Chapter 6180 - 6190
A
low, rumbling sound began, initially faint, like the buzzing of a mosquito, almost imperceptible unless one listened carefully.
But in an instant, the sound amplified exponentially, becoming a deafening roar, as if the drums of an ancient war had been struck.
The runes on the stone tablet instantly lit up, bursting forth with dazzling light.
The light was initially azure, gentle and mild, like a spring breeze caressing willows.
The surrounding cultivators were about to mock this as a low-grade bloodline when they saw the azure light quickly turn purple before it dissipated.
The purple light was as thick as ink, carrying an aura of majesty that caused those around to involuntarily take a few steps back, secretly astonished.
“Purple! It’s a purple bloodline!”
someone exclaimed. “This is a mid-grade bloodline! This child actually possesses a mid-grade bloodline; his future is limitless!”
The expression of the Divine Hall disciple also changed, his disdain turning to surprise.
A mid-grade bloodline, while not top-tier in the Divine Hall, was enough to make one an inner disciple, enjoying decent resources, and worth cultivating.
However, the changes didn’t stop there.
The purple light lasted only a moment before suddenly exploding into a dazzling gold!
The golden light was intense and domineering, like the blazing sun, blinding everyone.
The temperature in the plaza instantly rose, and the spiritual energy in the air became restless, as if ignited by this power.
“Gold! It’s a golden bloodline!”
“Heavens! It’s actually a superior bloodline! This is a genius that only appears once in ten thousand years!” ”
The Divine Hall is about to have a great event! Quick, go inform the elders!”
The crowd erupted in excitement.
Those previously envious and disdainful gazes instantly transformed into envy, awe, and even flattery.
The cultivation world is so realistic; strength and bloodline determine everything.
The Divine Hall disciple who had received Kai was flushed with excitement, about to step forward to flatter him, but saw that Kai remained expressionless, his hand on the stone tablet showing no sign of loosening.
His expression was terrifyingly calm, as if all of this was within his expectations.
Then, a sudden change occurred!
“Roar…”
A deafening dragon’s roar resounded from the stone tablet!
The dragon’s roar, like a thunderclap, resounded throughout the mountaintop.
The sound contained an ancient, desolate, and extremely domineering aura, seemingly emanating from the primordial era, carrying the majesty of a supreme ruler.
The crowd in the plaza felt a sharp pain in their eardrums, their blood surging, their faces changing drastically as they retreated.
Those with weaker cultivation covered their ears, crouching on the ground in agony, cold sweat pouring down their faces.
“What…what’s going on? How could the bloodline test elicit a dragon’s roar?”
“Could it be…could it be the legendary…”
No one dared utter that name aloud, for it was too unbelievable, too shocking, existing only in fragments of ancient texts.
Then, a colossal golden dragon shadow soared into the sky from the stone tablet!
The dragon shadow was tens of feet tall, with sharp claws, jagged horns, and scales that shimmered with a metallic luster in the sunlight, each scale seemingly containing world-destroying power.
It emanated a terrifying dragon’s might, a kingly aura that surpassed all things, compelling all living beings to bow down in worship.
It circled once in mid-air, then roared to the heavens, its cry resounding throughout Holy Light Peak and even reaching the town at its foot.
The entire mountaintop fell into a deathly silence.
Everyone stared wide-eyed, unable to believe what they were seeing.
Some gaped, their jaws nearly dropping;
others trembled, barely able to stand;
still others were directly stunned into unconsciousness by the dragon’s might, foaming at the mouth.
That golden dragon shadow, that terrifying dragon’s might… what… what kind of bloodline is this?
In the legends of the cultivation world, bloodlines are divided into six major realms: Mortal, Spirit, Earth, Heaven, Saint, and God.
Above these six realms lies a legendary bloodline existing only in ancient texts—the royal bloodline.
The five-clawed golden dragon is the emperor of the dragon race, symbolizing supreme power and strength.
Those possessing the bloodline of the Five-Clawed Golden Dragon are born with the privilege of heaven, their cultivation speed increasing by leaps and bounds, unmatched among their peers, and even capable of challenging those of higher levels, looking down upon all living beings.
“Five-Clawed Golden Dragon…it’s the bloodline of the Five-Clawed Golden Dragon!”
Someone shouted first, their voice trembling with fervor.
This shout was like igniting a powder keg, and the entire square erupted in chaos.
Exclamations, whispers, and shouts of worship filled the air; everyone was stunned by this unprecedented sight.
“It really is a five-clawed golden dragon! I actually witnessed the legendary five-clawed golden dragon bloodline with my own eyes!”
“Who is this child? Which reclusive family does he belong to?”
“Quickly, quickly report to the elders! Such a genius must be immediately brought into the core of the Divine Hall and given the highest level of treatment!”
The previously arrogant disciple of the Divine Hall suddenly collapsed to his knees,
his forehead pressed against the ground, his whole body trembling, not daring to lift his head.
Under the pressure of the five-clawed golden dragon, he felt like an insignificant ant, about to be crushed at any moment.
His previous arrogance had vanished, leaving only deep fear and awe.
The cultivators in line also knelt down, their faces filled with awe and fear.
This was the instinctive submission to the strong, a natural fear of the aura of an emperor, which was utterly irresistible.
A moment later, a white figure sped out of the Divine Hall.
Its speed was as fast as lightning, tearing through the sky and instantly landing on the plaza, stirring up a wave of air.
The man was a middle-aged man, dressed in a long white robe embroidered with golden cloud patterns at the hem. His face was dignified, and his eyes were like lightning.
He exuded the terrifying pressure of a first-grade True Immortal, a pressure that weighed heavily on everyone’s hearts like a mountain, instantly silencing the previously restless crowd, who dared not even breathe.
His gaze fell on Kai, his eyes flashing with shock and excitement, even a hint of barely concealed greed.
It was the look of someone seeing a priceless treasure, as if Kai was not a person, but a walking piece of Tang Sanzang’s flesh.
“Five-Clawed Golden Dragon Bloodline! This is the Five-Clawed Golden Dragon Bloodline!”
His voice trembled.
He had cultivated for ten thousand years and had never seen such a pure Five-Clawed Golden Dragon Bloodline.
This bloodline power was simply the most perfect treasure in the world. If one could obtain even a fraction of it, what would prevent one from achieving the Great Dao?
The middle-aged man took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing the excitement in his heart, and quickly stepped forward.
He showed no airs of a powerful figure, bowing deeply to Kai with utmost respect, as if addressing a supreme emperor: “I am an elder of the Divine Hall, my Daoist name is Qingxuan. Greetings, fellow Daoist! May I ask your name, fellow Daoist?”
Kai calmly looked at him, sensing the seemingly respectful yet subtly probing gaze.
That gaze, like tangible tentacles, attempted to pierce through his body, probing the depths of his bloodline.
He didn’t speak, only uttering two words: ” Kai.”
Elder Qingxuan nodded repeatedly, his face beaming with smiles, his wrinkles crinkling together, appearing kind and approachable, but in reality, utterly hypocritical.
“Fellow Daoist Chen, you possess the bloodline of the Five-Clawed Golden Dragon, a peerless genius, one in ten thousand! Our Divine Hall has always revered bloodlines, and someone with your bloodline is undoubtedly a distinguished guest! Please come in quickly, this old man will immediately inform the Hall Master and personally welcome you!”
His enthusiasm made those around him feel somewhat uncomfortable.
Just moments ago he was so high and mighty, and now he’s so obsequious—the contrast is too great.
But no one dared to say anything. Before the Five-Clawed Golden Dragon bloodline, everything else is insignificant; strength is the only truth.
Kai looked at him, a cold smile playing on his lips.
It’s the same old trick.
The Holy Pure Sect is like this, and so is the Divine Hall.
These so-called righteous holy lands, constantly spouting benevolence and morality, are actually the most pragmatic profit-driven people.
They don’t value you as a person, but rather the bloodline within you.
Once you lose your usefulness, or once they’ve obtained what they want, they turn on you faster than flipping a book.
Kai knew that getting the Divine Hall to help him release the souls of Mu Sha and his wife from the soul crystal wouldn’t be easy.
But he remained outwardly calm, merely nodding slightly, as if accepting this “honor.”
“Thank you for your trouble, Elder Qingxuan,” Kai said calmly, his tone neither humble nor arrogant.
Elder Qingxuan was overjoyed and quickly stepped aside to lead the way, saying, “Fellow Daoist Chen, please, please!”
As he led Kai towards the temple, he glanced back at the crowd in the square and instructed, “Today’s test ends here. Disperse! The rest can come again tomorrow!”
The cultivators in line exchanged glances but dared not say anything and dispersed.
However, before leaving, they couldn’t help but look back at Kai a few more times, their eyes filled with complex emotions—envy, jealousy, and pity.
Kai followed Elder Qingxuan, passing through numerous halls.
Along the way, everything was decorated with extreme luxury. The corridor railings were carved from single pieces of warm jade, and the walls were adorned with various precious calligraphy and paintings. The air was filled with a faint fragrance of sandalwood and spiritual energy, making one feel refreshed and relaxed.
The occasional disciples of the temple, seeing Elder Qingxuan with Kai, were all astonished, then immediately put on ingratiating smiles and bowed respectfully. Soon, the two arrived at a secret chamber deep within the temple.
This chamber was located in a secluded courtyard, surrounded by exotic flowers and rare herbs, exuding a vibrant life force. While seemingly peaceful and serene, it possessed an eerie silence.
The chamber’s door was covered in defensive runes, clearly indicating the presence of something extremely important inside, or perhaps a secret transaction.
Elder Qingxuan stopped and turned to Kai, saying, “Fellow Daoist Chen, please wait a moment. I will go and fetch the Hall Master. Hearing that you possess the bloodline of the Five-Clawed Golden Dragon, the Hall Master will surely come out to meet you personally.”
Kai nodded, “Thank you for your trouble.”
Elder Qingxuan turned and left, his steps hurried, clearly anxious, as if afraid Kai would run away.
Kai stood at the entrance of the chamber, his gaze sweeping
over the surroundings. He quietly released his divine sense, penetrating the chamber.
The chamber was small and simply furnished, containing only a stone table and two stone chairs.
However, hidden beneath the stone table was a small spirit-gathering array, continuously gathering spiritual energy from heaven and earth.
In addition, several jade bottles containing healing pills were placed in a corner of the secret chamber.
“It seems they intend to negotiate with me here,”
Kai thought to himself, a cold smile playing on his lips.
A moment later, the door to the secret chamber was pushed open.
An elderly man with white hair walked in.
He wore a simple white robe, devoid of any superfluous adornments, appearing very unassuming.
His face was clear and his eyes deep, as if holding the stars and the sea.
His aura was restrained, giving him an unfathomable feeling, like an ancient well, its depths impossible to fathom.
His cultivation was at the peak of the second rank of True Immortal Realm, just one step away from entering the third rank.
This man was none other than the Hall Master of the Divine Hall—Qing Xuzi.
Of course, this Qing Xu was not the same as the Qing Xu of the Holy Pure Sect. The vice-leader of the Holy Pure Sect was also named Qing Xu, but that was his Daoist title, while this Hall Master of the Divine Hall was named Qing Xuzi.
In the Holy Land of Light, Qingxuzi’s name represented authority and power, second only to the God Lord.
Qingxuzi walked up to Kai, his gaze falling on him, a glint of admiration in his eyes.
That gaze held appreciation, admiration, but above all, an undisguised fervor, like a hungry wolf eyeing a fat sheep.
“The Five-Clawed Golden Dragon bloodline…” he murmured, a hint of emotion in his voice, “I never imagined that in my lifetime I would witness such a legendary bloodline.”
Qingxuzi smiled slightly, his tone gentle and friendly, completely unlike a powerful warlord who controlled a vast force.
“Young friend Chen, please sit.”
Kai took a seat in the guest seat, his posture composed and unpretentious, as if this were his territory.
Qingxuzi sat down opposite him, his gaze still fixed on him, his eyes full of admiration, as if looking at a rare treasure, afraid it might grow wings and fly away.
“Young friend Chen, what brings you to the Divine Hall?”
Qingxuzi asked bluntly. “Logically speaking, with your bloodline, you should have been sought after by various powerful forces long ago. Why have you come alone to my remote Divine Hall?”
Kai looked at him and, without beating around the bush, said directly, “I would like to ask the Divine Hall for a favor.”
Qingxuzi smiled slightly and waved his hand, saying, “Young friend Chen, please speak freely. As long as it is within the power of my Divine Hall, we will not refuse. Let alone one favor, even if it were ten or a hundred, for the sake of your Five-Clawed Golden Dragon bloodline, my Divine Hall will certainly do its utmost.”
These words sounded good, but Kai knew in his heart that all of this was based on the premise of the “Five-Clawed Golden Dragon bloodline.”
If he were just an ordinary cultivator, he probably wouldn’t even have the qualifications to see Qingxuzi and would have been beaten out long ago.
Kai took out a Soul Crystal from his pocket.
The Soul Crystal was smooth and lustrous, emitting a faint blue light, and felt cool to the touch.
Upon closer inspection, two ethereal figures could be faintly seen huddled within, eyes closed, breaths weak, as if they might dissipate at any moment.
These two figures were none other than Mu Sha and his wife.
They had been sealed within this soul crystal by the temple to save Kai.
Qing Xuzi’s gaze sharpened, a strange light flashing in his eyes.
He reached out and took the soul crystal, examining it closely.
“This is… a soul crystal of twin souls?”
Qing Xuzi was somewhat surprised. “Moreover, these two souls are severely damaged, almost completely dissipated.”
Kai’s tone was calm, yet tinged with solemnity: “There are two people here, my friends. Their physical bodies have been destroyed, and their souls are sealed within this soul crystal. I’ve heard that the temple possesses a secret method to awaken souls and reshape physical bodies. I wish to request the temple’s intervention to save their lives.”
Qing Xuzi remained silent for a moment, his fingers gently stroking the surface of the soul crystal, seemingly calculating something.
After a moment, he raised his head, looking at Kai, a complex expression flashing in his eyes.
“Young friend Chen, how long have these two souls been sealed within this soul crystal?”
Kai nodded, “Several months.”
Qingxuzi sighed and said, “The souls have been sealed for too long and have fallen into a deep slumber. Awakening them will not be easy.
Especially since their souls are severely damaged, without the help of rare and precious treasures, it will be difficult for them to fully recover.”
Kai looked at him without speaking, simply waiting quietly for him to continue.
He knew that the other party would definitely not help unconditionally; this was the main event.
Qingxuzi paused, then continued, “However, my Divine Hall does indeed possess a secret technique that can awaken a dormant soul. This technique is called the ‘Reincarnation Soul Crossing Technique,’ a closely guarded secret of my Divine Hall. But…”
He hesitated, his eyes flickering, seemingly observing Kai’s reaction.
Kai asked, “But what? What price is required? Hall Master Qingxu, please name your price.”
Qingxuzi looked at him and slowly said, “This secret technique requires a vast amount of bloodline power. Especially for awakening a soul that has been dormant for so long, the required bloodline power is immense.”
He paused, emphasizing his words, “Young friend Chen, you possess the Five-Clawed Golden Dragon bloodline, a peerless bloodline, one in ten thousand. If you are willing to offer a portion of your bloodline as a catalyst to awaken the soul, there is a seventy percent chance of success.”
Kai raised an eyebrow slightly. Offer his bloodline? He looked at Qingxuzi and said calmly, “How much do you need?”
Qingxuzi held up two fingers and gestured, “Not much, just one bowl. With your cultivation level, young friend Chen, donating one bowl of blood will allow you to recover in a few months. And your two friends will be reborn. This deal is a win-win for you, young friend Chen.”
One bowl of blood?
Kai sneered inwardly.
The Five-Clawed Golden Dragon bloodline was incredibly precious, containing immense life essence and the power of laws.
One bowl of blood was enough to transform an ordinary person, or even allow a cultivator to break through a bottleneck and prolong their life.
Qingxuzi spoke lightly, but its value was immeasurable.
But he had no reason to refuse.
To save Mu Sha and his wife, he would gladly give his life, let alone donate blood.
Kai was silent for a moment, then nodded, “Alright.”
A fleeting, almost imperceptible joy flashed in Qingxuzi’s eyes, but Kai keenly caught it.
Qingxuzi hurriedly said, “Young friend Chen is indeed loyal and righteous! I admire you! In that case, I will go and prepare the ceremony. Young friend Chen, please wait a moment, we will begin in a short while.”
He stood up, turned and left.
Kai sat in the secret chamber, watching his retreating figure, a thoughtful look flashing in his eyes.
Just now, when Qingxuzi heard “a bowl of blood,” the excitement in his eyes was too obvious.
That expression was not like someone who had gained an ally, but more like a hunter seeing prey that had fallen into a trap, his eyes full of greed and expectation.
“Is it really just a bowl of blood?”
Kai pondered to himself, “The Divine Hall claims to be a holy land of the righteous path, why is it so obsessed with my bloodline? There must be more to this than meets the eye.”
But he had no choice at this moment.
The lives of Mu Sha and his wife hung by a thread, he could only gamble.
If the souls of Mu Sha and his wife really disappeared, there was no way to restore them no matter what method was used.
He gambled that the Divine Hall would really keep its promise, and that Qingxuzi was indeed a highly respected senior of the righteous path.
Even knowing it was a pit of fire, he had to jump in for his brothers.
A moment later, the door to the secret chamber opened again.
Elder Qingxuan entered, followed by two disciples of the Divine Hall, carrying various magical artifacts.
There was a gleaming bronze bell, a jade plate radiating cold air, and an ancient sheepskin scroll covered with incomprehensible symbols.
Elder Qingxuan smiled and said, “Fellow Daoist Chen, the ceremony is ready. Please follow me.”
Kai stood up and followed him out of the secret chamber.
Passing through several halls, the three arrived at a side hall.
This side hall was located on the west side of the Divine Hall, in a relatively secluded location. The surroundings were silent; not even the chirping of birds could be heard, giving it a desolate feel.
The side hall’s door was tightly closed, covered with strange runes that faintly emitted a red glow, giving an ominous feeling, as if some evil thing was imprisoned inside.
Elder Qingxuan pushed open the door, and an ancient aura rushed out, mixed with a faint smell of blood.
Inside the side hall, a massive magic array was set up. The array occupied the entire floor of the hall, its densely packed patterns interwoven like a spiderweb.
These patterns emitted a faint golden light, but deep within the light, a wisp of black mist seemed to lurk, sending chills down one’s spine.
In the center of the array lay a jade bowl. The bowl was as large as a washbasin, pure white, and carved with intricate dragon patterns, as if awaiting the nourishment of blood.
“Fellow Daoist Chen, please enter the array,”
Elder Qingxuan said, pointing to the center of the array, his tone utterly authoritative.
Kai stepped into the array. His steps were steady, without the slightest hesitation, as if he had already prepared to die.
Elder Qingxuan and the two disciples left the side hall and closed the door.
The click of the lock striking the door echoed sharply in the silent hall, like a countdown to death.
Alarm bells rang in Kai’s mind. Just then, the magic array slowly activated.
The golden light grew increasingly intense, enveloping Kai entirely.
A strange power began to draw blood essence from his body.
At first, the power was gentle, as if guiding him.
But soon, it became domineering, like countless greedy hands frantically tearing at his meridians and draining his blood.
Kai frowned slightly. He sensed that the power was far more domineering than he had imagined.
The speed of the extraction was also much faster than “a bowl.”
At this rate, his blood would be drained in less than half an incense stick’s time!
He tried to resist, but found that his body was completely immobile!
An invisible binding had appeared within the magic array, firmly fixing his limbs in place.
No matter how much he struggled, he couldn’t break free even an inch.
Kai’s expression changed.
“Something’s wrong!”
He abruptly opened his eyes and looked towards the edge of the magic array.
There, Elder Qingxuan had somehow re-entered and was standing outside the array, watching him with a smile.
That smile was completely different from the previous respect; it carried a hint of sinister malice and smugness, like a fox watching its prey fall into its net, its eyes full of mockery.
“Fellow Daoist Chen, how do you feel?”
he chuckled, his voice filled with sarcasm.
Kai stared coldly at him, saying nothing, his eyes revealing a murderous intent that seemed to want to tear him to pieces.
Elder Qingxuan laughed heartily, “Fellow Daoist Chen, don’t worry. This formation only extracts your bloodline; it won’t kill you. However, a bowl of blood is fake; your entire bloodline is the real deal.”
He took a few steps closer, looking down at Kai trapped in the formation, his eyes filled with greed. “The Five-Clawed Golden Dragon bloodline, the legendary blood of the Dragon Emperor—this is a treasure that appears only once in ten thousand years.
As long as I obtain your bloodline, my Divine Hall Master will break through to the third rank of True Immortal Realm in one fell swoop, and might even attempt to reach the fourth rank! At that time, the Divine Hall will become the number one power in the Holy Domain of Light, and may even rule the entire Fourteenth Heaven!”
He paused, his smile growing increasingly sinister, “That so-called Reincarnation Soul-Crossing Technique is nothing but a lie. Your two friends are already dead; their souls won’t last long either.”
A cold killing intent flashed in Kai’s eyes, and anger burned fiercely in his heart.
“You… you lied to me?”
Elder Qingxuan laughed loudly, “So what if we lied to you? Did you think the Divine Hall was really some righteous holy land? Did you think we would really help you save people?
Ridiculous! In this world, only the strong survive, only interests are eternal. Your bloodline is your greatest original sin! Blame it on your naivety, actually believing us hypocrites.”
Kai’s face turned completely cold.
He had been deceived.
He had been played.
From beginning to end, the Divine Hall had no intention of helping him save people. All
they wanted was his bloodline!
The so-called righteous path, the so-called benevolence, were all just masks!
He wasn’t angry that he had been deceived, but that those so-called righteous people, who spoke of being upright and honorable, were doing such despicable things behind the scenes.
They used the banner of saving the world, but their actions were those of world destruction. There were no good people in the Heavenly Realm!
“Very good.”
Kai suddenly smiled, a smile that was icy and chilling, making people shudder, like a Shura from the deepest hell.
“I’ll remember you all. Shentang, Qingxuzi, Qingxuan… If I, Kai, don’t avenge this, I swear I’m not human!”
Elder Qingxuan’s heart skipped a beat at his laughter, then he sneered, “Still being stubborn even when death is imminent! Drain him! Speed up the formation!”
The formation’s light surged, and the extraction speed increased even further.
Kai felt the power of his bloodline rapidly draining away, his strength gradually dissipating.
His vision began to blur, and his consciousness grew heavy. He closed his eyes, an endless surge of anger and resentment welling up inside him.
Was this how it was going to end?
Was he going to perish here too if he couldn’t save Mu Sha?
Just as Kai was about to fall into unconsciousness, the door to the side hall was suddenly pushed open.
A slender figure rushed in—it was Yun Yao.
Yun Yao looked at Kai trapped in the formation, her expression changing drastically, her eyes filled with anxiety and grief.
“Young Master!”
Without a word, she raised her hand and slashed at the formation’s edge.
The longsword in her hand burst forth with dazzling light, attempting to disrupt the formation.
Elder Qingxuan’s expression changed, and he roared, “Where did this lowly wench come from, daring to ruin my grand plan!”
He raised his hand and struck Yun Yao with a palm.
The palm wind howled, carrying the terrifying pressure of a first-grade True Immortal, like a mountain pressing down on Yun Yao.
Yun Yao was only an eighth-grade Upper Immortal; how could she withstand a palm strike from a second-grade True Immortal?
“Bang!”
With a muffled sound, Yun Yao was sent flying by the palm strike, crashing heavily against the wall, spitting out blood.
Her face instantly turned deathly pale, and her body slumped to the ground.
But she did not fall, nor did she give up.
She struggled to her feet, wiped the blood from the corner of her mouth, and rushed towards the formation again.
“Young Master, I’ve come to save you!” Her eyes were resolute; even knowing it was suicide, she did not hesitate. “You’re courting death!”
Elder Qingxuan sneered, his eyes flashing with murderous intent, and attacked again.
This time, he was serious, a golden sphere of light condensing in his palm—his signature move, the “Holy Light Annihilation Seal.”
But just then, the roof of the side hall suddenly exploded!
“Boom!”
Tiles flew everywhere, dust billowed.
A dark figure descended from the sky, like a meteor falling to earth, landing precisely in front of Yun Yao, blocking Elder Qingxuan’s attack.
It was a woman dressed in black, with a cold and beautiful face, skin as white as snow, and eyes as deep as the night sky.
She exuded a faint ghostly aura, but it wasn’t sinister; instead, it carried a noble and mysterious rhythm, as if from another world.
Yun Yao was stunned, staring blankly at the figure’s back.
The woman ignored everyone, simply raising her right hand, her palm as black as ink, wrapped with wisps of pure ghostly energy.
She slammed her palm onto the magic array.
“Break!”
A soft shout accompanied by a tremendous impact.
The seemingly indestructible magic array shattered instantly under this palm strike, as if made of paper.
The array patterns broke, the light dissipated, and the force binding Kai vanished.
Kai was freed from the array, his body swaying, almost falling.
His face was ashen, most of his bloodline power had been drained, and his strength was severely diminished.
He barely managed to stand, looking at the woman in black, a hint of doubt flashing in his eyes.
The woman in black turned around, her gaze falling on Kai, a strange light flashing in her eyes.
She didn’t speak, but carefully examined Kai, as if confirming something.
After a moment, she said calmly, “Come with me.”
Kai frowned slightly, about to ask a question, when he saw the woman raise her hand and a black light enveloped him and Yun Yao.
The light was like a black hole, instantly swallowing the three of them.
The next second, the three of them disappeared from the spot.
Elder Qingxuan’s face was ashen, and he shouted sharply, “Chase! Chase him! Find him alive or dead! We can’t let him escape!”
The disciples of the Divine Hall surged out, pursuing him down the mountain with overwhelming force.
A hundred miles away, in a desolate mountain range.
This place was sparsely populated, overgrown with weeds, and only the occasional roar of a beast broke the silence.
Three figures descended from the sky, landing in a secluded valley.
The woman in black released her grip, and Kai and Yun Yao landed on the ground.
Yun Yao slumped to the ground, panting heavily, her body covered in blood, her face extremely weak.
That palm strike had severely injured her internally; if not for her strong will, she would have already fainted.
Although Kai’s face was pale, he still stood ramrod straight. He took a deep breath, circulating his remaining spiritual energy to steady his mind.
His gaze fell on the woman in black, filled with scrutiny and wariness.
“Who are you?”
he asked coldly, his hand already secretly gripping the hilt of his sword.
Although the other party had saved him, after experiencing the betrayal of the Divine Hall, he dared not easily trust anyone again.
The woman in black looked at him, not answering immediately, but quietly observing him.
After a moment, she suddenly spoke, her voice as cold as ice: “Why do you have the aura of the Ghost Clan on you?”
Kai frowned.
The aura of the Ghost Clan?
A thought flashed through his mind, and he remembered Ming Li.
Ming Li was a member of the Ghost Clan, and having followed him for so long, it was normal for him to have some of that aura on him.
“I have a friend who is a member of the Ghost Clan,”
he said calmly, “Who exactly are you?”
A hint of realization flashed in the woman in black’s eyes, and then she nodded slightly: “I see.”
She paused, and slowly said: “My name is Yun Xi, the princess of the Ghost Clan.”
Upon hearing this, both Kai and Yun Yao’s expressions changed.
The princess of the Ghost Clan?
The woman continued: “I come from the Fifteenth Heaven.”
Kai’s pupils shrank.
The Fifteenth Heaven?
That was a legendary place, one level higher than the Fourteenth Heaven, said to be the place where true powerhouses gathered.
Those who could descend from the Upper Realm were definitely not ordinary people.
“Why did you save me?” Kai asked in a deep voice, his wariness growing stronger.
Yun Xi looked at him and said calmly, “I sensed a trace of the Gate of Reincarnation in the Fifteenth Heaven, so I followed it down. When I got here, the aura disappeared, but I sensed the aura of the Ghost Clan on you. I assumed you were related to my Ghost Clan, so I helped you.”
She paused, her gaze falling on Kai’s face. “Now it seems that the aura was left by your Ghost Clan friend. Since you have a past with the Ghost Clan, I naturally wouldn’t stand by and watch you die.”
Kai was silent for a moment, then slowly released his grip on his sword.
Although her words were somewhat unbelievable, at least for now, she seemed to have no ill intentions.
And that Gate of Reincarnation was also something Ming Li had used before. Although it had been taken away, Ming Li should still carry a trace of the Gate of Reincarnation’s aura.
“Thank you,” he said in a deep voice.
Yun Xi shook her head. “No need. I’m just returning a favor.”
She turned around, her gaze fixed on the distance, as if she could pierce through layers of clouds and see the legendary Fifteenth Heaven.
“The sudden appearance of the Gate of Reincarnation’s aura must be suspicious. I need to investigate. Take care of yourselves.”
With that, she turned to leave.
Kai suddenly spoke, “Wait.”
Yun Xi stopped and turned to look at him.
Kai looked at her and said in a deep voice, “The people from the Divine Hall are still chasing me. You saved me and Yun Yao; I’ll remember this kindness. If I have the opportunity in the future, I will repay you.”
Yun Xi’s lips curled up slightly, revealing a faint smile: “No need. I was just doing it on a whim. However…”
She paused, her gaze falling on Kai, a deep meaning flashing in her eyes.
“The bloodline in your body is very unusual. Live well, don’t die here.”
As soon as she finished speaking, her figure flashed, transforming into a black streak of light and disappearing into the vast sky.
Kai watched the streak of light disappear into the distance, remaining silent for a long time.
Yun Yao struggled to her feet and walked to his side, whispering, “Young Master, is what she said true? The Ghost Clan princess of the Fifteenth Heaven?”
Kai shook his head. “I don’t know. But she did save us. And the aura of the Gate of Reincarnation she mentioned does indeed exist.”
Kai hadn’t told Yun Xi about the Gate of Reincarnation because he wasn’t yet certain of her identity.
Revealing it now might bring disaster to Ming Li.
He turned to Yun Yao’s pale face, his brow furrowing slightly.
“Heal first. We’ll talk about the rest later.” Kai sat down cross-legged and began to heal his injuries.
Most of his bloodline power had been drained, and his strength had significantly decreased, but fortunately, his foundation remained, and he would recover after a period of rest.
He took out several pills from his storage ring, swallowed them, and then circulated his cultivation technique to guide the medicinal power.
Yun Yao struggled to her feet and went to Kai’s side to protect him.
Her eyes were still filled with worry, but seeing that Kai was safe and sound, she breathed a sigh of relief.
A moment later, a whooshing sound came from afar.
Dozens of white streaks of light rushed in and landed above the valley.
The leader was Elder Qingxuan.
He looked at the three people in the valley and sneered, “Run, why aren’t you running anymore? Did you think you could escape the pursuit of my Divine Hall by hiding in this desolate wilderness?”
Behind him followed dozens of Divine Hall disciples, each wielding a weapon, exuding murderous intent.
Kai opened his eyes, stood up, and looked at him coldly.
Elder Qingxuan felt a chill run down his spine under Kai’s gaze, then sneered, ” Kai, most of your bloodline has been drained, your cultivation has plummeted, and you still want to resist? If you know what’s good for you, surrender obediently and come back with me, and perhaps I can leave you with a whole corpse. Otherwise, don’t blame me for being ruthless!”
Kai looked at him and suddenly smiled.
That smile was cold, chilling to the bone, like a demon from the deepest hell.
“Elder Qingxuan,”
he slowly spoke, his voice hoarse yet full of power, “Do you know, the thing I hate most is being deceived.”
Elder Qingxuan snorted coldly, “So what? The victor is king, the loser is villain. You only have yourself to blame for being too naive, actually believing that our Divine Hall would help you save people. Hmph, the righteous path? Where is there a true righteous path in this world? Only interests!”
Kai did not answer.
He simply raised his hand, and the Dragon-Slaying Sword instantly appeared in his palm.
The jet-black blade, with golden dragon patterns, shimmered with an eerie light in the sunlight.
The sword trembled slightly, emitting a low dragon’s roar, as if responding to its master’s anger.
Elder Qingxuan’s expression changed slightly, then he sneered: “A third-grade Upper Immortal dares to draw his sword before me? He’s courting death! Attack! Kill him, and I’ll reward you with a thousand bottles of spirit liquid!”
A generous reward will surely attract brave men.
Dozens of Divine Hall disciples attacked simultaneously, unleashing a barrage of spells upon Kai.
There were towering flames, piercing ice, thunderous roars, and blades piercing the air.
The entire valley was instantly engulfed in various colors of light.
Yun Yao cried out in alarm, wanting to rush forward to help, but Kai stopped her with a raised hand.
“Stand behind me,” he said calmly.
Yun Yao was stunned, looking at Kai.
She saw Kai holding his sword, taking a step forward.
This step seemed to shatter the void, carrying an unstoppable momentum.
“Get lost!”
A roar, accompanied by golden sword light, instantly illuminated the entire valley.
A sweeping sword strike!
This sword strike, seemingly simple, contained boundless sword intent.
That was the swordsmanship Kai had comprehended amidst life and death, an outpouring of his rage.
“Pfft pfft pfft—”
More than a dozen disciples of the Divine Hall exploded simultaneously, turning into a cloud of blood mist.
Their protective qi was as fragile as paper before this sword strike, utterly vulnerable.
Elder Qingxuan’s expression changed drastically.
This… what kind of strength was this?
A third-grade Upper Immortal Realm cultivator, killing more than a dozen seventh or eighth-grade Upper Immortal Realm cultivators with a single sword strike?
How could this be possible!
Even with the aid of divine weapons, it was impossible to do it so easily!
And Kai’s strength had decreased so much?
Kai didn’t give him time to react.
He flashed, instantly appearing before Elder Qingxuan. His speed was astonishing, as if
he were teleporting. The Dragon-Slaying Sword slashed down at him.
Elder Qingxuan hurriedly raised his hand to block, golden light surging from his palm, condensing into a golden shield.
“Holy Light Shield!”
“Boom—”
A deafening roar.
The golden shield shattered instantly, turning into countless points of light.
Elder Qingxuan was sent flying backward, crashing heavily against the mountainside, coughing up blood, his eyes filled with disbelief.
“You…you…”
A large section of his chest caved in, his bones shattered, and his internal organs severely damaged.
Kai stood with his sword, looking down at him, his eyes devoid of any warmth.
“True Immortal Realm, First Grade?” he repeated softly, a hint of disdain in his tone.
“Nothing special.”
Kai’s eyes narrowed slightly, his gaze filled with killing intent.
Even with his weakened state, he wasn’t afraid of Elder Qingxuan. If he were at his peak, this sword strike would have already taken Elder Qingxuan’s life. Elder Qingxuan felt a chill run down his spine under Kai’s gaze, an unprecedented fear welling up from the depths of his heart.
He had cultivated for a thousand years, reaching the first rank of True Immortal Realm, and considered himself a strongman in the fourteenth heaven.
Yet this young man before him, despite having had most of his bloodline drained and his strength significantly reduced, had killed over a dozen of his disciples with a single sword strike and severely wounded him with another!
What kind of monster was this?!
“You…who exactly are you?!”
Elder Qingxuan asked in a trembling voice.
Kai didn’t answer, but slowly raised the Dragon-Slaying Sword, its tip pointing directly at his throat.
The jet-black blade shimmered eerily in the sunlight, the golden dragon patterns seeming to come alive, faintly emanating a dragon’s roar.
Elder Qingxuan felt a chill run from the soles of his feet to the top of his head, no longer caring about face, mission, or the dignity of the Divine Hall.
“Retreat! Retreat quickly!”
he shouted sharply, struggling to his feet and staggering away into the distance.
The remaining disciples of the Divine Hall were already terrified. Hearing the order, they felt as if they had been granted a pardon and turned to flee, desperately trying to escape.
Their previous arrogance had vanished completely.
In an instant, only Kai and Yun Yao remained in the valley.
Kai stood with his sword in hand, watching the fleeing figures, his eyes showing no emotion.
Yun Yao, recovering from her shock, rushed to Kai’s side and said urgently, “Young Master, why don’t you chase them? You must nip it in the bud! If we let them go back and report, the people from the Divine Hall will soon come knocking again!”
Kai didn’t speak, just stood there quietly.
Yun Yao was about to persuade him again when she saw Kai’s body suddenly sway, and the Dragon-Slaying Sword in his hand clattered to the ground.
“Young Master!”
Yun Yao exclaimed in alarm and quickly supported him.
Kai’s face was ashen, and large beads of sweat rolled down his forehead.
He opened his mouth, wanting to say something, but suddenly spat out a mouthful of blood.
“Pfft—”
Blood stained his clothes, a horrifying sight.
Yun Yao was terrified and quickly helped him sit down: “Young Master! Young Master, what’s wrong?!”
Kai leaned against Yun Yao, panting heavily. After a long while, he weakly spoke: “That sword strike just now… it was my last attack with all my might… If Qing Xuan hadn’t run, I… I wouldn’t have lasted three breaths…”
Yun Yao was stunned.
So, the imposing, murderous Kai from just now was actually bluffing with his last breath!
She recalled Kai’s domineering gaze and his awe-inspiring aura, and an indescribable complex emotion welled up in her heart.
“Young Master, you…”
Kai gave a bitter smile and shook his head: “There’s no other way… if we don’t scare him, we’ll all die here…”
Yun Yao’s eyes welled up with tears, and she nodded forcefully.
She helped Kai up and whispered: “Young Master, let’s go quickly. It’s not safe here; they might react at any moment.”
Kai nodded weakly.
Yun Yao picked up the Dragon-Slaying Sword, supported Kai, and staggered towards the depths of the valley.
Yun Yao helped Kai trudge through the mountains.
Kai’s injuries were more severe than she had imagined. Most of his blood had been drained, and he had forced himself to unleash a sword strike beyond his limits; his meridians were severely damaged, and his spiritual energy was almost depleted.
Every few steps, he had to stop and catch his breath for a long time.
Yun Yao was anxious but dared not stop.
She knew that although Qing Xuan and his men had been frightened away, they would surely return once they regained their senses.
“Young Master, hold on a little longer,”
she whispered, comforting him. “I remember there’s a cave ahead; let’s hide there first.”
Kai didn’t speak, only nodded slightly.
The two walked for a full hour before finally finding a secluded cave.
The cave wasn’t large, but it was enough for two people to fit in. The entrance was hidden by dense vines, making it difficult to spot without careful observation.
Yun Yao helped Kai into the cave and let him rest against the stone wall. Then she took out a pill and fed it to Kai.
“Young Master, you should rest first. I’ll go out and set up a simple concealment array, then come back to watch over you.”
Kai nodded weakly, closed his eyes, and began to circulate his cultivation technique to refine the medicinal power.
Yun Yao walked out of the cave, took out several array flags from her storage ring, and set up a simple concealment array around the cave entrance.
Although it couldn’t compare to the grand arrays of those major sects, it could at least fool ordinary pursuers.
After setting up the array, she guarded the cave entrance for a long time, making sure no pursuers followed, before returning to the cave.
Kai had already fallen into a deep sleep, his face still pale, but his breathing was much more steady.
Yun Yao sat beside him, looking at his tired face, and an indescribable emotion welled up in her heart.
This man, to save his friend, had traveled thousands of miles to the Holy Domain of Light, only to be deceived, harmed, and almost lose his life. Yet he had never complained, never retreated a single step.
She murmured softly, “Young Master, you must get better soon…”
For the next three days, the two hid in the cave.
Kai took medicine and regulated his breathing daily, refining his spiritual energy to repair his damaged meridians.
Yun Yao was responsible for keeping watch, occasionally going out to gather information and pick some spiritual herbs to treat Kai’s injuries.
After three days, Kai’s injuries had improved considerably; although he was not fully recovered, he could at least move normally.
One day, Kai was regulating his breathing in the cave when he suddenly heard light footsteps outside.
He opened his eyes, his gaze sharpening.
Yun Yao also heard the noise and quickly got up, assuming a defensive posture.
A moment later, the vines at the cave entrance were parted, and several figures appeared at the entrance.
The leader was a middle-aged man in a white robe, with a golden lotus embroidered on his chest.
His face was refined, with a gentle smile, but beneath that smile lay an undisguised sinister glint. He
was none other than Qingxu, the vice-leader of the Holy Purity Sect.
Behind him followed four or five disciples of the Holy Purity Sect, each possessing considerable cultivation, all above the seventh rank of the Upper Immortal Realm.
Qingxu looked at Kai and Yun Yao in the cave, his face beaming as if he were seeing an old friend.
“Young Master Chen, Miss Yun Yao, I’ve been searching for you everywhere.”
His voice was gentle, yet carried a chilling coldness.
Yun Yao’s expression changed drastically, instinctively stepping in front of Kai. “You…how did you find this place?!”
Qingxu smiled slightly, his gaze falling on Yun Yao, a greedy glint in his eyes.
“Miss Yun Yao, you are a member of my Holy Purity Sect, bearing our sect’s unique mark. No matter where you flee, I will find you.”
He paused, his gaze shifting to Kai, a strange glint in his eyes.
“However, I didn’t expect you to be with this Kai. I heard he caused quite a stir in the Divine Hall, even that old codger Qing Xuan suffered a loss. Tsk tsk, as expected of the Five-Clawed Golden Dragon bloodline, truly extraordinary.”
Kai calmly looked at him, saying nothing.
Seeing his composure, Qing Xu felt somewhat uneasy.
He had heard that although Kai’s cultivation was not high, his strength was astonishing, capable of even killing elders at the True Immortal realm.
However, judging from his current appearance, pale-faced and weak, he was clearly seriously injured.
Qing Xu felt reassured, his smile growing even brighter.
“Young Master Chen, Miss Yun Yao, come with me. I guarantee that as long as you cooperate obediently, I will not harm you.”
Yun Yao gritted her teeth and said sharply, “Don’t even think about it! I’d rather die than go back with you!”
Qing Xu sighed and shook his head, “Miss Yun Yao, why are you doing this? I’ve treated you well, given you resources and opportunities to cultivate, but you’re ungrateful and ran off with an outsider. This makes me very sad.”
He paused, his smile gradually fading, replaced by a coldness.
“Since you refuse to listen to reason, then don’t blame me for being impolite. Attack!” As soon as he finished
speaking, several disciples of the Holy Qing Sect behind him attacked in unison, rushing towards Kai and Yun Yao.
Yun Yao’s expression changed drastically, and she hurriedly drew her sword to defend herself.
But her injuries had not yet healed, how could she be a match for these people?
After only a few moves, she was forced to retreat repeatedly, facing imminent danger.
Kai stood up, wanting to help, but suddenly felt dizzy and almost fell.
His injuries were too severe; he was powerless to fight.
Seeing Yun Yao about to give up, a resolute glint flashed in Kai’s eyes. He gritted his teeth, forcing himself to muster his spiritual power, preparing for a desperate fight.
Just then—
“Boom!”
A loud explosion rang out, and the cave entrance suddenly shattered!
Debris flew everywhere, and dust billowed.
Several disciples of the Holy Purity Sect were thrown backward by the shockwave, crashing heavily to the ground, spitting blood.
Qing Xu’s expression changed drastically; he quickly retreated a few steps, warily watching the cave entrance.
From the dust, a black figure slowly emerged.
It was a woman dressed in black, with a cold and beautiful face, snow-white skin, and eyes as deep as the night sky.
She exuded a faint ghostly aura, noble and mysterious, as if from another world.
It was Yun Xi.
Yun Xi slowly walked into the cave, her gaze coldly sweeping over Qing Xu and the Holy Purity Sect disciples.
Qingxu felt a chill run down his spine under her gaze and instinctively took a step back.
“You…who are you?!”
Yunxi didn’t answer, but simply raised her right hand, black ghostly energy slowly condensing in her palm.
Qingxu’s expression changed drastically. He could sense that the woman’s aura was unfathomable, far beyond his ability to contend with.
“Retreat! Retreat quickly!”
he shouted sharply, turning and fleeing.
The disciples of the Holy Pure Sect, disregarding their injuries, scrambled after him as they fled the cave.
Yunxi didn’t chase after them. She simply stood there, watching them flee into the distance, then turned to look at Kai.
Kai leaned against the stone wall, looking at her weakly, a bitter smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.
“I…I owe you again…”
Yunxi looked at him, a complex expression flashing in her eyes.
“Your injuries are severe.”
Kai nodded, not denying it.
Yunxi walked to his side, placing her hand on his shoulder, a surge of pure ghostly energy slowly flowing into his body.
Kai felt a warm current flow into his meridians, repairing the damaged areas.
His complexion gradually regained some color.
After a moment, Yun Xi withdrew her hand and said calmly, “I can only help stabilize your injuries. A full recovery will take time.”
Kai nodded, looking at her gratefully, “Thank you.”
Yun Xi shook her head, her gaze falling on Yun Yao.
Yun Yao was covered in wounds, her clothes tattered, yet she still stood firmly protectively in front of Kai, watching Yun Xi warily.
A hint of approval flashed in Yunxi’s eyes as she softly said, “He’s quite a loyal person.”
She paused, then looked at Kai: “What do you plan to do next?”
Kai was silent for a moment before slowly speaking, “I want to return to Yunxian City.”
“Yunxian City?” Yunxi frowned slightly. “What kind of place is that?”
Kai replied, “A city on the edge of the Fourteenth Heaven. My friends are there who can protect me and help me heal. I can’t rest and recover peacefully in the Holy Light Domain.”
Yunxi nodded. “Then how will you get back? The Divine Hall and the Holy Purity Sect are looking for you; they probably won’t let you leave easily.”
Kai looked at Yun Yao.
Yun Yao quickly said, “Young Master, I know a way. Although it’s somewhat dangerous, it can help me avoid the pursuit of the Divine Hall and the Holy Purity Sect and reach the city where the teleportation array is located.”
Kai nodded, then looked at Yunxi again.
Yunxi understood his meaning and said calmly, “I can escort you for a while.”
Kai looked at her earnestly and said, “Thank you. I will remember this favor.”
Yunxi shook her head, saying nothing more.
The three figures left the cave and disappeared into the vast forest. In the days that followed, the three embarked on a difficult escape.
Yun Yao led them along truly remote paths, deliberately traversing desolate mountains and wilderness.
Sometimes, they had to climb cliffs;
other times, they had to pass through dark, dense forests, dodging attacks from demonic beasts.
The pursuers from the Divine Hall and the Holy Purity Sect were ever-present, nearly discovering them several times.
Once, they had just left a valley when the Divine Hall’s men arrived.
Had Yun Yao not set up a warning array beforehand, the three would likely have been trapped inside.
Another time, they encountered a patrol of Holy Purity Sect disciples in the mountains.
Yun Xi wanted to intervene, but Kai stopped her. The three hid in the bushes, holding their breath, watching helplessly as the men passed by.
That short period of time felt longer than a year.
Yun Yao’s injuries worsened, yet she gritted her teeth and persevered, never uttering a sound of exhaustion.
Kai saw this, his heart aching, but he was powerless to help. He could only try to rest as much as possible, recover his strength as quickly as possible, and escape this perilous situation as soon as possible.
Yunxi remained silent throughout, quietly protecting the two.
Whenever pursuers approached, she could sense them in advance and lead them to safety.
Her presence became their greatest support.
One day, the three finally arrived at a city.
The city wasn’t large, but it was heavily guarded. The city walls were covered in array patterns, and soldiers stood guard at the gates, checking everyone entering and leaving.
Yunyao pointed to the city and said weakly, “Young Master, this is it. There are teleportation arrays in this city leading to various parts of the Fourteenth Heaven. If we can get in, we can teleport back to Yunxian City.”
Kai looked at the city, his brows furrowed.
Entering the city was easy, but using the teleportation array would inevitably lead to discovery.
The Divine Hall and the Holy Purity Sect had certainly planted spies near the teleportation array.
Yunxi seemed to sense his concerns and said calmly, “I’ll draw them away.”
Kai was startled and looked at her.
Yun Xi remained expressionless, her tone calm: “You owe me twice, one more won’t make a difference. After you enter the city, go straight to the teleportation array, don’t delay. I’ll try my best to hold them off.”
Kai was silent for a moment, then slowly nodded.
“Take care.”
Yun Xi’s lips curled slightly upward.
“You too, after we leave, you can come to Yunxian City to find me, my ghost clan friend is there too.” Kai said.
“Okay…”
As soon as she finished speaking, her figure flashed, transforming into a black stream of light, flying in another direction.
A moment later, a series of exclamations and sounds of fighting came from afar.
Kai took a deep breath, helped Yun Yao, and walked towards the city gate.
The guards at the city gate only did a simple check before letting the two into the city.
Kai helped Yun Yao, quickly crossing the streets, and arrived at the teleportation hall in the city center.
Outside the teleportation hall, as expected, there were disciples of the Divine Hall secretly monitoring.
But at this moment, they were all attracted to the commotion outside the city and were looking in that direction.
Kai took the opportunity to bring Yun Yao into the teleportation hall.
Inside the hall, an elderly man with white hair was meditating.
Seeing the two enter, he opened his eyes, his gaze falling on Kai, a strange glint in his eyes.
“You two wish to be teleported?”
Kai nodded, taking five hundred bottles of immortal liquid from his storage ring and placing them before the old man.
“To Yunxian City.”
The old man glanced at the immortal liquid; it far exceeded the cost of teleportation.
He calmly put the liquid away and nodded.
“Follow me.”
He led the two to the teleportation array and began activating it.
The array slowly lit up, golden light enveloping the two.
Just then, a commotion arose outside the hall.
“Seal the teleportation hall! Don’t let them escape!”
Kai’s expression changed, gripping Yun Yao’s hand tightly.
The old man glanced at them and said calmly, “Don’t worry, the array is activated; they can’t stop us.”
As his words fell, the light surged.
The next second, the two figures vanished from the teleportation array.
The hall doors were smashed open, and a group of Divine Hall disciples rushed in.
But the teleportation array was already empty.
The leader’s face was ashen, and he shouted sternly, “Investigate! Find out where they teleported to!”
But the traces of the teleportation array had vanished, making it impossible to trace.
…
Cloud Immortal City, Teleportation Hall.
A flash of light from the array, and two figures appeared in the hall.
It was Kai and Yun Yao.
The guardian in the hall was startled, but upon recognizing Kai, he quickly bowed.
Kai ignored him and helped Yun Yao out of the teleportation hall.
Outside the hall, the sun shone brightly, and the sky was azure.
In the distance, the silhouette of a giant dragon could be vaguely seen circling.
Kai took a deep breath, feeling the familiar air, and a sense of relief, like surviving a calamity, welled up in his heart.
Finally… we’re back.
He turned around and looked at Yun Yao.
Yun Yao’s face was pale, and she leaned weakly against him, but managed a smile.
Behind them, the doors of the teleportation hall slowly closed.
In the distance, a giant dragon circled, its roar echoing through the heavens and earth.
It seemed to be welcoming the return of the Dragon Emperor.
Outside the teleportation hall in Yunxian City.
The sun shone brightly, and the sky was a clear, azure blue.
In the distance, dozens of giant dragons coiled and danced, their golden scales reflecting a dazzling light in the sunlight, their roars faintly echoing, majestic and solemn.
Kai, supporting Yun Yao, had just stepped out of the teleportation hall when several figures rushed towards them from afar.
Leading them was Long Zhan.
Behind him followed Ming Li, Liu Qianqian, and Chen Wanqing.
“Your Majesty!”
Long Zhan landed before Kai, his face full of joy. He was about to bow when his expression suddenly changed drastically.
His gaze fell on Kai’s pale face, on his weak breath, and on the bloodstains remaining at the corner of his mouth.
“Your Majesty! You are injured?!”
Long Zhan’s voice was filled with shock and anger.
He could feel that Kai’s aura was much weaker than when he left, and the power of his bloodline was also much thinner.
Ming Li and Liu Qianqian also rushed over, and seeing Kai’s appearance, they were both stunned.
“Mr. Chen, what… what happened to you?”
Ming Li asked anxiously, his eyes filled with worry.
Liu Qianqian didn’t speak, but her beautiful eyes were also full of concern.
Chen Wanqing stood to the side, her eyes initially lighting up with joy at Kai’s safe return, but her joy faltered slightly when she saw the unfamiliar woman Kai was supporting.
The woman was stunningly beautiful, with a cool and aloof air, and was now leaning weakly against Kai.
Although she was covered in wounds and her clothes were tattered, her captivating beauty was still undeniable.
A pang of sadness welled up in Chen Wanqing’s heart .
But she quickly suppressed this emotion, stepped forward, and asked with concern, ” Kai, are you injured? Is it serious?”
Kai shook his head and smiled weakly, “I’m fine, I won’t die.”
He paused, then looked at Long Zhan, “Let’s go back first.”
Long Zhan nodded hurriedly and personally helped Kai up. The group took to the air and flew towards the City Lord’s Mansion.
…
Chen Mansion, main hall.
Kai sat in the main seat, with Yun Yao beside him.
Long Zhan, Ming Li, Liu Qianqian, and Chen Wanqing sat on either side.
Kai picked up his teacup, took a sip of spiritual tea, and slowly began to speak.
“I was deceived in the Holy Domain of Light.”
He recounted his experiences at the Divine Hall in detail.
From testing his bloodline, to being received by Qing Xuzi, to entering the magic array, to being ambushed by Qing Xuan, to Yun Yao risking her life to save him, to the appearance of the mysterious woman Yun Xi, and then to his escape.
After listening, everyone’s faces turned ashen, their eyes filled with anger.
“Bastards!”
Ming Li slammed his fist on the table and stood up abruptly. “What kind of bullshit righteous holy land is this! They’re just a bunch of beasts in human skin!”
As a member of the Ghost Clan, he already had no goodwill towards so-called righteous cultivators, and hearing about the Divine Hall’s actions only fueled his rage.
Liu Qianqian trembled with rage: “How…how could they do this?! They promised to save people, but they turned around and harmed them! Are…are they even human?!”
Long Zhan remained silent, but his dragon eyes flashed with cold killing intent.
Chen Wanqing’s eyes were already red.
Looking at Kai’s pale face, an indescribable heartache welled up in her heart.
” Kai…” she murmured, but didn’t know what to say.
Kai waved his hand, signaling everyone to calm down.
“I was able to come back alive this time thanks to Yun Yao and that girl named Yun Xi.”
He looked at Yun Yao, a trace of gratitude flashing in his eyes, “If it weren’t for Yun Yao risking her life to save me, if it weren’t for Yun Xi appearing in time, I’m afraid I would have died in the Holy Domain of Light.”
Everyone’s gaze fell on Yun Yao.
Yun Yao quickly stood up and bowed slightly to everyone: “Yun Yao greets everyone.”
Chen Wanqing looked at her, and the bitterness in her heart surged up again.
But she quickly suppressed her emotions, stood up, walked to Yun Yao, took her hand, and said sincerely, “Miss Yun Yao, thank you for saving Kai. I, Chen Wanqing, will remember this kindness.”
Yun Yao looked at her, felt the sincerity in her eyes, and her heart warmed slightly. She shook her head, “Sister, you flatter me. It was the young master who saved me first. I only did what I should do.”
Hearing the word “sister,” the bitterness in Chen Wanqing’s heart dissipated considerably, and a smile appeared on her face.
Kai looked at Long Zhan and asked, “Long Zhan, what happened in Yunxian City while I was away?”
Long Zhan quickly composed himself and replied solemnly, “Your Majesty, everything is fine in Yunxian City. The Temple hasn’t caused any trouble, and the Demon Dragon Clan hasn’t made any moves either. Those forces that were originally restless have all become obedient after being intimidated by us.”
He paused and continued, “However, my scouts reported that the Temple seems to be secretly gathering manpower recently, and I don’t know what they’re planning. There have also been unusual movements from the Demon Dragon Clan, as if they’re waiting for something.”
Kai frowned slightly and nodded.
“Continue to monitor them, and report back immediately if anything happens.”
“Yes!”
Kai then looked at Ming Li and Liu Qianqian and asked, “What about you two? Have you discovered anything during this time?”
Ming Li shook his head: “Qianqian and I have been guarding the city, helping Long Zhan with some miscellaneous matters, and we haven’t discovered anything special.”
Liu Qianqian also nodded.
Kai hummed in acknowledgment, looked at Yun Yao, and introduced her to the crowd: “Miss Yun Yao is from the Holy Light Domain. She was forced by the Holy Purity Sect and almost forced into dual cultivation. I saved her, and she escaped with me. We owe her survival this time to her.”
Everyone nodded in respect to Yun Yao.
Yun Yao was a little embarrassed, her cheeks slightly flushed.
Kai paused, then suddenly remembered something and looked at Ming Li.
“By the way, Ming Li, there’s something I need to ask you.”
Ming Li was taken aback: “Please speak, Mr. Chen.”
Kai said, “Do you know about the Ghost Clan of the Fifteenth Heaven?”
Ming Li was stunned.
“The Fifteenth Heaven?”
He frowned, shook his head, “This subordinate doesn’t know. Although this subordinate comes from the Ghost Clan, I don’t understand the situation of the Fifteenth Heaven.”
He paused, then asked, “Why does Mr. Chen suddenly ask about this?”
Kai said, “The woman who saved me is named Yun Xi. She said she’s a princess of the Ghost Clan from the Fifteenth Heaven, and came to the Fourteenth Heaven because she sensed the aura of the Gate of Reincarnation.”
Ming Li’s expression changed.
The Gate of Reincarnation?!
He was all too familiar with that thing.
He relied on the Gate of Reincarnation to become the Lord of Reincarnation in the Twelfth Heaven.
He took a deep breath, suppressing his shock, and said in a deep voice, “Mr. Chen, it seems the Ghost Clan of the Fifteenth Heaven is quite strong. They sensed even the trace of the Gate of Reincarnation’s aura on me.”
Kai nodded, “That’s right. Yun Xi seems to be at the True Immortal Realm, so their clan’s strength must be considerable.”
“That Miss Yun Xi saved me, so I’ve invited her to Yunxian City. If she comes in the future, you must not neglect her.”
Everyone nodded.
A hint of anticipation flashed in Ming Li’s eyes.
As a fellow Ghost Clan member, he was filled with curiosity about this princess from the Fifteenth Heaven.