The Abyss of Despair - The Dark Lord's Castle
Commander Li Huan advanced towards Yi Sheng, who stumbled backward, his face a tapestry of fear and anxiety. In Li Huan's right hand was a spear whose crimson tip sparked with flames. With a swift motion, he passed the spear to his other hand and slammed its base into the ground. A massive ring of fire erupted around Yi Sheng. From the skies descended a noose, which, with Li Huan's next move, propelled Yi Sheng into the air. The noose coiled tightly around his neck. Whispers rose from the onlookers:
- *"I can't believe it. Is he really going to die?"*
- *"He should never have said that... How did he dare?"*
- *"The poor boy had no clue that his first day in this castle would also be his last."*
Yi Sheng struggled to free himself, clawing at the rope with his hands.
Not far away, near the castle's grand entrance, a majestic ash-gray throne stood with its back turned to the gathering. Seated upon it was the Dark Lord himself. Atop the throne, visible to all, was his crown—a creation of crimson and gray, forged from peculiar horns. The Dark Lord spoke, his voice resonating:
- "Li Huan, take your time with him. The darker his energy grows, the more powerful it becomes... and the more useful to us."
Li Huan nodded, raising his spear and spinning it above his head. The noose slackened slightly. Gasping for air, Yi Sheng, his face drenched in the sweat of his desperate struggle, steadied his voice to speak:
- "Please... forgive me, Dark Lord. I only called you by your given name to capture your attention... I meant no disrespect. I am a wretched man, tormented and humiliated since childhood. Recently, I lost my mother... I heard that you aid those seeking vengeance, people like me. That's why I came. I... I want revenge against my family. Surely, you... of all people, would understand. I heard even you were humiliated by your family, and that your mother..."
Flames roared, reaching the castle's ceiling. Li Huan pointed his spear once more, tightening the noose, sending Yi Sheng into frantic convulsions. Furious, the Dark Lord rose from his throne. The crowd and fox demons quickly lowered their heads in reverence. The Dark Lord approached Li Huan, his voice seething:
- "It's true that I thrive on vengeance, darkness, and hatred... but how dare you speak of my mother? I have no family! From the moment I can remember, I was the Dark God, born with a demonic bone. Who dared spread such rumors about me? By whose permission? Li Huan, that's enough. His dark energy is too weak—finish him. I have no use for him anymore."
Turning on his heel, the Dark Lord headed toward the door. Yi Sheng, his eyes shut tight and body convulsing in a last bid for survival, rasped:
- "Wa... wait... I... can... prove... it. You... *did*... have... family..."
The Dark Lord froze mid-step. As Li Huan prepared to tighten the noose once more, Ling Zhui turned sharply. With a downward sweep of his right hand, the rope vanished. Yi Sheng fell heavily to the ground at the Dark Lord's feet. Gasping for air, he wiped the sweat from his brow with his tattered sleeve, head bowed low. Before he could utter a word, the Dark Lord's voice thundered:
- "Li Huan, escort everyone here to the second floor. Tonight, I will personally oversee their qualification trials." (The Dark Lord's gaze fell upon Yi Sheng, who knelt humbly before him.) "As for you, if you pass tonight's trial, you'll advance to the fourth floor and receive a mission. Know this—I admire your boldness. You're the first to dare call me by name, even while at death's door. For this, I've spared your life... but don't mistake this for leniency. Let's go, Li Huan."
Li Huan bowed deeply, casting Yi Sheng a cold, disdainful glare. Following the Dark Lord, he exited toward the castle gates. Elated, Yi Sheng scrambled to his feet, calling out:
- "I will not disappoint you, Dark Lord! I will pass tonight's trial and become the most loyal soldier in your army. This is my vow as Yi Sheng, of the Yi Clan!"
Pausing at the castle's gates, the Dark Lord smirked, murmuring:
- "*So your name is Yi Sheng...*"
With Li Huan, he disappeared beyond the gates. Cheers erupted among the crowd. A few lifted Yi Sheng, tossing him into the air with celebration. The fox demon couple stood with arms crossed, observing. The male fox spoke:
- "This boy... he's got real courage. In all the weeks we've been summoned here, not once have we seen the Dark Lord. But thanks to him," (gesturing toward the smiling, chatting Yi Sheng), "we've seen him twice in one day."
The female fox, wide-eyed, replied:
- "Twice? But we only just saw him now. And not even clearly—we just heard his voice."
The male fox grinned:
- "You didn't hear? Tonight is the first night the Lord of Sorrowful Nights will personally attend the trial. He will bestow the necklaces of darkness to those who pass. We might have another chance to see him and request our own trial for entry to the fourth floor. Don't worry... no matter what, we'll speak with him tonight. Remember why we came here in the first place."
Her smile vanished, replaced by a resolute frown. She nodded, and the two headed toward the castle entrance.
Yi Sheng, his grin unwavering, murmured to himself:
- "Tonight, I'll pass the trial... and one way or another, Ling Zhui, I'll see your face."
Ling Mansion
The stars twinkled in the clear night sky, and a cool breeze gently caressed the soul. Lady Chen, dressed in plain, light purple attire, stepped out of one of the rooms in the mansion, followed closely by Ming Yu, who started running after her, trying to stop her.
"My lady… Where are you going? Do you realize what a terrifying mess it would be if your uncle, Master Ling, finds out? Master Fui has placed you under house arrest within the mansion. Do you think you can simply escape and leave this place? And how will you find Master Zui? It's far too dangerous!"
Ming Yu dashed in front of Lady Chen, standing firmly with her arms outstretched. She shook her head vigorously and continued:
"No, no. I won't let you leave. If… If you want to go, then you'll have to step over my dead body first!"
Lady Chen grew angry, trying to push Ming Yu aside as she spoke:
"Have you lost your mind? I don't care how furious my uncle gets or what that wicked Fui does—I just need to find my brother Zui and check if he's alright. Don't you understand? I can't live without him!"
Her knees buckled as she fell to the ground, tears streaming down her beautiful eyes. Ming Yu sat beside her, as Lady Chen continued:
"Of all people, you should understand me, Ming Yu. You've been by my side since childhood. When my parents were killed, my uncle brought me to this house. I was scared and anxious… That first night, I couldn't stop having nightmares." *(Memories of her childhood flooded back as time rewound.)*
"The next day, when I woke up, my bedding was soaked. I was so terrified, and I cried thinking my uncle would surely throw me out of the house. And I had nowhere else to go. It was Zui who came to my room, drawn by the sound of my sobbing. I was surprised when I saw him; he smiled, quickly came to me, pushed me aside, and took the wet blanket. Standing before me, he said:
'Don't worry, Chen Chen… Whenever you have a problem, just tell me. You're my little sister. My name is Ling Zui.'
He quickly ran off. For a whole week, I kept having nightmares about the death of my family, soaking my bedding every night. And every morning, Zui would come to take it away and wash it himself in the forest spring. Ever since then, whenever I made a mistake or my uncle wanted to scold me, he'd defend me. He took the blame for my punishments, even enduring beatings meant for me. Ming Yu, I can't live without him. When I got older, whenever he went traveling for cultivation training or accompanied Brother Feng to different cities to help people and hunt demons, I'd fall ill and burn with fever. Not for a moment have I learned to cope with his absence. It's impossible."
She grasped Ming Yu's hands, now drenched in tears, and pleaded desperately:
"That's why you must let me go. Please, I can't breathe anymore. Whether I die here at the hands of Brother Fui's guards or perish along the way… It doesn't matter to me. Please…"
Ming Yu wiped her tears and nodded in agreement, lifting Lady Chen to her feet swiftly. She led her to the mansion's entrance, hiding her near a small grove of shrubs by the garden. Opening the mansion door, Ming Yu turned to the two guards standing outside and cried:
"Please help me! Lady Chen has fainted!"
The guards exchanged hesitant glances. Ming Yu shouted angrily:
"I said Lady Chen has fainted! Are you waiting for the master to return? If anything happens to her, Master Fui won't let you survive!"
The guards nodded and ran after Ming Yu toward the back courtyard. Lady Chen quickly stood up, tightened the straps of her backpack over her shoulders, and glanced down the alley. Ensuring no one was around, she slipped out of the door. With one last sorrowful look at the mansion where she had grown up, she gave a wistful smile and whispered:
"I'll never forget this kindness, Ming Yu. I hope you live a happy life… I'm coming for you, Brother Zui. I won't leave you alone ever again!"
She sprinted away from the mansion, leaving it far behind.
The Mo Clan Mansion
All cultivators and disciples from various tribes were resting in the main hall of the mansion. Servants bustled about, offering food and wine to the guests. The hall's walls, crafted from pale green marble, exuded grandeur and majesty. Around the marble pillars of the same hue, inscriptions chronicling the Mo Clan's history and their victories against demons were prominently displayed.
At the top of the hall, Master Mo sat on a grand throne made of green marble, its brilliance enhanced by emerald gems embedded around it. The Grandmaster, Master Ling, Master Yu, and Feng were seated at small tables near Mo Qing. A servant approached, pouring drinks into small green cups on the tables. When the servant reached Feng, seated opposite the Grandmaster, he raised his hand in refusal, declining the drink.
Mo Qing began to speak:
"Oh, Brother Feng, don't be so rigid. We've done everything we could and sent that charming brother of ours" *(a smile spread across his face as he recalled Yi Sheng's visage)* "to find the secret weapon. You heard what the Grandmaster said—The Lord of Darkness's aura is still weak and will take a few months to strengthen. By then, Brother Sheng will have found the secret weapon and saved us. I trust him. You can't starve yourself and grow weak during such a critical time. We need everyone's strength. Isn't that right, Grandmaster?"
The Grandmaster placed his half-finished drink on the table, nodded in agreement, and continued Mo Qing's words:
"That's correct. Feng, you were the one who recommended Yi Sheng. Given the spiritual power and energy I've seen in him, I'm confident he'll succeed in this mission. So, what are you worried about, my son?"
Feng, his face etched with worry, stood and walked to the large window on the wall. The beautiful garden, filled with vibrant flowers and tall, lush trees, captivated his gaze. A gentle breeze swayed his hair, and he tucked a few rebellious strands behind his ear. In a sorrowful tone, he began to speak:
"I know it'll take months for the Life-Draining Formation to activate, but I'm worried about Zui. I don't know how he's faring. Can his heart withstand the energy of the Dark Core and the power of the Demonic Bone? And what about Yi Sheng? He's lived in isolation for years, unaccustomed to crowds and people. He agreed to this mission to help us. What if he's exposed and his life is endangered? What should we do then?"
Master Ling rose, approached Feng, and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, speaking empathetically:
"I understand your concerns, my son. But Yi Sheng chose to accept this mission to save the world. No one forced him, and we won't abandon him. Don't worry—we'll keep an eye on him to ensure he's safe."
Feng cast a cold glance at his father, brushed his hand off his shoulder, and returned to his seat, saying:
"I know all that. If only there were a way to know what's happening there, it would ease my worries. I need to see with my own eyes whether Zui and Yi Sheng are alright."
Mo Qing smiled, stood, and approached Feng, saying:
"Of course, there's a way. In the Mo Clan Mansion, no one leaves without hope. Follow me."
The Grandmaster, Master Ling, Master Yu, and Feng exchanged puzzled glances before following Mo Qing. He led them down a long corridor with jade-green walls, descending narrow, dark stairs. At the bottom, they reached an old, faded wooden door. Mo Qing opened it, revealing a high-ceilinged room lined with shelves filled with books and scrolls. In the center stood a worn, round wooden table surrounded by chairs.
Mo Qing approached the table, drew a dagger from his pocket, and carved the Mo Clan's emblem—a green jade—onto the table. Suddenly, the table vanished, revealing a radiant green jade stone. Mo Qing sat on one of the chairs and gestured for the others to do the same.
Once everyone was seated, he began to speak with his signature smile:
"The stealth mask we crafted as a black headband and gave to Brother Yi Sheng is closely linked to this jade stone. Through it, we can communicate with Brother Yi Sheng and find out what's happening and how he's doing."
Mo Qing ran his hand over the green jade, and Yi Sheng's face appeared. Everyone leaned forward as Feng anxiously spoke:
"Tell me, are you alright, Yi Sheng? Have you settled in? Did you see Zui? Did anyone suspect you? Speak—I'm dying of worry!"
Yi Sheng smiled and, with his serene and spiritual demeanor, began to speak:
"Actually, I just removed the headband and was about to contact you. I performed the special night meditation and controlled my energy. No one suspects me, so don't worry. I've also seen your brother, and he seems to be doing well. Let me show you what happened."
He closed his eyes, wrapping the glowing end of the white ribbon tied around his hair around his index finger. Feng and the others witnessed the events and conversations between Yi Sheng and the foxes, from his arrival at the Abyss to the moment he knelt before the Lord of Darkness, who then exited with Li Huan.
Mo Qing excitedly exclaimed:
"You're incredible, Brother Yi Sheng! How did you dare speak to him like that, especially with the noose around your neck? If it were me, I'd have died of fright before he could take my life."
Yi Sheng smiled, while Feng, his eyes brimming with tears, sorrowfully said:
"My innocent little brother has become so ruthless. There wasn't a trace of emotion in his voice—it was so cold and merciless. Tell me, was he alright? Did you see him up close? What was that mask on his face?"
Yi Sheng frowned slightly and replied:
"No, I haven't been able to yet. That's why I wanted to see you. I need your help. As you saw, Ling Zui hasn't attended the qualification trials in weeks, and this is his first appearance. I want to influence him, gain his trust, and become one of his close allies.
When the trial begins, I can disable the protective aura on the second floor for a few minutes without arousing suspicion. I need you to bring my bow and shoot one of the arrows at Zui. These arrows, infused with my inner light, won't harm me but are the only weapons that can penetrate this palace. I'll shield Zui with my body to prove my loyalty to his army and show I'm willing to die for him.
Timing is crucial. I can only disable the aura briefly, so you must act quickly. Feng, your archery skills are excellent. With the Grandmaster, Master Ling, Mo Qing, and Master Yu, your high cultivation levels can help break the magical barrier's energy."
Everyone nodded, but Feng, worried, shook his head and said with a trembling voice:
"No, no, Yi Sheng. My archery may be good, but I can't shoot at Zui. Please don't ask me to. I'm sure I'll falter, and the arrow will miss. As you said, we only have a few minutes and can't waste them. Someone else must…"
A sound from the ajar door made everyone look up. Fui entered with a sly smile, saying:
"I'll do it. Don't worry, Brother Feng. You know my archery is as good as yours, and I never miss, especially when it comes to Zui!"
Feng frowned, about to protest, but Yi Sheng quickly said:
"I must go now. The trial is starting. If I'm not among the others, they'll suspect me. Remember, Feng, when one of the arrows glows, that's the one to shoot. Be mindful of the time—we have little of it. You must reach the Cliff of Despair quickly. I must go now. Take care. Goodbye."
The green jade returned to its original state, leaving everyone anxious and worried. The Grandmaster placed a reassuring hand on Feng's clasped hands, resting under his chin as he was lost in thought, and said:
"Don't worry, Feng. Nothing will happen. We're all together and will help Yi Sheng accomplish his task."
Master Ling and Master Yu nodded, while Fui muttered under his breath with a sly smile:
"This time, I'll finish you off… filthy blood."
Cliff of Despair – Dark Lord's Palace
The demon foxes, male and female, along with all the participants on the first floor and Yi Sheng, gathered within a golden circle. The male fox spun rapidly like a top and slammed his right palm onto the ground at the center of the circle. The female fox immediately followed suit, placing her hand on top of his. A whirlwind formed and, in a matter of seconds, transported them all to the second floor.
This floor was larger than the previous one, distinguished by wandering dark specters and a ceiling that resembled a sky filled with crimson clouds. The group moved to the right side of the hall, leaning against a blood-red wall and sitting on grass that matched the wall's hue. The male and female foxes stood beside each other to the right of the crowd.
After a few minutes, wide and lengthy stairs, so vast their end was barely visible, materialized at the far end of the floor, accompanied by an aristocratic chair. A whirlwind descended from the sky, and everyone knelt on both knees, pressing their foreheads to the ground. The Dark Lord appeared with Li Huan. Ling Zui took his seat upon the chair and gestured toward the crowd with a nod. Li Huan bowed and, like the wind, descended the stairs, beginning to speak:
"Each of you will enter the magical barrier I create. In three seconds, all your past, along with your grudges, hatred, and dark energy, will be revealed to us. If your dark aura is weak and worthless, the barrier will destroy you, as you've uncovered the Dark Palace's secrets and seen this place. Your energy will transfer to the Dark Lord. But if your dark core energy is strong and valuable to our army, you'll ascend to the fourth floor, where you'll be categorized based on your level and assigned missions. Now, start from the right, and come forward one by one."
The man and woman exchanged frightened glances, hesitating. Li Huan stepped forward with a smirk and continued:
"What happened? Weren't you the ones boasting that you'd even sacrifice your lives for the Dark Lord to prove your loyalty? Now that you've realized you'll die if you're useless, you're scared? Even if my words are true, and you are afraid, there's no turning back. Anyone who enters this palace must be confident in their energy and purpose, knowing there's no escape. So stop wasting the valuable time of our Melancholy Night Ruler and hurry up. Otherwise, I'll have to show you your fate another way."
Yi Sheng glanced around, closed his eyes, and took deep breaths. The golden core within his heart began to glow, causing the magical barrier around the cliff to disperse like mist.
Opening his eyes, Yi Sheng stepped forward and said:
"Who says we're afraid? Everyone here is willing to offer their dark energy to the Lord and even sacrifice their lives for him. They trust themselves and the pain and suffering they've endured in their lives, knowing the deep resentment rooted in their hearts. So why fear proving their loyalty? To show you and everyone else, I'll be the first to take this test."
He walked toward Li Huan. Hearing Yi Sheng's voice, the Dark Lord straightened his reclined posture and leaned forward slightly. Li Huan smirked, muttering under his breath:
"Then prepare for your death… foolish boy!"
He struck the ground with the end of his spear, creating a fiery aura in the hall's center. Flames erupted, scattering around. Yi Sheng was just three steps away from reaching the aura when, above him, the barrier around the cliff began to close. Feng, along with Mo Qing, Master Ling, Master Yu, the Grandmaster, and Fui, appeared behind him with bows and arrows. One of the arrows in Fui's leather quiver began to glow. Quickly, Fui grabbed it and placed it in the bow.
Mo Qing, Master Ling, Master Yu, and the Grandmaster channeled spiritual energy between their brows with their index and middle fingers, directing it toward the barrier to prevent its closure. Feng and Fui, flying on their swords, approached the center of the barrier as the second floor came into view. Feng glanced worriedly at Fui and said:
"Once Yi Sheng is one step away from the fiery aura, aim the arrow at the top of the stairs. Be careful and make sure it doesn't hit Zui. Do you understand?"
Fui gave a devilish smile, nodding, and replied:
"Don't worry, Brother Feng. I'll follow the plan."
When Yi Sheng was a step away from the aura, Fui aimed his bow at the top of the stairs. As Ling Zui rose from his chair and neared the first step, his face became visible. Fui muttered under his breath:
"Goodbye, filthy blood… forever!"
The arrow shot from the bow, speeding toward Zui. Hearing the arrow's release, Yi Sheng looked up and, with a swift motion, spun around and appeared at the top of the stairs. He dashed toward Zui, keeping his eyes on the arrow. Just as the arrow was about to strike Zui, Yi Sheng leapt and pushed Zui to the right. The arrow struck Yi Sheng's left shoulder, causing him to fall to the ground.
The crowd panicked, screaming. Li Huan quickly ascended the stairs and approached Zui, who knelt on the ground, lifting Yi Sheng's head onto his lap. Zui shouted:
"Li Huan, I'm fine! The barrier has disappeared—they attacked from the cliff's entrance. Go, now!"
Yi Sheng, his hearing muffled and vision blurring, finally saw Zui's face. The right side was covered by a black half-mask, extending from his forehead to beneath his chin. The left side revealed a young man with chestnut hair tied atop his head, its length cascading to his waist. His piercing, cold, light-brown eyes, radiant white skin, and soft pink lips, slightly parted, spoke to Yi Sheng:
"Don't worry; nothing will happen to you. I'm here, Yi Sheng…"
The last sound Yi Sheng heard was Zui calling his name before his eyelids closed, and darkness enveloped the world.
Abyss of Despair - Palace of the Melancholy Night Sovereign
Li Huan soared swiftly toward the heavens with his spear in hand. Upon reaching the top of the abyss, he was confronted by a magical barrier encircling the entire area. He surveyed his surroundings briefly before returning to the palace.
The murmurs of the frightened crowd grew louder. Ling Zui remained seated, cradling Yi Sheng's head on her lap. His eyes were shut, and an arrow was embedded in his left shoulder, surrounded by a pool of blood. With a snap of her fingers, Zui vanished, taking Yi Sheng along with her.
Meanwhile, the fox man and woman attempted to calm the crowd. The fox man began to address them:
"As you witnessed yourselves, a critical situation has arisen. The Abyss of Despair was attacked with the intent to kill our lord. Therefore, your trial will be temporarily suspended, and you shall return to the first level."
Many showed smiles of satisfaction, while a handful of men and women muttered their discontent. The fox man glanced at the fox woman, worry evident on her face as her gaze was fixed on the staircase. He frowned and said:
"Li Ming, where is your focus? Why are you so worried? I know our plan failed, and once again, we couldn't reach the fourth level. But don't be upset." (He wrapped his arm around her shoulders.) "There's still plenty of time. I'll resolve it—trust me."
He guided her toward a golden halo where the people stood within. Li Ming muttered under her breath:
"I just hope that stubborn fool Yi Sheng is alright...!"
The Room of the Dark Lord
Ling Zui sat on the bed beside Yi Sheng, while an elderly female healer was carefully washing the wound on his shoulder. Minutes passed, and the healer prepared to bandage Yi Sheng's wound with wide strips of white cloth. She glanced at Zui, her face pale and trembling, and began to speak hesitantly:
"My lady, I've cleaned his wound... Fortunately, it's not too deep. I've applied some ointment as well, but... um..."
Zui raised her head sharply, her ruthless gaze piercing into the woman's eyes as she shouted:
"But what? Speak up already! Don't test my patience—you know the consequences of playing with my mind, Healer Duya!"
Healer Duya, a middle-aged woman, trembled in fear, falling to her knees on the floor. Stammering, she replied:
"My lady, if I've made a mistake, please forgive me... I meant no disrespect. I just wanted to say that to bandage this boy's wound, since he's unconscious, someone needs to lift him and hold him steady so I can wrap the bandage around his shoulder. That's all..."
Zui exhaled deeply and said:
"Well, that's nothing to be scared of. Is there anyone else in this room besides me that you can ask for help? Besides, this boy shielded me from harm—if it weren't for him, that arrow would've struck me. So it's fine. Just tell me what to do, Healer Duya."
Healer Duya bowed and rose from the floor, gesturing for Zui to lift Yi Sheng and bring him to a sitting position. Zui carefully took Yi Sheng's right hand and lifted him. Now their faces were close, directly facing each other. Zui placed Yi Sheng's arm around her neck and wrapped her own right arm around his waist to prevent him from falling. Yi Sheng's calm breaths indicated his unconscious state.
Zui examined Yi Sheng's features from top to bottom: his broad forehead with wheat-colored skin, his large closed eyes with thick lashes lined up like soldiers guarding his eyelids, his average nose, and his ordinary pink lips. His long black hair cascaded over his shoulders.
Healer Duya began wrapping the bandage diagonally around Sheng's shoulder. Zui's gaze fell on the white ribbon tied around Yi Sheng's hair. Suddenly, the ribbon's brightness irritated Zui's eyes, prompting her to raise her left hand to shield them. Yi Sheng stirred weakly, his face contorting in pain as he opened his eyes.
The image before him was blurry at first, then cleared. He saw Zui, her delicate frown visible as she held her hand before her eyes. Simultaneously, Zui's gaze met his.
Healer Duya finished her work and noticed the two staring at each other. She coughed lightly, attempting to clear her throat. Zui snapped out of her thoughts, lowered her hand, and helped Yi Sheng lie down again.
Lowering her head, Healer Duya began to speak:
"My lady, I've finished my work. I'll prepare a herbal decoction to strengthen him, as he's lost a lot of blood and is weak. His bandage will need to be changed again tonight."
Ling Zui nodded, and Healer Duya picked up the wooden tray containing bloodied bandages and a bowl of beige-colored ointment. She bowed and left the room. Yi Sheng averted his gaze from Zui, turning his head to the left. Just as he was about to speak, the sound of the door opening drew both their attention. Li Huan entered, nodding his head in respect. A regal chair materialized in the center of the room. Zui rose from the bed, walked toward the chair, and seated herself. She gestured at Li Huan.
"Well then, tell me what happened. Did you find out who managed to reach the entrance of the Abyss and break the magical barrier forged from my blood, which no one should be able to shatter, to carry out their plan?"
Li Huan cast a brief glance at Yi Sheng, whose bare chest was exposed as he lay on the Dark Lord's bed, staring intently at Zui. Li Huan spun around, turning his back to Yi Sheng, and faced the Dark Lord directly, blocking Yi Sheng's view of her. Lowering his head, he replied:
"When I arrived at the top of the Abyss, the magical barrier was intact, and I found no trace of anyone breaching it, my lord. However, I am still investigating... But there's something that's been troubling me, my lord."
Ling Zui rested her right hand under her chin, her gaze reflective as she stared ahead. She responded:
"What is it? Do you suspect someone?"
Li Huan turned to glance at Yi Sheng, who lay calmly on the bed, staring at the ceiling with an indifferent expression. Approaching him, Li Huan began to speak:
"Tell me—how did you manage to climb the Stairs of Death and shield the Melancholy Night Sovereign? Everyone knows that where the Dark Lord is present, no one can wield their spiritual core or magical skills... Especially not on the Stairs of Death! No one, apart from me, can walk on them or approach the lord unless they possess a unique inner strength...!"
Ling Zui rose from her chair, doubt flickering in her eyes, and stood beside Li Huan, who was towering over Yi Sheng. She turned to Yi Sheng and said:
"Li Huan is right. Tell me—how did you notice the arrow amidst the crowd and then manage to climb the Stairs of Death to protect me?"
Yi Sheng pressed his palms against the mattress beneath him, struggling to sit up with trembling elbows. His face was pale, and large beads of sweat streamed from his forehead down to his temples. Panting, he began to speak:
"Anyone in my place with basic martial and magical skills would have noticed the arrow. You know better than anyone, my lord, that anyone aspiring to become a cultivator—even at the lower, initial levels—must possess heightened senses. Those who make it here are confident in their abilities, just like me, who volunteered to be the first to take the trial. I trust myself and my skills. I had focused my inner energy to enter the magical aura when I sensed an unusual gust of wind from my right. When I turned my head, I saw an arrow glowing with white light heading toward the top of the stairs. I didn't have time to say anything else. I used my concentrated inner energy, which was immensely powerful, along with my martial and magical skills, to fly toward the stairs. The rest, you already know..."
Li Huan, trying to conceal the hatred in his eyes, continued:
"Why didn't you tell me or shout from below so the Dark Lord could be alerted? What were you thinking—that an ordinary arrow could harm them? Have you forgotten that the Dark Lord wields demonic power, and even a fraction of their strength is enough to destroy the world? And yet you think they couldn't protect themselves from a mere arrow?"
Yi Sheng licked his dry lips to moisten them and replied:
"If you believe that was an ordinary arrow, then perhaps you need to expand your studies on magical artifacts, Commander Li Huan."
Li Huan's face turned red with anger as he clenched his fist, ready to retort. But Zui raised her left hand, walked back to her chair, and sat down, her gaze calm as she looked at them.
"This boy is right, Li Huan. That was no ordinary arrow. It managed to pierce the magical barrier I created to protect the Abyss with my own blood. That's enough. Stop arguing. I want you to leave the Abyss of Despair and continue your investigation."
She pointed at Yi Sheng and added:
"And you should rest until tonight when the healer brings your decoction. Your body is weak, and you've lost a lot of blood."
Yi Sheng bows his head deeply and lies down on his mat. Li Huan, filled with surprise and worry, quickly approaches Ling Zui and says:
"But, my lord, how can I leave you alone and exit the abyss? What if someone tries to attack you again?"
Ling Zui, visibly irritated and with exhaustion etched on his face, casts his cold and merciless gaze at Li Huan. Raising his voice slightly, he says:
"When I say enough, I mean no more talking, Li Huan! Since when do you question the commands I give? Have you forgotten who you are and whom you're speaking to? I am the God of Darkness, your master! I have no need for anyone by my side to protect me... Do what I've assigned to you and return. I am awaiting your report."
Closing his eyes, he leans his head against the sharp edge of his throne. Li Huan clenches his fists in fury, casting a look full of hatred at Yi Sheng, who is staring intently at the Dark Sovereign, and then vanishes in an instant. Yi Sheng takes a look around.
The Dark Sovereign's chamber, at first glance, appears like an infinite space, without a ceiling or ordinary walls. Instead, the walls seem to be made of living, shifting shadows—shadows that appear to have glimmering red eyes and emit eerie and disturbing whispers when one approaches them. The floor is smooth and polished, resembling a mirror, reflecting distorted and terrifying images of those who tread upon it; Ling Zui's reflection on this surface bears a devilish grin and tears of black streaming down its face.
In the center of the room stands a throne, seemingly forged from colossal, curved bones, with dark soot swirling around it like a cold mist. Above the throne, a suspended chandelier hangs from enchanted chains, burning with blue, flame-like wisps instead of candles—whispering faintly with no warmth.
The air in the chamber is dense and brimming with an overwhelming energy; every breath feels as though its weight presses heavily upon one's shoulders. Occasionally, there's a scent of burnt metal or decaying flowers, and the sound of droplets dripping from an unknown source echoes, though the origin is never found.
One peculiar phenomenon is that whenever someone enters the chamber, their shadow is cast upon the opposite wall. However, this shadow moves differently than its owner, sometimes faster, sometimes slower, and even appears to act with independent intentions. ... Yi Sheng, after examining the room, once more glances at Ling Zui and recalls the moment when the Sovereign opened his eyes and he saw his face clearly and up close. A faint smile appears on Yi Sheng's lips as he murmurs to himself:
"I think I've seen him somewhere before... We seem to be the same age."
Suddenly, he remembers the moment Ling Zui covered his face with his hands, and his slight frown deepens:
"What did he mean by being troubled? Could it be he sensed my inner energy?!"
He shakes his head quickly, attempting to dispel negative thoughts from his mind. Taking a deep breath, he tries to roll to his left when Ling Zui's voice takes him by surprise:
"You can't sleep on that side. Have you forgotten your shoulder is wounded?! Turn your back to me and sleep on your right side."
Yi Sheng, startled, looks at Ling Zui, whose head is still rested against the throne, with his eyes closed. Under his breath, he whispers:
"How did he know?! Was he paying attention to me all along? Could it be he heard what I was saying?!"
Pulling the black satin blanket up to his neck, Yi Sheng gazes at the countless stars sparkling in the sky before closing his eyes.
Ling Zui murmurs under his breath:
"That foolish boy… How dare he claim we're the same age and that he knows me!"
Mo Manor
Ling Feng paced the length of the secret chamber, his anger evident. The Grand Master, along with Lord Yu and Lord Ling, sat on chairs around a wooden table, immersed in thought. At the sound of the door opening, all heads turned toward it. In the doorway stood Mo Qing, carrying a tray of wine and several white porcelain cups. Entering with a smile, he approached the table, set down the tray, and took a seat on one of the chairs. Pouring wine into the cups, he placed each one in front of the others. When he filled the last cup, he looked up in surprise at Feng, who was still pacing the room angrily. Holding a cup, he walked over to Feng, blocking his path, and asked:
"May I ask what you're doing, Brother Feng? Tonight is a time for joy and celebration. We successfully assisted Brother Sheng in his mission. Everything went smoothly without any complications, and we weren't exposed. So, what are you upset about?"
Feng stormed over to the table, sank into one of the chairs, buried his head in his hands, and replied sorrowfully:
"I wish everything was as simple as you say, Mo Qing. Yes, our plan succeeded, but I shouldn't have trusted Fuyi. The arrow was supposed to be aimed at the top of the stairs, but he targeted Zui instead. If... if it had hit her, what would I have done?"
Mo Qing returned to the table, placed a cup of wine in front of Feng, and, smiling, poured another for himself:
"Your worry is misplaced, Brother Feng. The arrow didn't hit the Dark Lord, did it? Even if it had, I'm sure it wouldn't have been a big deal. She's now the Goddess of Darkness and Demons, with immense power within her. At most, it might've left a minor wound. You shouldn't be angry at Brother Fuyi. He must've been anxious in that situation and just made a slight mistake. I'm sure he had no other intent."
Raising his cup, he added:
"Let's stop talking about this. We should celebrate our first victory. It was all possible because of Brother Yi Sheng. So, here's to Yi Sheng's success and triumph!"
Lord Yu and Lord Ling raised their cups, and the Grand Master pushed Feng's cup toward him. Feng lifted his head, picked up the cup, and, though traces of anger and worry lingered on his face, joined the others in clinking their cups. Meanwhile, Fuyi, watching them from the doorway, clenched his fists in rage and muttered under his breath:
"Laugh and celebrate all you want... Soon, I'll ensure you face something beyond your wildest imagination."
A devious, demonic smile spread across his face. A hand fell on his shoulder, and Fuyi turned his head to see Zhao. Scowling, he snapped:
"What is it now? You startled me! I thought someone had caught me. Why are you sneaking around like that? Speak up, what happened?"
Zhao bowed and said:
"News has come from the manor. Lady Chen has escaped."
Fuyi's expression twisted, but after a few seconds, a wicked smile reappeared on his face. He murmured softly:
"Good... I've been waiting for an opportunity like this. Now I can finally execute my plan."
Zhao, surprised, was about to say something, but Fuyi placed a finger on Zhao's lips, silencing him, and led him away.
Abyss of Despair - Room of the Melancholy Night Sovereign
Yi Sheng opened his eyes and looked around. Zui's chair was empty. Struggling to rise, he glanced at his bandage, noticing that part of it wrapped around his waist had come undone. Reaching back with his right hand, he tried to tuck the loose end into the upper part but failed, causing pain in his shoulder. As he attempted again, Ling Zui's voice stopped him:
"What are you doing? That'll reopen your wound!"
Yi Sheng turned to see Ling Zui standing behind him, her hands clasped behind her back, watching him. Zui smirked, her gaze cold and emotionless, as she continued:
"You still don't understand that I am the God of Darkness and can appear wherever and whenever I wish? So why do you look at me with such surprise, as if wondering how I suddenly arrived here?"
Yi Sheng lowered his head:
"Forgive me, my lord. I'm still not used to this. I meant no disrespect."
Zui walked to her chair, sat down, and fixed her gaze on Yi Sheng:
"You mentioned that your family abandoned you and that you lost your mother, correct?"
Before Yi Sheng could respond, the sound of the door interrupted them. Healer Duya appeared, carrying a tray with fresh bandages and a bowl of steaming green liquid. Bowing, she approached the bed and handed the bowl to Yi Sheng:
"My lord, after drinking this decoction, his inner strength will return, and his bleeding, which stopped long ago, will remain under control. Fortunately, his wound wasn't too deep. In two days, he'll only need to change his bandage, and then he'll be fully healed."
Zui nodded in approval and gestured for Duya to leave. Duya hesitated and said:
"But my lord, who will change his bandage? He can't do it alone; I need to assist him."
Yi Sheng, having finished his decoction, placed the bowl on the tray on the bed and looked up at Zui. Ling Zui rose, approached Yi Sheng, handed the tray to Duya, and sat beside him, saying:
"I'll help him myself. You may leave, Duya."
Duya's eyes widened in shock. She hesitated for a few seconds until Zui raised her head and shot her a furious glare. Terrified, Duya bowed repeatedly and quickly left. Yi Sheng placed his hands on the edge of the bed, his head lowered. Ling Zui spoke softly:
"Turn your back to me and lie down."
Yi Sheng turned his back to Zui:
"It's a great honor for me that the God of Darkness cares for me and personally tends to my wound. Our conversation was interrupted—what question do you have about my family?"
Zui, unwrapping the old bandage, replied:
"You told me your past was similar to mine and that you could prove it. From the moment I can remember, I've been the God of Darkness, feeling the demonic bone within me. I recall nothing of my parents or family. How do you know about my past?"
Yi Sheng turned to face Zui, sitting opposite her, and looked into her eyes, speaking with determination:
"That's right. I said I could prove it. Are you ready to confront your past?"
Zui, confused, was about to respond when she heard the voice of the demon within her:
"Ling Zui, don't listen to him. How could he know about your past? You've always been the God of Darkness, born with the demonic bone. You are my child and have no family. He's a liar. Don't let him distract you from your purpose. Kill him!"
Suddenly, Zui's eyes turned red, her crown fell to the side, her hair loosened and turned crimson, and her hand wrapped around Yi Sheng's neck. Both were suspended in the air. Yi Sheng struggled, tears welling in his eyes, as he tried to speak:
"What are you doing? Please don't kill me, Zui! I can help you find your past—I'll prove it!"
He gasped for breath, his vision blurring. His gaze fell on Zui's right forearm, where a thin, white scar emitted a faint glow. With great effort, he raised his left hand and grasped Zui's wrist, pressing the scar. Zui's eyes returned to normal, and both fell to the ground. Ling Zui lost consciousness, her head resting on Yi Sheng's stomach. Her mask ribbon had come undone. Yi Sheng slowly sat up, placed Zui's head on his lap, and reached out to gently remove her mask. He saw her face, blood streaming from a wound on the right side.
As Yi Sheng attempted to wipe the blood from Zui's face, Li Huan appeared in the center of the room with his flaming spear, glaring at him angrily:
"How dare you harm her? I'll deal with you myself! You deserve to die, you treacherous fool!"
Yi Sheng tried to speak, but Li Huan struck the ground with the end of his spear. Yi Sheng raised his hand to shield his face...