Translator: Fate Translation Checker: Silavin Just as news of the incident in Breeze Ancient City was causing great shock throughout the Immortal Spirit Civilisation, something else was happening in a vast and desolate land. There, only a few people could be seen. A slim figure dressed in coarse linen clothes fell out of the void. She then hurriedly transformed into a stream of divine light, stumbling and coughing up blood until she finally escaped to this place. The four corners of the sky behind her shone brightly, reflecting brilliant rays of light that seemed to illuminate her to the point she seemed to have disappeared into the light. A series of dazzling but terrifying Grand Runes flashed in the sky like blinding stars. They stirred the Chaos Qi in the world, overflowing with endless majesty. Each Grand Rune contained an overwhelming Suppressive Power that sealed the whole universe. It was impossible for any living creature to escape from its confines. These Grand Runes were formed the Zhuo Clan’s All-Directional Universe Prohibition Order, which exuded such overwhelming power that the Array was said to be able to seal the All-Directional Universe. The so-called ‘All-Directional’ represented directions including north, south, east, west, above, and below. In other words, they encompassed Spacetime in every direction in the truest sense. “I must admit that you are quite good at escaping, but what other tricks do you have left at this point? Seeing how you dared to provoke the Zhuo Clan, I’m sure you are prepared to pay a hefty price for your actions. In any case, the surrounding area has already fallen into our control. I advise you to surrender quietly if you want to live.” Numerous figures shrouded in bright light rushed towards the hill located somewhere in the vast world. Their faces were enveloped in light, making their true appearances difficult to see clearly. Some of them had Humanoid bodies, and some of them had alien bodies. Nevertheless, the look in their eyes was similar: cold with flashes of cruelty and callousness. Whoosh! Following behind the previous figures rushing here at a high speed were equally as many streams of divine light flying over from various directions. These figures were similarly enveloped by a layer of starlight. Some of them even resembled the blazing Sun because of the fierce aura surging around them. A cruel light surfaced in their eyes as they stared intently at the fleeing figure below them. It was obvious that they had gotten news about the wanted order issued by Elder Zhuo Wu of the Zhuo Clan and specifically joined the search in hopes of obtaining the incredibly valuable reward. That was especially true after they learned that Elder Zhuo Wu was going to bestow a Unique Treasure called the Hollow Sky Bag. Countless had been tempted by the reward as a result. Even existences comparable to Quasi-Immortal Emperors, who generally spend their time cultivating in seclusion, had ended their training and travelled across numerous universes to come here. [The Offering Space Talisman has shattered. Am I really going to die here today?] The figure fleeing below was none other than Mu Yan, who had separated from Gu Changge and the others earlier. In order to prevent implicating innocents into her troubles, she had deliberately searched for a remote and sparsely populated galaxies. It was just that the Zhuo Clan was unimaginably influential. They sealed off the Spacetime in every direction with the All-Directional Universe Prohibition Order, effectively preventing her from actually escaping the area. Naturally, her pursuers eventually found her after several twists and turns. Elder Zhuo Wu had specifically included the aura she captured at the time when she issued the bounty, which meant that Mu Yan was bound to be discovered at some point as long as she remained within the Zhuo Clan’s territory. Mu Yan initially held onto a positive attitude. Thinking that the Zhuo Clan’s territory was extremely vast, she believed that trying to find her was no different from looking for a needle in a haystack. Unfortunately, she underestimated the huge and terrifying influence of the Zhuo Clan. Not long after the reward for her bounty was increased, the traces of her whereabouts were discovered. Hence, she was forced to resume her escape. It was during her frantic escape that the Offering Space Talisman that had been helping her traverse across multiple universes finally collapsed from overuse, and shattered to pieces. [Looks like I’m in great trouble now…] She coughed up a few more mouthfuls of blood, causing her figure to stagger so much that she nearly lost her balance. In the process of escaping, she inevitably encountered the enemies who were after her and confronted them in battle. Although she had enough strength to face those in the same cultivation realm as her without fear, the number of pursuers coming after her was simply too many. She was forced to fight and flee at the same time. Despite trying not to become entangled in battle, she suffered numerous injuries. The injuries that had slightly healed previously subsequently worsened. At this point, she seemed to have fallen into a desperate situation. There was not much hope for survival at this point. “If you know what’s good for you, then surrender quietly. You certainly are good at escaping, to delay your inevitable capture for such a long time despite so many pursuers on your tail.” A member of the Zhuo Clan came forward. Her hair was completely white, and her face seemed to resemble Elder Zhuo Wu to a certain extent. Even though she was also one of Elder Zhuo Wu’s descendants, her status in the Zhuo Clan was extremely different from Elder Zhuo Wu’s beloved descendant, Zhuo Tianyin. It had to be said that Zhuo Tianyin, who died at Mu Yan’s hands, was her Cousin. The woman, whose name was Zhuo Ling, approached Mu Yan with a cold sneer on her face. Several strange crystals shimmered in her palms, transforming into a pair of purple-gold shackles and a headband. Figures coming from other directions quickly arrived, constantly narrowing the encirclement around Mu Yan. Those who could accurately track down Mu Yan’s whereabouts were naturally not weak. Nevertheless, those ordinary prodigies were generally no match for Mu Yan. Even Zhuo Tianyin, who was known as one of the strongest young prodigies of the Zhuo Clan, had been killed despite receiving Elder Zhuo Wu’s protection. Such a feat showed that she should not be underestimated. Mu Yan scowled deeply. Although she was not willing to die at this juncture, the current situation seemed to have reached a dead end. With her current strength, it was impossible for her to break free from the situation. “Forget it…” Seeming to realise something, she sighed softly and tiredly gave up on resistance. As long as she was alive, there was hope for her. Compared to stubborn resistance, she might as well search for a different chance of survival. It would not have mattered if she was alone in the world, but… When Zhuo Ling saw that Mu Yan had given up on resistance, the cold sneer on her face grew wider. She could almost see the scene where she not only successfully captured Mu Yan but also returned to Ancestor Zhuo Wu to receive her rewards and gain Ancestor Zhuo Wu’s favour. “Don’t even think about pulling any tricks. If you obediently wear these shackles and the headband, then you can at least avoid some pain.” She quickly approached. At the same time, she tossed the purple-gold shackles and headband that she manifested earlier in front of Mu Yan. The rest of the figures coldly watched from the side to prevent Mu Yan from doing anything else. Mu Yan could not help feeling humiliated. Unfortunately, there was nothing she could do if she wanted to survive. She was forced to lower her head to pick up the shackles and headband, and then put them on. “Hahaha! It’s good that you know what’s good for you. After all, you are worth more alive than dead. Since you dared to kill my Cousin, you will have to pay the price. Otherwise, it will be difficult to soothe Ancestor Zhuo Wu’s hatred.” The sight made Zhuo Ling heaved a sigh of relief, and she burst into delighted laughter. She flicked her hand. Mu Yan, whose cultivation and Spiritual Energy had been sealed, was immediately caught in her grip. Afterwards, they transformed into a stream of light and departed from the area. The other figures naturally followed after her and swiftly vanished from the spot. “Lady Zhuo Ling, Ancestor Zhuo Wu previously instructed for us to investigate her identity and origins as soon as we capture her. Ancestor Zhuo Wu is worried that there might be somebody on the same level as the Heavenly Elders behind her. After all, Ancestor Zhuo Wu’s murderous intent seemed to have been neutralised by somebody…” Rejoicing her success, Zhuo Ling had initially planned to bring her captive back to the Clan. However, the other members of the Zhuo Clan beside her came forward and voiced their concerns with a hint of worry. Those words made her frown deeply, and she glanced at Mu Yan, who was being held captive. Mu Yan was dressed in coarse linen clothes, which made her appearance seem delicate and exquisite. Nevertheless, she could not hide the aura surrounding her. Furthermore, she did not seem panicked despite the current situation and appeared to be rather calm and collected instead. Such a demeanour was unlike an ordinary person in her situation. Most importantly, she managed to kill one of the strongest young prodigies in the Zhuo Clan even though her strength was only comparable to the True Immortal Realm. If it were said that she did not receive support from a Force, Zhuo Ling would never believe it. “Forget it. Ancestor Zhuo Wu will investigate her origins. Even if she has somebody helping her from behind, they will not have the courage to appear and take action in the Zhuo Clan’s territory…” Zhuo Ling shook her head, dismissing the concerns in her head. If there were somebody on the same level as Ancestor Zhuo Wu, they would instantly be noticed by the Zhuo Clan as soon as they stepped into the Zhuo Clan’s territory. Besides, the consequences were not something just anybody could bear. After listening to the conversation between those people, a hint of doubt and confusion flashed through Mu Yan’s eyes. [The murderous intention of that Zhuo Clan Elder had not vanished from exhaustion? On the contrary, somebody had helped me and dispelled the murderous intention for me? Who could it be? Could it be… them?] [Are they still keeping an eye on me? Or… is it my Little Brother?] At that thought, her eyes suddenly flashed with a trace of hope and excitement. … At the same time, in Breeze Ancient City, inside a magnificent palace shrouded with Immortal Mist and flowing Spiritual Light. The Elders from various factions within the Zhuo Clan rushed to gather in the palace and hurriedly took their seats at the banquet hall. The palace was extremely spacious. In fact, the interior was practically a universe of its own and resembled a genuine world. The fragrance of flowers permeated the air. Celestial Waterfall cascaded down from above, forming a purple mist that lingered around the mountains wrapped in lush green vines. In the distance, there were several lakes dotted with ancient mountains. Large stars hung in the sky above their heads and cast a beautiful brilliance down below. Many of the young and middle-aged prodigies of the Zhuo Clan followed behind their Elders to attend the banquet. They sat quietly at the back of the hall. On the other hand, numerous lovely and graceful women from the Zhuo Clan sang and danced to music in the middle of the hall. Carrying rare Spirit Fruits and precious delicacies, they fluttered between the tables like butterflies. The sight was a feast for the eyes indeed. Judging by the decor and ceremonial atmosphere, the Zhuo Clan had placed great consideration in the welcoming banquet. Even a ferocious person like the White Bone Ancestor King silently nodded his head in approval. He then began to eat and drink on his own, choosing the celestial delicacies that suited his appetite and eating them at will. On the other hand, Gu Changge’s posture was even more relaxed. He seemed to regard this place as his home even without additional input from the host, Zhuo Fengxie. In the eyes of the Zhuo Clan, his behaviour seemed more like the careless attitude of a person who did not think much of the Zhuo Clan. His behaviour gave them the impression that all Forces in the world were equal to him, regardless of whether they were strong or weak. Just like how ordinary men were no different from the insects and pebbles on the ground to the Immortals, nothing could induce any emotional fluctuation in him. Therefore, they soon began to speculate that Gu Changge’s origins were beyond imagination. Gu Changge picked up a teacup with slender fingers and occasionally sipped on his tea during his chat with Zhuo Fengxie. Meanwhile, the Spirit Empress stood beside him and refilled his cup whenever needed. She also peeled the skin from some of the Spirit Fruits for him with her slender and flawless jade-like fingers. His leisurely and carefree appearance caused countless youths in the Zhuo Clan to stare in envy. There was no doubt that the Spirit Empress was a powerful existence comparable to the Elders. In addition, her appearance could be envisaged despite the veil she wore. Her beauty was definitely sensational. Despite his young age, he had that Black-Robed Elder with unfathomable strength serving as his servant and protecting him. Furthermore, the maid accompanying him was equally as powerful and stunningly gorgeous. When they were his age, they were working hard to strengthen themselves. Even as the disciples of the Zhuo Clan, they did not dare to imagine enjoying such treatment and status. Zhuo Fengxie observed the expressions of the Zhuo Clan, unsurprised by their reaction. It was just that based on his current understanding of the situation, he still did not know Gu Changge’s intention and purpose. As things stood, he would need to discuss the matter again after the banquet. The Zhuo Clan seemed to have assumed that Gu Changge was a young man with a terrifying background, but Zhuo Fengxie did not dare to make such an assumption. Even the future Successors of Transcendent Civilisations could not make Dao Realm experts into their servant, much less order an existence who had nearly reached the Ancestral Dao Realm around at will. Gu Changge’s strength was definitely even more terrifying and unimaginable. It was just that they could not perceive his strength. After all, only true strength could make that woman, and the Black-Robed Elder submit to him. Pure strength had always been the most direct and fundamental method to lead others in the Boundless Expanse. The members of the Zhuo Clan failed to learn anything about the situation during the welcoming banquet, and the only information they managed to obtain was Gu Changge’s name. Aside from that, they did not acquire any relevant information. The Elders of the Zhuo Clan could not question the guests too much either due to their pride, so they decided to slowly inquire about the situation later. “Young Master Gu, you have travelled far to come here. Why don’t you stay at the Zhuo Clan for the time being? If you have any request, you can just inform my Clansmen. Zhuo You has told me many things about you. In fact, it is all thanks to Zhuo You that I could establish a relationship with you today.” When the banquet came to an end, Zhuo Fengxie remained clueless about the reason for Gu Changge’s arrival. Be that as it may, he was certainly worthy of being known as exceptionally bright. He managed to bring the relationship between him and Gu Changge closer with just a few words. At the same time, he also informed the Elders belonging to the other factions of the Zhuo Clan that Gu Changge only approached the Zhuo Clan because of Zhuo You. His statement was meant to stop those Elders from trying to forge a connection with Gu Changge. Even now, he could not be certain whether Gu Changge was a friend or a foe. “In that case, I will have to trouble you, Elder Zhuo Fengxie.” Gu Changge naturally heard the unspoken meaning behind Zhuo Fengxie’s words, but he did not expose the truth and simply replied with a smile. Zhuo Fengxie’s statement pushed the other Elders into a position where they could not say anything else at this moment. Hence, they made a mental note to inquire about the truth later. At any rate, the fact that the Zhuo Clan had welcomed a guest in Breeze Ancient City caused a huge stir in the vast territory of the Immortal Spirit Civilisation. Most of the people in innumerable universes were now playing close attention to the situation and gossiped about the matter. Those who personally witnessed several Zhuo Clan Elders coming forward to greet the guests in person would also vividly describe the scene in detail. In addition, the man in white aroused fervent speculation among the various Forces. They believed that he came from a Transcendent Civilisation, which was another name for a Supreme Civilisation. It had to be said that there was a world of difference between the heritage of a Supreme Civilisation and an Ancient Civilisation. In fact, there was no saying how many rifts separated them. For example, the Immortal Spirit Civilisation was actually subordinated to the Primary Hope Civilisation. It was just that there were many other Civilisations similar to the Immortal Spirit Civilisation among the Subsidiary Civilisations governed by the Primary Hope Civilisation.