Chapter 397: Zhang Chen Humiliated, Gu Yun Shows His Power (Two-in-One)
Ding! The Child of Destiny, Zhang Chen, made a fool of himself in public, filled with shame and rage, earning 2000 Villain Points.
Gu Yun, who was slowly walking forward with the women, couldn't help but look back.
The Dragon Ascension Ladder soared into the clouds, at least a thousand steps high. Gu Yun and the others had already reached over a hundred steps, placing them in the second echelon among all cultivators who had entered this place.
Ahead of them were only a few core disciples from the major powers, a mere handful of people.
His gaze pierced through layers of clouds and mist, landing on Zhang Chen.
The latter had his rear end sticking up, his cheek slammed hard against the cold, rough stone steps, a truly ungraceful sight.
"Ugh…", he groaned.
He let out a muffled grunt from his throat, forcing himself to scramble up, his resolute face already turned a purplish-red.
"Pfft—"
"Hahahaha! Where did this clown come from?"
"Seven steps at once? Who do you think you are? Hahahaha!!!"
The cultivators who hadn't gone far yet were momentarily stunned, then burst into unbridled laughter.
"This guy, when I just came in, I heard him say he was going to reach the top, hahaha, turns out this is all he's got…"
A cultivator who had just stepped onto the third step couldn't help but laugh. Zhang Chen's grand words from earlier still echoed in his ears, forming a stark contrast with his current clumsy fall.
Zhang Chen's arrival also made the originally dead silent atmosphere of the ladder climb much livelier.
"Brother Zhang! Are you alright?"
"It's better to be careful. The pressure here is no joke."
Luo Tiange rushed forward with an arrow-like step, his face full of "anxiety" and "concern," quickly reaching out to help him up.
"If you're still so careless later, it might not be as simple as just falling once like now."
Zhang Chen's expression was grim. As Luo Tiange helped him up, he felt an unprecedented humiliation gnawing at his heart.
He was once a Half-Step Great Emperor, possessing an Innate Double Pupil, with unparalleled combat power.
In this life, he even possessed an Innate Supreme Body, sweeping aside all obstacles since his debut. When had he ever suffered such a great humiliation?!
He had already forgotten all his defeats. Could fleeing be called a defeat?
That was merely avoiding the sharp edge, accumulating strength. The outcome was not yet decided, and he, Zhang Chen, would surely be the one to laugh last!
"Let go! I'm fine!"
Zhang Chen squeezed out a few words through gritted teeth. He raised his head, his eyes bloodshot and crimson from anger and shame, sweeping across his surroundings like a mad wolf, glaring fiercely at those who mocked him, his teeth grinding audibly.
"What are you looking at?!"
"A bunch of ignorant frogs at the bottom of a well! When I reach the summit, I will surely make you pay for your words today! A hundredfold! A thousandfold!"
Zhang Chen's voice sounded as if it came from the Nine Nether Hell.
"You ignorant brat, you can't even withstand the pressure of merely the seventh floor, and you still want to reach the summit?!"
"Truly wishful thinking!"
A white-robed cultivator on the sixteenth floor sneered. He exuded a sharp sword qi, like a drawn blade, and his gaze towards Zhang Chen was filled with disdain.
What he despised most were people who had no ability yet dared to speak big words. Trash should stay where they belong and not come out to make a fool of themselves!
"What did you say?!"
Zhang Chen was furious, staring intently at the man.
Humiliation, another humiliation!
He, a dignified Half-Step Great Emperor reborn, was actually being humiliated by a junior cultivator like this!
"Oh, oh, oh, so you're getting angry out of shame now?"
The white-robed cultivator, Jiang Zifeng, sneered, crossing his arms with an arrogant posture: "Why don't you take a good look at yourself in a puddle of your own piss? First, figure out how to catch up, you trash!"
"You're courting death!"
Zhang Chen's entire body erupted with purple-gold vital energy, and a fierce, violent aura uncontrollably spread out. His fists were clenched tightly, knuckles white, and he looked as if he was about to rush up recklessly, even enduring the pressure of the Dragon Ascension Ladder, just to tear this foul-mouthed guy to shreds!
"Brother Zhang! Calm down!"
Just as Zhang Chen was about to erupt, Luo Tiange stepped out at the opportune moment, his gaze like lightning, shooting towards Jiang Zifeng, his voice carrying a deliberately suppressed majesty and chill: "Jiang Zifeng! You're going too far!"
Jiang Zifeng, who was being questioned, raised an eyebrow. When he saw that it was Luo Tiange speaking, a flicker of imperceptible surprise flashed in his eyes, then a playful smirk curled his lips.
He slightly cupped his hands, but his tone carried obvious perfunctoriness and a hint of flippancy: "Oh, who do we have here? It's His Highness Tiange. My apologies, my apologies."
He said apologies, but his stance remained casual, devoid of any respect.
As a direct disciple of the Gengjin Immortal Palace's Grand Elder lineage, facing a prince who was not the crown prince and whose foundation in the Dynasty was still shallow, he indeed had the capital to be arrogant.
"I didn't expect a dignified prince of the Daluo Imperial Dynasty to be willing to associate with such… um, unconventional and uninhibited individuals."
Jiang Zifeng's gaze swept over the disheveled and unstable Zhang Chen, carrying undisguised contempt, "Truly… magnanimous and lofty, truly 'admirable'!"
"Perhaps there's truly no one else suitable, so he can only find such a half-baked idiot to make up the numbers, who knows."
Another Gengjin Immortal Palace disciple nearby also sneered mockingly.
Mixing with the Child of Destiny, this was what Luo Tiange deserved.
"You…!"
Luo Tiange's face darkened, and a cold glint flashed in his eyes.
Of course, he felt little turmoil in his heart. As a prince, he had been taught since childhood to remain calm in dealings with others and never to let his true thoughts be seen.
The struggles in the imperial court were vastly different from the life-and-death battles between sects. When one lacked sufficient strength, a different approach to life was needed.
This was also why he had unhesitatingly yielded in front of Gu Yun.
"The Dragon Ascension Ladder tests one's personal perseverance and potential, not the sharpness of one's tongue! Fellow Daoist Jiang, it's better to focus on climbing and not cause trouble here!"
"Heh, His Highness is right to admonish me."
Jiang Zifeng replied with a fake smile, but his gaze turned back to Zhang Chen, full of provocation, "It's just that I'm truly curious, how high can this gentleman, who can barely stand steady, climb with His Highness's protection? Don't drag His Highness down and tarnish the Daluo Imperial Dynasty's reputation! Hahahaha!"
He laughed wildly, causing some onlookers to also let out low guffaws.
"He knelt at the seventh level, yet he still dares to boast about reaching the summit. This is the funniest joke I've ever heard in my life!!"
"Look at him, he's still trembling. Bro, if you're sick, go get treated. We won't mock you."
Zhang Chen trembled with rage, his lungs heaving violently like bellows, and a beast-like growl escaped his throat.
His aura surged explosively. He shoved Luo Tiange aside, his bloodshot eyes fixed on Jiang Zifeng's hateful face above, uttering each word like a curse: "Jiang Zifeng, is it? I remember you!"
With that, he took a step, ascending to the eighth step. A tremendous pressure instantly descended upon him, yet it caused no hindrance.
On the contrary, a roaring sound erupted.
Under everyone's shocked gaze, the potential of the Innate Supreme Body was forcibly stimulated, and purple-gold light surged around him like burning flames!
All the joints in his body seemed to be reorganizing, making creaking sounds.
Zhang Chen actually condensed another Immortal Platform directly, the process smooth and unhindered.
Jiang Zifeng and the others were all dumbfounded and incredulous.
"How is this possible?!"
"As expected of someone even His Highness pays attention to. Perhaps you really can be of some use."
Luo Tiange looked at Zhang Chen's back, which was almost burning out, and a hint of imperceptible satisfaction flashed deep in his eyes.
He quickly followed with "anxiety," shouting, "Brother Zhang! Don't be reckless!"
But Zhang Chen, at this moment, couldn't hear any of that. He had fallen into a state bordering on madness and had to release it.
...
Above the hundredth step, Gu Yun's divine sense had been vaguely observing the scene below.
At this moment, a playful smile also hung on his lips. As the saying goes, man proposes, God disposes. As things developed, Destiny Plunder, things like Zhang Chen making a fool of himself, would naturally happen.
As a villain with the same fate as himself, Jiang Ziyun, no matter how careful he was, would unconsciously become antagonistic towards the Child of Destiny.
This Jiang Zifeng was clearly the so-called fuse. Watching that arrogant and overbearing second-generation heir have his head crushed by Zhang Chen, Gu Yun felt no ripples in his heart.
In this way, Jiang Ziyun would also confront Zhang Chen according to the script.
Sometimes, letting the script unfold was not a bad thing.
Everything was under his control.
As the levels increased, Gu Yun could also see that the women beside him were becoming increasingly strained.
Although Fang Qingyan and Lin Ziyi's talents were very strong, there were still shortcomings in their physical body and soul cultivation.
Shangguan Zhiyue was even more helplessly sprawled beside Fang Qingyan, panting heavily, her chest heaving up and down, looking utterly exhausted.
As for Snow Millennium, she was already drenched in sweat. Even though her foundation was deeper, going up another hundred levels would probably be too much for her.
Their speed would significantly decrease. Perhaps they could eventually pass, but it would require a certain amount of time for refinement, and Gu Yun currently didn't have that time to wait.
His little fiancée was not someone to be trifled with. If he arrived late, the Ancestor Dragon Heritage might truly fall into her hands.
"You all should enter the Great Luo Dao Pagoda first."
"I'll let you out after I reach the summit."
Gu Yun looked at the women and spoke calmly.
Fang Qingyan and Lin Ziyi were startled.
Snow Millennium and Shangguan Zhiyue looked bewildered.
"This… will we not be recognized because we didn't pass the Dragon Ascension Ladder's test?"
Fang Qingyan asked.
"Recognition?!"
"Do you think I came here to receive a legacy?"
Gu Yun smiled faintly, unconcerned.
Recognition? When did they ever need the Dragon Ascension Ladder's recognition?!
A hint of realization flashed across Fang Qingyan and Lin Ziyi's faces, which then transformed into firm trust.
Snow Millennium's delicate body trembled slightly. She had originally thought that the Young Master merely possessed monstrous abilities, but only now did she vaguely glimpse the terrifying tip of his true iceberg of profound reserves—that supreme treasure cave dwelling that could ignore the spatial laws of this place, and even seemed to transcend the rules of this realm?
The Great Luo Dao Pagoda… the Immortal Ancient Gu Family's foundation, far exceeded her imagination!
"Alright, I'm too lazy to explain. You all go in first."
"After you reach the third floor, Yaojun will take good care of you."
Gu Yun said no more unnecessary words and with a thought.
Invisible ripples spread in the void, and a profound and unfathomable spatial fluctuation suddenly descended, carrying a mighty power that transcended the rules of this place.
Like a gentle breeze, Fang Qingyan, Lin Ziyi, Shangguan Zhiyue, and Snow Millennium, four peerless beauties, were directly taken into it.
Are you kidding? Rules?
Aren't those only for ordinary people to follow?
He was a cheater now. Wouldn't it be a waste not to use his cheat?
Gu Yun was unwilling to just fade into the crowd like this. The Dragon Ascension Ladder seemed dangerous, but it was actually just an initial test. He didn't want to waste too much time here.
The deceiving heaven mask was lifted, and only then did everyone notice him.
"What terrifying might?!"
"Who is he?!"
"How come I don't feel the aura of an Immortal Platform? Is he still just a Dao Body Realm cultivator?"
"How is that possible? How could a Dao Body Realm cultivator reach over six hundred steps?!"
Those who could reach this place were basically core figures of various Imperial-level powers. At this moment, they were all shocked and couldn't believe it.
"It's… it's the Gu Family Emperor Child?!"
"It's him, that's right. That face, three parts more handsome than mine, there's no one else in the entire Three Thousand Dao Domains."
"Damn it, why didn't I notice him before?!!!"
Watching Gu Yun transform into a bolt of lightning, moving upwards at an extreme speed, everyone was so astonished they could barely speak.
Fast, too fast.
He left behind only a conical vacuum sonic boom cloud, briefly formed in the air and dense fog due to the extreme speed!
Whoosh—!
Below, between the two hundredth and five hundredth steps, those so-called Heavenly Talents who were still struggling to resist the dragon's might and pressure, like wading through a quagmire, were struck by an invisible giant wave!
Those with weaker cultivation were directly swept away by this shockwave, crashing onto the cold steps like rolling gourds, spitting blood and falling unconscious!
Jiang Ziyun's expression changed slightly. He hurriedly activated his magic treasures, barely stabilizing his body, and desperately resisted the terrifying aftershock.
He watched this scene in disbelief: "The Gu Family Emperor Child, has he already grown to such an extent?!!!"
He almost didn't even have time to react, yet this was merely a slight aftershock caused by Gu Yun unleashing his full power against the Dragon Ascension Ladder.
"Great Saint…"
"A Dao Body Realm cultivator can unleash power comparable to a Great Saint."
Jiang Ziyun's voice was somewhat weak.
A gap!
This was a chasm-like gap!
So vast it was despair-inducing!
Far below, at the fortieth step.
Zhang Chen, who had just forced a breakthrough and was now steadily and rapidly advancing, step by step, suddenly paused!
He abruptly looked up, his bloodshot crimson eyes piercing through layers of steps and much thinner mist, staring intently at the glorious, awe-inspiring divine light soaring up from over six hundred steps above!
That was…?!
A nearly instinctive hatred and a fear originating from the deepest part of his bloodline instantly twisted Zhang Chen's face to the extreme.
It's him, it's him?!
At this moment, the rage in his heart surged to its peak.
Although he didn't know who the owner of that divine light was, he knew that the other party was definitely an enemy he must kill in this life!
"Double Pupil, it's the aura of my Double Pupil!"
//398//
Chapter 398 Memories
Zhang Chen's eyes were fixed on the depths of the golden mist swirling at the highest point of the Dragon Ascension Ladder, where a dazzling, peerless divine light pierced his eyes with pain and made his soul tremble and bleed!
An intense pain, originating from the deepest part of his being, felt like a snake gnawing at his heart, making him almost unable to breathe.
Under this magnificent divine might, others might only feel vast and boundless pressure and instinctive reverence.
Only he—could discern, both subtly and incredibly clearly, the unique, primordial pulsation that transcended all Daos from within that light!
It's it!
It must be it!
It's his Innate Supreme Body!
That was his greatest reliance in his previous life, dominating an era and looking down upon all heavens and myriad realms!
Zhang Chen clenched his fists, his knuckles cracking and turning white, his fingernails digging deep into his palms, instantly oozing thick, warm blood.
However, the physical pain was less than one-billionth of the tearing agony in his heart and soul!
In the depths of his mind, the desperate scenes that had been forcibly sealed and deliberately forgotten, like a gate to hell opening, crashed through their shackles and reappeared before his eyes, bloody and vivid!
...
Twenty years ago.
Boom!
Deep within the Primordial Star Domain, a chaotic ancestral aperture guarded by the laws of myriad realms.
Terrifying energy storms swept across billions of star rivers, countless stars were affected, silently turning into cosmic dust.
At the center of the void, Zhang Chen sat cross-legged.
His eyes were tightly shut, and his nine layers of purple immortal platforms floated above his head like ancient cosmic divine steles, radiating unparalleled divine brilliance!
An ancient Great Dao emerged above his head, grand and dazzling!
Vast and endless energy, like a primordial divine tide, converged from the depths of the endless star sea, surging madly into his body, washing away the final and most formidable barrier that stood before the supreme threshold—the ultimate bottleneck from Ninth-level Quasi-Emperor to Emperor Realm!
"Just one more step!"
Zhang Chen suddenly opened his eyes; the Emperor Realm gate, sealed for eons, had revealed a crack under the gaze of his Innate Supreme Body!
And he would become another Dao-achiever in ten thousand years.
An Innate Supreme Body achieving emperorship, peerless in the world!
His, Zhang Chen's, name would resound throughout the Three Thousand Dao Domains, establishing a sect and inheriting for eons!
Boundless cosmic Dao laws cheered around him, and billions of starlight voluntarily converged into brilliant light bands, like submissive pilgrims guarding him at the absolute center!
That was the heavens celebrating his impending ascension to the Emperor's throne in advance!
At this moment, he, Zhang Chen, seemed to become the center of the entire Three Thousand Dao Domains!
Success! Within reach! Easily attainable!
His heart surged with emotion; eons of desolate cultivation and countless life-and-death battles finally bore fruit today!
An unprecedented sense of power filled every inch of his soul!
A supreme will to control the Heavenly Dao and decide life and death arose in his heart.
—But just then!
Rip—!!!
Without warning!
The absolute core chaotic region where he was located, celebrated by cosmic laws and resonated by myriad Daos, was torn open by a giant, sky-covering hand from a higher dimension, creating a bottomless, pitch-black gap!
The cheering of myriad Daos abruptly ceased!
The converging starlight bands also solidified and shattered!
A terrifying power, beyond imagination, capable of resetting reincarnation and remaking all heavens and myriad realms, descended without reason!
This power was cold, tyrannical, and carried an absolute indifference, as if looking down on ants!
Crack! Snap!
In an instant, the last three layers of immortal platforms were crushed by this supreme power from afar!
They turned into countless purple fragments, carrying the wails of laws, scattering in all directions!
Pfft—!!
Zhang Chen's body shook violently, his boiling divine radiance instantly extinguished, his Dao foundation shattered, and his path to emperorship severed!
Blood surged like a bursting flood, gushing madly from his seven orifices and all acupuncture points!
His soul felt as if it had been pierced by billions of red-hot soul nails, the intense pain almost tearing his consciousness apart!
"Who?! Who is it?!"
His eyes were bloodshot, and he forcefully stabilized his crumbling immortal soul and Dao foundation, the remaining six layers of immortal platforms bursting with light, his Innate Supreme Body instantly opening, shooting out two dazzling purple-gold divine lights that tore through the star river, sweeping towards the suddenly descending terrifying rift!
The power of the Innate Supreme Body could see through all illusions!
Within the rift, the light slightly distorted.
Three indescribably majestic silhouettes, whose mere will projections were enough to collapse eons of star rivers, slowly stepped out from within.
The absolute aura representing the origin of "Emperor" instantly engulfed Zhang Chen like an ancient, unmelting ice tsunami!
Great Emperors!
True... Flawless Great Emperors!
And... three of them!
"Hmm, this is it."
"A Twin Pupil user on the verge of achieving Dao is currently the best spiritual source."
A cold female voice sounded, and Zhang Chen completely lost his vision.
He only saw a finger crossing the boundary of space and time, ignoring everything he had previously set up, like passing through a thin mist... easily touching his glabella!
The gap between a Great Emperor and a Quasi-Emperor was like a chasm.
Moreover, he had already been ambushed and severely injured, his strength less than one-tenth of what it was, completely powerless to resist at this moment.
Crunch—!!!
The tip of that finger, like a spear of destiny, precisely pierced the skin of his glabella, and then... touched the core of the Innate Supreme Body's origin, which was branded deep within his divine soul and flesh!
It was as if a supreme divine seal was being forcibly stripped away!
"Arghhhhh—!!!"
Zhang Chen let out a tragic howl that surpassed the limits of his soul's endurance!
His Innate Supreme Body, this supreme sacred object that was intertwined with his life and connected to his Dao path, was forcibly... gouged out from the depths of his soul!
There was no dazzling light of separation, only a bloody, mangled, utterly shattered Dao foundation, a tragic void where the Innate Supreme Body had been forcibly torn out!
Blood mixed with scattered purple-gold divine origin gushed madly from the grotesque hole in his glabella!
He could feel his Dao... completely severed!
His roots... were forcibly cut off!
That Innate Supreme Body, flowing with purple-gold luster and interwoven with the Dao traces of the nine heavens and earth, floated at the Great Emperor's fingertip amidst endless pain and gushing blood, stained with warm, crimson red.
It pulsed slightly, as if still struggling unwillingly, emitting a sorrowful and broken halo.
The woman in the chaotic immortal light finally... moved slightly.
She seemed to nod very slightly, acknowledging her "achievement."
"Hmph, what I give to Yun'er is the best!"
"Kill him!"
Turning around, she didn't even look at Zhang Chen again.
As the three Great Emperors attacked simultaneously, Zhang Chen's shattered soul, like a final flicker of life, only remembered that name before completely sinking into eternal darkness and coldness.
"Yun..."
...
The fragments of memory receded like a tide.
Zhang Chen trembled uncontrollably, almost consumed by overwhelming hatred and extreme jealousy.
Wisps of black gas even flickered around his body.
Fortunately, at the crucial moment, a pair of large hands covered his shoulders.
"Brother Zhang, what's wrong with you?!"
"Don't touch me, I want to kill him!"
Zhang Chen let out a roar that was not human, completely ignoring the mountain-like pressure of the Dragon Ascension Ladder, and suddenly pushed off with his legs!
His vital energy burst forth, and the potential of his Innate Supreme Body in this life was pushed to its limit by him!
//399//
Chapter 399 Reaching the Summit
"Ding! Due to the Host's appearance, the Child of Destiny, Zhang Chen, has overdrawn his potential. His Destiny Value has decreased by 1000 points."
As the system prompt sounded in his ears, Gu Yun subconsciously sensed behind him.
He then discovered the nearly deranged Zhang Chen.
He was like a cannonball, charging forward with a desperate, all-or-nothing momentum, forcing cultivators in his path to avoid his sharp edge.
The air shrieked with a piercing roar, shocking countless people.
On this Dragon Ascension Ladder, there were actually two people like Gu Yun, who charged forward with no regard for their lives?!
Jiang Ziyun's pupils contracted violently; he could hardly believe it. Had everyone in this world gone mad?
Gu Yun had the Immortal Ancient Gu Family to back him up, giving him that confidence.
But what were you, then?!
Of course, he wasn't foolish enough to confront a madman head-on. Even if Zhang Chen had killed Jiang Zifeng earlier, which was a blow to his prestige, a gentleman's revenge is never too late.
This fellow didn't erupt earlier or later, but precisely after the Gu Family Emperor Child made his move. His intentions were already very clear.
If he could resolve the trouble without bloodshed, that would naturally be for the best.
"Perfect! I'll use your idiotic life to test the Gu Family Emperor Child's depth!"
"Let's see how strong he is now!"
Jiang Ziyun's lips curled slightly, and he quietly increased his speed as well.
"Bastard! What is he doing?!"
Wu Ling and Luoluo, the two girls, could naturally sense the appearance of Gu Yun's aura. The successive bursts from these two made it hard not to wonder if there was some conflict between them. Wu Ling was now burning with anxiety, fearing that something might happen to Gu Yun.
"Sister Wu Ling, you don't need to worry. With His Highness the Emperor Child's methods and strength, nothing will go wrong."
"But… this guy also looks very crazy, what if…"
"You two move slowly here. I'll go ahead and check it out!"
Shi Qingwu said in a deep voice.
The development of events was unexpected, but it just so happened to allow her to seize this opportunity!
Deep within her clear, phoenix-like eyes, a flame of excitement burned.
That high and mighty Gu Family Emperor Child was currently focused on resisting the Dragon Ascension Ladder's rules and had no time for other matters. Perhaps he hadn't discovered the potential danger!
And this suicidal attack launched by the desperado Zhang Chen, though its power was chaotic and violent, its might was indeed earth-shattering!
It was enough to instantly threaten the life of a top Saint Ruler!
Caught off guard, Gu Yun might really suffer a great loss!
But this was precisely her, Shi Qingwu's, perfect script to demonstrate her value, close the distance, and even stage a beauty saving a hero!
She would directly save Gu Yun from his plight, and while he was still shaken, she would block this fatal blow for him, and incidentally suffer some minor injuries, then directly fall unconscious in the young man's arms!
Gu Yun would definitely feel grateful, and then wouldn't this progress bar rapidly shoot up?!
Opportunity knocks but once!
Shi Qingwu unhesitatingly unleashed all her trump cards and reserves.
In his previous life, Zhang Chen was merely a Half-Step Great Emperor, yet he was already acting like he was all that.
And Shi Qingwu was even a reincarnated immortal; her methods and reserves were even more extraordinary. Trump cards were meant to be used, and if she didn't use them at such a perfect moment, she would surely be so angry her chest would ache later.
Even with a later start, she still approached Gu Yun's location at an extremely fast pace!
"The… the third one…"
Jiang Ziyun's expression became quite remarkable.
Even this Xuanfeng Divine Maiden, who had been suppressed by the Xuanfeng Divine Child Feng Wuhen, now displayed such astonishing strength, practically slapping him in the face repeatedly.
For a moment, words were stuck in his throat, and he didn't know what to say.
"The heroes of the world are truly as numerous as carps crossing the river."
…
However, no matter how Shi Qingwu and Zhang Chen erupted, everything remained under Gu Yun's control.
He knew Zhang Chen's intentions perfectly, and he could guess Shi Qingwu's little schemes seven or eight times out of ten.
But Gu Yun's plan was not limited to just these. Ignoring the two relentlessly pursuing him from behind, Gu Yun quickly rushed to the top of the thousand-step Dragon Ascension Ladder!
The peak of the Dragon Ascension Ladder was not the envisioned ancestral dragon dojo, filled with immortal light and auspicious dragon qi.
The scene before them was like a hellish sea of blood transported to the clouds!
Towering crimson-gold clouds, thick and viscous like molten, scalding lava, rolled, roared, and boiled in the void!
Every wisp of cloud was burning, emanating a suffocating scent of sulfur and molten rock.
At the center of everyone, a gigantic gate stood guard, and at its entrance was a terrifying golden giant dragon.
Its aura was incredibly terrifying, comparable to the Great Saint Realm.
There were also several people beside it, but they didn't attack it; instead, they surrounded a young girl.
"Who is it?!"
The sudden, fierce aura caused the several people who were originally in a standoff to turn their gazes over.
Gu Yun quickly recognized all of them.
The two leading figures emanated the strength of Saint Ruler Realm peak.
Eternal Academy, Emperor Wuque.
Dust Heart Sword Sect, Chen Yu.
Both were top-ranked geniuses on the points list, with profound backgrounds and formidable strength.
The two of them could easily kill the golden giant dragon if they teamed up, but they hadn't done so. Moreover, that giant dragon seemed to not attack unless someone trespassed within a certain range of it.
Now, with his feet on the ground, his gaze swept over everyone with ill intent.
Besides the two, there were five inheritors from Emperor-level powers, all possessing the strength of a Saint Ruler, but they were likely similar to Snow Millennium.
They probably received protection from Emperor Wuque and Chen Yu, and combined with their head start, they were able to reach the top of this Dragon Ascension Ladder.
As for Qin Qing霜 and Shi Yue, whom Gu Yun was more concerned about, they were not here. It was possible they had already entered the large gate guarded by the giant dragon.
As for the one surrounded by them, it was naturally the Heavenly Sound Demonic Maiden, Yao Qingli!
Now that she discovered Gu Yun's figure, her expression became incredibly complex.
"Yun… Yun Valley?!"
At this moment, the little Sound Maiden no longer had any of her previous wild and carefree demeanor. She appeared rather disheveled, having been ambushed upon her arrival and was now in a precarious state.
"How did you end up like this?"
His voice was gentle, and he smiled softly as he looked at Yao Qingli.
Emperor Wuque and Chen Yu exchanged glances, both showing confusion in their eyes, but they both simultaneously took a step back.
"You are Yun Valley?!"
This time, Gu Yun activated the deceiving heaven mask and slightly altered some of his facial features.
Thus, in a daze, neither Emperor Wuque nor Chen Yu recognized him.
Gu Yun's plan was simple: Yao Qingli was still useful, and he couldn't let this ticking time bomb detonate at this moment, so he needed to hide a little longer.
However… he couldn't hide for much longer.
Ignoring the seven people, Gu Yun walked to Yao Qingli's side and gently wiped away the tears that streamed from her eyes due to helplessness.
"Where did you go?"
"I've been looking for you for a long time."
Yao Qingli's forehead rested weakly against Gu Yun's chest, and she sobbed as she spoke.
///400///
Chapter 400 Gu Yun takes action
Even with that posture, the young girl still bit her lip, not wanting Gu Yun to see that she was actually strong on the outside but weak on the inside.
"They all bullied you?"
Gu Yun asked softly, his gaze sweeping towards Emperor Wuque, Chen Yu, and the others beside him.
Everyone present felt a chill in their hearts.
The power contained within that gaze was terrifying beyond compare.
It wasn't a deliberate disdain, nor was it overbearing arrogance, but a deeper, more fundamental indifference—a detachment of one standing in the clouds, looking down at ants fighting in the dust.
It was as if everyone present, including the fierce golden dragon, including these Heaven's Chosen from Imperial-level forces, Eternal Academy, and Chenshen Sword Sect, had never truly existed in his eyes, or rather, were not worth mentioning.
This feeling of being completely ignored was thousands of times more frustrating than being directly defeated.
But… the seven people who had been overbearing in front of Yao Qingli were now all trembling, not daring to speak.
Aura-Gazing Technique.
This was a method that all disciples of aristocratic families had to learn; except for when facing a Child of Destiny, it could potentially save lives in critical moments.
Being able to determine an opponent's strength was crucial in the Three Thousand Dao Domains.
Especially higher-level cultivators, who knew the importance of hiding their true abilities; countless Great Emperors even concealed themselves among mortals, intending to comprehend a chance for immortality in this immortal lock-controlled world.
If one were blind and offended these individuals, they could be killed on the spot, and even their elders in the clan would be too late to rescue them.
And Gu Yun currently gave the few people that exact feeling.
Vast as an abyss, unfathomable!
Emperor Wuque gripped the scorched-edged scroll, his knuckles turning white.
Chen Yu's sword-holding hand trembled slightly, feeling Gu Yun's gaze was terrifying.
And the five inheritors from Imperial-level forces were even paler, as if pressed down by an invisible mountain, finding it difficult to even breathe.
They had previously harbored greed and malice, but now only bone-deep fear remained.
That indifferent gaze made them feel as if their lives were at the mercy of the other party's whim!
They wished they could shrink into a ball and disappear from his sight.
"I didn't expect this person to have some connection with fellow Daoist; that truly was a misunderstanding…"
Emperor Wuque's mouth twitched as he spoke, not expecting that merely wanting to exclude the troublesome Yao Qingli had led to such a formidable enemy.
His Aura-Gazing Technique cultivation was truly lacking.
"Indeed, fellow Daoist, if you don't mind, we can jointly slay this guardian Golden Dragon, and as for the inheritance within, we can each rely on our own abilities!"
Chen Yu also gave an awkward smile, trying to entice Gu Yun to join them.
Yao Qingli hurriedly stood up, her slightly flushed face now back to normal: "Yun Valley, don't believe their nonsense! I was just misled by them, which is why they ganged up and plotted against me!"
"They said we would fight this golden dragon together, but then they attacked me midway! How can one trust promises made by such treacherous villains?!"
Yao Qingli's eyes blazed with fury; she wished she could slay all seven of them on the spot.
Fearing that Gu Yun would be deceived by them, she naturally stepped forward to quickly explain the situation.
"Is that so."
Gu Yun's tone was playful, his expression unchanged, merely glancing indifferently at Emperor Wuque and Chen Yu. That gaze, deep as an abyss and vast as the sea, instantly made the two feel a prickling sensation on their backs and a chill throughout their bodies.
Emperor Wuque stepped forward, cupping his hands and coldly saying, "Fellow Daoist, this opportunity belongs to the virtuous."
"In the struggle among Heaven's Chosen, swords have no eyes; this is a perfectly normal occurrence."
"I…"
"You, too, are worthy of cooperating with me?"
Gu Yun grinned, looking at the few of them as if they were mere ants. If not for being in the Ancient Continent, they wouldn't even have the qualifications to speak to him on equal terms.
"You…"
A Blue-robed cultivator behind Emperor Wuque could no longer endure it.
Even a clay figure has a three-point temper, let alone these true Heaven's Chosen whose names echoed throughout the Three Thousand Dao Domains.
Being completely ignored by Gu Yun at this moment, the 悶 in their hearts was beyond measure.
"What fellow Daoist says is a bit too dismissive of us."
"Without our help, how can you alone contend with this golden dragon?!"
Chen Yu held his sword with both hands, looking at Gu Yun, no longer concealing the sharp aura around him.
Since they were going to tear off the pretense, there was no need to keep hiding.
No matter what strength the opponent possessed or what background they had, if he didn't even have the courage to draw his sword, he might as well throw it aside and run into the deep mountains to await death. What was the point of cultivating the Dao or seeking immortality then?!
Emperor Wuque also suppressed the apprehension in his heart: "I know fellow Daoist's strength is extraordinary, but this golden dragon's power is terrifying and difficult to confront head-on."
"It requires the combined effort of many, to distract and contain, in order to defeat the enemy."
"A mere little golden dragon?"
"Is it even necessary to be so troublesome?"
Gu Yun chuckled, then looked at Yao Qingli with a teasing tone: "What's wrong with you?"
"You can clearly handle this yourself, so why team up with others?"
Yao Qingli snorted: "Isn't it because I was anxious to find a certain heartless person?"
Upon seeing Gu Yun again, the slight demonic nature on her body had now been reined in.
However, Gu Yun knew that she had not fully released it; the so-called Heavenly Sound Demonic Lady was something Yao Qingli had inevitably picked up from spending day and night with him, in close contact.
And now, it had become the most crucial part of his plan.
"Hmph, who can't talk big? Several of us couldn't deal with this golden dragon, yet you say you can handle it?"
The Blue-robed cultivator could no longer hold back, scoffing with a face full of mockery, "You really think you're…"
His subsequent words were choked in his throat by a single glance from Gu Yun.
That gaze didn't even deliberately turn towards him; it was merely Gu Yun tilting his head slightly, his peripheral vision just happening to sweep over the noisy Blue-robed cultivator as his gaze passed over Yao Qingli.
Cold.
Not the biting cold of deep winter, but the eternal, unchanging stillness of the deep cosmos, spanning billions of years.
The Blue-robed cultivator felt his soul instantly frozen, his thoughts halted, without even time for fear to rise, as if his entire existence was about to turn into dust under that gaze.
His whole body stiffened, unable to move again.
The next second, Gu Yun moved.
He didn't even have a proper starting stance; he merely casually raised his right hand, index finger and thumb forming a loose pinch.
Behind him, ethereal Dao Body phantoms flickered in and out of sight.
The movement was light and understated, like plucking a falling withered leaf.
However—
"Awooo—!!!"
The earth-shattering dragon roar abruptly ceased, transforming into a distorted, piercing wail filled with extreme pain and boundless terror!
"Transform—!"
Gu Yun's eyes narrowed slightly, his spiritual energy surging like an abyss, terrifying to behold.
In an instant, the massive, fierce golden dragon, coiled like a mountain, its enormous body suddenly stiffened!
Its body, covered in impenetrable golden scales, seemed to be clutched by an invisible, formless, yet omnipresent giant hand!
Every single dragon scale groaned under the unbearable pressure, and the colossal dragon body was forcibly "pulled" from its coiled posture by an irresistible, overwhelming force!
"This, this…"
The cultivators present saw the terrifying Dao Body, hundreds of feet tall, densely covered with countless Dao patterns, layer upon layer, incredibly complex.
Just one glance caused their souls to sting, almost disintegrating, completely unable to discern their number!
The Dao Body's face was blurry, only its downward-gazing eyes were identical to Gu Yun's current gaze—that was an absolute will, looking down on dust, indifferent to life and death!
"Annihilate!!"
//401//
Chapter 401: Destroy the Golden Dragon and Show Divine Power
A soft, airy shout fell.
The massive, mountain-like coiled body of the Golden Dragon, under the indifferent gaze of the Dao Body, began an irreversible, horrifying complete disintegration, like a wax figure thrown into a furnace!
Golden Dragon Blood, like a breached torrent of lava, furiously spurted from the cracks in its scales, which were shattered by an invisible force!
It instantly dyed the ground for dozens of feet around, steaming with golden mist carrying a strong scent of blood and destruction!
The giant Dragon struggled and twisted frantically, its sharp claws tearing through the air with a piercing shriek, and wherever its tail swept, sturdy ancient stone pillars snapped!
But all of this was futile.
The majestic Great Saint Realm Dragon Beast, at this moment, was like an earthworm held in a child's hand; no matter how it twisted and turned, it could not shake the invisible hand that controlled its life and death in the slightest!
In those giant Dragon eyes that once looked down upon all beings, only the most primal fear and submission remained!
However, none of this mattered, as he was merely a spiritual energy body refined from the Ancestor Dragon Heritage to protect itself.
Facing Gu Yun's Myriad Transformation Power, he was inherently suppressed completely.
Unless his power reached the Quasi-Emperor Realm, with the augmentation of Dao power, he might barely be able to contend.
Now, a mere Great Saint Realm, in Gu Yun's hands, was no different from an ordinary Immortal Platform cultivator.
In an instant, under the watchful eyes of all.
The indestructible, brilliant golden Dragon scales covering its entire body melted and dripped silently.
Falling onto the ground and disappearing.
The tough, knotted Dragon tendons and Dragon flesh, containing terrifying power, shriveled and weathered inch by inch, turning into grayish-white dust that scattered.
The majestic Dragon bones, which supported the giant Dragon's imposing presence, let out a grating groan, then snapped and shattered inch by inch under the pressure of an invisible force!
The entire process happened in an instant; this terrifying giant Dragon, which could be called a Great Saint Realm, was easily erased in Gu Yun's palm.
Completely 'transformed' into nothingness, 'extinguishing' all traces!
Dead silence.
Absolute, vacuum-like dead silence swallowed all sound, even breathing and heartbeats seemed frozen.
Emperor Wuque watched this scene, his body trembling slightly, and the scroll in his hand clattered to the ground.
Chen Yu's hand, tightly gripping the ancient sword, also trembled violently; the situation before him was simply horrifying, and his proud Sword Heart, after witnessing that 'annihilation' which transcended Cognition and resembled divine punishment, was like being thrown into a ten-thousand-year-old cold abyss, instantly frozen and covered with cracks!
Mortals, when encountering someone whose talent and ability far surpass their own, will always involuntarily feel awe, an awe that stems from the most fundamental respect for life.
The five Imperial Inheritors had long since collapsed to the ground, like mud with their spines removed.
Especially the Blue-robed cultivator, who couldn't even control himself, and a faint foul odor permeated the air.
"It's merely an Ancestor Dragon, how can it block the way?"
Gu Yun withdrew his hand, that faint smile still lingering on his lips.
It was a perfect alignment of timing, location, and human factors; if it had been a true puppet Great Saint Realm monster guarding, Gu Yun would have had to use some of his trump cards to win.
And it wouldn't have achieved the current effect.
Of course... Gu Yun had known the true nature of the beast guarding this pass from the very beginning, so such an unexpected situation would naturally not occur.
His gaze swept over the seven people, who seemed frozen by ice, finally resting on Emperor Wuque's pale face, which was ashen.
"Gentlemen, why not proceed first?"
The voice was flat, yet it was like an invisible whip lashing at everyone's near-collapsed nerves.
The Blue-robed cultivator trembled like a sieve, and fear, like tangible ice water, filled his limbs and bones.
Gu Yun's indifferent gaze, that terrifying sight of casually erasing a Great Saint Realm giant Dragon, completely crushed his last shred of reason.
What kind of existence had he just offended with his disrespectful words?!
Only one thought remained in his mind: Escape! Escape from this monster! Escape from this place of death!
"Ah—!"
A suppressed, extreme roar, like a dying beast, squeezed from his throat.
His eyes were bloodshot, and the wind-attributed spiritual energy in his body burned frantically and recklessly, even causing a burst of blood mist around him!
Even burning his origin, he wanted to leave this place as quickly as possible; he transformed into a blurry green afterimage, rushing towards the open stone gate leading to the unknown.
His speed was so fast that it almost tore through the air, emitting a piercing shriek!
"You're actually leaving?"
A clear voice sounded by his ear, with a hint of playful surprise.
In an instant, the Blue-robed cultivator's desperately fleeing figure suddenly froze in mid-air!
The space ahead, which had been empty, rippled like water, and Gu Yun's figure appeared out of thin air, as if he had been standing there all along, waiting for him to walk into the trap.
The Blue-robed cultivator's pupils instantly constricted to needlepoints!
The enormous inertia brought by his extreme speed made it impossible for him to stop; he could only watch helplessly as he, like a moth drawn to a flame, crashed straight into that tall, indifferent figure!
"No—!"
A desperate roar tore through his throat.
Gu Yun didn't even bother to raise a hand.
He just watched silently as the Blue-robed cultivator seemed to hit an invisible wall.
The Blue-robed cultivator's body instantly exploded into a mist of blood, with only his head, frozen in pain and horror, being thrown directly out!
His eyes were full of confusion, unable to believe he had died so easily.
"You!"
"He is the Young Master of the Wind Spirit Sect, aren't you afraid of the Wind Spirit Sect's retaliation afterwards?!"
Emperor Wuque stepped out, trembling as he asked.
In reality, he dared not take a single step forward.
Identifying this person was both a threat and a warning.
"Wind Spirit Sect?"
Gu Yun chuckled softly: "How did an affiliated force of the Xuanfeng Immortal Palace get involved with a Prince of your Eternal Imperial Dynasty?"
"Emperor Wuque, what are your intentions?"
Emperor Wuque's expression changed, his heart shocked; why did this person recognize his identity?
What was his true purpose?
As his pupils dilated in shock, he looked at Gu Yun, but that handsome face seemed increasingly familiar.
His Adam's apple bobbed, his voice trembling: "You, you ...are"
///402//
Chapter 402: Blackmail (Two in One)
That familiar, shocking title caught in Emperor Wuque's throat.
If there was anyone among those who entered the Ancient Continent who was the most unapproachable, it was definitely this person.
The direct descendant of the Immortal Ancient Gu Family, backed by three semi-peak powers—Gu Yun!
At this moment, Emperor Wuque's heart was filled with endless regret, not expecting that attacking this woman would lead to conflict with Gu Yun.
The words were about to escape his mouth, but he felt as if his throat was being choked. Emperor Wuque could only open his mouth, unable to make a sound.
"Don't say what shouldn't be said…"
Gu Yun's icy voice echoed in his Sea of Consciousness, making Emperor Wuque forcibly swallow the words that were on the tip of his tongue.
Everyone knew that the Gu Family's second child, Gu Changge, was insane. If you gave him an excuse, he would surely cause a huge commotion.
As the saying goes, the soft fear the hard, the hard fear the ruthless, the ruthless fear the reckless, and the reckless fear those who don't care about their lives.
This Gu Changge was someone who didn't care about his life!
Who would dare provoke such a ruthless person who ventured alone for hundreds of millions of miles, fought against dozens of alien Great Saints, got himself covered in wounds, and still shouted with joy upon returning?!
After Gu Yun released his hand, Emperor Wuque covered his neck and began to retch.
The arrogance in his eyes had long vanished, replaced only by bone-deep fear and lingering dread.
"Is there anyone else who wants to leave?"
Looking at the others, Gu Yun's voice carried a gentle smile, but to Chen Yu and the others, it was like a plunge into the Nine Netherfrost Springs.
"N-no… we wouldn't dare…"
Chen Yu lowered his head, looking at Gu Yun, trembling all over, not daring to utter another word. Facing Gu Yun, they truly had no dignity to speak of.
But that's how this world was, the strong preyed on the weak. If the forces behind them were stronger than the Immortal Ancient Gu Family—no, they couldn't possibly be stronger than the Immortal Ancient Gu Family.
Yao Qingli swallowed. She knew Yun Valley was powerful, but she didn't know Yun Valley was powerful to this extent.
These few individuals in front of her, especially the two leaders, when they joined forces, even she would find them troublesome. Yet, in Gu Yun's hands, they were incredibly fragile.
He even seemed to not exert much effort—
This chasm-like disparity filled the maiden with deep shock.
"They attacked you. How do you plan to deal with them?"
Gu Yun's gaze fell on Yao Qingli's face, speaking with a light chuckle. The teasing in his tone made Yao Qingli's teeth itch. This scoundrel, seeing her suffer, must have been overjoyed!
Her gaze shifted to Chen Yu and the others, whose bodies instantly tensed, their breathing almost stopping.
"Please spare us, Grandmother! We were only worried about your heaven-defying combat power and wanted to force you away from this place of opportunity! We absolutely had no intention of harming you!!"
Everyone shouted in unison, hoping to evoke the maiden's compassion.
Yao Qingli's expression gradually changed. She forced herself to calm down, her thoughts racing.
Kill them?
The identities and backgrounds of these individuals were extraordinary. Killing them might invite trouble.
She did not know Gu Yun's true identity, so it was impossible for her to willingly let Yun Valley fall into a dangerous situation.
Moreover, they truly didn't use lethal force just now. Although they launched a sneak attack, they didn't target vital points. If not for that, Gu Yun probably wouldn't have left room for evasion and excuses.
But if she didn't kill them, it would make her seem weak and easily bullied.
Ultimately, Yao Qingli made a decision.
"The death penalty can be avoided, but the living penalty is unavoidable!"
According to her values, she wouldn't necessarily put someone to death just for such a minor conflict.
Of course, more importantly, Emperor Wuque was from the Eternal Imperial Dynasty. For now, the Eternal Imperial Dynasty and the Ziwei Imperial Dynasty were allies, and they would jointly resist the flourishing Supreme Divine Dynasty.
If she were to directly kill Emperor Wuque here, even if she had every reason, it would inevitably provoke the Eternal Emperor's monstrous wrath, and might even lead to a rift in the alliance.
Such consequences were definitely not something her Third Master, Ziwei Empress, was willing to bear.
At this moment, settling the matter peacefully and downplaying it was the best strategy.
Gu Yun naturally had no objection to this, because he clearly understood Yao Qingli's plan. She never forgot to seek revenge on him, so the Eternal Imperial Dynasty was an indispensable force.
Whether from an emotional or practical standpoint, she would make such a choice.
And for Gu Yun, Emperor Wuque's life was worth tens of millions of times more alive than dead.
It's simple—
Who was Emperor Wuque?
One of the future candidates for power in the Eternal Imperial Dynasty, self-important, vengeful, and narrow-minded.
If it weren't for facing him now, he would definitely be arrogant to the heavens. Such a personality would naturally clash with Child of Destiny like Liu Feng from the bottom of his heart!
Such a person, when Liu Feng's protagonist halo shone, was destined to become one of the greatest obstacles to destiny due to jealousy, competition, or even being trampled underfoot by Liu Feng, leading to resentment!
Killing him would only remove a trivial stumbling block from Liu Feng's path to rise, wasting a perfectly good "troublemaker" chess piece.
And Chen Yu was the same; his close relationship with Emperor Wuque inherently placed him on the opposite side of the Child of Destiny.
Killing someone is merely a nod of the head; dust to dust, ashes to ashes. Besides a few splatters of blood, there is no other use.
Only by making people useful to oneself, by turning opponents into pawns on one's chessboard, can one truly make the best use of everything!
Gu Yun's intrigued gaze felt like a heavy drumbeat in Emperor Wuque's heart, filling him with dread, fearing that the other party might, in a fit of rage, directly kill him and the others.
Even if his life-saving treasures could protect his life, he would certainly suffer heavy losses, and it was even possible that due to the conflict with the Immortal Ancient Gu Family, he would be treated as a discarded piece, after all, the Eternal Imperial Dynasty did not have only him as a prince.
Fortunately, Yao Qingli's words made him breathe a sigh of relief, but in the next instant, his expression changed.
"The death penalty can be avoided, but the crime of sneak attacking and attempting to seize my opportunity cannot be lightly pardoned!"
Her voice suddenly sharpened: "You all think about what kind of treasures you should offer to buy your lives?!"
The brilliant move Yao Qingli thought of was—extortion!
Having just emerged from He Village, although she had a brief encounter with Ziwei Empress, her own foundation was still too weak.
Now that she encountered six foolishly rich magnates, how could she not extort a hefty sum?
Silence.
The scene suddenly fell into a deathly silence.
Everyone was stunned.
No, sister, you put in all that effort, and this is what you wanted?
"Fellow Daoist, can mere treasures truly buy our lives?"
Emperor Wuque asked tentatively, looking at Gu Yun, his eyes filled with inquiry.
Although it seemed like Yao Qingli was making demands, any discerning person knew that the one truly in charge, from beginning to end, was only Gu Yun.
If he hadn't instantly subdued the entire scene with absolute force, the current situation would definitely not be Yao Qingli standing here demanding "ransom money," but rather whether she could retreat safely under everyone's encirclement.
"Why ask me? I'm not the one making demands?"
Gu Yun had a playful smile on his lips.
He spread his hands, his posture relaxed: "This 'deal' was opened by her."
"You just ask her."
Yao Qingli's pretty face turned cold, infuriated by Gu Yun's completely detached attitude.
This scoundrel! Forcing her to play the villain while he comfortably watched the show from the sidelines!
"Are you going to hand them over or not?"
"If not, I'll kill you all now. If anything happens, you can find him, not me."
Yao Qingli snorted lightly, expressing her displeasure in this way.
"Yes, yes, of course we will."
"Thank you, Grandmother, for saving our lives!"
Emperor Wuque quickly shouted, not daring to hesitate any longer. He forcefully activated his divine sense to communicate with his trembling storage ring, which was suppressed by the spatial confinement.
Buzz!
A difficult glow emerged from between his fingers, and a mountain-like heavy aura permeated the air.
A three-foot-tall ancient pagoda floated above Emperor Wuque's trembling palm!
The pagoda's body flowed with a dense, solidified dark-gold color, as if containing the primordial power of the earth!
The pagoda was divided into seven layers, each radiating dazzling halos, seemingly simulating the movement of the myriad star seas.
A trace of Xuanhuang Mother Qi even lingered upon it, making its profound essence and aura even more profound and terrifying.
"Xuanhuang Futu Pagoda?!"
"It's just a replica."
Gu Yun glanced at the item, saying faintly.
The true Xuanhuang Futu Pagoda was the Eternal Imperial Dynasty's nation-suppressing imperial weapon, only one step away from reaching the immortal artifact level. How could Emperor Wuque carry it with him?
"That's right, it's a replica."
Emperor Wuque showed no embarrassment, instead, he was quite confident: "This pagoda was given to me by my Imperial Father. It consumed a vast amount of rare treasures and even incorporated a small amount of the true 'Xuanhuang Futu Pagoda's' original essence during its refinement!"
"Even as a replica, its power is far beyond ordinary divine weapons, and it has the potential to become a quasi-imperial weapon in the future!"
"It's still just a replica."
Gu Yun said calmly, his eyes incredibly deep and sharp as an eagle's.
Emperor Wuque, however, felt a surge of repressed blood rush to his head. This fellow!
"Of-of course, there's more than just this pagoda!"
Emperor Wuque gritted his teeth, having no choice but to spend money to avert disaster. Wealth was external; at worst, he could go back and cry, make a scene, and threaten to hang himself with his mother. He would always be able to get more.
If his life was gone, it was truly gone.
He fiercely pulled off another seemingly simple dark-black ring from his finger, and then violently vomited out a mass of liquid metal, tightly wrapped by layers of vital essence and blood, sparkling with points of starlight, from his dantian qi sea!
These two treasures were what he had gained in the Ancient Continent.
"Empty Nether Gold Marrow! And… and the 'Heavenly Star Teleportation Divine Ring'!"
Emperor Wuque's voice was filled with heartache. The value of these two treasures was undeniably high.
"This is not bad, it's enough to buy your life!"
Yao Qingli was overjoyed and was about to take the treasures, but a pair of hands blocked her way.
"What are you doing?"
Yao Qingli looked at Gu Yun, asking in confusion.
"These treasures are all rare and exotic. If kept in ordinary storage rings, they might lose their spiritual essence."
"I'll keep them for you first."
Saying that, he directly swallowed all three treasures into the Great Luo Dao Pagoda. The treasures flashed before her eyes for an instant and then disappeared, startling the little money-grubber Yao Qingli to the point of almost going crazy.
"Ah ah ah ah ah ah!!!"
"Yun Valley, you scoundrel, quickly return my treasures!!"
Yao Qingli was enraged and embarrassed, shaking Gu Yun's clothes relentlessly.
Even Emperor Wuque was shocked.
"What is the origin of this woman?"
"She dares to tug on the Gu Family Emperor Child's robes?!"
However, Yao Qingli's complaints were ultimately meaningless. Once the items entered Gu Yun's pocket, there was no reason for them to come out again.
[Ding! Host has infuriated the Heavenly Destiny Daughter Yao Qingli, rewarding 3000 Villain Points]
No Destiny Points, only Villain Points?
Little Qingli, you…
Gu Yun chuckled, directly clamping Yao Qingli under his arm, while covering her small mouth with one hand, his gaze turning to Chen Yu.
Chen Yu didn't dare to hesitate for a moment. He suddenly pulled out a jade marrow crystal bottle from deep within his embrace!
The bottle was no bigger than a fist, entirely translucent like a ten-thousand-year-old ice heart jadeite, and within it flowed a pool of colorful divine liquid that seemed alive!
The liquid was dazzling and elusive, with swirling, ethereal mists, exuding an indescribably vast vitality and gentle Dao charm!
His face was filled with heartache. This was a treasure bestowed by the Heart of Dust Sword Sect to help him consolidate his Great Saint Realm cultivation, and just one bottle, after consumption, could reduce three hundred years of arduous cultivation!
Now, he had to offer it up.
Yao Qingli watched, her beautiful eyes wide, her two small short hands flailing in the air, but under Gu Yun's demonic grip, she had no power to resist whatsoever.
She could only watch helplessly as Gu Yun smilingly accepted the treasure.
Subsequently, the four surviving individuals also eagerly came forward to offer treasures, their attitudes more humble and fawning than the last.
None of the treasures they produced were below the quasi-imperial level.
Each of them flattered and fawned over Gu Yun, hoping to climb the high branch of the Immortal Ancient Gu Family, which might even be more useful than the Eternal Imperial Dynasty.
The only female cultivator among them even tried to get closer to Gu Yun, emitting some strange fragrance to attract his attention, but in a startled cry, she turned into a puddle of pus.
"Ah~"
Gu Yun yawned, saying with a smile, "Are you all done delivering?"
A smiling tiger.
This was a naked smiling tiger!!
Witnessing another person die before their eyes, yet Gu Yun seemed completely unfazed, the surviving individuals gained a deeper understanding of Gu Yun's ruthlessness, and at the same time, felt even more fortunate that they hadn't made any small moves.
"Thank you, Fellow Daoist, for sparing our lives!"
Everyone knelt down in unison, even Emperor Wuque, the Imperial Prince, was no exception.
From then on, the five of them could be said to hold leverage over each other, sharing prosperity and suffering together.
"Since that's the case, let's go too."
Gu Yun said with a smile to Yao Qingli beside him.
"Wuwu, wuwuwuwu!!!"
Yao Qingli frantically protested, but besides making Gu Yun's palm wet, it was useless.
"Ow!!!"
Finally, unable to bear the humiliation, Yao Qingli directly opened her mouth and bit Gu Yun's palm hard.
Gu Yun feigned pain and then let her go.
As soon as her feet touched the ground, she immediately sprang two steps away like a ruffled kitten, rubbing her numb jaw, her beautiful eyes blazing at Gu Yun, filled with monstrous rage!
"Yun Valley, you bastard bandit!!"
"Those are mine! My treasures! How dare you take them all! Give them back to me! Immediately! Right now! Otherwise, I'm not done with you!!"
She was so angry that her voice trembled, and the finger she pointed at Gu Yun was shaking.
She bared her fangs and claws, wishing she could pounce on him and bite him again.
///403//
Chapter 403 Entering the Temple (Two in One)
At this moment, Yao Qingli was like a small beast whose beloved toy had been snatched away, baring her fangs and claws, wanting nothing more than to pounce and bite him.
This scene left Emperor Wuque and the others utterly stunned, and at the same time, Yao Qingli's appearance was etched into their minds, placing her in the category of absolutely not to be provoked.
Gu Yun, however, merely leisurely shook the hand she had bitten, leaving shallow teeth marks, as if just dusting off a speck of dirt.
"It wasn't easy to regain your life, so you should cherish it well."
He looked at Emperor Wuque and the others, his words full of profound meaning.
"Yes…"
Emperor Wuque responded, his voice trembling, clutching his still churning chest, savoring the relief of surviving a disaster.
"After returning, I must tell Father Emperor that the relationship with the Supreme Divine Dynasty needs to change!"
As his complex emotions gradually calmed, Emperor Wuque's gaze became increasingly profound.
Gu Yun represented not only the Immortal Ancient Gu Family but also the Supreme Divine Dynasty.
The Eternal Imperial Dynasty bordered the Supreme Divine Dynasty, and between these two behemoths, conflicts naturally arose continuously. A major reason for their current stalemate was the aging core strongmen of the Supreme Divine Dynasty; the core powers of the imperial family and aristocratic families mostly had to enter long periods of slumber and could not act recklessly.
However, Gu Yun's appearance had a high probability of breaking this balance.
What the Eternal Imperial Dynasty should do next was his Father Emperor's business. What Emperor Wuque needed to do was report this important intelligence.
"Emperor Wuque, what should we do?"
Chen Yu looked at Emperor Wuque, his expression also very serious. Gu Yun had already left, and the terrifying pressure had disappeared, allowing this young sword cultivator to regain his usual calm and composure.
"Let's go…"
"With him here, even if we enter this great hall, it will be difficult to gain anything."
Emperor Wuque sighed helplessly.
Chen Yu suddenly said, "But the spiritual energy here is extremely abundant. If we leave now, wouldn't it be a complete waste?"
Everyone fell silent for a moment.
Their gazes involuntarily turned towards the center of the great hall.
Would that guy return? If he came back and found them still here, would he think his authority had been challenged and attack in anger?
At this moment, everyone's emotions became incredibly complex.
But just then, an enraged shout came from behind: "You damn bastard, quickly return my Dual Pupils to me!!"
The roars echoed, as if a vengeful spirit had emerged from hell.
This made Emperor Wuque and the others all look vigilant. At this moment, there was no time to consider whether to stay or leave; they had to solve the immediate problem first.
In a blink of an eye, a figure engulfed in blazing demonic flames rushed out from the Dragon Ascension Ladder. It was Zhang Chen, who had already fully unleashed his power earlier.
"What the hell is that?!"
The sudden, uninvited guest made everyone present tense up, standing ready as if facing a formidable enemy!
The person before them had swelled several sizes, his muscles bulging like red-hot refined gold, and coarse, twisted black blood vessels protruded from his skin, making him look quite terrifying.
"Get… get lost!!!"
He roared, his aura surging, but Emperor Wuque and the others regained their composure after a moment of shock.
"You damn bastard, even some random cat or dog dares to jump out and chirp now?!"
Chen Yu's long sword slashed out, his aura surging.
Emperor Wuque's eyes turned cold.
The scene of being humiliated by Gu Yun was still vivid in his mind, already filling his heart with suppressed anger. "I dare not act against Gu Yun, but do you think I wouldn't dare to act against you, a devil who appeared out of nowhere?!"
"I heard long ago that a true demon has appeared on the Ancient Continent. I didn't expect it to be true!"
"Everyone, follow me to slay demons and eliminate evil, and restore peace to the world!"
Emperor Wuque raised his arm and called out, and everyone responded.
In an instant, emotions ran high, and the five unleashed their power almost simultaneously.
They all rushed to encircle and kill Zhang Chen.
Meanwhile, Shi Qingwu enveloped her body with a wisp of clear wind, and seeing the scene unfolding before her, she frowned slightly.
"Why is someone blocking the way here?!"
She had entered the Dragon Ascension Ladder relatively late and did not know that Emperor Wuque and the others had already reached the top.
Now, they were blocking Zhang Chen. Could it be that they were all Gu Yun's people?!!
But if that were the case, wouldn't her meticulously planned scheme of a beauty saving the hero fall through?!!
Shi Qingwu's expression changed slightly. No, absolutely not. This was her only bottom line.
However, she was also unwilling to just help Zhang Chen like this, essentially doing all the work for him.
Her ultimate goal was to help Gu Yun and increase the binding progress, not to help Zhang Chen. Whether this guy lived or died was meaningless.
But it was very important for him to complete his mission.
Concealing her aura even more perfectly, Shi Qingwu silently watched everything unfolding in the field.
Currently, it seemed Zhang Chen could hold on for some time. If he really couldn't resist in the end, she could also step in to help a little, weakening his strength while also not hindering the perfect execution of the plan.
She truly was a clever little sprite.
Little Gu Yun, won't you obediently fall into this immortal's plan?
...
Gu Yun, who had already entered the great hall, was unaware of Shi Qingwu's thoughts. He only knew that almost all the actors were in position.
The reason he left Emperor Wuque and the others behind instead of directly driving them away was partly due to these considerations.
This was to prevent Zhang Chen's appearance from disrupting his subsequent plans midway.
Furthermore, with Shi Qingwu stirring up trouble, Gu Yun easily calculated all the variables.
Ultimately, events could only unfold according to the script in his mind.
Yao Qingli chased after him from behind, her pretty face puffed up with anger, looking very displeased.
"Yun Valley!"
"Quickly return my treasures to me!!"
[Ding! Heavenly Destiny Daughter Yao Qingli is extremely angry, rewarding 2000 Villain Points]
With Villain Points continuously accumulating, a faint smile always hung on Gu Yun's lips.
He did not respond, only continued to move deeper into the great hall.
Seeing Gu Yun's deaf and unyielding attitude, the fire in Yao Qingli's heart was about to explode!
Seeing his swaying, broad back, she directly leaped and hugged onto Gu Yun's back.
Her arms wrapped tightly around his neck, and her legs, like an octopus, clamped firmly around his waist!
The force was so great, as if she wanted to embed herself into him.
"Give me back my treasures! Give them back! You big liar! You big bandit!"
She shook Gu Yun vigorously while shouting angrily into his ear, her warm breath caressing Gu Yun's earlobe.
A familiar fragrant breeze brushed against his face.
Gu Yun's steps only paused slightly, then he continued forward as if nothing had happened.
It was as if he wasn't carrying a vibrant beauty on his back, but merely a lightweight cloak.
"Let go."
His voice was calm, showing no emotion.
"No letting go! I won't let go! If you don't give me back my things, I'll bite you to death!"
Yao Qingli, blinded by anger, blurted out the threat.
She acted on her words, truly opening her small mouth, revealing two rows of neat, snow-white little teeth, and fiercely bit down on Gu Yun's earlobe, which was within reach!
[Ding! Heavenly Destiny Daughter Yao Qingli is exasperated and has launched an "attack" on the host, rewarding 3000 Villain Points!]
However, Gu Yun's expected reaction of pain did not appear.
Yao Qingli only felt as if she had bitten into a warm yet indestructible immortal jade!
Her teeth ached terribly; let alone breaking the skin, not even a mark was left!
Instead, her own tooth roots were numb with pain.
"Ugh…"
She cried out in pain, covering her mouth, tears almost welling up, and her actions of hanging on Gu Yun's back also stiffened.
Gu Yun didn't even turn his head, merely commenting indifferently: "Good teeth."
"But be careful next time, some things cannot be bitten."
"You can try somewhere else…"
"You! You! I'll fight you to the death!"
Yao Qingli completely exploded, no longer caring about her toothache. Her hands released Gu Yun's neck and instead reached to pull Gu Yun's hair.
Just like on Blue Star in her previous life, girls only had a few moves when fighting.
Seeing Yao Qingli's attention shift elsewhere.
Gu Yun directly backhanded, his movements swift as lightning and incredibly precise, clasping Yao Qingli's two small wrists that were causing trouble above his head, attempting to pull his hair!
Her hands were soft and delicate to the touch, yet struggled with a stubborn strength.
"Ah! Let go of me!" Yao Qingli cried out in alarm. With her hands restrained, she instantly lost her balance. Near Gu Yun, she felt her body tingle and go numb, and her usually fierce spiritual energy was now useless.
Yao Qingli, without her spiritual energy, was just a slightly stronger girl. Under the intense shaking, her legs, which were tightly clamped around his waist, also instinctively loosened.
Her body leaned back, about to slip.
In an instant, Gu Yun's free left hand, like a phantom, reached back, very naturally yet with an irresistible force, precisely encircling her slender waist that could be spanned by a single hand!
A mighty and irresistible force instantly transmitted!
"Ah—!"
Yao Qingli felt her entire world spin. She only managed to let out a short gasp before her entire body was forcibly pulled from behind to the front by Gu Yun's strong and powerful arm!
His movements were fluid and seamless, without the slightest hesitation.
He was clearly a seasoned perpetrator.
Just one arm, like an iron hoop, firmly locked her waist, rendering her unable to move!
Yao Qingli's cheek instantly pressed against Gu Yun's cool clothing. Through the thin fabric, she could even clearly feel the other party's heartbeat beneath his chest!
"You… you let go of me!"
Yao Qingli was both shy and angry, her entire pretty face instantly flushing red!
She twisted her body desperately, trying to break free from this embarrassing restraint.
But Gu Yun's arm was like divine gold, unmoving!
"Let go?"
"Didn't you throw yourself at me?"
Gu Yun lowered his head slightly, his handsome and unparalleled face, now with a hint of playful amusement, drew close to her earlobe, which was red and hot from shame and anger.
His warm breath brushed against her sensitive earlobe, bringing a strange tingling sensation that made her body tremble uncontrollably.
"Hugging and biting, and even pulling hair… I can't just let you act so wantonly, can I?"
"What hugging and biting?!"
"What nonsense are you talking about? I wanted my treasures back, my treasures!"
"Treasures? What treasures?!"
"You, you, you, what are you kidding about?!!!"
Yao Qingli trembled with anger: "It's the treasures those guys gave you."
She tried to recall, but she couldn't remember the names of Emperor Wuque and the others at all.
That kind of thing wasn't important; the fact that Gu Yun had embezzled her treasures was more important.
"Profound Yellow Pagoda, Empty Nether Gold Marrow, Teleportation Ring…"
She listed the names of the treasures one by one, as if counting her family's valuables.
"Stop, stop, what are you talking about?"
"Aren't all these my treasures?"
Gu Yun looked down at her chest, which was gently rising and falling with excitement, feeling the struggle of the warm, soft jade in his arms, and the astonishing elasticity that came through the fabric. The playful smile on his lips deepened.
Not only did he not let go, but the arm around her waist tightened a bit, pulling her soft body closer to his, almost perfectly flush.
"What's yours? Clearly…"
"Look, weren't those guys defeated by me?"
Gu Yun very naturally interrupted her words.
"Hmm."
"So they were showing their submission to me, which is why they took out treasures to beg for their lives."
"You little girl, you barely got your life back, don't think about this and that anymore."
"You, you, you…"
Yao Qingli's delicate body trembled with anger at Gu Yun's unreasonable quibbling: "You clearly said you'd let me deal with them,"
"I said let them hand over treasures as an apology, but now you want to take them for yourself. You, you, you don't keep your word!"
As she accused him, she futilely struggled and twisted under the iron-like grip of Gu Yun's arm. Her soft body rubbed against Gu Yun's firm chest, creating a series of unusual sensations.
Suddenly, she felt something hard, and her body stiffened.
"Yun Valley, I was just joking with you, you don't need to get serious, do you?"
She chuckled awkwardly, only then realizing that she seemed unable to exert her strength.
Though she was fierce, she wasn't foolish.
Just now, Gu Yun had so casually slain the golden dragon and scared those bad guys into such a state, she had already guessed that she was likely no match for him.
Begging for mercy now was the mark of a wise person.
"That depends on your performance. If you make me unhappy, you'll see if I stab you or not."
Gu Yun threatened fiercely.
Yao Qingli was so scared she dared not make a sound, because she could feel the dangerous aura, which meant Gu Yun was not joking.
He absolutely was not.
Her delicate body, which had been futilely twisting, instantly tensed up, like a stiff piece of wood.
In just a few words, she became obedient.
Gu Yun also didn't continue to scare her. He had only shown three or four tenths of his strength and already scared her into this state. He wondered what would happen later.
The now obedient Yao Qingli was like a docile little cat, held in Gu Yun's arms. The two moved very quickly towards the depths of the great hall.
Soon, they arrived at the true place of inheritance.
In an instant, several surging auras emanated from within.
"There, there's someone?!"
"You, you quickly put me down!"
Yao Qingli said urgently.
But Gu Yun seemed to turn a deaf ear, still holding Yao Qingli with one hand as he rushed towards the source of the auras.