[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-the-name-that-echoes-through-eternity":3,"chapter-the-name-that-echoes-through-eternity-the-name-that-echoes-through-eternity-chapter-118":6},{"origin":4,"title":5},"chinese","The Name That Echoes Through Eternity",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":19,"prevChapterSlug":20,"totalChapters":21,"novelImage":22},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15,"volume":16,"translator":17,"content_hash":18},2282667,4466,"Chapter 118: There Is No More Li Hao (Guaranteed Dual Chapter)","the-name-that-echoes-through-eternity-chapter-118",118,"\u003Cp>(Earlier mention of age eight was a mistake; it was six. The old minister was confused and has corrected it. Apologies~)\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>……\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang and others assumed Li Hao had survived the assassination attempt because senior figures like Li Muxiu had secretly protected him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Who knew it was Li Hao himself who resolved the crisis? But he was six? Most children only begin cultivation at six—how could Li Hao have effortlessly killed a Zhou Tian assassin on his own?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Remember, assassins strike suddenly; even peers of the same realm might perish.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This means that at six years old, Li Hao already possessed sufficient power to counter a Zhou Tian assassin!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But… he was six!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The group stared at Li Hao in stunned silence, momentarily dazed; they had repeatedly overestimated the boy’s cultivation talent, yet still vastly underestimated him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His monstrous potential—even the Holy Son of Qian Dao Palace—would likely bow in shame! Li Tiangang fell briefly silent; though he disliked Li Hao’s temperament, he could not deny the boy possessed the utmost talent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Fu suddenly recalled something and said to Li Hao: “Young Master Hao, when I secretly protected you during your mission to Cangyu City, those two Jiao Great Demons on the road…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I killed them too.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao said calmly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Fu’s pupils contracted, his heart reeling—he had gone to Piaoxue Courtyard to personally thank Gao Qingqing upon returning, and her confused expression had puzzled him; he never imagined the truth lay here.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He had thought he was protecting Li Hao—yet it was Li Hao who protected him!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Fu felt a wave of bitter regret; he should have realized sooner: when Li Hao revealed his Fifteen Li realm in Cangyu City and single-handedly slaughtered the demon horde, those two Great Demons hardly needed anyone else to intervene.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“There was more to this?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang frowned, turning to Li Fu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Fu quickly recounted the entire incident; Li Tiangang’s eyes flashed with cold fury: “Those demons, in their dying throes, had already planned retreat—yet still dared one last desperate strike? Ridiculous!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“So Brother Hao went to slay the Great Demons back then.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuanzhao now recalled the tea stall incident and froze in shock.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They had been leisurely sipping tea and eating snacks, while Li Hao had vanished and slain two Great Jiaos without a sound.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Bo’s gaze was complex: “So if not for the young master’s own resilience and strength, those two assassination attempts… he’d already be dead.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing Zhao Bo’s words, Li Fu’s face paled; Li Tiangang’s eyes narrowed, his expression darkening.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sending a Shenyou realm powerhouse like Li Fu back was more than sufficient under normal circumstances.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Who could have anticipated the demon race would be this deranged?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They sent a Zhou Tian assassin to kill a six-year-old child—offering zero chance of survival.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now they sent two Great Jiaos, ensuring near-total certainty.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet Li Hao still neutralized them all by himself.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang took a deep breath and said to Li Hao: “My protection of you was indeed negligent. I never imagined the demons would be this insane—I assumed you were safe within the Divine General’s Mansion, guarded by retainers, cared for by other ladies, and shielded by the mansion’s arrays; I never thought you’d nearly die.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao’s expression remained calm: “Not nearly. It was certain death.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang’s brow furrowed in anger: “Are you blaming me? What do you mean ‘certain death’—you’re not dead, are you?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Impudent!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu roared: “How dare you speak like that? Are you cursing Hao’er to death?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though Li Hao’s heart was calm, he still looked up at him at these words.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing the man’s furious face, he felt only weariness, and said coolly: “My survival has nothing to do with you. It’s luck—and my own strength.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Had he not been reincarnated, had he not possessed the Panel, Li Hao knew he would have died without doubt.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though the Panel prevented him from cultivating normally, his realm advancement was never delayed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all, these years he had diligently “grinded” experience, grinding the Panel—what seemed like entertainment was, in truth, the faster he played, the faster he leveled up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if Li family heirs generally had the worst talent, they could still be pushed to Seventh-Rank Battle Body through resources alone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And those with peerless talent, like Uncle Nine Li Junye, were once-in-a-millennium geniuses.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But so what? Even Uncle Nine only began cultivation at six—and could not defeat a Zhou Tian assassin!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Facing Li Muxiu’s rage, Li Tiangang restrained his anger slightly, his gaze icy: “You think you’re strong? You think you resolved it yourself? Ridiculous!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You’ve concealed your cultivation status even from me—who taught you this?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though his eyes did not meet Li Muxiu’s, Li Muxiu’s face flushed crimson; the implication was clear—did it need spelling out? But Li Hao was six when he didn’t even know the boy!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You’re arrogant, think yourself clever—yet you’re foolish!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Had you revealed your talent earlier instead of hiding it, I would have sent Yu Xuan back to protect you!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang said coldly: “Then whether you were attacked at six or during your Cangyu mission, Yu Xuan—a Celestial Master—could have protected you!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Moreover, had you revealed your talent, you wouldn’t have gone to Tan Palace—you’d have been accepted as a direct disciple by a renowned master, built your network, and secured the status of a great sect’s heir!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Instead, you’re now aimless and reckless. I don’t even know how you caught the Emperor’s eye—if not for His Majesty Yu’s imperial decree, you’d have lost the popularity contest outright—and then you’d be the laughingstock of the realm!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“As the world’s greatest genius, your talent tops all—but your connections are weaker than Li Qianfeng’s. What will others think? Are you too arrogant? Too reclusive?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao’s eyes narrowed slightly, his voice cold: “What others think is none of my concern.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Besides, if I had revealed my talent, would the demon race have sent only a Zhou Tian assassin? If they learned Yu Xuan was protecting me, wouldn’t they send a Immortal Realm assassin?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“If I had revealed my talent, given this pace of advancement, wouldn’t even an Immortal Realm assassin be justified?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang paused, his expression shifting slightly—on the matter of talent, the boy was right.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The demons were insane; nothing was beyond them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They sent a Zhou Tian assassin to kill a six-year-old “waste.” If they knew Li Hao’s monstrous talent, the first assassination attempt would have been a Celestial Realm—or even Immortal Realm assassin! An Immortal Realm assassin’s strike, unless the Li elders secretly protected him, would have succeeded.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“In a true dragon’s competition, connections are mere decoration—why care? With Hao’er’s talent, a single call would draw every prestigious sect to his door.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu interjected: “Besides, Hao’er has the favor of Emperor Yu—why need other connections? Why hasn’t Qianfeng been favored by His Majesty?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang glanced at him—he understood the logic, yet felt Li Hao had wasted his potential, been too careless.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Talent isn’t meant to be squandered! “The assassination incident does have your point—but as a general’s family, every Li family youth must face this fate.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang’s face was grim: “Don’t think you’re unique. Which Li boy hasn’t faced assassination? Ask your Second Uncle—do you think the demons don’t see us as thorns? Some children of the elder generation died at birth; some were assassinated while playing on the streets by demons hidden among the crowd!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You’ve survived this long—you’re already lucky.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao’s face was expressionless: “So being born into the Li family… must be my great fortune.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Is this the only awareness you have as a Li family son?” Li Tiangang said coldly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao almost laughed—but seeing the man’s face, he couldn’t summon a smile, and said coolly:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I say this not to blame, not to complain, not to whine to you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I only mean: your son is truly dead. From now on, I am no longer a Li. Step aside—don’t block my path.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What attitude is that?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang’s eyes flared with icy light, roaring: “You’re this young, and you’ve learned nothing but to run away from home?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Run away from home?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao sneered: “This isn’t my home. I’ve been a tenant here for fourteen years—I’ll repay you for every meal, every garment, every expense I’ve incurred.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu glared at Li Tiangang, but now had no time to scold him—his face filled with pity as he looked at Li Hao: “Hao’er, don’t act rashly. If you hate staying in Shanhe Courtyard, come live with me in Tingyu Tower from now on.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“No one will interfere. No one can control you!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“With me, you’ll never suffer another ounce of injustice.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang snapped: “Tingyu Tower is still Li family property! The cultivation arts there were gathered by our ancestors! He learned all this—surely not without using our arts?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Li Tiangang!!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu roared, his face flushed with rage: “Do you really want to drive Hao’er away—drive him to death?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang was momentarily silenced, but did not yield, his voice thick with fury: “Second Uncle, stop coddling him! Does he truly believe his strength came from himself?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“He carries my and Qingqing’s blood!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Without me and Qingqing uniting, could he have such an unnatural talent?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Without the Li family’s collection of world-class arts, could he have this power?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“If he didn’t bear the Li surname, why would Emperor Yu even notice or value a mere mortal?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His voice grew louder, angrier: “All his glory, all his brilliance—comes from bearing the Li name!!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You—you’re utterly disgraceful!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu was speechless with rage—he had never been so openly defied by this boy he once knew.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Over the years, Li Tiangang had slain countless demons on the frontier, grown from youth to middle age—his temper seemed less fiery than before.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Uncle!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bian Ruxue and Li Yuanzhao both looked troubled, watching Li Tiangang with worry—but his overwhelming aura held them back, too fearful to speak.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That divine-like authority made them tremble.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Facing the furious Li Tiangang, Li Hao’s face remained utterly calm, his gaze cold—he spoke slowly: “You’re right. So as I said before: from now on, I will no longer bear the Li surname. I am no longer a Li.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Today, either step aside—or kill me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You think I won’t?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang roared.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao’s aura surged, his eyes sharpening: “Then try.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Tiangang, that’s enough!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu’s face flushed crimson, his eyes blazing with terrifying light: “Don’t force me to break my heart oath—if I do, I’ll cripple you today!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang’s face changed slightly—he knew Li Muxiu’s power was beyond his resistance, yet he was furious that the old man would so fiercely defend Li Hao.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Had these elders not interfered, he could have properly disciplined Li Hao and corrected his rebellious nature.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hao’er is like this because of you!” Li Tiangang gritted his teeth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu fumed: “Fine, fine—you blame me now?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao shook his head. “Second Master, don’t say any more. There’s no need to say anything. I’m leaving. Goodbye, everyone.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With that, he walked straight ahead.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang’s expression changed slightly, a flash of anger crossing his face, and a surge of authority erupted from his body.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Li Hao ignored him entirely, stepping past him without a glance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang raised his hand, but seeing the boy’s calm, cold expression, he suddenly felt a sharp pain in his heart. He clenched his teeth. “You’ll regret this!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao said nothing, but a faint smile curled at the corner of his lips.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Regret?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He’d never regret it. “Hao’er!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu’s eyes burned with fury and disappointment. He glanced at Li Tiangang, then rushed after Li Hao and blocked his path.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hao’er, don’t act rashly. Second Master—I—”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Second Master, let me go,” Li Hao said, raising his head calmly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Looking into the boy’s eyes, Li Muxiu’s heart trembled. The words on his tongue suddenly vanished.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao had already stepped past him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Outside the Divine General’s Mansion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Aside from a few curious onlookers from Qingzhou City who had recently gathered to gaze, the street outside the mansion now teemed with a vast crowd of figures, each radiating an extraordinary aura.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They wore varied attire, as if from different provinces.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet in truth, they all shared one identity: disciples of the White Hall of Tan Palace Academy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Those who entered the White Hall—the pinnacle of the nineteen-province’s premier academy—though not quite matching the elite direct disciples of the top clans, were still dragon-phoenix talents, the finest among their peers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now, they wore no academy robes, but their own personal clothing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“We beg to meet Young Master Li Hao!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“We’ve heard Young Master Li Hao possesses peerless talent—come to pay our respects!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Please, allow us entry to the mansion to see him!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The crowd repeatedly called out loudly outside the mansion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The father-son battle within the Divine General’s Mansion had shaken the entire city; they naturally knew.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Over the past two days, rumors had spread wildly. Hearing that Li Hao had been severely punished by his father, they rushed here to plead on his behalf.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They called it a visit, but in truth, they came to comfort and beg for mercy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The gathering of so many prodigies outside drew crowds of onlookers, and the clamor stirred the attention of every courtyard within the mansion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Hefang, seated in the Green Lotus Courtyard, heard the news and, supported by her old maid, emerged leaning on her cane.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With the old lady moving, the ladies of other courtyards hurried over to investigate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Soon, both inside and outside the mansion were filled with people.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“That’s the young master of the Yu family from Qizhou.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“That’s the Zhao family’s daughter from Youzhou!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Even the Bai family of Qingzhou has come.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Isn’t that the son of General Zhou?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Some in the crowd recognized these prodigies’ identities. The ladies within the mansion, well-traveled and discerning, identified them by their clothing, embroidered cuffs, and carved jade pendants.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though their family backgrounds didn’t rival the Divine General’s Mansion, most were prominent clans from their respective provinces.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now, they had all come seeking Li Hao.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the banquet where Li Hao competed for the True Dragon, none of them had shown up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Could these fools have heard rumors and come to plead for Hao’er?” Gao Qingqing murmured suspiciously.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Yuerong’s eyes darkened. Over the past two days, Li Tiangang had submitted her review to the throne. She’d heard that, to avoid suspicion, the Minister of Justice himself had been assigned to lead the investigation—and was already en route.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The journey should have been completed long ago, but the Minister hesitated, wary of her status as State Lady.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all, this matter concerned the Divine General’s Mansion—a hot potato. The Minister had surely received numerous letters from the Liu family’s civil officials and was now in a state of utter distress.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“How could Hao’er have so many friends? Why didn’t they come before?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Did they not know him before?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone was astonished, but such a possibility was extremely unlikely. Li Hao’s talent had long been evident, making him famous throughout Qingzhou. If they wished to flatter him, they should have done so during the True Dragon Banquet—not now, after his reputation had collapsed following the father-son battle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He’d drawn heavy criticism.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all, a son fighting his father defied the ancient rites of filial piety.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet here they were, arriving precisely now.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Hefang leaned on her cane, silent, but her eyes held a touch of sorrow. She had already realized: these young elites were likely the boy’s true friends.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Compared to those who formed connections for profit, this sincerity was the rarest of all.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At that moment, two figures descended from the sky, landing directly at the mansion’s gate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gazing at the magnificent, imposing Divine General’s Mansion, Song Yufeng and Song Qiumo both narrowed their eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then they saw the gathered Tan Palace disciples. Song Qiumo glanced at Song Yufeng beside her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Song Yufeng gave a faint, wry smile. “These fools really know how to make trouble for me. At least they didn’t wear Tan Palace robes—somewhat sensible.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The prodigies now wore their own clothes, some even adorned with family jade pendants. Their actions amused and pleased him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Song Qiumo shot him a glare, then fixed her gaze on the mansion. A blue gleam passed through her eyes. Within her vision, the towering walls of the grand mansion were laced with shimmering divine runes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Several types of runes existed, one of which targeted demonic races.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If she stepped forward carelessly, she would instantly trigger these runes and activate the mansion’s divine array. “Madam He Fang, it’s been many years.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Song Yufeng spotted the old lady inside and greeted her with a smile.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His voice was quiet, yet clear to all within the mansion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing the head of Tan Palace Academy, everyone inside changed expression—especially upon noticing Song Qiumo beside him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They were no strangers to this mountain-guarding demon king of Tan Palace Academy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Two fourth-stage experts had arrived simultaneously.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Song Yufeng, why have you come here with the mountain-guarding demon king?” Chen Hefang asked sharply.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Song Yufeng smiled. “I heard Young Master Li Hao possesses peerless talent. I came to see him, to pay my respects. I hope you’ll grant me entry.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At these words, the ladies of the courtyards all changed expression, some visibly stunned. They hadn’t expected these two to come for Li Hao too.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet remembering Li Hao had recently joined Tan Palace Academy, they quickly understood.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But how could a boy who’d only just entered Tan Palace Academy earn such favor from its master? Tan Palace Academy had long maintained a distant, cordial relationship with the Divine General’s Mansion—neither close nor estranged.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That balance suited both sides. Yet now, they’d broken it—for Li Hao.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Was it because of the boy’s talent? Everyone wondered silently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hao’er is resting these days. If you wish to see him, you may.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Hefang had intended to say Li Hao was recovering from injuries, but she realized mentioning his wounds in public would only stir gossip about the humiliating battle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing the old lady’s words, Song Yufeng was slightly surprised—he’d expected to argue longer. He thanked her immediately and moved to enter.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Suddenly, a faint commotion arose from within the mansion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The ladies turned and saw a young boy approaching.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His hands were empty. A faint crimson stain was visible on the collar of his outer robe.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At his feet walked a familiar white-furred fox.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hao’er?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Hefang turned and saw Li Hao. Her eyes filled with complex emotion and pity—one was her beloved son, the other her grandson, whom she’d only just met but already cherished. Both pained her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Why have you come?” she asked gently, her face kind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao glanced at his grandmother. Facing her warm, tender gaze, he sighed inwardly, then said calmly: “Grandmother, I’ve come to say farewell.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hm?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At these words, Chen Hefang froze. The other ladies stared at him in shock.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Yuerong’s eyes flickered with a glint as she fixed her gaze on Li Hao.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I’m leaving. I won’t return.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao bowed slightly to his grandmother.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hao’er, you’re leaving the Li family?” Chen Hefang stared, eyes wide with surprise.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao nodded. His gaze swept over the other ladies. When it landed on Liu Yuerong, a deep killing intent flashed in his eyes—but vanished quickly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He knew killing her now would be nearly impossible, and would plunge him into even greater danger.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His strength was still insufficient. He needed to gather more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hao’er.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At that moment, Li Muxiu, Bian Ruxue, Li Yuanzhao, and others arrived.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu hurried forward. “Hao’er, don’t act rashly. Tell me what you’re thinking—I’ll stand by you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As he spoke, he saw Liu Yuerong. His face darkened. “How dare you show your face here? Apologize to Hao’er!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Yuerong’s expression changed. She looked wounded. “Second Uncle, the Ministry of Justice hasn’t yet investigated the facts. You can’t unjustly accuse me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You—”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu gritted his teeth, veins bulging on his knuckles.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao spoke calmly. “Second Master, don’t be angry.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu blinked in surprise and looked at him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao merely smiled faintly, offering no threats.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Apology? Compensation? Some things cannot be resolved by apology alone; only blood and life can make others remember, and bring oneself peace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Auntie, Ninth Aunt.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao’s gaze swept over them, and he bowed again: “I am deeply grateful for your past care. Today, I take my leave—may we meet again.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He Jianlan and Jiang Xian’er’s expressions changed. He Jianlan said: “Hao’er, don’t act rashly. Your father has a temper, but you are still father and son…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao’s lips twitched. Here we go again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He shook his head, saying nothing, but suddenly felt something—he looked up, and a single goose-feather snowflake drifted down from the sky.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Deep autumn had passed; this first snow of early winter seemed to come too soon.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His eyes returned from the vast, gray-clouded horizon and settled on the steps ahead. He lifted his foot and walked forward, saying nothing, stopping nowhere.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Big Brother Hao!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuanzhao couldn’t help calling out, his eyes wet and red, his nose tingling with acid.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao’s figure paused slightly, but he did not turn back—their earlier words had already been spoken.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bian Ruxue stood frozen in thought. She had assumed that after descending the mountain and helping Li Hao claim the True Dragon, she would say farewell. She never expected such upheavals.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Suddenly, a towering figure appeared before Li Hao, like a black cloud looming, blocking his view.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You want to leave? Where are you going?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang’s face was icy, frost-laced.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Where to go? Li Hao seriously considered the question, and for a moment, his heart felt a flicker of confusion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yes—where to go? But quickly, he regained his composure, smiling:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“The world is vast. I am but a traveler; the four seas are my home.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang flew into a rage: “This is absurd! You were born a Li, and you will die a Li!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I no longer bear the Li surname!” Li Hao coldly reiterated.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang snapped: “Then what surname do you claim?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao fell momentarily silent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yes—what surname did he bear? More importantly, in his past life, he too had been Li.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His previously calm heart now ached with bitterness.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His parents had died early in his past life; he never imagined that after reincarnation, he would lose even his own surname.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Born into a noble house, yet reduced to this—how laughable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He took a deep breath; the frost-chilled air flooded his lungs, bringing him a strange sense of relief.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He regained his composed expression and said: “What surname I bear is none of your concern. I will never again carry the Li name. From now on, I have no ties to the Li family!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Do you think saying that one sentence severs your connection to the Li family?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang’s gaze burned with anger: “The Li family raised you for all these years, and now you just walk away?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao lifted his head slightly, staring at him: “Then what do you want?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You can leave—but repay everything you owe the Li family!” Li Tiangang roared.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao said firmly: “How do you want me to repay?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“How? Easy to say! You’ve learned our family’s cultivation arts—how do you return those?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“The precious elixirs used to establish your Foundation and dissolve your blood—how do you repay those?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“The blood flowing in your veins—how do you return that?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang’s words were icy, each one a blade.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao paused, then said: “I will cease using your family’s arts. For every technique I’ve learned, I will donate an equal number to Tingyu Pavilion.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“The elixirs for my Foundation Establishment—I will gather them back. The blood of the three-thousand-year-old beast you slew—I will return it to you!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“As for this body’s blood…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao met his gaze directly: “I said it before—your son is already dead. This life is mine alone.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now that he had entered the Heaven-Man realm and cultivated his own Dao, he could create his own techniques. Even if he abandoned all others, they would no longer affect him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang laughed bitterly with rage: “Good! Good! You’ve reached the Heaven-Man realm, grown your wings—fine, I’ll let the techniques slide. But how did you kill that three-thousand-year-old beast?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Do you even know what realm a three-thousand-year-old beast occupies? At least mid-Immortal, possibly peak!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Do you think merely entering the Heaven-Man realm guarantees you’ll become Immortal?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang sneered: “Beyond the Heaven-Man realm, every step is a threshold. Even the most brilliant talent cannot guarantee becoming a supreme powerhouse!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“There were prodigies who entered the Master realm at nineteen, yet only reached the Three Immortals a century later!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You want to delay—I won’t wait!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao’s eyes turned cold: “Then tell me how to repay.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang studied his gaze, his fury swelling: “Fine! I’ll give you three years!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Within three years, for every technique you’ve learned, you’ll return one!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Within three years, you’ll bring me the head of a three-thousand-year-old beast!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“As for this Li family blood and talent flowing in you—you won’t waste it. Go to Tianmen Pass and take over its defense. I don’t expect you to hold it long—just hold it for three years, and I’ll consider your debt repaid!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Li Tiangang, are you truly mad?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu cried out in fury: “Do you know what you’re saying? Do you want to kill your own son?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Others’ faces paled. This threat was too cruel.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Other demands might be negotiable, but guarding Tianmen Pass? Impossible.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was the most perilous stronghold the Li family guarded for Da Yu—jutting deep into the border like a spear, flanked on both sides by demon lands, and thousands of miles ahead lay the Great Wilderness.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Nearby, there were vassal states loyal to Da Yu. Though they paid tribute annually and performed the proper courtesies, secretly they had allied with demons and frequently attacked Tianmen Pass.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet no proof could be found. Even when evidence surfaced, the vassal states always used scapegoats to deflect blame.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Over the years, countless Li family soldiers had died at Tianmen Pass.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even a Four-Establishment cultivator could barely suppress it!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The death rate there was extreme. Li family’s Third and Sixth Sons both perished defending it. Now they wanted to send Li Hao—a boy? Even a Heaven-Man cultivator there would become nothing but dust! But all could see: Li Tiangang was not truly sending him—he was trying to trap him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao stared long at the furious face before him, then nodded: “Agreed.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang’s expression changed—he hadn’t expected Li Hao to accept. He laughed bitterly: “Good! So naive, so fearless! Do you even know what Tianmen Pass is? Three years? I’ll see if you live three years—and what kind of man you’ll become if you do!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He sneered: “You’ll guard Tianmen Pass alone. I’ll recall every Li soldier stationed there. Not a single man will be sent to reinforce you. You want to sever ties with the Li family? Prove it yourself!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“See what you are without the Li family’s protection—without the blood of countless soldiers shielding you!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Your comfort, your arrogance—all bought with blood. Then you’ll learn: your talent, your strength, mean nothing before mountains of corpses and seas of blood!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, Li Muxiu exploded: “If you want to kill Hao’er, just say so! Why this cruelty?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“If he goes, I go with him!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Second Uncle!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang’s face darkened: “You’re my elder—I’ve tolerated you repeatedly. But understand: this is our family matter!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“How long will you enable Hao’er? If you interfere again, I’ll use the True Dragon’s name to confine you in Tingyu Pavilion!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu’s eyes bulged, his whole body trembling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You’d confine me? Is this how you lead the Li family?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Meanwhile, Li Hao fell silent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He had heard of Tianmen Pass from Second Uncle before.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Each time it was mentioned, sorrow followed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was the most dangerous frontier the Li family guarded for Da Yu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Second Uncle had said: over the years, the losses among Li family youths, the expanding corpse-river, the unrest beyond—the Emperor of Da Yu seemed ready to abandon it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He was withdrawing troops to defend inward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang likely knew this too—hence his boldness in recalling the soldiers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if Li Hao failed and lost it, the Li family would face only reprimands, not severe punishment—the Emperor already wanted it gone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Li Hao’s silence, Li Tiangang sneered:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“So, that’s your courage?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao lifted his head, staring at him. Suddenly, a voice entered his ear. His expression shifted slightly. After a pause, he said slowly:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Fine. You said it: three years. I’ll guard Tianmen Pass for the Li family. After three years, everything I’ve consumed, everything I’ve used—including the blood in my veins—will be fully repaid.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu, alarmed, cried: “Hao’er, what nonsense are you speaking? How could you repay your years of food and shelter with your life?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao’s lips moved slightly. Yes—why repay with life?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Who could have foreseen that small past kindnesses would demand repayment a thousandfold, ten thousandfold?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But his heart was utterly weary. He wanted no more ties.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Monster! You’d really accept?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang roared: “Do you know what you’re saying? What will you use to guard it? Your Heaven-Man cultivation? You won’t even reach Tianmen Pass—you’ll die before you get there!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao spoke coldly: “I’d rather die outside than die here.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You—!” Li Tiangang choked, speechless with rage.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I’ve agreed. Step aside.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao turned away, speaking coldly, no more words.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang stood frozen, unsure what to say.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao simply stepped over him, then, amid the crowd’s shocked cries and urgent calls, crossed the threshold.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He crossed that threshold—the place countless others had longed to step into!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With that single step, Li Hao ceased to exist in this world.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone stared blankly, unsure what to say or do.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The boy’s silhouette was so resolute, so unyielding.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>None of them had expected that both father and son were this stubborn, this unyielding.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hao’er…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hao-ge!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Others couldn’t help calling out, but the boy’s silhouette showed no pause, step by step, descending the steps of the Divine General’s mansion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Tiangang spun around sharply, fixing his gaze on that back, his face dark with rage: “You’ll regret this!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The words reached the boy’s ears, but he gave no reaction.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Muxiu stared in silence, suddenly feeling that once this boy left, he would never return.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As Li Hao had said, he would no longer bear the Li surname.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He abandoned the most noble surname in the land, second only to the imperial family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He departed in this winter.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Outside the Divine General’s mansion, Song Yufeng, Song Qiumo, and numerous White Hall disciples had heard every word.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They all stared, dumbfounded, at the boy walking out of the mansion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They had come to plead for Li Hao, yet never imagined that the most outstanding genius in the mansion’s millennia-long history would sever ties with it today.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They wanted to persuade him, but didn’t know how to begin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The father-son exchange chilled them to the bone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Suddenly, a figure stepped forward from the crowd and spoke to Li Hao:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Brother Li Hao, may you have a safe journey.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Hao turned and saw it was Prince Jiang Hanxing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The prince was dressed plainly, without any royal finery, having blended into the crowd earlier.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet now he stepped forward—if anyone had been paying attention, they would have recognized his face and identity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For someone of his status to meddle in the Divine General’s family affairs was clearly no good.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet he did it anyway.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Their eyes met, and Li Hao knew the prince had chosen this willingly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But he said nothing more, merely giving a cold nod, as if they were strangers—after all, his current status was far from favorable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jiang Hanxing watched Li Hao’s departing back, then suddenly called out loudly: “Brother Li Hao, do you still remember the poem you recited that day at the brothel?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Fear not the road ahead with no true friends!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Who in this world does not know you?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>(End of Chapter)\u003C\u002Fp>",5379,"2026-06-20T02:15:40.176Z",1,"Qwen3-Next 80B","f5790a2a5004ddf67e0c226d3f3f485328b07a7b87c48224460070bb975f6090","the-name-that-echoes-through-eternity-chapter-119","the-name-that-echoes-through-eternity-chapter-117",929,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fthe-name-that-echoes-through-eternity-cover.jpg"]