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Silver Wolf didn't speak, but her intentions were unmistakably clear.
Jing Yuan naturally understood why the Stellaron Hunters had proactively offered their assistance. Their comrade—Blade—was currently imprisoned in The Shackling Prison.
"You wish to use this as leverage for me to release your companion?" Jing Yuan asked.
Silver Wolf replied, "And also to revoke Luofu's warrants for our arrest."
"Considering your status as a general of the Seat of Divine Foresight, it should be quite simple, no?"
"As you can see, we've come with genuine sincerity."
Jing Yuan pondered carefully. The Stellaron Hunters were notorious criminals infamous throughout the galaxy, and they topped the Interastral Peace Corporation's most wanted list.
If Luofu agreed to the Stellaron Hunters' request and enlisted their aid, it would inevitably lead to scrutiny from the Xianzhou Alliance afterward.
However, he was the Ruo Fu General, where the priority lay first with the immortal ship and then its regulations.
In times of crisis, rules could be applied when suitable or cast aside otherwise. Even if envoys from the Xianzhou Alliance came to hold him accountable, what could they truly do?
Jing Yuan smiled mildly. "Although I am the General of the Cloud Cavalry, I have no authority to manage prisoners within The Shackling Prison; thus, I cannot release him."
"However, with internal strife and external threats plaguing Luofu at present—"
"I will mobilize the Cloud Knights to confront the enemy at Jade World Gate," Jing Yuan continued. "I'll be preoccupied, so naturally, your warrants for arrest shall be rescinded."
"I've heard that you and Minister Su are friends, and Minister Su has a longstanding acquaintance with the Judge of the Ten-Lords Commission."
"In this chaos, if by chance an unregistered prisoner from The Shackling Prison were to go missing, the Ten-Lords Commission would likely turn a blind eye."
Satisfied, Silver Wolf dissolved his projection. "Very well, let's agree on these terms."
Jing Yuan regarded Dan Heng with a meaningful gaze. "Old friend, I understand your resentment, but do not think I bear none myself."
Dan Heng remained silent.
Jing Yuan sighed, his expression stern. "For your sake and for the sake of your friends, it is imperative that you fulfill this request."
Who could comprehend the immense pressure Jing Yuan faced during those times?
During the Imbibitor Lunae Rebellion, twelve dragon masters, two hundred fifty-three orb protectors, and one hundred sixteen pill and medical masters sustained injuries. Additionally, 1,285 individuals perished due to the calamity, while over three thousand more went missing.
Given these circumstances, the Ten-Lords Commission's decision to sentence Dan Feng to death was entirely justified.
Yet, the first challenge Jing Yuan faced upon becoming general was not related to military affairs but stemmed from a petition by the Dragon Master of Light.
Under pressure from various influential factions, Jing Yuan mediated and opted for convening talks among the six rulers. He submitted a written plea to the Ten-Lords Commission, advocating for mercy towards the criminal Dan Feng, ultimately resulting in his permanent banishment from Luofu instead.
The terms of exile decreed that Dan Feng could never set foot within any jurisdiction under Luofu's governance.
In essence, from the moment Dan Heng stepped into Luofu, he violated the banishment order.
Dan Heng appeared safe now only because his stay had been brief, and no one had yet recognized his true identity. However, if those old guard were to learn of his presence, they could seize him anew on this pretext at any time, potentially implicating the Astral Express Crew as well.
As the general, Jing Yuan must uphold justice impartially; to revoke Dan Heng's exile, he needed a compelling reason. Undoubtedly, stepping forward during Luofu's crisis, confronting Lord Ravager and the Antimatter Legion, would be the best means for Dan Heng to redeem himself through meritorious deeds despite his past crimes.
Jing Yuan had already gone to great lengths, carefully considering Dan Heng's situation, yet even so, Dan Heng remained somewhat reluctant.
From Dan Heng's perspective, however, he felt entirely innocent. Since birth, all he had known were the lightless confines of The Shackling Prison.
The Dragon-Locking Pin pierced his body, and chains forged from coral gold bound him tightly, suspending him within The Shackling Prison.
Irrelevant sins tethered him to this place, while disconnected memories engulfed him.
Even though Dan Feng had committed heinous crimes, he himself bore the punishment. As the reincarnation of the Timing lineage, Dan Heng was no longer that same person.
The animosity and affection from his past life should have dissipated like drifting clouds. Yet, why could he not escape the man with eyes akin to a wild beast?
If others' feelings towards him were rooted in hatred, Jing Yuan's emotions stemmed from regret and reproach.
In contrast, that man harbored only killing intent, going so far as to annihilate every ship Dan Heng had boarded.
Everyone believed he was "Dan Feng." However, from beginning to end, he never truly was "him."
His past on the Xianzhou has finally resurfaced once more.
As the reincarnation of the Vidyadhara High Elder, someone led him here, seeking for him to recreate past miracles—yet nobody ever asked, 'Do you accept all these burdens?'
But to wear the crown, one must bear its weight.
Having accepted the imposing horned diadem, he must also shoulder the sinner's deeds, both merits and misdeeds alike.
Moreover, I promised Mr. Walter to protect little March and the others.
With this thought, Dan Heng silently revealed his true form as a member of the Vidyadhara lineage—the Vidyadhara High Elder, Imbibitor Lunae.
Meanwhile, Su Jinyan was not idle either; he was preparing for the impending unveiling.
With excitement gleaming in her eyes, Stelle vividly recounted her fierce battle against the Doomsday Beast at the Herta space station.
"Legend has it that its right hand triggers 'calamity,' while its left hand tears open 'dawn.'"
"It is the supreme embodiment of Destruction itself. When it appears, it marks the moment the apocalypse draws near."
"But before me, it falls far short. I subdued it with just one hand, thereby attracting the attention of the Destruction Aeon Nanook."
"As proven by fact, even the Destruction Aeon can be captivated by a beautiful young girl—He bestowed upon me the power of the Destruction Fate, making me His spokesperson."
March 7th's expression was slightly conflicted; she wanted to expose Stelle's tale but felt awkward about doing so, ultimately letting her continue boasting in front of Su Jinyan.
Welt remained silent as well, understanding that a touch of vanity is common among the young.
Su Jinyan excitedly grasped Stelle's delicate, snow-white hands and shook them fervently. "Thank you! Your story is truly captivating and immensely important to me."
Confusion clouded March 7th's lovely eyes. "Little Su'zi, aren't you exaggerating a bit?"
Wasn't it just another legend tinged with personal heroism? Did it really warrant such excitement?
Su Jinyan shot her a dismissive glance. "Hmph, little March, you wouldn't understand."
Stelle glanced at her proudly, lifting her pale neck high. "Indeed..."
"March, a pitiful maiden like you could never grasp the allure of true beauty," she declared. "His heart has already been won over by my charm."
Indignant, March 7th retorted, "Hey, who said I'm not a beautiful young lady?"
"Moreover, he doesn't seem remotely captivated by your charm," March retorted.
Unfazed by their playful banter, Welt spoke gravely, "Grand Diviner Su."
"The World Tree's rebirth appears to be due to the Stellaron, and we have already proven our innocence. Could you tell us who the true enemy is?"
Su Jinyan nodded. "Of course. Our true adversary is Lord Ravager Phantylia, loyal servant of the Destruction Aeon Nanook.
"For ages, Phantylia has been secretly infiltrating Xianzhou, inciting the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus to raise the banner of rebellion. Her aim was to plunge Luofu into internal strife, thereby achieving her goal of its destruction.
"However, over countless centuries, the Xianzhou Alliance has traversed numerous worlds once graced by divine presence, purging all undead evil creatures therein.
"Phantylia is merely a insignificant ripple among waves, incapable of causing significant turmoil."
March 7th's lovely eyes widened slightly. "Wow, now that's some serious arrogance, even more than this beauty-loving girl beside me!"
"She only boasted about taking on the Doomsday Beast alone, but for you, even Emanators are just mere ripples with no real impact."
Su Jinyan responded solemnly, "March, your words fall short. It is precisely because of all your presence here that I have such confidence. With each of you by my side, it's like a fish finding its way back to water."
"If not for your assistance today, Luofu would surely be imperiled."
Not everyone was willing to confront Emanators, and with Luofu seeking aid, they couldn't afford arrogance.
Su Jinyan lavished praise upon March 7 and her companions, making them feel almost euphoric. After all, compliments cost nothing; flattery goes a long way.
While Welt might not be easily swayed, charming little March and her friends proved simpler.
Welt adjusted his glasses and spoke gravely, "Even if Luofu's crisis were unrelated to the Stellaron, given my nature, I wouldn't stand idly by."
"However, my personal inclination does not represent the Astral Express as a whole."
A hint of smile appeared at the corners of Su Jinyan's lips.
Welt continued, "Explore, Understand, Establish, Connect... These eight principles guide the train group's trailblazing ethos.
"The journey is fraught with peril, and adhering to these principles is harder than ascending heaven itself."
"Fear, peril, enemies, death... countless obstacles lie on our journey, and only a handful of The Nameless can persevere."
"Whether it's moving forward or leaving behind, each member of The Nameless should choose their own destination," Su Jinyan continued. "Just like casting their personal vote for where the train heads, as we do aboard the Astral Express."
Exchanging glances, the three silently extended their hands to signify agreement.
Su Jinyan, with a solemn expression, said, "My deepest gratitude for your unwavering support."
"Luofu will surely remember this kindness."
Confused, Stelle asked, "Uncle Yang, what about Dan Heng? When is he returning?"
March 7th echoed her doubt, "Right, Dan Heng is also part of our train group."
"Even if he went to meet some important old acquaintance, shouldn't he be back by now?" Stelle pondered wildly, "Could it be that Dan Heng Teacher is secretly meeting his past love interest?"
Her imagination already conjured up a million-word tale filled with love, hate, and intrigue.
Welt reassured them, "No worries, I'll inform Dan Heng about this decision."
"His choice to agree or dissent is entirely his freedom; we have no right to interfere."
However, Welt knew well that Dan Heng would undoubtedly consent.
Dan Heng had promised March 7th and Stelle that he would protect them, ensuring they remain unharmed.
"Little Su'zi," March 7th asked, "does this mean we should go confront Phantylia right now?"
Su Jinyan explained, "Phantylia has already deployed the Antimatter Legion to attack Ruo Fu Immortal Ship."
"However, it will take at least ten system hours for the Antimatter Legion to reach Jade World Gate."
"Until now, Phantylia has been disguising herself as someone familiar, hiding in the shadows and observing our reactions."
"I fear she is unaware that her true identity has long been exposed."
March 7th was startled. "You mean Phantylia pretended to be someone we know? Who? Who is Phantylia?"
Stelle let out a cold laugh. "Hmph, despite my careful concealment, I didn't expect you to figure it out."
"That's right, no more pretenses. Here's the truth - I am Phantylia."
March 7th glared at her, incredulous. "Phantylia isn't this dumb! If you were Phantylia, then I must be Nanook."
Stelle's expression froze, clearly taken aback by such a severe insult. To be called dumb by someone even more foolish than herself?
Su Jinyan spoke gravely, "Mr. Walter, when dealing with Phantylia, we must appear dismissive while internally remaining vigilant."
"I apologize, but I cannot reveal the true identity of the imposter posing as Phantylia just yet."
"If any hint of suspicion shows on your faces, it could jeopardize my subsequent plans."
Walter nodded understandingly, "From what you imply, you intend to expose Phantylia's identity alone?"
"Isn't that too risky? She is a Destroyer Emanator after all."
Undaunted, Su Jinyan replied, "For the past me, indeed it would have been very risky."
"But now, I've found a way to counteract Phantylia."
"With a subtle strategy, I can guide her step by step into the plan I've devised."
After obtaining General Huaiyan's secret technique, Su Jinyan realized that the Crescent Moon Bottle Gourd was merely a tool to confuse Phantylia; it couldn't truly trap her.
Phantylia was no ordinary Heliobus—neither could she be killed nor induced to self-destruct from within, possessing virtually no weaknesses.
Dealing with such an enemy was incredibly challenging, as there seemed to be no method to bring about her demise.
The "Qilin Dragon Heavenly Fire Incantation" was specifically designed to counter entities like Phantylia and Emperor Sui, beings classified as Heliobuses.
What puzzled Su Jinyan was his intention behind confronting Phantylia—to completely expel her from Sushang's body. Yet, for some unknown reason, Phantylia had also sought to confront him head-on.
Before he could even propose spending the night together with Sushang, she unexpectedly extended the invitation herself.
This Phantylia undoubtedly harbored ill intent; perhaps her scheming heart remained unchanged, still plotting ways to transform him.
With this thought, Su Jinyan continued, "Please accompany Shizun to Scalegorge Waterscape while I await your assistance."
"I must visit the Ten-Lords Commission first, hoping to rally more support."
To further enhance his reputation, Su Jinyan planned to enlist Silver Wolf as a technical advisor and Little Gui as the broadcaster. They would live-stream directly on the largest platform of the Interastral Peace Corporation, aiming to publicly humiliate Phantylia before everyone's eyes. This would serve as a warning to those who dare challenge Xianzhou Luofu, showing them it is not to be trifled with.
At the Ten-Lords Commission, within the Underworld Palace.
Jingliu's lips parted slightly as he spoke, "Xiao Didi, what brings you here?"
Su Jinyan's voice was firm. "Jingliu, I need your assistance."
Jingliu replied slowly, "The Tree of Life Rebirth is an omen. It signifies that Xianzhou has reached a pivotal moment, facing a choice between fate paths."
"The Arrow of the Emperor's Decree, the Plagues Author, the Embercalamity Ancestor..."
"These are divine entities—"
Su Jinyan interrupted bluntly, "Jingliu, helping me also means aiding yourself.
"I won't pressure you with appeals to morality or righteousness. Nor will I ask based on our past master-disciple bond with Jing Yuan, nor due to your former position as sword leader of Luofu, to assist Xianzhou through this crisis.
"Instead, I offer you two assurances: Firstly, once this matter concludes, I will personally bring the person you seek to meet you.
"Secondly, during this period, you will have complete freedom of movement within Luofu, unrestricted by any boundaries; there will be no need for you to remain confined to the Underworld Palace."
Jingliu's expression remained cold. "Xiao Didi, I believe there might be some misunderstanding between us."
"With my abilities, no place is inaccessible to me, not even for Jing Yuan."
"Having once fallen under Demonic Yin and committed heinous acts, I gravely violated the laws of the Ten-Lords Commission. Consequently, Xianzhou has erased all traces of me."
"Now, Jingliu is merely a discarded pawn of the Xianzhou fleet, a wandering swordsman."
"If I were to openly aid Luofu now, it could invite unjust criticism against Jing Yuan afterward."
While each ship within the Xianzhou Alliance operated independently, the Alliance itself held authority superior to that of any individual ship's general.
The Alliance had the power to oversee administrative affairs on each ship and convey decisions, but military command rested solely with the generals and marshals.
Throughout history, there were numerous instances where long-lived, indolent venerable elders amassed disproportionate control over power and wealth aboard their respective Xianzhous. In such extended lifespans, it was inevitable that some high-ranking individuals would become entrenched in outdated thinking, despite being powerless to prevent it.
Su Jinyan's expression showed understanding. "Is that so? So you were concerned about this aspect."
"However, with me involved, after this matter concludes, no one in the Xianzhou Alliance will dare to challenge Luofu."
"If you feel my offer is insufficient, feel free to propose further conditions."
Jingliu couldn't help but wonder where Su Jinyan's unwavering confidence stemmed from.
"Well, Xiao Didi, since you're so confident, I suppose there's no harm in assisting you," she said. "The condition is that you must join us and contribute to the defeat of 'Abundance.'"
Su Jinyan remained unconvinced by Jingliu and Luocha alone; could they truly eradicate the Benevolent Medicine King? Dealing with his Emanators might be manageable, but he was an Aeon—a formidable challenge indeed.
Nevertheless, it didn't deter him from making grand promises lightly.
Su Jinyan replied mildly, "If anyone else proposed such a task, I'd undoubtedly mock their overconfidence. But with you, it's different. I genuinely believe you will succeed."
"I can join you, but I won't accompany you to the Void Tomb Xianzhou for judgment."
"Pleasure working together, Jingliu-jiejie."
Jingliu extended her delicate, snow-white hand, gently shaking his in agreement.
"With you handling important matters for Jing Yuan at Luofu, I imagine he must feel considerably relieved."
"I have one more question. In my memories, it's clear that you sacrificed yourself during that battle. So how is it that now..."
Su Jinyan chuckled softly, "Jingliu Big Sister, this is the second time you've asked me this question.
"It seems you're genuinely curious, but unfortunately, I still cannot reveal this secret to you. If you truly wish to know, take your time and seek the answers from me gradually."
Jingliu fell silent.
"Is Mr. Luocha doing well?" Su Jinyan inquired. "Would he be willing to lend us his assistance?"
Jingliu slightly shook her head. To avoid embarrassment, she hadn't intended to bring up the matter herself, surprised that he would do so instead.
"He..." Jingliu hesitated before continuing, "Luocha, there remains an unresolved issue within him."
Su Jinyan cautiously suggested, "Jingliu Big Sister, perhaps I could go see him?
"As they say, mental ailments require treatment rooted in their source. Being Doctor Su, known for miraculous recoveries, I specialize in addressing various psychological issues among women."
"Luofu is affectionately known as 'Friend of Women,'" Jingliu said with a peculiar tone. "But remember, he's a man, Xiao Didi."
"You already have an irreconcilable conflict with him. Aren't you afraid he might take action against you?"
Su Jinyan waved his hand dismissively. "It doesn't matter if they're men or women; I can treat them all equally."
"Besides, with Jingliu-jiejie by my side, what do I have to fear?" He added, "I even brought him a gift—he'll surely love it."
A sense of foreboding washed over Jingliu. "What kind of gift?"
Su Jinyan produced a small toy from his pocket. "Ta-da!"
In a swift flash of icy sword light, the little toy was sliced into countless pieces, scattering across the ground.
Jingliu pressed her cold lips together and spoke sternly, "Perhaps you should reconsider visiting him. It will only exacerbate his emotional turmoil."
Like Jingliu, Luocha carried a void within his heart. Over the years, he had relentlessly sought ways to fill this emptiness. However, no matter what he tried, nothing could mend the hole. Each attempt left him increasingly exhausted and drained.
Yet here comes Su Jinyan, tying a knot right on Luocha's heart during their first meeting—a knot in that exact shape, no less.
Who wouldn't feel depressed after such an incident?
Su Jinyan felt equally aggrieved; he hadn't intentionally caused this mess, nor did he possess the power to conjure something out of thin air just by speaking it. The blame should squarely fall on Aha—without his fueling, Luocha wouldn't have sunk into depression. Truly, Aha's misdeeds were egregious!
[Fool, the Divine Staff, Ruyi DIO, still stands at Cloudford. Luocha refuses to claim Aha's gift.]
[Such a divine weapon lying unused is truly regrettable. Coincidentally, you lack a suitable armament yourself. Why not retrieve it and put it to good use?]
Su Jinyan's face darkened. No way! If even Luocha doesn't want it, am I supposed to cherish what he discards? Do I have no dignity left?
After bidding farewell to Jingliu, Su Jinyan followed Xueyi to The Shackling Prison where Dan Shu was incarcerated.
Countless chains bound and suspended Dan Shu within the prison, accentuating her curvaceous figure in stark detail.
As Su Jinyan approached, Dan Shu's gaze brimmed with unmasked hatred.
Slap!
Without hesitation, Su Jinyan delivered a sharp slap to Dan Shu, momentarily captivated by the ensuing waves of motion.
"Su Jinyan, you—"
"Silence."
Dan Shu parted her lips, ready to unleash a torrent of curses, but was promptly silenced as Su Jinyan grabbed her tongue and stuffed a gag between her teeth.
Dan Shu fell speechless.
Xueyi observed this scene quietly before asking, "Are you certain she is the one?"
Su Jinyan shrugged. "For now, there's no one more suitable than Dan Shu. Besides, it's time for her to face punishment for her sins."
"When will the Invisible Prison be completed?"
"In at most seven days," Xueyi replied softly.
"Although Phantylia isn't on Emperor Sui's level, she far surpasses ordinary Heliobuses. Exercise utmost caution," Su Jinyan warned.
"Hmm, don't worry about that; I know my limits," he assured her.
He didn't insist on having Xueyi or Hanya participate in the battle. In front of Phantylia, they were not yet qualified, and their involvement would only add complications.
At the Scalegorge Waterscape, Fu Xuan and Welt had been waiting for quite some time with others.
Jing Yuan and Dan Heng arrived unhurriedly, greeting everyone present.
Fu Xuan's delicate features displayed slight displeasure. "So slow! This venerable one and the guests from the Astral Express have been waiting here for ages."
Unfazed, Jing Yuan chuckled. "Ha ha, arriving at just the right moment is better than being early. After all, it's not yet the appointed time, isn't that so?"
Fu Xuan's expression softened slightly. "Indeed, you're right."
"Hmph, Lord Ravager Phantylia undoubtedly aims to claim the World Tree and unleash the Plagues Author's power..."
"To transform Luofu into a hellish mire overrun by immortal abominations."
"But she never anticipated that this venerable one's disciple has long seen through her schemes."
"We'll lie in wait like hunters, setting a trap for her. When Phantylia arrives, she'll surely be caught off guard."
Jing Yuan's expression turned contemplative as he playfully teased Fu Xuan, "Fu Xuan, why does it seem like Jinyan would make a more suitable general than you?"
Indignantly, Fu Xuan retorted, "Jing Yuan, stop sowing discord. The relationship between this venerable one and my disobedient disciple remains perfectly fine."
"Besides, whether this venerable one or the traitorous disciple takes on the role of general, wouldn't it still be a perfect partnership?"
"When will you finally step down, Jing Yuan?"
Jing Yuan laughed evasively. "We'll see."
Fu Xuan remained silent, unimpressed.
While Jing Yuan and Fu Xuan engaged in conversation, Dan Heng, now transformed into his High Elder form, approached Welt and the others.
March 7th gasped, covering her small mouth in surprise. "Y-you're...Dan Heng?! No way..."
"You...are Dan Heng, right? What's with those horns on your head..." Stelle's beautiful eyes sparkled with intrigue. "I feel like Teacher Dan Heng is trying out some fascinating cosplay."
March 7th's eyes lit up excitedly. "Wow, despite being so quiet and reserved usually, I didn't expect you to secretly enjoy this kind of thing! Who are you cosplaying as?"
After a moment of silence, Dan Heng murmured, "It's a long story, March. It's me, not cosplay."
March 7th was taken aback. "Really? You actually possess hidden powers?"
Recalling their time in Belobog when they were pursued by Iron Guards, March 7th had jokingly urged Dan Heng to unleash his hidden power. Little did she expect her words to become prophetic today.
Welt asked, "Dan Heng, since you're here too..."
"Does this mean you're willing to join the battle against Lord Ravager Phantylia?"
Dan Heng replied solemnly, "I am not standing here as The Nameless."
"My actions on this journey have been manipulated; I possess no true freedom... However, as a descendant of Holding Bright, I will fulfill my duty to Luofu."
March 7th exclaimed joyfully, "Great! Just like before, everyone understands the gravity of our mission."
"So, General, what's your brilliant plan next?"
Jing Yuan smiled faintly. "No brilliant plans, only a gamble."
"A gamble on the Torchbearer Elder's incomplete shedding technique and a gamble that Dan Heng can regain the memories of the Vidyadhara High Elder..."
March 7th looked at Dan Heng with confusion. "Vidyadhara High Elder?"
Well now, we're all supposed to be The Nameless, but how come you've suddenly transformed into Luofu's esteemed Vidyadhara Dragon High Elder?
Stelle, visibly excited, clasped his hands and exclaimed, "H-High Elder?! The three-year term has ended; may the High Elder reclaim their position!"
Dan Heng remained silent.
Welt also stood speechless.
March 7th glanced at Stelle and chided, "Hey, stop reading so many novels."
As Jing Yuan's group walked and conversed, they swiftly arrived before a statue strikingly resembling Dan Heng, where they paused.
Jing Yuan gazed at the statue and spoke slowly, "Although the Arrow of Fate felled the World Tree years ago, remnants of the Plagues Author's curse still persisted."
"To seal it away, Luofu enlisted the power of immortal dragon descendants, making it possible to tame the remnants of the World Tree."
"Under the guidance of the ancient High Elder, the Holding Bright clan channeled waters from the Fossil Sea, flooding the Scalegorge Waterscape paradise. This transformed it into a vessel for containing the World Tree."
"In commemoration of this heroic feat and sacrifice, the Xianzhou Alliance erected the Manifest Dragon Great Rain Monument within Scalegorge, leaving behind the image of the Holding Bright lineage."
March 7th scrutinized the High Elder statue closely. "This statue looks just like Dan Heng! Could it be—that person depicted is—"
"Dan Heng's brother!" The group fell silent.
Stelle exclaimed, "Dan Heng, you still deny cosplaying!"
Dan Heng remained speechless.
Jing Yuan laughed heartily, "Ha, just a slight resemblance, and that was ages ago."
"If pressed to say, indeed, the appearances of successive High Elders have been quite similar—except for the current generation."
"The present Vidyadhara High Elder is merely a child bearing the title, without inheriting their full power."
"Dan Heng, do you understand now? Since Dan Feng's death, no one in Luofu can accomplish this task anymore."
"As someone who once guarded the World Tree, you should be able to open our path towards it," Fu Xuan said mildly.
"General, there's no need to rush," he continued. "Based on this venerable one's divinations, you will soon encounter another old acquaintance."
Jing Yuan felt puzzled. "Old acquaintance?"
Suddenly, the surrounding air turned bitterly cold, and pristine white snowflakes began drifting gently from the sky.
A complex expression crossed Jing Yuan's face as his grip unconsciously tightened around his golden formation blade.
"It has been long since we last met, esteemed teacher."
Jingliu's flawless, snow-white cheeks showed no emotion, but his tone softened considerably. "Hasn't it only been a few days?"
"No need to be wary, Jing Yuan. I'm here as promised, to lend you assistance."
"Just as before, entrust the strategy against our enemies to me."
Naturally, Jingliu also brought along Dan Shu, bound by countless chains, gagged with a ball muzzle, and blindfolded.
The expressions of those present varied—while they understood his adherence to their agreement, why had he brought a captive with him?
"This is another essential tool against Phantylia, as Xiao Didi suggested," Jingliu casually explained.
Jing Yuan nodded slightly, about to respond when he caught sight of an elegant purple figure approaching them.
"Oh my, it seems everyone's here already. Looks like I'm the last one?" The corners of Kafka's lips curved upwards, her captivating eyes filled with allure.
Everyone was taken aback; unexpectedly, even Stellaron Hunter Kafka had been invited by Jing Yuan?
March 7th's eyes crinkled with amusement as she giggled, covering her mouth. "What a grand gathering."
"All the troublemakers have arrived—I was starting to worry."
"Now, it's Phantylia who should be concerned."
Jing Yuan, expressionless, stated, "Kafka, after this matter concludes, I will fulfill my promise."
As someone adept at strategy, Jing Yuan believed that having more skilled individuals on their side would significantly increase their chances of victory against Phantylia. With this formidable lineup, Phantylia's defeat seemed inevitable.
Kafka casually wiped her sword blade and remarked, "Ah, but where's A-Yan? How come he didn't join us?"
Fu Xuan's voice turned cold. "Hold your tongue—do you think you're entitled to call him 'A-Yan'?"
With an enigmatic smile in her eyes, Kafka glanced at Fu Xuan without replying; their understanding lay unspoken between them.
Fu Xuan sneered, "Go ahead and revel in your smugness."
"After today, A-Yan will naturally deal with you for this venerable one."
Unfazed, Kafka responded, "Oh, really?" She continued, "Elio mentioned in his script that he has a surprise planned just for me." Deliberately switching from "us" to "me," Kafka aimed to provoke Fu Xuan, seeking to temper her temperament.
Fu Xuan angrily flicked her sleeves, huffing, "Hmph, don't flatter yourself."
"He is this venerable one's disciple. If I do not permit it, would he dare give anything to you?"
Jing Yuan felt genuinely exasperated. My esteemed teacher and I manage to coexist peacefully, yet why can't you two avoid quarreling?
Fortunately, Fu Xuan recognized that bickering was inappropriate at this moment, as it could disrupt the team's unity. Consequently, she chose to remain silent, maintaining an icy demeanor no matter how much Kafka tried to provoke her, refusing to utter a single word.
Just wait—you'll see this venerable one's indignities tonight repaid twofold by A-Yan tomorrow.
The stone sculpture depicting the dragon elder, weathered by time and erosion, bore a small inscription near its base:
To halt the resurgence of Ifa and thwart the invaders' advance, Prayers invoked to flood the paradise with Fossil Sea's tide, Subduing the mystical roots deep within. This edict engraved on stone for posterity's heed, Let none disturb it recklessly.
Beneath vast expanses of surging waves, the ancient World Tree's mystical roots thrived restlessly, akin to a slumbering beast awakening from millennia-long hibernation.
The constraints woven by successive Vidyadhara High Elders, designed to tame and disperse the colossal beast's power, formed a decaying net, perilously close to unraveling.
Memories from the past surfaced from the darkness, gripping Dan Heng tightly.
Slowly ascending, Dan Heng gazed at the tumultuous sea, took a deep breath, and extended his right hand, emitting a brilliant radiance from his palm.
In response, the ocean waves began to churn violently, roaring with intensity. Massive swells rose high, colliding with deafening thunderous sounds. Yet under Dan Heng's guidance, these waves parted, creating a grand, elongated corridor.
Through the divided seas, magnificent and ancient palaces emerged before the group's eyes.
"Sushang" paced anxiously back and forth in her room.
Something was off; almost certainly not right.
She had clearly activated the Destruction Beacon, yet why hadn't the Anti-Matter Legion arrived to attack Ruo Fu Immortal Ship?
"Shangshang, what's with all this pacing?"
"Is waiting for your dear Jinyan-gege making you so restless?" Guinaifen rested her cheek on her hand, her expression puzzled.
Phantylia, impersonating Sushang, wasn't in the mood to respond. After tonight, both Sushang and Guinaifen would be dead anyway. Why bother engaging with those soon-to-be deceased?
Without the Anti-Matter Legion's arrival, there was no way to divert Jing Yuan's attention.
"Heh, look at you now, ignoring me? Is that how it is?" Guinaifen pinched Sushang's delicate cheeks, pulling them sideways.
Damn, such idiocy...
Phantylia's gaze turned cold as she switched back to controlling Sushang.
"Ow, that hurts! Stupid Little Gui! I'm gonna get you for this!" Laughing, Sushang tackled Guinaifen onto the bed, retaliating by pinching her cheeks.
Knock, knock, knock—
The door creaked open gently as Su Jinyan entered.
The two swiftly separated, hurriedly smoothing their disheveled hair.
"Well, well, Little Su'zi, it's quite late. Are you here for a date with our Shangshang?"
Guinaifen wrapped her arms around Sushang and declared earnestly, "Sushang is my Little Gui's wife."
"Well, then I might just get jealous," Sushang teased.
However, before she could finish, Guinaifen couldn't maintain her serious expression any longer and burst out laughing.
Confused, Su Jinyan asked, "Who said I'm here for a date with Sushang?"
"Little Gui, you...come outside with me, there's something I need to discuss with you."
Both Guinaifen and Sushang were taken aback.
"Huh?" exclaimed Guinaifen.
"But why not Shangshang, instead seeking me out?"
"What kind of logic is this?" Sushang protested indignantly, "Jinyan-gege, how dare you ask Little Gui on a date right in front of me!"
Su Jinyan urged, "Sushang, go lie down nicely on the bed. Once I've finished discussing important matters with Little Gui, I'll join you shortly."
"Alright, hurry up though; don't keep this lady waiting too long." Blushing slightly, Sushang hugged her snow-white pillow and promptly rolled onto the bed.