Chapter 722: Zhao Wuji (Two-in-One)
"Qichi, I've come to save you!!"
A cry filled with worry echoed from afar, breaking the newly settled atmosphere.
Everyone looked toward the sound and saw an ancient Bronze Chariot tearing through the sky at extreme speed from the edge of the horizon!
Several figures with powerful auras stood upon the chariot, led by none other than the returning Zhao Kun!
Behind that Bronze Chariot, an even denser, inseparable mass of black mist came rolling in.
Within the black mist, the signature silhouette of the Myriad Dao Alliance's hideous Bone Ship was faintly visible.
With such a massive commotion from the Canglan Imperial Dynasty, how could it not attract the attention of other forces?
The two sides still shared an alliance, and the intelligence regarding Great Emperor Bailian's tomb was still in the hands of the Canglan Imperial Dynasty.
Because of this, the Myriad Dao Alliance could not afford to sit idly by.
And now, the two forces seemed to have arrived at the exact same time.
Zhao Kun followed his Zhao Family ancestor and arrived on the chariot, only to see the scene of Han Qichi being held in a man's arms.
In an instant, the anxiety and determination on his face froze, replaced by unbelievable shock and bewilderment.
"Qi... Qichi... You... You two..."
His voice trembled as he pointed a finger at Gu Yun and Han Qichi, his lips quivering, unable to utter a complete sentence.
He had risked his life to return to the Zhao Family for reinforcements and rushed back, thinking he could be like a hero, saving his beloved woman from fire and water in her moment of peril, thereby winning her heart and the beauty herself.
But what was this scene before his eyes?
Not only was Han Qichi safe and sound, she was even... snuggling in another man's arms!
And... that face was all too familiar... It was the culprit who had relentlessly pursued him in the Ancient Continent and driven him out.
Yun Valley!
"It's you!! Why! Why is it you again!!"
Zhao Kun gnashed his teeth, feeling the blood in his body boiling and burning.
"Zhao Kun! I thought you had already fled in panic; I didn't expect you to actually come back to seek death."
Han Qichi straightened up slightly from Gu Yun's embrace, the blush on her face fading as she regained the coldness and majesty befitting an Empress.
Her voice was icy, devoid of any past warmth, stabbing deeply into Zhao Kun's heart.
He stared fixedly at Han Qichi, then at the hand wrapped around her waist, his surging rage nearly burning him to ashes.
"Why... Qichi... tell me why!!"
"He forced you, the Hundred Flowers Holy Land coerced you, didn't they!!"
He was still unwilling to believe the reality before him.
A hint of mockery flickered in Han Qichi's eyes. Did this foolish fellow really think she would fall for him?
He was just a piece of trash who couldn't even see her true desires. From the moment Zhao Kun helped the Canglan Emperor, he no longer held any weight with Han Qichi.
This poor Child of Destiny still thought it was a matter of parental orders and a matchmaker's words.
"No one forced me, and no one can force me."
"All of this is my own choice!"
Han Qichi spoke decisively, leaving no room for sentiment: "Zhao Kun, look clearly. I have long been His Highness's woman."
As she spoke, she specifically leaned closer into Gu Yun's embrace, her stunning face carrying a calm that was almost boastful, acting like a delicate, submissive little wife.
The corner of Gu Yun's mouth curled slightly as he reached out and pulled Han Qichi fully into his arms.
Zhao Kun was struck as if by lightning, freezing in place, his face instantly turning as pale as paper: "No... impossible, you must be lying to me!!"
"We... we clearly got along so well before. An arranged marriage—your father even decreed our marriage!"
"Qichi, you like me, you like me, right?"
Zhao Kun seemed to fall into a state of hysteria.
"Marriage contract?"
"Just nonsense spoken by that old thing. What validity does it have?"
The corner of Han Qichi's mouth curled into a cold arc, one filled with mockery: "Now... I am the Empress of Canglan!"
"Can you give me these things? If your Zhao Family had that kind of ability, would you still be hiding away in seclusion, barely surviving until now, yet still trying to act powerful!"
"But with His Highness," Han Qichi's gaze turned toward Gu Yun, instantly becoming soft and filled with admiration—the speed of her change of heart shattered Zhao Kun's spirit—"He only needs one word to let me sit on the Canglan throne, and even make the Ancestor follow my lead!"
Han Shi nodded and bowed, cooperating perfectly, a sight that left even Mo Yuan looking shocked.
"In the future, I will reign over the entire Three Thousand Dao Domains. He can bring me everything I desire: power, authority, a future, and even... pleasure!"
As she spoke, a timely blush colored Han Qichi's face: "A waste like you, how can you even be compared to him?!!"
Standing beside Han Qichi, Gu Yun's mouth twitched slightly.
This scene... why did it look so much like the first chapter of those 'overpowered wealth' novels?
The male lead gets cheated on, then gains a system.
Slaps the ex-girlfriend's face and reaches the pinnacle of life.
Unfortunately, Zhao Kun no longer had the fate to be a protagonist again.
Checking Zhao Kun's remaining destiny value, Gu Yun felt a bit of regret.
"You... You all..."
Zhao Kun's entire body trembled violently, his face turning from green to white, and finally to a deathly gray.
Han Qichi's words were like poisoned daggers, piercing through his last illusions and dignity.
"Bitch... you bitch!!!"
Extreme humiliation and anger finally crushed Zhao Kun's last shred of reason. His eyes were bloodshot as he stared fixedly at Han Qichi, then suddenly turned to Gu Yun, his voice hoarse like an evil ghost's. "It's you, it's you again! You bastard, you ruined my opportunities in the Ancient Continent, and now you've stolen my beloved! I, Zhao Kun, will never live under the same sky as you!!"
He turned abruptly and pleaded hoarsely to the Zhao Family elder on the Bronze Chariot, Zhao Wuji, whose aura was ethereal and face was grim: "Ancestor! Great Ancestor!"
"You must seek justice for me! Kill them, kill this pair of dogs!!"
Zhao Wuji's brow furrowed slightly, a flash of displeasure in his eyes.
Zhao Kun's mental fortitude was even worse than he had anticipated.
But regardless, Zhao Kun was of the Zhao Family's direct line and possessed the Minor Destiny Physique. If he suffered such great humiliation today, where would the Zhao Family's face go?
Moreover, that Han Qichi actually dared to look down on their Imperial Zhao Family; she indeed needed to be put in her place.
"Kun'er, calm down!"
Zhao Wuji's voice carried a hint of authority, temporarily suppressing Zhao Kun's frenzy.
"I beg the Ancestor to take action!"
Zhao Kun gnashed his teeth.
"Rest assured, Kun'er. Whether for you or for the Zhao Family's honor, this old man will not sit idly by!"
Zhao Wuji spoke plainly. With a cultivation of five tribulations, his strength was the highest on the field, so naturally, he didn't need to take anyone seriously.
Slowly taking a step forward with the arrogance of a Great Emperor, his gaze fell upon Han Qichi, cold and deep: "Han Qichi, don't think that just because you've ascended to the throne of the Canglan Imperial Dynasty through outside help, you can act recklessly."
"The foundation of my Imperial Zhao Family is not something you can imagine!"
As he spoke, his aura erupted, intending to give Han Qichi a show of force.
At that moment, Han Shi suddenly stepped forward: "Bah, what foundation? You've been beaten into hiding in the deep mountains and old forests, unable to even come out."
"Zhao Wuji, how can you be so thick-skinned?"
Han Shi's sudden and merciless mockery was like a loud slap across the faces of Zhao Wuji and all the Zhao Family experts.
The indifference on Zhao Wuji's face vanished instantly, replaced by a chilling rage like ten-thousand-year-old ice.
"Han Shi, instead of waiting for death in your coffin, you come out to acknowledge someone else as your master. How embarrassing."
"You truly bring shame to the ancestors of your Han family!"
"Heh, that's still much better than you rats in the gutter."
"Even if my Canglan Imperial Dynasty were to fall, it would be upright and due to a lack of skill, not like certain fellows who fled in panic and are barely surviving."
"Presumptuous!!!"
Zhao Wuji's voice was bone-chilling, carrying undisguised killing intent. His terrifying aura boomed as the pressure of a Five Tribulation Great Emperor swept toward Han Shi like a tangible tsunami!
"Today, this old man shall teach you a lesson on behalf of your father, who has been dead for who knows how many years!"
"Listen up, you traitors of the Myriad Spirits Dao Domain! As long as my Zhao Family exists, the sky will not fall!!"
"Those who insult the Zhao Family shall end up like him!!"
"There is only the path to death!"
As his voice fell, Zhao Wuji had already struck out fiercely, the spiritual energy of heaven and earth frantically converging upon him.
It condensed into a colossal Dharma projection that reached between heaven and earth, and with one palm, he ruthlessly struck toward Han Shi.
Han Shi's expression changed. This Zhao Wuji was simply showing no martial virtue—how could he use such a sharp killing move right from the start!
He hadn't recovered from his injuries yet and his strength was greatly diminished. Facing this terrifying palm, wouldn't he be broken into pieces?
"Young Master Gu!!" Han Shi hurriedly mobilized his remaining spiritual energy to condense an ice shield for defense while urgently calling out to Gu Yun for help.
However, Gu Yun merely stood with his hands behind his back, watching the scene with interest, showing no intention of intervening.
"Ancestor Han, since you chose to submit, you must show some sincerity."
"This Zhao Family elder's strength is decent; he's perfect for you to practice with."
"I believe in you. You can do it."
Gu Yun cast an expectant look, clearly enjoying the spectacle.
Han Shi complained bitterly in his heart. This was a Five Tribulation Great Emperor; even at his peak, he wouldn't be a match. Wasn't this asking for his old life?
"Young Master! This old servant still has injuries, and this Zhao Wuji is at the five-tribulation level..."
Han Shi tried to bargain.
"Injuries?" Gu Yun raised an eyebrow. "When I saw you cursing earlier, your breath seemed quite strong."
He changed his tone, his voice carrying temptation: "Is that so... If you can perform well in this battle, I don't mind rewarding you with a 'Life-Extending Pill.' It will not only heal your injuries but also allow your withered lifespan... to be extended by another ten thousand years."
Extend lifespan by ten thousand years?!
These words seemed to possess magic, instantly causing an astonishing light to burst from Han Shi's cloudy old eyes!
He had very little lifespan left to begin with, and burning his essence blood earlier had only made matters worse.
If he could extend his life by ten thousand years... forget about dealing with one Zhao Wuji, he would dare to risk his life against the entire Zhao Family!
"Are your words true, Young Master?!"
Han Shi's breathing became rapid.
"Naturally." Gu Yun nodded.
"Good!" Han Shi gritted his teeth, a look of ruthlessness flashing across his face. "For the Young Master's appreciation, this old servant will risk this old life today!"
He no longer hesitated. Facing the giant palm already descending upon him, he gave a wild roar, his remaining spiritual energy erupting as he squeezed out every last drop of his origin.
"Mystic Ice Prison Suppression!!!"
Endless cold air gushed out, forming a towering mountain that fiercely crashed toward the giant palm.
Terrifying energy raged, and the surrounding space shattered.
Han Shi groaned, blood leaking from the corner of his mouth. Under the crushing weight of the dark-gold giant palm, the ice mountain was quickly covered in cracks, clearly unable to hold out for long.
A flash of disdain appeared in Zhao Wuji's eyes: "A mantis trying to stop a carriage! Break for me!"
With his five-tribulation cultivation, this battle should have been calm and effortless.
However, Han Shi somehow found the strength to fight for his life, and for a moment, the battle actually became difficult to end.
Zhao Kun looked at the bewildered Han Qichi with a cold laugh, feeling satisfied: "Bitch, do you see now how foolish your choice was?"
"Just a mere position as the Ruler of Canglan. If you had chosen me, you could have easily obtained it!"
"This is the foundation of my Imperial Zhao Family; how could you possibly fathom it?"
Han Qichi did not pay attention to his sarcasm; she was only shocked that the old fellow Han Shi would actually fight so hard: "Master, what did you do to the Ancestor? How could he..."
"Nothing much, just a Life-Extending Pill."
"What?!!"
Han Qichi's beautiful eyes widened as she looked at the youth in disbelief.
Lifespan and reincarnation have their set paths.
In the past, those precious medicines that extended life actually only strengthened the body and reduced the probability of illness or spiritual energy backlash.
And as a Great Emperor, aside from being struck dead by lightning tribulations or dying in battle, Han Shi only had one way left to die... old age!
And he had indeed struggled to the very end of his life.
To extend his life was truly to seize the creation of heaven and earth.
No wonder the Ancestor was fighting so hard. Looking at Han Shi, who was already battered and bruised but still refused to give up, a hint of sympathy rose in Han Qichi's heart.
However... a burst of power was still just a burst of power; it couldn't bridge the gap.
As time passed, there was no longer a single piece of intact flesh on Han Shi's body, until Zhao Wuji's next attack.
He could no longer hold on; his body flew backward, crashed into the ground, and he fainted completely.
"Ancestor!!" Many people from the Canglan Imperial Dynasty side cried out in alarm.
"Hahaha! Old man Han Shi, this is the consequence of provoking my Zhao Family!" Seeing this, a cruel, vengeful smile appeared on Zhao Kun's face. "Ancestor is divine!!"
On the nearby Bone Ship, a cold arc curled at the corner of Mo Yuan's mouth.
This group of fools from the Canglan Imperial Dynasty could have steadily obtained Great Emperor Bailian's treasure, but now they had messed everything up themselves.
Only now... wanting to get a share from the Zhao Family would be more than just difficult.
What choice should he make?
In the air, Zhao Wuji retracted his fist and stood tall, looking at Han Shi, who was like a dead dog, with a disdainful cold smile.
"Who else?"
"I'm asking, who else!"
"In this Myriad Spirits Dao Domain, my Zhao Family's iron fist is the hardest!"
*Puchi...*
Just as Zhao Wuji's arrogance reached its peak, the sound of something piercing flesh suddenly came from his chest, and a dagger wrapped in black energy thrust through from his back.
//723//
Chapter 723: The Tables Have Turned (Two-in-One)
"Elder!!"
Countless members of the Zhao Clan were scared witless by this abrupt scene, each one shocked beyond words, the expressions of bewilderment on their faces impossible to suppress.
Zhao Kun, who had been immersed in the pleasure of venting his frustrations just a moment ago, saw the expression on his face change completely as well; his body trembled, and his eyes were filled with disbelief.
"How... how is this possible?!"
"An-Ancestor!!"
In the sky, the pride and disdain on Zhao Wuji's face instantly froze, transforming into unbelievable agony and horror.
"Ugh... You...!"
He looked down, staring at the tip of the dagger protruding from his chest, and felt the terrifying power of the curse contained within it; his entire body shook violently.
"Demonic... Cult!!"
Zhao Wuji whipped his head around, his eyes reflecting a slender figure that resembled a ghost.
It was none other than the fourth sequence of the Demonic Cult—the Hall Master You Ming!
With a Four Tribulation cultivation, he had successfully broken through to the Five Tribulations after receiving the baptism of Gu Yun's Heavenly Demon power.
"Correct, but unfortunately... there is no reward."
The figure of the Hall Master You Ming, shrouded in black mist, let out a cold, light laugh and gave his wrist a sudden twist!
The Netherworld Death Qi and curse power coiled around the bone blade erupted instantly, frantically eroding Zhao Wuji's internal organs like maggots on a bone!
"Pfft—!"
Zhao Wuji spat out another large mouthful of foul blood mixed with fragments of his internal organs; his aura withered at a pace visible to the naked eye, and his face became as pale as paper.
This sneak attack was too lethal!
The Hall Master You Ming was already an expert at stealthy assassinations, and now that he had broken through to the Five Tribulations, his strength was even greater than before.
This one strike not only heavily damaged his emperor's body but also drove a fatal Netherworld curse into him, greatly diminishing his strength and even making it difficult and sluggish for him to mobilize his spiritual power.
"Ancestor!!"
The other experts of the Zhao Clan and the cultivators of the Myriad Dao Alliance could no longer sit still.
They had originally come with the mindset of watching a show, but now that Zhao Wuji had been ambushed, the battle situation had undergone a massive change, and their original intentions naturally vanished completely.
Several figures instantly shot out from the formation to rescue Zhao Wuji.
But at that moment, several more cracks opened in the sky, and the former sequences of the Demonic Cult stepped out one after another.
Ghost Fiend, Hundred Beast, Blood Fiend, Bone Sludge, and Corrosive Shadow.
Except for Grandma You, who was still preparing to break through to the Emperor Realm, all the sequences controlled by Gu Yun in the Demonic Cult were present!
Coupled with the six kings of the Canglan Imperial Dynasty, they collided fiercely with the remaining nine great emperors of the Zhao Clan and the Myriad Dao Alliance.
A world-shaking roar exploded over the Canglan Imperial Capital, and the turbulent energy from the collision of emperor's might swept in all directions like a violent tide.
The five major sequences of the Demonic Cult plus the six kings of Canglan not only formed a crushing advantage in numbers, but with Four Tribulation experts like the Ghost Fiend Hall Master among them, the battle quickly became a one-sided slaughter.
Zhao Wuji had been heavily wounded by the Hall Master You Ming, and his combat power was less than thirty percent; subsequently, he faced a pincer attack from Netherworld and Han Shi, and he soon found himself in a precarious situation, drenched in cold sweat.
In addition, high in the sky, five dark-gold great emperor warships hung suspended.
The light of the main cannons flickered intermittently, like five cold eyes staring chillily at the battlefield, ready to fire a lethal blow at any moment.
This invisible deterrent left the experts of the Zhao Clan and the Myriad Dao Alliance constrained, not daring to use their full strength for fear of becoming targets for the warships.
"The Hundred Flowers Holy Land actually dares to collude with the Demonic Cult!"
"You lot are shameless and should kill yourselves to appease the righteous path of the world!!"
An elder of the Myriad Dao Alliance shouted in accusation.
"Han Qichi! Have you lost your composure for a mere pittance of profit? I tell you, associating with the demons of the Demonic Cult will never end well!"
Although Zhao Kun's face looked somewhat grim, he remained frantic: "My Zhao Clan's reinforcements are already on their way!"
"You, and these Demonic Cult demons, will all be buried here today!"
Han Qichi's expression was cold; she hadn't expected that Demonic Cult cultivators would actually show up to help her at the critical moment.
But what did that matter?
As long as they could become a sharp blade in her hand, she would even cooperate with creatures from the Forbidden Zones.
"Victory or defeat is decided in a single thought."
"Zhao Kun, stop your daydreaming. Before your Zhao Clan reinforcements arrive, I'm afraid you people will be buried here first."
Accompanied by Han Qichi's frigid words, the patterns on the five ships lit up once more.
Brilliant golden light pierced through the clouds, illuminating the entire sky over the Canglan Imperial Capital as if it were broad daylight.
The light from the main cannons grew increasingly intense; the people of the Zhao Clan and those cultivators from the Myriad Dao Alliance had never seen such a display.
Although they had been shocked by these massive objects earlier, no one had believed they could release such terrifying power.
How could mere inanimate objects compare to cultivators at the Emperor Venerable level?
"Wh-What?!"
Zhao Kun took two steps back, the warning bells in his heart ringing frantically.
"Heh, Zhao Kun, I'm waiting for the main cannons to charge. What are you waiting for?"
Gu Yun spoke with a light laugh and waved his hand.
Five golden pillars of light as thick as barrels instantly erupted, locking onto the figures of the Zhao Clan cultivators on the battlefield without the slightest deviation.
Hundreds of secondary cannons also launched their attacks at the same time, with no intention of saving spiritual energy.
What they wanted... was total extermination!
Although the attacks from the temporary charging weren't as terrifying as the very first one, they were more than enough to deal with these cultivators from the Zhao Clan and the Myriad Dao Alliance.
The Zhao Clan cultivators were already pinned down by the cultivators of the Demonic Cult and the Canglan Imperial Dynasty, exhausted from running for their lives; they had no time to react to this sudden, precise strike.
Screams rang out one after another as figures were struck by the light pillars and instantly turned to ash.
Even Quasi-Emperor Realm experts would die upon contact and perish if touched!
Fragments of flesh and blood, swept up in spiritual energy vortices, entered Gu Yun's heaven and earth furnace.
Their souls scattered and were directly seized by the human emperor banner.
As the saying goes, make the best use of everything; since they had started, they couldn't waste a single bit of essence!
Even Emperor Venerable experts were inevitably affected; one of the Zhao Clan's Three Tribulation Great Emperors bore the brunt of it, being hit directly by the attack from one of the main cannons.
"Pfft—"
Fragments of his collapsing emperor's body, along with essence blood, fell like rain.
The Ghost Fiend Hall Master took the opportunity to urge his demonic power, and a pitch-black ghost claw tore through the void, firmly clutching the man's neck and giving it a sudden twist.
With a crisp sound of cracking bone, that great emperor fell to the ground; his head was plucked off and sent straight into a mouth!
"Hahaha, the emperor's blood of the Zhao Clan is indeed mellow!"
Blood Qi surged around the Blood Fiend Hall Master, the Corrosive Shadow Hall Master cast a layer of Yin Wind Domain, and Bone Sludge slammed both hands into the ground, causing a forest of white bones to sprout from the earth.
With the assistance of the secondary cannons on the warships, they quickly ground the opponents they faced into mincemeat.
The battle lasted for over half a day, and by now, it had become a completely one-sided situation.
The main cannons of the great emperor warships were like the scythe of the Grim Reaper hanging over the heads of the Zhao Clan; every roar was accompanied by the fall of several Zhao Clan experts.
Soon, except for Zhao Wuji, who was being tightly pinned down, and Zhao Kun, who had the best luck, the rest of the Zhao Clan cultivators were all slain.
Blood dyed the sky above the Canglan Imperial Capital; the aftershocks of the emperor's might dissipated, but the air remained restless for a long time.
The cannon muzzles had once again fallen silent, beginning the wait for a new round of charging, but no one dared to underestimate the opponent anymore.
This was a terrifying weapon capable of threatening great emperor experts; if one could have an endless fleet, who in the entire Three Thousand Dao Domains could stand against them?!
Han Qichi was filled with grand ambitions; only now did she truly understand that the youth's words about making her the Empress of the entire Three Thousand Dao Domains might not be an empty promise.
Although she might not be the final choice, by following him, she would ultimately be able to see the scenery along the way.
In the past, she had only desired to prove herself to her father and seize the throne of Canglan.
But now, her future was the sea of stars!!
In the sky, Zhao Wuji no longer had his previous arrogance; he was covered in blood, and the wound on his chest constantly leaked black blood mixed with curse power. The Hall Master You Ming's strike had not only pierced his emperor's body but also completely destroyed his origin. The spiritual power in his body was draining away like a flood, and even mobilizing a sliver of emperor's might had become incredibly difficult.
His current condition was even worse than Han Shi's; it was truly not easy for him to have held on until now.
But when he saw the images of the Zhao Clan cultivators dying at the hands of those steel behemoths, he fell into total madness.
He wanted to self-detonate his soul and take the Hall Master You Ming down with him, but no matter how he urged his remaining soul power, he couldn't trigger the self-detonation—Netherworld's curse had long ago locked his soul, making even seeking death an extravagant hope.
"Netherworld, Canglan, and you, boy... my Zhao Clan... will never live under the same sky as you!!"
"After I die, the people of the Zhao Clan will receive the news instantly. You'd better be prepared to endure the frantic wrath of an Imperial Clan!!"
Zhao Wuji let out a long howl toward the heavens, his voice hoarse and broken, filled with endless humiliation and resentment. Under the erosion of the curse power, his body gradually became shriveled, his emperor's body began to crack inch by inch, and the light in his eyes dimmed bit by bit.
The Hall Master You Ming slowly walked up to him, his expression unreadable behind the black mist, with only his cold words echoing between heaven and earth: "The Zhao Clan? From the moment you chose to make an enemy of my Master, your fate of destruction was already sealed!"
"Zhao Wuji, you are the first, but you won't be the last!"
"Go in peace. I believe that before long, you will have plenty of acquaintances to accompany you on the road to the Nine Serenities Yellow Springs."
As his voice fell, he raised his hand and struck out with a bolt of pitch-black Netherworld power, hitting Zhao Wuji squarely in the head.
"Pfft—!"
Zhao Wuji's head instantly shattered, and his shriveled body, like a kite with its string cut, slowly fell, hitting the ground and turning into a pile of ash.
This Five Tribulation Great Emperor had ultimately met a humiliating end, without even an intact corpse left behind.
The battlefield fell into complete silence, leaving only bloodstains all over the ground and a shivering Zhao Kun.
Looking at everything before him, his mind went blank.
The Zhao Clan elders were dead, the Zhao Clan experts were all dead; only he was left, once a high-and-mighty direct descendant of an Imperial Clan, now a solitary soul.
[Ding! The Host has slain thirty percent of the Zhao Clan's combat power, shattering the Child of Destiny's dream of showing off. Zhao Kun's destiny value has decreased by 3,000 points.]
[Ding! The Child of Destiny's mindset has exploded. Rewarding 5,000 villain value.]
"Only three thousand points? It seems that even if I wipe out the entire Zhao Clan, it will only cost him ten thousand destiny value points. There are still eight thousand points left."
Although he could kill him directly, Gu Yun still very much enjoyed this feeling of psychological torture.
It just so happened that Han Qichi had fallen into his hands; as the only female lead in this script, she should carry quite a bit of weight.
An Emperor Venerable cultivator of the Canglan Imperial Dynasty stepped forward quickly and kicked the slumped Zhao Kun over, pressing a cold longsword firmly against his neck. The sharp edge cut his skin, causing fine beads of blood to seep out, as he barked: "Zhao Kun, surrender! If you dare to struggle further, you will be executed without mercy!"
Zhao Kun trembled all over, looking at the remains scattered everywhere, his eyes a mix of hatred and despair.
Those bloodshot eyes stared fixedly at Gu Yun, filled with a death-defying malice.
Gu Yun stood with his hands behind his back, his gaze calmly sweeping over Zhao Kun, his tone devoid of any emotion: "Take him away, keep him under strict guard, and don't let him die—he is still useful."
"Yes!!"
The Emperor Venerable cultivator complied, sheathed his sword, and grabbed Zhao Kun's pipa bones. A powerful surge of spiritual energy entered Zhao Kun's body, sealing all of his cultivation, before he was hauled away like a stray dog.
"Why not kill him?"
Luo Hanyan asked in confusion.
"To catch a big fish, you must cast a long line."
Gu Yun was very calm. To pull up the weeds, one must remove the roots; with Zhao Kun captured and Zhao Wuji dead, the Zhao Clan would not sit idly by.
"During these days, you first lead the troops to sweep through the Central Region of the Myriad Spirits Dao Domain."
"I will have Han Shi and Thousand Years and the others cooperate with you."
"Remember, you must make the name of the Millennium Female War God famous."
"A while ago, she just stepped into the threshold of the Quasi-Emperor Realm and can already hold her own."
From wiping out the Eternal Imperial Dynasty, Gu Yun's harvest was incredibly bountiful.
With so many emperor pills, he had given almost one to each of his women.
Now, even the sisters Qi Huoer and Qi Shuier were not far from the Quasi-Emperor Realm.
"Hmph~ You're sending us all away and leaving behind only Han Qichi, this new Empress, aren't you? Your intentions are truly obvious!"
Luo Hanyan crossed her arms and let out a dissatisfied snort.
"Alright now."
Gu Yun laughed and pulled her into his arms, giving her a kiss on the lips: "Han Yan, don't worry. When you return, I'll give you a surprise."
"Hmph! The surprise isn't important. Next time, I want to be on top."
"Fine, fine, fine. Whatever you say, I'll listen to you."
Gu Yun spoke with a smile, and only then did Luo Hanyan leave satisfied.
The five great emperor warships set off grandly. Poor Han Shi, despite his wounds not yet healed, was still dragged out to do hard labor.
However, once he heard that they were going to strike directly at the Myriad Dao Alliance's nest, he became excited and his spirits lifted.
In the Canglan Imperial Palace, Han Qichi's coronation ceremony proceeded as scheduled, and Gu Yun became the only person who could sit upright during the court assembly.
Yet, not a single one of these Emperor Venerable high officials and nobles dared to say a word against this scene.
The boring court assembly ended, leaving only Gu Yun and this newly crowned Empress in the hall.
The youth also cast aside his mask of false kindness, walked forward, and directly picked up this Lady Empress who had just been imperious and majestic before the world.
Placing her on his lap, he whispered in her ear: "How about it? I've already helped you achieve your wish. The thing you promised me..."
//724//
Chapter 724: Annihilating the Myriad Dao Alliance (Two-in-One)
Han Qichi's body stiffened slightly; beneath the resplendent imperial robe, her skin abruptly tensed.
Gu Yun's breath brushed past her ear, carrying an air of unquestionable control.
"What does Your Highness mean by this? Qichi doesn't recall agreeing to anything. I hope Your Highness will speak plainly."
Gu Yun smiled and hooked her chin with his finger, their eyes meeting, his gaze piercing and intense.
"Our new Canglan Empress, if you act like this, it won't be any fun."
"I placed you on this throne not without demands. I think... you should have understood this principle long ago."
"A princess is not enough; an empress suits my taste better."
Gu Yun's words were forceful and explicit; as he spoke, he simultaneously monitored the changes in Han Qichi's favorability in real-time.
However, to his surprise, faced with this almost threatening direct attack, her favorability not only didn't drop but showed a faint upward trend.
It seemed about to break through the eighty-point threshold. Wow, this seemingly strong and ambitious princess actually harbored such a bold heart.
No wonder in that script, she ended up being taken by Zhao Kun in the end.
But now... I must be the first to claim her!
"You... what do you want me to do?"
Under Gu Yun's assault, Han Qichi momentarily appeared flustered. She could only force herself to remain calm, striving to maintain the dignity befitting an empress.
Seeing her so compliant, Gu Yun's desire for conquest was thoroughly ignited.
"Kneel!"
Gu Yun's voice was icy. Han Qichi's delicate frame trembled, then, as if receiving some command, her knees uncontrollably bent toward the cold golden brick floor.
The resplendent dragon-patterned imperial robe dragged on the ground, its edges brushing against dust, a stark contrast to the noble demeanor she had while seated on the dragon throne moments ago.
Gu Yun lowered his gaze, looking at the woman kneeling at his feet, a playful smile curling at the corner of his mouth.
"It seems our Empress hasn't forgotten her proper place despite the change in her status."
"Good, very well-behaved."
Gu Yun's voice softened slightly as he slowly bent down, his fingertips gently brushing over Han Qichi's hair. "Let me ask you again."
"I pushed you onto this dragon throne, cleared all obstacles. Tell me, how should you repay me?"
"I... I..."
Han Qichi suddenly looked up, her eyes reddening, her face showing a broken expression of defiance. Her voice trembled with suppressed emotion, yet each word was firm: "You treacherous rebel! Today, I can offer myself to serve a villain, but you must not harm the common people of my Canglan!"
"Otherwise, even if it means mutual destruction, I will exhaust all my cultivation to settle this with you, you scoundrel!"
Changing expressions without missing a beat, instantly immersed in the role.
This act perfectly portrayed the ultimate sacrifice under duress.
Gu Yun chuckled inwardly. The award-winning actors and actresses he had seen in his previous life were utterly outclassed by Han Qichi's natural acting skills.
And... it wasn't just her words. With a slight movement of her fingertips, the belt at her waist quietly loosened. The magnificent dragon-patterned imperial robe gradually slipped from her smooth shoulders. The new Empress of the Canglan Imperial Dynasty was finally about to fully bloom today... the palace was filled with spring scenery.
Meanwhile, the entire Myriad Spirits Dao Domain was plunged into turmoil.
Following Gu Yun's instructions, Luo Hanyan led her forces to sweep through the central region of the Myriad Spirits Dao Domain.
With over a dozen Emperor-level experts, plus the mid-stage Great Emperors Han Shi, Ghost Fiend, and the Hall Master You Ming, along with five great emperor warships sweeping through.
This battle was arguably the easiest of Luo Hanyan's life. With such formidable combat power, the major sects and cultivator forces in the central region either surrendered upon seeing the approaching forces or were instantly annihilated, meeting almost no significant resistance.
Of course, Luo Hanyan hadn't forgotten Gu Yun's order—to let Snow Thousand Years shine brightly in this sweeping campaign.
The name of the Hundred Flowers Holy Land spread throughout the Three Thousand Dao Domains.
The elegance of the Holy Maiden Feng Yunyun also swept across all directions.
As their reputation gradually grew, cultivators across the central region basically surrendered upon seeing the approaching forces.
Finally... only the Myriad Dao Alliance remained as the last tough nut to crack.
"Old Man Wan, will you come out to die on your own, or should I just break in?"
"Make a choice!!"
Han Shi, Luo Hanyan, and others had already besieged the Myriad Dao Alliance's mountain gate. Five great emperor warships hovered in the sky, emanating a heart-palpitating pressure.
The auras of several Emperor-level experts swept in all directions. In an instant, imperial energy spread, completely sealing off the Myriad Dao Alliance's retreat.
The Myriad Dao Alliance's mountain gate was tightly shut. Cultivators stood densely on the city walls, but each had a pale face, anxious expressions, their weapons gripped so tightly their knuckles turned white, their breaths trembling.
Earlier, the Canglan Imperial Dynasty had been attacked.
Alliance Leader Mo Yuan had taken several high-ranking alliance members to investigate the situation, but they had been delayed and hadn't returned. Now, what arrived were enemy warships.
Over the past few days, news of cultivators in the central region surrendering upon seeing the approaching forces had already spread, like a heavy stone pressing down on every Myriad Dao Alliance cultivator, making it hard to breathe.
"Old Man Han! It's been centuries, but I never expected you to become so arrogant. Do you think my old hands can no longer wield this great blade?"
Just as the Myriad Dao Alliance was in panic, an angry, aged voice suddenly came from deep within the alliance.
Before the words faded, an old man in gray Daoist robes, holding a great blade one and a half times a person's height, quietly appeared.
He was the ancestor of the Myriad Dao Alliance, the Fourth Tribulation Great Emperor—Wan Fucang.
At this moment, he held the War Heaven Great Blade, standing in mid-air, his turbid eyes flashing with sharp, cold light.
Though aged, his aura remained vast and heavy, suppressing all directions like a mountain, temporarily stabilizing the crumbling morale of the Myriad Dao Alliance cultivators.
Behind him, several powerful high-ranking members of the Myriad Dao Alliance followed, each with a grave expression, ready for battle.
The deaths of Mo Yuan and others had left the once strong and well-equipped Myriad Dao Alliance looking much weaker. Only three or four Great Emperor-level experts remained guarding the alliance.
But now, they had the confidence to confront Han Shi.
Because in a corner difficult for ordinary people to find, not far from Wan Fucang's side, stood a white-robed elder.
This person carried an ancient longsword on his back, his face cold and stern, with a sharp sword intent between his brows.
As if seeing something unbelievable, his gaze remained fixed on the woman in white standing beside Luo Hanyan, whose demeanor was as cold and clear as frost.
"Snow Thousand Years!! What are you doing here!!"
As a Hantian Sword Sect elder, he had come to visit an old friend, never expecting to see the former Hantian Sword Sect's peerless sword prodigy here in the Myriad Spirits Dao Domain!
Snow Thousand Years had exceptional talent. The Sword Sect had spent countless resources nurturing her, placing high hopes on her.
But after the journey to the Ancient Continent, she had mysteriously disappeared without a trace.
The Hantian Sword Sect expended great manpower and resources searching but found nothing, assuming she had met with misfortune. Even the Sword Sect felt some regret.
Who would have thought that today, in this place and in this manner, they would see her again!
Moreover, judging by her current position, she had clearly joined another faction.
Snow Thousand Years stood beside Luo Hanyan, like a snow lotus blooming atop an icy peak, aloof from the world.
When she saw the white-robed elder, a barely perceptible ripple flashed in her cold eyes, but it instantly returned to calm, as still as an ancient well.
Elder Jianhen, long time no see.
She nodded slightly, her tone indifferent.
This bland response, however, was like adding fuel to the fire, instantly igniting the suppressed rage of Elder Jianhen.
Wan Fucang, standing nearby, was utterly confused: "Elder Jianhen, have you made some mistake?"
"This woman is clearly Feng Yunyun, the Holy Maiden of the Hundred Flowers Holy Land. Her talent is extraordinary; these days, she has been sweeping through the Central Region, unstoppable below the third level of Quasi-Emperor..."
"Mistake? How could I possibly make a mistake!!"
Elder Jianhen roared in fury: "Snow Thousand Years! Do you know how much effort the sect has expended to find you?"
"Do you know what great hopes the Sect Master and the elders have placed in you?"
"And now... you have actually betrayed the sect, changed your allegiance. Do you have even a shred of shame left!!"
Elder Jianhen's furious rebuke, filled with heartache and disappointment, along with questioning and bewilderment, echoed before the gates of the Myriad Dao Alliance, attracting everyone's attention.
Luo Hanyan frowned slightly, looking at Snow Thousand Years with a questioning gaze.
Faced with this storm of accusations, Snow Thousand Years's expression remained calm: "Elder Jianhen, you should go ask the Old Sword Master about these matters."
"Ask him how cruel it is to scheme against a desperate mother and snatch her infant child from the cradle!!"
"Hantian Sword Sect!"
"Do you think you can hide everything?!"
"Ever since I was taken away by His Highness, I, Snow Thousand Years, have sworn that in this life, it will be a fight to the death with the Hantian Sword Sect!!"
"Jianhen! Tell the Old Sword Master to wait; my sword will eventually slit his throat!"
"How dare you!!"
"Snow Thousand Years, how dare you spout nonsense here and slander the Sword Master!"
"Today, I will take you back to face judgment!"
Jianhen's voice was icy cold. The Hantian Sword Sect was one of the Four Great Sword Sects, and the Old Sword Master was a revered and awe-inspiring giant of the sword path across the Three Thousand Dao Domains. How could he possibly do such despicable things?!
"Whether it's true or not, you can go back and ask your shameless Old Sword Master yourself!"
"Do not spout nonsense before my Hundred Flowers Holy Land!"
Luo Hanyan's voice was icy. She raised her ice-blue long sword, her cold gaze sweeping over Jianhen: "Today! Since you want to stand up for this Myriad Dao Alliance, then... stay here as well!"
"Stay?!"
"Heh, I really don't know how a Quasi-Emperor like you dares to be so arrogant."
"Do you really think that with Old Man Hanshi, you can take down my Myriad Dao Alliance?"
"Over the millennia of the Myriad Spirits Dao Domain, if the Myriad Dao Alliance had no foundation, how could it stand firm!"
Wan Fucang laughed in extreme anger. The great blade in his hand began to hum and tremble, stirring up gusts of fierce wind. His aura erupted explosively, displaying the full might of a Fourth Tribulation Great Emperor without reservation.
Jianhen did not hesitate either. Behind him, that ancient long sword slowly floated out, its blade pointing forward, sword intent soaring to the sky.
"Snow Thousand Years, today I will take you back to the Sword Sect to face judgment!"
"Surrender now!!"
One Fourth Tribulation, one Fifth Tribulation—two Great Emperors unleashed their full auras. The immense pressure descended like a mountain, crushing down fiercely upon Luo Hanyan and the others.
Seeing this, the cultivators of the Myriad Dao Alliance were greatly boosted in morale. They all summoned their magical treasures, preparing for a fight to the death.
However... soon, the excitement on their faces turned into despair.
From all directions, several figures suddenly emerged—precisely the top sequences from the Demon Sect.
The terrifying auras emanating from Netherworld and Ghost Fiend even made Wan Fucang and Jianhen feel pressure.
"Who... who are you?!"
"Those who will destroy you!"
The voice of the Hall Master You Ming.
"Kill! Leave none alive."
High in the sky, Luo Hanyan's voice was icy cold, immediately deciding the fate of the Myriad Dao Alliance.
Unlike the Canglan Imperial Dynasty, as long as this loose organization, the Myriad Dao Alliance, existed for even a day, the Myriad Spirits Dao Domain would never achieve complete unification.
For Gu Yun, completely controlling the Myriad Spirits Dao Domain was the first step.
It was his startup capital. After the matter of the Tomb of Emperor Bailian concluded, he would go to reclaim the remaining half of the system value from Lin Chen.
Then, by activating the mass-production mode, it would be no empty boast to bring a small shock of steel to the Three Thousand Dao Domains before the Emperor Road opened.
"Snow... Snow Thousand Years, betraying the Hantian Sword Sect... you... will not come to a good end."
The battle lasted about two days. In the end, under the siege, the resistance of the Myriad Dao Alliance melted away like ice and snow.
Although Wan Fucang had burned his essence blood and fought with unmatched ferocity, his old rival Han Shi still found an opportunity. With the cooperation of Ghost Fiend's Ghostly Hand ambush, his head rolled, and emperor's blood stained the sky.
Elder Jianhen was specifically targeted by the Hall Master You Ming and several Demon Sect sequences, with the great emperor warship providing support from the side.
Although his swordsmanship was divine, he was still terrified.
"Damn it, how can these warships unleash such formidable power."
Blood spilled from Jianhen's mouth, his body covered in wounds.
Before his death, his eyes were still filled with unwillingness and shock, staring fixedly at the indifferent Snow Thousand Years in the distance: "Snow Thousand Years!"
"Betraying the Sword Sect, you deserve ten thousand deaths. Today, though I die with regret, the Sword Sect's mighty army will completely trample the Myriad Spirits Dao Domain."
"I will wait for that day in the Nine Nether Yellow Springs!!"
Swoosh—
The dagger pierced flesh, and violent Netherworld energy churned, completely shattering Jianhen's vitality.
With the fall of two top-tier powerhouses, the morale of the Myriad Dao Alliance completely collapsed.
All cultivators above Quasi-Emperor were taken prisoner, and the remaining cultivators prostrated on the ground, with no will to resist left.
The Myriad Dao Alliance, which once dominated the Myriad Spirits Dao Domain, was completely annihilated in just a few days.
"Finally... it's over!"
Luo Hanyan pulled down the flag of the Myriad Dao Alliance, gazing at this stretch of mountains and rivers, feeling little emotion.
She was not someone who loved conquest. If given a choice, she would rather stay by Gu Yun's side and cultivate in peace.
However... the task the young man entrusted to her was now successfully completed. Next...
Remembering the condition Gu Yun promised her, a faint blush appeared on her cool cheeks... [Ding! Congratulations, Host, for successfully unlocking page thirty-seven of the xuan qing treasure mirror. Reward upgraded. Congratulations, Host, for obtaining a red treasure chest*1]
[Ding! The Protagonist of Fortune, Han Qichi, has severed ties with the Child of Destiny, Zhao Kun. Zhao Kun's destiny value has decreased by 5000 points]
[Ding! Host's control over the Myriad Spirits Dao Domain has reached 90%. Reward: 300,000 points of villain value]
In the imperial palace, Gu Yun moved the limp Han Qichi off his body.
The empress in the dream was still softly calling his name. After this battle, he had completely conquered this proud empress both physically and mentally.
"Matters of external expansion will be left to Han Qichi from now on."
Gu Yun had a plan in mind. Since Luo Hanyan had no interest in this, he would not force her.
He still had the emperor pills obtained earlier from the Eternal Imperial Dynasty. When she returned, he would give her one.
"90% control. It seems I still need to make a trip to the Yin Yang Holy Land."
The Tomb of Emperor Bailian is about to open. The time left for Gu Yun... is not much.
//725//
Chapter 725: Zhao Qian Arrives (Two-in-One Chapter)
Having settled on his plan, Gu Yun no longer lingered in the gentle embrace.
He got up, tucked the quilt snugly around Han Qichi, and looked at the tear stains still wet at the corners of her eyes. On her peaceful sleeping face, a black demonic flower had already quietly bloomed. Gu Yun reached out a finger, gently tapped it, then his figure flickered and vanished soundlessly from the bedchamber.
Being implanted with a demon seed by him wasn't all bad.
At the very least, Han Qichi's originally good talent had received a substantial boost.
His own women, Gu Yun would at the very least ensure they achieved the rank of Great Emperor. If he could open the immortal lock in the future, they should even become immortals and ancestors, attaining longevity for nine lifetimes.
For now... this is merely the first dividend.
"The Myriad Dao Alliance has been annihilated. The current Myriad Spirits Dao Domain is completely in your hands."
"However... while we were eradicating the Myriad Dao Alliance, they had... an uninvited guest."
"He came from... the Hantian Sword Sect!"
Returning from the Myriad Dao Alliance, Luo Hanyan immediately came to Gu Yun to collect on his promise.
The young man naturally had no objections. Now she was propped up on Gu Yun's chest, amusing herself.
However... even so, Luo Hanyan hadn't forgotten the main matter. She recounted everything she experienced at the Myriad Dao Alliance to Gu Yun in full.
"Hantian Sword Sect?!"
Gu Yun's brow raised slightly. He had originally planned to deal with the Yin Yang Holy Land, but now it seemed... there might be an extra harvest.
Luo Hanyan didn't catch the excitement in Gu Yun's tone, instead thinking he was a bit surprised.
She slowly sat down, forcing herself to speak calmly: "That's right, the Hantian Sword Sect, one of the Four Great Sword Sects."
"They said Qiannian is their Sword Seed. However, Qiannian doesn't seem to acknowledge this identity. While I don't know the inside story, I naturally stand on Qiannian's side. How do you plan to handle this?"
"The Hantian Sword Sect isn't as simple as the forces in the Myriad Spirits Dao Domain. They are a genuine Immortal Palace-level power. While they can't compare to top-tier Immortal Palaces like the Sacred Radiance Immortal Palace or the Shadow Immortal Palace, they are definitely on par with lower-tier ones like the Gengjin Immortal Palace or the Chongyue Immortal Palace."
"That Old Sword Master is said to have reached the Sixth Tribulation cultivation level three hundred thousand years ago. If we count their ancestral elders, we might have to face more than two late-stage Great Emperor cultivators simultaneously."
"If you don't seek help from the Gu Family or the Supreme Divine Dynasty, this could be a tough battle."
"You're right... the Hantian Sword Sect is not to be underestimated. But are we pushovers to be manipulated at will?"
"The Great Golden Age is approaching. I don't believe those ancestral elders would all throw caution to the wind just for a defecting Sword Seed!"
Gu Yun gently held Luo Hanyan's slender waist. The nimble Myriad Transformation Power quickly climbed upward.
A flicker of shock crossed Luo Hanyan's beautiful face: "You, what are you doing? No, didn't we agree I would lead?"
Gu Yun smiled: "We'll have a guest arriving soon. I'm just helping you speed things up."
"No, don't!"
Luo Hanyan couldn't stop him in time and was forced to raise her proud head high...
Zhao Qian stepped into Canglan Imperial City, sniffing the bloody scent permeating the air, his brow slightly furrowed.
As one of the Imperial Clan's successors, he should have maintained an unflappable demeanor. But in such a short time, Zhao Wuji had died, Zhao Kun had been captured, and thirty percent of the clan members had perished violently.
This made it difficult for him to remain calm. The city showed no trace of a battle having occurred, which secretly alarmed Zhao Qian.
His request for an audience went very smoothly, and he was soon led by guards to a grand hall.
Since Gu Yun controlled Han Qichi, all the arrangements in the imperial palace were naturally at his disposal.
Zhao Qian waited inside for a long time before finally seeing Gu Yun and Luo Hanyan lazily walk out.
The blush hadn't faded from Luo Hanyan's face. The light in her eyes constantly followed the young man, carrying three parts resentment and seven parts coquettishness.
"Bastard! You don't know how to cherish a delicate flower. If I didn't have Quasi-Emperor Peak cultivation, who could withstand your torment?"
"Han Yan, we were just pressed for time, weren't we?"
"We couldn't keep our guest waiting too long."
"Just tell me, what do you plan to do next time?"
Gu Yun's slightly teasing mental message made Luo Hanyan even more embarrassed.
In an unnoticed corner, she glared fiercely at Gu Yun but said nothing more.
"Zhao Qian of the Imperial Clan Zhao Family, greets Young Master Gu Yun!"
The moment he laid eyes on Gu Yun, Zhao Qian's right eyelid twitched.
My dear younger brother, what kind of being have you provoked?!
"You know me?"
Gu Yun had just emerged from the gentle embrace and was too lazy to conceal his appearance with the deceiving heaven mask, which is why Zhao Qian recognized him.
As for him, he had no recollection whatsoever of this guy.
"We met once before, at the Hidden Sword Villa."
"What brings you here this time?"
Gu Yun had no desire for pleasantries and got straight to the point.
Failing to establish rapport, Zhao Qian could only force an awkward smile. He took a deep breath, trying to keep his voice calm: "Young Master Gu, to be frank, I've come this time for my clan brother... Zhao Kun."
"Zhao Kun?"
The corner of Gu Yun's mouth lifted slightly: "Since you've come, you must know what he did."
"Yes, Zhao Kun is young and impetuous, doesn't know his limits, and offended you, a grave offense indeed."
"But regardless, he is, after all, a direct descendant of my Zhao Family, of great significance to us."
"Therefore, Zhao Qian has come with sincerity. The Zhao Family is willing to pay any price, only asking you, Young Master, to be magnanimous, spare his life, and release him to return home."
"Whatever request you have, Young Master, as long as the Zhao Family can fulfill it, we guarantee we will not hesitate!"
Zhao Qian kept his posture very low and displayed ample sincerity.
The usually arrogant and domineering eldest young master of the Zhao Family could also have such a courteous side.
After listening, Gu Yun's expression remained calm. He slowly picked up the spirit tea offered by a maid and took a small sip.
"Zhao Kun..."
He put down the teacup, his tone flat: "He's living... fairly well at the moment. If Young Master Zhao wishes to see him, that's fine... but..."
Zhao Qian's heart leapt with joy: "Thank you, Young Master, for your leniency! Whatever the price, my Zhao Family is willing to bear it!"
As he spoke, he took out a storage ring and placed it before Gu Yun.
Gu Yun glanced at it, probed it with spiritual power, and accepted it without a change in expression: "Follow me."
He stood up, signaling Zhao Qian to follow.
Luo Hanyan also followed along to ensure Gu Yun's safety.
An ominous premonition rose in Zhao Qian's heart, but he was still drawn by the prospect of bringing Zhao Kun back and followed behind Gu Yun.
After many twists and turns, they arrived at a desolate corner.
The environment was crude, and the air carried a faint unpleasant odor. Zhao Qian's frown deepened.
Soon, Gu Yun stopped before the shabbiest low hut and gestured with his chin towards the inside: "Well, Zhao Kun is inside. Young Master Zhao, go see for yourself."
Zhao Qian took a deep breath, suppressing his discomfort, and stepped into the room.
In the dim light, what met his eyes was filth and chaos scattered all over the floor.
Then, he saw a... humanoid figure curled up in the corner.
The figure's clothes were in tatters, barely covering the body, covered in grime, emitting an indescribable sour stench.
Hair was a wild, tangled mess, the face filthy. Only the pair of eyes, hollow and lifeless, stared at the ceiling as if all vitality had been lost.
If not for the vaguely recognizable facial features and the extremely familiar aura of origin, Zhao Qian could hardly believe that this existence before him, like a beggar, a walking corpse, was his once high-spirited younger brother—
"Kun... Kun-di!"
Zhao Qian's voice trembled as he tentatively called out.
The figure in the corner twitched slightly, stiffly turned its head. Those hollow eyes looked at Zhao Qian, first with confusion, then, as if recognizing the visitor, they suddenly erupted with an indescribable mix of emotions—shame, despair, resentment, and a kind of madness on the verge of collapse!
[Ding! Host humiliates Child of Destiny, leaving an indelible trauma in Zhao Kun's heart. Reward: 10,000 villain value points.]
"Bro... big brother... is it you? Big brother! Save me! Get me out of here!!"
Zhao Kun, as if grabbing a lifeline, lunged forward from the corner, his hands desperately clutching the hem of Zhao Qian's robe, tears and snot streaming down his face, his voice hoarse as he wailed, "They're not human, they're all devils, wuwuwu..."
"Big brother, you must avenge me, you must..."
Slap!
A loud slap echoed in the narrow, filthy hut, abruptly cutting off Zhao Kun's wails.
He clutched his rapidly swelling cheek, looking incredulously at Zhao Qian, whose face was now livid and eyes icy.
"Big brother... you... you hit me?"
Zhao Kun's voice was full of grievance and confusion.
Zhao Qian's chest heaved violently, wearing an expression of pained disappointment, as if furious at his brother's failure: "Hit you?! Hitting you is getting off easy!!"
"I told you before not to leave the Zhao Family. Look at you now, see how much trouble you've brought upon our Zhao Family!"
"I..."
Zhao Kun was clearly still unconvinced.
Zhao Qian glanced at Gu Yun, seeing the latter's expression remain calm, and his heart tightened.
But gritting his teeth, he struck Zhao Kun heavily on the other side of his face.
"Outrageous! Kun-di, stop your nonsense!"
"Young Master Gu is magnanimous and generous, willing to spare your life. That's already a great fortune for you!"
He bowed deeply to Gu Yun, his tone even carrying a hint of obsequiousness, "Young Master Gu, my foolish younger brother offended you and ended up in this state, truly deserving of his fate. That you have spared his life, the entire Zhao Family is immensely grateful!"
"This storage ring contains a small token of my Zhao Family's regard. In addition to the resources promised earlier, there are three mid-grade Imperial Weapons as a gesture of apology. I hope Your Highness will accept them."
He took out another, more ornate storage ring, presenting it with both hands, his posture extremely low.
Only the barely perceptible tremor in his aura betrayed him. As the eldest young master of the Imperial Clan Zhao Family, when had he ever been so subservient?
But... he couldn't make any move, at least not now... not yet!
Gu Yun watched Zhao Qian's performance with interest. This guy at least knew some measure.
Only... the hidden killing intent in his eyes couldn't escape Gu Yun.
Just as well. Since you harbor resentment, I'll take care of you all together.
Gu Yun had always believed in the principle of uprooting the grass. This Zhao Family was different from ordinary families fighting for power among Children of Destiny; they were very united.
They had the potential to fight him to the death. In that case, he might as well strike first.
Thinking this, Gu Yun beckoned with his hand: "I can accept the items. And you can take the person away."
Zhao Qian's heart lightened, about to express his thanks.
"However..."
"Trying to fob me off with such paltry goods, it seems the Zhao Family truly lacks sincerity."
"In that case, then Zhao Kun's Minor Destiny Physique origin, I'll just..."
Gu Yun reached out, about to press his hand on Zhao Kun's crown.
"Wait!!"
Zhao Qian was utterly panicked. The Minor Destiny Physique origin was Zhao Kun's core essence and a great hope for the Zhao Family's future. If Gu Yun really took or destroyed it, the loss would be immense!
"Young Master Gu, please calm your anger!"
He quickly spoke, his words rapid, carrying an unprecedented earnestness: "It was Zhao Qian's oversight! I have slighted you! The Zhao Family is absolutely sincere in making amends!"
"It's just that I came out in a hurry this time and didn't bring it with me. How about this, I respectfully invite Your Highness to accompany me for a trip."
"Before I left, my family's patriarch said that if Your Highness is willing to be magnanimous, the Zhao Family is willing to offer a supreme emperor weapon as compensation."
"Furthermore, my Zhao Family's luck dao divine tree has now ripened. If Your Highness doesn't mind, perhaps you could grace my Imperial Clan Zhao Family with a visit. The Zhao Family will definitely give Your Highness a satisfactory answer."
After saying this, Zhao Qian looked somewhat anxiously at the young man. If it were a generally suspicious person, they would surely doubt him.
But he was betting, betting on Gu Yun's arrogance leading him to make a decision to knowingly walk into the tiger's den.
Daring to barge alone into the Eternal Imperial Dynasty, Gu Yun himself was a madman.
To deal with a madman, you have to be even crazier!
In that instant, an extreme, fanatical light flashed in Zhao Qian's eyes.
"The Zhao Family... is quite willing to invest."
Gu Yun's lips curved slightly. He lightly patted Zhao Qian's shoulder, the powerful force almost making Zhao Qian gasp for breath.
His body sank half a step, his face showing a sincere expression: "Your Highness is wise. My Zhao Family is truly sincere in making amends, only wishing to exchange for Kun-di and resolve the misunderstanding with you, Young Master."
"If you feel it's still insufficient, then the fruits of the luck dao divine tree—every time they ripen in the future, the Zhao Family can offer tribute to the Gu Family!"
Zhao Qian's words were earnest, his posture extremely low, as if he had completely submitted.
Luo Hanyan, standing to the side, frowned slightly and was about to step forward to stop him when she saw Gu Yun heavily pat Zhao Qian's shoulder again: "Good!"
"Since the Zhao Family is so sincere, I shall make the trip."
Hearing this, Zhao Qian was overjoyed.
"Young Master is wise!" Zhao Qian quickly bowed, hiding the wild joy in his eyes, "The matter is urgent. Does Young Master wish to... now?"
"No rush."
"How many days until the luck dao divine tree fully ripens?"
"In three days, at the time of the full moon!"
"Good, then we meet in three days."
"I hope your Imperial Clan Zhao Family will be thoroughly prepared by then!"
Gu Yun lightly patted Zhao Qian's shoulder, while simultaneously raising his hand to release all the restraints on Zhao Kun.
//726//
Chapter 726: Helping You Become an Emperor (Two-in-One)
Supporting the incredibly weak Zhao Kun, Zhao Qian almost fled the Canglan Imperial City.
After seeing off the Zhao brothers, the smile on Gu Yun's face slowly faded.
He gazed at their retreating backs, remaining silent for a long time.
"Are you really going to the Zhao Family?" Luo Hanyan stepped forward, her brow furrowed with deep concern. "Although Zhao Qian hid it well, the killing intent in his eyes couldn't be concealed. The ripening of the luck dao divine tree... this is clearly a trap."
"I know, but... precisely because it's a trap, I must go even more."
Gu Yun turned to look at Luo Hanyan, reaching out to smooth the frown from her brow, a confident smile blooming on his face.
"But... that Zhao Family has been hidden from the world for many years, and their foundation is unfathomable. I'm afraid they are incomparable to Canglan or the Myriad Dao Alliance!"
"Don't worry, I'll have Youming accompany me when the time comes."
"Since the Zhao Family wants to play, I'll play a big game with them."
"After all, Zhao Wuji died at our hands, and their successor was heavily injured because of us."
"As such, they are an unstable nail. The sooner they are pulled out, the better it will be for our future!"
"The Myriad Spirits Dao Domain will serve as one of my base camps in the future. I will never allow any power that threatens you to exist."
"Even if there's only the slightest possibility, it's not allowed!"
Hearing the youth's decisive words, Luo Hanyan stared blankly at the figure before her.
That unquestionable composure and arrogant confidence made it seem as if the entire world rose and fell within his palm!
To her, it was like the warmest tide, instantly flooding the cold and lonely lake of her heart.
"You... actually don't have to..."
Luo Hanyan's voice was much softer than usual: "The Emperor Road is about to open. Once I attain the Dao, I will also have the ability to protect myself."
"I know you can, and I believe in you..."
"It's just that... the current era doesn't allow us to delay any longer."
Gu Yun smiled and reached out to gently pinch her reddened cheek, his movements intimate and natural.
"What are you doing? I'm not a little girl anymore."
Luo Hanyan's face flushed slightly, yet she didn't swat Gu Yun's hand away.
"With me, you have the right to choose freely."
"If you want, you can be an eternally pure and lovely little girl."
Gu Yun's eyes were filled with mirth as his thumb brushed over her smooth skin, and he whispered.
"Bah!"
"Next to an old lecher like you, even a blank sheet of paper would have been dyed with all sorts of vibrant colors."
Luo Hanyan gave Gu Yun an annoyed look. A pure and lovely little girl? If it were before she met Gu Yun, that description might not have been entirely outdated.
But now... forget it.
"Hehe."
Gu Yun gave a mischievous laugh: "That's only because you are so beautiful, Han Yan. I simply can't control myself."
He scooped up Luo Hanyan, and in a flash, they appeared inside the Great Luo Dao Pagoda.
Luo Hanyan was clearly very familiar with such sudden attacks.
She skillfully reached for Gu Yun's belt: "Look at you, why are you always in such a hurry..."
This time, however, Gu Yun pressed down on her mischievous little hand.
Luo Hanyan was somewhat surprised and was about to ask when she saw that Gu Yun had already placed a clenched fist in front of her.
"You..."
Without hesitation, Gu Yun opened his palm. A pill the size of a longan, crystal clear and radiating a vast Imperial aura, floated quietly above his palm.
The medicinal fragrance spread, and the spiritual energy in the entire room seemed to be stirred, emitting a faint hum.
Just with one sniff, Luo Hanyan felt that her bottleneck at the Quasi-Emperor Peak showed signs of loosening.
"This is..."
Her beautiful eyes widened, and her breath hitched.
Although she didn't know exactly what it was, she could clearly sense its immense value.
"It's an emperor pill that condenses the lifelong cultivation of a Nine-Tribulation Emperor Venerable."
"And it happens to have an ice attribute, which matches yours."
Gu Yun spoke softly: "Consume it, and you will be able to break through smoothly even without participating in the struggle for the Emperor Road."
He gently placed the pill into Luo Hanyan's slightly trembling hand.
Feeling the warmth and majestic power coming from the pill, Luo Hanyan's eyes grew moist.
"But... the Emperor Road... I, I still wanted to help you in there."
Luo Hanyan looked up, a hint of struggle and regret flashing in her eyes.
The Emperor Road was the ultimate trial ground that all cultivators dreamed of. It gathered the geniuses of the current age and ancient freaks, containing opportunities to become an Emperor or even reach higher levels.
She had intended to brave it; with her combat power at the Nine-Tribulation Peak, she could definitely lend Gu Yun a hand.
"In this Emperor Road, geniuses will be everywhere, but the truly effective opportunities haven't increased."
"Instead of venturing inside and taking risks, it's better to choose a more stable way to break through. Han Yan, I hope you understand that the Emperor Road is not our end; our future lies in a much broader world."
"By then, I will still need your help."
Seeing the woman's little thoughts, Gu Yun gently pulled her into his embrace, his chin resting on the top of her head, his voice soft yet firm.
Nestled in the youth's arms, Luo Hanyan could feel the sincerity and expectation in his words.
The small regret of not being able to participate in the Emperor Road completely vanished, gradually replaced by a deep sense of responsibility.
The Emperor Road was good, but it wasn't the only way.
She would be able to follow Gu Yun to face even more stormy waves in the future; there was no need to be obsessed with this.
To truly share his burdens, breaking through to become a Great Emperor sooner was the better choice!
"I understand."
Luo Hanyan looked up, her cold eyes now clear: "I will take this emperor pill and break through to the Great Emperor Realm as soon as possible, becoming... your most solid support!"
"As expected of the Hundred Flowers Holy Lady, who built such a foundation from scratch."
Gu Yun smiled with relief and pressed a kiss on her forehead. "Focus on your secluded cultivation. I will arrange everything outside."
He was about to leave when Luo Hanyan gently pulled him back.
Gu Yun was slightly stunned, but then he saw Luo Hanyan's face flush: "L-Last time I promised you... y-you haven't tried it yet."
"This time..."
...Watching Luo Hanyan enter the quiet room, Gu Yun's expression returned to calm.
With a thought, he appeared outside the pagoda, in the discussion hall of the Hundred Flowers Holy Land.
Liu Yunfeng and Yin Moon were handling the Holy Land's daily affairs. Seeing Gu Yun's sudden appearance, they hurriedly rose to salute him.
"Greetings, Your Highness."
"No need for such formalities."
Gu Yun sat in the main seat and pulled the two of them into his arms, one on each side.
Both women's faces blushed slightly. Although they were used to Gu Yun's casual nature, being pulled into his arms together in front of each other still made their cheeks burn.
"No need for such formalities."
Gu Yun sat in the main seat with warm, fragrant jade in his arms, his expression relaxed and full of enjoyment.
His fingertips rubbed Liu Yunfeng's delicate waist, feeling Yin Moon's slight trembling through her clothes.
"Han Yan has already begun her secluded cultivation to charge for the Great Emperor Realm."
"Even within the Great Luo Dao Pagoda, this will take quite some time."
During these days, the internal affairs of the Holy Land will be temporarily left to the two of you to manage together."
Liu Yunfeng and Yin Moon were both shocked. The Emperor Road hadn't even opened yet, and Gu Yun already had the means to help the Holy Lady break through to become a Great Emperor.
What kind of world-shaking, terrifying method was this?
The future of the Hundred Flowers Holy Land had likely reached a point beyond their wildest imaginations.
Enjoying the admiring and worshipful gazes of the two beauties, Gu Yun continued, his tone carrying a hint of temptation: "Becoming an Emperor Venerable is indeed a difficult task."
"However, my Immortal Ancient Gu Family has a rich foundation. Even a tiny bit revealed is something outsiders can never hope to reach."
"Given your ages, cultivation techniques, and divine abilities, it would be hard for you to gain an advantage on the Emperor Road. Attaining the position of an Emperor Venerable would be even more difficult."
Although Gu Yun's words were blunt, they hit the mark regarding their situations.
Liu Yunfeng's talent was average; before meeting Gu Yun, she was only a Great Saint Realm cultivator.
Being able to break through to Quasi-Emperor in this life had already exceeded her expectations, and she didn't dare to dream of the Great Emperor position.
And Yin Moon had also been stuck at the sixth level of the Quasi-Emperor Realm for many years, only recently catching a glimpse of the dawn.
"Your Highness, we understand."
"Although our talent is lacking, we will perform our duties well and assist the Holy Lady. Sooner or later, the influence of the Hundred Flowers Holy Land will spread across the entire Three Thousand Dao Domains!"
Hearing Liu Yunfeng's words, Gu Yun chuckled and tapped her waist. "Duties must be performed, but the rewards you deserve won't be lacking. Since you've chosen to follow me, I naturally won't let you stop here."
As he spoke, a Quasi-Emperor Pill appeared in his hand, and he fed it to Liu Yunfeng.
"Mmm..."
Liu Yunfeng was slightly stunned, her beautiful eyes filled with confusion as she looked at the youth.
However, she didn't resist at all; she trusted Gu Yun unconditionally.
The majestic medicinal power surged into her limbs and bones, like sweet rain nourishing parched land.
Liu Yunfeng's talent wasn't top-tier in the Three Thousand Dao Domains; even compared to Yin Moon, she was somewhat lacking.
Yet her cultivation, which she had painstakingly raised to the first heaven of the Quasi-Emperor Realm, actually began to climb under the push of this pure and majestic power.
Her bottleneck loosened, her spiritual power boiled, and her comprehension of the Dao became clearer.
Gu Yun sent her into the Great Luo Dao Pagoda. After a short while, she reappeared, her aura steadily resting at the third level of the Quasi-Emperor Realm.
Her foundation was stable, not at all hollow.
"This... this..."
Feeling the unprecedented power within her, Liu Yunfeng's eyes were filled with disbelief and ecstasy, her voice trembling.
Having cultivated for nearly ten thousand years, she had never once felt that cultivation could be such an easy matter.
Yin Moon watched from the side, even more dumbfounded, her heart churning with shock.
She had never witnessed such miraculous and terrifying methods in all her years; it simply defied the common sense of the cultivation world.
She had thought that her cultivation rising instead of falling after her Pure Yin Body was broken was already a divine feat.
She hadn't expected... there was an even greater master.
"Your Highness... you..."
Yin Moon's voice carried a hint of a different kind of longing.
Looking across the Three Thousand Dao Domains, who wouldn't want such an opportunity to reach the heavens in a single step?
"Elder Yin Moon, don't be in a hurry. Your foundation is deeper than Yunfeng's, so ordinary pills have limited effect."
"Even I can't produce something suitable at a moment's notice."
"However... I have an even more comfortable way to break through here. I wonder if you'd like to try it again?"
Whispering into Yin Moon's ear, her breathing suddenly quickened, and two clouds of red rose on her cheeks as she looked at the youth. But her pounding heart could not be calmed, and her cold aura was tinged with a bit of charm.
Glancing at Liu Yunfeng, who was still immersed in joy, she bit her lip lightly. "Yin Moon is at Your Highness's disposal."
"I am willing to serve Your Highness like a dog or a horse!"
Hearing this, Liu Yunfeng also regained her senses slightly, her gaze toward Gu Yun carrying a few hints of a different meaning.
The two of them approached Gu Yun in unison.
"Hey, you two."
"Your Highness, it's a beautiful moment; let's not waste it..."
... "Cough, cough, cough. My apologies. I was supposed to be making proper arrangements... but it ended up like this again."
Gu Yun gently moved Liu Yunfeng's head from his chest and helped tidy her slightly messy hair, his movements tender.
Yin Moon leaned on the other side, a lotus-root-like arm exposed and draped over his waist, a satisfied smile on her lips, drip, drip.
With a thought, the figures of Shadow and Vermilion Bird appeared before Gu Yun's eyes.
"Greetings, Your Highness!"
"Master, are you finally going to let Vermilion Bird attend to you in bed?"
Vermilion Bird's figure was like a small firebird, and she flew into Gu Yun's embrace.
Her full breasts pressed tightly against the youth, and her soft body was even more irresistible than the most comfortable pillow.
"Cough, cough... Now is not the time. Sooner or later, I'll let you little Vermilion Bird know how cruel the world can be!"
"Really? Master~~ Don't go back on your word, or Vermilion Bird will be very disappointed~~"
Her tingling, soul-stirring voice was captivating, but it couldn't affect Gu Yun in his current state.
"Alright, I called you out this time to make proper arrangements..."
...Yin Yang Holy Land.
The once bustling ancient Holy Land was now filled with a sense of impending doom.
News of the successive upheavals in the Myriad Spirits Dao Domain had spread to every corner as if it had grown wings.
The Canglan Imperial Dynasty changed hands overnight, the Hundred Flowers Holy Land rose strongly, and the Myriad Dao Alliance, which had dominated the Myriad Spirits Dao Domain for countless years, was completely destroyed!
One piece of news after another arrived within a few short days, plunging the entire Yin Yang Holy Land into massive panic.
"Damn it! This Hundred Flowers Holy Land is practically cutting off the Yin Yang Holy Land's path to survival!!"
Looking at the report presented to him, the Yin Yang Holy Lord's expression was extremely ugly.
They were content in their corner, but they still needed to obtain spirit stones through trade to supply the sect's daily expenses.
In the past, their service targets were the high-level officials of the Canglan Imperial Dynasty and the Myriad Dao Alliance. Now... the Myriad Dao Alliance had vanished into thin air, and the new Empress of the Canglan Imperial Dynasty and the strongly rising Hundred Flowers Holy Land were clearly extremely repulsed by their business and existence!
"Holy Lord, what should we do?"
"Should we fight them?!"
An elder dressed in revealing clothing said indignantly. These past few days, she could only continue to consume the 'crooked melons and split dates' in the sect and had long since grown tired of it.
"Fight? How?"
"Even the Myriad Dao Alliance has been destroyed. Do you think our strength exceeds theirs?!"