi, the beautiful, white figure of a young woman floated into the barrier and faced Shenwu Yi directly. “...” Hua Fuchen subconsciously raised his hand. “Let her try.” Hua Qingying interrupted him, “Caili’s sword is good enough to face the Exquisite Profound World.” Hua Fuchen frowned a little until he recalled something. His eyes bloomed with barely disguised shock as he asked, “Are you saying that Caili...?” Hua Qingying faced Hua Fuchen’s obviously shaky gaze and nodded slightly. “This was going to be her secret gift to you. She was also hoping that this trump card would win the favor of the Abyssal Monarch.” She suddenly let out a quiet sigh and looked at the two people inside the barrier. She said in a sorrowful voice, “At the same cultivation level, she had a near one hundred percent chance to defeat Dian Jiuzhi. Who would have thought that this brilliant yet anomalous Eternal Night Divine Daughter would appear out of nowhere? There is no way Caili would get her wish now.” “If she knows this, then why...” Hua Fuchen cut himself off halfway because the answer had already come to him. Sighing in amusement and helplessness, he said, “She’s still a young girl after all.” “This is our first meeting. Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter Hua Caili requests your guidance!” Inside the barrier, the two women were roughly a hundred steps apart. They hadn’t fought yet, but everyone was already holding their breath and staring blankly at the battlefield. Even the soft wind and the thin cloud had stopped in their tracks to watch. Shenwu Yi wore a plain outfit as black as ink. Icy mist seemed to be circling her clothes. Her fight against Dian Jiuzhi had disheveled her hair slightly and caused a few strands to hang limply beside her face, but it only made her look fairer and more gorgeous. Her eyes resembled frozen ponds. She looked as beautiful as an immortal’s dream, but possessed no loveliness or charm whatsoever. There was only cold indifference, rejecting anything and everything. The icy, glazed glass aura slowly circulating around her gave her a sacred yet distant layer of light, making her look like a goddess of ice and snow who had descended from the nine heavens. She looked beautifully sharp and lofty. On the other hand, Hua Caili wore a snow-white outfit that symbolized her identity as the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter. Seven completely different sword radiances were sewn to her skirt, and they combined to form a complex yet gorgeous pattern of divinity and stars. They were Tianshu, Tianxuan, Tianji, Tianquan, Yuheng, Kaiyang, and Yaoguang. The seven shining stars symbolized the worship of the seven Heaven Breaker Sword Sovereigns. It also implied eternal protection. When she moved, her skirt swayed naturally. It looked like a galaxy of stars was pouring toward the floor, bright and colorful. Her countenance was famous throughout the Abyss for a long, long time. She was a priceless treasure of the heavens, everyone knew. Her skin was fair and glossy like congealed lard. Her cheeks were slightly flushed, like the sunset glow. She looked as if neither the abyssal dust of the Endless Fog nor the ordinary dust of the mortal coil had ever touched her. Her eyebrows were curved like newly ascended new moons, and the brightest stars of the Abyss were refracted within her beautiful pupils. Above all else, she exuded the frail purity unique to a young woman. They were both equally beautiful, though their personality and styles were utterly different. For them both to enter one’s eyesight at the same time was an unthinkable luxury no one in all Six Kingdoms of God had ever experienced... until now. Outside the barrier, eyes went blank, expressions grew infatuated, and appearances were maintained by force... However, their overlapping breaths were so soft that they were almost inaudible, and their eyes seemed to have forgotten how to refract light. Even the holy land that was Eden’s Crown seemed to become colorless and lustreless all of a sudden. Chapter 2144 - Ruthless Determination of a Sword Heart “It is a little strange. Why is she entering the battlefield of her own accord? She is destined to lose, and Meng Jianxi has already surrendered. I cannot imagine that there is any meaning to her response,” Li Suo expressed her doubts. Yun Che tilted the corners of his lips before avoiding the question, “Caili’s Heaven Breaker Sword Intent counters... or should I say, is not afraid of the Exquisite Profound Worlds to a certain extent. However, the Glazed Glass Ice makes it so that she has no chance of winning.” Looking at the two women facing each other inside the barrier, Yun Che felt a myriad of complicated emotions. One of them wore black, and the other white. One of them was cold and lofty like an icy fairy of the cold moon, and the other as pure and beautiful as a night-blooming flower in an ancient painting. In the eyes of others, obtaining even one of them was probably the greatest fortune a man could receive; a delusion that countless beings didn’t even dare to entertain in their dreams. However, no one—not even Shenwu Yi or Hua Caili themselves—knew that one of them was his wife, and the other his lover who had devoted her body and heart to him for eternity. Yun Che forcefully pushed aside the tangled mess in his head and focused on the present. “This battle will not last long. When it is over...” “It will be my turn to enter the battlefield.” He wasn’t worried that Shenwu Yi would go to excessive lengths to harm Hua Caili. After all, the Lightless Divine Regent’s malice was aimed at men only[1]. “You?” Li Suo looked confused. “Although your name is known throughout the Abyss, you are ultimately not the Dreamweaver Divine Son. How are you planning to participate?” “And... Why would you want to fight against her?” “You are overthinking this. I’m not planning to fight her.” Out of the corner of his eye, Yun Che glanced at the Abyssal Monarch one time before looking away. “I’ve experienced true loneliness before; that horrible feeling where there is absolutely nothing inside your heart, even though you are in the presence of others. And the Abyssal Monarch... his loneliness is probably countless times greater than what I experienced back then.” “Imagine a ghost walking alone in the endless dark year after year, a million years straight... If a beam of light suddenly pierces through the darkness and loneliness and appears before him, there is no way he can ignore it or keep quiet, no?” Li Suo looked thoughtful. “Shenwu Yi of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God is at the sixth level of the Divine Extinction Realm. Hua Caili of the Heaven Breaker Kingdom of God is at the second level of the Divine Extinction Realm. For this reason, Shenwu Yi must receive the Profound Rage Seal and equalize her cultivation level and profound energy to the level of Hua Caili.” The antique bronze-colored profound light from before appeared on the Chief Priest’s palm once more. It flew past the barrier and landed on Shenwu Yi. The profound light stalled for an inexplicable instant the moment it made contact with Shenwu Yi. This caused the Chief Priest to furrow his brow a little. However, the moment passed so quickly that no one but the Chief Priest noticed it. The profound light bloomed into a small sealing profound formation. A beat later, it vanished without a trace. Shenwu Yi’s profound energy and aura began to weaken rapidly. Just three breaths later, they had declined all the way to the second level of the Divine Extinction Realm. They were almost perfectly balanced with the profound energy surrounding Hua Caili. “Begin!” The Glass Cloud Sword rang crisply as it left its sheath, and a torrent of sword radiance resembling fireflies poured out and illuminated Hua Caili. The next moment, the girl's air changed dramatically. The faint childishness residing at the bottom of her eyes quietly faded away, and a pair of cold stars gathered at the center of her pure, moonlike eyes. They were so sharp that one almost could not bear to look at them directly. Her appearance was as delicate as ever, but now it was entangled by a sharp sword intent that kept anything and everything at bay. Her snow white outfit fluttered in a breeze even though it was windless inside the barrier, and the patterns on her skirt—both the sword patterns of the Seven Stars, and the divine patterns of celestial bodies—emitted fine powders of radiance. For a brief moment, everyone was dazed by the transformation... The Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter had always been beautiful like a star from the Beyond, but just the same, it felt like she would never mature. Now, her appearance—if ever so slightly—reminded them of the Sword Fairy, Hua Qingying. “...” The light in the Abyssal Monarch’s eyes flickered just a bit. Shenwu Yi raised her sword and kept the Heartless Sword pointed diagonally at her feet. However, she did not make a move, much less summon the Glazed Glass Ice. Clearly, she was planning to give Hua Caili the first move. The sword intent in Hua Caili’s eyes condensed into even sharper, colder stars. The fingers wrapped around the handle of the sword looked fair, slender, and long. When the energy around her fingers merged seamlessly with the light of the Glass Cloud Sword, a pure, formless, and ethereal force field unfolded around her. Seven pale sword beams circled soundlessly around her person... The large majority of the spectators did not even notice when the sword beams had appeared. When Hua Caili lifted her eyes slightly, delicate ripples suddenly appeared in the air, almost as if her gaze was cutting a path toward Shenwu Yi. She did not make a move, nor did her aura change in any way. However, a thin, white sword beam was already flying toward Shenwu Yi before most people noticed. Shenwu Yi did not move. The sword beam passed right through her... and stopped suddenly right as it was passing through her. The afterimage disappeared, and the real Shenwu Yi appeared to Hua Caili’s left. She was so close that Hua Caili could literally touch her with her hand. Her anomalous appearance was, of course, the work of the Exquisite Profound World. However, the instant Shenwu Yi appeared, another sword beam shone into her eyes. It was just a sixth of a meter away from her brow. Her appearance was unpredictable and instantaneous. Hua Caili shouldn’t have had the time to lock onto her with her spiritual sense after the spatial curve. And yet, the sword beam had taken flight almost immediately after she appeared beside the young woman. It was virtually as if the sword beam had been waiting for her. The attack was sudden, and there was almost no distance between them. Shenwu Yi was the one who was caught off guard. Unable to dodge it normally, Shenwu Yi had no choice but to perform a second spatial curve.Shred!! The sword beam pierced empty air and left behind a pale scar that refused to fade even after a long, long time later. This time, the real Shenwu Yi appeared above Hua Caili to her right... But as if on cue, a pair of sword beams pincered her from two sides. Shenwu Yi had no time to raise her own sword. She just barely twisted out of the way of the two sword beams with inches to spare. However, another pair of sword beams followed right behind the attack, and the two sword beams she just dodged abruptly did a U-turn and flew toward her once more. Now, she was facing a pair of sword beams, both from the front and the back.Shred— Shenwu Yi’s afterimage was cut into pieces as the four sword beams shot through the air with ear-piercing shrieks. Alas, they had missed their mark. Three kilometers away, Shenwu Yi reappeared and looked down at her right arm out of the corner of her eye. A shallow cut several inches long had split the fabric covering her right shoulder, exposing the skin that was fairer than snow beneath. At the same time, a bit of blood was seeping out of the small wound. There was a short silence. Then, the crowd erupted into a cacophony of noise. No one thought that the first exchange between the two women would result in Shenwu Yi’s injury. After all, not even Dian Jiuzhi was able to inflict any external injury to the woman until the moment he lost. “Is that the fabled Heaven Breaker Sword Intent??” Meng Jianxi could not help but exclaim in surprise, “I heard that the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter both completed her breakthrough and grasped the Heaven Breaker Sword Intent at the end of her journey three years ago. However, Uncle was sure it was just a false rumor because not even Senior Sword Fairy was able to grasp the Heaven Breaker Sword Intent at the same age.” “To think... that the outlandish rumor is true, and from the looks of it... she is already very familiar with it. She doesn’t look like a beginner at all.” “...” Yun Che stared straight ahead without a word. Meng Kongchan said in an indifferent voice, “Most people in the Abyss know that the Heaven Breaker Sword Intent of the Heaven Breaker Kingdom of God could turn an opponent’s profound energy as fragile and breakable as paper, but few know that its greatest strength lies in the fact that the sword beam it creates automatically gains its own spiritual perception.” As someone who had fought Hua Fuchen many times in the past, Meng Kongchan was among the few who had the deepest understanding of the Heaven Breaker Sword Intent. “An ordinary profound practitioner perceives their enemy using their spiritual perception, but a Heaven Breaker profound practitioner produces swords that will automatically lock onto their opponent... Therefore, this outcome is unsurprising.” Meanwhile, the seven sword beams had returned to Hua Caili’s side. Throughout the exchange, the young woman’s feet had not moved a single inch. This scene stunned most of the spectators as a matter of course. As members of the Six Kingdoms of God, they still remembered the stunning evaluation the cold and strict Chief Priest had afforded Hua Qingying to this day. He had called her the most talented person in the way of the sword in the history of the Six Kingdoms of God, and perhaps the only one in the current Abyss who could become a True God without an inheritance. Hua Qingying was a one-of-a-kind Sword Fairy, and yet even she took seventy-seven years to grasp the first wisp of Heaven Breaker Sword Intent. On the other hand, Hua Caili...Ding! There was a soft ring, and a burst of piercing cold chased away all of the distractions. When the crowd looked, they saw that Shenwu Yi had encased the Heartless Sword in a thin layer of icy light. The anomalous, practically demonic[2] glazed glass barrier had appeared around her person as well. Shenwu Yi had not summoned the Glazed Glass Ice this early when Dian Jiuzhi was her opponent. At this point, the noises died completely. Everyone was holding their breath and waiting to see if the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter’s Heaven Breaker Sword Intent could cut through the glazed glass barrier that even Dian Jiuzhi, with his two-level advantage, was unable to break until the last moment. To everyone’s surprise, Hua Caili declared, “I am no match for you.” Her words sounded like surrender, but her voice was bitingly cold like spring water. There was none of the self-abasement or weakness one might expect from a declaration of surrender either. On the contrary, unyielding determination suddenly flooded into her demeanor and bearing... so much so that it almost felt ruthless. “My only chance in victory... lies with this sword!” “If you manage to withstand it, then I will surrender.”Shiing... shiing!! The Glass Cloud Sword suddenly started shaking slightly and ringing, as if it were holding back something. Hua Fuchen’s eyes grew focused. He wanted to witness the “massive pleasant surprise” Hua Caili had prepared for him with his own eyes... to know just how brilliant the Heaven Breaker Third Sword she had picked up from the Seven Star Heaven Breaker Formation could shine. Shenwu Yi was expressionless. She did not act immediately either.SHIING!!! The Glass Cloud Sword suddenly vibrated much more violently than before and emitted a terrible ringing that could pierce even metal and stone. Hua Caili’s snow white face was scrunched up with concentration, and the sword light in her eyes shone so bright they resembled supernovas. Above all, it was dyed with a kind of ruthless determination that would sever it all. The profound energy and sword energy around her person began shaking. Her snow white clothes began fluttering in the air. The seven-star sword patterns and starry divine patterns on her skirt were all shining brightly as well. The way they flickered erratically looked both gorgeous and unsettling. “... ?!?” A deep frown suddenly appeared on Shenwu Yi’s face. It was because she suddenly felt as if a sword was pressed against her heart and soul. It was a soul-restricting sensation that no words could describe and seemed almost ludicrous, except that she could clearly feel that this sword had locked onto her very heart and soul. There would be no escape, no matter what she did. For every passing breath, the sword’s light was growing brighter. For every passing instant, its power was swelling at an unbelievable rate. It eventually got to the point where her heart and soul were growing colder with every passing second. In response, she crossed her sword in front of herself and stacked up multiple layers of Glazed Glass Ice. “...?” Hua Qingying frowned in confusion at first. Then, the blood suddenly drained from her face. “Caili stop!!” The sudden cry made everyone look to the side. To their shock, it had come from the Sword Fairy Hua Qingying. A cyan figure dashed forward, and Hua Qingying was standing right in front of the barrier. They had never heard her sound so urgent before. “Do not be reckless, Caili! Stop now! Caili!!” At this point, everyone was wide-eyed with shock. Anyone who heard of the Sword Fairy automatically knew that Hua Caili was her one and only reverse scale, and the only thing that could cause her to lose her cool like this was a threat to her life. Hua Fuchen must have sensed something as well, for he too appeared beside Hua Qingying in an instant without any regard for time and place. His pupils were contracting at the same rate as Hua Caili’s sword beam was strengthening. He initially thought that Hua Caili was preparing the Heaven Breaker Third Sword, but he was wrong. It was the fourth! If she had shown this to him outside a battlefield, then he would be beyond delighted that Hua Caili had glimpsed the path to the Heaven Breaker Fourth Sword. But right here and now, sensing her shaky sword aura and unnaturally violent sword intent, all he felt was indescribable shock and terror. She obviously hadn’t mastered the Heaven Breaker Fourth Sword, or she would have informed Hua Qingying about it in excitement. Not only that, but the skill burns a tremendous amount of profound energy. Considering that she was only at the second level of the Divine Extinction Realm, she would barely be able to unleash one strike, if at all. If she ignored the consequences and pushed herself to the limit, her opponent would suffer a terrible blow, but she would hurt herself worse!! Hua Caili did not respond to her aunt’s cries at all, but not because she chose to ignore her warning. It was because her heart, will, and soul were focused entirely on creating the sword intent, and she could not spare any of it for her surroundings. The Chief Priest lifted his head and summoned an impossibly powerful barrier that blocked Hua Qingying and Hua Fuchen’s path. At the same time, a warning that would not accept defiance as an answer boomed, “Withdraw! No one is to interfere with the battle!” As the white light of the Glass Cloud Sword kept growing stronger, bits and pieces of white light gradually took form. They slowly and painstakingly fought through the rampaging sword aura and gathered around the sword like fireflies. Slowly, a pale white sword projection about twenty-three meters long took form. The instant it appeared, the surrounding space distorted violently, and fine cracks began spreading rapidly. This sight caused countless profound practitioners to gasp. The space of Eden’s Crown was unbelievably tough, and yet Hua Caili’s level two Divine Extinction Realm profound energy had clearly damaged it. It did not take a genius to know that the power of this sword completely exceeded what she should be able to dish out at her level. However, Hua Fuchen and Hua Qingying’s panicked states made it clear to even the most inexperienced and ignorant person in this room that Hua Caili’s sword, as terrifyingly powerful as it was, also came with an equally terrible cost. Everyone was stunned, shocked, and confused. Out of everyone present, the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter was easily the most averse to combat of them all. This was her first meeting with Shenwu Yi, so there was no possibility that a grudge existed between the two of them. The battle of Divine Children, while important, only concerned the face of some Kingdoms of God and the promise of the Abyssal Monarch. It did not involve the Kingdoms of God or even the Godbearers’ core interests at all, so... why was she going so far!? Right now, Dian Jiuzhi could barely conceal his panic. He had struggled out of Dian Sansi’s arms and staggered forward. Eyes staring at Hua Caili, his mouth opened and closed unconsciously like a fish. More than once, he had nearly lost control and cried out to her. “...” Yun Che’s face remained calm and unruffled, but his chest was clearly inflating and deflating a tad faster than before. Shenwu Yi’s sword was swiftly gathering Glazed Glass Ice as well. By the time she pointed the Ruthless Sword forward, dozens of small, delicate, and translucent ice lotuses were covering the thin, long blade... though the icy auras they gave off were anything but harmless, seemingly cold enough to freeze even gazes. Amidst the dazzling sword lights, Hua Caili finally and slowly opened her beautiful eyes. Shining out of her eyes was the pure and translucent radiance of a young girl and a kind of pure determination that no one could understand. The mixture and entanglement of countless sword lights and sword stars were suffocatingly gorgeous, and yet they were also bitingly destructive. Wreathed in the sword projection, Hua Caili thrust the Glass Cloud Sword forward. At that moment, all sound ceased to exist, and Hua Qingying let out a painful sigh. She knew very well that Hua Caili would suffer severe injuries the second the power was unleashed. However, this was Eden’s Crown, and there was nothing she could do to stop this from happening. She could only protect her when instant victory and defeat were decided. Shenwu Yi also thrust out her sword at the same time, her blade following a perfectly straight trajectory, and the ice lotuses blooming with dazzling yet bleak radiance. The world fell completely silent, and everyone forgot to breathe. Time seemed to flow slowly as countless pupils dilated to the max. The two women’s reflections were clearly imprinted in their eyes as the sword projection and the icy radiance moved closer and closer... and finally overlapped with each other at a certain point in time. The world was still deathly silent. There was no icy explosion, no spatial cut, not even the ear-piercing clash of profound energy. Instead, a white figure appeared between Hua Caili and Shenwu Yi. With his left finger, he touched the Glass Cloud Sword. With his right finger, he tapped the Heartless Sword. The sword projection, icy lotuses, and even the profound energies gushing out of the girls’ bodies vanished in an instant. It was as if an invisible hand had erased everything from existence, but left no traces behind. 1. Fool. ☜ 2. To be honest I really wanted to use, “What sorcery is this?” during the previous chapters, and here I wanted to use “sorcerous”. However, ATG is one of those books where the natural-sound translation almost always comes back to bite you in the ass, which is why I try to stay as literally accurate as possible for some terms. Just a little insight to how I translate this novel. ☜ Chapter 2145 - The Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods? No one dared to break the rules of the Pure Land, including the Divine Regents of the Six Kingdoms of God. However, there was one exception; one man whose very existence sat above all of the rules. He was the Abyssal Monarch. The Heaven Breaker sword that Hua Caili poured all of her willpower into, the Glazed Glass Ice that Shenwu Yi used to crush Dian Jiuzhi, all disappeared without a trace like a bubble. While everyone was staring at him with a dumb expression, he slowly lowered his hands and said, “The body is exquisite, and the heart creates glazed glass. This is unprecedented in the history of the world; a miracle bestowed by the heavens themselves.” “Caili, you have glimpsed the true intent of the Heaven Breaker Fourth Sword despite only being in your twenties. In terms of talent in the way of the sword alone, you did not just surpass your aunt; you are not far away from my level when I was your age.” The Abyssal Monarch’s intervention didn’t just surprise the six Kingdoms of God. The Chief Priest was greatly astonished as well. His evaluation of Shenwu Yi and Hua Caili especially exploded in their hearts like thunderclaps. He had called Shenwu Yi a “miracle” and compared Hua Caili to himself! “If either one of you suffers even a tiny amount of damage, it will be a great loss to this world. So, let us end this here, shall we?” Shenwu Yi calmly put away her sword and bowed to him. “Wuyi obeys, Your Majesty.” Hua Caili’s adaptability was slightly weaker than Shenwu Yi’s, and she did not fear him like most others did. So, she remained speechless for a good few seconds before she finally mumbled, “But... Uncle Abyssal Monarch... the favor...” The Abyssal Monarch’s pupils seemingly shifted slightly in Hua Caili’s direction and smiled. “Both of your performances are enough for me to make an exception. I will grant you both my favor.” The Abyssal Monarch’s words did not move Shenwu Yi in any way, but countless brilliant stars lit up in Hua Caili’s eyes. “Real... really! Thank you, Uncle Abyssal Monarch! You’re the best, Uncle Abyssal Monarch!” She was standing next to the Abyssal Monarch on a battlefield at Eden’s Crown... and yet her joy was so direct, strong, and truthful. “...” Dian Jiuzhi closed his eyes to conceal his disappointment. He also let out a sigh in his heart. Suddenly, he understood why Hua Caili had done something that wasn’t just against common sense, but also her own nature; why she threw everything into this fight even at the risk of greatly injuring herself. It was all to obtain the Abyssal Monarch’s favor, a favor that was tied to her and Yun Che’s future. Hua Fuchen let out a long, long sigh of relief. It was only now that she realized that his back was ice cold. It was because his shirt was completely drenched in cold sweat. Hua Caili was still brimming with joy. She looked completely different from when she was wielding a sword. She had transformed from a sharp and intimidating little Sword Fairy to a spoiled young girl in an instant. Looking at Shenwu Yi, Hua Caili said frankly, “There is no need to end this battle here. I surrender. Even if I throw everything into this attack, I know that my chance of victory is only one percent. There is a ninety-nine percent chance you would have won, Eternal Night Divine Daughter.” The Abyssal Monarch smiled but did not comment on it. The Chief Priest did not waste his breath as usual. He declared, “Hua Caili of Heaven Breaker surrenders. Shenwu Yi of Eternal Night wins!” “During this battle of Divine Children, Shenwu Yi of Eternal Night and Hua Caili of Heaven Breaker performed splendidly. His Majesty approves of their performance and decides to make an exception for them. Both of them will receive a favor from His Majesty.” The Abyssal Monarch’s promise and the Chief Priest’s declaration sounded the end of this battle between Divine Children. Including Pan Buwang, a total of six Divine Sons and two Divine Daughters had participated in the battle. However, it was the two Divine Daughters who achieved the ultimate victory, and the six Divine Sons were their foils. This was especially true for the former number one Divine Son, Dian Jiuzhi. Shenwu Yi’s icy light had almost completely wiped out his former honor and glory. This outcome stunned everyone belonging to the Kingdoms of God. When Hua Caili put away the Glass Cloud Sword and turned around, her vision suddenly blurred, and she nearly collapsed to the floor. However, a cyan figure caught her before she could do so. When Hua Caili found herself in Hua Qingying’s embrace, she finally noticed that she was exhausted from head to toe. It was to the point where she could barely lift her arms. Hua Fuchen was right behind Hua Qingying. When he saw the terribly pale complexion but beaming smile on his daughter’s face, he ultimately could not bring himself to rebuke her. He could only curse inside his head, “It’s all that brat’s fault!” Meanwhile, Hua Qingying was carefully inspecting Hua Caili’s condition with her profound energy. It wasn’t until she had scanned her whole body that she relaxed. The Abyssal Monarch’s well-timed intervention had prevented the Heaven Breaker Fourth Sword from unleashing, so it ultimately did not backfire on Hua Caili. However, it still taxed her far too much to create the sword, which was why she was in a state of severe physical and mental exhaustion right now. If Hua Caili had unleashed the sword in her current state... Hua Qingying did not dare to imagine the outcome. She quickly carried Hua Caili and brought her back to the Heaven Breaker Kingdom of God’s formation. At the same time, the seven Heaven Breaker Sword Sovereigns rushed forward and surrounded Hua Caili in seven gentle sword energies. They restored her depleted energies and aura at an astonishing rate. “You will not do anything like this in the future.” Despite his wavering resolve, Hua Fuchen ultimately found it in himself to rebuke her. “I get it, Father. I won’t do this in the future.” Hua Caili replied obediently and modestly, but pride quickly took over as she declared, “But you can’t deny that I succeeded thanks to this sword!” She admitted her mistake in a single sentence, only to undermine him in the next. Hua Fuchen covered his face with one hand before shooting the distant Yun Che a glare. Hua Qingying said indifferently, “Besides obtaining the Abyssal Monarch’s favor, are you sure you’re not thinking about anything else when you throw all caution to the wind?” “Nope!” Hua Caili looked away and adamantly refused to admit anything. It was at this moment that Sha Xing finally returned from outside. He was confused when he saw the strange scene. Xian Yue said slowly, “The battle of Divine Children is over. Shenwu Yi defeated Dian Jiuzhi, Meng Jianxi refused to fight and surrendered, and the Abyssal Monarch himself personally stopped Shenwu Yi and Hua Caili’s fight. After promising to make an exception and bestow both of them his favor, Hua Caili surrendered the fight.” His explanation was short, but it was enough to stack multiple layers of shock on Sha Xing’s face. It would be a long, long time before he recovered his senses. It was only now that Xian Yue unhurriedly produced a Profound Imagery Stone and handed it to Sha Xing. “I’ve already engraved everything you missed. You should thank me for my foresight. Otherwise, you would have missed some of the most astounding scenes that have ever taken place in the history of the Abyss.” On the Boundless Kingdom of God’s side, Dian Rahu was stroking his long beard with obvious approval and a wide smile. The rage that gripped him after Dian Jiuzhi was humiliated following his defeat seemed to have been entirely forgotten. “Caili seems so gentle and mild-tempered in the norm, I didn’t think she had it in her to go so far for Jiuzhi’s honor, not to mention that her sword talent surpasses even Qingying... as expected of my daughter-in-law, huohahahaha!” The man was laughing happily when he reached the end of his sentence. He did not notice that Dian Sansi wore a dark, ugly expression behind his back. “Brother Jiuzhi...” He cautiously shot Dian Jiuzhi a look. He wanted to say something to comfort his brother, but he could not think of anything. However, Dian Jiuzhi shook his head and cracked a faint smile. That smile... looked like letting go. The more he acted like this, the more Dian Sansi’s heart ached. Eventually, it grew so painful that he could barely suppress his reaction. Without thinking, he turned to look at Yun Che. To his surprise, their gazes “coincidentally” clashed once more. Yun Che’s eyebrows were curving downward, and the corners of his mouth were turning upward. He was smiling with ridicule, arrogance, and disdain. Right after that, Yun Che casually turned away from Dian Sansi as if looking at him for even a second longer was a waste of his time and energy. However, right as his face turned, Dian Sansi clearly saw Yun Che’s mouth opening and closing. The word he said without making a sound was: Pitiful. “~!@#￥%......” At that moment, every drop of blood inside his body rushed into his head. Dian Sansi’s face and neck turned completely red, like he was drenched in blood, and even his vision was a blurry haze of red. The desire to divulge everything so that Father would fly into an unholy rage, the Abyssal Monarch would enact divine judgment, and Yun Che and Hua Caili would lose everything threatened to implode his heart from the inside. He recalled the consequences of such an action and Dian Jiuzhi’s warning, which sounded more like pleading... a good few breaths later, he finally clenched his teeth and mastered himself. The humiliation, the rage, the hatred, the reluctance... bit by bit, he forced it all down to throat level. That was all he could do. Even with all his willpower, his throat was as far as he could shove down the emotions. Although he was keeping his emotions at bay, there was just no way he could swallow them like he had done so many times before. As a result, all this rage, humiliation, and hatred were lodged in his throat like a million fish bones. It felt so uncomfortable that every breath felt like a year. This was a kind of pain and torture he never imagined could exist until now. “Mm. He’s almost at the limit of his limit,” Yun Che said leisurely inside his soul. “Dian Sansi?” Li Suo asked. “Yes.” Yun Che replied, “Right now, even a simple poke could potentially cause him to explode. A strong stimulation? His reason would be obliterated, and he would self-destruct no matter the time, place, or circumstance.” Li Suo whispered, “The battle of Divine Children is already over. The opportunity you need...” “Will be given to me by the Abyssal Monarch Himself. Who knows, he might even be more desperate than I am.” Li Suo: “...??” The Abyssal Monarch waited until Hua Caili was sufficiently recovered before asking, “So, what is your desired reward, Caili?” Smiling, Hua Caili paid him a bow before declaring fearlessly, “My desired reward is a little special, Uncle Abyssal Monarch. Can I tell you about it in private?” The Abyssal Monarch smiled. “Of course. However, aren’t you worried that this lone one would go back on his word without a witness?” “You wouldn’t. Thank you in advance, Uncle Abyssal Monarch!” Hua Caili saluted him again before stepping behind Hua Qingying with a smile on her face. Next, the Abyssal Monarch shifted his gaze to Shenwu Yi. “What is your desired reward, Shenwu Yi?” Shenwu Yi replied quickly and succinctly, “Your Majesty, Wuyi would like to enter the ‘Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods’.” Her words surprised everyone. An unnatural shockwave of profound energy washed out of the pitch black palanquin where the Lightless Divine Regent was residing, and it was mixed with all-too-obvious anger. Clearly, Shenwu Yi’s request had gone against her wishes. “The Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods? What kind of place is that??” Yun Che asked with a frown. It had been three years since he arrived at the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God. Although he was mainly focused on collecting information regarding the Divine Children of the Kingdoms of God, he knew more or less everything that was necessary to know about the Abyss. However, this was the first time he heard this name. Meng Jianxi answered in a hushed voice, “It is the place where the ancient gods perished after falling into the Abyss, before the abyssal world was formed. It is... also the place the Abyssal Monarch landed when he first fell into the Abyss.” “It is rumored that most of the True Gods and demon gods who perished at the very beginning were corrupted by primal abyssal dust and transformed into abyssal ghosts... later, after the Abyssal Monarch had created the abyssal world, the graveyard of gods was sealed and named the ‘Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods’.” “I have never gone to the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods before. So I know very little about it. But according to the records of the Xuanji Hall, the concentration of abyssal dust in the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods is comparable to the inner regions of the Endless Fog, despite not being situated in the Endless Fog. Besides that, it contains far more abyssal ghosts than abyssal beasts, and every abyssal ghost could be an ancestor or a god of the denizens of the current Abyss.” “The Abyssal Monarch probably sealed the region and named it a forbidden zone out of respect to everyone’s ancestors and gods. If I remember correctly, the place was opened less than twenty times since it was made a forbidden zone.” Yun Che asked, “In that case, why would Shewu Yi waste such a precious opportunity to travel to such a place?” Meng Jianxi thought for a moment before answering, ‘Countless ancient True Gods have met their end in that place. Considering their divinity, not even primal abyssal dust should be able to eliminate them immediately. Perhaps they had left behind inheritances or extraordinary treasures prior to their deaths... and Shenwu Yi is interested in them?” Meng Jianxi’s reply was hesitant and slow. Clearly, he was just guessing. The Abyssal Monarch fell silent, but the silence only lasted two breaths. He nodded. “As you wish.” “However,” he added, “The Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods only opens once in a very, very long time. It would be a waste to open it for just one person.” “Zhuyuan.” The first knight, Dugu Zhuyuan, stepped forward to receive his order. “Open the Void Breaching Formation to the ‘Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods’ twenty hours later. Every Kingdom of God is allowed to dispatch one junior into the place.” The other five Kingdoms of God were visibly delighted by the Abyssal Monarch’s order. Not only was He bestowing them a gift, he was subtly making them owe Shenwu Yi one. “Thank you for granting my favor, Your Majesty.” Shenwu Yi had no objections to offer. She did not seem pleased that her desire was granted either. She withdrew in silence and indifference to where she had been. The Abyssal Monarch had made his announcements, the “Eternal Pure Land” was right around the corner, and the battle of Divine Children had reached its end. Now, it was time for the Abyssal Monarch to take his leave, and the Chief Priest to announce the end of this term’s Pure Land Meet. But against all expectations, the Abyssal Monarch cast his gaze at the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God’s formation. Then, he said: “Kongchan, this lone one heard that another perfect Godbearer besides Caili has descended to your Kingdom of God. Is this true?” Chapter 2146 - Fight Beyond Fight A hint of astonishment and puzzlement flickered underneath his eyes. Many people were hiding their astonishment and confusion. Meng Kongchan took a step forward and bowed. “The person you mentioned is none other than my clumsy son, Jianyuan, Your Majesty. Jianyuan once suffered a tragedy and was lost for over a century. However, the heavens pitied Dreamweaver and returned him to us. He even awakened a perfect divine essence afterward.” “Come, Yuan’er!” Besides astonishment, Meng Kongchan was also feeling excited. If Meng Jianyuan could make the acquaintance of the Abyssal Monarch, then his affair with Hua Caili would encounter less resistance. This would only benefit his future. Yun Che stood next to Meng Kongchan and bowed at the exact same angle. “Yun Che of Dreamweaver greets you, Your Majesty.” “......” The corners of Meng Kongchan’s eyes twitched a little. Everyone else was wearing slightly odd expressions as well. From the beginning, he had insisted on addressing himself as Yun Che. Basically, everyone from the Six Kingdoms of God knew about this. However, to insist on calling himself Yun Che even though Meng Kongchan had just introduced him as “Meng Jianyuan” to the Abyssal Monarch... his perseverance was unquestionable, but equally unquestionable was his foolishness. The Abyssal Monarch did not mind it one bit, however. Glowing with divine radiance, a hint of wistfulness peeked through his face. “A perfect Godbearer may not appear even once in ten thousand years. For two to appear in the same era is literally unprecedented.” “Child of Darkness, Ice Heart Nine Profound, two perfect Godbearers appearing in the same era... extraordinary phenomena keep appearing one after another. Perhaps these are all signs that we will soon enter the ‘Eternal Pure Land’.” Everyone was listening to the Abyssal Monarch’s words quietly. A monarch never wasted his breath. He was saying this because it had meaning. “‘The Eternal Pure Land’ is near, so this battle of Divine Children may very well be the last. It would be a shame if a shining star does not get the opportunity to show off its radiance.” At this point, the Abyssal Monarch’s will was clear to everyone. It was astonishing, but it also made a lot of sense. If this battle of Divine Children really was going to be the last, then it made sense that both perfect Godbearers should get the chance to shine on this Pure Land and show off their brilliance to the whole world. Meng Kongchan was delighted as a matter of course, but he maintained a modest demeanor and replied, “You terrify me, Your Majesty. It is my clumsy son’s highest honor to receive such praise from you. However, Jianyuan had been wandering the world for the past century or so and enjoyed none of Dreamweaver’s resources during this time. Today, he was only a Divine Master. I do not think that his minor light would be deserving of your or everyone’s attention.” “Hahahaha, I must correct you on this, Dreamless Divine Regent.” Dian Rahu’s booming voice echoed once more, “Your Jianyuan is a man who reached the fourth level of the Divine Master Realm in two sexagenary years without relying on a Kingdom of God. I can only imagine how incredible he would become if he had not encountered his accident and spent the past century in Dreamweaver.” Dian Rahu continued, “To be honest, my own clumsy son, Jiuzhi, could not stop lavishing Meng Jiangyuan with praises after their first meeting. He had mentioned him many times over the past couple of years, and each mention was accompanied by a shower of praise. I’ve never heard him praising anyone this much during the fifty-two sexagenary years he lived. This alone makes me want to witness just how capable this boy is with my own eyes.” Dian Rahu was an upright and honest man who never bothered with empty compliments or flattery. Dian Jiuzhi wore a smile on his face and nodded in acknowledgment as well. Hua Fuchen was also echoing in agreement with a smile, “Yun Che is only two sexagenary years old; a fledgling in terms of Godbearer years, so his cultivation level doesn’t really matter. Since he has perfect divine essence, he must be stunning in ways that the world cannot hope to compare. An extraordinary miracle like this deserves to bloom on the Pure Land and shine its light across the Abyss.” His best friends had given him the perfect justification to allow this fight, so Meng Kongchan naturally set aside his “hesitation” and said seriously, “In that case, Dreamweaver shall gladly accept this order.” He turned around and looked at Yun Che with deep, meaningful eyes. “Yuan’er, the Abyssal Monarch Himself has chosen you to perform. It is the highest possible honor and fortune one could receive. So, please show off the power of a perfect Godbearer to the Abyssal Monarch and the world here in Eden’s Crown.” “There is no need to be afraid or worried. Just perform as you normally would. It is completely up to you how you wish to display your prowess as well.” He seriously wasn’t worried about Yun Che’s “prowess” at all. On the contrary, he was afraid that the young man would give the other Divine Regents a scare. In any case, he did not doubt that this sudden but golden opportunity would turn out to be a tremendously pleasant surprise. Hua Caili was hiding half of her face behind Hua Qingying, but she still couldn’t conceal the new moon-shaped eyes and brows. “Understood,” Yun Che replied respectfully before standing up. Facing down everyone’s gaze, he calmly and collectedly passed through the barrier and stepped into the battlefield. Right now, he could feel countless gazes focused on him. The one from Dian Sansi was especially conspicuous, even though he was doing his best to conceal his deep hatred. For the first time, Shenwu Yi truly looked at Yun Che. Her vision abruptly blurred as if an icy mist had automatically condensed before her eyes. Although she snapped out of it immediately and swiftly regained her icy coolness, puzzlement and confusion flickered once inside her head. A non-Divine Child was now standing on the battlefield of Divine Children. This was probably a first for the Pure Land Meet. His bearing was calm and composed, and his footsteps were leisurely and at ease. From the highest Divine Regents to the youngest junior, no one could detect the slightest hint of tension or unease from the young man. His calmness could not possibly be feigned. It was a genuine composure that permeated his entire being from the inside out. This alone was enough to astonish and amaze the gathered powerhouses of the Kingdoms of God. Upon arriving at the center of the battlefield, Yun Che stopped in his tracks and observed his surroundings. He did not unleash his profound energy. Instead, he called out, “Yun Che of Dreamweaver shamelessly requests guidance from his fellow peers.” The best way to show off one’s power was, of course, to fight someone near one's level. Naturally, Yun Che’s action did not surprise anyone in the slightest. However, no one responded to his challenge even after a long time had passed. Although Yun Che was not the Dreamweaver Divine Son, he was a perfect Godbearer. Meng Kongchan’s love for the young man was practically written on his face as well. Who could say that he wouldn’t become the Dreamweaver Divine Son in the future? As Yun Che was issuing a challenge as a non-Divine Son, the only ones who could answer his challenge were, of course, other non-Divine Children—specifically, a Kingdom of God junior in the same generation as him. However, losing would only earn them shame and turn them into the perfect Godbearer’s stepping stone, and winning... The consequences of winning were so, so much worse than losing. Not only would they be offending the future Dreamweave Divine Son, they would indirectly humble the entire Dreamweaver Kingdom of God as well. Heck, even the Abyssal Monarch, the one who suggested this performance in the first place, would probably be disappointed by such an outcome. Besides, despite Meng Kongchan’s best efforts to block the spread of what happened during the Dreamweaver Divine Son conferment ceremony three years ago, it wasn’t like he could silence the spectators. The news that Yun Che had easily and singlehandedly defeated multiple profound practitioners at his cultivation level had long spread to the other kingdoms. When the silence grew, the Chief Priest declared in his deafening, rumbling voice, “If no one will accept your challenge, then I will grant you a similar right to what the Divine Children enjoyed during the battle of Divine Children. You may challenge anyone you wish, and your opponent may not reject it!” The Chief Priest was obviously favoring the Abyssal Monarch’s will. “Thank you, Chief Priest,” replied Yun Che indifferently with a bow before looking at the crowd. His body moved in tandem with his gaze as he swept the venue. His eyes were moving very, very slowly, and his gaze settled on every person for a precise amount of time before moving on to the next. It was clear he was evaluating everyone closely and carefully. From the Star and Moon Kingdoms of God, to the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God, to the Heaven Breaker Kingdom of God, and finally the Boundless Kingdom of God... This did not change until his gaze finally settled on Dian Sansi. At that moment, he flinched as if he accidentally touched some filthy unmentionables and looked away in an instant. Even his lips were twitching imperceptibly. This did not look odd to anyone’s eyes, but Dian Sansi clearly thought otherwise. Every drop of blood in his body rushed into his skull, and all the hatred, frustration, and anger that were lodged in his throat overwhelmed most of his reason. He abruptly took a step forward and roared angrily, “I challenge you, Yun Che!” “Sansi!” Shocked, Dian Jiuzhi swiftly reached out and caught Dian Sansi’s arm. He was one of the people who witnessed Yun Che effortlessly wipe out his cultivation peers during the Dreamweaver Divine Son conferment ceremony. That was why he knew there was no way Dian Sansi could defeat Yun Che if their cultivation levels were the same. More than that, he was worried about the abnormal emotions Dian Sansi was displaying. “Good boy!!” Unfortunately, Dian Rahu exclaimed first before laughing loudly. “No discord, no concord. You might as well get to know him on the battlefield, and use this opportunity to vent that frustration you’ve been accumulating as well!” This was Eden’s Crown. The words once spoken could not be taken back here more than anywhere else. So, Dian Jiuzhi had no choice but to whisper as softly as he could, “You may fight, but you must not start any trouble! Remember my words and your promise!” “Hmm??” As much as he lowered his voice[1], it could not be low enough for Dian Rahu not to overhear him. His strange words caused the divine regent to shoot them a sideways glance. Luckily, Dian Rahu was famously dense. He also did not make a habit of interfering in or questioning matters between juniors. In fact, Dian Sansi regretted his outburst for a moment. However, it was swiftly overwhelmed by the desire to vent all of his emotions. He abruptly sucked in a deep breath and replied in a low voice, “Do not worry, Brother Jiuzhi. I will only fight... not speak!” Dian Jiuzhi let him go, and Dian Sansi leaped high up into the air. When he passed through the barrier and landed on the floor, he kicked up a tremendous shockwave and caused a deafening roar. “Tsk, the guy’s practically overflowing with resentment,” Meng Jianxi could not help but joke. No matter how well Dian Sansi suppressed his emotions, no one here was a weakling. Everyone easily perceived his boiling hatred and anger. No one thought too much about it, though. Dian Jiuzhi was a brother and a teacher to Dian Sansi. The person he admired and respected the most in his life was Dian Jiuzhi. This was something everyone knew about. But today, Dian Jiuzhi, the former number one Divine Son, had suffered a horrible defeat and lost all of his aura of invincibility. He was even vilely insulted by the Lightless Divine Regent. Of course he would be angry and resentful. This was why everyone at the scene, including the members of the Boundless Kingdom of God, thought that Dian Sansi nearly lost his cool several times because of Dian Jiuzhi’s tragedy. They also believed that the reason he challenged Yun Che was that he wanted to vent his emotions. Narrowing his eyes slightly, Yun Che met Dian Sansi’s hateful gaze without a shred of fear. Inside his soul, though, he was preening and saying, “See? I told you it would happen.” Li Suo whispered, “Outside Lingxian’s divine abode, when you noticed Dian Jiuzhi and Dian Sansi’s approach... Was it really just an impromptu decision?” “Of course.” Yun Che replied in a leisurely voice, “There are many ways I could have done this, and I just happened to find the most suitable method. Naturally, I should seize the opportunity without hesitation. And since I have chosen this method, I should, of course, maximize what I can gain from it. It would be a shame otherwise, no?” “Suitable?” “Correct. The Xuanji Hall rated Dian Sansi as slightly naive and immature. Besides that, he is said to be extremely dependent on Dian Jiuzhi and respectful of him.” “...” Li Suo remained silent in response. “It’s you, Brother Sansi.” Yun Che smiled genially at the man. No one except Dian Sansi knew just how deep the malice hiding behind this harmless smile ran. “Thank you in advance for offering me your guidance.” Dian Sansi clenched his fists slightly and said nothing. He promised Dian Jiuzhi that he would only fight, not speak. He was also afraid that he would lose control if he actually spoke. The Chief Priest lifted his hand, and the familiar antique bronze profound light glimmered once more. “Meng Jianyuan of Dreamweaver is at the fourth level of the Divine Master Realm. Dian Sansi of Boundless is at the third level of the Divine Extinction Realm. Hence, this battle needs to be balanced with the Profound Rage Seal.” “However, the cultivation gap between the two opponents is too great. It will require the suppression of a great realm. Besides profound energy, the suppression of one’s physique will be accompanied by several breaths of intense full-body pain.” “That is acceptable.” Dian Sansi replied in a calm enough voice, “Please do it, Chief Priest.” However, a voice several times clearer and brighter than his called out, “Brother Sansi is expressly giving me his guidance. How can I ask him to suffer such pain just because my cultivation is weak? Please, there is no need to use the Profound Rage Seal, Chief Priest.” Unlike Shenwu Yi’s rejection of the Profound Rage Seal, the Chief Priest did not obey the request immediately. In fact, he was obviously startled by it. After all, the difference between their cultivation wasn’t just one or two minor realms. It was nine minor realms... plus the chasm of a great realm. If the cultivation gap between a sixth-level Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner and an eighth-level Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner was the difference between Half-Gods, then the gap between a Divine Master and a Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner... was the difference between two planes. If even the Chief Priest was reacting this much, everyone else could only do worse. “Hahahaha!” Dian Rahu guffawed. “What kind of nonsense is this boy talking?” Dian Jiuzhi wasn’t laughing, but his eyes were equally filled with puzzlement and astonishment. He had witnessed Yun Che in combat before. He would not be too surprised that the young man could overcome an opponent who was two minor realms above him, like Shenwu Yi. However, he simply could not believe he had the power to fight a Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner, much less Dian Sansi at his full, unsuppressed strength. “Father, what is Brother Yuan...” Meng Jianxi subconsciously turned to look at Meng Kongchan but discovered that his Father seemed unnaturally calm. In fact, he was exchanging a meaningful look with the Heart Painter Divine Regent. Meng Jianxi stopped whatever he was going to say and focused his eyes on the battlefield once more. Then, he focused all of his spirit on the act of watching, so much so that the surrounding light and even the sounds in his ears were rapidly fading away. In the end, the only sound he could hear clearly was his rapidly beating heart.Could it be... could he, a Divine Master... actually fight against a Divine Extinction Realm!? “Is... is he serious??” At a different corner, Sha Xing’s face was riddled with disbelief as well. “It doesn’t look like he’s joking. This is not a time or place where he could joke around either.” Xian Yue was examining Yun Che’s expression with furrowed brows and puzzlement as well. His mind was racing to decipher Yun Che’s meaning, and yet he absolutely could not believe that Yun Che could battle against Dian Sansi at his current level... not even if he were just defending; not even if it was just a battle of a single exchange. Wushen Xing and Wushen Yue were exchanging odd expressions with each other as well. “Tsk! Perfect Godbearer, my ass. He’s lost his mind!” Pan Buzhuo hid a snort while still wearing an ugly scar on his right face. Pan Yusheng was side-eying Meng Kongchan’s face with a slight frown. The Chief Priest clenched his fingers, and the Profound Rage Seal crumbled just like that. “In that case, the Profound Rage Seal will not be applied. This battle will follow the same rules as the battle of Divine Children. Begin!” 1. When sound transmission exists? This is just plot convenience. ☜ Chapter 2147 - Heart Collapsed, Soul Crushed When Dian Sansi’s initial astonishment faded, the flames of anger burning in his eyes actually extinguished a little. The corners of his mouth even curled into a somewhat twisted smile. Ridiculous. How ridiculous! Yun Che, a fourth-level Divine Master, was actually planning to fight him at his full strength? He had never heard of such a ridiculous joke in his life! For a second, he even wondered if Yun Che had done what he had done not out of malice or the intention to taunt him, but because he was simply crazy. The corners of his mouth tugged, and he did what Yun Che had done earlier. He spoke wordlessly with just his lips: Suicidal... idiot. Unfortunately, he did not possess Yun Che’s level of shrewdness and craftiness. He thought he had concealed his movements sufficiently, but who did he think the people gathered in Eden’s Crown were? At least one-third of the crowd had noticed his odd lip movement and correctly deciphered his hidden message. This was a duel taking place in an arena of the sacred Eden’s Crown, and the number two junior of the Boundless Kingdom of God had taunted his opponent seemingly without reason. Such a despicable action naturally earned the disdain of those who saw it. It wasn’t just the people’s gazes that turned strange. Dian Rahu was furrowing his brow deeply as well. “This little shit!” Dian Rahu was not the type to suppress his reactions, so he cursed in disappointment and anger, “No matter how angry he is, he should not take it out on another person. Now I have to get him to apologize to Yun Che after this fight is over!” “...” Dian Jiuzhi maintained his facade of calmness and nodded in agreement. It was at this moment that Dian Sansi did something unbelievable. He rested his left hand behind his back and lifted his right hand in front of him. It was the same gesture of “humility” Dian Jiuzhi had displayed when fighting against Shenwu Yi. But unlike Dian Jiuzhi, his gesture was even more extreme. Only his little finger was raised. The rest of his fingers were curled up into a ball. Although Dian Jiuzhi ultimately lost to Shenwu Yi, he had given Shenwu Yi ten breaths to attack freely because he thought he held all the advantage. It did not damage his gentlemanly reputation in any way. However, Dian Sansi was anything but a gentleman, so for him to pull off such a gesture only elicited deep frowns on everyone’s face. As if his meaning couldn’t be clearer, the little finger he raised was practically screaming of naked disdain. Dian Rahu’s forehead was covered in bulging veins at this point. “What is this brat thinking?! Did a donkey kick his head earlier? Such... clumsy ugliness!” He was actually angry at this point. He could not wait to wring the guy out of the battlefield and give him a few big slaps to the face. “Please calm down, Your Majesty,” A Boundless elder advised. “It is not in Sansi’s nature to act like this. The reason he’s acting out... is probably because Jiuzhi’s defeat is too harsh a blow for him. He's still young. Understandably, he would sometimes lose himself to his emotions. We simply need to educate him better when he returns.” In fact, his judgment was spot on. Dian Sansi thought he was fairly calm. In reality, he was half out of control. When a tsunami of negative emotions attacked someone’s reason, but they could only bottle it all up without being able to vent it in any way, any strange behavior they demonstrated during this time was entirely normal. Staring at Yun Che, he said in a relatively indifferent voice, “Boundless does not bully the weak. I’ll give you ten breaths to attack as you wish. I will only defend during this time.” Yun Che smiled. “This one is most grateful for your generosity, Brother Sansi. I will happily accept your offer.” Yun Che leaped into the air and charged Dian Sansi as soon as he finished speaking. His profound energy surged violently as he threw a perfectly ordinary punch at Dian Sansi. His profound energy marked him as a fourth-level Divine Master, and there was nothing special about it whatsoever. Everyone expecting some sort of “pleasant surprise” to occur was immediately let down by this display. The power of a Divine Master was of no threat to Dian Sansi as a matter of course. Staring at the approaching Yun Che with undisguised scorn and disdain, he curled his little finger slightly before slowly, very slowly meeting Yun Che’s seemingly full-powered punch at the center. Such was his contempt that he was cycling less than ten percent of his profound energy. Their eyes met the instant finger clashed against fist. It was at this moment that Dian Sansi caught a flicker of ridicule in Yun Che’s eyes.Rumbling Heaven! At that moment, Yun Che’s aura ballooned at an unexpected, unimaginable rate. The resulting shockwave was so violent that every speck of air on the battlefield was pushed out of the barrier in an instant, and invisible ripples filled the sky. Dian Sansi’s pupils dilated tenfold as he watched his little finger breaking at a terrifying angle. Unfortunately for him, this was just the beginning. Not stopping in the slightest, the fist, carrying great strength, moved past his broken finger and struck him directly in the solar plexus. At least half of Yun Che’s fist had sunk into his chest.Boom!! A profound energy explosion far greater than anyone had anticipated broke out, and a bloodcurdling scream escaped Dian Sansi’s throat before he knew it. Rolling backward like a tumbleweed, he flew across the air at least a hundred meters before he finally recovered his senses and unleashed his profound energy. Then, he landed heavily on his feet. Dian Sansi clutched his violently shaking left hand. His broken little finger was hanging limply, and his face looked utterly dazed... and vicious. The venue was deathly silent for a good few seconds before exploding into an uproar. Every single person here was an expert who possessed the right to look down on most of the Abyss, and yet they were currently wearing gaping mouths or bulging eyeballs on their faces. Such was their shock that every feature on their faces looked warped or out of place. The Boundless Divine Regent was wide-eyed, the Star and Moon Divine Regents were staring blankly into the battlefield, the Pray Eternal Divine Regent was leaning forward, and even the Dreamless Divine Regent’s eyeballs had twitched once. “This... this... this...” Meng Jianxi had plenty of time to mentally prepare. Even so, he was so shocked that he could do nothing but stammer. Behind the Chief Priest, Divine Attendant Dong Huang could barely conceal his shock. He asked softly, “Master, is he... hiding his cultivation?” The Chief Priest replied heavily, “No concealment art can hide from my eyes. He is a fourth-level Divine Master, but the power he displayed during that instant rivals that of a first-level Divine Extinction Realm profound practitioner.” To say that this was utterly beyond his understanding of the profound way would be an understatement. Divine Attendant Dong Huang opened his mouth but could not find the words. The Chief Priest muttered seemingly to himself, “Is it something he can only use for an instant, or...” The Chief Priest’s gaze settled heavily on Yun Che. It had never been so solid, even during the most exciting moments of the battle of the Divine Children. While cries of shock and disbelief filled the air, Dian Sansi felt like utter shit, both in expression and body language. “You...” Dian Sansi blurted out as shock, anger, and humiliation mixed haphazardly inside him. Yun Che’s response was to close the distance once more. This time, Dian Sansi did not dare to underestimate Yun Che. The Boundless Manifestation Art cycled rapidly and was covered in a thick layer of silver radiance. He had also unleashed fifty percent of his profound energy. Three breaths ago, he could never have imagined that he would need to use fifty percent of his power to withstand the attack of a fourth-level Divine Master.Bang! There was a dull thud, and Yun Che’s fist struck Dian Sansi’s solar plexus once more. This time, though, his power was entirely blocked by the tyrannical power of Boundless. It had failed to push Dian Sansi back even a single step. However, this stalemate only lasted an instant before Dian Sansi saw a deeper look of ridicule in Yun Che’s eyes once more.Hell Monarch!Boom! Yun Che’s fist exploded across Dian Sansi’s chest as if a volcano had suddenly awakened from its slumber. It instantly crushed the silver light circulating Dian Sansi, causing his solar plexus to collapse even deeper than before. The sound of ribs breaking, especially, was as loud as an avalanche. “Wh... what!?” At that moment, countless experts possessing mental fortitudes rivaling that of mountains blurt out unconsciously, and the jaws of some younger profound practitioners nearly hit the floor with an audible thud. This time, Yun Che did not wait for Dian Sansi to recover. Like a phantom, he closed the distance a third time and prepared to launch an attack. Sailing through the air, Dian Sansi let out a furious, venting roar before his crumbling silver light reignited and surrounded his whole person in impetuous, infinite power. This time, he cycled the Boundless Manifestation Art with all his might, and the sudden outburst of shockwave and spiritual pressure visibly slowed down Yun Che. At the same time, Dian Sansi leaped into the air, conjured a blade with his silver light, and thrust it straight at Yun Che’s solar plexus. “Brother Yuan!” Meng Jianyuan cried out subconsciously. Everyone in the Dreamweaver formation was crying out in shock as well. Just a short while ago, Dian Sansi had put on airs and declared that he would give Yun Che ten breaths to attack freely. But now, he was suddenly launching a counterattack... and with all his might as well! Although the power Yun Che unleashed went absolutely beyond the boundaries of a Divine Master... the same thing could not be said for his body. How could he possibly survive a full-powered attack from a Half-God?Shred! The light blade elicited spatial ripples in the air, but it only ripped Yun Che’s afterimage to shreds. Dian Sansi did not stop his assault, though. His silver light quickly transformed into a three-thousand-meter-long blade, cutting everything in front of him without reservation. Horrified cries of shock became mixed with even horrifying noises of tearing space and material. The next moment, a three-thousand-meter-long silver scar appeared on the battlefield. Yun Che executed Moon Splitting Cascade and seemingly teleported multiple times like a phantom. When he finally came to a stop, he was already on the opposite side of the battlefield. He was completely unharmed. “Phew...” It was only now that Meng Jianxi let out a long, long sigh of relief before uttering through gritted teeth, “Has Dian Sansi gone mad?!” “Phew!” Dian Rahu also let out a massive sigh of relief before roaring, “Bastard! Have you gone mad?!” Dian Rahu’s roar hit Dian Sansi like a bucket of cold water and shook him out of his violent outburst. He froze when he realized what he had almost done. If he had actually killed Yun Che just now, then the consequences... The mere thought of the consequences was enough to chill him to his core. However, Yun Che wasn’t going to let him recover his cool. The warm, friendly smile on his face transformed into a cold sneer that was one-third icy and two-thirds scornful as he remarked, “I was told that the profound practitioners of the Boundless Kingdom of God valued loyalty and oath above all else. You promised to give me ten breaths to attack as I please, and that you will only defend. It hasn’t even been three breaths, and not only did you break your word, you have tried to ambush me! Heh! Your moral integrity is truly an eye-opener, Brother Sansi!” No one was surprised by Yun Che’s change of attitude, much less thought worse of him for insulting Dian Sansi to his face. After all, even ignoring all the weird behavior he had displayed earlier, the man had promised courtesy only to go against his word and launch an insane and vicious counterattack with all his might. Not even the most self-possessed man could keep his cool in this situation. “This bastard!” Dian Rahu’s head was positively covered in bulging veins, but he wasn’t angry with Yun Che. No, it was Dian Sansi he was furious with. He didn’t even dare to meet Meng Kongchan’s stare directly. Dian Sansi turned his head sideways. He immediately noticed that the entire venue was showering him with scorn and disdain. The sliver of composure he just regained was instantly engulfed by many times of humiliation. His breathing grew impossibly heavy, and his chest was heaving so violently it looked like it would explode.This is all Yun Che’s fault... Yun Che’s the one who hides a face that is beyond ugly and vile... So why am I the one who’s enduring these gazes? Why have I become the villain whom everyone reviles?!How could such a despicable person be the Dreamweaver Divine Son... How did he convince the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter to abandon even Brother Jiuzhi for him... how could he unleash such power at the Divine Master Realm... Why is this happening... How is this fair... Looking straight into his muddled eyes, Yun Che slowly raised his hand and said stiffly, “You can go all out, Brother Sansi. From the moment I stand on the battlefield, I am prepared to win or lose, live or die... There is no need to act so despicably and contemptibly, Brother Sansi.” “Heh... hehe.” Dian Sansi laughed, and his laughter felt unfamiliar even to himself. “Good... very good. You said I can go all out, right? You said you’re prepared to live or die, right? Remember... you asked for this!!” The moment he finished speaking, his right hand swiped through the air and fired five silver light arrows at Yun Che. At the same time, his silver aura slowly gathered around his right arm, blooming into a deep-silver ball. All five light arrows were traveling at different speeds. Yun Che blurred slightly and left behind five afterimages, dodging all of the light arrows. However, the instant the last afterimage vanished, he saw Dian Sansi charging toward him with enough pressure to plow through mountains like nothing. “Boundless Manifestation... Great Rage Consumes the Star!” The tyrannical power of Boundless gathered around Dian Sansi’s right arm and flew straight toward Yun Che’s solar plexus. Clearly, he was planning to return the two punches Yun Che had dished him earlier a hundredfold. It looked like Dian Sansi’s aura was suppressing Yun Che to the point where he could barely move, so he did not try to dodge again. Instead, he swung his own right arm and met Dian Sansi’s fist with a palm strike exploding with golden flames.Rumble!! What sounded like a thousand thunderclaps resounded throughout Eden’s Crown. The power of boundless and the golden flames exploded at the same time and engulfed both profound practitioners. Everyone’s eyes were illuminated by silver and gold. They thought that their pupils had already dilated to their limit, but as it turned out, they had a bit more elasticity to spare. Such was their shock that their pupils nearly ripped themselves apart. Dian Sansi had gone all out this time. He had not held back even a speck of power. However, Yun Che... a fourth-level Divine Master in both power and body, had withstood the attack without being pushed back a single step!! The shock of this scene was so overwhelming that no words in the world could adequately describe it. Shenwu Yi’s feat of overcoming two minor realms and defeating Dian Jiuzhi was enough to stun even the Divine Regents for a long, long time, but this? This was truly the collapse of everything they knew about the profound way.Gulp! Sha Xing and Xian Yue swallowed loudly and violently at the same time. Dian Jiuzhi especially felt like he was dreaming. Dian Jiuzhi had watched Yun Che fight before. He even tried to overestimate the young man to the utmost degree. Despite this, he was still so stunned that he was speechless. “This... This can’t be real, right?” Pan Buzhuo mumbled soullessly. Shenwu Yi’s moonlike pupils saw only the golden flames, not the silver light. The unnatural blur that shrouded her vision earlier had reappeared as well, and this time it took her a full breath before she finally recovered her senses. The Chief Priest muttered, “The Golden Crow Flame...” Amidst the sea of silver light and golden flame, Dian Sansi and Yun Che’s hands were connected as they stared into each other’s eyes. One of them looked malevolent and savage with veins bulging all across his forehead, while the other was smiling casually and confidently. His eyes looking stunningly bloodshot, Dian Sansi channeled his Boundless divine power like crazy until his arms were literally trembling from the strain. However, he was unable to force Yun Che back even one step. It was at this moment that a bizarre silver flickered in Yun Che’s eyes. The experts at the scene easily sensed the sudden fluctuation of soul energy and instantly recognized it as “Pleasant Dreams of Youth”, the first level of the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God’s core profound art, the “Dreamweaver Canon”. It was perfectly understandable that the Dreamweaver Divine Son would employ the Dreamweaver Canon in combat. However, this was just a first-level soul technique. It was hard enough to make it work on a foe on the same cultivation level as the practitioner, much less one that was an entire great realm stronger than him. Or maybe... Yun Che’s soul was just as unbelievable as his profound energy and body? Could it unleash the soul power of a Divine Extinction Realm as well?! If Dian Sansi were normal, he would have noticed and defended himself against the Dreamweaver Canon instantly. But right now, Dian Sansi could hardly control his own actions, much less guard his soul. As a result, Yun Che’s “Pleasant Dreams of Youth” invaded Dian Sansi’s soul sea like a tiny flame dropping into a pot of boiling oil. As if that wasn’t enough, Yun Che moved his lips slightly while the Golden Crow Flame was concealing him from public view: Keep being the spineless coward you are, idiot. Dian Sansi’s pupils ripped themselves apart at the same time Yun Che’s fire abruptly swelled in strength.God... Ash!Rumble! The Golden Crow’s screech deafened the world, and its fire engulfed the sky itself. The next moment, golden flames completely engulfed the silver light, and a flaming figure was hurled from the inferno. He was screaming at the top of his lungs as well, “WAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!” His screams were such that the hearts of the younger, profound practitioners spasmed as if they could feel his pain. The burning figure was flying through the air at several kilometers per second and went out of bounds in almost no time at all. As soon as he flew out of the barrier, Dian Rahu raised his right hand, enveloped the figure in a gust of profound energy, and smashed him heavily against the ground. The golden flames surrounding the figure extinguished in an instant. His gesture was very violent. It was clear how angry he was. However, when the golden flames faded, and the true extent of Dian Sansi’s injuries was revealed, whatever rebuke he was going to say became lodged in his throat. Dian Sansi’s clothes had burned entirely to ash. His exposed skin was charred and blackened. Half of his hair was gone, and his face looked beyond sorry. Although his injury wasn’t particularly severe, to say that his current state was ugly would be an understatement. Combined with what he did today, he would be lucky to preserve even a sliver of his previous reputation. Today’s incident would leave a permanent, irremovable stain on his record as well. “Fa—cough! Cough cough...” Dian Sansi coughed out black smoke as soon as he opened his mouth. It looked both ugly and hilarious. Clearly, even his throat was burned by fire. His senses weren’t impaired, though. He could feel that the looks of scorn had turned into something a thousand times worse... pity. It was at this moment that the Chief Priest’s announcement came, “Dian Sansi of Boundless is out of bounds. Meng Jianyuan of Dreamweaver wins.” A cacophony of noises erupted. They were cries of shock, astonishment, admiration... all positive things, all things that had absolutely nothing to do with his horrendous state. Dian Sansi’s world spun round and round as the polar opposites of their situation hit him. Finally, he heard the last string of his soul... snap. He rose to his feet and converted all of his willpower and conviction into a heartbreaking roar, “Your Majesty! Father! Yun Che, he—” “Sansi!!” Blanching, Dian Jiuzhi pounced over to Dian Sansi and clamped his hand around his mouth. However, the young man who usually listened and obeyed Dian Jiuzhi without question unleashed an unthinkable amount of power and pushed his palm away. Then, he continued howling in that raspy, despairing, ghoul-like voice, “Yun Che is having an affair with Hua Caili of Heaven Breaker! I saw it with my own eyes! My own eyes[1]!!!” 1. Regardless of Mars’ will this is a good point to stop the story so... I hereby announce that ATG is complete. Cheers! ☜ Chapter 2148 - Boundless Fury Yun Che’s condition was pretty bad right now. In order to defeat Dian Sansi in an instant, in order to completely destroy his soul while he suffered the ugliest possible defeat, Yun Che had no choice but to activate God Ash for an instant. Although it was just an instant, the terrible burden still caused his vision to darken around the edges. His muscles had nearly snapped, and his bones were almost broken. Blood threatened to flow over his throat, only for him to swallow it back with all his might. When Dian Sansi’s maddened roars echoed throughout Eden’s Crown, though, the wracking pain suddenly became oh-so-soothing. Finally, the most crucial move he could possibly play at this early stage of the board was played. The inferno of noises currently ravaging Eden’s Crown was wiped out like someone had dropped a giant lid on the entire venue. What followed next was a horrifyingly suffocating silence that was only disturbed by Dian Sansi’s fading scream. Meng Kongchan and Hua Fuchen were True Gods. Their souls were greater than almost everyone present at the scene. However, Dian Sansi’s outburst had struck them like an explosion that took place right inside their skulls. It was all they could do to maintain their calm—at least on the surface. Dian Rahu’s raised hand froze in the air. Then, he abruptly turned around with a harsh expression and slapped Dian Sansi across the face.SLAP!! It was a harsh and painful slap. Dian Sansi was his second most favorite son after Dian Jiuzhi, and he had sent him flying a hundred meters away with this one slap. At the same time, an angry rebuke echoed through the air, “You bastard! How dare you utter such beastly words!” On the Heaven Breaker Kingdom of God’s side, the head of the seven Sword Sovereigns, the Tianshu Sword Sovereign, erupted, “Unbelievable! You dare to slander our Divine Daughter, boy?!” Yaoguang Sword Sovereign followed up, “It had only been three years since Meng Jianyuan returned, and Caili was practicing in the Seven Star Heaven Breaker Formation this whole time! How could they even begin to have an affair? This is the Pure Land, and you dare make such a scandalous statement, Boundless Boy?! Heaven Breaker will not forget this if you don’t give us a proper explanation!” “That’s right!!” The Chief Lord of the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God, Meng Cangji said heavily, “Meng Jianyuan has not left the kingdom since returning. Before coming to the Pure Land, he had not taken a single step past the borders, besides that one time he sent Pan Buwang out of the kingdom. Everyone in the kingdom can testify to this, so how could they possibly have the opportunity or time to have the ‘affair’ you speak of?!” “It’s such a ludicrous, terrible lie that even a child can see it for what it is in an instant! Utterly laughable!” The violent pain wracking his face, the rebukes that pierced through his ears, and the endless flood of humiliation did not restore Dian Sansi’s cool. On the contrary, it pushed him to greater heights of madness. He lay on the ground and screamed so loudly that his throat nearly ripped itself apart, “I did not! I was outside High Priest Ling Xian’s abode when I saw it with my own eyes—” Whatever else he was going to say was silenced when a hand clamped around his mouth. It was Dian Jiuzhi jumping onto the man and grabbing his lower jaw with all his might. His fingers were straining to the point of shaking, and he nearly crushed Dian Sansi’s lower jaw to pieces. “You shut up... Shut up!!” He roared. It took him a while to notice that the response he got... was long, deathly silence. Dian Jiuzhi abruptly realized what he had just done and loosened his grip limply. For a time, he just stood there numbly like he had lost his soul. As the partner Hua Caili was engaged to, he, of all people, should desire to learn the truth more than anyone else. Whatever his reactions might be, it definitely shouldn’t be this. Not only did his panicked attempt to stop Dian Sansi from speaking not help to conceal this in any way, it actively made matters worse... it circumstantially proved that what the man said wasn’t a lie. Dian Rahu’s fury froze on his face as he stared at both Dian Sansi and Dian Jiuzhi. Slowly but surely, the lion’s mane on his face began shaking violently. Dian Sansi pushed himself forward. It was far too late to take back his words at this point, so there was no need to hold himself back any longer. The anger, humiliation, and defiance that he had been accumulating in his chest for all this time exploded out in a craze-filled voice, “Your Majesty... Father... It’s not just me who saw it... Brother Jiuzhi saw it as well!” “His Majesty Himself bestowed the engagement between Brother Jiuzhi and the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter... Everyone under the heavens knows about this! What Yun Che did... is akin to looking down on His Majesty!! The Pure Land! The Boundless Kingdom of God! Such a shameless and despicable man could not possibly deserve His Majesty’s praise... much less stand on this sacred soil!” “I swear that every word I said is the truth! If even one word of what I said is a lie, may abyssal dust consume me where I stand... and all under the heavens abandon me...” “Cough... Cough cough cough...” At this point, Dian Sansi’s throat was fully ripped open, and he coughed out large chunks of charred blood. Dian Rahu did not stop him from shouting this time, though. Not even once. For a time, Dian Sansi’s bloody coughs were the only sounds echoing in the temple... This matter didn’t just involve Boundless, Heaven Breaker, and Dreamweaver. This matter involved the Abyssal Monarch Himself. Assuming Dian Sansi’s accusation was actually true, to say that this was an earthshaking matter would be an understatement. With that said, who would dare to say a word at this time? The Sword Sovereigns of the Heaven Breaker Kingdom of God and the Dream Lords of the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God were silent as well. It was because both groups noticed that their Divine Regents were reacting strangely. Their faces were still angry, but it was slowly but surely giving way to terrible unease. Dian Rahu’s head finally turned. It was such a stiff and sluggish turn that it was as if he were an old hunchback with a broken neck, not the Boundless Divine Regent. A few breaths later, a few times of clear pauses later, Dian Rahu finally cast his gaze at the Heaven Breaker Kingdom of God’s formation. The first person who got his stare wasn’t Hua Fuchen, however. It was Hua Caili. The incident was so sudden, the man’s face was so terrifying, that Hua Caili could not withstand it at all. Although Hua Qingying was blocking in front of her, the exposed edges of her face were a sickly white that could only be described as terrifying. Dian Rahu’s gaze shifted, and this time it settled on Hua Fuchen’s face. In response, the best friend he had known since childhood and shared an unbreakable bond for countless years avoided his gaze while his face spasmed repeatedly with pain and struggle. “Brother Fuchen,” Dian Rahu said in a seemingly calm voice that was slightly hoarser than normal. “Is this... true?” Dian Rahu was so fiery, and yet he was acting so calm, it was unreal. The reason he was suppressing his emotions to this extent was that he hoped more than anyone else that this was fake; that Hua Fuchen would tell him no, this was completely untrue. Hua Fuchen opened his mouth. It took him a good few seconds to finally speak up in a hoarse voice, “Old Dian, this is—” “Just tell me if it’s true or false!” Dian Rahu raised his voice. As much as he suppressed his emotions, the anger contained behind the demand was still enough to shake one’s soul. Hua Fuchen looked up and closed his eyes. At this point, it was impossible to conceal it any longer. “... It is the truth.” Four words. It was just four words, and yet it was like someone had chucked a mountain into a dead lake. The cries of shock and horror that ensued were positively explosive, and the expressions on everyone’s face... were diverse to put it mildly. “Supreme one, this... this...” The seven Sword Sovereigns of Heaven Breaker—no, everyone in the Heaven Breaker Kingdom of God’s entourage was stunned. It was the same for the Dreamweaver side. They glanced back and forth between Meng Kongchan and Yun Che—who was still standing at the center of the battlefield—while wearing the most complicated expressions of their lives. Meng Jianxi took two steps forward and stood next to Meng Kongchan. He was doing his best to adjust his breathing. Prior to coming to the Pure Land, and when their profound ships had temporarily linked up on the way, he had already guessed that something existed between Yun Che and Hua Caili. However, the guess was so terrifying, so ludicrous, that he had snuffed it out the very next instant. To think... to think...But when did it happen? How did this come to be? For what reason did they... “Ai... this truly has been... a surprising show from the start until the end,” Wushen Xing remarked with a deep sigh. Wushen Yue said, “With this... the once unbreakable alliance between Boundless, Heaven Breaker, and Dreamless.... is going to crumble to dust in a single day.” “No, it may be worse than that.” Wushen Xing replied, “This is happening on the Pure Land right before His Majesty’s eyes.” “Now that I think about it...” Wushen Yue narrowed his eyes. “The reason the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter put her life at risk to unleash that sword isn’t to take revenge for Dian Jiuzhi, but... to earn the Abyssal Monarch’s favor and use it to annul her engagement with Dian Jiuzhi.” “How unfortunate that it’s too late...” He shook his head and repeated the words, “How unfortunate...” “Hahahaha! Hahahahahaha!” On the Eternal Night Kingdom of God’s side, Shenwu Yanye abruptly burst out laughing. It was such a terrible, mad laugh that the entire palanquin was shaking. “So this is the love between man and woman... how filthy... how sorrowful... hahahaha... a joke... what a terrible joke this is... hahahaha!” She was laughing even more wantonly than when Shenwu Yi had wiped the floor with Dian Jiuzhi... but when her mad laughter was reaching the end, one could hear that it was tinged with deep sorrow. Yun Che remained standing where he was. His face was deathly pale after activating God Ash by force... but from everyone else’s perspective, his face was white because he was terrified for his life. Dian Rahu shifted his gaze next to Meng Kongchan. He tried to find some sort of confusion or anger on his old friend’s face... but just like Hua Fuchen, there was only pain and struggle. “So,” he said, “You... knew too? For a long time?” The full weight of his gaze rested on Meng Kongchan’s body. “Yes.” That was Meng Kongchan’s answer. Dian Rahu’s complexion immediately started withering at a terrifying rate. His facial muscles were twitching involuntarily, and his lion-like body was wobbling uncontrollably. He looked like he might collapse to the floor at any moment. “Heh... hehe...” He started laughing. It was a low, unbelievably raspy laugh at first. Then, it grew louder and louder. “Haha... hahaha... hahahahahaha!” His laughter was as booming and deafening as ever, and yet it did not contain an ounce of its usual pressure, boldness, or freedom. Instead, it was infused with bone-deep sorrow. Clenching his fists tightly, Hua Fuchen spoke up painfully. “Old Dian—” “Silence!!” A deafening, angry roar overwhelmed Hua Fuchen’s voice. “Who are you to call me Old Dian? Who?? Who???” Dian Rahu’s pupils looked as red as blood right now. His eyeballs especially were covered in countless terrifying blood vessels. Hua Fuchen tried to move his lips, but in the end, he could only close his eyes in pain. He and Meng Kongchan had envisioned countless good or bad outcomes... and the worst possible outcome was Dian Rahu finding out the truth before their preparations were complete. In order to avoid this worst-case scenario, they made sure to “confine” Yun Che and Hua Caili to their respective kingdoms and forbid them from seeing each other for the past couple of years. Even after they arrived at the Pure Land, they kept them separate as much as possible, no matter how much the two lovebirds were reluctant to be apart from one another. But to think... to think the slip-up would happen during the Pure Land Meet... the Pure Land Meet that barely even lasted a couple hours... And to think... that the situation would be a hundred times... no, a thousand times worse than even the worst case scenario they had envisioned... If Dian Rahu had found out about this in private, he would be no less enraged, but he would do everything in his power to block the news from spreading and preserve the Boundless Kingdom of God and Dian Jiuzhi’s dignity to the utmost degree. Whatever happened afterward would be between the three of them and the three Kingdoms of God as well. In fact, only a small subset of the Kingdoms of God would even be allowed to know about this. But now... not only was this matter ripped wide outside of their control or expectations, it was exposed in front of the six Kingdoms of God, the dragon race, and especially the Chief Priest and the Abyssal Monarch. To say that Dian Rahu was currently enduring the greatest betrayal and humiliation he could endure would be an understatement. “Hua Fuchen, Meng Kongchan!” He addressed his former best friends by their full names, but his voice was sad and shrill, and his words were wrathful beyond imagination. “One daughter betrayed my son’s love, and one son stole my son’s wife!” “You knew... You knew for a long time, but not only did you do nothing to stop this, you both treated me like a pig and toyed with me like a dog! Hehe... hahahaha... Truly, you are the greatest brothers I have ever had! Hahahahaha!” Dian Rahu’s whole life was grand and magnificent, to put it mildly. From the moment he was born, his status was that of boundless nobility. His innate divine essence had elevated him to the status of Boundless Divine Son and made him unequalled among his male peers. After he ascended the throne, he even became the greatest Divine Regent of all six Kingdoms of God, feared throughout the Abyss and inferior only to the Pure Land. However, the thing he took the greatest pride in his life wasn’t his unrivaled fame or power, but the priceless friendship he had made since childhood and continued to maintain even thousands and thousands of years later. He and his two best friends were so close that they could trust each other to watch their backs even after they became Divine Regents. Priceless and miraculous did not even begin to describe the bond they shared. To think... that it would be these two who gave him the biggest betrayal and humiliation of his life. Hua Caili was clutching Hua Qingying’s clothes tightly. She was so panicked that tears were streaming down her face uncontrollably. Biting her lips and too afraid to even look her Father in the eye, she could only sob out again and again, “Father... I’m sorry... I’m sorry...” In fact, she was the one who lost control and invited Yun Che to explore the Pure Land together. To be fair, they had maintained a suitable amount of distance and restraint throughout their mini adventure... except for those few breaths in front of Ling Xian’s divine abode. To think... Hua Qingying raised a protective hand and comforted her quietly, “At this point, it is too late for self-blame.” “HUA CAILI!!” To everyone’s surprise, Dian Rahu’s roar was directed at Hua Caili next. Pointing a shaky finger at the girl, he growled furiously, “Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter, daughter of Hua Fuchen! My son loves you so much and treats you so well that everyone under the heavens knows about it, and the heavens can testify to his devotion!” “For you, he did not allow a single woman to approach him for fifty-two sexagenary years! For you, he swore that you would become his one and only partner even after he became the Boundless Divine Regent! For you, he—!” “Father.” It was at this moment that Dian Jiuzhi walked up to his Father and gently pushed down his palm. “I knew you would be angry about this, but... can you please listen to me for a moment?” The Boundless Divine Son sucked in a deep breath before continuing in the most even and sincere voice he could muster, “To be honest, Caili and I broke off our engagement a long time ago.” The moment they heard this, Hua Fuchen and Meng Kongchan both side-eyed him with astonishment. “...” Dian Rahu slowly turned around and erupted, “What did you say!?” Dian Rahu’s glare was scarier than it had ever been, but Dian Jiuzhi’s expression remained calm. “I initially thought that my love for Caili was one of romance, but one day, I suddenly realized that it wasn’t. It’s just a close friendship between brothers and sisters.” “Caili is innocent and guileless. She knows even less about romantic love between a man and a woman. She did not know what she was thinking when she agreed to the engagement, or rather, she was just obeying the Heart Painter Divine Regent’s wish. Therefore, both Caili and I wish to break off this engagement from a long time ago. It’s just that we haven’t had the opportunity to say it.” “This Pure Land Meet would have been a perfect opportunity to do so, but—”SLAAAAAAAAAAAPPPPPPP!!! An unbelievably heavy palm struck Dian Jiuzhi’s face so hard that a terrifying crack could be heard. Judging from the sheer volume of the sound, the slap had shattered even his skull. Dian Jiuzhi rolled far, far away before he came to a stop, twitching and spasming in pain. The Boundless elders were stunned by this reaction. They hurriedly rushed forward to speak to Dian Rahu, “Please calm down, supreme—” “Get out of my sight!!” Dian Rahu roared, and everyone close to him was sent flying with blood pouring through their lips. While everyone was staring at him in shock, Dian Rahu walked all the way to the slumped Dian Jiuzhi with terrifyingly cold and violent eyes. “I’ve always been strict with you, but I have never hit you once. Today, I made an exception. Do you know why?!” Dian Jiuzhi opened his mouth, but the only thing that came out was large globs of blood and spittle. “Do you even believe what you just said? Do you think that your father is an idiot? Do you think that the Abyssal Monarch and everyone under the heavens are idiots?!” “I... I...” Dian Jiuzhi did not dare to get up, much less lift his head. “Tell me,” Dian Rahu growled while his chest heaved up and down like it would burst apart. “What is the greatest hatred and humiliation a man can suffer?” Eyes unfocused, Dian Jiuzhi responded with difficulty, “The greatest hatred a man can suffer... is losing his parents to murder... and the greatest humiliation a man can suffer... is losing their wife to another.” “Heh... hehe...” Dian Rahu let out a cold laugh full of sorrow and fury. “Do you know what’s going to happen after today? Every person in the entire Abyss will learn that you, the Boundless Divine Son, lost your fiancée to another man!” “Everyone in the world will laugh at you and pity you! Even the lowliest, scummiest person in the world can use you as a conversation topic and treat you as the biggest laughingstock of the century!” “Even when you become a Divine Regent in the future, even if you become ten times greater than I ever was, this brand of shame will follow you for the rest of your life! It will never fade away! From now on, whenever someone sets their eyes on you, the first thing they will think of is that you are a pathetic worm whose wife was stolen by another man... and by association, the entire Boundless Kingdom of God will suffer the same humiliation as you!” “On the other hand, Yun Che... even if he turns out to be a total failure in the future, you will never be victorious in front of him! You will always be a joke compared to him! Do you understand this? Do you understand this?!!” Dian Jiuzhi bowed his head deeply. Only the sounds of his impossibly heavy breathing could be heard. “And you, you were trying to justify their actions; trying to defend them?! I... heh... I, Dian Rahu, am a joke. My son... is an even bigger joke! Hahahaha, hahahahaha!” “Old Dian...” Meng Kongchan could not stay silent at this point. He said with great difficulty, “You are not a joke. This is our fault—” Dian Rahu abruptly turned around and stabbed Meng Kongchan with a gaze so terrifying, so venomous, that the Dreamless Divine Regent forgot what he was going to say. “Meng Kongchan. Hua Fuchen.” His eyes were shuddering, and every word that tumbled out of his lips was infused with unspeakable sorrow. “Did I do you both wrong somewhere somehow? What on earth did I do to earn such treatment from you? Just what...” Meng Kongchan and Hua Fuchen’s lips moved, but neither could say a single word, much less bear to face Dian Rahu.BOOM!!! There was a terrible boom, and Dian Rahu appeared in front of Hua Fuchen. His terrifying force field pushed away the seven Sword Sovereigns in an instant. He reached out and seized Hua Fuchen by the collar. Eyes widening so much that they nearly ripped apart at the edges, he lifted the man into the air while his eyes and asked again, “What on earth did I do wrong to earn this from you... Speak! Speak!!” Hua Fuchen did not resist in the least. He allowed Dian Rahu’s enraged energies to invade his flesh, blood, and marrow without resistance. There was only infinite guilt, regret, and ash inside his heart. “Release our Divine Regent!” The seven Sword Sovereigns cried out at the same time, but before they could make a move, an irresistible ray of antique bronze descended from the sky and repelled Dian Rahu. The profound light did not fade even after separating the two Divine Regents. It lingered between the duo, keeping them completely separate. It was at this moment that the Chief Priest’s authoritative voice came from above, “Unsanctioned fighting is not allowed in the Pure Land. Boundless Divine Regent, as your soul is drowning in an abyss of rage, and you have not truly attacked the Heart Painter Divine Regent, I am willing to overlook your transgression for the moment. However, you will master your temper and restrain yourself. No matter the grievances, you will settle them outside the Pure Land!” Dian Rahu looked up at the Abyssal Monarch and forced himself to suppress his nigh uncontrollable rage. His tightly clenched fists were still shaking violently, though. It was at this moment that the Abyssal Monarch spoke. “Rage, what is the punishment for disobeying the monarch’s order?” The Chief Priest replied indifferently, “Punishment by devouring rage.”“Punishment by devouring rage” The four words were short and succinct, and yet the powerful Heart Painter and Dreamless Divine Regent turned as white as a sheet when they heard this. Their faces wore expressions of shock and horror that should never belong to a Divine Regent. “Dong Huang,” the Chief Priest looked up and ordered, “Seize Yun Che and Hua Caili!” Chapter 2149 - Small Grass, Father’s Love [1] Divine Attendant Dong Huang received his order and raised his hand. A pair of profound lights that looked as compact as rainbows immediately descended on top of Yun Che and Hua Caili. Hua Qingying subconsciously raised a hand to stop this, but Hua Fuchen immediately pushed it back down. The duo could only watch as the profound lights bound Hua Caili like shackles and dragged her toward the Chief Priest together with Yun Che. There was no way they could challenge the authority of the Abyssal Monarch and the Chief Priest, and to do so would only anger the Chief Priest and trigger a worse consequence. The binding profound lights not only sealed off their movements but also suppressed their profound energies completely. They could not put up even the slightest bit of resistance, much less attempt an escape. The four words “punishment by devouring rage” caused half-limp Dian Jiuzhi to bounce back to his feet instantly. His expression was one of abject horror as he stared at the bound girl kneeling in front of the Chief Priest. It was almost as if he were the one who was about to be punished, not Hua Caili and Yun Che. “Punishment by devouring rage... punishment by devouring rage! Good... good... this is karma... haha... Hahahaha!” Dian Sansi let out an exhilarated laugh, but that laughter died almost immediately after it appeared. It was because he saw the look in Dian Jiuzhi’s eyes. It was filled with heart-consuming pain... and a kind of emptiness that could only be described as terrifying. Dian Jiuzhi’s instructions and pleading words abruptly surfaced in his soul sea... and Dian Sansi completely lost the ability to laugh. He simply stood there blankly as if he had lost his soul. Emotions of shock, horror, and panic were swiftly spreading throughout Eden’s Crown... they were not the ones who were about to be punished, and yet the four words still awakened the brand of fear deeply rooted in everyone’s heart. Even the older, weathered, profound practitioners could not help but shudder uncontrollably for a few breaths. Yun Che and Hua Caili’s limbs were touching. They were both bound by the profound light, looking at each other. Countless words swam inside their eyes, but they were unable to voice any of them at the moment. Staring at the duo, the Chief Priest declared in a voice that shook the highest clouds, “Hua Caili of Heaven Breaker, Yun Che of Dreamweaver. The Abyssal Monarch Himself bestowed this engagement, and it was an unparalleled honor and favor from Him. However, the two of you dare to treat His order like nothing and engage in adultery. Your action deeply wounded the Boundless and belittled the Abyssal Monarch and the Pure Land even more. Your crime is unforgivable. Hence, you shall be punished by devouring rage!” “Dong Huang, you may begin the punishment!” “Wait! Please allow me a moment to speak, Chief Priest.” Meng Kongchan was beside himself at this point. He was a Divine Regent, and yet he nearly tripped over his own feet as he rushed up to the Chief Priest. “Jianyuan and Caili absolutely did not mean to break the engagement bestowed by the Abyssal Monarch Himself. This unfortunate outcome is the culmination of many stories I can’t say here, and helpless circumstances. Back when Jianyuan first met Caili, he did not even know that she was the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter. Later—” “Dreamless Divine Regent.” The Chief Priest’s voice wasn’t loud, but it contained such pressure that Meng Kongchan’s words were cut off in an instant. “You are a Divine Regent, so I will afford you three questions.” Meng Kongchan could not disobey him, so he could only say, “Understood.” The Chief Priest asked his first question, “Do Hua Caili and Yun Che have an affair with each other?” Meng Kongchan’s lips trembled as he tried his best to sort out his thoughts, “The starting point of their relationship is the Endless Fog—” “Answer the question!” The Chief Priest’s voice turned harsh. “...” Meng Kongchan hid a sigh and answered in a powerless voice, “Yes.” The Chief Priest moved on to his second question. “Have they consummated their love?” Meng Kongchan slowly closed his eyes, and his voice weakened further. “Yes.” A commotion immediately broke out in the surroundings. Even more people were sneaking glances at the numb-looking Dian Jiuzhi, filled with ridicule, pity, sympathy, indignation, and more. The Chief Priest asked his third question, “When did you and the Heart Painter Divine Regent learn about this?” Meng Kongchan knew that attempting to hide this before the Chief Priest would only make matters worse, so he could only answer honestly, “Three years ago.” “Hmph!” Dian Rahu let out a cold snort. At this point, his complexion was so ugly that the adjective was no longer good enough to describe it. The Chief Priest said heavily, “In that case, you, a Divine Regent, should understand just how laughable your attempts to excuse their behavior are!” Meng Kongchan knew that the Chief Priest was right. No matter the circumstances that had led to this situation, there was no changing what had already happened, much less redressing the “crime” and “wrong” that had already been set in stone. Meng Kongchan turned to face the Abyssal Monarch and said pleadingly, “Your Majesty, Kongchan knows full well the scale of the crime Jianyuan has committed, but... as a father, I once lost him for an entire century because of a moment’s mistake. During that time, every time I recalled my mistake, regret and hatred would fill my bones, and pain would torment me so that I wished I were dead.” “Thankfully, the heavens took pity on me and saw fit to return him to me... but it has only been three years since we reunited. I haven’t yet made up for a speck of my ten thousand mountains of mistakes and failures yet, so how can I possibly bear to lose him again?” “No matter how extraordinary Jianyuan’s talent is, his body is ultimately just that of a Divine Master. There is no way he could possibly endure the punishment of devouring rage! To subject him to this punishment is the same as executing him!”Thump! His knees hit the floor with a resounding thud, and his face wore a meek and pleading expression that should never appear on a Divine Regent’s face. “It is the father’s fault if his son is not well-behaved. Therefore, I humbly beg you to allow Kongchan to withstand double the amount of punishment on behalf of Yuan’er! Please, Your Majesty! Kongchan swears that he will devote his whole life to repay this favor if you show mercy this once! Please!!”Bang!! His skull slammed against the floor so hard that pale white cracks split across the ground of Eden’s Crown. Not a moment too soon, bright red blood immediately filled them up. At that moment, Meng Kongchan had discarded his pride and dignity as a Divine Regent completely. Curling into the meekest possible posture a person could assume, he buried his blood-stained head into the ground and did not lift it even after a long, long time later. “...” Yun Che slowly drew his breath and closed his eyes, his lightly clenched fingers subtly exuding a deathly pale color that should not be. “Fa... ther...” Meng Jianxi let out a low, trembling cry while tears blurred his vision... He never once saw or even envisioned that his tall and mighty Father would one day look this meek. Meng Jianxi stepped forward and dropped to his knees behind his Father. Then, he smashed his head against the floor and shouted sorrowfully, “I beg your mercy, Your Majesty!”Thump! Thump! Thump... For a time, it felt like the sounds of knees and heads hitting the floor would never end. Amidst everyone’s somewhat blurry vision, every man and woman in the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God’s formation had prostrated themselves before the Abyssal Monarch. “We beg your mercy, Your Majesty!!” Sorrowful cries deafened the ears and touched the soul heavily. Everyone’s odd expressions turned a little complicated as well. “...” The anger in Dian Rahu’s eyes froze for a moment, but in the end, he turned his head away and let out a heavy grunt, refusing to look at them. “Ai.” Hua Fuchen let out a quiet sigh. He did not try to beg for Hua Caili like Meng Kongchan was begging for Yun Che, even though the Abyssal Monarch was very fond of Hua Caili and Hua Qingying, in the Chief Priest’s eyes, carried more weight than all seven Divine Regents. It was because he knew that the Abyssal Monarch’s command could never be disobeyed. Even if He were to make an unprecedented exception, He would never do so in front of everyone. Meng Kongchan must know this. As the Dreamless Divine Regent, as the one possessing the strongest soul out of every Divine Regent present, no one was clearer-headed and mentally tougher than him. However, he did it anyway. That was how far his soul had collapsed. The outcome... did not surprise anyone. Forget saying a word, the Abyssal Monarch had not even cast His gaze in Meng Kongchan's or his people’s direction. Glaring down on Meng Kongchan coldly, the Chief Priest declared, “You have three breaths to command all of your people to withdraw, Meng Kongchan. Otherwise, the crime will escalate in severity!” Meng Kongchan remained curled up on the floor. His whole body was shaking in abject torment. This time, Hua Fuchen stepped forward and forcefully dragged him to his feet. He said with a sigh, “The Abyssal Monarch has given His order. It can not be rescinded. There is no other way at this point. We can... only leave it to our children, now. There have been enough unpleasant surprises already. They cannot endure anymore, right?” It was Hua Fuchen’s final sentence that snapped Meng Kongchan out of his stupor. He had no choice but to climb to his feet and breathe out helplessly, “With... Withdraw, all of you.” “Senior.” It was at this moment that Yun Che’s voice entered Meng Kongchan’s ears once more. Meng Kongchan, Meng Jianxi... everyone in Dreamweaver turned around to look at Yun Che with shaky eyes. His voice was very calm, as calm as he usually sounded. There was no fear or tremor in his voice whatsoever. “No matter what kind of ‘circumstances’ were involved, we ultimately ruined the engagement that was bestowed by the Abyssal Monarch by our own hands. This is an undeniable, irrefutable crime. Since we have committed a crime, it is only right that we are punished for it. Neither Caili nor I feel any regret or resentment.” He turned his head slightly and wore his usual heartwarming smile. “Senior, I recently figured out a rather frivolous method of making soup. It could give the soup a dreamlike appearance. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to make it before...” “Anyway, I’ll cook it for you when we get back to Dreamweaver. I’m sure you’ll love it.” “...” Meng Kongchan’s lips quivered for a moment. Then, he broke into a smile; a tearful smile. “Of course... a man of Dreamweaver mustn’t break his promise.” Yun Che returned a heavy nod before reaching out to grab Hua Caili’s ice-cold wrist. In response, Hua Caili grabbed his hand tightly and moved even closer to him... At this point, she no longer cared where they were or who was watching. “Are you afraid, Caili?” Yun Che asked softly. Hua Caili nodded at first, but then shook her head right after. “I was, but with you by my side? I’m not even a little afraid... In fact, the thought that we could be together openly and not worry about anything after today fills me with greater courage.” In her pure, beautiful world, and when it came to her feelings for Yun Che, another person’s look, words, and criticism truly did not matter one bit. For a moment, the duo just kept whispering to each other and leaning against one another as if no one else existed... in fact, no one could sense even a hint of fear from them. Far away, Dian Jiuzhi’s empty eyes twitched once. Then, he actually cracked a small smile and whispered unconsciously, “So this... is what she looks like... when she's in love...’ “This... is how she should always be...” “Dong Huang, begin the punishment!” The Chief Priest repeated his order... but he was interrupted by another voice. This one... came from the Abyssal Monarch Himself. “Rage, I want you to carry out the punishment yourself.” Divine Attendant Dong Huang immediately withdrew his palm and stepped down without hesitation. The Chief Priest was puzzled, but as usual, he did not question his monarch even a little. Instead, he stepped forward and raised his hand, enveloping Yun Che and Hua Caili in divine pressure that was countless times greater than Divine Attendant Dong Huang’s. Suddenly, a clear breeze blew, and a feminine, refined voice spoke up. “May I request a moment, Chief Priest?” The Chief Priest was a man so strict that it bordered on heartlessness. However, the feminine voice actually caused him to stop. The woman wore a long, plain white dress adorned with dots of autumn plum. Her eyes looked like autumn pools, her skin was fair and soft, and her presence was subtle and ethereal, as if she did not belong in this world. Her age was difficult to discern. She was none other than High Priest Ling Xian’s Divine Attendant, Su Shang. “Aunt Su Shang...” Hua Caili subconsciously called out. “What is the matter?” The Chief Priest asked solemnly. Divine Attendant Su Shang gave him a bow before replying smilingly, “Su Shang appeared now to convey my master’s order. She would like to request a blessing from His Majesty. Specifically, she would like His Majesty to pardon Yun Che—and if not that, at least reduce the degree of his sentence.” The moment she finished her sentence, the Chief Priest frowned deeply as a matter of course. Everyone was exchanging stunned, confused looks with each other as well. Did they hear her right? High Priest Ling Xian... was pleading on Yun Che’s behalf!? No one was more astonished than Meng Kongchan. It was immediately followed by wild, uncontrollable joy. The man bowed deeply in Su Shang’s direction and said agitatedly, “On behalf of my clumsy son, this one thanks High Priest Ling Xian deeply for her favor.” “No need.” Su Shang replied indifferently, “My master owes Yun Che a favor. It is only natural that she would repay it.” It took Meng Kongchan a great deal of effort to keep his emotions in check. At this point, he already figured out that this was thanks to the Primal Flame Crystal. He did not think that Yun Che would follow his advice so quickly, or that it would pay dividends here and now. The Chief Priest asked, ‘What favor?” The four High Priests knew each other well. Out of all of them, High Priest Ling Xian was the one who desired a favor from the Abyssal Monarch the least. Therefore, whatever favor Yun Che had done for her could not be insignificant. Su Shang fell silent for a moment before breaking into a small smile. “Su Shang will answer your question, Chief Priest. The Primal Flame Crystal.” Four simple words were all it took to melt the doubt in the Chief Priest’s eyes into understanding completely. At a corner of Eden’s Crown, the ancient, wizened figure that was the Dragon Lord shook a little, and shock no one could comprehend rose from behind his eyes. Behind him, Long Chixin and Long Qianxin blanched at the same time as well. “The Primal Flame Crystal... to think it would actually reappear once more.” The Dragon Lord murmured while hiding a tidal wave of shock and panic in his heart. Long Chixin took half a step forward and lowered his voice as best he could. “Today’s incident will be known to the public. If Long Xi were to hear about this... the consequences could be unpredictable.” Long Qianxin frowned deeply for a moment before speaking up. “There is nothing to worry about, Dragon Lord. This Primal Flame Crystal is meant for High Priest Ling Xian. Long Xi could hardly come to the Pure Land and take it by force, could she? If anything, this news would prove that the Primal Flame Crystal isn’t extinct yet and keep her from falling into despair too quickly... meaning that the date she leaves the dragon race permanently will be postponed. This is a good thing.” The Dragon Lord sucked in a deep breath and replied, “What I’m worried about is the fact that the Primal Fame Crystal isn’t extinct yet. What if she actually finds one? If she gathers all five spirit treasures... Her departure is of little consequence. It is her wrath upon discovering that she had been fooled that worries me. Knowing her temperament... she will surely become a terrible threat to our race.” Long Chixin replied solemnly, “Do not worry, Dragon Lord. I will watch her closely from the shadows... I promise that she will never obtain the Primal Flame Crystal even if it does resurface.” It was at this moment that another gust of clear wind carrying a leisurely and lethargic voice blew over. “Aiya aiya, what a coincidence.” The next moment, a young man, stepping on a thin cloud, made his leisurely appearance. His posture was languid, and his voice was soft. It was very out of place with Eden’s Crown’s heavy atmosphere right now. The young man continued to smile as if he could not sense the incongruity. In fact, he did not straighten himself even though he was in the presence of the Abyssal Monarch and the Chief Priest. Besides the four High Priests, the only one in the entire Pure Land who dared to act like this was High Priest Liu Xiao’s Divine Attendant, Yuan Ying. “Why have you come?” It was clear from the get-go that the Chief Priest did not like this man. “Could it be...” “It is exactly what you think, Chief Priest.” Divine Attendant Yuan Ying bowed toward the Abyssal Monarch from a distance and said, “Yuan Ying has come bearing his master’s orders. He wishes to beg for leniency toward Yun Che. He says that Yun Che is a young, ignorant, young, red-blooded, young, frivolous, young[2]... er, the point is, he’s pleading for a lighter sentence on account that this is his first offense, Your Majesty.” This time, there wasn’t a single man or woman at the scene who wasn’t flabbergasted. Who on earth was Yun Che that not one, but two High Priests had purposely dispatched their divine attendants to beg for leniency on his behalf!? There was probably no one, not even the Divine Regents, who ever enjoyed such an honor. Meng Kongchan was beside himself as a matter of course. Once again, he bowed deeply to Divine Attendant Yuan Ying. “This one thanks High Priest Liu Xiao deeply for his favor.” “There’s no need, no need!” Divine Attendant Yuan Ying hurriedly waved his hands. “If anything, my master is all too happy to repay at least some of the favor he owed this lad.” Once again, his words shocked everyone present. Everybody knew that High Priest Liu Xiao was the most independent, stubborn, and unique personality in the entire Pure Land... no, the entire Abyss. They could understand why High Priest Ling Xian had chosen to repay the favor—they all understood what the Primal Flame Crystal meant to her—but how on earth did he make High Priest Liu Xiao of all people owe him a favor? This was such an abnormal occurrence that even the Chief Priest was curious. He asked, “What on earth is this favor Liu Xiao owed?” “Er...” Yuan Ying hesitated for a moment before apologizing with a bow. “Master only said that a priceless treasure of the world is involved, and that he ain’t telling even if the heavens themselves were to question him about it.” “Hmph!” The Chief Priest withdrew his gaze then. He could not be bothered to ask again. The six Kingdoms of God could never disobey the Abyssal Monarch’s order, but there were exceptional existences such as the Four High Priests. There was no way the Abyssal Monarch could ignore the combined pleading of two High Priests. So, he finally reacted and set his gaze on Yun Che. All of it. By now, Meng Kongchan’s fear and panic had diminished considerably, and the gloominess in Hua Fuchen’s eyes had mostly faded. Even the stunning cold that froze Hua Qingying’s blue eyes had receded completely. The Abyssal Monarch began lightly, “Ling Xian and Liu Xiao are pleading on your behalf, so this lone one cannot overlook this any longer. What do you have to say for yourself, Yun Che?” Wearing a grateful look on his face, Yun Che said seriously, “Yun Che will not soon forget the favor he owes the two High Priests. Now, Yun Che must ask this: Is it too presumptuous to borrow their favors to make a request?” “Speak.” The Abyssal Monarch’s eyes resembled pits of abysses. No one could read any genuine emotion in his eyes. Despite this, Meng Kongchan let out a heavy sigh of relief... One High Priest’s favor might only be enough to reduce the severity of the punishment, but two? That was absolutely enough to pardon him. However, knowing Yun Che’s personality, he would never abandon Hua Caili to her fate. So, he would definitely use the favors to request that both of their sentences be reduced... if not annulled outright. There was no better outcome than this. Everyone thought that Yun Che would use this opportunity to greatly lessen... or even escape what was no different from a death sentence for both him and Hua Caili. Holding Hua Caili’s hand, Yun Che gently poked her palm once. Then, he slowly let her go. Lifting his head and staring the Abyssal Monarch in the eyes, he said slowly and firmly, “Your Majesty, with the favors that have been bestowed upon me, I ask that you transfer Caili’s crime to me and me alone.” “I am willing to endure twice the amount of punishment by myself!” 1. The actual poem the title is referring to goes something like this (and doesn’t have the word father in it, but you get the meaning): How can a small grass repay the sunshine of spring? ☜ 2. This repetition is intentional. ☜ Chapter 2150 - Punishment By Devouring Rage (1) Everyone was dumbstruck for a very, very long time. Meng Kongchan especially felt like his world had just been shattered. This was a response no one had anticipated. Be it the calm and refined Divine Attendant Su Shang or the casual and careless Divine Attendant Yuan Ying, both were wearing clear expressions of surprise. The color on Hua Caili’s beautiful face began to fade visibly. She abruptly grabbed Yun Che’s hand and said panickedly, “What are you saying, Big Brother Yun? No way! No way! Absolutely not! Punishment or pardon, we’ll always be together! Don’t even think of throwing me away!” Every single one of her jade fingers were gripping his tightly. She was afraid that Yun Che would let her go a second time. “Yuan’er, you... take back what you just said this instant!” Meng Kongchan roared hurriedly, “This is not the time and place for such nonsense!” He never imagined that Yun Che would turn what should have been a gift from the heavens into an absolute nightmare. For whatever reason, he had pushed himself into even more profound despair and danger. Meng Jianxi was beyond caring as well. He took a couple of steps forward and roared at the top of his lungs, “Brother Yuan! Although the punishment of devouring rage is not a death sentence, it is far scarier than you know! It is a punishment that seeps into your blood, flesh, muscles, bones, marrow, and even your soul... every speck of your existence will suffer pain and torment ten thousand times worse than even ten thousand nightmares! It cannot be defended against, and you will desire the sweet release of death long before you reach the end of it!” “The Xuanji Hall recorded one hundred and seventy six people who received the punishment of devouring rage... but only nine of them survived.” “Everyone else committed suicide because they couldn’t stand the torture!” “Of the nine people who survived the punishment, six are at the late-stage Divine Extinction Realm, and the remaining three are at the Divine Limit Realm. This is not the kind of punishment someone like you is meant to endure! Twice the amount... that is just impossible! You absolutely mustn’t!” “This is the last place and time to put on a brave front, so take back your words right now! You must take it back, if only for Father and the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God’s sake!” Meng Jianxi’s shout sounded positively tragic by the time it passed the halfway point. He hadn’t told Yun Che anything about the punishment of devouring rage in the past three years. Therefore, he thought that Yun Che had made his decision out of ignorance. “Yun Che.” Hua Qingying was a woman of few words, but this time, she broke her silence of her own accord. Countless admirers were sneaking glances at her and listening intently as she said, “I know how much you love Caili, but the punishment of devouring rage is not something you can understand until you’ve experienced it yourself. Listen to your Father and take back your words. With two High Priests pleading on your behalf, I am sure that His Majesty and the High Priest would not punish you too severely.” Yun Che’s gaze did not waver, however. He continued to look the Abyssal Monarch in the eye and declared, “My mind is made up. I humbly request His Majesty to give face to the two High Priests and fulfill my wish.” Despite being warned and informed repeatedly about the horror that was the punishment of devouring rage, forget changing his mind, the man hadn’t even hesitated to respond. “Yuan’er, you...” “Brother Yuan!!!” “...” Ripples of emotions washed across Hua Qingying’s eyes. She could not say anything. “I don’t want this, Big Brother Yun!” Hua Caili shook her head vigorously. She was grabbing Yun Che’s fingers so hard that her own fingers had become completely bloodless. All of her panic transformed into deep determination as she declared, “I told you already. I won’t let you bear this alone... never.” The expressions of the profound practitioners of the other Kingdoms of God kept changing. At this point, they found themselves unable to understand what was going on, much less the junior who had just returned to his Kingdom of God, Yun Che. Should they laugh at him for his ignorance? Or should they compliment him for his fearlessness? “Yun Che.” She should not have spoken up, considering her standpoint, but Divine Attendant Su Shang said, “I would advise you to change your mind. The punishment of devouring rage is not something one can withstand with ordinary willpower. If you insist on acting like this... I won’t be able to face my master later.” “I agree.” Divine Attendant Yuan Ying concurred, “Your decision is extraordinarily courageous, so much so that a desireless man like me feels amazement and curiosity, but I really won’t be able to face my master if you act like this. You should plead to receive only half the punishment, or a full pardon for both of you.” Yun Che turned around and gave them a grateful smile. “I am currently bound, so forgive me for not offering you the courtesy you deserve. Also, please convey my thanks to the two High Priests.” Su Shang let out a small sigh and gave Yun Che a long look. Then, she lightly bowed in the Abyssal Monarch and the Chief Priest’s direction before departing the scene. Yuan Ying also exhaled before leaving on his cloud. On his way out, what sounded like a murmur to himself or an exclamation came from Yuan Ying. “No wonder lil Caili fell for him so hard. Dumb or not, this boy has guts in spades.” The Abyssal Monarch suddenly spoke up, “Tell this lone one. Why are you doing this?” The Abyssal Monarch never wasted his breath, but right here and now, even he was curious about the reasoning behind the young man’s astonishing decision. His posture unchanging, Yun Che answered clearly and evenly, “I did commit a grave mistake. No matter what kind of circumstances and helplessness culminated in today’s karma, this is a fact that cannot be changed. Therefore, I neither regret nor resent the punishment I will soon receive.” “Only by receiving this punishment in full can I truly make up for my crime. Only then can I deserve your mercy, appease the masses, and... reduce the amount of shame Dreamweaver receives because of me.” Everyone from Dreamweaver was speechless. Even the few Dream Lords who disliked Yun Che for stealing Meng Jianxi’s position before instantly grew teary-eyed when they heard this. “Yuan’er,” Meng Kongchan shook his head lightly, “Dreamweaver has only ever owed you... There is nothing you can do that can bring shame to us. The biggest fortune I and Dreamweaver can possibly receive is your safety.” Meng Jianxi was holding back sobs. It took him a while before he was finally able to force out the words, “Brother Yuan, you... you really don’t need to do this...” All nine Dream Lords were exchanging glances with each other. An endless sea of emotions mixed chaotically inside their eyes and their hearts. The Abyssal Monarch spoke again, “In that case, you could have asked this lone one to pardon Hua Caili. Why did you choose to bear twice the punishment of devouring rage?” Yun Che’s eyes grew gentle, and his voice turned soft. “Caili is the most beautiful woman in the world. She erred only because of me. The punishment could be ten times worse, and still I won’t allow her to suffer even the tiniest bit of pain, much less be criticized by the world... That is why I request to receive twice the punishment. Only then can her crime be properly absolved.” Hua Fuchen lifted his head slightly. It took him a while before he slowly let out a long breath. Hua Caili continued to shake her head. At this point, her face looked unusually calm, and the light residing in her pupils looked firmer than ever. “Big brother Yun, we have walked even the fine line of death side by side. How can I possibly allow you to endure this alone? It doesn’t matter what punishment it is. I fear nothing with you by my side.” However, the Abyssal Monarch’s response cruelly snuffed out her wish. “Very well.” The Abyssal Monarch looked away and issued his order in an emotionless voice, “Since you are making this request using Ling Xian and Liu Xiao’s favor, this lone one has no reason to turn it down.” Hua Caili’s expression instantly turned into one of shock and horror. “Uncle Abyssal Monarch, no—” The Chief Priest was already carrying out His order. He did not move. Only his eyes flashed with an odd light. The next second, the profound light binding Hua Caili crumbled, and a terrible, irresistible force pushed her away... or at least tried to. It was because she was clinging onto Yun Che’s hand with all her might, even though there was the clear, heartbreaking sound of breaking bones. “Uncle Abyssal Monarch,” she begged with tears streaming down her cheeks. “You’ve always spoiled me... so please, I ask that you let me endure this punishment with him... Uncle Abyssal Monarch!”Crack! Crack! All five of her dainty fingers were warped at this point. Even now, her finger bones were breaking one by one. Still, she refused to let go. The Chief Priest issued a heavy warning, “Leave now, or your resistance will be treated as an aggravating circumstance!” Hua Qingying disappeared and reappeared beside Hua Caili. Gently, she grabbed their intertwined fingers with her snow white, jade-like hand and said, “Caili.” Her voice sounded completely unfamiliar to most people. It was a gentle voice that she only ever used in front of Hua Caili. “The monarch’s order cannot be changed once given. Do not... waste his feelings.” “...” Hua Caili’s expression froze for a moment. In the end, Hua Qingying was able to peel her bloodless, now powerless fingers away from Yun Che’s and carry her back to Hua Fuchen. The young woman looked numb and limp as warm, profound energy wrapped around her injured fingers and healed her injuries. On the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God’s side, Pan Buzhuo was scoffing under his breath, “Tsk!! The guy has no idea what he’s dealing with! He’s going to scream and beg as ugly as he charmed the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter in a moment... It’s going to be oh-so-ugly.” Did Pan Buzhuo hold a grudge against Yun Che? Not at all. However, not only was Yun Che’s talent in the profound way one-of-a-kind, the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter loved him and was even more handsome than he was. As his peer, how could he not be jealous of Yun Che? Dark pleasure naturally coursed through his veins the moment he imagined how ugly the man he was intensely jealous of would look when the punishment of devouring rage began. Finally, the cruel declaration took place. “Receive your punishment, Yun Che!” The Chief Priest opened his palm and fired a beam of withering, yellow, profound light at Yun Che. Halfway, it split into countless tiny needles that were as thin as human hair before piercing Yun Che’s limbs, bones, pores, the gap between his bones, and more. The needles would penetrate his skin, flesh, blood, bones, veins, marrow... and even the depths of his soul. In just an instant, Yun Che’s entire consciousness was consumed by indescribable pain. Impossible itchiness tortured him like a million venomous ants were biting every inch of his bones. Unimaginable pain was skewering every inch of his body like a million poisonous and red-hot needles repeatedly. This was a torturous punishment that could drive even a Half-God to suicide before it was completed. Its cruelty naturally exceeded the ordinary person’s understanding and imagination of pain countless times over. It felt like lava burning one’s bones into ash... it felt like poisonous vines slowly corroding the heart... it felt like hot branding irons stirring inside his marrow... It felt like his soul was being dragged across a savage wilderness filled with countless pieces of gravel... Yun Che’s facial features contorted violently, and every joint in his body was spasming so hard that it displaced itself. Horrid-looking blue veins were bulging everywhere as well... This was just the beginning, though. Soon, every piece of skin and flesh on his body was trembling and undulating like countless abyssal worms were squirming or feeding underneath it... It was every cell in his body contorting and spasming in abject torment. Barely an instant had passed since the punishment began, but cold sweat had already drenched every inch of Yun Che’s clothes. It then splashed haphazardly on the floor of Eden’s Crown and swiftly spread toward the surroundings like it was raining. All around him, the bodies and souls of the profound practitioners of the Kingdoms of God began trembling as well. One by one, they looked away from Yun Che. His tortured appearance was such that they could not even bear to look at him. The terrifyingly visceral physical reactions showed just how painful and torturous the punishment was, and the young man was going to have to endure it for a hundred breaths! No, that wasn’t right. He asked to withstand twice the punishment... so he was going to have to endure this for two hundred breaths! “Big Brother Yun...” Tears were streaming endlessly down Hua Caili’s cheeks, and her face was as white as a sheet. If Hua Qingying hadn’t been supporting her, she would have collapsed to the floor the instant the punishment of devouring rage took place. Soul-crushing sobs escaped her bloodless lips again and again. Meng Kongchan was clutching his heart and feeling as if he could barely breathe, but he gathered his wits, maintained his cool as best he could, and called out to Yun Che again and again. “Hold on, Yuan’er... try listening to my voice... Yuan’er, Yuan’er...” One breath, two breaths, three breaths, ten breaths! At this point, even the air seemed to be trembling in pain, and the thin, flawless clouds floating in the sky were destroyed by the chilly wind emanated by Yun Che... It was at this moment that the crowd noticed something astonishing. Despite looking like he was being tortured in the ten thousandth level of purgatory[1], Yun Che... had not cried out even once. No one noticed this, but a layer of astonishment had colored the Chief Priest’s eyes. He was present for every punishment by devouring rage. Sometimes, he personally carried out the punishment. However, no one... not even the handful of Divine Limit Realm experts who suffered the punishment... was able to withstand ten breaths without uttering a single sound. Eleven breaths, twelve breaths... fifteen breaths... At first, everyone wore horrified expressions. However, that horror slowly turned into astonishment, then from astonishment into growing shock and disbelief. While enduring a terrible heartache, Meng Kongchan continued to call out to Yun Che in an even voice, “There is no need to endure the pain by force, Yuan’er. Feel free to scream all you want. Screaming can decrease the pain a little... It’s really fine, Yuan’er. Just scream as much as you want. The reason Meng Kongchan was calling out to Yun Che non-stop was in hopes that he could distract Yun Che from the pain and prevent him from suffering a soul collapse. Countless criminals had committed suicide during the punishment because they suffered a total soul collapse. Meng Jianxi was also shouting, “No one has ever been able to withstand the punishment of devouring rage for so long without uttering a sound, Brother Yuan! As expected of you! You are not only the pride of Dreamweaver. There may not be another person in the entire Abyss who can rival you. So you can endure this... not even twice the punishment of devouring rage can defeat you! I am sure of it!”Crack! Crack! Crack... The sounds of breaking bones kept coming from Yun Che, but it wasn’t because of the punishment. To be accurate, the punishment of devouring rage did not break one’s body or snap one's bones. However, it could inflict so much pain that the one being tormented would break their bones without noticing. That was what was happening right now. Yun Che was clenching his fists so hard that his fingers were breaking, and bits and pieces of bone were piercing his palm. Blood mixed with sweat dripped on the floor before turning into bloody-smelling white vapor that eventually disappeared into the air. Hua Qingying reached out and covered Hua Caili’s eyes. “Don’t look, Caili... it will be over soon.” Hua Caili was trembling almost as hard as Yun Che. The horrifying torture that was being applied to Yun Che was also carving up her heart and soul like ten thousand blades. However, she raised her hands and, despite the tremors wracking her hands, stubbornly pulled her aunt’s hand away. Although her eyes were completely covered in tears, she never stopped looking at Yun Che for even an instant. “I... want... to... see...” She whispered each word like she was talking in her sleep. This was easily the cruelest picture she had ever seen in her life, and yet she desired to imprint each and every instant into her soul. Twenty breaths... twenty-five breaths... thirty breaths! Yun Che’s facial features had completely lost their human shape at this point. Blood and spittle kept pouring out from his tightly clenched teeth. Despite this... he never allowed even a muffled grunt to spill through his nose. “What stunning willpower,” Sha Xing whispered absentmindedly. With every passing second, Yun Che’s silence was stacking up more and more layers of shock in his heart. Sha Xing’s voice jolted Xian Yue out of his own reverie and reminded him to breathe. After sucking in a deep breath and exhaling it all, he said from the bottom of his heart, “If this man manages to survive this tribulation... I must make his acquaintance no matter what.” At a different corner of Eden’s Crown, Shenwu Yi suddenly pressed a hand to her solar plexus and frowned deeply.What’s going on... why is my heart aching like it’s being stabbed repeatedly... why can’t I stop it or suppress it... did I suffer some internal injuries during my fight against Dian Jiuzhi... 1. There are only eighteen levels of hell in Chinese folklore, so you can imagine what the ten thousandth level looks like. ☜ Chapter 2151 - Punishment By Devouring Rage (2) The wind of Eden’s Crown was still growing colder and colder. It was starting to chill the bones at this point. So much blood was shed that it transformed into a stream and poured down Yun Che’s lips without end. No one knew... or dared to imagine that the pain wracking Yun Che’s soul was even worse than his body’s. It felt as if an endless ocean of violent, hateful spirits of fury were howling and rampaging inside his soul sea right now. While screaming, they were cruelly ripping into his soul with their claws and scorching his willpower and conviction with their flames of hatred. This soul torture could have utterly crushed an ordinary Divine Master in just one breath... not to mention the physical pain Yun Che was enduring, not to say that he had to endure both forms of torture for two hundred breaths. “Gather your heart and listen to my voice, Yun Che! You must protect your clarity of mind no matter what! Yun Che!!” Li Suo sounded more urgent and worried than she had ever been. Just like Meng Kongchan, she was calling out to him again and again. She was using the only way she knew to anchor Yun Che’s soul and keep it steady against the raging sea that was the punishment of devouring rage. However, a twisted, hoarse roar responded to her panicked screams, “Shut up! Do you think... I am not... nearly as frail and weak... as you think I am!” Li Suo’s cries gradually came to a stop. Although his soul sea was raging hard enough to fall apart at any moment, Yun Che’s voice echoed loud and clear, “What is this pain compared to the all-consuming despair and sorrow I felt when Blue Pole Star was destroyed?” “What is this pain compared to the disaster that threatens to upend my homeworld and bury countless lives?” “What is this pain compared to the weight of fate bearing down on my shoulders?” “I... am Emperor Yun of the God Realm! I have come to destroy the Abyss bearing the weight and safety of countless lives in my homeworld! Do you think... that a mere punishment of devouring rage... that a little bit of physical and soul pain... is enough to crush me? Is enough to make me succumb!?” “Who... are... you... kidding!!!” A long, long time later, Li Suo finally spoke up once more. However, the terrible panic and urgency that dyed her voice earlier were nowhere to be found. No, it was the same tone she used when speaking to Yun Che, but gentler and softer than usual. “Okay. I won’t disturb you. I’ll watch over you quietly as you safely overcome... this tiny obstacle in your abyssal journey.” Fifty breaths... sixty breaths... seventy breaths... The passage of time had never felt so slow. Everyone’s heart was beating so loudly that they could clearly hear their own heartbeats. However... they could not hear even a single scream from Yun Che. Not even one. All ten of Yun Che’s fingers were deboned at this point. His palms were riddled with deep, self-inflicted holes of blood. Even the fog of sweat shrouding him initially had transformed into a horrifying fog of blood. According to the records, the punishment of devouring rage was an extreme form of torture that began from one’s “existence”. So long as the victim’s body and soul still existed, the punishment would inflict upon them the cruelest devouring rage down to the very last cell. His muscles were undulating and wriggling like crazy, and his veins were bulging like dragons in their death struggle... but despite this, his tightly pursed lips never let slip a single noise of submission, nor did his spine bend even once, no matter how much his body writhed in suffering. He looked like a winter pine tree that could never be broken or burned completely, no matter how hard the inferno of purgatory burned. Eighty breaths... ninety breaths... Meng Kongchan had stopped shouting at this point. He was staring blankly at Yun Che while the tears of a Divine Regent welled inside his eye sockets again and again. What willpower, what pride... This is my son! A shadow flitted across Hua Qingying’s vision, and she subconsciously caught it with one hand. When she looked... she saw that it was a strand of her own blue hair she had snapped without realizing. Hua Caili’s body had not stopped trembling for even a moment, and her heart had not stopped growing cracks since the punishment began... As if he could hear her sobs, amidst everyone’s befuddled gazes, Yun Che slowly opened his eyes and met Hua Caili’s without a sound. Right now, the whites of his eyes were covered entirely in terrifying red threads, his blue veins were bulging wildly across his forehead, and every single one of his facial features was spasming and warping like crazy. Right here and now, he looked scarier than even a violent, malicious ghoul from hell. But to Hua Caili? There was no man in the entire world who looked more attractive than Yun Che right now. “Cai... Li...” His lips trembled, and an indescribably hoarse but clear voice somehow came out of his mouth. “Don’t... be... scared...” “This... doesn’t... hurt... at... all...” He smiled. He actually smiled. The corners of his lips were stained with the blood spilled from broken teeth. Blood mixed with saliva was constantly streaming down his chin. He looked beyond savage and terrifying right now, and yet his eyes contained a kind of gentleness that shook Hua Caili to her very core. Meeting his gaze head-on, Hua Caili responded with a gentle smile of her own... even though tears instantly cascaded down her cheeks like waterfalls. “Big Brother Yun, look at me... and listen to my voice...” Staring into Yun Che’s bloodshot eyes, Hua Caili’s tear-soaked voice echoed across Eden’s Crown and into everyone’s ears and souls. “Today's pain is something you selfishly bore for me... so... I will practice hard... I will become someone as powerful as Aunt and Father as soon as possible... from today onward... all of the difficulties... obstacles... and pain... will be borne by me!” These were not the sweet, private words between a young woman and her lover. This was a declaration she had made in the highest land of the Abyss. This was an oath she swore in front of Yun Che, the Abyssal Monarch, and the six Kingdoms of God. Heaven and earth were her witnesses, and all of the world would soon learn of her oath. It went without saying that it was an absolute oath she planned to keep no matter what. Yun Che, who was being tortured alone, and Hua Caili, who was softly reciting her vows... Right here and now, there wasn’t a single soul who wasn’t moved by this sight. They should be laughing at Yun Che and Hua Caili for not realizing how high the sky was and how deep the earth ran. They should be scornful of them for betraying their engagement and shamelessly “falling in love” with another. They should also be lamenting the loss of an impossible talent who insisted on committing suicide... But right here and now, they could not help but wonder if the betrothal bestowed by the Abyssal Monarch Himself... was a mistake that should not have happened. One of them was a Divine Master who could defeat a Divine Extinction Realm on his own. To say that his talent was universally shocking would still be an understatement. The other was a swordswoman possessing such stunning talent in the way of the sword that even the Abyssal Monarch had to offer His praise. They were both the only two perfect God Bearers in this universe, the first ever pair of stars in the history of the Abyss, and the descendants of a Divine Regent... Anything and everything suggested that they were made to be together. The Abyssal Monarch kept watch silently. He hadn’t spoken a word since the punishment began, and the gentle divine glow enveloping him seemed to have frozen even time itself. No one knew that his vision was heavily blurred right now. One hundred and ten breaths... one hundred and twenty breaths... on the Boundless Kingdom of God’s side, Dian Rahu was wearing a deep frown on his face. It had been a long time since he said a single word, and... despite the circumstances, he had never once laughed, yelled, or ridiculed Yun Che from the start until the end. There was only deep, heavy gravity in his expression. Dian Jiuzhi’s expression was changing all this time. Appalled, shocked, dazed... and now, when he heard Hua Caili’s soulful whisper, the corners of his lips actually twitched... and curled into a small smile.Someone is willing to go so far for you... And there is someone you are willing to go so far for... Congratulations on finding the best one for you, Caili. From the bottom of my heart... I am happy for you... and myself.You no longer need my presence or my protection for the rest of your life. The only thing I can do now is to gradually extinguish Father’s anger and shield you from the storms that will stand in the way of your happiness. Beside him, Dian Sansi was standing with a blank expression. His earlier madness and exhilaration had long disappeared. All that was left behind was ever-growing bewilderment. Far, far away in the distant horizon, a red figure was standing in the sky and overlooking everything that was happening in Eden’s Crown since heaven-knows-when. She had long, snow white hair. She was wearing a long dress that gave her a flaming appearance. A powerful, profound practitioner like her should not fear the erosion of time, but the passage of time seemed positively merciless on her. Her face was wrinkled like rotten bark, her eye sockets were deeply sunken, and those pupils that once won the hearts of countless when they were young only contained gray murkiness now. “To think that such a willpower and man of devotion existed... Cough... Cough cough!” She started coughing violently. She would not recover until a long time later. Standing quietly beside her, Su Shang gently patted the old woman on her back while saying, “Master, your ailment hasn’t receded yet. You should return now that you’ve seen what you’ve come to see.” “Okay.” She did not reject Su Shang’s advice. She looked at Eden’s Crown and rested her gaze on the Abyssal Monarch for a very, very long time. “He... must be deeply affected by this scene.” The woman in red leaned on Su Shang and disappeared together with her after that. It was as if they had never shown up. Right now, it was bizarrely silent throughout Eden’s Crown. Only the sounds of Yun Che’s blood and sweat dripping against the floor could be heard. Everyone was looking at him, silently counting the passage of time in their heart. One hundred and sixty breaths... one hundred and seventy breaths... “To have a son like that... What else can anyone ask for?” The Pray Eternal Divine Regent murmured. Beside him, Pan Buzhuo’s earlier scorn and disdain were nowhere to be found. When he cast his gaze at Yun Che, the feedback he received... was a sense of inferiority he had never felt in his life. All of his malicious words and thoughts from before, all of his jealousy... all of it only made him feel meek and laughable. One hundred and eighty breaths... one hundred and ninety breaths! Suddenly, a shrill, horrible scream cut through the air. “Ludicrous! Ludicrous!! Men are the most hypocritical and despicable creatures in the entire world! There is no way a man could go this far for a woman... it’s all fake... it’s just a filthy pretense, a hypocritical lie! It’s all fake... it’s all fake[1]!!!” The Lightless Divine Regent, who was silent all this time, suddenly screamed like she had suddenly gone mad. Her out-of-control voice and profound energy ripped apart the pitch black palanquin, sending shredded pieces of black ribbons everywhere. Bloodcurdling screams filled the air as most of the women surrounding the palanquin were knocked to the ground. They were all clutching their ears in pain. “No... a man like this cannot possibly exist in this world! Impossible... impossible! It’s all a hypocritical lie... hypocrite... lies... lies! Ahahahahahaha!![2]”Bang! The broken palanquin suddenly flew into the air and carried Shenwu Yanye away from Eden’s Crown. No one knew where the woman who suddenly suffered a mental collapse was headed. “Divine Regent!” Shenwu Youluan let out a cry of shock before grabbing Shenwu Yi’s wrist and chasing after her Divine Regent. Every other member of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God was giving chase as well. Right as she leaped off of Ede’s Crown, Shenwu Yi looked back for some reason... and found her gaze being drawn toward the man named Yun Che for an instant. A hint of something complex and inexplicable flashed in her eyes, and she disappeared behind the clouds right after that. Two hundred breaths! The Chief Priest abruptly withdrew his palm, and countless needles of withered yellow profound light left Yun Che’s body at once... However, his divine eyes remained glued to Yun Che’s person, and a tidal wave of emotions he had not experienced even once for the past million years churned inside his heart. He asked himself if he could endure two hundred breaths of the punishment of devouring rage without uttering a single sound like Yun Che. The answer was no. Just what kind of willpower and conviction... “Yuan’er!!” “Brother Yuan!” “Divine Son Yuan!!!” “Big Brother Yun!” ... The pain receded like tidal water, and all he could hear was a cacophony of screams. Each one was only more worried and scared than the last. Yun Che’s spirit relaxed, and the back that had remained standing throughout the punishment of great rage finally lost all senses and fell backward powerlessly... into the crook of a warm, gentle arm. Meng Kongchan’s clothes were instantly drenched in blood as he gently held Yun Che... He was the Dreamless Divine Regent who had led the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God for over ten thousand years, and yet he had never felt more panicked and lost than he was now. His arms possessed the strength to rip heaven and earth like nothing, and yet he didn’t even dare to muster an ounce of strength. He could only half-crouch on the ground and do nothing for a long time, afraid to move even a muscle. The shouts kept coming, and Yun Che opened his eyes. It took him an unbelievably long time before some blurry images finally peeked out of the blurry haze that was his vision. The corners of his mouth split open. He seemed to be wearing a cocky grin as he declared, “See... told you... the punishment of devouring rage... is nothing...” Hua Caili was burying her face against his chest and weeping like a baby. She clenched and released her fists repeatedly like she wanted to punch him hard, but she ultimately could not bear to do it. Hua Qingying turned around and gave Hua Fuchen a look. “So? What do you think? The man Caili chose is countless times better than the one you chose for her, no?” Hua Fuchen smiled. “Well... If only he was less of a troublemaker.” That was what he said, but the small smile on his face did not fade. No one knew that the seemingly calm and unperturbed Abyssal Monarch had only just recovered his senses. He turned his back on the scene and said indifferently, “Since the punishment has been carried out, the engagement between Hua Caili and Dian Jiuzhi shall be annulled.” With great difficulty, Yun Che turned to face the Abyssal Monarch and said, “Thank... you... for... granting... wish... Your... Majes... ty...” Having said that, Yun Che finally could not cling to his consciousness any longer and succumbed to complete darkness. Dian Rahu suddenly turned away and roared, “We're leaving!” No one in the Boundless Kingdom of God’s formation said a word. They simply fell in line behind Dian Rahu and followed him out of Eden’s Crown. Hua Fuchen abruptly looked up and acted to chase after the man, but Hua Qingying stopped him immediately. “He is at his angriest right now. There is nothing you can say that will make it through to him... leave it for another time.” Hua Fuchen fell silent for a long time. In the end, he withdrew his foot and let out a deep sigh. 1. You are, in fact, totally correct. ☜ 2. You are, in fact, the most correct woman in the entire Abyss right now. ☜ Chapter 2152 - Unwavering Heart The profound ship of the Boundless Kingdom of God left the Pure Land. Of the six Kingdoms of God, they were the first to make a return journey. Such was their hurry that they had abandoned even the priceless opportunity to enter the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. That was how angry the Boundless Divine Regent was. The atmosphere was the exact opposite of what it had been on their journey to the Pure Land. All that liveliness and excitement had been replaced by oppressive silence. Everyone was keeping silent and holding their breaths for fear of triggering the furious Boundless Divine Regent. They could not forget the gazes they received when Yun Che and Hua Caili’s affair was revealed... and they definitely could not forget how those gazes had changed after Yun Che withstood twice the punishment of devouring rage with impossible willpower. These people should be ridiculing and reviling Dreamweaver and Heaven Breaker for their actions. Still, no one could muster such a sentiment after witnessing Yun Che’s willpower and Hua Caili’s oath with their own eyes. Their love for each other was so genuine and pure that no one was immune to its touch. Many even began to believe that Yun Che and Hua Caili were meant for each other and prayed that they would overcome all the obstacles standing in the way of their fairy-tale love. On the other hand, the Boundless Kingdom of God, who was let down and betrayed, was... For a long, long time, Dian Rahu simply stood at the bow of the profound ship, unmoving. Only his long beard was fluttering in the wind. His aura was so intimidating that every living being on the ship felt like they were carrying ten thousand mountains on their backs, barely able to breathe. Despite the intimidating aura, Dian Jiuzhi did not attempt to lighten his footsteps. He walked right up to his Father’s back. Much further away, Dian Sansi approached the duo up to a point before coming to a stop. Eyes timid like a startled cub, he did not dare to take another step forward despite struggling long and hard against his own emotions. “Father,” Dian Jiuzhi spoke up. “The point of no return is behind us, so please quell your anger for the moment. This child has no right to criticize the Heart Painter Divine Regent and Dreamless Divine Regent, but you’ve been close friends with them for countless years. You of all people must know their temperaments. Once you’ve calmed down, I’m sure you’ll accurately deduce whether or not they have intentionally betrayed and injured you.” Dian Rahu did not turn around. His voice sounded as cold as ice as he asked, “What is ‘Jiuzhi’?” Dian Jiuzhi answered calmly, “‘Know self,’ ‘know others,’ ‘know life,’ ‘know gratitude,’ ‘know shame,’ ‘know good’—” “You ‘know shame’?!” Dian Rahu spun around and viciously interrupted Dian Jiuzhi’s reply with a heavy, violent voice that sounded like a thunderclap. “If you truly know ‘shame’, then why on earth are you trying to defend the people who shamed you like nothing else?! Have you fed your dignity as a Boundless Divine Son to the dogs!” Dian Jiuzhi’s response toward Dian Rahu’s furious glare was to whisper, “Those who know shame... are just as easily trapped by shame itself.” Dian Rahu’s eyes narrowed, and his already suffocating aura grew even darker and scarier. “Who... Who taught you that?!” It was a given, but Dian Jiuzhi wasn’t feeling nearly as calm as he appeared to be. In fact, he regretted his impulsive answer as soon as the phrase tumbled out of his mouth. Despite this, despite Dian Rahu’s glare, he did not become nervous or apprehensive. He answered frankly, “It was Yun Che.” Dian Rahu’s pupils contracted. Then, his facial features started quivering, and his rage turned his complexion as red as hot iron. “You... shameful thing!!”Bang!! Dian Rahu abruptly punched Dian Jiuzhi in the face, breaking his nose and sending him flying far, far away. The Boundless Divine Son hit the floor hard while thick globs of blood spilled out of his mouth and nose. Dian Rahu pointed at Dian Jiuzhi, finger shaking from how much rage was coursing through his body, “I have tutored you for several thousand years, and you’re telling me one delusional nonsense from that boy is all it took to overturn it?! You... What a good son you are!!!” “Cough... cough cough... cough cough cough cough...” Dian Rahu had not punched Dian Jiuzhi lightly. Right now, the Boundless Divine Son was curled up like a prawn and even coughing up dark red pieces of his internal organs. Despite this, Dian Jiuzhi pushed himself up with his hands. Head bowed, he replied raspily, “Back then, I was even more confused than you are now, Father. I, too, cannot believe why a few remarks from Yun Che are enough to unseat my understanding of the word ‘Jiuzhi’, and the code I have guarded zealously for several thousand years.” “However, I soon figured out the answer. It was because his words resonated with my actual understanding of those words; an understanding that has existed inside me all this time.” The rage in Dian Rahu’s pupils immediately blazed like an inferno. “What... did you say?!” Dian Jiuzhi lifted his head. His broken nose was dripping with glaringly red blood, but his gaze did not contain a sliver of fear or regret. “Have you seen the true nature of humans, Father?” “...?” Dian Rahu frowned even deeper. Dian Jiuzhi asked another question, “Do you remember my original name, Father?” “...” Dian Rahu did not answer. He couldn’t. It was because he did not remember Dian Jiuzhi’s original name, nor did he care to. “You don’t. No one does.” Dian Jiuzhi’s voice was so calm it felt like a pool of dead water. “But everyone remembers that I used to be called ‘Bighead Dian’.” A bit of self-derision entered his bloodstained lips. “I was born with an unnaturally large head because of my slumbering Divine Vein of Great Rage. So, I became an ugly creature in everyone’s eyes. Because of my big head, everyone scorned me, harassed me, and called me ‘Bighead Dian’. My own birth mother loathed me and feared me, refusing to let me approach her. She even told me to die again and again because my very existence brought shame to her.” “Since I was young, I was careful to a fault. I did not dare to make a single mistake, much less disturb others. I can only grab inferior resources that others found beneath them to plunder, curl up in the humblest corners of the world, and cultivate alone.” “Despite this, the ridicule and harassment never ended. We are all from the same clan, are we not? Some of them are even my half-siblings... I never did them any wrong, and I tried so hard to curry favor with them, and yet still they laughed at my appearance, stole my resources, and beat me blue and black. Not satisfied yet, they arranged me into the ugliest and most humiliating appearance they could think of to derive pleasure from.” “Even the visitors from other Kingdoms of God... forget grievances, we don’t even know each other. But the moment they heard the name ‘Bighead Dian’, they would laugh derisively and look down on me like I was nothing more than a pathetic and filthy toy.” “From that moment on, I knew that humans do not need a reason to be malicious. I deserve to be ridiculed and harassed simply because I look ugly, and my nickname is Bighead Dian! I do not need to commit any sin or wrong to deserve such treatment!” Dian Rahu’s mouth moved, but he said nothing. Of course, he knew what Dian Jiuzhi was talking about. “But the moment my Divine Vein of Great Rage awakened, the moment I transformed from ‘Bighead Dian’ to Dian Jiuzhi, the Boundless Divine Son...” He scoffed without trying to conceal even a wisp of his derision or sorrow. “All of that ridicule and harassment disappeared overnight. Everyone’s gaze became so passionate, so flattering, so full of admiration and respect... It’s almost as if every evil person in this world had disappeared overnight. Everyone became so gentle; so kind.” “Of their own accord, the people who once ridiculed me and harassed me knelt in front of me and begged for my forgiveness. They wept as if their souls had been cleansed in a single night. The birth mother who used to avoid me like a venomous creature suddenly turned into a kind mother who wept, saying that I am her pride and joy; that all the indifference and barbed words she showered me with in the past are just her way of tempering me... hehe... hehehehe...” “What are you trying to say here?” Dian Rahu asked with a furrowed brow. “Are you confessing your past humility? Or are you accusing the entire Boundless Kingdom of God of wronging you?” “You are fifty-two sexagenary years old. Don’t tell me you haven’t realized yet that this is the law of the world! The strong can tower over anyone and anything and never worry about being oppressed by anyone, while the weak must be oppressed for eternity! It is the same no matter the Kingdom of God or even plane of existence! With your past, you should understand this better than anyone!” “No.” Dian Jiuzhi shook his head and rejected his Father’s teaching to his face once more. “There was one person who taught me that those in high positions need not disdain the humble; that even the weak can receive dignity and respect!” “That person... is Caili.” The name belonged to a person whose destiny with him had run its course, and yet the mention of it still softened his voice and demeanor like a beautiful dream. “The first day I met Caili, I was being stomped inside a pool of mud. I was hurt all over and a sorry sight. She was the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter who looked like a divine phoenix from the nine heavens. The gap between us was as big as the difference between the mud on the ground and the clouds in the sky.” “However, she repelled my harassers for me and comforted me. Her eyes harbored not condescension or charity, but genuine compassion and concern. She initially thought ‘Bighead Dian’ was my real name and addressed me by that name. However, there isn’t even a hint of ridicule in her voice.” “On that day, for the first time in my life, I did not feel humiliated when I heard the name ‘Bighead’. Instead, I felt soothed like a rainbow had shone into my heart; warmed like I’m floating inside a dream...” “That was the day I abandoned the suicidal thoughts that had been accumulating inside me since heaven-knows-when and cultivated with all my might. All I wanted was to glimpse her from a distance once more. More than that... Even if my body was ugly, even if all my power amounts to nothing more than a feather, I still wished to gather enough strength to help her.” Dian Rahu stared at him for a long time. He was so angry that he could not help but laugh. “Is that why you acted how you’re acting? Even if she’s the one who betrayed you and one-sidedly broke off the engagement? Even if she’s the one who crushed your pride and turned you from the number one Divine Son to the biggest joke of the century? Even now, you’re still going to defend her as you did before?” “Yes!” Dian Jiuzhi replied firmly and without hesitation. Dian Rahu’s mane swelled, and his chest heaved up and down mightily. He raised his hand once more, but... when he saw the never-before-seen light of determination residing in Dian Jiuzhi’s pupils, he ultimately did not slap him a second time. Still, his voice was quivering a little from how furious he was, “Dian Jiuzhi, do you understand that your life, your dignity, your everything... no longer belongs to just you from the moment you are given the name ‘Jiuzhi’? That it is bound with the title ‘Boundless Divine Son’, and by association, the fate and dignity of the entire Kingdom of God?!” “Look at you right now!! Even a dog with a broken spine at least knows to bark its defiance, but you are still defending the very person who broke yours! You... You truly are my best son! Even a dog is better than you right now!” Dian Rahu thought that his vicious rebukes—especially one involving the dignity of the Kingdom of God—would at least elicit some regret and shame from Dian Jiuzhi, but... there was none. There was barely a ripple in Dian Jiuzhi’s gaze when he reached the end of his rebuke. “Father, you are a natural Godbearer with ninety percent divine essence. You are the Boundless Divine Son from the moment you were born. The word ‘honor’ has accompanied you your whole life, and everyone in the world knows how fierce and outspoken you are. But... if there is a choice, who wouldn’t crave swift justice? Who wouldn’t yearn to vent their feelings to their heart’s content? However, not everyone shares your fate, Father.” Dian Jiuzhi’s voice was remarkably calm. He seemed more serene than even Dian Rahu, the Boundless Divine Regent. “The world I see and perceive differs from that of yours, Father.” “Caili saved my life. My fate was changed by her as well. To me, she represents redemption and salvation. The light of humanity she bestowed me back then is simply too dazzling and precious to me.” “It is because of Caili that I never took vengeance against those who oppressed me after I became the Boundless Divine Son. It is because of Caili that I never treated anyone with malice unless I had no choice. It is because of Caili that I never stopped tempering myself and marching forward.” “I am ultimately not you, Father. I cannot carry the entire Boundless Kingdom of God on my back like you. I have my own things that I cherish deeply, and... I will never, ever extinguish the humanity I cherish so much—not even if I’m a Divine Son, not even if I’m a Divine Regent.” Dian Rahu clenched his fists so tight that they popped audibly. The son he thought he knew so well suddenly seemed like a complete stranger today. It was only now that he realized he had never truly understood his own son. Dian Jiuzhi’s infatuation with Hua Caili was literally renowned throughout the world. As his father, he knew it even better than the masses. He could pay any price to obtain an object of Hua Caili’s desire. Despite being the Boundless Divine Son, he did not allow a single woman to approach him, going so far as to maintain a strictly male retinue. More than once, he had mentioned that Hua Caili was the one and only person for him, and this would not change even after he had become a Divine Regent. Dian Rahu was astonished at first. Then, he half-jokingly rebuked his son. After that, he slowly caved and accepted his son’s obsession... because he believed that his feelings, as strong as they were, were just the infatuation and delusion of youth. As Dian Jiuzhi’s status grew and his horizons broadened, he believed that his son would naturally make the choice most beneficial to the succession and future of a Kingdom of God. It was only now that he realized that Dian Jiuzhi’s feelings for Hua Caili were so pure that they could not tolerate even a speck of dust; so pure that they truly surpassed everything. “You are practically hopeless! You... have thoroughly disappointed me!” Dian Rahu abruptly waved his arm and left in anger, refusing to look at his son for even a second longer. “Cough... cough cough!!” Meanwhile, Dian Jiuzhi was still clutching his solar plexus. Blood was still streaming down his mouth and nostrils as well. Dian Sansi had walked up to him before he knew it. Shakily, the young man crouched down and tried to lift Dian Jiuzhi to his feet. “Big brother Jiuzhi, are you... are you alright?” His voice was quivering, and he did not dare to look Dian Jiuzhi in the eye. Dian Jiuzhi gave him a look before pushing himself up and slapping Dian Sansi hard across the face.Slap! Dian Sansi fell on his butt and stayed there. He bowed his head deeply and wept at the top of his lungs, “I’m sorry... big brother Jiuzhi, I’m sorry. I... I don’t know what happened to me... It’s like a demon had barged into my head... all I could think of at the time was to vent my feelings and ruin Yun Che... I’m sorry... I’m sorry...” Dian Jiuzhi’s gaze went blank for a moment. He shakily reached out to touch the reddened spot where he had slapped Dian Sansi... before slapping himself viciously across the face. “Big brother Jiuzhi!” Dian Sansi panicked and hurriedly caught Dian Jiuzhi’s wrist. Dian Jiuzhi let out a horrid laugh and said bleakly, “You’re just an innocent victim who was unwittingly dragged into this, and still I took out my anger on you... I truly am hopeless, aren’t I?” “No, no!” Dian Sansi shook his head strongly. “It’s all my fault. I’m the one who is childish and useless. Not only did I ignore your teachings, but I also lost control of my own emotions. That is why this disaster happened. I... I...” Dian Jiuzhi raised his hand and gently wiped away the tearstains on Dian Sansi’s face. Then, he cracked a small smile and said, “You’re an iron-blooded man of Boundless. How can you cry like a young child? The future of Boundless rests on your shoulders, you know?” Dian Sansi was furiously wiping his tears. He was just about to say something when suddenly, something about Dian Jiuzhi’s response stopped him dead. He asked blankly, “Big brother Jiuzhi, what... What did you just say? What future of Boundless?” Dian Jiuzhi looked at him calmly. “Do you still remember why I work tirelessly to improve myself and aim to become a Divine Regent?” Dian Sansi opened his mouth and answered a bit powerlessly, “To... to be deserving of the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter.” “Correct. So...” He smiled again and looked up at the clouded sky. “That reason no longer exists.” “Besides... you should have heard my dialogue with Father. That light of humanity completely fills up my chest. I neither possess the ambition nor the resolve to devote myself to Boundless, much less bear the future of Boundless on my shoulders. On the other hand, you are better suited than I am. That is why you need to work harder than before, starting today.” “No! No!” Dian Sansi shook his head. “Big brother Jiuzhi, I cannot possibly compare to you! You are the only owner of the Divine Vein of Great Rage in the world, while I... I am ruined after everything that has happened today. How can I possibly deserve to—” “Remember this, Sansi.” Dian Jiuzhi said seriously, “The thing that matters least in this world is another person’s look and judgment. Why? Because all that will change when you have gained sufficient strength and climbed to a high enough position. Everyone who once looked down on you will start looking up to you, and all that ridicule and scorn will turn into respect and fear instead.” No one could have said these words and made them sound more convincing than Dian Jiuzhi himself. After giving Dian Sansi a heavy slap on the shoulder, Dian Jiuzhi climbed to his feet with some difficulty and hobbled away. It was at this moment that a shout suddenly came from behind his back. “Big Brother Jiuzhi, you do have a reason! Don’t you want to keep protecting the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter?!” Dian Jiuzhi did not look back, but his footsteps suddenly came to a halt. Dian Sansi sucked in a deep breath before pleading sincerely, “I know that Yun Che endured twice the punishment of devouring rage for the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter today. I’m sure you think that Yun Che would treat her like you treat her, never betraying her feelings for even an instant. But... But...” “I know that you probably won’t believe my opinion on Yun Che after everything that happened today. I know that you would probably think it’s just malicious slander and venting. But Brother Jiuzhi... the Yun Che I saw really is completely different from the one you know!!” “When we were alone, the face he showed me was unspeakably treacherous, and his words were vile beyond imagination. It is completely different from the one you know, almost as if he carries many different masks on his person!” “Now that I have the time to think and digest, I’m starting to think that he’s planning to anger me from the very beginning. He even told me himself that what he did in front of Ling Xian’s divine abode... was intentional! He did it only because he sensed our presence!” “...” Dian Jiuzhi wobbled a little. “I know what I said sounds unbelievably hard to believe, but please, I beg you to try. If... What if... Yun Che truly is not what he appears to be? What if Yun Che were to betray or injure the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter in the future? Should such a time ever come, don’t you want to have the power and status to protect her then?” A long, long silence later, Dian Jiuzhi finally started walking once more. He gradually disappeared into the shadows of the profound ship. He did not give him a response. Chapter 2153 - Abyssal Monarch’s Summon At the Pure Land, inside the courtyard of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God, a pitch-black palanquin was parked at the center, emanating a chilly fog far more biting and cold than usual. It caused the surrounding women of Eternal Night to quiver in fear and be afraid of voicing even a single word. Flanked by Shenwu Youluan and Shenwu Mingque, Shenwu Yi slowly knelt down in front of the palanquin before greeting the Divine Regent with a cool, respectful voice that sounded like jade fragments striking against the ice. “Wu Yi greets you, Mother—”Bang! A gust of icy wind abruptly flung open the palanquin and struck Shenwu Yi squarely in the solar plexus. Shenwu Yi did not attempt to dodge or defend against it. She allowed the attack to hit her and push her far, far away. A thin line of blood slowly slid down a corner of her mouth. “How dare you, Wu Yi?!” The Lightless Divine Regent’s cold, violent voice erupted from inside the palanquin, and each word felt like an icicle that pierced the bone. “I commanded you to demand the Nine Heart Divine Lotus from the Abyssal Monarch, but you dare disregard my words and request entry to the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods instead?!” Shenwu Youluan hurriedly responded, “Please calm down, supreme one. Wu Yi is only doing this for your—” “Silence!” Another gust of yin wind surged out of the palanquin and struck Shenwu Youluan heavily. It sent her flying backward and slammed her against a pillar. “Did I give you permission to speak?” It took Shenwu Youluan some effort to climb back to her feet with difficulty and assume a kneeling position once more. She bowed her head and kept silent. Long eyelashes covering up her moon-like pupils, Shenwu Yi said calmly and lightly, “According to the ‘Secret Tome’, the ‘Abyssal Heart Vine’ only exists in an abyssal ghost of a higher plane. However, not only was Wu Yi unable to locate an abyssal ghost that fit the criteria, but there isn’t even a record of such an abyssal ghost existing in the Endless Fog.” “On the other hand, the legendary Forbidden Zone of the Slumbering Gods contains countless abyssal ghosts, and some of them are transformed from ancient fallen gods. That is where Wu Yi’s biggest hope lies.” “My self-improvement cannot possibly measure up to Mother’s safety. That is why...” Shenwu Yi paused here and bowed her head. She added in a regretful tone, “No matter the reason, it is true that Wu Yi has disobeyed your order and committed an unforgivable crime. Wu Yi is willing to accept any punishment from you, Mother.” If the Lightless Divine Regent were anyone else, she would have been touched by her junior’s heavy concern. However... the last thing the Lightless Divine Regent believed in, and the one thing she “loathed” above all else was sincerity! She spoke in a tone cold enough to freeze the soul, “I have taught you many things over the years, but never have I taught you to be opinionated, have I?” “This is the first time you openly went against my orders. When we return to Eternal Night, you will learn of the consequences of your disobedience. Now leave! Get out of my sight this instant!” “At once.” Shenwu Yi replied quietly before rising to her feet. “Wait!” Suddenly, the Lightless Divine Regent called out to Shenwu Yi once more. At the same time, the surrounding air transformed into dark, chaotic currents. It quickly formed a True God level isolation barrier. Inside the isolation barrier, Shenwu Yanye’s voice seemed to echo directly inside her ears and heart. In fact, space itself had transformed into a bizarre and terrifying domain of sound as she declared, “I’m changing your order to cripple Yun Che! Instead, you will kill him!” Countless people breathed faster inside the isolated domain of sound. Shenwu Youluan, Shenwu Mingque... and almost every woman of Eternal Night looked deeply stunned and puzzled by this command. Although Shenwu Yanye had never acted or behaved like a true Divine Regent or even a normal human being, this command of hers just seemed irrational and sudden to the extreme. “As you command.” Shenwu Yi replied obediently and without any hesitation whatsoever. “Leave no traces behind!” The Lightless Divine Regent’s voice was tinged with a kind of madness that struck fear in many people’s hearts. “If Yun Che dares to enter the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods, then there will be no better opportunity! It means that the heavens themselves want him dead; that they cannot tolerate the very existence of this filth whose hypocrisy knows no bounds!” The Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods was something like an independently existing, special type of Endless Fog. It was almost entirely isolated from the outside world and restricted even the perception of True Gods. It was, without a doubt, the perfect place to kill someone without leaving a trace behind. “As you command,” Shenwu Yi repeated. “Now get out of my sight!” Shenwu Yi stood up and lifted Shenwu Youluan to her feet. Then, the duo slowly left the area. The isolation barrier hadn’t faded yet. Shenwu Mingque hesitated for a long time but ultimately decided to offer her opinion. “Supreme one, Yun Che of Dreamweaver, will be famous throughout the Abyss after today. Even the Abyssal Monarch and the Chief Priest will look at him differently. The Dreamless Divine Regent especially went so far as to abandon his pride to protect Yun Che. If we kill him, and if the truth is exposed, the consequences... would be unpredictable.” That was the most tactful way she could put it. “Besides, we don’t share grievances with Yun Che. We don’t even interact with the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God... In my shallow opinion, there is simply no need to waste any time or energy on that boy at all.” Shenwu Mingque spoke every word carefully and tactfully. If not for the fact that Shenwu Yanye’s decision was beyond outlandish, she wouldn’t even bother to speak up at all. “What do you know? What do you know?!” Shenwu Yanye suddenly lost control of her emotions and let out a violent, howling scream, causing Shenwu Mingque to hold her breath. She had absolutely no idea what it was she said that triggered Shenwu Yanye. “What most beautiful woman in the world! The way these men trick women is exactly the same! Every word they speak stinks so bad you can’t help but throw up!” “What he will take twice the punishment of devouring rage alone... hehehe, hahahaha... hypocrite! Hypocrite! A man’s essence is hypocrisy! Filth! Shameless! Despicable! He’s just a better liar than Shenwu Xueyan, that’s all! He deserves to die more than Shenwu Xueyan! More!!” Shenwu Mingque’s pupils contracted slightly when she heard the name “Shenwu Xueyan”... At that moment, she suddenly understood why Shenwu Yanye harbored such terrible bloodthirst toward a young man she had never known until today. “Shenwu Xueyan... Shenwu Xueyan... Shenwu Xueyan!!” The Lightless Divine Regent seemed to be triggered by her own words. Her aura began to unravel, and her voice slowly grew shrill and terrible, like a mindless ghoul. “All men in this world are Shenwu Xueyan! They are all animals who know only betrayal! They all deserve to die!!” At this point, Shenwu Mingque could only bow her head deeply and keep quiet. At the same time, she hid a sigh. Yun Che was truly unlucky. Who could have imagined that he would accidentally touch the one scar he must never touch? “Are you alright, Wuyi?” Shenwu Youluan supported Shenwu Yi and sat her on a chair. Then, she carefully checked her injuries while asking if she was alright. “I’m fine.” Shenwu Yi shook her head slightly. Her complexion was a bit pale, but she still looked every bit the stunning ice beauty she was. “Mother did not put much strength into the blow. I will recover before I enter the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods.” Shenwu Youluan let out a small sigh. “You know what the consequences of going against her order are, so why did you...” Shenwu Yi’s voice was gentle. Despite having suffered a terrible rebuke and physical punishment from Shenwu Yanye, there wasn’t a shred of regret in her voice whatsoever. “If I can collect the Abyssal Heart Vine for Mother, her divine body would have a real chance to recover. When the time comes, she will be able to clearly see Wuyi and the Eternal Night Kingdom of God she commands, and her lifespan will be extended several times what it is now. I’ll be able to keep her company for longer then.” “That is why I must do this. Even if it is just a faint ray of hope, it is still far more important than my personal growth.” As she spoke, her left eyelash trembled just a bit. It was so minor that anyone could have missed it, but Shenwu Youluan was close enough to see it clearly. “Foolish girl.” Shenwu Youluan hugged her gently and said painfully, “I know you feel aggrieved... this is the Pure Land, so the Divine Regent can’t extend her spiritual perception as she pleases. Just vent whatever grievances you harbor inside your heart. It will only do you harm if you keep it inside your heart.” “I’m not aggrieved.” Shenwu Yi gently pressed her head against Shenwu Youluan’s chest and curled her lips into a faint smile. “I’ve always known that Mother is being strict with me only for my own good. I could not have achieved what I’ve achieved in just twenty years otherwise. It’s just... she was once injured by sincerity, and so could no longer permit herself to believe that sincerity is real.” She closed her eyes a little and let out a quiet sigh. “Sometimes, I even wish that Mother would implant the ‘Eternal Night Death Wishing Mark’ in me. That way, I’d be able to gain more of her trust.” “You cannot think such a thing.” Shenwu Youluan replied with evident distress in her voice, “Your talent is the Eternal Night Kingdom of God’s most valuable resource. The Eternal Night Death Wishing Mark must not damage it.” “So...” Shenwu Yi looked up, eyes glistening with overwhelming hope. “Mother ultimately loves me, right?” “I don’t know.” Shenwu Youluan answered, “No one can fathom the Divine Regent’s thoughts. Maybe she does, maybe she doesn’t. However, everyone can tell and feel how pure and sincere your love for the Divine Regent is. I’m sure that, given enough time, the Divine Regent will believe in sincerity once more.” A short silence later, Shenwu Yi actually shook her head. “No, I don’t need Mother to change herself for me. After all, her inability to trust anything and everything is itself a form of self-protection, isn’t it? I only wish that she could truly live as herself and be healthy, that’s all.” “I will do everything in my power to find the Abyssal Heart Vine when I enter the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. If I fail... then I will create more opportunities to enter the place. I have to succeed eventually.” “Very well.” Shenwu Youluan smiled. “It is stated that those with the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass not only possess the purest soul, but are also blessed by the heavenly law itself. I’m sure that your sincerity will touch even the heavenly law and convince them to lend you their blessing.” It was at this moment that an invisible, soul aura disappeared without a trace[1]. Inside the pitch black palanquin, low, hoarse screams echoed again and again, “Sincerity cannot possibly exist in this filthy world... it cannot... it cannot...” At the very end, the voice seemed to carry the faint hint of a sob. ...... “Remember this, Yun Che!” "From the moment you set foot in the Abyss, every thought that passes through your mind, and every action that you choose to take, will directly affect the life and death of this world!" "That is why every connection you might make in the Abyss—friendship, master-disciple relationship, romance, and even kindness—is only a tool to be exploited to your advantage. You must never allow your true feelings to spill over to these relationships, not even a little. Do you understand?" "You know the kind of person you are. If you allow those relationships to become real, then you cannot help but guard those bonds with your life. But the price you’d have to pay to secure those bonds... might mean the end of yourself and this entire universe!" “Any relationship made in the Abyss is no relationship!” “Any relationship is no relationship!” “Or else... it will be the end!” “The end! The end! The end!!” ...... Inside a dark, gloomy world, Chi Wuyao’s voice was resounding endlessly. Every day, her voice and her advice would echo inside his soul, heaven knows how many times without stopping. Even in a deep coma, every string of his soul was shouting the warning without end. The moment he regained a sliver of consciousness, his soul strings immediately tensed up, and he struggled with all his might to wake up.I... cannot fall unconscious!Here in the Abyss, even a second of complacency is an unforgivable sin! How can I possibly lose my consciousness?! It was at this moment that he heard the voice of a girl saying, “Master is lying again. He keeps telling himself that he’s not hurt, even though he’s obviously in so much pain.” It was Hong’er’s voice. “It’s bad enough that master doesn’t allow us to go out and play; he’s become such a hopeless liar as well. In the past, sister Jasmine and sister He Ling both said that lying is something only a bad kid would do, that one should not lie no matter the occasion,” Hong’er continued. “You mustn’t... speak... badly about... master.” This time, it was You’er who spoke up. Her voice was soft, sweet as honey, and faltering. Li Suo’s sigh followed next. “Lying is bad, yes, but sometimes, people lie only because the burden they carry is too heavy; because they have no other choice. This type of lie especially hurts oneself first before it hurts anyone else.” Li Suo noticed immediately that Yun Che’s soul sea was struggling and quaking unnaturally. “He... is about to awaken.” As he struggled, Yun Che’s eyes abruptly swung open, and blurry but painful light stabbed into his eyes. “Ah!” A young woman’s cry of surprise echoed beside his ears, followed by a shout of pure joy, “Big Brother Yun! You... You’re finally awake.” The face of Hua Caili—one beautiful enough to suck out all the colors of the Pure Land—entered his vision. Her tears looked like star fragments, and her face was covered in tear stains. She looked so poignant that even a man with a heart of stone would crumble in an instant. “How long... have I been asleep?” Yun Che asked while tentatively lifting his hand. He relaxed completely when he confirmed that the listlessness gripping his body wasn’t serious. Hua Caili hurriedly reached out and grabbed his severely wounded palm. “Six hours. You should close your eyes and rest a while longer, big brother Yun. Don’t force yourself to stay up. I will be here the whole time.” “Six hours...” He whispered before curling his fingers and gripping Hua Caili’s fair but somewhat cold hand. He then looked into her eyes and let out a chuckle, “So, you’ve been crying non-stop for six whole hours? No wonder the books say that women are made of water.” “You... I can’t believe you’re laughing at me!!” Embarrassed, Hua Caili tightened her grip a little but ultimately could not bear to actually hurt Yun Che. She could only put on an annoyed expression and complain, “I’m really angry this time! Super angry!” Suddenly, Yun Che clutched his solar plexus and wore a painful expression. “Ah ow ow ow ow... it hurts so bad!” The girl was going to vent her annoyance and irritation at Yun Che, but his reaction instantly turned it all into panic as she stammered, “Wh... where are you hurt?? Is it an internal injury? This shouldn’t be, this shouldn’t be...” Yun Che said with a grimace, “My heart hurts like hell the second my Caili gets angry! Oh, it’s worse than even the punishment of devouring rage!! Sssss... ah!” “You—you!” For a time, Hua Caili didn’t know whether to giggle or get angry with him. In the end, she clenched her teeth and scratched him once on his solar plexus, eliciting an obviously exaggerated howl. After the howl, though, the feigned look of pain faded completely, and Yun Che reached out to grab the girl’s hand with both hands. He said gently yet firmly, “But so long as my Caili is fine, then there is nothing in this world that can truly hurt me.” “I’m hurt, though.” Three words, and the last word was tinged with a small sob. She gently, very gently, laid her head on Yun Che’s chest and listened quietly to his heartbeat. “We promised that we would bear everything together, but you...” “Ahemhem! Ahemhemhem!” It was at this moment that a series of coughs came from the entrance. It was Meng Kongchan half-leaning against the door frame and masking his embarrassment with a straight expression. I think... I came at the wrong time. Hua Caili abruptly shot to her feet and blushed pink. “Uncle Meng.” “Mm.” Meng Kongchan responded in a deadpan manner and nodded the way an elder would. After shooting Yun Che a look, he said, “Your recovery speed is stunning. It’s good. Caili should finally be able to rest easy now.” He cast the girl a look before adding in a mirthful tone, “You would think that the famous Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter would be made of stronger stuff, but the river of tears she shed after you fell unconscious nearly drowned her father and me.” The pink blush on her face instantly deepened into crimson, and the young woman bowed her head deeply to hide her embarrassment. She defended herself in a meek voice, “You... You exaggerate, Uncle Meng.” “Hahahaha!” Meng Kongchan couldn’t help but laugh boisterously at that. “Senior,” Yun Che suddenly spoke up with a regretful expression, “I apologize for the huge trouble my thoughtless misconduct caused for you and the Heart Painter Divine Regent. I didn’t think...” But Meng Kongchan waved his hand and stopped him from continuing, “You endured the punishment of great rage and survived. Your action won you most people’s approval, and even the Abyssal Monarch had officially annulled the engagement. This is the best possible outcome.” “As for the other matter... leave it to us adults to handle. You have nothing to worry about.” Meng Kongchan purposely turned away from Yun Che when he said this. He was afraid that the young man’s excessively sharp eyes would capture the dark gloominess in his eyes. It was at this moment that an ancient voice came from outside. “This old one, Long Zhiming, will soon depart the Pure Land, so I have come to bid Divine Son Yuan goodbye. Has Divine Son Yuan awakened?” Yun Che immediately perked up and said, “Senior, the dragon race and I share a connection. Since the Dragon Lord has purposely come to bid me goodbye, he must have something to say to me.” Meng Kongchan nodded and stepped out of the room. A while later, the Dragon Lord came alone while shrouded by the thick, ancient aura of the Ancestral Dragons. It looked like Yun Che was fine, so Meng Kongchan let out a sigh of relief. Despite this, his heart remained impossibly heavy. Dian Rahu’s roars and questions at Eden’s Crown were still echoing in his ears as if he were standing right next to him. Yun Che had convinced everyone of the righteousness of his relationship with Hua Caili with his stunning willpower. The countless obstacles that originally stood in his and Hua Caili’s way were shattered just like that. However... The fact that most people now viewed Yun Che and Hua Caili’s relationship positively rather than negatively only deepened the anger and humiliation of both Dian Rahu and the Boundless Kingdom of God. Meng Kongchan knew very well that Dian Rahu was right... the two people he trusted the most had given him the greatest betrayal and humiliation of his life. “Ai!!” A heavy sigh escaped Meng Kongchan’s lips. It was at this moment that he caught a cyan figure out of the corner of his eyes. “Qingying?” He was so pleasantly surprised to see her that he cried out subconsciously. “Has Yun Che awakened?” Hua Qingying asked indifferently. “He has.” Meng Kongchan took a few steps forward and said with feigned calmness, “This boy is tougher than he looks—” “That’s good.” After saying that, the cyan figure disappeared into the distant sky just like that. She did not wait for the Dreamless Divine Regent to finish. “Er...” Meng Kongchan subconsciously lifted his hand, but in the end, he could only lower it and sigh again. It was at this moment that another surprising presence approached him rapidly. Meng Kongchan straightened his expression and slowly turned to face an imposing man in armor with a stalwart face. “Abyssal Knight Dugu Zhuyuan greets you, Dreamless Divine Regent. I have come to carry out the Abyssal Monarch’s order. He wishes for me to bring Yun Che to Eden’s Temple for a meeting.” Meng Kongchan’s look of indifference and coldness immediately crumbled a little when he heard this. His eyebrows were scrunched up together as he asked, “What did you just say? Abyssal Monarch?!” 1. Everyone keeps saying XQY isn’t worthy of being Yun Che’s wife and yet who else can Oscar on his level? The Devil Queen? She lost that right the moment she fell for Yun Che lol. ☜ Chapter 2154 - Meeting the Abyssal Monarch Alone The Dragon Lord wasn’t accompanied by Long Chixin or Long Qianxin. He came alone. The moment he saw Yun Che and Hua Caili, his ancient, wrinkly face immediately bloomed into a smile. “Judging from your complexion, it seems that you are already in good health. No one has ever endured twice the punishment of devouring rage without uttering a sound, and I doubt that anyone will surpass this feat in the future. Even now, my shock and amazement haven’t faded one bit. I did not think I would have the fortune of witnessing the rise of a talent like you during my final years, and I no longer have any regrets left in this life.” Yun Che rose to his feet and said apologetically, “You flatter me, senior Dragon Lord. I cannot possibly deserve such praise. I would return your salute, but I am still feeling quite weak right now. I humbly request your forgiveness.” “You exaggerate, Divine Son Yuan.” Despite his untouchable nobility, talent, and willpower, Yun Che remained humble and courteous. The admiration and praise in Long Zhiming’s eyes grew even more as he said, “Divine Son Yuan and the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter truly are a match made in heaven. Now that you have overcome the last obstacle, I’m sure your love story will become a fairy tale that will be remembered in the Abyss for eternity.” However, when he recalled the son he invested all of his race’s resources to raise, even going so far as to resort to despicable means, bitterness and lamentation welled inside his heart as well... the difference between his son and the young man before him was bigger than even the difference between a firefly and the moon. Long Zhiming’s praise was well received by Hua Caili. She could feel Yun Che’s respect for the Dragon Lord as well. So, she said in an equally respectful tone, “Thank you for your compliments, senior Dragon Lord. Big Brother Yun and I will definitely work hard to become... the ‘fairy tale’ you speak of.” “Hahahaha.” Long Zhiming let out a belly laugh at that. Yun Che asked directly, “So, why have you visited me today, senior Dragon Lord? Do you have some sort of guidance to impart to me?” “Oh no, I am hardly qualified.” Long Zhiming hesitated for a moment as if choosing his words. A few seconds later, he finally lowered his voice and asked, “It’s just... When you were enduring the punishment of devouring rage, this old one seemed to sense a draconic aura from you. It feels similar to the Ancestral Dragons... If you don’t mind, could you tell me if it’s just a misunderstanding caused by my advanced age and failing spiritual perception, or...” “I see.” Yun Che did not look perturbed in the slightest. Still wearing a faint smile on his face, he answered, “There is nothing wrong with your senses whatsoever, senior Dragon Lord. Since you found out, this junior sees no reason to hide this from you.” “When I was still wandering the world, my master once gifted me a few drops of Ancestral Dragon blood and a segment of draconic marrow. That is how I came by a draconic bloodline. However, this boon is directly tied to Master, which is why I refrain from bringing it up unless absolutely necessary, and failed to inform you about it at first notice.” Looking into Yun Che’s clear, pure, and honest eyes, the revelation both stunned and delighted Long Zhiming. “I see, I see! I had no idea that you share such a profound connection with the Ancestral Dragons!” Everyone witnessed Yun Che’s performance in the Pure Land. In the future, the sky was the limit for his status and achievements. There was everything to gain and nothing to lose if the dragon race could share a good relationship with him, not to mention the bond of blood that naturally brought them closer. Yun Che seized the opportunity to say, “Now that I think about it, the reason Long Xi lent me a helping hand back then was probably because she sensed the presence of Ancestral Dragons in me.” “Makes sense, makes sense.” Long Zhiming nodded repeatedly. Considering Long Xi’s personality, he couldn’t quite imagine her going out of her way to help a person in need, but it all made sense if Yun Che possessed the blood of the Ancestral Dragons. “This must mean that your master and my seniors were—” He realized his mistake halfway through his sentence and corrected himself. “Forgive me. This old one should not have speculated about your master. Please pretend that I haven’t said anything.” After he said that, he produced a square white jade with a shimmering, profound formation engraved on its surface. It also contained a hint of draconic might. “We dragons maintain a massive isolation barrier at the Ancestral Dragon Mountain Range to keep the abyssal dust at bay. This jade tablet allows you to come and go through the barrier at will. Reveal this tablet to any Ancestral Dragon, and they will aid you to the best of their abilities.” “Er...” Yun Che seemed surprised to receive such a meaningful gift from the Dragon Lord. “How can I possibly...” Long Zhiming pretended he did not hear Yun Che’s hesitation and left the jade tablet in his hand. Then, he took a step backward and said smilingly, “This old one will be waiting at the Ancestral Dragon Mountain Range. I look forward to you... and the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter’s arrival.” After Long Zhiming took his leave, Hua Caili immediately put on an admiring look that was half concern and half teasing, “Wow! As expected of my Big Brother Yun. I’ve never even heard of such a jade tablet. ‘One stunning feat in Eden, an eternity of fame across the world’. This idiom has never been truer than now, hehe.” Yun Che put away the jade tablet while Long Xi’s stiff, cold, and nearly emotionless voice flickered inside his soul sea. He said seemingly casually, “Since I received this gift, I should find a time to pay the dragon race a visit.” “We’ll go together!” The girl had zero interest in the dragon race, but her eyes were sparkling with the light of anticipation right now. It wasn’t the location that changed her mind, but the company. It was at this moment that Meng Kongchan slowly stepped inside. His footsteps were obviously heavy, and even his aura was a tad weaker than usual. Yun Che noticed this instantly and thought he had an inkling what it was about. He asked, “Did something happen, senior?” This matter involved the unfathomable Abyssal Monarch, so Meng Kongchan had no clue if he should express confidence and convince Yun Che that there was nothing to be worried about, or express solemnity and warn him to be careful and circumspect. In the end, he chose an attitude that lay somewhere in the middle and said evenly, “The Abyssal Monarch has sensed your awakening. He requests your presence in Eden’s Temple... immediately.” “Ah!?” Hua Caili abruptly jumped to her feet with eyes that were overflowing with anxiety. “Did Uncle Abyssal Monarch... mention why he wishes to meet Big Brother Yun?” Meng Kongchan shook his head. “The monarch’s will must not be fathomed. Yuan’er, you should—” He was going to say something to comfort Yun Che, but he quickly realized that the young man’s eyes were completely calm. Forget fear, there wasn’t even a sliver of shock or worry in his eyes at all. Meng Kongchan immediately felt better... he should’ve expected this. If Yun Che could face even the punishment of devouring rage without fear, then was there anything in this world that could truly intimidate him? Yun Che immediately climbed out of his jade bed. Although his complexion was pale, and his footing was unstable, his smile was unusually sincere. “An audience with the Abyssal Monarch is an unparalleled honor. Countless people dare not even dream of being summoned. I shall go immediately.” When Yun Che stepped out of the room, he immediately saw Dugu Zhuyuan standing at the side, waiting. When he saw Yun Che, he saluted him and greeted him, “Divine Son Yuan.” This scene caused Meng Kongchan to raise his eyebrows slightly, and Hua Caili’s lips to part a little. It was because this was, as far as they knew, the first time the lofty and important Dugu Zhuyuan had ever saluted a Divine Child of a Kingdom of God. It was evident that Yun Che’s feat of bearing twice the punishment of devouring rage without uttering a sound had not just won the hearts of the people of the Kingdoms of God. Yun Che returned the salute and said, “Senior Dugu, I’ve long admired your reputation.” Dugu Zhuyuan turned sideways. “The Abyssal Monarch has summoned you for an audience at Eden’s Temple, and he has ordered me to escort you the entire way. This way, please.” “Thank you.” Yun Che nodded slightly and strode forward. He looked so calm that even Dugu Zhuyuan could not help but give him a strange look. Dugu Zhuyuan saluted Meng Kongchan lightly and got ready to leave. However, he turned around at the last second and said to Caili, “I have a presumptuous request I’d like to ask of you, Caili. I would be ever so grateful if you could lend me your aid.” “Huh?” Hua Caili’s eyes curled into crescents. “You rarely act so courteously, Uncle Dugu. You must be plotting something bad. Let me think... is it related to Aunt?” Dugu Zhuyuan smiled. “You’re as smart as ever, Caili. I’ve fought against the Sword Fairy twelve times with a score of six losses, three wins, and three draws. However, I just can’t help but feel that I can do better. I recently made some minor breakthroughs, so I really look forward to fighting against her again. I was finally able to meet her during the Pure Land Meet, but alas, she completely ignored my challenge requests.”I knew it... Hua Caili kept beaming. “So, you want me to persuade Aunt into agreeing to a duel against you, Uncle Zhuyuan?” Yun Che was slightly intrigued by this... Dugu Zhuyuan was the champion of the abyssal knights. Naturally, he had learned his name a long time ago. However, he had no idea that the man’s skills were only slightly inferior to Hua Qingying’s, not to mention that he had taken three wins from the woman before. He could not help but be astounded by this. “That’s right.” Dugu Zhuyuan admitted frankly and asked earnestly, “Please help me, caili. I will agree to any condition.” It was strongly mentioned in the intelligence regarding Dugu Zhuyuan that, despite his stalwart yet refined appearance, the man was a profoundly obsessed battle maniac through and through. His strength and status all stemmed from the relentless pursuit of the profound way rooted in his soul. No ordinary profound practitioner could imagine his obsession and the amount of hard work he put into improving himself. Unfortunately, as extraordinary as his talent was, he was ultimately a tad inferior to those who were truly gifted. Although the talent gap seemed insignificant at best, it was really a chasm that even several times the effort could not overcome. It was why he was ultimately unable to surpass Hua Qingying. Hua Caili pretended to think seriously for a moment before nodding. “Okay. I’ll talk to Aunt and try to persuade her, but it’s ultimately up to her whether she wants to fight you or not. After all, as obsessed as she is with the way of the sword, she has no fondness for combat.” Despite what she said, joy bloomed in Dugu Zhuyuan’s eyes. He replied sincerely, “Thank you! I will pay you back handsomely if my wish is fulfilled.” “This way, please, Divine Son Yuan.” After Yun Che and Dugu Zhuyuan vanished into the distance, the false cheer and casualness Hua Caili put up instantly collapsed to pieces. She looked so worried that she didn’t know what to do. “Uncle Meng, do you think that Uncle Abyssal Monarch might have noticed some sort of... secret that Big Brother Yun is carrying?” There were far too many things about Yun Che that were extraordinary. His profound energy could unleash power far exceeding that of his realm; his elemental profound energies could co-exist in harmony with each other, he possessed the Ancestral Dragon’s bloodline, and he even possessed the light profound energy. This was before mentioning his unimaginably mysterious “master” whom no one knew about... All things considered, it was only natural that even an existence such as the Abyssal Monarch would pay him His attention. In fact, He might even... “No.” Meng Kongchan shook his head and locked his gaze in the direction of Eden’s Crown. “The Abyssal Monarch is cold and indifferent toward anything and anyone to an extreme, nor does He possess any secular desire whatsoever. Above all else, He never looks into anyone’s secret. What the world may consider an unprecedented miracle that will never happen again is something that will not earn even a sidewise look from Him.” “Mm... that’s good to hear. I think Father mentioned something similar.” Hua Caili let out a small sigh of relief, not realizing that it was precisely because the Abyssal Monarch was such a character that Meng Kongchan’s worries ran even deeper and heavier than they already were. ...... “Supreme one, we’ve investigated every peripheral area in the Pure Land. We even activated some of our spies. However, none of them were able to detect Pan Buwang’s presence.” The Pray Eternal Divine Regent listened to the report quietly and expressionlessly. However, darkness was lurking inside his eyes. After waiting for a long time and receiving no response, the old man reporting the news said tentatively, “If Pan Buwang truly wished to return to the Kingdom of God, even if he chose to go all the way and leave the Pure Land altogether, he would have left a trace of aura so we could track him down. But since he didn’t... in my shallow opinion, I believe that he truly did not intend to return.” “Impossible!” Another old man standing next to him countered, “He is just putting on a show and attempting to control us, that’s all. Do you seriously think he went through all that scheming and spent all that effort to come to the Pure Land and put on that show just to obtain a jade bond?” “In fact, I dare say that he’s already on his way back to our kingdom, unable to wait even a second longer. In my opinion, there is no need to look for him. We should just ignore him. He will return to us eventually.” “...” Pan Yusheng still said nothing. No one knew what he was thinking. Pan Buzhuo had been eavesdropping from the sidelines this whole time. Upon hearing this, he finally lost his cool and strode up to his Father. He did his best to suppress his emotions before asking, “Are you really going to allow Pan Buwang to return, Father?” Pan Yusheng shot him a careless look. “He should return.” Pan Buzhuo’s heart skipped violently. No matter how hard he tried to control his reactions, he was unable to stop some anxiety from leaking into his expression. “But—” “There are no buts.” Pan Yusheng interrupted him indifferently, “Don’t worry. You will still be the Owl Butterfly Divine Son. He will never replace you.”“Never” The moment the word came out of the Pray Eternal Divine Regent’s mouth, Pan Buzhuo relaxed immediately. In this regard, the Pray Eternal Divine Regent’s stance could not be any clearer. “He should return because the Abyssal Monarch wished it so. More than that...” He narrowed his eyes slightly while darkness lurked behind them. “His body of darkness and the ‘Original Abyss That Severs The Night’ may greatly benefit the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God. We cannot allow it to fall into another’s hands.” He turned around and stared straight into Pan Buzhuo’s eyes with his demonic, darkness-shrouded eyes. “Listen well, Buzhuo. As your father, and as the Pray Eternal Divine Regent, I promise you that no one can unseat you unless a perfect Godbearer were to appear in the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God within this generation. But otherwise...” His voice suddenly grew harsh, and his cold, dark gaze seemed to pierce Pan Buzhuo to the very bottom of his soul. “You are forbidden from applying your dirty tricks on Pan Buwang after he returns to the kingdom. If you cannot bear to see him, then stay away from him. Otherwise...” Pan Buzhuo hurriedly promised in a respectful tone, “Do not worry, Father. I only did what I did back then because I had just become the Divine Son and so was filled with fear. Now that I am all grown up, I know how to weigh the pros and cons. I promise I won’t do anything that will put you in a difficult position or let you down, Father.” “Hmph. You'd best hope that is the case!” Clearly, Pan Yusheng also believed that, for all his “pretentious” acting, Pan Buwang still desired to return to the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God. Sure, he might not be able to become the Divine Son any longer, but he would still be an imperial prince if he returned. The imperial prince of a Kingdom of God would naturally enjoy the support of a Kingdom of God, not to mention that Pan Buwang had garnered the attention of the Abyssal Monarch Himself. No matter how you looked at it, returning to the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God was a better choice than toughing it out alone in the outside world. ...... “We have arrived, Divine Son Yuan.” Eden’s Temple was the highest place of the highest place of the Abyss. Pure white outer walls, simplistic square-shaped palace, and square-shaped doors with not a speck of decoration or engraving on them. Its design was simplistic and pure to an extreme. Yun Che watched the building for a moment before entering the doors. As soon as he crossed the threshold, the world around him secretly changed. Wherever he looked, there was only an endless space of pale white walls and light gray floor. There was absolutely nothing else besides that.Thud, thud, thud... His footsteps sounded so clear that it was as if someone was walking right beside his ears. As he continued forward, Yun Che gradually became aware of his breathing, his heartbeat, and every wisp of air flowing in the temple.Thud, thud, thud... The world before him looked the same as before. Nothing had changed, and the end was nowhere in sight. Before he knew it, the existence of space itself was becoming blurry. In fact, he was slowly losing touch with the passage of time. Every spot, every gust of air in this temple seemed to be whispering one word soundlessly: loneliness. This soundless yet growing sense of loneliness weakened his footsteps, painted his heart and soul in sorrow, and darkened the world. He felt as if a lonely someone was walking a lonely path, sword pointed toward the heavens in sorrowful askance and accusation... He felt like someone was playing a qin under the moon when suddenly, the string snapped, and a sob escaped his throat as he recalled the face of a particular butterfly... He felt as if his heart had died, and his soul had broken to pieces, leaving behind only a cradle of Eden... He felt as if someone was writing something with a brush, tears dripping silently with every stroke of ink... He felt as if someone was lying in the snow and listening to the wind, waiting ever so bitterly for the ice to melt, and spring to return... He felt as if someone was burning an incense stick and looking up to the moon, praying that a particular butterfly would return to his dreams... The road ahead was endless. There was only hopelessness. ...... An indefinite amount of time and space later, a person’s back suddenly appeared in front of Yun Che. The man was definitely missing until a moment ago. He had definitely appeared out of nowhere. And yet, Yun Che felt as if he had always been there. He had been waiting there alone for hundreds, thousands, ten thousands... millions of years... Yun Che stopped in his tracks and stared at the back in front of him. He was wearing a pale, dustless long shirt, and he blended almost seamlessly with his surroundings. Almost, because he was wearing a black bracelet on his wrist that was decisively different from anything and everything that existed in this world. He was the Abyssal Monarch. Yun Che had rehearsed his private meeting with the Abyssal Monarch countless times inside his head. Every time he learned something new about the Abyssal Monarch—especially when a memory fragment from the Heretic God was revealed—the contents of the rehearsal would change dramatically. This meeting was likely the turning point that would directly decide the fate of his homeworld. That was why he tirelessly deliberated, weighed, and inferred every possible word, scene, and accident that might occur during this meeting. Finally, this moment had arrived. He did not salute or greet the Abyssal Monarch. He simply watched in silence, almost as if he wasn’t facing an unparalleledly supreme existence who was respected by all, but an ancient, worn statue that had survived for countless years. Finally, the Abyssal Monarch’s voice echoed in this lonely world. “You are an audacious one, Yun Che.” His voice was not imposing. His voice carried no emotion. Even so, His voice naturally caused someone to flinch and submit from the bottom of their soul as if it was a heavenly edict. His voice was absolute and impossible to defy. It was an absolute, godly suppression originating from the differences between their very plane and existence. “I see everything you have done in the Pure Land.” The Abyssal Monarch slowly turned around, pale white eyes glowing with divine power, staring straight into Yun Che’s. The indifferent words of a god spilled through His lips, “Your filthy and vile methods defile the Pure Land.” The Abyssal Monarch was indifferent yet gentle. It was rare for a Divine Regent or a Kingdom of God to hear a single word of rebuke from him in their entire existence. In fact, nowhere was it mentioned in the records of the Six Kingdoms of God that the Abyssal Monarch had ever gotten angry over anything. But now, not only was He rebuking Yun Che, He was rebuking him harshly. If a Divine Regent were standing in Yun Che’s shoes right now, they would have turned as pale as a sheet. Chapter 2155 - Yun Che, Mo Su Anyone else in Yun Che’s position would be on their knees with shock and terror right now, soul shaking so hard that they couldn’t even speak. However, Yun Che himself showed not even a hint of such emotions. He just kept looking straight at the Abyssal Monarch, eyes welling with a level of calm and darkness surpassing any and all people he had ever had an audience with. “If I may ask a question.” Yun Che did not try to answer or debate the Abyssal Monarch. Instead, he asked the highest being of this world a question, “If you were me, would you do everything in your power to create a future for your beloved, to hell with the methods and consequences?” The air froze, and the space stilled. Even a person’s gaze was frozen by invisible power. In an instant, the divine light in the Abyssal Monarch’s eyes thickened, and the unique, godly pressure that could cause all of heaven and earth to quake and all living beings to drop to their knees pressed down on Yun Che. “A mere child dares to question this lone one?” The pressure felt like a sky avalanche. His bones threatened to shatter, and his soul threatened to snap at the seams. However, Yun Che’s eyes remained clear, and his soul sea bright. From the start until the end, he never stopped looking the Abyssal Monarch in the eye without shock, fear, or respect. There was only the miniature dot of enigma that refused to be deciphered. It was the eyes of an equal. Something he had not seen for several million years. Yun Che spoke up once more, and his expression and tone seemed to be dyed in an unpredictable haze, “I am not asking the Abyssal Monarch. I am asking...” “Mo Su.” Air, space, and gaze froze once more, but this time, the oceanic pressure of god did not pour down from above. Instead, it remained frozen for so long that time itself seemed to have come to a stop. An indefinite amount of time later, the frozen world finally started moving once more. However, it seemed to be moving in reverse, carrying their mingled gazes all the way back to times long dead and gone. “I will...” His voice and answer seemed to come from an impossible distant time and space. “I only fear that I would not even get the chance to be unscrupulous.” He addressed himself as “I”, not “the lone one”. The corners of Yun Che’s lips curled into a small smile. He had obtained the answer he wished for. The one standing in front of him was no longer just the supreme and untouchable Abyssal Monarch. Instead, He had recalled his previous identity and name—Mo Su. Yun Che had rehearsed how he should act and speak before the Abyssal Monarch countless times. He had, in fact, reached a level where he thought it was near perfect. However, when Ni Xuan’s last memory fragment finally revealed its contents to him, all of his earlier efforts were ruined just like that. That said, it was thanks to that memory fragment that he understood with total clarity exactly how he should present himself before the Abyssal Monarch. It was also the only way: Equality. Unfortunately, he was already at the Pure Land by the time the memory fragment revealed itself. There simply wasn't enough time to craft the perfect emotions or rehearse his acting before the private meeting. So, the only thing he did during this exceedingly short time was to hypnotize himself again and again. He told himself this: I am the possessor of the Heretic God’s profound veins and the successor of Ni Xuan... In other words, I am Ni Xuan and the Heretic God! To Ni Xuan, to me, the old Mo Su was just a lost child... and the current Mo Su, without the shell of the Abyssal Monarch, was just a child lost in a deeper maze... Therefore, as an equal, today’s “reunion” filled me with joy, lamentations, and worry... He then channeled all these emotions—so complex that they could not be voiced—into his gaze. “I knew it. You would surely give an answer like this.” In Yun Che’s eyes, the Abyssal Monarch had given him the answer from the beginning. If the Abyssal Monarch had not purposely bestowed upon him the punishment of devouring rage, the obstacles standing before his and Caili’s way could not have been dismantled as easily as they had been. Not only that, it had turned the people's scorn into direct respect. The Abyssal Monarch wanted to see how much Yun Che loved Hua Caili. He also wanted to know if Yun Che was truly qualified to be “his” successor. Yun Che’s voice slowly grew gentle, tinged with barely controlled emotion. “I finally met you, Mo Su... I bring with me my master’s last will.” The Abyssal Monarch’s expression was as gloomy and indifferent as ever. However, no one knew that every word Yun Che said was plucking at the strings of his emotions and stirring waves in his soul sea. Yun Che’s last line especially struck his soul so hard that a clear crack had appeared on the eternal indifference worn by the Abyssal Monarch. “Where... is your master right now?” His voice trembled for an instant. Yun Che withdrew his smile and lowered his voice, “Master... passed away to eternity five years ago.” Mo Su turned away from Yun Che and slowly lifted his head. A short while later, he asked again, “Where was your master all these years? And when did he come here?” “The Endless Fog.” Yun Che let out a sigh after the first answer. “It wasn’t until the day he passed away that he told me he had been lingering in the Endless Fog... for six hundred and seventy thousand years.” At that moment, the Abyssal Monarch, who could have faced the collapse of heaven and earth without batting an eye... no, he was Mo Su right now... shook slightly. It was as if the number had punched right through the disguise he had maintained for millions of years. “It really is him... it really is him...” Staring at the emptiness ahead, Mo Su murmured again and again. His voice was slowly but surely shedding its original indifference and became drenched in sorrow. “I should have known... I should have known...”“Six hundred and seventy thousand years” This was not a number Yun Che had fabricated based on the time the Heretic God had passed away. He had gotten it from the soul aura of the elemental seed he acquired from the Qilin God. It clearly informed him that six hundred and seventy thousand years had passed since he fell into the Abyss. As expected, the time shook the Abyssal Monarch greatly. Mo Su mumbled soullessly while a million thoughts were racing in his head, “Six hundred and seventy thousand years ago, I happened to detect his aura and was beside myself with joy. However, I quickly discovered that it was just one of his elemental seeds, and it was swallowed by the Qilin God and attached to its soul crystal.” “I spent several centuries searching for him after that, but I was unable to locate even his aura. So, I kept the Qilin God by my side and used it to cure my loneliness a little... Later, it committed a grave mistake that should have earned it the death sentence, but I could not bear to kill a creature bearing his aura. In the end, I simply exiled it.” “I thought that only an elemental seed had fallen into the Abyss for whatever reason, but to think that it was him... that it really was him... to think I never knew; to think I gave up so early...” Yun Che said softly, “You didn’t find him because Master didn’t want you to. He had been hiding in the Endless Fog all this time.” “But... why??” He asked. Yun Che stared at Mo Su’s side profile and said with a hint of pain, “He said he didn’t have the face to meet you.” “Hah...” Mo Su lost his voice for a moment before slowly shaking his head. Eyes piercing through the void, he said in a difficult voice that seemed to transcend time and space itself, “Big Brother Ni Xuan, you do not need to be this way. I have never blamed you, and I never will. Even considering all that had transpired, meeting you and becoming your brother remains the biggest fortune of my life.” Yun Che took a moment to calm his rapid heartbeat before adding softly, “Master told me that he chose to jump into the Abyss of Nothingness after wrapping up everything he had to do in the other world. It was both to atone for his sins and to keep you company. However, he never thought that a whole new world would exist beneath the Abyss, and that you were still alive and calling yourself the Abyssal Monarch.” “Master said he desired to meet you again, but he had too many reasons not to. Besides his terribly deep guilt and shame, he would not allow himself to interfere with your life and deviate you from your path any longer... no matter right or wrong, no matter where you’re headed.” Mo Su was still staring blankly ahead and speaking in an all-too-distant voice, “Big Brother Ni Xuan... you were such a free and unfettered soul...” Yun Che continued, “Master said that he was the freest and most unfettered soul in the world until he made a mistake with you, a mistake that could never be forgiven. If he hadn’t chosen to indulge and encourage you back then, if he had chosen to stop you, you would not have been executed by your own Father. You would not be trapped in this abyss of pain to this day.” This explanation revealed that his “master” had told him many things from back in the day. “It was because of this grave mistake that your Father passed away too soon, and the god race and the devil race went to war against each other. It eventually led to the end of that era... that is why Master said he no longer deserved the name ‘Creation God’. Instead, he called himself the ‘Heretic God’ and avoided the world since. He spent the rest of his life trapped in a quagmire of guilt, shame, and pain until the day he passed away.” Mo Su slowly turned around and looked at Yun Che once more, but his eyes were no longer looking down on him like he had been doing for millions of years. It had changed subtly but surely. “He... told you a lot.” “Yes. He also gave me a lot.” Yun Che raised his hand and summoned the elements of fire, ice, lightning, and wind in succession. “My master gave me his profound veins, so I share an affinity with all kinds of elements. He also gave me his phoenix flames, Golden Crow flames, and ice phoenix power... He even strengthened my body and gave me the blood of the Dragon God and the Dragon God Marrow.” This was Ni Xuan they were talking about, the former Creation God of Elements. It made sense that he would possess these blessings of ancient gods even though they did not exist in the Abyss. Yun Che clenched his fingers and summoned the withered yellow light of the qilin. “Before he passed away, he guided me to retrieve the lost elemental seed and restore the incomplete profound veins to perfection.” “No wonder that secret realm had collapsed so unnaturally.” Mo Su whispered, “It must have returned in joy after seeing its successor.” Yun Che flipped his hand once more, and this time the image of a dull golden pagoda appeared in his hand. “This is the Great Way of the Buddha, my master had taught me when tempering my body. After I reached a certain level, he told me that you created it.” “No.” To Yun Che’s surprise, Mo Su refuted his statement. “It was a combined effort between him and me.” Yun Che: “...?” Mo Su looked at Yun Che with emotional eyes. “A long time ago, I explored countless worlds by his side, witnessing all sorts of beings of the vast cosmos and observing true goodness and hidden evils. One day, I suddenly experienced enlightenment beneath a pagoda in a mortal realm.” “Although I was the one experiencing enlightenment, it was he who deciphered it for me and guided me. He taught me what the law of cause and effect in all existence is, what the Great Way of heaven and earth... even the fundamental stage of the Great Way of the Buddha was founded by him. Without it, there would not be the twelve Buddha stages that came after.” Yun Che truly had no idea about this. In his opinion, it made sense that the Heretic God would be aware of a god art that had survived to the present, such as the Great Way of the Buddha. However, he didn’t know it had been co-created by him and Mo Su. That said, Ni Xuan possessed a Creation God’s body and so did not need to practice the Great Way of the Buddha at all. Therefore, Ni Xuan was participating in the creation of the god art purely for Mo Su’s sake. “I see.” Yun Che nodded sentimentally... and this time, it was completely genuine. When a truth in a known field was mixed with a lie from an unknown field, then the lie would automatically become the truth. Without a doubt, Yun Che was dancing on a knife’s edge with every word he spouted. “Was he the one who asked you to find me?” Mo Su asked. “No.” Yun Che shook his head without hesitation. “Although my master saved my life, took me as his disciple, and gave me everything I have today, he taught me multiple times that my life only belongs to myself. He told me to follow my heart and not be chained to the world, much less the will of others.” “If I meet you, then it is just the product of fate and destiny. If not, there is no need to force it. His last will to me is that, if I happened to meet you after all, then I should tell you everything without reservation... he hoped that it would be able to alleviate your loneliness a little.” “However, I had no idea that I hailed from one of the six Kingdoms of God, Dreamweaver. I also had no idea it would let me meet you so quickly. Perhaps fate really is guiding me to fulfill my master’s last will as soon as possible.” “Now that I think about it...” Despite facing the Abyssal Monarch, Yun Che actually crossed his arms and complained with aggrieved yet mirthful eyes, “You are the one who facilitated my meeting with Master, you know that?” “Oh?” Mo Su expressed confusion. “Ai.” Yun Che let out a quiet sigh. “A century ago, the reason I disappeared from the core region of the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God despite countless layers of protection is all thanks to the ‘Void Breaking Divine Jade’ you gave them.” Mo Su: “...” “The Void Breaking Divine Jade teleported me to the inner regions of the Endless Fog without any trace. If I hadn't run into Master, abyssal dust would have consumed my entire being long ago. So...” He tilted his head and curled his lips into a disrespectful smile, “Fate truly is a wonderful thing, don’t you agree?” For all the years he had lived in the Abyss, no one had ever acted this way before him. No one had ever made him feel such clear emotions that weren’t sorrow, either. The man before his eyes—his expression, his eyes, his speech... they were all overlapping and becoming closer and closer to Ni Xuan’s. It also stirred up a certain impulse that was only growing stronger over time. He suddenly said Yun Che’s name, “Yun Che... meaning a will as ephemeral as the cloud, and a soul as clear as the water. It is a name he would come up with, all right.” “Yun Che,” he said the name once more before dropping a question that would have stunned the entire Abyss if they knew about it. “Will you swear brotherhood with me?” “...!!” Yun Che’s heart skipped a beat. All sorts of fearful and reverent responses nearly burst out of his throat on instinct. However, he lowered his arms the next instant, looked at Mo Su with bright eyes, and tugged the corners of his mouth into a wide grin. Then, he declared, “Why not?” Mo Su froze for a moment. Then, he started laughing, “Hahahaha, hahahahaha!” The laughter was followed by even more exhilarated laughter. Everyone knew that the Abyssal Monarch rarely showed any emotion on his face, and the rare smiles he wore contained not a hint of emotion in them whatsoever. Neither the abyssal knights nor the Divine Regents had ever seen such an Abyssal Monarch before. “As expected of Big Brother Ni Xuan’s successor! You really are Big Brother Ni Xuan’s successor! Hahahaha!” “If you were anyone else, they would have grown panicked and confused, afraid and anxious. They would be concerned about status, hierarchy, seniority, race, and clan... only Big Brother Ni Xuan... only Big Brother Ni Xuan’s successor...” How long had it been since he last expressed his joys and sorrows so openly before anyone? His gaze could not help but turn blurry, and he felt as if he was back in the past. ...... “My first instruction for you is to stop treating me like your teacher or your senior. Just address me as ‘big brother’.” “Wha... huh? A-A-A-Absolutely not!” “This is just your first instruction, and you’re going to disobey me already?” “N-No, of course not! B-But the old come before the young, and status exists for a reason, not to mention that you are the senior I respect the most. How can I possibly address you in such a rude manner?” “Status my ass. Anyway, if you can’t even let go of the shackles of seniority, then how can you possibly improve under my tutelage? You may take your leave.” “Big... big brother...” “Now we’re talking. Starting today, you and I will explore the world together, and we will treat each other like brothers with no secrets! It’s so much better than if we are senior and junior, master and disciple, don’t you agree?” ...... Right here and now, Yun Che truly took on the shadow of Ni Xuan. Chapter 2156 - Frightening Revelation Yun Che looked at the guffawing Mo Su, who, at this moment, carried none of the holy bearing of the Abyssal Monarch, and guffawed as well. “Hahahaha! It is a dream most people dare not even dream of to swear brotherhood with the unparalleled Abyssal Monarch. Why on earth would I turn down such a sweet deal?” While guffawing, Yun Che was secretly calming the tidal waves inside his soul sea. Mo Su’s sudden invitation was both his sincere desire and a test. If he had been half an instant slower, had evaded or turned down the invitation, the outcome would have been entirely different. How much he resembled Ni Xuan directly determined the weight he carried in Mo Su’s eyes. As his soul sea gradually returned to normal, Li Suo said, “To think you fabricated so many big lies in such a short time. Are you aware that your opponent is a man who can annihilate you in an instant? If even one of these lies were exposed, you could very well face eternal damnation.” “That is why—” Yun Che actually had the leisure to respond to her remark. “Every lie I spouted is an inexcusable lie.” “Before I dropped into the Abyss, the Devil Queen once told me that my biggest advantage is the information gap. Naturally, I should exploit this advantage to the max.” “In areas where he knows or may know the truth, I will respond with truths. In areas I am sure he knows nothing about, I will feed him my lies... or should I say, ‘knowledge.’” Li Suo said, “He is Mo Su and the Abyssal Monarch. He possesses the most extensive knowledge and powerful spiritual sense of the Abyss. This is your first meeting with him, and yet he gave you his trust easily and even desired to swear brotherhood with you... I can’t understand this.” Yun Che replied leisurely, “The first and most insignificant reason is that he is the Abyssal Monarch. No one would dare to lie to him.” “The second reason is that he is never lacking in someone who looks up to him, but sorely lacks someone he can see as an equal. He is the son of a Creation God, and I am the successor of a Creation God, the big brother he respected the most, no less. I am the only person in the entire world who deserves to be viewed as his equal.” “He desires this form of equality more than anyone else in the world. Naturally, he is more than willing to believe.” “As for the third and biggest reason... he will answer you himself.” Li Suo: “...” Yun Che straightened his facial features and said seriously, “Before we swear brotherhood, there is something I’m curious about. You are the unrivaled Abyssal Monarch who towers over the entire history of the Abyss. I’m sure you have witnessed countless truths and falsehoods, good and evil. I am just an insignificant prince of a Kingdom of God, and I have just proven myself to be a man who will resort to any means to achieve my goals. I am definitely a despicable man, so aren’t you worried that I am really a malicious villain?” “For example... Aren't you worried that I’m exploiting my master’s favor and your relationship with him to approach you on purpose? Aren’t you worried that I would exploit my connection with you to oppress the people or throw the world into calamity and chaos? Mo Su looked at Yun Che, his gaze looking more like that of an equal as time passed. “I have no reason to suspect someone Big Brother Ni Xuan chose and gave everything to.” “Besides, you and I will soon be sworn brothers. Why would I have a problem with you using our connection to start something?” Inside his soul sea, Yun Che replied in a voice that sounded far more relaxed than it was at the beginning, “See? That’s your answer.” “At his level, he doesn’t fear anyone’s plots and schemes because no one can take anything from him.” “However, he more than anyone else in this world needs an ‘equal.’” Yun Che had only endured that endlessly terrifying loneliness for a couple of years, but Mo Su had been enduring it for millions of years. Therefore, he knew very well what Mo Su desired above all else in the world. Of course, he was still majorly caught off guard when Mo Su said the words, “Swear brotherhood.” Perhaps he underestimated Mo Su’s fondness for Ni Xuan, or maybe he underestimated the terrible loneliness Mo Su had endured for millions of years. Li Suo did not say a word for a long time. She quietly filled in the gaps in her understanding of human emotions. Meeting Mo Su’s gaze, Yun Che broke into a smile that was more sincere than any smile he had worn before. “Good! So long as your words remain true, you will forever be my Big Brother Mo Su. If Master could see this, I’m sure he would be terribly happy on our behalf.” Ni Xuan’s memory fragments clearly showed him how Ni Xuan usually talked, acted, and carried himself. Yun Che was also telling himself in his mind that he was Ni Xuan repeatedly. As a result, he was increasingly resembling Ni Xuan over time. “Okay, Yun Che.” Mo Su addressed Yun Che by his name, but this time, his voice carried clear human emotion. Mo Su lifted his hand to give Yun Che a forearm shake, but he paused for an instant about halfway there... it was the timidness of a man who had been drowning in loneliness for millions of years. So, Yun Che reached out first and grabbed Mo Su’s forearm firmly. He then declared without hesitation, “Big Brother Mo Su.” Mo Su’s hand finally gripped Yun Che’s forearm, linking them physically and aurically. It was a promise of forearms. “I’m very happy, Yun Che. Very happy.” “Me too.” Yun Che said with a serious expression, “I once thought my face was unrivaled under this heaven, and a man who doesn’t envy my looks doesn’t exist. That record has been broken today, and to say that I am annoyed would be an understatement. But if that man is my brother, then I have no qualms about it.” Mo Su let Yun Che go and smiled. “Big Brother Ni Xuan was the undisputed most handsome man of all realms back then. He took pride in it and often admired himself in the mirror. Alas, despite boasting an appearance that could seduce any man or woman in the world, he was unable to win even a sidewise glance from the one person he desired, senior Li Suo.” “I wonder if he ever fulfilled his wish.” Li Suo: “...?” For obvious reasons, Yun Che wasn’t going to tell Mo Su that Ni Xuan had long moved onto Jie Yuan, and he definitely wasn’t going to tell him that the reason Ni Xuan encouraged him not to be bound by the taboo of god and devil repeatedly was not without his own selfish reasons. After all, this would definitely shatter his rose-tinted lens regarding Ni Xuan. “The Creation Goddess of Life, Li Suo.” Yun Che whispered before saying, “Master mentioned her once in a while, but he never dove deep into the subject. Maybe it’s because he harbored some regrets. However...” He raised his hand, and pure holy light shone out of his palm. It was white-colored and overflowing with the pure energy of life. Mo Su recognized the white light as soon as he saw it. “The Divine Miracle of Life. As expected, Big Brother Ni Xuan would not allow senior Li Suo’s Creation God art to vanish permanently, not when he found a successor.” It was clearly mentioned in Ni Xuan’s memory fragments that Creation Gods did not keep their Creation God arts to themselves. For example, Ni Xuan took only four hundred years to master the Ninety Nine Heaven Breaking Swords and won a bet against the Heaven Punishing God Emperor, Mo E. It was only thanks to this bet that Hong’er and You’er managed to survive to this day. Although the Divine Miracle of Life was a Creation God art, it originated from the Creation Goddess of Life and so embodied compassion and universal love. Despite being way easier to practice than your average god art, its entry barrier was one of the hardest to overcome—a Sacred Heart and light profound energy. This was why Yun Che was fairly confident that Ni Xuan knew about and even tried to practice the Divine Miracle of Life. In fact, he was correct. Mo Su even told Yun Che a past he didn’t know about. “Back in the day, Big Brother Ni Xuan kept trying to master the Divine Miracle of Life in hopes of earning some affection points with senior Li Suo. Alas, he never succeeded. To think that you, his successor, would be the one to do what he could not. He must have been glad and resigned at the same time.” Yun Che: (As I thought...) Mo Su’s reaction toward Yun Che’s display of light, profound energy was extremely mild. Although he was slightly surprised when the light shone—after all, light profound energy had never been born in the Abyss—the sheer mildness of his reaction still vastly exceeded Yun Che’s expectations. He could understand the man viewing the emergence of light profound energy with indifference, but why... did he act so indifferent toward the Divine Miracle of Life as well? Show no sliver of joy or hope whatsoever!?Why... “Why... did you reveal light profound energy of your own accord?” Li Suo asked in puzzlement. Yun Che took a moment to calm down before answering her question, “You remember that I showed Hua Qingying my light profound energy on purpose in order to earn her trust as soon as possible, right? This hasn’t been an absolute secret for a long time.” “Me showing this to him of my own accord carries far more meaning than if he learns it from someone else. In fact, one of my biggest goals in meeting him in the Pure Land is to let him know that I possess the Divine Miracle of Life... However, his reaction is far too strange. It did not fall within my predictions at all.” “...” Li Suo could roughly understand what he meant by “strange”. “If a drowning person finds a straw, he will do everything in his power to cling onto it... much less the Divine Miracle of Life, the literal most powerful restorative ability in the universe. Unless...” It was at this moment that Mo Su spoke up. “You seem to be wondering why I’m nonchalant toward your Divine Miracle of Life.” “I am,” Yun Che admitted frankly. “Master told me many things about you, so I’m aware of who you were and why you fell to the Abyss. I... am also aware of the daughter of Original Nether, the one who greatly altered the trajectory of your fate...” “Pan Xiaodie.” When Yun Che said the name, he could clearly see the waves of sorrow fluctuating in Mo Su’s pupils. Mo Su said nothing for a while. It had been far too long since he heard anyone mentioning the name that was engraved in every corner of his soul. Yun Che softened his voice, “Is she... okay?” “She’s doing great.” Mo Su answered without any hesitation whatsoever, “She just fell asleep. A deep, long sleep... I’ve been searching for a way to awaken her throughout the years, but that method isn’t the Divine Miracle of Life.” Yun Che’s heart and soul suddenly felt heavy. It was as if a bottomless ocean drenched them. Sorrow filled his lungs, and grief pierced his bones[1]. “If it’s you, I’m sure you will succeed no matter what obstacles stand in your way.” He wisely changed the subject. ‘Master also told me a lot of things about you, such as your Father and your god race.” “There is no need to bring them up.” Once again, Mo Su gave Yun Che an answer anyone in his shoes would have found surprising. In fact, from the start until the end, Mo Su had not asked him about a past he knew nothing about or brought up a secret only Ni Xuan might know. Yun Che mulled over this for a moment before asking, “Do you still hate your Father?” “I don’t.” The answer came back immediately, and there was still no emotion or even a ripple in his gaze whatsoever. “He had his own standpoint to defend, and choices to make, just as I have my own path to walk, and choices to make. There is no right or wrong, hate or not hate, it just... no longer matters. Today, I can barely remember what he looks like.” His tone was as calm as an eternally silent sea. He looked like he was talking about someone else’s problems. If Ni Xuan’s final ending was one of self-loathing and regret, then Mo E’s final ending was the destruction of the very soul. The latter lived up to his title, his race, but not his son... That was why Mo Su of all people had the right to hate him. Right now, though, Mo Su was expressing extreme indifference and calm toward his father. In fact, he was so calm and indifferent that he almost forgot about him. It wasn’t just his father that he had nearly forgotten, either. Mo Su didn't ask about Mo E or what happened to the god race after he fell into the Abyss... he didn’t ask anything. Instead, he simply smiled at Yun Che and said, “It so happens that all the kingdoms are present, so I will announce our brotherhood to the Pure Land and the kingdoms. From now on—” “Oh no no no no no!!” Seemingly shocked, Yun Che hurriedly shook his hands. “Please don’t!” “Why’s that?” Mo Su asked with a half-smile. “Isn’t it obvious?” Yun Che spread his arms wide while wearing a slightly exaggerated expression on his face. “If the people learn that I am the Abyssal Monarch’s sworn brother, then they will all fear and respect me. No matter how much they hate me and scorn me, they will, at least on the surface, act respectfully toward me.” “My objects of desire will become easily obtainable. Even if said object belongs to someone, one look is all I need to make them hand it to me. I won’t need to work hard to fulfill my goals either. Scratch that, I won’t even need to participate to fulfill any goal. Countless people will swarm to finish my goals for me.” “A life like this has no enemies, no challenge, and no motivation. It doesn’t have true friends or any true relationships either. Life would become as ridiculous as it is boring. Just thinking about it frightens me to the bone.” The light in the Abyssal Monarch’s pupils seemed to darken a little. “An expected answer. If anything, I would be puzzled if you had agreed to this too easily.” “You and Big Brother Ni Xuan are far too similar.” Yun Che tugged at one corner of his lips and answered matter-of-factly, “I cannot recall my past from Dreamweaver. The very first memory of my life is Master. My life, my personality, my knowledge, and even my profound veins were forged by Master. Of course, I resemble him.” His gaze shifted sideways, and he said almost inquiringly, “Personally, I have every reason for not wanting this to happen. But ignoring that, your decision just now is far too negligent for the absolute monarch of the Abyss; so negligent that even a child would find it unbelievable.” “Oh? Why’s that?” Mo Su asked. “Isn’t it obvious?” Yun Che said slowly, “The Abyss is a world you created, grew, and developed for several million years. Without exaggeration, it is the culmination of several million years of effort. If you were to publicize our brotherhood to the world, then... tch.” He shook his head and wore a distant look as if he was imagining something, “The people probably won’t view me as your equal, but someone slightly below your level? That would most certainly be true. If I ever go astray, then I could easily turn the currently calm and balanced Abyss into a hell of chaos and calamity. When that happens, it’ll be too late for regrets.” “This simply isn’t something even the smallest regent of the lowest and most remote region of the Land of the Living would do.” Yun Che had said this in a half-teasing, half-joking voice in order to deepen the free and wanton image of Ni Xuan’s successor. Mo Su looked at him and said indifferently, “If you like it, forget throwing the Abyss into chaos, I would not care even if you destroy this whole world.” “...!?” Yun Che abruptly lifted his head and looked straight at Mo Su’s eyes. Still, he found nothing. Right here and now, his shock wasn’t faked in the slightest. “If it’s the opposite, and you are fond of this world, then I will surrender the title of the Abyssal Monarch to you. All you need to do is ask.” “...” Yun Che opened his mouth and let out a sudden, low chuckle. “Hahaha, what an Abyssal Monarch you are. I can’t believe you would use the fate of the Abyss as a joke. If word of this were to spread out, the jaw of every abyssal knight is going to hit the floor.” The sincerity in Mo Su’s eyes was flawless, however. “I am not joking. You called me big brother, so you can naturally have anything I have, be it the Pure Land or this world.” Yun Che had been staring straight into Mo Su’s eyes all this time in hopes of finding any sign of falsehood or joke. However, his appearance was as perfect as the air of this room was dustless. In fact, the surrounding air didn’t even ripple despite the absolutely stunning words he spoke. “But... why?” Since he entered a private meeting with the Abyssal Monarch, he had been relatively successful in controlling the way the conversation was headed and the direction of Mo Su’s emotions. Even now, everything was progressing as he wished... or more accurately, the fruit of his “brotherhood” far, far exceeded his expectations. Looking at Mo Su again, Yun Che suddenly realized that he might not have seen through the person before him after all. Facing Yun Che’s confused and shocked eyes, Mo Su closed his eyes slightly and turned around. “Come with me, Yun Che.” He did not move his feet. Instead, he waved his hand and collapsed the world in front of him, causing a completely different space to emerge. Yun Che stepped forward and stood next to Mo Su, staring at the scene before him in astonishment. It was a rectangular, transparent barrier about three meters long. Trapped inside the barrier were chaotic streams of destruction. Another smaller barrier was floating steadily at the center of the barrier. It was ball-shaped and only as big as a human fist. It wasn’t transparent, though. It was grayish-red, and it was impossible to see what was inside. Mo Su pointed at the ball-shaped barrier and whispered, “I am the son of a Creation God, so I possess some specks of power of creation. It is nowhere enough for me to create life and planets like a true Creation God.” “On the nine hundred and nine thousandth year after I fell into the Abyss, I suddenly became capable of controlling this sliver of power of creation. With this power at hand, I spent the next ninety thousand years creating a tiny planet. I succeeded.” He was referring to the grayish red, ball-shaped object in front of them. “This is the planet I created with my own two hands. I named it... the Othershore Paradise.” A twinge appeared in Yun Che’s heart.Paradise... Eden... Cradle... He fell into deep thought for a moment. Staring at the “Othershore Paradise” he created, Mo Su continued with an increasingly distant voice, “The son of a Creation God is ultimately not a Creation God, so the fact that I could employ this power at all was already a huge anomaly. I was only able to grant this exceedingly tiny, so-called ‘planet’ the most basic laws of existence and source of life.” “However... This planet gradually perfected its laws on its own and eventually gave birth to its first-ever lifeform.” Novelty appeared in Yun Che’s eyes when he heard this. “Later, the lifeform instinctively underwent reproduction on its own, evolved, reproduced, then evolved some more... and so races came to be, and tribes emerged. Some time later, countries came to be, and independent continents were formed...” “Later still, these lifeforms began exploring the wide, wide world. And so they began recognizing star realms and the universe itself.” “...!!” Yun Che furrowed his brow deeply. The novelty in his eyes was gradually transforming into deepening astonishment. Mo Su continued, “As life kept reproducing and evolving, the laws of the world were developing as well. Slowly, elements and powers came to be. Intelligent life would continue developing these powers until the distinction between different lifeforms, their strength, status, planes, and more grew increasingly clear.” “In the end, the experts standing at the highest levels reached the edge of the world and started trying to break through the barrier with great power. Again and again, generation after generation...” “Finally, thirty thousand years ago, one lifeform finally succeeded in breaching the edge of the world. However, what welcomed him was the irresistible force of destruction. So, he had no choice but to retreat, and the gap he opened mended instantly.” Waves of shock were slowly but surely growing inside Yun Che’s heart. Mo Su turned around and looked into Yun Che’s eyes. “Don’t you think that the edge of this world resembles the Wall of Primal Chaos? And the destructive force that prevented them from leaving the world, the destructive storm beyond the Wall of Primal Chaos?” “...” Yun Che was unable to say anything for a long, long time. “The person who breached the edge of the world was unquestionably the ultimate expert of his world. He must think that all of heaven and earth is his to trample, and all living beings only deserve to kowtow before him.” “He could never imagine that his existence is no bigger than an ant in our eyes. We literally only need a finger to end not just him, but his whole world. They wouldn’t be able to resist for even an instant.” “So...” He asked, “Are we living in such a world as well?” “Is our world just another person’s ‘Othershore Paradise’? Is our so-called strength and nobility just playthings for this person to enjoy?” “Or maybe, we’re not even real existences... perhaps we’re just illusory constructs of a higher being.” “Segments of a dream...” “Passages inside a book...” “Or even... a stray thought that could disappear at any moment.” “...” Yun Che opened his mouth, but no sound emerged. This was a stunning theory he had never heard of or even imagined. It was so heavy and terrifying that it was assaulting everything he ever knew. Sensing the terrible quakes happening in Yun Che’s heart and soul, Mo Su smiled. “Do you understand now?” “The greater your knowledge, the higher you stand, the more you realize just how small your existence or even the existence of the world is.” “We are so small that what we once thought was infinity is but a handful of withered dust, so small that... we can only bear to carry one thing in a lifetime. Everything else—status, power, reputation, desire, favors, grievances, and more—is just delusions that don’t matter one bit.” “So...” Yun Che finally found his voice and asked in a somewhat raspy voice, “The you now can only bear one thing in your life, and everything else... doesn’t matter at all?” “I was.” Mo Su reached out and gently placed a hand on Yun Che’s shoulder. “Your appearance is, to me, a most pleasant surprise. Besides that one thing, I now have a brother for the rest of my life as well.” He lowered his hand after the pat on the shoulder. “Back then, I envied Big Brother Ni Xuan for his ability to live freely and without restraints. Today, I still envy your ability to live brashly and wantonly. Unfortunately, I could never live like you or him, not because I don’t want to, but because I neither have that energy nor the right.” He wore a smile, but his words were anything but happy. “Meeting you, finding another person whom I can surrender my heart to, and being able to let out a couple of wholehearted laughs is to me... a kind of luxury that almost crossed the line.” Deep inside his soul sea, Li Suo whispered, “Your heart is beating so fast.” Yun Che exhaled quietly and slowly suppressed the chaotic thoughts racing through his heart. He did not try to persuade Mo Su in any way. Instead, he slowly nodded and said, “I understand. You accept me for who I am. It is only natural that I should respect your choices as well, big brother.” The corners of his mouth twitched, and he cracked a smile once more. “Back at Eden’s Crown, I was wondering why you didn’t mention anything about the ‘Fog Monarch’ whose baseless rumors had shaken countless people’s hearts in just a couple of years. To think it’s because you truly do not care at all.” Mo Su’s smile slowly faded, and Yun Che’s gaze suddenly grew still. Mo Su slowly lifted his head and whispered, “I can’t lie to you. The Fog Monarch’s claims... they are all true.” “...!?” Every thread in Yun Che’s soul grew taut at the same time. Wait a second... What the hell... is he saying? Unsurprised by Yun Che’s shock in the slightest, Mo Su continued slowly, “Although I am called the Abyssal Monarch, I do not possess the power to manipulate abyssal dust. It is the Fog Monarch who concentrated the abyssal dust of this world into the Endless Fog and left behind many Lands of the Living. It is also the Fog Monarch who kept the soulless abyssal ghosts and abyssal beasts in the Endless Fog and prevented them from invading the Lands of the Living.” “It is only thanks to them[2] that the Abyss exists as it is today. Therefore, not one word of what they say is a lie.” “...” If someone were looking closely, they would notice that Yun Che’s pupils were shrinking a little. Staring straight ahead, Mo Su continued in an indifferent voice, “The Fog Monarch and I exchanged promises with each other back then. They’re angry now, probably because my current trajectory has somehow strayed from their expectations.” “But... that is no longer important.” 1. Because he knows that Pan Xiaodie is most likely dead, and that his last chance to resolve this universal crisis without resorting to burying the entire Abyss is most likely gone. ☜ 2. I have no idea what gender this person is so I’m using them. In fact Mars specifically avoided pointing out a gender by choosing to type ‘ta’ instead of 他 or 她, so I think them is perfectly fine. However I’m guessing it’s a woman known as the other half of the Ancestral God LIKE I’VE BEEN SAYING ALL ALONG. ☜ Chapter 2157 - “Lord of the Abyss” His voice was as gentle as smoke and as indifferent as mist. In Yun Che’s eyes, though, every word pierced his heart like an icicle. It sent a chill through his entire body, and his blood seemed to freeze a little inside his veins.What is he saying... What the hell is he saying?! He had appeared calm and collected even when he was facing the highest existence in the Abyss for the first time, but right here and now, it took him nearly all of his willpower to suppress the tremors crawling underneath his skin. Even so, his fingertips were curling involuntarily. “What is he saying?” This was Li Suo’s voice, and her exclamation of surprise was exactly as the one resounding inside Yun Che’s heart and soul. “Fog... Monarch?” “But... the ‘Fog Monarch’ is just a fake existence you fabricated. Is he lying, or...” “Does a Fog Monarch actually exist in the Endless Fog??” Yun Che could not answer this question. The bone-chilling cold lingered in his body for a long time, spreading from his spine to his torso, then from his torso to his limbs, and finally from his limbs to his soul sea. At the end of it, nearly all of his soul sea was frozen, and he almost lost his ability to think for a good while. Yun Che did not attempt to hide his shock. Anyone would suffer a collapse of common sense and be shocked to their core if they heard the truth... even though it wasn’t the truth that shocked him, but the name “Fog Monarch”. Mo Su had turned around. He did not look at Yun Che’s shocked expression. He brushed his hand slightly, and the space in front of him switched out. The “Othershore Paradise” vanished from their views just like that. The living beings of the “Othershore Paradise” had no idea this was happening and kept marching along their set fate and laws, methodically exploring... and forever existing in their preconceived “reality”. Meanwhile, Yun Che finally found his own voice and said in a voice full of disappointment and frustration, “When something has existed in one’s consciousness from the very beginning, the person would naturally take it for granted and treat it as an inherent truth. Thus, no one questioned why abyssal dust spontaneously gathered in the Endless Fog, or why the abyssal beasts and abyssal ghosts never left the Endless Fog.” “True.” Mo Su said indifferently while staring at the emptiness ahead, “Just the same, no one ever questions why living creatures are standing on the ground instead of hanging in the sky, why our eyes could see the world, why our ears could hear sounds, so on and so forth.” Once more, Yun Che recalled Chi Wuyao’s words... The most terrifying thing in this world wasn’t the unknown, but being trapped within fixed notions. Ironically, his greatest weapon he wielded against the denizens was their fixed notions, and yet he himself had long been ensnared in an invisible cage of his own entrenched beliefs. He was exploiting the unresolved mysteries of the Abyss when he emerged as the “Fog Monarch” and fabricated “rumors” to threaten the people’s absolute faith in the Abyssal Monarch. However, even he instinctively thought that abyssal dust gathered into the Endless Fog, and abyssal beasts inhabited the Endless Fog because that was just how natural laws of this universe worked. He thought that it was just like rivers drained into oceans, and how fish could only live within the oceans in his universe. He never thought... or he did not dare to think... that it was actually the result of some sort of power. Yun Che looked up at Mo Su with an appropriate amount of shock and curiosity. “Everyone in Dreamweaver believed that the ‘Fog Monarch’ was just a lie and a fabrication created to throw the people’s hearts into disarray. After all, they only appeared once in a while, and no one had ever seen their true form.” “To think... he actually existed...” He never imagined, never even considered that it could be real. In fact, he would rather believe that the Abyssal Monarch was lying to him. After all, the very existence of the “Fog Monarch” was a lie he fabricated. He had countless reasons to lie to Mo Su, but Mo Su had zero reason to lie to him. After all, the precondition of a lie was a motive, and Mo Su... had no motive against him, did he? While doing his best to maintain a reasonable range of expressions on the outside, Yun Che was also fighting to quell the lightning storm that was occurring inside his heart. However, the storm could not truly be quelled.If a “Fog Monarch” really exists in this world, if this Fog Monarch is strong enough to gather all abyssal dust into one place and even apply laws and rules to the soulless abyssal beasts and abyssal ghosts, then their strength is... no... I need to focus on handling what’s in front of me. For now, I must put the “Fog Monarch” and everything behind them aside. I must! Mo Su cast a sidelong glance at Yun Che and read his hesitation accurately. “You wish to know more about the ‘Fog Monarch’?” Yun Che nodded with a perfectly reasonable tone of curiosity. “Of course. I’m sure anyone who heard this truth would want to know who the Fog Monarch is and why they haven’t shown up before.” “However, since you ‘exchanged promises ‘ with the Fog Monarch, I’m sure it involves secrets that you do not wish to be known to others. That is why I would rather keep silent about this. Master also told me that the less you know, the easier life gets.” The corners of Mo Su’s lips curled up slightly into a small but gentle smile. There were even faint wisps of... indulgence? In that smile. It was because Mo Su recalled how Big Brother Ni Xuan always smiled at him and answered all his bizarre, childish, or amusing questions with unending patience. “I have not truly seen the Fog Monarch,” Mo Su said slowly, and surprised Yun Che. Mo Su turned his gaze back toward the front and said slowly, “The Fog Monarch I saw was exactly the same as they appeared recently. They are hidden behind a thick layer of abyssal dust that could not be penetrated by vision or other senses. They appeared as a distorted entity and spoke in a cryptic, indistinguishable voice. They also carry themselves with a strange aura that is... wholly unfamiliar even to my senses.” Yun Che: “...” Mo Su continued, “As the son of a Creation God, I could easily bask in the divine radiance of every Creation God, and I could easily make contact with the divine presence of any member of the god race. However, the Fog Monarch’s presence is ethereal, empty, and illusory in a way that I have never felt before. I even had this absurd feeling... that it transcends even the Creation Gods.” Yun Che’s heart seized like it was squeezed by an invisible hand. A terrible, suffocating feeling instantly engulfed his whole being. “However, an existence that surpasses the Creation Gods cannot exist, so all these feelings, no matter how illusory or absurd they are, all point toward one possibility... The Fog Monarch does not truly exist, and they do not possess a true body. They are an abyssal will that naturally evolved from the endless abyssal dust of this abyssal world after an inconceivable amount of time.” He paused for a brief moment before adding, “At least, that is what I theorize. I cannot think of another possibility[1].” “I... see.” Yun Che slowly nodded to express acknowledgement. “A will that is born from abyssal dust. That would explain why it could concentrate the abyssal dust of the entire world and even bestow laws to the soulless abyssal beasts.” “They concentrated all of the abyssal dust in the Endless Fog so that a permanent living space could exist in this world. They also confined the abyssal beasts and abyssal ghosts to the Endless Fog to ensure that the living beings of the Land of the Living could have peace. All things considered... the ‘Fog Monarch’ is actually an extremely benevolent will, right?” “...” The answer to this “obvious” question seemed equally obvious, and yet Mo Su’s response was long, long silence. Yun Che frowned and exclaimed in surprise, “Am I... wrong?” Mo Su shook his head slightly. “No, I just can’t answer this question. After all, the concepts of good and evil have blurred for me for a long time now. “...” Yun Che abruptly fell silent as well. After all, his own understanding of the line between good and evil was not nearly as clear as it was when he was a youngster. “Did your master tell you about the lost artifacts of the devil race?” Mo Su asked suddenly. Yun Che was deeply surprised to hear Mo Su asking this question of his own accord. He replied immediately, “The Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror, the Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl.” “Master told me that the ‘mysterious disappearance’ of these two devil artifacts was not publicized. He only learned about it because your Father told him.” Mo Su paid no attention to his last sentence. He said calmly, “Back then, Xiaodie blocked a grievous blow for my sake and fell into the Abyss of Nothingness with me. The abyssal dust back then was far scarier than what it is now. At the time, every bone was broken, Xiaodie was... tattered, and both the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror and the Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl were almost completely destroyed.” Yun Che forcefully controlled his breathing and listened quietly to Mo Su’s story. Ni Xuan’s memory fragments told him that the strike that blasted Mo Su and Pan Xiaodie into the Abyss had, in fact, come from the Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword... If not for the two devil artifacts, Mo Su and Pan Xiaodie would have perished on the spot. Even so, the two devil artifacts were almost destroyed. Although the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror and the Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl were not ranked among the seven Heavenly Profound Treasures, they were the next closest things to them. Yun Che could hardly believe that one strike from the Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword was almost enough to destroy both of them. Its power was truly terrifying beyond imagination. “Xiaodie and I were able to survive for a bit, relying on the spatial demonic domain barely created by the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror, but the shattering devil artifact simply could not defend us for too long. Xiaodie, having resolved herself to die, had also fallen asleep. For a time, there was only despair.” A world of certain death, a lifeless lover, a breaking barrier, and him all alone... he could scarcely imagine the despair. “Resolved herself to... die?” Yun Che subconsciously mumbled. Despite reliving the distant past, Mo Su still sounded incredibly calm. “When I held Xiaodie tight and got ready to commit suicide, I saw the twisted gray fog and heard the first-ever voice since arriving in the world of the Abyss.” “They called themselves the Lord of the Abyss. They claimed that they could repair the damaged devil artifacts and grant me a permanent place to stay in this world.” “In return, they requested that I fulfill the wish.” “The time limit they gave me was five million years.” Yun Che’s heart started beating rapidly once more. In the end, he wasn’t able to suppress his ever-growing impulse and asked again, “What is this wish they speak of?” “...” Mo Su did not say anything for a long, long time. As this involved the promise between Mo Su and the “Fog Monarch”, Yun Che thought for sure that he was going to keep quiet about this. He was just about to change the subject when Mo Su spoke up. “I cannot go into detail as it involves the promise and Xiaodie. However, I can tell you that their wish is the same as mine.” A brief pause later, four words emerged from the thin lips shrouded by a layer of divine light. “The Eternal Pure Land.”BOOM— Yun Che felt as if something had exploded inside his head. The chill that had been lurking inside his body all this time vanished as well, replaced by sudden emptiness. Ever since he entered the Abyss, he had been harnessing his “unique” ability to control abyssal dust and exploiting all sorts of cognitive biases to further his goals. Coupled with his keen ability to detect and maximize every fleeting opportunity and stroke of luck, he had laid the initial groundwork to throw the Abyss into chaos in just a mere span of years. Already, the invisible threads that bound the fates of the Kingdoms of God were lying covertly in his hand. The peace and balance between the Kingdoms of God had lasted for eternity. Their biggest worry was always inheritance, not foreign invasions or existential threats. Thanks to all sorts of overlapping factors, every step Yun Che took in the Abyss was guarded, terrifying, and without even a moment to breathe, but overall speaking, everything was progressing smoothly so far. Even after he entered the Pure Land, he was carrying out every step of his plan with perfect clarity. There were deviations, but nothing had strayed too far away from his expectations. That had lasted until today; this meeting to be exact. In just seven and a half short minutes, his heart and soul had endured not one, but several unprecedented, colossal blows. His soul sea was still buzzing when Mo Su’s voice flowed into his ears, “I had answered without thinking back then. It wasn’t unlike a drowning man who instinctively grabbed a straw that had suddenly appeared in his hand. To my shock, they actually carried out their promises. The terrible abyssal dust receded rapidly before gathering at the center of the world and forming the ‘Endless Fog’.” “And so, ‘Lands of the Living’ began appearing in what was previously a world of pure destruction, one after another. From that point onward, anyone who fell into the Abyss of Nothingness had a place to exist. As for me, I borrowed from the way of monarchs I learned from many worlds, claimed credit for the creation of the abyssal world, and appointed myself the Abyssal Monarch... That has not changed until today.” The Abyssal Monarch back then and the Abyssal Monarch were the same person, but they were also completely different from each other. Countless years of loneliness and hardships could completely change a person and warp their soul. “So...” Yun Che heard himself speaking, “Did the Fog Monarch actually repair the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror and the Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl as well?” They were devil artifacts, second only to the Heavenly Profound Treasures!! Mo Su answered, “They did. Not only did they repair them, they even modified them.” “Modi... fy?!” Yun Che exclaimed in shock. This time, though, the Abyssal Monarch did not give him an answer. He calmly changed the subject and said, “It wasn’t like they didn’t pay a price, of course. That price was five million years of slumber.” “They claimed it would take them five million years to recover their lost strength. They would be completely unconscious during this period, and I was free to rule the world as I pleased. However, if I failed to fulfill my promise five million years later, then they would reclaim everything and grant me the cruelest punishment.” For a moment, Yun Che just stared blankly at the Abyssal Monarch. Then, the heavy pressure that had been crushing his heart, and the thunderstorm stirring up his soul sea all this time receded like a tidal wave. Only three million years had passed since the abyssal world was “born”, meaning that it would take at least another two million years before this “Fog Monarch” awakened!Dammit... just a false alarm... Yun Che cursed furiously in his heart for a good few seconds while feeling a strange exhaustion that usually appeared after surviving a terrible tribulation. According to Li Suo, the laws of time of the Abyss were already in the middle of collapse. When the time came, the abyssal world wouldn’t just be destroyed; the calamity might impact the World of Existence as well. Forget two million years; the abyssal world could very well suffer a total collapse in twenty thousand years. This “Fog Monarch” would most likely be annihilated in their dreams. Forget threatening him now; they might not even get the chance to awaken. Therefore, even if a “Fog Monarch” truly existed in this world, it was a “dead” one that would never see the light of day again. Therefore, he was still the one and only Fog Monarch of this world, and he did not need to change his plans! He simply needed to follow his original trajectory toward the end[2]. 1. I can. Ever heard of a lady called the Ancestral God? ☜ 2. It’s cute how Yun Che doesn’t recognize that, just like the Ancestral Will could wake prematurely and do shit, the Fog Monarch could do the exact same thing. ☜ Chapter 2158 - Obsession Like The Abyss When his spirit relaxed and his coolheadedness and rationality returned, Yun Che immediately noticed something that made very little sense. He rested his chin on his knuckle and pretended to think for a bit before asking suddenly, “If the ‘Fog Monarch’ is so powerful, and their premature awakening undoubtedly constitutes a huge threat... why are you so unconcerned?” The “Fog Monarch” was the true lord of the Abyss. They were powerful enough to create the Endless Fog and even repair, no, modify two powerful devil artifacts. Assuming that an existence this terrible had awakened, it didn’t make sense for the Abyssal Monarch to act so nonchalantly... not to mention that they exchanged promises three million years ago. Mo Su appeared completely unperturbed in Yun Che’s eyes. The man obviously knew that the question would occur to him sooner or later. Instead of answering the question directly, Mo Su explained, “Neither gathering the abyssal dust nor repairing the devil artifacts were things that can be completed in a single day. Before the tasks were complete, I had made repeated contact with the Fog Monarch.” “Over time, I discovered that they were distancing themselves from me in tandem with the receding abyssal dust. After the Endless Fog was complete, they only ever appeared in the Endless Fog. I confirmed one thing from this observation—the Fog Monarch could only exist in areas with a thick enough concentration of abyssal dust. It could not exist in places where abyssal dust is thin, much less a space where abyssal dust does not exist.” He lifted his head slightly and said in a distant voice, “From then on, the ‘Pure Land’ came to be.” Yun Che’s gaze froze for a short while before he exclaimed in realization, “So, the fundamental reason you created the Pure Land is to tackle the ‘Fog Monarch’?” The Abyssal Monarch neither approved nor denied his statement. He continued, “There is no doubt that the ‘Fog Monarch’ is terribly powerful and anomalous, but their strength also seems to be limited in some fashion. Otherwise, they would not need to borrow the hands of a living being from beyond to achieve their goals.” “Later, they fell into a deep slumber after they created the Endless Fog and repaired the devil artifacts. However, the world did not stand still simply because the lord of the abyss had fallen asleep. Instead, it continuously made dramatic changes over the years.” He lifted a hand and touched the air with his fingertips. “Back in the day, both the Endless Fog and the Lands of the Living were far scarier than they are now. But after surviving in the Abyss for so long, I could vaguely sense that the ambient abyssal dust is diminishing.” “It only happens once every ten thousand years, and the change is so minor that most would not even notice. However, it was definitely real.” “Later, I realized that this change was happening due to the influx of something from the other world called the ‘essence of existence’. I learned about it when the Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor taught me about the origin of Primal Chaos.” He had addressed his father as the “Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor," not "Father”. There was neither estrangement nor affection in his tone either. It was like he was talking about a random stranger. “Later still—it’s around one million years after I arrived in the Abyss—the influx of ‘essence of existence’ suddenly increased dramatically. At first, its volume increased severalfold. Then dozens. Then hundreds. They were even mixed with primordial energy and the divine essence of various elements... Clearly, something dramatic was happening in the other world.” “I eventually learned from someone who fell into the Abyss that the god race and devil race had finally gone to war against each other. Gods and devils died, heaven and earth shattered, and law and order crumbled in their wake.” Yun Che: “...” “The changes happening in the other world were also changing the Abyss. The massive influx of essence of existence had ‘neutralized’ the abyssal dust, and the primordial energy and the divine essence of various elements had both enriched the Abyss’ natural energies and dramatically increased the cultivation speed and strength of elemental profound energies.” “These changes only began to decrease five hundred thousand years later, and more or less halted completely a million years later.” Yun Che knew that was around the time the war between the gods and the devils had come to an end. “Even now, the essence of existence is still flowing into the Abyss, but it has become as weak as it was at the very beginning. Today, the Abyss is nothing like what it was three million years ago, and I...” “I am not who I was three million years ago either.” “I see...” Yun Che seemed to get what he was saying. “You’re saying that the Fog Monarch is no longer a threat to you, even if they had awakened?” Mo Su still did not answer him directly. Perhaps he did not care if the ‘Fog Monarch’ could threaten him at all. He said slowly, “Even if the current them were to relinquish their control over the Endless Fog and fill the Abyss with abyssal dust once more, they could no longer truly interfere with me.” “Moreover, they had awakened earlier than expected, so their power must be lacking in some ways[1]. In fact, that is the truth. Despite detecting an ‘abnormality’ and awakening prematurely, they chose to curl up in the Endless Fog and hoot instead of punishing me as they said they would. For the past couple of years, they were not able to take a step out of the Endless Fog either, much less approach the Pure Land.” “Every time they appeared, every time they hooted, they were simply expressing their impotence and helplessness. Since the Eternal Pure Land is near, why would I need to spare them my attention? Do they even deserve my attention in their current state?” Yun Che’s heartstrings were turning cold like they were slowly sinking into an ice-cold ocean. When Mo Su said, “relinquish their control over the Endless Fog and fill the Abyss with abyssal dust”, his expression was calm, collected, and utterly devoid of pity. There wasn’t even indifference, for indifference at least acknowledged that there was an existence to feel indifferent about. It was as if the countless lives that would definitely be met with a tragic end amounted to absolutely nothing to him. Yun Che wanted to ask: Are you sure the current Fog Monarch is the lord of the Abyss you encountered back then? And what was this so-called ‘abnormality’? He chose not to after weighing the pros and cons. “I understand.” Yun Che nodded slightly. “You mentioned it before. Right now, you can only bear to carry one thing in your life.” Mo Su cast him a sideways glance and curled his lips into a small smile. “Correct.” Right now, all of his thoughts were focused on that one thing. Everything else... Even if the “Fog Monarch” had awakened, even if the world was going to collapse, even if the entire Abyss would cease to exist... as long as it did not interfere with his work, he did not care one bit. Mo Su had looked Yun Che directly in the eye when he gave him the affirmative reply. He was telling Yun Che frankly that he would never surpass that one and only in his heart, even if he was Ni Xuan’s successor, even if he was the brother he acknowledged and the most wonderful pleasant surprise he had received in ages. He could be Ni Xuan’s reincarnation, and he still would not surpass that one in his heart. For several breaths, the duo just stared into each other’s eyes. Then, Yun Che opened his mouth and said with perfectly serious eyes, “When you were able to create a small but complete world with the specks of the Creation God's divine power you wielded, you must have understood that you have touched on the boundary of the Creation God.” “Although the Creation Gods were special existences crafted by the Ancestral God herself, and no living being could ever hope to become them, only approach them, the fact that you are able to make contact proves that your strength and level far surpass all living beings in the current world, including the eleven True Gods of the Abyss. Obviously, there is even less of a chance that there exists a living being in the ‘Eternal Pure Land’ who can surpass you.” “In other words, you are unquestionably the most powerful existence in Primal Chaos right now. You are so powerful that even the awakened ‘Fog Monarch’ did not deserve to receive a sideways glance from you.” “Given your strength, you should have been the freest man in the entire world. No matter what you set out to do, no one can stop you; no one would dare to defy you. There is nothing you cannot obtain, nothing you cannot achieve.” “So... why do you insist on locking yourself up inside a cage? Why do you refuse to give yourself, the absolute champion of the world, any freedom, or even the room to breathe?” “I’m sure you’re well aware that an absolute champion like you possessed the leeway to be distracted even while you were pursuing a certain goal with all your might.” Only a tiny minority of people actually pursued power purely to advance the way of the profound. The far larger majority pursued power to stand in a higher place, to receive the admiration of others in arrogance, to look down on weaklings and toy with their fates, and to satisfy their desires to their heart’s content. Mo Su was literally the most powerful existence in Primal Chaos right now, so much so that he was close to the level of the Creation Gods. Despite this, he had woven himself a cage of endless loneliness and infinite sorrow, never leaving for even an instant. Mo Su smiled, turned away from Yun Che, and resumed watching the emptiness in front of him. “If Big Brother Ni Xuan saw me right now, I am sure he would give me the same advice. However, only I know that I have no right to.” “What do you mean?” Yun Che asked. Mo Su slowly closed his eyes, blocking their divine light for a moment. Then, he reopened them and said, “Back then, if Xiaodie had not blocked in front of me with her body, I would have perished in body and soul three million years ago. Today’s Mo Su, Abyssal Monarch, and the abyssal world would not have existed without her.” “The combined protection of two devil artifacts managed to preserve the last wisp of Xiaodie’s life, but this sliver is nothing compared to her death wish.” “It’s because she could not forgive herself.” Mo Su’s words and expression remained perfectly calm despite speaking of his most painful past. His voice did not tremble, and his emotions did not fluctuate. However, a well of unspeakable sorrow soundlessly emerged from the bottom of Yun Che’s soul and spread to every corner of his soul sea, unceasing. “The Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror is the Original Nether Devil Clan’s core devil artifact. It contains the devil race's greatest spatial power. Xiaodie was the Original Nether Devil Emperor’s favorite child. In order to ensure that no harm will ever befall her, and no accident will ever catch her off guard, he gave her his race’s most important devil artifact, the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror.” “The Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl is the Nirvana Devil Clan’s core devil artifact. It contains the greatest time power of the devil race. It is powerful enough to resist the god race’s Eternal Heaven Pearl. Back then, everyone thought that the Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl must be held by the Nirvana Devil Emperor. In reality, even in the devil race itself, less than ten people knew that the Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl was carried by the Nirvana Crown Prince.” “Xiaodie is one of the few who knew about this. Although she and the Nirvana Crown Prince do not belong to the same race, they grew up together and shared a bond that is closer than even blood-related siblings. Xiaodie called him the person who treated her best in the entire world.” This was the moment the tone of Mo Su’s story changed dramatically. “The Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor had intentionally released the news that he intended to execute me in the God Realm of Absolute Beginning. He did this to lure Xiaodie out. With the spatial power of the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror, she had a huge chance of saving me even from his hands.” “The Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor wanted to execute me because of helpless reasons and circumstances. As for Xiaodie, he hated her to the bone. He wanted to kill her and even get his hands on the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror if possible.” “Xiaodie is an intelligent woman. Of course, she was aware of his motives.” “She still showed up, though. She didn’t just bring the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror, but also the Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl.” Yun Che had already learned about this from Ni Xuan’s memory fragment, but hearing it from Mo Su’s own mouth brought completely different feelings. “The Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor wasn’t expecting the Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl. The combined flash of spatial and temporal power was able to temporarily seal even his Creation God's divine powers. However, right before we would escape to safety, he extinguished all of our hope with the Ancestral Sword.” Mo Su lifted his head slightly, eyes seemingly peering into an infinitely distant spacetime. “Back when I was just a young man, I once harbored infinite yearning toward ultimate power. I asked him what situation it would take for the Ancestral Sword to shine its divine light once more.” “He told me that would happen only where there is no other choice. He told me that he would rather never have to use the Ancestral Sword for as long as he lived.” “That day, I finally witnessed the power of the Heaven Punishing Ancestral Sword with my own eyes. It was a power capable of destroying even the heavenly law.” “And he chose to use that power on me.” Only Mo Su could know what he was feeling at that moment. “The Ancestral Sword destroyed the time and space seals and severely damaged both the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror and the Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl. It also sent me, Xiaodie, and the two devil artifacts into the Abyss of Nothingness.” “It was during the hopeless fall that I learned that she had escaped from her clan while carrying the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror. As for the Nirvana Devil Wheel Reversing Pearl, she had stolen it from the Nirvana Crown Prince by manipulating his absolute trust in her.” “She did all this... for me.” Again, his voice and tone sounded terribly calm. It was because those images, those voices, and all that despair and pain had cut and ground his heart and soul to paste again and again for several million years. No one could know just how many scars and wounds were carved into the strongest soul in the world... all of them bleeding and never healing. “I asked her if it was worth it.” “She told me that she did not regret doing this for me. She also said that she no longer deserved to live. She could die and be reincarnated to suffer ten thousand lifetimes of purgatory, and she still would not be able to look any devil in the eye ever again.” Yun Che tried sucking in a deep breath, but his chest remained so heavy that it was suffocating. “My father went so far as to use the Ancestral Sword to defend the right he believed in, and my Xiaodie... for my sake...” He paused and turned to look at Yun Che. Still, Yun Che could not find any emotion in those eyes. “This is why I don’t have the right. Do you understand now?” Yun Che was silent. “So what if I possess the ultimate power?” Mo Su’s voice softened, and he said seemingly to Yun Che, but probably more to himself. “What I pursue is, to ordinary mortals, but a mere trifle.” “If she can wake up safely, power, lifespan, status... I can discard or sacrifice anything and everything I have.” Yun Che sighed inside his heart and replied calmly, “There exists no one in this world who can truly empathize with you. So, the only one left who can console you is... I’m sure that, for your sake, she will awaken no matter how much she desires a peaceful rest.” Mo Su smiled again, and this time his smile was infinitely warm. “Of course.” He raised his right hand and gently tapped the black bracelet on his left wrist. Every single finger was swiping through the air with endless yearning and love. A red light suddenly appeared in front of Mo Su. It was a ball of fiery light that drew the picture of a bird. It disappeared the next instant. “Ling Xian is visiting. This is a rare occurrence.” Mo Su sighed. “I thought she would never set foot in this hall again.”High Priest... Ling Xian? Yun Che saw the opening and said, “In that case, I should take my leave. Caili is probably going to get worried if I linger any longer.” Yun Che regretted his words as soon as they tumbled out of his mouth... the hell were you thinking?! You’re practically poking Mo Su where he is hurting the most! Mo Su said with a smile, “Of course. I have watched over Caili since she was a child. She is as innocent as she is pure. Since she fell in love with you, she will never betray you. You should never betray her love either.” “Of course not,” Yun Che turned around and replied with a smile. Mo Su raised his hand and touched Yun Che’s shoulder. The space in front of them contracted rapidly, and the next thing Yun Che knew, he was standing in front of the entrance. Mo Su did not linger. He stepped out of Eden’s Temple together with Yun Che. Dugu Zhuyuan had been guarding the entrance all this time, so when he saw Yun Che and the Abyssal Monarch stepping out of the door shoulder-to-shoulder, he blanked out for a good few breaths before he rushed forward to salute the Abyssal Monarch. Even so, the tidal waves in his heart were raging like a thunderstorm. After all, not even the Chief Priest would dare to walk side-by-side with the Abyssal Monarch. Yun Che was just about to bid Mo Su goodbye when Mo Su said, “As your big brother, I should remind you about something.” “...?!” Dugu Zhuyuan shuddered. He was going to drop to one knee, but Mo Su’s words nearly caused both of his knees to hit the floor with a resounding crack. “Please enlighten me, big brother.” Dugu Zhuyuan nearly lost his balance after just catching himself. Dugu Zhuyuan wasn’t just the number one abyssal knight; he was also a close attendant of the Abyssal Monarch. Therefore, his position was more special than most. Yun Che did not wish to publicize their newly sworn brotherhood, so the Abyssal Monarch would obey his wish. However, there was no need to hide this from Dugu Zhuyuan. Mo Su said evenly and calmly, “Shenwu Yanye desires to kill you.” 1. Yeah well, that would be true... if your opponent isn’t the bloody other half of the Ancestral God. If anything, I’m pretty sure that the influx strengthened her, and she’s closer than she ever was to becoming whole. And that is most likely what the AG on this side wants—to become whole once more. ☜ Chapter 2159: Formless Dark Abyss “Hmm? The Lightless Divine Regent... wants to kill me?” Yun Che exclaimed in two-fifths shock and three-fifths confusion. That said, it took him only a breath of quick thinking to figure out the general reason himself. Rather than showing fear, he said with a slight smile on his face, “Thank you for the warning, big brother. I will pay attention.” Yun Che was just a Divine Master, yet he remained calm and collected after learning that a Divine Regent was pursuing him. Mo Su focused his pupils slightly and asked, “You’re not afraid?” “So what if I’m afraid? So what if I’m not afraid?” While carrying himself with a level of composure that did not match his actual cultivation, Yun Che declared confidently and fearlessly, “Shenwu Yanye is ultimately just a tragic woman who lost her heart because of love. In my eyes, she is not much different from the soulless abyssal ghosts who roam the Endless Fog.” “The Endless Fog is chock full of abyssal ghosts, and yet I have gone in and out of the place repeatedly. Why would I fear a single woman who’s lost her mind to insanity?” Mo Su shook his head smilingly. “I’ve been the Abyssal Monarch for many years, and I’ve witnessed the rise and fall of many Divine Regents. Not a single one would have evaluated a Divine Regent the way you did.” “That’s because I did not yet exist in those ages.” In one line, Yun Che expressed his carefreeness and uninhibited confidence. The Abyssal Monarch’s smile widened and grew a little more genuine. “I guess I don’t need to interfere after all.” Instead of answering directly, Yun Che countered in a serious tone, “If I may ask, Big Brother Mo Su, is the Big Brother Ni Xuan you know a man who would choose the safer path and duck under another’s canopy when a dangerous threat announces its presence?” Mo Su did not even think. He answered immediately, “He would not.” “You should know my answer then.” Once again, Mo Su looked at Yun Che and let out the same exclamation of wonderment. “You really are too similar to Big Brother Ni Xuan.” Dugu Zhuyuan bowed his head deeply in an attempt to hide the shock boiling behind his eyes. He had never heard so many words from the Abyssal Monarch before, much less seen such a smile on the man’s face. “Everyone knows that the Lightless Divine Regent loathes men to the bone, but she still treats you with respect, at least on the surface. This shows that she is insane, but not utterly demented. Therefore, the Lightless Divine Regent could never lower herself to the level of attacking me in person.” “Besides that, considering who I am, she must first overcome the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God before she can attack me. She must find a suitable place and time to minimize the amount of traces she leaves behind as—” Suddenly, Yun Che’s pupils contracted for an instant. He recalled a place... the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods! Expression unchanged, he continued, “By the time the Eternal Night Kingdom of God finally finds a suitable place and time, the Lightless Divine Regent’s killing intent might have already subsided by then. It is just the product of unexpected provocation after all.” Mo Su nodded slightly. “That is correct. Although you are very young, your ability to discern people far surpasses that of your peers. However, every breath that exists in this world contains an infinite amount of variables, just as people’s thoughts are spinning hundreds and thousands of times for every passing moment. No matter how high you stand, you can never truly understand the full picture or completely figure out a person’s heart. Aren’t you afraid that an accident would catch you by surprise, that the worst-case scenario might happen no matter how unlikely it is?” Yun Che smiled and said without fear or worry. “How suffocating and restrictive it would be to live in constant vigilance and fear; to tread every step with caution and timidness? If misfortune were to strike me down tomorrow for whatever reason, then so be it. It is simply the fate I was meant to bear. All you need to do is light an incense stick for me and mourn me a little. Do not let sorrow weigh heavily in your heart, nor seek vengeance on my behalf. Just let me depart unburdened and free.” The Abyssal Monarch stared at Yun Che for a long time. He knew that Yun Che was trying to console him. His Big Brother Ni Xuan had said similar things back when they roamed the mortal world together. Even their expressions were oh-so similar. Back in the day, he had envied Ni Xuan’s carefreeness and independence without end. Today, that had not changed one bit. However... he could not. He did not deserve to. “I understand.” He looked at “Ni Xuan” and nodded smilingly. “I was going to ask Dugu Zhuyuan to be your bodyguard, but now that I think about it, his presence would only be a shackle to you. I should’ve known better.” Dugu Zhuyuan: “...?” Yun Che did not mince words with him. He replied instantly, “Shackles my ass, you might as well slap a goddamn lock around my neck! Absolutely not!” Dugu Zhuyuan: “...?” “Oh!! Speaking of which...” As if he suddenly recalled something exceedingly important, Yun Che suddenly said urgently and even demandingly, “Remove your divine perception from me this instant! Every wisp of it!” In fact, he had fallen under the Abyssal Monarch’s attention from the moment he set foot in the Pure Land. It was because of his Heretic God Profound Veins, or more accurately, Ni Xuan’s aura. Even excluding the punishment by devouring rage, the reason Mo Su stepped in and prevented Hua Caili from unleashing the sword strike that would have severely injured herself was that he had found out about their relationship beforehand. “Okay.” Mo Su promised him. “Don’t worry. You called me big brother, so of course I won’t spy on you any longer.” “Oh? And here I thought you didn’t know that your action constitutes spying!” Yun Che did not conceal his grievances in the slightest. He took a step closer to the Abyssal Monarch and said seriously, “Big brother, you are the Abyssal Monarch, right? You won’t go back on your word, right? Then you'd better not spy on me in secret anywhere, anytime! If Caili and I were... and I found out that you were spying on me... she is my woman. You’re not allowed to watch even if you’re my big brother, get it?!” “...” Even Dugu Zhuyuan could see the awkwardness gathering between the Abyssal Monarch’s brow. “I am not that type of person.” The Abyssal Monarch, who had not known “debate” for countless years, sounded awkward even as he retorted calmly. Knowing that his actions lacked justification and were unbefitting of a big brother, the Abyssal Monarch shook his head smilingly and said, “Escort Yun Che back, Zhuyuan.” Before they parted ways, Mo Su gave him one last piece of advice. “Remember this, Yun Che. You must not enter Endless Fog anymore. That is the one place I have no control over.” “Of course. Now that I know that the ‘Fog Monarch’ is real, I would be crazy to take so much as half a step into that place.” Yun Che left with Dugu Zhuyuan, and Mo Su saw him off with his eyes. He stood there for a long time until Yun Che’s figure finally disappeared from Eden’s Crown. Then, he lifted his head slightly and let out a quiet sigh that quickly vanished into the wind. “Big Brother Ni Xuan... even if we are separated by worlds, even if times and places have changed beyond recognition, you still miss me and send another you into my world.” “Despite all the sorrow and pain I’ve endured, I am so fortunate to have met you and Xiaodie in this life.” ...... After leaving Eden’s Crown, Yun Che continued to wear a relaxed and contented expression on his face. From time to time, he would look around and admire the beautiful scenery of the Pure Land. Internally, though, the heavy pressure that sat inside his heart had thinned, but the emptiness it left behind was replaced by a thick gloominess instead. Dugu Zhuyuan was quietly leading the way in front of Yun Che. Although he was astonished to put it mildly, he continued to maintain the perfect image of an abyssal knight and did not ask any unnecessary questions. Li Suo asked, “Why is your heart so heavy even after you have overcome the meeting with the Abyssal Monarch? Is it because his divine perception continues to pursue you?” “No.” Yun Che said calmly, “He gave his word that he wouldn’t spy on me any longer.” He paused for a moment before saying seriously, “Do you remember what the Qilin God said in the Qilin God Realm before he disappeared, Li Suo? He said: ‘All you need to remember is that the Abyss is destined for destruction, and that his obsession is the most terrifying thing that no one can defy.’” “Now that I have met the Abyssal Monarch in person, I finally realized that his terribleness far exceeded my imagination... no, it exceeded even the limits of my former imagination.” “Terribleness?” Li Suo whispered the word, puzzled. “But he only harbors kindness and trust toward you. I can’t sense any malice from him either.” Yun Che did not deny her statement. In fact, he agreed with her. “Of course, you cannot sense his malice. It’s because he’s not an evil person.” “However, there is a type of person in this world who is far... far scarier than an evil person.” Li Suo could not understand this. “Please explain.” Yun Che said leisurely, “You think he’s showing me extraordinary trust, but in reality, he did not ‘trust’ or ‘distrust’ me in the first place. Recall our conversation in detail. From the start until the end, he never asked for proof for any of my words. The few times he tested me were purely to find Ni Xuan’s shadow from me as well.” Li Suo fell silent for a moment. “In other words, all he cared about was Ni Xuan’s aura and the fact that I’m Ni Xuan’s successor. He did not care if what I said was true or false at all.” “The reason he’s like this... he already told me. It’s because he can only bear to carry one thing in his life now. This is precisely why he’s so terrible.” Yun Che slowed down, and every word he spoke chilled the heart. “If an evil person wants to commit evil, they still must weigh the pros and cons before taking action. However, his obsession is so pure and absolute that it completely surpasses common good and evil, right or wrong. For even the tiniest sliver of possibility, he could pay any price and extinguish any obstacle without hesitation... Nothing can stop him, and retreat is not an option. Nothing can distract him, and no emotion can sway him.” “...” Li Suo seemed to understand this time, but it was immediately followed by confusion and incomprehension. “I still can’t understand why he needs to be obsessed with one person to the point he did. You are also the emperor of a world. He could have chosen to emulate your example and have a harem of consorts to keep him company, nine Witches to be his personal attendants—” “Ahem hem hem hem!” Yun Che forcefully interrupted her and said with a straight face, “Our situations are dramatically different. You can’t possibly compare them!” “How are you different?” Li Suo pressed, “Is it because Xiaodie sacrificed herself to save his life?” “That’s hardly all of it.” Yun Che said, “Xiaodie did what she did back then out of absolute love and panic. She made Mo Su’s safety her priority and pushed absolutely everything else to the back. But no matter what happens, there is no question that she cost the devil race two of their devil artifacts. She is unquestionably the unforgivable sinner of the devil race.” “Any devil of the devil race possesses the right to hate her and rebuke her. Her clan and relatives will be shamed as well because of her actions. If the news were to spread, even foreign races would not hesitate to scorn her and ridicule her.” “This shows that Pan Xiaodie is an excessively temperamental woman. Her love for Mo Su completely transcended ‘reason’ or ‘righteousness’.” “At the same time, Mo Su’s father—the Heaven Punishing Divine Emperor, Mo E—went so far as to use the Ancestral Sword to execute his own son for ‘reason’ and ‘righteousness’.” “The clashes between the two extremes... is what created today’s Mo Su, a creature with such deep obsession that it resembles a bottomless abyss.” Li Suo fell into deep thought while replenishing her understanding of human nature. She then let out a sigh and said, “To think that absolute obsession is so scary that it surpasses even absolute evil. So... what state is Pan Xiaodie in right now?” “I couldn’t ask. I didn’t dare to ask.” Yun Che sighed. “If I have to guess, she’s holding on to a sliver of life force that she failed to snuff out right before she would die. As for where she is right now... it can only be the ‘Cradle’ Caili spoke of.” Li Suo asked another question, “But... I still have a question. Is his obsession truly as pure and scary as you claim? There is proof that he is not completely heedless of everything, isn’t there? The Pure Land and the Six Kingdoms of God would not exist otherwise.” Yun Che narrowed his eyes a little. “And now you’ve entered the main point.” Li Suo: “...?” “At present, Mo Su seems convinced that the only way to awaken Pan Xiaodie lies within the ‘Eternal Pure Land’. As for what this method entails, it matters not. After all... he must never be allowed to set foot in the God Realm.” “The Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror’s spatial power is necessary to travel to the ‘Eternal Pure Land’, and to activate the Original Nether Void Breaching Mirror, he must assemble the power of the six Kingdoms of God—including the abyssal crystals the Kingdoms of God have accumulated across the years, and the divine power of the seven True Gods. This is why he still maintains the six Kingdoms of God to this day.” “Considering that Mo Su is almost at the level of a Creation God, and my time is limited to say the least, it is a pipedream to think that I can surpass him in terms of power. Therefore, my path forward remains unchanged...” Dark light more dangerous and determined than before surged behind his pupils. “I will steal the divine origins of all Kingdoms of God!” He had determined his first target a long time ago. In fact, that day of the heist was gradually approaching. “And... What about the Lord of the Abyss?” Li Suo reminded him. “If Mo Su would not lie, then it means that this entity truly exists. Will they turn out to be a huge variable?” Yun Che said calmly, “If you have the energy to spare, then of course you should identify all possible variables and prepare accordingly. But if you don’t... then you should set them aside and focus on the present.” “Since the Lord of the Abyss claimed that they will sleep for five million years, then let us assume that they will continue slumbering until all this is over.” “...” Li Suo felt like saying something. When she first entered the Abyss, she told Yun Che that this world gave her a strange sense of unease. At first, she thought it was just natural worry, since Yun Che was pitifully weak at the time, and she was connected to him in life and soul. Yun Che grew stronger, and everyone he met was stronger than the last. However, the sense of unease did not change. It was the same even after she entered the Pure Land and faced off against the strongest existence of this world, the Abyssal Monarch. After she learned of the Lord of the Abyss, one of her broken fragments of knowledge had whispered to her that her unease... could have originated in an existence even greater than her own. In the end, though, she did not share the thought with Yun Che. As he said, he was facing the entire Abyss alone right now. He truly did not have the energy to spare another variable, especially one like the Lord of the Abyss. Informing him about it now would only add more pressure to his already-overburdened shoulders. She could only pray that her thought was a mistake, that the Lord of the Abyss truly wouldn’t awaken until the very end. If only... there was someone in this world who could walk with him and shoulder the fate of his homeland with him[1]. 1. It’s funny how many Chinese readers say this future helper is Qianye Ying’er. ☜ Chapter 2160: Entrance to the Forbidden Zone “That said, the news regarding the Lord of the Abyss isn’t completely useless. Their existence actually solved my biggest conundrum so far.” “Your biggest... conundrum?" Li Suo could not remember Yun Che ever mentioning such a thing. “Li Suo,” Yun Che said very seriously, “Please utilize every piece of Creation God knowledge you’ve collected so far and answer this question of mine... Can you or any other Creation Gods you know ensure that a True God’s divine power is passed down without any loss whatsoever?” Li Suo’s deliberation did not last too long. She answered succinctly, “No.” “That’s right. The answer is no. This is the simplest form of common sense. If a True God’s divine power could be passed down to a non-divine body without any loss, then the ancient True Gods would not have ‘died’ for real. In fact, the gods, already standing at the pinnacle of the world, would have kept growing in number until they surpassed the mortals. Given enough time, they could have threatened even the natural law and order of the heavenly law.” Li Suo finally understood what Yun Che meant by his “biggest conundrum”. Indeed, now that she realized the oddity, she could not stop thinking about it without feeling puzzled, shocked, and afraid. “If even you, a Creation God, declared that the answer is no, then... how did Mo Su manage to create six artifacts of inheritance that could all allow a Godbearer to inherit the power of a True God?” “This could only be possible... if he wasn’t the one who created the artifacts of inheritance!”Kuang! It was at this moment that Yun Che slammed face-first into Dugu Zhuyuan’s silver armor. He had been so engrossed in talking with Li Suo that he failed to react immediately. When he looked up in a hurry, he saw Dugu Zhuyuan facing toward a particular direction and performing a salute. In the distance, a red figure could be seen moving swiftly across the sky. Yun Che felt a scorching hot aura rushing past his body, and the next moment, the red figure vanished into the thin, overlapping clouds. During the brief contact, Yun Che clearly sensed his Phoenix bloodline and his Golden Crow bloodline throbbing at the same time.Was that... High Priest Ling Xian? After High Priest Ling Xian was gone, Dugu Zhuyuan finally straightened up and looked at Yun Che. “You seem distracted, Divine Son Yuan.” Yun Che replied unhurriedly, “Do you roughly know where the ‘Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods’ is, senior Dugu?” It wasn’t really a sensitive question, but Dugu Zhuyuan did not give him a clear answer either. “In a remote place. It’s connected to the Void Breaching Great Formation.” “I see... If I enter, can the divine perception of the seniors of Dreamweaver follow me in? If possible, then they could safeguard me from accidents or save my life during dangerous times.” “No.” Dugu Zhuyuan replied frankly, “The Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods contains extremely high concentrations of abyssal dust, making it very difficult for divine perception to extend. On top of that, it is isolated by a barrier constructed by the Abyssal Monarch Himself. No one’s divine perception can penetrate the barrier. If you are worried, then you do not need to enter.” Yun Che: That is precisely what I want to hear. “I see.” Yun Che nodded with a straight face. “From the sounds of it, the Forbidden Zone of the Slumbering Gods is an extremely dangerous place, so why did the Eternal Night Divine Daughter persist in traveling there? Is it because enormous opportunities are hiding under the cover of the risks?” Dugu Zhuyuan did not give him a clear answer. He said indifferently, “It is dangerous, but most of the entrants are Divine Children of the Kingdoms of God. Naturally, their safety is prioritized. The Pure Land will grant all entrants a method to protect themselves when it is time for them to enter.” “Oh?” “You will know when it is time, Divine Son Yuan.” It was at this moment that an ethereal but anxious voice hit them from afar. “Big Brother Yun!! Big Brother Yun!!!” The voice was still echoing in their ears when the beautiful figure showed up. Hua Caili grabbed Yun Che’s hands and looked him up and down with her starry eyes. She asked anxiously, “Are you okay, Big Brother Yun? Uncle Abyssal Monarch didn’t give you a hard time, did he?” “Of course not.” Yun Che smiled. “If the Abyssal Monarch truly wishes to give me a hard time, he simply needs to give the order. He would not have gone through the trouble of inviting me for a private audience.” Worried that Yun Che was just consoling her, Hua Caili looked at Dugu Zhuyuan and interrogated him. “Uncle Dugu, Uncle Abyssal Monarch didn’t give Big Brother Yun a hard time, right?? You’re a noble and righteous man. You’re the strongest knight who never lies.” Dugu Zhuyuan answered, “Do not worry, Li’l Caili. I swear in the name of Dugu that the Abyssal Monarch did not give Divine Son Yuan a hard time at all.” When he finished, he gave Yun Che a complicated look. Hard time? More like... “That’s good!” Her grip tightened, and Hua Caili finally seemed to relax completely. She broke into a bright, charming smile and said, “In that case, allow me to share with you a piece of good news as well. Aunt said that she would fight you.” Dugu Zhuyuan was usually as steady as a mountain, but the moment he heard this news, he abruptly stood straight as an arrow. At the same time, his body visibly shook with excitement and fighting spirit. He said gratefully, “Thank you, Caili. This favor—” Hua Caili hurriedly interrupted him, “Setting aside the favor, Aunt said that she has a condition.” Dugu Zhuyuan replied immediately, “Do tell.” “Aunt said that the loser of this fight must fulfill a request of the victor’s. So long as the request fits the way of heaven and morality, then the loser must fulfill the request. If you disagree... then she won’t fight you.” “I accept!” Dugu Zhuyuan did not hesitate for even an instant, and his already burning fighting spirit did not cool down in the slightest. “It’s only natural that the loser should meet a loser’s ending. Please inform the Sword Fairy that I’ll be waiting for her at the ‘Heaven Above Abyss’ after I open the gate to the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods!” Dugu Zhuyuan departed the scene as soon as his escort mission was complete. However, his terrible aura would remain embedded in this space for a long, long time, unfading. Yun Che could not help but let out a mental sigh: Aw man, if only I could turn him into my abyssal ghost. “What are you talking about?” Hua Caili floated into the air and wrapped her arms around his neck so that the only thing they could see was each other’s eyes. Yun Che replied wistfully, “I was thinking... that aunt is incredible.” “Huh? Aunt?” “Yeah?” Yun Che enveloped his arms around her waist and pulled her seemingly frail and boneless body closer. “The reason she accepted this fight is that she’s trying to pave the path to our future in her own way.” Hua Caili’s eyes froze as realization struck her. She hugged Yun Che even tighter, until she was hanging on to him. “Aunt has always been an incredible person... I now have the Father who loves me the most, the aunt who spoils me the most, and the best Big Brother Yun in the world... Right now, I feel like the heavens have given me the best of everything.” “...” Yun Che did not say anything. His arms unconsciously tightened around her slender waist for an instant before they relaxed. In the distance, Hua Fuchen could not approach the couple or leave the area. He could only shake his head helplessly. “This is the Pure Land, dammit! What a scandal! What a scandal!” Hua Qingying dismissed the notion. “They were torn apart at the height of their passion, but now they can finally be together without fearing the light of day anymore. Why should they suppress their feelings?” “Still, they should know their time and place. We’re in the—” Hua Fuchen inhaled slightly before waving his sleeve. “Oh, forget it. They can do whatever they want. The boy is fine, so all is well.” Hua Fuchen took his leave, but Hua Qingying remained. She kept watching the duo from afar until suddenly, she felt the corners of her lips twitching in a most unfamiliar manner. She subconsciously raised a long finger and touched her light pink lips.Was that... a smile? ...... The first thing Yun Che did after returning to the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God’s courtyard was to speak with Meng Jianxi. “Divine Son Xi, I have a favor to ask of you.” Meng Jianxi replied thoughtfully, “You are free to make any request, brother Yuan. There is no need to make it a favor at all.” Yun Che said frankly, “I would like to enter the ‘Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods’.” The one the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God chose to enter ‘Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods’ was, naturally, Meng Jianxi. “Huh?” Meng Jianxi wasn’t the only one who was surprised by this. Hua Caili was even more stunned than he was. “Hmm...” Meng Jianxi mulled over the request for a moment. He did not ask why Yun Che wanted to enter the place. He said honestly, “There is nothing inherently wrong with this request. However, the abyssal dust of the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods is comparable to the inner regions of the Endless Fog, and it harbors countless unpredictable threats and dangers. Given your current state...” Yun Che said smilingly, “The punishment of devouring rage only causes the temporary collapse of body and soul. It is different from a serious injury. There are still a couple of hours before the entrance opens. It should be enough time for me to recover.” “Then... I’m going to!” Hua Caili said urgently. Yun Che knew it would turn out this way. He said in a helpless voice, “Your Father probably won’t agree to this.” “He must!” Hua Caili hurriedly let go of Yun Che and flew off. “I’ll go speak with him right now... Wait for me a little while, big brother Yun. I’ll be right back to keep you company.” Meng Jianxi smiled at this. “I envy you. Assuming that the two of you marry soon and have a kid, they will become the ultimate treasure of Dreamweaver and Heaven Breaker for sure.” Yun Che replied smilingly, “Even you don’t have a child yet, Divine Son Yuan. Surely there’s no need for me to hurry?” Meng Jianxi shook his head. “I’ll be honest with you, Brother Yuan. I am indeed married, but... my talent cannot compare to yours. I still haven’t grasped the Dreamweaver Canon properly and so do not dare to lose my virginity.” Yun Che: “Er, what...?” Meng Jianxi waved his hand smilingly. “It’s just some trivialities. Pay it no attention. I will leave to inform Father and the Dream Lords about your decision right now. In the meantime, please do your best to recover your strength. I will return and inform you at a suitable time when the gate to the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods opens.” Despite what Hua Caili said, it took her a whole hour before she finally returned to Yun Che’s side. Clearly, it had taken a considerable amount of persuasion—in fact, Yun Che reckoned that she had enlisted Hua Qingying’s help as well—before she finally, just barely obtained Hua Fuchen’s permission. After she returned, Hua Caili sat quietly beside Yun Che and just stared at him. Yun Che was currently surrounding himself in a sheen of white light and closing his eyes. For the next few hours, Hua Caili would not look away from him for even a moment. After today, they would truly belong to each other. Once upon a time, they had walked the fine line between life and death together. Today, they had overcome the massive obstacle set in front of their path by the Abyssal Monarch Himself. Although the double amount of punishment of devouring rage had filled every inch of Yun Che’s body with terrible pain, it also engraved his image and her own promise at Eden’s Crown into every corner of her soul. From now on, she honestly could not stomach any other person inside her soul. There was no one else in the entire world who could ever remove or replace him, either. Hua Caili quietly extended her slender, jade-like fingers and gently traced the contours of Yun Che’s body. Her gaze was sometimes smiling, sometimes hazy, sometimes yearning... and it all converged in her eyes as undying devotion. ...... At the edge of the Pure Land, all of the Kingdoms of God except Boundless were gathered. Dugu Zhuyuan’s hands moved, and the profound formation that had slumbered for god-knows-how-long shone with rich, dazzling spatial light. The light looked strangely grayish, though. Shenwu Yi of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God stood at the forefront of the group, as she was the reason the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods was opened once more. Following behind her was Xian Yue of the Star and Moon Kingdom of God, and Pan Buzhuo of the Owl Butterfly Kingdom of God. When Hua Caili and Yun Che stepped forward together, everyone looked at the duo with surprise and astonishment. Although Hua Caili’s talent and cultivation in the way of the sword spoke for themselves, Hua Fuchen was not the type of person who would willingly subject her to such obvious danger. Dugu Zhuyuan swept his gaze across the group and said indifferently, “Step inside this formation, and you will find yourself in the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. Any spoil you obtain in the forbidden zone belongs to you. You do not need to report it to the Pure Land.” “However, I must remind you that the location you would be teleported to is random. In other words, you may be isolated from the beginning.” Hua Fuchen’s eyebrows visibly clenched a bit more. Dugu Zhuyuan slowly moved his gaze from one side to another. When no one backed down, he finally said, “However, as everyone entering the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods is a Godbearer this time, the Abyssal Monarch had purposely prepared a failsafe method for everyone.” He swiped his finger across the air, and five faint stars flew toward the group of five. They took the form of a jade orb that emitted a gray glow beside their bearers’ shoulders. “This is a special kind of Void Breaking Divine Jade. One hundred and forty-four hours after you enter the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods[1], it will automatically shatter and teleport you back to this entrance. If you encounter some sort of impossible danger during this period, you may crush this orb and return unharmed.” As soon as Dugu Zhuyuan said this, the nervous expressions covering most elders’ faces vanished in an instant. Hua Fuchen and Meng Kongchan looked much gladder as well. At the same time, they exchanged astonished glances with each other. From what they knew of the Abyssal Monarch... He wasn’t one to bestow such a boon. Xian Yue immediately replied gratefully, “Please convey our thanks to the Abyssal Monarch, senior Dugu. We are infinitely grateful.” Dugu Zhuyuan did not answer him. He turned sideways and said, “Consider this journey a trial. Do not push forward recklessly when faced with difficulty, and do not let greed consume you. No one can save you if you put yourself in a desperate situation where you are unable to shatter the Void Breaking Divine Jade.” “Now then. You may enter.” His voice was still lingering in the air when Shenwu Yi dashed forward and entered the formation. She did not hesitate for even an instant. Pan Buzhuo cast a side glance at the Void-breaking Divine Jade on his shoulder and let out a light chuckle. Then, he arrogantly stepped into the formation. “Divine Son Yuan, Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter, would you like to go first?” Xian Yue turned toward the duo and greeted them with a friendly expression. Clearly, he meant to befriend Yun Che. Yun Che gave him a suitable response. “Thank you. We shall gladly accept your offer. Perhaps we could fight side by side if we run into each other inside[2].” Xian Yue smiled. “Xian Yue very much looks forward to it.” Yun Che and Hua Caili stepped into the Void Breaching Great Formation together. As spatial divine light enveloped their bodies, Yun Che heard Hua Caili crying out, “You mustn’t put yourself at risk if you’re alone, okay, Big Brother Yun? Wait for me... I’ll find you as soon as I can.” Gray light flashed, and both the light and her voice disappeared at the same time. Yun Che slowly closed his eyes. When he reopened them again, he was no longer looking at the clean space of the Pure Land. 1. Six days. ☜ 2. Amongus... ☜ Chapter 2161 - Abyss of Death The grayish, spatial profound light of the Void Breaching Great Formation immediately congealed as all five candidates stepped into it. The formation continued to revolve slowly amidst blurry glimmers of gray light, and its profound patterns emitted the supreme divine aura of the Abyssal Monarch. This was the Abyssal Monarch’s gift to the six Kingdoms of God, but the strongest Boundless Kingdom of God was missing. It was undoubtedly a lamentable outcome. Hua Fuchen turned toward Meng Kongchan and sent him a sound transmission, “Brother Meng...” Both men were carrying heavy hearts inside their chests. The moment their gazes touched, they understood each other’s intent and disappeared in the same direction. Hua Caili was ultimately too innocent and inexperienced. She could not comprehend the ten-thousand-year-old friendship and bond her elders shared, nor fathom the profound sorrow and pain concealed beneath her Father’s calm exterior. Even Dian Rahu’s anger touched her only at the most superficial level. Now that the juniors were gone, Hua Fuchen and Meng Kongchan could finally shed their carefree facade for the moment, confess their thoughts to each other, and discuss ways to make up with Dian Rahu. Meng Canji knew very well that his Divine Regent was carrying many worries in his mind right now, so he did not follow him. Instead, he went over to Meng Jianxi’s side and said, “I have no idea what Divine Son Yuan was thinking. It hasn’t even been twenty hours since he endured two hundred breaths of punishment of devouring rage, and he’s forcing himself to enter a place as dangerous as the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. Even better, the supreme one allowed him.” Meng Jianxi said, “That’s because Father understands that Brother Yuan must have his own reasons. If he isn’t willing to divulge it, then Father won’t press. This is Father’s unique trust in him.” Meng Cangji gave him a look with his old, wizened eyes. He looked like he wanted to say something, but in the end, he simply said, “Let’s go.” Meng Jianxi did not move, however. He looked in the direction of the Void Breaching Great Formation and said, “One can stay in the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods for one hundred forty four hours at most, meaning that our stay in the Pure Land is prolonged. You should use this opportunity to visit old friends and tour the Pure Land with Uncle and the others, grandfather. I will stay here in case Brother Yuan is injured and forced to escape prematurely. He would need someone to look after him at first notice.” A slight frown appeared on Meng Cangji’s face. It wasn’t until much later that it faded a little. While looking at Meng Jianxi with complicated eyes, he asked, “Have you... given up completely, Jianxi?” “Yeah.” Meng Jianxi’s reply came without any hesitation whatsoever. Meng Jianxi turned around and met Meng Cangji’s eyes directly. He said very seriously, “At the beginning, I gave up not just because Brother Yuan proved to be my better, but also because I didn’t dare to continue. Father’s undisguised favoritism, Brother Yuan’s perfect divine essence, his astounding talent in the profound way, and his masterful methods... even Mother’s fate was held in his grasp. The overwhelming sense of powerlessness weighed so heavily on me that I could scarcely breathe. Reason compelled me to choose submission over resistance.” “However, I would be lying if I said I was completely resigned to my fate. At least a small portion of me was hoping to rise again someday.” “But now, he has won me over completely. Not a shred of defiance is left in my bones anymore.” His words were disheartening, and yet his tone was calm and collected. He was even smiling a little as he said, “This is especially true after I witnessed Brother Yuan’s willpower and true feelings today. I’m starting to believe more and more that fate’s choice to return Brother Yuan to the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God is an enormous boon. In that case, why should I fight anymore?” “To stand by Brother Yuan’s side and assist him in building the golden age of Dreamweaver—is that not also an honor worthy of being engraved in history forever?” Looking at the odd light in Meng Jianxi’s pupils, Meng Cangji finally nodded slowly. “Alright. Since you have made up your mind, then I shan’t say anything more... If there is one thing I’m worried about, it’s that we might have offended him too much in the past. Do you think...” “What are you saying, grandfather?” Meng Jianxi smiled and said, “Brother Yuan’s will is strong enough to endure twice the punishment of devouring rage. How could he possibly be troubled by those trivialities of the past? In this case, your concern is truly unnecessary.” “Good. Good!” Meng Cangji finally cracked a smile. “You’re right. We’ve all witnessed your exceptional talent. For the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God to gain someone even more outstanding than you is not a calamity, but a great blessing. We were definitely too narrow-minded back then. In fact, I know your uncle and many others share my sentiment. It is just that they are held back by seven parts face and three parts hesitation. It is time I have a proper talk with them.” “The Eternal Pure Land represents a new dawn for all the Kingdoms of God. Knowing that the two of you are the next generation of Dreamweavers truly brings me profound comfort and peace. With such a bright and promising future ahead of us, it is only right that we old-timers spare no effort to support you two, hahahaha!” ...... Abyssal dust brushed against his face as Yun Che slowly opened his eyes, and before him lay a world of murky gray. The light, the air, the atmosphere. They all resembled the Endless Fog. That said, the concentration of abyssal dust in this place was way thicker than the Endless Fog. It approached the level of the inner areas of the Endless Fog. For someone to go from the Pure Land to the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods was like jumping from a clear spring to a swamp. Both their profound energy and their spiritual perception were severely suppressed, causing unbearable discomfort. Yun Che was the opposite. Like a fish that returned to the deep sea, the mental pressure that had been weighing on him since entering the Pure Land had disappeared completely. Not only that, every wisp of abyssal dust in this place could become a medium for his spiritual perception. “Phew—” After letting out a long sigh of relief, Yun Che released his spiritual perception and spread it toward his surroundings. Li Suo murmured, “It’s quiet here. Much quieter than the Endless Fog.” Yun Che replied casually, “That’s because there are very few abyssal beasts in this place. Instead, it is crawling with abyssal ghosts.” Abyssal ghosts moved with near total silence. “There’s no need to scout out the surrounding area yet. You should focus on gathering your thoughts and resting.” Li Suo murmured even more quietly, “Your soul strings were pulled too taut in the Pure Land, and the soul damage you received from the punishment of devouring rage hasn’t recovered yet. Since this place is of no threat to you, at least allow yourself a moment to catch your breath.” “Hmm? Are you concerned about me?” “Mm.” A faint smile touched Yun Che’s lips. Surprisingly, he obediently withdrew his spiritual perception, lowered his guard, and sat cross-legged on the ground. “Very well. How could one refuse the benevolence of a Creation God?” Li Suo fell silent and watched Yun Che without a word as he closed his eyes to rest. However, she could clearly sense that his mind never truly relaxed. At least a third of his awareness was keeping an eye on his surroundings. This was proven by the fact that an abyssal ghost lurching closer to Yun Che, but turned away and ran into the vast gray fog right before it would make contact with him. Li Suo couldn’t hold back any longer and asked, “Your mind is still in turmoil. What are you thinking about?” Eyes still closed, Yun Che answered in a low voice, “I still can’t let go of Mo Su being unmoved after I showed him the Divine Miracle of Life. After carefully reflecting on my conversation with him, I noticed that he mentioned the words ‘death wish’ or something like it more than once.” “So, I’m thinking that, rather than the damage inflicted by the Ancestral Sword, perhaps the main reason Pan Xiaodie remained ‘asleep’ is because of the death wish born from overwhelming guilt and a sense of culpability. If that is true, then it makes sense that even the Divine Miracle of Life couldn’t...” He paused for a second before exploding without warning, “SHOW YOURSELF!!!”RUMBLE—the sudden sound wave mixed with explosive, profound energy stirred up the surrounding space violently. Dozens of cracks rapidly spread outward as Yun Che abruptly rose to his feet, provoking shrill screeches from countless abyssal ghosts in the distance. Li Suo: “...?!” A sinister light settled in Yun Che’s eyes as his gaze swept his surroundings like a hawk. However, he sensed only the pure abyssal ghosts and turbulent air currents. One breath... two breaths... Li Suo finally spoke up. “What happened?” His search yielded nothing, but Yun Che’s soul strings remained taut, and his brows were furrowed to the extreme. “Someone was spying on me.” Li Suo kept quiet for a brief moment before asking, “Have you located the source?” “... No.” Li Suo said, “I did not detect anything. This place is rich in abyssal dust. Another person’s spiritual perception would be restricted, but yours is greatly enhanced. You can clearly sense even Hua Qingying’s gaze through the Endless Fog, not to mention that everyone who entered this place with you is only in the Divine Extinction Realm.” Yun Che’s expression changed mildly... He hadn’t let out that yell without thought. The instant he yelled, his spiritual perception had also washed out in every direction. The sudden outburst of sound and profound energy could have caused anyone’s soul aura to quake uncontrollably. However, despite pushing his spiritual perception to its limit, he found nothing. In his opinion, if he were spying on another person, and that person had suddenly let out a profound energy-empowered yell without any warning whatsoever, then his soul aura would have suffered at least a minor twitch, if not a major one. No matter what, it shouldn’t be possible for the person to leave not even the slightest ripple or trace behind, not to mention that this was a place full of abyssal dust, not to mention that the gaze... felt indescribably weak for some reason. Another while passed, and Yun Che finally relaxed his brows and withdrew his spiritual perception. He exhaled slightly and said, “Maybe I was too stressed after all, so much so that I’m hallucinating a little.” Maybe... but the Devil Queen had warned him time and again that the one thing he should never ignore in this world was a sudden flash of intuition. In any case, Yun Che could no longer rest after the sudden contact. So, he walked forward and soundlessly spread his spiritual perception to the surroundings. Before he knew it, a whole hour had passed. When he made contact with Xian Yue’s aura, he immediately changed direction and walked toward the area with thicker abyssal dust. The direction he was heading boasted abnormally growing concentrations of abyssal dust and density of abyssal ghosts. He kept passing by one abyssal ghost after another. Finally, Yun Che came to a stop. In front of him was a black, bottomless abyss swirling with impossibly thick, grayish dark abyssal dust. It looked like the gaping maw of a devil, capable of devouring anything and everything in the world without a sound. Staring at the dark abyss in front of him, Yun Che said in a low voice, “So this... is the Abyss of death.” Everyone knew that an unbelievably huge Primal Abyss of Death existed at the center of the Endless Fog. Contained within the Primal Abyss of Death was the thickest, most primal, and terrible abyssal dust in the entire Abyss. The Primal Abyss of Death was singular, but the Abyss of Death was not. Although far smaller than the Primal Abyss of Death, lesser Abysses of Death were scattered throughout the depths of the Endless Fog. However, Divine Limit Realm abyssal beasts and abyssal ghosts existed deep within the Endless Fog, and he could not control them with his current capabilities. He had only entered the place once before he was forced to escape with his tail tucked between his legs. Since then, he had given up on entering the place without proper preparation, which was why this was the first time he had seen a true Abyss of Death. This Abyss of Death was less than three hundred meters wide, but the terrible aura it was emitting was possibly indescribable. When Yun Che stared at it for too long, his eyes suddenly blurred, and the inexplicable impulse to just dive down the Abyss of Death and permanently return to nothingness sprouted in his heart without warning. Yun Che abruptly tore his gaze away from the Abyss of Death and thrust his right hand forward, causing a violent ball of Golden Crow Flame to fly toward it. The moment the golden flame fell into the Abyss of Death, both its light and its aura disappeared instantly. There was no struggle for energy or explosion. There wasn’t even any sound at all. It had turned into nothing just like that. An odd light flickered in Yun Che’s eyes as he squinted a little. “It’s a perfect disposal method, all right.” “Perfect disposal... method? What are you talking about?” Li Suo sounded confused. “You’ll find out very soon.” His voice was still lingering in the air when, suddenly, Yun Che whipped his head to the right. His eyes blazed with surprising intensity, and even his fingers were curling involuntarily from the surge of excitement and anticipation. “Found her.” Li Suo traced Yun Che’s senses and whispered, “Shen... Wu... Yi?” “The reason you insisted on coming here... was her?” “That’s right!!” Yun Che concealed his aura and passed through layer upon layer of abyssal dust, heading toward the source of that presence. “......” Li Suo seemed stunned by his answer. A long moment later, she finally asked in a voice filled with puzzlement, “Why? Is it purely because you wish to approach her, or are you trying to awaken her lost memories?” “I... do want to approach her. I want it so bad that I feel the impulse to throw all caution to the wind. Damn the cost, damn the consequences, damn everything.” The one short sentence revealed just how heavy and complicated the feelings Yun Che was harboring right now. However, the Yun Che in the Abyss was ultimately not wholly Yun Che. “However, my personal feelings and attachments... must never take precedence over the safety and security of my homeworld.” Li Suo: “...” “The reason I’m seeking an opportunity to be alone with her isn’t because ‘Yun Che’ wishes to approach her, but because ‘Emperor Yun’... needs an ally who can shoulder his burden with him.” A ripple appeared in Li Suo’s soul as she said in a voice as ephemeral as smoke, “But she is not the old Xia Qingyue. She is Shenwu Yi, a woman who is missing her past. She does not remember your or her homeworld. The only identity she carries right now is the Divine Daughter of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God. Why would she ever choose to ally with you?” “Besides... Mo Su specifically warned you that Shenwu Yanye desired to kill you. Shenwu Yi could very well be her executioner, and this is undoubtedly the perfect place to carry out her order.” “Yeah, I know,” Yun Che replied without a flicker of emotion. Yun Che’s spiritual perception had long made contact with the area Shenwu Yi was in, but her state astonished Yun Che. The Abyssal Monarch’s favor was rare, and she had used it to exchange for the chance to enter the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. Common sense dictated that the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods must contain an object she desperately desired to get her hands on. Common sense also stated that she would immediately seek out this object with all her might without wasting even a second. After all, one could only stay in the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods for one hundred and forty four hours at most. In reality, Shenwu Yi was concealing her presence to the best of her abilities and hiding under a massive gray boulder. She hadn’t moved a muscle since he detected her, and it didn’t look like she was searching for anything. She wasn’t making contact with the abyssal ghosts either.What... is she doing? When he sensed Xian Yue’s presence earlier, the man was moving swiftly and killing enemies. His presence felt excited and active... This was a place where gods had died. Anyone who entered it for the first time would be excited and full of anticipation. However, the person who expressed such a strong desire to enter the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods at the beginning... was keeping silent? At that moment, Shenwu Yi glanced aside, and Yun Che felt a sharp gaze, like a cold moon, touch his divine perception.She noticed me??! Yun Che swiftly withdrew his spiritual perception, and abyssal dust swirled in his palm. The next moment, an abyssal ghost hidden within the dust let out a screech, leaped into the air, and stabbed its sharp claws into Yun Che’s solar plexus.Pssh! Yun Che didn’t dodge or get out of the way. He withdrew his profound energy completely and simply allowed the abyssal ghost to put several bloody, gaping holes in his body. Li Suo cried out in shock, “Yun Che, you...” “Relax,” Yun Che’s face was filled with pain, and turning pale by the second, but the corners of his blood-drenched lips were curled up slightly. “Have you forgotten? I told you before. Injury is the easiest way to get someone to lower their guard... the worse the injuries, the better... Sss!” Chapter 2162 - Cloud and Moon in the Mist (1) Li Suo remembered what Yun Che said, of course. After all, this was not the first time he mutilated himself for an ulterior motive. When he first entered the Abyss, he had pretended to be severely injured to attract Helian Lingzhu. Later, he took this tactic to the extreme during his encounter with Hua Caili. It was human nature to lower one’s guard and feel sympathy toward someone who was grievously injured, and this was especially true for womenfolk. However... despite having watched Yun Che’s journey in the Abyss from the start until the end and knowing that his plots rarely missed the mark, Li Suo still could not help but warn him, “The loss of one’s memories does not necessarily mean the disappearance of one’s mental fortitude and cunning. Do not forget that she was the former emperor of a realm and the one who somehow rescued and rewrote the trajectory of your life despite the absolutely hopeless situation you were in. She even aided you in becoming the emperor of the whole world.” “There is no way she would be as easy to deceive as Hua Caili.” “Deceive?” Pop boom! The abyssal ghost landed another heavy blow, breaking or crushing every rib on the right side of his body and causing his complexion to grow even paler. A painful, sorrowful smile tugged at his lips as he replied, “Every memory of the moon is etched deeply in my soul... the one thing I could never do to her is deception.” Li Suo: “......” “You’re right. Even if she lost all of her past, her heart and soul would not change. She had simply returned to her purest and freest state.” “One of the biggest mistakes of my life was distrusting her like I used to. Now, I am certain that, despite the coat of Shenwu Yi she is wearing, her heart and soul... remain Xia Qingyue’s.” Having said that, Yun Che abruptly charged into the fog. As his profound energy surged, every injury on his body split open and spilled countless drops of blood on the ground. Li Suo said nothing for a long time. She realized she had unintentionally opened a wound with her words, sending waves of pain through his soul sea. Shenwu Yi was sitting in silence when, suddenly, cold light lit up her eyes. The Exquisite Profound Worlds shifted, and she appeared high, high up in the sky. It took her one look to peer through the endless fog and spot the blood-drenched figure beating a hasty retreat while fighting against two rampaging abyssal ghosts. The blood-drenched figure was clearly Yun Che of the Dreamweaver Kingdom of God, and the two abyssal ghosts were both in the third level of the Divine Extinction Realm! At Eden’s Crown, he had defeated the level three Divine Extinction Realm Dian Sansi as a level four Divine Master. It went without saying that everyone was stunned by this feat. However, this was the Forbidden Zone of the Slumbering Gods, and abyssal dust had a profound suppressive effect against profound energy. Even if his talent was of a kind, it was highly unlikely that he would be able to win against two level three Divine Extinction Realm abyssal ghosts. He fought as he retreated, dangers accompanying every step of the way. His whole body was drenched in blood, and his breathing was erratic and out of control... His eyes, however, were as determined as ever, and he never acted to touch the Void Breaching Divine Jade on his shoulder. Not a single ripple could be spotted in Shenwu Yi’s eyes as she looked down on Yun Che. There was only infinite ice and cold. She was dressed in black, and her black hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall. She might as well be invisible as she stood without a sound in the grayish sky. However, Yun Che was retreating straight toward her. Every time he retreated a step, the distance between them would shorten, and his injuries would grow a little worse. At the same time, crimson-gold fire began to flare from his person, slowly brightening the grayish-dark world. When he was almost directly below her feet, Yun Che abruptly stopped in his tracks and launched a counterattack. A strange, icy silhouette abruptly flew out of his person and stopped between the two abyssal ghosts. At the same time, the fiery blaze he had been preparing for a long time exploded violently and bloomed into the divine image of a phoenix. It was so gorgeous that it scorched the eyes, and its long cry was as soul-shaking as it was proud. The fire was still exploding and burning when the two abyssal ghosts rushed out of it. The icy silhouette dashed once more as Yun Che instantly got close to an abyssal ghost and let out an explosive yell. The next moment, the Divine Master power that made its appearance in Eden’s Crown and absolutely crushed everything everyone thought they knew about the profound way erupted.Rumble! The abyssal ghost snapped into two at the same time, and the bones in Yun Che’s left arm shattered from the backlash. However, Yun Che could not seem to feel the pain. He did not give himself even half an instant to catch his breath, either. Already, he was pouncing toward the other abyssal ghost and grabbing it with his right hand. The phoenix’s cries echoed, and crimson gold flames burned the abyssal ghost violently... This lasted for several breaths, until the second abyssal ghost finally stopped moving altogether. The fire gradually died out, and Yun Che looked utterly exhausted. He leaned against a pitch black abyssal rock and slowly slid down to a sitting position, panting. Blood quickly pooled and spread out around him. It was a shocking sight even in the cover of abyssal dust. The icy silhouette and golden red fire continued to flicker in Shenwu Yi’s pupils even after the fire was gone. It wasn’t until a long time that the images finally faded away. “I want you to kill Yun Che!” “Kill Yun Che!!!” Shenwu Yanye’s hoarse, maddened screams echoed inside her soul sea like a demonic voice of nightmares. The Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods was a place where no one could look inside. Right now, Yun Che was gravely injured and almost devoid of profound energy. Without a doubt, he had lost nearly all of his resistance. In other words, there could not be a better time and place to kill Yun Che than here and now. The Heartless Sword emerged, and Shenwu Yi descended from the sky. The cold light pierced through multiple layers of abyssal dust and stabbed straight toward Yun Che’s solar plexus. It was at this moment that Yun Che slowly lifted his head, and their gazes met soundlessly amidst the cold light of the Heartless Sword. He did not look shocked or afraid; panicked or horrified, however. On the contrary, his deathly pale face actually cracked a small... but infinitely warm smile. Those bloodshot eyes had shot right past the life-taking sword beam and peered straight through the windows of her soul. They seemed to contain an infinite amount of love, and they were unwilling to look away for even a millimeter.Chi— The Heartless Sword tore through space and left behind a long scar in its wake, but it came to a stop when it was merely half an inch away from Yun Che’s solar plexus. Space and time seemed to freeze as Yun Che continued to stare dazedly at her pupils, heedless of the cold sword that was pointed straight at his heart. Her pupils were oh-so-gorgeous and cold like frozen rivers of stars, reflecting not even a speck of mundane dust. Separated by only centimeters of space, their breaths mingled soundlessly with each other. This was the first time they were so close to each other in this world. It was Shenwu Yi’s emotionless voice that broke the frozen silence first. “Why didn’t you run away?” Her sword had descended from high up in the sky. Yun Che should have enough time to sense the danger and escape using the Void Breaching Divine Jade. Yun Che smiled. He was still looking straight at her as if he was unwilling to look away ever no matter what. “Because I knew you wouldn’t kill me.” Her lunar pupils narrowed slightly, and soul-chilling killing intent burst out. It pierced through the sword tip of the Heartless Sword and into Yun Che’s heart and soul. Still, her outburst failed to elicit the slightest tremor or fear from him. The sword beam retracted before stabbing toward Yun Che’s solar plexus with bone-chilling, heart-freezing killing intent once more. Yun Che finally made a move, and his decision... was to throw away the intact Void Breaching Divine Jade on his right shoulder.Shiing! The Heartless Sword stabbed half an inch into Yun Che’s solar plexus before stopping abruptly. In fact, the stop was so hasty that the slender blade visibly trembled and hummed with exertion. A droplet of blood slowly seeped out of the wound, catching Shenwu Yi’s gaze and causing the snow-white fingers gripping the hilt to tighten slightly. The world seemed to freeze once more. The only thing that remained unchanged was Yun Che’s expression and gaze.Bang! The Void Breaching Divine Jade landed quietly in the distance. However, the noise still shook one’s heartstrings. Finally, Shenwu Yi furrowed her brow and looked away, avoiding Yun Che’s gaze. “As I thought... You won’t kill me.” His injuries were severe, and his complexion was turning white with every passing breath. However, the gentle smile touching his lips only grew warmer and more yearning. From the start until the end, his gaze never wavered as if he felt neither the icy blade piercing his solar plexus nor the excruciating pain affecting his heart. Shenwu Yi’s eyes remained as cold and indifferent as a lone moon. A hint of scorn entered her gaze as she said, “Not only did you choose not to escape during a life-threatening danger, but you also put your life in another person’s hands. Even if you are the Dreamweaver Divine Son and someone who caught the Abyssal Monarch’s attention, it doesn’t change the fact that you have made an extremely foolish choice.” “You’re wrong.” Yun Che shook his head lightly. “The reason I know you won’t kill me... is because of our past.” “I am confident that... even if fate has torn us apart, even if your memories are gone, even if time and space themselves were displaced, my Qingyue, my wife, still could never truly wish to kill me.” Ripples appeared in Li Suo’s heart. (He actually...) At this point, Li Suo truly understood why Yun Che had grievously injured himself. If he did not do this, the cold and aloof Shenwu Yi would never have chosen to come within touching distance of him or speak with him. Bit by bit, Shenwu Yi’s gaze slowly shifted back to the center. For a few breaths, she stared straight into Yun Che’s eyes until finally, she asked coldly, “What... did you say?” Yun Che reached out and tapped the sword that was embedded half an inch inside his body. His heartbeat seemed to be traveling along the blade and transmitting its pulse into Shenwu Yi’s perception. “What did I say? With your intelligence and insight, are you really telling me that you have no idea what I’m talking about? Haven’t the stirrings in your heart told you anything when you first laid your eyes on me?” Shenwu Yi continued to look at him indifferently. She neither moved nor said a word. “Back at Eden’s Crown, while I was enduring the punishment of devouring rage, I was doing my best not just to resist the pain, but also to spare some attention from you. I noticed your confusion, the occasional pain that flashed through your face... and the look you gave me before you left.” Yun Che’s eyebrows curled into crescents. Despite his grievous injuries and a sword embedded in his chest, his smile looked unbelievably joyful, and his pupils resembled warm pools carrying the reflection of a warm moon. “Even if my Qingyue was hurt and betrayed by me, even if the whims of fate made her forget everything, her heart still aches for me. So... how could my Qingyue possibly bear to kill me?” A piercing pain erupted from Yun Che’s solar plexus... It was Shenwu Yi losing control of her grip for an instant.Chi! The Heartless Sword withdrew, and blood spurted out of Yun Che’s solar plexus. The next moment, the blade was pointed at his neck. Looking down from above with infinitely frigid eyes, Shenwu Yi said expressionlessly, “Are you trying to say that you know my past?” “Yes.” His injuries were worsening, and his breathing had grown labored. However, his gaze remained the same as ever. “I know everything about your past. Your name, your homeland, your—” “So what??” A heartless voice interrupted him, and the Heartless Sword shifted closer to his throat. “My name is Shenwu Yi. I am the Divine Daughter of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God. My Mother is the one who saved my life and bestowed this body upon me. I exist only to serve Mother and the Eternal Night Kingdom of God for the rest of my life.” “What does my past have anything to do with me!?” Yun Che did not grow dejected even a little despite what she said. Staring into Shenwu Yi’s seemingly permanently indifferent eyes, he said weakly but resolutely, “In this world, the one person who truly understands you besides yourself is me... Your very existence possesses a majesty that transcends heaven and earth. There is no way you would allow yourself to be manipulated by others. There is no way you would consent to serving another.” “Your Mother is, but a pawn in your grasp... even the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods is merely a space in your board.” “......” The light in Shenwu Yi’s eyes seemed to deepen. She said indifferently, “If you are wrong, then you have just gravely insulted Mother and me. It is an insult that deserves ten thousand deaths. If you are right, then I should silence you right here and now.” “How foolish are you?” “Heh... hehe...” Yun Che chuckled, but his chuckle was stained with sorrow and self-derision. “You’re right. The old me truly was a hopeless idiot. If I were even a little less naive and foolish back then, you would not have suffered the cruel fate you had for my sake.” Shenwu Yi: “......” A sudden, cold wind stirred her jet-black hair. Then, she smiled. It was a faint smile that was brimming with endless scorn, “Well done, Dreamweaver Divine Son. You have truly opened my eyes. Just yesterday, atop Eden’s Crown before the eyes of all Kingdoms of God, you endured twice the punishment of devouring rage for your Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter. Truly, it was a sight to move heaven and earth; a spectacle that brought tears to the eyes.” “But now, you are playing a romantic fool who does not fear even the threat of death and calling a woman with no memories your wife. Even an ice-hearted person like me is curious what will happen if your Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter figures out your true face.” It was a scathing criticism to put it mildly, but still, Shenwu Yi’s frozen gaze could not capture any stirring in his eyes. “I am not the Dreamweaver Divine Son or Meng Kongchan’s son. I am not even a member of this world.” Yun Che calmly revealed his biggest secret in this world just like that. The scorn on Shenwu YI’s lips gradually disappeared, and her eyes returned to deep, still calm. “You’ve arrived in this world for decades. With your intelligence, you must have noticed that you do not belong in this world long ago.” “We came from the same world. We were true husband and wife, and our fates were even bound once.” He looked up and straight at Shenwu Yi so that she could see every wisp of his gaze down to the finest detail. “You possess the one and only Heart of Snow Glazed Glass in the world. You are better than anyone at discerning truth from falsehoods, good from evil. Can you really not tell whether my words are genuine or deceitful?” “Hmph!” Shenwu Yi snorted, and the corners of her lips curled into scorn once more. “Heart of Snow Glazed Glass? So, even the Dreamweaver Divine Son isn’t immune to erroneous rumors.” “The records of this world claim that the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass isn’t just capable of discerning truth from falsehoods, good from evil. They also claim that it is pure and flawless, untouched by the world’s filth. Alas, in my own eyes, I am nothing but an utterly selfish and cold-hearted person.” Chapter 2163 - Cloud and Moon in the Mist (2) “Are you satisfied with my answer, Divine Son Yuan?” It was as if every word she spoke was laden with ice. They were so cold that they threatened to pierce the flesh and soul. She was using the harshest words she could think of to crush his facade and shatter his mental defenses. And yet... she still couldn’t capture any stirring of emotions in the man’s eyes. Her words were so cold, so estranged, so merciless... even now, her sword was still pressed against his fragile throat. So why did his eyes still radiate such warmth, a warmth that seemed to seep directly into the depths of her soul? She felt as if something were silently melting inside her heart. Time and again, she grew wary and suppressed the feeling, only for the unprecedented stirring of her heart and soul to return immediately after the fact. It was like his gaze had awoken an instinct hidden within the depths of her soul, one that was both incomprehensible and impossible to resist. She had awakened in the Eternal Night Kingdom of God. Her first memory in this world was Shenwu Yanye. She had long grown accustomed to the cold solitude and oppression, but warmth was not absent from her life. Shenwu Youluan and Shenwu Mingque, her two aunts, had always treated her with tenderness. It was not merely affection; it was simply their true nature. As her time in this world grew, she gradually discovered that she was different from others. Her five senses seemed to be supernaturally sharp. Her eyes appeared capable of piercing directly into the human heart and “seeing” emotions that others could not perceive. However... she had never encountered eyes like Yun Che’s. She had never known that a pair of eyes could intertwine with such complex and profound emotions... Like the reunion after a life-and-death separation, like a lone star on a cold night finally crashing into a warm galaxy, like an ancient mirror that was covered in dust for millennia suddenly reflecting a familiar face... The emotions churning in those depths were so thick they felt like both the insoluble, bone-gnawing longing for loss and the uncontainable trembling ecstasy of reunion. From the moment they met in this gloomy forbidden zone, he had been looking at her with such rapt attention. His dark eyes were as deep as ink-black abysses, yet shone so brightly they seemed to conceal two clusters of unquenchable starlight. Within those sparks lay cautious probing, as if fearing everything before him might prove to be a mirage; a dazed, disoriented haze as if he had yet to awaken from a long slumber of soul-wrenching sorrow and delusion. And above all, an unyielding clinging and determination to never let go again, even if it meant draining mountains and seas...He... Who is he... And me... Who am I... “You needn’t test me any longer, Qingyue. I am the one person in the world you need least to test or guard against, for I... could never hurt you again.” His voice remained as gentle as the wind, yet his gaze held her captive as if seeking to bind her very essence to his soul with his eyes alone. As the words fell, Yun Che suddenly clutched his chest and began coughing violently. Each cough expelled a thick spray of blood mist. The sword tip pressed against his throat instantly withdrew a couple of inches... Her hand had actually moved before her mind could command it, as if driven by instinct. Several streams of profound energy circulated slowly inside Yun Che’s body until his injuries finally stabilized a little. Shenwu Yi stared at him intently, her words still cold and mocking, “So, you’re afraid of death after all.” “Of course I’m afraid of dying.” Yun Che worked hard to steady his breathing. Because his injuries were so severe, his voice was raspy and weak, and each word sounded like it was squeezed out of his teeth. However, they were also clear and resolute. “I am probably the most death-fearing person in this world, for if I were to die... should you ever regain your memories, your heart would be torn apart. My homeland... our homeland... would forever plunge into an unpredictable, irresistible abyss of calamity as well.” His eyes reflected a hazy, soft light, but also an unyielding resolve born from the deepest recesses of his soul. Shenwu Yi’s lips moved... but she ultimately could not bring herself to utter another soul-piercing word. “Qingyue, I know that Shenwu Yanye is the one who wants you to kill me. Her reason for wanting me dead is because I unintentionally ripped open her scar of betrayal at Eden’s Crown, and there is no better place to kill me than here... you do not need to acknowledge or deny it. Right now, I am of no threat to you whatsoever. I lack even the ability to escape. All I ask is that you give me some time and listen to all that I have to say.” Shenwu Yi neither moved nor spoke. She only looked at him coldly... However, she at least did not reject him or take her leave of him. After Yun Che’s breathing had gotten a little steadier, he drew in a shallow breath and spoke slowly, “I am not Meng Jianyuan. Yun Che is my true name. Your name is Xia Qingyue. We were married at sixteen in a city called Floating Cloud City... There is not a Floating Cloud City in this world, for it only exists in our homeland.” Shenwu Yi: “......” “You called yourself an utterly selfish and cold-hearted person, but I think that your self-proclaimed coldness stems from your body and soul naturally rejecting this world.” Like a pebble dropped into a pond, his words seemed to send a ripple through Shenwu Yi’s gaze for a moment. “I share the same sentiment as you. We feel this rejection precisely because we don’t belong to this world. Our homeland is none other than the fabled ‘Eternal Pure Land’ that the people of this world will soon enter.” It went without saying that every word Yun Che was speaking right now could have shaken a denizen of the Abyss to the core. Shenwu Yi neither changed her expression nor interrupted him. She just kept watching and listening to him coldly. “There is no abyssal dust in our homeland, but it is teeming with verdant trees and blossoms and home to countless races and worlds both great and small. The number of colors and living beings that exist in our world surpasses that of the Abyss countless times over. However, the loss of natural energies stopped our profound practitioners from being able to surpass the Divine Master Realm.” “If the denizens of the Abyss set foot into our homeland, everyone shall turn into helpless lambs awaiting slaughter. The fragile heavenly law of our world, unable to withstand the power of the Half Gods and True Gods, shall give rise to countless calamities as well.” “This is why I came to this world.” Every sentence, every word he spoke was done while meeting Shenwu Yi’s gaze directly. Every emotion was reflected in the depths of his eyes without reservation. Shenwu Yi asked indifferently, “You’re saying that you intend to prevent the Pure Land and the Kingdoms of God from entering the Eternal Pure Land?” “Yes.” “By yourself?” “Yes, by myself.” His answer came back without hesitation or fear. “There is no need for me to tell you what kind of existence the Abyssal Monarch and his four High Priests are. Even ignoring the Pure Land, countless experts in the Six Kingdoms of God can turn me to dust with the flick of a finger. But I, a mere Divine Master, must prevent the next activation of the Void Breaching Great Formation in less than fifty years regardless.” “It’s quite absurd and laughable, isn’t it?” Any profound practitioner of the Abyss would agree with him. However, Shenwu Yi, despite earlier insulting and taunting him, refrained from delivering a cutting remark. “This is why I had no choice but to resort to any means necessary... I donned layer upon layer of disguise, step by step, to blend in with this world. I used dirty tricks to get close to Hua Caili, employed despicable methods to become Meng Jianyuan... all to tear apart the alliance between the three kingdoms—Boundless, Heaven Breaker, and Dreamweaver—and sow the seeds of distrust and enmity.” Just like that, he laid bare his most crucial scheme in this world to Shenwu Yi with unflinching candor. The cold moon in Shenwu Yi’s pupils grew even stiller. No one could tell what she was thinking right now. “Qingyue...” The cry was faint, so faint it sounded as if it drifted from a distant dream. He narrowed his eyes slightly, a smile playing on his lips. “You lost your past, so you can’t understand how overjoyed I am to see you again, or how deeply grateful I am to the heavens.” “I have imagined countless times in the dreams I wove for myself: if you could reappear in my life, I would spare no effort to make amends to you. By hook or by crook, I will weave your life completely into mine... Alas, to think that our reunion would take place in another world, and under such a heavy fate no less.” He opened his eyes once more, and all the tenderness and affection he displayed was submerged beneath the gaze that was both endlessly clear and infinitely dark. “No matter how heavy my personal attachments are, they cannot compare to the slightest fraction of my homeland’s ruin... Qingyue, though I owe you immeasurably, what I need most at this moment is your aid.” “Our homeland is not their ‘Eternal Pure Land’. It is our Eternal Pure Land.” “I am the emperor of the ‘Eternal Pure Land, and you are its empress.” After speaking so much in such a short time, Yun Che’s breathing grew erratic once more. He silently suppressed his injuries. Although his face looked as pale as a sheet, he showed none of the frailty one might expect from such severe wounds. This wasn’t a world that would permit him even a moment of weakness after all. “Are you done?” Her voice remained as bone-chilling as ever. “I’ll grant you that it’s a fantastic story. It is so absurd that even those so-called literati of the mundane world couldn’t have concocted it in their wildest delirium. Yet... I find myself believing it precisely because it’s so absurd.” Her eyes narrowed, their gaze as pure and pristine as the snow of eternal snowfields, yet also utterly devoid of warmth. “If what you said is true—that you are a ruler from another world, an imposter posing as the Divine Son of a Kingdom of God, and a shadow that brings chaos to three Kingdoms of God—would such a being reveal all their secrets without reservation to a Divine Daughter of a Kingdom of God?” “Even if I really was the ‘Xia Qingyue’ you spoke of, I am now Shenwu Yi and only Shenwu Yi. I am the current Divine Daughter of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God. The Xia Qingyue you spoke of has not left behind the slightest trace of her existence in my life or my knowledge.” “One word is all I need to expose your ambition and scheme to the world. One word is all I need to turn you to dust. All things considered... Don’t you think that this so-called emperor from another world is a little too naive and foolish?” “How can someone so naive and foolish deserve to bear the fate of an entire world?”Gurgle! A metallic sweet taste surged in Yun Che’s throat, though he forced it down and allowed only a few long strands of blood to spill from the corners of his lips. Yet, his eyes remained as clear as ever, like unyielding stars that shone persistently in the dark night. “I have already given you my answer... It’s because you are Xia Qingyue, the Xia Qingyue who, though gravely wounded by fate, chose to leave behind all the tenderness and kindness to the world, and take on all the pain and death by herself.” Shenwu Yi: “......” “Just as your disguise can no longer fool me, I will never harbor any suspicion or hesitation toward you any longer.” Yun Che slowly lifted his hand. Wherever his palm touched, abyssal dust responded to his call and gathered slowly into a small, grayish vortex. Shenwu Yi’s beautiful eyes narrowed, and a somewhat intense expression finally appeared on her jade-like face for the first time. “You can interfere with abyssal dust, can’t you?” He said lightly, “This is the proof that our fates are connected.” Shenwu Yi stared fixedly at the abyssal dust in Yun Che’s palm, seemingly lost in thought for a moment. However, her gaze turned cold, and she abruptly demanded, “Answer me one question.” “Alright.” Yun Che’s voice softened, mirrored by the gentleness in his eyes. She asked coldly, “You claimed that I am your wife, married to you since the age of sixteen. If that is true, then why...” “... am I still a virgin[1]?” “......” This question, this “flaw” was so unexpected that Yun Che was unable to come up with an answer immediately. “Hmph!” Yun Che’s brief silence drew a cold snort from Shenwu Yi. She was just about to speak again when Yun Che lowered his gaze a little and murmured softly: “With heaven and earth in harmony, all things transform into purity; men and women unite in proper union, establishing the order of the universe. Here stands Che, the sole heir of the Xiao clan from Floating Cloud City, Blue Wind Empire. At sixteen years of age, he possesses upright bearing and gentle disposition, inheriting his family's reputation for integrity while embodying the grace of unpolished jade. Here stands Qingyue, the beloved daughter of the Xia clan, also sixteen. Her beauty rivals moonlit glass, her elegance transcending the mundane. She has mastered the virtues of a virtuous maiden, possessing the refined grace of orchids.” Shen Wuyi: “...?” His low murmur continued, each word piercing Shen Wuyi's soul: “Recall when Qingyue was young and frail, facing imminent peril. When Lord Xiao risked his life to save her, Lord Xia swore an oath with blood-stained tears, thus sealing this sacred union. Now, with ancestral tablets as witnesses and a profound crystal contract as proof, this marriage certificate is written to bind Xiao Che and Xia Qingyue as one.” “May they henceforth walk hand in hand, sharing the path of cultivation: in prosperity, they shall share abundance; in poverty, they shall remain steadfast; in peril, they shall face life and death together; in peace, they shall harmonize like qin and se. May they uphold this vow throughout their lives, witnessing the boundless Great Way; may they never part, forever bathed in the spiritual blessings of heaven and earth.” “This document is solemnly established to manifest their pledge.” Yun Che touched the corner of his lips and wet his finger in blood. Then, he pressed it firmly against his unstained cuff. When he released his grip, a deep and perfect fingerprint was left behind.Shred! Yun Che ripped off the sleeve with the fingerprint and pushed it toward the dazed Shenwu Yi. She subconsciously caught it between her fingers, feeling the lingering warmth of the fabric in her palm. “What... are you doing?” He smiled in satisfaction when it looked like she had no intentions of discarding the torn sleeve. “I once witnessed your memories after losing you. The ending you chose for yourself was a crimson wedding gown, and...” “... the marriage certificate that you carefully concealed within your sash.” It was at this moment that a cry filled with panic and fury erupted, “Big Brother Yun! Shenwu Yi... Stop!!” The girl’s shout had just reached him when a blinding sword beam cleaved through the darkness and severed the space. It shot straight toward Shenwu Yi’s back with boundless rage. 1. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA TL and ED laughing our butts off. ☜ Chapter 2164 - The Innocence Back Then Yun Che was slumped on the ground and covered in so much blood that it looked like someone had spilled ink all over a piece of paper. The crimson stains spreading across the gray abyssal stones were spine-chilling enough, but Shenwu Yi was also standing in front of him and pointing the Heartless Sword at him, the sword tip mere millimeters away from his throat. Anyone witnessing this would have thought that Shenwu Yi had grievously injured Yun Che and was currently in the middle of taking his life. The moment Hua Caili saw this, every string in her soul pulled taut to the point of snapping, and her beautiful eyes shattered into countless lights of fury. The next moment, the Glass Cloud Sword exploded with the maximum amount of Heaven Breaker Sword Intent and shot straight toward Shenwu Yi’s most vulnerable spot. This was the first time in her life that Hua Caili had unleashed a killing blow with such total resolve, without any hesitation or reservation whatsoever. Such was her terror and fury that the flying Glass Cloud Sword emitted a shrill, almost piercing vibration. The blindingly fierce sword beam cleaved the gloomy world in two like the first light of dawn, reaching Shenwu Yi’s back in just an instant... but Shenwu Yi did not move, did not summon the Profound Exquisite World or the Glazed Glass Ice, did not even emit a wisp of profound energy as if she didn’t sense the attack at all.Shred— The sword pierced through her heart and shot out of her chest. Such was its speed that the blood hadn’t spilled out yet. Yun Che’s pupils contracted instantly. It wasn’t an afterimage that the Glass Cloud Sword had pierced. It was her completely defenseless body. Not only that, during the instant the sword was passing through her body, the Heaven Breaker Sword Intent had erupted mercilessly and grievously injured her internal organs. Her meridians, especially, shattered into countless pieces. In fact, Yun Che sensed Hua Caili’s approach a long time ago. This should be true for Shenwu Yi as well, as she was an extraordinary, level-six Divine Extinction Realm practitioner whose spiritual perception was not suppressed by abyssal dust. So... why didn’t she choose to evade or block the attack? Her body was pierced, her internal organs suffered immense damage, and her energies and blood were flowing in reverse. Shenwu Yi’s complexion instantly turned deathly white, and an enormous amount of blood spilled out of her lips uncontrollably. However, her expression remained as cold and indifferent as ever. Forget pain, he couldn’t spot even a speck of surprise on her face. The Glass Cloud Sword did not slow down even after it emerged from Shenwu Yi’s body. Just before it would make contact with Yun Che, it curved upward and traced a gorgeous red arc across the grayish space. Then, it flew back to the young woman’s jade-like fingers. At the same time, Hua Caili appeared in front of Yun Che and pushed Shenwu Yi far, far away with sword intent and profound energy that were brimming with fury. She pointed her sword straight at Shenwu Yi while saying in a hoarse, trembling voice, “Shenwu Yi... you... you dare...” Yun Che could barely catch her side profile because she was shielding Yun Che. Her divine robes were stained with dust, and her long hair slightly disheveled. The corners of her eyes blazed with vivid crimson—not the delicate blush of her usual timidity, but the fiery hue of burning anger. The sword energy, once imbued with boundless inspiration, seemed consumed entirely by the inferno of fury and transformed into a fragmented, swirling cyclone of sword scars that surrounded her whole person. Even the strands of hair that usually hung beside her temples were standing on end, whipping wildly in the turbulent currents of her profound energy. Not even Hua Fuchen and Hua Qingying, both adults who watched Hua Caili grow up in their whole lives, had seen such a terrifying look from her before. Despite her all-consuming rage, Hua Caili did not lose control and tried to finish the job. She was wielding her sword with one hand and resting the other behind her back, forming a firm connection with Yun Che. In fact, most of her profound energy was concentrated around that hand. Her eyes reflected Shenwu Yi’s silhouette with an unprecedented chill. The jade sword in her hand was vibrating audibly and shining so brightly it was almost dazzling, even though she knew she was no match for Shenwu Yi; her aura overflowed with the ruthless resolve to fight until the last drop of her blood. Shenwu Yi did not say anything. She simply soared into the air and vanished into the distance. Before her silhouette completely disappeared behind the gray fog, Shenwu Yi turned and fixed Yun Che with a deep, lingering look. Their eyes met. His gaze had been following her every move while brimming with emotion and longing this whole time. Strangely, the moment their eyes met, she understood the profound meaning hidden in his gaze. Hua Caili remained tense even after Shenwu Yi was gone. It wasn’t until the woman’s presence had disappeared entirely from her senses that she finally snapped out of her trance, like awakening from a nightmare. The trembling sword qi around her crumbled instantly.Thang! The Glass Cloud Sword she cherished the most fell through her fingers and hit the ground with a clang. She abruptly turned around and dropped to her knees in front of Yun Che. She asked in a trembling voice, “Big Brother Yun, are... are you okay... where are you hurt?” The brimming fury and killing intent from earlier disappeared completely, leaving behind only terror that stole all the blood from her already snow white complexion. The one line was enough to make her eyes mist with moisture. “Don’t worry. I’m fine.” The corners of Yun Che’s lips curled into a small smile. It was at this moment that his light profound energy glowed warmly, both stabilizing his wounds and soothing the young woman’s panicking heart. Sensing Yun Che’s somewhat plentiful profound energy and life aura, Hua Caili finally let out a long, long sigh of relief. She clutched the hem of Yun Che’s shirt and looked overcome by a temporary wave of exhaustion in the aftermath of the terrifying ordeal. It was only now that Hua Caili noticed that an abyssal ghost or abyssal beast clearly inflicted Yun Che’s injuries. In fact, his wounds were still seeping with the grayish fog unique to abyssal corruption. They definitely weren’t inflicted by the Heartless Sword or the Purify God Seal. That said, she saw it as clear as day that Shenwu Yi was pointing her sword at Yun Che’s throat. She could not bear to think of the consequences if she arrived even a bit later. “Shenwu Yi... why did she try to kill you?” Hua Caili asked softly, eyes on their surroundings. At the same time, she branded Shenwu Yi with a mark of hatred inside her heart. Now that she had calmed down a little, she found herself asking questions that she hadn’t noticed earlier: Why didn’t she dodge my attack earlier? With her cultivation, the Glass Cloud Sword should not have pierced her heart so easily, even if she didn’t use that strange, profound ice of hers... Yun Che grabbed her hand and said evenly, “Shenwu Yi and I share no grievances. If I have to guess why she’s doing this, I could only think of the Lightless Divine Regent.” “Ah!?” Hua Caili subconsciously tightened her grip at the mention of the Divine Regent. “No way... why did she command this?” “Heh...” Yun Che let out a light chuckle. “The Lightless Divine Regent does not speak or act based on ordinary logic. You must have heard of her past. I suspect that my enduring double the punishment of devouring rage must have triggered her somehow. She is unwilling to admit that any man would go to such lengths for a woman, and so feels compelled to wipe out the anomaly that proves her wrong... cough. Cough.” Hua Caili hurriedly touched his chest lightly. Eyes filled with hurt, she said angrily, “Yes, she was unfortunate enough to meet the wrong man... I think he was called Shenwu Xueyan? And receive unrecoverable scars from him, but how does it make sense to reject everyone else over one man’s sin? How utterly despicable! No wonder even Father called her an unreasonable madwoman.” “Anyway, let’s leave and talk later, Big Brother Yun. It’s a small chance, but I don’t want to risk Shenwu Yi turning back and attempting another assassination.” “No worries.” Yun Che looked completely unworried. “She had clearly fought a great fight when I first ran into her. I could tell from how erratic her profound energy was. Later, you pierced her heart. Her injuries must be a lot worse than mine. She can hardly take care of herself, much less spare the energy to kill me again.” “Besides, leaving like this... would be too ugly.” “I... see...” Hua Caili whispered a look of realization on her face. She might have found holes in Yun Che’s reply if she really thought about it, but of course, she put it out of her mind and prioritized his well-being. “Okay. Focus on recuperating for now. When we’re out, we will inform Father and Uncle Meng about this immediately.” “Mm.” Yun Che gave an affirmative reply. “But please persuade your Father not to get angry after you inform him about this. The Lightless Divine Regent’s anger is impulsive, and I believe that it will fade very soon. Unless absolutely necessary, there is no reason to clash head-on against a madwoman... not to mention that all of my injuries really came from the abyssal ghosts, and Shenwu Yi never really got the time to kill me or injure me.” Hua Caili mulled over this for a moment but ultimately agreed to his request. “Fine. You’re such a good person, Big Brother Yun. Despite encountering such a horrible ambush, you are still worried about Father and Uncle Meng.” Yun Che watched her silently for a moment before pulling her onto his chest. “Ah!”Hua Caili let out a soft cry of surprise, but she didn’t dare to struggle even a little because she was worried about his wounds. She obediently nestled against Yun Che and allowed his blood to stain her pure white robes, her nose filled with the faint stench of blood and his uniquely crisp, cool scent. “Caili,” His half-serious, half-teasing murmurs entered the young woman’s ears. “If one day I hurt you like Shenwu Xueyan hurt Shenwu Yanye, do you think you would turn into another her?” “Pff!” Hua Caili burst out laughing, giggling so hard she shook a little. Resting her head against Yun Che’s chest and hearing his slightly erratic heartbeat, she carefully went through all the rumors regarding Shenwu Yanye before answering quietly, “In this world, only I know just how good Big Brother Yun is. So if one day you fell in love with another woman like Shenwu Yanye and even married her as your consort, that only means that I wasn’t good enough. At least, I wasn’t better than the woman you chose. Otherwise, you would not have set your gaze and heart on another.” Yun Che: “......” “There’s no way I would turn into a terrifying woman like Shenwu Yanye. If I did, you’d definitely lose interest in me completely. I will... change the bad parts about me and keep you busy all day and night so that you won’t have any time to bother another woman, hehe.” Yun Che looked up and stared at the gloomy sky. He asked another question, “If I did something that’s a hundred times worse than Shenwu Xueyan’s deeds... will you hate me then?” Hua Caili’s reply came way sooner and more direct than he anticipated. “Of—course—not! I told you. As long as it’s you, I’ll forgive you no matter what you did.” She lifted her head and suddenly squeezed Yun Che’s lips with her hands, giggling. “No one knows better than me how well you treat me. As for the bad stuff... the worst stuff you ever did to me is... is...” Her voice grew softer and softer, her beautiful eyes shifted away in embarrassment, and her cheeks blushed a faint pink. “I know! You must have come up with more weird stuff in the past three years... and now that Father and aunt aren’t around, you wanna... how can you think of bullying me even when you’re injured so badly...” “Er... I never said that. You’re the one who...” “Don’t say it!!” She put a bit more strength into her hand and squeezed Yun Che’s lips shut, preventing him from finishing his sentence. Oh, how innocent she was back then, treating honesty as banter. ...... At the edge of the Pure Land, the Void Breaching Great Formation suddenly flashed gray. The next moment, a woman slowly stepped out while dragging a stunning trail of blood beneath her feet. It had not even been forty-eight hours since they entered the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods[1]. Pan Buzhuo had appeared during the twelfth hour, screaming that there was only abyssal dust and danger in the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods and not a speck of divine relic or opportunities whatsoever. He even insulted the Eternal Night Divine Daughter in a veiled manner, calling her stupid and ignorant to waste a vast chance on nothing at all. The second person to leave the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods was none other than the woman who caused its opening, Shenwu Yi. However, her injuries were so terrible that everyone who saw them could not help but gasp in horror. “Wuyi!!” Shenwu Youluan had been standing guard this whole time. When she saw Shenwu Yi’s state, she hurriedly rushed forward and caught the severely injured and exhausted Shenwu Yi in her arms. Sensing the familiar warmth and scent, Shenwu Yi finally allowed herself to relax and fall limply in her embrace. However, she stubbornly refused to fall unconscious and said weakly, “Aunt... take me... to Mother...” “I will... Just focus on calming your heart and breathing, and stop talking.” Shenwu Youluan’s voice trembled with distress. Still holding Shenwu Yi, she threw a new set of black robes around the woman... and covered up the wound at her solar plexus. She had recognized immediately that the Heaven Breaker Sword Intent inflicted the sword wound. The Pure Land, the square courtyard where the Eternal Night Kingdom of God resided, within the isolation barrier created by the Lightless Divine Regent. Shenwu Yi’s face was completely drained of color at this point. Her body was covered in the claw marks of abyssal ghosts, and some of them were near fatal. However, the most horrifying wound was undoubtedly the sword wound across her solar plexus. Even now, the terrible Heaven Breaker Sword Intent lingered within the wound. In her current state, Shenwu Yi was simply incapable of removing it by herself. She would have perished had she returned even just an hour later. Shenwu Youluan dispelled the Heaven Breaker Sword Intent entrenched inside Shenwu Yi’s body very, very carefully. Although Shenwu Yi was injured so severely that she couldn’t even stand, it did not exempt her from Shenwu Yanye’s terrible wrath. “You’re saying that, not only did you fail to kill Yun Che, but you were discovered by the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter and injured to this extent?” Every shrill, wrathful word that spilled out of Shenwu Yanye’s wrath caused all the surrounding women of Eternal Night to bow their heads deeply. They were so scared that they didn’t even dare to face her voice. “Mother...” Her voice was barely a whisper, and yet she summoned every ounce of willpower to stay conscious, “The Forbidden Zone... is teeming with abyssal ghosts... Wuyi fought for a long time... when I accidentally encountered Yun Che... I was already gravely wounded and exhausted...” “When I attacked... my injuries... my head was murky... the abyssal dust binds my soul... failed to notice the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter in time... cough... cough cough...” “Wuyi! Wuyi... enough! You don’t have to speak any longer!” Shenwu Youluan hurriedly pressed a hand to her solar plexus, fingers clenched so tightly they were white from the exertion. She faced toward the pitch black palanquin and begged, “Supreme one, if Wuyi wasn’t already severely injured, there is no way the Heaven Breaker Divine Daughter could have hurt her, considering her cultivation and her Profound Exquisite Worlds. Even if Wuyi was gravely mistaken, at least... at least let her rest before receiving her punishment. She truly can’t endure your wrath in her current state, supreme one.” Shenwu Youluan’s begging earned not an ounce of pity from Shenwu Yanye, however. The response that erupted from the palanquin was so cold it could rip the soul apart. “Who was the one who went against my orders and asked to enter the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods against my will? Rebellious, foolish, trash! And now you dare to try to justify yourself with excuses?!” It was at this moment that Shenwu Yi slowly raised her hand. Her movement was unbelievably weak, but her pale fingers spread open to reveal a strange, grayish abyssal crystal. It rested silently in her palm, its weak yet strange aura covering it. “I... fulfilled... my... duty...” As the voice faded away, Shenwu Yi finally could not cling to consciousness any longer and fainted. The abyssal crystal in her hand also fell together with her hand. Shenwu Youluan subconsciously caught the abyssal crystal and stared at it for a short while. Then, she burst out in shock, “Is this... the Abyssal Heart Vine?!?” “Supreme one! It’s the Abyssal Heart Vine! The Abyssal Heart Vine!!” The cold fury emanating from the palanquin abruptly froze, followed by a somewhat chaotic outburst of profound energy. Shenwu Mingque hurriedly stepped forward and grabbed the abyssal crystal in Shenwu Youluan’s hand. She too let out an equally agitated and surprised cry, “Nearly a full inch long and resembling withered vines. Its breath is sometimes like scorching fire or coiling thunder, and its core trembles like the heart of a mortal... it matches the description of the ‘Abyssal Heart Vine’ in the records exactly!” “Supreme one, it’s the Abyssal Heart Vine! Wuyi truly found the Abyssal Heart Vine!”Whoosh!!! A cold wind blew, and the Abyssal Heart Vine in Shenwu Mingque’s hand was swept into the palanquin... The shockwaves streaming from the palanquin only grew stronger after that. Shenwu Youluan collapsed to her knees and beseeched in a voice full of sorrow, “Supreme one, throughout the years, countless people have ventured into the Endless Fog and spared no effort to search for the Abyssal Heart Vine. However, no one was able to find even a trace of it.” “The reason Wuyi went so far as to use the Abyssal Monarch’s favor to enter the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods is to grasp at straws and pray for a miracle... the fact that her wish is actually answered proves that she has been hunting abyssal ghosts relentlessly from the moment she entered the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. She must have fought without regard for her injuries, fearing that she might miss that sliver of hope if she wasted even a single breath of time.” “I dare not imagine how many abyssal ghosts she must have hunted to sustain such severe injuries. Even when she was gravely wounded, she did not forget your command to kill Yun Che when she encountered him. That is why... that is why she...” “I implore the supreme one to spare Wuyi from further punishment, if only because her heart is so pure that it moved even the heavens to bestow the Abyssal Heart Vine!” The air froze briefly. Then, Shewu Yanye snapped in a hoarser-than-usual voice, “What are you still waiting for? Take Wuyi away for healing immediately!” “Yes!” Shenwu Youluan obeyed as if receiving a divine command and scooped up Shenwu Yi in a hurry. Then, she swiftly but carefully withdrew from the scene. 1. Oh god I have this strong suspicion that Mars mixed up his 时 and 时辰. Please let it not be the case... ☜ Chapter 2165 - Heart Toward Glazed Glass Shenwu Youluan gently, very gently, placed Shenwu Yi inside a healing, profound formation and set up a simple isolation barrier. A ball of gentle, profound light gathered in her palm and slowly circulated around that frail body. However, the woman who should be in a deep coma right now slowly opened her eyes and even struggled to rise. Her movements were weak, yet they were empowered by a stubborn force that would not be thwarted. “Wuyi!” Shenwu Youluan hurriedly stepped forward and hugged Shenwu Yi’s upper torso. “Don’t move recklessly, and submerge your consciousness. The supreme one no longer plans to punish you.” Shenwu Yi did not close her eyes, though. Instead, she said in a voice that sounded like a breeze blowing against the hair. “She... just obtained the Abyssal Heart Vine, and I am grievously injured... her eyes are not here. The Pure Land is not looking here either.” Shenwu Youluan understood her meaning. She wanted to advise Shenwu Yi that whatever she had to say could wait until she recovered, but she also knew her own personality. She wouldn’t be acting like this unless she had something essential that she needed to do right now. So, she nodded weakly and moved closer to her lips. “Okay. Tell me.” The bloodless lips parted slightly and began murmuring like she was dream-talking, “With heaven and earth in harmony, all things transform into purity; men and women unite in proper union, establishing the order of the universe...” “......!” Shenwu Youluan looked up, staring at Shenwu Yi in shock. It wasn’t until a few breaths later that she barely suppressed her bubbling emotions and asked in a hushed voice, “You... recovered your memories, Wuyi?” The moonlit eyes, so weak that they lost their focus, stared fixedly at her. “So... that marriage certificate... really does exist...” Shenwu Youluan froze. She was at a loss for words for a time. Then, she leaned closer and lowered her voice even more. “Who told you these words? What on earth happened to you during your time at the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods?” There was a slight tremor in her voice as she said this. Shenwu Yi slowly raised her hand and pressed her fingers against the back of Shenwu Youluan’s hand with immense difficulty. It was to show the woman the force of her determination. “If you have it... now... show it to me... now...” Despite being so weak that the only thing keeping her conscious and moving now was sheer willpower, she had repeated the word “now” twice. Shenwu Youluan wore a complicated expression. The short hesitation was itself a tacit admission. She was just about to answer when Shenwu Yi’s murmur echoed in her ears again, “It... directly decides... my fate...” Shenwu Youluan had never seen such determination and stubbornness from Shenwu Yi before. So, her teeth clenched slightly, she stopped hesitating and reached into her portable space. An instant later, she produced an abyssal crystal about one-third of a meter long and emanating a somewhat rich aura of abyssal crystal. Her fingers moved, and the abyssal crystal split open in the middle to reveal that it was artificially hollowed. Shenwu Youluan carefully produced a jade slip from the abyssal crystal. The engravings on the jade slip were clearly the first three seals of the Purify God Seal. The Purify God Seal was the core profound art of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God, so it made sense that it would be concealed so carefully. However, Shenwu Youluan unleashed a small puff of profound energy and shattered the jade slip, causing what looked like blood-stained pieces of paper to emerge from the fragments. With one swipe of the palm, the torn pieces of paper immediately started joining together into one. An instant later, a brilliant red sheet of paper, despite being terribly tattered and mostly covered in dried blood, took form, its words unnaturally clear. The title of the red paper was “Marriage Certificate”. It reflected in Shenwu Yi’s eyes and, somehow, magically sharpened her blurry vision. No one knew how much risk Shenwu Youluan had shouldered to conceal this marriage certificate... because it was the sole proof of Shenwu Yi’s past. Right now, Shenwu Yi’s unfocused eyes were shining with indescribable radiance. The words written on the marriage certificate had etched themselves into her heart instantly... It matched word for word what Yun Che had recited in the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. The names “Xiao Che” and “Xia Qingyue” were written at the end of the marriage certificate, and a pair of deep, intact fingerprints were marked beneath their birthdates. With trembling fingers, Shenwu Yi lifted the ripped sleeve she had received from Yun Che and checked his fingerprint first. They matched seamlessly with the one on the marriage certificate, even though her vision was terribly blurry right now. Just the same, her right fingerprint matched the one left behind by the woman named Xia Qingyue perfectly. “......” Her moonlight in her pupils shook violently, and her fingers curled unconsciously.That... is my past... I’m not someone without a past after all... I’m not a rootless duckweed after all... Xia Qingyue... is my name... my true name... Blue Wind Empire, Floating Cloud City... a surname that doesn’t exist in this world... a birthplace that doesn’t exist in this world... Yun Che... Xiao Che... homeland... I... “Aunt...” She closed her eyes, her voice weak as a somniloquy. “Remove... the traces...” Her palm fell limply, and her consciousness finally sank completely into darkness. Shenwu Youluan gently set Shenwu Yi down and tucked both the marriage certificate and the ripped sleeve into the abyssal crystal. However, it would be a long, long time before her chaotic thoughts and feelings settled. When she first picked up Shenwu Yi at Endless Fog, she already knew from the marriage certificate she carried that she was not a native. She knew it was extremely likely that Shenwu Yi came from the Eternal Pure Land because the surname Xia, “Blue Wind Empire” or “Floating Cloud City,” did not exist anywhere in this world. However, she also knew that Shenwu Yi would lose all freedom if this secret were ever to be revealed. So, she hid it out of pity and planned to return it to her after she had fully recovered. Shenwu Yanye had noticed Shenwu Yi’s Nine Profound Exquisite Body first and forced her to become an Eternal Night Divine Daughter. In Shenwu Youluan’s opinion, becoming an Eternal Night Divine Daughter was a fate far worse than being exposed as a denizen from the Eternal Pure Land. That was why she had always harbored indescribable guilt and regret toward her. She never thought that this secret would be exposed by Shenwu Yi herself out of nowhere. She had no way to predict what kind of ending this sudden twist of fate would bring, but no matter what it was, it could not be deeper than the lightless despair the Eternal Night Kingdom of God was already stuck in. ...... Yun Che’s self-recovery lasted a long time. In the end, his injuries and profound energy were mostly recovered. He had intentionally dragged out his recovery time, but it was still an extraordinary pace in Hua Caili’s opinion. “As expected of the light profound energy. I think it’s even greater than before.” Leaning against Yun Che’s shoulder, Hua Caili said smilingly, “A while ago, Aunt reminded me that people capable of producing light profound energy are exceptionally pure and good. She warned me not to abuse this fact and bully you. At this point, Aunt is going to treat you better than she treated me... hehe.” It sounded like jealousy, but her tone was filled with pure, unadulterated joy. Yun Che replied with a smile, “The reason Aunt is treating me so well is because of you and for your sake.” He climbed back to his feet and stretched a little. “Alright. We should head back now.” “Okay!” Hua Caili put away the Glass Cloud Sword and remarked, “The Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods was described as a place of many unfathomable mysteries, so I initially thought it would be filled with oddities and special opportunities. But now, I think it’s not much different from the Endless Fog. It just has more abyssal ghosts than abyssal beasts.” Yun Che replied, “This is a place where countless gods had perished, so it made sense that it used to be a graveyard of divine relics. However, we should not forget that this place belongs to the Pure Land. They must have scoured the place countless times over and picked up most of the divine relics. Otherwise, they would not have been so generous as to open it to the Six Kingdoms of God.” Hua Caili nodded in agreement. “Exactly. Speaking of, I wonder why that wretched Shenwu Yi requested such a peculiar reward?” It was at this moment that she recalled that... the Abyssal Monarch still owed her a favor. Yun Che made a grabbing motion, and the Void Breaching Divine Jade he tossed away earlier returned to his grasp. Hua Caili looked confused by this. She blurted out, “Why didn’t you use the Void Breaching Divine Jade to escape immediately when you were in danger earlier, Big Brother Yun? Was it because Shenwu Yi ambushed you while your guard was down?” Yun Che opened his lips to answer, but something occurred to him, and he blanched suddenly. “Oh no!” He suddenly turned around and ran into the abyssal fog. “Huh? Big Brother Yun!!” Hua Caili let out a cry of surprise and swiftly followed behind him. Yun Che did not slow down, though. He just kept running while his aura grew increasingly irritated and anxious. Finally, he came to a stop. The abyssal fog before them was vast and thick, suffocating. A grayish maw was lying on the ground and emitting an aura so terrible that the soul trembled just being near its presence. “Is this... an Abyss of Death?” Standing beside Yun Che, Hua Caili exclaimed in surprise. This was the first time she saw the fabled Abyss of Death that was said to exist in the deep areas of the Endless Fog. Yun Che reached toward the Abyss of Death with a palm, profound energy and soul presence surging in increasing panic and frustration. “What’s going on, Big Brother Yun?” Hua Caili asked worriedly. Yun Che slowly clenched his palm into a fist and exhaled deeply. He said in a difficult voice, “When I was attacked by several abyssal ghosts earlier, I accidentally dropped the Cloud Glass Sword into the Abyss of Death...” “Ah?!?” Hua Caili let out a cry of shock. She finally understood why he was acting so panicked. “The Glass Cloud Sword is connected to me by soul aura, and yet I have completely lost contact with its presence.” Yun Che was doing his best to keep his voice calm, but still, he couldn’t keep his disappointment from leaking. “The reason I didn’t escape immediately despite the dangerous situation I was in was that I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to retrieve the Cloud Glass Sword at a later time. But... I guess...” “......” Hua Caili’s lips parted as she searched for the words to comfort him, to no avail. She could only move closer to him. Anything that fell into the Abyss of Death would return to nothingness. This was stated in every record regarding the Abyss of Death. Yun Che exhaled one last time before withdrawing his palm. Then, he smiled like he was letting go and even turned around to console Hua Caili instead, “There’s no helping it... It’s fine. Master always said that to gain something is fortune, and to lose something is fate. I’m sure he won’t blame me for this.” “Mm!” “...... Let us leave then.” A pair of Void Breaching Divine Jades shattered, taking Yun Che and Hua Caili away from the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. The instant they disappeared, an ancient, demonic groan rose from the soundless Abyss of Death. However, it disappeared into the gloomy abyssal fog in the next instant. ...... “Our homeland is not their ‘Eternal Pure Land’. It is our Eternal Pure Land!!” “If the denizens of the Abyss set foot in our homeland, everyone shall turn into helpless lambs awaiting slaughter...” “You called yourself an utterly selfish and cold-hearted person, but I think that your self-proclaimed coldness stems from your body and soul naturally rejecting this world!” “You are Xia Qingyue...” “I am the emperor of the ‘Eternal Pure Land, and you are its empress...” “What I need most at this moment is your aid...” “No matter what... must... stop...” “......” Shenwu Yi abruptly startled awake and sat bolt upright. An instant later, excruciating pain surged through her entire body. Despite this, she clenched her teeth tightly and did not allow a single whimper to leak. Her surroundings were utterly still, and no one was by her side. Only the healing profound formation hummed silently as it worked. Her five senses quickly regained their usual clarity as she slowly rose to her feet. She walked outside the room and stood at the Pure Land, overlooking the distant sky. A clear wind blew, and her pitch black robes swayed lightly in the wind. The bloodstains on her hem had dried into dark marks like faded crimson blooms on an ink-wash painting, lending a kind of shattered beauty. Her jade-like face was as pale as frost and snow, and her lips were drained of color. Only her long eyelashes, delicate as butterfly wings, cast faint shadows across her pallid features. The abyssal corruption that hadn’t yet been fully expelled for a thin layer of gray mist around her. It made her look like a falling star of a dark night: cold, solitary, but also divinely breathtaking. Her gaze drifted toward the pure white horizon. Her eyes, once frozen with ice, had shed their indifference and sharpness, leaving behind only deep pools of stillness. Another breeze swept by, ruffling the strands at her temple and teasing the delicate hair hanging in front of her forehead. She paid it no attention. Her thoughts had long drifted toward the fleeting past and the unknown future.Blue Wind Empire, Floating Cloud City... Qingyue of Xia... homeland... empress... Yun Che... Xiao Che... She was obviously standing in the untainted Pure Land and basking in flawless heavenly light, and yet it felt like an endless night fog was enveloping her and making her look even lonelier and colder than she already was.It’s real... everything he said... is real... She slowly closed her eyes, and the first thing that came to her soul sea was those eyes filled with insoluble love and resolve. When she slowly clenched her fists... she actually felt as if she could feel the lingering warmth of that blood-drenched sleeve. From start to finish, her body and soul were silently rejecting the world she was in. However, that man was drawing not just her senses, but her heart and soul toward him... Her eyes opened once more, exquisite beauty rippling in those wonderful orbs. However, the man’s voice continued to echo within the depths of her soul: “I am probably the most death-fearing person in this world, for if I were to die... should you ever regain your memories, your heart would be torn apart. My homeland... our homeland... would forever plunge into an unpredictable, irresistible abyss of calamity as well.” She subconsciously pressed a hand to her chest. She could tell that her heartbeat was completely out of control. Even the thick gloominess that usually shrouded her heart was swiftly being dispelled by his voice. “But I, a mere Divine Master, must prevent the next activation of the Void Breaching Great Formation in less than fifty years, regardless... This is why I had no choice but to resort to any means necessary!”Less than fifty years... must stop... If the road ahead could not be seen, then listen to the heart’s voice, for it was the most exquisite, truthful, and flawless guidance of the profound. ...... Suddenly, Shenwu Yi turned around. When her gaze regained its focus, they had regained their usual depth and iciness.Since that is the case... the final page of the “Secret Tome” must be revealed ahead of schedule... then...Shenwu Yanye! I permit you... to repay your debt... sooner... than... expected[1]! ...... Yun Che and Hua Caili had just stepped out of the Void Breaching Great Formation when Meng Jianxi rushed over and examined him carefully. A while later, he hid a sigh of relief and said, “It looks like you encountered some fierce battles. I’m glad to see that you’re fine.” Yun Che was a little caught off guard by this. Then, he realized something and smiled at Meng Jianxi. Nothing else needed to be said. At that moment, Hua Caili noticed Dugu Zhuyuan was there as well. She exclaimed in surprise, “Uncle Dugu? Shouldn’t you be battling against Aunt in the Heaven Above Abyss? Even your shortest battle lasted three days, but this time... it couldn’t be over already, could it??” Dugu Zhuyuan suddenly let out an enigmatic sigh. His gaze looked immeasurably complicated as well. His reaction caught Yun Che’s attention, and he asked casually, “Is aunt... senior Sword Fairy perhaps delayed by something?” Dugu Zhuyuan cast them a look and hesitated for a moment. In the end, he said, “Today’s fight is my last fight against the Sword Fairy. After this, there will be no need for further conflict.” “Huh?” Hua Caili looked completely confused. “But why?” Dugu Zhuyuan shook his head and refused to clarify. “I see that you are injured, Divine Son Yuan. You should head back and rest.” Although Hua Caili was overflowing with puzzlement, she ultimately did not press him for an answer. She left together with Yun Che. After they were gone, Dugu Zhuyuan finally let out a long sigh and mumbled somewhat dazedly, “It is only now I know that I learn that the reason she is the Sword Fairy... isn’t because she can only be the Sword Fairy. It is because... she doesn’t want to be anything else but the Sword Fairy.” “The only reason she forced herself to remain mortal is for Caili... I will never be able to measure up to her or reach her for as long as I live[2].” 1. Ah crap. So, my current theory is that Xia Qingyue also lost her family in the Abyss (remember they killed everyone related to her to keep her existence a secret), which is why she hates Shenwu Yanye so much. Since this parallels her fate in Primal Chaos, you can’t help but wonder if the Artifact of Fate is in effect... except the one on the other end is no longer Yun Che, but a certain dark side of the Ancestral God... ☜ 2. IDK if it was mentioned before, but apparently Mars said that the first mortal to become a True God in the Abyss would be Ying’er. It is Ying’er, but well, it’s Hua Qingying’er. :D ☜ Chapter 2165 - Heart Toward Glazed Glass Shenwu Youluan gently, very gently, placed Shenwu Yi inside a healing, profound formation and set up a simple isolation barrier. A ball of gentle, profound light gathered in her palm and slowly circulated around that frail body. However, the woman who should be in a deep coma right now slowly opened her eyes and even struggled to rise. Her movements were weak, yet they were empowered by a stubborn force that would not be thwarted. “Wuyi!” Shenwu Youluan hurriedly stepped forward and hugged Shenwu Yi’s upper torso. “Don’t move recklessly, and submerge your consciousness. The supreme one no longer plans to punish you.” Shenwu Yi did not close her eyes, though. Instead, she said in a voice that sounded like a breeze blowing against the hair. “She... just obtained the Abyssal Heart Vine, and I am grievously injured... her eyes are not here. The Pure Land is not looking here either.” Shenwu Youluan understood her meaning. She wanted to advise Shenwu Yi that whatever she had to say could wait until she recovered, but she also knew her own personality. She wouldn’t be acting like this unless she had something essential that she needed to do right now. So, she nodded weakly and moved closer to her lips. “Okay. Tell me.” The bloodless lips parted slightly and began murmuring like she was dream-talking, “With heaven and earth in harmony, all things transform into purity; men and women unite in proper union, establishing the order of the universe...” “......!” Shenwu Youluan looked up, staring at Shenwu Yi in shock. It wasn’t until a few breaths later that she barely suppressed her bubbling emotions and asked in a hushed voice, “You... recovered your memories, Wuyi?” The moonlit eyes, so weak that they lost their focus, stared fixedly at her. “So... that marriage certificate... really does exist...” Shenwu Youluan froze. She was at a loss for words for a time. Then, she leaned closer and lowered her voice even more. “Who told you these words? What on earth happened to you during your time at the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods?” There was a slight tremor in her voice as she said this. Shenwu Yi slowly raised her hand and pressed her fingers against the back of Shenwu Youluan’s hand with immense difficulty. It was to show the woman the force of her determination. “If you have it... now... show it to me... now...” Despite being so weak that the only thing keeping her conscious and moving now was sheer willpower, she had repeated the word “now” twice. Shenwu Youluan wore a complicated expression. The short hesitation was itself a tacit admission. She was just about to answer when Shenwu Yi’s murmur echoed in her ears again, “It... directly decides... my fate...” Shenwu Youluan had never seen such determination and stubbornness from Shenwu Yi before. So, her teeth clenched slightly, she stopped hesitating and reached into her portable space. An instant later, she produced an abyssal crystal about one-third of a meter long and emanating a somewhat rich aura of abyssal crystal. Her fingers moved, and the abyssal crystal split open in the middle to reveal that it was artificially hollowed. Shenwu Youluan carefully produced a jade slip from the abyssal crystal. The engravings on the jade slip were clearly the first three seals of the Purify God Seal. The Purify God Seal was the core profound art of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God, so it made sense that it would be concealed so carefully. However, Shenwu Youluan unleashed a small puff of profound energy and shattered the jade slip, causing what looked like blood-stained pieces of paper to emerge from the fragments. With one swipe of the palm, the torn pieces of paper immediately started joining together into one. An instant later, a brilliant red sheet of paper, despite being terribly tattered and mostly covered in dried blood, took form, its words unnaturally clear. The title of the red paper was “Marriage Certificate”. It reflected in Shenwu Yi’s eyes and, somehow, magically sharpened her blurry vision. No one knew how much risk Shenwu Youluan had shouldered to conceal this marriage certificate... because it was the sole proof of Shenwu Yi’s past. Right now, Shenwu Yi’s unfocused eyes were shining with indescribable radiance. The words written on the marriage certificate had etched themselves into her heart instantly... It matched word for word what Yun Che had recited in the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. The names “Xiao Che” and “Xia Qingyue” were written at the end of the marriage certificate, and a pair of deep, intact fingerprints were marked beneath their birthdates. With trembling fingers, Shenwu Yi lifted the ripped sleeve she had received from Yun Che and checked his fingerprint first. They matched seamlessly with the one on the marriage certificate, even though her vision was terribly blurry right now. Just the same, her right fingerprint matched the one left behind by the woman named Xia Qingyue perfectly. “......” Her moonlight in her pupils shook violently, and her fingers curled unconsciously.That... is my past... I’m not someone without a past after all... I’m not a rootless duckweed after all... Xia Qingyue... is my name... my true name... Blue Wind Empire, Floating Cloud City... a surname that doesn’t exist in this world... a birthplace that doesn’t exist in this world... Yun Che... Xiao Che... homeland... I... “Aunt...” She closed her eyes, her voice weak as a somniloquy. “Remove... the traces...” Her palm fell limply, and her consciousness finally sank completely into darkness. Shenwu Youluan gently set Shenwu Yi down and tucked both the marriage certificate and the ripped sleeve into the abyssal crystal. However, it would be a long, long time before her chaotic thoughts and feelings settled. When she first picked up Shenwu Yi at Endless Fog, she already knew from the marriage certificate she carried that she was not a native. She knew it was extremely likely that Shenwu Yi came from the Eternal Pure Land because the surname Xia, “Blue Wind Empire” or “Floating Cloud City,” did not exist anywhere in this world. However, she also knew that Shenwu Yi would lose all freedom if this secret were ever to be revealed. So, she hid it out of pity and planned to return it to her after she had fully recovered. Shenwu Yanye had noticed Shenwu Yi’s Nine Profound Exquisite Body first and forced her to become an Eternal Night Divine Daughter. In Shenwu Youluan’s opinion, becoming an Eternal Night Divine Daughter was a fate far worse than being exposed as a denizen from the Eternal Pure Land. That was why she had always harbored indescribable guilt and regret toward her. She never thought that this secret would be exposed by Shenwu Yi herself out of nowhere. She had no way to predict what kind of ending this sudden twist of fate would bring, but no matter what it was, it could not be deeper than the lightless despair the Eternal Night Kingdom of God was already stuck in. ...... Yun Che’s self-recovery lasted a long time. In the end, his injuries and profound energy were mostly recovered. He had intentionally dragged out his recovery time, but it was still an extraordinary pace in Hua Caili’s opinion. “As expected of the light profound energy. I think it’s even greater than before.” Leaning against Yun Che’s shoulder, Hua Caili said smilingly, “A while ago, Aunt reminded me that people capable of producing light profound energy are exceptionally pure and good. She warned me not to abuse this fact and bully you. At this point, Aunt is going to treat you better than she treated me... hehe.” It sounded like jealousy, but her tone was filled with pure, unadulterated joy. Yun Che replied with a smile, “The reason Aunt is treating me so well is because of you and for your sake.” He climbed back to his feet and stretched a little. “Alright. We should head back now.” “Okay!” Hua Caili put away the Glass Cloud Sword and remarked, “The Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods was described as a place of many unfathomable mysteries, so I initially thought it would be filled with oddities and special opportunities. But now, I think it’s not much different from the Endless Fog. It just has more abyssal ghosts than abyssal beasts.” Yun Che replied, “This is a place where countless gods had perished, so it made sense that it used to be a graveyard of divine relics. However, we should not forget that this place belongs to the Pure Land. They must have scoured the place countless times over and picked up most of the divine relics. Otherwise, they would not have been so generous as to open it to the Six Kingdoms of God.” Hua Caili nodded in agreement. “Exactly. Speaking of, I wonder why that wretched Shenwu Yi requested such a peculiar reward?” It was at this moment that she recalled that... the Abyssal Monarch still owed her a favor. Yun Che made a grabbing motion, and the Void Breaching Divine Jade he tossed away earlier returned to his grasp. Hua Caili looked confused by this. She blurted out, “Why didn’t you use the Void Breaching Divine Jade to escape immediately when you were in danger earlier, Big Brother Yun? Was it because Shenwu Yi ambushed you while your guard was down?” Yun Che opened his lips to answer, but something occurred to him, and he blanched suddenly. “Oh no!” He suddenly turned around and ran into the abyssal fog. “Huh? Big Brother Yun!!” Hua Caili let out a cry of surprise and swiftly followed behind him. Yun Che did not slow down, though. He just kept running while his aura grew increasingly irritated and anxious. Finally, he came to a stop. The abyssal fog before them was vast and thick, suffocating. A grayish maw was lying on the ground and emitting an aura so terrible that the soul trembled just being near its presence. “Is this... an Abyss of Death?” Standing beside Yun Che, Hua Caili exclaimed in surprise. This was the first time she saw the fabled Abyss of Death that was said to exist in the deep areas of the Endless Fog. Yun Che reached toward the Abyss of Death with a palm, profound energy and soul presence surging in increasing panic and frustration. “What’s going on, Big Brother Yun?” Hua Caili asked worriedly. Yun Che slowly clenched his palm into a fist and exhaled deeply. He said in a difficult voice, “When I was attacked by several abyssal ghosts earlier, I accidentally dropped the Cloud Glass Sword into the Abyss of Death...” “Ah?!?” Hua Caili let out a cry of shock. She finally understood why he was acting so panicked. “The Glass Cloud Sword is connected to me by soul aura, and yet I have completely lost contact with its presence.” Yun Che was doing his best to keep his voice calm, but still, he couldn’t keep his disappointment from leaking. “The reason I didn’t escape immediately despite the dangerous situation I was in was that I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to retrieve the Cloud Glass Sword at a later time. But... I guess...” “......” Hua Caili’s lips parted as she searched for the words to comfort him, to no avail. She could only move closer to him. Anything that fell into the Abyss of Death would return to nothingness. This was stated in every record regarding the Abyss of Death. Yun Che exhaled one last time before withdrawing his palm. Then, he smiled like he was letting go and even turned around to console Hua Caili instead, “There’s no helping it... It’s fine. Master always said that to gain something is fortune, and to lose something is fate. I’m sure he won’t blame me for this.” “Mm!” “...... Let us leave then.” A pair of Void Breaching Divine Jades shattered, taking Yun Che and Hua Caili away from the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. The instant they disappeared, an ancient, demonic groan rose from the soundless Abyss of Death. However, it disappeared into the gloomy abyssal fog in the next instant. ...... “Our homeland is not their ‘Eternal Pure Land’. It is our Eternal Pure Land!!” “If the denizens of the Abyss set foot in our homeland, everyone shall turn into helpless lambs awaiting slaughter...” “You called yourself an utterly selfish and cold-hearted person, but I think that your self-proclaimed coldness stems from your body and soul naturally rejecting this world!” “You are Xia Qingyue...” “I am the emperor of the ‘Eternal Pure Land, and you are its empress...” “What I need most at this moment is your aid...” “No matter what... must... stop...” “......” Shenwu Yi abruptly startled awake and sat bolt upright. An instant later, excruciating pain surged through her entire body. Despite this, she clenched her teeth tightly and did not allow a single whimper to leak. Her surroundings were utterly still, and no one was by her side. Only the healing profound formation hummed silently as it worked. Her five senses quickly regained their usual clarity as she slowly rose to her feet. She walked outside the room and stood at the Pure Land, overlooking the distant sky. A clear wind blew, and her pitch black robes swayed lightly in the wind. The bloodstains on her hem had dried into dark marks like faded crimson blooms on an ink-wash painting, lending a kind of shattered beauty. Her jade-like face was as pale as frost and snow, and her lips were drained of color. Only her long eyelashes, delicate as butterfly wings, cast faint shadows across her pallid features. The abyssal corruption that hadn’t yet been fully expelled for a thin layer of gray mist around her. It made her look like a falling star of a dark night: cold, solitary, but also divinely breathtaking. Her gaze drifted toward the pure white horizon. Her eyes, once frozen with ice, had shed their indifference and sharpness, leaving behind only deep pools of stillness. Another breeze swept by, ruffling the strands at her temple and teasing the delicate hair hanging in front of her forehead. She paid it no attention. Her thoughts had long drifted toward the fleeting past and the unknown future.Blue Wind Empire, Floating Cloud City... Qingyue of Xia... homeland... empress... Yun Che... Xiao Che... She was obviously standing in the untainted Pure Land and basking in flawless heavenly light, and yet it felt like an endless night fog was enveloping her and making her look even lonelier and colder than she already was.It’s real... everything he said... is real... She slowly closed her eyes, and the first thing that came to her soul sea was those eyes filled with insoluble love and resolve. When she slowly clenched her fists... she actually felt as if she could feel the lingering warmth of that blood-drenched sleeve. From start to finish, her body and soul were silently rejecting the world she was in. However, that man was drawing not just her senses, but her heart and soul toward him... Her eyes opened once more, exquisite beauty rippling in those wonderful orbs. However, the man’s voice continued to echo within the depths of her soul: “I am probably the most death-fearing person in this world, for if I were to die... should you ever regain your memories, your heart would be torn apart. My homeland... our homeland... would forever plunge into an unpredictable, irresistible abyss of calamity as well.” She subconsciously pressed a hand to her chest. She could tell that her heartbeat was completely out of control. Even the thick gloominess that usually shrouded her heart was swiftly being dispelled by his voice. “But I, a mere Divine Master, must prevent the next activation of the Void Breaching Great Formation in less than fifty years, regardless... This is why I had no choice but to resort to any means necessary!”Less than fifty years... must stop... If the road ahead could not be seen, then listen to the heart’s voice, for it was the most exquisite, truthful, and flawless guidance of the profound. ...... Suddenly, Shenwu Yi turned around. When her gaze regained its focus, they had regained their usual depth and iciness.Since that is the case... the final page of the “Secret Tome” must be revealed ahead of schedule... then...Shenwu Yanye! I permit you... to repay your debt... sooner... than... expected[1]! ...... Yun Che and Hua Caili had just stepped out of the Void Breaching Great Formation when Meng Jianxi rushed over and examined him carefully. A while later, he hid a sigh of relief and said, “It looks like you encountered some fierce battles. I’m glad to see that you’re fine.” Yun Che was a little caught off guard by this. Then, he realized something and smiled at Meng Jianxi. Nothing else needed to be said. At that moment, Hua Caili noticed Dugu Zhuyuan was there as well. She exclaimed in surprise, “Uncle Dugu? Shouldn’t you be battling against Aunt in the Heaven Above Abyss? Even your shortest battle lasted three days, but this time... it couldn’t be over already, could it??” Dugu Zhuyuan suddenly let out an enigmatic sigh. His gaze looked immeasurably complicated as well. His reaction caught Yun Che’s attention, and he asked casually, “Is aunt... senior Sword Fairy perhaps delayed by something?” Dugu Zhuyuan cast them a look and hesitated for a moment. In the end, he said, “Today’s fight is my last fight against the Sword Fairy. After this, there will be no need for further conflict.” “Huh?” Hua Caili looked completely confused. “But why?” Dugu Zhuyuan shook his head and refused to clarify. “I see that you are injured, Divine Son Yuan. You should head back and rest.” Although Hua Caili was overflowing with puzzlement, she ultimately did not press him for an answer. She left together with Yun Che. After they were gone, Dugu Zhuyuan finally let out a long sigh and mumbled somewhat dazedly, “It is only now I know that I learn that the reason she is the Sword Fairy... isn’t because she can only be the Sword Fairy. It is because... she doesn’t want to be anything else but the Sword Fairy.” “The only reason she forced herself to remain mortal is for Caili... I will never be able to measure up to her or reach her for as long as I live[2].” 1. Ah crap. So, my current theory is that Xia Qingyue also lost her family in the Abyss (remember they killed everyone related to her to keep her existence a secret), which is why she hates Shenwu Yanye so much. Since this parallels her fate in Primal Chaos, you can’t help but wonder if the Artifact of Fate is in effect... except the one on the other end is no longer Yun Che, but a certain dark side of the Ancestral God... ☜ 2. IDK if it was mentioned before, but apparently Mars said that the first mortal to become a True God in the Abyss would be Ying’er. It is Ying’er, but well, it’s Hua Qingying’er. :D ☜ Chapter 2165 - Heart Toward Glazed Glass Shenwu Youluan gently, very gently, placed Shenwu Yi inside a healing, profound formation and set up a simple isolation barrier. A ball of gentle, profound light gathered in her palm and slowly circulated around that frail body. However, the woman who should be in a deep coma right now slowly opened her eyes and even struggled to rise. Her movements were weak, yet they were empowered by a stubborn force that would not be thwarted. “Wuyi!” Shenwu Youluan hurriedly stepped forward and hugged Shenwu Yi’s upper torso. “Don’t move recklessly, and submerge your consciousness. The supreme one no longer plans to punish you.” Shenwu Yi did not close her eyes, though. Instead, she said in a voice that sounded like a breeze blowing against the hair. “She... just obtained the Abyssal Heart Vine, and I am grievously injured... her eyes are not here. The Pure Land is not looking here either.” Shenwu Youluan understood her meaning. She wanted to advise Shenwu Yi that whatever she had to say could wait until she recovered, but she also knew her own personality. She wouldn’t be acting like this unless she had something essential that she needed to do right now. So, she nodded weakly and moved closer to her lips. “Okay. Tell me.” The bloodless lips parted slightly and began murmuring like she was dream-talking, “With heaven and earth in harmony, all things transform into purity; men and women unite in proper union, establishing the order of the universe...” “......!” Shenwu Youluan looked up, staring at Shenwu Yi in shock. It wasn’t until a few breaths later that she barely suppressed her bubbling emotions and asked in a hushed voice, “You... recovered your memories, Wuyi?” The moonlit eyes, so weak that they lost their focus, stared fixedly at her. “So... that marriage certificate... really does exist...” Shenwu Youluan froze. She was at a loss for words for a time. Then, she leaned closer and lowered her voice even more. “Who told you these words? What on earth happened to you during your time at the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods?” There was a slight tremor in her voice as she said this. Shenwu Yi slowly raised her hand and pressed her fingers against the back of Shenwu Youluan’s hand with immense difficulty. It was to show the woman the force of her determination. “If you have it... now... show it to me... now...” Despite being so weak that the only thing keeping her conscious and moving now was sheer willpower, she had repeated the word “now” twice. Shenwu Youluan wore a complicated expression. The short hesitation was itself a tacit admission. She was just about to answer when Shenwu Yi’s murmur echoed in her ears again, “It... directly decides... my fate...” Shenwu Youluan had never seen such determination and stubbornness from Shenwu Yi before. So, her teeth clenched slightly, she stopped hesitating and reached into her portable space. An instant later, she produced an abyssal crystal about one-third of a meter long and emanating a somewhat rich aura of abyssal crystal. Her fingers moved, and the abyssal crystal split open in the middle to reveal that it was artificially hollowed. Shenwu Youluan carefully produced a jade slip from the abyssal crystal. The engravings on the jade slip were clearly the first three seals of the Purify God Seal. The Purify God Seal was the core profound art of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God, so it made sense that it would be concealed so carefully. However, Shenwu Youluan unleashed a small puff of profound energy and shattered the jade slip, causing what looked like blood-stained pieces of paper to emerge from the fragments. With one swipe of the palm, the torn pieces of paper immediately started joining together into one. An instant later, a brilliant red sheet of paper, despite being terribly tattered and mostly covered in dried blood, took form, its words unnaturally clear. The title of the red paper was “Marriage Certificate”. It reflected in Shenwu Yi’s eyes and, somehow, magically sharpened her blurry vision. No one knew how much risk Shenwu Youluan had shouldered to conceal this marriage certificate... because it was the sole proof of Shenwu Yi’s past. Right now, Shenwu Yi’s unfocused eyes were shining with indescribable radiance. The words written on the marriage certificate had etched themselves into her heart instantly... It matched word for word what Yun Che had recited in the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. The names “Xiao Che” and “Xia Qingyue” were written at the end of the marriage certificate, and a pair of deep, intact fingerprints were marked beneath their birthdates. With trembling fingers, Shenwu Yi lifted the ripped sleeve she had received from Yun Che and checked his fingerprint first. They matched seamlessly with the one on the marriage certificate, even though her vision was terribly blurry right now. Just the same, her right fingerprint matched the one left behind by the woman named Xia Qingyue perfectly. “......” Her moonlight in her pupils shook violently, and her fingers curled unconsciously.That... is my past... I’m not someone without a past after all... I’m not a rootless duckweed after all... Xia Qingyue... is my name... my true name... Blue Wind Empire, Floating Cloud City... a surname that doesn’t exist in this world... a birthplace that doesn’t exist in this world... Yun Che... Xiao Che... homeland... I... “Aunt...” She closed her eyes, her voice weak as a somniloquy. “Remove... the traces...” Her palm fell limply, and her consciousness finally sank completely into darkness. Shenwu Youluan gently set Shenwu Yi down and tucked both the marriage certificate and the ripped sleeve into the abyssal crystal. However, it would be a long, long time before her chaotic thoughts and feelings settled. When she first picked up Shenwu Yi at Endless Fog, she already knew from the marriage certificate she carried that she was not a native. She knew it was extremely likely that Shenwu Yi came from the Eternal Pure Land because the surname Xia, “Blue Wind Empire” or “Floating Cloud City,” did not exist anywhere in this world. However, she also knew that Shenwu Yi would lose all freedom if this secret were ever to be revealed. So, she hid it out of pity and planned to return it to her after she had fully recovered. Shenwu Yanye had noticed Shenwu Yi’s Nine Profound Exquisite Body first and forced her to become an Eternal Night Divine Daughter. In Shenwu Youluan’s opinion, becoming an Eternal Night Divine Daughter was a fate far worse than being exposed as a denizen from the Eternal Pure Land. That was why she had always harbored indescribable guilt and regret toward her. She never thought that this secret would be exposed by Shenwu Yi herself out of nowhere. She had no way to predict what kind of ending this sudden twist of fate would bring, but no matter what it was, it could not be deeper than the lightless despair the Eternal Night Kingdom of God was already stuck in. ...... Yun Che’s self-recovery lasted a long time. In the end, his injuries and profound energy were mostly recovered. He had intentionally dragged out his recovery time, but it was still an extraordinary pace in Hua Caili’s opinion. “As expected of the light profound energy. I think it’s even greater than before.” Leaning against Yun Che’s shoulder, Hua Caili said smilingly, “A while ago, Aunt reminded me that people capable of producing light profound energy are exceptionally pure and good. She warned me not to abuse this fact and bully you. At this point, Aunt is going to treat you better than she treated me... hehe.” It sounded like jealousy, but her tone was filled with pure, unadulterated joy. Yun Che replied with a smile, “The reason Aunt is treating me so well is because of you and for your sake.” He climbed back to his feet and stretched a little. “Alright. We should head back now.” “Okay!” Hua Caili put away the Glass Cloud Sword and remarked, “The Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods was described as a place of many unfathomable mysteries, so I initially thought it would be filled with oddities and special opportunities. But now, I think it’s not much different from the Endless Fog. It just has more abyssal ghosts than abyssal beasts.” Yun Che replied, “This is a place where countless gods had perished, so it made sense that it used to be a graveyard of divine relics. However, we should not forget that this place belongs to the Pure Land. They must have scoured the place countless times over and picked up most of the divine relics. Otherwise, they would not have been so generous as to open it to the Six Kingdoms of God.” Hua Caili nodded in agreement. “Exactly. Speaking of, I wonder why that wretched Shenwu Yi requested such a peculiar reward?” It was at this moment that she recalled that... the Abyssal Monarch still owed her a favor. Yun Che made a grabbing motion, and the Void Breaching Divine Jade he tossed away earlier returned to his grasp. Hua Caili looked confused by this. She blurted out, “Why didn’t you use the Void Breaching Divine Jade to escape immediately when you were in danger earlier, Big Brother Yun? Was it because Shenwu Yi ambushed you while your guard was down?” Yun Che opened his lips to answer, but something occurred to him, and he blanched suddenly. “Oh no!” He suddenly turned around and ran into the abyssal fog. “Huh? Big Brother Yun!!” Hua Caili let out a cry of surprise and swiftly followed behind him. Yun Che did not slow down, though. He just kept running while his aura grew increasingly irritated and anxious. Finally, he came to a stop. The abyssal fog before them was vast and thick, suffocating. A grayish maw was lying on the ground and emitting an aura so terrible that the soul trembled just being near its presence. “Is this... an Abyss of Death?” Standing beside Yun Che, Hua Caili exclaimed in surprise. This was the first time she saw the fabled Abyss of Death that was said to exist in the deep areas of the Endless Fog. Yun Che reached toward the Abyss of Death with a palm, profound energy and soul presence surging in increasing panic and frustration. “What’s going on, Big Brother Yun?” Hua Caili asked worriedly. Yun Che slowly clenched his palm into a fist and exhaled deeply. He said in a difficult voice, “When I was attacked by several abyssal ghosts earlier, I accidentally dropped the Cloud Glass Sword into the Abyss of Death...” “Ah?!?” Hua Caili let out a cry of shock. She finally understood why he was acting so panicked. “The Glass Cloud Sword is connected to me by soul aura, and yet I have completely lost contact with its presence.” Yun Che was doing his best to keep his voice calm, but still, he couldn’t keep his disappointment from leaking. “The reason I didn’t escape immediately despite the dangerous situation I was in was that I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to retrieve the Cloud Glass Sword at a later time. But... I guess...” “......” Hua Caili’s lips parted as she searched for the words to comfort him, to no avail. She could only move closer to him. Anything that fell into the Abyss of Death would return to nothingness. This was stated in every record regarding the Abyss of Death. Yun Che exhaled one last time before withdrawing his palm. Then, he smiled like he was letting go and even turned around to console Hua Caili instead, “There’s no helping it... It’s fine. Master always said that to gain something is fortune, and to lose something is fate. I’m sure he won’t blame me for this.” “Mm!” “...... Let us leave then.” A pair of Void Breaching Divine Jades shattered, taking Yun Che and Hua Caili away from the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. The instant they disappeared, an ancient, demonic groan rose from the soundless Abyss of Death. However, it disappeared into the gloomy abyssal fog in the next instant. ...... “Our homeland is not their ‘Eternal Pure Land’. It is our Eternal Pure Land!!” “If the denizens of the Abyss set foot in our homeland, everyone shall turn into helpless lambs awaiting slaughter...” “You called yourself an utterly selfish and cold-hearted person, but I think that your self-proclaimed coldness stems from your body and soul naturally rejecting this world!” “You are Xia Qingyue...” “I am the emperor of the ‘Eternal Pure Land, and you are its empress...” “What I need most at this moment is your aid...” “No matter what... must... stop...” “......” Shenwu Yi abruptly startled awake and sat bolt upright. An instant later, excruciating pain surged through her entire body. Despite this, she clenched her teeth tightly and did not allow a single whimper to leak. Her surroundings were utterly still, and no one was by her side. Only the healing profound formation hummed silently as it worked. Her five senses quickly regained their usual clarity as she slowly rose to her feet. She walked outside the room and stood at the Pure Land, overlooking the distant sky. A clear wind blew, and her pitch black robes swayed lightly in the wind. The bloodstains on her hem had dried into dark marks like faded crimson blooms on an ink-wash painting, lending a kind of shattered beauty. Her jade-like face was as pale as frost and snow, and her lips were drained of color. Only her long eyelashes, delicate as butterfly wings, cast faint shadows across her pallid features. The abyssal corruption that hadn’t yet been fully expelled for a thin layer of gray mist around her. It made her look like a falling star of a dark night: cold, solitary, but also divinely breathtaking. Her gaze drifted toward the pure white horizon. Her eyes, once frozen with ice, had shed their indifference and sharpness, leaving behind only deep pools of stillness. Another breeze swept by, ruffling the strands at her temple and teasing the delicate hair hanging in front of her forehead. She paid it no attention. Her thoughts had long drifted toward the fleeting past and the unknown future.Blue Wind Empire, Floating Cloud City... Qingyue of Xia... homeland... empress... Yun Che... Xiao Che... She was obviously standing in the untainted Pure Land and basking in flawless heavenly light, and yet it felt like an endless night fog was enveloping her and making her look even lonelier and colder than she already was.It’s real... everything he said... is real... She slowly closed her eyes, and the first thing that came to her soul sea was those eyes filled with insoluble love and resolve. When she slowly clenched her fists... she actually felt as if she could feel the lingering warmth of that blood-drenched sleeve. From start to finish, her body and soul were silently rejecting the world she was in. However, that man was drawing not just her senses, but her heart and soul toward him... Her eyes opened once more, exquisite beauty rippling in those wonderful orbs. However, the man’s voice continued to echo within the depths of her soul: “I am probably the most death-fearing person in this world, for if I were to die... should you ever regain your memories, your heart would be torn apart. My homeland... our homeland... would forever plunge into an unpredictable, irresistible abyss of calamity as well.” She subconsciously pressed a hand to her chest. She could tell that her heartbeat was completely out of control. Even the thick gloominess that usually shrouded her heart was swiftly being dispelled by his voice. “But I, a mere Divine Master, must prevent the next activation of the Void Breaching Great Formation in less than fifty years, regardless... This is why I had no choice but to resort to any means necessary!”Less than fifty years... must stop... If the road ahead could not be seen, then listen to the heart’s voice, for it was the most exquisite, truthful, and flawless guidance of the profound. ...... Suddenly, Shenwu Yi turned around. When her gaze regained its focus, they had regained their usual depth and iciness.Since that is the case... the final page of the “Secret Tome” must be revealed ahead of schedule... then...Shenwu Yanye! I permit you... to repay your debt... sooner... than... expected[1]! ...... Yun Che and Hua Caili had just stepped out of the Void Breaching Great Formation when Meng Jianxi rushed over and examined him carefully. A while later, he hid a sigh of relief and said, “It looks like you encountered some fierce battles. I’m glad to see that you’re fine.” Yun Che was a little caught off guard by this. Then, he realized something and smiled at Meng Jianxi. Nothing else needed to be said. At that moment, Hua Caili noticed Dugu Zhuyuan was there as well. She exclaimed in surprise, “Uncle Dugu? Shouldn’t you be battling against Aunt in the Heaven Above Abyss? Even your shortest battle lasted three days, but this time... it couldn’t be over already, could it??” Dugu Zhuyuan suddenly let out an enigmatic sigh. His gaze looked immeasurably complicated as well. His reaction caught Yun Che’s attention, and he asked casually, “Is aunt... senior Sword Fairy perhaps delayed by something?” Dugu Zhuyuan cast them a look and hesitated for a moment. In the end, he said, “Today’s fight is my last fight against the Sword Fairy. After this, there will be no need for further conflict.” “Huh?” Hua Caili looked completely confused. “But why?” Dugu Zhuyuan shook his head and refused to clarify. “I see that you are injured, Divine Son Yuan. You should head back and rest.” Although Hua Caili was overflowing with puzzlement, she ultimately did not press him for an answer. She left together with Yun Che. After they were gone, Dugu Zhuyuan finally let out a long sigh and mumbled somewhat dazedly, “It is only now I know that I learn that the reason she is the Sword Fairy... isn’t because she can only be the Sword Fairy. It is because... she doesn’t want to be anything else but the Sword Fairy.” “The only reason she forced herself to remain mortal is for Caili... I will never be able to measure up to her or reach her for as long as I live[2].” 1. Ah crap. So, my current theory is that Xia Qingyue also lost her family in the Abyss (remember they killed everyone related to her to keep her existence a secret), which is why she hates Shenwu Yanye so much. Since this parallels her fate in Primal Chaos, you can’t help but wonder if the Artifact of Fate is in effect... except the one on the other end is no longer Yun Che, but a certain dark side of the Ancestral God... ☜ 2. IDK if it was mentioned before, but apparently Mars said that the first mortal to become a True God in the Abyss would be Ying’er. It is Ying’er, but well, it’s Hua Qingying’er. :D ☜ Chapter 2165 - Heart Toward Glazed Glass Shenwu Youluan gently, very gently, placed Shenwu Yi inside a healing, profound formation and set up a simple isolation barrier. A ball of gentle, profound light gathered in her palm and slowly circulated around that frail body. However, the woman who should be in a deep coma right now slowly opened her eyes and even struggled to rise. Her movements were weak, yet they were empowered by a stubborn force that would not be thwarted. “Wuyi!” Shenwu Youluan hurriedly stepped forward and hugged Shenwu Yi’s upper torso. “Don’t move recklessly, and submerge your consciousness. The supreme one no longer plans to punish you.” Shenwu Yi did not close her eyes, though. Instead, she said in a voice that sounded like a breeze blowing against the hair. “She... just obtained the Abyssal Heart Vine, and I am grievously injured... her eyes are not here. The Pure Land is not looking here either.” Shenwu Youluan understood her meaning. She wanted to advise Shenwu Yi that whatever she had to say could wait until she recovered, but she also knew her own personality. She wouldn’t be acting like this unless she had something essential that she needed to do right now. So, she nodded weakly and moved closer to her lips. “Okay. Tell me.” The bloodless lips parted slightly and began murmuring like she was dream-talking, “With heaven and earth in harmony, all things transform into purity; men and women unite in proper union, establishing the order of the universe...” “......!” Shenwu Youluan looked up, staring at Shenwu Yi in shock. It wasn’t until a few breaths later that she barely suppressed her bubbling emotions and asked in a hushed voice, “You... recovered your memories, Wuyi?” The moonlit eyes, so weak that they lost their focus, stared fixedly at her. “So... that marriage certificate... really does exist...” Shenwu Youluan froze. She was at a loss for words for a time. Then, she leaned closer and lowered her voice even more. “Who told you these words? What on earth happened to you during your time at the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods?” There was a slight tremor in her voice as she said this. Shenwu Yi slowly raised her hand and pressed her fingers against the back of Shenwu Youluan’s hand with immense difficulty. It was to show the woman the force of her determination. “If you have it... now... show it to me... now...” Despite being so weak that the only thing keeping her conscious and moving now was sheer willpower, she had repeated the word “now” twice. Shenwu Youluan wore a complicated expression. The short hesitation was itself a tacit admission. She was just about to answer when Shenwu Yi’s murmur echoed in her ears again, “It... directly decides... my fate...” Shenwu Youluan had never seen such determination and stubbornness from Shenwu Yi before. So, her teeth clenched slightly, she stopped hesitating and reached into her portable space. An instant later, she produced an abyssal crystal about one-third of a meter long and emanating a somewhat rich aura of abyssal crystal. Her fingers moved, and the abyssal crystal split open in the middle to reveal that it was artificially hollowed. Shenwu Youluan carefully produced a jade slip from the abyssal crystal. The engravings on the jade slip were clearly the first three seals of the Purify God Seal. The Purify God Seal was the core profound art of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God, so it made sense that it would be concealed so carefully. However, Shenwu Youluan unleashed a small puff of profound energy and shattered the jade slip, causing what looked like blood-stained pieces of paper to emerge from the fragments. With one swipe of the palm, the torn pieces of paper immediately started joining together into one. An instant later, a brilliant red sheet of paper, despite being terribly tattered and mostly covered in dried blood, took form, its words unnaturally clear. The title of the red paper was “Marriage Certificate”. It reflected in Shenwu Yi’s eyes and, somehow, magically sharpened her blurry vision. No one knew how much risk Shenwu Youluan had shouldered to conceal this marriage certificate... because it was the sole proof of Shenwu Yi’s past. Right now, Shenwu Yi’s unfocused eyes were shining with indescribable radiance. The words written on the marriage certificate had etched themselves into her heart instantly... It matched word for word what Yun Che had recited in the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. The names “Xiao Che” and “Xia Qingyue” were written at the end of the marriage certificate, and a pair of deep, intact fingerprints were marked beneath their birthdates. With trembling fingers, Shenwu Yi lifted the ripped sleeve she had received from Yun Che and checked his fingerprint first. They matched seamlessly with the one on the marriage certificate, even though her vision was terribly blurry right now. Just the same, her right fingerprint matched the one left behind by the woman named Xia Qingyue perfectly. “......” Her moonlight in her pupils shook violently, and her fingers curled unconsciously.That... is my past... I’m not someone without a past after all... I’m not a rootless duckweed after all... Xia Qingyue... is my name... my true name... Blue Wind Empire, Floating Cloud City... a surname that doesn’t exist in this world... a birthplace that doesn’t exist in this world... Yun Che... Xiao Che... homeland... I... “Aunt...” She closed her eyes, her voice weak as a somniloquy. “Remove... the traces...” Her palm fell limply, and her consciousness finally sank completely into darkness. Shenwu Youluan gently set Shenwu Yi down and tucked both the marriage certificate and the ripped sleeve into the abyssal crystal. However, it would be a long, long time before her chaotic thoughts and feelings settled. When she first picked up Shenwu Yi at Endless Fog, she already knew from the marriage certificate she carried that she was not a native. She knew it was extremely likely that Shenwu Yi came from the Eternal Pure Land because the surname Xia, “Blue Wind Empire” or “Floating Cloud City,” did not exist anywhere in this world. However, she also knew that Shenwu Yi would lose all freedom if this secret were ever to be revealed. So, she hid it out of pity and planned to return it to her after she had fully recovered. Shenwu Yanye had noticed Shenwu Yi’s Nine Profound Exquisite Body first and forced her to become an Eternal Night Divine Daughter. In Shenwu Youluan’s opinion, becoming an Eternal Night Divine Daughter was a fate far worse than being exposed as a denizen from the Eternal Pure Land. That was why she had always harbored indescribable guilt and regret toward her. She never thought that this secret would be exposed by Shenwu Yi herself out of nowhere. She had no way to predict what kind of ending this sudden twist of fate would bring, but no matter what it was, it could not be deeper than the lightless despair the Eternal Night Kingdom of God was already stuck in. ...... Yun Che’s self-recovery lasted a long time. In the end, his injuries and profound energy were mostly recovered. He had intentionally dragged out his recovery time, but it was still an extraordinary pace in Hua Caili’s opinion. “As expected of the light profound energy. I think it’s even greater than before.” Leaning against Yun Che’s shoulder, Hua Caili said smilingly, “A while ago, Aunt reminded me that people capable of producing light profound energy are exceptionally pure and good. She warned me not to abuse this fact and bully you. At this point, Aunt is going to treat you better than she treated me... hehe.” It sounded like jealousy, but her tone was filled with pure, unadulterated joy. Yun Che replied with a smile, “The reason Aunt is treating me so well is because of you and for your sake.” He climbed back to his feet and stretched a little. “Alright. We should head back now.” “Okay!” Hua Caili put away the Glass Cloud Sword and remarked, “The Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods was described as a place of many unfathomable mysteries, so I initially thought it would be filled with oddities and special opportunities. But now, I think it’s not much different from the Endless Fog. It just has more abyssal ghosts than abyssal beasts.” Yun Che replied, “This is a place where countless gods had perished, so it made sense that it used to be a graveyard of divine relics. However, we should not forget that this place belongs to the Pure Land. They must have scoured the place countless times over and picked up most of the divine relics. Otherwise, they would not have been so generous as to open it to the Six Kingdoms of God.” Hua Caili nodded in agreement. “Exactly. Speaking of, I wonder why that wretched Shenwu Yi requested such a peculiar reward?” It was at this moment that she recalled that... the Abyssal Monarch still owed her a favor. Yun Che made a grabbing motion, and the Void Breaching Divine Jade he tossed away earlier returned to his grasp. Hua Caili looked confused by this. She blurted out, “Why didn’t you use the Void Breaching Divine Jade to escape immediately when you were in danger earlier, Big Brother Yun? Was it because Shenwu Yi ambushed you while your guard was down?” Yun Che opened his lips to answer, but something occurred to him, and he blanched suddenly. “Oh no!” He suddenly turned around and ran into the abyssal fog. “Huh? Big Brother Yun!!” Hua Caili let out a cry of surprise and swiftly followed behind him. Yun Che did not slow down, though. He just kept running while his aura grew increasingly irritated and anxious. Finally, he came to a stop. The abyssal fog before them was vast and thick, suffocating. A grayish maw was lying on the ground and emitting an aura so terrible that the soul trembled just being near its presence. “Is this... an Abyss of Death?” Standing beside Yun Che, Hua Caili exclaimed in surprise. This was the first time she saw the fabled Abyss of Death that was said to exist in the deep areas of the Endless Fog. Yun Che reached toward the Abyss of Death with a palm, profound energy and soul presence surging in increasing panic and frustration. “What’s going on, Big Brother Yun?” Hua Caili asked worriedly. Yun Che slowly clenched his palm into a fist and exhaled deeply. He said in a difficult voice, “When I was attacked by several abyssal ghosts earlier, I accidentally dropped the Cloud Glass Sword into the Abyss of Death...” “Ah?!?” Hua Caili let out a cry of shock. She finally understood why he was acting so panicked. “The Glass Cloud Sword is connected to me by soul aura, and yet I have completely lost contact with its presence.” Yun Che was doing his best to keep his voice calm, but still, he couldn’t keep his disappointment from leaking. “The reason I didn’t escape immediately despite the dangerous situation I was in was that I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to retrieve the Cloud Glass Sword at a later time. But... I guess...” “......” Hua Caili’s lips parted as she searched for the words to comfort him, to no avail. She could only move closer to him. Anything that fell into the Abyss of Death would return to nothingness. This was stated in every record regarding the Abyss of Death. Yun Che exhaled one last time before withdrawing his palm. Then, he smiled like he was letting go and even turned around to console Hua Caili instead, “There’s no helping it... It’s fine. Master always said that to gain something is fortune, and to lose something is fate. I’m sure he won’t blame me for this.” “Mm!” “...... Let us leave then.” A pair of Void Breaching Divine Jades shattered, taking Yun Che and Hua Caili away from the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. The instant they disappeared, an ancient, demonic groan rose from the soundless Abyss of Death. However, it disappeared into the gloomy abyssal fog in the next instant. ...... “Our homeland is not their ‘Eternal Pure Land’. It is our Eternal Pure Land!!” “If the denizens of the Abyss set foot in our homeland, everyone shall turn into helpless lambs awaiting slaughter...” “You called yourself an utterly selfish and cold-hearted person, but I think that your self-proclaimed coldness stems from your body and soul naturally rejecting this world!” “You are Xia Qingyue...” “I am the emperor of the ‘Eternal Pure Land, and you are its empress...” “What I need most at this moment is your aid...” “No matter what... must... stop...” “......” Shenwu Yi abruptly startled awake and sat bolt upright. An instant later, excruciating pain surged through her entire body. Despite this, she clenched her teeth tightly and did not allow a single whimper to leak. Her surroundings were utterly still, and no one was by her side. Only the healing profound formation hummed silently as it worked. Her five senses quickly regained their usual clarity as she slowly rose to her feet. She walked outside the room and stood at the Pure Land, overlooking the distant sky. A clear wind blew, and her pitch black robes swayed lightly in the wind. The bloodstains on her hem had dried into dark marks like faded crimson blooms on an ink-wash painting, lending a kind of shattered beauty. Her jade-like face was as pale as frost and snow, and her lips were drained of color. Only her long eyelashes, delicate as butterfly wings, cast faint shadows across her pallid features. The abyssal corruption that hadn’t yet been fully expelled for a thin layer of gray mist around her. It made her look like a falling star of a dark night: cold, solitary, but also divinely breathtaking. Her gaze drifted toward the pure white horizon. Her eyes, once frozen with ice, had shed their indifference and sharpness, leaving behind only deep pools of stillness. Another breeze swept by, ruffling the strands at her temple and teasing the delicate hair hanging in front of her forehead. She paid it no attention. Her thoughts had long drifted toward the fleeting past and the unknown future.Blue Wind Empire, Floating Cloud City... Qingyue of Xia... homeland... empress... Yun Che... Xiao Che... She was obviously standing in the untainted Pure Land and basking in flawless heavenly light, and yet it felt like an endless night fog was enveloping her and making her look even lonelier and colder than she already was.It’s real... everything he said... is real... She slowly closed her eyes, and the first thing that came to her soul sea was those eyes filled with insoluble love and resolve. When she slowly clenched her fists... she actually felt as if she could feel the lingering warmth of that blood-drenched sleeve. From start to finish, her body and soul were silently rejecting the world she was in. However, that man was drawing not just her senses, but her heart and soul toward him... Her eyes opened once more, exquisite beauty rippling in those wonderful orbs. However, the man’s voice continued to echo within the depths of her soul: “I am probably the most death-fearing person in this world, for if I were to die... should you ever regain your memories, your heart would be torn apart. My homeland... our homeland... would forever plunge into an unpredictable, irresistible abyss of calamity as well.” She subconsciously pressed a hand to her chest. She could tell that her heartbeat was completely out of control. Even the thick gloominess that usually shrouded her heart was swiftly being dispelled by his voice. “But I, a mere Divine Master, must prevent the next activation of the Void Breaching Great Formation in less than fifty years, regardless... This is why I had no choice but to resort to any means necessary!”Less than fifty years... must stop... If the road ahead could not be seen, then listen to the heart’s voice, for it was the most exquisite, truthful, and flawless guidance of the profound. ...... Suddenly, Shenwu Yi turned around. When her gaze regained its focus, they had regained their usual depth and iciness.Since that is the case... the final page of the “Secret Tome” must be revealed ahead of schedule... then...Shenwu Yanye! I permit you... to repay your debt... sooner... than... expected[1]! ...... Yun Che and Hua Caili had just stepped out of the Void Breaching Great Formation when Meng Jianxi rushed over and examined him carefully. A while later, he hid a sigh of relief and said, “It looks like you encountered some fierce battles. I’m glad to see that you’re fine.” Yun Che was a little caught off guard by this. Then, he realized something and smiled at Meng Jianxi. Nothing else needed to be said. At that moment, Hua Caili noticed Dugu Zhuyuan was there as well. She exclaimed in surprise, “Uncle Dugu? Shouldn’t you be battling against Aunt in the Heaven Above Abyss? Even your shortest battle lasted three days, but this time... it couldn’t be over already, could it??” Dugu Zhuyuan suddenly let out an enigmatic sigh. His gaze looked immeasurably complicated as well. His reaction caught Yun Che’s attention, and he asked casually, “Is aunt... senior Sword Fairy perhaps delayed by something?” Dugu Zhuyuan cast them a look and hesitated for a moment. In the end, he said, “Today’s fight is my last fight against the Sword Fairy. After this, there will be no need for further conflict.” “Huh?” Hua Caili looked completely confused. “But why?” Dugu Zhuyuan shook his head and refused to clarify. “I see that you are injured, Divine Son Yuan. You should head back and rest.” Although Hua Caili was overflowing with puzzlement, she ultimately did not press him for an answer. She left together with Yun Che. After they were gone, Dugu Zhuyuan finally let out a long sigh and mumbled somewhat dazedly, “It is only now I know that I learn that the reason she is the Sword Fairy... isn’t because she can only be the Sword Fairy. It is because... she doesn’t want to be anything else but the Sword Fairy.” “The only reason she forced herself to remain mortal is for Caili... I will never be able to measure up to her or reach her for as long as I live[2].” 1. Ah crap. So, my current theory is that Xia Qingyue also lost her family in the Abyss (remember they killed everyone related to her to keep her existence a secret), which is why she hates Shenwu Yanye so much. Since this parallels her fate in Primal Chaos, you can’t help but wonder if the Artifact of Fate is in effect... except the one on the other end is no longer Yun Che, but a certain dark side of the Ancestral God... ☜ 2. IDK if it was mentioned before, but apparently Mars said that the first mortal to become a True God in the Abyss would be Ying’er. It is Ying’er, but well, it’s Hua Qingying’er. :D ☜ Chapter 2165 - Heart Toward Glazed Glass Shenwu Youluan gently, very gently, placed Shenwu Yi inside a healing, profound formation and set up a simple isolation barrier. A ball of gentle, profound light gathered in her palm and slowly circulated around that frail body. However, the woman who should be in a deep coma right now slowly opened her eyes and even struggled to rise. Her movements were weak, yet they were empowered by a stubborn force that would not be thwarted. “Wuyi!” Shenwu Youluan hurriedly stepped forward and hugged Shenwu Yi’s upper torso. “Don’t move recklessly, and submerge your consciousness. The supreme one no longer plans to punish you.” Shenwu Yi did not close her eyes, though. Instead, she said in a voice that sounded like a breeze blowing against the hair. “She... just obtained the Abyssal Heart Vine, and I am grievously injured... her eyes are not here. The Pure Land is not looking here either.” Shenwu Youluan understood her meaning. She wanted to advise Shenwu Yi that whatever she had to say could wait until she recovered, but she also knew her own personality. She wouldn’t be acting like this unless she had something essential that she needed to do right now. So, she nodded weakly and moved closer to her lips. “Okay. Tell me.” The bloodless lips parted slightly and began murmuring like she was dream-talking, “With heaven and earth in harmony, all things transform into purity; men and women unite in proper union, establishing the order of the universe...” “......!” Shenwu Youluan looked up, staring at Shenwu Yi in shock. It wasn’t until a few breaths later that she barely suppressed her bubbling emotions and asked in a hushed voice, “You... recovered your memories, Wuyi?” The moonlit eyes, so weak that they lost their focus, stared fixedly at her. “So... that marriage certificate... really does exist...” Shenwu Youluan froze. She was at a loss for words for a time. Then, she leaned closer and lowered her voice even more. “Who told you these words? What on earth happened to you during your time at the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods?” There was a slight tremor in her voice as she said this. Shenwu Yi slowly raised her hand and pressed her fingers against the back of Shenwu Youluan’s hand with immense difficulty. It was to show the woman the force of her determination. “If you have it... now... show it to me... now...” Despite being so weak that the only thing keeping her conscious and moving now was sheer willpower, she had repeated the word “now” twice. Shenwu Youluan wore a complicated expression. The short hesitation was itself a tacit admission. She was just about to answer when Shenwu Yi’s murmur echoed in her ears again, “It... directly decides... my fate...” Shenwu Youluan had never seen such determination and stubbornness from Shenwu Yi before. So, her teeth clenched slightly, she stopped hesitating and reached into her portable space. An instant later, she produced an abyssal crystal about one-third of a meter long and emanating a somewhat rich aura of abyssal crystal. Her fingers moved, and the abyssal crystal split open in the middle to reveal that it was artificially hollowed. Shenwu Youluan carefully produced a jade slip from the abyssal crystal. The engravings on the jade slip were clearly the first three seals of the Purify God Seal. The Purify God Seal was the core profound art of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God, so it made sense that it would be concealed so carefully. However, Shenwu Youluan unleashed a small puff of profound energy and shattered the jade slip, causing what looked like blood-stained pieces of paper to emerge from the fragments. With one swipe of the palm, the torn pieces of paper immediately started joining together into one. An instant later, a brilliant red sheet of paper, despite being terribly tattered and mostly covered in dried blood, took form, its words unnaturally clear. The title of the red paper was “Marriage Certificate”. It reflected in Shenwu Yi’s eyes and, somehow, magically sharpened her blurry vision. No one knew how much risk Shenwu Youluan had shouldered to conceal this marriage certificate... because it was the sole proof of Shenwu Yi’s past. Right now, Shenwu Yi’s unfocused eyes were shining with indescribable radiance. The words written on the marriage certificate had etched themselves into her heart instantly... It matched word for word what Yun Che had recited in the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. The names “Xiao Che” and “Xia Qingyue” were written at the end of the marriage certificate, and a pair of deep, intact fingerprints were marked beneath their birthdates. With trembling fingers, Shenwu Yi lifted the ripped sleeve she had received from Yun Che and checked his fingerprint first. They matched seamlessly with the one on the marriage certificate, even though her vision was terribly blurry right now. Just the same, her right fingerprint matched the one left behind by the woman named Xia Qingyue perfectly. “......” Her moonlight in her pupils shook violently, and her fingers curled unconsciously.That... is my past... I’m not someone without a past after all... I’m not a rootless duckweed after all... Xia Qingyue... is my name... my true name... Blue Wind Empire, Floating Cloud City... a surname that doesn’t exist in this world... a birthplace that doesn’t exist in this world... Yun Che... Xiao Che... homeland... I... “Aunt...” She closed her eyes, her voice weak as a somniloquy. “Remove... the traces...” Her palm fell limply, and her consciousness finally sank completely into darkness. Shenwu Youluan gently set Shenwu Yi down and tucked both the marriage certificate and the ripped sleeve into the abyssal crystal. However, it would be a long, long time before her chaotic thoughts and feelings settled. When she first picked up Shenwu Yi at Endless Fog, she already knew from the marriage certificate she carried that she was not a native. She knew it was extremely likely that Shenwu Yi came from the Eternal Pure Land because the surname Xia, “Blue Wind Empire” or “Floating Cloud City,” did not exist anywhere in this world. However, she also knew that Shenwu Yi would lose all freedom if this secret were ever to be revealed. So, she hid it out of pity and planned to return it to her after she had fully recovered. Shenwu Yanye had noticed Shenwu Yi’s Nine Profound Exquisite Body first and forced her to become an Eternal Night Divine Daughter. In Shenwu Youluan’s opinion, becoming an Eternal Night Divine Daughter was a fate far worse than being exposed as a denizen from the Eternal Pure Land. That was why she had always harbored indescribable guilt and regret toward her. She never thought that this secret would be exposed by Shenwu Yi herself out of nowhere. She had no way to predict what kind of ending this sudden twist of fate would bring, but no matter what it was, it could not be deeper than the lightless despair the Eternal Night Kingdom of God was already stuck in. ...... Yun Che’s self-recovery lasted a long time. In the end, his injuries and profound energy were mostly recovered. He had intentionally dragged out his recovery time, but it was still an extraordinary pace in Hua Caili’s opinion. “As expected of the light profound energy. I think it’s even greater than before.” Leaning against Yun Che’s shoulder, Hua Caili said smilingly, “A while ago, Aunt reminded me that people capable of producing light profound energy are exceptionally pure and good. She warned me not to abuse this fact and bully you. At this point, Aunt is going to treat you better than she treated me... hehe.” It sounded like jealousy, but her tone was filled with pure, unadulterated joy. Yun Che replied with a smile, “The reason Aunt is treating me so well is because of you and for your sake.” He climbed back to his feet and stretched a little. “Alright. We should head back now.” “Okay!” Hua Caili put away the Glass Cloud Sword and remarked, “The Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods was described as a place of many unfathomable mysteries, so I initially thought it would be filled with oddities and special opportunities. But now, I think it’s not much different from the Endless Fog. It just has more abyssal ghosts than abyssal beasts.” Yun Che replied, “This is a place where countless gods had perished, so it made sense that it used to be a graveyard of divine relics. However, we should not forget that this place belongs to the Pure Land. They must have scoured the place countless times over and picked up most of the divine relics. Otherwise, they would not have been so generous as to open it to the Six Kingdoms of God.” Hua Caili nodded in agreement. “Exactly. Speaking of, I wonder why that wretched Shenwu Yi requested such a peculiar reward?” It was at this moment that she recalled that... the Abyssal Monarch still owed her a favor. Yun Che made a grabbing motion, and the Void Breaching Divine Jade he tossed away earlier returned to his grasp. Hua Caili looked confused by this. She blurted out, “Why didn’t you use the Void Breaching Divine Jade to escape immediately when you were in danger earlier, Big Brother Yun? Was it because Shenwu Yi ambushed you while your guard was down?” Yun Che opened his lips to answer, but something occurred to him, and he blanched suddenly. “Oh no!” He suddenly turned around and ran into the abyssal fog. “Huh? Big Brother Yun!!” Hua Caili let out a cry of surprise and swiftly followed behind him. Yun Che did not slow down, though. He just kept running while his aura grew increasingly irritated and anxious. Finally, he came to a stop. The abyssal fog before them was vast and thick, suffocating. A grayish maw was lying on the ground and emitting an aura so terrible that the soul trembled just being near its presence. “Is this... an Abyss of Death?” Standing beside Yun Che, Hua Caili exclaimed in surprise. This was the first time she saw the fabled Abyss of Death that was said to exist in the deep areas of the Endless Fog. Yun Che reached toward the Abyss of Death with a palm, profound energy and soul presence surging in increasing panic and frustration. “What’s going on, Big Brother Yun?” Hua Caili asked worriedly. Yun Che slowly clenched his palm into a fist and exhaled deeply. He said in a difficult voice, “When I was attacked by several abyssal ghosts earlier, I accidentally dropped the Cloud Glass Sword into the Abyss of Death...” “Ah?!?” Hua Caili let out a cry of shock. She finally understood why he was acting so panicked. “The Glass Cloud Sword is connected to me by soul aura, and yet I have completely lost contact with its presence.” Yun Che was doing his best to keep his voice calm, but still, he couldn’t keep his disappointment from leaking. “The reason I didn’t escape immediately despite the dangerous situation I was in was that I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to retrieve the Cloud Glass Sword at a later time. But... I guess...” “......” Hua Caili’s lips parted as she searched for the words to comfort him, to no avail. She could only move closer to him. Anything that fell into the Abyss of Death would return to nothingness. This was stated in every record regarding the Abyss of Death. Yun Che exhaled one last time before withdrawing his palm. Then, he smiled like he was letting go and even turned around to console Hua Caili instead, “There’s no helping it... It’s fine. Master always said that to gain something is fortune, and to lose something is fate. I’m sure he won’t blame me for this.” “Mm!” “...... Let us leave then.” A pair of Void Breaching Divine Jades shattered, taking Yun Che and Hua Caili away from the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. The instant they disappeared, an ancient, demonic groan rose from the soundless Abyss of Death. However, it disappeared into the gloomy abyssal fog in the next instant. ...... “Our homeland is not their ‘Eternal Pure Land’. It is our Eternal Pure Land!!” “If the denizens of the Abyss set foot in our homeland, everyone shall turn into helpless lambs awaiting slaughter...” “You called yourself an utterly selfish and cold-hearted person, but I think that your self-proclaimed coldness stems from your body and soul naturally rejecting this world!” “You are Xia Qingyue...” “I am the emperor of the ‘Eternal Pure Land, and you are its empress...” “What I need most at this moment is your aid...” “No matter what... must... stop...” “......” Shenwu Yi abruptly startled awake and sat bolt upright. An instant later, excruciating pain surged through her entire body. Despite this, she clenched her teeth tightly and did not allow a single whimper to leak. Her surroundings were utterly still, and no one was by her side. Only the healing profound formation hummed silently as it worked. Her five senses quickly regained their usual clarity as she slowly rose to her feet. She walked outside the room and stood at the Pure Land, overlooking the distant sky. A clear wind blew, and her pitch black robes swayed lightly in the wind. The bloodstains on her hem had dried into dark marks like faded crimson blooms on an ink-wash painting, lending a kind of shattered beauty. Her jade-like face was as pale as frost and snow, and her lips were drained of color. Only her long eyelashes, delicate as butterfly wings, cast faint shadows across her pallid features. The abyssal corruption that hadn’t yet been fully expelled for a thin layer of gray mist around her. It made her look like a falling star of a dark night: cold, solitary, but also divinely breathtaking. Her gaze drifted toward the pure white horizon. Her eyes, once frozen with ice, had shed their indifference and sharpness, leaving behind only deep pools of stillness. Another breeze swept by, ruffling the strands at her temple and teasing the delicate hair hanging in front of her forehead. She paid it no attention. Her thoughts had long drifted toward the fleeting past and the unknown future.Blue Wind Empire, Floating Cloud City... Qingyue of Xia... homeland... empress... Yun Che... Xiao Che... She was obviously standing in the untainted Pure Land and basking in flawless heavenly light, and yet it felt like an endless night fog was enveloping her and making her look even lonelier and colder than she already was.It’s real... everything he said... is real... She slowly closed her eyes, and the first thing that came to her soul sea was those eyes filled with insoluble love and resolve. When she slowly clenched her fists... she actually felt as if she could feel the lingering warmth of that blood-drenched sleeve. From start to finish, her body and soul were silently rejecting the world she was in. However, that man was drawing not just her senses, but her heart and soul toward him... Her eyes opened once more, exquisite beauty rippling in those wonderful orbs. However, the man’s voice continued to echo within the depths of her soul: “I am probably the most death-fearing person in this world, for if I were to die... should you ever regain your memories, your heart would be torn apart. My homeland... our homeland... would forever plunge into an unpredictable, irresistible abyss of calamity as well.” She subconsciously pressed a hand to her chest. She could tell that her heartbeat was completely out of control. Even the thick gloominess that usually shrouded her heart was swiftly being dispelled by his voice. “But I, a mere Divine Master, must prevent the next activation of the Void Breaching Great Formation in less than fifty years, regardless... This is why I had no choice but to resort to any means necessary!”Less than fifty years... must stop... If the road ahead could not be seen, then listen to the heart’s voice, for it was the most exquisite, truthful, and flawless guidance of the profound. ...... Suddenly, Shenwu Yi turned around. When her gaze regained its focus, they had regained their usual depth and iciness.Since that is the case... the final page of the “Secret Tome” must be revealed ahead of schedule... then...Shenwu Yanye! I permit you... to repay your debt... sooner... than... expected[1]! ...... Yun Che and Hua Caili had just stepped out of the Void Breaching Great Formation when Meng Jianxi rushed over and examined him carefully. A while later, he hid a sigh of relief and said, “It looks like you encountered some fierce battles. I’m glad to see that you’re fine.” Yun Che was a little caught off guard by this. Then, he realized something and smiled at Meng Jianxi. Nothing else needed to be said. At that moment, Hua Caili noticed Dugu Zhuyuan was there as well. She exclaimed in surprise, “Uncle Dugu? Shouldn’t you be battling against Aunt in the Heaven Above Abyss? Even your shortest battle lasted three days, but this time... it couldn’t be over already, could it??” Dugu Zhuyuan suddenly let out an enigmatic sigh. His gaze looked immeasurably complicated as well. His reaction caught Yun Che’s attention, and he asked casually, “Is aunt... senior Sword Fairy perhaps delayed by something?” Dugu Zhuyuan cast them a look and hesitated for a moment. In the end, he said, “Today’s fight is my last fight against the Sword Fairy. After this, there will be no need for further conflict.” “Huh?” Hua Caili looked completely confused. “But why?” Dugu Zhuyuan shook his head and refused to clarify. “I see that you are injured, Divine Son Yuan. You should head back and rest.” Although Hua Caili was overflowing with puzzlement, she ultimately did not press him for an answer. She left together with Yun Che. After they were gone, Dugu Zhuyuan finally let out a long sigh and mumbled somewhat dazedly, “It is only now I know that I learn that the reason she is the Sword Fairy... isn’t because she can only be the Sword Fairy. It is because... she doesn’t want to be anything else but the Sword Fairy.” “The only reason she forced herself to remain mortal is for Caili... I will never be able to measure up to her or reach her for as long as I live[2].” 1. Ah crap. So, my current theory is that Xia Qingyue also lost her family in the Abyss (remember they killed everyone related to her to keep her existence a secret), which is why she hates Shenwu Yanye so much. Since this parallels her fate in Primal Chaos, you can’t help but wonder if the Artifact of Fate is in effect... except the one on the other end is no longer Yun Che, but a certain dark side of the Ancestral God... ☜ 2. IDK if it was mentioned before, but apparently Mars said that the first mortal to become a True God in the Abyss would be Ying’er. It is Ying’er, but well, it’s Hua Qingying’er. :D ☜ Chapter 2165 - Heart Toward Glazed Glass Shenwu Youluan gently, very gently, placed Shenwu Yi inside a healing, profound formation and set up a simple isolation barrier. A ball of gentle, profound light gathered in her palm and slowly circulated around that frail body. However, the woman who should be in a deep coma right now slowly opened her eyes and even struggled to rise. Her movements were weak, yet they were empowered by a stubborn force that would not be thwarted. “Wuyi!” Shenwu Youluan hurriedly stepped forward and hugged Shenwu Yi’s upper torso. “Don’t move recklessly, and submerge your consciousness. The supreme one no longer plans to punish you.” Shenwu Yi did not close her eyes, though. Instead, she said in a voice that sounded like a breeze blowing against the hair. “She... just obtained the Abyssal Heart Vine, and I am grievously injured... her eyes are not here. The Pure Land is not looking here either.” Shenwu Youluan understood her meaning. She wanted to advise Shenwu Yi that whatever she had to say could wait until she recovered, but she also knew her own personality. She wouldn’t be acting like this unless she had something essential that she needed to do right now. So, she nodded weakly and moved closer to her lips. “Okay. Tell me.” The bloodless lips parted slightly and began murmuring like she was dream-talking, “With heaven and earth in harmony, all things transform into purity; men and women unite in proper union, establishing the order of the universe...” “......!” Shenwu Youluan looked up, staring at Shenwu Yi in shock. It wasn’t until a few breaths later that she barely suppressed her bubbling emotions and asked in a hushed voice, “You... recovered your memories, Wuyi?” The moonlit eyes, so weak that they lost their focus, stared fixedly at her. “So... that marriage certificate... really does exist...” Shenwu Youluan froze. She was at a loss for words for a time. Then, she leaned closer and lowered her voice even more. “Who told you these words? What on earth happened to you during your time at the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods?” There was a slight tremor in her voice as she said this. Shenwu Yi slowly raised her hand and pressed her fingers against the back of Shenwu Youluan’s hand with immense difficulty. It was to show the woman the force of her determination. “If you have it... now... show it to me... now...” Despite being so weak that the only thing keeping her conscious and moving now was sheer willpower, she had repeated the word “now” twice. Shenwu Youluan wore a complicated expression. The short hesitation was itself a tacit admission. She was just about to answer when Shenwu Yi’s murmur echoed in her ears again, “It... directly decides... my fate...” Shenwu Youluan had never seen such determination and stubbornness from Shenwu Yi before. So, her teeth clenched slightly, she stopped hesitating and reached into her portable space. An instant later, she produced an abyssal crystal about one-third of a meter long and emanating a somewhat rich aura of abyssal crystal. Her fingers moved, and the abyssal crystal split open in the middle to reveal that it was artificially hollowed. Shenwu Youluan carefully produced a jade slip from the abyssal crystal. The engravings on the jade slip were clearly the first three seals of the Purify God Seal. The Purify God Seal was the core profound art of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God, so it made sense that it would be concealed so carefully. However, Shenwu Youluan unleashed a small puff of profound energy and shattered the jade slip, causing what looked like blood-stained pieces of paper to emerge from the fragments. With one swipe of the palm, the torn pieces of paper immediately started joining together into one. An instant later, a brilliant red sheet of paper, despite being terribly tattered and mostly covered in dried blood, took form, its words unnaturally clear. The title of the red paper was “Marriage Certificate”. It reflected in Shenwu Yi’s eyes and, somehow, magically sharpened her blurry vision. No one knew how much risk Shenwu Youluan had shouldered to conceal this marriage certificate... because it was the sole proof of Shenwu Yi’s past. Right now, Shenwu Yi’s unfocused eyes were shining with indescribable radiance. The words written on the marriage certificate had etched themselves into her heart instantly... It matched word for word what Yun Che had recited in the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. The names “Xiao Che” and “Xia Qingyue” were written at the end of the marriage certificate, and a pair of deep, intact fingerprints were marked beneath their birthdates. With trembling fingers, Shenwu Yi lifted the ripped sleeve she had received from Yun Che and checked his fingerprint first. They matched seamlessly with the one on the marriage certificate, even though her vision was terribly blurry right now. Just the same, her right fingerprint matched the one left behind by the woman named Xia Qingyue perfectly. “......” Her moonlight in her pupils shook violently, and her fingers curled unconsciously.That... is my past... I’m not someone without a past after all... I’m not a rootless duckweed after all... Xia Qingyue... is my name... my true name... Blue Wind Empire, Floating Cloud City... a surname that doesn’t exist in this world... a birthplace that doesn’t exist in this world... Yun Che... Xiao Che... homeland... I... “Aunt...” She closed her eyes, her voice weak as a somniloquy. “Remove... the traces...” Her palm fell limply, and her consciousness finally sank completely into darkness. Shenwu Youluan gently set Shenwu Yi down and tucked both the marriage certificate and the ripped sleeve into the abyssal crystal. However, it would be a long, long time before her chaotic thoughts and feelings settled. When she first picked up Shenwu Yi at Endless Fog, she already knew from the marriage certificate she carried that she was not a native. She knew it was extremely likely that Shenwu Yi came from the Eternal Pure Land because the surname Xia, “Blue Wind Empire” or “Floating Cloud City,” did not exist anywhere in this world. However, she also knew that Shenwu Yi would lose all freedom if this secret were ever to be revealed. So, she hid it out of pity and planned to return it to her after she had fully recovered. Shenwu Yanye had noticed Shenwu Yi’s Nine Profound Exquisite Body first and forced her to become an Eternal Night Divine Daughter. In Shenwu Youluan’s opinion, becoming an Eternal Night Divine Daughter was a fate far worse than being exposed as a denizen from the Eternal Pure Land. That was why she had always harbored indescribable guilt and regret toward her. She never thought that this secret would be exposed by Shenwu Yi herself out of nowhere. She had no way to predict what kind of ending this sudden twist of fate would bring, but no matter what it was, it could not be deeper than the lightless despair the Eternal Night Kingdom of God was already stuck in. ...... Yun Che’s self-recovery lasted a long time. In the end, his injuries and profound energy were mostly recovered. He had intentionally dragged out his recovery time, but it was still an extraordinary pace in Hua Caili’s opinion. “As expected of the light profound energy. I think it’s even greater than before.” Leaning against Yun Che’s shoulder, Hua Caili said smilingly, “A while ago, Aunt reminded me that people capable of producing light profound energy are exceptionally pure and good. She warned me not to abuse this fact and bully you. At this point, Aunt is going to treat you better than she treated me... hehe.” It sounded like jealousy, but her tone was filled with pure, unadulterated joy. Yun Che replied with a smile, “The reason Aunt is treating me so well is because of you and for your sake.” He climbed back to his feet and stretched a little. “Alright. We should head back now.” “Okay!” Hua Caili put away the Glass Cloud Sword and remarked, “The Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods was described as a place of many unfathomable mysteries, so I initially thought it would be filled with oddities and special opportunities. But now, I think it’s not much different from the Endless Fog. It just has more abyssal ghosts than abyssal beasts.” Yun Che replied, “This is a place where countless gods had perished, so it made sense that it used to be a graveyard of divine relics. However, we should not forget that this place belongs to the Pure Land. They must have scoured the place countless times over and picked up most of the divine relics. Otherwise, they would not have been so generous as to open it to the Six Kingdoms of God.” Hua Caili nodded in agreement. “Exactly. Speaking of, I wonder why that wretched Shenwu Yi requested such a peculiar reward?” It was at this moment that she recalled that... the Abyssal Monarch still owed her a favor. Yun Che made a grabbing motion, and the Void Breaching Divine Jade he tossed away earlier returned to his grasp. Hua Caili looked confused by this. She blurted out, “Why didn’t you use the Void Breaching Divine Jade to escape immediately when you were in danger earlier, Big Brother Yun? Was it because Shenwu Yi ambushed you while your guard was down?” Yun Che opened his lips to answer, but something occurred to him, and he blanched suddenly. “Oh no!” He suddenly turned around and ran into the abyssal fog. “Huh? Big Brother Yun!!” Hua Caili let out a cry of surprise and swiftly followed behind him. Yun Che did not slow down, though. He just kept running while his aura grew increasingly irritated and anxious. Finally, he came to a stop. The abyssal fog before them was vast and thick, suffocating. A grayish maw was lying on the ground and emitting an aura so terrible that the soul trembled just being near its presence. “Is this... an Abyss of Death?” Standing beside Yun Che, Hua Caili exclaimed in surprise. This was the first time she saw the fabled Abyss of Death that was said to exist in the deep areas of the Endless Fog. Yun Che reached toward the Abyss of Death with a palm, profound energy and soul presence surging in increasing panic and frustration. “What’s going on, Big Brother Yun?” Hua Caili asked worriedly. Yun Che slowly clenched his palm into a fist and exhaled deeply. He said in a difficult voice, “When I was attacked by several abyssal ghosts earlier, I accidentally dropped the Cloud Glass Sword into the Abyss of Death...” “Ah?!?” Hua Caili let out a cry of shock. She finally understood why he was acting so panicked. “The Glass Cloud Sword is connected to me by soul aura, and yet I have completely lost contact with its presence.” Yun Che was doing his best to keep his voice calm, but still, he couldn’t keep his disappointment from leaking. “The reason I didn’t escape immediately despite the dangerous situation I was in was that I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to retrieve the Cloud Glass Sword at a later time. But... I guess...” “......” Hua Caili’s lips parted as she searched for the words to comfort him, to no avail. She could only move closer to him. Anything that fell into the Abyss of Death would return to nothingness. This was stated in every record regarding the Abyss of Death. Yun Che exhaled one last time before withdrawing his palm. Then, he smiled like he was letting go and even turned around to console Hua Caili instead, “There’s no helping it... It’s fine. Master always said that to gain something is fortune, and to lose something is fate. I’m sure he won’t blame me for this.” “Mm!” “...... Let us leave then.” A pair of Void Breaching Divine Jades shattered, taking Yun Che and Hua Caili away from the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. The instant they disappeared, an ancient, demonic groan rose from the soundless Abyss of Death. However, it disappeared into the gloomy abyssal fog in the next instant. ...... “Our homeland is not their ‘Eternal Pure Land’. It is our Eternal Pure Land!!” “If the denizens of the Abyss set foot in our homeland, everyone shall turn into helpless lambs awaiting slaughter...” “You called yourself an utterly selfish and cold-hearted person, but I think that your self-proclaimed coldness stems from your body and soul naturally rejecting this world!” “You are Xia Qingyue...” “I am the emperor of the ‘Eternal Pure Land, and you are its empress...” “What I need most at this moment is your aid...” “No matter what... must... stop...” “......” Shenwu Yi abruptly startled awake and sat bolt upright. An instant later, excruciating pain surged through her entire body. Despite this, she clenched her teeth tightly and did not allow a single whimper to leak. Her surroundings were utterly still, and no one was by her side. Only the healing profound formation hummed silently as it worked. Her five senses quickly regained their usual clarity as she slowly rose to her feet. She walked outside the room and stood at the Pure Land, overlooking the distant sky. A clear wind blew, and her pitch black robes swayed lightly in the wind. The bloodstains on her hem had dried into dark marks like faded crimson blooms on an ink-wash painting, lending a kind of shattered beauty. Her jade-like face was as pale as frost and snow, and her lips were drained of color. Only her long eyelashes, delicate as butterfly wings, cast faint shadows across her pallid features. The abyssal corruption that hadn’t yet been fully expelled for a thin layer of gray mist around her. It made her look like a falling star of a dark night: cold, solitary, but also divinely breathtaking. Her gaze drifted toward the pure white horizon. Her eyes, once frozen with ice, had shed their indifference and sharpness, leaving behind only deep pools of stillness. Another breeze swept by, ruffling the strands at her temple and teasing the delicate hair hanging in front of her forehead. She paid it no attention. Her thoughts had long drifted toward the fleeting past and the unknown future.Blue Wind Empire, Floating Cloud City... Qingyue of Xia... homeland... empress... Yun Che... Xiao Che... She was obviously standing in the untainted Pure Land and basking in flawless heavenly light, and yet it felt like an endless night fog was enveloping her and making her look even lonelier and colder than she already was.It’s real... everything he said... is real... She slowly closed her eyes, and the first thing that came to her soul sea was those eyes filled with insoluble love and resolve. When she slowly clenched her fists... she actually felt as if she could feel the lingering warmth of that blood-drenched sleeve. From start to finish, her body and soul were silently rejecting the world she was in. However, that man was drawing not just her senses, but her heart and soul toward him... Her eyes opened once more, exquisite beauty rippling in those wonderful orbs. However, the man’s voice continued to echo within the depths of her soul: “I am probably the most death-fearing person in this world, for if I were to die... should you ever regain your memories, your heart would be torn apart. My homeland... our homeland... would forever plunge into an unpredictable, irresistible abyss of calamity as well.” She subconsciously pressed a hand to her chest. She could tell that her heartbeat was completely out of control. Even the thick gloominess that usually shrouded her heart was swiftly being dispelled by his voice. “But I, a mere Divine Master, must prevent the next activation of the Void Breaching Great Formation in less than fifty years, regardless... This is why I had no choice but to resort to any means necessary!”Less than fifty years... must stop... If the road ahead could not be seen, then listen to the heart’s voice, for it was the most exquisite, truthful, and flawless guidance of the profound. ...... Suddenly, Shenwu Yi turned around. When her gaze regained its focus, they had regained their usual depth and iciness.Since that is the case... the final page of the “Secret Tome” must be revealed ahead of schedule... then...Shenwu Yanye! I permit you... to repay your debt... sooner... than... expected[1]! ...... Yun Che and Hua Caili had just stepped out of the Void Breaching Great Formation when Meng Jianxi rushed over and examined him carefully. A while later, he hid a sigh of relief and said, “It looks like you encountered some fierce battles. I’m glad to see that you’re fine.” Yun Che was a little caught off guard by this. Then, he realized something and smiled at Meng Jianxi. Nothing else needed to be said. At that moment, Hua Caili noticed Dugu Zhuyuan was there as well. She exclaimed in surprise, “Uncle Dugu? Shouldn’t you be battling against Aunt in the Heaven Above Abyss? Even your shortest battle lasted three days, but this time... it couldn’t be over already, could it??” Dugu Zhuyuan suddenly let out an enigmatic sigh. His gaze looked immeasurably complicated as well. His reaction caught Yun Che’s attention, and he asked casually, “Is aunt... senior Sword Fairy perhaps delayed by something?” Dugu Zhuyuan cast them a look and hesitated for a moment. In the end, he said, “Today’s fight is my last fight against the Sword Fairy. After this, there will be no need for further conflict.” “Huh?” Hua Caili looked completely confused. “But why?” Dugu Zhuyuan shook his head and refused to clarify. “I see that you are injured, Divine Son Yuan. You should head back and rest.” Although Hua Caili was overflowing with puzzlement, she ultimately did not press him for an answer. She left together with Yun Che. After they were gone, Dugu Zhuyuan finally let out a long sigh and mumbled somewhat dazedly, “It is only now I know that I learn that the reason she is the Sword Fairy... isn’t because she can only be the Sword Fairy. It is because... she doesn’t want to be anything else but the Sword Fairy.” “The only reason she forced herself to remain mortal is for Caili... I will never be able to measure up to her or reach her for as long as I live[2].” 1. Ah crap. So, my current theory is that Xia Qingyue also lost her family in the Abyss (remember they killed everyone related to her to keep her existence a secret), which is why she hates Shenwu Yanye so much. Since this parallels her fate in Primal Chaos, you can’t help but wonder if the Artifact of Fate is in effect... except the one on the other end is no longer Yun Che, but a certain dark side of the Ancestral God... ☜ 2. IDK if it was mentioned before, but apparently Mars said that the first mortal to become a True God in the Abyss would be Ying’er. It is Ying’er, but well, it’s Hua Qingying’er. :D ☜ Chapter 2165 - Heart Toward Glazed Glass Shenwu Youluan gently, very gently, placed Shenwu Yi inside a healing, profound formation and set up a simple isolation barrier. A ball of gentle, profound light gathered in her palm and slowly circulated around that frail body. However, the woman who should be in a deep coma right now slowly opened her eyes and even struggled to rise. Her movements were weak, yet they were empowered by a stubborn force that would not be thwarted. “Wuyi!” Shenwu Youluan hurriedly stepped forward and hugged Shenwu Yi’s upper torso. “Don’t move recklessly, and submerge your consciousness. The supreme one no longer plans to punish you.” Shenwu Yi did not close her eyes, though. Instead, she said in a voice that sounded like a breeze blowing against the hair. “She... just obtained the Abyssal Heart Vine, and I am grievously injured... her eyes are not here. The Pure Land is not looking here either.” Shenwu Youluan understood her meaning. She wanted to advise Shenwu Yi that whatever she had to say could wait until she recovered, but she also knew her own personality. She wouldn’t be acting like this unless she had something essential that she needed to do right now. So, she nodded weakly and moved closer to her lips. “Okay. Tell me.” The bloodless lips parted slightly and began murmuring like she was dream-talking, “With heaven and earth in harmony, all things transform into purity; men and women unite in proper union, establishing the order of the universe...” “......!” Shenwu Youluan looked up, staring at Shenwu Yi in shock. It wasn’t until a few breaths later that she barely suppressed her bubbling emotions and asked in a hushed voice, “You... recovered your memories, Wuyi?” The moonlit eyes, so weak that they lost their focus, stared fixedly at her. “So... that marriage certificate... really does exist...” Shenwu Youluan froze. She was at a loss for words for a time. Then, she leaned closer and lowered her voice even more. “Who told you these words? What on earth happened to you during your time at the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods?” There was a slight tremor in her voice as she said this. Shenwu Yi slowly raised her hand and pressed her fingers against the back of Shenwu Youluan’s hand with immense difficulty. It was to show the woman the force of her determination. “If you have it... now... show it to me... now...” Despite being so weak that the only thing keeping her conscious and moving now was sheer willpower, she had repeated the word “now” twice. Shenwu Youluan wore a complicated expression. The short hesitation was itself a tacit admission. She was just about to answer when Shenwu Yi’s murmur echoed in her ears again, “It... directly decides... my fate...” Shenwu Youluan had never seen such determination and stubbornness from Shenwu Yi before. So, her teeth clenched slightly, she stopped hesitating and reached into her portable space. An instant later, she produced an abyssal crystal about one-third of a meter long and emanating a somewhat rich aura of abyssal crystal. Her fingers moved, and the abyssal crystal split open in the middle to reveal that it was artificially hollowed. Shenwu Youluan carefully produced a jade slip from the abyssal crystal. The engravings on the jade slip were clearly the first three seals of the Purify God Seal. The Purify God Seal was the core profound art of the Eternal Night Kingdom of God, so it made sense that it would be concealed so carefully. However, Shenwu Youluan unleashed a small puff of profound energy and shattered the jade slip, causing what looked like blood-stained pieces of paper to emerge from the fragments. With one swipe of the palm, the torn pieces of paper immediately started joining together into one. An instant later, a brilliant red sheet of paper, despite being terribly tattered and mostly covered in dried blood, took form, its words unnaturally clear. The title of the red paper was “Marriage Certificate”. It reflected in Shenwu Yi’s eyes and, somehow, magically sharpened her blurry vision. No one knew how much risk Shenwu Youluan had shouldered to conceal this marriage certificate... because it was the sole proof of Shenwu Yi’s past. Right now, Shenwu Yi’s unfocused eyes were shining with indescribable radiance. The words written on the marriage certificate had etched themselves into her heart instantly... It matched word for word what Yun Che had recited in the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. The names “Xiao Che” and “Xia Qingyue” were written at the end of the marriage certificate, and a pair of deep, intact fingerprints were marked beneath their birthdates. With trembling fingers, Shenwu Yi lifted the ripped sleeve she had received from Yun Che and checked his fingerprint first. They matched seamlessly with the one on the marriage certificate, even though her vision was terribly blurry right now. Just the same, her right fingerprint matched the one left behind by the woman named Xia Qingyue perfectly. “......” Her moonlight in her pupils shook violently, and her fingers curled unconsciously.That... is my past... I’m not someone without a past after all... I’m not a rootless duckweed after all... Xia Qingyue... is my name... my true name... Blue Wind Empire, Floating Cloud City... a surname that doesn’t exist in this world... a birthplace that doesn’t exist in this world... Yun Che... Xiao Che... homeland... I... “Aunt...” She closed her eyes, her voice weak as a somniloquy. “Remove... the traces...” Her palm fell limply, and her consciousness finally sank completely into darkness. Shenwu Youluan gently set Shenwu Yi down and tucked both the marriage certificate and the ripped sleeve into the abyssal crystal. However, it would be a long, long time before her chaotic thoughts and feelings settled. When she first picked up Shenwu Yi at Endless Fog, she already knew from the marriage certificate she carried that she was not a native. She knew it was extremely likely that Shenwu Yi came from the Eternal Pure Land because the surname Xia, “Blue Wind Empire” or “Floating Cloud City,” did not exist anywhere in this world. However, she also knew that Shenwu Yi would lose all freedom if this secret were ever to be revealed. So, she hid it out of pity and planned to return it to her after she had fully recovered. Shenwu Yanye had noticed Shenwu Yi’s Nine Profound Exquisite Body first and forced her to become an Eternal Night Divine Daughter. In Shenwu Youluan’s opinion, becoming an Eternal Night Divine Daughter was a fate far worse than being exposed as a denizen from the Eternal Pure Land. That was why she had always harbored indescribable guilt and regret toward her. She never thought that this secret would be exposed by Shenwu Yi herself out of nowhere. She had no way to predict what kind of ending this sudden twist of fate would bring, but no matter what it was, it could not be deeper than the lightless despair the Eternal Night Kingdom of God was already stuck in. ...... Yun Che’s self-recovery lasted a long time. In the end, his injuries and profound energy were mostly recovered. He had intentionally dragged out his recovery time, but it was still an extraordinary pace in Hua Caili’s opinion. “As expected of the light profound energy. I think it’s even greater than before.” Leaning against Yun Che’s shoulder, Hua Caili said smilingly, “A while ago, Aunt reminded me that people capable of producing light profound energy are exceptionally pure and good. She warned me not to abuse this fact and bully you. At this point, Aunt is going to treat you better than she treated me... hehe.” It sounded like jealousy, but her tone was filled with pure, unadulterated joy. Yun Che replied with a smile, “The reason Aunt is treating me so well is because of you and for your sake.” He climbed back to his feet and stretched a little. “Alright. We should head back now.” “Okay!” Hua Caili put away the Glass Cloud Sword and remarked, “The Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods was described as a place of many unfathomable mysteries, so I initially thought it would be filled with oddities and special opportunities. But now, I think it’s not much different from the Endless Fog. It just has more abyssal ghosts than abyssal beasts.” Yun Che replied, “This is a place where countless gods had perished, so it made sense that it used to be a graveyard of divine relics. However, we should not forget that this place belongs to the Pure Land. They must have scoured the place countless times over and picked up most of the divine relics. Otherwise, they would not have been so generous as to open it to the Six Kingdoms of God.” Hua Caili nodded in agreement. “Exactly. Speaking of, I wonder why that wretched Shenwu Yi requested such a peculiar reward?” It was at this moment that she recalled that... the Abyssal Monarch still owed her a favor. Yun Che made a grabbing motion, and the Void Breaching Divine Jade he tossed away earlier returned to his grasp. Hua Caili looked confused by this. She blurted out, “Why didn’t you use the Void Breaching Divine Jade to escape immediately when you were in danger earlier, Big Brother Yun? Was it because Shenwu Yi ambushed you while your guard was down?” Yun Che opened his lips to answer, but something occurred to him, and he blanched suddenly. “Oh no!” He suddenly turned around and ran into the abyssal fog. “Huh? Big Brother Yun!!” Hua Caili let out a cry of surprise and swiftly followed behind him. Yun Che did not slow down, though. He just kept running while his aura grew increasingly irritated and anxious. Finally, he came to a stop. The abyssal fog before them was vast and thick, suffocating. A grayish maw was lying on the ground and emitting an aura so terrible that the soul trembled just being near its presence. “Is this... an Abyss of Death?” Standing beside Yun Che, Hua Caili exclaimed in surprise. This was the first time she saw the fabled Abyss of Death that was said to exist in the deep areas of the Endless Fog. Yun Che reached toward the Abyss of Death with a palm, profound energy and soul presence surging in increasing panic and frustration. “What’s going on, Big Brother Yun?” Hua Caili asked worriedly. Yun Che slowly clenched his palm into a fist and exhaled deeply. He said in a difficult voice, “When I was attacked by several abyssal ghosts earlier, I accidentally dropped the Cloud Glass Sword into the Abyss of Death...” “Ah?!?” Hua Caili let out a cry of shock. She finally understood why he was acting so panicked. “The Glass Cloud Sword is connected to me by soul aura, and yet I have completely lost contact with its presence.” Yun Che was doing his best to keep his voice calm, but still, he couldn’t keep his disappointment from leaking. “The reason I didn’t escape immediately despite the dangerous situation I was in was that I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to retrieve the Cloud Glass Sword at a later time. But... I guess...” “......” Hua Caili’s lips parted as she searched for the words to comfort him, to no avail. She could only move closer to him. Anything that fell into the Abyss of Death would return to nothingness. This was stated in every record regarding the Abyss of Death. Yun Che exhaled one last time before withdrawing his palm. Then, he smiled like he was letting go and even turned around to console Hua Caili instead, “There’s no helping it... It’s fine. Master always said that to gain something is fortune, and to lose something is fate. I’m sure he won’t blame me for this.” “Mm!” “...... Let us leave then.” A pair of Void Breaching Divine Jades shattered, taking Yun Che and Hua Caili away from the Forbidden Zone of Slumbering Gods. The instant they disappeared, an ancient, demonic groan rose from the soundless Abyss of Death. However, it disappeared into the gloomy abyssal fog in the next instant. ...... “Our homeland is not their ‘Eternal Pure Land’. It is our Eternal Pure Land!!” “If the denizens of the Abyss set foot in our homeland, everyone shall turn into helpless lambs awaiting slaughter...” “You called yourself an utterly selfish and cold-hearted person, but I think that your self-proclaimed coldness stems from your body and soul naturally rejecting this world!” “You are Xia Qingyue...” “I am the emperor of the ‘Eternal Pure Land, and you are its empress...” “What I need most at this moment is your aid...” “No matter what... must... stop...” “......” Shenwu Yi abruptly startled awake and sat bolt upright. An instant later, excruciating pain surged through her entire body. Despite this, she clenched her teeth tightly and did not allow a single whimper to leak. Her surroundings were utterly still, and no one was by her side. Only the healing profound formation hummed silently as it worked. Her five senses quickly regained their usual clarity as she slowly rose to her feet. She walked outside the room and stood at the Pure Land, overlooking the distant sky. A clear wind blew, and her pitch black robes swayed lightly in the wind. The bloodstains on her hem had dried into dark marks like faded crimson blooms on an ink-wash painting, lending a kind of shattered beauty. Her jade-like face was as pale as frost and snow, and her lips were drained of color. Only her long eyelashes, delicate as butterfly wings, cast faint shadows across her pallid features. The abyssal corruption that hadn’t yet been fully expelled for a thin layer of gray mist around her. It made her look like a falling star of a dark night: cold, solitary, but also divinely breathtaking. Her gaze drifted toward the pure white horizon. Her eyes, once frozen with ice, had shed their indifference and sharpness, leaving behind only deep pools of stillness. Another breeze swept by, ruffling the strands at her temple and teasing the delicate hair hanging in front of her forehead. She paid it no attention. Her thoughts had long drifted toward the fleeting past and the unknown future.Blue Wind Empire, Floating Cloud City... Qingyue of Xia... homeland... empress... Yun Che... Xiao Che... She was obviously standing in the untainted Pure Land and basking in flawless heavenly light, and yet it felt like an endless night fog was enveloping her and making her look even lonelier and colder than she already was.It’s real... everything he said... is real... She slowly closed her eyes, and the first thing that came to her soul sea was those eyes filled with insoluble love and resolve. When she slowly clenched her fists... she actually felt as if she could feel the lingering warmth of that blood-drenched sleeve. From start to finish, her body and soul were silently rejecting the world she was in. However, that man was drawing not just her senses, but her heart and soul toward him... Her eyes opened once more, exquisite beauty rippling in those wonderful orbs. However, the man’s voice continued to echo within the depths of her soul: “I am probably the most death-fearing person in this world, for if I were to die... should you ever regain your memories, your heart would be torn apart. My homeland... our homeland... would forever plunge into an unpredictable, irresistible abyss of calamity as well.” She subconsciously pressed a hand to her chest. She could tell that her heartbeat was completely out of control. Even the thick gloominess that usually shrouded her heart was swiftly being dispelled by his voice. “But I, a mere Divine Master, must prevent the next activation of the Void Breaching Great Formation in less than fifty years, regardless... This is why I had no choice but to resort to any means necessary!”Less than fifty years... must stop... If the road ahead could not be seen, then listen to the heart’s voice, for it was the most exquisite, truthful, and flawless guidance of the profound. ...... Suddenly, Shenwu Yi turned around. When her gaze regained its focus, they had regained their usual depth and iciness.Since that is the case... the final page of the “Secret Tome” must be revealed ahead of schedule... then...Shenwu Yanye! I permit you... to repay your debt... sooner... than... expected[1]! ...... Yun Che and Hua Caili had just stepped out of the Void Breaching Great Formation when Meng Jianxi rushed over and examined him carefully. A while later, he hid a sigh of relief and said, “It looks like you encountered some fierce battles. I’m glad to see that you’re fine.” Yun Che was a little caught off guard by this. Then, he realized something and smiled at Meng Jianxi. Nothing else needed to be said. At that moment, Hua Caili noticed Dugu Zhuyuan was there as well. She exclaimed in surprise, “Uncle Dugu? Shouldn’t you be battling against Aunt in the Heaven Above Abyss? Even your shortest battle lasted three days, but this time... it couldn’t be over already, could it??” Dugu Zhuyuan suddenly let out an enigmatic sigh. His gaze looked immeasurably complicated as well. His reaction caught Yun Che’s attention, and he asked casually, “Is aunt... senior Sword Fairy perhaps delayed by something?” Dugu Zhuyuan cast them a look and hesitated for a moment. In the end, he said, “Today’s fight is my last fight against the Sword Fairy. After this, there will be no need for further conflict.” “Huh?” Hua Caili looked completely confused. “But why?” Dugu Zhuyuan shook his head and refused to clarify. “I see that you are injured, Divine Son Yuan. You should head back and rest.” Although Hua Caili was overflowing with puzzlement, she ultimately did not press him for an answer. She left together with Yun Che. After they were gone, Dugu Zhuyuan finally let out a long sigh and mumbled somewhat dazedly, “It is only now I know that I learn that the reason she is the Sword Fairy... isn’t because she can only be the Sword Fairy. It is because... she doesn’t want to be anything else but the Sword Fairy.” “The only reason she forced herself to remain mortal is for Caili... I will never be able to measure up to her or reach her for as long as I live[2].” 1. Ah crap. So, my current theory is that Xia Qingyue also lost her family in the Abyss (remember they killed everyone related to her to keep her existence a secret), which is why she hates Shenwu Yanye so much. Since this parallels her fate in Primal Chaos, you can’t help but wonder if the Artifact of Fate is in effect... except the one on the other end is no longer Yun Che, but a certain dark side of the Ancestral God... ☜ 2. IDK if it was mentioned before, but apparently Mars said that the first mortal to become a True God in the Abyss would be Ying’er. It is Ying’er, but well, it’s Hua Qingying’er. :D ☜