Chapter 132: 132
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(AN: Thanks for the donation, Joseph Lawrence and also thanks for all of your support and understanding everyone, I hope all of you enjoy the chapter).
Flames billowed and flooded the skies within the God Burying Inferno Prison, reminiscent of the descent of a final doomsday. As Issei's party appeared, what welcomed their arrival is the whining sound on the ancient horned dragon...
The fiery scales covering the ancient horned dragon's entire body stood on end as its aura turn submissive. Mu Xuanyin who saw this remembered about her own Saint Dragon that acts almost the same way as this ancient horned dragon before her.
When she remembered about Issei's identity, she thinks that it's not so weird after all. But the same cannot be said for the flame gold realm's inhabitants.
They're at complete lost seeing this scene... where's the fierce fight they were anticipating? What they witnessed is completely different from their imagination...
Amidst the raging Inferno Prison, the ancient horned dragon's meek voice resounded: "H-H-How can I help you, king?"
Mu Xuanyin who's by Issei's side had her eyes widen slightly.
King?! This Ancient Horned Dragon actually called him 'King'?!
Issei silently gazes at the Ancient Horned Dragon before he said lightly: "I want to go to the bottom of this inferno prison. You don't need to worry, I won't harm you nor your wife that is currently hiding."
...What?
Mu Xuanyin's brain blanked slightly when she heard what Issei just said.
Its wife? This Ancient Horned Dragon has a wife?
Even the onlookers' from above are confused by what Issei just said. Is he telling them that there's a second Ancient Horned Dragon? How is that possible?!
But then the three Divine King discovered something out of place.
"...It feels like something is not right," Yan Juehai suddenly said.
Yan Wancang glanced at Yan Juehai as he said, "It seems like Sect Master Yan has also discovered it."
Yan Juehai slowly nodded, "Its dragon fault contains no traces of any injuries… it is so strange. It if were the other parts, it would not be so strange for the injuries to recover but the dragon fault, how could it be possible for it to recover to such an extent in just one thousand years!?"
"Ah?" Huo Poyun confusedly turned around, "How could it be? Shouldn't it be impossible for the dragon fault to completely recover in a thousand years?"
The injury which the horned dragon had suffered a thousand years ago was an important factor for their success in killing the dragon this time.
However, as of this moment, the dragon's dragon fault… was completely devoid of any injury, as if it had never been injured in the slightest!
"This…" Huo Rulie's expression also changed.
Does that mean that... there really is a second Ancient Horned Dragon?!
"B-But... That human beside you... and... those humans from above is..." The Dragon growled lightly at Mu Xuanyin since she's the one who injured him in the past and it can also sense that Yan Wancang is currently "peeking" at them.
"After I'm done with this place, they won't try to hunt you both any longer. You have my word." That is what all Issei said to convince the Ancient Horned Dragon.
When she was still dazed by what Issei said, a second shadowy figure emerged from below them.
Everyone's heart almost burst apart from the shock. Yan Wancang retreated several steps, appalled, while Yan Juehai and Huo Rulie's hair stood on end, their eyes wide to the point of breaking apart.
Even Mu Xuanyin is also shocked to her very core.
If she were to fight this Dragon... She would surely get taken by surprise and she could be injured as a result... or even worse... dead!
She couldn't help but glance at Issei and feel thankful of his presence. If it wasn't for him here with her then... she doesn't dare to think of the consequences...
"A… Ahhh..."
"H...How can there be such a thing!?"
The second figure is none other than the second Ancient Horned Dragon which looks extremely identical to the first one.
The second Ancient Horned Dragon joined its mate position. It curled itself trying to make itself look smaller than Issei which is clearly impossible since Issei is in his human form.
The Ancient Horned Dragon could take shape of a human as well but they don't want to transform themselves into the form that they hate the most.
Issei doesn't really mind since he can understand their sentiment quite a bit. If anyone were to suddenly just barge into his home and start attacking him, he would also feel pissed.
"We welcome your arrival, Dragon King..." The second ancient horned dragon said softly. Its voice belonging to a female.
"Although we welcome your arrival... as for the woman behind you..." It narrowed its eyes at Mu Xuanyin.
They don't mind Xue'er or Caiyi since both of them are basically enveloped with Issei's aura but not for Mu Xuanyin.
Not only that, but she's also the same human that injured it in the past...
To say that they don't bear a grudge over it is a complete lie.
Mu Xuanyin's body tensed slightly after being exposed to their murderous intent.
"What happened between you two in the past is not my business," Issei said flatly.
"Then..." The Dragons narrowed their eyes at Mu Xuanyin while they bared their teeth at her.
"But can you even kill her at this point now that you lose your element of surprise?" Issei asked flatly.
The two ancient Dragon froze for a moment before they started contemplating their odds against Mu Xuanyin...
Mu Xuanyin might not be a match for two ancient horned dragons, but if she were only fleeing, let alone two, even three ancient horned dragons wouldn't be able to keep her from doing so.
If she were to come back in the future... it will be their doom...
The two Dragon expression turns dire when they thought till here.
"No need to worry. I already said that when I'm done here they won't be trying to hunt the two of you any longer, didn't I? The two girls beside me will be the new realm king for the , they will put an order to not harm any of you but that's only if the two of you don't try to do the same in return. Of course, you're free to defend yourselves if you're the one that got provoked first." Issei said calmly.
Then he turned his head towards the projection direction: "Did you all hear what I just said?"
His voice is still calm but there's an inexplicable pressure coming from Issei which they sensed clearly.
The three sect master can only nod their head in agreement although they feel a bit bitter about it...
"Since we have come to an agreement, there's nothing else to see here." Issei waved his hand and the projection was cut off which startled Yan Wancang again.
"Wh-Why is the projection suddenly..." Huo Poyun asked in confusion.
"...To think that he could easily cut off our connection just like that..." Yan Wancang smiles bitterly.
"But sect master... is it wise for us to follow his words just like that?" One of the elders asked with a frown.
"What can we do even if we disagree? Do you dare to go against him? He can easily defeat the three of us in mere seconds." Huo Rulie said with a scoff.
That elder who just spoke instantly shut his mouth.
Huo Rulie already decided to pledge his loyalty towards Issei so he doesn't really mind if Issei becomes their realm king.
Even though Issei said that their realm king is that two girls beside him, they all know that the true ruler is Issei himself.
"Well, we can only abandon our initial plan... alas... perhaps by accepting him as our realm king, our realm will rise even further..." Yan Juehai said with a sigh.
...
"Mu Xuanyin, it's better if you leave now. We will go deeper." Issei said simply towards Mu Xuanyin.
"...Alright." Mu Xuanyin nodded slightly before she started to go upwards.
It looks like she's not allowed to come with them... Mu Xuanyin thought disappointedly inside her mind.
Chi Wuyao received another crucial information from their short interaction...
"He's called Dragon King by those two dragons... It looks like his identity is beyond my expectation..." She muttered in a low voice.
After Mu Xuanyin disappeared from their sight, Issei went deeper into the inferno prison... The two dragon sees them off with a respectful gesture.
They were falling straight down inside the sea of fire. The fire element in their surroundings grew increasingly violent and terrifying, but it was unable to hurt the three of them in the slightest.
Issei guessed that there must be a Divine spirit existing at the bottom of the God Burying Inferno Prison. Xiaotao and Lieyan themselves also confirmed his guess that there is indeed a Phoenix and Golden Crow lies beneath this place.
Although that was a long time ago... But Issei only sensed a single divine spirit left.
It looks like one of them has already passed away.
Although the people of the Flame God Realm believed that no divine spirit existed in their realm now, they thought so because no one had ever succeeded in reaching the bottom of the God Burying Inferno Prison. The remnant spirit of the Ice Phoenix True God at the bottom of the Heavenly Netherfrost Lake was also able to somehow maintain its existence by relying on the cold vein. The flame vein of the Flame God Realm was undoubtedly more powerful than the cold vein of the Heavenly Netherfrost Lake, so it would be only normal if the remnant soul of a divine spirit was able to exist until now by relying on it.
Falling straight down for over fifteen thousand meters into the inferno prison, They arrived at the bottom as fast as possible. This place was such a terrifying purgatory that no ordinary person would be able to imagine it. The fire elements in this place were so violent in nature that it would be far beyond the understanding of even someone as great as a Divine Master. Just a small mass of flames from this place was enough to evaporate all the oceans of an ordinary world.
The spirit aura of flames rushed into Issei's body like a storm as they transformed into his own strength... but it's barely useable for him. So he transferred those energies towards Huan Caiyi and Feng Xue'er instead.
Even if he didn't do anything in this world made of extremely pure and high-level flames, their profound strength would increase at a far greater rate than others cultivating with great effort.
They inherited Xiaotao and Lieyan's legacy after all.
The two of them gratefully look towards Issei. Their gaze looks like they could melt him any second with how affectionate it is...
Issei never realizes their feelings for him until now so he felt a little awkward being gazed at them in this way.
Whereas for the two of them, their eyes shone a little after seeing Issei awkward look. It looks like their crush finally started to realize their feelings.
Both Huan Caiyi and Feng Xue'er already know that Issei has multiple wives from Xiaotao and Lieyan's mouth but they don't really care since it is completely normal for a man of his caliber own multiple wives.
Doesn't need to look too far, even Feng Xue'er father, Feng Hengkong himself has multiple concubines.
"...Xue'er, Caiyi..." Issei called out.
"Yes, Young Master/Grandmaster?" The two of them responded in a sweet tone.
"...Nevermind." Issei finally said with a wry smile. He somehow has a feeling that even if he told them that he already has a wife, they still wouldn't let go of their feelings for him...
Issei decided to just let nature take its course.
Issei's gaze then locked onto the extremely distant but clearly visible arc of red light.
Over there was the location of the primordial flame vein.
Not only Issei but Huan Caiyi and Feng Xue'er can also sense a divine energy signature similar to Xiaotao.
Passing through layer after layer of the divine flames, they made their way straight to the flame vein.
The God Burying Inferno Prison spanned over five hundred thousand kilometers. If it wasn't for Issei's extraordinary sense acting as their guide, it would have been extremely difficult to identify the correct direction. As they went forward, Feng Xue'er could feel the soul reaction even more clearly.
They traveled as much as fifty thousand kilometers without resting for even a moment… as they slowly neared their destination.
After a while, they finally stopped in their tracks. Before their eyes was an arc of red light that looked like a coiling dragon in the midst of this world of flames. It meandered as far as they could see and appeared to have no end.
There was no doubt that the primordial flame vein was an existence on the same level as the primordial cold vein of the Heavenly Netherfrost Lake. Both of these energies were left behind from the primordial Era of Gods.
However, the Heavenly Netherfrost Lake only had a short cold vein, but the flame vein before their eyes seemed to be endless. But for Issei, it can only be considered as not bad.
Perhaps, no one could think… that such absolutely terrifying energy was hidden in a middle star realm such as the Flame God Realm.
If the energy here were to be poured down, it should be enough to easily destroy an upper star realm, or maybe even a king realm...
They continued walking ahead when two crimson flames suddenly shone from in front of them.
"Greetings, Godking and... the two inheritors of my and the Golden Crow legacy. I have been waiting for your arrival."
A weak and indistinct but clearly audible voice resounded in their mind, causing them to raise their head. Far above them, two long, narrow, and golden eyes opened little by little… Then the light of the flames around him immediately dimmed, and the pair of eyes seemed to be the sole existence in this vast purgatory.
The two girls don't seem too surprised hearing that the Phoenix spirit just called Issei a Godking. They have long anticipated his true identity before this...
At the same time, the golden eyes were far more long and narrow than the Golden Crow Divine Spirit's.
Seeing this pair of eyes, Issei instantly thought back to the moment when he had come into contact with Xiaotao for the first time.
The eyes of the phoenix in the trial grounds of the Phoenix Clan, in the Ten Thousand Beast Mountain range of the Blue Wind Empire.
The instant this pair of eyes appeared, the divine aura of a phoenix flame also descended from above but it's not domineering in the slightest.
"You seem different from Xiaotao old form... It looks like you're a direct soul fragment of the original Phoenix." Issei mused calmly.
"Xiaotao?" The Phoenix repeated.
"That will be me..." Xiaotao emerged from beside Issei which made the Phoenix eyes widen slightly.
"Nice to meet you... my kin," Xiaotao said softly.
"...How fascinating... to think that you, who's supposedly a simple soul residue could become alive... no, I should say 'reborn' instead... I guess it's not that surprising considering the Godking is helping you..." The Phoenix soul fragment said in awe.
"Indeed... my newfound life is granted by Master." Xiaotao nodded at her statement.
"And I am but a mere soul fragment of the phoenix that has been left behind in this world. I perceived your arrival the moment you stepped into the , Godking. It seems that we don't have to be worried about the 'Great calamity' anymore... Other than that, I am the last remaining strand of Phoenix soul in this world. However, I can only maintain my existence by relying on the God Burying Inferno Prison. Once I leave this place, I will die away very quickly." The Phoenix said.
"Yes... Master said that he will take care of the 'Great calamity' and you can have the same fate as me if you want. All you have to do is to accept my master as your master." Xiaotao advised.
"That's reassuring. With how powerful your excellency strength, taking care of the 'Great calamity' will be quite easy." The Phoenix said with gratitude.
"But... No, I have to refuse your offer... It would probably be better if we fuse our soul. I don't have any attachment left behind in this world... The only reason why I forced myself to stay alive until now is because of the 'Great calamity'. But since there's no need to worry about it any longer then I can finally have my long awaited rest..." The Phoenix stated.
That isn't a calamity anyone can fight against. If everyone in the entire God Realm can set aside their racial prejudices, bias towards other star realms and individual grudges, if everyone can work together without selfish intentions and pour every ounce of power into resisting the enemy, then they may just have a sliver of a chance at surviving this but alas...
This calamity is a test for the entire God Realm. The reason they've all chosen to grant all their remaining power to the humans is to leave as many seeds of hope as possible. It is also the only thing they can do. Few are capable of utilizing the full extent of their power, but individual strength is naught but a speck of dust before that terrible disaster.
"...I see..." Xiaotao said with a sigh.
Unlike Xiaotao who still wants to live, it looks like this Phoenix soul fragment only wanted to find peace...
By fusing their soul together, the Phoenix basically will give away all of her divine energy to her.
Xiaotao looks at Issei wanting to say something but Issei beat her to it: "It's fine. I don't need her divine energy... You can have it, Xiaotao."
"...Then Xiaotao thanks master." Xiaotao said with a bow.
"May I ask if you know anything about the 'Great calamity' or the 'Crimson crack', Godking?" The Phoenix asked in curiosity.
"Oh? Why do you want to know about it?"
"It is because I feel endless fear every time I perceive the aura of that crimson crack... The energy that it is emitting is something I have never seen before... Although 'we' are all are but soul fragments, we also have the extremely high dignity of a god. Normally, we absolutely wouldn't do anything for the sake of a human that would cost us our existence but this calamity is something that will cause our whole world perish..."
The 'we' the Phoenix talking about is the other Divine spirits.
"...The energy you sensed is an energy called energy. It is something extremely powerful but also extremely dangerous at the same time... If you were to be exposed to it directly then you will become a mindless beast that only wants to bring destruction..." Issei explained.
'Hmm... That is only my ... but as for your . It is a completely different thing you know, dear husband~? Ufufufufu~' Nyarlathotep chuckled inside her mind.
Then Issei released a tiny bit of his energy.
Bright purplish-red energy emerged from his palm.
The Phoenix who saw this shuddered for a brief second since the energy signature is extremely similar to the one she sensed on the 'crimson crack' before... albeit there's a minor difference that it's almost negligible.
"...I see..." The Phoenix heaved a sigh of relief after knowing that Issei could perfectly control this malevolent energy... but somehow... she felt like... she felt like she wanted to be dominated by Issei when she's exposed to his energy. How weird... She only felt fear when she inspected the 'Crimson crack'.
"So she's your chosen one... And also the Golden Crow's chosen one?" The Phoenix then set her gaze on Feng Xue'er and Huan Caiyi.
"Greetings, Lord Phoenix God." The two of them then greeted the Phoenix soul fragment.
"If only you had shown up a few years earlier. The Golden Crow Spirit would've chosen you, and not Huo Poyun."
The Phoenix Spirit obviously sounded a little regretful when it said this.
"Then... I shall grant you the last seven drops of my divine blood, seventy percent of my divine soul, and… The complete version of the World Ode of the Phoenix. After that, you can fuse our soul together, Xiaotao..."
The phoenix's pupils suddenly glowed several times brighter. Then the sea of flames parted, and a fiery dot burned brightly between its pupils like a star. The pure, powerful, and divine presence of a phoenix could be sensed from it.
"This is the final power the phoenix left behind in this world. O' human who shall the full legacy of the Phoenix and also blessed by the Godking. This noble one shall now grant to you both the Phoenix's power and its will!"
At the end of the phoenix spirit's sacred cry, the starry dot flew towards Feng Xue'er and entered her forehead without resistance.
Seven drops of primal phoenix divine blood and a portion of the phoenix's divine soul entered Feng Xue'er's body. The other phoenix divine soul inside her body immediately let out a long cry, and the phoenix divine blood she had from a long time ago boiled up automatically, causing her to be covered in phoenix flames for a very long time.
Feng Xue'er could clearly detect the powerful strength and the complete version of the World Ode of the Phoenix that was inscribed inside the phoenix's divine soul.
However, the light in the Phoenix Spirit's pupils turned dim, and its divine presence suddenly became nearly ten times weaker than before.
"The divine soul this noble one gifted you contains the complete version of the World Ode of the Phoenix and the last of my powers. Unfortunately, it is so weak that it can only increase your profound energy by half a small realm. It should, however, be of some use to you."
"Also, you should be able to refine the divine soul and divine blood perfectly without any difficulty."
The Phoenix Spirit sounded was as dignified as ever, but the weakness in its voice was unmistakable.
Feng Xue'er quelled the resonating reactions inside her body and bowed deeply towards the Phoenix Spirit. "Thank you for your gift, Lord Phoenix God. Xue'er will not disappoint you."
"You don't need to thank me. What I did is something negligible and I know you won't disappoint me... Someone who's chosen by the Godking such as his excellency is surely more than worthy." The Phoenix smiled softly.
Feng Xue'er cheeks reddened slightly when she heard the Phoenix compliment.
The Phoenix who saw this thought that Feng Xue'er is really innocent... which is a good thing in her opinion.
The Phoenix Spirit suddenly let out a long sigh. "I suppose I am destined to betray my final promise to the Golden Crow Spirit."
"Are you talking about the Golden Crow Sacred Sword?" Xiaotao asked.
"Yes, the Golden Crow Spirit entrusted me with the Golden Crow Sacred Sword just before it perished completely. A long time ago, it was a precious heritage of the Golden Crow, who survived the death of gods and devils, because it happened to be stored at the bottom of this inferno prison. In fact, that is why it has lasted to this very day. However, since there is less and less primordial energy every day, most of its power is long gone. That being the case, it is still an incredibly powerful sword in this era and it cannot be wielded by any ordinary person."
"The Golden Crow Spirit had no choice but to keep the weapon here because it is the only way to slow down the loss of its divine power. I was supposed to gift it to its wielder once a qualified person showed up."
"That human boy named Huo Poyun is the only one in the entire world who is qualified to wield this sword. However, this noble one can no longer wait until he has fully grown into his power. I can only hope that he hasn't forgotten about the legend of the Golden Crow Sacred Sword and that he'll come to the bottom of the inferno prison and seek it out one day."
The Golden Crow and Phoenix were two creatures who were incompatible with each other, but the Phoenix Spirit had never forgotten the final task the Golden Crow Spirit had entrusted it with just before it vanished entirely. The Phoenix Spirit clearly sounded regretful and sad when it said this.
"No need to wait for that Huo Poyun brat to come. Just give it to this noble one inheritor!" Lieyan suddenly emerged and said with a scoff.
The Phoenix was briefly taken aback before she sighed wryly to herself. It looks like somehow the Godking is 'reviving' the Divine spirits... Not that she minds though. If anything she thinks that it's great that Issei is benevolent enough to give them a new life.
"I assume that you're the same as her? The soul residue of the Golden Crow?"
"Indeed. My name is Lieyan given by my new Master. Now give it to her!"
"You should know the qualifications necessary to wield the Golden Crow Sacred Sword?"
"A powerful profound strength, and a certain level of attainment in the art of the Golden Crow flames which is the
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(AN: Thanks for the donation, Joseph Lawrence and also thanks for all of your support and understanding everyone, I hope all of you enjoy the chapter).
Flames billowed and flooded the skies within the God Burying Inferno Prison, reminiscent of the descent of a final doomsday. As Issei's party appeared, what welcomed their arrival is the whining sound on the ancient horned dragon...
The fiery scales covering the ancient horned dragon's entire body stood on end as its aura turn submissive. Mu Xuanyin who saw this remembered about her own Saint Dragon that acts almost the same way as this ancient horned dragon before her.
When she remembered about Issei's identity, she thinks that it's not so weird after all. But the same cannot be said for the flame gold realm's inhabitants.
They're at complete lost seeing this scene... where's the fierce fight they were anticipating? What they witnessed is completely different from their imagination...
Amidst the raging Inferno Prison, the ancient horned dragon's meek voice resounded: "H-H-How can I help you, king?"
Mu Xuanyin who's by Issei's side had her eyes widen slightly.
King?! This Ancient Horned Dragon actually called him 'King'?!
Issei silently gazes at the Ancient Horned Dragon before he said lightly: "I want to go to the bottom of this inferno prison. You don't need to worry, I won't harm you nor your wife that is currently hiding."
...What?
Mu Xuanyin's brain blanked slightly when she heard what Issei just said.
Its wife? This Ancient Horned Dragon has a wife?
Even the onlookers' from above are confused by what Issei just said. Is he telling them that there's a second Ancient Horned Dragon? How is that possible?!
But then the three Divine King discovered something out of place.
"...It feels like something is not right," Yan Juehai suddenly said.
Yan Wancang glanced at Yan Juehai as he said, "It seems like Sect Master Yan has also discovered it."
Yan Juehai slowly nodded, "Its dragon fault contains no traces of any injuries… it is so strange. It if were the other parts, it would not be so strange for the injuries to recover but the dragon fault, how could it be possible for it to recover to such an extent in just one thousand years!?"
"Ah?" Huo Poyun confusedly turned around, "How could it be? Shouldn't it be impossible for the dragon fault to completely recover in a thousand years?"
The injury which the horned dragon had suffered a thousand years ago was an important factor for their success in killing the dragon this time.
However, as of this moment, the dragon's dragon fault… was completely devoid of any injury, as if it had never been injured in the slightest!
"This…" Huo Rulie's expression also changed.
Does that mean that... there really is a second Ancient Horned Dragon?!
"B-But... That human beside you... and... those humans from above is..." The Dragon growled lightly at Mu Xuanyin since she's the one who injured him in the past and it can also sense that Yan Wancang is currently "peeking" at them.
"After I'm done with this place, they won't try to hunt you both any longer. You have my word." That is what all Issei said to convince the Ancient Horned Dragon.
When she was still dazed by what Issei said, a second shadowy figure emerged from below them.
Everyone's heart almost burst apart from the shock. Yan Wancang retreated several steps, appalled, while Yan Juehai and Huo Rulie's hair stood on end, their eyes wide to the point of breaking apart.
Even Mu Xuanyin is also shocked to her very core.
If she were to fight this Dragon... She would surely get taken by surprise and she could be injured as a result... or even worse... dead!
She couldn't help but glance at Issei and feel thankful of his presence. If it wasn't for him here with her then... she doesn't dare to think of the consequences...
"A… Ahhh..."
"H...How can there be such a thing!?"
The second figure is none other than the second Ancient Horned Dragon which looks extremely identical to the first one.
The second Ancient Horned Dragon joined its mate position. It curled itself trying to make itself look smaller than Issei which is clearly impossible since Issei is in his human form.
The Ancient Horned Dragon could take shape of a human as well but they don't want to transform themselves into the form that they hate the most.
Issei doesn't really mind since he can understand their sentiment quite a bit. If anyone were to suddenly just barge into his home and start attacking him, he would also feel pissed.
"We welcome your arrival, Dragon King..." The second ancient horned dragon said softly. Its voice belonging to a female.
"Although we welcome your arrival... as for the woman behind you..." It narrowed its eyes at Mu Xuanyin.
They don't mind Xue'er or Caiyi since both of them are basically enveloped with Issei's aura but not for Mu Xuanyin.
Not only that, but she's also the same human that injured it in the past...
To say that they don't bear a grudge over it is a complete lie.
Mu Xuanyin's body tensed slightly after being exposed to their murderous intent.
"What happened between you two in the past is not my business," Issei said flatly.
"Then..." The Dragons narrowed their eyes at Mu Xuanyin while they bared their teeth at her.
"But can you even kill her at this point now that you lose your element of surprise?" Issei asked flatly.
The two ancient Dragon froze for a moment before they started contemplating their odds against Mu Xuanyin...
Mu Xuanyin might not be a match for two ancient horned dragons, but if she were only fleeing, let alone two, even three ancient horned dragons wouldn't be able to keep her from doing so.
If she were to come back in the future... it will be their doom...
The two Dragon expression turns dire when they thought till here.
"No need to worry. I already said that when I'm done here they won't be trying to hunt the two of you any longer, didn't I? The two girls beside me will be the new realm king for the , they will put an order to not harm any of you but that's only if the two of you don't try to do the same in return. Of course, you're free to defend yourselves if you're the one that got provoked first." Issei said calmly.
Then he turned his head towards the projection direction: "Did you all hear what I just said?"
His voice is still calm but there's an inexplicable pressure coming from Issei which they sensed clearly.
The three sect master can only nod their head in agreement although they feel a bit bitter about it...
"Since we have come to an agreement, there's nothing else to see here." Issei waved his hand and the projection was cut off which startled Yan Wancang again.
"Wh-Why is the projection suddenly..." Huo Poyun asked in confusion.
"...To think that he could easily cut off our connection just like that..." Yan Wancang smiles bitterly.
"But sect master... is it wise for us to follow his words just like that?" One of the elders asked with a frown.
"What can we do even if we disagree? Do you dare to go against him? He can easily defeat the three of us in mere seconds." Huo Rulie said with a scoff.
That elder who just spoke instantly shut his mouth.
Huo Rulie already decided to pledge his loyalty towards Issei so he doesn't really mind if Issei becomes their realm king.
Even though Issei said that their realm king is that two girls beside him, they all know that the true ruler is Issei himself.
"Well, we can only abandon our initial plan... alas... perhaps by accepting him as our realm king, our realm will rise even further..." Yan Juehai said with a sigh.
...
"Mu Xuanyin, it's better if you leave now. We will go deeper." Issei said simply towards Mu Xuanyin.
"...Alright." Mu Xuanyin nodded slightly before she started to go upwards.
It looks like she's not allowed to come with them... Mu Xuanyin thought disappointedly inside her mind.
Chi Wuyao received another crucial information from their short interaction...
"He's called Dragon King by those two dragons... It looks like his identity is beyond my expectation..." She muttered in a low voice.
After Mu Xuanyin disappeared from their sight, Issei went deeper into the inferno prison... The two dragon sees them off with a respectful gesture.
They were falling straight down inside the sea of fire. The fire element in their surroundings grew increasingly violent and terrifying, but it was unable to hurt the three of them in the slightest.
Issei guessed that there must be a Divine spirit existing at the bottom of the God Burying Inferno Prison. Xiaotao and Lieyan themselves also confirmed his guess that there is indeed a Phoenix and Golden Crow lies beneath this place.
Although that was a long time ago... But Issei only sensed a single divine spirit left.
It looks like one of them has already passed away.
Although the people of the Flame God Realm believed that no divine spirit existed in their realm now, they thought so because no one had ever succeeded in reaching the bottom of the God Burying Inferno Prison. The remnant spirit of the Ice Phoenix True God at the bottom of the Heavenly Netherfrost Lake was also able to somehow maintain its existence by relying on the cold vein. The flame vein of the Flame God Realm was undoubtedly more powerful than the cold vein of the Heavenly Netherfrost Lake, so it would be only normal if the remnant soul of a divine spirit was able to exist until now by relying on it.
Falling straight down for over fifteen thousand meters into the inferno prison, They arrived at the bottom as fast as possible. This place was such a terrifying purgatory that no ordinary person would be able to imagine it. The fire elements in this place were so violent in nature that it would be far beyond the understanding of even someone as great as a Divine Master. Just a small mass of flames from this place was enough to evaporate all the oceans of an ordinary world.
The spirit aura of flames rushed into Issei's body like a storm as they transformed into his own strength... but it's barely useable for him. So he transferred those energies towards Huan Caiyi and Feng Xue'er instead.
Even if he didn't do anything in this world made of extremely pure and high-level flames, their profound strength would increase at a far greater rate than others cultivating with great effort.
They inherited Xiaotao and Lieyan's legacy after all.
The two of them gratefully look towards Issei. Their gaze looks like they could melt him any second with how affectionate it is...
Issei never realizes their feelings for him until now so he felt a little awkward being gazed at them in this way.
Whereas for the two of them, their eyes shone a little after seeing Issei awkward look. It looks like their crush finally started to realize their feelings.
Both Huan Caiyi and Feng Xue'er already know that Issei has multiple wives from Xiaotao and Lieyan's mouth but they don't really care since it is completely normal for a man of his caliber own multiple wives.
Doesn't need to look too far, even Feng Xue'er father, Feng Hengkong himself has multiple concubines.
"...Xue'er, Caiyi..." Issei called out.
"Yes, Young Master/Grandmaster?" The two of them responded in a sweet tone.
"...Nevermind." Issei finally said with a wry smile. He somehow has a feeling that even if he told them that he already has a wife, they still wouldn't let go of their feelings for him...
Issei decided to just let nature take its course.
Issei's gaze then locked onto the extremely distant but clearly visible arc of red light.
Over there was the location of the primordial flame vein.
Not only Issei but Huan Caiyi and Feng Xue'er can also sense a divine energy signature similar to Xiaotao.
Passing through layer after layer of the divine flames, they made their way straight to the flame vein.
The God Burying Inferno Prison spanned over five hundred thousand kilometers. If it wasn't for Issei's extraordinary sense acting as their guide, it would have been extremely difficult to identify the correct direction. As they went forward, Feng Xue'er could feel the soul reaction even more clearly.
They traveled as much as fifty thousand kilometers without resting for even a moment… as they slowly neared their destination.
After a while, they finally stopped in their tracks. Before their eyes was an arc of red light that looked like a coiling dragon in the midst of this world of flames. It meandered as far as they could see and appeared to have no end.
There was no doubt that the primordial flame vein was an existence on the same level as the primordial cold vein of the Heavenly Netherfrost Lake. Both of these energies were left behind from the primordial Era of Gods.
However, the Heavenly Netherfrost Lake only had a short cold vein, but the flame vein before their eyes seemed to be endless. But for Issei, it can only be considered as not bad.
Perhaps, no one could think… that such absolutely terrifying energy was hidden in a middle star realm such as the Flame God Realm.
If the energy here were to be poured down, it should be enough to easily destroy an upper star realm, or maybe even a king realm...
They continued walking ahead when two crimson flames suddenly shone from in front of them.
"Greetings, Godking and... the two inheritors of my and the Golden Crow legacy. I have been waiting for your arrival."
A weak and indistinct but clearly audible voice resounded in their mind, causing them to raise their head. Far above them, two long, narrow, and golden eyes opened little by little… Then the light of the flames around him immediately dimmed, and the pair of eyes seemed to be the sole existence in this vast purgatory.
The two girls don't seem too surprised hearing that the Phoenix spirit just called Issei a Godking. They have long anticipated his true identity before this...
At the same time, the golden eyes were far more long and narrow than the Golden Crow Divine Spirit's.
Seeing this pair of eyes, Issei instantly thought back to the moment when he had come into contact with Xiaotao for the first time.
The eyes of the phoenix in the trial grounds of the Phoenix Clan, in the Ten Thousand Beast Mountain range of the Blue Wind Empire.
The instant this pair of eyes appeared, the divine aura of a phoenix flame also descended from above but it's not domineering in the slightest.
"You seem different from Xiaotao old form... It looks like you're a direct soul fragment of the original Phoenix." Issei mused calmly.
"Xiaotao?" The Phoenix repeated.
"That will be me..." Xiaotao emerged from beside Issei which made the Phoenix eyes widen slightly.
"Nice to meet you... my kin," Xiaotao said softly.
"...How fascinating... to think that you, who's supposedly a simple soul residue could become alive... no, I should say 'reborn' instead... I guess it's not that surprising considering the Godking is helping you..." The Phoenix soul fragment said in awe.
"Indeed... my newfound life is granted by Master." Xiaotao nodded at her statement.
"And I am but a mere soul fragment of the phoenix that has been left behind in this world. I perceived your arrival the moment you stepped into the , Godking. It seems that we don't have to be worried about the 'Great calamity' anymore... Other than that, I am the last remaining strand of Phoenix soul in this world. However, I can only maintain my existence by relying on the God Burying Inferno Prison. Once I leave this place, I will die away very quickly." The Phoenix said.
"Yes... Master said that he will take care of the 'Great calamity' and you can have the same fate as me if you want. All you have to do is to accept my master as your master." Xiaotao advised.
"That's reassuring. With how powerful your excellency strength, taking care of the 'Great calamity' will be quite easy." The Phoenix said with gratitude.
"But... No, I have to refuse your offer... It would probably be better if we fuse our soul. I don't have any attachment left behind in this world... The only reason why I forced myself to stay alive until now is because of the 'Great calamity'. But since there's no need to worry about it any longer then I can finally have my long awaited rest..." The Phoenix stated.
That isn't a calamity anyone can fight against. If everyone in the entire God Realm can set aside their racial prejudices, bias towards other star realms and individual grudges, if everyone can work together without selfish intentions and pour every ounce of power into resisting the enemy, then they may just have a sliver of a chance at surviving this but alas...
This calamity is a test for the entire God Realm. The reason they've all chosen to grant all their remaining power to the humans is to leave as many seeds of hope as possible. It is also the only thing they can do. Few are capable of utilizing the full extent of their power, but individual strength is naught but a speck of dust before that terrible disaster.
"...I see..." Xiaotao said with a sigh.
Unlike Xiaotao who still wants to live, it looks like this Phoenix soul fragment only wanted to find peace...
By fusing their soul together, the Phoenix basically will give away all of her divine energy to her.
Xiaotao looks at Issei wanting to say something but Issei beat her to it: "It's fine. I don't need her divine energy... You can have it, Xiaotao."
"...Then Xiaotao thanks master." Xiaotao said with a bow.
"May I ask if you know anything about the 'Great calamity' or the 'Crimson crack', Godking?" The Phoenix asked in curiosity.
"Oh? Why do you want to know about it?"
"It is because I feel endless fear every time I perceive the aura of that crimson crack... The energy that it is emitting is something I have never seen before... Although 'we' are all are but soul fragments, we also have the extremely high dignity of a god. Normally, we absolutely wouldn't do anything for the sake of a human that would cost us our existence but this calamity is something that will cause our whole world perish..."
The 'we' the Phoenix talking about is the other Divine spirits.
"...The energy you sensed is an energy called energy. It is something extremely powerful but also extremely dangerous at the same time... If you were to be exposed to it directly then you will become a mindless beast that only wants to bring destruction..." Issei explained.
'Hmm... That is only my ... but as for your . It is a completely different thing you know, dear husband~? Ufufufufu~' Nyarlathotep chuckled inside her mind.
Then Issei released a tiny bit of his energy.
Bright purplish-red energy emerged from his palm.
The Phoenix who saw this shuddered for a brief second since the energy signature is extremely similar to the one she sensed on the 'crimson crack' before... albeit there's a minor difference that it's almost negligible.
"...I see..." The Phoenix heaved a sigh of relief after knowing that Issei could perfectly control this malevolent energy... but somehow... she felt like... she felt like she wanted to be dominated by Issei when she's exposed to his energy. How weird... She only felt fear when she inspected the 'Crimson crack'.
"So she's your chosen one... And also the Golden Crow's chosen one?" The Phoenix then set her gaze on Feng Xue'er and Huan Caiyi.
"Greetings, Lord Phoenix God." The two of them then greeted the Phoenix soul fragment.
"If only you had shown up a few years earlier. The Golden Crow Spirit would've chosen you, and not Huo Poyun."
The Phoenix Spirit obviously sounded a little regretful when it said this.
"Then... I shall grant you the last seven drops of my divine blood, seventy percent of my divine soul, and… The complete version of the World Ode of the Phoenix. After that, you can fuse our soul together, Xiaotao..."
The phoenix's pupils suddenly glowed several times brighter. Then the sea of flames parted, and a fiery dot burned brightly between its pupils like a star. The pure, powerful, and divine presence of a phoenix could be sensed from it.
"This is the final power the phoenix left behind in this world. O' human who shall the full legacy of the Phoenix and also blessed by the Godking. This noble one shall now grant to you both the Phoenix's power and its will!"
At the end of the phoenix spirit's sacred cry, the starry dot flew towards Feng Xue'er and entered her forehead without resistance.
Seven drops of primal phoenix divine blood and a portion of the phoenix's divine soul entered Feng Xue'er's body. The other phoenix divine soul inside her body immediately let out a long cry, and the phoenix divine blood she had from a long time ago boiled up automatically, causing her to be covered in phoenix flames for a very long time.
Feng Xue'er could clearly detect the powerful strength and the complete version of the World Ode of the Phoenix that was inscribed inside the phoenix's divine soul.
However, the light in the Phoenix Spirit's pupils turned dim, and its divine presence suddenly became nearly ten times weaker than before.
"The divine soul this noble one gifted you contains the complete version of the World Ode of the Phoenix and the last of my powers. Unfortunately, it is so weak that it can only increase your profound energy by half a small realm. It should, however, be of some use to you."
"Also, you should be able to refine the divine soul and divine blood perfectly without any difficulty."
The Phoenix Spirit sounded was as dignified as ever, but the weakness in its voice was unmistakable.
Feng Xue'er quelled the resonating reactions inside her body and bowed deeply towards the Phoenix Spirit. "Thank you for your gift, Lord Phoenix God. Xue'er will not disappoint you."
"You don't need to thank me. What I did is something negligible and I know you won't disappoint me... Someone who's chosen by the Godking such as his excellency is surely more than worthy." The Phoenix smiled softly.
Feng Xue'er cheeks reddened slightly when she heard the Phoenix compliment.
The Phoenix who saw this thought that Feng Xue'er is really innocent... which is a good thing in her opinion.
The Phoenix Spirit suddenly let out a long sigh. "I suppose I am destined to betray my final promise to the Golden Crow Spirit."
"Are you talking about the Golden Crow Sacred Sword?" Xiaotao asked.
"Yes, the Golden Crow Spirit entrusted me with the Golden Crow Sacred Sword just before it perished completely. A long time ago, it was a precious heritage of the Golden Crow, who survived the death of gods and devils, because it happened to be stored at the bottom of this inferno prison. In fact, that is why it has lasted to this very day. However, since there is less and less primordial energy every day, most of its power is long gone. That being the case, it is still an incredibly powerful sword in this era and it cannot be wielded by any ordinary person."
"The Golden Crow Spirit had no choice but to keep the weapon here because it is the only way to slow down the loss of its divine power. I was supposed to gift it to its wielder once a qualified person showed up."
"That human boy named Huo Poyun is the only one in the entire world who is qualified to wield this sword. However, this noble one can no longer wait until he has fully grown into his power. I can only hope that he hasn't forgotten about the legend of the Golden Crow Sacred Sword and that he'll come to the bottom of the inferno prison and seek it out one day."
The Golden Crow and Phoenix were two creatures who were incompatible with each other, but the Phoenix Spirit had never forgotten the final task the Golden Crow Spirit had entrusted it with just before it vanished entirely. The Phoenix Spirit clearly sounded regretful and sad when it said this.
"No need to wait for that Huo Poyun brat to come. Just give it to this noble one inheritor!" Lieyan suddenly emerged and said with a scoff.
The Phoenix was briefly taken aback before she sighed wryly to herself. It looks like somehow the Godking is 'reviving' the Divine spirits... Not that she minds though. If anything she thinks that it's great that Issei is benevolent enough to give them a new life.
"I assume that you're the same as her? The soul residue of the Golden Crow?"
"Indeed. My name is Lieyan given by my new Master. Now give it to her!"
"You should know the qualifications necessary to wield the Golden Crow Sacred Sword?"
"A powerful profound strength, and a certain level of attainment in the art of the Golden Crow flames which is the
AN: Thanks for the donation, Joseph Lawrence and also thanks for all of your support and understanding everyone, I hope all of you enjoy the chapter. Flames billowed and flooded the skies within the God Burying Inferno Prison, reminiscent of the descent of a final doomsday. As Issei's party appeared, what welcomed their arrival is the whining sound on the ancient horned dragon... The fiery scales covering the ancient horned dragon's entire body stood on end as its aura turn submissive. Mu Xuanyin who saw this remembered about her own Saint Dragon that acts almost the same way as this ancient horned dragon before her. When she remembered about Issei's identity, she thinks that it's not so weird after all. But the same cannot be said for the flame gold realm's inhabitants. They're at complete lost seeing this scene... where's the fierce fight they were anticipating? What they witnessed is completely different from their imagination... Amidst the raging Inferno Prison, the ancient horned dragon's meek voice resounded: "H-H-How can I help you, king?" Mu Xuanyin who's by Issei's side had her eyes widen slightly. King?! This Ancient Horned Dragon actually called him 'King'?! Issei silently gazes at the Ancient Horned Dragon before he said lightly: "I want to go to the bottom of this inferno prison. You don't need to worry, I won't harm you nor your wife that is currently hiding." ...What? Mu Xuanyin's brain blanked slightly when she heard what Issei just said. Its wife? This Ancient Horned Dragon has a wife? Even the onlookers' from above are confused by what Issei just said. Is he telling them that there's a second Ancient Horned Dragon? How is that possible?! But then the three Divine King discovered something out of place. "...It feels like something is not right," Yan Juehai suddenly said. Yan Wancang glanced at Yan Juehai as he said, "It seems like Sect Master Yan has also discovered it." Yan Juehai slowly nodded, "Its dragon fault contains no traces of any injuries it is so strange. It if were the other parts, it would not be so strange for the injuries to recover but the dragon fault, how could it be possible for it to recover to such an extent in just one thousand years!?" "Ah?" Huo Poyun confusedly turned around, "How could it be? Shouldn't it be impossible for the dragon fault to completely recover in a thousand years?" The injury which the horned dragon had suffered a thousand years ago was an important factor for their success in killing the dragon this time. However, as of this moment, the dragon's dragon fault was completely devoid of any injury, as if it had never been injured in the slightest! "This" Huo Rulie's expression also changed. Does that mean that... there really is a second Ancient Horned Dragon?! "B-But... That human beside you... and... those humans from above is..." The Dragon growled lightly at Mu Xuanyin since she's the one who injured him in the past and it can also sense that Yan Wancang is currently "peeking" at them. "After I'm done with this place, they won't try to hunt you both any longer. You have my word." That is what all Issei said to convince the Ancient Horned Dragon. When she was still dazed by what Issei said, a second shadowy figure emerged from below them. Everyone's heart almost burst apart from the shock. Yan Wancang retreated several steps, appalled, while Yan Juehai and Huo Rulie's hair stood on end, their eyes wide to the point of breaking apart. Even Mu Xuanyin is also shocked to her very core. If she were to fight this Dragon... She would surely get taken by surprise and she could be injured as a result... or even worse... dead! She couldn't help but glance at Issei and feel thankful of his presence. If it wasn't for him here with her then... she doesn't dare to think of the consequences... "A Ahhh..." "H...How can there be such a thing!?" The second figure is none other than the second Ancient Horned Dragon which looks extremely identical to the first one. The second Ancient Horned Dragon joined its mate position. It curled itself trying to make itself look smaller than Issei which is clearly impossible since Issei is in his human form. The Ancient Horned Dragon could take shape of a human as well but they don't want to transform themselves into the form that they hate the most. Issei doesn't really mind since he can understand their sentiment quite a bit. If anyone were to suddenly just barge into his home and start attacking him, he would also feel pissed. "We welcome your arrival, Dragon King..." The second ancient horned dragon said softly. Its voice belonging to a female. "Although we welcome your arrival... as for the woman behind you..." It narrowed its eyes at Mu Xuanyin. They don't mind Xue'er or Caiyi since both of them are basically enveloped with Issei's aura but not for Mu Xuanyin. Not only that, but she's also the same human that injured it in the past... To say that they don't bear a grudge over it is a complete lie. Mu Xuanyin's body tensed slightly after being exposed to their murderous intent. "What happened between you two in the past is not my business," Issei said flatly. "Then..." The Dragons narrowed their eyes at Mu Xuanyin while they bared their teeth at her. "But can you even kill her at this point now that you lose your element of surprise?" Issei asked flatly. The two ancient Dragon froze for a moment before they started contemplating their odds against Mu Xuanyin... Mu Xuanyin might not be a match for two ancient horned dragons, but if she were only fleeing, let alone two, even three ancient horned dragons wouldn't be able to keep her from doing so. If she were to come back in the future... it will be their doom... The two Dragon expression turns dire when they thought till here. "No need to worry. I already said that when I'm done here they won't be trying to hunt the two of you any longer, didn't I? The two girls beside me will be the new realm king for the , they will put an order to not harm any of you but that's only if the two of you don't try to do the same in return. Of course, you're free to defend yourselves if you're the one that got provoked first." Issei said calmly. Then he turned his head towards the projection direction: "Did you all hear what I just said?" His voice is still calm but there's an inexplicable pressure coming from Issei which they sensed clearly. The three sect master can only nod their head in agreement although they feel a bit bitter about it... "Since we have come to an agreement, there's nothing else to see here." Issei waved his hand and the projection was cut off which startled Yan Wancang again. "Wh-Why is the projection suddenly..." Huo Poyun asked in confusion. "...To think that he could easily cut off our connection just like that..." Yan Wancang smiles bitterly. "But sect master... is it wise for us to follow his words just like that?" One of the elders asked with a frown. "What can we do even if we disagree? Do you dare to go against him? He can easily defeat the three of us in mere seconds." Huo Rulie said with a scoff. That elder who just spoke instantly shut his mouth. Huo Rulie already decided to pledge his loyalty towards Issei so he doesn't really mind if Issei becomes their realm king. Even though Issei said that their realm king is that two girls beside him, they all know that the true ruler is Issei himself. "Well, we can only abandon our initial plan... alas... perhaps by accepting him as our realm king, our realm will rise even further..." Yan Juehai said with a sigh. ... "Mu Xuanyin, it's better if you leave now. We will go deeper." Issei said simply towards Mu Xuanyin. "...Alright." Mu Xuanyin nodded slightly before she started to go upwards. It looks like she's not allowed to come with them... Mu Xuanyin thought disappointedly inside her mind. Chi Wuyao received another crucial information from their short interaction... "He's called Dragon King by those two dragons... It looks like his identity is beyond my expectation..." She muttered in a low voice. After Mu Xuanyin disappeared from their sight, Issei went deeper into the inferno prison... The two dragon sees them off with a respectful gesture. They were falling straight down inside the sea of fire. The fire element in their surroundings grew increasingly violent and terrifying, but it was unable to hurt the three of them in the slightest. Issei guessed that there must be a Divine spirit existing at the bottom of the God Burying Inferno Prison. Xiaotao and Lieyan themselves also confirmed his guess that there is indeed a Phoenix and Golden Crow lies beneath this place. Although that was a long time ago... But Issei only sensed a single divine spirit left. It looks like one of them has already passed away. Although the people of the Flame God Realm believed that no divine spirit existed in their realm now, they thought so because no one had ever succeeded in reaching the bottom of the God Burying Inferno Prison. The remnant spirit of the Ice Phoenix True God at the bottom of the Heavenly Netherfrost Lake was also able to somehow maintain its existence by relying on the cold vein. The flame vein of the Flame God Realm was undoubtedly more powerful than the cold vein of the Heavenly Netherfrost Lake, so it would be only normal if the remnant soul of a divine spirit was able to exist until now by relying on it. Falling straight down for over fifteen thousand meters into the inferno prison, They arrived at the bottom as fast as possible. This place was such a terrifying purgatory that no ordinary person would be able to imagine it. The fire elements in this place were so violent in nature that it would be far beyond the understanding of even someone as great as a Divine Master. Just a small mass of flames from this place was enough to evaporate all the oceans of an ordinary world. The spirit aura of flames rushed into Issei's body like a storm as they transformed into his own strength... but it's barely useable for him. So he transferred those energies towards Huan Caiyi and Feng Xue'er instead. Even if he didn't do anything in this world made of extremely pure and high-level flames, their profound strength would increase at a far greater rate than others cultivating with great effort. They inherited Xiaotao and Lieyan's legacy after all. The two of them gratefully look towards Issei. Their gaze looks like they could melt him any second with how affectionate it is... Issei never realizes their feelings for him until now so he felt a little awkward being gazed at them in this way. Whereas for the two of them, their eyes shone a little after seeing Issei awkward look. It looks like their crush finally started to realize their feelings. Both Huan Caiyi and Feng Xue'er already know that Issei has multiple wives from Xiaotao and Lieyan's mouth but they don't really care since it is completely normal for a man of his caliber own multiple wives. Doesn't need to look too far, even Feng Xue'er father, Feng Hengkong himself has multiple concubines. "...Xue'er, Caiyi..." Issei called out. "Yes, Young Master/Grandmaster?" The two of them responded in a sweet tone. "...Nevermind." Issei finally said with a wry smile. He somehow has a feeling that even if he told them that he already has a wife, they still wouldn't let go of their feelings for him... Issei decided to just let nature take its course. Issei's gaze then locked onto the extremely distant but clearly visible arc of red light. Over there was the location of the primordial flame vein. Not only Issei but Huan Caiyi and Feng Xue'er can also sense a divine energy signature similar to Xiaotao. Passing through layer after layer of the divine flames, they made their way straight to the flame vein. The God Burying Inferno Prison spanned over five hundred thousand kilometers. If it wasn't for Issei's extraordinary sense acting as their guide, it would have been extremely difficult to identify the correct direction. As they went forward, Feng Xue'er could feel the soul reaction even more clearly. They traveled as much as fifty thousand kilometers without resting for even a moment as they slowly neared their destination. After a while, they finally stopped in their tracks. Before their eyes was an arc of red light that looked like a coiling dragon in the midst of this world of flames. It meandered as far as they could see and appeared to have no end. There was no doubt that the primordial flame vein was an existence on the same level as the primordial cold vein of the Heavenly Netherfrost Lake. Both of these energies were left behind from the primordial Era of Gods. However, the Heavenly Netherfrost Lake only had a short cold vein, but the flame vein before their eyes seemed to be endless. But for Issei, it can only be considered as not bad. Perhaps, no one could think that such absolutely terrifying energy was hidden in a middle star realm such as the Flame God Realm. If the energy here were to be poured down, it should be enough to easily destroy an upper star realm, or maybe even a king realm... They continued walking ahead when two crimson flames suddenly shone from in front of them. "Greetings, Godking and... the two inheritors of my and the Golden Crow legacy. I have been waiting for your arrival." A weak and indistinct but clearly audible voice resounded in their mind, causing them to raise their head. Far above them, two long, narrow, and golden eyes opened little by little Then the light of the flames around him immediately dimmed, and the pair of eyes seemed to be the sole existence in this vast purgatory. The two girls don't seem too surprised hearing that the Phoenix spirit just called Issei a Godking. They have long anticipated his true identity before this... At the same time, the golden eyes were far more long and narrow than the Golden Crow Divine Spirit's. Seeing this pair of eyes, Issei instantly thought back to the moment when he had come into contact with Xiaotao for the first time. The eyes of the phoenix in the trial grounds of the Phoenix Clan, in the Ten Thousand Beast Mountain range of the Blue Wind Empire. The instant this pair of eyes appeared, the divine aura of a phoenix flame also descended from above but it's not domineering in the slightest. "You seem different from Xiaotao old form... It looks like you're a direct soul fragment of the original Phoenix." Issei mused calmly. "Xiaotao?" The Phoenix repeated. "That will be me..." Xiaotao emerged from beside Issei which made the Phoenix eyes widen slightly. "Nice to meet you... my kin," Xiaotao said softly. "...How fascinating... to think that you, who's supposedly a simple soul residue could become alive... no, I should say 'reborn' instead... I guess it's not that surprising considering the Godking is helping you..." The Phoenix soul fragment said in awe. "Indeed... my newfound life is granted by Master." Xiaotao nodded at her statement. "And I am but a mere soul fragment of the phoenix that has been left behind in this world. I perceived your arrival the moment you stepped into the , Godking. It seems that we don't have to be worried about the 'Great calamity' anymore... Other than that, I am the last remaining strand of Phoenix soul in this world. However, I can only maintain my existence by relying on the God Burying Inferno Prison. Once I leave this place, I will die away very quickly." The Phoenix said. "Yes... Master said that he will take care of the 'Great calamity' and you can have the same fate as me if you want. All you have to do is to accept my master as your master." Xiaotao advised. "That's reassuring. With how powerful your excellency strength, taking care of the 'Great calamity' will be quite easy." The Phoenix said with gratitude. "But... No, I have to refuse your offer... It would probably be better if we fuse our soul. I don't have any attachment left behind in this world... The only reason why I forced myself to stay alive until now is because of the 'Great calamity'. But since there's no need to worry about it any longer then I can finally have my long awaited rest..." The Phoenix stated. That isn't a calamity anyone can fight against. If everyone in the entire God Realm can set aside their racial prejudices, bias towards other star realms and individual grudges, if everyone can work together without selfish intentions and pour every ounce of power into resisting the enemy, then they may just have a sliver of a chance at surviving this but alas... This calamity is a test for the entire God Realm. The reason they've all chosen to grant all their remaining power to the humans is to leave as many seeds of hope as possible. It is also the only thing they can do. Few are capable of utilizing the full extent of their power, but individual strength is naught but a speck of dust before that terrible disaster. "...I see..." Xiaotao said with a sigh. Unlike Xiaotao who still wants to live, it looks like this Phoenix soul fragment only wanted to find peace... By fusing their soul together, the Phoenix basically will give away all of her divine energy to her. Xiaotao looks at Issei wanting to say something but Issei beat her to it: "It's fine. I don't need her divine energy... You can have it, Xiaotao." "...Then Xiaotao thanks master." Xiaotao said with a bow. "May I ask if you know anything about the 'Great calamity' or the 'Crimson crack', Godking?" The Phoenix asked in curiosity. "Oh? Why do you want to know about it?" "It is because I feel endless fear every time I perceive the aura of that crimson crack... The energy that it is emitting is something I have never seen before... Although 'we' are all are but soul fragments, we also have the extremely high dignity of a god. Normally, we absolutely wouldn't do anything for the sake of a human that would cost us our existence but this calamity is something that will cause our whole world perish..." The 'we' the Phoenix talking about is the other Divine spirits. "...The energy you sensed is an energy called energy. It is something extremely powerful but also extremely dangerous at the same time... If you were to be exposed to it directly then you will become a mindless beast that only wants to bring destruction..." Issei explained. 'Hmm... That is only my ... but as for your . It is a completely different thing you know, dear husband~? Ufufufufu~' Nyarlathotep chuckled inside her mind. Then Issei released a tiny bit of his energy. Bright purplish-red energy emerged from his palm. The Phoenix who saw this shuddered for a brief second since the energy signature is extremely similar to the one she sensed on the 'crimson crack' before... albeit there's a minor difference that it's almost negligible. "...I see..." The Phoenix heaved a sigh of relief after knowing that Issei could perfectly control this malevolent energy... but somehow... she felt like... she felt like she wanted to be dominated by Issei when she's exposed to his energy. How weird... She only felt fear when she inspected the 'Crimson crack'. "So she's your chosen one... And also the Golden Crow's chosen one?" The Phoenix then set her gaze on Feng Xue'er and Huan Caiyi. "Greetings, Lord Phoenix God." The two of them then greeted the Phoenix soul fragment. "If only you had shown up a few years earlier. The Golden Crow Spirit would've chosen you, and not Huo Poyun." The Phoenix Spirit obviously sounded a little regretful when it said this. "Then... I shall grant you the last seven drops of my divine blood, seventy percent of my divine soul, and The complete version of the World Ode of the Phoenix. After that, you can fuse our soul together, Xiaotao..." The phoenix's pupils suddenly glowed several times brighter. Then the sea of flames parted, and a fiery dot burned brightly between its pupils like a star. The pure, powerful, and divine presence of a phoenix could be sensed from it. "This is the final power the phoenix left behind in this world. O' human who shall the full legacy of the Phoenix and also blessed by the Godking. This noble one shall now grant to you both the Phoenix's power and its will!" At the end of the phoenix spirit's sacred cry, the starry dot flew towards Feng Xue'er and entered her forehead without resistance. Seven drops of primal phoenix divine blood and a portion of the phoenix's divine soul entered Feng Xue'er's body. The other phoenix divine soul inside her body immediately let out a long cry, and the phoenix divine blood she had from a long time ago boiled up automatically, causing her to be covered in phoenix flames for a very long time. Feng Xue'er could clearly detect the powerful strength and the complete version of the World Ode of the Phoenix that was inscribed inside the phoenix's divine soul. However, the light in the Phoenix Spirit's pupils turned dim, and its divine presence suddenly became nearly ten times weaker than before. "The divine soul this noble one gifted you contains the complete version of the World Ode of the Phoenix and the last of my powers. Unfortunately, it is so weak that it can only increase your profound energy by half a small realm. It should, however, be of some use to you." "Also, you should be able to refine the divine soul and divine blood perfectly without any difficulty." The Phoenix Spirit sounded was as dignified as ever, but the weakness in its voice was unmistakable. Feng Xue'er quelled the resonating reactions inside her body and bowed deeply towards the Phoenix Spirit. "Thank you for your gift, Lord Phoenix God. Xue'er will not disappoint you." "You don't need to thank me. What I did is something negligible and I know you won't disappoint me... Someone who's chosen by the Godking such as his excellency is surely more than worthy." The Phoenix smiled softly. Feng Xue'er cheeks reddened slightly when she heard the Phoenix compliment. The Phoenix who saw this thought that Feng Xue'er is really innocent... which is a good thing in her opinion. The Phoenix Spirit suddenly let out a long sigh. "I suppose I am destined to betray my final promise to the Golden Crow Spirit." "Are you talking about the Golden Crow Sacred Sword?" Xiaotao asked. "Yes, the Golden Crow Spirit entrusted me with the Golden Crow Sacred Sword just before it perished completely. A long time ago, it was a precious heritage of the Golden Crow, who survived the death of gods and devils, because it happened to be stored at the bottom of this inferno prison. In fact, that is why it has lasted to this very day. However, since there is less and less primordial energy every day, most of its power is long gone. That being the case, it is still an incredibly powerful sword in this era and it cannot be wielded by any ordinary person." "The Golden Crow Spirit had no choice but to keep the weapon here because it is the only way to slow down the loss of its divine power. I was supposed to gift it to its wielder once a qualified person showed up." "That human boy named Huo Poyun is the only one in the entire world who is qualified to wield this sword. However, this noble one can no longer wait until he has fully grown into his power. I can only hope that he hasn't forgotten about the legend of the Golden Crow Sacred Sword and that he'll come to the bottom of the inferno prison and seek it out one day." The Golden Crow and Phoenix were two creatures who were incompatible with each other, but the Phoenix Spirit had never forgotten the final task the Golden Crow Spirit had entrusted it with just before it vanished entirely. The Phoenix Spirit clearly sounded regretful and sad when it said this. "No need to wait for that Huo Poyun brat to come. Just give it to this noble one inheritor!" Lieyan suddenly emerged and said with a scoff. The Phoenix was briefly taken aback before she sighed wryly to herself. It looks like somehow the Godking is 'reviving' the Divine spirits... Not that she minds though. If anything she thinks that it's great that Issei is benevolent enough to give them a new life. "I assume that you're the same as her? The soul residue of the Golden Crow?" "Indeed. My name is Lieyan given by my new Master. Now give it to her!" "You should know the qualifications necessary to wield the Golden Crow Sacred Sword?" "A powerful profound strength, and a certain level of attainment in the art of the Golden Crow flames which is the
