Chapter 1049

A soul contract binds the souls; as long as one does not dissolve it, even if the other party wields heavenly means, it cannot be undone.

Just like the Undying Emperor Xiao Huangji, who was merely a God King before, he is an Emperor, yet likewise cannot resolve this agreement.

To prevent this fellow from reneging and causing backlash, the Ming Shi Continent once specially stipulated that even if the other party could break free from the Heavenly Dao's records, they could not escape the soul-bound agreement!

"A soul contract indeed cannot be split from the sea of consciousness, but I have fused a special gas that even the Heavenly Dao can dissolve, making it easy to dissolve this contract… As long as there is sufficient power, bombarding the location of the contract will achieve it!"

Ruthless Dao.

A soul contract is founded upon the Heavenly Dao; even special power capable of dissolving the Heavenly Dao of the God Realm can dissolve a soul contract—if handled properly, what difficulty is there?

"I see…" Zhang Xuan's eyes flashed.

"Saying all this to you also counts as thanks for bringing me to the God Realm!"

After finishing the explanation, the Ruthless One said no more; his aura grew ever more ancient and distant, the black hole behind him swelling larger—evidently, while speaking, he had devoured an unknown amount of power, nourishing himself.

"Zhang Xuan, the more the black hole devours, the stronger his power becomes…"

Luo Ruoxi also sensed something amiss, hastily sending a voice transmission.

"Let's get ready to act!" With all doubts dispelled in his heart, Zhang Xuan took a deep breath, his long sword suddenly rising: "Since that's the case, let's see the true skill beneath our hands!"

Boom—!

The strongest sword intent, unleashed once again.

In life, I shall return; in death, I shall long for you!

Life and death matter not—what could possibly obstruct us?

This sword move, though not yet reaching the Emperor's level of comprehension, embodies all the obsessions in my heart, pushing the Heaven If Has Feeling technique within my body to its limit.

Whoosh!

A single sword sliced the Ruthless One's attack in half.

At the same moment, Luo Ruoxi struck, her jade hands rolling, her sword light like snow.

Her swordsmanship somewhat resembles that of the youth from Sword God Heaven, bearing an unstoppable momentum and the natural elegance of the Great Dao.

"Your moves are impressive, but compared to me, they still fall short…"

With a light smile, the Ruthless One reached down again.

In an instant, his palm blotted out sky and sun, enveloping heaven and earth; space shattered, and the sun, moon, and stars seemed about to be slammed down by force.

Pfft! Pfft!

Zhang Xuan and Luo Ruoxi were both blown backward, blood spurting wildly in midair.

With their combined strength, they actually could not withstand it!

Just what realm has this fellow attained?

"Impudent!" The avatar strode forward, each step causing lotuses to bloom, the void echoing with the sound of flowing water.

From afar, it looked immensely imposing.

Having refined the Nine Heavens Chaos Golden Lotus, his cultivation is not the slightest bit weaker than Zhang Xuan's.

He raised a fist, his power surging to the Nine Heavens.

Clashing with the Ruthless One, he too was blown backward, unable to block a single move.

Zhang Xuan clutched his forehead.

Having attained Emperor status, the avatar still hasn't changed its pretentious nature…

Such flamboyant pretentiousness would be better replaced by concentrating power for greater might!

"Let's attack together; otherwise, if they die, we will all die…"

Xiao Huangji let out a loud shout, crimson flames blazing, the sky seeming to be ignited.

The remaining six Emperors also each displayed their abilities.

Seven Emperors united, capable of destroying heaven and earth; yet before them, a single world could not withstand it—but the opponent was the Ruthless One who had absorbed special power; as his attack approached, the black hole suddenly expanded, in the blink of an eye devouring the force entirely, then launching a counterattack.

Bang bang bang bang!

The seven Emperors, like Zhang Xuan and the others, were blown backward.

Ten Emperors united, yet they could not even block a single move of the opponent!

How could this fellow be so powerful?

"You may die…"

With one move he crushed the crowd; the Ruthless One stepped forward, flipped his wrist, and struck down again.

"How dare you, rats!"

Accompanied by a loud shout, the old man from Sword God Heaven who had appeared earlier suddenly emerged, blocking before him, his long sword transforming into a galaxy.

"An Emperor? Does he also possess Emperor-level strength?"

Zhang Xuan's pupils contracted.

This old man had followed behind the youth; I originally thought he was merely a retainer, at most ennobled as a God King, but upon displaying his power I discovered he is actually a powerful Emperor!

If he is an Emperor, then what is that youth?

"He himself is the Emperor of Sword God Heaven…" Luo Ruoxi struggled to her feet, gritting her teeth.

"Then… the youth who taught me swordsmanship?" Zhang Xuan could no longer hold back.

"He is…" Luo Ruoxi was about to answer when space twisted; instantly she saw this Emperor of Sword God Heaven likewise blown backward, landing not far away and blasting out a large pit.

Zhang Xuan's current strength and comprehension of the Sword Dao far surpass his; even if his cultivation is not weak and his swordsmanship superb, he remains no match.

"Hahaha, Emperors, you're nothing but a bunch of mud chickens and tile dogs! Today I will obliterate the Nine Heavens, destroy this God Realm, and trample all rules flat!"

Having defeated the Emperor of Sword God Heaven, the Ruthless One laughed maniacally; the surrounding space continually collapsed, casting him as demonic and monstrous.

"What do we do?" Zhang Xuan clenched his fists.

Just now he and his avatar had exerted their utmost combat power; even Luo Ruoxi before him had unleashed her strongest technique—yet none could withstand a single strike of the opponent…

Could it be that in the Divine Realm, no one can stop this person before us?

Let him destroy the world?

"The only way…… is to return your defective Heavenly Dao to the Heavenly Dao itself, letting the Heavenly Dao suppress him……" Luo Ruoxi clenched her fists, eyes reddening.

"Return to the Heavenly Dao itself?" Zhang Xuan understood her meaning.

The library in his mind is itself part of the Heavenly Dao; once returned, the Heavenly Dao becomes completely whole, perhaps able to repair the rift and expel Henren.

Just like the human immune system.

If the immune system is complete, viruses come and are easily driven away; if it fails, one cannot resist viral invasion, and even the strongest person will die because of it.

Just……

"He is too strong; even if the Heavenly Dao is restored completely, it cannot suppress him!" Zhang Xuan shook his head.

Viruses, the immune system can kill them, but… what about a fierce tiger?

What can even the strongest immune system do?

The person before us is merely an ordinary Divine King; even with a title, the Heavenly Dao could easily kill him, yet he is stronger than an Emperor… he is no longer something the Heavenly Dao can contend with.

"This……" Luo Ruoxi paused, a look of loss appearing on her pure jade-like face: "Yeah…… there's no way to suppress him, but if the Heavenly Dao is whole, he can awaken and slay this person—it wouldn't be difficult!"

"Him?" Zhang Xuan frowned.

"I'll take you to see him, in the Carefree Heaven……" Taking a deep breath, Luo Ruoxi gritted her teeth and turned, flying forward.

"Trying to escape?" Henren snorted coldly and pressed down.

Bang!

Luo Ruoxi fell from the sky.

"You……" Zhang Xuan's sword technique was unleashed again, sword intent shining forth.

Ding ding ding!

Again blocked by Henren.

"You all hurry and leave; I'll block him……"

Knowing they still wanted to find a way to save the Divine Realm rather than flee, the clone and the Immortal Emperor, with a loud shout, blocked the front, and Luo Qiqi also transformed, returning to the Silent Void Pearl's true form.

The surrounding space solidified.

"Go!"

Seeing everyone risk their lives to block from behind, fearless of death, Zhang Xuan's eyes reddened, but he also knew now wasn't the time to talk; he grabbed Luo Ruoxi, his body flickered, he tore through space, and in the next moment appeared within the range of Carefree Heaven.

Carefree Heaven now lacks its former carefreeness; the Divine Realm has collapsed, everywhere in chaos.

"Where is the person you spoke of?"

No time to observe ordinary people's lives; Zhang Xuan looked at the girl in his arms.

If that person she spoke of can truly save the Divine Realm, what harm is there in my sacrificing myself!

"He is my father; the blood in your pendant is his; the Immortal Emperor was once his beast pet……" Luo Ruoxi adjusted her breath and explained.

"Father?"

Zhang Xuan suddenly understood.

No wonder I always felt the blood in the pendant resembled Luo Ruoxi yet was different; it turns out it's her father's.

This also explains why the thought left by the Immortal Emperor, upon seeing the pendant, immediately recognized me as its master.

"Is your father also an Emperor? Or does he possess strength surpassing that of an Emperor?"

He couldn't help but say.

The library's chaos is due to the blood in the pendant awakening me; could it be that not only is she an Emperor, her father is too, and even stronger?

If that's the case, why would he be unconscious?

Also, does it need a defective Heavenly Dao to awaken him?

"He is not an Emperor, but…… the Heavenly Dao!"

Luo Ruoxi clenched her fists.

"Heavenly Dao? Your father…… is the Heavenly Dao?" Zhang Xuan shuddered, unable to believe.

"Yes! Fifty years ago, my father couldn't withstand that great hand, fell into a coma, the Heavenly Dao shattered into three parts—the orderly Heavenly Dao and the defective Heavenly Dao entered the spatial turbulence; I acted as the steward of the Heavenly Dao's natural order, maintaining the Divine Realm's balance. To revive him, only by gathering the scattered parts…… that's why I am so resolute, cannot fail! I specially entered the Ming Shi Continent, studied the Spring and Autumn Annals, seeking a way to defeat Kong Shi! When fighting Kong Shi, entrusting him with this matter was also the case."

Luo Ruoxi said.

Zhang Xuan realized.

Having just become acquainted with the Ming Shi Continent, the girl before me had already told me her story of wanting to save a close relative; I didn't understand then, but now I suddenly comprehend.

Turns out it's her father, and moreover the Heavenly Dao of the Divine Realm!

Can the Heavenly Dao truly take human form and bear children?

"Acting as the steward of the Heavenly Dao's natural order…… you don't have any Heavenly Dao fragments inside you?" Suddenly realizing something off in her speech, Zhang Xuan looked over.

Acting as steward and this kind of fusion within oneself are two different concepts.

"I am merely overseeing, not part of the Heavenly Dao……" Luo Ruoxi said.

Zhang Xuan relaxed.

In that case, I only need to separate the defective Heavenly Dao from within myself; there's no need for her to die as well.

Although I am unwilling to accept this fate, I also do not wish for the girl before me to suffer harm.

"If I separate the defective Heavenly Dao within me, your father could come back to life, and even slay Henren, right?" Zhang Xuan looked.

"This…… I'm not sure either."

Looking up at the already collapsed Divine Realm, Luo Ruoxi hesitated.

"The Divine Realm is my father's foundation; now that the foundation is like this, even if he awakens, can he truly defeat that mighty Henren?"

"It's really hard to say!"

It looks like you can't be sure either; since that's the case, relying on others is worse than relying on ourselves... we have only ourselves to figure it out! Zhang Xuan gritted his teeth: "You, me, and my avatar, united with the Nine Heavens Nine Emperors, if we also coordinate with Kong Shi, we might still be able to win!"

Translation: "Looks like you can't be sure either. In that case, relying on others is worse than relying on ourselves... We have only ourselves to figure it out!" Zhang Xuan clenched his teeth: "You, me, and my avatar, united with the Nine Heavens Nine Emperors, if we also coordinate with Master Kong, we might still win!"

Check: "Nine Heavens Nine Emperors" we translated as "Nine Heavens Nine Emperors". Could also be "Nine Heavens Nine Emperors". Keep.

You, me, and my avatar

Kong Shi? He... Luo Ruoxi frowned.

Translation: "Master Kong? He..." Luo Ruoxi frowned.

Kong Shi is already dead, right? He hasn't truly died; if my guess is correct, he was slain by you, merely a method to escape the Heavenly Dao... without accident, he should be like Wei Changfeng, an Innate Fetal Soul Body!

Translation: "Master Kong is dead, right? He didn't truly die; if my guess is correct, you killed him, but that was just a method to escape the Heavenly Dao... Without surprise, he should be like Wei Changfeng, possessing an Innate Fetal Soul Body!"

Innate Fetal Soul Body

Zhang Xuan said.

Translation: Zhang Xuan said.

Upon seeing Wei Changfeng, it became clear that Kong Shi's so-called preservation of spiritual awareness should be the same as his—an Innate Fetal Soul Body.

Translation: Seeing Wei Changfeng made it clear; what Master Kong called preserving consciousness should be the same as him—an Innate Fetal Soul Body.

One can stay clear-minded even in the womb.

Translation: One can remain clear-minded in the womb.

Adding the preparations made in advance, resurrection is merely a matter of time.

Translation: Adding the prepared trump card prepared in advance, resurrection is merely a matter of time.

Luo Ruoxi froze, seemingly not expecting it to be like this.

Translation: Luo Ruoxi froze; it seemed she hadn't expected this.

Just look into the past and you'll know; my guess is correct—he should have already recovered. Otherwise, his disciples couldn't possibly have avoided going to the Tidal Sea... Zhang Xuan said.

Translation: "Just go check and you'll know; my guess is correct—he should have already recovered. Otherwise, his disciples couldn't possibly have not gone to the Tide Sea..." Zhang Xuan said.

Kong Shi's disciples, such as Ziyuan the Ancient Sage and others, are all immensely strong; even without an emperor's aid, they would certainly have a way to enter the Tidal Sea, yet not a single one was seen.

Translation: Master Kong's disciples, such as Ziyuan Gu Sheng and others, are all strong; even without the Emperor's help, they would certainly have a way to enter the Tide Sea, yet not a single one has been seen.

There must be something more important waiting, something they intend to do while all the emperors are preoccupied with the Tidal Sea and have no time to attend to it!

Translation: There must be something more important waiting; they intend to act while all the Emperors are preoccupied with the Tide Sea and have no time to attend to it!

And this important matter is obviously to let Kong Shi recover.

Translation: And this important matter is obviously to let Master Kong recover.

This... Luo Ruoxi's heart jolted, and she suddenly understood.

Translation: "This..." Luo Ruoxi's heart jolted, and she suddenly understood.

Let's go!

Translation: "Let's go!"

Without further explanation, Zhang Xuan waved his hand and returned to Kong Shi's dwelling, where he indeed saw an old man sitting cross-legged, floating in midair. Upon seeing them arrive, the old man gave a slight smile and said, "You've come!"

Translation: Without further explanation, Zhang Xuan waved his hand and returned to where Master Kong lived; indeed he saw an old man sitting cross-legged, floating in midair. Seeing them arrive, he smiled slightly: "You've come!"

Not Kong Shi—then who is he!

Translation: Not Master Kong, then who is it!

This teacher of all ages certainly did not disappoint!

Translation: This Teacher of Ten Thousand Generations certainly hasn't disappointed me!

Just as guessed, taking advantage of everyone focusing their attention on the Tidal Sea, he was resurrected again.

Translation: Just as guessed, taking advantage of everyone focusing their attention on the Tide Sea, he revived again.

You... Luo Ruoxi's delicate body trembled.

Translation: "You..." Luo Ruoxi's delicate body trembled.

She knew emperors could be resurrected, even the Undying Emperor had come back to life, but... she didn't expect the speed to be this fast!

Translation: She knew Emperors could revive, and the Undying Emperor had come back to life, but... she didn't expect the speed to be this fast!

I concealed the Heavenly Dao, prepared a backup in advance—the nameless giant in the Nether Spirit Pool was mine; you slew him that day, and I seized the opportunity to break free from the Heavenly Dao's bonds, recondense my flesh, and have only just now fully recovered!

Translation: "I concealed the Heavenly Dao, prepared a trump card in advance—the nameless giant in the Nether Soul Pool is what I left behind. The day you killed him, I seized the chance to break free from the Heavenly Dao's bonds, recondensed my flesh, and have only just now recovered!"

Kong Shi gave a slight smile.

Translation: Master Kong smiled faintly.

He is proficient in temporal abilities; although it seems only a day or two have passed in the Divine Realm, in reality he has undergone an unknown length of time to regain his strength.

Translation: He is proficient in time abilities; although it seems only a day or two have passed in the Divine Realm, in reality, to regain his strength he has undergone an unknown amount of time.

He has even accumulated decades of time.

Translation: He has even accumulated tens of years.

Our three strengths are considerable, but defeating the Ruthless One is not that easy...

Translation: "Our three strengths are strong, but wanting to defeat the Ruthless Person is not that easy..."

Seeing that Kong Shi had indeed recovered, Luo Ruoxi still shook her head.

Translation: Seeing Master Kong truly recovered, Luo Ruoxi still shook her head.

It's not about boosting others' prestige or diminishing one's own ambition; it's simply the fact.

Translation: It's not about boosting others' prestige or destroying our own morale; it's simply the fact.

Even though so many of us joined forces just now and still couldn't block the opponent, what difference would adding one Kong Shi make?

Translation: Just now, so many people united couldn't stop the opponent; even adding Master Kong, what could that change?

It would likewise not change the situation!

Translation: It likewise cannot change the situation!

Our individual strength, even when combined, is indeed no match for the opponent, but... what if we merged everyone's power into a single person?

Translation: "Our individual strength, even when combined, is indeed no match for the opponent, but... what if we merged everyone's power into a single person?"

Kong Shi smiled and looked over.

Translation: Master Kong looked over, smiling.

Merge into a single person?

Translation: "Merge into one person?"

This time, not only did Luo Ruoxi frown, but Zhang Xuan was also full of doubt.

Translation: This time not only Luo Ruoxi frowned, but Zhang Xuan was also full of doubt.

That palm can tear apart the Divine Realm and scatter the Heavenly Dao; its strength is undeniable. The Ruthless One has absorbed all that power and also devoured fifty years of spiritual energy from the Divine Realm. Based solely on strength, even if we each took out our power from the dozen or so emperors, we would certainly not be a match.

Translation: "That palm can tear apart the Divine Realm and scatter the Heavenly Dao; its strength is undeniable. The Ruthless Person has absorbed all that power and also devoured the Divine Realm's spiritual energy for fifty years. Based solely on strength, even if we each take out our power, the dozen or so Emperors are certainly no match..."

Kong Shi said: "But if we unite and concentrate our power into a single person... perhaps it wouldn't be so hopeless!"

Translation: Master Kong said: "But if we unite and concentrate the power into one person... it might not be so!"

How to concentrate?

Translation: "How to concentrate?"

Luo Ruoxi looked over.

Translation: Luo Ruoxi looked over.

Easy to say, hard to do.

Translation: Easy to say, hard to do.

The emperors already stand at the pinnacle of the Divine Realm; if absorbing others' power were that easy, they wouldn't have stagnated for so many years.

Translation: The Emperor already stands at the peak of the Divine Realm; if absorbing others' power were that easy, she wouldn't have stagnated for so many years.

It's quite simple... we will gather our power and focus it on Zhang Xuan; once he can break through the emperor's shackles, he will be able to save the Divine Realm!

Translation: "Quite simple... we will gather our power onto Zhang Xuan; once he can break through the Emperor's shackles, he can save the Divine Realm!"

Kong Shi said.

Translation: Master Kong said.

Me? Zhang Xuan startled: "Why me?"

Translation: "Me?" Zhang Xuan startled: "Why me?"

The Lingxi Emperor cultivates freedom and spontaneity, transcending nature! But with the constraints of father and the Heavenly Dao, and with beloved people, one can never truly transcend! If I'm not mistaken, when we fought before, you also once considered giving up, planning to let me slay you!

Translation: "The Lingxi Emperor cultivates freedom and ease, transcending nature! But with the constraints of father and Heavenly Dao, and with people one cares for, one can never truly transcend! If I'm not mistaken, when we fought earlier, you also once gave up, intending to let me slay you!"

Kong Shi said.

Translation: Master Kong said.

Luo Ruoxi was speechless.

Translation: Luo Ruoxi couldn't speak.

During the battle, such an intention indeed existed; thus their exchanges at the start each held back, resembling a sparring match rather than a life-and-death fight.

Translation: During the fight, there was indeed such an intention; thus their bout, at the start, each held back a trump card, resembling a spar, not a life-or-death clash.

Unable to transcend, one cannot unleash their full strength; even with abundant true qi, they cannot strike that supreme realm! As for me...

Translation: "Unable to transcend, naturally one cannot exert one's strongest power; even with abundant true qi, one cannot strike that highest realm! As for me..."

Kong Shi nodded and said: "Holding compassion for all beings, wishing to save the world, yet unwilling to let others sacrifice for me—excessive kindness is also a flaw! If I were a bit more ruthless, exterminating the alien spirit clan, we wouldn't be in this situation..."

Translation: Master Kong nodded and said: "Holding all beings in heart, wishing to save the world, yet unwilling to let others sacrifice for me—excessive kindness is also a flaw! If one were a bit more ruthless, exterminating the Alien Spirit Clan, the present situation would not have arisen..."

If we had been able to exterminate all the alien spirit clan back then, the Ruthless One could not have revived, and we wouldn't be in this situation.

Translation: Had we initially been able to exterminate all the Alien Spirit Clan, the Ruthless Person could not have revived, nor would we be in this situation.

So I'm also unsuitable! Whereas Zhang Xuan's cultivation method aligns with his heart, has no flaws. He focuses on living true to himself; even if he dies, as long as he lives without guilt, his heart is at ease. Such a person possesses greater inclusivity and greater room for development; only thus can he reach higher and farther.

Translation: "So I'm also unsuitable! As for Zhang Xuan, his technique suits him, flawless. He pursues living true to himself; even if he dies, as long as he lives without guilt, his heart is at peace. Such a person possesses greater inclusiveness and greater room for growth; only thus can one reach higher and farther!"

Kong Shi continued.

Translation: Master Kong continued.

In life, return to the origin; in death, long for remembrance!

Translation: "In life, return to the beginning; in death, long for remembrance!"

If even death is of no concern, how could one be bound by other matters?

Translation: "If even death is of no concern, how could one be bound by other matters?"

This... Zhang Xuan frowned, about to say something, when he saw Kong Shi's piercing gaze: "No need to decline; first say there's not enough time, go train others—even if there were time, I doubt anyone could do better than you! The Lingxi Emperor's body may lack Heavenly Dao fragments, but he has long commanded the Heavenly Dao and has his own understanding of it; I command the orderly Heavenly Dao. If we pour our power into you, you will possess complete Heavenly Dao power! Combined with your avatar's Nine Heavens Chaos Golden Lotus, we can fully achieve ruling the Nine Heavens, grasping the cosmos, battling the Nine Firmaments, and annihilating all things!"

Translation: "This..." Zhang Xuan frowned, about to say something, but seeing Master Kong's piercing gaze: "No need to decline—first say there's no time, go train others; even if there were, I doubt anyone could do better than you! Though the Lingxi Emperor's body lacks Heavenly Dao fragments, he has long mastered the Heavenly Dao and has his own understanding of it; I govern the Heavenly Dao's order. If we pour our power into you, you will possess complete Heavenly Dao power within! Combined with your avatar's Nine Heavens Chaos Golden Lotus, we can fully achieve ruling the Nine Heavens, commanding the universe, battling the nine firmaments, and annihilating all things!"

Alright!

Translation: "Alright!"

Seeing that the other party had already made a decision, further explanation would be useless, so Zhang Xuan nodded.

Translation: Seeing the other party already decided, further explanation would be useless; Zhang Xuan nodded.

Boom!

Translation: Boom!

Sitting cross-legged, in the blink of an eye, two mighty forces surged in from both sides.

Translation: Sitting cross-legged, in the blink of an eye, two mighty forces surged in from both sides.

Zhang Xuan's body stiffened, his whole person seemingly instantaneously embodying the Heavenly Dao, soaring above the Nine Heavens.

Translation: Zhang Xuan's body stiffened; his whole person seemed to instantly embody the Heavenly Dao, soaring above the Nine Heavens.

Soul, flesh, and true qi were instantly baptized, growing stronger and becoming more mighty.

……

"You also want to stop me? Fine, I'll kill you, then go and slay Zhang Xuan."

He sent Luo Qiqi and the clones flying, and Henren gave a cold smile.

The power unleashed by the clones and the many Emperors together was indeed strong, but compared to him, it was still somewhat weaker.

The Tide Sea devoured the spiritual energy outside the city of the Divine Realm, almost completely consuming it; now this power has become his sustenance, every gesture wielding the power to destroy heaven and earth. These Emperors and God Kings, though they represent the pinnacle of the Divine Realm, are still utterly unable to withstand a single blow.

At this moment, Henren seemed to represent the entire Divine Realm, and no one could stop him.

"If the Divine Realm perishes, our lives have no meaning; I, Yun Chi, will perish with you."

Emperor Yun Chi transformed into his true form, a gigantic five-clawed golden dragon, and lunged at him from the air.

"Just you? You're not worthy!"

Henren clenched his palm, and the golden dragon hung in his grasp, unable to escape no matter how it struggled.

"Old friend, wait for me!"

Fumeng Emperor also let out a great roar, transforming into his true form, a White Tiger, and appeared before him in the air.

The Immortal Emperor, the Immortal Fire Phoenix's true form manifested, flames illuminating the sky.

Emperor Xuanming's true form is a great turtle, as if holding up the heavens.

The Four Divine Beasts, guardians of the four extremes of the Divine Realm, simultaneously transformed into their true forms, causing the collapsing Divine Realm to slow down.

Heaven and earth seemed to freeze in an instant.

Boom boom boom boom!

With four consecutive palms, Henren subdued the four beasts, a fierce killing intent flashing in his eyes: "Since you seek death, I will grant it."

In the midst of the roar, as he was about to strike a killing blow to wipe out everyone, he felt his raised arm tighten and stop in midair.

"You want to kill them, but have you asked me?"

Immediately, amidst everyone's shocked gazes, a figure slowly walked out from the air.

It was Zhang Xuan!

At this moment, the youth's power surged throughout his body, more than ten times stronger than before, descending from the heavens as if his very being were a world.

"You've improved a lot..."

Henren halted, his gaze solemn.

He obviously didn't understand how, in just a few short minutes, the opponent's strength had undergone such a tremendous change.

"But what does it matter if you've increased? Even at its peak, the Divine Realm couldn't withstand me; I don't believe you can block me."

With a cold snort, Henren struck down again.

Zhang Xuan raised his longsword and went to meet him.

The two clashed, space tearing apart in streaks, air currents churning wildly.

"Can Zhang Xuan win?"

At the dwelling of the Free-and-Easy Heaven Master, Luo Ruoxi looked over, full of worry.

She and the Master transferred their power to Zhang Xuan; their own cultivation had dropped to only the God King level, not as glorious as before.

However, as long as the power is sufficient, one day they can regain their former level.

"With your current strength, wanting to surpass... is very difficult! Unless... he can comprehend power beyond the Emperors!"

After a moment of silence, the Master said.

Even a dozen Emperors united could not defeat Henren, and even if they transferred all their power to him, wanting to overcome him would still not be easy.

The reason they do this is because... only by concentrating power in a single person can one possibly touch the pinnacle, truly surpass limits, and break through oneself!

"Power beyond the Emperors?"

Luo Ruoxi's gaze was distant.

When her father was still lucid, he had once told her the same words, but... she could not do it; could her beloved man do it?

"He definitely can... he has an unyielding heart! And an arrogance toward this world!"

Seeing her doubt, the Master smiled and said.

……

Boom boom boom!

After several consecutive blows, Zhang Xuan's tiger mouth split open, and a huge wound appeared on his chest, gruesome and terrifying.

Just as the Master said, even after fusing their two powers and forming a complete heavenly way within, he was still no match.

"Haha, I thought you were formidable, but that's all!" Henren gave a cold smile.

"Anyway, you're not my opponent; sooner or later I'll be killed. If so, I want to die under your strongest attack..." Taking a deep breath, Zhang Xuan stopped, ceasing his offense and instead gazing at Henren before him.

"Fine, I'll grant you that; I'll give you my strongest attack..."

Hearing that, Henren froze for a moment, then let out a cold snort and raised his palm.

Whoosh!

A cyan light appeared in his palm and came down fiercely.

Sure enough, it was the strongest attack; the entire Divine Realm rumbled, as if it could barely endure, and another huge pit was blasted out.

With his eyes tightly shut, Zhang Xuan did not dodge.

Boom!

His head exploded, his soul scattering in all directions.

"Zhang Xuan..." Seeing this, everyone's faces turned pale.

Luo Qiqi seemed to have gone mad.

Emperor Yun Chi and the others also widened their eyes, trembling nonstop.

Kong Shi and Luo Ruoxi, upon seeing this scene, were both startled.

The original intention was to let him break the shackles and surge beyond the Emperor Realm, so why does he not resist and willingly go to his death?

In doing so, wouldn't that betray their goodwill?

"No, it's the Undying Emperor Lord's method of immortality…"

Puzzled, Kong Shi suddenly spoke.

The onlookers instantly saw Zhang Xuan—whose head had blown apart and whose soul was fragmented—his chest pendant suddenly detonated, a droplet of blood hovering and igniting into a searing flame, within which an unscathed figure emerged, walking out slowly.

"He… used the opponent's power and the blood in the pendant to separate the flawed Heaven's Dao from his soul?"

Luo Ruoxi's pupils contracted.

After being reborn through fire, Zhang Xuan no longer had the Heaven's Dao Library within him, no longer suffered Heaven's Dao's interference, and had broken free from Heaven's Dao!

"How did he do it?"

Kong Shi was also full of disbelief.

Heaven's Dao and the soul had merged, indistinguishable; to escape, he had to let his soul scatter and, using the Ghostly Soul Pool, reconsolidate his spirit.

The one before them, after being slashed just once, completely broke free—what method did he use?

"I understand… he used the ruthless one's method to break the Soul Contract…" Luo Ruoxi realized.

The Soul Contract binds Master and servant; if the Master does not release it, the servant remains forever bound… the Heaven's Dao Library works the same way, essentially an upgraded contract.

Once the soul is bound, the Undying one cannot detach.

But… the ruthless one used that special power to break the Soul Contract; Zhang Xuan had previously inquired about the exact method, perhaps already forming a plan then.

Thus he deliberately risked death, prompting the ruthless one to unleash his strongest power against him.

With this power, reborn through fire, unexpectedly, he indeed achieved great success!

"So that's it; this is the way to break through the Emperor Lord…"

Zhang Xuan, emerging from the flames, wore a faint smile as if he understood something; suddenly he gestured, and a duplicate on one side instantly transformed back into a lotus and flew toward him.

In an instant, it merged perfectly with his own self.

In the blink of an eye, everyone felt that the Zhang Xuan before them seemed to become the Nine Heavens, and the Nine Heavens were him.

His foot lightly pressed the ground.

The chaotic Nine Heavens instantly steadied.

The Nine Heavens Chaotic Golden Lotus, which appears at the birth of the Nine Heavens and can stabilize them, now with his duplicate perfectly fused with himself, indistinguishable, means he has mastered this power.

Moreover, with his cultivation infused with the Nine Heavens Chaotic Golden Lotus, his already peak realm showed a looseness, as if he could break through at any moment.

"Master‑servant bond, brotherly bond, teacher‑student bond, parental bond, love… all merged together—that is the world's myriad things, that is humanity!"

Smiling, Zhang Xuan murmured to himself.

The instant the Heaven's Dao Library detached from his soul, he understood.

Is it that humans view the world, thereby creating the world, or does the world exist first, then humans?

Is it the wind that moves, or the heart?

This question has eternally plagued countless people.

Of course, now… these are all unimportant!

Without life, without emotion, even if the world exists, what meaning does it have?

Thus, after transcending love, comes the sentiment of all beings! The emotions that intertwine the world.

All things in the world possess emotion; with emotion there is a world, and only with emotion can life continue.

Love is emotion.

Hatred is emotion.

Joy is emotion.

Pain is emotion.

Separation is emotion.

Reunion is also emotion!

"Myriad feelings, for my use…"

With a low cry, the realm sealed within Zhang Xuan's body instantly shattered.

The Emperor Lord's shackles have been broken!

In an instant, it seemed he touched a brand‑new world and Da Men, and his soul was rapidly nourished.

Countless chaotic qi surged in, and his mortal body accelerated upward.

Before, only by absorbing spiritual energy could he advance, but now spatial turbulence and chaotic qi, even the opponent's azure light, can be his, indistinguishable.

"You…" The ruthless one hadn't expected that his full‑force attack, instead of slashing him, actually empowered him, causing him to shout "Wah‑wah!" in a chaotic roar, a fierce yell, and attack again.

"You resent the lofty Emperor Lord for not rescuing yourself in the spatial turbulence—that is emotion; you feel that you were once my servant, harboring humility and anger—that is emotion; you wish to destroy the divine realm, venting anger—that is emotion; you desire greater strength, likewise emotion… Emotion governs you; how can you overcome me without being controlled by me?"

With a faint smile, Zhang Xuan's voice grew faster and louder, and his palm lightly grasped.

The once invincible ruthless one was bound by countless threads of emotion, shackled together, unable to move.

As long as there is emotion, it will be used by him, controlled by him!

"You…"

The ruthless one's eyes were full of panic: "Master Zhang, I am your servant, do not kill me… I am willing to sacrifice my soul…"

"It's too late to say that now…" With a slight smile, Zhang Xuan shook his head.

Having mastered the emotions of the world, servants and the like held no meaning for him.

Having killed so many god‑level beings, wounded his own girlfriend, Luo Qiqi and so many friends, how could he possibly forgive today!

"No…"

Feeling his decisiveness, Henren's pupils contracted; before his words ended, he immediately felt a sharp pain throughout his body.

Bang!

In an instant, the explosion burst forth, turning into countless spiritual energy that surged toward every corner of the Divine Realm.

Previously, all the power swallowed by the Tidal Sea now flowed back, reviving the already exhausted wilderness.

"This..."

"You killed him just like that?"

Great Emperor Yunchi, Immortal Emperor, Fairy Linglong ah and the others stared wide‑eyed, unable to believe it.

Just now they had clashed with Henren, knowing how terrifying he was; such a powerful person was wiped out with a casual gesture—how far has this Zhang Xuan actually reached?

Could there really be a higher realm above the Emperor?

"He succeeded..."

Kongshi and Luo Ruoxi loosened their clenched fists.

"This is part of the Heavenly Dao; now I will return it to the Heavenly Dao..."

Seeing the "Heavenly Dao's flaw" that had been separated from his own body still hovering in the air, Zhang Xuan smiled lightly and flicked his finger.

Hum!

The library that had accompanied him since his rebirth was loudly inlaid into the sky of the Divine Realm.

With the tolling of a great bell, the continually collapsing Divine Realm, visibly slow recovery, and the chaotic airflow also gathered again.

The collapsed Divine Realm finally halted, and the withered spiritual energy, together with Henren's death, slowly revived.

"It seems the Divine Realm is about to welcome an era of spiritual energy renewal..." Zhang Xuan smiled.

The breach in the Tidal Sea, accompanied by the completion of the Heavenly Dao, has already healed; the Divine Realm will return to its former prosperity—it's only a matter of time.

"Zhang Xuan, come here..."

Having just finished these, a voice sounded in his mind; Zhang Xuan froze for a moment and stepped forward.

That step carried him an unknown distance, whereupon he saw a youth standing before him.

He was precisely the one who had previously taught him swordsmanship.

"Senior, you..."

Seeing it was him, Zhang Xuan was startled.

He had always felt this person was unfathomable; now he realized that, aside from a hair's breadth, he had reached the very peak of the Emperor realm, far surpassing Luo Ruoxi's previous strength.

"Just call me by my name; I am Nie Tong!" The youth radiated an unstoppable sword intent and spoke lightly.

"Nie Tong?" Zhang Xuan frowned.

This was the first time he had heard that name.

"Come with me; I'll take you to see my brother!" The youth called Nie Tong smiled slightly and stepped forward.

Zhang Xuan followed closely behind, not knowing how far they had flown, until they stopped before a mountain peak.

He then saw another youth.

His appearance was not much older, his eyebrows raised, giving an inscrutable, profound impression.

"This strength..." Zhang Xuan trembled.

The youth before him was actually stronger than him, having likewise broken through the Emperor's shackles, with a cultivation even deeper and more substantial!

"I am Nie Yun!" the youth said with a light smile, looking over: "That is… Nie Lingxi, the father of Luo Ruoxi you mentioned!"

"Luo Ruoxi's father?"

Zhang Xuan shuddered: "You… are the Heavenly Dao of the Divine Realm?"

Luo Ruoxi had said before that her father was the Heavenly Dao; who would have thought it would be such a young person.

"I transformed one qi into the Three Purities, turning part of my soul into the Heavenly Dao! Moreover, this world is my creation—calling me the Heavenly Dao is perfectly justified!" Nie Yun said with a light smile.

Zhang Xuan dared not believe it.

The Divine Realm was actually created by this person before him?

Then just how strong must his power be?

"No, if the Divine Realm is your creation and you are the Heavenly Dao, why do you let Henren run rampant without intervening?" Zhang Xuan looked over.

"If it weren't for my own breakthrough, the Divine Realm would very likely have collapsed completely; why does this person before me remain indifferent?"

"Does he even care about his daughter's life or death?"

Without answering his question, Nie Yun glanced over lightly: "Do you think… there exists an even more powerful life above the Divine Realm?"

"This…" Zhang Xuan paused: "There should be, right?"

Although he had never seen it, since he could cultivate to this level, perhaps others could as well—and even become stronger.

Just like this person before him.

"I once suspected that a more powerful life existed above the Divine Realm, so I exerted all my power to observe it, ultimately drawing a backlash from a higher world… a hand broke through the void and descended!"

Nie Yun looked over: "At that time, if I had dodged, the entire Divine Realm would very likely have been obliterated, leaving not a single life… so I blocked the move, but consequently, my incarnate Heavenly Dao was split apart."

"I merely wish to restore this situation with a single thought, but… I understand that to truly transcend the Divine Realm's shackles and explore where that hand came from, and what lies beyond the Divine Realm… it is difficult for me alone to achieve. So I want to see whether any life can break through the Emperor's shackles and reach a level equal to mine."

"Therefore, I sent the scattered Heavenly Dao thoughts down to the lowest world… bestowing them upon the souls originally belonging to this world, and upon a soul not of this world. And you, you have not disappointed me!"

Nie Yun smiled.

"A soul not of this world, then—does that mean my transmigration is also because of you?" Zhang Xuan's heart shook.

"No wonder I could transmigrate here—I never imagined it was all due to this person before me."

"Hehe!" Nie Yun chuckled lightly: "Being native to this world, one naturally feels reverence for it; wanting to break its shackles is far harder, and I merely had a passing thought—I never expected you to actually succeed…"

"I…" Zhang Xuan's face flushed: "If it weren't for Kongshi, I could never have reached this point…"

Without Kongshi's selfless dedication, reaching the present realm would be utterly impossible.

「I gave them the opportunity, but they just didn't seize it. The duel with Lingxi was actually their best opportunity to break through; unfortunately, they chose to retreat, thinking they had a backup plan and could withdraw unscathed, but in fact they lost the vigor and diligence. When facing someone surpassing us, if they lack even this spirit, how could they possibly stand against them? 」

Nie Yun said.

Zhang Xuan remained silent.

At that time, they witnessed their battle; Master Kong indeed was somewhat lacking in decisiveness.

It's also possible that they were unwilling to slay Luo Ruoxi.

Unfortunately, in that instant, they missed the opportunity to advance.

「If Master Kong wins, Ruoxi will die……」 After a moment, Zhang Xuan looked over, brows furrowed.

Could it be that this person before them doesn't even care about their daughter's life?

「With me here, she won't die……」 Nie Yun smiled faintly: "Your current strength is not much different from mine; you think, at the critical moment of life and death, wanting to save someone, can you do it?"

「This……」 Zhang Xuan gave a bitter smile.

Breaking through to Emperor and being an Emperor are two concepts; if they truly are willing to act, they can indeed save the person at the critical moment, and guarantee that not a single injury will be sustained.

「Lingxi is the child of my other wife, Luo Qingcheng, so her false surname is Luo…… In order to make her believe, not letting emotions get in the way, to this day she has still thought I am still in a coma……」

Nie Yun gave a wry laugh: "This father of mine has been quite ruthless…… In that case, let you explain this to her; after all, her thoughts have now turned to you, this old father of mine probably can't even remember…… Haha, I'll stay out of sight for a while; otherwise, I truly fear she'll cause an uproar."

Seeing this unreliable old father before them, Zhang Xuan's cheek twitched, and they could only agree: "Alright……"

Not agreeing is no option; who let them abduct someone's daughter……

「The Heavenly Dao Library is a manifestation of my will; it is both foundation and shackle. You can rely on your own ability to break through the shackle, demonstrating your ability and potential; your future prospects are limitless. My daughter being able to be with you, as a father, is also a comfort。」

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