Bei Yu Shan charged forward like a beast and Lu Xue confronted him as her cold water longsword radiated a glow that was as gentle as moonlight.
“Be careful. This guy possesses immense strength, so don’t fight with him head-on,” Yang Kai warned. At the same time, he assisted her with the Yuan Magnetic Divine Bottle Gourd in his hands.
As the sounds of breaking through the air were heard, Sword Intent surged as rays of Sword Qi slashed across Bei Yu Shan.
On the other hand, Bei Yu Shan was covered in a layer of golden light. With his arms crossed, he didn’t care about the Sword Qi that was striking him.
*Duo duo duo…*
The rays of Sword Qi were blocked by the protective barrier around Bei Yu Shan. Even though the barrier was slightly damaged, the attacks only left some faint marks on his body.
Although Bei Yu Shan was naive and simple-minded, he had great innate strength, and his defensive capabilities were incredible. Both of them were in the Fourth Order, but Lu Xue’s Sword Qi was unable to harm him.
Despite the fact that both of them had served in different great forces in the Star City for many years, it was actually the first time they traded moves. At that instant, Lu Xue furrowed her brow.
After warding off her first strike, Bei Yu Shan dashed towards her and pushed out his fist at her face with a grin.
Lu Xue hurriedly retreated as she made circular movements with her sword. The small circles were engulfed by the large circles, which were then covered in even larger circles. There seemed to be an endless layer of ripples formed from Sword Qi.
The sword circles seemed to contain a special power. Bei Yu Shan was extremely strong, and he could shatter a star with his fist; however, presently, he was trapped by the endless sword circles. As soon as he came into contact with the circles, it was as though he had fallen into a quagmire. The harder he struggled, the more difficult it was for him to use his strength.
Besides that, he realised that his movements had also slowed down.
Seeing that, Yang Kaid didn’t hesitate to open the Yuan Magnetic Divine Bottle Gourd and send a stream of Divine Light at Bei Yu Shan.
The Sixth-Order Yuan Magnetic Divine Light was incredibly powerful, so not daring to be negligent, Bei Yu Shan quickly surged his World Force to block the attack.
When Yang Kai activated the Yuan Magnetic Divine Light some time ago, the Low-Rank Open Heaven Realm Masters were barely able to resist it for a short while, but a Mid-Rank Open Heaven Realm Master like Bei Yu Shan only had the golden light around his body flicker. At that moment, the Sixth-Order Yuan Magnetic Divine Light was unable to injure him.
Yang Kai wasn’t surprised. Given his current cultivation, he was unable to interfere in a battle between two Fourth-Order Open Heaven Realm Masters. He was already pleased with the fact that he could make use of the Divine Light to distract and wear down Bei Yu Shan somewhat.
Now that Zhao Bai Chuan and Chen Tian Fei were trapped inside a fog that was controlled by Yue He, Yang Kai and Lu Xue could gain the upper hand by joining forces to kill Bei Yu Shan.
Following some roars, the Scarlet Flood Dragon and Earth Dragon came rushing back. Earlier, they were sent flying away by Bei Yu Shan. Although they were not badly injured, their bestial natures had been ignited. Both of them had learned their lesson though so after rejoining the battle, they didn’t go near Bei Yu Shan again. Instead, one of them continuously let out a jet of flame while the other spat corrosive saliva at Bei Yu Shan.
Unfortunately, the flames only had a similar effect as Yang Kai’s Yuan Magnetic Divine Light. On the other hand, the Earth Dragon’s saliva was surprisingly useful. Its saliva was extremely corrosive, so as soon as it came into contact with Bei Yu Shan, the golden light around his body flickered violently.
A furious Bei Yu Shan roared as he wanted to end the Earth Dragon’s life, but he was unable to get rid of Lu Xue’s sword circles, which greatly annoyed him.
With a calm expression, Yang Kai unceasingly activated the Yuan Magnetic Divine Light. Judging from the current situation, if Bei Yu Shan didn’t have any trump cards, he was bound to lose his life. However, Yang Kai had to wear down his power in order to kill him.
For a moment, the two sides entered a stalemate. Finally, there came a moment when Bei Yu Shan realised that half of his energy had left him. If this situation dragged on, this would be his final resting place. He turned to look at the fog and listened to the noises of the battle coming from it, but he was unable to see anything clearly. It was then he became aware that the Head Manager and Chen Tian Fei couldn’t even get out of the fog, let alone lend him a helping hand.
As such, he bellowed as his aura surged.
“Watch out!” Yang Kai yelled.
Right after that, Bei Yu Shan’s figure suddenly expanded. He was already a burly man who was much taller than the average person, but after using some unknown Secret Technique, the golden light around his body was replaced by a bloody glow. Following the sounds of bones cracking, he grew into a giant that was several dozen metres tall.
The giant appeared imposing, and the blood mist could be seen flushing out of his skin and surrounding him.
Lu Xue’s pupils contracted as she realised the shocking power of Bei Yu Shan’s move. Even though he seemed to have to pay a hefty price for it, his power had certainly grown tremendously.
Before, she was equally powerful as, if not stronger than Bei Yu Shan; however, after he activated this Secret Technique, it was apparent that he was, now, much stronger than she was.
The sword circles were still engulfing Bei Yu Shan and restraining him, but as he pushed out a fist, all the sword circles collapsed, and even Lu Xue grunted as blood started leaking from her lips.
Following that, he grabbed at the Scarlet Flood Dragon, who was wandering around him, spun its figure, and smashed it onto the Earth Dragon. The two exotic beasts rolled away together as their auras plunged.
“Slut, go to Hell!” After shaking off Lu Xue’s sword circles, he charged towards her. Visible hot breaths were seen puffing out of his nose.
Not daring to be careless, Lu Xue placed two fingers on her sword and ran them across the blade. Following a shout, the sword turned into a ray of light as it slashed across Bei Yu Shan’s head.
Bei Yu Shan attempted to grab this sword light, but it pierced a hole through his palm the next instant and blood streamed out of his wound. Seeing as the sword was about to strike him though, he still didn’t seem to be flustered at all. A blood arrow shot out of his mouth and clashed with the ray of sword light.
Following a clang, the sword was revealed and sent flying away.
Bei Yu Shan grinned and pushed his huge palm on Lu Xue. She turned pale and hurriedly dodged the attack. With the help of Yang Kai’s Yuan Magnetic Divine Light, she was able to escape unscathed.
After his attack failed, Bei Yu Shan turned to look at Yang Kai with a hideous expression and roared, “How dare an Emperor Realm trash like you act so presumptuous in front of this King!? Die!”
He directly ditched Lu Xue and sprinted towards Yang Kai. After he transformed into a giant, his mind seemed to have been affected as well, resulting in him becoming more hot-blooded and easily provoked.
Yang Kai lowered his gaze and stared at him in silence.
“Watch out!” Lu Xue exclaimed and gripped her sword before trying to rush forward, but she was too late. She could only watch as Bei Yu Shan landed a palm on the spot Yang Kai was standing.
Yang Kai was only in the Emperor Realm, so if he was struck by this palm, there was no way he would survive. Lu Xue almost wanted to look away as she didn’t have the heart to watch.
Right then, a shocking Dragon Roar was heard as a Divine Spirit’s aura surged. Even though this aura wasn’t as powerful as that of Zhu Jiu Yin, it felt just as horrifying.
Before Lu Xue’s stunned eyes, she witnessed Yang Kai transform into a gigantic figure that was unbelievably tall. The figure was covered in Dragon Scales. There were Dragon Horns on his forehead, and his Dragon Claws were extremely sharp. The Dragon Tail behind him swayed back and forth as the beard on his chin flapped in the wind.
A rich Dragon Pressure suddenly filled the air.
“Dragon Clan?” Lu Xue was dumbfounded.
The giant Bei Yu Shan had turned into was huge, but faced with such an enormous figure, Bei Yu Shan was like a grandson who was standing beside his grandfather. He was totally incomparable to Yang Kai.
Presently, he was stunned as well. Since he turned into a giant, he had looked down at everyone all the time, so he had never expected that he would one day have to look up at someone in this form.
A gigantic shadow that seemed able to shade the entire world appeared. It was actually a Dragon Claw that was coming at him. At that instant, he yelled and raised his hands above his head in an attempt to ward off the claw.
As soon as he went into this posture, the Dragon Claw struck him.
Following a loud boom, the entire world shook, and Bei Yu Shan disappeared from where he stood. The several dozen metres tall giant was directly pushed into the ground.
Lu Xue felt her alluring eyes trembling.
Just when she thought that everything had been settled, Bei Yu Shan’s roar was heard coming from beneath the Dragon Claw. Following that, the claw was hoisted up as Bei Yu Shan slowly revealed his figure.
All his muscles had bulged as he forcefully raised the Dragon Claw. He was born with great strength, and after using his Secret Technique, his power increased significantly. Although Yang Kai used his Dragon Transformation, he still couldn’t gain the upper hand when it came to strength.
World Force surged, and Yang Kai’s humongous figure was sent flying away.
Bei Yu Shan laughed like a lunatic, “Hahaha! Good! Again!”
As though he had gone mad, he directly charged towards Yang Kai. It seemed that he wanted to compete against Yang Kai with pure physical strength again. Lu Xue quickly sent out a Sword Wave to stop him, but he ignored her attacks and simply allowed the Sword Qi to slash across him. Soon, he was wounded and covered in blood.
[This guy has lost his mind!] Lu Xue thought, speculating that he might have been affected by his Secret Technique.
On the other hand, Yang Kai stabilised himself and looked down at Bei Yu Shan, who was bolting towards him. With a dispassionate expression, he balled up his claw and struck out with his fist.
A glint flashed through Bei Yu Shan’s eyes as he met the attack with his fist. This kind of battle was blood-boiling for him. The opponents he had come across in the past were never willing to compete against him with strength. They would always jump around like monkeys, trying to wear him down by attacking from a distance, which always displeased him.
The gap between the fists, one was huge and the other was tiny, was rapidly shortening. With that said, Bei Yu Shan’s fist was only smaller in a relative sense. There was no way the fist of a several dozen metres tall giant was small, not to mention that World Force swirled around his fist, making it appear larger than it was.
Just then, a spear appeared and expanded with the wind. Yang Kai grasped the enormous Azure Dragon Spear and roared. As he infused all his strength into his spear, he thrust it out.
The excitement and joy behind Bei Yu Shan’s eyes were replaced by shock and then fury. The blood mist around his body surged as he yelled, “I’ll kill you!”
A furious Bei Yu Shan charged forward instead of retreating. With his hands cupping around Azure Dragon Spear, he seemed determined to snatch the weapon.
Right then, a rumble was heard as an extremely thick beam of lightning descended from the sky and accurately struck Bei Yu Shan’s head.
The bolt of lightning was different from the ones seen previously. The colour was richer and it was clearly more powerful. After the lightning appeared, Yang Kai could feel that the World Energy around him had decreased significantly. Apparently, Yue He had used a lot of Seven Wonders Land’s background to make this strike.
Despite costing a lot of energy, the result of the strike was excellent. After being engulfed in the purple lightning, Bei Yu Shan started trembling violently as all his hair was standing on end. The lightning roamed around his body and shattered the blood mist, which caused him to be rooted to the spot.
Just then, the Azure Dragon Spear pierced towards him. Just like a Dragon, the spear jabbed into his chest and stuck out from his back.
He widened his eyes and grabbed the spear with both hands before pulling it towards himself. He was so forceful that Yang Kai lost his balance and tilted forward.
Then, a fist was seen coming at Yang Kai’s face. The aura of death alarmed him as he bellowed, “Dragon Shield!”
The Dao Seal in Yang Kai’s body radiated a dazzling glow as a light brown power streamed out of his figure and turned into layers of sturdy Dragon Shields, blocking the space between Bei Yu Shan and him. In the blink of an eye, over a hundred Dragon Shields had been formed.
The Earth Element Power Yang Kai had condensed was High-Order, but due to the fact that he hadn’t ascended to the Open Heaven Realm, this was just a simple use of Earth Element Power. Even though its defence was strong, it might not be good enough when faced with a rampaging Fourth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master’s World Force. That was the reason Yang Kai hurriedly condensed so many Dragon Shields at the same time.
That was also the reason his Sixth-Order Yuan Magnetic Divine Light was resisted by some of the Low-Rank Open Heaven Realm Masters earlier.
*Kacha…*
Wherever Bei Yu Shan’s fist passed, the Dragon Shields shattered as though they were made of paper.
Although the Dragon Shields shattered, they were not totally useless. At the very least, they had weakened the power of Bei Yu Shan’s attack.
After just three breaths, the more than a hundred Dragon Shields broke and the fist expanded rapidly in Yang Kai’s eyes before striking his chest.
His Dragon Scales were blasted off his body, and his huge figure was sent flying away as he sprayed out a mouthful of blood in mid-air.
Suppressing the pain he felt, Yang Kai summoned the Yuan Magnetic Divine Bottle Gourd and opened the lid, whereupon the thick Yuan Magnetic Divine Light shot towards Bei Yu Shan.
Initially, after Bei Yu Shan activated his Secret Technique, his body expanded and his strength surged while the blood mist around his body served as a layer of extremely sturdy defence. However, after he was struck by the lightning controlled by Yue He, the blood mist broke apart, and a weakness in his defence was revealed, which was why Yang Kai managed to impale him with his spear.
Presently, there was a big hole that went right through Bei Yu Shan’s chest, and his heart had been shredded. His injuries could be said to be fatal, but he hadn’t lost his life yet, which went to show how astonishing his vitality was.
The thick Yuan Magnetic Divine Light streamed into his body through this hole and rampaged around violently. Oblivious to it though, Bei Yu Shan strode towards Yang Kai as though he was determined to destroy his opponent before he died.
Rays of Sword Qi criss-crossed each other as dazzling sword lights slashed across Bei Yu Shan. Lu Xue attempted to stop him, but the result wasn’t ideal. Seeing as Bei Yu Shan was about to reach Yang Kai, she felt her heart leaping to her throat.
A severely injured Yang Kai was no longer able to sustain his Half-Dragon Form. Although Bei Yu Shan had only hit him once, it was a head-on strike from a Fourth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master. Yang Kai was already extremely lucky to not have instantly lost his life. Fortunately, the more than a hundred Dragon Shields and the sturdiness of his Half-Dragon Form saved his life. When he was sent flying away though, he turned back into his Human form.
The giant charged forward and pushed out his fist; however, Yang Kai didn’t dodge the attack as he looked up at him with an impassive expression.
Just as the fist was about to strike, Bei Yu Shan suddenly froze, and following that, he started wailing. A multi-coloured light radiated from all his seven orifices, and countless rays started shooting out of his body.
The light was the Yuan Magnetic Divine Light that had streamed into his body earlier.
The unceasing light lasted for more than ten breaths before it finally stopped. Yang Kai put the Yuan Magnetic Divine Light away, and Bei Yu Shan, who was standing in front of him, lost all traces of vitality. Like a statue, he was standing there with his fist raised.
The next instant, Bei Yu Shan burst into a blood mist that fell to the ground with a splash. He had died!
Initially, his heart was already destroyed by Yang Kai’s spear thrust, which was a fatal injury. Then, Lu Xue attacked him furiously, accumulating numerous injuries on his body. Furthermore, the Yuan Magnetic Divine Light flooded into his body and damaged his flesh and meridians. He was extraordinary to have lasted up to this point. Nevertheless, he still passed on in the end.
Lu Xue let out a long breath and set her mind at ease. For a moment, she thought that Yang Kai was going to be killed.
It could be said to have been an extremely difficult battle. Both Lu Xue and Bei Yu Shan were in the Fourth-Order Open Heaven Realm, so they were equally matched. If they were in a one-on-one fight, it was hard to tell who would emerge as the winner. During the battle, she had the help of the Grand Array controlled by Yue He, and Yang Kai revealed his trump cards one by one. Furthermore, the Scarlet Flood Dragon and Earth Dragon were of great help. These were the reasons they could end Bei Yu Shan’s life so quickly.
In addition, the Secret Technique Bei Yu Shan used had clearly affected his mental state. If he had decided to flee instead of battling against them until the end, Yang Kai and Lu Xue might not have been able to make him stay. Unfortunately for him, after the Secret Technique was activated, though his might had increased tremendously, all thoughts other than battling to the death never occurred to him.
“We need to recover our strength quickly!” Yang Kai coughed and stuffed some Spirit Pills into his mouth. Then, he sat down cross-legged and adjusted his breathing to heal his wounds.
Although Bei Yu Shan was dead, Chen Tian Fei and Zhao Bai Chuan were still alive. They had to die. Only once they were dead could Yang Kai really take control of Seven Wonders Land.
Lu Xue wasn’t badly injured as she had kept her distance from Bei Yu Shan instead of fighting with him head-on; therefore, she was still full of energy.
On the other hand, Yang Kai was relentlessly hunted down by Bei Yu Shan, so he was seriously wounded. Fortunately, his restorative abilities were incredible. In just one hour, he managed to get back on his feet. Although he hadn’t fully recovered, he was already able to fight.
Just then, Yue He’s voice entered his ears. Apparently, she had been paying attention to the situation outside the fog. Yang Kai communicated with her for a bit and came up with a plan, which he then told Lu Xue about.
Lu Xue nodded and flew up to the periphery of the fog. With her cold water longsword raised, she began condensing immense Sword Qi and World Force onto her blade.
As soon as she was prepared, a fat figure dashed out of the fog. It was none other than Chen Tian Fei.
Yue He controlled the Grand Array, which was why she was able to hold down the two Scarlet Star’s Managers on her own. It could be said that she made the biggest contribution in this battle. Chen Tian Fei would never have been able to leave the fog if she hadn’t released him.
It was Yue He who had intentionally let Chen Tian Fei appear, just like what she had done with Bei Yu Shan earlier.
Chen Tian Fei’s cultivation technique was pretty unique. The extra weight on his body wasn’t a burden but a means to protect himself. Presently, he had significantly slimmed down, and there were lots of visible injuries on his body.
Obviously, he hadn’t been doing well inside the fog. Initially, he couldn’t identify his direction inside the mist, nor could he find out the opponents’ whereabouts. When the view around him became clear all of a sudden, he was evidently startled. The next instant, a shocking sword light came into his sight.
A horrified Chen Tian Fei immediately knew that he had been set up, so he hurriedly took a deep breath as his figure expanded.
The Secret Technique Bei Yu Shan had used allowed his figure to expand and turn into a giant that was several dozen metres in height. On the other hand, Chen Tian Fei’s Secret Technique made him transform into a literal meatball. Unlike how imposing Bei Yu Shan was, Chen Tian Fei appeared quite comical.
He was engulfed by the sword light as a slashing sound echoed through the air and blood splattered everywhere. He was caught off guard when Lu Xue attacked him, which was why he was so seriously injured. His rotund figure visibly shrunk like a popped balloon.
After the sword light dissipated, Chen Tian Fei was seen covered in blood. He was still reeling from the shock as he was panting heavily; however, at this moment, he looked just like an average person as all his extra weight was gone. His originally tight-fitting clothes became so loose they were practically slipping off.
“Lu Xue, you cheap slut! How dare you set me up!” Chen Tian Fei widened his eyes in fury.
Lu Xue sported a grim expression, “How did he even survive?”
She had hidden outside the fog in advance and made plenty of preparations to deliver a fatal strike. Initially, she thought that she could kill Chen Tian Fei on the spot, but it turned out that her attack only made his extra weight fall off. This was a surprising outcome for her. Both Bei Yu Shan and Chen Tian Fei proved that it wasn’t easy to deal with these Managers from Scarlet Star.
The reason they could kill the Ou Yang Brothers was that Yang Kai had changed into a different appearance and managed to catch them completely off guard. Moreover, Yue He’s pressure as a Fifth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master suppressed them, which was why they could easily achieve their goal.
“Go to Hell!” Chen Tian Fei bellowed and pounced on Lu Xue.
Following a snort, Lu Xue wielded her sword and thrust it forward before jabbing her weapon right into Chen Tian Fei’s chest. However, as soon as her sword came into contact with his clothes, she felt as if she had pierced through a hollow space.
“Damn it!” She felt her chest tightening, knowing that she had fallen into a trap.
Her sword light shattered the clothes, but Chen Tian Fei was nowhere to be found. After he became slim, his clothes were so loose they could perfectly conceal his figure; therefore, he managed to get rid of Lu Xue’s attack by shedding his clothes.
She turned her head and saw that Chen Tian Fei was pouncing towards Yang Kai. Apparently, he intended to capture him first.
It had to be said that Chen Tian Fei was indeed a smart person. Given the condition he was in, there was no way he could defeat Lu Xue. In order to live, he had to capture Yang Kai and use him as a bargaining chip.
He had been trusted by Zhao Bai Chuan to run Scarlet Star for many years, so it was apparent that his extra weight wasn’t his only virtue.
Lu Xue rushed over, but it was too late. In the sky, the howling of wind and the rumbling of lightning were heard. Yue He must have noticed that Yang Kai was in danger, which was why she attempted to help him with the Grand Array’s power.
Just then, Yang Kai took out a long vine that was tied with seven bottle gourds of different colours. These bottle gourds were sound asleep when Yang Kai wielded the vine, but at that instant, they rolled away and transformed into tiny bottle-gourd-shaped Humans with sleepy eyes.
“What are these?” Chen Tian Fei was stunned.
He was a Fourth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master, so he didn’t have the chance to enter the Primordial Land, that was the reason he hadn’t met an amazing treasure like the gourd vine.
Yang Kai swung the vine again as it strung up all seven bottle gourds. At that instant, Yin, Yang, and Five Element Powers gathered together on that vine, forming a mutually suppressive and reinforcing cycle that soon burst forth with a shocking World Force aura.
Chen Tian Fei widened his eyes in disbelief and exclaimed, “Fifth-Order Open Heaven Realm?”
A Fifth-Order Open Heaven aura burst from the gourd vine, which horrified Chen Tian Fei to the point that he froze on the spot.
The seven bottle gourds corresponded to each of the Yin, Yang, and Five Elements of the Fifth Order. In the Primordial Land, the Bearer surnamed Gou, who was selected by Divine Spirit Jin Wu, activated the Powers of these bottle gourds and thoroughly shocked Yang Kai.
It wasn’t until he was hunted down by the relentless Yang Kai inside the World Fruit that he was forced to use this as a last resort.
Presently, Yang Kai did the same thing, gathering the Power of Yin, Yang, and Five Elements together. Lights of different colours blended with each other as the Powers mutually reinforced one another.
With the help of the Open Heaven Power derived from the gourd vine, Yang Kai launched a strike at Chen Tian Fei.
Seeing that, Chen Tian Fei was completely flustered; after all, he was just a Fourth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master. Although it was only the difference of a single Order, it was like the difference between Heaven and Earth. That was the reason he had to be so respectful to Zhao Bai Chuan.
Raising both hands, Chen Tian Fei surged all his power and pushed out innumerable palm shadows. At the same time, he hurriedly retreated.
The palm shadows collapsed when they were struck by the vine strike, and Chen Tian Fei’s expression was transformed by horror as he was struck.
“My predestined end has come!” Chen Tian Fei lamented with an unwilling expression.
However, the next instant, he realised that reality was a little different from what he had imagined. He was indeed struck by the vine, but he wasn’t seriously injured. It was true that a Fifth-Order Open Heaven aura radiated from the vine, but the real force behind the strike could only be compared to that of the Third-Order.
The gourd vine wasn’t as powerful as it appeared to be.
In truth, it wasn’t that the gourd vine was weak, but it was Yang Kai who wasn’t strong enough. Just like the man surnamed Gou, his foundation wasn’t strong enough to bring out the full power of the gourd vine; therefore, despite having such a wonderful weapon in his possession, he couldn’t wield it completely.
Inside the World Fruit at that time, if the man surnamed Gou was able to really bring forth Fifth-Order Open Heaven Power, he wouldn’t have lost his life. It would’ve been Yang Kai who died instead.
Even though Yang Kai could battle against Low-Rank Open Heaven Realm Masters with his Golden Crow Casts the Sun Divine Manifestation, he was basically powerless when dealing with Fifth-Order Open Heaven Realm Masters.
The man surnamed Gou was killed by Yang Kai because he couldn’t fully use the gourd vine’s power. Presently, Yang Kai was facing the same problem as he couldn’t bring out all of the gourd vine’s power.
However, Yang Kai had never expected to kill Chen Tian Fei with this gourd vine. A moment of intimidation was more than enough.
Before Chen Tian Fei could recover, Yang Kai shouted, “Lu Xue!”
A fully prepared Lu Xue had already activated her Secret Technique the moment Yang Kai summoned the gourd vine. Presently, a crack appeared on her glabella as though a third eye had been developed, and from that crack a finger-length golden Sword Qi suddenly shot out.
Third Eye Sword!
This Secret Technique was Lu Xue’s strongest trump card. In the past, she used this move to almost kill the Scarlet Flood Dragon in the Grand Ancients Ruins Boundary. Fortunately, the Scarlet Flood Dragon was enormous and had a Dragon Clan bloodline which granted it immense vitality, which was why it managed to survive. Despite that, a huge wound was formed on its neck, one that almost decapitated it. It wasn’t until days later that it was able to somewhat recover.
When battling against Bei Yu Shan, Lu Xue didn’t use this Secret Technique because it couldn’t be used as she pleased. It required some time to accumulate the necessary strength, and she could only display it once before needing to rest and recover for a time. She had basically saved this Secret Technique to deal with Chen Tian Fei.
In the blink of an eye, the Third Eye Sword Qi reached the back of Chen Tian Fei. Although Chen Tian Fei couldn’t see it, he instinctively twisted his body and dodged the attack as though a pair of eyes had grown on the back of his head.
Following a slashing sound, blood started spurting from a huge wound on his shoulder. The wound was bone deep and extended from his shoulder to the centre of his chest. Through the wound, one could see his pounding heart and squirming lungs.
This kind of injury was critical, to say nothing of the fact that a pure Sword Qi was still lingering around the wound that continuously damaged Chen Tian Fei’s physique.
Despite the fact that he was badly injured, he still hadn’t lost his life.
Lu Xue thought that it was such a shame. If her attack had tilted slightly to the left, she could’ve decapitated Chen Tian Fei. With that said, this damn fatty was indeed swift as he was able to dodge the fatal attack even in such a situation.
Presently, Chen Tian Fei was terribly injured. His eyes were trembling, and his expression had been transformed by terror as he decided to abandon the Head Manager, who was still trapped inside the fog. Then, he shot into the sky and headed towards the weakest part of the Grand Array. Apparently, he wanted to escape from this place.
“Where do you think you’re going?” Lu Xue wielded her sword and relentlessly raced after him.
On the other hand, Yang Kai moved and directly got in the way of Chen Tian Fei. Following that, he swung his gourd vine and lashed him.
With a furious expression, Chen Tian Fei gritted his teeth and bellowed, “Scram if you don’t want to die!”
Earlier, he had seen Yang Kai use the gourd vine and realised that it wasn’t as powerful as it appeared to be, so he wasn’t so afraid now. Then, he directly charged towards Yang Kai and raised his hand to deal with the gourd vine.
Following a boom, Chen Tian Fei’s figure shook slightly. On the vine, the seven bottle gourds turned back into their original form upon impact as the Open Heaven Power dissipated.
Although it was easy to use this vine, it couldn’t withstand too powerful a strike. If the bottle gourds were injured, they would fall unconscious and it would be impossible to activate them again.
After defeating the gourd vine, Chen Tian Fei increased his speed.
Yang Kai stored the gourd vine and summoned the Azure Dragon Spear before saying impassively, “Fatty, Seven Wonders Land will be your final resting place, stop making futile attempts to survive!”
Saying so, a great Sun rose from behind his back and blinded everyone’s eyes. A Golden Crow was seen flying and cawing around the great Sun.
“So what if you can use a Divine Manifestation? Whoever blocks my way must die!” Chen Tian Fei bellowed.
A Divine Manifestation was indeed powerful, and Zhao Bai Chuan once commented that with this Divine Manifestation, Yang Kai could fight Low-Rank Open Heaven Realm Masters, but Chen Tian Fei was in the Mid-Rank. In the Open Heaven Realm, Mid-Rank and Low-Rank Master couldn’t even be compared as the difference between them was further apart than the Heavens and Earth.
As long as he could break through the blockade set up by Yang Kai and leave Seven Wonders Land, he would be safe. By then, he could look for any place to settle down in the 3,000 Worlds.
Unfortunately, the people from Scarlet Star had just gained a footing when they were plotted against by Yang Kai. Not only had they let the chance slip through their fingers, but many Managers had also lost their lives.
Therefore, it was expected that the resentment Chen Tian Fei had against Yang Kai could never be resolved.
Just then, a rumble was heard, which made Chen Tian Fei feel horrified. A bolt of lightning descended from the sky and filled his vision.
At the most critical moment, Yue He diverted her attention and gave Yang Kai a hand.
She could control the Grand Array’s power. Earlier, she was able to trap both Zhao Bai Chuan and Chen Tian Fei on her own, so now that there was only Zhao Bai Chuan in the fog, she could deal with him with ease and pay more attention to the situation outside. Once she made a move, she directly stopped Chen Tian Fei from running away.
Seeing as the lightning was about to reach him, Chen Tian Fei hurriedly dodged; however, the lightning was incredibly fast, so there was no way he could evade it.
As soon as the lightning hit his head, he roared in pain. An electrocuted Chen Tian Fei trembled violently, and a burnt smell wafted from the wound on his shoulder.
Just then, Yang Kai arrived with his spear. The horrifying power of the Golden Crow Casts the Sun Divine Manifestation condensed at the tip of the Azure Dragon Spear before engulfing Chen Tian Fei.
*Hong long long…*
A battered figure was seen rapidly falling from the sky, and his aura was extremely unstable. It was none other than Chen Tian Fei.
First, his extra weight was shaved off by Lu Xue’s initial strike, which caused him to lose his strongest defence, then he was badly injured by her Third Eye Sword. Following that, he was struck by the lightning controlled by Yue He. That was why Yang Kai could easily defeat him with his Golden Crow Casts the Sun.
Strictly speaking, what Yang Kai had done was basically adding a last flower to the bouquet. Although his Divine Manifestation was powerful, Yang Kai wasn’t. Usually, Chen Tian Fei could have easily blocked or even destroyed the Divine Manifestation, but he was already heavily wounded by Lu Xue and Yue He, which was why Yang Kai could gain the upper hand.
Following a loud crash, Chen Tian Fei fell to the ground and formed a huge pit, and before he could get back up, Lu Xue charged forward.
Standing in the void, Yang Kai stored his Azure Dragon Spear and looked down before letting out a long breath. They had won.
Chen Tian Fei was seriously injured, so he could probably only display thirty percent of his power now. On the other hand, Lu Xue was unharmed, so it wasn’t difficult for her to defeat him.
Once they settled Chen Tian Fei, they only had to deal with Zhao Bai Chuan. Faced with Yue He, who could control the Grand Array, Scarlet Star’s Head Manager couldn’t even escape, so it was just a matter of time before he was killed.
Gazing at the expansive Seven Wonders Land, Yang Kai felt somewhat odd. After he leapt out from his Universe World’s restrictions and arrived in the Outer Universe, this was the first place he settled down. Due to the horrible experiences he faced here though, he wasn’t fond of this place.
However, he had never expected that, completely by chance, Seven Wonders Land would fall into his hands one day. All this started because Xu Huang gave him the Array Jade before his death.
Yang Kai couldn’t help but think that fate was truly unpredictable.
With that said, this outcome was beyond highest expectations. With this place in his possession, there was somewhere he could call home in the Outer Universe. First Inn was good, and he had many friends like Bai Qi and the others there. The Proprietress also took good care of him; however, that force didn’t belong to him. If he wanted to bring his friends and family out from the Star Boundary, he would need his own foundation.
Therefore, Seven Wonders Land was exactly what he needed at the moment. It seemed that he didn’t need to go back to First Inn in a hurry; instead, he should return to the Star Boundary first.
Now, he possessed a World Tree root, so he had to see whether this thing could help the Star Boundary recover.
While he was lost in his thoughts, Chen Tian Fei suddenly exclaimed, “Don’t kill me! I’m willing to surrender! Foreign Elder Yang, please spare my life!”
Yang Kai turned his head and saw that Chen Tian Fei appeared extremely pitiful. Under Lu Xue’s suppression, he wasn’t even able to lift his head. He was practically covered in wounds and blood. It wouldn’t take long before he was killed.
At this life-and-death moment, his dignity no longer mattered as he begged for Yang Kai’s mercy.
Lu Xue frowned and slowed down her attacks before looking inquisitively at Yang Kai.
An unfazed Yang Kai said dispassionately, “Fatty, it’s too late to surrender. Moreover, even if you’re willing to surrender, I’m not strong enough to control you. So it’s best we send you on your way now.”
Yang Kai was fully aware of his own capabilities. As an Emperor Realm cultivator, how was he supposed to control a Fourth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master even if they were willing to submit to him?
If Yang Kai were more powerful than Chen Tian Fei, he could’ve planted a restriction on the latter to ensure his loyalty, but this fatty was a Fourth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master, which meant he was much, much stronger. Therefore, Yang Kai wasn’t able to control him.
Moreover, many people from Scarlet Star had been killed, so there was no way Chen Tian Fei wasn’t resentful of him. It was easy to spare his life on this day, but it would be difficult to deal with him if he acted out in the future.
Hearing that, Lu Xue pressed her attack, which caused Chen Tian Fei to fall into a perilous situation. Presently, his life was hanging by a thread as he might be killed at any moment.
A horrified Chen Tian Fei knew that if he couldn’t make Yang Kai change his mind, he was doomed, so while he was dodging Lu Xue’s fatal strikes, he exclaimed, “I have the Loyalty List! I’m willing to give it to Sir to show my sincerity!”
Yang Kai had no idea what the Loyalty List was, but a tinge of surprise flashed through Lu Xue’s eyes when she heard that, “The Loyalty List is in your hands?”
A puzzled Yang Kai inquired about it.
After Lu Xue explained to him the uses of the Loyalty List, his gaze brightened as he raised his hand, “Don’t kill him just yet.”
Hearing that, Lu Xue immediately sheathed her sword. Still reeling from the shock, a pale Chen Tian Fei was panting heavily.
Yang Kai descended from the sky and landed beside Lu Xue before staring at Chen Tian Fei, “Where’s the Loyalty List?”
It was apparent that Chen Tian Fei wasn’t willing to part with this treasure, but he still quickly fished out a palm-sized book from his Space Ring and held it out with both hands, “Sir, this is the Loyalty List. Please have a look.”
After raising his hand, Yang Kai drew the book towards himself and felt that its texture was a bit strange. The entire book seemed to be made from the animal skin of an exotic beast. It was weighty, and the characters ‘Loyalty List’ were written on the cover.
Upon flipping through it, Yang Kai realised that there were only nine pages in the book, and every page was blank. Besides that, there was a petite horn that was sandwiched between the pages. The finger-length horn looked just like a bamboo shoot.
Both the Loyalty List and the horn exuded a faint Divine Spirit’s aura.
Upon realising that the Loyalty List was made from a Divine Spirit, Yang Kai felt his chest tightening. He wondered who the Great Expert was that made this book. It had to be noted that a mature Divine Spirit was as powerful as a High-Rank Open Heaven Realm Master, so it was extremely difficult to kill one, let alone make a book using their carcass.
Sensing Yang Kai’s doubts, Lu Xue explained, “The Loyalty List is made from Xie Zhi’s skin and flesh. It seems to have the ability to judge between malice and goodwill. Congratulations, Sir.”
“Xie Zhi!” One of Yang Kai’s brow twitched. Certainly, he was familiar with the name. Xie Zhi was indeed a Divine Spirit, and he was highly ranked among them. It was said that when Xie Zhi opened his eyes in fury, he was able to differentiate the righteous and wicked and tell who held virtuous or malicious intent. He was the definition of impartial; therefore, it wasn’t surprising that an artifact made from his remains could do the same.
Lu Xue went on to say, “A few thousand years ago, there was a Master known as Loyalty Demon who used this Loyalty List to enslave a group of Open Heaven Realm Masters and wreak havoc in the 3,000 Worlds. Everyone was resentful of him, and in the end, it was the Great Experts from the Cave-Heavens and Paradises who killed him. However, even though Loyalty Demon died, the Small Universe in his body didn’t collapse. Instead, it was hidden in the Void, and no one knew where it was. Two hundred years ago, someone in the Star City found a lead, and at that time, Sword Pavilion, Thunder Light, and Scarlet Star joined forces and sought out Loyalty Demon’s lost Small Universe. Although they managed to enter it, they couldn’t find the Loyalty List. Everyone thought that the book was destroyed or snatched by the Cave-Heavens and Paradises. Who would have thought that it had fallen into Fatty Chen Tian’s hands?”
Yang Kai nodded and gave Chen Tian Fei a meaningful look. It seemed that even Zhao Bai Chuan wasn’t aware of the Loyalty List, which went to show that the fatty wasn’t as dedicated to him as he seemed.
In any case, if he were truly loyal, he wouldn’t have tried to abandon Zhao Bai Chuan and flee on his own.
“How do you use this thing?” Yang Kai asked.
Before Lu Xue could explain it, Chen Tian Fei said, “This subordinate only has to leave his name and aura on it, and Sir will then be able to control my life and death.”
He was doing all he could to live. After leaving his name and aura on the Loyalty List, his life would be controlled by another, but it was better than if he was killed in this place.
“If you dare to betray me…” Yang Kai looked smilingly at him.
There was a solemn expression on Chen Tian Fei’s face, “This subordinate will never do that. If that really happens one day, Sir can just use Xie Zhi’s horn to cross off my name, and I will immediately lose my life.”
“But, I’m much weaker than you are.” Yang Kai appeared in a dilemma, “The Loyalty List is great, but I’m not sure if this will work on you.”
“Of course it…” Chen Tian Fei also wasn’t certain. He had tried using the Loyalty List before, but the people controlled were much weaker than he was; therefore, he had no idea whether a weaker person could dominate a stronger one.
After giving it a thought, Yang Kai believed that it didn’t matter whether he killed Chen Tian Fei, but it might be useful to keep him alive; after all, he was a Fourth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master, so he had some strength. Moreover, he had managed Scarlet Star and allowed it to thrive over the years, which went to show that he was talented in this regard. If the people from the Star Boundary were to settle here, they would need someone to take care of them. Although there were Head Manager Hua Qing Si and Second Manager Bian Yu Qing in High Heaven Palace, they were not familiar with the 3,000 Worlds; therefore, they needed someone to help them with assimilating.
This fatty was a good candidate for the job.
After just a moment of consideration, Yang Kai made up his mind and opened the Loyalty List, “You shall leave your name here.”
It was only then that Chen Tian Fei relaxed and appeared grateful, “Many thanks for your mercy, Sir! This subordinate swears upon his life that he will always be loyal to you!”
Lu Xue shot him a disdainful look, which was ignored by Chen Tian Fei.
He lifted his finger and bit it before forcing out a drop of Blood Essence. Then, he wrote his name on the first page of the Loyalty List. At that instant, Yang Kai realised that a connection had been established between the Loyalty List and Chen Tian Fei and understood that this list indeed worked.
More importantly, he didn’t need to refine the book, which meant that it wouldn’t burden him in any way. Nevertheless, this was a downside as well. Since refinement wasn’t needed, it meant that anyone who possessed the Loyalty List could control Chen Tian Fei’s life.
After pledging his loyalty, Chen Tian Fei appeared even more respectful. Then, he suggested that he assist Yue He to kill Zhao Bai Chuan to show his sincerity.
Certainly, Yang Kai wouldn’t reject his idea, so he told Lu Xue and him to give Yue He a hand. Soon, booming explosions as well as Zhao Bai Chuan’s furious shouts were continuously heard coming from the fog.
Just a stick of incense later, the fog dissipated to reveal four figures. Yue He was slightly pale, but she was generally fine. There was a cut on Lu Xue’s stomach as her clothes were soaked in blood. On the other hand, Chen Tian Fei was lying on the ground and panting.
Zhao Bai Chuan was standing in an upright posture, and he was seen with his eyes wide open; however, he didn’t exude any vitality at all.
Although they managed to join forces and kill Zhao Bai Chuan, it was difficult to deal with a Fifth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master who was on the brink of death. Nevertheless, in the end, he still lost his life in Seven Wonders Land.
World Force streamed out of his body and permeated the air before heading to the void.
Yang Kai had a feeling that something had been added to Seven Wonders Land at that moment. He already noticed this phenomenon when the other Fourth-Order Managers were killed. When they passed away, the Small Universes in their bodies would collapse and their World Force would dissipate. Despite the fact that Yang Kai was aware of that, he didn’t have the time to ponder over the matter until now.
After sensing it, he realised that the World Force leaking from Zhao Bai Chuan’s body had strengthened Seven Wonders Land. This discovery amazed him. It seemed that he had to ask Yue He about it at a later time to find out what was going on.
In this battle, all the Managers of Scarlet Star were killed except for Chen Tian Fei, who had surrendered. Anyone who had not been killed had fled. The noises of this battle were deafening, which was why they all became aware of it. Not daring to stay, they seized the chance to escape Seven Wonders Land when Yang Kai and the others were distracted.
Yang Kai didn’t have the intention of making them stay either. He wasn’t wary of those trivial cultivators.
From now on, Seven Wonders Land belonged to him. It was such a pity for Zhao Bai Chuan that it had only been one day since he took control of Seven Wonders Land, but the place already had a new owner now, which was pretty ironic.
Chen Tian Fei wasn’t dead, but he had become a skinny fellow, which made him look pitiful. All of them remained in the same place to heal their wounds.
Yue He was the first to fully recover as she hadn’t really been injured, it was just that she had become exhausted after the battle; after all, not only did she have to trap Zhao Bai Chuan, but she also had to pay attention to the situation outside the fog. When Yang Kai and Lu Xue were battling against Bei Yu Shan and Chen Tian Fei, she had also given them a hand.
Initially, she didn’t understand why Chen Tian Fei would side with them at the last moment, but she figured it out as soon as she saw the Loyalty List. With this thing around, Chen Tian Fei wouldn’t dare to betray them, unless he was sick of living.
Then, Yang Kai voiced the doubt he had in his heart.
With a smile, Yue He explained, “Every Open Heaven Realm Master has a Small Universe in their body. Although this Small Universe isn’t a true world, it’s still considered an independent world on its own. Once a cultivator passes away, the Small Universe will fall apart, and their World Force will dissipate. This World Force is beneficial to any World. For example, the World Force could strengthen Seven Wonders Land’s heritage and expand its mass.”
“Does it always work that way?” Yang Kai widened his eyes in disbelief.
Yue He said with a smile, “Yes, it does. Young Master, how do you think those Cave-Heavens and Paradises came about? They were not born powerful, but instead grew slowly over the millennia. All their top Masters who passed away in their headquarters allowed their accumulated strength to enhance the heritage and foundation of their force. Many generations passed, and that’s how those Cave-Heavens and Paradises have grown to be so powerful.”
An idea suddenly flashed through Yang Kai’s mind as he asked, “In that case, does that mean that Seven Wonders Land can also become a Cave-Heaven or Paradise one day?”
“It’s possible, but in order to achieve that, it will require countless years of accumulation.”
Yang Kai said, “If we capture some Open Heaven Realm Masters and kill them here…”
Yue He pressed her lips together, “That will offend a lot of people.”
Yang Kai knew that it was an unrealistic idea, but it was one of the ways to do it.
“The heritage of Seven Wonders Land has grown by about ten percent after all the recent battles.” Yue He’s words made Yang Kai feel elated.
The heritage of a place wasn’t just about tangible things like the landmass that the eyes could see. There were also intangible benefits like the World Energy and Principles. After the heritage of Seven Wonders Land was strengthened, even its Grand Array would be fortified. There were indeed a lot of benefits.
It wasn’t surprising to see this kind of growth in Seven Wonders Land though; after all, in just a short period of time, over a hundred Open Heaven Realm Masters had lost their lives here. Over several dozen Open Heaven Realm Masters from Scarlet Star were killed in this place, and in the previous battle, there were many Open Heaven Realm Masters from Seven Wonders Land that were slaughtered. Although most were just Low-Rank Open Heaven Realm Masters, there were many of them.
Even eight Mid-Rank Open Heaven Realm Masters had lost their lives.
Initially, there were three Venerables who were in the Mid-Rank Open Heaven Realm in Seven Wonders Land. Two of them were dead, and Wood Spirit Land Venerable Miao Yue surrendered to their enemies to save his life. Qi Qiao was also set up and killed by Yu Xiu Shan and Zhao Bai Chuan.
That was three Mid-Rank Open Heaven Realm Masters killed.
Following that, Yang Kai disguised himself and brought Yue He, a Fifth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master, to kill the Ou Yang Brothers, Lady Qin, Bei Yu Shan as well as Zhao Bai Chuan. There were five Mid-Rank Open Heaven Realm Masters who lost their lives today.
It was the World Force that left these deceased Open Heaven Realm Masters that filled Seven Wonders Land and strengthened its background. It could be said that a lot of benefits had been gained through these battles.
However, Yang Kai and his group were in a pretty embarrassing situation now. In the entire Seven Wonders Land, apart from Yang Kai, Yue He, Lu Xue, and Chen Tian Fei, who had just surrendered, there were only the two exotic beasts, the Scarlet Flood Dragon and Earth Dragon.
This expansive territory looked desolate at the moment, so Yang Kai released the people from Small Sealed World and got Guo Zi Yan out of the Six Fated Paths Bag to add some life to this place.
Guo Zi Yan was shocked when he saw Chen Tian Fei as he wondered why this fatty had become such a slim man. Upon learning that Seven Wonders Land now belonged to Yang Kai, they were all happy for him.
The clean-up after the battle was giving everyone a headache, but most importantly, they had to repair the Grand Array.
The Grand Array had been damaged in the previous battle, so it would require a Spirit Array Grandmaster to repair it. Moreover, in order to do that, a lot of manpower and resources were required. Fortunately, Yang Kai didn’t lack the latter.
His wealth had already increased significantly when he was in the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary, and after killing Zhao Bai Chuan, he also obtained the remaining thirty percent of Scarlet Star’s income; therefore, it wasn’t difficult for him to provide the resources to repair the Grand Array.
The crux of the problem was manpower. Where was he supposed to find a Spirit Array Grandmaster? Even if he could find one, would that person be trustworthy? All these were serious issues.
In Yang Kai’s plan, Seven Wonders Land would become his home and foundation in the 3,000 Worlds as well as the place where the people from the Star Boundary could settle down. However, he wasn’t even sure where he should start.
A few days later, the dust from the battle finally settled. All of them had recovered significantly, especially Chen Tian Fei, who although not as fat as before, at least no longer appeared frail.
Just then, Meng Hong and the others came over to bid Yang Kai farewell.
He was a disciple from Great Moon Province. Previously, he was accidentally dragged into the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary, and there hadn’t been any news about him for more than ten years. The people from Great Moon Province must have thought that he was dead when in fact, he had gained a lot of benefits in the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary over the past over ten years. After all, he had wiped his original foundation clean by clearing the Third-Order Elements from his Dao Seal with Tai Yi Soul Cleansing Water and then replaced them with Fifth-Order Elements. Therefore, he had the potential to become a Fifth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master in the future. If he could achieve that, the status of Great Moon Province would instantly take a leap forward. Now, he was practically the hope for his great force. When he returned, he would definitely be fully supported by Great Moon Province.
Now that he had gotten out of the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary, Meng Hong was eager to return to Great Moon Province and tell the others that he was alive and well. Yang Kai naturally did not make him stay, and even gave him a Space Ring before the latter left.
Meng Hong took the ring and scanned it, then his expression changed slightly, “Senior Brother Yang, I cannot accept such a precious gift!” After he finished speaking, he wanted to return the ring to him.
There were the Fifth-Order materials in the ring that Meng Hong needed the most now.
Yang Kai replied with a smile, “Brother Meng, you’ve given me a World Fruit, so my gift is nothing compared to that. In fact, I’ve already obtained enough benefits.”
The World Fruit given by Meng Hong was a Mid-Rank one that could help a Mid-Rank cultivator instantly rise to the next Order. Yang Kai didn’t have many of them as he only possessed three. He knew that even if he tried to return the World Fruit to Meng Hong, the latter wouldn’t accept it. Meng Hong was a righteous man who would always repay the favours he owed; therefore, Yang Kai decided to give him some resources, which he had a lot of anyway.
Moreover, the value of several Fifth-Order materials wasn’t comparable to that of a Mid-Rank World Fruit.
Seeing as he wanted to turn him down, Yang Kai said, “Great Moon Province is just a Third Class force. I’ve seen your Leader before, and he’s just a Third-Order Open Heaven Realm Master. Brother Meng, have you ever considered, given the power of your great force, how long will it take for them to gather the resources for you to ascend to the Open Heaven Realm? You’re still young, so why should you waste your time waiting? With these resources, you can break through quickly and help your Sect.”
Although what he said was blunt, it was the truth.
Hearing that, Meng Hong fell silent for a moment before letting out a sigh. Then, he accepted the ring and replied, “Senior Brother Yang, I’ll never forget this favour of yours.”
The thing was that Great Moon Province was really not a wealthy great force, so Meng Hong didn’t have the heart to ask them to help him look for the Fifth-Order resources. If all of them were to help only him, his Junior Brothers and Sisters would have no more resources to cultivate with. It was because of this consideration that he stopped rejecting Yang Kai’s gift.
Yang Kai chuckled and patted the other man’s shoulder, “Brother Meng, this is the least I can do. By the way, I’ve also prepared some things for your two Junior Brothers as well as Old Fang, Dié You, and Ah Sun. Please bring it back to them.”
The two Junior Brothers beside Meng Hong had followed him around in the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary for the past ten-plus years, so Yang Kai had prepared some Fourth-Order resources for them. Although they had built their foundations by condensing Third-Order Elements already, it didn’t mean they couldn’t refine Fourth-Order resources. After they became Third-Order Open Heaven Realm Masters in the future, they would be more powerful than others in the same realm with this advantage.
On the other hand, he had prepared three doses of Tai Yi Soul Cleansing Water for Old Fang and the others, but not any Yin, Yang, Five Elements materials, that was because he had no idea where their limits were and whether they needed to clear the Element Powers from their Dao Seals.
If they wanted to imitate Meng Hong by wiping away the Elements in their Dao Seals and condense new ones, they could use the Tai Yi Soul Cleansing Water, after which he would prepare some resources for their cultivation.
After a nod, Meng Hong took the Space Ring and thanked him again. Then, he left with his two Junior Brothers and Chen Yue.
Chen Yue’s great force was in the same Great Territory as Great Moon Province, so they were heading in the same direction.
Yang Kai summoned Chen Tian Fei and told him to escort the four of them.
Seven Wonders Land was pretty far from Great Moon Province as they had to pass through several Great Territories. If the three of them were to set off on the journey alone, they might fall into danger; after all, they might come across bandits who would rob them of their valuables or even their lives. They would be safer with a Fourth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master like Chen Tian Fei escorting them.
Meng Hong didn’t reject this idea.
A while later, the five of them passed through a gap in the Grand Array and disappeared.
After Meng Hong and the others were gone, Yang Kai turned around and gazed at Lu Xue, “Do you have any plans for the future?”
She was originally from Sword Pavilion, and the only reason she sided with Yang Kai in the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary was that she wanted to seek his protection. After leaving the Boundary, she had nowhere to go. Previously, she had helped Yang Kai battle against the people from Scarlet Star, but that was more a matter of being present than being loyal.
In fact, Yang Kai wanted to make her stay as he desperately needed more capable people now. After Chen Tian Fei was gone, he only had Yue He, Guo Zi Yan, and a few others with him.
A hint of puzzlement flashed across Lu Xue’s eyes when she heard that.
Not wanting to rush her to make any decision, Yang Kai continued, “If you want to leave, I won’t make you stay. I’ve prepared 100 million Open Heaven Pills for you, which should last you for the rest of your life. If you want to come back to Seven Wonders Land in the future, I’ll also welcome you. Of course, it’d be best if you could stay.”
Lu Xue was moved as 100 million Open Heaven Pills was a huge sum. Yang Kai was actually generous enough to give her so many pills. Although he was extremely wealthy now, he wasn’t obliged to give her anything.
It could be said that with 100 million pills in her possession, Lu Xue wouldn’t have to worry about cultivation resources ever again. She just had to look for a Star City and cultivate. In the future, she might even stand a chance to ascend to the Sixth Order.
“I can stay?” Lu Xue gazed at him.
Yang Kai burst into laughter, “Of course you can; however, you’ve seen the situation Seven Wonders Land is in now. If you don’t mind it, this will be your home from now on.”
Without hesitation, Lu Xue flashed a smile at him, “Then I’ll stay.”
Yang Kai replied with a smile, “Welcome.”
Lu Xue saluted him in an elegant manner, “Greetings, Sir! I will be your subordinate from now on.” She didn’t look down on Yang Kai just because he was weaker than she was right now. That was because she knew that once Yang Kai ascended to the Open Heaven Realm, she would only be able to look up to his achievements, to say nothing of the fact that he was already able to battle against Low-Rank Open Heaven Realm Masters now.
An embarrassed Yang Kai rubbed his nose, “Since you’ve called me Sir, I’ll not regard you as an outsider. There’s one thing I need you to help me with now.”
With a serious expression, Lu Xue replied, “Yes, Sir.”
After taking out a token, Yang Kai said, “Take this token to First Inn and look for Madam Lan. Tell her the situation I’m in now and ask her to look for an Array Grandmaster to help me repair the Grand Array.”
The token was none other than the one given to him by the Proprietress previously. He had repeatedly used this token to collect debts from the shopkeepers in the Star City First Inn re-established itself.
After taking the token, Lu Xue replied solemnly, “Yes.”
Then, Yang Kai fished out a Universe Chart and pointed out the direction for her before saying, “Be careful on the road. Go now and return quickly.”
“Sir may rest assured.” Upon finishing her words, Lu Xue turned into a ray of light and shot into the sky.
In order to repair the Grand Array in Seven Wonders Land, they needed a Grandmaster in Spirit Arrays. Yang Kai didn’t have the connections to look for one, but he was sure that the Proprietress could help him with it. Moreover, Lu Xue could also inform the Proprietress that he was alright so that she didn’t have to worry.
When he turned his head and saw how worried Yue He was, he let out a chuckle and asked, “Are you worried that Proprietress will kill you? Since you’re so afraid of her, why did you set her up in the past?”
Yang Kai could never figure this matter out; however, it was apparent that Yue He didn’t have the intention of revealing the secret as she said angrily, “At worst she will just beat me to death!”
On one of the spirit peaks in Seven Wonders Land, Yang Kai found a decent spot, then he fished out Xu Huang’s corpse from the Small Sealed World and buried him in a grave that he had dug out.
When Xu Huang passed away in the past, Yang Kai kept his corpse in the Small Sealed World. Now that Seven Wonders Land was in his hands, he could finally bury his corpse in this place and let him rest in peace; after all, Seven Wonders Land originally belonged to Xu Huang.
There was no friendship between them as they were just making use of each other; however, Yang Kai had indeed gotten some benefits from him. The Six Fated Paths Bag belonged to Xu Huang, and if he hadn’t given him the Array Jade before his death, Yang Kai couldn’t have easily snatched Seven Wonders Land; therefore, he was basically repaying his favour by burying his body here.
Just when he was ready to close the tomb, Yang Kai felt a faint Soul fluctuation coming from the corpse. Yue He’s expression immediately turned solemn as she moved to stand in front of Yang Kai.
Both of them watched as an illusory figure left the corpse, one so transparent it seemed it would dissipate as soon as a breeze brushed by it. That figure looked just like Xu Huang.
“A Remnant Soul!” Yue He furrowed her brow as she could recognise at first glance that it was a Remnant Soul that had left the corpse. It wasn’t harmful or threatening as one could easily destroy it, so she set her mind at ease; however, she didn’t understand why there was still a Remnant Soul in the corpse.
Yang Kai couldn’t figure it out either. The corpse had been lying in the Small Sealed World for years, and it wasn’t until this day that such an incident occurred. After giving it a thought, he reckoned that it was a restriction that Xu Huang had set up before his death.
Only when his corpse returned to Seven Wonders Land would this restriction be triggered, which allowed the Remnant Soul to appear.
[What is this Remnant Soul for?] Innumerable thoughts flashed through Yang Kai’s mind as he stared fixedly at this figure.
Xu Huang’s Remnant Soul hovered in the air as he looked around for a time before muttering, “I’ve finally returned.”
Then, he let out a sigh that was filled with sorrow and loneliness. After that, he raised his hand, whereupon the Array Jade left Yue He’s clothes and fell into his palm. Following that, the Remnant Soul swiped across the Array Jade and returned it to her.
Yue He took it and scanned it with her Divine Sense and with an awkward expression, she said, “Some kind of seal in this jade has been removed.”
“I suppose it was something he did before his death,” Yang Kai replied. The Array Jade was given to Yang Kai by Xu Huang before his death. At that time, Yang Kai suspected that Xu Huang might not have completely pure intentions, and now it seemed to be the case.
If he hadn’t brought the corpse back to Seven Wonders Land, the last barrier in the jade would never have been lifted. If that had been the case, even though he possessed this Array Jade, he would never be able to fully control the Grand Array.
“I’m running out of time. Come with me!” The Remnant Soul said and shot forward.
Yang Kai and Yue He traded glances before following after him. They didn’t ask any questions because this Remnant Soul was left behind by Xu Huang before his death, so he couldn’t really think as he was just executing the last will Xu Huang had left behind. Even if they asked any questions, they wouldn’t get the answers they wanted.
They flew for an incense stick of time before arriving at a Grand Hall. This Grand Hall was located in Earth Spirit Land, and it was situated at the centre of Seven Wonders Land.
Seven Wonders Land consisted of seven Spirit Provinces, which were arrayed in an interesting manner. Earth Spirit Land was located in the centre, and it was the most expansive. The Spirit Lands of Metal, Wood, Water, and Fire were on the four sides, and they were much smaller than Earth Spirit Land. On the other hand, the Yin and Yang Spirit Lands were located in the front and the rear of Earth Spirit Land.
From a bird’s eye view, Seven Wonders Land looked just like a giant turtle hovering in the void.
The shell of the turtle was Earth Spirit Land. Its front limbs were the Spirit Lands of Metal and Wood, while its back limbs were the Spirit Lands of Water and Fire. Its head was Yang Spirit Land, and its tail was Yin Spirit Land. The entire layout looked quite interesting.
On the other hand, the shopping district was just a Universe Fragment hovering above the shell of the turtle.
The Remnant Soul had brought Yang Kai and Yue He to the Grand Hall of Earth Spirit Land. This was also where the Heavenly Monarch used to live. Then, the Remnant Soul shot into the Grand Hall and took numerous twists and turns before stopping in front of a wall.
“The things here belong to you now.” After the Remnant Soul finished speaking, he crashed into the wall with a dull thud and dissipated into wisps of light, which then covered the wall and transformed into a portal.
Yue He and Yang Kai traded glances as they hadn’t expected such a turn of events.
“It must be a secret storehouse!” Yue He said excitedly.
Yang Kai arched his brow. He wasn’t sure what was behind the portal, but considering what the Remnant Soul had said, it wasn’t hard to deduce that it was a portal that led to a treasure house.
In fact, there was another treasure house in Seven Wonders Land. Previously, Zhao Bai Chuan and Yu Xiu Shan had secretly come to an agreement and killed Qi Qiao. While Zhao Bai Chuan obtained Seven Wonders Land, Yu Xiu Shan emptied out the vault.
Over the past two days, Yang Kai had surveyed the entire Seven Wonders Land, so he naturally saw the treasure house, but it was completely empty inside. Yu Xiu Shan had practically taken everything inside away. However, it now seemed that the treasure house out in the open was just the publicly known one. There was actually a secret storehouse hidden here.
Yang Kai wondered if Qi Qiao was aware of the existence of this secret storehouse. Based on his observation, he reckoned that the Heavenly Monarch was in the dark about it.
“Young Master, be careful,” Yue He said and stepped into the portal. Yang Kai followed her as he put his guard up.
An hour later, the pair left the portal together. The portal indeed led to a secret storehouse where many cultivation resources had been stored. These were things that had been accumulated over many years.
Yang Kai would’ve been ecstatic if this happened in the past; however, he was now filthy rich from the harvest he had in the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary. After killing Zhao Bai Chuan, he even snatched back the thirty percent that was the income he had originally left to Scarlet Star; therefore, he didn’t feel excited about the wealth in the secret storehouse. In comparison, the wealth in the secret storehouse was just equivalent to, if not less than, the thirty percent income of Scarlet Star.
Although the people from Scarlet Star had only stayed in the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary for ten odd years, that place was simply filled with countless treasures. On the other hand, Seven Wonders Land was just an average Second Class great force. Despite the fact that they had been in existence for many years, they hadn’t accumulated lots of rare treasures.
With that said, there were still many good things in the secret storehouse, so it was considered an unexpected gain. Fortunately, Yang Kai had moved Xu Huang’s corpse out of the Small Sealed World, otherwise he would never have discovered this secret storehouse.
After returning to that spirit peak, Yang Kai closed the tomb and erected a tombstone for Xu Huang. It was then everything was settled.
Standing in front of the tomb, Yue He fished out the Array Jade and said, “Young Master, you should be the one refining this jade.”
Whoever controlled this jade could lord over Seven Wonders Land. Previously, they were in a rush, which was why Yang Kai let Yue He refine the jade; after all, as a Fifth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master, she could refine it faster. Now that Seven Wonders Land had a new owner, the Array Jade should be returned to Yang Kai.
Unexpectedly though, Yang Kai shook his head and declared, “You should keep it.”
Yue He asked, “Young Master, are you worried that it’ll be hard for you to refine it? Don’t worry, I’ll assist you. You’ll be able to fully refine it in a few months.”
With a smile, Yang Kai replied, “That’s not the reason. In fact, I’ll be leaving this place soon, so I’ll need you to keep guard here.”
“Young Master, where are you going?” Yue He was surprised.
“I’m going home,” Yang Kai said with a smile.
The following days were peaceful. While Yang Kai was waiting for Lu Xue to return, he cultivated in seclusion.
Presently, he had condensed four Open Heaven Elements, which were Wood, Fire, Earth, and Water. From his Fire Element, he had comprehended the Golden Crow Casts the Sun Divine Manifestation. The Earth Element Power came from the same source as his own, so he had also comprehended Dragon Shield Divine Ability, which had improved his defence capabilities. However, he hadn’t been able to comprehend anything regarding his Wood or Water Element Powers.
Theoretically, when one could fully comprehend an Element’s Power, they could obtain some kind of Secret Technique and Divine Ability. Unfortunately, Yang Kai hadn’t quite gotten the hang of this. He had started the process when he was still in the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary, but his efforts hadn’t yielded any results up to this day.
His Divine Manifestation had helped increase his power greatly and allowed him to fight against Low-Rank Open Heaven Realm Masters when he was just an Emperor Realm cultivator, so what if he could comprehend two, three, and even more Divine Abilities?
The road to Open Heaven Realm was all about accumulation, and it was extremely time-consuming. Before breaking through though, he was just an Emperor Realm cultivator, and he needed some power to protect himself. Nevertheless, things couldn’t be rushed.
One day, while he was cultivating, Yang Kai suddenly heard Yue He’s voice in his head. He opened his eyes, and the next instant, he appeared beside her.
At this moment, Yue He was looking up at the sky. Since the previous battle, many gaps had appeared in the Grand Array. They looked just like cracks in the sky. Presently, by looking through the biggest crack, they could see that many people had gathered together outside Seven Wonders Land.
“Who are those people?” Yang Kai asked.
Yue He replied, “They are representatives of the great forces in this Great Territory. They must have heard that Seven Wonders Land has a new owner, which is why they’ve come to visit. Do you want to see them?”
This Great Territory was called Seven Wonder Territory because Seven Wonders Land, a Second Class great force, was situated in this place. Nevertheless, Seven Wonders Land wasn’t the only great force in the entire Seven Wonder Territory. However, the others were just Third Class forces or even weaker organizations.
There was no doubt that the change of ownership in Seven Wonders Land in this Great Territory was a major event. Previously, many disciples from Scarlet Star had fled, so this matter could not be hidden. These people must have gotten wind of it, which was why they had come over to have a look.
They were still trying to rebuild Seven Wonders Land, so supposedly, it would be best to keep the doors shut so that ill-intentioned people could not grasp their real strength. However, Yang Kai darted his gaze around and grinned, “Since they’ve come to visit, they must have brought some gifts with them. If that’s the case, why would we turn them down? Let them all in!”
At that, Yue He was speechless. She was fully aware of how wealthy Yang Kai was; after all, she was the one handling all the wealth he obtained from Scarlet Star in the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary. Some time ago, they had also discovered a secret storehouse together. There was no way these representatives could give them anything of real value, but Yang Kai still seemed interested in reaping more gains. He was indeed an avaricious person.
The Grand Array opened up and allowed the people outside Seven Wonders Land to come in. There were several hundred visitors in total.
However, Yang Kai secretly observed them and realised that despite the large number of visitors, they represented only twenty or thirty forces, which meant that more than one person from every great force had come.
These forces were mostly led by Open Heaven Realm Masters, but they were all in the Low-Rank Open Heaven Realm, most of them Third-Order while there were a small number of them in the Second-Order. Surprisingly, there were also great forces represented by mere Emperor Realm cultivators. Yang Kai couldn’t wrap his head around that idea. Were the great forces so weak that they couldn’t even afford to have an Open Heaven Realm Master?
The person at the front was a grey-haired elderly man who seemed quite energetic despite his age. After landing on the ground, he cupped his fists and said, “Golden Light Dock’s Hong Ji greets Madame!”
He was speaking to Yue He because he had no regard for Yang Kai, an Emperor Realm cultivator.
The representatives of the great forces behind him stepped forward and said in unison, “Greetings, Madame.”
Hurriedly, Yue He waved her hands and refuted in a clear voice, “You’re mistaken.”
A puzzled Hong Ji asked, “What do you mean by that, Madame? Please enlighten us.” Secretly, he breathed a sigh of relief. Before coming to this place, they were wondering what the new owner of Seven Wonders Land was like. It would be great if the person was mild-tempered; however, if the new ruler was a tyrant, all of them would be in trouble. They might have to cough up a lot of resources to appease this new Master.
After observing Yue He’s demeanour and the way she spoke though, they realised that even though she was powerful, she wasn’t a difficult person to speak with. They reckoned that she probably wouldn’t make things hard for them.
With her lips pressed together, Yue He said, “I am not the new ruler of this place, I am just a maidservant. The owner of this place is my Young Master.” Then, she pointed at Yang Kai.
Everyone was stunned upon hearing that. Most of them were not certain about Yue He’s cultivation as only the Third-Order Open Heaven Realm Masters could vaguely sense it. This inscrutable woman was certainly a Mid-Rank Open Heaven Realm Master.
However, now, a Mid-Rank Open Heaven Realm Master claimed that she was a maidservant, and the young man in the Emperor Realm beside her was the new owner of Seven Wonders Land. Just what was the background of this young man!?
Regardless, all of them wouldn’t dare to offend him as they straightened their faces and saluted, “Greetings, Sir.”
Hong Ji’s head almost came into contact with his knees as he said respectfully, “Sir, please forgive this old man for having eyes but failing to see.”
With a smile, Yang Kai waved his hand lightly and said, “I don’t blame you because you didn’t know. All of you, please stand up.”
“Many thanks, Sir.” Everyone straightened their backs and gazed at Yang Kai with respectful expressions. Earlier, they had seen Yang Kai, but none of them took him seriously, thinking that he was just Yue He’s subordinate. Nevertheless, it turned out that Yue He, a Mid-Rank Open Heaven Realm Master, was the servant instead.
Hong Ji secretly brushed away the cold sweat on his forehead and gazed at Yang Kai with a fawning smile, “Sir is indeed an imposing and extraordinary young man. It is no wonder that you were able to take control of Seven Wonders Land. The fact that you’ve become the new owner is good news to all of us in Seven Wonder Territory.”
Many of them covertly despised the elderly man for buttering Yang Kai up so thickly, but they still nodded in agreement. They had no other choice. Previously, they all had to pay respects to Qi Qiao Heavenly Monarch, and now, they had to obey Yang Kai.
As smaller forces, they had no choice but to submit to the strongest around, unless they left Seven Wonder Territory.
Even if they wanted to leave this Great Territory though, where else could they go? The Outer Universe was expansive, but most decent Spirit Provinces had already been occupied. If they barged into someone else’s territory, there were bound to be conflicts.
The faint smile on Yang Kai’s face made him look inscrutable.
Hong Ji said, “Forgive this old man for being abrupt, but how should we address you, Sir?”
Yang Kai was slightly startled as he hadn’t thought about this before, but he soon replied with a smile, “Just call me Void True Monarch.”
His title in the Star Boundary was Void Great Emperor, so he reckoned that he could also use that title here.
In fact, only the Leaders of Third Class great forces had the right to be called ‘True Monarch’. For example, the Leader of Great Moon Province was known as the Great Moon True Monarch. The Leader of a Second Class great force was called Heavenly Monarch. One such example was Qi Qiao Heavenly Monarch.
Yang Kai was just an Emperor Realm cultivator, so supposedly, he didn’t have the right to hold such a title; however, none on the scene thought there was anything wrong with it.
After all, he had a Mid-Rank Open Heaven Realm Master as his maidservant, so he must come from a powerful background. There was nothing wrong with him calling himself True Monarch.
All of them saluted him again and addressed him as True Monarch.
Yang Kai said with a smile, “All of you are my guests. Please come in and have a chat.”
Hong Ji bent his back, “We shall be imposing on True Monarch’s hospitality then.”
Several hundred people followed Yang Kai and Yue He into the spacious Grand Hall. There were many chairs inside, so as the guests took a seat on both rows of a long table, Hong Ji directly took the first seat to the left of Yang Kai.
No one served them tea as they were currently short-staffed in Seven Wonders Land; however, Hong Ji and the others wouldn’t dare to complain as all of them were seated with straight backs and solemn expressions.
Then, Hong Ji rose from the chair and said loudly, “True Monarch, congratulations on becoming the new owner of Seven Wonders Land. On behalf of Golden Light Dock, this Elder has come to deliver a gift of 200,000 Open Heaven Pills, 10 drops of Diamond Rain Dew, and a 1,000 year old blood coral to congratulate you.”
Then, he raised a Space Ring above his bowed head with both hands.
Yang Kai replied with a smile, “Many thanks to Golden Light Dock. I shall remember this courtesy.”
Yang Kai then tilted his head a little, whereupon Yue He stepped forward and accepted the ring. After that, Hong Ji said with a smile, “This Elder is afraid these gifts do not enter True Monarch’s eyes. It is quite embarrassing.”
To Yang Kai, these gifts were indeed not good enough for him to bother about; after all, he had hundreds of millions of Open Heaven Pills, so 200,000 more didn’t matter to him. Diamond Rain Dew was supposed to be a local product from Golden Light Dock, but it was most probably a Third-Order resource at best. The only thing worth noting was the 1,000-year-old blood coral. It might be useful in some way, but it obviously wasn’t worth a lot of money.
However, these things were costly for a mere Third Class force to offer up as 200,000 Open Heaven Pills were enough to buy a good quality Fourth-Order material. Meanwhile, a Third Class great force didn’t even have a single Mid-Rank Open Heaven Realm Master.
Following Hong Ji, another representative from a different great force presented his gifts.
Certainly, Yang Kai wouldn’t turn them down as he told Yue He to accept them all. These great forces must have had a discussion before coming to this place as the values of their gifts were similar. There was no doubt that these gifts were expensive for them, but they hadn’t cost them an arm and a leg.
Naturally, Yang Kai could understand them. When they presented the gifts, they never forgot to introduce their background, and soon, Yang Kai learned that besides Seven Wonders Land, a Second Class great force, there were seven Third Class great forces in Seven Wonders Territory.
Apart from these seven great forces, the rest were the representatives of various Universe Worlds. It was then that Yang Kai understood that Seven Wonders Land had dominion over ten or so Universe Worlds. These Emperor Realm cultivators were the most powerful cultivators in their respective Universe Worlds.
The gifts given by them were inferior to those of the Third Class great forces and were almost all local products from their respective Universe Worlds, but it was still better than nothing. In any case, these ten-plus Universe Worlds were controlled by Seven Wonders Land, so everything they possessed also belonged to the latter.
Upon this realisation, Yang Kai’s gaze brightened.
He didn’t really care about these gifts. To him, the most valuable gifts in the Grand Hall were the Universe Worlds themselves.
Having control over these Universe Worlds meant that he would have an infinite supply of new talent.
Then, he secretly spoke to Yue He and found out that this was a common practice in the 3,000 World. Any great force had control over a number of Universe Worlds. For example, the great force that Hong Ji was in, Golden Light Dock, ruled over a small number of Universe Worlds. Certainly, they were not comparable to Seven Wonders Land in this regard, but it was still a valuable resource.
On the other hand, the Cave-Heavens and Paradises were in charge of all the Universe Worlds in their own Great Territories and even the neighbouring Great Territories. By selecting talented people from these Universe Worlds and nurturing them, they could ensure that there would never be a shortage of new blood.
The Star Boundary was located in a remote place and detached from the outside world, so they knew nothing about the customs of the 3,000 Worlds.
Chatter and laughter could be heard coming from the Grand Hall for a time. Although Yang Kai wasn’t particularly good at managing subordinates, he was familiar with the idea of using a carrot and stick. Now that he had established his authority with the help of Yue He, a Fifth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master, he could show these people some kindness, so soon all of them thought that it was easier to get along with the new True Monarch than Qi Qiao.
“Since Qi Qiao is dead, the name Seven Wonders Land is no longer suitable. I’d like to change the name of this place to Void Land. What do all of you think?” Yang Kai gazed at them and asked.
Hong Ji was the first to reply, “You’re absolutely right! True Monarch, with you in charge of Void Land, Void Territory will definitely become famous in the 3,000 Worlds, and no one will dare to look down on us.”
Yang Kai just wanted to change the name of Seven Wonders Land, but Hong Ji directly replaced Seven Wonders Territory with Void Territory. It was apparent that he was flattering Yang Kai again, but the way he did so wasn’t off-putting.
With a smug expression, Yang Kai guffawed and replied, “Of course, of course.”
Then, he furrowed his eyebrows, “However, we have just gone through a great battle, so the Grand Array has been damaged. Although I’ve sent someone to invite a Grandmaster to help with the repair, we’re currently lacking people…”
Before Yang Kai finished his words, Hong Ji immediately said, “True Monarch, please rest assured. After this Elder returns to Golden Light Dock, he will have some disciples come over to assist you. However, we don’t have many disciples in Golden Light Dock, so I can only mobilise 500 at most. Please forgive me.”
Then, another person rose from the chair, “True Monarch, on behalf of Soaring Crane Sect, I am willing to dispatch 500 disciples to assist you.”
The representatives stood up one by one and offered to mobilise several hundred people to come over to help. Soon, all seven Third Class great forces had promised to lend several thousand people in total.
With a bright smile, Yang Kai nodded repeatedly, “Very good. All of you are so thoughtful. In that case, after you go back, please quickly send your disciples over. Don’t worry, I shall not make them work for free. Every one of them will receive two Open Heaven Pills per day of service. If there are any experts in Spirit Arrays, they will receive higher compensation.”
Everyone’s eyes lit up when they heard that.
Two Open Heaven Pills a day was not a lot, but by sending 500 disciples, they would get 1,000 pills in total each day. Moreover, it would take a long time, probably six months to a year, to repair the Grand Array. In that case, their income would be lucrative.
None of them could have expected that they could gain some benefits from this small favour, so they were incredibly grateful to Yang Kai; after all, even if he gave them nothing, they would still have to lend him their disciples.
At that instant, many were regretful that they hadn’t promised to send more people.
After chatting for a bit, they started bidding Yang Kai farewell. Apparently, they realised that there were benefits to be gained, so they were eager to go back and send some disciples over.
Soon, the people from the seven Third Class forces were gone, so the remaining representatives of the ten or so Universe Worlds were left looking imploringly at Yang Kai, their eyes were filled with hope.
Strictly speaking, the people from the seven Third Class great forces were outsiders, while the people from these ten or so Universe Worlds were Yang Kai’s subordinates. Previously, they were ruled over and exploited by Seven Wonders Land. Now, Void Land had risen and taken Seven Wonders Land’s place, and Yang Kai appeared to be different from Qi Qiao, which allowed them to see some hope.
These representatives were Great Emperors from their respective Universe Worlds, chosen ones who had obtained recognition of their World’s Will. Their status was just like that of Yang Kai in the Star Boundary.
People like them, if they didn’t die for various reasons, were bound to achieve great things in life, dependant on their own opportunities and effort of course.
Knowing what was on their minds, Yang Kai asked, “How many people can you send over here?”
These people looked at each other and appeared somewhat embarrassed. One of the Great Emperors cupped his fists and said, “True Monarch, I am from Three Brilliances World, and we can send about 40 people.”
Another Great Emperor said, “I’m from Golden Sun Continent, and we can send 35 people.”
…
In order to break free from a Universe World’s restraints, one had to be in the Third-Order Emperor Realm at the very least. Those with weaker cultivation could never accomplish this. As for how many Third-Order Emperor Realm Masters a Universe World could produce, one could look at the heritage of the Star Boundary as a reference. Both Three Brilliances World and Golden Sun Continent were Universe Worlds that were similar to the Star Boundary, so the fact that they had several dozen Third-Order Emperor Realm Masters was actually quite amazing.
If one wanted to ascend to the Open Heaven Realm in the future, they would need a lot of Open Heaven Pills. They could earn the pills by working for Yang Kai, so none of them were willing to miss this chance.
Every Universe World could only send several dozen people, ranging from 20 people to 70. When combined, there were some six or seven hundred people in total. It was similar to the number of people a Third Class great force could produce.
Yang Kai waved his hand and said, “It’s decided, then. Go back and get prepared now. You will receive the same pay. Everyone will earn two pills each day of work.”
All of them were elated as they saluted him, “Many thanks, True Monarch!”
Even though they were excited, they were not willing to stay any longer. After they were all gone, the Grand Hall fell into silence again.
The Third Class great forces like Golden Light Dock were truly efficient. In just one month, their disciples started arriving at Void Land. Coincidentally or not, the number of people who arrived were more than what had been promised.
Yang Kai didn’t really care about this as when it was time to repair the Grand Array, they would surely need many people, so there was no harm in getting more help now. He didn’t mind giving out more Open Heaven Pills.
Yue He was given the task to manage these people. The cultivators who were experts in Spirit Arrays immediately identified themselves and were sorted into a different group. When the time came, they could assist the Array Grandmaster hired by the Proprietress.
The wages were distributed daily, which made Hong Ji and the others feel even more grateful. After coming into contact with Yang Kai twice, they realised that he was far more benevolent than the previous Heavenly Monarch, which was why they quickly grew fond of him.
With so many people in Void Land, the place became bustling with noise once more. With that said, the Leaders of the respective great forces were strict with their disciples, so no fights or conflicts occurred.
One day, when Yang Kai was cultivating in seclusion, his expression changed as he looked at the abstruse pattern on the back of his hand. Previously, after he snatched the Innate Spirit Fruit in the Primordial Land, it exploded and transformed into this pattern, which contained a special space. Presently, Zhu Jiu Yin was sound asleep in it, but at this moment, Yang Kai could clearly feel signs she was stirring.
[She’s finally waking up!] Yang Kai felt emotionally exhausted. Initially, he thought that with a powerful Divine Spirit to protect him, even if he couldn’t walk sideways in the 3,000 Worlds, no one would dare to offend him at the very least.
However, as soon as they left the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary, Zhu Jiu Yin fell into a kind of coma. Yang Kai had to personally battle against a great force like Scarlet Star, which made him feel exhausted.
A moment later, Zhu Jiu Yin awakened and spoke to Yang Kai via Divine Sense, “How long have I been asleep?”
“About three months,” Yang Kai replied and carefully checked on her. He realised that her aura was still weak, so it was apparent that the damage to her Source hadn’t been fully healed yet.
“Where’s this place?” Zhu Jiu Yin asked.
“It used to be called Seven Wonders Land, but it’s called Void Land now. It’s my territory.”
As soon as he finished speaking, he felt that the back of his hand became itchy. The next instant, a ray of light flew out of it and landed in front of him before Zhu Jiu Yin revealed herself. It had to be said that she was truly alluring. Not only was her face attractive, but she had a perfectly proportioned figure. Her eyes were as beautiful as a summer’s day. Presently, she was frowning due to the fact that her Source had been damaged, which made her look pitiful. No man could ever turn a blind eye to her.
After she appeared, the strange pattern on the back of Yang Kai’s hand dissipated. Following that, with Zhu Jiu Yin as the centre, a horrifying Divine Sense spread out.
At that instant, it was as though the world was about to end. A feeling of pure terror rose within everyone’s heart as the thousands of disciples from different great forces in Void Land turned ashen.
Hong Ji and the others widened their eyes and stared at the place where Yang Kai was cultivating in seclusion. All of their hair was standing on end, and they were utterly shocked and astonished.
However, the Divine Sense disappeared the next moment. Zhu Jiu Yin was just trying to scan her surroundings and didn’t have any malicious intent.
“What was that? An illusion?” Hong Ji and the others were still reeling from the shock.
Inside the secluded room, Zhu Jiu Yin shot a glance at Yang Kai and placed her palm on her forehead, “It seems that space has dissipated because this Queen has come out.”
A stunned Yang Kai asked, “Does that mean that I won’t be able to keep you inside it anymore?”
Zhu Jiu Yin nodded as she seemed to be suffering from a headache. Even her aura appeared unstable.
Yang Kai silently ground his teeth. Initially, he thought that after Zhu Jiu Yin recovered, he could carry her around like a trump card. Whenever he came across an opponent that he couldn’t defeat, he could just release her to deal with it.
However, the pattern and the space on the back of his hand had disappeared, which meant that his plans all came to nought. Thinking so, he felt dejected.
Yang Kai wondered if he could keep her inside the Six Fated Paths Bag, but even if he could, she might not agree to it. Although the space inside the bag was expandable, it always felt rather cramped.
“This Queen was born and raised in the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary. Now that I’m in the outside world, I need a long time to adjust and adapt to the new Principles before I can display my peak strength. Before that happens, you’d better behave yourself and not offend people who are too powerful; otherwise, I won’t be able to protect you.”
An astounded Yang Kai asked, “How long will it take?” He had never thought about this before; however, after giving it a thought, he realised that it wasn’t so surprising. Although Zhu Jiu Yin was a Divine Spirit, she was a native of the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary. Now that she had entered the 3,000 Worlds, she needed time to get used to it.
“Who knows?” Zhu Jiu Yin shook her head, “Moreover, my Source is damaged, so I need time to recuperate.”
Upon finishing her words, she disappeared from the spot as her voice drifted over into Yang Kai’s ears, “This Queen will enter seclusion. Do not bother me regardless unless it’s something life-threatening!”
Yang Kai clenched his teeth as his Protector didn’t seem to have the intention of protecting him at all. He was utterly regretful. If he knew this would be the outcome, he would’ve chosen to work with Jin Wu instead. At the very least, that guy could give him a Seventh-Order Metal Element treasure.
Following that, the door of the room was opened, and Yue He came in with a nervous expression, “Is she awake?”
Yang Kai nodded.
A puzzled Yue He asked, “Where is she?”
“She’s looking for somewhere to cultivate in seclusion. I’m not sure where she is,” Yang Kai replied.
Yue He closed her eyes and connected with the Grand Array to scan the seven Spirit Provinces. Soon, she found Zhu Jiu Yin’s whereabouts.
That woman directly entered the largest palace in Void Land. Presently, she seemed to be adjusting her breathing. Sensing someone’s eyes, she lifted her head and glared at her.
Yue He stuck out her tongue and retracted her gaze.
After a sigh, Yang Kai said, “It’s such a tragedy. Haaa!” Then, he sensed something and fished out an item. After that, he arched his brow, “Good news.”
A curious Yue He asked, “What is it?”
“Proprietress has arrived.” Yang Kai beamed. Following that, he rose from the chair and rushed towards the door; however, he soon realised something and turned his head, only to see that Yue He remained on the same spot with a pale face. Her hands were clenching her dress, and she appeared to be apprehensive.
Yang Kai approached her and took her hands before comforting her, “You have to face this eventually. Just apologise to her. Proprietress treasures her friends, so she won’t harm you.”
Yue He bit her lip and lowered her head.
“Come on. We’ll greet her together.” Yang Kai dragged her away.
Seeing Yang Kai, Hong Ji and the others hurriedly saluted him. Yang Kai didn’t have the time to make small talk with them though as he landed in an open space and looked up at the sky.
Soon, a ray of light passed through a gap in the Grand Array and landed on the ground. Following that, the ray of light disappeared and revealed several figures.
The woman at the front was clad in an imperial dress. She was elegant and charming. Seeing her, the male disciples from these Third Class great forces caught their breaths and drooled over her beauty.
She was none other than the Proprietress!
Hong Ji and the others on the other hand sported solemn expressions. As Low-Rank Open Heaven Realm Masters, they could clearly feel that this alluring woman was a peak Mid-Rank Open Heaven Realm Master, far stronger than Yue He, who worked for the True Monarch.
Recently, they had finally figured out that Yue He was a Fifth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master, a powerful figure in the 3,000 Worlds. Since this woman was stronger than Yue He, she was most likely in the Sixth-Order Open Heaven Realm!
Besides the woman at the front, there were two Mid-Rank Open Heaven Realm Masters whose auras were a match for that of Yue He. There was also a Fourth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master standing with them.
[Void True Monarch must have a powerful background. To think he has connections with these people. No wonder he can occupy Seven Wonders Land and become its new owner.]
While they were astounded, Yang Kai obediently rushed over and cupped his fists before saying loudly, “Greetings, Proprietress. How have you been?”
There was a faint smile on the Proprietress’ face as she stared fixedly at Yang Kai. Her breath was as pleasant as the scent of orchids, “Oh, you’re still alive.”
Yang Kai grinned, “Many thanks for your concern, Proprietress. I’m still alive and kicking.”
“En, you’re indeed alive and kicking, but… This Great Aunt doesn’t feel very good about it!” The Proprietress said through clenched teeth and grabbed his collars before proceeding to beat him up.
Hong Ji and the others were horrified as they felt their throats tightening.
Banging sounds were continuously heard. Yang Kai was completely powerless to stop the Proprietress from beating him senseless, but although she was furious, she didn’t exert too much force or use her power as an Open Heaven Realm Master.
On the other hand, Yang Kai had a strong physique, so he wasn’t afraid of getting hit. When they were in First Inn in the past, there were times when the Proprietress was harsher on him.
After a while, she suddenly pinched his ear and pulled him closer to herself. Seeing as he was smiling foolishly, she said through gritted teeth, “Brat, why are you still so happy when you’re getting punched?”
With a grin, Yang Kai replied, “As long as it makes you happy.”
Certainly, he was happy. Since he arrived in the Outer Universe, the Proprietress was the one who had taken the most care of him and given him the protection and resources he needed. When he first joined First Inn, he wasn’t used to the environment, but as they gradually got along, he felt warm in his heart whenever he thought about the inn.
He couldn’t understand why, but the Proprietress had always given him an amiable feeling, as though she was his long-lost family member.
What Yang Kai had just said sounded familiar to the Proprietress. She seemed to have returned to the past when another was standing in front of her and said something similar to her.
She fell into a dazed state as a certain face flashed across her thoughts. Soon, she pulled herself together though and landed a thump on Yang Kai’s forehead before saying furiously, “I’m not going to let you off with just this. I’ll settle accounts with you at a later time!”
She wasn’t planning on just forgiving him after he made her worry for more than ten years.
Yang Kai grinned from ear to ear and nodded repeatedly.
The Proprietress rolled her eyes before turning around. Facing a stern-looking elderly man whose hair and beard were all grey, she spoke, “Grandmaster Wu Liang, this is my useless shop-hand. Please help him with his Spirit Array problems.”
Hearing this, Yang Kai immediately knew that this elderly man was the Array Grandmaster that the Proprietress had invited. Hurriedly, he stepped forward and saluted him, “Junior Yang Kai greets Grandmaster Wu Liang.”
Grandmaster Wu Liang lifted his saggy eyelids and sized Yang Kai up. Seeing as Yang Kai was just an Emperor Realm brat though, he stopped paying attention to him and instead nodded to the Proprietress, “Madame, since you’ve invited this Old Master, I shall do my best. I’ve observed the Grand Array from the outside for a bit, and I think it’s decent enough. With that said, there’s room for improvement. As for how it can be improved, I’ll need to examine it further before I can make a proposal.”
“Of course.” The Proprietress kept a faint smile on her face and gave Yang Kai a hint.
Hurriedly, Yang Kai said, “Lu Xue, lead the way for Grandmaster Wu Liang to inspect the Grand Array.”
Lu Xue, who just returned to Void Land with the Proprietress, immediately replied, “Yes.”
Then, she extended her hand, “Grandmaster, please.”
Grandmaster Wu Liang nodded lightly and turned into a ray of light before shooting into the sky, followed closely by Lu Xue.
Seeing that, Yang Kai set his mind at ease. Grandmaster Wu Liang seemed to be very professional. Initially, he wanted to hold a banquet for the Proprietress and the others and let Grandmaster Wu Liang have a rest before working on the Grand Array, but unexpectedly, this Grandmaster suggested he start working right away.
Certainly, Yang Kai was satisfied with such an attitude. It would be best if the Grand Array could be repaired as soon as possible as once it was, he would be free to do other things. It seemed that the Proprietress had found a reliable person.
After Grandmaster Wu Liang left, only the Proprietress and Bai Qi, who had tagged along, were left. Presently, Bai Qi was standing behind the Proprietress and looking smilingly at Yang Kai; however, his smile seemed to be somewhat apologetic as well.
In the past, after ascending to the Fifth-Order Open Heaven Realm, he immediately set off to look for the Proprietress, leaving Yang Kai behind. If he had brought Yang Kai with him instead of leaving in such a rush, the subsequent incidents wouldn’t have happened, and Yang Kai wouldn’t have gone missing for more than ten years.
Over the years, just like the Proprietress, he was worried about Yang Kai’s safety. Every time he thought about it, he was full of self-blame and regret over the decision he had made. Seeing Yang Kai alive and well now, he could finally set his mind at ease.
As they looked at each other, Yang Kai nodded at him and turned around.
Yue He had been standing behind him and hanging her head low. With her lips pressed together, she seemed to be apprehensive, as though she was a naughty child who got caught after making a mistake.
“Yue He,” Yang Kai called out to her.
It was then Yue He stepped forward with difficulty. Standing in front of the Proprietress, she said in a hushed voice, “Big Sister…”
The Proprietress didn’t seem to hear her, nor did she bother to take a glance at her. Staring at Yang Kai, she said, “I’m tired from all the travelling. Do you have a place for me to take a rest? Lead the way for me.”
Then, she directly walked past Yue He, who turned absolutely ashen.
On the other hand, Yang Kai was having a headache. In fact, he wasn’t certain about the grudges between these two women. He speculated that they were very close to one another in the past, but for some reason, they had fallen out. After that, Yue He sided with Qin Ji and the others. Making use of the Sealing Yang Domain controlled by Golden Rainbow Province, they lured the Proprietress and Bai Qi into a deadly trap.
While Bai Qi was breaking through to the Open Heaven Realm, they launched a surprise attack. Although the Proprietress had tried her best, she wasn’t able to ensure Bai Qi’s safety. In the end, Bai Qi fell into a perilous state and was on the brink of death.
Bai Qi was the Proprietress’ trusted aide who had worked for her for many years. Since Yue He had attempted to kill him, it could be said to be a blood feud that was unresolvable.
“What are you doing there? Come right this instant!”
Just as Yang Kai was about to comfort Yue He, he heard the Proprietress shout at him. Not daring to be negligent, he gave Yue He an apologetic look and ran after her.
Yue He turned a shade paler and like a quail in the winter, she was trembling violently.
After a sigh, Bai Qi said, “Why did you do such a thing when you knew this would be the outcome? Since you’ve made a mistake, there’s a price to pay.”
A stunned Yue He lifted her head for the first time and exclaimed, “Y-You’re still alive?”
In the past, she had seen that when Bai Qi was breaking through to the Open Heaven Realm, his Yin, Yang, and Five Elements had become chaotic while his newly formed Small Universe was on the brink of collapsing. In that state, his ascension had essentially already failed, so there should have been no way he could survive.
She had believed that Bai Qi had lost his life in the Sealing Yang Domain.
While she was standing behind Yang Kai earlier, she had hung her head and she was anxious that she wasn’t even aware of Bai Qi’s presence. Now that she saw him all of a sudden, she was truly astounded.
Staring at her, Bai Qi said dispassionately, “If I were dead, you would have lost your life by now.”
If Bai Qi passed away, the Proprietress would never have let Yue He off. She would’ve killed her to avenge Bai Qi’s death. It was because he had escaped from death’s door that the Proprietress didn’t kill her on sight.
“You should thank Yang Kai.” Bai Qi sighed.
Hearing that, Yue He didn’t understand what any of this had to do with Yang Kai.
At that time, the Proprietress single-handedly fought back several Mid-Rank Open Heaven Realm Masters and lured them away. Seeing as Bai Qi was about to meet his end, Yang Kai fed him with some World Source Liquid at the critical moment, which allowed him to stabilize his Small Universe and escape from death’s door.
Yang Kai had obtained the World Source Liquid in the Profound Heavens Temple in the Star Boundary. It was a special kind of liquid that was formed during the birth of a World and contained the essence of that very process.
By forming a Small Universe in one’s body, a cultivator was essentially building a new World, and since the World Source Liquid could help a cultivator to comprehend the wonders of a World’s birth, it could save Bai Qi when he was at his last breath.
At that time, Bai Qi had no idea what the liquid was and it was only later when he told the Proprietress about it that she speculated it was World Source Liquid.
No one could’ve expected that Yang Kai possessed such a treasure.
World Source Liquid was formed during the birth of a World, and there were very strict conditions required for it to appear. In the past, it was possible to find small quantities of it, but whenever it appeared it would be swiftly snatched up. In recent times though, unless a new World was born, this liquid should not have appeared.
However, it was extremely difficult for a World to be born. Such an incident might not happen even once in 100,000 years. What’s more, even if a new world was born, there might not be any World Source Liquid formed.
The ancient environment in the Profound Heavens Temple in the Star Boundary, however, remained unchanged since the latter’s birth, which was why it could preserve some World Source Liquid.
While Yang Kai had no idea about its true value, the Proprietress was fully aware of it. It could be said that with this liquid in possession, a cultivator would not face any danger while trying to break through to the Open Heaven Realm.
The success rate of ascending to the Open Heaven Realm wasn’t 100%. Even if a cultivator had condensed their Yin, Yang, and Five Elements and was fully prepared to split Heaven and Earth apart to form their Small Universe, there was always a risk of failure if their foundation wasn’t sufficient. Once that happened, the consequences would be dreadful.
However, World Source Liquid could perfectly solve this problem.
Once such a treasure appeared, even those Cave-Heavens and Paradises would scramble to snatch it. No one could guarantee that it was totally safe when they were attempting their ascension, and over the years, many of the disciples from these Cave-Heavens and Paradises had lost their lives for this reason.
“Just apologise to her properly.” Bai Qi didn’t explain it to Yue He as he wouldn’t dare to leak the secret regarding the World Source Liquid. Presently, only he and the Proprietress were aware of it, “In fact, over the years, the Proprietress has missed you.”
Yue He’s body shook as her originally listless gaze finally had some life return to it. Some words seemed to be reverberating around in her mind and unwittingly, her eyes became soaked with tears.
When she came to her senses, she realised that Bai Qi was nowhere to be found. After wiping away her tears, she hurriedly rushed in a particular direction.
In the Grand Hall of Earth Spirit Land, the Proprietress didn’t regard herself as an outsider at all as she leisurely strolled around.
Yang Kai led her to a certain courtyard and said, “Proprietress, you can take a rest here. I’ll assign some maidservants to you.”
There were many people in Void Land now, so there shouldn’t be any problem finding some women to act as maids. Yang Kai would pay them fairly in any case.
The Proprietress looked around and said, “Why am I given this room? I think the one over there is better and more spacious.”
Yang Kai could only reply awkwardly, “I really can’t let you live in that room.”
Hearing that, the Proprietress turned around and looked doubtfully at him, “What do you mean by that? Are you keeping a lover in that room or something?”
A speechless Yang Kai refuted, “Absolutely not! But, someone is indeed living in that room.”
The Proprietress was just as intelligent as she was beautiful, so she soon understood and asked Yang Kai via Divine Sense, “Is it that Zhu Jiu Yin?”
The Proprietress wasn’t unaware of what Yang Kai had gone through over the years. When she was on the way to Void Land, she inquired with Lu Xue about it, and Lu Xue didn’t hide anything from her. Since Yang Kai had decided to seek her help it meant that she was a reliable person; therefore, Lu Xue told her about what had happened in the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary.
Hence, it wasn’t surprising that the Proprietress was aware of Zhu Jiu Yin’s presence.
Solemnly, Yang Kai nodded his head.
In a grim voice, the Proprietress asked, “Is she trustworthy?”
Zhu Jiu Yin was the Divine Spirit Heavenly Moon Demon Spider who was as powerful as a High-Rank Open Heaven Realm Master. Faced with such a formidable existence, the Proprietress felt immensely pressured. Things would be thorny if she wasn’t trustworthy.
Yang Kai spoke to her via Divine Sense to reassure her, “Don’t worry. That woman has sworn an oath upon her Source.”
“Good.” The Proprietress nodded gently. A Divine Spirit’s Source was equivalent to a cultivator’s Dao Heart, their base and foundation. There was no way they would easily swear upon it. If they went back on their word after such an oath, their Source would be damaged, and depending on the circumstances, this damage may be irreversible.
Then, she turned around and took a seat. With her chin resting on her palm, she said smilingly, “Tell me what happened in the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary.”
She had heard about the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary but had never had the chance to enter it. To any cultivator in the 3,000 Worlds, that Sealed World was a legend, which was why she was curious about it.
Since she wanted to know, Yang Kai wouldn’t hide anything from her; thus, he took a seat and narrated his entire experience.
When she heard that Yue He had captured him and was ready to bring him to Small Orchid Palace, she snorted. Then, when it was mentioned that they were swept away by the Grand Ancient Ruins Rolling Fog in the Star City, she appeared worried.
Although Yang Kai had already returned safely, it wasn’t hard to imagine that he must have experienced a lot of danger.
He had spent more than ten years in the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary. In the beginning, he was faced with a Beast Tide and almost lost his life. Then, he managed to tame the Earth Dragon and Scarlet Food Dragon. After that, he arrived at Scarlet Star’s Star City. On the Yuan Magnetic Mountain, he battled against the people from Thunder Light and Sword Pavilion, causing his fame to soar.
Outside Scarlet Star’s Star City, he comprehended a Divine Manifestation, whereupon he single-handedly destroyed more than 3,000 people from Thunder Light and Sword Pavilion. Since then, no one else was a match for him.
Following that, he and several disciples from the Cave-Heavens and Paradises plunged into the sea and fought against the Sea Clan. Then, he was hunted down by Kun Sha. At that time, Zhu Jiu Yin was hiding in the dark in the Star City, and she eventually chose Yang Kai to be her Bearer.
At a later time, the Primordial Land opened. The Bearers competed against one another, and Yang Kai managed to come out on top. After leaving the Primordial Land, he was hunted down by the Divine Spirits.
All in all, his life over the past ten-plus years was filled with interesting as well as dangerous events.
While Yang Kai was narrating his story, Bai Qi came over and stood behind the Proprietress, listening attentively. He was totally immersed in the story as he wanted to replace Yang Kai to experience the wonders of the Grand Ancient Ruins Boundary.
The Proprietress kept a faint smile on her face, but there seemed to be a hint of worry in the depths of her eyes.
Yang Kai wasn’t aware of this as he deliberately exaggerated Yue He’s contributions by telling the Proprietress that if it weren’t for her help in the Boundary, he wouldn’t have had such achievements.
Fully aware of his intentions, the Proprietress smiled and said nothing.
Seeing as she remained unfazed, a helpless Yang Kai said, “We’ve talked a lot. Proprietress, do you want to drink some tea?”
Outside the hall, Yue He hung her head low and walked in with a tray. Then, she filled Proprietress’ and Yang Kai’s tea cups. After that, she lowered her head and stood in front of the Proprietress, like a naughty child who was waiting for her punishment.
Yang Kai picked up his cup and sipped the tea while observing the Proprietress’ expression; however, she sported an impassive face as though she didn’t see Yue He at all.
Helplessly, he gave Bai Qi a hint with his eyes.
Seeing that, Bai Qi gave him an assuring look and said, “Proprietress, you’ve always taught me that we should look to the future, not the past. Let the past be the past. If you don’t, it will become your burden.”
After taking a sip, the Proprietress thumped the cup on the table, which caused the tea to splash, “Did I tell you to speak?”
Bai Qi grinned, “No, no, no. I shouldn’t have spoken. I’ll slap myself now.” Upon finishing his words, he gently slapped his face. Yang Kai was shocked by his subservient behaviour.
The Proprietress snorted, “You escaped from death’s door and lived a peaceful life for more than ten years. I guess you’ve forgotten about the person who set you up to die. If it weren’t because Yang Kai did his best to save you, you would’ve travelled to the Yellow Springs instead of staying in this world.”
Hearing that, Bai Qi replied solemnly, “I will always remember the people who have helped me, and will never forget the people who have harmed me. You’ve always taught us that we should repay the favours we owe and retaliate against those who have hurt us. Since that is the case, I shall get my revenge now!”
After that, he suddenly looked at Yue He and yelled, “Yue He, in the past, you sided with Qin Ji and the others to ruin my ascension, almost costing me my life. This is an absolutely irreconcilable grudge so I shall take your life now for what you’ve done to me!”
Then, he raised his hand and pushed out his palm. The aura of his World Force permeated the room as he seemed to be going all out with this strike.
A horrified Yang Kai exclaimed, “Old Bai, stop!”
However, Bai Qi was a Fifth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master now, and although it had only been a short time since he broke through, there was no way Yang Kai could go against him. By the time he managed to react, Bai Qi’s palm already landed on Yue He’s shoulder.
Yue He grunted as a crack was heard coming from her bones. Like an empty sack, she was sent flying away. World Force churned around violently in her body and she sprayed out a mouthful of blood as she fell to the ground.
After the attack, Bai Qi retracted his hand and stood behind the Proprietress. Then, he said helplessly, “Proprietress, I’ve gotten my revenge. Unfortunately, I was not powerful enough to kill her. Haaa… It hasn’t been a long time since I ascended to the Fifth-Order Open Heaven Realm, so it seems I am no match for a Master who has stayed in that realm for many centuries.”
His expression seemed to suggest that he was really no match for Yue He.
Presently, the Proprietress’ expression was livid as she balled up her fists and stared fixedly at Yue He. At the same time, she checked on her with her Divine Sense.
Yang Kai rushed towards Yue He and helped her up. Anxiously, he asked, “Are you alright?”
Although he wasn’t powerful enough to stop Bai Qi, he saw what was going on earlier. When Bai Qi was making a move, Yue He didn’t resist at all. It wasn’t that she wasn’t fast enough to react, but rather that she didn’t have the intention of resisting to begin with.
Yue He shook her head to mean that she was fine. Then, she gently pushed Yang Kai away and looked gratefully at Bai Qi. She knew that Bai Qi must have held back. Both of them were in the same Order, and since she didn’t resist at all, Bai Qi could have taken her life with ease.
Although she seemed to be battered after getting struck, she wasn’t severely injured. She would recover in about half a month.
Seeing that, Yang Kai didn’t insist on supporting her. After giving it a thought, he too realised what was going on.
Just like what Bai Qi had said, Yue He had sided with Qin Ji and the others to ruin his ascension, forming what was basically an irreconcilable feud. If he didn’t forgive Yue He, there was no way the Proprietress would show some kindness to her. If she really did that, she would’ve made Bai Qi feel bitterly disappointed.
The fact that the Proprietress didn’t kill Yue He the moment she saw her suggested that she still treasured their relationship.
After Bai Qi made a move to settle this grudge, things would become easier.
What’s more, the Proprietress’ anxious expression suggested that she was worried about Yue He. Seeing that Yue He was fine, she finally relaxed her fists.
Yue He wiped the blood from the corner of her lips and slowly shuffled towards the Proprietress. Then, she fell on her knees and hung her head low. With her hair covering her eyes, she called out, “Big Sister…”
The Proprietress parted her lips and said coldly, “The moment you sided with Qin Ji to harm me, our relationship came to an end. Stop calling me Big Sister. I don’t have a Sister like you.”
Yue He trembled as her eyes were drenched in tears, “I’m sorry! I’m sorry!”
“It was your decision. There is no right or wrong.” The Proprietress shook her head, “I won’t settle accounts with you regarding what happened to Old Bai; after all, he was lucky enough to have survived, but don’t you forget that in the Sealing Yang Domain, this Queen also swore an oath.”
Hearing that, Yue He shuddered.
Yang Kai also sported a solemn expression. The thing he was most worried about was eventually brought up.
When they were in the Sealing Yang Domain, Yue He had joined forces with several people to ambush the Proprietress. Besides the Sixth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master, Qin Ji, from Golden Rainbow Province, there was also a Fifth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master, Ling Chun Chiu, from Boundless Altar as well as a Fourth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master, Old Xu, from Wind and Cloud Auction House. Later on, another Sixth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master, Hai Ping Le from Clear Mind Heaven also appeared.
At that time, Yang Kai used his last Mie Meng’s golden tail feather to end Old Xu’s life, but after Bai Qi’s ascension was seemingly ruined and he was on the brink of death, the enraged Proprietress made a heart demon oath.
She proclaimed that if she did not trample flat the Headquarters of these people, she would never ascend to the Seventh Order in her lifetime. That was her promise to Bai Qi.
This kind of oath was no laughing matter. Once it was made, it was unresolvable. In other words, if the Proprietress couldn’t achieve this, she would really never be able to ascend to the Seventh-Order Open Heaven Realm.
At that time, the oath had something to do with three people, who were Qin Ji, Ling Chun Qiu, and Yue He. Hai Ping Le was the last to appear, so he had nothing to do with this oath.
In other words, if the Proprietress wanted to reach the Seventh Order, the very existence of three great forces were her greatest hindrance and had to be eliminated.
Certainly, Yue He would never forget that; therefore, as soon as the Proprietress mentioned it, she knew that there was no turning back.
Yue He pressed her head against the ground and said gently, “I would never dare to be a hindrance on your Martial Dao. Big Sister, many thanks for raising and caring for this Little Sister in the past.”
When she raised her head again, she looked apologetically at Yang Kai.
Yang Kai immediately had a bad premonition as he yelled, “What are you trying to do?”
World Force flared and swept Yang Kai away as Yue He raised her hand and attempted to land a palm on her forehead.
Bai Qi was stunned as he didn’t expect Yue He to be so resolute. In order to not bar the Proprietress’ ascension, she was determined to end her own life. She must be aware that the Proprietress would never kill her and had only made that kind of oath because she was furious and failed to consider the consequences at the time. If she wanted to resolve the oath, Yue He would be a great hurdle.
Yang Kai widened his eyes and pushed his Space Principles madly; however, Yue He was a Fifth-Order Open Heaven Realm Master and was surrounded by rich World Force. How was Yang Kai supposed to break through it and save her?
Nevertheless, she didn’t manage to land that palm on her forehead in the end. The Proprietress had abruptly appeared in front of her as she clenched Yue He’s wrist and looked at her with a conflicted expression.
Yue He lifted her head, tears sliding down her face, her eyes appearing completely hollow and lifeless.