Chapter 4524
Kai noticed Xiao Yuanshan’s concern and quickly reassured him. “Don’t worry, Emperor Xiao. I’m only leaving temporarily. I’ve given Prince Xiao a sound-transmission jade slip. If the Xiao Dynasty faces trouble, I’ll return immediately.”
Xiao Yuanshan let out a relieved sigh and nodded. Though it stung his pride that the powerful Xiao Dynasty now relied on a seventh-grade Tribulation cultivator, the reality was undeniable — the forces supporting Kai were far stronger than any they could muster.
With that reassurance, Kai left the Xiao Dynasty alongside Ji Yun. They boarded an airship bound for Qingniu Peak, home of the Weapon Refining Sect.
Kai’s priority was restoring the Dragon Slashing Sword. If the Sword Spirit Zhongli could be freed from the blade, his strength would increase significantly. Zhongli could fight alongside him, serving as a hidden ace in battle.
As the airship cruised through the skies, Kai settled into meditation. The journey would take several days, and he wanted to use the time to cultivate and restore his energy.
Meanwhile, at the headquarters of the Demon Sealing League, the atmosphere was grim. Zuo Tianzheng sat in the main seat, frustration etched on his face. Around him were the league’s middle-ranking leaders, their expressions just as weary.
Among them was Zhou Zongzhu, who had managed to escape the disastrous battle with two disciples, Tianluo and Tiansha, unscathed. Zhou’s talent for self-preservation was unmatched, though his survival brought little comfort to the league.
Zuo Tianzheng’s voice cut through the tension. “We failed to crush the Xiao Dynasty, but we dealt them a severe blow. Their strength is greatly diminished.”
He paused, scanning the room. “Prepare yourselves. We will attack the Xiao Dynasty again. We cannot give up.”
With a dismissive wave, he ended the meeting, his mind already calculating their next move. The fight was far from over.
Behind the main hall, in a secret chamber, a swirling black hole loomed ominously. In the dim light, the Tenth Prince calmly sucked on a lollipop, his demeanor unfazed despite having fled the battle. His decision to abandon the Demon Sealing League had been questionable, but Zuo Tianzheng dared not express any discontent. Instead, he remained deferential, his head bowed respectfully.
“Tenth Prince,” Zuo Tianzheng said softly, “I am ready. Although we didn’t conquer the Xiao Dynasty this time, your contributions should not be overlooked.”
The Tenth Prince smiled, his eyes gleaming. “Good. Follow me.”
Without hesitation, he stepped into the black hole. Zuo Tianzheng followed closely behind, the void swallowing them whole. The black hole sealed itself behind them, plunging everything into darkness.
Moments later, Zuo Tianzheng’s vision cleared. A colossal black palace floated before him, suspended in an endless expanse of stars. The temple seemed to defy reality, its presence awe-inspiring and eerie.
His breath caught in his throat. “Tenth Prince… is this the temple?”
The Tenth Prince nodded. “Yes. This is the tenth temple. The locations of the other nine remain a mystery to me.”
He gestured toward the looming structure. “I wanted you to see the majesty of our temple for yourself. If you serve us loyally, you’ll be rewarded beyond your wildest dreams.”
The Tenth Prince’s words were blunt, likening Zuo Tianzheng to a dog. But Zuo Tianzheng felt no insult. Instead, his veins pulsed with excitement. To align with such divine power — it was an honor, not a slight.
Seeing the fervor in Zuo Tianzheng’s eyes, the Tenth Prince smirked with satisfaction. “Come,” he said, leading the way.
With reverent steps, Zuo Tianzheng followed the Tenth Prince into the grand hall of the temple, ready to pledge himself fully to this overwhelming power.