Chapter 666: Insatiable Greed
"Brother Yun, what should we do now?"
Seeing that the Four Great Demon Emperors had truly moved against Heavenly Three just as Gu Yun said.
Feng Yunshu looked at Gu Yun with stars in her eyes, anticipating his next move.
"Wait."
"Wait?!!"
Feng Yunshu was shocked. "Isn't that just waiting for death? Brother Yun, that Heavenly Three is only a First Heaven Great Emperor. He won't last long against four Great Emperors who are just as strong as or stronger than him. Once they finish him off, we'll be the ones waiting for death."
"We can only keep waiting."
"The reason they were willing to attack Heavenly Three was based on the premise that they could completely control us."
"The moment we show even a hint of wanting to escape, they will immediately turn their spears around and deal with us."
"If you don't believe me, look. Even though the battle is so intense, some of the Qingmu Tree Emperor's branches are still locked onto us without the slightest relaxation."
Gu Yun said, his voice heavy.
"Then... then what should we do?"
"Wait..."
"Don't worry, I know what I'm doing. The Phoenix Power is the ruler of the Qixia Mountain Range. If they want to submit, they submit. If they don't want to... they must submit anyway!!"
Gu Yun spoke with an air of arrogance; from beginning to end, he had never truly regarded these four demon emperors as a threat.
A strange sense of security welled up in her heart, and Feng Yunshu nodded heavily. "Alright, Brother Yun, I believe you. What else do you need me to do next?"
"Nothing much. Just make sure you don't embarrass your father!"
Gu Yun said, while secretly sending a voice transmission to Chu Ruoyao: "Senior Chu, are you ready?"
"Hmph, I thought you'd forgotten about me. After all, my presence does interfere with your flirting."
"What, you went to a secret realm and stole that little girl's heart, and now that you're free, you finally remember me?"
"The thousand illusions pipa. This is the last time."
"...You!"
Chu Ruoyao was fuming. The thousand illusions pipa, the thousand illusions pipa! I could just give up on that damn pipa!
"Fine... the last time. If you ever dare to use this to pressure me again, I will absolutely not compromise, even if there are so many experts standing behind you!"
The bloodthirsty Blood Pipa had compromised yet again... On the other side, with a calculated ambush, the battle ended quickly.
In a head-on confrontation or a duel, Heavenly Three was not even a match for the Ice Chi Demon Emperor and the Golden Flame Lion Emperor, let alone the Second Tribulation Dark Demon Tiger Emperor and the Third Tribulation Qingmu Tree Emperor.
With the Sixth Tribulation Chu Ruoyao also making moves from the shadows, she blocked Heavenly Three's only remaining escape routes.
The great battle lasted for a day and a night. The Four Great Demon Emperors each suffered some damage, but they finally managed to drive Heavenly Three into a corner.
"Foolish! You are truly beyond foolish!!"
Before his death, Heavenly Three's indignant rage echoed between heaven and earth.
Amidst a shrill scream, his body was engulfed by the Golden Flame Lion Emperor's flames and frozen by the Ice Chi Demon Emperor's chill, before finally being torn to shreds by the Dark Demon Tiger Emperor's claws.
His dissipating soul tried to escape but was completely crushed by the Qingmu Tree Emperor's vines.
A dignified Heaven-level assassin of the Shadow Tower, the Great Emperor expert Heavenly Three, had fallen, his soul utterly destroyed!
An Emperor falls, his soul extinguished.
Blood rained from the sky.
Inside the valley, the land that had been left in ruins by the battle began to radiate vibrant life once more.
Feng Yunshu stared blankly at the scene, her heart not relaxing in the slightest.
As expected, with the meddling outsider gone, the gazes of the Four Great Demon Emperors locked back onto Gu Yun and Feng Yunshu.
The killing intent and greed permeating the air became even more blatant.
"Little friend, come with us."
The Qingmu Tree Emperor was all smiles, looking like a kind and benevolent old man, making the fresh blood on his hands seem all the more ironic.
Four terrifying pressures at the Great Emperor level crashed down like four invisible mountains.
"Are you lot trying to rebel?!!"
Feng Yunshu's delicate body trembled, but she still struggled to stand tall. Crimson-gold flames rose around her as she fought against the overwhelming pressure.
She refused to let the dignity of the Phoenix Clan fall.
"Hehe, hehehe."
"Little girl, you don't actually think a phoenix without a backer can still have any deterrent effect on us, do you?"
The Golden Flame Lion Emperor sneered. "You are just a vessel now; you have no right to bargain with us!"
Saying that, he raised a claw and attacked Gu Yun directly. "Watch closely! If you don't cooperate, this will be your end!!"
"Brother Yun!!"
Feng Yunshu turned pale with fright. How could she remain calm when it involved Gu Yun?
"Heh..."
The other three demon emperors watched the scene with cold sneers. Feng Yunshu couldn't die yet; she was a little phoenix and still needed to grow.
Until she was fully matured, using fear to control her was a good choice.
Gu Yun's death would surely leave a terrifying brand on this little phoenix's heart.
However... the expected scene of the human exploding into a bloody mist did not occur.
The Golden Flame Lion Emperor's attack landed but was blocked by a figure that suddenly appeared.
The person wore a blood-red dress, and her entire aura was seductive and eerie.
"A S-Sixth Tribulation Great Emperor?!!"
Looking at the figure that had suddenly appeared, the Four Great Demon Emperors all showed looks of disbelief.
Their first instinct was to flee, but they found that the surrounding environment had been completely locked down by a strange formation.
Eight Divine Armor Puppets had long since been released by Gu Yun, forming the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array. The world turned into a giant cage, slightly restricting the speed of the Four Great Demon Emperors.
With the strength of demon emperors, they would naturally break through it quickly.
But even a momentary delay was enough to be fatal in a battle between Great Emperors.
Especially for a top-tier expert like Chu Ruoyao. Her figure flitted by like a flower, instantly adding many wounds to the bodies of the demon emperors.
Her form was dreamlike and illusory, sometimes appearing like a terrifying god of slaughter, other times like three celestial gods filling the sky, elusive and omnipresent.
Having just killed Heavenly Three and exhausted much of their energy, they were now being ambushed by Chu Ruoyao while caught off guard.
The Four Great Demon Emperors were suppressed in an instant.
"Roar! Damn human!!"
The Golden Flame Lion Emperor even found time to curse at Gu Yun.
"I saw you boasting so extravagantly before, but in an actual fight, you seem to be just so-so."
Gu Yun spoke with a smile.
"Damn it, why don't you try fighting four at once?"
"It's already good enough that I can hold them back. If you can't help, then just stay on the side and watch quietly. Don't cause trouble here!"
Chu Ruoyao was furious.
"Who said I can't help?"
Setting down Feng Yunshu, who had just been lulled to sleep by the Myriad Transformation Power, Gu Yun's body slowly floated up, his aura gradually rising.
"My hands are itching. It's the perfect time to kill an emperor for fun."
"Whose mouth was the foulest just now?"
The miserable Golden Flame Lion Emperor trembled as he was suddenly locked onto by a powerful aura.
"Good, then I've decided it's you."
"origin divine spear, rise!"
//667//
Chapter 667: One Battle to Decide the Universe (Two-in-One)
The young man's voice wasn't loud, but it carried a strange penetrative power.
He slowly ascended into the air, his robes fluttering without wind, and an indescribable sense of ancientness and vastness emanated from his body.
He clasped his right hand in the air, and within his palm, spiritual power swirled. A wondrous, chaotic long spear materialized from nothingness into his grasp.
The spearhead was not sharp, even somewhat blunt, yet it seemed to carry the
origin divine spear!
"What kind of weapon is that?!"
The Qingmu Tree Emperor's aged voice was filled with surprise and doubt.
He felt a threat from that long spear that made his very essence tremble!
"Just a show of bravado."
Although the Golden Flame Lion Emperor was being suppressed miserably by Chu Ruoyao, his pride as a Demon Emperor made him furious upon hearing Gu Yun's words, feeling an unprecedented insult.
He was a Great Emperor!
Even if he was only a One-Tribulation Great Emperor, he had comprehended complete Emperor Dao laws and was a supreme existence transcending the mundane!
A mere quasi-Emperor cultivator, holding a strange weapon, wanted to kill him?
What a huge joke!
However, this weapon did look extraordinary. If he could claim it for himself, perhaps... A greedy glint flashed in the Golden Flame Lion Emperor's eyes at this thought.
"Whether it's a show or not, we'll know after one try."
Gu Yun's expression was calm. Time was pressing, and he had no leisure to continue playing games with these demon beasts.
He had to finish this quickly. Without hesitation, he directly used his final trump card.
Great Emperor cultivation, activate!
Gu Yun silently recited in his heart, and the dormant [Great Emperor Cultivation Experience Card] instantly activated.
After using this item several times for deterrence, Gu Yun now had thirty-three breaths of time left.
Today, he would use this divine power to slay an Emperor!
Boom—!!
An indescribable, colossal power, as if a volcano dormant for eons had suddenly erupted, surged out of Gu Yun's body without reservation, threatening to tear apart the heavens and earth!
At this moment, heaven and earth changed color, and terrifying Emperor's might spread out from Gu Yun!
One Tribulation, Two Tribulations... it abruptly stopped only after reaching the Seventh Tribulation level.
"What?!"
"Th-this is impossible!!!"
The Four Great Demon Emperors, especially the Golden Flame Lion Emperor, who was locked onto by Gu Yun's gaze, all felt as if struck by lightning, frozen on the spot!
They looked with horror at the young man holding the long spear, suspended in the air.
All of this exceeded their understanding.
A second ago, he was just a junior quasi-Emperor with a slightly peculiar aura.
The next second, he seemed to have transformed into an ancient Divine Emperor, wielding the authority of heaven and earth, immortal through countless tribulations!
That boundless spiritual power, vast as an abyss, was even stronger than many old monsters deep within the Qixia Mountain Range, and no less than Feng Lingxiao back then.
Chu Ruoyao also stopped her attack, a slight curl to her lips. Since that Smelly Kid was going to act, why bother making her exert so much effort?
With her Three Pure Ones not unified, it was impossible for her to take down four Great Emperors in a short time with her current strength.
But for Gu Yun, it was different. He had the trump card of late-stage Great Emperor cultivation, an effect even better than her own intervention.
"You, what kind of monster are you?"
The Golden Flame Lion Emperor now had no trace of disdain or greed, only boundless fear.
Seeing Gu Yun slowly raise the long spear in his hand, his liver and guts split. Without any hesitation, he turned to tear through space and flee!
"Roar—! Everyone, get out of my way!"
He roared, burning his essence blood origin, and the golden flames around him surged, attempting to forcibly break through the spatial stagnation caused by Gu Yun's Emperor's might.
However, it was too late.
Since Gu Yun had decided to act, he would not give him any more chances.
Locking onto the Golden Flame Lion Emperor's fleeing back, he did not pursue, but merely gently pushed the origin divine spear in his hand forward.
Om—!
The spearhead trembled, tearing through the void.
A scorched smell lingered in the air. Myriad Transformation Power could simulate, evolve, and transform all kinds of power in the world. At this moment, Gu Yun's intention was the most destructive Phoenix True Flame!
A crimson trajectory streaked across the sky, arriving in an instant.
The Golden Flame Lion Emperor had just... a chaotic spearhead burning with blazing crimson-gold flames had silently pierced his back.
Fast!
Unparalleled speed.
When the spear struck, it was as if all outcomes were already predetermined.
"No—!!!"
The Golden Flame Lion Emperor only managed to let out half a scream of horror.
Puff!
The tip of the origin divine spear, like a red-hot branding iron piercing through ice and snow, effortlessly penetrated the Golden Flame Lion Emperor's Emperor body, which was comparable to divine metal.
"How... is this possible...?"
Time seemed to completely freeze at this moment. The Golden Flame Lion Emperor stared blankly at the wound that appeared on his chest, muttering.
The four people fighting nearby also stopped their movements, watching this scene in disbelief.
The expected bloody scene of blood splattering did not occur. The Emperor Dao law on the spear tip instantly ignited the demonic power on the Golden Flame Lion Emperor's body.
Only agonizing wails remained in the heavens and earth.
"Save... me..."
The other three Demon Emperors all moved, wanting to rescue him, but they were completely blocked by Chu Ruoyao alone.
Without the Golden Flame Lion Emperor, they were already in perilous situations just resisting Chu Ruoyao's attacks, let alone breaking through her blockade.
"Human boy, do you really want to fight us to the death?!"
The Qingmu Tree Emperor said, feigning fierceness while inwardly weak, completely forgetting who had first bared their fangs.
"Greed leads to ruin."
"Presumably, you all should have known the consequences before acting."
Gu Yun's lips curled slightly. With a flick of his wrist in the air, the Golden Flame Lion Emperor's roar abruptly ceased.
The crimson-gold flames that engulfed his entire body had completely destroyed his physical form. A lion-shaped divine soul attempting to escape from the remnant body was immediately pulled by a fierce suction force.
The Golden Flame Lion Emperor looked back, only to see a gigantic furnace appear between heaven and earth, spanning the sky, ancient and mottled, with its mouth wide open, spewing chaotic energy, emitting a terrifying suction and heat that made even the stars tremble.
Heaven and earth as a furnace, refining an Emperor into a pill!
His death was at hand!
"No, I... I am a Great Emperor, how could you possibly kill me?!"
The Golden Flame Lion Emperor's divine soul let out a final desperate roar. In front of that heaven-shaking suction, his so-called Great Emperor divine soul was as small and powerless as a candle in the wind.
Roar!
The majestic lion's roar contained the Golden Flame Lion Emperor's last Emperor Dao origin and remaining will. Even within the furnace, he did not give up.
"A dying struggle."
Gu Yun's expression was indifferent. He clasped his left hand into a fist and gently pressed it towards the furnace's phantom.
Om—!
The furnace rumbled. The lion-shaped divine soul phantom, which had just expanded and tried to burst open, was suddenly squeezed tightly as if by an invisible large hand!
Bang!
With a muffled sound, that Emperor-realm divine soul actually began to melt and disintegrate, greedily swallowed and refined by the furnace!
At the same time, the massive lion body below could no longer support itself and exploded into countless golden light particles, drawn by the furnace like rivers flowing into the sea, disappearing into the furnace mouth.
Moments later, the furnace phantom shone brightly, and the furnace body trembled!
A crimson-gold pill, the size of a dragon's eye, slowly flew out from the furnace mouth and landed in Gu Yun's palm.
The moment the pill was formed, the residual aura of the Golden Flame Lion Emperor in the heavens and earth completely dissipated.
An Emperor had fallen!
His body and soul were utterly destroyed, leaving no bones behind!!!
Silence!
A deathly silence!
The wild wind seemed to hold its breath, frozen in mid-air.
All of this happened too suddenly, and too far beyond everyone's comprehension.
The Qingmu Tree Emperor, Dark Demon Tiger Emperor, and Ice Chi Demon Emperor, three Demon Emperors who shook one side, now stood frozen like clay statues or wooden carvings.
Even with their talent, they had never witnessed such a horrifying feat.
They had thought they were just two little lambs that could be easily manipulated, but they turned out to be true tigers hiding their strength.
A Great Emperor... just vanished so easily.
What would he do next?
Who would he target?!!!
They had lived for too long, and couldn't remember the last time they felt fear. Unexpectedly, they experienced it again today because of Gu Yun.
Extremely terrifying.
"Monster, he's a monster."
The Ice Chi Demon Emperor was already terrified. His strength and the Golden Flame Lion Emperor's were originally on par. Looking at the few drops of Emperor's blood remaining on the ground, the only trace of his old comrade left in this world, he seemed to see his own future.
His mind was in chaos. Already in a precarious situation against Chu Ruoyao, he was soon hit in a vital spot.
His massive body fell from mid-air. Just as he was about to struggle and escape, he was surrounded by eight Divine Armor Puppets.
Having lost another helper, the remaining Qingmu Tree Emperor and Dark Demon Tiger Emperor gradually became no match.
After being forced back, they fell into the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array, and they temporarily ceased their resistance.
Gu Yun's aura had receded, but no one knew if he could unleash it again.
Logically speaking, forcibly using power beyond one's own realm should come with a corresponding price. For Gu Yun to exert the strength of a late-stage Great Emperor with his current body, this was simply beyond common sense, and the price should logically be unbearable.
But he... still seemed completely fine, as if all of this was done with ease and composure.
Chu Ruoyao floated in the air, giving Gu Yun a deep look. This kid's hidden methods were truly frightening.
Previously, when Gu Yun suppressed her with his aura, she was somewhat unconvinced, believing that in a life-and-death struggle, she might not necessarily be Gu Yun's match.
This battle today also made her realize that unless her three bodies were unified, she would have no way of dealing with Gu Yun.
"Smelly Kid, with such a trump card, why did you need me to act?"
"Wouldn't it be wonderful to let her witness it firsthand, to show off in front of others and be a hero saving a beauty?"
Chu Ruoyao's voice was cold. Looking at Gu Yun, who was holding the girl, doubling his damage, she felt as displeased as could be.
"Such unorthodox methods probably wouldn't catch Senior Chu's eye."
Gu Yun chuckled softly: "Besides, without Senior Chu buying me time, I would probably have been subdued long ago, and wouldn't have had time to cast this secret technique."
"Hmph!"
Chu Ruoyao crossed her arms, turning her head away, not letting Gu Yun see her slightly upturned lips.
Gu Yun said no more, his gaze falling into the array. The Ice Chi Demon Emperor had already collapsed to the ground, and only two Demon Emperors remained awake.
"You two, it seems you've made your choice."
Gu Yun's gaze swept across the array.
The Qingmu Tree Emperor and the Dark Demon Tiger Emperor's faces were ashen. They exchanged glances, no longer daring to make the slightest move.
"You, who exactly are you?"
The Dark Demon Tiger Emperor asked tentatively. Although Gu Yun had now reverted to his harmless appearance, he still dared not relax in the slightest.
"Who I am is not important. Now you only need to know that your life is in my hands."
Gu Yun's voice was cold. He had no obligation to answer anything.
The Dark Demon Tiger Emperor was choked by his words. He lost face, but there was nothing he could do.
He had seen the Golden Flame Lion Emperor's fate, and he certainly didn't want to repeat it.
The Qingmu Tree Emperor took a deep breath: "Could it be that you two seniors have a past connection with the Phoenix Emperor?"
"Today's matter was due to this old man's delusion. I hope you two can give this old man a chance. In the future, I will do my utmost to serve the Young Master and will never have any second thoughts."
He was the first to bow, lowering his proud head.
The Dark Demon Tiger Emperor was stunned, but also had no choice but to prostrate himself: "Me too."
"Wuwuwu."
The Ice Chi Demon Emperor squirmed on the ground a couple of times, also expressing his stance.
Gu Yun said no more, flicking three bolts of light from his fingertips into the foreheads of the three demons.
Using the same method as when controlling the various sequences of the Demonic Sect, with the Demonic Seed entering their bodies, the three demons immediately felt that their lives were no longer their own, and their reverence for Gu Yun reached its peak.
Just then, in Gu Yun's arms, Feng Yunshu slowly woke up, her eyes still a little hazy.
"Brother Yun..."
She subconsciously clutched Gu Yun's lapel, "This... this is..."
Just as she was about to ask what happened, she saw the three Great Demon Emperors kneeling on the ground. Her beautiful eyes suddenly widened, her small mouth slightly agape, her expression shaken.
Gu Yun gently ruffled her hair, saying softly: "Don't worry, it's all over now."
"Thanks to this senior passing by and lending a hand, otherwise we might really have fallen here today."
Gu Yun attributed all the credit to Chu Ruoyao, thus avoiding the trouble of explaining his own strength.
Feng Yunshu naturally believed him without a doubt, as this aligned perfectly with what she thought internally. Gratitude filled her beautiful eyes.
She left Gu Yun's embrace and bowed gracefully to the stunning and exotic figure in the air, her voice clear and sincere: "Junior Feng Yunshu thanks Senior for saving my life!"
Chu Ruoyao lowered her gaze, putting on the air of a senior: "No need for formalities, I was merely entrusted by someone."
"If you want to thank someone, thank that kid next to you."
"If he hadn't fought to protect you, I wouldn't have suddenly felt like meddling in this business."
After speaking, her figure flickered, transforming into a streak of blood-light, seemingly breaking through the void and departing directly.
Feng Yunshu turned her head, her eyes sparkling as she looked at Gu Yun: "Brother Yun, when did you get to know such an amazing senior?"
Gu Yun smiled: "Just a stroke of luck. Let's deal with the current situation first."
Speaking of this, Feng Yunshu's heart grew worried again: "Brother Yun, Senior is gone, will they..."
She was naturally referring to the three Demon Emperors, wondering if without Chu Ruoyao's intimidating presence, they would be in danger again. However, to her surprise,
The three Demon Emperors almost simultaneously knelt respectfully before her: "Subordinate Qingmu / Anmo / Bingchi, greets Young Master!"
//668//
Chapter 668: Leaving the Qixia Mountain Range (Two-in-One)
Looking at the three Great Demon Emperors kneeling respectfully before her, Feng Yunshu felt a bit at a loss for a moment.
She subconsciously looked at Gu Yun, her eyes filled with inquiry.
Gu Yun nodded gently to her and sent a voice transmission: "Before the senior left, he used a secret technique to control them. Now, they will only follow the lead of the Phoenix bloodline."
"I said that since you inherited your father's legacy, this Qixia Mountain Range originally belonged to you. These fellows will have to pay the price they deserve sooner or later."
As Gu Yun's voice fell, the three demons were all filled with grief and remorse, one after another explaining their mistakes to Feng Yunshu and expressing their intent to repent, only seeking a sliver of a chance to live.
Feng Yunshu had never seen such a scene. Seeing the three Great Demon Emperors, who not long ago were shouting for her death, now being so humble, her emotions were incredibly complex.
Emotionally, she shouldn't forgive the three of them.
Now that the tables had turned, it was the perfect time to kick them while they were down.
But logically, her current strength was insufficient, and she should unite all forces that could be united.
Personal likes and dislikes were secondary; she wanted to avenge her father. Whether it was those old dogs deep in the Qixia Mountain Range or Di Shitian, they all had to pay the price!
Compared to that, her own small bit of emotion was not worth mentioning at all!!
Thinking of this, Feng Yunshu took a deep breath and suppressed the waves in her heart.
The look she gave Gu Yun was filled with even more gratitude; sometimes growth happens in an instant.
Gu Yun had done so much for her, and she saw it all. In the future... she would use her whole life to repay him!
For many people burdened with blood feuds, revenge is the only thing in their hearts. After the great revenge is taken, they might instead feel empty, unable to find meaning in life.
From this perspective, she was lucky because she had met someone worth giving her life to early on.
The young girl straightened her slender back, which contained an unyielding pride. Her eyes gradually became firm and majestic, faintly carrying a bit of Feng Lingxiao's former presence.
She looked at the three Great Demon Emperors, her voice cold yet dignified: "All of you, rise."
"Yes, Young Master!"
The three demons rose in response and stood with their hands down, their posture respectful.
"You all go back for now, consolidate your respective forces, and stabilize the situation in the Qixia Mountain Range."
"As for what happened here, do not let a single word leak out. Do you understand?!"
"By your command!"
The three demons felt as if they had been granted a great amnesty. After bowing respectfully, they turned into three streaks of demonic light and hurriedly left in a sorry state. This time, they had truly lost the bait and the fish.
Seeing the three demons finally retreat, Feng Yunshu breathed a sigh of relief. Her body swayed slightly as she leaned into Gu Yun's embrace: "How was it, Brother Yun? Did I... look a bit like a 'Phoenix Emperor' just now?"
Gu Yun smiled and said, "No matter what, Yunshu is my little phoenix."
"This place is not suitable for a long stay. We need to leave the Qixia Mountain Range first."
"Mm..."
Feng Yunshu leaned against Gu Yun's shoulder and nodded.
"Do you still want to return to the Eternal Imperial Dynasty?"
"I can only go back now. No one knows what backup plans he has left."
"The fact that he's not using them now is just because he doesn't want to fully reveal this matter yet."
"Enslaving a phoenix is no small matter."
"Indeed..."
Gu Yun agreed with this. Although the Phoenix clan hadn't appeared for some time, no one dared to underestimate this powerful race that was once no weaker than the True Dragons.
Even the Eternal Imperial Dynasty only dared to make small moves in the shadows.
If it were truly made public, no one knew what the consequences would be.
With this in mind, the two no longer delayed. After confirming the direction, they fled far away... About half an hour after Gu Yun and the others left.
Above the valley that had experienced a brief yet tragic Emperor battle, space rippled like water. A hunched, gaunt figure of an old man, who looked as if he could be blown over by a gust of wind, silently emerged, leaning on a gnarled wooden staff.
The old man wore dusty grey hemp clothes, and the wrinkles on his face were as deep as gullies. His eye sockets were sunken, but his eyes occasionally flickered with a sharp light that could pierce through illusions when they opened and closed.
He didn't deliberately emit any terrifying aura, but just by standing there, he seemed to be connected to the ley lines, plants, and trees of the entire Qixia Mountain Range, breathing as one with them.
His murky gaze swept over the traces of battle below, and his brow furrowed imperceptibly.
"This power... is truly unpleasant."
"Qingmu, come out and see me!"
His voice wasn't high, but it carried a strange penetrating power, as if it resounded directly in the depths of the soul, ignoring distance and obstacles.
Before his voice had even faded, several vines rose from the ground, transforming into the figure of the Qingmu Tree Emperor.
At this moment, his aura had not yet settled, and his face still carried some lingering fear. Upon seeing the grey-robed old man, he immediately bowed and said, "Junior Qingmu pays respects to Senior 'Kumu'!"
He didn't dare to be the least bit negligent, because this Withered Wood Demon Emperor before him was one of the true old monsters slumbering in the depths of the Qixia Mountain Range.
It was said that before the Phoenix Emperor was born, he had already dominated a region. His strength was unfathomable, at least at the late stage of the Great Emperor realm.
His true form was an ancient exotic species called the 'Withered-Flourishing Ancient Vine,' and he had comprehended the Dao of Life and Death, Wither and Flourish. His methods were strange and unpredictable.
"Tell me, what exactly happened here?"
"Why are there traces of scorching by Phoenix True Flame?"
"Has another phoenix come to our Qixia Mountain Range?!"
His gaze was sharp, locking firmly onto the Qingmu Tree Emperor as if to pierce through all his memories.
The Qingmu Tree Emperor felt a chill in his heart, and a perfectly timed look of fear appeared on his face: "Se... Senior, h-he's back."
"Who are you talking about?"
"The Phoenix Emperor!"
"It must be him. Although his appearance has changed, he instantly killed the Golden Flame Lion Emperor and displayed the strength of the Great Emperor Seventh Heaven. This cannot be faked."
"Golden Flame is dead?"
"Yes, not even his bones remain."
"..."
"It is indeed the work of Phoenix True Flame."
The Withered Wood Demon Emperor said in a deep voice. He had just felt that something was strange about this place, and now his suspicion was confirmed.
"Why did you all come into conflict with Feng Lingxiao? Tell me exactly what happened here."
"If there is even a sliver of concealment..."
"Yes!"
The Qingmu Tree Emperor nodded hastily and then recounted everything that had just happened, similarly having a desire for the Phoenix bloodline, except the target had changed from Feng Yunshu to Gu Yun.
"Heh, you all truly have some nerve, even daring to covet the Phoenix bloodline. Did you think we were all gone?"
The Withered Wood Demon Emperor spoke coldly, his aura erupting violently.
The Qingmu Tree Emperor trembled all over and hurriedly begged for mercy: "This junior was blinded by greed, I hope Senior will forgive me!"
"Hmph!"
"Lingxiao, oh Lingxiao, I've searched for you for so long. I didn't expect you to hide in the outer reaches of this Qixia Mountain Range, hiding for these decades. Today, you're actually willing to appear again. It seems your injuries have mostly recovered?"
"But... every debt has its debtor. Presumably, you won't directly take action against us old partners."
"After all, that one is the person you hate the most."
A cold smile curled at the corner of the Withered Wood Demon Emperor's mouth: "The Qixia Mountain Range was never something an outsider like you should have occupied. Last time, you suffered a crushing defeat."
"This time, it will be the same!"
"You want the return of the Emperor? I'm sure your old partner will be very happy to hear this news."
With that thought, the Withered Wood Demon Emperor directly vanished.
The Qingmu Tree Emperor waited tremblingly until the other party's aura had completely disappeared. Only then did he immediately change his expression and send a voice transmission to Gu Yun: "Master, Kumu has learned the news..."
...At the edge of the Qixia Mountain Range, above a desolate mountain ridge.
Using space law methods, the two had already left the range of the Qixia Mountain Range. Finally seeing sparse mortal villages, Feng Yunshu finally felt a sense of relief in her heart.
She quietly leaned beside Gu Yun, wishing time would freeze forever at this moment.
Gu Yun, on the other hand, was receiving news from the three Great Demon Emperors. Not only the Withered Wood Demon Emperor, but two other old demon monsters had also learned the news of Feng Lingxiao's recovery.
Presumably, the current Di Shitian had truly become like a bird startled by the mere twang of a bow.
Previously, to kill the Golden Flame Lion Emperor, he had used up fifteen breaths of time. The remaining usage time could no longer be squandered recklessly.
Good steel must be used on the blade; this was a life-saving trump card, so it naturally had to be put to its best use.
He was getting closer and closer to the Great Emperor cultivation level. If he didn't make more use of it, it would truly become obsolete, and by then it would be quite useless.
The two flew together for a long time before finally finding a small border city.
In this desolate area bordering the Northern Barbarians and the Qixia Mountain Range, no one recognized Feng Yunshu. However, Gu Yun still used the deceiving heaven mask to simply conceal their auras, disguising them as an ordinary mortal couple.
Gu Yun found an inn that looked fairly clean and asked for a superior room.
"Two guests, this way upstairs, please."
"We have the most effective Spirit Gathering Array within a hundred-mile radius here. It's guaranteed to make you never want to leave~~"
The waiter was a lean, middle-aged man with somewhat shifty eyes, but after Gu Yun casually tossed him a high-grade spirit stone, he immediately became respectful and eager.
After entering the room and setting up a simple soundproofing restriction, Feng Yunshu finally breathed a sigh of relief and restored her original appearance.
Although she was already in the Saint Realm, the travel along with the emotional ups and downs made her feel a bit exhausted.
"Brother Yun, do you think... I can avenge my father?"
"Who can say for sure about future matters."
"Instead of worrying about gains and losses, it's better for you to first improve your own strength."
Gu Yun's voice was calm and a bit of a mood killer.
Feng Yunshu sat up straight, pouting her small mouth: "Of course I know my strength is still very weak, but cultivation isn't something that can be achieved overnight, right?"
"What if I say I can help you achieve it overnight?"
Gu Yun spoke with a smile.
"Huh—?"
Feng Yunshu was still wondering when she saw Gu Yun take out a pill that was entirely reddish-gold.
"Th-this is..."
Feeling the violent spiritual power within it, Feng Yunshu felt a hint of pressure.
"Something that can give you a helping hand."
"With your current cultivation, trying to hide and evade Di Shitian's detection is still too difficult."
"Before that, you need to boost your strength again. Although the Golden Flame Lion Emperor's power isn't as pure and powerful as the Phoenix Emperor's, it is also a rare and great tonic for you right now."
One of the reasons Gu Yun acted against the Golden Flame Lion Emperor was that his power was more compatible with Feng Yunshu's.
In other words, he had a reason he had to die.
"This..."
"Alright, I won't say more."
"I'll take you to a good place."
Saying that, Gu Yun directly grabbed Feng Yunshu's arm and took her into the Great Luo Dao Pagoda together.
The commotion of absorbing an Emperor Pill would be very large, so naturally, no one could be allowed to disturb them.
Especially... that little tail next door.
"Damn it, why is there no sound?"
Liu Feng, whose aura was weak, pressed his ear tightly against the wall, trying to hear clearly what Gu Yun and Feng Yunshu were plotting next door.
Previously, he had been heavily injured by a casual strike from several Great Demon Emperors, and had luckily survived.
Naturally, he had scrambled away, not daring to stay in the Qixia Mountain Range for another moment, but he hadn't expected to happen upon Feng Yunshu and Gu Yun as they were coming out.
Seeing the Ninth Princess he yearned for acting so intimately with another man, Liu Feng's heart felt like it was being twisted by a knife.
During this period, he also contributed nearly ten thousand villain value to Gu Yun. Of course... as much as his heart ached, he couldn't rashly take action.
He was currently heavily injured, and he couldn't see through Gu Yun's strength, so he naturally wouldn't risk stepping forward to seek his own death.
If Gu Yun was the mastermind behind the abduction of Feng Yunshu, he might even have a Dao Protector at the Great Emperor realm following him; he must not act blindly.
That being said, he felt somewhat unwilling, so he followed them all the way into this inn.
He stayed in the room next to theirs, wanting to take advantage of the night to gather some useful intelligence. However, aside from hearing some useless sweet talk, he had gained nothing.
Now there was no sound at all from next door. Liu Feng was anxious but helpless.
Just then—
Suddenly, a sound of breaking wind came from behind him. Liu Feng narrowly dodged it by turning his body.
The sharp wind grazed his ribs as it passed, drawing a trail of blood beads.
"Who's there?!" Liu Feng barked in a low voice, looking back. By the faint moonlight coming through the window, he saw the newcomer.
Dressed in night-walking clothes and with a half-mask covering her face, she only revealed a pair of cold eyes filled with undisguised killing intent.
In her hand, she held a narrow, pitch-black short sword. The blade was dull, yet it emitted a heart-chilling, sinister aura.
"You are not the target."
Yan Qingmei didn't immediately follow up after her missed strike. Instead, she quickly scanned the room, her brow slightly furrowed.
There was only this young man with a disordered aura and no small injuries in the room. Her voice was crisp but cold, carrying a hint of subtle confusion.
"Where have you hidden the princess?!"
Liu Feng's mind raced. It seemed he had guessed wrong; the person before him was likely from the Shadow Tower. It seemed these fellows had lost the princess.
That's why they were out searching in a panic. Just right... he could first use someone else's blade to kill, then rescue the princess from the Shadow Tower murderer. Wouldn't the princess's favor toward him skyrocket?
Besides, the situation in the next room was currently unknown; it was perfect to let her go and scout first.
"Is the lady looking for the Ninth Princess of the Eternal Imperial Dynasty?"
"To tell you the truth, I am also here for that. His Majesty has posted a reward. Whoever can find the princess will be rewarded with one thousand top-grade spirit stones. I also went through untold hardships to find just this little bit of a clue."
Yan Qingmei's mind turned quickly, and she immediately adopted Liu Feng's explanation, as her identity as a Shadow Tower assassin was still best kept hidden: "Hmph, someone like you also dares to covet that reward of top-grade spirit stones?"
"Yes, yes, yes, only someone like you, lady, is qualified to obtain those top-grade spirit stones."
"Less nonsense! Speak! Where did they go?"
"I-I saw with my own eyes someone taking the Ninth Princess into the room next door."
//669//
Chapter 669: Liu Feng Strays Further Away, Yan Qingmei (Two-in-One)
"Next door?"
Yan Qingmei's icy gaze swept over Liu Feng, seemingly judging the veracity of his words.
Liu Feng quickly nodded, forcing a ingratiating smile onto his face: "Absolutely true!!"
"Even if this humble one ate a bear's heart and leopard's guts, I wouldn't dare deceive you, Miss."
"They entered the room next door; I saw it with my own eyes. Otherwise, why would I specifically linger in this desolate, godforsaken place?"
Hearing this, Yan Qingmei didn't say much. After all, she had already searched this room thoroughly, inside and out, and found no trace of anyone else.
With a flash of her figure, she silently passed through the gap between the wall and the door, as if merging with the shadows, entering the room next door reserved by Gu Yun and Feng Yunshu.
Seeing her finally leave, Liu Feng breathed a sigh of relief: "This woman, her skill is truly impressive, and her methods are ruthless."
"Luckily, I reacted quickly, or I really would have fallen for her trick."
Liu Feng clutched the stinging wound beneath his ribs, spat out a mouthful of bloody saliva, but there was little fear in his eyes. Instead, they flickered with a morbid excitement.
"But that figure, that aura... if I could just get my hands on her..."
A flash of depraved light crossed his eyes. Possessing the Nine Yang Profound Body, he naturally harbored an extraordinary desire for beautiful women.
Now, seeing such a sexy and cold female assassin, the wicked thoughts in his heart were already stirring.
Of course, he wasn't foolish enough to think his currently heavily injured body could take her down head-on.
But... when the snipe and the clam fight, the fisherman profits!
Anyone who could snatch the Ninth Princess from a Shadow Tower assassin must not be ordinary. This was the perfect chance for him to sit back and watch the tigers fight... "Stupid woman, go ahead and pave the way for me. It's best if you both end up severely wounded."
"When I make my move then, the Princess will surely look at me in a new light!"
"At the same time, I can take the heavily injured female assassin with me. It's simply killing two birds with one stone!"
The more he thought about it, the more brilliant the plan seemed.
Suppressing his aura, enduring the pain, he leaned quietly against the wall, anticipating events unfolding as he predicted... In the room next door, a barely perceptible ripple flashed across the space.
"Hmm?"
Yan Qingmei's figure appeared in the room. Her divine sense spread out, but she couldn't find any clues.
The room was silent. Moonlight filtered through the window lattice, casting mottled shadows on the floor, adding a sense of desolation.
The bed was neat, and the tables and chairs were spotless; it looked as if no one had checked in.
"How is this possible... Did they just happen to leave, or was that brat deliberately playing a trick on me?!!"
Yan Qingmei's heart sank slightly, and a thread of icy killing intent rose from the depths of her soul.
The reason she had initially chosen Liu Feng's room for the sneak attack was naturally due to her rough assessment that the spiritual energy fluctuation in that room was more unstable.
Looking at it now, her judgment wasn't wrong.
The other party had seized upon her eagerness for quick success and deceived her.
Fortunately, realizing it now wasn't too late. As long as she caught that brat again, everything would still be under her control.
"Hmph!"
Yan Qingmei's eyes flashed with coldness, and her figure merged into the shadows again, intending to return to the room next door to confront Liu Feng—if she confirmed that this brat had truly made a fool of her, she would certainly make him taste the methods of Shadow Tower's interrogation!
However, just as her figure was about to dissipate and her mind slightly relaxed due to anger—
An unexpected change suddenly occurred!
Buzz!
In the corner of the room, a long, fair hand suddenly reached out.
The timing, angle, and speed of this hand's appearance were absolutely perfect, precisely seizing the instant when Yan Qingmei shifted from solid to illusory and was unable to react.
"What?!"
Yan Qingmei's pupils suddenly contracted to the size of a needle tip, and the warning sign in her heart instantly soared to its peak!
How is this possible? How could there still be someone here?!
She had clearly used her divine sense to meticulously scan every corner just now, not even letting slip the slightest spiritual energy fluctuation.
One wrong step leads to a series of wrong steps; she had now lost all power to counterattack.
Her vision went black, and when she woke up again, she was already in a strange space... In the next room, Liu Feng, who was no different from a drooling pug, was still anxiously waiting for the show of two tigers fighting.
"What exactly happened? Why is there no movement at all?"
He pressed his ear tightly against the wall, his brows furrowed.
"Could it be... she failed?!"
As the thought arose, Liu Feng's expression turned ugly. From their brief exchange just now, he had confirmed that Yan Qingmei's strength was not inferior to his own at his peak.
For someone of that strength to be taken down without even causing a ripple, just how powerful must the opponent be?
If he were to make a move against him, what kind of fate would await him?
Liu Feng didn't dare to continue thinking about it. This outcome was definitely not something he could accept.
"No, impossible... I can't stay here any longer."
He quickly realized the danger of his situation. If that female assassin confessed that he had told her the location of the two, the consequences would surely be unimaginable!!
Thinking of this, he endured his injuries, struggled to get up, and scrambled away. He didn't even dare to use the main door, instead smashing through the window and fleeing this place of trouble.
To deal with the opponent, his own strength was insufficient. He must rely on the Eternal Imperial Dynasty to have any chance.
[Ding! Child of Destiny Liu Feng voluntarily abandoned his fate/connection with the Protagonist of Fortune Yan Qingmei. destiny value decreased by 3000 points.]
Inside the Great Luo Dao Pagoda, Xi Tong's notification sounded as expected.
"Decisiveness is key. This Liu Feng can barely be considered a character. He's only 9,000 points away from the kill line. How should I send you off for this final leg?"
Gu Yun's mouth curled slightly. He hadn't even done much, yet this guy was already calculating himself into ruin.
It saved him a lot of trouble.
His gaze returned to the present. Feng Yunshu was sitting cross-legged on a warm jade stone beside the Heavenly Spring, surrounded by circulating fiery crimson-gold flames, using the power of the Great Dao Heavenly Spring to enhance her strength.
Meanwhile, the uninvited guest who suddenly barged in was suspended in mid-air in an extremely pathetic and humiliating posture.
Her four limbs were tightly bound by chains formed from threads of Myriad Transformation Power, pulled taut in four different directions, forming a large 'X' shape.
In this posture, the tight night suit outlined her extremely alluring figure even more vividly: full breasts, slender waist, round and long legs... every curve was filled with fatal temptation.
Gu Yun naturally had no sense of "look not at what is improper," and was appreciating the beautiful sight before him with great interest.
Yan Qingmei had long since woken up. Her veil had been removed, revealing a cold and glamorous face tinged with slight anger.
But her small mouth was stuffed with a red ball, making muffled noises and unable to utter any sound.
Only her cold eyes, like frigid stars, were filled with bone-chilling killing intent.
She had tried to struggle, but no matter what method she used, it was now ineffective. The four chains not only locked her physical body but also seemed to render her vast spiritual power useless.
As the newly promoted Tianzi-class Assassin of the Shadow Tower, and the youngest Tianzi-class Assassin at that, she was now fish on someone else's chopping block—seeing Gu Yun's leisurely posture and his playful, frivolous gaze felt more humiliating and infuriating than any torture.
[xuan qing treasure mirror Page 55]
[Name: Yan Qingmei]
[Affinity: 0]
[Cultivation: Quasi-Emperor Fourth Layer]
[Physique: Spirit Shadow Body]
[Identity: Protagonist of Fortune of "I Became the Empress Dowager's Personal Eunuch," Protagonist of Fortune of "Villains, Stay Away, I'm the Big Villain!"]
"Liu Feng's luck is ridiculously low now. It seems Destiny has made a new move."
"It's actually a Villain novel? Let me see who you are... Shen Jingzhou?"
Gu Yun's mouth curled slightly. He had just learned about the ridiculous things her absurd younger brother had done from Shen Jingshu, and he hadn't expected to meet a Protagonist of Fortune related to him so soon.
"You're writing a Villain novel, but you're still following the plot? What kind of bullshit is this?"
Gu Yun could be considered someone who had read countless pieces of trash, but this time he still forced himself to finish reading this shitty plot despite the nausea.
In Shen Jingzhou's script, Yan Qingmei's plotline wasn't extensive, and it was difficult to deduce Shen Jingzhou's trump card from it.
He guessed it might be that he had a System like himself, gaining rewards by following the plot, or perhaps some operation like eavesdropping on thoughts or keeping a diary.
What exactly it was remained unknown, but it was certain that Shen Jingzhou's Destiny was not low, which was evident from the lack of useful information he could glean from Yan Qingmei.
"There's also Ye Qingcheng, who is probably related to this. It seems I must go to the Eternal Imperial Capital this time."
Gu Yun made a decision in his heart, stood up, walked forward, and stopped in front of Yan Qingmei.
The two stood extremely close. Gu Yun could smell the special, clear fragrance on her body.
"Miss Yan, showing up uninvited is not a good habit."
Gu Yun reached out his hand, his long fingers tracing the taut curves of her body, carefully appreciating her perfect figure, and finally resting on her gracefully shaped jaw, gently lifting it.
Yan Qingmei trembled with rage at his nearly teasing actions and words. Muffled "woo-woo" sounds came from her stuffed mouth, and the killing intent in her eyes almost solidified. If looks could kill, Gu Yun would have been sliced into a million pieces long ago.
She struggled desperately, and the chains rattled softly, yet they didn't budge. Instead, this only made the curves outlined by the already tight night suit even more breathtaking, her full chest rising and falling violently with her struggles, almost bursting through the fabric.
"Stop wasting your energy. Your struggles will only become nourishment for these chains. The more you struggle, the tighter they will bind you."
Gu Yun smiled and pulled away the restraint in Yan Qingmei's mouth.
As the restraint in her mouth disappeared, Yan Qingmei immediately let out a cold shout: "Bastard! Either kill me or release me! What kind of skill is sneak attacking!"
"Oh? Since when do people from the Shadow Tower talk about martial ethics with others?"
Gu Yun looked as if he had heard a huge joke. He gently patted Yan Qingmei's cheek and said with appreciation, "You are truly a beauty, but alas, you are a thief."
"Bastard! Don't let me find an opportunity, or I will definitely kill you!"
Yan Qingmei was burning with anger, her entire body swaying in the air. Gu Yun, being quite kind-hearted, stepped forward to help stabilize her figure.
"Don't touch me!"
Yan Qingmei's eyes blazed with fury; she wished she could devour Gu Yun alive.
"Miss Assassin, I regret to say that you still haven't clearly understood your current situation."
Gu Yun sighed slightly: "It seems I can only use a little trick to make you clearly understand the consequences."
"Hmph! Kill me or slice me up, do as you please!"
"I, Yan Qingmei, admit defeat since my skills are inferior!"
Yan Qingmei proudly raised her neck. However, soon, her expression began to turn strange.
Because Gu Yun's palm had rested on her waist.
She felt as if her body was being manipulated by Gu Yun again, eventually ending up suspended in mid-air in a side-lying position.
She looked up at Gu Yun, a bad premonition surging in her heart: "W-what are you going to do?!"
Gu Yun curved his lips into a smile: "Nothing much, just want to help you remember the lesson."
"Don't worry... it won't hurt much."
Gu Yun blew on his palm, raised it high, and then aimed it at Yan Qingmei's shapely buttocks, slapping down hard.
A crisp sound echoed through the space. Having received a heavy blow with no support, Yan Qingmei actually began to spin in mid-air just like that.
Yan Qingmei froze entirely. Her mind went blank, as if all her thoughts had been scattered by the slap.
It wasn't until her body slowly rotated in mid-air that the scorching pain and bone-deep shame swept over her like a tide.
"Y-you bastard!!"
"I will kill you, kill you!!"
The rotation gradually slowed. Yan Qingmei's cold eyes were practically spitting fire. She stared fiercely at Gu Yun, overwhelmed by shame and indignation.
However, the only response she received was Gu Yun's rapid offensive, like a storm.
Yan Qingmei spun in mid-air like a top. As a master top-spinner in his previous life, Gu Yun knew exactly when and with what force to strike to make the top spin fast and long.
The crisp sound of slapping was incessant. Yan Qingmei felt herself trapped in an endless storm.
Wave after wave of dizziness gradually caused her consciousness to blur.
Her angry curses, initially full of vigor and surging rage, gradually became weak and listless. Her brain felt heavy and sluggish, having almost lost the ability to think.
Until the very end—
"S-stop..."
A thousand words condensed into a single, weak plea for mercy. Every time she neared the edge of fainting, Gu Yun's stinging attacks forced her to wake up again.
As a result, Yan Qingmei was submerged in this cruel punishment, having spun an unknown number of times in the air, until she finally couldn't bear it anymore.
Only then did Gu Yun cease his methods, quietly waiting for the top to stop spinning. Yan Qingmei was dizzy and nauseous, her entire body already limp within the invisible restraints, having lost even the strength to lift her head.
Humiliation and a strange sensation intertwined, causing her whole body to tremble slightly.
The skin beneath her night suit was already burning hot. Pain and an unspeakable tingle spread across her, making her groan inwardly.
"Miss Assassin, are you sober now? Can you speak properly?"
"I... I can..."
"W-what do you want to know..."
Yan Qingmei's eyes were vacant, her voice weak, and she spoke tremblingly, daring not to resist anymore.
//670//
Chapter 670 – The First Shape of a Siege (Two-in-one)
"If you'd known this would happen, you'd have acted differently. At the end of the day, I'm still someone who pities fragrant jade."
"Tell me—what exactly is Shadow Tower planning with such a big show of force?"
Gu Yun's large hand slid over Yan Qingmei's body; a tingling, electric numbness swept through her, making her delicate frame tremble.
She couldn't help rolling her eyes at him, pushing aside everything else, not daring to show the slightest further displeasure.
If she resisted and got spun like a top again, she'd only be asking for trouble.
Realizing this, she hesitated no longer, gathering her scattered wits. "This time Shadow Tower wants to capture the Ninth Princess alive…"
"Aah—what are you doing?"
"Mm, not bad—purely natural, no additives."
"My dear assassin, something so obvious can hardly count as useful intelligence, can it?"
Yan Qingmei was flushed and flustered. "I—I haven't finished. Keep your hands to yourself."
"I'm born stunning; I don't need you to say it."
"The reason for capturing the Ninth Princess is her bloodline."
"Shadow Tower belongs to Shadow Immortal Palace; someone of your station surely knows that. Our Holy Maiden has recently run into trouble because of the Shen Family's young master from the Ancient Immortal line."
"She wants to use the Ninth Princess's power to break free of the Immortal Ancient Shen Family's control."
"Oh? You mean Ye Qingcheng? Tell me—what does she plan to do, and what role does Yunshu play in this scheme?"
"H-ha… I—I don't know."
Yan Qingmei felt her body growing hotter. "How can I think when you're like this…?"
"Oh? I rather feel I won't get anything useful from you anymore."
"True. I'm only the newest Tianzi-class Assassin. I'm here because the Tower doesn't rate this backwater of the Eternal Imperial Dynasty highly; they never thought you'd bring anyone here, so they sent me."
Seeing Gu Yun's expression chill, Yan Qingmei hurried on, "However…"
"I can tell you Shadow Tower's exact deployments inside the Eternal Imperial Dynasty!"
"Because I'm the last of the Tianzi rank, I was lucky enough to hear most of the Holy Maiden's arrangements for those above me."
"B-but if you want to know, you must promise to set me down afterward—and you mustn't spin me like a top again!!!"
Yan Qingmei declared fiercely.
Gu Yun blinked, then a playful curve lifted his lips, his hand resting on her fullest curve. "Agreed."
Seeming used to the youth's liberties, Yan Qingmei went on. "Every major city on the road from here to Eternal Imperial Capital hides one of our Tianzi-class Assassins."
"Among them, in Wangdi City outside the capital, Tian Yi, Tian Er, and the vice-pavilion lord are waiting."
"What levels are they?"
"Tian Yi and Tian Er should both be Two-Tribulation; the vice-pavilion lord is Four-Tribulation."
Yan Qingmei answered truthfully.
"What trump cards they hold, I don't know. I'm currently too weak… not qualified."
Gu Yun studied her a moment, certain she wasn't lying.
In her present state she simply couldn't.
"Honest enough."
Gu Yun rose and stepped before Yan Qingmei.
She instinctively shrank, expecting punishment to fall again.
"Y-you promised—no more spinning…"
She didn't even dare ask him to put her down; the whipping had clearly terrified her.
"Relax. Since I promised, I won't go back on my word."
"Loosen up, don't resist. I'll set you down now."
As he spoke, he prepared to lower her from afar—when a phoenix cry rang out from the direction of the great dao spirit spring, and he paused.
"Hey, hey!!"
Yan Qingmei's eyes widened, but with a wave of Gu Yun's sleeve she vanished entirely.
With practiced ease he transported her into a certain room, leaving her posture unchanged… "Looks like Yunshu is about to break through. Mm… Great-Saint cultivation still isn't enough."
Putting Yan Qingmei out of mind for the moment, Gu Yun reached Feng Yunshu and at once sensed a problem.
Not everyone could match the conversion efficiency of Myriad Transformation Power; even with his help, it was next to impossible for Feng Yunshu to fully use the imperial pill's spiritual energy.
Fortunately, most of the escaping energy was absorbed by the sixth-level great dao spirit spring, so nothing was wasted.
Facing this slightly sub-par result, Gu Yun naturally decided to intervene personally.
He stepped forward, slowly crouched, slipped into the great dao spirit spring and embraced Feng Yunshu.
Just as before in Feng Lingxiao's Blood Pool, he could be her sturdiest backer.
Their hearts linked, their bodies closer than close.
Feng Yunshu, her strength flagging, felt wild energy flood into her again; her flushed face turned toward Gu Yun.
A small boat adrift at last found a harbor to moor; the once-immovable cultivation bottleneck began to crack under that mighty surge!
"Focus your mind—don't get distracted!"
Gu Yun's voice exploded in Feng Yunshu's sea of consciousness, jolting her out of her drifting trance.
A phoenix wreathed in raging fire assailed the quasi-Emperor barrier again and again.
Time trickled past.
Feng Yunshu's aura grew stronger, dao-radiance swirling around her, faint runes of law appearing.
Thanks to Feng Lingxiao's imperial memories, her path toward the quasi-Emperor realm met almost no obstacle.
This was the road a mighty Great-Emperor had paved with his last ounce of strength.
Now, at a speed Feng Lingxiao himself had never dared imagine… she stormed forward!
Roughly thirty or forty days passed on the sixth floor of the Great Luo Dao Pagoda—until—
A dull boom echoed from within Feng Yunshu, as though some shackle had shattered.
A brand-new, mighty aura burst from her.
Insight came from Feng Lingxiao.
Spiritual power came from the Golden Flame Lion Emperor.
Thus, a new quasi-Emperor was born!
Feng Yunshu slowly opened her eyes, crimson-gold light still swirling within, majestic and divine.
Feeling the unprecedented strength inside her, the girl's face lit with joy.
The change of these few days surpassed the total of the past decades.
"Brother Yun, I did it!"
she chirped—only now realizing the two of them were completely and utterly exposed to each other, without the slightest secret.
Her face flushed scarlet; she buried her head against Gu Yun, too shy to say more.
"What's wrong? Your foundation is stable, your aura complete, no hidden flaws—you should be happy."
Gu Yun said with a smile.
"Mm? Mm!"
Feng Yunshu gave a soft, nasal sound, still not daring to meet his eyes.
The young man steadied her waist and carefully sensed the consumption of the Imperial Pill. Thanks to his help, Feng Yunshu had absorbed roughly twenty percent of the medicinal power; the remaining eighty percent of the essence dispersed into the great dao spirit spring.
It became nourishment replenishing the continuously bubbling spring.
Roughly equivalent to eight thousand points of villain value.
Gu Yun had a plan in mind; he now had a quantified understanding of a First-Tribulation Great Emperor's spiritual reserves.
After lingering affectionately with Feng Yunshu for a while, Gu Yun said with a smile, "Yunshu, now that your cultivation is complete, we should set off."
"Mm."
Feng Yunshu nodded gently.
The two flickered and left the Great Luo Dao Pagoda space.
At that moment, a female assassin hanging in some room shrieked, "Scoundrel!!"
"I'll kill you—I swear I'll kill you!!"
...Eternal Imperial Dynasty, deep within the Imperial Palace.
Di Shitian stood with hands behind his back at a window, the withered-vine wooden talisman pinched between his fingers, his face as dark as still water.
Ever since Feng Yunshu had been abducted, his mind had known no peace.
The previous upheaval in the kingdom's fate had indicated some anomaly had befallen the other party.
Now, however, the realm's fortune suddenly flourished again, leaving Di Shitian utterly baffled.
Just moments ago he had, through a secret channel, exchanged brief words with Withered Wood Demon Emperor deep in Qixia Mountain Range.
The information he obtained set his killing intent surging.
"Feng Lingxiao... I never imagined you were still alive!!"
"It seems the plan must be moved forward."
Many details he could no longer afford to guess; last time he had crushed Feng Lingxiao only because he'd gained the upper hand through scheming.
If he tried the same trick again, Feng Lingxiao would never fall for it.
"The old monsters of Qixia Mountain want to use me against Feng Lingxiao?"
"Hmph—ridiculous. Do you think you can wash your hands clean of what happened back then?"
"A pack of opportunistic dogs—do you think you can wield this Emperor as your spear?!"
Di Shitian swept his sleeve and sent a return message: "Kumu, when the rabbit dies the fox grieves; when the lips are gone the teeth feel cold. I trust you understand this principle."
"Do not forget... Feng Lingxiao's true form is the one and only true phoenix of this age!"
When the transmission ended he crushed the withered-vine talisman; he believed Withered Wood Demon Emperor understood his meaning and would make the right decision.
Silence returned to the hall.
Moments later a shadow like a ghost appeared in the chamber.
"What is it?! Have you found traces of the Princess?!!"
Di Shitian demanded impatiently.
"Your Majesty, we have a lead."
"What?!"
Di Shitian's face lit with joy; as long as Feng Yunshu was recovered, everything could still be salvaged.
The Eternal Imperial Dynasty's fortune was now at its height—almost time to harvest.
When that moment came, Feng Lingxiao would be nothing to fear.
"Shu'er—where is my Shu'er?!"
"Your Majesty, we were unable to bring back the Ninth Princess for the moment, but we found another important figure."
"Liu Feng."
"Liu Feng?!"
Di Shitian's enthusiasm cooled as if doused with cold water. "So he finally crawls back. Bring him to me."
"Yes, Your Majesty!"
Before long, the dying Liu Feng—face ashen—was hauled in by two Eternal Guards.
His injuries were grave; only sheer obsession kept him alive.
Seeing Di Shitian, Liu Feng struggled to salute, but an invisible force held him upright.
The Emperor had been ready to vent his anger, yet seeing the wretched state of the young man left him unsure where to begin.
He therefore asked coolly, "Your wounds are severe; dispense with ceremony."
"Tell me everything you know at once, then go see the imperial physician."
"Yes! Thank you for your grace, Your Majesty."
Gathering his strength, Liu Feng recounted how he had encountered Gu Yun and Feng Yunshu on the northern edge of Qixia Mountain Range.
He detailed their likely route and the fact that Shadow Tower assassins were still relentlessly pursuing them.
"Your Majesty, I believe we must dispatch men to lie in wait along the Princess's inevitable path. We cannot give those villains any opening."
Di Shitian listened in silence, then waved his hand. "Enough. You did well, Liu Feng."
"Guards—take him to receive treatment and keep him under careful watch."
"Heh—mysterious man, Shadow Tower?"
"Feng Lingxiao, Shadow Immortal Palace, you plotted against my Eternal Imperial Dynasty—let's see if you have the strength to back it."
"At this stage you still intend to send my daughter back—are you bold or simply stupid!"
"Delivering a sheep into the tiger's jaws—Heaven itself is helping me!"
...Meanwhile, in a secret stronghold within Wangdi City.
Several black-robed figures stood inside, their bodies cloaked in spiritual power that concealed their identities.
The leader was shrouded in black robes, his aura as deep as an abyss.
His face was grim; before him lay three shattered life tablets and a smooth water-mirror.
Soon the mirror showed a hazy, regal female figure—Ye Qingcheng, far away in Eternal Imperial Palace.
"Night Shadow, you say... Heavenly Three is dead?"
Ye Qingcheng's tone betrayed no joy or anger, yet carried invisible pressure.
"Yes, Holy Maiden."
"According to the last report, they headed toward the far northern edge of Qixia Mountain Range, then lost contact."
"Tian Qi and Tian Ba's tablets shattered first; shortly after, Heavenly Three also perished, likely encountering an unstoppable foe."
"Our preliminary suspicion is that one of the mountain range's Demon Emperors acted."
Vice-Tower Lord Night Shadow's voice was low. Heavenly Three had been a Great Emperor; to kill him so easily required either an ambush or a late-stage Great Emperor.
The sudden turn had completely disrupted their plans; they could only await Ye Qingcheng's next order.
The figure in the water-mirror was silent for a moment.
"Little phoenix, you still manage to surprise me."
She murmured, mind racing. "Recall everyone from the other regions."
"The situation now is beyond what one or two Tianzi-class Assassins can handle."
"Have all personnel gather in the three major cities near the Imperial Capital. The moment we spot them, strike. You'll be close enough to support one another."
"But... what if the Princess flees to another kingdom..."
"Do as I say. Latest news: the Eternal Guards are also pulling back."
"Compared with us, Di Shitian is even more anxious. Making that decision means he has solid information."
"Oh—and inform Dark Wing: if he wants to snatch prey from the tiger's mouth, he'll have to act himself."
"Yes, Holy Maiden!"
//671//
Chapter 671: Wangdi City
Time within the Great Luo Dao Pagoda's space flowed differently from the outside world. When Gu Yun and Feng Yunshu reappeared, only about a day had passed in the outside world.
Feng Yunshu successfully broke through to the Quasi-Emperor Realm, but she was unable to trigger a Quasi-Emperor Lightning Tribulation.
It seemed that even with a peak lineage like the Phoenix, achieving such a feat was not guaranteed.
Of course... this was quite normal. The Immortal Ancient Gu Family had many brilliant talents in this generation, with countless Divine Bodies and Saint Bodies, yet the only one truly capable of triggering a Quasi-Emperor Lightning Tribulation was his Aunt Zi.
This was what had forged the prestige of the Thunderbolt Empress before she even became a Great Emperor.
The two traveled together at great speed. Along the way, they encountered no more ambushes from the Shadow Tower's cultivators, returning to the vicinity of the Eternal Imperial Capital without incident.
Wangdi City.
Stepping into this majestic main city, Feng Yunshu could even see the Eternal Imperial Capital in the distance.
Reunited with her home after a long absence, her heart was no longer as innocent as it once was.
"The distance isn't far now. If we want to reach it in one go, we should arrive within the next two days."
Gu Yun spoke with a smile.
"Brother Yun, can we stay in Wangdi City for a day..."
"I... I don't want to go back just yet."
Feng Yunshu had already changed into a simple and low-key light green dress. Her exquisite face was lightly made up, masking some of her overly eye-catching brilliance, yet it still couldn't hide her innate nobility and spirit. However, now, it carried a hint of complexity.
Gu Yun naturally understood the conflict in Feng Yunshu's heart, and since this also aligned with his own thoughts, he agreed.
"Of course. Since we're already near the Eternal Imperial Capital, a day or two won't make a difference."
"If Yunshu wants to play, we can have a good look around Wangdi City!"
"That's great!"
"Hehe, Brother Yun is the best."
Feng Yunshu smiled and jumped onto Gu Yun, giving him a kiss on the cheek.
Her gaze fell back onto the majestic and unfamiliar city before her, an excited light flickering in her eyes.
Although she was the Ninth Princess of the Eternal Imperial Dynasty, she was essentially just a canary kept in the imperial palace.
She had never had the chance to see the outside world. Now, being in such close contact with the common life outside the Imperial Capital felt incredibly novel to her.
"This is Wangdi City. It feels much more interesting than the Imperial Capital."
"Naturally. As one of the three major satellite cities of the Eternal Imperial Capital, the prosperity of Wangdi City is to be expected."
"There aren't as many members of the Imperial Family living here, so there aren't as many taboos. Compared to the strict Imperial Capital, it's naturally more interesting."
The two of them were like an ordinary traveling couple, strolling along the wide streets with the flow of people.
Under the concealment of the deceiving heaven mask, they looked quite ordinary.
Gu Yun was even wondering if some wealthy young master would jump out to provoke them, allowing him to experience the treatment of a Child of Destiny.
That way, another debt could be recorded against the Eternal Imperial Dynasty.
When the time came for the final settlement, it would be all the more justified.
But unfortunately... Gu Yun's hopes were ultimately dashed. They didn't encounter anyone blind enough to cause trouble while walking through Wangdi City. Gu Yun could only give up on his curiosity and accompany Feng Yunshu as she wandered aimlessly.
"Brother Yun, look! Look at that, what is that?"
Feng Yunshu's attention was quickly drawn to the things on either side of the street. Things that were commonplace to ordinary cultivators were incredibly novel and rare to her.
"So pretty..."
Gu Yun followed her gaze to a stall belonging to an old craftsman. The man's skill was exquisite, and his stall was filled with many lifelike sugar people.
What had caught Feng Yunshu's eye was one shaped like a phoenix about to take flight. Although the materials were simple, it was full of spirit.
"That's a Sugar Person. Does Yunshu want one?"
"Yes!"
Feng Yunshu nodded to Gu Yun without hesitation, her face full of excitement as if she had returned to being a carefree little girl.
Only in front of Gu Yun could she cast aside all her burdens.
Looking at Feng Yunshu's bright, expectant eyes, Gu Yun's heart softened slightly. He smiled, took her hand, and walked to the Sugar Person stall.
"Old man, how much for this phoenix Sugar Person?"
The old craftsman looked up, revealing a face lined by time but with a kind smile. "Young master has a good eye. This phoenix is one of my proudest works. The materials used are also very carefully chosen, they are..."
"Old man, how many spirit stones for one?"
Gu Yun smilingly interrupted the old craftsman's chance to boast. Usually, once those words were finished, the price would be jacked up on the spot.
Seeing Gu Yun's shrewd look, the old craftsman sighed. "Fine, since you clearly know your stuff, young master, I won't say more. Ten low-grade spirit stones."
As he finished speaking, Gu Yun had already put down a mid-grade spirit stone and then brought the phoenix Sugar Person to Feng Yunshu's side.
Feng Yunshu took it carefully, as if holding a rare treasure, and examined it closely against the sunlight. The syrup refracted an amber glow in the sun, and the phoenix's spreading wings were vivid and lifelike.
"It's so beautiful... I'm almost reluctant to eat it."
She praised softly, stuck out her little tongue, and tentatively licked the phoenix's wing. The sweet taste dissolved on the tip of her tongue, making her eyes curve into crescents. "So sweet! Brother Yun, you try some too!"
Feng Yunshu held the Sugar Person to Gu Yun's lips, her eyes filled with the joy of sharing.
Gu Yun naturally wouldn't spoil the mood and took a light bite of the phoenix's tail feather.
The overly sweet taste was a bit too ordinary for him, but seeing Feng Yunshu's happy face, the Sugar Person seemed to become exceptionally delicious.
"Yes, it's very sweet."
He smiled.
The two of them continued to stroll along the bustling street, playing and chatting.
No one noticed that behind them, the old craftsman who sold the sugar people kept his gaze locked on them at all times.
"Dressed so simply, yet spending so generously."
"What exactly are you trying to hide?"
He casually toyed with the mid-grade spirit stone Gu Yun had left behind, then suddenly clenched his fist and squeezed hard.
The spirit stone turned into powder and trickled down, and a smile spread across the corners of his mouth.
"Better to kill by mistake than to let one slip through."
"It seems the top merit this time will be mine."
...The two of them wandered the streets of Wangdi City for a long time, and a joyful smile never left Feng Yunshu's face.
She saw many strange and novel things, and she had someone by her side willing to indulge her childishness and whims. Was there anything in the world more blissful than this?
Happy times are always brief. Before they knew it, the sun began to sink in the west, dyeing the horizon a brilliant orange-red, and the bustle of Wangdi City gradually began to settle.
As Feng Yunshu looked at the gradually quieting streets, the pure smile on her face faded slightly. She held Gu Yun's arm tightly, as if she could draw more courage to face the future this way.
"Brother Yun, it's getting dark... Let's find a place to stay."