<<Previous Chapter Index Next Chapter>>
Translator: Fate
Translation Checker: Silavin
The resurfacing of the demoness in red in the Upper Realm took everyone by surprise. After the battle in the Divine City back then, the Demoness vanished without leaving any tracks behind.
The forces that participated in the Demon Slaying Event were either slaughtered or severely injured, leaving only a few survivors.
Accordingly, while some guessed where the Demoness were headed to, some suspected she, too, was gravely injured, which she went somewhere to recover. There were also rumours stating that she perished in the battle, which was why she had been silent for so long. In all, all kinds of rumours sprouted about.
And now, the Demoness’ seem to be creating a Devil Mountain at the peak of the Endless Sea caused a great disturbance. This news was as grave as if a ginormous meteorite was going to crash into the ocean. As verification of the news, some cultivators witnessed the dense, unlimited demonic energy at the peak of the Endless Sea. It was thick enough to cover the moon, and cast a large shadow within millions of kilometres.
Additionally, there were stars plummeting from the sky, surging and forming an astral island that was engulfed in spine-chilling Mists of Chaos.
Upon such an uncanny sight, many were stupefied and some forces even sent their formidable experts to investigate the area in an attempt to take a glimpse of the Demoness’ grand scheme. It would be reasonable if she merely intended to build a Devil Mountain, but if her plan was to rebuild an army to dominate the world, another massive massacre would surely be repeated.
Since the Upper Realm was focused on invading Eight Wastelands and Ten Domains, they didn’t have sufficient manpower to deal with the Demoness. Furthermore, after the Demon Slaying Event, the Demoness’ current terror considerably haunted countless of the Upper Realm, stripping them of their bravery to cross her.
As the Devil Mountain was based at the peak of the Endless Sea, ancient palaces could be seen towering from the ground, along with a number of heavenly palaces and divine towers. Their figures were vague from afar, and resembled the burial site for all living as described in legends.
Upon the assembly of Demons, the peak of Endless Sea was turned into a Demonic Domain comparable to the Demon-Burying Abyss. Its Demonic Energy filled the sky, repressing the regions in its vicinity.
Nevertheless, the Demoness seemed to have recovered much of her strength and mind. The forces that were concerned that she might initiate another massacre, found themselves relieved after seeing no notable movements from her. Thus, they could focus their attack on Eight Wastelands and Ten Domains.
At this moment, the Upper Realm was in no way harmonious, especially after the destruction of Nine Great Mountains, Gu Changge’s name grew even more renown, causing enormous commotions all over the Upper Realm as countless forces grew even more afraid of him.
At this point, Gu Changge had become a young peerless legend in the eyes of countless. Essentially, he was barely in his twenty, yet his strength, enough to intimidate the entire world, was rivalled by none.
Including annihilating those in the Sacred Emperor Realm and leading an army and causing the destruction of the Nine Great Mountains, all sorts of rumours were spread around. They left the younger generation trembling in hopelessness as they were disheartened by the disparity between them and Gu Changge.
On the other hand, to the older generations, Gu Changge’s name was ever so horrid as they were deeply astounded by him. Some of them even claimed to be witnessing the birth of a legend and assured that the historic records in the future would definitely feature Gu Changge. In fact, describing his glory to be unparalleled wouldn’t even be an overstatement.
Meanwhile, in the Lower Realm, innumerable people were also praising Gu Changge’s name, chanting his name as if it could protect them from mortality. Moreover, there were even ancient beings that began to disregard his age.
The young prodigies that had been compared to him previously, such as the King with Six Crowns and the Phoenix Lady, who also possess daunting Talents in their own right, were absolutely nothing compared to him now. The distance in strength between them was like the distance between heaven and earth. .
Hence, in many cultivators’ opinion, the only person of the young generation that could match Gu Changge was the one who escaped from him numerous times—the Successor of Demonic Arts.
However, it had been quite a long time since the Successor of Demonic Arts last made a sound, given that they were not as rampant as they were before. Therefore, cultivators came to the conclusion that the Successor of Demonic must realise that he was no match for Gu Changge, resulting in his decision to stay low and refrain from encountering him.
*Boom!* At that moment, giant ancient battleships soared across the sky towards the Boundary Marker Sea. A great number as figures covered the sky, casting endless shadows upon the world. As ancient horns were blown, the battleships carried the colossal Upper Realm Army for the assault.
Possessing vast auras, the ancient battleships could traverse through Space Tunnels, and their terror knew no bounds as their auras tore everything amid chaos apart.
Sensing the dreadful auras, even the vigorous living beings of the Lower Realm grew subconsciously terrified.
Among the battleships, one was significantly larger and older as celestial energy was wafting around it while there were heavenly palaces, Mystic Mountains, and levitating celestial islands. Also harbouring a waterfall that glistened like silver, the battleship resembled a gargantuan ancient continent. Unlike that of the other ancient battleships, the faces of the cultivators on this one seemed much more youthful.
Other than the young prodigies of the current era, there were also ancient monsters that had just surfaced recently, including the descendants of certain Ancient Immortal Races whose frightening auras and aggression filled the sky, as they each possessed their own ultimate methods.
At the door, formidable followers were waiting to serve, but compared to ordinary cultivators, they were clearly much stronger as they had reached the Sacred Realm.
In this instant, the forces of the younger generation raised by Immortal Academy, Skyward Schloss, Sky Demon Tower, Holy King Palace, and War Immortal Manor were gathered on the ancient battleship. They were considered to be the most exceptional elites among the young generation in the Upper Realm. It was as though it was a gathering between celebrated figures of the world.
Of course, all of them were intent on participating in the attack on Eight Wastelands and Ten Domains. According to precedents and customs, before a path through the Aether Abyss was found and had been solidified, there would be a fight between the cultivators of the younger generation or the older generation of two parties, while the supreme experts, also the ultimate decision makers, would not interfere unless necessary.
After all, the Principles of the Eight Wastelands and Ten Domains were not complete, and this was still close to the borders of two realms colliding with each other. This meant that the Great Dao here was chaotic and it hindered the supreme experts from using their full power. Once, because of this, quite a number of supreme experts were killed in the Aether Abyss.
This time, nevertheless, all forces of the Upper Realm marched over with terrorising intimidation as supreme experts were already advancing in their Dharma Bodies.
“So we meet again, Xianer”
At this moment, on a mountain top surrounded by Celestial Mists and crimson gleams, a young woman—a true perfect beauty in a wide-sleeved Celestial Dress, blessed with a slender waist, impeccable visage, was cultivating with her legs crossed.
Around her body, there were glowing mists and her every pore seemed to be shining, as though there were miniature goddesses chanting ancient scriptures within. Under the vibrant glow, her skin appeared even snowier and flawless, thanks to the fragile-looking radiant shade. Seemingly cool, she was carrying celestial energy all around her body. However, there was some sort of coldness that forbade others from getting close to her.
Not far away from the young woman was a big red bird, glancing at an approaching silver-haired young woman with the corner of its eyes.
“How many times do you need to come here to purposefully look for me?” Hearing that, Gu Xianer opened her eyes. Although the silver-haired young woman felt familiar to her, she couldn’t help but grow impatient with her.
“Oh, didn’t I say we’re quite fateful? How can you say that I’m here on purpose?” The silver-haired young woman giggled as she spoke, giving off a playful, innocent sensation.
Possessing a lofty body with delicate, perfect curves, she was also blessed with an intricate, flawless face. Her skin was as elegant as porcelain and as exquisite as jade, and her beauty was comparable to that of Gu Xianer.
Other than that, her eyes, resembling scarlet grass, were rosy and alluring, and as they captivatingly flickered, none could find a single reason to hate her. Meanwhile, on the top of her head, there was an inconspicuous pair of red horns, signifying her identity as a non-human.
The two seemed to be of the same age.
“Speak. What business do you have with me?” Gu Xianer coldly asked as she glanced at the silver-haired young woman.
The silver-haired young woman before her was An Yan, and she was of the Hidden Celestial An Clan, which was considerably one of the strongest Clans in the Upper Realm as they possessed frightening, mighty abilities.
Nonetheless, as their bloodline was ever so potent, their number was rather small, similar to that of Godly Illusion Clan. Though, compared to Godly Illusion Clan, The Hidden Celestial Races tended to be more mysterious and discreet as only a couple of their members were seen treading in the outside world.
Naturally, the An Clan wished to have a hand in the Upper Realm Army’s invasion, desiring a slice of the big pie, which was why they sent some of their men to participate in the battle.
Gu Xianer and An Yan knew each other, but their relationship did not start from here, but back when Gu Xianer, upon the instruction of her mentors, departed from Peach Village and headed to Ascension Island to cultivate. And as she was attempting to breakthrough, she coincidentally met An Yan.
Back then, after knowing about Gu Xianer’s identity, An Yan took a notable interest in her and started to cling to her all the time.
Followingly, the two would explore secret ruins and together, they would acquire items that fetched wonders offered in auctions, and so, the two then became acquainted.
“Can’t I visit you just to see how you’re doing? You sound as if I can’t visit you when I have nothing to do.” An Yan rolled her eyes, complacently talking before sitting very close beside Gu Xianer.
In response, Gu Xianer shot her a glare and moved to the other side, saying, “Stay away from me.”
“Hmph!” What a heartless girl! Did you forget who almost got slaughtered by a beast in the Sacred King Realm? If I hadn’t cast the array at that crucial moment, perhaps now your tomb would be filled with grass!” Somewhat angered, An Yan looked at her scornfully, whining as she sneered.
Hearing that, Gu Xianer, as her patience was thinning, blandly stated, “Rest assured. Even without your help, I could still have survived that day. The number of protective items I carry with me is no less than what you have.”
“Oh, right! I almost forgot who you are! You’re the little princess of the Immortal Gu Family! There’s no way you would lack any protective items!” An Yan’s face speedily changed as it turned into a gleeful grin. “Besides, the man whose current popularity in the entirety of the Upper Realm, who is known to be peerless, also happens to be your cousin. Gu Changge is said to treat you extremely well, so how would you ever lack protective items?”
Upon those words, Gu Xianer slightly tensed her delicate brows. “Gu Changge didn’t give me my protective items. In fact, he should be grateful that I didn’t seize his belongings!” She sounded rather resentful when An Yan mentioned Gu Changge, though she managed to retain her celestial, noble look in front of the other women, not losing the slightest composure.
Seemingly surprised by those words, An Yan widened her crystalline eyes. “But the rumours say that he’s so good to you! Why would you take his stuff?”
As if it was her first time hearing such news, she was rather curious and in disbelief. “Besides, the rumours say everything about Gu Changge, and they’re being spread around like some kind of mythical fable! I’ve always assumed that they were real!”
Snickering through her nose, Gu Xianer replied, “Rumours are only rumours. You can only believe what you see. Anyway, why are you always bringing that scum up?”
Then, An Yan giggled and answered, “I’m just curious, alright? We are such best friends. I basically hear rumours about him every day, and it is said that he has destroyed the Nine Great Mountains. And since you’re his cousin, I suppose I could refer to you.”
“Really?” Gu Xianer turned her head and stared deeply at her, as if she could perceive her true intentions.
“Fine, fine. To be frank, I’ve heard that we will be fighting against young prodigies from the Eight Wastelands and Ten Domains. So, I’m worried that certain accidents may occur. Since Gu Changge will be there, should any accident happen to me, I suppose I could use some help. You know, I haven’t come to the outside world for long, please take pity on me. Look. I really lack battle experience, I am surely no match for the young prodigies from the Eight Wastelands and Ten Domains.” An Yan shook her head and confessed, seemingly unable to withstand Gu Xianer’s judgmental stare.
“Don’t worry, for the sake of our acquaintanceship, I won’t abandon you if you get into trouble.” Following An Yan’s honesty, Gu Xianer decided not to pursue the matter any further.
“I’m glad to hear that! Perhaps I could take the chance to meet your cousin. Fine, I shan’t interrupt your cultivation any longer. Can’t wait to see you defeat Gu Changge!” Upon Gu Xianer’s assurance, An Yan revealed a smile before excusing herself and happily leaving with jovial skips.
After watching as she left, Gu Xianer furrowed her brows and called for the big red bird that was not far away. “Hong, why am I getting the feeling that she came with an ulterior motive?”
She uncertainly asked as she couldn’t fathom An Yan’s purpose of getting close to her after numerous contemplation.
Hearing that, the big red bird glanced at her and tilted its head, revealing a look that suggested her to be more cautious.
“Then why did she come to me?” Gu Xianer’s brows were tensed even tighter as she was thoroughly puzzled.
[Given her identity as the Princess of the An Clan, she is by no means weaker than me. Did she mean everything she said, merely wanting my help during the battle? Or does she intend to get close to Gu Changge?] Thinking the matter was more than meets the eye, Gu Xianer still couldn’t think it through, after which she dropped the pondering and got back to cultivating. Gleaming mists then surged around her body as she was preparing for the battle against Eight Wastelands and Ten Domains.
…
In the meantime, after leaving the mountain, An Yan returned to the cave which she was currently staying in. The innocent, exuberant look of hers in front of Gu Xianer disappeared, and there wasn’t much emotion on her face.
“Lady Yan, are you certain this will work?” Before her, there was an hunchbacked old servant, whose eyes were sunken and cheeks were high. Also possessing a pair of horns on the head, the old servant carried a dense, unconcealable aura.
“There shall be no problem. After such a long investigation, I’m sure Gu Xianer is one of the individuals who is closest to Gu Changge, and she is the most precious person to him. What Gu Xianer knows about Gu Changge is much more realistic than what the rumours hold. This is a good indication of how highly he values her. Otherwise, there’s no way a person like him would reveal his true colours so mindlessly. As long as I keep Gu Xianer by my side, I’ll be able to enter Gu Changge’s sight, and thereby be able to come in contact with him.”
In response, An Yan shook her head and revealed a pondering look that didn’t quite fit her appearance. In that instant, she was very calm and reserved. Compared to how she was in front of Gu Xianer, she was completely different now as those were two distinctive faces of hers.
“In that case, this old one is relieved. Gu Changge is a dangerous man. If you wish to approach him, you must keep your guard up and proceed with caution at all times.” Upon those words, the old servant heaved a sigh of relief.
Nodding, An Yan then donned a gloomy expression. “I am indeed aware of that. Gu Xianer may appear rebellious and obnoxious, but she’s a smart one. Perhaps she has already seen through some things.”
Having said that, she then let out a disaffected sigh. “But she didn’t make things difficult for me. If it weren’t for the risks and burdens, I’d be happy to befriend her genuinely.”
“The recent years have been hard on you, Lady Yan. Lady Xi’s influence is exponentially growing, and her right to speak has gradually exceeded that of the clan leader. I estimate that she’ll be in control of the entire An Clan in a couple of years, and only by then you will find yourself extremely burdened in the clan, Lady Yan.” Hearing that, the old servant seemed rather sorrowful and quite sympathetically dejected.
“Lady Yan, you’ve been living in the crevices of the clan, warily walking on thin ice all these years. Not only are you shouldering the task of alleviating Lady Xi’s problems, you also had to keep the greed of the other branches towards the clan’s legacies in check. Yet, as your father, the clan leader, didn’t seem to care and is even ignoring this. If Mistress is still with us, she would have let Lady Xi rule the clan on her own.” The old servant’s voice was trembling, harbouring overwhelming sadness and rage.
An Yan then shook her head and replied, “You don’t have to tell me that. I’m aware. Besides, there’s no point in being so pessimistic. After all, it’s An Xi’s fault for having saved someone she shouldn’t have. If she were to hear about this… Hidden Celestial Bloodline or not, it doesn’t matter any more. Even if True Immortals were to resurface in the world, no one would have batted an eye.”
Having said that, she began to chortle coldly, as if she was completely confident.
Very soon, many ancient battleships soared through the sky and crashed open the border of the sky as they flew across the Boundary Marker Sea. Raging waves were continuously gushing, as if it could break the world apart.
Hurrying towards the Eight Wastelands and Ten Domains, the ever so vast Upper Realm Army that knew no bound hid everything inside as their number even reached ten million.
Meanwhile, outside the Aether Abyss, fogs were drifting everywhere, filling the sky as battlecries thundered. The ancient battleships halted their forward motion as innumerable soldiers of the army menacingly approached. At the same time, the neighbouring universes were also emitting blaring, quaking noises upon the daunting presence of the army.
In a palace, Gu Changge, whose figure was vague, was sitting as wafts Chaos Qi swirled around him. It was as though there were thousands of ancient worlds surrounding him while gods vaguely flickered around him in silver lights that wouldn’t wane.
At that moment, a drop of True Blood could be seen underneath his organs. It was as though there was a reflection of all worlds in existence travelling along the flow of the River of Time, shattering the World Principles. It seemed to form a type of energy, traces of which were being absorbed by him.
It was a fathomless drop of Forbidden Blood.
Seeing that, the Sky Deer Goddess was clearly dumbfounded, not daring to get closer as unshakeable dread arose in her heart.
What the hell even is a peak of a sea?