Chapter 272

I'll go find Ye Xiaozi and his gang to catch up, so I won't follow you inside.

Seeing that the crowd had pretty much arrived, the Black Emperor was savvy and didn't continue to follow, trotting over to where Ye Fan and the others were.

Everyone, please rise.

Yang Zhu finally glanced over the scene, saw many people still kowtowing devoutly, left a remark, then turned and entered the great hall.

Meanwhile, the White-Clothed God King and the Barbarian Saint had been waiting, and only then did they follow Yang Zhu inside.

A divine dog that has followed a Great Emperor!

When the Big Black Dog arrived, the place immediately stirred up; the gazes of the proud talents and old friends toward him all changed.

At the outset of the grand gathering, one dared to shout at a host of ancestral kings—know that even the Barbarian Divine Turtle couldn't manage that.

Later, Yang Zhu even accompanied the divine presence, jointly suppressing the grand gathering; during which seven imperial weapons were unleashed, enough to pierce the five regions, and even ancient emperor's arms were summoned.

This time, the Black Emperor was utterly magnificent, exuding supreme might and grandeur! 'Black Emperor, you can do it—I never imagined your background was so huge, that you actually followed the Beginningless Great Emperor!'

Li Heishui, Pang Bo, and other old friends immediately gathered around, feeling deep admiration and envy.

'With such suave elegance, heroic bearing, and jade-like grace, it's all thanks to the Great Emperor's influence!'

The Big Black Dog raised its massive head arrogantly; its aura now terrifying, comparable to that of a Holy Lord, its demeanor gaining an indescribable noble air and presence compared to before.

Looking at it, it really is the case! 'Brother Yang, did you already know you were an Imperial Son? You've kept it so well hidden.' Li Heishui asked.

'That's not nonsense; besides the Great Emperor and the Imperial Son, who else is worthy of making this emperor follow so closely?'

That's actually true; given his nature, aside from the Beginningless Great Emperor and Yang Zhu, there's really no one who could make him utterly devoted.

After all, this guy will bite anything that's a treasure, even longtime acquaintances aren't spared! 'You are... Taoist Priest Duan De, no wonder you give off a sinister vibe.'

Finally, that arrogant Taoist shed his disguise, revealing his true form; seeing this, the white-clothed little nun couldn't help but speak angrily.

Hehe, you dead dog, Taoist Sir has an idea...

Duan De chuckled, didn't mind, and went up to put his arm around the Big Black Dog's neck; after saying something unknown, the Big Black Dog's eyes lit up instantly.

The Big Black Dog couldn't wait to leave with Duan De, seemingly having something urgent, and urged: 'This is a great opportunity, let's go, go, go!'

It turned out that after some observation, Duan De discovered that all the strong members of the Ji Family had arrived, even bringing the Void Mirror.

That is to say, the Ji Family currently lacks imperial weapons and prominent figures to guard it—this is a perfect chance to enter the Ji Family Ancestral Tomb! 'Long time no see, and there are so many old friends here; come, let's have a drink!'

Who would have thought, Ye Fan stepped forward and grabbed the two of them, wanting to celebrate properly.

It was both to celebrate the reunion of old friends and to congratulate the smooth convening of the grand gathering.

Well then...

The Big Black Monkey immediately sank its face, unable to refuse, and began drinking heartily with everyone, cups clinking, chatting about all sorts of past events.

I'll say, Brother Haoyue, don't dwell too much on the past, kid—after all, losing to an Imperial Son isn't disgraceful.

Duan De gulped down several large cups of fine wine, then approached Ji Haoyue and gave his shoulder a hearty pat.

Back then, this Ji Family Divine Body was struck down by Yang Zhu in a few moves, truly driving the person into seclusion; after a year of closed-door training, he hadn't communicated with anyone.

I know.

Ji Haoyue also didn't dwell on it much, merely giving a firm nod.

Speaking of which, where's the Fluctuating Light Holy Maiden? Back then, Ye Xiaozi, you snatched her bellyband—did you ever give it back?

The Big Black Dog grinned widely, eyes narrowed to slits, and blurted out the matter as soon as it opened its mouth.

What... Yezi you!

Upon hearing that, the Ji Family's Little Moon flared up, grabbing Ye Fan's ear, demanding an explanation.

Easy, easy... this story is long, but back then it was truly unavoidable.

Ye Fan embarrassedly rubbed his nose, glaring hatefully at the Big Black Dog: 'It's all your fault, you dead dog, insisting on spilling it out.'

Hahaha...

Upon hearing that, everyone burst into laughter, spending the time in a cheerful atmosphere.

In the Jade Pool, all was harmonious; the birth of the Human Race Imperial Son and the smooth proceeding of the grand gathering made many people feel extremely at ease.

The gloom that had long shrouded the hearts of the Eastern Wasteland's people was finally dispelled.

With Yang Zhu's deterrence, the conference proceeded smoothly, as all factions were willing to sit down and negotiate peacefully.

The next day, as the fiery morning glow bathed the horizon, draping the land in light, the conference drew to a close.

The conference's result was just four words: 'No Saint under Heaven.' In other words, those above the Saint realm must not meddle in the younger generation's disputes, letting them forge their own paths.

This result clearly favored the human side, yet out of deference to Yang Zhu's deterrence, the ancient clans naturally dared not say much more.

Yang Zhu stepped into the morning glow, bathed in holy light, and strode toward the immortal land where the Big Black Dog and company resided.

Here the mountains are beautiful and elegant, the scenery superb, thin mist like smoke swirling around the peaks, while at the mountain's base streams babble, ancient trees entwined with old vines, making it profoundly tranquil.

Ahead, on the grassy meadow, some young men and women sat on the ground, each with a wooden table before them laden with various fruits and fine wines.

Ding ding dong dong

Among them, a man in blue robes was playing the zither, his hands swaying like a butterfly, giving a sense of liveliness and lightness.

As his fingers glided over the strings, the music was beautiful and moving, calming the heart and mind.

Brother Yang, long time no see.

Upon seeing Yang Zhu arrive, everyone rose at once, with Hua Yunfei stepping forward first to clasp his fists in salute.

Clad in water-blue robes that fluttered in the breeze, he gave off a gentle, lively feeling, like a spring breeze.

Long time no see.

Yang Zhu gave a faint smile, feeling an inexplicable emotion, quite relieved.

Now Hua Yunfei is graceful and lively, able to play the zither to clear his mind at times, truly becoming himself, unlike his previous life where he hid everywhere, his life's course manipulated by the Ruthless Lineage.

'Who stands supreme at the end of the Immortal Path? A single glimpse and the Beginningless Dao vanishes—Brother Yang, you are truly worthy of being the Beginningless Imperial Son, mighty and overbearing enough!'

The Prince of Great Xia laughed loudly; who would have thought that a parting in the Central State would last over ten years, and upon meeting again, only then did he discover that the other was actually a human imperial prince.

No wonder, at first sight when they first met, he felt Yang Zhu was extraordinary and unmatched throughout history.

It's been years since we parted, Prince, you've become ever more martial; today, substituting tea for wine, let us share a cup.

As the sound faded, two jade cups flew in; each piece of Dao-comprehending tea fell into one, then they were boiled with Jade Pool divine spring water, instantly releasing an immersive fragrance that intoxicated.

"Dao-comprehending ancient tea leaves, what a grand gesture, Imperial Son!" the Prince of Great Xia exclaimed slightly surprised; Dao-comprehending tea leaves are inherently priceless, impossible to measure with supreme treasures, even sages find them hard to come by.

Moreover, over ten years ago, the Dao-comprehending tea leaves in the Undying Mountain disappeared, causing the existing supply to plummet, making them all the more precious.

No wonder it comes from the Undying Divine Tree; I was fortunate to taste a cup a few years ago, but it was indeed diluted many times over, far incomparable to this.

After just a sip, the Prince of Great Xia suddenly felt an indescribable ease within, naturally entering a special state of Dao comprehension.

Brother Yang Zhu, don't be stingy; we want to try some too.

The monkey roared with laughter; even he had never been fortunate enough to taste the tea brewed from Dao-comprehending tea leaves.

Everyone knew that, although the Holy Prince was of the ancient imperial lineage, he was vastly different from the Heavenly Prince.

Not only did he lack various rare treasures, but for any Dao protector, put nicely it was giving him a boundless sky; put badly, it was leaving him with nothing……

"Naturally."

Yang Zhu smiled, brewing a cup of Dao-comprehending tea for each person present; everyone savored it like a treasured heirloom, instantly feeling their comprehension greatly improved.

"What a fine thing! Back then, Ye Zi and I were forced into the Undying Mountain, intending to sneak in and pluck some, but who knew the tea trees had vanished." Pang Bo said.

I've had it a few times before; although the taste isn't much different, this time the aroma seems richer.

As the cherished jewel of the Ji family, Ji Ziyue having drunk Dao-comprehending tea is no surprise; yet now, taking a gentle sip, she sensed a subtle difference.

That is because Yang Zhu's Dao-comprehending tea leaves, from picking to storing, were completed in just a few breaths.

Moreover, placed in a wooden box finely carved from the trunk of the Dao-comprehending tea tree, it can preserve the tea's utmost comprehension, almost indistinguishable from fresh.

Brother Yang, I have a matter I wish to discuss with you; may we step aside for a chat?

Ye Fan spoke up then; Yang Zhu did not refuse, and the two went together to a remote quiet place.

Back when we entered the Holy Cliff, didn't you obtain the Heavenly Court scepter? Therefore I want to rebuild the Heavenly Court……

Ye Fan got straight to the point, laying out this idea as soon as he spoke.

Not long after leaving the Holy Cliff back then, he had conceived this idea, but feeling the karmic ties were too great, he dared not try it lightly.

Before, other forces also attempted to establish it, but all ended in tragic fates, leaving onlookers shocked and shaken.

Yet during the days when he was hunted by hell and the mortal realm, he realized one thing: he must build his own power.

After deep consideration, perhaps also influenced by his homeland, he chose the "Heavenly Court".

"I know that with your strength and foundation, you alone could suppress this great age, but I lack any background to rely on, and my friends also need a place to settle,"

"What do you think of this arrangement? The scepter and the lordship of the Heavenly Court would be in your hands; I would merely serve as deputy lord, handling all affairs, so you need not worry about anything."

Ye Fan was sincere; taking only the second-in-command role in establishing the Heavenly Court would both show his sincerity and avoid much trouble.

Speaking of the early days of establishment, many ancient forces might try to suppress it, but minor skirmishes would be nothing.

But if one wanted to overthrow the Heavenly Court, do you think Yang Zhu, its supreme ruler, would agree? (Disclaimer: This is fanfiction, this is fanfiction, this is fanfiction! Everything naturally revolves around the protagonist, Ye Fan included.) "Whatever you wish."

Yang Zhu pondered a moment, then readily agreed; after all, given his foundation, he truly needed no so-called forces for protection.

"Good, then I'll start gathering troops right away!"

Seeing Yang Zhu agree, Ye Fan was overjoyed; the great stone in his heart finally fell.

On the way back, Yang Zhu saw a figure resembling a demon god merely standing there, which gave an impression of terrifying power.

In an instant, Yuan Gu also looked toward Yang Zhu's direction, his face instantly turning grave, clearly wary.

"Sixth-generation descendant of the Yuan Emperor, alas your bloodline is too thin, but your Dao heart is decent; I give you a chance to challenge me, come find me anytime."

Having said that, Yang Zhu was no longer at the peak, and he returned with Ye Fan to the immortal land where the Big Black Dog and company resided.

"Sure."

Yuan Gu's expression was grave, not daring to be the slightest bit careless, after all, the Heavenly Prince had been felled in a single move right before his eyes.

Yuan Gu couldn't help but admit that his talent, physique, and immortal affinity were all inferior to the Heavenly Prince's, yet even though he was called a divine bloodline, he couldn't withstand a single move from Yang Zhu.

When Yang Zhu and his group returned, the White-robed God King and the Jade Pool Holy Maiden also arrived.

"Jiang Tai Xu of the Jiang family, thank you again, Human Imperial Son, for stepping forth and suppressing the myriad races."

The God King seemed to be waiting; upon seeing Yang Zhu return, he again clasped his hands in salute.

"God King, you stand modestly, but you alone faced over twenty ancestral kings, already becoming an eternal myth; posterity will remember you."

Now, when Yang Zhu recalls that scene, he can't help but feel moved; the White-robed God King lived a life of splendor, then a life of sorrow, truly deserving the words 'peerless'.

"Tai Xu often travels abroad, and by chance obtained news of the Zi secret; I wonder if the Imperial Son still has interest."

The God King had always remembered Yang Zhu's previous words, so upon meeting him here, he related this matter.

"Thank you for the information, God King, but I have already gathered the Nine Secrets and no longer really need them." Yang Zhu said.

"What…… the Nine Secrets have actually been gathered."

Upon hearing this, everyone turned pale in shock; each of the Nine Secrets is comparable to an imperial scripture, some even lost or never having appeared.

When the Nine Secrets are united, they can rival a celestial scripture, possessing immeasurable value! Yet now that Yang Zhu has completed their collection, the shock is easy to imagine.

"You don't know, at the moment the Nine Secrets were gathered, it triggered a tremendous phenomenon, with the laws of the Great Dao spreading across the heavens and earth—perhaps the entire universe could witness it!"

The Big Black Dog introduced with great enthusiasm; whenever he recalled seeing that immortal gate back then, his blood surged.

"I remember now—it was you who caused that; reportedly it even stirred the Forbidden Zone of Life."

Everyone came to a realization; as the Holy Prince uttered this earth-shattering news, they all drew a deep, cold breath.

This matter was told to him by the Victorious Fighting Buddha far in the Western Desert; at that time, the Victorious Fighting Buddha deliberately descended the mountain to get to the bottom of it.

Unfortunately, in the end they couldn't clarify the cause, but instead noticed the abnormality of the Primordial Ancient Mine.

"What a pity, letting that Heavenly Prince fellow die too cheaply; otherwise there would surely have been many more gains……"

The Big Black Dog gulped down the tea in one go, feeling slightly regretful; otherwise, given the other's foundation and wealth, he could definitely have made a tycoon's fortune.

Heavenly Prince……harvest……Everyone, I still have matters, so I'll take my leave first.

Hearing this, Yang Zhu pondered for a moment, then suddenly recalled something, and immediately bade farewell to everyone.

Yue'er, let's go, to the Undying Mountain.

Okay.

As Yang Zhu lifted his foot, a space tunnel formed; he and the Jade Pool Saintess entered it casually, then vanished from the spot.

(End of chapter)