《My Goddess is Good at Pretending》 -Power Rank-

Chapter -1: -Power Rank-

+ Strength Rank - Aura Color - Cultivation Realm [Low to High] + 1st Rank - White - Qi Refinement 2nd Rank - Grey - Foundation Establishment 3rd Rank - Red - Core Formation 4th Rank - Orange - Golden Core = Elite 5th Rank - Yellow - Nascent Soul = Master 6th Rank - Green - Spirit Transformation = Grand Master 7th Rank - Blue - Void Tempering = Saint 8th Rank - Indigo - Form Synthesis = Emperor 9th Rank - Violet - Transcending Tribtion = Demi God 10th Rank - Golden - Great Ascension = Deity ---[ Godhood ]--- 11th Rank - Human God/Immortal 12th Rank - True God/Immortal 13th Rank - Earth God/Immortal 14th Rank - Heavenly God/Immortal 15th Rank - Ancient God/Immortal 16th Rank - God/Immortal Lord 17th Rank - God/Immortal King 18th Rank - God/Immortal Emperor 19th Rank - Celestial God/Immortal 20th Rank - Supreme God/Immortal [Stages: Early, Mid, Late, Peak] ------------------------------------- + Talent Rank [Low to High] + -1 Star = Super Trash 0 Star = Trash 1 Star = Common 2 Stars = Rare 3 Stars = Super Rare (SR) 4 Stars = Specially Super Rare (SSR) 5 Stars = Ultra Rare (UR) 6 Stars = Legendary 7 Stars = Heavenly ------------------------------------- + Relic/Artifact/Item/Weapon/Material/Technique/Treasure Rank [Low to High] + F Rank - Trash-tier E Rank - Common-tier D Rank - Low-tier C Rank - Mid-tier B Rank - High-tier A Rank - Top-tier S Rank - Super-tier SS Rank - Mythical-tier SSS Rank - Heavenly-tier/God-tier Chapter 1: Heavenly Star Fall

Chapter 1: Heavenly Star Fall

In the middle of autumn, under the starry night sky, a colorful star fell into a Northern Realm''s mountain region. It obliterated everything within tens of kilometers radius. Strangely, not a single noise could be heard. Almost everyone on the continent witnessed the devastating earthquake and super bright light explosion. It was as if doomsday had arrived. The night was more dazzling than the day, giving the impression the sun was falling and ending all life. However, it onlysted for a few minutes. Many major forces from various renowned backgrounds were mobilized to investigate what happened. Yet, everyone was shocked to find the Northern Realm''s mountain region intact, as if that night''s catastrophe was just an illusion. It could be a treasure from heaven or a cmity from outer space. No one could even tell the exact location where the star fell. The locals were also perplexed about what was happening in their territory. However, that didn''t mean they would permit the others to invade under the pretext of investigation. The battle broke out, and heavy casualties fell within that deadly week until some influential experts intervened andplicated things. Ultimately, the major forces from other regions were chased away and inevitably returned empty-handed. That night''s phenomenon was known as the Heavenly Star Fall. Two years had passed since then, and no one could unravel the mystery. A girl in unique and stylized clothing inspired by the colors of a shrine priestess traditional outfit was reading a book at the humble abode on a peak of one of the mountains in the Northern Realm''s mountain region. §¯§Ör f§Ö§Ñtur§Ö? §â§à??§Ö??§Öd §Ñ §ã§Ört§Ñ?n ?h§Ö§Ön unl?k§Ö §Ñn§å §àth§Ör jade-like beauty. §¯§Ör gentle, angelic b§Ö§Ñut?ful f§Ñ§ã§Ö §Ñnd w§Öll body §âr§à§â§àrt?§àn?, §Öv§Ör§åth?ng w§Ñ? §â§Örf§Ö§ãtl§å b§Ñl§Ñn§ã§Öd, §Ñ? ?f ?h§Ö w§Ñ? §Ñ w§àrk §àf §Ñrt, the God''s masterpiece. Her long midnight-ck hair glistened with a purplish hue under the sunlight, caressed by the gentle breeze. A big red ribbon tied like a butterfly adorned her hair as an essory. Her wless white skin seemed to glow under the warm sunlight. She curved her sweet cherry lips into a smile. "Heavenly Star Fall, huh..." The shrine priestess closed the book and hugged it while looking up at the brilliant autumn sky. Her purplish-blue colored eyes sparkled with curiosity. A few momentster, she put the book onto herp. Rather than calling it a book, it looked more like a grimoire. Silver was the base cover material, but the artistic cover and frame were made of gold with two small wing ornaments on the open side. A symbol resembling a praying little angel adorned the cover''s center. She opened her grimoire to check the quest she had justpleted this morning. [Build the shrine''s defensive wall using silver ash granite][Reward: Home Super Defense+] [Complete] [The agent of the White Realm is satisfied with your diligence] "Hmm-mm~ It took more than a month of hard work. Thankfully, the kind spirits gave a helping hand. This ce will be much safer now, and I can sleep peacefully tonight." The shrine priestess felt satisfied by the quest giver''sment. She then flipped through a few pages to check the mission list. [Conquer the ancient heavenly tomb in the secret realm of the extreme north][Reward: Heavenly Legacy] "That''s impossible, right? That kind of ce is beyond dangerous for me." [Tame the ck fire dragon in the Dark Hell Vulcano in the Demon Realm][Reward: Powerful pet] "Uhh, that looks like suicide. I am a mortal shrine priestess, and what can I do with a powerful dragon in the distantnd?" [Purify a desperate cursed creature on the Sacred Mountain][Reward: Reliable subordinate] ...(read more) The shrine priestess checked other missions by sliding her grimoire''s paper page like a screen. However, she came back to the third top mission because she thought a particr quest suited her capabilities the best. "..." The shrine priestess pondered for a moment as if considering something. She then made up her mind and chose to take that quest. "Now, this looks like a proper job to me. A mission to purify a lost ghost, right?" The shrine priestess went to prepare for her mountain exploration to purify a lost ghost. She put all necessary equipment in her secret storage pouch, then brought her Gohei... her reliable wooden wand to cleanse, bless, or exorcise anything. She sped her hands in prayer in front of a six-winged Goddess statue within the shrine before leaving. "Um?" The shrine priestess nced back because she felt someone was watching her, but she could see no one there. The powerful deity, He-Dao, had left a year ago and never came to visit again. He helped her a lot that year, but she became the only human on this mountain since then. There was only a garden of colorful flowers, vegetables, and fruit trees. The Sacred Sakura she nted eighteen months ago was also there, next to the shrine, swaying slightly in the wind. However, the sakura tree seemed to send her off. The shrine priestess smiled and waved her hand in farewell. She locked the entrance gate and headed down the mountain, humming a cheerful song. She no longer had to worry about any intruders. The three-meter tall and one-meter thick, sturdy defensive wall would do the job perfectly. The shrine priestess explored the Sacred Mountain like she was in her backyard. Unfortunately, after several hours of gruelling exploration, she still couldn''t find her mission''s objective. She was already tired from walking, but no ghost trace was found. "It''s almost dusk, and I can''t find it. The mission is merely information. I have explored the entire Sacred Mountain... am I out of luck?" The shrine priestess muttered as she nced left and right. She could find a few docile beasts and poor demons, but no corrupted ghost could be found anywhere. The nature spirits didn''t even see any strange creatures nearby. Because she was unlucky, she decided to perform her monthly ritual to the sacred being beneath the mountain. The secret ground where no one but she could enter. The ce where the greatest mystery about Heavenly Star Fall was buried. "Has the shrine priestess left yet?" "Oh, hell, yeah. The mountain guardian''s aura is beyond scary." "Tch, I can trample upon the masses of people, but that human girl is... her aura scares me." "This mountain is extremely rich in top-tier quality qi. Living here can greatly boost my cultivation, which no other ce can offer. It''s better to behave when encountering her and living here all my life, rawr!" "The shrine priestess seems to be looking for something, right? Is it about that silver ash stone again? Shouldn''t we help her again, and then we can expect a rewardter?" "Honorabledy seems to be looking for a creature like a corrupted ghost around here." "Ghosts to exorcise? So, it''s just a routine patrol. They stand no chance to approach this Sacred Mountain." "But, those damned elemental spirits monopolize the opportunity for two months! Her house defensive wall is done, and we must snatch our luck tomorrow!" "Yeah, this is our chance to overthrow those elemental spirits." "Hum." The so-called docile beasts and poor demons came out of the bushes when the shrine priestess could no longer be seen. Actually, their first meeting with the shrine priestess was so abysmal. They mistook her for prey, but they got beaten in return. After several exchanges, they could only behave well before the shrine priestess. Nobody could overpower the shrine priestess. Everything that dared toe closer to the mountain guardian with malice would be suppressed to mortal level, without exception, and beaten up with no mercy using the holy wooden rod. No one dared to tantly challenge the shrine priestess'' authority since then unless they had a death wish. The beasts and demons of the Sacred Mountain were so well-behaved in front of the shrine priestess. However, the priestess didn''t know their true intentions were something profound. They would look for every opportunity to expect some gifts. Chapter 2: Sacred Ground

Chapter 2: Sacred Ground

''I am a wandering golden tiger who loves exploring mountains and hunting good-looking prey.'' ''I can''t say I''m the strongest, but I''m not a weak fish in a calm pond. I was hunting an attractive grizzle deer for dinner this afternoon when I unknowingly arrived at this mountain. One of the ces where the powerful demon overlord resides.'' ''That is the rumour, but I dare not test my luck. Despite being curious about the rumoured invisible demon, I rushed away when I saw a pink tree at the mountain''s peak.'' ''However, who would have thought I would encounter the mentioned invisible demon here.'' A three-meter golden tiger fell to the ground, unable to run before a particr human girl. He thought this human girl was easy prey, but he was being preyed upon instead. Not to mention the suffocating aura and sense of oppression that made it hard to breathe. He would be killed! Since he was in danger, he had to beg for his life and ask for mercy. Thus, he removed his cloth bag tied on his back and shoved it to the human girl as an offering. "..." The shrine priestess was at a loss for words. She shot an arrow with strong anesthetic poison at the tiger''s leg because the other party attacked her. Thanks to a nature spirit''s early warning, she managed to easily subdue the big tiger. Who would have thought the big tiger would present a bundle of something to her. He even whimpered with a pitiful gaze like a big kitten begging attention. "Well, hello there, big tiger. This is the first time I''ve seen you around here... Are you a new overlord around this mountain? Don''t hunt as you please because I''m not easy prey. No, next time, okay?" The shrine priestess lowered her bow, and her hunting tendencies died down. She wondered what she would do with the big tiger. Perhaps, she would just let him go. *Whimper* *Whimper* The big tiger looked scared as she approached. "What is this? Fresh, well-cut meat? Are you also a civilized beast?" The shrine priestess was surprised when she saw the contents of the cloth bundle. No ordinary tiger would take the meat home like this. The big tiger felt slightly relieved because the human girl''s oppressive aura had significantly decreased. Thus, he whimpered again for mercy because he couldn''t utter anything strangely. "You want to give this to me?" The shrine priestess felt conflicted, but she epted the kindness after the tiger nodded his head repeatedly. "I''ll only take half a kilogram; you can take the rest home. You shouldn''t attack me next time, okay? Or, you could end up as tiger skin rug." The shrine priestess took some well-sliced meat and stored it in her storage pouch hidden in her obi belt. She plucked her arrow from the big tiger''s leg, poured the antidote, and then walked away. "Phew..." The big tiger could finally heave a sigh of relief. He was still alive... He would have to think twice if he crossed the path with the seemingly easy target again. Sometimes, there was a mighty being that looked like an ordinary mortal. The oppressive aura disappeared, and he suppressed the anesthetic poison with his qi as soon as possible. He took his cloth bag and hurriedly left the vicinity before that human girl changed her mind. ''Eh? Am I seeing it wrong? That big tiger runs on his two legs? He''s not an ordinary beast but a tigerman!'' The shrine priestess rubbed her eyes when she saw the big tiger was running for his dear life. A few momentster, the shrine priestess arrived at a hidden cave entrance gate at the base of a remote cliff at the foot of the mountain. She looked around, then went inside. *Zap* She was teleported the moment she stepped into the cave. It was a spacious, in underground hall illuminated by the glitter of blue crystals strewn everywhere. A sealed ground with no entrance or exit. Only she could get in there somehow. Some rock debris was scattered in the surrounding, and zigzag-shaped paper streamers were bound around them. The shrine priestess looked at the grand stone altar in the hall''s center. A three-meter spherical kaleidoscopic white crystal floated above it, exuding a sacred aura that made anyone feel deep reverence and the urge to kneel. The shrine priestess came over and knelt down. She burned seven incense sticks before sping her hands in prayer. She could not see the sacred being''s presence sealed within the crystal, but she remembered the event when she first came here with He-Dao two years ago. It was still vivid in her mind... the figure of a heavenly six-winged Goddess in a tattered white-gold divine dress. The injured divine being was sealed within the kaleidoscopic white crystal by the shackles of a thick, life-threatening cloud of evil energy. "!?" The shrine priestess gasped as several memories came to her mind. The hazy things shrouded in mist gradually became clear. She could regain some of her memories every time she came to pay homage to the sacred being sealed within the kaleidoscopic white crystal. An event about a gruesome battle and an enormous struggle against an army of curse demons flowed into her mind. It was like her life experience but a scary war for her toprehend. ''I finally know my name. But, Ruvoid... what kind of monster is that?'' The shrine priestess held her head and panted heavily. After she regted her breath, she felt an inexplicable feeling from within, telling her to leave as soon as possible. Therefore, she bowed respectfully to the kaleidoscopic white crystal. She turned around and walked away to stand on the magic circle next to the altar. At that moment, she caught a glimpse of arge gemstone buried in the rubble in a corner. She was sure that thing wasn''t therest month. "Fairy?" The shrine priestess could read the carving between the rubble gaps. Yet, she was teleported out before she couldprehend anything. ''Ah, anyway... So, my name is Ely. Finally, I have a proper name. He-Dao and his aplices can no longer refer to me with those weird nicknames if we meet again.'' The shrine priestess looked into the dark cave. She wished to regain more memories and discover more about the truth of her existence. Unfortunately, she could only visit the sacred ground for enlightenment every thirty days and stayed inside for five minutes. No less, or else she would be ejected without any prior notice. ''I''d better be back before it gets darker.'' Ely looked up at the twilight sky and rushed off up the mountain. "O wind spirit-" Ely was about to ask the wind spirit to help her fly to the top of the mountain, but she heard a strange rustling sound. She also could feel an unusual aura simr to an evil ghost''s. A little wind spirit came upon her call, but Ely had not yet given anymand. Thus, the wind spirit could only wait patiently beside her. "Hmm?" Ely could confirm that the evil aura was in the north, a breath capable of making a demonic ghost pale inparison. "O wind spirit, please seal any noise around my surrounding." Ely whispered to the nearby wind spirit. She then rushed quickly to investigate the source of the evil aura. It only took her six breaths to arrive at the location. A pitch-ck devilish-looking rotten slime was writhing on the ground, digesting some herbs. "Lost Prayer." Ely summoned her silver-gold grimoire out of thin air above her palm. She checked the mission she was about toplete. Her objective was the desperate cursed creature, and vo, a blue marker appeared above the devilish-looking slime since it was nearby. "Poor thing... I will free you from suffering." Ely took out her wooden wand and jumped down from the tree. "Purification." Ely threw eight purification talismans at the devilish-looking slime. She raised her wooden wand and performed a purification ritual. *Swoosh* All talismans were scorched, but the devilish-looking slime still looked threatening. No effect urred, and Ely was stunned in bewilderment. The devilish-looking slime noticed her presence, and Ely took a step back. She nced at her wooden wand and remembered it was one of the top-tier items for purification. *Blob* The devilish-looking slime jumped up, about to swallow the human girl. Yet, Ely was swift to dodge and immediately released her counterattack. "Why can''t you be purified ording to procedure!? My eight precious purification talismans vanished without causing any effect. I''ll beat the crap out of you with this holy wooden wand and see if you can be purified!" Ely beat the slime into oblivion with her wooden wand. Her simple attacks caused some purification effect on the devilish-looking slime. Once the evil energy vanished, the devilish-looking slime became pensive and enveloped in pure white light. Ely took a few steps back to see what would happen next. "I''ve never seen this phenomenon before. Purification is sessful, but what''s with this rampaging energy? I help it control the energy flow with my innate skill. Let''s do this." Ely stretched out her hand and tried to calm the turbulent energy flow within the glowing slime. The light dimmed, and the energy turbulence died down. It was just that a human-like figure with long golden blonde hair emerged from the purified slime and fell down toward Ely. "Oh goodness, how did a horrible devilish-looking slime suddenly be a young human? Eh, an elf?" Ely caught the young girl by reflex. She found this young girl''s ears were pointy, and she felt conflicted about what to do. Chapter 3: First Disciple

Chapter 3: First Disciple

Ely put the young elf on the ground as she was still not quite sure what had just happened. She went to check on the slime''s remains, but it had be like a mess of pitch-ck mashed jelly. It was just a normal mud slime a few seconds ago. It was just an inexplicable fleeting feeling. But, she felt as if the cursed energy she had just purified was strangely familiar. Her memories of Ruvoid and an army of curse demons came to her mind all of a sudden. "Desperate cursed creature, huh. And that young elf... Even though her condition was so dposed and she became this kind of creature, she turned back after the curse was obliterated and her energy stabilized? What should I do?" Ely stored all of the pitch-ck jellies in her storage pouch to research itter, then looked at the unconscious young elf. She still had to exin the situation to that elf with a reasonable story. That way, she could recruit the mentioned reliable subordinate and gain this elf''s loyalty. "U-uhm..." The young elf flinched slightly and opened her sky-blue eyes slowly. Her memory was jumbled, and her vision was still blurry, but the vague figure dressed in red and white was visible in her sight. "Are you awake?" The gentle, soul-soothing voice sounded like a clear bell that made the young elf sober and felt peace. The young elf''s vision gradually became clear. She propelled her bare body to sit. She looked at her dainty hands and checked her body as if she couldn''t believe it was real. "Eh? My body... how can that be? I''ve turned back?" Ely sat down on a nearby fallen tree trunk. She then opened her mouth to answer the young elf''s confusion as of she was a sage. "The curse that befell you has been purified. Now you are free, back to normal." "Are you the one who saved me? What is the curse?" The young elf looked at her savior with immense gratitude. Her savior was a graceful girl with long ck hair who possessed the appearance of an angel from heaven who could make everyone feel captivated with deep reverence, dressed in a traditional outfit and exuding a faint holy aura. The angel''s gorgeous appearance and features seemed too perfect for this world, but it was present in front of her. Even though her savior belonged to th§Ö ?§Ñm§Ö g§Önd§Ör, ?h§Ö couldn''t help but be awestruck and attracted. "Yes, that curse, hmm... a cruel curse that was unleashed upon you, the hero''s descendant." Ely felt a bit overwhelmed in exining what she wasn''t sure about herself. Nevertheless, she recalled her newly regained memories and could use the so-called Ruvoid for reference. "Huh?" The young elf blinked her eyes with both confusion and wonder. "It''s natural to be surprised, but you already know that, right? About how you were cursed and what you''ve been through." Ely responded casually, then opened her grimoire. She prayed to it to show her information about the particr evil demon scheme, demonic cults, demonizations, or something simr. "Have you ever heard of the heroes who fought the Heavenly Demons and the Demon God of Curse? The folktales and untold mysteries about them... it''s all true." Ely found what she was looking for, then looked at the young elf with a resolved gaze. She would recruit this young elf at all costs. *Gasp* The young elf gasped and widened her eyes. "Those ancient Heavenly Demons were capable of inflicting curses on anyone and anything. When the heroes managed to eliminate those demons, an even more terrifying curse struck the heroes who saved the world. The curse impacted the blood of heroes'' descendants for generations. That was what turned you into a slime-like mass of rotting flesh." Ely narrowed her eyes slightly as if she felt a bit troubled. Everything she said was abination of the story given by her grimoire. She then continued. "However, a group of people distorted history and buried the truth. They turned the descendants of heroes into objects of contempt, something like demonic possession." "!?" The young elf flinched slightly, feeling everything be clear. She never once doubted her savior''s words because she knew one thing was obvious. So, the heroes received a heavenly curse after saving the world, and their descendants would fall into demonic possession in time. That was the great truth about why she was thrown into the abyss by her tribe. She once witnessed the terror when she slowly turned into a mindless monster. The young elf grasped her head while shivering from excessive fear. However, a glimmer of light came to her mind upon a realization. If the heroes failed to deal with the heavenly curse, then what about someone who could eliminate that curse and restore the desperate, pitiful ones like herself back to normal? She was no longer a monster but an elf. She had been saved by this omnipotent saviour! The story of the heroes who saved the world was known to almost everyone, but no one knew about the cruel truth. The descendants of heroes were scattered all over the world, and she definitely wasn''t the only one who suffered the curse for having the blood of heroes. "And the mastermind behind everything is... I, I can''t tell you yet." Ely nced alternately at her grimoire and the young elf several times. She would use the so-called Heavenly Demon tale and information from her grimoire as a convincing backstory. "Who are they? Please tell me." The young elf crawled closer, staring at her savior with great determination and a strong thirst for the revtion of truth. "Then I will tell you. They cane in many shapes, names, and backgrounds. There are many demonic cults in this world. The world is so vast, and they can be anywhere. Although different, they have the same goal. They n to resurrect the Heavenly Demon God to this world." Ely closed her grimoire, and it flew behind her before mysteriously disappearing into thin air. "!!!" The young elf gritted her teeth. "They will note onto the stage easily. My wish is to stop the evil from the shadows." Ely grasped her hand on herp, looking at the young elf with the signature look of an omnipotent master. "Maybe, right... My name is El-, no, my name is Miko, a shrine priestess of the Sacred Mountain." Ely decided to use a stage name because it would be useful forter use. "Lady Miko?" The young elf looked at the shrine priestess before her with deep reverence as she could see her savior emitting an astonishing holy aura. Her savior was a holy deity! "This journey may be difficult, but I still have to carry out my duty. O hero''s descendant, are you ready to walk that path with me?" Ely stared at the young elf''s sky-blue eyes, expressing her intention to recruit the other party. "This disease, no, this curse... Ever since this curse took over me, I lost everything. If that is your wish, I will dedicate my life to you. Then, put the perpetrators to death." The young elf looked at her hands, then grasped her belief in ce. Ely stretched out her hand and smiled faintly. The young elf then took her hand. "Our enemies may be powerful ones with strong influence. Many people are controlled by them without knowing the truth, but we can''t forgive anyone who gets in our way. We should find other descendants of heroes, then recruit them." The young elf stood up but still grasped her savior''s hand. She brought her face closer to burn her savior''s angelic face into her memory. "Eh? Ah, yes." Ely was pleased. This young elf was convinced, and the other party established a promise to serve her. She finally got a reliable subordinate, right? "While expanding the organization, we also have to create a base. We also have to raise a lot of money." The young elf grasped her savior hand with both hands. "Yes, but don''t overdo it." Ely nodded slightly. She felt a bit overwhelmed because her first subordinate was so ambitious and serious about the story she had told just now. ''Uh-huh? Am I telling the right story earlier? The background story is mixed up a bit between the other world''s situation and this world''s tale, right? I actually never lie in my life. What should I do? I messed things up...'' Ely broke out in a cold sweat. She then took out a cloak to cover the young elf''s bare body. "Then our organization''s name is Guardian of Dream. And your name is- Err, do you have a name?" "I don''t have a name. Please grant me a name." The young elf shook her head as she decided to leave her past self. Ely thought of a name, and something somewhat memorable came to mind. "Then, from now on... your name is Gabrie. My first disciple (subordinate)." "Gabrie, greet master." Gabrie knelt like a knight before the supreme ruler. Chapter 4: Humble Abode

Chapter 4: Humble Abode

This was known as Quadtria, the extremely vast world that was destroyed and reformed twice throughout recorded ancient history. Quad represented the four worlds, and tria described the three world''sws. Thest world''s destruction urred ten thousand years ago. No one could tell what happened before the world''s destruction based solely on existing historical relics. However, many immortals and godly beings perished in that era to eliminate the so-called Heavenly Demon. It was recorded in the ancient Bible. They were known as the world''s heroes, and it was amon folktale among the people. This world was known as Terra World, a part of the four worlds. The continents were separated by seas, and each of them was divided into several different realms. Only the mighty powerhouse with abundant resources could cross the world and pass through the extremely vast ocean. ''I''ve read the ancient Bible before, and I know the blood of heroes flows in my body. Those who survived the great destruction suffered a curse. And their bloodline was also cursed by the Heavenly Demon.'' ''That makes sense, and it all bes clear now. The heroes didn''t die from their lifespan running out but from a curse! If so, how about my savior? She lifted the curse easily and even knew so much about historical mysteries. She might be the true hero who is still alive from that era? Or, perhaps, she was the deity herself, an omnipotent Goddess!?'' Gabrie was lost in thought as she stared at her savior''s back. Her savior''s long midnight-ck hair swayed to the right and left as they walked up the mountain, but a shadowy thing suddenly came closer from behind. "!?" Gabrie was rmed and put up a defensive stance. She widened her eyes upon the sight of a ghost covered in a malevolent yellow aura. The ghost was a floating dreadful demonic head. Gabrie turned pale and trembled due to evil energy in close proximity. She knew she was no match against a 5th Rank evil ghost, but she would protect her savior in an emergency. *p* Ely smacked the ghost into smithereens with her wooden wand. The ghost perished under the moonlight and disappeared into energy particles. "There are still brazen ghosts who dare to challenge the shrine priestess? Are you already tired of living?" Ely took out a purification talisman and red at the surrounding wisps. "!?" Gabrie and the ghosts were stunned to see how the shrine priestess eliminated a 5th Rank ghost with no effort. The surrounding ghosts were still formless, but they immediately fled in fear. They hade here because of a mysterious, alluring evil energy. Yet, a terrifying human-like figure was there to await their arrival. ''Oh, they flew away at my petty intimidation. Even though I''ve purified and eliminated ghosts many times, it''s still scary if they take on a hideous form. Not to mention, they numbered in the dozens. What''s with their arrival just now? Do they want to take over this Sacred Mountain?'' Ely breathed a sigh of relief. She was the one who would have fled if the ghost invaders chose to gang up on her at once. "It''s getting darker. Let''s go straight home." Ely grasped her young subordinate''s hand, then whispered softly to the wind spirit for help. The wind spirit received themand. It immediately carried the shrine priestess and the young elf through the dark forest and flew straight to the top of the Sacred Mountain. "!?" Gabrie clutched her saving arm. She thought she might fall. She once again looked at her savior''s face. Her savior possessed no cultivation base, and she couldn''t even see any aura color. For a nce, she thought her savior was just an ordinary mortal. Regardless, her qualifications seemed just too low to assess her savior''s strength. "Is this your first time experiencing the sensation of flying? Don''t be afraid, you won''t fall. The wind spirit is really considerate." Ely was amused. She was also afraid the first time she experienced being carried by the wind spirit flying into the sky. "..." Gabrie couldn''t see the spirit in question. Therefore, she could only look at her savior''s angelic face in a trance as if she wished to burn it to her memory. Her savior''s gentle expression under the moonlight fascinated her, but she immediately averted her gaze in embarrassment. They were so close right now, and her savior''s pleasant scent truly soothed one''s soul. They arrived at a fortified humble abode at Sacred Mountain''s peak a whileter. Ely was preparing dinner, but Gabrie was gaping in amazement at whaty in the courtyard. Those fruits and vegetables in the garden gave off an aura she had never seen before. Yet, she was sure they were top-tier materials. The flowers and herbs looked beautiful and eye-catching, but they were the highest-grade elixirs, and she was sure of it. Not to mention the shining crystals scattered around the courtyard. Those orbs were obviously high-quality treasures, yet they were only used for gardenmps. Each and every material in the courtyard was a treasure of the highest quality. Thend was so fertile, and the air was as fresh as the breath of another world. Gabrie once again wondered how magnificent her savior''s life was. It could be considered a luxury life beyond mortal measure. *Swoosh* The gentle breeze caressed Gabrie''s long blonde hair. The sakura petals fell onto the ground, attracting the young elf''s attention. She went pensive while staring at the sakura tree as if she had an epiphany. This humble abode was indeed a heaven on earth. "Gab-chan? Are you fascinated by the Sacred Sakura? This tree was only half my heightst year, but now it is taller than the wall." Ely came over with a tray full of food. Gabrie snapped out of her reverie when the delicious aroma that roused her appetite assaulted her nostrils. She immediately helped her savior prepare cutlery on the table near the sakura tree. "Please have a taste. This is an easy, creamy venison with cheese~ A kind tiger shared some with me this afternoon." Ely used chopsticks to put the meat into Gabrie''s rice bowl. Gabrie wiped her droll, then looked down at a pair of small, thin, tapered wood sticks in her hand. She tried to use this cutlery by copying her savior, but it wasn''t easy to use. "Please use a spoon." Ely took the nearby spoon and gave it to Gabrie. Gabrie took a bit. The warm cheese seemed to melt in her mouth, and the creamy, juicy meat indulged her tongue in the richness of the spices. A surge of pure qi energy flowed into her body like a wild wave, and she surfed through it under the warm summer sun. She was blown away andnded on a soft meat bed filled with creamy cheese. The sensation was spectacr, and she felt it was her life''s best meal. She had unknowingly devoured her food with gusto like a starving person. Unfortunately, she could only eat one serving because her stomach couldn''t digest more than that. She feared her body would explode because of the enormous energy in this single serving of high-quality food. Gabrie immediately put her fingers together and ced her hands on her tummy for a quick meditation. She had to channel her qi to her meridians and stabilize the flow immediately. She broke through from 2nd Rank Late Stage to 3rd Rank Early Stage in one go. "Do you have a stomachache, Gab-chan? You ate without saying a prayer and eating without table manners is not good. I''ll let it pass now, but I''ll teach you the proper etiquetteter, okay? My disciple must be elegant." Ely put her cheeks on her palms. She smiled and advised her first disciple like a mother to her young daughter. She thought Gabrie was pitiful and starving, but she could not tolerate behavior without manners. "Yes, please teach me, Lady Miko." Gabrie bowed slightly. She breathed a sigh of relief when the energy flow within her body stabilized. "What''s with the formalnguage? Just for you to know. Miko is actually my stage name or nickname. You will also need one someday. Let me introduce myself properly. My name is Ely, the shrine priestess of the Sacred Mountain." Ely gracefully put her hand on her upper chest in her introduction. Ely then taught Gabrie about table manners, and thetter attentively practiced it. Sadly, Gabrie couldn''t eat anymore, even though she wanted more. She also couldn''t handle more energy surges unless she had a death wish. She watched her beautiful savior eating dinner gracefully. She smiled involuntarily. However, she immediately averted her gaze when Ely nced at her. At that moment, she noticed a shrine building near the sakura tree. A statue of a six-winged female angel was standing inside, emitting a holy aura. It was a human-sized gray jade meticulously sculpted to perfection and looked lifelike. However, for some inexplicable reason, she felt the six-winged Goddess statue had a simr appearance to Ely, her savior. "That is a statue of a Divine Goddess, the protector of this ce." Ely stared at the statue with a respectful gaze. She honestly still didn''t know the rtionship between herself and the sealed Divine Goddess beneath this Sacred Mountain. He-Dao was also tight-lipped and didn''t want to spill anything. Therefore, she could only assume the sealed Goddess was her master, sister, or maybe, her mother. Their appearance and feature were simr, which was her assumption''s basis. She had to find a way to purify the evil energy that was sealed within the kaleidoscopic white crystal and free her mother. Although, she still couldn''tplete her wish despite two years of hard work. "..." Gabrie looked at the Goddess statue and Ely as ifparing something. ''Is mdy talking about herself? She is a Divine Goddess, the world protector!?'' Gabrie felt her miserable life was beingpensated by fate at this moment. She had the opportunity to follow such a significant figure in her life. She had already made her vow and would devote her life to Ely, her master and savior. Chapter 5: Gabriella’s Hard Time

Chapter 5: Gabrie''s Hard Time

''That''s good. She has a good impression of me. I was surprised because she was afraid of the ghost manifestation earlier. But, I''ve got her attention now.'' Ely prepared a bed for her and Gabrie. She only had one bed and would share it with her disciple this night. That way, no one had to sleep on the floor or a wooden bench. ''But, about the story, I told her... I hope there aren''t any Heavenly Demons in this world. I only need to y some ghosts and eliminate some evil things. For Gab-chan''s ambition... Well, I might be able to help with the organization''s affairs once she gets stronger. She has to work hard for me~'' Ely threw the thought to the back of her mind and sat on the bed. She summoned her Lost Prayer grimoire to check the quest she should havepleted. [Purify a desperate cursed creature on the Sacred Mountain][Reward: Reliable subordinate] [Complete] [The agent of the White Realm is amused by your antics] ''I know, right! This Gohei is a super reliable purification rod. The holy weapon to obliterate evil. The desperate cursed one can even turn back to normal.'' Ely took out her wooden wand and stroked it with great care. ''I also have a catalyst-type ultimate weapon to y the evil, Kagura Verity. I must always have several backup ns andst resort methods to ensure my safety~'' Ely took out a set of three tiers of twelve bells artifact. This tree-like bells artifact held immense holy power and was visible even though it was dormant. She hadn''t found another opportunity to unleash that legendary holy artifact''s power since her Gohei could still get the job done. Ely knew that she was actually a weak human girl. She had to rely on so many weapons and items or even ask for help from others. For a mere mortal with limited capabilities, she had a huge wish to aplish. He-Dao was already helping her in her first year in this unknown new world. With all the items she had in her inventory now, her life would never be in danger as long as she was extra careful. After all, she was a fragile girl in a dangerous and vicious world of magic and cultivation. ''What is he doing now, hmm? He is a powerful deity, or perhaps God, but he looked overwhelmed when he left that day. He and his aplices also never came back. Hope all goes well on his side.'' Ely stared at the moon, hoping that good luck would always be with him, her first friend in this world. *Creak* The bathroom door opened, and Gabrie walked out wrapped only in a big towel. She tucked a lock of her long golden blonde hair behind her pointy ear. She felt so fresh and fragrant after a good warm shower. "Gab-chan, please wear this." Ely came over with a set of yellow pajamas in hand. Gabrie nodded in response and took off her towel on the spot. She wore the sleeping pajama quickly, but there was a small problem. The size was a bit big for her young elf body. "Hmm, I might be able to adjust the bust size a bit. Our body size isn''t that much different. Gab-chan, how old are you approximately?" Ely rubbed her chin as she scanned Gabrie up and down. "This year... Supposedly, fourteen?" Gabrie wasn''t sure, but she could only guess based on her current body growth. "Fourteen, and you already possess a well-developed body? You also still have room to grow." Ely tried to imagine the mature Gabrie in the future. It was a figure of a pretty elf big sister with a dignified, elegant charm! "Mm, elves don''t have any significant growth rate difference from humans. The average growth period starts from the age of eight to eighteen. However, elves are blessed with a longer lifespan than humans." Gabrie nodded slightly. "Ahem. Anyway, let''s sleep. Tomorrow we will collect some necessities and sew new clothes for you." Ely cleared her throat and walked back into her bedroom. Gabrie followed right after, but she suddenly stopped in the doorway. She found the bedroom was like a void of the white flower garden. It gave a sacred yet eerie feeling as she stared more profoundly into the room. She could see a simple bed in the middle of the room, two pillows ced side by side, and a unique turquoise dream catcher hanging above the bed''s headrest. That ornament invited her toe closer and sleep on the bed. A mysterious mist emerged under the bed as if reinforcing the otherworldly atmosphere. "Gulp..." Gabrie didn''t dare to move a single step. "Gab-chan? What are you doing? Come here. We only have one bed for now, but we''ll make a new one tomorrow." Ely grabbed Gabrie''s hand and pulled the young elf into the room. "..." Gabrie nced left and right tensely. She had no idea why the ethereal atmosphere vanished after her master grabbed her hand. She could see some unique and holy-type artifacts casually ced on the table. The wooden wand that instantly killed the 5th Rank ghost was ced above the nightstand. Not to mention the beautiful nature paintings on the walls that exuded a divine-like spell aura. Gabrie had unknowingly been lying in bed under Ely''s lead. She clutched the nket but didn''t dare to look around again because she felt that she was being watched by so many divine-like entities. Ornaments hanging on the wall above the bed also made her uneasy. She was afraid that if she fell asleep, she would not be able to wake up again. There were too many holy items nearby. Ely noticed Gabrie''s anxiety. That might be because of unpleasant things in the past, but she had predicted the trauma. She grasped Gabrie''s hand and then spoke softly. "It''s okay. The nightmare is already the distant past. You''re safe. Just close your eyes and let yourself go to a beautiful sleep." It was like afort ringing in Gabrie''s ears. Her anxiety eased up, and she closed her eyes in rxation. Ely was beside her, and she felt very safe there. "Huu-huu..." The young elf went to dreand a few secondster. When sunlight entered the room through the gap between the curtains, Gabrie found that Ely was no longer beside her. She immediately got out of bed to do some chores so she could feel useful. Yet, she found an adorable little plushie lying on the pillow. It was a bit like Ely, and it caused the young elf to get the urge to embrace it. "..." Gabrie felt troubled because she had to tidy the bed before her master returned. However, her inner self said something else. She looked right and left, then sumbed to her heart''s desire to hug the adorable plushie. "So cute..." After a few self-satisfying moments, Gabrie returned the plushie to its original spot. She then quickly tidied up the bed. The bedroom''s cleanliness was beyond doubt. Thus, she decided to head out to prepare breakfast. ''Uuh, that scared me to death. Why Gab-chan suddenly hugged me tightly in her arms? It''s a rather odd way of waking people up. Wait, e-eh? Why did I turn into a little plushie again? What''s wrong with my innate abilities? Did my transformation go out of control again?'' Ely plushie breathed a sigh of relief when Gabrie was gone. She immediately jumped out of bed and transformed into her original human form,plete with her shrine priestess outfit. Ely waited a few seconds before silently sneaking out of the room through the window. She pretended toe from outside and visited the kitchen because some noises wereing from there. "..." Gabrie felt troubled because she did not dare to use top-tier cookware casually. She also needed the courage to cook using high-quality ingredients with her pathetic cooking skills. Her most outstanding achievement in thest three minutes was holding the top-tier kitchen knife in her hands without trembling. "Gab-chan, why are you staring at the vegetable so intensely? It won''t cut by itself if just you stare at it." Ely grasped Gabrie''s shoulders from behind. She felt this young elf was under a lot of stress and tension, but she controlled the energy flow within Gabrie''s body to a calm state. "Kyah! Mdy, I-, I want to cook breakfast for us. But, but..." Gabrie flinched in surprise. She even stammered when exining her predicament. "Hmm-mm~ I appreciate your effort, but it will be difficult if you want to cook something without sufficient skill. This knife is very sharp and can hurt you if you are not careful. What if I teach you how to cook food for breakfast?" Ely could tell Gabrie didn''t know how to cook food. The adorable elf was struggling to make a dish to impress her but didn''t know how. That way, the master and subordinate cooked simple delicacies to strengthen their rtionship. After breakfast, Ely and Gabrie prepared themselves for a short trip. "I''m sorry, Gab-chan. I only have a spare pajama and a cloak. Please bear with it until we buy new clothes for you." Ely apologized because Gabrie was still wearing pajamas under that big cloak. "That''s fine, mdy." Gabrie had noint in the first ce. She was aware that Ely''s shrine priestess outfit was a top-tier artifact, and no simr spare outfit. That outfit cleanliness and hygiene were always guaranteed because of the self-clean effect. She couldn''t measure the exact tier because of her measly power, but she was sure it was above S Rank or above! She couldn''t measure every item in Ely''s humble abode with her insignificant 3rd Rank power. *Sob* Gabrie covered her mouth as she felt ipetent and weak. She was still unworthy of bing Ely''s follower. However, she would train hard to be a figure worthy of following her master. Chapter 6: It’s About the Time

Chapter 6: It''s About the Time

On the Sacred Mountain''s peak, a shrine priestess sat on a cherry tree''s branch while ying the beautiful melody of a jade flute. The gentle breeze caressed her long ck hair, and the early morning sun lit up the scene like a spotlight. The birds stopped singing only to listen to the melodious flute of the honorable one, and the wind made no noise as if nature was listening to the profound melodies. Ely stared at the newly rising sun with a profound gaze. It was already three years since Gabrie''s arrival into her household. Within those years, Gabrie trained diligently, expanded her influence in the outside world, and fulfilled her duty as the most reliable disciple. The house chores and almost everything that Ely used to do by herself was easily handled by Gabrie alone. Ely was delighted with the promised reliable subordinate. Gabrie was so reliable andpetent that sometimes she had nothing to do but let her subordinates do everything for her. Yes, the subordinates used the plural, not the singr. Gabrie recruited many organization members in the past three years, all of whom were the heroes'' descendants who had fallen into demonic possession. The monster-looking creatures turned back to normal under the shrine priestess'' purification holy power. They have worked under Gabrie since then and treated their 1st senior sister as the one who brought down the revtion of the sacred priestess. Besides Gabrie, nine other heroes'' descendants with the most remarkable capabilities were appointed as Ely''s disciples. They called themselves as ''Ten Apostles''. Ely tucked a lock of her hair behind her ear. She identally touched a seven-petal evesting sakura flower on her head. That head essory was a gift Sacred Sakura gave since it formed the tree spiritst year. A life-saving treasure, a flower that would never wither. ''It''s about the time...'' Ely muttered in her mind as she looked up at the autumn morning sky. In thest three years, she recovered many of her memories. However, what she got in thest monthly ritual was a groundbreaking and eye-opener. She finally discovered the truth about her origin and her primary mission regarding her existence. The one sealed beneath the Sacred Mountain was her Goddess Master, the divine being who sealed herself and the divine curse of world devourer to prevent the world from being destroyed. [Ely (FV: ???) | 0th Rank] [HP: 4,500/100 | MP: 4.5M/4,500 | SP: 45,001/4,500] [Talent: 6 Stars | Legendary] [STR: 10 (Limit) | DEX: 10 (Limit) | CON: 101 | PER: 100 | ARC: 10 (Limit) | VIT: 540K | LCK: 100 (Max)] [Skill: Sacred Vision | Healing Sacrifice | Energy Maniption | Purification...(read more) [Passive: Eyes of Truth | Mortal Field | wless Perception | Blessed by Heaven and Worlds...(read more) Ely opened her grimoire to check the new page feature, namely her status screen. She regained many memories but was also blessed with many other new blessings. Her Goddess Master was so generous to answer her monthly prayers. It was time for her to leave her safe haven toplete her primary mission. [Requirements to unseal the Supreme Goddess of Mysterious Origin] [Achieve 450K HP] [Achieve 450M MP] [Achieve 4.5M SP] [Achieve 4.5M VIT] [Achieve...(read more) ''Ugh, I''m dizzy looking at this red requirement list. There are already many conditions with excessive numbers, and there is still a read more button...'' Ely held her forehead. She immediately closed her Lost Prayer as she couldn''t bear to see all the conditions she needed to meet. ''I have no decent affinities in qi or mana usage... so this will be a tough journey. I can''t get stronger, let alone use proper magic...'' Ely heaved a subtle sigh. It had been five years since she came to this world, and all she did was live in this Sacred Mountain. She did wish to unseal the divine being beneath the Sacred Mountain, but she never thought the conditions were so demanding. She had never left this mountain, but currently, she had to fulfill all the requirements to unseal her Goddess Master at all costs. ''That''s all for my Goddess Master''s freedom! I can do it!'' Ely had made up her mind, and she was ready to depart shortly after she announced her intention to her ten core disciples. "..." Ely noticed several gazes from the open gate. Her nine disciples were there, peeking in with a dazed expressions. "What are you doing there? It''s been almost a month since you came back. Come and have breakfast with me. There is something I want to announce to you." Ely jumped down from the sakura tree and then went to the kitchen. "Mdy, allow me to help you." Gabrie came out of her trance. She rushed after her master to help. "No need. You can say hello to your junior sisters and brothers first." Ely raised her palm, then went into her humble abode. Gabrie nodded in understanding, but she couldn''t hide her excitement. She could only taste her master''s God-tier delicacies once a month on the day her junior sisters and brothers returned. "Uuh, it was a flute melody full of holy aura. I couldn''t help but be in awe of the enchantment. It makes me jealous that you can always be by our master''s side, Gabrie." A female disciple removed her dark night cloak and transformed it into a casual dress. "You are getting more proficient in controlling the versatile slime outfit, Rafa. Please have a seat, everyone." Gabrie invited her junior sisters and brothers to sit around a round table. "It''s all thanks to our master." Rafa twirled a lock of her long blonde golden hair as she looked at the small lump of dark slime in her hand. She transformed it into an essory and was done with it. The so-called slime versatile outfit was actually the remnants of their past tragedies. The demonic slime remains after being purified by their master. After some experimentation, their master crafted it into an artifact. It could be shaped at will by its acknowledged owner. Their master named it the Versatile Slime. Depending on the owner''s strength and proficiency, it could be a set of versatile outfits or be formed into a weapon as potent as the finest metal. The other disciples also transformed their assassin-looking outfits into casual clothes suitable for a sacred monthly meeting in the name of having breakfast with their master. They were busy with their own things like assignments, training, exercises, research, investigations, and many other things out there. However, they would immediately return here once a month, no matter the reason, as it was a sacred gathering. "You all have achieved 5th Rank Early Stage or above. That''s good. So, how was the oue of your investigation?" Gabrie''s expression became solemn as she asked like an authoritative senior. "We have dived deep into the dark side and shadow of society. We ought to be suspicious of the demonic cults out there." "What about the movements from the Demon Realm?" "After the fall of the human''s city of defense at the border, they didn''t do anything else conspicuous." "They''re just like humans. There are good and evil demons. Apart from the never-ending war with the Human Realm, one thing has caught my attention." "What''s that?" "The Diabolos and the Demacia. These hidden demonic organizations have some involvement with evil curses. In the past hundreds of years, they have performed many heinous activities in various ces all over Terra World." "Their sphere of influence spans the entire great continent? The three major realms and neen minor realms aren''t free from their vicious hands, huh." "What our master said is all true. We may need to take major action against them soon. Their movements in the Human Realm are getting more heinous as time goes by." "Is that so? It''s time for us to gradually eliminate them." "It''s all to stop the Heavenly Demon''s revival." "The third world destruction must not happen." "Is our master going to step in?" "Our master wants us to handle the small fries first. She has a noble agenda we can''tprehend yet." "Affirmative." "Anyway, what about the techniques and gifts our masterst gave you?" "That''s incredibly great! I can rival the opponent''s strength one or two ranks higher than me now." "I can''t wait for this month''s pointers. We cannot disappoint our master''s expectations." "Yeah, I will never let our master down. Therefore, I keep pushing myself to the utmost limit." ... The ten disciples exchanged information while waiting for Ely to return. A few momentster, the mouth-watering aromas of cooking invade everyone''s nostrils. The long-awaited godly delicacies were finally served before them. After a bountiful warm breakfast, Ely grasped her hands on the table and looked at everyone with an aloof expression. She wished everyone could help her. Yet, she had to ensure to y her role well first. She was a weak mortal, but she had to pretend to be the almighty one before her disciples so they would look up to her as a good master. "You don''t have toe back here once a month anymore. The sky is changing... it''s about the time to make our moves." The first half of Ely''s words made her disciples''plexion pale, but what followed next excited them. It was an announcement they had been waiting for. Chapter 7: We Shall Make Our Moves

Chapter 7: We Shall Make Our Moves

A particr child was born within a prominent noble family in a big city. Since she was so little, she barely received any attention from her parents and family. Therefore, she learned etiquette, royal manners, magic, cultivation, and many skills and arts to impress her parents. Sadly, it was so arduous. Her power never awakened. Thus her family cast her aside. Her sibling received all the love, but not for her. She lost her hopes and lived in the cold room with the slightest bit of love. The corruption then began to engulf her. Until one day, the Holy Church discovered her impable talent in holy magic and recruited her under their banner. She became the youngest priestess and was titled ''Wings of Holiness'' because of her holy magic projection. She grew into a beautiful little princess and multi-talented figure, loved by many. Her long golden blonde hair exuded the charm of a dignified nobility, and her emerald green eyes gave off a captivating charm to anyone who looked at her. Unfortunately, no one understood her real reason for joining the Holy Church and serving the God of Light. That was all known only by the young priestess herself. She hid the truth because she wished to heal her ''defect'' and ''curse'' with a high-level profound holy magic. As the first-rate rare little beauty, so many pursuers tried to take her hand in engagement with the purpose of marriage. However, she didn''t wish to fall into any political scheme. She still had to find a way to end her nightmares before anything. The ones that even holy healing magic couldn''t cure. She was still twelve then, but her nightmare broke out for the worst. Her body could no longer withstand the curse. She was gradually corrupted by the potent evil energy from the inside out. Even though the corruption was unstoppable, the young priestess tried to suppress it and escape the city. She knew that she would fall into demonic possession. She tried tomit suicide, but her power didn''t allow her. She would lose her mind, rationality, and humanity. But she didn''t wish to be a demon and ughter everyone. In the middle of the dark forest, her family''s knights hunted her down as assassins. She was in that night, but none of the knights survived her onught. The young priestess sudden disappearance became an unresolved mystery even for the Holy Church. The Holy Church suffered a significant loss, many young men grieved, and the citizens mourned because they lost a benevolent multi-talented young priestess. However, her family buried the ''truth'' deep down because they didn''t want the world to know the ''disgrace''. The young priestess met her death, but she wasn''t truly dead. Since that day, a particr evil-looking mud slime wandered to the Northern Realm. This seemingly mindless creature devoured anything that came into contact with it. Yet, it seemed to have a mission to continue going north, away from Human Realm. Until finally, the desperate creature encountered the almighty one. The one who could achieve the impossible feat. The Holy Chruch failed to save her from distress. Still, a particr shrine priestess dispelled the curse and purified the evil within her easily, regardless of the severity. The one once known as the Holy Chruch''s youngest priestess let go of her past as she met redemption and liberation. The almighty one enlightened the lost littlemb with grace and blessing. ''Ah~ My master, my Goddess. Your divine light is dazzling, brighter and more beautiful than the God of Light''s projection. After meeting you, I feel that Holy Church is just another cult with a Fake God.'' Rafa looked at her Goddess in awe while enjoying the morning flute melody. The birds even stopped chirping, and the wind stopped blowing for fear of disturbing the divine music performance. It was already three years since Rafa fell into the sleepless nightmare. It was also three years since she was rescued and became her master''s second disciple. Her current life was so satisfying. The other disciples might view the honorable shrine priestess as their master, mother, or saviour. However, her master was her Goddess, her light. She wholeheartedly served her master with everything she had. "What are you doing there? It''s been almost a month since you came back." Rafa returned to her sense after her master made it clear. She entered the courtyard with her junior brothers and sisters. ''Ah, master spotted us. Ahem, where''s my manner? I''m always amazed by her divine aura and beautiful melodies. Yes, it''s been a month since we met, huhu... Master, my Goddess, I miss you so much~'' At that moment, she spotted her only senior sister, Gabrie. The one she envied the most because this senior of hers received the most crucial role and worked at their master''s side most of the time. "Come and have breakfast with me. There is something I want to announce to you." ''Ah, yes! Holy breakfast ceremony! But what kind of announcement will master announce? This seems very important.'' Rafa took her seat. She and her fellow disciples then exchanged theirtest information. Yes, most of the information was regarding the suspicious demonic cults. Those involved in Heavenly Demon''s revival n would not be spared. They would only eliminate all the involved ones with proper preparation. The ten of them had already reached the 5th Rank, and the first two disciples were already at the 6th Rank Early Stage. Even though they had formed a rtively solid secret organization in thest three years, they needed more sense of security. They had not dared to act rashly and challenge the enemy''s might before their master gave the order. "You don''t have toe back here once a month anymore." ''E-Eh!? No way...'' Rafa turned pale after her master announced it. She thought her master didn''t want her anymore. "The sky is changing... it''s about the time to make our moves." Ely''s follow-up sentence made her ten disciples feel relieved and excited at the same time. So, it was time for them to make their moves and take the world by storm! They endured three years of hardships and hellish training to prepare for this day. So, their master considered them strong enough to create a storm that could destroy all enemies that came their way. ''E-eh? What''s wrong with my disciples'' sudden excitement? Do they really want to demolish one or two demonic cults right away? I want to ask for help and move with them to improve my stats. But, well... Oh, please forgive me, the non-mentioned demonic cults. I raised a group of a nemesis for you by ident.'' Ely prayed to several demonic cults that might soon be history. "Let''s see your progress first." Ely raised her palm to calm her disciples'' excitement. She then used her eye ability to check their status screens. [Gabrie (FV: 2400) | 6th Rank Early Stage] [Loyalty: 98%] [Talent: 4 Stars | SSR] [Rafa (FV: 2100) | 6th Rank Early Stage] [Loyalty: 96%] [Talent: 4 Stars | SSR] [Michael (FV: 1700) | 5th Rank Mid Stage] [Loyalty: 92%] [Talent: 3 Stars | SR] ... ''Why... They got quickly advancing to higher ranks with those training and my guidance. Rafa''s talent even improved to four stars, SSR!? Why am I the only one staying at 0th Rank forever!? Help, I''m stuck! Even though I have six stars and Legendary-ss talent, I am bound to be a fragile mortal girl forever at this rate! The best things I can do are tiny elemental balls and simple magic. Let alone kill an enemy. It can''t even deal appropriate damage. The only things I can rely on are my skills and passives... I also want to look fabulous and lofty like a cool cultivator or magnificent mage. Hu-huu... He-Dao cursed me. That Deity said I couldn''t get stronger and locked my STR, DEX, and ARC progress. It''s been five years since I''ve practised and meditated on this Sacred Mountain! And yet, only my MP and VIT rose to impressive numbers.'' Ely closed her eyes andined inwardly. Yet, she sighed because she wasn''t going anywhere byining pointlessly. Her primary mission required so many conditions, but she would still aplish all of it for the sake of her Goddess Master. "Everyone achieved a good achievement, but don''t be selfcent. It''s just a drop in the bucket. It would be best if you had more than that to achieve something great across the three worlds. Nevertheless... here, a little present for you~" Ely distributed a little monthly gift to everyone with a tender smile adorning her angelic face. Her reliable disciples were already seventeen to neen years old. They were probably already be big shots out there. However, she was happy to see them still like adorable children in front of her. Chapter 8: First Major Operation

Chapter 8: First Major Operation

Ely looked at her disciples like they had spent a long time together. They were already grown into mature and strong warriors. On second thought, her STR reaching the limit might not matter because she has many reliable disciples to clear the obstacles, not to mention the non-mentioned minions. He-Dao once said she couldn''t get stronger but could try to be more sturdy. The requirements for her to unseal her Goddess Master also didn''t demand strength-rted stats. After all, her primary mission was to purify the mysterious heavy curse that sealed her Goddess Master within that kaleidoscope-colored white crystal. Therefore, she would also need a lot of magic power reserve. And to achieve that, she was blessed with many blessings from heaven and the worlds. She was also provided with hundreds of valuable treasures and artifacts. ''Yes, I can do it easily because I''m not alone. I have many variables that can help me. After all, a sessful boss is someone who can manage her resources well, and that includes human resources. My subordinates will do their job well for me. I need to remain a mighty boss and pir of support, hehe...'' Ely chuckled when she imagined herself bing a prominent boss figure. Even so, she still had to maintain her perfect image well because her disciples were stronger than her by arge margin. It would be her disadvantage if they discovered she was weak and chose to leave her. "Master, where shall we start our first cleanup operation site? We have spotted several ces that seem to be their headquarters." Rafa spread out a map of Terra World on the table. ''Oh, that''s it. Silly child, I overheard your conversation earlier. Didn''t you say that the demonic cult''s influence is spreading worldwide? It''s the same with church, magic academy, or righteous sect. Any major city will actually do! There, surely we can find random evil fish in the murky water and beat them up to satisfy your desire~'' Ely then threw a table knife at a particr city marker on the map. "Lumina City? The Holy Church''s influence there is deep, not to mention it is one of the major cities in the Great Yan Empire. It''s fairly close to the capital city and the Northern Realm''s border. It also has great military power. Are those demonic cults possibly moving in the city''s shadows?" Gabrie put her hand to her chin, deep in thought. Among the information they have, Lumina City was still reasonably clean because they have yet to delve deep into the murky issues. However, their master chose that city as their first ce for their major operation. So, something big was clearly going to happen in that city. "..." Rafa''splexion turned pale, but she regained herposure immediately. Yet, Ely noticed it. She didn''t throw that knife at random. She aimed right at Lumina City, Rafa''s hometown. Something clearly happened there. She discovered a secret by ident when she purified and saved her disciples with a more elegant method. Their brief past. Among her core disciples, only Gabrie''s past story remained unknown to her. ''Everything is fine, my precious disciple, Rafa. Even if you say, you have let go of your tragic past and started anew to punish the evil, something like regrets still exist. Your master will find the bottom of that incident. You don''t have to tell me, but you will thank meter. I am truly a loving teacher.'' Ely spoke in her mind with pride and care. "You may have noticed it. Something has happened. Pack your things and be alert around that city. This will be a major test and operation for you." Ely faintly smiled as she made a steeple of her fingers. "Affirmative!" The disciples saluted and rushed to carry out their masters'' orders. As their master said, this would probably be their first bloodbath. "Raf-chan, you will move with me. Gab-chan will take the lead in this operation." Ely raised her palm before her disciples excused themselves. "E-eh?" Rafa was stunned for a few seconds. She didn''t know whether to be happy or sad, but she knew her master must have known everything about her past. After all, her master was the omniscient Goddess despite loving to pretend as an ordinary mortal. "Good for you, Rafa." Gabrie tapped Rafa on the shoulder. She then represented her juniors for excusing themselves. "Mdy, we will await your orders in Lumina City." Gabrie led her juniors to leave the humble abode after receiving a response from their master, leaving Rafa behind. "Uhm..." Rafa felt a bit awkward. She did wish to be beside her master longer. She was also jealous of her senior sister''s privileges but felt restless instead! "Raf-chan, something wille to light in time. Everything that has happened was not your fault, and that is why we will uncover the hidden truth down to the bottom for you. Do you remember the oath you made before me?" Ely stood before Rafa, put on a dignified posture, and stated her motivation with a tender smile. At that very moment, Rafa was enlightened. She felt uneasy for nothing. It didn''t matter who it was. She would punish the evil with her own judgment. Her past was dead on that bloody night. The current her was Rafa, her master''s second disciple. Lumina City was just another city, and she didn''t need to avoid it. She had to face it and cleanse the gue nesting in that city. "Disciple understand, master." Rafa was touched as she felt her master did this for her. "Help me get ready then. It''s my first time going far from Sacred Mountain. I am actually feeling a bit nervous, hehe~" Ely had a gentle, rxed expression to soften the atmosphere. "Ah, let me help you, master!" Rafa couldn''t contain her happiness now. Her master''s first experience of going out of seclusion was for her sake! "I''ll be gone for a few days. Please look after the garden and house for me, Sakura." Ely stroked the Sacred Sakura''s trunk. "Rua." A tiny human-like pink spirit popped out and waved her hand. Ely raised her palm, then prayed to the Goddess statue for a while. After that, she went down the mountain with Rafa beside her. She expected something great, like another fortuitous encounter that woulde naturally due to her insane luck stats. The Northern Realm''s white autumn sky was bright, and the gentle breeze was refreshing. The beasts and demons that inhabited the Sacred Mountain escorted the shrine priestess to the foot of the mountain. Birds chirped melodiously, and nature spirits danced as they apanied Ely''s journey. Ely then asked them to return since letting those creatures follow her wasn''t good. Unfortunately, the pleasant mood didn''tst long. As the day approachedte afternoon, Ely was tricked, kidnapped, and transported to somewhere unknown. She had just crossed the Northern Realm''s border for the first time... ''Why did it suddenly be like this? This is not the so-called fortuitous encounter that I wished for!'' Ely groaned in her mind as she sat in the corner. She was tied up like a prisoner, just like Rafa and others. Chapter 9: Kidnapped and Sacrifice

Chapter 9: Kidnapped and Sacrifice

Ely recalled the event about how she fell into this embarrassing situation. After she and Rafa crossed the border, they encountered a group of the merchant-like entourage who happened to be heading southeast. Those merchants greeted the lost beauties, and Ely returned the greeting out of courtesy. They then offered to go together until they were out of the forest. Ely considered it. She had the intention to dig up some brief info from locals. Thus, she agreed with caution. The merchants responded with a warm wee. They guided her toward a particr big wagon, but the first thing Ely got was a silver rope that could move on its own like a living thing. Ely and Rafa were tied up like prisoners within one second and thrown into a horse-drawn carriage, which was a cage in disguise. The victims were not only the two of them, actually. There were about ten young girls, and that wagon wasn''t the only one transporting victims. ''This merchant isn''t carrying goods, but they kidnap people to enve them!? I was already wary because their intentions weren''t good, but who would have thought they were worse than I thought. Don''t they notice Raf-chan''s aura?'' Ely nced at Rafa''s situation, but that silly girl was staring at her with sparkling eyes as if everything was still in their n. ''Please beat me! She disguised her aura and power! She also ys along as if this is ording to my n. Oh no, calm down. I have to remain calm in this situation. We can easily extricate ourselves and escape from this situation, but I''m already involved. I can''t close my eyes to ignore these scumbags.'' Ely made up her mind. She decided to punish these ve merchants when she got the gist of the entire situation. "Well, who would have thought we got two top-tier beauties on our way back so effortlessly. Their breasts are plump, but why they''re dumb." "Their skin is so well maintained, and their gorgeous faces... Uh, they also smell like delicious virgins. The richdies lost in the woods... I got a boner looking at their assets earlier." "Heh, I would have almost done them on the spot without the boss blocking me." "Shut up, fool. You will make the goodies'' price drop. They can be sold for a very high price. Our customers will be very angry if they find their goods contaminated by your dirty lowly seeds." "Wait, have these goods been purchased?" "Only the down payment, but the more, the better, he said. Each goodie will be priced very high." "Woohh, I''ve heard about it. That''s why we''re going with an expedition team with a few Elites. Who are our current customers, by the way?" "Pssh, I didn''t say it. I heard they were demons." "Demons!?" "Shhh, are you new recruits? We''ve been dealing with the demons since they pay us well." "Holy shit, I thought humans and demons were always at odds, but there are some dogshit people like us. Well, I''m included. No money, nothing to eat. Whatever." "Tch, you''re a shithead. Just shut up and keep moving. We''re close to the meeting ce." Some particr merchant-like guy, mercenary, adventurer, and Elite knight spoke in whispers up front. ''Demons?'' Ely smirked behind the cloth covering her mouth. She was weak in the world''s strength standard but could be unbeatable before any evil-rted creatures. She was their natural nemesis. The wagon suddenly stopped. Some people were discussing with another group some distance away. Ely could hear the so-called demon customers transacting with these human scumbags. Ely took a knife from her hidden storage pouch and cut the rope bounding her hands and feet. The living rope died on the spot within that second. She then took out a tracking talisman and slipped it somewhere hidden. She intended to punish those scumbagster. "Hmmgh!" A particr victim made some noises when she noticed that one of them could break free. "Sshh..." Ely pressed her finger to her lips, then took a rope from her storage pouch. She tied her hands and feet by herself with a simple yet pretty loose knot, causing everyone to fall silent in bewilderment. *Zap* When the wagon started moving again, Ely felt a bit dizzy for a second. It was like a slight shock from the dimensional upheaval during the teleportation. It waste afternoon some time ago, and it suddenly became pretty dark. Ely looked up at the ceiling. The cloth covering the wagon had a small hole, and what she saw there was the red sky. It was no longer the turquoise sky of the Human Realm nor the white sky of the Northern Realm. They had already arrived at the Demon Realm. "Forty-nine goods and two top-tier ones in total. Send them near the altar. The twin moons shine bright. The offering ceremony will begin soon." A fancy-looking cloaked demon ordered his men to escort the goods. ''E-eh? This isn''t very? Offering ceremony... but to whom? Sacrifices? It escted so fast.'' Ely was stunned for a moment. She immediately devised a n to salvage her predicament and then made some eye contact with Rafa. About one hundred and twenty-one demons were visible within her sight, and an unknown number were hiding. This ce was probably the secret headquarters of a demonic cult, where their heinous activities were carried out. A few momentster, Ely and the other victims gathered in a small cage near a pyramid-like monument. The demons looked at the sacrifices like objects rather than living beings. Unfortunately, a particr girl and her subordinate were prepared to exterminate these evil demons when the time was ripe. "Heehee, we hit two jackpots. Top-tier virgin beauties among sacrifices. Our great lord will be pleased and probably awaken sooner than expected." The cloaked demon with goat horns observed the ck-haired human in a unique white and red outfit more closely. He thought this gorgeous human girl was a saintess from somewhere because of her beauty. Nevertheless, he threw that thought aside because this human girl had no cultivation base. She didn''t even possess any aura. This girl was just an ordinary human with a good look. "Our great lord fondly feasts upon the most delicious ones first. Throw these human girls into the awakening chamber." The cloaked demon with goat horns pointed to the two most beautiful girls among the sacrifices. "Yes, sir!" The two bull-like cloaked demons carried the first batch of sacrifices like objects that should be handled with utmost care. Ely found a rather deep hole in the middle of the square altar at the top of the pyramid. "Hng!?" Ely was shocked when those demons threw her into the hole. *Thud* *Thud* Shended on something soft. The bottom of the pit was just like soft jelly, but herplexion turned pale instantly when she saw many bones and skeletons scattered around her. At the same time, Rafa widened her eyes to the ominous-lookingrge purple egg with hundreds of blood-red spiral-like runes. What her master once said came to mind, something rted to the Heavenly Demon revival n. This ominous egg was something that her organization had to destroy. The things that inflicted the heavenly curses upon heroes of the past and made her life into a living hell for years just because of her bloodline. Anger and killing intent surged. Rafa severed the ropes with ease. She finally realized her master''s real purpose of pretending to be kidnapped as a helpless victim. It was all to spot these evil demons'' hideout and eliminate this egg! She already sent a request for reinforcements to her current location. So, these demons would meet their demise today for sure. ''Everything is ording to master''s n. We must destroy this ominous demonic egg at all costs!'' Rafa mustered up her 6th Rank power tounch a deadly strike. Yet, before she unleashed her ultimate attack, her master was pulled to the ominous egg. "Master!" Rafa tried to catch her master, but she was a step toote. Her master was sucked into the ominous egg. "Evil demon, an abomination." Ely spoke in a cold intonation. She was angry and already determined to kill. The terrifying demonic embryo before her didn''t even cause the slightest change in emotion on her face. She already considered this evil demon as good as dead. "wless sacrifice. Be a good girl. I will show you a perfect paradise~!" The demonic embryo moved his hand as he tried to touch this top-tier human sacrifice. His indigo aura shone brightly because of his excitement. Yet, he was astonished when he discovered he couldn''t muster any strength. His qi was still there, but his power didn''t work ording to his wish. Ely took out a bright red killing talisman and her reliable wooden wand. Yet, several sudden bright red warning screens popped up before her vision. [SSS Rank mysterious sword Celestia is awakening] [Celestia showing extreme hunger] [Celestia salivating upon the dense demonic energy] "What the-" Ely couldn''t figure out what was going on. A particr dark midnight scabbard suddenly stuck out from her cleavage. It stabbed the demonic embryo right into the chest. "Ghak!? What is this? Who are you!?" The demonic embryo clutched the sheath and tried to pull it out from his chest, but that was futile. *Plop* *Plop* The demonic embryo was reduced to sticky ck liquid within seconds. The remnant energy gathered into particles before being absorbed by Ely''s body automatically. Ely covered her mouth while staring at the dangerous sword from her cleavage. The sudden change in events shocked her so much. This ultra-dangerous sword was dormant inside her inner space all these years, but why had it suddenly awakened? The dark midnight sword returned to Ely''s inner space. [Celestia is singing] [Celestia is sleepy] [Celestia has fallen asleep] "Are you perhaps protecting me?" Ely muttered softly as she touched her upper chest with aplicated feeling. Whatever it was, she immediately came back to her senses. She then took out another artifact to help her break the eggshell. Chapter 10: Judgment Chime

Chapter 10: Judgment Chime

Rafa understood her master wanted to y the victim to strike the whole big organization from its roots by allowing them to be kidnapped without a fight. They discovered these humans had a deal with demons, and it was not the first transaction. Rather than simple kidnapping for very, it was a more extensive scheme for evil ritual sacrifices. She was taken to a pyramid altar and thrown into the pit with her master. An ominous demonic egg was there, and these demons wished to revive the Heavenly Demon!? "Unforgivable. They deserved to die a horrible death!" That was what Rafa had in mind before her master was sucked into the evil-looking egg. "Where are things going wrong?" That came to Rafa''s mind after her master was sucked into the evil-looking egg. She felt at a loss for a second. Her master was currently facing the Heavenly Demon inside that egg alone. Rafa transformed her Versatile Slime into her signature ck outfit and a long sword. She swung her sword to break open the egg, but her move was deflected without causing a single scratch. *Swoosh!* The sinister aura exploded from the egg, suddenly emitting a thick and heavy demonic aura. *Rumble!* *Rumble!* Thunder rumbled, and lightning shed all around. The ck clouds in the dark red sky were toppled over as if something was about to descend from there. Rafa could hardly breathe and almost puked a mouthful of blood because of the terrible sense of oppression. Her master was still there, and she had to help her master prevent the Heavenly Demon from awakening! "Our almighty lord is awakening!" "It''s a great sess!" "As expected. Our ancestor will return and rock the world with his might!" "No one dares to fight our cult from now on, haha!" The excited cries of the demons outside sounded like fanatical followers. *Swoosh!* The terrifying demonic energy instantly died, and the cmity phenomenon slowly dispersed. *Crack* *Crack* The evil-looking egg cracked and crushed from the inside. The pir of divine golden light then descended from the sky, illuminating the shrine priestess, who was covered in a semi-transparent purple liquid. *Tinkle* *Ting-a-ling* The tinkling of the bells echoed. The divine light shone from the Demon Realm''s red sky. Hundreds of golden lightning shed around the sacrificial site, raining down on the evil demons and paralyzing them. "Master!" Rafa was pleasantly surprised. "The great demon already perished. It''s time to pass judgment upon the evil demons." Ely extended her hand to Rafa. "Allow me to punish the sinners." Rafa knelt down and took her master''s hand. "Good." Ely gave her consent, then asked her tree-like bells artifact to create a path to the sky. It materialized a golden light staircase to the sky. Ely climbed the stairs, and Rafa followed behind her. ... "Ugh, what happened!?" "I can''t move!" "I also can''t muster any power. I can''t even channel my qi!" "Kuah! Divine light! Someone ambushed our sacrificial site!" "Protect our lord, but my body isn''t moving!" The evil demons fell to the ground, unable to move under the suppression of the divine light. The victims who would be sacrificed were not struck by golden lightning or exposed to debuffs from divine light. They were protected and gifted with an inexplicable sense of security instead. A golden staircase suddenly materialized above the pyramid, and two people walked up it like a pair of messengers from heaven. "What, what is that?" "They are the God of Light''s messengers!" "No, they are the God themselves! That golden aura!" "God, please save us and punish the evil!" The victims of sacrifice prostrated on the ground at the sight of the two figures on the golden steps in the sky. "The sinners, evildoers. The divine light and heavenly thunder shall judge your crimes against the sins umted during your lifetime. Divine Light and Lightning of Heaven, punish them!" Ely shook her Kagura Verity, causing the sound of ringing bells. *Rumble* *Rumble* *Shine* A massive pir of light and three golden thunderbolts struck every evil demon within the AoE attack range. This time was not to paralyze them but for the actual punishment. The more evil energy within them, the greater the damage was done. More than a hundred high-level demons were reduced to ashes within that second. Ely proved those demons could not be saved by penance because their sins were too big under her holy artifact judgment. Despite that, Ely couldn''t help but be amazed by her Mythical-tier holy artifact''s might. Each could summon a fragment of heaven and earth''s might, but this kind of power could only be drawn out sometimes since the cooldown per use was pretty long. Ely checked her surroundings and spotted a few dying demons. "Rafa, hunt the remaining ones and fully interrogate them. I will give them for your judgment to decide. Gabrie and the others had already arrived. Cooperate with them." "Yes! I shall not leave a single demon escape." Rafa was so excited as her blood was almost boiling. She dashed off to hunt down the remaining demons. *Boom!* Rafa caused some great destruction like a raging behemoth. Gabrie and the other disciples joined the task and took care of everything. The victims were sent to a nearby vige with disposable instant teleportation artifact. The ''lucky'' demons that survived the disaster began to be interrogated in a ce Ely couldn''t see. The divine phenomenon slowly died down. Many parties of major forces were going to that location due to the previous cmity clouds and the divine light urrence. They understood a Demon Deity was about to awaken but were confronted by a God-level being. The top-tier confrontation between apex powerhouses! Ely then ordered her arficact to bring her down. The golden staircase dispersed, and she realized she was covered in a semi-transparent purple liquid. It was a bit sticky, like the egg''s albumen. "Eww... I want to take a shower soon." "My apologies for ourte arrival, master. This disciple shall prepare a luxurious hot bath for you in a vige near Lumina City. We can use teleport now if you please." Gabriended behind her master and knelt down respectfully. Her awe and respect didn''t diminish in the slightest, even though her master was currently in a somewhat sorry state. After all, she finally witnessed her master''s incredible move again after such a long time. ''Teleportation, how nice. I didn''t ask Raf-chan to use that because I was deliberately stalling for time. You all can do your job and homework preparation well before I arrive. Who would have thought I was kidnapped to a major event on my first experience going far from the Sacred Mountain.'' Ely heaved a subtle sign in her mind. "You came just in time, Gabrie. Tell me your report." Ely activated her outfit''s special effect to cleanse her body from any foreign object or substance. But she still wanted to take a bath soon. "These demons are members of a demonic cult called the Vrophy Cult. Their ancestor revival n was thwarted, and the Demon Deity perished. The Heavenly Demon candidate reduced by one, thanks to you, master." Gabrie nced at the crushed demon egg in the hole while reporting. "That dark purple demon is still an embryo, but his wickedness is heavy. It might be the Heavenly Demon who is recovering. Are you ready to face the bigger and more terrible demon, Gabrie?" Ely grasped her hand behind her back. The gentle breeze gently caressed Ely''s long ck hair, showing a lofty yet almighty impression before Gabrie''s eyes. "Yes, we have prepared everything for this, master. With you leading us, we fear nothing. We even dare against the entire world to uproot all Heavenly Demon seeds." Gabrie answered with determination. ''E-eh? We''ve found one, and we need to find another one. Be a good disciple and be satisfied with exterminating two demonic cults. Give those jobs to other righteous sects. Also, why do you want to drag me against the world?'' Ely broke out in cold sweat at the thought of her unfilial disciples causing havoc everywhere. A few momentster, Rafa and the other disciples gathered at a meeting spot. Ely and Gabrie came over for more information. Rafa and the other disciples spared none of the demonic cult members alive. "Holy Church probably also involved in this incident. Two defect priests and a rotten bishop... one of them possess the token of a member of the nobility from Lumina City." Rafa reported with a hint of hatred for the church. "Alright, it''s time for us to go." Ely nodded slightly, then walked away. She and her disciples had already secured the loot, and other precious things, including the demonic egg''s remnants, for further research. They immediately left the vicinity shortly after. The rumors about God''s messengers descending from heaven spread from a particr vige. The major forces came to where the divine light had descended, but they could find only an empty sacrificial ce. There were also traces of demonic energy, divine light, and heavenly thunder. Chapter 11: First Visit to the City

Chapter 11: First Visit to the City

Several martial artists, cultivators, and mages from Human Realm inspected the demonic site with a hint of awe. "The traces of heaven and earth... Who could pull off a move like this? Perhaps, truly a God?" "At the very least, one must be at Deity-level or higher in holy magic. This demon site has been destroyed. No demons are left alive?" "No, sir. We couldn''t find anyone within a fifty-kilometer radius. However, we found hints and traces of demonic cult annihtion." "That''s good. One demonic cult obliterated from the Demon Realm is good news. We report the current situation. It''s time for us to leave before the demons arrive." The humans of various factions rushed away after carrying out a quick investigation. Several groups of demons arrived in the vicinity a few minutes after the humans left. They felt somewhat astonished but also curious about this situation. "Tch, those humans are so adept at escaping." "No trace of battle, but hundreds of demons vanished in one move... A Deity or perhaps a God eliminated them all?" "By this trace, even the 6th Rank elder was unable to resist and was reduced to ashes. Seriously, what exactly is going on here?" The demons discussed with each other, regardless of their origin. They had more time to investigate this incident than humans. Thus they rxed about doing their jobs. "Elder Shura, use your memory stone. We must know the situation here." The goat-like demon nced at the six-armed demon beside him. "Are you sure, Elder Erros? You have already witnessed the Light of Heaven from afar and its oppression from afar, right? We might also be affected even though what we saw was just the projection." Elder Shura felt reluctant to use his treasure. "You can make it a bit blurry. We need to know the glimpse of what happened and who was involved." Elder Erros crossed his arms. "Well then." Elder Shura was convinced. He took out a pure white gemstone and put it on the ground. He put his hands together and activated his treasure. Soon, a three-dimensional projection appeared and revealed an event from one hour ago. More than a hundred cloaked demons gathered around the pyramid for a ritual ceremony, and there were around two dozen human sacrifices. Two of them were first-rate rare beauties with wless appearances. That was what everyone thought of that sight, even though it was a bit blurry. Those two pitiful girls were thrown into the pit at the top of the pyramid. The demons all went up to the top to find out what was going on, and they were shocked to find the projection of arge purple egg there. "A revival ritual?" "Yes, this is unmistakable. They are trying to revive their ancestor using routine rituals." "Those human sacrifices are nothing but nutrition for this egg." "They are from the Vrophy Cult. I recognize this emblem." "You mean, that sneaky cult?" "Wait, that girl is sucked into the egg!" The demons fell silent as the ck-haired human was sucked into the egg. A phenomenon of dark clouds descending from the sky urred and was soon reced by divine light and heavenly thunder. *Shine* *Crack* The memory stone cracked because the divine light projection was too much. Even if it was just an illusion, the cause and effect leaked out somehow. The demons were too absorbed to witness the projection in the sky. They didn''t even notice their skin was burning bit by bit. "Gyaa! So hot!" "My eyes!" "Argh, this is just a projection, but why the holy damage is real deal!?" "Run, run from the divine light scope!" "Turn off the memory stone. Argh, my skin is melting!" The demons screamed in agony while tortured under the divine light projection. *Crack* *Crumble* The memory stone crumbled into powder and vanished in the wind. More than a hundred demons from various factionsy on the ground. They suffered some injuries, but they were relieved the torture was over. "My Rank S treasure... Did God really descend with that human girl as a medium? But, the barrier to the upper realm has long been closed, right?" Elder Shura ignored his injury to save his memory stone, but it was toote. He suffered a great loss because of it. "Damn, those bastards perhaps identally kidnapped the saintess from the holynd. She is under divine light protection!" Elder Erros clenched his fists. He then asked his people to go back to report the situation. Meanwhile, the culprit and her disciples were already thousands of kilometers from the incident scene. They stopped in a vige near Lumina City, soaking in a cozy inn''s hot spring. "Thank you, Gab-chan." Ely rinsed her long midnight ck hair with clean water. "I am honored to serve you, mdy." Gabrie was ttered. Ely then joined her female disciples to soak in the hot spring. "We will conduct in-depth investigations into Luponia Magic Academy, Holy Church, and thest one is the Lumina Marquess Family." Ely announced her goals. "Disciple obey." The female disciples answered in unison. "I intend to move alone-" Ely stated her intention. Yet, she couldn''t finish her sentence because her disciples interrupted her. "Absolutely not!" "You can''t, master." "At least, let me apany you." "Hou? Why is that? Are you worried that someone will hurt me when I''m going to act in the light, and you are in the shadows?" Ely was curious. Usually, her disciples didn''t dare to forbid her to go alone because she was more capable and stronger than anyone under certain circumstances. "Master, human affairs can be a pain. It will save you the trouble if you have someone who can be your shield and de beside you." Rafa exined respectfully. "I see... Maybe, I can ask Mika-kun to be my escort knight. I''ll talk to him after this." Ely tapped her chin. "!?" "Good for you, Mika-kun~ You can apany our master for this mission." "Understood." The male disciples in the hot spring next door made small talk after hearing their master''s murmur. "This could be trickier than it looks. The world hasn''t been very peacefultely." Ely closed her eyes and spoke no more. "Affirmative." Gabrie nced at the nervous Rafa. She knew her master knew something that none of them could discover. And, it involved Rafa. ''As expected of mdy. Nothing can escape her mystic eyes. The truth has been revealed long ago, huh...'' Gabrie muttered in her mind. A few momentster, everyone came out of the hot spring. Ely had a brief discussion with all of her disciples. They stayed one night at that fancy inn before going to Lumina City in the morning. ... Michael was an abandoned child from the ruthless southern wilderness. He had short, wavy blond hair and blue eyes with the serpent-like pupil. He had no parents, family, or even friends. If it wasn''t for the harsh jungle environment, he would be simr to the vampire prince from the fairytale. He was a human but had already given up on humanity long ago because of a particr tragedy. He sumbed to demonic possession as if he epted his fate and became a monster for years. The once known as the slime demon overlord in the great southern river was swept away in flood and washed up to the northern region, crossing the realm''s border. After being saved by a powerful yet kind-hearted shrine priestess, he gradually regained his sanity and faith in humanity. He slowly returned as a human being with feelings, reasons, and senses. His master might be strict and scary sometimes, but she was so gentle and warm. It was the first time he had something he could call home to return. He would do anything to protect his master and his fellow disciples, even if he had to destroy the world for it. He had trouble sleeping the whole night because he was too excited. This would be his first hanging out with his honorable, beautiful master. It was just the two of them. But... "Excuse me, please don''t make a scene here. You can always resolve your grudge in the training ground or arena." Ely asked politely because the other parties blocked the road. "Shut up, busybody btch!" The young master snapped harshly. *Bonk* "I''m in a good mood today, so please don''t ruin it." Ely tapped the rude man''s head with her wooden wand lightly. "..." Michael had nothing to say. His master tantly became the bright, benevolent saintess upon her first visit to the human city. She healed random sick elderly, helped passersby in trouble, reconciled people in conflict, and many other generous things. For a nce, she was just like a naive girl with a profound sense of justice and kindness but backed up with power. He knew that his master was always like that. She was generous, benevolent, and kind to anyone who deserved it. Even demon was no exception. However, she was merciless toward her enemies and terrifying when angry. "Uh-huh, yes, you''re right, my fairdy, hehe..." The young masterughed stupidly as he shook hands with a certain young man. They instantly reconciled. The people around him were shocked at how easily the stunning beauty had turned the arrogant young master into an obedient boy all of a sudden. "..." The certain young man was speechless. This young master came to cause him some trouble. Still, this person suddenly became like a dog before this gorgeous innocent girl. "If you must resolve your dispute, please do so in a proper ce, not on this bustling street." Ely turned around and raised her hand in farewell. "Gulp." The young master broke into a cold sweat. He was so scared, actually. This gorgeousdy tapped his head lightly with that wooden wand. It was like a direct hit to his soul, and he became brain-dead for a few seconds. If she asked him to make up with this annoying country bumpkin right now, how could he refuse her with that kind of warning? "Tch, consider yourself lucky, brat." The young master hurried away. He was curious about thatdy''s identity. It was faint, but he could catch the faint holy aura from her some time ago. "What''s wrong with him? But who is that girl? She is so pretty and elegant. Is it possible that she is a revered saintess?" The certain youngdy grasped her junior brother''s arm. "How should I know? Are you satisfied to have me as your shield? Now, I need to go to the academy for my morning ss. Don''t bother me." The certain young man ran from his senior sister right away. Chapter 12: Unusual Street Painter

Chapter 12: Unusual Street Painter

"..." Ely looked at her 3rd disciple. After she thought about it, her first three disciples had golden blonde hair. She once wondered whether everyone who carried a hero''s bloodline possessed this characteristic. But, she threw that thought aside after meeting her 4th, 5th disciple, and so on. Ely opened her grimoire to check out about the academy she would visit. Lost Prayer was so reliable as a general knowledge informant. As long as it wasn''t some special secret, she could get all kinds of information. All she had to do was pray to this silver-gold grimoire. The Mythical-tier artifact was genuinely formidable. ''So, we only need to register ourselves as special guests. Cultivation is hopeless for me. Peran learn more about the concept of magic there? U.h, the most important thing is to draw more spotlight so those big shots can make their move. Something big is about to happen here, making the nature spirits anxious.'' Ely closed her grimoire and put it back into her subspace. She then nced at Michael. When he caught her gaze, he was flustered and turned to the side. ''On second thought, all of my disciples have tragic background stories. Everyone is born innocent, but my disciples have suffered since childhood. They didn''t even have a choice and turned into demons because of their bloodline.'' Ely''s gaze became tender as she felt the destiny of her disciples was so unfortunate. ''Well, they are lucky to meet me. Now, they be potentially great people. As expected of me. Their three years of training were not in vain. It''s just me being pitiful and can''t get stronger, huhu...'' Ely grasped her hand, feeling sad. Things got quiet as their carriage passed through the peaceful street, but the atmosphere was awkward because no one said anything. As a good boss, Ely racked her brain and opened a conversation to escape that awkward situation. She took out a soundproof talisman and threw a question. "Mika-kun, what do you think about this city?" "The surface may look peaceful, but beneath the truth lies anxiety." Michael looked out of the window. "Why is that?" Ely continued. "I can''t exin it with proper words, but I can feel it with my survival instinct and sixth sense. The trouble may not alwayse from outside. We are getting closer to the source." Michael believed this city was not as simple as it seemed since his master specifically pinpointed this city as their organization''s first major operation. "Indeed, the nature spirits can no longer be seen in the city. They''re anxious about something." Ely nodded slightly as she looked at the bright turquoise sky. "!?" Michael widened his eyes. His master couldmunicate with the nature spirits and ask them to materialize their form. If his master said it, then there was only one answer he coulde up with. Nature was ufortable with this ce because of something hidden inside. Something more terrible than Heavenly Demon seeds? Well, no matter what would happen next, the Guardian of Dream would eradicate the Heavenly Demon seeds and the evil things. More than two hundred people had already been dispatched and were currently monitoring the city in the shadows. ''Why didn''t he say anything else? He just gave a silly look in response?'' Ely asked in wonder. Since her disciple fell silent, then she couldn''t keep talking. She remembered what she had been doing since entering this city. She did several things that were especially eye-catching because she had to leave an impression that she was a precious saintess from a distantnd. Some big shots had clearly gotten word of a healering into the city, especially those from the Holy Church. Healer was the rarest and most precious talent, coveted by many parties. Not only did it make one heal wounds, but it could also purify evil. Those big shots should solve the trouble for everyone''s sake if something unexpected happens. Something that could cause the nature spirits to feel anxious was definitely no joke, and she started to feel worried for people''s safety. Her second reason was umting merit and good karma. She realized she could increase her VIT and SP every time she did something good, especially when healing someone. She could take her patient''s VIT a bit or something else as payment for her service. She would not sacrifice her VIT and do charity every time. Healing magic was scary and deadly skill, after all. Her lifespan would be dry if she became that kind of naive saintess. ... [Huang Zedong (FV: 2780) | 7th Rank Mid Stage] [Talent: 4 Stars | SSR] ... "Hmm?" Ely identally caught a glimpse of an interesting person''s status screen. On her way, she didn''t help random people as she would see endless amounts of them. The Holy Church, the hospital, the physician, and the medicine store would probably get no patients today if she overdid it. Since she was under a particr circumstance, she aimed at those with decent talent rarity or someone with a high cultivation base. The service payment could be a little higher. Most of those she met had Trash, Common, and Super Trash talents. She asionally lent a helping hand to the Common or below and gave more attention to the Rare or above. But, this time, she found someone with SSR talentparable to her first two disciples! She had to meet that person ASAP as she knew the other party was a promising star worthy of good rtions. "Please stop the carriage." Ely opened a small window to the coachman. "Yes, mydy." The coachman parked his horse-drawn carriage on the side of the road. "???" Michael had yet to learn why they stopped there. They still needed to arrive at the academy area. Even so, he immediately got down and offered his hand to his master to get off the carriage. "Mika-kun, can you apany me? We are close to the academy, and we will walk there." Ely got down from the carriage gracefully. "With pleasure, mdy." Michael put his hand to his chest. He paid the coachman with some money, then apanied his master to take a stroll. Yet, his master suddenly stopped in front of a painting stall. "You have beautiful eyes, youngdy. May I know what brings you here?" The street painter raised his head slightly. He briefly inspected this stunningdy''s appearance. She was clearly a noble from somewhere and had a lot of money. "I find your writing and painting to be interesting, sir. May I know why you want to sell your art?" Ely found it unusual for a 7th Rank expert to be a street painter. The street painter was stunned momentarily as he gave thedy before him a stupified look. "Why, you ask... It''s obviously for money, I guess?" "Is it?" Ely didn''t try to pry deeper. This middle-aged man might be an influential, humble figure who blended into society or a hidden expert under a mission. She averted her gaze and focused on the painting of the sea''s violent waves. Somehow, she felt her face being sshed by the salty water. It might be an illusion, but she saw the painting of the sea waves moving like an optical illusion. "That is a painting of the fierce southern sea. Countless sea monsters are born there; only the truly powerful cultivator can wade through that sea. Only those with profound insight can see the enlightenment hidden within this painting." The street painter crossed his arms and nodded proudly. He was pleased that his first customer of the day was ady with profound artistic insight. She even went into a trance at the sight of his marvelous painting. "Wow, that''s like an optical illusion, sir. I even feel like I''m being sshed with salty water." Ely put her hands together. She wondered if her painting skill could reach that level one day. She came here simply out of curiosity, but this street painter got her attention now. "S, sshed with salt water?" The street painter was dumbfounded. It was supposedly enlightenment about someone who would wade through the waves of a violent sea. Thisdy clearly had a profound insight and understood the actual value of his art, but was she kidding? "Then, how about this one?" The street painter needed to be more convinced. He pointed his hand at the painting of theke in the middle of the forest, which reflected a double full moon. "A quietke on a peaceful night, and crickets?" Ely wasn''t sure since she couldn''t find much detail in this night theme painting. The street painter asked about other paintings but felt beaten after a few tries. He couldn''t tell whether thisdy was joking or mocking him. He thought she had shallow insight andprehension, but her beautiful purplish-blue eyes showed so much wisdom. Then, what was she after from him? "Alright, I''ll buy this one, sir. How much does it cost?" Ely pointed to the animated ocean painting, the first thing that caught her attention. "You can name the price for its worth." The street painter sighed. He couldn''t see through thisdy, but her knight was a 5th Rank expert. He couldn''t inspect her cultivation base, but he gasped upon closer look at her. He didn''t pay too much attention other than her outer appearance and a beautiful visage. Still, he realized that she carried so many artifacts on her body. His appraisal skill couldn''t be wrong. It was like she was the embodiment of the walking treasures! Where did this wealthy princesse from!? "Is this enough?" Ely took out a pouch of gold and silver. It was enough to support an ordinary person for a year of luxurious life. The street painter received the money and nodded absentmindedly. He had not yet returned to his sense upon the shock. Ely took the painting scroll and then bid her farewell to the street painter. "I''ll take it. We might meet again if fate permits it, sir. Maybe I can paint a masterpiece of illusion art like you at that time." The street painter soon regained hisposure. He looked at the money in his hand, then thedy''s back. "Heh, you want to match the level of my painting skills? You need to work really hard then, little princess. Wait, I forgot to ask her name... Anyway, it''s finally money... not some useless jewel or artifact anymore!" The street painter was overjoyed. He once had everything in life, but his only sin was currently poverty. He lived a humble life and appreciated money. Thus, he put that stunningdy on his honorable customer list promptly. Chapter 13: Holy Saintess Arrival

Chapter 13: Holy Saintess Arrival

"Mika-kun, what do you think of that street painter?" Ely strolled the city street to the magic academy. "He looks like an ordinary middle-aged man, but I feel an inexplicable sense of danger from him. He is so adept at hiding his realm." Michael was sure of it, but what he didn''t understand was why his master was interested in that painting and that street painter. "Indeed. What might a 7th Rank expert do by selling paintings on the roadside? Someone who possesses no less than talent than my disciples at that." Ely nced back, making eye contact with Michael''s sky-blue serpent-like eyes. "!?" Michael was taken aback. He didn''t expect the middle-aged man to be a hidden Saint-level expert. Therefore, he immediately wrote a note to send someone to monitor this person. His master hinted to him for that, after all. "Disciple understands." A few momentster, they arrived at Luponia Magic Academy, one of the renowned magic academies in the Great Yan Empire. The academy''s environment and educational ecosystem were simr to a luxurious university. There were tall concrete buildings, beautiful flower gardens, a serene smallke, a pce-like main building, and a magnificent fountain in the middle of the academy''s square. The apprentice mages looked refined and dignified with their magic academy outfit. Ely looked left and right like a curious tourist. She quickly became the center of attention but paid no attention to those bystanders. Neither male nor female could avert their gaze from the beautiful one. It was the same as how she became an outstanding spectacle when she walked through the city streets a while ago. She did nothing, but her charm radiated like the fragrant flower which attracted the attention of the bees. However, the extraordinary flower exuded an aura of holiness that the bees did not dare to approach recklessly. Ady mage got off her flying broomstick andnded near two unusual visitors. "Good day, miss. My name is Hanna, the magic instructor. May I know the purpose of youring to our Luponia Magic Academy?" "Hi~ My name is Miko, the shrine priestess of the Sacred Sakura Holy Land. We wish to register as guests. I want to exchange thoughts on the profound concept of magic and see what a reputable magic academy is like." Ely replied politely. "Shrine priestess, holynd... a holy saintess!? Ah-um... Oh my, yes, you can register as our honorable guest! Please follow me for the procedure, Lady Miko." Hanna covered her mouth in shock, but she soon regained herposure. She guided the honorable guest with respect. "Alright." Ely nodded slightly, then went to follow the magic instructor. "Did you hear that? That stunningdy is a saintess from the holynd." "Yes, she is definitely one. Look at her brilliance and elegance. Every holynd has a saintess, but this is my first time seeing one." "Lady Miko? Is she perhaps from the Holy Church?" "No, fool. Look at that unique white-red outfit. She looks more sacred than the stiff priestess." "Uh-huh, she is a first-rate ethereal beauty, but I can''t lust over her for some reason. She is too perfect for this world. Is it a pinnacle of beauty?" "How rude of you to describe Lady Miko with those crude words." "Holy saintess graced her presence to our academy. She is interested in the profound concept of magic and signed up as a guest. I better make an outstanding performance and impression. I could attract her attention. The apprentices and young mages muttered to one another. The rumors then spread throughout the academy. The arrival of a holy saintess was like an auspicious cloud to their academy. After all, being a holy saintess was a very respected status with a divine-like nature and background. "Sacred Sakura Holy Land... this is the first time I''ve heard of it." The dean stroked his beard. "Human Realm isn''t the only realm, Tearobis isn''t the only continent, and Terra isn''t the only world, sir. I originally intended toe under an anonymous identity. Still, I don''t know much about the outside world, so I hope you won''t make my situation difficult." Ely shook her head as she retrieved her humble abode wooden token. She didn''t want to exin her background more than necessary. Still, she implied that the other party shouldn''t doubt her exnation. Her (artifacts) holy aura alone would give an undeniable truth to prove her holy-like identity. "Oh, my apologies. How unbing of me to respond with inappropriate words. I don''t mean to make your situation difficult or offend you, but there is one thing I don''t understand. A holy saintess will not descend from her holynd unless she has a special purpose. Did youe to our academy only to learn about the concept of magic?" The dean apologized sincerely with a noble bow. "I descend to experience the mortal life in the outside world, uncover the mysteries, and satiate my curiosity. I am here with my bodyguard." Ely threw the attention to her knight, but it didn''t work. No one paid attention to her knight. Maybe, because Michael used some disguise? She couldn''t see the difference because of her eyes'' innate ability, so she wasn''t sure. "I see... Then, I hope your experience at our academy will satisfy you, Lady Miko. This is our academy''s guest token. You can go anywhere within the jurisdiction of the permitted ess." The dean handed over a wooden token. "Thank you, sir." Ely was pleased everything went smoothly. "I invited our academy''s most promising mage as your guide. She is the best candidate for you to exchange thoughts on the profound concept of magic. I hope she can help you." The deanughed lightly. It was always good to have a good rtionship, especially with the saintess of the holynd. "I couldn''t ask for more." Ely put her hands together as she gave her thanks and respect. A few secondster, a little girl in a blue mage mantle entered the room. "Nish, Nice to meet you,dy saintess! My, my name is Lily-Mae Potter. I shall guide you on your visit." [Lily-Mae Potter (FV: 420) | 3rd Rank Mid Stage] [Talent: 2 Stars | Rare] Ely observed the pink-haired little girl with this crown-braid hairstyle. This girl was petite like an elementary school kid, but she was a senior mage at the same level as a sect''s core disciple. She had a little fat in the right ces, but that didn''t diminish her beauty at all. "Oh my, what a little cutie. Pleased to meet you, but don''t be too formal with me. My status isn''t worth mentioning." Ely waved her hand. "Wha- I can''t do it,dy saintess!" "My name is Miko, and please don''t call me saintess here." "Then, Lady Miko, please allow me to guide you." "Good." Ely and Lily-Mae then excused themselves to the dean, then left the room. Michael followed his master in silence. He had already concealed his cultivation base per his master''s order. Still, he kept an eye on the dean and the particr man in the corner of the room. Luckily, everything went smoothly, and they could proceed to the n''s second stage without any problems. A few minutester, the dean looked at a particr corner of the room. "Elder Han, what do you think of thatss?" An old gentleman emerged beside the dean. "She exuded a faint holy aura. It''s so easy to detect, even if she tried to disguise it. But, her realm ispletely undetectable by all means. It was as if she was just an ordinary girl." "Undetectable even for a Saint-level expert?" "Yeah, she''s not a holy saintess for nothing. Her holynd bestowed her with many protective treasures, but I don''t know how many she has. Her knight also concealed his realm, and he already noticed my presence. Also, please remember this. Every time a holy saintess descends, she is always followed by many secret protectors capable of destroying a country." "I see... A country-topping beauty with real power and exalted background. We received the honor and need to ensure nothing goes wrong with her visit. It''s nice to have rtions to that kind of big fish." "Her visit apparently was moreplex than it seemed. The recent events are unusual and somewhat odd. I''m afraid she will get involved, and the situation will be even moreplicated when the holynd intervenes." "We can''t afford to offend her and her background, but the situation could get out of control. Let''s share this opportunity with our allies too." "Do it in discrete." "All right. Speaking of which, I heard there was a benevolent priestess who came to the city this morning. Is Lady Miko the rumored one?" "I got the news. I''ve seen the person now, and Lady Miko is that benevolent priestess. Holy saintess with healing talent. She is too kind and precious if I have to say. This is her first visit to the mundane world. Please leave a good impression about our academy, but don''t cause difort. She will definitely be a God-ss big shot in the future." "Hum." The dean and the old gentleman had a brief discussion and reached a conclusion. With the arrival of the holy saintess, several prominent forces sent their envoys to the Lumina City for different but fundamentally simr purposes. Chapter 14: Magic and Cultivation

Chapter 14: Magic and Cultivation

Lily-Mae guided Ely around the magic academy while exining a few things. They also opened several discussions until noon arrived. Ely requested a short break, and Lily-Mae invited her to stop at the tallest building''s rooftop. The spot where one could observe the academy''s scenery so well. "..." Ely understood the basics; this magic academy was simr to a sect or cult. Once the apprentice was registered, that person would forever be the magic academy''s people. The rich and influential people would also receive special treatment. Talent was not the only factor for privilege here. Speaking of which, this pink-haired girl was the dean''s granddaughter. ''That burly scary-looking old man has a petite granddaughter. But what about her parents? Never mind, it''s none of my business. I came here to learn more about this world''s secretw of magic.'' Ely looked at the academy''s surroundings from the top of the tallest building. "Lady Miko, our luncheon is being delivered here. Would you mind having lunch with me?" Lily-Mae asked rather excitedly. Thedy before her was so pretty, elegant, and graceful. She was happy to know this very high-statusdy was so friendly and easy to talk to. "With pleasure~" Ely sped her hands to her sides as she answered with a warm smile. Lily-Mae was mesmerized by the saintess angelic persona once again. They were obviously the same gender, but she was embarrassed and blushed every time their eyes met. "Miss Lily, may I know your view on magic and cultivation? What sets them apart?" Ely decided to use this opportunity to have a profound conversation. "The answer may vary depending on how oneprehends it. However, several significant points exist to ssifying magic and cultivation as different arts and methods to reach a higher power level." Lily-Mae put on her sses as she entered serious mode to exin herprehension. "Please enlighten me." Ely was interested in the continuation. "Cultivation uses qi, and magic uses mana, but literally, they mean energy with one''s body as container and catalyst. The cultivator required one''s body and spirit to refine and cultivate their power into the dantian''s core. In contrast, the mage needed one''s mind and soul to expand their mana pool and control their elements. Qi can be interpreted as physical and airflow, the magic is always in you all along. While mana can be interpreted as spirit and mind, there is magic all over the world." Lily-Mae made a simple projection with her water magic to simplify her exnation. Despite hailing from a simr meaning, namely energy, qi, and mana was the opposite. More qi equals more destructive power, whereas more mana doesn''t mean one has more power. "Refine and control, huh... If so, doesn''t cultivation have a superior advantage over magic for practitioners of the same rank?" Ely felt something was wrong, but she didn''t know where. "We can''t say it like that because cultivation and magic have advantages and disadvantages of their respective methods and techniques. It always depends on the person because we will need to improve our body, mind, spirit, soul, and overall capabilities in the end." Lily-Mae had racked her brain to exin the wonder of magic to a cultivator as she assumed the holy saintess wasn''t a mage. "I see." Ely tried to scan her body, then looked at her sea of consciousness. She could see a massive lump of energy within her body from there, and countless water ripples appeared. It resembled a golden sun with a rippled water barrier. At this point, she realized that her body constitution differed from the principles of cultivation and magic. Her HP, MP, and SP had far exceeded the intended limit. Thus the so-called container was non-existent for her. "Aah, so it''s like that, huh. I understand everything now." Ely nodded as if she understood everything, even though she didn''t get it. "Mm-hmm, I''m d to hear it. There is a mystery behind cultivation and a beauty of wonder behind the magic." Lily-Mae nodded in agreement. Ely then brought up the topic of what if someone had tiny magic power but possessed a massive magical energy reserve. It was the most crucial matter for her. She could only use minimal magic output because of that. Unfortunately, Lily-Mae could only provide a few suggestions based on existing theory and her understanding. An unbnced case like that was rare; she had never met one. A few momentster, lunch was delivered by a chef. Ely, Lily-Mae, and Michael then had lunch together. "Hmm?" Ely noticed the apprentice''s break time was over. About a hundred people entered the training field, enthusiastically practicing their magic. "They seem to have a very high passion for study and practice. Is it like that every day?" "I don''t think so. They may be enthusiastic about strengthening but also want to show off their talent. Perhaps, it has something to do with your arrival, Lady Miko." Lily-Mae covered her mouth as she couldn''t contain her chuckle. "Is that so? They should have their own motivation- Uh-huh?" Ely caught a glimpse of dark energy from a particr apprentice mage by the remote building. That person looked in pain, but his behavior was suspicious. "That mage isn''t well. Something happened to him?" Ely pointed in a direction, but the mentioned person had already disappeared from her sight. "Who are you referring to, Lady Miko?" Lily-Mae squinted her eyes, but she couldn''t see that far clearly. "Never mind." Ely shook her head. She nced at Michael as he also saw what she had just witnessed. "Hum." Michael nodded in reply. A few momentster, Ely excused herself to Lily-Mae as it was time for her to leave. But she woulde back tomorrow morning. "Yes, please take care of me tomorrow, Lady Miko." Lily-Mae waved her hand to send the honored guest away. "I''m the one who has to say that, Miss Lily. Thank you for today. It was a great conversation." Ely bid her farewell, then walked away. "Mika-kun, send a team to investigate that matter immediately. The dark, evil energy just now resembled a demonic possession fluctuation." Ely spoke in a whisper-like voice. "I''ve sent a word to the 2nd scout team." Michael put a telmunication talisman back into his storage pouch. After Ely left the academy, Lily-Mae went to a gazebo in the flower garden. Her grandfather was already waiting there. "What about Lady Miko''s tour? Can you figure out her real purpose?" The dean put down his cup. "Grandfather, Lady Miko wasn''t interested in any of my topics. She is only interested in the concept of magic. She wille back tomorrow morning." Lily-Mae sat near her grandfather. "Then, it''s good. Did she say anything else?" The dean poured a cup of tea for his granddaughter. "No, she only came here to discuss the concept of magic to clear up her confusion and curiosity. However, there is one thing that makes me ufortable." "And what is that?" "About an hour ago, Lady Miko found a mage behaving strangely and pinpointed it to me. However, I failed to see who it was." "Hm, are those rats about to make their move? They are crazy enough to act now when the holy saintess visits our academy. We need to purge them to the root then." "Hmm, rats?" Lily-Mae had no idea what all that had to do with rats. At a luxurious hotel, Ely booked two rooms next to each other. However, the other room was deliberately left empty. Michael left to handle some matter. A few minutester, Gabrie and Rafa arrived to report the result of their task. "Uhm, mdy, may I know what you are doing?" Gabrie was stunned when she saw her master wearing an unusual outfit. "This is a simple artist outfit. I want to paint on a canvas and take my art technique to the next level. What do you think?" Ely spun around once. "You''re gorgeous no matter what you wear, master." "Yeah, as exquisite as the heavenly angel." "Thank you." "Master, we have destroyed that very organization. We have sent all those involved to the mining ground as their punishment after a good beating. Meanwhile, the enved people who wanted to be free got what they wished for. For those who don''t have a ce to return, we give them shelter, and they work in our branch business with humane treatment." Rafa reported the situation proudly. She was also there to destroy that ce, after all. "Um, that''s good." Ely nodded slightly. She felt admiration in her heart. ''My disciples are so fast inpleting their assignments and really reliable. If only they weren''t obsessed with eliminating those Heavenly Demon seeds and could focus on assisting me more... Well, that''s partly the fault of that mixed stories.'' "Master..." Gabrie was about to speak but was at a loss to say it. "Hmm?" Ely put her paintbrushes on the table and looked at her first disciple. Gabrie called her ''master'' instead of the usual ''mdy''. It was the same as how she referred to her disciples'' nicknames with an additional suffix in everyday life and their names in external professional situations. Also, with that kind of troubled tone... something critical clearly happened, and Gabrie found it challenging to say it. "Please say it, Gab-chan. Everything will be fine under my watch." Ely tried to reassure with an affirmation. "Then, I''ll say it frankly." Gabrie nced at her junior sister briefly, then reported the results of her in-depth investigation. Chapter 15: Do You Wish for Revenge?

Chapter 15: Do You Wish for Revenge?

Gabrie reported about a secret dungeon under the city lord''s mansion. The Lumina Marquess Family was the one who ruled over this Lumina City. Regardless, there was a secret that no one knew about. Twenty children who had not reached adulthood were locked underground and treated as test subjects. Those people carried out a suspicious experiment by taking the blood of those children and injecting a particr serum to increase the test subject''s overall ability. They wished to create an army of artificial superhumans, but some children had already be something akin to a monster instead. The infiltrator and investigation team found the gruesome truth as they went deeper. There were a lot of failed products that ended tragically too. The Lumina Family was famous for producing many top-tier mages, but why would they carry out such inhumane experiments? The answer was simple. That family declined in the past one hundred years, and there had been no more talented mage since then. Upon hearing that, Rafa trembled slightly. She tried to be indifferent, but her subconscious felt irritated and angry. She recalled those painful years. "Do you know why healing magic is so precious?" Ely heaved a subtle sigh and immediately asked off-topic. "Saving someone''s life is the most important thing?" Gabrie scratched her head as she didn''t understand why the topic had suddenly changed. "Yes, but it is deeper than it seems. Vitality will be drained when using healing magic, but do you realize who must sacrifice to heal others?" Ely changed her question. "That, the healer?" Gabrie widened her eyes in shock. "Yes, healers are gifted with great vitality, and that''s why they are valued so preciously. If you trace them, all healers will be treated as special treasures. However, most of them die at a young age. Do you know why?" Ely tapped her finger to the table for attention. "Uh-huh, could it be because they''re running out of vitality?" Gabrie gasped. Within Guardian of Dream, there were several people with healing skills. Her 2nd sister and 10th sister also had that ability, but the most impressive was her master. So, they always sacrificed their vitality every time they healed someone!? "Yes, I have discussed this matter with our people who have healing skills. However, that is not what I want to talk about here." Ely once again tapped her finger on the table. She then told a story about a little princess branded as ''useless'' and ostracized in her own family. As time went by, her family paid no more attention to her. They gradually treated her unjustly. The little princess kept training hard because she held onto the hope that everyone had equal values and her talenty somewhere unknown. She tried to impress her parents but ultimately received no love despite her efforts. She failed, and her hopes shattered. It was lonely, dark, and cold... But the light finally came to pick her up. One day, a priest encountered the little princess and identally discovered a talent with great vitality hidden within her. Thus, the priest recruited the little princess into the Holy Church. She was freed from a cold and dark hell called her family, but that was only the beginning of an even more profound tragedy. "Why was the little princess being hunted when she was in a predicament? She had just escaped her family''s torment, but the Holy Church was so excessive as to force the little child to heal others." Gabrie couldn''t understand the truth of the story her master told. "Do you know why only a few heroes'' descendants fall into demonic possession? Their parents and rtives could be fine, but not them?" Ely continued. "That..." Gabrie didn''t know the answer. "That was because they had a high aptitude and affinity for the hidden talent of the hero''s blood flowing in their bodies. Unfortunately, that power was cursed. Those recognized as sessors were the only ones who could fall into demonic possession. The little princess was hunted by her family because they knew her worth. They wanted her to return, but it was not feasible. Thus, they resorted to violence to extract her blood for their benefit." Ely shared a considerable secret relevance regarding the heroes'' (God) descendants. "!!!" Rafa looked down as she broke into a cold sweat. Her face turned pale as she finally discovered the extraordinary truth behind her tragedy. She escaped that terrible mansion because Holy Church''s discovered her talent and taught her about healing magic. Yet, she was treated like a healing tool there. She wished to cure her ''curse'' and ''defect'', but holy magic couldn''t do much even though she was basked by the light of holiness every day. Her vitality was exhausted, and her body could no longer suppress the curse. She ran away, but her family had been eyeing her for a long since her healing talent was discovered. But, who would have thought that she was being chased because they were after her blood! Those scary people often took her blood and injected a mysterious liquid that caused excessive pain once a month. Her family was all aware of the heroes'' blood flowing in their family''s bloodline! So, the mistreatment she received in those years was because she was one of the experimental subjects, simr to those pitiful kids held captive in the underground!? Her family even dared to do that to their flesh and blood. Were they still human? The demons were even more humble and kind than them! Rafa hugged her trembling body. Her master was omniscient and knew everything even though she never said anything. Her master said it was all for her, but she didn''t know what to do. If possible, she just wanted to forget everything. She was Rafa, her master''s 2nd disciple! However, her heart said to take revenge and give those sinners the punishment they deserved. The family that would sacrifice their flesh and blood for any reason didn''t deserve to exist. "Hmm?" Ely was stunned for a moment. She deliberately instigated Rafa, but she didn''t know why that overreaction. She knew a little about Rafa''s past because it was transferred to her mind since it was one thing that stuck in Rafa''s mind the most during the purification. She gave Rafa a chance to carry out something like a sweet revenge n, but it seemed there were some details she didn''t know. The matter was more profound than she had expected. "Do you wish for revenge and save those pitiful children?" Ely sat in a seiza position right in front of Rafa. "No, I will destroy that family with my own hands. Those power-hungry bastards deserve to be punished by heaven." Rafa answered with a trembling voice. "Is it? But don''t rush things out. Move with Gab-chan tomorrow. We must still collect their ''dark data'' to bring them down." Ely shook her head with a sigh. "Disciple obey." Raphael nodded slightly. "..." Gabrie watched from the side in silence. She had expected it, but it felt different when the truthy before her eyes. So, her junior sister was previously part of the Lumina Family, the princess, also known as the Holy Chruch''s youngest priestess, who mysteriously disappeared six years ago. "You are my family. We are not evil, but we are also not an enforcer of justice. Do what you need to do. We will always be with you." Ely hugged Rafa, and thetter slowly calmed down. A few minutester, Gabrie and Rafa went to rest in the next room. Ely then did a little experimentation on her power sources with both MP and SP alternately. She assumed MP meant Mana Point, and SP meant Spiritual Point, which could be converted into qi. Regardless of her effort, she could only exert simple magic and essential martial art. ''That''s useless. I have massive power sources, but the output is still small. My body can''t handle it because of power limitations. For a 0th Rank mortal like me, I must be more creative about my magic and martial art creation, right?'' Ely tried to rack her brain for a while but soon returned to painting. She put the magic-rted thought aside for another time. In her mind, she no longer worried about cultivation and magic because she likely needed to set out on her own path. Chapter 16: The Evildoers will make Their Move

Chapter 16: The Evildoers will make Their Move

When morning came, Ely returned to the magic academy to inquire more about magic and investigate yesterday''s encounter. That mage''s ck aura was definitely worrying. The air felt slightly chilly, and overcast clouds covered the turquoise sky. Ely shivered a little from a cold gust of wind. She looked up and muttered. "Today is still early, but why is the sky so cloudy? A storm is approaching?" "Yeah, the weather has been a bit unpredictabletely. I hope all is well." Lily-Mae felt a bit worried because of her grandfather''s words yesterday. He gave no further detail and only reassured her, making her uneasy, especially because the holy saintess was here. "Shall we go to my study room, Lady Miko? You can learn more about magic with a cup of hot cocoa." Lily-Mae invited with careful consideration.. In fact, she needed to figure out why this exalted one in the cultivation world was interested in magic. Her wild thoughts said the holy saintess was trying to create an extraordinary technique involving magic and cultivation. "With pleasure~ I will be in your care, Miss Lily." Ely appreciated the consideration. She looked at Michael and nodded slightly. He put his hand to his chest and gave a slight knightly bow, then turned to leave. "Lady Miko, why did you send your knight away?" Lily-Mae needed rification. It would be fine if he tagged along. He was so handsome, and she wished to get to know him better too. "Mika-kun has some business to attend to. He will be back soon." Ely grasped her hand in front. "I see." Lily-Mae nodded in understanding. It was probably the unavoidable nature call. They then went to the special study room on the fifth floor of the academy''s main building. Meanwhile, Michael entered the restroom and used teleportation to go rendezvous with the other Apostles. *Zap* Michael teleported to a secret meeting room. The other nine Apostles were already there, with a material for discussion ced on the table. "You have arrived, Michael. Please have a seat, and we can begin our meeting." Gabrie turned on the projection. "In our first major operation, our master pinpointed three main factors that would guide us to the real mastermind. Around this Lumina City lurked an organization that moves in darkness. They n to awaken or summon the Heavenly Demon." The map of Lumina City was disyed in the projection. The three markers show the Luponia Magic Academy, the Holy Chruch, and the city lord''s mansion. "Fifth sister, please continue from here." Gabrie passed the projection device to the girl next to her. "Then, I, Uriel, shall lead this meeting." Uriel''s light purple eyes faintly shed. She then presented the detailed data about the city lord''s mansion from their investigation to everyone. However, the pressing matter urred at the magic academy, and they would first handle the ''demon'' and a particr group''s suspicious activity. As for the situation in Holy Church, they needed to wait for their master''s decision. They couldn''t infiltrate there unnoticed because of the holy magic protection. Besides the surface information, they barely had any data on what might be hidden beneath the Lumina City''s Holy Church. "I see, so we''ll handle the one suspected of being one of us, right? However, I don''t think it''s that simple. The suspicious movements in this city have be more troubling since our arrival." The fourth brother crossed his arms. "You mean the suspicious movement in this city, and their agenda has elerated since our master''s arrival? Please borate further with us, Azrael." Rafa made a steeple of her fingers. "All right, they will target our master and the mages in the magic academy. I used shadow search beforeing here and found a surprising secret conversation around the academy. Do you know what I got?" Azrael replied with an evil grin. "What is it?" Gabrie''s expression turned cold. It didn''t bode well for her. "They changed their ns slightly. Initially, they intended to make the entire academy as a sacrifice to summon a powerful magical demon from the world above. They nned to kill the holy saintess and make her blood the primary offering to their God. Due to our arrival, they hastened their ns, and none of the citizens will be spared when that demon descends upon this world." After saying that, Azrael summoned his little shadow clone and yed the audio recording he got this morning. As he said, the situation that awaited the Luponia Magic Academy was moreplex than it seemed. A greater scheme of evil from an unknown demonic cult had been lurking in this city for years. Those people decided to move soon because of the arrival of the holy saintess and hundreds of mysterious experts in this city. Not to mention their master''s tant action as a healer and holy saintess. Several major forces had already sent their representatives to greet her and establish good rtions. Instead of being purged by thebined forces, those terrorists from a particr demonic cult decided to carry out their n today. They were desperate to summon their God as soon as possible. "A Demon God... that thing and its worshippers dares to target our master? A mere magical demon dares to challenge the almighty one? It''s funny since they''ll turn to dust once they dare appear before our master. Since they have a death wish this early, let''s grant it to them." Michael grinned confidently. He could ughter anyone below 8th Rank and rival the Emperor-level expert if he went all out. As for his master''s realm, he knew no one could measure how strong his master was. She was fond of living a serene mortal life. However, all her disciples knew their master was omnipotent and above True God''s level. Because of the Heavenly Demon revival ns, his master was forced to put aside that simple yet rxing life. "Our master eliminated one yesterday, and another one will appear today? The sky has indeed changed, just like what our master said. However, we need to act before our master need to make her move. We need to prove ourselves in this operation." Uriel twirled a lock of her silver-white hair. Their organization never had a direct encounter with an existence above Emperor-level. Still, the powerful ones appeared one after another when their master stepped out of the Northern Realm''s mountain region. "It''s better if we eliminate those demon worshipers first. Preventing the Demon God from descending into this world is better for reducing the casualties of innocent people." "Whether it is rted to the Heavenly Demon or not, we shall eliminate them." "I assume it''s a great demon lord from the upper realm. Do they have a way to open the gate and connect the sealed path?" "We don''t know what will happen, but they n to sacrifice more than a thousand talented seedlings in the academy. If they are confident, we need to be vignt." "Yeah, prepare for trouble, and make it double." "No, I reckon it''s a massacre because they have chosen death!" "Wait, what about the situation at the city lord''s mansion? The Lumina Family has their disgusting case." "They are not more important than this pressing matter. We will deal with themter as they can''t escape either. The teleportation out of the city has also been sealed by higher-ups. They are aware that the storm is approaching. They will be usefulter, hehe~" The discussion between Ely''s core disciples heated up. Gabrie then distributed the tasks to each Apostle, and they immediately made their moves in the shadows, unnoticed by any third party. If possible, she wished to handle the incident without her master needing to step in. The brighter the light, the darker the shadow. The Guardian of Dream''s members didn''t care how much ''evil'' woulde into existence. Their master was the eternal light, and they served their master with all their hearts to fulfill her wish and eliminate obstacles in her path. The Luponia Magic Academy had been infiltrated by more than two hundred unidentified people. Regardless, the Guardian of Dream also had already made their move. Chapter 17: Playing Hostage

Chapter 17: ying Hostage

[Constetion of Fate send you an emergency quest] [Condition 1: Prevent the Heavenly Rebel, the Demon God of Necromancy, from descending into the mortal world][Reward: SP+20K] [Condition 2: Kill the Heavenly Rebel, the Demon God of Necromancy][Reward: HP +25K, CON +50, SP +200K, MP +2M, Demon God''s fragment core] "Hmm? Woah..." Ely was looking through Lily-Mae''s research magic circle, but a screen suddenly popped out before her vision. ''The mission is now sent to me directly?'' Ely was stunned for a second because it was the first time a quest hade to her by itself. She instantly realized how fucked up her current situation was. ''Heavenly Rebel, the Demon God will descend around here!?'' Ely looked at the overcast sky beyond the window, which looked much darker. The dark clouds above the city formed a massive vortex, indicating a catastrophe would soon ur. She did feel a bit uneasy before, but she just thought she was feeling a bit nervous because it would be the first time she would purify someone in the public eye. Someone suspected as a descendant of a cursed hero, a ck magic practitioner, or perhaps, a demon in disguise didn''t bring anything good. It was no longer the act of saving the bloodline of a hero like what she had been doing in thest three years. The plot suddenly became the summoning ritual for the descent of a Demon God! ''I purged the bad evil demons yesterday without any reward... me me for not checking my grimoire beforeing down the mountain. I may be the nemesis of any creature with evil-rted power, but can I withstand the power of God with my holy artifacts?'' Ely asked in wonder and summoned her Lost Prayer grimoire. She let the new quest hang before her vision because the two choices were too difficult without careful consideration. Lily-Mae had just taken a magic scroll from the shelf, but she was surprised to find what was in the holy saintess'' hand. "Lady Miko? What are you- Is, is it perhaps a high-level grimoire!? You also embarked on the magic path? My apologies. I thought you were a cultivator." "Do you know about grimoire, Miss Lily?" Ely opened her grimoire to check Aher''s current status screen and the mission list. "Of course! A grimoire can only be used by an Elite Mage or above, and the high-level one... Err, Lady Miko, you''ve made a contractual bond with your grimoire!?" Lily-Mae''s voice grew weaker as she discovered that someone who came to her as a curious student was an expert beyond her level. ''If so, did Lady Miko just test me all along? She was definitely a high-level mage beyond 5th Rank! Uh, it''s not. She came to share thoughts and understand more deeply about profound magic, not to learn basic magic, silly me. She''s so young but already achieved the dream of every mage to hold their own grimoire.'' Lily-Mae''s confidence received a critical hit. She felt stupid for feeling proud that a holy saintess even came to her to learn about magic. ''High-level one? Lost Prayer is an SS Rank, Mythical-tier grimoire.'' Ely put aside the magic concept of scrolling sideways, then focused on her priority. (read more)... [ying 4th Rank demon | SP +80] [ying 2nd Rank demon | SP +40] [ying 4th Rank demon | MP +800] [ying 3rd Rank demon | MP +600] [The agent of the Dark Realm is satisfied with your cruelty] Ely discovered a new feature, the log list next to her status page. Her stats increased without her realizing it until now, and it was clearly because of her actions yesterday. Although it was somewhat unintentional, she killed over a hundred evil demons. And the most marvelous thing was the first on the list. [ying 10th Rank Deity embryo | MP +8,000 | SP +4,000] ''It''s truly a Devil Deity embryo... It was thanks to Celestia for killing him. Yet, the most mysterious and terrifying artifact within my inner space had already awakened. Never mind, My MP and SP increased, so I guess I can get it by exterminating enemies? However, how do I increase my HP and other stats? Wait, the new quest offers something interesting.'' Ely double-checked the quest from the Constetion of Fate. She would receive amazing bonuses if she could kill the Demon God, but would she be able to do it? That was what came to her mind, but she would try it, considering she held many Super-tier and Mythical-tier artifacts. There was also no quest penalty or coercion. Regardless, countless people would surely die if the Demon God managed to descend into this mortal world. Therefore, Ely would try to aplish the second option''s objective. However, she had to ensure precautions in case she overestimated her abilities. That way, it would not be toote to prevent the Demon God from descending to fulfill the first-choice condition. [Expose the Lumina Marquess Family''s dark secret and demolish their hidden agenda][Reward: Rafa''s 100% unshakable loyalty, Imperial Family''s generous gift] [Stop the Holy Church''s inhumane experimentations (0/3)][Reward: Archangel] [Create anything with high artistic value recognized by heaven (79/1000)][Reward: Mastery of a divine prowess] ...(read more) Ely flipped to the next page, and another one reced the screen. Many astonishing quests were on the mission list for Ely to ept at face value. However, since all of that only appeared on that page screen as mere information, the urgency couldn''t bepared to the quest sent directly by the Constetion of Fate. Ely closed her grimoire and returned it to her subspace with a poof. She then took out a protective talisman and handed it over to Lily-Mae. "Miss Lily, thank you for your time. I broadened my horizons about profound magic, thanks to you. However, it seems things are getting a bit chaotic out there. Please be safe and follow your secret protectors'' instructions, okay? We need to leave to somewhere safe." "Eh-huh? Why do you say that all of a sudden, Lady Miko? I-" Lily-Mae was confused by the sudden change in intonation. It was as if the holy saintess was concerned about her safety? *Bam!* The wall was sted open outside, and the door was smashed from the other side. Several people in ninja-like outfits surrounded the two girls and sealed any possible escape path. "Don''t move. You are not going anywhere,dies. Please don''t fight ande with us; you will give us no choice but to take you by force." The ninja leader rushed to take the pink-haired petite girl hostage, then showed his bloodstained sword for intimidation. "N-no... My magic research it''s ruined! Ugh, who, who are you all? How dare you cause trouble at Luponia Magic Academy!?" Lily-Mae broke out her hand with a feeling of loss. Her research projects had been crushed under the pile of concrete debris. She tried to cast her magic, but nothing happened. "You think we- wait, why can''t I use my magic?" "You are surprised, aren''t you? Hehe, this academy is already locked up in the anti-mana domain. No mage wille out of here unscratched. The so-called secret protectors are just a bunch of weaklings. You have no chance of escaping. What do you think, holy saintess?" The leader-like ninja took out several bloodied cloth sacks and threw them near the holy saintess'' feet. "A meaningless massacre without a shred of grace. The sinners and evildoers shall receive the punishment of heaven. I wille with you as a hostage, but don''t kill more or injure Miss Lily. I''m warning you." Ely sighed. "We are not here to hear your lecture. You cannot bargain with us, let alone buy time for reinforcements. Your secret protectors were just so-so within this anti-mana domain. We identally ughtered them to the ground." The muscr ninja contemptuously sneered. Ely remained calm because she understood her people''s real power very well. This group of evil ninjas would never defeat her core disciples or Guardian of Dream''s members. "Do as I say, or do you want me to struggle desperately? You know very well what a holy saintess is capable of, right?" Ely threw a petty threat and intimidation. She had another idea and chose a n of a mouse deer tricking the tiger. "..." The evil ninjas looked at each other. They felt capturing the holy saintess was too easy than expected, but the meat was served on the table without a fight. "If they don''t fight back, we don''t need to kill them that soon." The ninja leader handcuffed the holy saintess'' wrists with a sea stone sealing artifact. In this way, their primary target couldn''t exert any spiritual power even though she wished to do so. "Lady Miko, sorry... I''m useless." Lily-Mae was also handcuffed without power or resistance. Without magic, she was as good as an ordinary mortal. She dragged the holy saintess back because those bad guys threatened her life. "Let''s see what they have nned." Ely left the room, following the ninja leader. Chapter 18: Demonic Cult Assault

Chapter 18: Demonic Cult Assault

The bell rang, and all students attended their respective sses for morning lessons. As for the first and second graders, they were gathered in the auditorium hall because there was something to announce. "Why is today so dark? This does not bode well for me. Will the cmity fall today?" A young man d in a magic academy uniform muttered as he looked up at the dark, cloudy sky. His heart had been restless since he woke up this morning, but someone suddenly smacked his back without prior notice. "Ouch!" "Hi, good morning, Chen Fan. Why are you staring at the sky? The weather has been unpredictable recently, and it might rain soon." A cheerful young girl greeted the young man like a jolly bird. "You physical abuser. Don''t get too close to me. I don''t know you. Also, don''t try to use me as your shield to get rid of your pursuer again. It''s troublesome." Chen Fan rubbed his back and distanced himself from the troublemaker. It was just a young girl who was a year older than him. She possessed a fresh and cheerful charm, but he felt gloomy because of her arrival. "Oh my, why is that? Shouldn''t you be overjoyed to have a close rtionship with a beautiful senior sister of yours? For you to know, I am so high in demand." The young girl poked her junior brother''s cheek with her dainty finger. "..." Chen Fan''s veins popped as he felt irritated. This girl was his childhood friend, but she liked bullying him. He was considered a genius within his n but had never won against this girl. If only he had the upper hand, he would teach this girl lessons not to mess with him. "I don''t care. You watch. After I study andprehend more magic and stuff. I will beat you and bully you, Wang Zi-Zhen." Chen Fan pushed his childhood friend aside and walked into the auditorium. She was one of the beautiful flowers at the academy. Still, he could see nothing but an annoying bully within her. He was better prepared just in case she did her usual little stunt. "Fufu, I can''t wait to see it. Please entertain me then." Wang Zi-Zhen followed his junior brother closely from behind, but her friends soon called her over. Thus, she bid her farewell to her junior brother. "Phew, that disaster is finally gone. I feel tired just dealing with her." Chen Fan leaned his head on the table, ignoring all the envious and hateful gazes from the other boys. "Yo, what kind of bastard do we have here? Is it our gloomy friend?" A fatty ssmate clicked his tongue. "Huh? You''re stillining even though you have a beautiful senior sister who loves you? You really can''t appreciate a childhood friend''s beauty." Anky ssmate greeted his buddy with an envious remark. "You just don''t know. If you are someone who is inclined to like her abuse, then you are a real masochist beyond help. Please don''t talk to me. I feel tired." Chen Fan pped his hand to drive his friends away. "Haha, if we didn''t know you better, we''d think you were lying. But, well... I guess she was doing that to get your attention." The fatty ssmate spoke in a whisper-like voice. "Yeah, you are dull and practically a loner, while she is a bright and cheerful flower. She only bullies you, but no one receives affectionate treatment. It''s her pursuers'' dream, you know? She acts like a delicate flower in normal times." Thenky ssmate smirked. "Shut up. She will only throw trouble at me, not to mention those jealous young masters." Chen Fan sighed and then buried his face A few momentster, the teachers, instructors, and student council members entered the auditorium. The students sat down in their seats as the student council president stepped up to the podium to announce a few things. The first one was about the holy saintess. Their academy would hold a magic event today, and the saintess would shed some light on divine magic, unlike the holy magic from the church, but a typical divine power that only a saintess could possess. Chen Fan was lost in thought as hepared this student council president to his childhood friend. The student council president was like the graceful noble with the firm demeanor of a magic knight, while his childhood friend was like an energetic young bud. Despite being only two years older than him, the student council president possessed the elegant mature charm of an eighteen-year-old girl. Someone could only be treated as an adult after passing that age. ''Ejiri Ritsuko, huh...'' Chen Fan muttered, but the figure of the kind angelic beauty he encountered yesterday still lingered in his mind. He only met her once, but she quickly became the first-ranked beauty among all the beautiful girls he had met. He received the news yesterday. That ck-haired angelic beauty was apparently a saintess from the holynd. It was like the Deity to a mortal. Their statuses and backgrounds couldn''t bepared. Yes, only a ce like that could produce an exalted figure like that angelic beauty with a great sense of kindness. "We have to leave a good impression of our academy''s name. That''s all from me. Thank you." The student council president then stepped down from the podium. *Bam!* The entrance was suddenly smashed open, and dozens of people in ck ninja-like outfits entered. "Don''t move, or your life will be at stake." One of the ninjas drew his sword. His subordinates immediately surrounded the students. The teachers and instructors immediately acted to protect the students and restrain the intruders, but their magic was not working correctly. "And who are you? How dare you cause trouble at the Luponia Magic Academy." A magic instructor took out his magic staff. He tried to cast his spell to protect the students, but his magic circle suddenly crumbled to pieces the moment it formed. "Haha! Magic doesn''t work in this anti-magic domain! We are daring, and you are our hostages. Come with us obediently. Perhaps, you may be honoured to see this academy''s destruction." The ninja leaderughed sarcastically. "Hmph! Even without magic, you think we are sheep that are easy to ughter?" The old mage took out his sword. He moved nimbly and attacked the ninjas but was stabbed from behind. "What the" The old mage widened his eyes in shock as he saw the flying sword covered in ck magic pierce his chest. He fell to the ground, covered in blood. "No, no, people die!" "Uwaaa!" "Murder, murder!" "I can''t use my magic!" "Help!" The students gasped in terror, then eximed frantically. This event was an actual terrorist attack! "Your crime will not be forgiven. Reinforcements wille here. My magic sword will punish you in the name of justice." Ejiri Ritsuko unsheathed her magic sword. "No one wille to save you. Looks like we need to do something first, then. Lives are most important to you, right?" One of the ninjas drew his double saber and dashed at the student council president with killing intent. Chen Fan felt his blood boil as the student council president was about to be attacked. His body moved on its own to rush to her rescue. *ng* The sword in the hand of the student council president was blown away by the dark magic sh. Another sword aimed at her throat, but a brave young man came between them. *Stab* The sword shrouded in dark magic pierced Chen Fan''s shoulder. His face contorted in pain. "Argh!" "E-eh?" Ejiri Ritsuko was stunned as the fresh red, warm blood sshed onto her face. "Hou, ying a hero?" The ninja pulled out his sword and then kicked the boy aside. "You, fool! Why did you rush at the enemy like that? You''re not a shield!" Wang Zi-Zhen ran up to his junior brother in a panic and dismay. She shed her sword at the nearby ninja, and the other party chose to back off because their goal had been achieved. The students were terrorised as another casualty fell, and more people were injured. "I, I don''t know. Ghak! My body moves on its own." Chen Fan also needed to figure out why. He coughed up a mouthful of blood because of the dark magic invasion. "Please don''t die on me." Ejiri Ritsuko''s face turned pale. She immediately took out a first aid kit and tried to stop the boy''s bleeding. Thirty secondster, the students and teachers gave up their resistance as they could not win against the ck magic practitioner in this anti-magic environment. Enemies could use ck magic, and it was a clear threat. Three people died during that initial resistance. Over a hundred people were herded out like sheep, driven by the predators. Ely and Lily-Mae walked through a corridor with high-ranking ninjas escorting them inside the academy''s main building. The holy saintess surrendered without any resistance. Lily-Mae looked out the window and saw hundreds of students being led away by dozens of ck magic practitioners. They were taken to the training ground as hostages. Casualties might have been drastically minimized due to the holy saintess'' requirement, but it couldn''t salvage the current situation. Her grandfather and the elders were clearly on to something. The Holy Church, Chivalric Order, and city guards will alsoe to their rescue. They just needed to buy time and stay alive. These terrorists actually didn''t hesitate to kill if it was necessary. "Aaah, please spare me!" An apprentice mage crossed the corridor''s intersection as if he was frantically running away from something. "Did you think I would let you go after your sneak attack, punk!?" A burly ninja shed the apprentice mage''s back. Blood sttered like a fountain, and the apprentice mage fell to the floor. He was unwilling, but he felt cold and sleepy. It was so painful, but he was dead for sure. Ely''s expression turned grim. "You didn''t keep your promise." It was like a cold, threatening whisper that made the ninja leader fearfully shiver. He turned around spontaneously, but his subordinates convulsed on the floor. The holy saintess held something like an iron rod and smacked his stomach. Everything was so fast, and twelve people already fell in such a short time without him knowing it? Sure enough, the holy saintess was still so powerful even though her power was sealed. The ninja leader then fainted and slumped to the floor, convulsing like the others. "Oh shit, an order not to kill at random was just announced. Hm?" The burly ninja noticed the two girls on the other side of the corridor, and more than ten ninjas were convulsing on the floor. "Now, it''s your turn." Ely held her stun gun baton with both hands, then approached the burly ninja. Chapter 19: Artificial Hero’s Descendant

Chapter 19: Artificial Hero''s Descendant

*ng* *Bzzt* The burly ninja parried the handcuffed girl''s iron rod with his saber, but he was electrocuted to his deepest core. His protective artifact couldn''t block anything, and his spirit received a critical hit. *Thud* The burly ninja fell to the floor with smoke and a burnt smelling from his body. He was twitching and convulsing like the other fallen ninjas. "Human bodies and metal are good conductors of electricity. You won''t withstand a ten thousand volt shock from my Lightning Baton." Ely removed the sea stone handcuffs from her wrists with a little trick to the keyhole. She was about to save the dying apprentice mage, but his soul suddenly left his body. She tried to catch it but failed as that soul wisp was so fast than a gust of wind. The dead person''s soul was forcibly pulled to the training ground behind the academy. The captives were gathered inside arge, dark ritual magic circle. "Don''t tell me they will summon the Demon God with the sacrifices of hundreds of mages." Ely pursed her lips as she remembered the God involved in this incident was the Demon God of Necromancy. "Lady Miko? You-" Lily-Mae was shocked by the sudden change of events. "Miss Lily, do you know where the core of this anti-magic domain is?" Ely removed the sea stone handcuffs from Lily-Mae''s wrists. "I''m afraid it''s in the most dangerous ce. My grandfather and elders seem to be fighting around there. What''s your n, Lady Miko? Also, what do you mean by Demon God?" Lily-Mae could hear a faint sound of metal thumping from the garden. "It is as you heard. The ck cloud of cmity over there does not bring good news. The dimension crack has already urred as the gate begins to take shape. Those evil ninjas are demonic practitioners from a demonic cult who seem to be about to summon their Demon God to this world." Ely then took out two transparent talismans and handed them over to Lily-Mae "Please go to your grandfather and his secret protector in the park. These talismans can make them resist the anti-magic domain''s suppression." Ely decided to drag the 6th Rank dean and the 7th Rank secret protector into a more significant event to help her. "But-" Lily-Mae felt a bit scared and doubtful. "Pleasepose yourself and move quickly. You will be fine under this talisman''s protective cover, but people will be sacrificed if this continues." Ely grasped Lily-Mae''s arm, providing encouragement and motivation with a resolved gaze. "Did you know this incident was going to happen, Lady Miko? Regarding your arrival at this magic academy?" Lily-Mae lowered her head slightly. "They had everything prepared long ago, but my arrival made them anxious. Instead of being exposed and their years of effort wasted, they decided to target me and hasten their sinister n. That''s what I can understand just by looking." Ely shook her head. "I understand. In that case, we must stop them immediately. Lady Miko, please be safe. I will pass this talisman of resistance to my grandfather and great elder." Lily-Mae gave a respectful bow, then immediately ran away. "Well then, what should I do with them? I hope they have some good pieces of stuff." Ely snatched the fainted ninjas'' storage pouches as it was her spoil of war. She found several evil-rted things, spirit stones, and magic items. There were also plenty of living ropes, the magic item that could move on their own to tie up captives. Ely tied up the fainted ninjas and put them into an empty pet pouch. It was a magic item to store the pet or living animals inside, simr to a storage pouch. However, it was much smaller in space. A few momentster, Ely arrived at the rooftop of the academy''s main building. She observed the entireyout and environment. She noted the enemy''s position and the formation array thatposed the great magic circle on the training ground. The ten masked assassins wearing dark outfitsnded behind Ely without making any noise. "You have arrived." Ely responded casually, even though she felt a bit surprised. Theye like ghosts, after all. She might fail to notice their arrival if it wasn''t for her 2-meter radius of wless perception. Gabrie knelt down, and the other disciples did the same. She then reported respectfully. "Master, we have neutralized their backup n. Their background is unknown, but they n to summon a Demon God. Also, we have caught the one suspected of being a descendant of the cursed hero." "That apprentice mage, huh... Where is he?" Ely turned around. Michael felt more at ease to see his master was safe and sound. She was still so calm despite the current situation. As expected of their master. He removed therge cloth sack tied to his back, then took out an apprentice mage. The boy wore a ninja outfit like those demonic cultivators but was already tied up like a cocoon. "Hmm! Ngh!" The helpless apprentice mage tried to plead for mercy, but his mouth was stered with tape. "I shall purify you of the curse you are suffering from. Please be prepared. This might hurt a little." Ely stated her intention, and the apprentice mage nodded frantically. She already saw that the weird cursed energy had contaminated this boy''s body. Perhaps, this was the first stage of demonic possession? This boy might turn into a devilish slime soon. "This is the first time I purify a conscious human. Are you ready?" Ely crouched to take a closer look at this boy''splexion. She felt something was wrong but couldn''t tell what it was. Also, this was her first time handling someone about to fall into demonic possession. All members of the Guardian of Dream were already in the worst situation before she saved them. This time, the apprentice mage went pensive for a few seconds as he tried to consider a few things. However, he nodded in agreement, thinking he was in a tight position that endangered his life. He would go to this stunningdy''s banner instead of those evil people if he needed to choose. "All right then." Ely took out her Gohei and reached her hand near the apprentice mage''s head. She cast her advanced purification skill. "The light of purification. Please save this pitiful soul from his suffering." Ely''s palm shone a golden light, and the apprentice mage was enveloped in aforting warmth. However, his blood suddenly ran wild. He coughed out a lot of blood, and ck blood flowed out of his orifices. *Rip* The rope that bound the apprentice mage was torn apart, and he slowly swelled up like a balloon about to burst. "Uuh... demonization? Ipatibility with the hero''s blood? He doesn''t have the bloodline of a hero, but the artificial one created from the extracted bloodline. The curse is lifted, but his body can''t handle it." Ely covered her mouth. She could see a short event of a cruel experiment. It was only a few seconds of the event summary, but she felt nauseous. The gruesome scene was simr to the information Gabrie had reported yesterday. Rafa could guess what had happened. She materialized her longsword to execute the demonic monster, but that boy soon disappeared. "He had suffered for so long. He can''t handle the purification. The fake hero''s bloodline, huh..." Gabrie supported her master in standing up. She could clearlyprehend what had just happened. "I see... So, that''s why I felt a bit strange about his energy frequency. I could feel the faint familiar feeling, but he was apparently not a part of us. He was just one that was made to resemble us." Azrael nodded in understanding, but his ruby-red eyes glistened as if he understood something more profound than this incident. The city lord''s dark secrets came to his mind. "Eh-ah? I''m, I''m sorry." Ely unconsciously grasped the pitiful apprentice mage''s soul. She felt sad as she didn''t expect this kind of oue, but the wisp felt relieved to be freed from suffering. The holy saintess liberated him, and dying like this wouldn''t be so bad as he didn''t need to suffer anymore. He begged the holy saintess to punish those evil people and save the pitiful souls with a fate simr to his. He expressed appreciation before flying into the sky and going to the afterlife. Ely protected that soul wisp so he could leave this anti-magic domain safely. "If only I had known sooner..." Ely muttered under her breath. She failed to save that pitiful boy, and his body even turned into ashes because he couldn''t handle the hero''s bloodline and her purification. "..." The ten core disciples felt sad because of their master''s mncholy murmur. It was the first time something had happened beyond their master''s expectations, but no one could have expected the fake to be so close to the real one before it was toote. Everything happened so fast, but there were still a lot of things that were happening right now. "All right, we need to handle the current situation first. You will act as Apostles, not Shadows. Please transform your outfit now. The Demon God of Necromancy has revealed his aura behind that cloud of cmity." Ely tapped Gabrie''s hand, grasped her arm, and looked up at the spiraling dark clouds. Chapter 20: Reinforcements for Academy’s Predicament

Chapter 20: Reinforcements for Academy''s Predicament

"Disciple understands." The ten core disciples immediately transformed their versatile slime into their signature white-gold Apostles outfit. At first nce, they looked like the variations of the high priest but in a flexible battlesuit-like outfit covered by a cloak. "We can use mana and qi in this domain due to the talisman''s protection, but don''t expose our whereabouts too soon. Michael, please disguise yourself to resemble that evil ninja. You will go with me to the center of this chaos. We''ll y a Demon God from the upper realm." Ely dered her goal frankly. The ten Apostles gasped as it sounded overbearing, but the one who said it was their almighty master! No evil things could stand before the Almighty Goddess disguised as the sacred shrine priestess. Their master could no longer pretend as a mortal because the current situation was so grave. "Move into your positions as we use the Annihtion Star Formation. Please wait for further orders. Don''t kill enemies, as that will speed up the summoning ritual. Let''s go." Ely turned around and left. "Obey!" The nine Apostles rushed away like a gust of wind, but Michael was left behind with his master. He disguised himself as an evil ninja as his master had requested, but he still didn''t know what his master would do. She took out the sea stone handcuffs, then handcuffed herself. She then gave the rope to him as if she was his captive. Michael stared at the rope in his hand with a stupified expression. "You want to lower their guard bying as a captured captive, master?" "You will see it." Ely left the rest to her disciple''s imagination. Sometimes, she should exin only some things because it could cause a less impression. At that time, the citizen, knights, and priests have already surrounded the Luponia Magic Academy. Cultivators from various sects were also there. However, they could only leave once they dared enter the anti-magic domain. To have their power suppressed to the mortal realm was something they didn''t want to experience. Not to mention, there were hundreds of demonic practitioners inside. It might be a death trap for them. Among everyone in the crowd, several groups from various backgrounds felt more anxious than anyone else. They knew the holy saintess was inside the academy now. They hoped to meet the holy saintess and build a bridge of good rtions to the holynd. They had just arrived, but who would have thought some bastards would pull off this kind of event at this time. "What''s the situation inside? Can''t we send reinforcements? Why are those knights and experts hesitating? If so, I will take the lead and charge inside! With my identity, they won''t dare to refuse to enter." The imperial princess looked right and left restlessly. "Wait, wait, seventh sister. Don''t be hasty. We came anonymously, but it will immediately invite our siblings'' attention if we reveal ourselves now." The imperial prince grabbed his sister''s arm to prevent her from entering without ns. "Are you saying we don''t need to do anything, sixth brother? Stop talking and hurry up. Those chicken knights and cultivators can''t be called experts if they can only watch in fear!" The seventh princess shouted loudly, then dragged her brother closer to the anti-magic domain. "Hey, girl. Keep your mouth shut. You didn''t know the threat lurking inside. Just so you know, Luponia Magic Academy has a Grand Master and a Saint. If they can''t handle the threat of the terrorists, what can we do with our insignificant power?" A knight grumbled indignantly. "A coward is a coward. Stop being a knight and crawl into the hole you came from. At least you realize that you are an insignificant thing. You all probably already know. The holy saintess is inside. If anything were to happen to her, would her holynd turn a blind eye? Lumina City will suffer heavy losses when they demand ountability! See the sky of doom above your head. Those demonic cultivators will do something heinous and summon an even greater cmity. This city may soon be wiped off the map! Cowards and chickens, please stand guard outside the domain. Brave warriors and heroes, please follow me to save the students and kill the demon cultivator terrorists! We''ll make our own name!" The seventh princess raised her sword as she taunted everyone without the slightest bit of hesitation. "Awaa, awawa..." The sixth prince turned pale. He bit his finger in panic. It was as if he was about to faint because his dear sister was more savage than a troublemaker. The seventh princess waited for no one and dragged her brother into the anti-magic domain without dy. She couldn''t use her qi because of the terrible sense of restriction, but she was confident in her martial arts and swordsmanship. "What the-" "That littless dared to mock us." "She''s just ignorant, but what she says makes sense. The holy saintess will also have trouble in this kind of domain." "Then, what are we afraid of? We are over a thousand, and the mages inside are about six hundred. If we join forces, we can suppress the demonic cultivators easily!" "Let alone a hundred or two hundred, we can even ughter four hundred demonic cultivators even if we can''t use our qi." "Yeah, are you even cultivating, bro? You refine your body to be stronger, yet afraid to challenge the harder difficulty. Let''s rush in and y the terrorists!" "Ooh!" The brave knights, warriors, cultivators, priests, and rogue mages entered the anti-magic domain as reinforcements to help Luponia Magic Academy escape their predicament. The sh then urred between the reinforcements and the demonic practitioners. Guardian of Dream''s members only became spectators from the shadows as they received orders to focus on handling the Demon God about to descend. It had been a while since they met the sacred shrine priestess, their master, and savior. Moreover, they would witness her divine self in action soon. Thus, they didn''t care about other problems as they were there to do what they had to do. "Humph, you won''t seed, demon. I will kill you and stop your ns." The dean wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth. "That''s what the old thing one step away from the grave would say. Your Saint-level secret protector can''t even do anything. Just stay still and watch our almighty ancestor descend into this world." The Grand Master-level ninja spun his scythe arrogantly. "..." The dean nced at his granddaughter, then the great elder, covered in blood on the ground. Hundreds of students had gathered in the middle of the demonic magic circle, and he had to save them immediately. However, the situation was still unfavorable even though he already could use magic, thanks to the talisman of resistance bestowed by the holy saintess. "You demon, you will pay for it! I will not forgive you." "I don''t need that." "Do you want to wage war with the Sacred Sakura Holy Land?" "I am the war!" "You are covered in countless sins and blood. Your crimes are unpardonable. Heaven will punish you." "Sometimes, I think about murder." The melodious voice of a pleasant young girl could be heard approaching from the main building. She argued with a ninja leader but was powerless under the sea stone handcuffs seal. The holy saintess had been caught! "Yo, boss! I''ve caught the big pretty fish here." Michael raised his hand to the 6th Rank ninja, the most potent enemy he could find in the surroundings. "Lady Miko!?" Lily-Mae was the first one to be surprised. She didn''t expect the holy saintess to be caught after sessfully breaking free. "Hahaha! Good, good. You did something good at least once, little junior." The Grand Master-level ninjaughed out loud with satisfaction. Ely and Michael kept getting closer to the primary magic circle in the middle of the training ground, but they stopped before setting foot there. The Grand Master-level ninja then approached with his gale wind footsteps. He observed this stunning beauty up close and raised her chin so she would look into his face. "Truly a magnificent work of art. It is unsurprising if she is called a first-rate beauty with no equals. Her worth, beauty, status, and background cannot bepared with any princess. Especially these pair of captivating purplish-blue eyes. I want to gouge them out and make them into ornaments." "Could you shut up? Your mouth stinks." Ely replied with a faint smile. She removed her sea stone handcuffs and immediately handcuffed this rude old ninja''s wrist. Her movements were so natural and swift that no one noticed before the lock clicked perfectly. *ck* "Hmm?" The Grand Master-level ninja looked at his wrist with an astonished expression. And then, he suddenly felt an intense pain in his groin. It felt like his balls cracked and his spirit hacked to pieces. *Whamp!* Ely kicked the old ninja in the groin with no mercy. "Argh! Kill her and offer her corpse to our God!" The Grand Master-level ninja held his ground and fell to the ground. "Hmph!" Ely stepped into the evil-looking ck magic circle. Her Mortal Field passive skill took effect, and the magic circle formation became unstable as the ck magic power constituents around her were suddenly forced to the mortal level. *Crumble* *Crumble* *Crumble* The magic circles shattered like broken ss as she casually strolled around them. The students and mages within the primary magic circle were stunned for a few seconds. The evil ninjas were all so shocked by what was going on. Their years of hard work to set up the formation and turn this academy into the summoning ritual ground copsed just because of this holy priestess'' presence? And they dared to consider this walking disaster the primary sacrifice offering? The moment Ely arrived at the central magic circle, she stamped her foot to the ground, and the entire formation shattered like thin, fragile ss. Chapter 21: Preventing the Demon God’s Descent

Chapter 21: Preventing the Demon God''s Descent

"The ck magic circle formation has been destroyed, and the anti-magic domain has partially copsed. Initiate a counterattack!" Ely dered hermand to her people. More than a hundred figures d in white and gold cloaks came from hiding to take down the demonic cultivators. "My magic power is back!" "I can use my magic again!" "It''s all thanks to the holy saintess!" "Revenge!" "Punish these evil people!" The academy''s mages also immediately wield their magic staff and sword to strike back at the evil ninjas. "It''s all because of you!" The Grand Master-level ninja charged at the holy saintess, but the dean immediately moved to intercept him. "You are not going anywhere. Your opponent is me." The dean summoned an earthen chain to shackle his opponent''s movements. Surprisingly, it was so easy to subdue the leader and mastermind, thanks to the sea stone handcuffs put on by the holy saintess. The situation was changed significantly since the anti-magic domain''s destruction. The oppressed mages were currently attacking and suppressing the demonic cultivators. *Rumble!* *Rumble!* Thunder rumbled in the spiraling dark clouds. The lightning sparks spread everywhere, and the temperature dropped significantly. The dense dark energy radiated out from the gap beyond the darkness. The heavenly thunder tried to prevent the inevitable, but the gate had been partially formed. The Demon God of Necromancy had expected the tribtion if he came to the mortal realm, but he wasn''t there unprepared. However, why is the dimensional gap so small? That question arose in the Demon God of Necromancy''s mind as the gap was only enough to see into the mortal realm like a face-sized window. He med his undependable followers. Look at that result. It was still under Ely''s prediction. She prevented the massacre before the ck magic circle was torn down. The sacrifice offering ceremony was thwarted, and she could proceed to the next stage and try to kill a God. The dimensional gate was notpletely opened, so she could still prevent the Demon God from descending if the Annihtion Star Formation and her most potent offensive artifact failed to kill him. "Hahaha! Cough, cough, the Demon God has arrived in the mortal world! With this, the Xuehui Blood Society will return to its former glory! Fill this continent with blood and sacrifice for us to ascend to the pinnacle!" The Grand Master-level ninja coughed out of blood due to the continued attacks from the dean, but he was the one whoughed in the end. "How could this happen? You crazy lunatic beyond saving. A Demon God, you say?" The dean turned pale as he finally understood that his situation was the worst As far as he knew, the strongest human alive was the Demi-God, but they were usually in seclusion. If the Demon God of the upper realm manages to descend, the world will fall into chaos. Humanity would suffer irreparable damage. "Activate the defense mechanism. This is not a drill or simtion. The Demon God will descend!" "Prepare to face the ultra-strong enemy. We have to prevent the Demon God from descending!" "Although the chance of us surviving is minuscule, we must buy time for reinforcements to arrive!" The senior mages cast several high-level protective magic to prevent the terrible sense of oppression from the dark magic from affecting the students. The instructors and teachers immediately activated the academy''s defense mechanism. The Lumina City''s great array formation was activated automatically as it detected the disaster ss threat. The massive dome-like barrier enveloped the entire city. The dark clouds gathered and formed a gigantic demonic-wed hand. It was like a bubble popped by a simple touch. The city''s dome barrier copsed when it made contact with the Demon God''s palm. At this rate, their academy would be destroyed, and they would be ttened by that palm. The dean, the senior teachers, and all the mages released their advanced magic to exterminate the Demon God''s hand without hesitation. Unfortunately, theirbined magic attack was like a gentle breeze before the simple move from a Godly being. "Is this the end?" The dean muttered softly as he stared at the approaching Demon God''s palm. He could see a sense of despair on the faces of everyone around him except for the demonic cultivators. He could only rely on the holy saintess to do something about this tricky situation as if there was hope. Ely pressed a piece of paper to her lips and blew a whistle with an inaudible frequency into normal human ears. However, the signal was as clear as crystal in the ears of the Apostles and the Guardian of Dream''s members. "Aleph." "Beth." "Gimmel." "Dallet." "Heyh." "Vav." "Zayin." "Heth." "Teth." "Yudh." "Annihtion Star Formation, activate!" Ely''s ten Apostles activated their S Rank holy artifacts in turn. A massive golden magic circle with hundreds of arrays was formed mid-air with Ely as the center. The Guardian of Dream''s members then activated their A Rank holy artifact and connected their power to the empty array spots. They amplify and strengthen the Annihtion Star Formation. Thebined ultimate technique of ten Apostles and 144 disciples was unleashed. The dark, cloudy day was suddenly lit with a blinding light as the concentrated destruction magic shot into the sky like a judgment beam of light. The Demon God''s hand vanished into ashes upon contact. The light continuously shot through the dark clouds, entered the small dimensional rift and shot the Demon God of Necromancy right in the head. "Aaaarrgh!" The Demon God roared in pain. It echoed thousands of kilometers away. The tremor was enormous, and the almighty God''s aura broke out to suppress everyone. This time, the Demon God of Necromancy was genuinely furious. He never thought that there would be an existence that could hurt him in the lower realm. "The ants should know your lowly ce!" The Demon God of Necromancy nned to eradicate everyone within his sight. He gritted his teeth while clutching his bloodied head, then made a grasping-like motion toward the city below. "Thebined attack of ten S Rank and 144 A Rank holy artifact should be able to deal damage equivalent to an offensive type SS Rank artifact. Then, let''s go all out. Seraphic Twilight Bow, it''s time for you to shine~" Ely aimed her SS Rank bow to the sky, then pulled the bow string. A twilight golden arrow manifested, and her white crystal bow was enveloped in an aura of fiery golden fire. She only has one magic arrow because of a whole month for its cooldown. Thus, she was not allowed to miss her target, even though it was her first time using the Seraphic Twilight Bow. The Guardian of Dream''s members received the signal, and theyunched anotherbined attack. *Pew* Ely released her magic arrow, passing through the central magic circle in the air. Thebined forces united to the twilight shooting star magical arrow piercing the sky. The light was not blinding, but it fascinated everyone who witnessed it. It was like a sun and stars making a clear straight fiery line from earth to heaven. *Swoosh!* A violent gust of wind swept the dark clouds into the dark gap, and the shooting star arrow pierced the void. The gap closed as soon as the light arrow passed through it. Ely and her disciples didn''t allow the Demon God of Necromancy to release another God-tier attack. The arrow had clearly hit the Demon God, but they had no idea what would happen to their target if the gate disappeared just like that. It was the true Annihtion Star Formation''s might,parable to the ultimate power of an SS+ Rank artifact. Not to mention, all were holy artifacts with +200% effectiveness against evil-rted things. That kind of attack could make even Demon God suffer, right? They had at least prevented the Demon God of Necromancy from descending upon the mortal world. Much more, they inflicted some heavy damage on that God. That was an incredible achievement for mortals. "..." Ely heaved a subtle sigh. She needed to discover whether shepleted the emergency quest in one condition or two. She was about to check her grimoire, but there was a better time. "Hmm?" Ely nced to the side and found many pairs of eyes staring at her. The students, senior mages, and teachers looked at her like she was a great spectacle worth countless sparkles and stars. The newly arrived reinforcements were also like that. She and her people prevented the Demon God''s descent into this world with something striking and breathtaking. However, she would retreat quietly while they were dumbfounded at what had happened. That was what she initially thought, but some people quickly regained theirposure and hurriedly called out to her. "Lady Holy Saintess, please wait!" Chapter 22: A Little Harvest

Chapter 22: A Little Harvest

A saintess mighte from a sect, pce, temple, etc. However, the holy saintess was vastly different and could not bepared to those ''role model''dies. Based on ssified information unknown to many people, the holy saintess was like the presence of God''s messenger, and the holynd was a God-protected sanctuary. Once the holy saintess descended from her holynd, she was always apanied by secret protectors capable of destroying a country. Fortunately, this kind of overpowering force was friendly, regardless of their mysterious agenda. However, what happened this time was beyond the mortal''sprehension. The mentioned secret protectors could destroy God''s divine power. The holy saintess, Lady Miko, was even more terrific because she possessed the ability to rival a God! The holy saintess prevented the Demon God from descending to the mortal world, and thetter was seriously injured by the holy light arrow earlier for sure. Several experts regained theirposure shortly after the golden holy light was dismissed. The morning sky cleared, and the atmosphere returned to normal. Suppose it weren''t for the demonic cultivators and the surrounding mess. In that case, people might have thought the incident just now never happened. The seventh princess of the Great Yan Empire immediately called out to the holy saintess by reflex. "To think I was abduction by the demons yesterday, and here, some humans want to make me a sacrificial offering? What''s with this chaotic world?" Ely muttered under her breath. These events happened within two days since she left Sacred Mountain, Northern Realm! "Please excuse me, holy saintess. Please don''t equate all humans with those demonic cultivators because that would be unfair to the orthodox or righteous ones." The seventh princess didn''t know why she said that suddenly. She probably didn''t want the holy saintess to equate humans with demons. "You are?" Ely asked as she took out a green lotus crystal artifact. She previously wanted to quietly leave and return once the mess was resolved, but since the escape route was impassable, she chose to harvest some VIT under the pretext of healing people. "My name is Yan Fei, the seventh princess of the Yan Imperial Family. I represent the people to express our gratitude. If it wasn''t for your help, the loss of life would be unimaginable." Princess Yan Fei grasped her fist with awe, respect and gratitude. "It isn''t worth mentioning. I only did what I needed to do, Princess Yan Fei. If you''ll excuse me, I need to provide some help to those who are injured." Ely looked at the students who were injured. "Please..." Princess Yan Fei gave way with a hand gesture. Ely extended her hand and released her green lotus crystal to fly around. She controlled that S Rank artifact with her spiritual connection. The gentle greenish light enveloped the injured people individually as her artifact went around healing people''s injuries. Ely sacrificed her MP, SP, and VIT to use her Healing Sacrifice skill. However, she did not do this act of kindness to her detriment. After each healing, her artifact sucked the patient''s MP, SP, and VIT as much as 105% of the value she sacrificed for the payment of her service. She was quite generous because she usually took 10% more than the value she spent. For example, her usual healing service would consume 1000 MP, 10 SP, and 100 VIT. So, she would take 1100 MP, 11 SP, and 110 VIT from the patient as payment via her Energy Maniption skill. However, she was generous today and cut her profit by half. So, Ely took a few days worth of her patients'' lifespan in exchange for an instant recovery. A good businesswoman should not lose money even though she was doing an act of kindness. She was not petty or selfish, but the healing technique was dangerous. It could be considered a suicidal skill if used carelessly. That skill consumed the healer''s lifespan and vitality, which couldn''t be recovered with a usual replenishment method. Because she was too absorbed with her harvest, Ely failed to notice that she was also identally healing the demonic cultivators. She only realized it when there were no more injured people. The reinforcements, senior mages, teachers, students, etc., expressed their gratitude. However, Ely was overwhelmed and immediately shifted the topic to the fleeing demonic cultivators. "Shouldn''t they be held ountable for what they did? They killed people and created this mess." "Capture them all!" The sixth prince was the one to take action. The current situation had be too chaotic, and his sister had introduced herself as a member of the Imperial Family. Thus, he had to be the first to spring into action. It didn''t take three minutes to capture all the demonic cultivators. "I''ll leave the rest to you. We may meet again, Princess Yan Fei." Ely raised her hand in farewell. She didn''t wait for anyone''s response. Then she asked the wind spirit to dispel her aura of presence when everyone''s attention was diverted from her. "Holy sai-" Princess Yan Fei turned around, but the holy saintess was already left like a gust of wind. The people d in white-gold cloaked outfits were also nowhere to be seen. "We''ll meet again, right?" Lily-Mae muttered softly under her breath as she found the holy saintess had miraculously left without anyone noticing. "We''ll meet again for sure. She doesn''t look like she''s leaving for real." The dean sighed because he had not properly thanked the holy saintess. He then crouched down and took off the ninja mask from the handcuffed ninja leader. At that very moment, he was surprised to find it was someone he knew. "Why is it you? You broke through to 6th Rank and disguised it until today? So, you are those rats'' boss, huh..." "Ah, uh, oh, Demon God. Why... After years of preparation. The holy saintess shouldn''t have that kind of divine power." The Grand Master-level ninja muttered nkly while looking at the bright turquoise sky. "Their crime is too big to be tolerated. I''m afraid they will not be spared the sentence of execution." The 6th prince crossed his arms and sighed as he watched the demonic cultivators being escorted away by the chivalric orders and people from the orthodox sects. "So be it." The dean put the ninja mask back on the former academy''s elder. He then ordered his people to handle that traitor ordingly. "Grandfather..." Lily-Mae called out while removing the emergency bandage from the great elder. "We need to clean up the mess immediately and make a report. What do you feel now, Yazhu?" The dean put his hand on his granddaughter''s head and checked his guardian''s pulse. "I''m as good as new, Graham. Lady Miko is truly a miracle beyond my expectation. It''s not the first time I''ve met a holy saintess, but she overshadowed them all like noparison can be done." The old gentlemanughed wryly. "Yeah, and this is her first experience after descending from her holynd... I''m afraid her impression will fall downhill because of this event. Prince Yan Hui, how did your investigation into Lady Miko''s origin and background go? Do you know anything about Sacred Sakura Holy Land?" Graham nced sideways. "We can''t find anything. I''m afraid she came from the secret realm or the unexplorednd. She could alsoe from the world across the vast ocean. However, that doesn''t rule out the possibility that she is the daughter of heaven from the upper realm. Because of her divine-like power just now, I feel that the possibility is not zero." Prince Yan Hui shook his head. "We should continue our conversation elsewhere. I don''t want it to be overheard by outsiders." Princess Yan Fei came closer with her allies. "..." Graham checked the surroundings first. The students were led away by teachers and instructors, following the priests of the Holy Church for a bit of mental or trauma therapy. He and his allies then proceeded to handle some matters elsewhere. A few meters from the dean''s previous conversation, a boy identally eavesdropped on the shocking information, thanks to his sharp sense of hearing. "What are you looking at?" Wang Zi-Zhen frowned when she found her junior brother lost in thought as he watched the dean and several top-brass people leave. "No, it''s nothing." Chen Fan shook his head and then followed the other student. The incident that just happened still shocked him so much. The terrorist, the Demon God, and the holy saintess'' might. All those events happened in less than an hour. Regardless, for some reason, he felt a bit irritated when he discovered the disparity between him and the holy saintess was like the earth to the sky. He was like a drop in the ocean, and he still dared to call himself one of the talented geniuses? It was nothing but a joke to clown himself before the true journey to immortality. He had to improve his qualifications to break through the mortal''s boundary. A strong determination snapped his mind into a rigorous fiery passion like a perpetual fire. He no longer wanted to experience helplessness with his fate being determined by others. Chapter 23: Lumina Family’s Dark Secrets

Chapter 23: Lumina Family''s Dark Secrets

Two hours after the incident at Luponia Magic Academy died down, the demonic cultivators were sentenced to death. However, dozens of rumors and information soon spread about the city lord and his family''s dark-rted business. Residents became restless because several cases and incidents that urred in recent years were terror, which has not been resolved to date. Monthly cases of missing children, secret dealings with demons, legalized ve trading, human trafficking, and the city lord''s dark secrets were exposed to the public. The Lumina Marquess Family tried to calm everyone''s anxiety and emphasized those rumors were just baseless usations. Unfortunately, the Guardian of Dream had made their move to handle that family that very day. All that news spread to make the iron even hotter when they strike it at the right time. "We shall strike while the iron is hot. Move ahead of time ording to n." Gabrie ended the briefing with the other Apostles. "Roger." The other nine core disciples answered in unison. "???" Ely just watched from the side with an innocent expression. Her core disciples led the Guardian of Dream to take actions she didn''t expect. They would take care of the Lumina Family right now. The information they gathered overnight was also equipped with undeniable evidence to bring down and destroy the city lord''s family. The first thing they did was demerit the Lumina Family with ill rumors, incite people to demand the city lord an exnation, and even cause chaos to make the atmosphere even noisier. Furthermore, they had engaged the Chivalric Order and Holy Church to act. The Imperial Prince and Princess came to this city with more than a dozen representatives from various prominent backgrounds. So, the new and old variables would bebined to overthrow the city lord''s reign. ''As expected of my disciples... They are indeed reliable in various matters. I don''t even have to do anything.'' Ely opened her grimoire again to check the urgent quest from the Constetion of Fate. Unfortunately, that quest was still hanging without further notice. ''So, the Demon God isn''t dead yet, but we managed to prevent his descent, right? Could he have managed to descend to the mortal world by other means? But, the quest will be dered failed if so. What really happened?'' Ely asked in wonder. It might be a bug or a malfunction, but she could only hope that a bad situation would never happen. She didn''t want to face the Demon God''s revenge. It would be better if the other party died for good and she never saw him again. Her only constion was the nice number of VIT growths since it was so arduous to get it. [Ely (???) | 0th Rank] [HP: 4,500/100 | MP: 4.63M/4,500 | SP: 91,511/4,500] [Talent: 6 Stars | Legendary] [STR: 10 (Limit) | DEX: 10 (Limit) | CON: 101 | PER: 100 | ARC: 10 (Limit) | VIT: 545K | LCK: 100 (Max)] ''HP, CONS and PER are still a mystery. What do I need to do to get those stats increased? HP may be Health Point, but what about the other two? No, wait... Maybe, it''s Constetion and Perception, right?'' Ely tapped her chin as she wasn''t sure the Constetion was the correct answer. It wouldn''t even make sense for it in her personal stats. After all, she was not the stars in the sky. "Master, everything went ording to your n. Is it too much if we expect your presence in the scene?" Rafa asked with an expectant gaze. Ely blinked her eyes in bewilderment. Her disciples clearly arranged the ns, but why was the responsibility suddenly thrown at her? Even so, she behaved like a good leader and gave her approval. It was only her presence before the public, but she would do nothing. It was what she initially thought. --- "..." Ely sat in a luxurious horse-drawn carriage escorted by knights from the Chivalric Order and Holy Church. They moved as if they were about to wage war. Regardless, an order from higher-ups had already been issued that they would conduct an in-depth investigation into the city lord''s mansion to check the validity of all the information suddenly circting. "Hmm?" Ely nced sideways, staring out the window. Her eyes met with the princess from earlier. Several elders from the magic academy and some other important figures were also there. The Imperial Princess gasped and immediately rushed to stop the entourage. She asked what had happened to the nearby Commander. ''They nned this too?'' Ely felt like a pawn at the moment, but she had noints because her presence was necessary. *Knock* *Knock* Someone knocked on the door from outside, and the door opened. Ely prayed something to her grimoire to ask for some information about the Imperial Family. "We meet again, Lady Miko. I am honestly surprised to see you involved in this matter. The Holy Church even dispatched their radiant holy knights." Princess Yan Fei greeted the holy saintess with a friendly smile. Yet, she stayed outside as she didn''t dare enter before getting permission. "Mm, yes. The circting information isn''t as simple as people have heard. We received some shocking information and evidence a few hours ago. Please have a seat." Ely invited the guests to enter. "If you''ll excuse us." Princess Yan Fei entered and sat on the seat next to the holy saintess. Then, the prince and the old gentleman sat on opposite seats. Several people wanted to enter too, but the radiant knight prevented them. They couldn''t help but join the entourage on foot. They also wanted to know what happened to the city lord''s family to have this kind of forcee as an investigation team. Ely observed this Imperial Princess more closely. This girl was around twenty years old with pale skin, shoulder-length pink hair, green feline-like eyes, and blessed with an athletic build. At a nce, Yan Fei''s appearance resembled a young General with muscles in all the right ces. At that time, Ely felt that the appearance of a female cultivator should be like Princess Yan Fei. It was unreasonable for a fragile-looking, slender, and tender woman to have such great physical force. The other person was the prince with an appearance somewhat simr to his sister, but more muscr and with short hair. This pair of siblings were at the 4th Rank Peak Stage and SR talent. For thest person on the carriage, it was the same 7th Rank old gentleman who stood like a statue in the corner of the dean''s room yesterday. "Good day to you, mister. This is our third meeting, is it?" Ely greeted the old gentleman as a courtesy. "My apologies, but this is our second meeting, Lady Miko. My name is Cao Yazhu. Please allow me to express my deepest gratitude. You saved this city, this world, from the Demon God of the upper realm." The old gentleman bowed respectfully. At that moment, he realized the holy saintess had said something between the lines. This was their third meeting, but he spontaneously didn''t want to admit it. The first was yesterday in the dean''s room, the second was when she healed him a few hours ago, and the third was the current event. So, she could see past his invisibility disguise perfectly? She wanted to say that it was useless and rude to disguise himself in invisibility before her presence!? "It''s not worth mentioning." Ely raised her palm. She already got enough appreciation. "Lady Miko, regarding the current event involving the Lumina Family..." Princess Yan Fei was concerned because the situation would require extra action if a holy saintess were involved. "A few other people and I suddenly got this ssified information. Please have a look at this, and you will understand." Ely handed over an envelope of documents to Princess Yan Fei. "..." Princess Yan Fei received it, but her gaze glued to the silver-gold grimoire on the holy saintess''p. It was a high-grade holy artifact, for sure. She opened the envelope and checked the documents. Herplexion turned pale, and her anger umted as she read further. "This, beasts!" Prince Yan Hui sought a chance to talk to the holy saintess, but his sister suddenly growled like a wild beast. She even unconsciously crumpled those papers. "What happened, seventh sister?" "See for yourself, and you will know why the Holy Church and Chivalric Order immediately dispatched this kind of powerful force. Holy saintess is even here to handle this matter." Princess Yan Fei covered her eyes and gave the papers to her brother. "Hmm..." Prince Yan Hui also felt that this powerful force was enough for a small-scale war, but the situation was alright, right? They had just finished with the demonic cultivators and the Demon God... He checked the information in the documents and immediately became furious. Lumina Family was involved in demonic acts, cruel experiments, human trafficking, corruption, and many more inhumane acts! "This... The person or group that sent this wanted to destroy the Lumina Family with borrowed power. But, could it be that family is also involved with the demonic cultivators from the Xuehui Blood Society?" The old gentleman stroked his beard. He went out to investigate things, but another big event happened in a rtively short period of time. "Lady Miko, forgive me for asking this suddenly, but what is your view of humans now?" Princess Yan Fei was worried the holy saintess would be disappointed with humans. Even though they were both human, the other party was the holy one beyond mortality. "Nothing has changed. It''s the same as demons, beasts, and other races. There are good and evil. Whether to satisfy their greed, fulfill their desires, or follow the natural flow. The beast is not necessarily a monster, white is not necessarily good, and ck is not necessarily evil." After saying that, Ely paused momentarily, then looked at the princess and the prince. She had to drag this imperial siblings to handle this matter for her. "Since you are here, will you involve yourself as a representative of the Imperial Family to punish your evil subjects?" "It goes without saying. Since this kind of force has already been dispatched, things will be even more chaotic if the Imperial Family doesn''t intervene. Not to mention the previous incident... After this event, I will send an urgent letter to the Emperor to handle the aftermath." Princess Yan Fei responded with a solemn expression, but she felt relieved and enlightened after hearing the holy saintess'' reply. Chapter 24: Dark Secrets

Chapter 24: Dark Secrets

Due to the presence of the sixth prince and seventh princess of the Imperial Family, no one dared to prevent the investigation team from breaking into the city lord''s mansion. Ely''s core disciples scrutinized the entire area as they disguised themselves as priestess or holy knight at that time. "I already said that all those rumors are groundless. My family can''t do all those things, right?" The city lord tried to defend his innocence to the prince and princess. "..." Princess Yan Fei raised her eyebrows as she couldn''t just believe this city lord''s words. She had to find the bottom of this incident. "We found an entrance to a hidden underground dungeon!" Someone called out from a distance. The surrounding experts immediately went to a secret warehouse. The hidden entrance to the underground passage had been opened and was heavily guarded. "What''s the situation?" Cao Yazhu felt suspicious about that secret entrance. He found the city lord''splexion turning pale, convincing him even more. "A scout team has gone inside to check the situation, sir." The elite knight saluted. "Let''s go. We will catch up with them and check the situation in person." Cao Yazhu beckoned the others to follow him. "Wait, this is the warehouse, and it is the passage to my secret wine cer. I-" The city lord tried to exin the situation. Still, the Saint-level expert wanted to refrain from listening to any exnation. Everything should be thoroughly investigated. Somewhere underground, Rafa led her team into the deepest dungeon as she wished to see the truth with her own eyes. Arriving at the destination, her expression became grim because she found no one alive. The subjects were killed, and the objects were obliterated to destroy the most gruesome evidence. "They moved quite quickly, but we didn''t give them time. However, who would have thought they would be so ruthless as to kill all the experimental subjects and bury them with all the failed subjects." Azrael crouched down and touched the ground to examine the secrets under the unusual mound of soil. They were buried three meters underground, along with hundreds of bodies of failed experiments. Unfortunately, the ominous aura from those who died unjustly still lingered everywhere. "There is a burial ground in the next chamber to dispose of the failed products of the past hundred years." Uriel cast magic and summoned several balls of light for illumination. "We''rete." Gabrie stared at Rafa, waiting for what the leader of this operation would say. "I want to kill them, but death would be too cheap for those evildoers." Rafa stared into a particr iron prison. She was once held there like a prisoner about seven or eight years ago. Her blood was taken day and night for a whole week. The young her could see the sunlight again because she was almost dead. Regardless, her fate suddenly changed when the priestess from Holy Church who came to treat her also decided to recruit her. The young her was finally able to get away from this hell. The Holy Church was admirable to her, but living there was unpleasant. If this family wanted her blood, the Holy Church desired her vitality. Both were terrible ces to remember. Fortunately, she now has a kind, benevolent, yet powerful master. Her Goddess Master. Everything else except anything rted to her master was no longer essential. "Then, we shall move ording to the original n. We have gathered enough evidence to demolish this family and overthrow the city lord." Gabrie put her hand on Rafa''s shoulder. "Oh, right... Master entrusted this to us and asked us to give it to the authority, right? What do you think is inside this pouch?" The veiled girl took out a pet pouch. Her crystal-like pink eyes glistened with curiosity. "Pet pouch? Perhaps, some evil ninjas are inside, Jophiel. Our master wants us to hand them over to the authorities? Isn''t now the time for that?" Uriel''s light purple glowed with sudden enlightenment. She understood her master''s intention. "Well, well! To think our master took the effort to capture them. We didn''t think of this before. Lumina Family will be doomed right away and be a public enemy. Release them here, then. We will let them escape to the surface and let those knights handle them carefully, keke." Azrael couldn''t help butugh at that sinister n. The Lumina Family would be severely punished for being involved with those evil ninjas. "Hmm?" Jophiel had just pulled on the pet pouch''s string, but it twitched and shook fiercely. She was surprised and threw it away on reflex. More than ten demonic cultivators jumped out of the pet pouch. However, they don''t have any weapons or belongings attached to their bodies. Apart from their outfit, there was nothing else. "Damn, where are we?" "Tsk, we managed to escape. Where did that holy saintess go?" "Did the other teams seed in summoning our Demon God? It worked, right?" "Dunno, but we need to get out of here soon. This looks like an underground prison." The demonic cultivators looked left and right in confusion. They immediately noticed ten people on the other side of the passage. "You people, hand over your belongings, and we will let you leave with intact corpses." The muscr ninja extended his hand. His weapons and belongings were gone, but he could loot from others here. "It depends on whether you have that ability or not." Michael took out a short sword. "An ignorant priest." The muscr ninja then made his move. *ng* *ng* *ng* A skirmish urred between the Apostles and the demonic cultivators. However, the former purposely did that to create an act. "A fight happened over there!" A holy knight shouted as he heard amotion on the other side. "As expected." Cao Yazhu frowned. He was already suspicious because this ce had a thick dead aura, and it seemed that even more heinous acts than the rumors had been happening here. The Saint-level mage led a team of influential experts to the source of the fighting sound. They were shocked to find about a dozen demonic cultivators engaged in a battle with the scouting team there. No one said anything, as everything had be apparent. They immediately attacked the demonic cultivators, and defeating those evil ninjas didn''t take a minute. "What''s the situation here?" Cao Yazhu pursed his lips while checking left and right. This ce looked like a secret dungeon, but some facilities had recently been destroyed. "This ce is a secret demonic experiment ground, sir. We found that many experimental subjects were just killed about an hour ago under this mound. Their blood is still very fresh. Also, a burial ground buried thousands of experimental subjects in perhaps thest few hundred years." Someone from the scouting team reported the situation. Azrael felt proud of that report. "What!?" Cao Yazhu and the other experts were shocked beyond measure. They then immediately checked the buried truth and dug into the ground. Cao Yazhu could already see what was buried there with his detection ability. Yet, it felt different when he saw the gruesome sight with his own eyes. "Please prepare a proper burial for them. I''m afraid they are people who have mysteriously disappeared in recent years." The Holy Knight Commander offered a prayer to the dead. He then asked his people to handle the rest. "Sir, a mass burial ground has been found in the next chamber, as reported. There are a lot of bones there, and probably some of them died hundreds of years ago." A knight saluted to report. "The Lumina Family involved themselves with demonic cultivators! They will receive severe punishment and pay a heavy price for all this." Cao Yazhu clenched his fists. At that moment, the ten Apostles had left the scene through another secret passage that led to the forest behind the mansion. They and the Guardian of Dream''s members involved in this operation immediately took a safe distance as they just needed to let the other parties finish the rest of the tasks for them. When the most gruesome dark secret hidden under the city lord''s mansion was exposed with undeniable evidence, Prince Yan Hui led an operation to arrest all members of the Lumina Family without exception. Not even cats and dogs were spared. Another corroborating evidence toplement the dirty dealings the family has been carrying out in thest decades was found in that mansion. Thus, that family was branded as criminals and escorted by a joint team from various backgrounds to be punished by Imperial Law. "..." Rafa felt lost because everything felt so easy and smooth, thanks to her master''s n. She originally wanted to handle this matter by herself, but her master said it wasn''t good for her mentally. The best action was to trigger the initial event and let the authorities do the rest for them. Lumina Family was doomed, and Lumina Family would be history starting tomorrow. Perhaps, all the family members would be executed like those demonic cultivators. Even though those people shared flesh and blood with her, she didn''t feel any empathy or sympathy at this moment. She looked at those who used to be called her family with a cold gaze. It was as if she couldn''t see them as humans anymore. A few momentster, Rafa turned around. "The matter here is over. Let''s leave." Gabrie responded with a nod, then everyone left the scene. Their master also already left since everything was concluded. Chapter 25: Suspended Animation

Chapter 25: Suspended Animation

Ely wrote a letter before she quietly left the scene for emergency reasons. The wind spirit took her away without anyone noticing it, and she returned to her hotel room. [Warning! Please find a safe ce to rest!] [Warning! Please find a safe ce to rest!] [Warning! Please find a safe ce to rest!] A red warning window popped out every three seconds due to an emergency. Ely''s body temperature rose drastically; her blood was like boiling water. It was a terrible fever. Her vision was blurry, and she staggered down. She rested her head on the bed as she had no more strength to move. Her consciousness then left her as she could not help it. She didn''t even have the chance toin. Her body was forced to ''rest'' after the sudden warning notifications. She tried her best to resist the urge to pass out before she got to safety. The Demon God of Necromancy was dered dead seconds ago, three hours after the ultimatebined attack of over a hundred holy artifacts. Because her stats increased so much at one time, the after-effect was expected to cause overheating. A temporary shutdown was required to protect her spirit and soul from harm. It was like a device with recently upgradedponents. Apatibility setting had to be done to make things work properly. "!!!" The wind spirit was in a panic when the holy saintess suddenly fell unconscious beside the bed. It tried to help her, but its elemental wind body heated into hot air instead. Her body was so hot! In terms of temperature, not something else, of course. The increasing air pressure and room temperature could be dangerous for the holy saintess. Therefore, the wind spirit blew a gentle cool breeze to cool down the room temperature. A few momentster, the door was opened. Gabrie and Rafa went inside because they wanted to report. Somehow, they felt a strange elemental phenomenon was happening in the bedroom. They rushed there and found their master copsed in a sitting position beside the bed. The air pressure was stifling because the hot temperature and cold air were trying to neutralize each other. It was easy to tell the wind spirit was nearby, even though they couldn''t see it. However, their master''s condition and situation were the priority. Gabrie came closer, but her finger skin burned when she made contact with her master. "Ouch." At that moment, she realized that the entire room might have been burnt down had it not been for the wind spirit''s efforts. "What exactly happened? Master, our master is fine, right? Why is master''s body so hot? She, she- Gab... Why isn''t master breathing?" Rafa checked her master''s condition as she spoke with a trembling tone. Her eyes soon filled with tears because she didn''t want to believe what her mind told her. Gabrie also had her own wild guess. Her master just released an ultimate attack that he strengthened by the Annihtion Star Formation to kill the Demon God. Heavenly Demon... Her master also received a heavenly curse, just like what happened to the Gods and Immortals, known as heroes, long ago. And currently, her master was between life and death because her master''s body was fighting that curse. "We''re going to do something about this." Gabrie moved her vulnerable master to a supine position. She took out a life-saving holy treasure to eliminate the heavenly curse. Unfortunately, the magic circle broke the moment it manifested. She just realized that she couldn''t use her qi or mana here! If so, how could she save her master!? Rafa noticed the panic on Gabrie''s face. She also tried casting high-level healing magic, but her spell copsed when it emerged. She checked her master''s pulse and breathed one more time. At that moment, she remembered that her master had the skill to nullify any qi or mana manifestation. "Please make it work, please make it work, please make it work..." Rafa knelt and then performed thirtypressions on her master''s chest. That was her first time doing CPR, but her master was still not breathing. Therefore, she immediately tilted her master''s head and pinched her master''s nose shut. She took a normal breath and made aplete seal over her master''s mouth with her mouth. She made sure each breathsted about a second and made his master''s chest rise, then let the air out before giving the next two-rescue breath. Rafa knelt beside her master and performed thirtypressions on her master''s chest. That was her first time doing CPR, but her master was still not breathing. Therefore, she immediately tilted her master''s head and pinched her master''s nose shut. She took a normal breath and made aplete seal over her master''s mouth with her mouth. She made sure each breathsted about a second and made his master''s chest rise, then let the air out before giving the next rescue breath. She repeated the thirty chestpressions and two rescue breaths until her hands and lips burned from her master''s boiling hot temperature. "Why isn''t it working?" Rafa muttered incoherently because of her burned lips. Her tears clouded her vision, but she couldn''t give up because she didn''t want to lose her master. What did her master teach her and the disciples with healing aptitude came to mind. Healing skill was a sacrificial technique to save someone''s life with one''s vitality. Unless the caster had a method to recover the lost vitality, it was bound as a suicide skill that eroded lifespan. Rafa then sealed her master''s mouth once again, sending her vitality directly into her master''s body because she currently couldn''t use her mana or qi. "Rafa, what are you doing? You have exhausted more than half of your vitality. We will find a way to heal our master. Please don''t be reckless!" Gabrie tried to stop Rafa. However, Rafa brushed her hand away and responded with a desperate gaze. It was like Rafa wanted to tell her senior that dying was okay if her master survived. ''Stop.'' Ely''s whisper sounded straight into Rafa''s mind. Rafa heard it clearly, but she didn''t stop. She still supplied arge amount of vitality to her master''s body. ''Silly child, I said stop! I fall into suspended animation. My spirit is forced to wake up because of your vitality, but you will die at this rate, and I will cry. I''ll be fine in an hour or two. Do not worry.'' ''Master, is it really you? Are you okay?'' ''Yes, please heal your burns first. I will help you when I wake up.'' Hearing that, Rafa stopped her desperate effort. Herplexion was already so pale, resembling someone with a terminal illness with not much longer to live. "You are so reckless! How can I exin to master if you die?" Gabrie immediately dragged Raf away from their master. Once outside the nullification zone, she used her life-saving treasure to treat Rafa''s burns. "I''m sorry, I don''t know what to do if our master leaves us. However, master told me about her situation just now." Rafa apologized. She fell into Gabrie''s embrace as she felt so weak right now. "I don''t want to hear your apology, but wait, master spoke to you? Was that via telepathy? What did she say?" Gabrie was surprised, realizing what Rafa was talking about. Rafa then told her sister about her master''s condition, and they both waited for an hour there. "..." Ely opened her purplish-blue eyes in a daze. She wondered why she was staring at the unfamiliar ceiling and lying on the floor? The surrounding phenomenon had vanished into thin air, and the wind spirit finally felt relieved because the holy saintess was fine. Or else, not even Heaven would grant forgiveness. "Master!" Gabrie and Rafa hugged their master. They were terrified that their master would leave them, but the relief of finding their master was alive made them emotional. "Silly child..." Ely touched Rafa''s forehead. She returned all the vitality this reckless disciple sent to her body. Rafa''splexion gradually returned to normal. Ely breathed a sigh of relief after ensuring that Rafa''s condition was satisfactory. She always reminded her disciples with healing skills to take care of themselves and restrain them from using that skill unless it was essential. There were healing treasures, life-saving artifacts, and many more to rece the use of that skill. And yet! Rafa chose to make unnecessary sacrifices to help her. She received the sentiment, but if she was toote to stop Rafa, she would cry in sorrow if she woke up and found her 2nd disciple''s cold body. *Snap* Ely flicked Rafa''s forehead. "Owie." Rafa held her forehead. "Don''t be reckless next time. Your master is not easy to die." Ely was angy, but her angelic face didn''t match it. Her relieved smile also betrayed her tone. "En, disciple understand." Raphael nodded in understanding. She could only do such a thing only for her master. "Is it hurt?" Ely checked Rafa''s condition to ensure everything was healing correctly. She reassured her disciples with some details. Then, Gabrie and Rafa reported the incident about the Lumina Family. "How do you feel, Raf-chan?" Ely sat on the bed next to Rafa. "Strangely, nothing, master... It''s as if they are no longer a part of my life." Rafa pressed her hand to her chest. She felt as if she was truly liberated and relieved from the burden of the past. Chapter 26: Formal Invitation

Chapter 26: Formal Invitation

Ely expressed her thanks to the wind spirit. It might not be the same wind spirit as the one in the Sacred Mountain, but all nature spirits were caring and understanding. If it wasn''t for the wind spirit''s effort to neutralize her overheating situation, perhaps this room would have already caught fire, and her body would have been charred to ashes. To think her Mortal Field passive skill would nullify all types of qi and mana manifestations while she was unconscious... [ying 14th Rank Heavenly Rebel: Demon God of Necromancy | HP +25K | CON +50 | SP +200K | MP +2M] [Obtained Demon God''s fragment core] [The Constetion of Fate is impressed by your ultimate move] Ely checked her grimoire''stest log history list but was speechless about what was written there. She had no idea how the Demon God died. Moreover, after she thought about it again, those artifacts''bined ultimate attack might only hurt the Demon God at best. An outside factor might have joined the chaos to execute the injured Demon God. She also had no idea where the Demon God''s fragment core was. She obtained it but got nothing but a nice increase in her stats. "Hmm..." Ely opened the Terra World map, focusing on cities in the Human Realm. She used to think that the three major and neen minor realms were like nations. Nevertheless, she finally understood it was bigger than she imagined after she left Sacred Mountain. The Human Realm had three Empires, and the Demon Realm was more or less the same size. Meanwhile, the Northern Realm was like two realmsbined into one. It covered the whole northern part of the Tearobis Great Continent. "Raf-chan." Ely called out as she marked the three major cities in the Great Yan Empire. Holy Church''s influence was only present in this Empire, after all. "Yes, master. You called?" Rafa immediately came to her master''s side. [Rafa (FV: 2100) | 6th Rank Early Stage] [Loyalty: 100%] [Talent: 4 Stars | SSR] Ely was happy to see Rafa''s loyalty hit the maximum. "You did say there was a God of Light in the Holy Church, right? Can you borate more about your impression of him?" Ely tapped the seat next to her. "Mm, let me exin it to you, master." Rafa described the God of Light to the best of her knowledge, but the mentioned God she met was nothing more than a mere projection, not the real one. "I see... Then, I''d better ask Remi-chan to apany me to the Holy Church tomorrow. I want to meet the God of Light." Ely put her hand to her cheek. "I will tell her, master. Also, we got some letters a few minutes ago, master." "Letters? From whom?" "Graham Potter, and the Yan Imperial Family. Although they wrote two different letters, they basically hoped to meet you again to express their gratitude." "I''ve received enough gratitude, but this is a formality, huh... Did you read the letters, Raf-chan?" "No, master. I can guess from the messengers'' expressions. Both letters actuallybeled as invitation letters." "O-ooh~" "I''ll take the letters here, master." Rafa was about to leave the bedroom to get the letters, but Gabrie suddenly appeared from the other side. They almost collided. "Lunch is ready." Gabrie patted Rafa on the shoulder, then peeked into the bedroom. While Ely and her two disciples were enjoying lunch, the other Apostles gathered at an auction house owned by the Guardian of Dream. Only the 10 Apostles and 144 disciples received blessings from their master directly. Nevertheless, their organization had grown to tens of thousands of members with influence spanning almost every major city in the entire Human Realm. Unfortunately, those people were just loyal employees, the pawns, not the actual members. "Mika, you have another identity as an honorable guardian knight in the neighbouring Empire. Ourst objective is rted to the church. Can''t you do something for this one?" Azrael yed with his sabers like they were just child''s toys. "The Church of Insight in the Breacasian Empire differs from the Holy Church. They worship the Goddess of Fate. My influence will be helpful if our operations are in that Empire. However, this Great Yan Empire is the fifth, sixth, and tenth sister scope of influences. Ask them instead of me." Michael pped his hand as his other identity''s influence was vulnerable in this Empire. "My apologies, but we only have business-rted influences here. I can''t help if it''s the Holy Church because of the tight holy security there." The tenth sister apologized as she couldn''t help much. Uriel and Jophiel also expressed their powerlessness in touching confidential information regarding the Holy Church. Everything they had in the Great Yan Empire was the business-rted influences. "Then, how about you, Azrael? Your Shadow Assassin people are capable of sneaking in as shadows. Since our master mentioned that ce, I''m afraid another big dark secret is hidden behind that church." Michael sipped his coffee. "That''s easy, but we''ll be found out, and trouble will be big afterward. Holy magic protection isn''t something that just any shadow can touch." Azrael shrugged, then took a sip of his wine. Yet, the girls then talked about something interesting, and he immediately focused on his sense of hearing. "Nee, Jophi~ You wet yourself when our master released her arrow of divine light, didn''t you? You rushed to the nearby restroom with an embarrassed look right after our mission at the academy was over." Uriel poked her sixth sister''s arm. "W-what? I don''t, don''t talk nonsense..." Jophiel refused to admit it, but she blushed subconsciously. "Oh my, am I right? You''ve always been fascinated by our master''s might, but who would have thought~ Uh-huh? Your lustrous hair and crystal eyes are pink, and now your face is blushing pink, too~" Uriel couldn''t help but tease her junior sister more. "Hmph, I don''t want to talk to you anymore!" Jophiel adjusted her face veil and moved away from her fifth sister. The other three girls then joined the girls-only conversation. "Hou~" Azrael smirked. His sixth sister was arguably the embodiment of lust. However, her conduct was still entirely innocent due to their master''s influence. She was dangerous because of her subus-like charm and vixen-like illusory ability. That veil was actually an artifact to put her charm under control. Because of that, she rarely showed her face to anyone but their master. Azrael wondered about what his sixth sister''s face actually looked like. She was definitely a stunning beauty, but he wasn''t sure she could rival their master''s peerless angelic beauty. "Ahem! Why did the first and second sisters take so long to report? Did those nobles and representatives give our master trouble? We should do another investigation into the Holy Church during the evening prayer event, right?" Michael cleared his throat. "Who knows? Our master just killed a Demon God three hours ago. After taking care of the Lumina Family, she might need a bit of rest or quiet time." Azrael responded with a spontaneous answer. "!!!" Unfortunately, the answer was immediately interpreted differently by others. Even Azrael soon spat out his wine in shock at his own answer. The Demon God of the upper realm, the Heavenly Demon God!? Their master just killed that kind of monster that their organization wanted to wipe out. The source of all the curses that cursed the bloodline of heroes (Gods) in the past! "Damn, why are we only realizing this now! Our master quietly left for some mysterious reason, which must be rted to that!" Michael dropped his fist onto the table, and it turned to ashes instantly. He rushed to go out to check on his master''s well-being. "Please calm down. Our master is so powerful, and she can purify the curses. Let me ask first sister first." Uriel took out her telmunication talisman and contacted her first sister. "What did she say?" Michael asked that one thing, representing everyone''s question. "Our master is fine. We are currently having lunch. That kind of curse can''t harm our master. So, don''t worry." Gabrie''s voice came out of the telmunication talisman for everyone to hear. That answer instantly made everyone feel relieved. "Oh, right... For the Holy Church, our master will investigate it by herself. Our master wants to meet the God of Light too. Remiel, you will apany our master there tomorrow morning." Rafa continued. "En, let me do it!" Remiel''s cier-blue eyes glistened with vigor. As the tenth in the Apostles, she was the one who had the rarest opportunity for that honor. She finally got that rare chance! "Fufu, good for you, Remi~" Uriel gently stroked her youngest junior sister''s head. Chapter 27: Gift Exchange

Chapter 27: Gift Exchange

Ely chose to attend the event because of the formal invitation. Rafa was the one who would apany her there. She sent a notification, then the messenger came to tell her the meeting time and ce. After sunset and twin moons were high in the night starry sky, Ely and Rafa entered the meeting hall through the backdoor. They skipped the arrival formalities because many people were flocking around the entrance. "Fortunately, this building belongs to the Guardian Of Dream. We can enter through the back door unnoticed by any third party." Ely sat on the guest seat in the corner, watching the other people waiting for something she didn''t know. "Master, here is your tea." Rafa put a cup of tea and some light side dishes on the table. She then stood behind her master. "Thank you." Ely nodded slightly and sipped her warm ginger tea. A few minutester, many influential figures arrived at that meeting. The sixth prince and seventh princess were also present with an additional representative from the Imperial Family. For their purposes? They wished to greet, introduce themselves, or express their gratitude properly to the saintess of the holynd. The young divine-like figure who prevented the Demon God''s descent into this mortal world. "Feifei, do you think Lady Miko will bete?" Prince Yan Hui checked his wristwatch. "No, she will probably choose toe exactly at the appointed time." Princess Yan Fei shook her head. She turned around and went away from the entrance. She felt ufortable after greeting those influential figures from various backgrounds. "Uh-huh?" Princess Yan Fei was stunned when she found a familiar in the corner of the hall. The one that everyone awaited was already there, sitting in serenity. She pinched her brother and gave a gesture to her n''s elder. They then went there to greet the holy saintess. "It is an honor to see you again, Lady Miko. I have read the letter you left. You don''t need to worry because the Lumina Family is over. The Imperial Family will send a virtuous noble to handle this city''s affairs." Princess Yan Fei grasped her hand on her waist in a respectful greeting. The two people beside her also sent their greetings. "Mm, I''vee by invitation. May I know what kind of event I''m attending now?" Ely nced left and right. She felt that this event was like an ordinary banquet. Yet, she couldn''t be sure because everyone had the aura of the hungry wolves. Princess Yan Fei exchanged nces with her brother and elder. They were fully aware that the holy saintess had onlye to the mortal world for two days and did not know many things. Her holynd told her toe down to experience life, and they hadn''t exined anything to the innocent, clueless girl beforehand? However, how did they exin if this event was mostly filled by many parties who wanted to curry favor with yet another holynd? "Ah, this is a formality, but I just learned about this region''s culture. You can express your gratitude, but I have no idea with the many other people present here." Ely made a steeple of her fingers. "Yes, I feel embarrassed to say it. Originally, it was just the Imperial Family and the Luponia Magic Academy. Yet, everyone else insisted oning because they wanted to greet you. They are good people." Prince Yan Hui rubbed his head awkwardly. "And what kind of proper gratitude do you want to convey? I think I''ve received enough gratitude." Ely blinked her eyes as she was still clueless about this formality. However, she suddenly remembered the reward for exposing the Lumina Family''s dark secrets. Imperial Family''s generous gifts! She would receive it here and now, right!? The three Imperial Family members then said a few words of pleasantry before the elder presented a gift from the Emperor. After all, preventing the Demon God''s descent and ying an important role in uncovering the secrets of the Lumina Family was a great merit for the Empire. A few secondster, Graham Potter and his granddaughter gave the holy saintess a gift. "I thank you on behalf of the mages of the academy. Please ept this as a token of our gratitude. It may help you in exploring the world of magic more deeply." Graham Potter describes his gift box with pride. It was his masterpiece and some great magic items. "I ept your gratitude." Ely didn''t need to look at the box''s contents and immediately handed it over to Rafa as she did to the Imperial Family''s gift box. She then took out a small paper box from her secret storage pouch and pulled out ten protective talismans. "I will be leaving tomorrow afternoon after visiting Holy Church. Please ept my farewell gift. These talismans may save your life in times of need." Ely passed six talismans to Princess Yan Fei and four to Lily-Mae. "You''ll be leaving so soon, Lady Miko?" Lily-Mae felt a bit down. "Then, I will ept your return gift with great gratitude. Please let me know if you need assistance from the Luponia Magic Academy. We will be happy to help you, Lady Miko." Graham Potter expressed his gratitude. He was shameless enough to ept the talismans by not giving his granddaughter room to reject the life-saving gift, even if it was only for pleasantries. The surrounding people, whether they were influential figures from nobility or any sect, they learned something new from that sight. Would they get a life-saving treasure if they gave a farewell gift to the holy saintess? The crowd then came to the holy saintess one by one like a meet and greet queue. They uttered several pleasantries, gave a valuable farewell gift, and the holy saintess had no choice but to give the return gift. It was a life-saving treasure that could save even a 6th Rank expert''s life! They had to get it on this asion, even at the cost of many valuables and fortune. Ely actually had no obligation to give the so-called return gift. However, those people looked at her like a group of puppies, eyeing her mass-produced protective talisman. She also thought it was a custom in that region. Thus, she had no choice but toply with the gift exchange, right? These people wished to exchange their valuable things for C Rank talismans... She had no idea why these people were so eager to get the protective talisman from her. But, considering these mass-produced talismans could take a few deadly blows from Grand Master-level expert, it may be worth the trade. She could put that thought aside without any sour taste as a conman. Nevertheless, it was always good to have more allies. They mighte in handy in the future. "Well then, It''s time for me to get going. I wish you all good health and happiness. If fate permits, we will meet here again." Ely breathed a sigh of relief after everything was over. Responding to more than a hundred people one by one was tiring. "Please wait, Lady Miko." Someone called out rather hastily. Ely nced sideways and found that it was the old gentleman, the great elder of Luponia Magic Academy. "How may I help you, mister?" "Is it possible for you to sell your anti-magic resistance to our academy?" Cao Yazhu stated his intention straight to the point. Ely didn''t want to be there any longer. It might be nice to receive many valuable items like magic items, rare crystals, etc. However, she already felt tired and sleepy. Therefore, she took out another small paper box and handed it to Rafa. "Okay, but I only have a few anti-magic resistance talismans. You may discuss it further with my guardian. If you''ll excuse me." After saying that, Ely bid her farewell and then left the hall. Cao Yazhu then looked at the maskeddy d in a white-gold cloaked outfit. For a moment, he felt she was a high-rank great priest of a particr church. However, he knew thisdy was one of the protectors who protected the holy saintess. "Forty-two talismans. Please pay with spirit stones at a fair price. We are quite generous to your academy. So, show us your generosity." Rafa grinned behind her mask. She would extort this old gentleman for this transaction if the other party couldn''t satisfy her. The surrounding people whispered amongst each other because it was pretty bold to ask something from the holy saintess openly. However, the hoy saintess didn''t mind it, and the anti-magic resistance was beyond precious for Luponia Magic Academy. They would also want to get at least a piece if they were allowed topete. But no one wanted to offend the Saint-level expert and magic academy. Thus, they chose to retreat. "I hope this can satisfy you." Cao Yazhu handed over a storage pouch full of spirit stones. Rafa noticed this old gentleman''s expression and said something like the highest bid, the biggest amount he could issue. Thus, she didn''t give the other party trouble and epted his generosity. Once the transaction was over, Rafa rushed after her master. They left from there right after. Chapter 28: Their Thoughts

Chapter 28: Their Thoughts

"I was feeling nervous just now, but the holy saintess is incredibly easy to talk to and generous." "She''s called a holy saintess for a reason, you fool." "That''s good that we''re acquainted with her. She even asked her guardian to record our names!" "Holy saintess is much more beautiful and elegant than people describe. She is an angel from heaven! But oddly enough, I have no desire other than respect and reverence. I was motivated just because of her charming smile and pleasant voice." "Yes, she is probably from the upper realm. What do you think? Is the mortal realm capable of producing someone like her?" "Her conduct, talent, and power... She looks like a sixteen-year-old girl, but she possesses immense power. She exudes a faint holy aura even when she doesn''t do anything." "Holy saintess went to experience mortal life. Be aware of her seemingly no cultivation base. Powerful experts often hide their cultivation base and stuff." The people discussed their experiences, and all were about the holy saintess. They were honored to exchange words with such a lofty, nobledy. Moreover, the holy saintess didn''t have the slightest bit of arrogance typical of influential people. It was as humble as a generous saintess who was loved by everyone. She was like an auspicious omen. Even the Imperial Prince and Princess needed to be respectful and polite before the holy saintess. With that kind of importance, power, temperance, nature, and extraordinary abilities, it was no wonder her holynd sent hundreds of secret protectors to ensure her safety in the mortal world. Other holy saintess usually had a dozen powerful secret protectors at most. Not only that, other holy saintess couldn''t even bepared to Lady Miko at all. Lady Miko''s protectors possessed the power to topple an empire, no, the entire world! Well, but in a good way. Lady Miko was capable of protecting the world with that kind of force. The people at that meeting were convinced that Lady Miko was a young Goddess from the upper realm who descended to the lower realm to experience mortal life. "Raf-chan, I''m sleepy..." Ely closed her eyes in the carriage and leaned against Rafa''s shoulder. "Mm, please lean on my shoulder and rest, master. I will carry you to bed when we arrive at the hotel." Rafa put her hands around her master''s waist to ensure her master''s safety. "Huu... Huu..." Ely fell asleep shortly after. It was a tiring day, and she still needed eight hours of sleep, or she would be sleep deprived. Rafa looked at the twin moons in the starry night sky, lost in thought. However, her master''s soft breath instantly caught her full attention. She then secretly put her hand to her master''s and grasped it. She was a bit shy, but she was satisfied with that. Out there was no master-disciple rtionship as close as this one. Her master was literally seen as everyone''s mother... a family. Once they arrived at the hotel, Rafa used her shadow movement to carry her master into their room. Sheid her master down on the bed with the utmost care, then sat beside the bed. She originally wanted to change her master''s outfit but decided against it. That night, Rafa watched her master''s lovely angelic sleeping face until she identally fell asleep there. *Knock* *Knock* There was a knock on the bedroom door, and Raf immediately woke up with a trail of saliva at the corner of her mouth. She woke up and found her master was not in bed. "!?" Rafa panicked spontaneously, but the delicious smell wafted from the kitchen. She immediately came out and saw her master had just opened the entrance door. "You havee, Remi-chan. Pleasee in." Ely invited her tenth disciple toe in. "Please excuse me. Uhm, it smells so good, master. Did you cook breakfast?" Remiel sniffed around. Her fluffy tail wagged to the right and left. She was eager to taste her master''s delicacies. "Mm, yes. You''re up, Raf-chan. Come and join us." Ely also invited Rafa to the dining table. "Hmm-mm~" Remiel''s wolf ears perked up as she was excited. She came so early, but fortunately, her master was awake. "I will go with master, just the two of us." Remiel covered her mouth and whispered to her second sister as if she were proud. "Mm, please protect our master from those troublemakers." Rafa stroked her junior sister''s head with a smile. "Leave it to me." Remiel thumped her chest. "..." Ely felt warm seeing that kind of simple exchange. Among her core disciplines, Remiel was the most active in spending time outside. Her tenth disciple has a hair color simr to hers, ck with a slight purple hue when exposed to sunlight. Remiel was an adorable wolf-kin, or known in the Human Realm as a demi-human. For some reason, Ely could see Remiel''s cier-blue eyes sparkling joyfully. It was like a little puppy getting overly excited about something. A few minutester, breakfast was served at the table. Remiel waited for her master to lead the prayer before she proceeded to devour her meal. It was a bowl of meat and vegetable puree. Yet, she felt like she was flying and brought to a soft cloud cushion that was thick and chewy. The clouds of food then melted, and she returned to herself. She ate another spoonful of her master''s Heavenly-tier delicacies and felt enlightened by another kind of horizon. It was like another sense of excitement. Remiel and Rafa were too engrossed with their food enlightenment until they failed to realize their bowls were already empty and clean. Remiel even licked her spoon and bowl until they looked like they had just been washed clean. Ely then gave them another serving. "Master, you are a Heavenly Chef, the Goddess of Cooking." Remiel muttered in full appreciation. "Haha, thanks, but I''m not that great." Ely covered her mouth in a light chuckle. "Anyway, Raf-chan, Remi-chan and I will go to the Holy Church until the afternoon. Please notify all disciples to prepare to return to the Sacred Mountain." "Eh? All disciples?" Rafa was stunned for a moment. "Yup, all of them, including the 144 disciples. It''s been a while since I gave them some pointers and inspected their progress. I can''t be so partial and only pay attention to my ten core disciples, right?" "Ah, disciples understand." "Hmm, we must also calm down for a few days and cultivate. Please bring as many resources as possible, but don''t leave any risk to the businesses that the Guardian of Dream owns." "I will convey your wish to all the disciples soon, master." "Good, then please get going." Ely waved her hand, and Rafa immediately went to finish her task. It was great news for all disciples because their master would train everyone. "Remi-chan, are you wearing your Versatile Slime outfit?" Ely checked Remiel''s dress, and it was the slime artifact. "Mm, yes. Is there something wrong, master? It''s so practical and convenient!" Remiel spun around once to reveal her tightbat suit. "Hmm, I did remind him, right? Please minimize using that slime artifact, let alone for normal daily life. It drains your energy constantly, and real clothes are the best in most cases." Ely reminded Remiel like a worried mother. "..." Remiel''s wolf ears drooped as she felt guilty. "We''re going to the Holy Church too. I''m afraid your slime suit will turn to mush, and you''ll be left naked in that holy ce. Ah, if you don''t have any dresses to wear, we''ll go shopping before going to Holy Church. How about that?" Ely stroked Remiel''s head gently, but she was a bit down, recalling her dilemma. She wasn''t sure her spare dress would fit Remiel''s curvy body. Her female disciples had already grown into beautiful, gracefuldies with ripe bodies. As for her, she was immortalized at the age of sixteen! Her disciples were already taller than her. They could be considered her children, but she sometimes looked like the child in body heightparison. "Yes!" Remiel agreed excitedly. With that said, Remiel left with her master to go downtown to shop for some dresses and outfits. Once the bountiful shopping was over, Ely and Ramiel went to Holy Church with different identities. Ely was a painter, and Remiel was her assistant. Chapter 29: Meet the God of Light

Chapter 29: Meet the God of Light

An angelic girl d in a white-gray stylist autumn trench coat was busy capturing a scene on a canvas with her brush and oil paint. She sat on a fresh meadow near a beautiful flower garden and across from a small clear river. A loyal assistant dressed simrly to her but in the ck-purple set sat beside her, watching her with enthusiasm. Remiel was clueless about art, but her master''s painting skill could rival the quality of an objective view. She also sensed a fragment of spiritual power from that Holy Church painting. The painting was so real and alive, as if someone saw the real ce with their eyes. *Rustle* *Tap* *Tap* Remiel''s wolf ears perked up and twitched slightly at the approaching footstep noises. She looked to the side and found a priest and the academy dean''s granddaughtering closer briskly like they were in a hurry. "Lady Miko, I can finally find you. Huff, huff... uhh..." Lily-Mae was out of breath. She was sweating profusely and exhaling steamy breath from the cold autumn air. "Miss Lily, why do you look like you just ran a marathon? Here, some water for you." Ely offered a bottle of drinking water. "Thank You." Lily-Mae epted it and drank the drinking water. She then caught her breath and regained herposure shortly after. "Holy saintess, we received notification that you will visit our Holy Church this morning. However, what are you doing here?" The priest asked in astonishment. "A painter painting a painting?" Ely shrugged her shoulders and continued to perfect her painting. "Well..." The priest scratched his head awkwardly. "Thank goodness I still made it in time and found you here. I wanted to send you before you left." Lily-Mae was relieved because she made it. She woke up early and rushed to the hotel where the holy saintess was staying. Yet, the one she was looking for had already been checked out. Therefore, she rushed to the Holy Church and asked the priest for help. However, who would have thought that the holy saintess she sought was sitting rxed near a flower garden, painting the Holy Chruch? She noticed the stunning female demi-human beside the holy saintess at that moment. They wore simr outfits with different colors. So, this wolf girl was holy saintess people? Although like a docile wolf, this wolf girl exuded a menacing aura as if telling her not to disturb the holy saintess. But she refused to leave because she wanted to meet the holy saintess again! "What made you want to look for me in such haste, Miss Lily?" Ely asked politely, but she was still concentrating on her painting. "Ah, uhm... I''ve notified Holy Church about your special visit. The people will be doing their morning prayers soon. Will you be joining them?" Lily--Mae nced at the people walking towards the Holy Church. "No. I have also notified Holy Church and am not visiting to pray to the God of Light. However, I am going to see the God of Light." Ely responded in a rxed tone. "!?" The priest gasped in surprise. It was quite presumptuous to meet the God of Light in person. Even the Emperor wouldn''t be able to get such a privilege. Regardless, he felt conflicted because this was a holy saintess of an upper realm. "I need to talk to him about recent events. Also, I think he already knows my intentions. They''ve been watching me, and he''s been monitoring me." Ely nced at a certain ce in the Holy Church. She could tell several individuals were watching her with some technique, but she had no idea who they were. "Gulp..." The priest swallowed back what he had almost said. Luckily, he didn''t spout it out, or he could have offended this big shot. So, the God of Light had expected her arrival? Would he wait for her to finish painting first? However, what about that painting? The priest peeked at the painting and was mesmerized by its lifelike details. Unfortunately, he didn''t possess any artistic sense to get an epiphany from that Holy Chruch painting. Simr to sword intent for swordsmanship enlightenment by witnessing someone else''s sword technique. The artistic sense was needed to look deeper into the wisdom depicted in the painting. "Mm, it''s over. What do you think?" Ely was satisfied with her painting. Unfortunately, that painting''s artistic value was not recognized by heaven. That was evident from the rted quest listed in her grimoire. The number ofpletions had stayed the same. She had to improve her art-rted skills more then. "Master is the best!" Remiel nodded happily. "Mm! Yes, that''s a beautiful painting. It feels like the real scenery. Would you take this home as a souvenir, Lady Miko?" Lily-Mae was curious. "I want to gift this to someone and ask for art advice." Elly shook her head. She wrote her penname in the corner of the painting, then wrapped it up and stored it in her storage pouch. Since the painting was over, Ely went to Holy CHruch. However, she did not enter with the people about to do their morning prayer. She went to the side entrance where only priests were generally only allowed to enter. "Stop right there." The senior priest stopped the girl from going any further. "Hmm?" Ely looked back. No one tried to stop her and Remiel, but Lily-Mae could not enter. "Huh? Why am I the only one not allowed to enter through this entrance?" Lily-Mae throws her tantrums. "You can enter through the main entrance. Only priests may enter through this passage." The senior priest pointed at therge front entrance of the church. "But what about them?" Lily-Mae pointed at the holy saintess and the wolf demi-human. "They possess healing skills and are eligible to enter as guests. You won''t be able to enter even if you want to. This is the zone for healers and priests only." The senior priest pointed at a nearby green crystal, but it immediately turned red when Lily-Mae approached. Ely raised her palm to Lily-Mae and went deeper with Remiel beside her. "Sorry, I can''t help you with this, miss." The priest apologized to his friend. "Never mind, I''ll wait for the holy saintess toe out then." Lily-Mae snorted. When Ely entered the special zone, she found many pairs of eyes on her. She was in a hall with a few priests and healers around, but what made her feel a bit wary was the simr sharp gazes of the ones that observed her when she was painting. Ely used her eye ability and found they were the archbishop and several bishops. So, the God of Light wasn''t the one watching her since earlier. "Bless the morning and the light. I am Bishop Ren, and I have received your prior notice regarding your visit, holy saintess. However, we still do not know the purpose of your arrival. Would you mind telling us?" Bishop Ren came closer to greet the holy saintess. The nearby priests were surprised because they didn''t know the neers were high-status outsiders with special circumstances. "I came here to meet the God of Light. There is a pressing matter that we must discuss before I leave." Ely answered frankly. She expected a shock like that of the previous priest, but only the junior ones had such a response. The senior priests, bishops, and archbishop upstairs remained calm. [Favorability: 30%] ''Thirty, huh...'' Ely checked whether the other party harbored hidden hostility, but this bishop was still fairly neutral. "All right, then, please follow me." Bishop Ren nced at the wolf demi-human once, then led the holy saintess to follow him. Ely and Remiel were guided to an inner chapel, a rtively small cepared to the ce wheremon people do their prayers. That ce was the room where the Holy Church''s people went on their spiritual journey of meditation or met the God of Light. Ely didn''t wait for the bishop to exin this and that because she already had a lot of information from Rafa. She sat on the front bench, then sped her hands in prayer as she stared at the ss wall with a magnificent painting depicting the God of Light who blesses his people. Bishop Ren lifted the corner of his mouth as he felt this holy saintess overestimate herself. Holy Church couldn''t refuse her request because of her identity and recent aplishments. Nevertheless, the God of Light probably wouldn''t appear because this outsider wanted to meet their God. However, the ss wall suddenly glowed, and a golden projection of a human appeared floating above the altar. === Announcement === Hello! How are you, readers? I wish you a day full of miracles and wonderful memories! What is your opinion and impression so far? Please let me know your thoughts ^_^ Ahem, here''s the announcement. We will be holding a giveaway event in the form of redeemable codes worth 7000 coins and 100 fast passes for the first 10 lucky readers! (700 coins + 10 fast passes per Webnovel ount) Please join our discord server and stay tuned on the channel gift-code on 23/04 at approx 00:00 UTC +8. Make sure you have the @New Event role for the ping. Invite Link: https://discord.gg/QBdQ4BPv6n Easy Link: https://discord.io/yuuzuserver Chapter 30: Holy Church’s Wrongdoing

Chapter 30: Holy Church''s Wrongdoing

"Holy saintess from Sacred Sakura Holy Land, your aplishment of repelling the Demon God from the upper realm is worthy of praises. Is there anything you desire from this gathering?" The God of Light went straight to the point as he felt it unnecessary to exchange pleasantries with the one he suspected of being a saintess from an upper realm. It was an all-gold light that formed a human figure. A man with long hair with a thick beard reaching to his chest. Ely felt the God of Light was not as omniscient as she thought. As Rafa said and suspected, this entity was nothing more than a projection of holy power. If the God of Light had a divine-like power, she was sure he would act as soon as the Demon God descended. Also, this God of Light''s sacredness was nowhere near her Goddess Master! Whether it was the divine appearance, sacred aura, or spiritual sensation. Everything was iparable! Where would the real God of Light be if this projection was never the real deal? Could it all be just a lie all along? "???" The God of Light''s projection was flustered because the holy saintess fell silent, looking at the ss wall and himself several times in a turn. [Xinos (FV: 5860) | God Of Light (Remnant) | 11th Rank Late Stage] [Favorability: 70%] [Talent: 5 Stars | UR] Ely looked at the ss wall painting again and found the status screen popped out before her vision. However, nothing appeared before God''s projection. Therefore, Ely brought her finger to her chest, touching the disguised telepathy talisman as she wished for a secret private talk. ''Pleased to meet you, the God of Light Xinos.'' ''Huh!?'' An entity within the ss wall was taken aback, feeling extremely shocked. No one could know his true name in the mortal realm, and no beings from this era should know that name. ''You, you, who are you? Are you someone from the second circle? What do you want?'' Xinos stuttered a bit as he felt anxious. ''I was hoping for a pleasant conversation with the human-friendly God.'' ''Is that all?'' ''Yes, and if you don''t mind, I have some confusion, and I hope you can enlighten me, honorable one. Can you grant this girl''s wish?'' ''Exchanging information, and it''s a fair deal. I am also intrigued about you now. Speak, your real name isn''t Miko, right? Also, that''s strange... You are clearly aplete entity, but why do I feel you are only a fragmented soul with a broken spirit?'' ''???'' Ely wondered what that meant, but she soon realized the real meaning of that statement. Thankfully, she hid her shock perfectly as she had long since epted her situation. That might be rted to her lost memory. ''Three questions and the answer must be answered honestly without hiding anything.'' Ely offered the deal, and the other party agreed with it. She then allowed Xinos to ask first. ''What is your true aim?'' Xinos asked his first question in a solemn tone. ''Fulfilling the requirement to save my family and friends.'' Ely answered honestly. ''What is your true identity?'' ''My name is Ely, the shrine priestess of the Sacred Mountain. Miko is my other name.'' ''...'' Xinos found no lie in this girl, but he could not understand this holy saintess'' origin! ''That''s your two questions. Now it''s my turn. First question. Please tell me, what do you know about heavenly curses?'' Ely immediately threw the question. ''Its origin came from the Heavenly Demon Gods from the previous circle that led to the second world''s destruction. If you have read the ancient bible, you may have heard more about what I am describing. However, it was a curse that cursed the souls of opposing Gods and would not disappear even into their reincarnations. Their bloodline and descendants are also inseparable from the curse. I don''t know in depth because I wasn''t involved in that great war, and I''m helpless if you want to ask for help regarding that kind of curse.'' ''My second question. I realize that Holy Church is running inhumane experimentations, but why are you and your people doing that?'' Ely didn''t know the details, but she felt her quest''s information should be brought to light soon. The Holy Chruch should not carry out such a heinous activity. ''Inhumane experimentations? That''s wrong because it''s actually their holy training. Humanity will prosper when we have countless healers and holy knights.'' ''You are a remnant soul. You died in the previous world''s destruction, but you are not evil. You''re lying. But, why stain yourself with guilts and sins?'' ''Ugh... Humanity needs someone to guide them. It is a blessing for those chosen even though it is necessary to go through a painful process.'' ''And what price must be paid? Is it worth it?'' ''...'' Xinos fell silent. The price was too heavy for Holy Chruch to bear since it could be considered a heinous practice. Not to mention the war situation with the demon armies. He didn''t fully know everything, but he knew humanity was slowly being pushed back by the demon''s invasion. ''What do you suggest?'' Xinos chose to ask for advice. ''Please stop those inhumane experimentations. There is always a righteous path to train people to be stronger.'' ''I''m afraid it will be difficult.'' ''If I move to stop those experimentations, the situation won''t end peacefully. What is the difference between the righteous path and a demonic act? Please consider it one more time for everyone''s sake.'' ''...'' Xinos then fell silent as he contemted something. He was indeed just a remnant soul, and the damage this holy saintess would cause could be too severe for his Holy Church if she decided to intervene. It took time to stop the project to spawn many disposable new healers and holy knights. But, the demons were still superior to humans even after a few decades. So, where was the point of errors? ''Why do so many humans switch to the evil path? Perhaps, there is something wrong with the conventional method, and it deviates from the righteous path all along? We found some Holy Church people on the side of the demons and demonic cults. You need to act to organize your people before it''s toote.'' Ely added a little, and she felt that was enough for the conversation. She already knew what she wanted to know from the conversation just now. She gave some suggestions because she felt God''s remnant soul was unaware of the situation. ''I will do something about it. The Holy Church and humanity will continue to prosper.'' Xinos considered several things, but the holy saintess'' request was difficult to fulfill, though it was possible. ''I''m relieved to hear that. You are the wise and powerful God. I hope humanity will be what you dreamed of.'' Ely''s eyes glistened like stars. She was surprised because the God of Light would hear her request. Truth be told, she still had no idea what kind of inhumane experimentations the Holy Church was carrying out. ''It will take time, but we will work to find the best solution. Before that, I would like you to wait and withhold all information regarding the Holy Church.'' Xinos was worried this holy saintess brought this confidential matter to the fore. It would be like the city lord''s fate, but it would be worse if the other churches from other Empires found out about this news. The impact was unimaginable. Fortunately, the holy saintess came and talked about it peacefully. So, he could do something about this. ''Okay. I will wait for future good news. Then, for my third question...'' Ely rubbed her hands. ''Huh!? You''re still so shameless to ask the third one after all that just now? I''m careless because I got carried away with the topic you brought up. Instead of that, I just asked two out of three.'' Xinos was irritated, but he couldn''t help it. ''No, no, this is the most important thing. The previous ones are just because your reaction is so big. It shouldn''t count. My next question isn''t anything sensitive. I just wanted to ask about the whereabouts of some people if you know about them.'' Ely responded with a pitiful tone, as if she was being treated unfairly. ''Sigh, alright then. Who do you want to find out? Is it about your family and friends?'' Hearing that, Ely immediately mentioned several names. Unfortunately, Xinos did not know any people by the names she mentioned. She felt a bit disappointed, but she would definitely meet them soon. ''Myst question. If you fight against Demon and Evil Gods, how confident are you that you cane out victorious?'' Xinos used hisst question to uncover more about this holy saintess. Not to mention, this girl could repel the Demon God with just the 0th Rank cultivation base!? He was a God, but he could not see her real strength. He couldn''t believe it was as simple as a shrine priestess since she probably had multiple identities. ''I don''t know what to answer because getting ganged up on is unpleasant. However, my innate is rted to evil''s nemesis. All my techniques and moves are super effective against them.'' Ely was overwhelmed. She would choose to flee rather than fight a group of Demon Gods. ''I see, that''s good enough.'' Xinos could interpret something great and bright from the holy saintess'' answer. He felt now everything made sense as to how she could exert such unimaginable power against the Demon God despite being still in the lower realm. Ely stood up from her seat, gave a respectful bow, and bid her farewell. The God of Light projection gave his consent, then Ely walked away. Chapter 31: Evil Suppression Talisman

Chapter 31: Evil Suppression Talisman

"..." Bishop Ren couldn''t help but wonder what kind of secret conversation the God of Light and the holy saintess had just now. However, he couldn''t ask frankly because that was beyond rude. "Bishop Ren, notify all the bishops, archbishops, and cardinals this noon for an emergency meeting here." Xinos''s projection gave his orders after the holy saintess left the chapel. "Obey." Bishop Ren gave a respectful bow, then left to carry out the order. Ely and Remiel left the Holy Church with their own thoughts. Remiel''s mind wandered to some rainbow and unicorn, which sparked her imagination. At the same time, Ely didn''t bother to think about things too deeply. She needed to be more knowledgeable about the mentioned experimentation. Nevertheless, she hoped her previous peaceful talk would work out without her having to get involved. Even if that didn''t work, she would think about itter. ''So, he doesn''t know, huh...'' Ely felt a bit disappointed because the most crucial objective of her visit to the Holy Church did not produce the results she expected. "Master~ You look sad. It concerns the God of Light?" Remiel also felt sad when he saw her master''s depressed gaze. "Does it look so obvious?" Ely patted her cheeks and moved on. "Un, but now it''s not." "What do you think about Holy Church?" "That''s hard to say, but this ce is notfortable." Remiel nced left and right with her sharp predatory eyes. She could sense some unpleasant invisible stares and wanted to get out of there as soon as possible. "Do you know why I asked you to apany me here today?" Ely waved her hand in front of Remiel''s face to attract attention. "Master wants to kill time and y with me." Remiel answered with an innocent smile. "Hmm, that''s true, but not quite true. Let''s talk about thister." Ely was amused. A few momentster, they both came out of the Holy Church and found Lily-Mae still waiting at the same spot. Although there were a few additional people. "Lady Miko, you have returned. We hope that your visit will leave a good impression." Lily-Mae greeted the holy saintess with relief. "Mm, but what about everyone? Why has it suddenly be a crowd?" Ely pointed her hand at the people behind Lily-Mae. They were the people she met atst night''s meeting. "We take the liberty of sending you off. Please ept this. If you revisit the Great Yan Empire, no one will dare to give you trouble." Prince Yan Hui handed over a red Imperial Token bearing the golden dragon. "Imperial Family''s token? Thank you." Ely received the token. "You are always wee in the Great Yan Empire, Lady Miko." Princess Yan Fei nodded happily. Several people then conveyed their farewell greetings because they knew the holy saintess would leave soon. So, they are trying to leave a good impression once again. "Thank you, everyone. However, now is the time for me to go." Ely was looking for an excuse to get out of this annoying situation. It was never pleasant to be mobbed by a noisy crowd. "If you don''t mind, I will escort you out of the city or teleportation array with my flying carriage." Princess Yan Fei offered politely while pointing out her nearby luxurious flying artifact. "..." Ely considered a few things. The so-called flying carriage was arge pnquin that could amodate eight people at once. She wanted to refuse, but it would be seen as impolite on her part since they hade here to see her off. "Then, we''ll bother you." With that being said, Ely and Remiel boarded the luxurious pnquin. Princess Yan Fei, Prince Yan Hui, and a new face were there, but with the addition of the academy dean, Lily-Mae, and the old gentleman. "Lady Miko, where will you be going next?" Graham asked curiously. He was under the assumption that the holy saintess would not immediately return to her holynd. "I will return to my sacred ground first. What happenedst two days makes me want to rest." Ely looked up at the sky. She wanted to try cultivating by absorbing more spirit stone''s energy while exploring the Northern Realm. After all, it was wise to avoid being involved in a major events one after another in the Human Realm in a short time. "I see..." Graham nodded in understanding. It was natural for an innocent girl to feel tired because of two days of terrible events. Wait, two days? "If it''s not presumptuous to ask. How do you view the church?" Ely nced down. The Holy Church was getting further and further out of sight. "Holy Church is a holy ce with many great figures." "One of the pirs of the Empire." "An independent force that helps humanity prosper." "One of the forces capable of suppressing demons with their holy power." Everyone''s answers varied, but they still couldn''t understand the holy saintess'' sudden question. "Is that so? Then, I wish to as a favor to the Imperial Family. Do you want to hear it?" Ely considered several things and felt that evil should not continue tantly running rampant in the Human Realm. Otherwise, it would be hazardous during the war with the demon armies at the border. "Please enlighten us." Prince Yan Hui became solemn all of a sudden. "This is the evil suppression talisman, capable of suppressing any living thing with evilness within their soul. This talisman can be used repeatedly as long as it is not damaged. However, only a maiden with pure soul desire to eliminate evil can use it." Ely ced three pieces of talisman onto the table. "This! Is it possible for us to learn this talisman creation technique, Lady Miko?" The old taoist eximed in surprise. "You can try it at your own risk, sir. You are also free to try replicating it if you can afford it. The Imperial Family will handle it, and the magic academy or any sects are wee to get involved." Ely shook her head. "O-oh! All right then." The old taoist nodded in understanding. "May I know how we can use it?" Princess Yan Fei was intrigued. "We need a pure maiden. It will glow to suppress any evil things within a twenty-meter radius. It can be used repeatedly and stay effective if the caster still has enough spiritual energy." Ely activated the evil suppression talisman, and it glowed a soft blue light. That talisman was picky and could only be used by a virgin maiden with a pure heart without evil desire. Lily-Mae and Princess Yan Fei tried it, but the talisman didn''t react. As for Remiel, she just watched from the side. "Am I an impure girl? Why doesn''t this talisman react?" Lily-Mae was depressed. "..." Ely didn''t know why either. She thought Lily-Mae''s heart and soul were pure enough to use this evil suppression talisman. "Understand. We will cooperate with the other major forces to find three pure, holy maidens for this noble role. I, representing the Great Yan Empire, express our deepest gratitude again." Princess Yan Fei expressed her gratitude respectfully. The others also bowed as they would also be involved in this. Ely then got off the flying pnquin once they arrived at the outer side of Lumina City. She bid her farewell with a hand wave before walking away with Remiel next to her. *Swoosh* The wind was blowing, and everyone''s sight was clouded with dust. Yet, the holy saintess and her wolf demi-human guardian had disappeared. "Holy saintess is indeed a saintess from the upper realm." Cao Yazhu checked the surroundings and confirmed the holy saintess had disappeared as if she had never been there. It wasn''t magic or any martial technique since there wasn''t any residual energy around. "All the Guardians of Dream''s members are waiting in the northern forest''s secluded area, master. We are ready to carry out teleportation there." Remiel reported the situation while enjoying the wind. They were currently above the clouds, carried by the wind spirit. "Then, let''s go there right away." Ely tapped her chin as she felt she was forgetting something, but she put it aside because she didn''t think it mattered. Chapter 32: It Should be Me, not Them

Chapter 32: It Should be Me, not Them

It was already three days since Ely returned to her humble abode in the Sacred Mountain. She used her time to train her disciples at the training ground, absorb energy from spirit stones, hone her skills, and her daily life. And one of the most, she created various handicrafts, paintings, carvings, and so on to try to achieve a mastery of divine prowess. However, she had only made two heaven-acknowledged objects in the past three days. [Create anything with high artistic value recognized by heaven (81/1000)][Reward: Mastery of a divine prowess] ''Hmm, I don''t know what divine skill I can achieve after creating a thousand treasures like this. I can also make this a routine as my side assignment to fill my free time.'' Ely stared at an incredible carved wood golem and an illusory paradise talisman on the table. In thest five years, she created eighty-one products with high artistic value, but she had yet to learn which ones they were. She had made thousands of weapons, carvings, paintings, talismans, and many art-rted items. "..." Ely stored all her new products into her storage pouch, then turned to the side. More than a hundred disciples sat cross-legged under the morning sun as if meditating. And for the truth, they were in a dream illusory space where they needed to go through various obstacles and challenges of semi-realist illusions that would train their mental and spiritual strength. In the process, they would also cultivate their qi for martial arts and mana for magics to be stronger. They underwent different drills and pointers in thest three days, which drastically boosted their prowess since their master was there to provide direct instruction. That was one thing that made Ely envious because her strength was stuck forever, and any training was useless. Her onlyfort was she was blessed with countless treasures and some life-saving skills to ensure her safety. She could also craft some new treasures if she had the materials. "Rua." The sakura tree''s spirit gave a freshly peeled orange to Ely. "Thank you, Sakura." Ely took the orange and ate it. Sakura then flew up andnded on the seven-petal evesting sakura flower on Ely''s head. "???" Ely let Sakuray on her head, but a question arose. The usual sakura flower was five petals, but the one on her head had seven petals and was rtivelyrge. It was a life-saving treasure with unknown effects, but where Sakura got this flower was still a mystery because it was clearly not from the sakura tree. "Master, I havepleted the mind and spiritual trials." Gabrie came over covered in sweat. She was a bit mentally exhausted but was always the fastest to finish the trials in three consecutive days. "Mm, congrattion, Gab-chan. Here is fresh spring water and some snacks to replenish your strength. Please have a seat and regte your breath first." Ely gave a gift package to Gabrie. That reward would be given to her disciples whopleted the trials before noon. Gabrie was always the first to enjoy it. "Yes, master." Gabrie obeyed like a good, obedient disciple. She sat down, caught her breath, then opened her gift package to enjoy her master''s delicacies. *Psst* Gabrie opened the sealed bamboo ss, then sipped the spring water. She felt like freshness and life were flowing in her mouth and throat. Also, there was a pleasant tickling sensation from some tiny bubbles. "..." Ely just smiled to watch her first disciple''s behavior. Gabrie was simr to a child who ate her snack little by little to enjoy the taste longer. "Ugh, I''m one step slower than you. I''ll definitely beat you one day, miss good at everything." Rafa came closer with a fierypetitive spirit. "You are a hundred years too early to try to defeat me." Gabrie replied with a smirk. "Congrattions, Raf-chan. Your spiritual root and inner power advance to the next level. Your mental fortitude has be stronger too." Ely was impressed by Rafa''s progress. Her second disciple recently was almost able to beat Gabrie. Rafa was liberated and felt like a free spirit since the event four days ago at Lumina City. "I am honored, master." Rafa was satisfied. She also wondered why, but her cultivation has be much smoother now. Even though she failed to save the pitiful ones in that mansion''s secret base, the culprits have already received the harshest punishment they could possibly suffer. The victims also received a proper burial, and their spirits were sent away to the afterlife by dozens of priests from the Holy Church. She had gone through the hurdle of the past, then focused her entire being on the present and future only. The other disciplespleted their trials one by one and received the awaited reward from their master. However, some disciples were unable to finish their trials before noon. Thus, the pitiful disciple got no morning snack because it was already time for lunch. After lunch, Ely felt the top-tier spirit stone she put in her drawstring bag had disappeared into ashes. Her body absorbed the energy from that stone automatically, then she put another one there. It was like a passive ie. She could receive some MP and SP by letting the spirit stone of mid-tier quality or above close to her body. "The three training days are over, and you can stabilize your foundation first. Everyone needs to find their fortuitous encounter in the outside world for the next ten days." Ely announced her intention. It was basically the treasure hunt and resources gathering event. The ten Apostles and over a hundred disciples knew their master''s aim. They would refrain from participating in any big event for two weeks. However, their own fortuitous encounter? Their master wanted them to hunt for treasure while waiting for the next major operation! Thinking about it, it was their seasonal event. What they learned in thest three days also needed to be put into practice and honed in the outside world. Thus, it was the perfect opportunity to sharpen their skills. Ely then asked her disciples about their destination. Each of them mentioned a different ce. Ely also felt she needed to find her fateful encounter too. Her disciples would go on a treasure hunt. However, she had to immediately raise her stats to unseal her Goddess Master. She should also look for her friends because they might also look for her. Her memory was still blurry, and she wished to meet them because they might help her to remember her past. "I have been in the Northern Realm for years but have never gone far from the Sacred Mountain. The beasts and demons on this mountain are extremely docile, but it''s the wide, wild world outside. I think I will also need to go." Ely subconsciously muttered her thoughts, but Gabrie could hear them clearly. "Master, which ce would you like to visit?" Gabrie was concerned and curious. Ely blinked her eyes with a perplexed look. Apparently, her murmur was heard. She then looked up at the northern sky, then at the northwest. "It''s only a month or two before winter. I want to go to the northwestern region. The eternal winter mountains over there caught my attention. I want to collect some rare herbs." "Ah, how coincidental! It''s been a while, and I''ll be hunting in the Winter Forest, master. How about we go together? Our destinations are close." Remiel pped her hands together with eyes twinkling like stars. "No, the unnamed snowy northwestern forest is my destination. That ce holds many unexplored mysteries, and I am the best candidate to apany master in the snowy mountains." Uriel raised her hand and used her other hand to push Remiel aside. "Ara, isn''t your main goal the ancient ruins and the mysterious freezing cold secret realm? The snowy mountains are my treasure-hunting destination." Jophiel stood before her fifth sister so her master would look at her. "Huh? But, you aim to investigate the noble beast and lofty demi-human in the northern snow mountain region." "We call them beastkin in the Northern Realm. The north and northwest are close, and the snowy mountains stretch wide. I am the most suitable to apany our master''s journey. There is no argument." "It leveled as only beastkin in this Northern Realm because no one cared about the name difference. Humans differentiate between them because the beastkin is a humanoid with significant beast features. There is also demonkin, and so on. Meanwhile, the demi-human is basically a human with a minor beast or any non-human features." "Remi will go with master! Fifth sister and sixth sister not allowed to argue!" Uriel, Jophiel, and Remiel argued because they wanted to be chosen to apany their master''s journey. The hunting ground was close to their master chosen ce, so they fought over it. "Uh?" Ely just found out about the naming difference. However, some beastkin and beast could transform into human, therianthrope, and beast forms. Such a naming distinction was actually redundant in the Northern Realm. Demi-human was literally half-human. If she had to choose, she would prefer to call them beastfolk, or to be more specific about their species. For example, the wolfkin Remiel. Gabrie then raised her hand as she wished to volunteer to apany their master''s journey. Yet, the three sisters ganged up on her because she had chosen a destination near the border of the three major realms. Therefore, even the first sister could not say much. "All right, no need to argue. The four of us will go hunting together then. It''s a ten-day trip, and we''ll all leave tomorrow morning." Ely put her hand to her forehead. She originally wanted to go alone, but having a disciple apany her was excellent. Unfortunately, her three core disciples fought over that position, and she couldn''t y favoritism here. Since she couldn''t choose one, then why not all three? Since their hunting destination was close to her chosen ce of interest, it was okay. "Yes!" Uriel, Jophiel, and Remiel immediately reconciled. They got along well and answered in unison. "It should have been me, not them!" Azrael knelt down, hitting the ground. He felt somewhat regretful for choosing the border between the Demon Realm and the Northern Realm in the southwest. He was the best candidate to apany their master in treasure hunting because of his skills. Not to mention, he could order his entire organization to do some tasks too. However, good luck came to his junior sisters... not just one, but three of them! Among the three male disciples in the Apostles, he was the most enthusiastic about such an opportunity because he could show off his prowess and impress his master. However, it had been three months since then. To apany their master''s journey was a blessing as they received so much enlightenment, guidance, and opportunity in action! Chapter 33: Disguised as Nine-Tailed Fox

Chapter 33: Disguised as Nine-Tailed Fox

Before the day changed, Ely asked her core disciples about the most revered creature in the Northern Realm. Their answers varied, but she finally made up her mind after asking her grimoire. Her prayer got a single answer, and she immediately prepared herself for her disguise when morning came. She was no longer a holy saintess but would still y her role as a big shot because her goals never changed. Rather than pretending to be weak and letting some random passerby prey on her, it was better to pretend to be strong, even if it was just a paper tiger. It was much safer for a 0th Rank girl who could only rely on items and artifacts. The possible enemies would be wary, and she could also get twinkles and sparkles from her disciples. A master had to look strong without showing weakness, after all. Or else her disciples would try to bite her after discovering she was so weak without her magic items and artifacts. "Hmm-mm~" Ely used her transformation innate skill to ensure her disguise reached perfection. A pair of fox ears popped on her head, and nine fluffy fox tails on her low back. She then changed her clothes to match her new identity. It was a fancy priestess-like outfit with a starry night motif, plus lots of cold resistance artifacts that served as ornaments thatplemented her current appearance. After that, she looked at her reflection in the mirror to do a little makeup on her face with eyeliner. She did a wless makeover for her bewitching foxy eyes and the two pairs of whisker marks on her cheeks. *Knock* *Knock* The bedroom door was knocked. Ely gave her permission but still looked in the mirror to reconfirm whether her current appearance resembled that of the legendary nine-tailed fox girl. "Excuse me, master. I brought you a report regarding the events in thest three days. The demonic cults-" Gabrie entered with a document in hand. She looked up to look at her master but was soon stunned to find a breathtaking nine-tailed fox girl resembling her master there. "Who?" "Gab-chan, how do I look now?" Ely spun around once in a slow, elegant motion. "Ma, Ma-master!? Why, why did you suddenly be a nine-tailed fox?" Gabrie examined her master from top to bottom. She was sure her master''s fox ears and fluffy tails functioned like a real deal, not ornaments. This level of disguise was indeed beyondmon sense. It was as if her master was actually a legendary nine-tailed fox from the beginning. "It would be troublesome to travel in the Northern Realm as a human, right? The beasts and demons in this mountain are extremely friendly, but we never know in the outer regions." Ely responded with an innocent expression. "Uhm..." Gabrie had nothing to say. The beasts and demons in this Sacred Mountain were extraordinarily docile because of her master''s presence. They settled on this mountain because it was very suitable for cultivation due to its dense and thick spiritual energy. Apart from doing odd jobs, they indirectly protected this mountain from invaders or distress. So, it was reasonable for her master to disguise herself as a demi-human for a convenient cause. Moreover, her master''s current appearance was so fascinating and tempting. She actually wanted to hug and caress her master''s tails, but she held herself back. "Also, it would be embarrassing every time to get cynical usations like... Human! What are you doing here? Look, I also made some animal ear headbands for everyone." Ely showed a box with lots of headbands in it. "Disciple understands." Gabrie was enlightened. It would invite unwanted hostility if those overlord beasts found a human roaming their territories. "You may have one. Here you go." Ely put a golden blonde cat ears headband on Gabrie''s head. "Ah, thank you, master. Your appearance is captivating, master. I''m afraid your charm will be out of bounds now." Gabrie burned her master''s current nine-tailed fox appearance into her memory. She then touched her headband. It looked like she had suddenly be a demi-human, a cat girl. Her master''s fox ears perked up as if telling her master was excited. It could even twitch and move a bit like a natural fox''s ears! It was never a headband in the first ce! If she didn''t know her master better, she might have believed her master was a legendary nine-tailed fox from the beginning. At that moment, Gabrie remembered that her master was a Goddess-like existence. Her master could transform into another race without any restrictions. So, everything was reasonable. "Hm-mm~ thank you for yourpliment. So, what report were you talking about earlier?" Ely was pleased because she put much effort into her new identity. She then discussed the previous topic while ncing at the document in Gabrie''s hand. "This is a report regarding a major event that urred in the Human Realm after we retreated to the Sacred Mountain, master." Gabrie handed over the document. "Hmm..." Ely examined it briefly. Something that caught her attention was the Lumina Family''s expulsion from the Empire. Yet, it ended up being a public execution by many orthodox sects. Then, a coborative program between the major forces and the Imperial Family led by the 6th prince and 7th princess. Thest one was about the holy saintess from the upper realm. Her identity as a holy saintess had spread throughout Human Realm. She could also get many privileges and special treatment when she visited Human Realm in the future, especially the Great Yan Empire. By doing so, she might meet her friends sooner. Unfortunately, Ely forgot that she used her stage name instead of her real name. "Hm? A giant secret realm will fully appear next month? The portal has already manifested, but the gate hasn''t opened yet? The humans and demons at the border stopped their meaningless battle for this event." Ely found one exciting piece of information. "Yes, master. Estimated next month. Would you like to send us to explore that secret realm when the timees, master?" Gabrie put her hand to her upper chest as she was worried, and it was apparent on her face. She knew it was definitely not an ordinary secret realm. "Mm, we''ll talk about it again in ten days. We still have time to prepare ourselves for that mysterious secret realm." Ely confirmed it with interest. The secret realm attracted the attention of two opposing sides, and the war had to stop temporarily. She wondered what kind of ce awaited beyond that portal realm. Ely then asked implicitly about Rafa''s response to information regarding the Lumina Family. Yet, Gabrie responded casually as if Rafa no longer cared about that family''s fate. Hearing that, Ely wanted to confirm it with her Sacred Vision. She found Rafa in the middle yard, enjoying morning tea with other core disciples. Like what Gabrie said, Rafa''s spirit was calm as ever. So, those matters could no longer bother Rafa''s state of mind. "You woke up so early. Are you excited to set off for the seasonal treasure hunt?" Ely greeted with a smile, but her focus was on Rafa. The nine disciples immediately looked at the source of the pleasant voice. Instead of their master, they found a charming legendary nine-tailed fox girl that resembled their master there. They were stunned for a few seconds. Questions were asked, and Ely responded with amusement. So, her disguise for her new identity as the nine-tailed fox was perfect. After that, Ely distributed animal ear headbands to her core disciples as a small gift. She also distributed some life-saving talismans to all of her disciples. "..." Azrael already knew his master was already so mesmerizing and captivating, the peerless angelic beauty. However, her current appearance brought her charm to another level. His only worry was his master would bring some lechers and savages who were after her beauty and body. After all, this was the wild Northern Realm. However, his attention was suddenly drawn to his master''s fluffy tails swaying left and right. He once thought it was the fake tails tied at her waist, a buttplug, or something. However, it was the functioning tails like his tenth sister''s wolf tail. This was no longer a disguise but a perfect transformation. "Hm? What''s wrong, Azra-kun?" Ely looked behind her, but no one was there. She wondered what her fourth disciple was observing. "No, it''s nothing. You have to be very careful on your journey, master." Azrael was flustered and immediately shifted the topic to the three lucky sisters. "You three, please look after master well. I won''t forgive you if master gets a scratch, even if it''s only a little." "..." Jophiel didn''t respond because she was still mesmerized by her master''s charm and beauty. "It goes without saying." Uriel nodded lightly. "Master, you are invincible, but I, Remi, will do my best for you!" Remiel grasped her master''s hand with excitement. "Um, understood. Please take care of me." Ely was appreciative of Remiel''s passion. Chapter 34: Territory Scramble?

Chapter 34: Territory Scramble?

Ely waved her hand to all of the Guardian of Dream''s members. The Ten Apostles and 144 disciples would embark on their journey to find their fateful encounter and collect some treasures and resources. It was a seasonal event, four times a year. This event was different because Ely would also embark on a journey. Three Apostles were lucky enough to choose a location chosen by their master. Thus, they could go together. As much as it made other disciples jealous, no oneined because they had to finish their tasks immediately. If they were lucky and found lots of great resources and amazing materials, they could request their master to make a top-tier artifact for them. Therefore, there was no room forziness and procrastination. "Kui, kui..." A brown rabbit jumped closer in a bit of a panic. "???" Ely squatted down and extended her hand to the rabbit. She found that this small animal was not injured but looked a bit scared or worried about something. It kept whimpering as if it was saying something, but how could a human understand thenguage of animals? Fortunately, Ely was adept at reading the emotions of living things. "Have you calmed down, little one? You look like you''re being chased by a predator, but this is the wild jungle. Hum, but no beasts or demons will hunt you in the Sacred Mountain. They only go hunting in the foothills or other areas." "Kui, kui..." The small rabbit wanted to say something but strangely couldn''t speak humannguage. Also, this nine-tailed fox resembled the shrine priestess because the beast would find it difficult to use the mana or qi around her. It usually caused the beasts returning to their natural origins as animals. "Master, the small rabbit said a group of evil beasts is nning to take over this territory." Remiel poked the small rabbit''s cheeks. "Territory scramble?" Ely tapped her chin as she pondered over something. So, this rabbit had a small territory on this mountain. Yet, that livelihood was under the threat of invasion from another group of rabbit thugs? Territorial struggles weremonce in the animal world. But, this mountain was her jurisdiction territory. No beast would be hunting in her territory as one wishes, but they had to protect theirir. Since this rabbit came to her, she had better give him a little advice to survive. "Defend if you want to protect, and run if you only want to be safe. However, if you are strong enough,unch a strike before they can do damage. That is a basic concept of territorial struggles in the wilderness." Ely raised her finger. She knew the animal on this mountain might be smart enough to understand what she was saying. "Kui?" The small rabbit tilted his head, then nodded. "Well then. It''s time for us to go." Ely nced at her fortified, humble abode. She was confident that no wild beasts, not even the Emperor-level monsters, could invade her home. She then went down the mountain, followed by her three disciples. At that moment, Remiel nced back, made a throat-slitting gesture, and whispered. "Crush them all." The small rabbit saluted, then hopped away through the bushes and trees like a gust of wind. He reported the information he got to his brothers and sisters. "Are you sure that is what the shrine priestess said?" The gigantic sea eagle puffed out his chest. "Yes, the honorable shrine priestess currently disguised as the legendary nine-tailed fox. Also, the Tenth Apostle Remiel told me to crush them all." The small rabbit answered confidently. "Our shrine priestess bes a legendary nine-tailed fox!? Wow, I need to see her in person once she returns." "Then, it''s time for us to crush them all. They are so presumptuous to dere war on us!" "Yeah, they boldly said they would take over the mountainous area around here. Who do they think they are!?" "We are the Sacred Mountain''s guardian beasts! This is our home! Let''s demonstrate our might to the world!" "ughter, massacre those ignorant fools! Almighty shrine priestess has spoken!" "O-oh!" The so-called docile beasts and demons in the Sacred Mountain evolved into savage terrors in their meetings. At that time, they didn''t escort the shrine priestess away because it was the seasonal treasure hunt. Moreover, they had to prepare to wage war against the arrogant invaders in enemy territory. Well, they were the ones who would invade instead of waiting for their opponent to attack. At that time, Ely was oblivious that the ones she considered docile beasts and demons would carry out arge-scale attack when she was not around. She might be aware they were powerful, but she didn''t expect that it was because she gave advice to a random 2nd Rank small rabbit. *Mumble* *Mumble* *Mumble* Uriel, Jophiel, and Remiel muttered softly to one another. Uriel and Remiel then nodded in understanding to Jophiel. "..." Ely felt left out all of a sudden. "Master, Remi and I must first go to the eastern region to explore the unexplored ruin. Once we finish our treasure hunt, we will immediately catch up with you to the snowy mountains." Uriel asked permission with several considerations in mind. "Un, we''ll be hunting fast to collect treasures and merits, thening back soon." Remiel nodded in agreement. "Ah, alright. But please be careful, okay? Your safety is the most important." Ely had no idea about this sudden decision, but she couldn''t stop them either. "Your wish is ourmand." Uriel bowed respectfully, then hurried off with Remiel like a shadow. "..." Ely nced at Jophiel. She had no idea what this girl said to Uriel and Remiel. Those two were adamant about going with her yesterday but suddenly chose to go separately now. "Master, I only had a little chat with them. They have their own priority, but they think they will slow us down if the four of us need to go to the east forest too. We need to go north, you see..." Jophiel put her index fingers together and nced sideways, unable to meet her master''s eyes. Actually, Uriel and Remiel wished to see how the Sacred Mountain''s inhabitants would handle the impudent and ignorant tribe that intended to take over the Sacred Mountain''s territory and its surroundings. Jophiel also convinced her sisters to go on their separate treasure hunts, and they could catch up after a few days. The ce Uriel and Remiel wanted to visit was pretty dangerous. Furthermore, recent events happened because some evil things targeted their master. Although they knew their master was so powerful, their master also had ws and weaknesses. The Gods could even meet their demise, and the most powerful Human Goddess could also be injured. Because Jophiel wanted to visit the rtively safe ce, she was enough to ensure their master''s safety while her sisters were away. Her destination with her master chosen ce was actually in the same snowy mountains. So, it was easy to hit two birds with one stone. "Never mind, we should also go north, then northwest." Ely looked around and summoned the nearby light elemental spirit. She asked the nature spirit for a favor to bring them to the snowy mountain region in the north, and thetter agreed to help. A bundle of light then formed into a cloud-like cushion. Ely and Jophiel sat there, and the light spirit immediately flew north. It didn''t go flying far off the ground and only sped up at a moderate speed at the request of the shrine priestess, or now the legendary nine-tailed fox. "Light spirit, please bend the light around us. Cast no shadow and produce no reflection. We will go invisible." Ely requested, and the light spirit granted it. "Fufu, we''re advancing in invisibility, master? This trip is just the two of us. Isn''t this so romantic?" Jophiel leaned her body closer to her master. "Hmm." Ely nodded slightly, then summoned her grimoire. She wanted to pick a vitality herb or two while discovering more about the legendary myths around the snow mountains. "Nee~ Master, am I beautiful?" "Yes, you have grown into a beautiful girl, Jophi-chan." "Can I take off my veil, master?" "You can." "May I change my outfit to the pretty dress, master?" "Do you want to bewitch someone? You are no longer worried about your demoness-like innate charm, huh." "You are with me, so I''m not afraid of anything. It''s fine if it''s master." Ely was clueless about what this pink demoness elf had in mind, but she thought it was inconvenient for Jophiel to wear the veil almost all the time. However, all of that was to protect Jophiel and put the dangerous demoness-like innate charm under control. Jophiel was also a girl who asionally wanted to wear pretty dresses. Since she was around her master, she felt safe because her master''s presence could nullify her body''s natural bewitching debuff. So, she could act like a little girl without any worry, only when she was around her master, especially when it was just the two of them there. Chapter 35: Saving Hero in Distress

Chapter 35: Saving Hero in Distress

The fertile brownnd filled with green trees soon changed into a semi-snowyndscape with cold temperatures. The snowy mountains were visible in sight, and Ely was happy because she found a very suitable quest and aligned with her main goal there. [Save a particr young hero in distress near snowy mountains][Reward: Medium-quality Vitality Herb] In the past five years, she only managed to possess no more than four vitality herbs, and two of them were from her reliable disciples. It was an extremely precious herb that could only be found in the extreme region, but one''s would need super high luck to find it. Apart from being able to recover one''s vitality and extend lifespan, it could also be used as a second life at a critical time. Under uncertain future circumstances, Ely wished to have more ultimate life-saving treasures and some emergency aid for her disciples. Being killed or spiritual energy exhaustion wasn''t the worst end situation for a healer, but the depleted life essence due to excessive use of healing skills. It would lead to death, but the ability user would never notice before it was toote. Apart from that, she didn''t want any of her 154 disciples to die for any reason. They had to help her, and she would never allow them to die. "Master, you want to find vitality herbs for disciples with healing skills, right?" Jophiel nced at her master''s grimoire, but she couldn''t read anything because it was just nk paper. "Those are emergency measures for all of us. We only have four at home. However, we can only harvest a few leaves or flowers every half year. Cultivating them is a long-term benefit. However, we need at least two more. That way, we can have the required materials every month." Ely couldn''t help it. She had 154 gifted disciples to feed, and the demand for safety purpose was always there. They were more than capable of everything. However, most of their artifacts, elixirs, potions, pills, and techniques came from her. "Master, you are so considerate of all your disciples. In the whole world, it''s only you who treat your disciples like family." Jophiel hugged her master''s arm. "You say that as if you''ve explored all corners of the world, Jophi-chan. If you stick to me like that, you won''t be able to umte enough merits in this treasure hunt. Don''t you want something from the treasure house?" Ely closed her grimoire while looking around carefully. As stated on her quest list, she had to find a particr hero in distress. "Fufu, others can gather treasures and resources, but I only need to collect them with charm. I have enough time to secure my top ten spots, master. You don''t need to worry." "Treasure charm? Does such a technique exist?" "Uhm, that''s just a figure of speech, master. I want attention and love from you right now. Please let me be a spoiled little girl once in a while. I will be a good girl afterwards." "Hmm... I''ll let it pass this time. Come here, little girl. Let your master spoil you a little." Ely permitted Jophiel to act like a spoiled little girl asionally. If she remembered Jophiel''s past that she saw during the purification, she couldn''t help but pay extra attention to this demoness-like pink elf. Or else, this pink elf might be led astray with no path of return. She actually didn''t want to recall it ever again. It was genuinely gruesome for a lone little girl with charm demon abilities. She even had to erase her sixth disciple''s memory. Luckily, Jophiel reformed a new pure body after purification, a brand new life without the need to get involved in what happened in the past. This demoness-like pink elf was her sixth core disciple, her precious and lovely children. She would guide this girl to the right path. "Hm-mm~" Jophiel thenid her head on her master''sp with a giggle. She looked into her master''s face, but her master''s twin peaks blocked the view. "Master, when will I be able to put my charm skill set under control?" [Jophiel (FV: 1980) | 5th Rank Early Stage] [Loyalty: 94%] [Talent: 3 Stars | SR] Ely nced down, checking Jophiel''s status screen. "Let''s see when your talent advances to the next level. It would be best if you learned more about your innate ability. Sometimes it gets out of control and makes everyone around you like horny beasts." "But, I''ve tried hard to control my innate abilities, master." "It''s not just about effort or hard work, but about how you understand yourself. A person has one body, soul, and spirit. However, not everyone can link everything under control." "Master, please enlighten me." "First, you need to understand yourself as you are. At this point, you might be able to find your other self, something called your alter or heart demon." "What should we do when we meet our alter, master?" "There are three paths you can take. Conquer it, understand it, or befriend it." "Disciple understands." Jophiel was enlightened, but there was a question running through her mind. "Master, in your case, may I know what you did to your alter or heart demon?" "..." Ely was silent momentarily because her memory was still a bit hazy, but she could feel a sense of Deja Vu. She thought her alter could be associated with her close sister, but had she ever met her alter? "That is the third option. The best solution but also the hardest. She is as close as my sister." Ely answered casually, even though there was doubt in her mind. "O-oh~" Jophiel was amazed. Her gaze was full of stars and sparkles. It was as expected of her beloved master. Instead of eliminating the alter or heart demon, converting it into an ally was always better. Jophiel''s objectives increased by one. She had to better grasp her abilities soon to rank up her talent like her second sister. That way, she could help her master more than ever. "Fufu, hehe~" Jophiel couldn''t help but chuckle at that thought. Raising one''s talent wasn''t impossible. She might achieve it sooner than expected since she had ten days of private time with her master. "What are you thinking with that weirdugh?" Ely pinched Jophiel''s cheek. "No, it''s nothing. Master, I wuv you~" Jophiel held her master''s hand. She was fond of this kind of exchange. "You don''t want to talk? See how I make your cheeks into the dough." Ely grabbed Jophiel''s cheeks. *Boom!* *Rumble* A fierce fight urred not far from their location. Ely immediately asked the light spirit to fly closer to the source of the explosion. "Let''s check it out." Several beastkins and demi-humans hunted one white tiger boy as if the hunters would never back down before catching their target. They wore simr brown taoist robes. So, they clearly came from the same sect. The white tiger was still rtively young. He kept running and fending off every enemy''s attack until he could no longer escape the pursuit. He was surrounded by his fellow disciples. "Bai Yuchen, hand over what should be handed over! Leave nothing behind and hand over everything. We will consider letting you leave alive." "Haha, the so-called genius can''t do anything before us. He just boasted far too much." "Where did your arrogance go, little cub boy? You are more like an insect than a tiger now. You need strength to own and protect a treasure, yet you possess none to secure anything." "Yeah, this big brother is offering you a hand to secure it." A group of beast cultivators sneered at the white tiger boy. Their target was injured, and there was no way to escape. "You shameless inner disciple with no sense of morals! Do you want to rob your junior? Go to a secret realm and find your own treasure! What I got there is mine!" Bai Yuchen growled in exasperation. His cultivation realm was iparable to the bullies who surrounded him. It was also hard to escape in his injured and exhausted state. "Speak no more nonsense. Let''s beat him up first, then snatch his treasures. He is so cocky and overbearing just because an elder called him a genius, but he is just an outer disciple." "Yeah, let''s teach him a lesson as good seniors." The bullies immediately attacked, but the cornered white tiger desperately struggled as hisst resort. "You leave me with no choice!" *Bam* *Bam* *Boom* *Thud* Unfortunately, a Core Formation cultivator was no match for a group of Golden Core and Nascent Soul seniors. "Ugh, no! Cough!" Bai Yuchen fell to the ground, spitting out a mouthful of blood. He could only watch the bullies snatch his storage pouch. His spiritual roots were damaged, and his dantian was cracked, almost crippled. He managed to defeat two seniors, but it was too much to handle nine powerful bullies simultaneously, even though he possessed great luck and heaven-defying abilities. *Tinkle* *Tinkle* A pair of bells tinkled faintly, and the bullies immediately fell to the ground, unconscious. "What a mess. A group of seniors ganged up on their junior in the middle of a secluded snowy forest?" A soft yet soothing voice sounded closer. Bai Yuchen nced reflexively at the source of the sound and noticed a mesmerizing foxdy approaching. Chapter 36: Attitude of Gratitude

Chapter 36: Attitude of Gratitude

"..." The white tiger boy looked at the beautiful shadow fox with an intense look, but the other party ignored him. Ely had a different objective, and she needed to figure it out. She might have just saved someone, but she couldn''t tell whether this tiger boy was the so-called hero or not. After all, the area around the snowy mountains was vast and stretched in the north to nearly half of the Northern Realm. Therefore, she had to confirm it first. She overheard some conversation between this white tiger boy and his seniors. So, this boy''s storage pouch would do its job to reveal the truth. "Se-Senior, thank you for saving me. If possible, could you return my storage pouch?" The white tiger boy expressed his wish with difficulty. His entire body screamed in pain, but he could not lose the treasures he had risked his life for. "The jungle is so wild, and the strong rule over the weak. It would be hazardous for a junior to possess so many treasures. Little guy, I won''t make you suffer a loss. How about you sell this one to me?" Ely took out a treasure from the boy''s storage pouch. It was a tall vegetable-like stem with four leaves and two flowers,plete with its roots and a bundle of soil. This white tiger boy couldn''t cut or uproot this herb with his current strength, but he was smart enough to dig up the soil around it. The vitality herbs might have different variants and forms, possessing enormous pure vitality and magical effects. And this one was medium quality. Ely was confident this vitality herb was the one that her quest mentioned as the reward for saving a particr young hero. But, young hero? "This junior dare not offend you, senior. But, I really need that life-essence spiritual herb." The white tiger boy tried to propel his body to sit up. He knelt and sped his hands. He couldn''t sense any spiritual aura, but this senior probably just hid her cultivation base. His vision was still a little blurry because of the blood obscuring his eyes. Yet, he was sure this powerful senior was a gentle soul. The best course of action was to save his life first, then establish a good rtionship with this beautiful senior. "You''re trying to bargain when you know I can take it immediately without your permission? What are you going to do with this herb?" Despite saying that, Ely had her principles and sense of morals. After all, it was not her spoil of war. So, she only needed to make this boy sell this vitality herb to her. "I know you won''t do that, senior. Your killing intent is non-existent; I''m sure you are a gentle soul. You don''t have any malicious aura, either. I need that life-essence herb to save my grandfather''s life." The white tiger boy made his request with some trepidation. He didn''t even dare to raise his head. He was actually making a bet because of his sixth sense. If he displeased this senior, he might die without a proper burial. Ely put a ss bottle of life-saving potion before the white tiger boy. "This is a top-tier healing potion from a herb of simr quality. It is enough to cure your grandfather of any curse or illness. It can also extend his lifespan." After saying that, Ely returned the boy''s storage pouch, then she put the vitality herb into a unique pot. "Senior, this is-" The white tiger boy widened his eyes in surprise. This senior was only interested in the life-essence herb and had no interest in anything else. She even returned everything as if it was worthless garbage. He did need that life-essence herb, but he still needed to find many precious materials and a top-tier alchemist first. And here, he has already received the finished product. "I''m sorry, little guy. I need this herb to save people''s lives too. If you feel it''s not enough, I''ll add this. It will save your life twice." Ely threw two protective talismans at the white tiger boy. "This junior, thank senior!" The white tiger boy felt he shouldn''t ask for more. "It''s strange... You are actually a human disguised as a demi-human using a secret technique." Ely only realized the truth after looking closely at this white tiger boy. This boy previously had a pair of tiger ears and a white cat tail with ck stripes. However, her Eyes of Truth bypassed the disguise. She discovered he was an authentic human boy, not a white tiger demi-human, and his name was Bai Yuchen. "!?" Bai Yuchen gasped. The shock made a chill creep up from deep within his soul. His secret technique was top-notch, but it was seen easily by this senior!? "Fufu~ fret not. I shall not inquire further. Every cause always has a reason. We may meet again if fate allows it." Ely retracted her healing assistance artifact. She healed the injured secretly but didn''t do it for free. The one who paid the price for the instant healing was none other than the patients, and she reaped 10% profit on her healing services as usual. If only her disciples could do the same thing as her, she would never worry their vitality would be drained without them noticing it. "..." Bai Yuchen looked at the powerful senior''s back. She had nine fluffy tails! However, she suddenly disappeared like an illusion. He hadn''t even asked her name... At that moment, he gasped to the point that he forgot to breathe as he realized a shocking truth. His savior was a legendary nine-tailed fox from myth. He praised his great luck repeatedly in mind. He was confident they would meet again soon. Unfortunately, he didn''t have the chance to see her beautiful visage clearly because of his injury. She was definitely a peerless beauty. "Eh?" Bai Yuchen realized that his injuries had long since disappeared, as if he had never been injured before. No pain, no blood, and no wounds... His dantian got repaired without him knowing it. He looked at the two talismans attached to his chest. Finally, he understood it was all thanks to that powerful nine-tailed fox senior. She not only helped him form a predicament but also saved his life. After securing his belongings, he sped his hands and expressed gratitude toward the direction his savior left. It was his first time meeting an influential figure with a good and kind nature. Hatred and kindness shall meet their cause and effect. He would always remember this favor. Bai Yuchen waited for a few minutes, then nced sideways. He grinned widely at his unconscious seniors. "Hee-hee... What do I need to do with you all?" He spoke no more nonsense and immediately stripped the bullies naked, leaving them only in their underwear. They intended to cripple him and seize his treasures, but he only repaid that favor with a total robbery. He was pretty generous. "Consider you lucky I didn''t take your cheap life. Let''s hope no wild beasts will eat you while you''re still unconscious. Bye!" Bai Yuchen snorted sarcastically, then ran away from the crime scene. He received a lot more precious treasures and resources than he could ever imagine. Not to mention the healing potion. "Hiyaa, hya, hahaa... Hee-hee!" "..." Ely shook her head and sighed when she saw that boy leave with a strangeugh. [Bai Yuchen (FV: 2960) | 3rd Rank Early Stage] [Favorability: 75%] [Talent: 4 Stars | SSR] Ely rechecked that boy''s status screen and wondered. "He is blessed with great luck but also possesses the good talent as my disciples. Who is he? Moreover, his FV is higher than Gab-chan..." She was still wondering about the meaning of FV. It might be Fortune Value, Fate Value, or something else. To find the vitality herb and other precious treasures at his first exploration was something that only someone with super luck would have. "That shameless boy doesn''t know good from the bad, master. Would you like to find out more about him?" Jophiel squinted her pink eyes at that stinky boy, then just snorted. "No need." Ely shook her head, then asked the light spirit to leave the vicinity. "Master, are we going to the secret realm that boy mentioned?" "No, my objective is to find two vitality herbs. This type of herb cannot be found twice in one extreme region. We might find another one in the deep snowy mountains." "Disciple understands." "Nee, Jophi-chan." "Yes, master." "How can someone increase their fate, luck, and fortune if it can be measured?" Ely genuinely asked because she was curious. She knew how to raise the rank of one''s talent and increase their overall capabilities, but fate and fortune were still aplete mystery. "Perhaps, it is rted to one''s sins and virtue, but luck holds an attitude of gratitude. Fate and fortune aren''t something we can fully control. However, it would be possible if it were you, master." Jophiel tapped her chin. Speaking of luck, she always felt lucky to have her master. "Hmm..." Ely rested her cheek on her hand. She nned to raise her disciple''s FV for a trial run. That value could go up and down at will without her knowing the actual cause. She was under the assumption that more FV was equivalent to more luck. If her disciples became more fortunate, they would bring her more fortune. Chapter 37: Caught by a Snow Fox

Chapter 37: Caught by a Snow Fox

Speaking of luck, Ely didn''t know what to say because she got lost and didn''t know her current location. She had split up with Jophiel a few hours ago to find the vitality herb. It was a secret realm deep in the snowy mountains. Ely and Jophiel promised to meet back at their resting cave at dusk, but a sudden blizzard hit Ely. Not to mention, the telmunication talisman was disrupted in this blizzard. She had to leave this ce first. "Where am I now, and where should I go? We shouldn''t split up... me me foring up with this stupid idea." Ely tapped her head as she felt silly. "Uh, I can''t just stay here for long, or I''ll get buried in the snow." Ely made up her mind and kept moving forward in one direction. Ely didn''t know how far she had gone. She couldn''t even tell whether what she saw was still reality or a mirage. She could see nothing but snow in the blizzard. She might be in the outside world or still inside the secret realm, but she couldn''t tell the difference. Her mental exhaustion increased, and her stamina drained with insane speed. Her multiple cold resistance artifacts blocked the cold perfectly, but they couldn''t lessen the forbidden area''s debuff. *Rumble!* An avnche swept the sea of snow and ice from behind, but Ely failed to notice it. She realized her predicament when it was already so close to her. "!?" Ely used her protective artifact to create a spherical energy barrier. Regardless, she was already buried in the deep snow and swept away somewhere unknown. --- On the other side of the snowy mountain peaks, two Demi-God entities were fighting fiercely in a deadly battle. Explosions, avnches, and catastrophic destruction ravaged the surrounding area as their superpowers shed. Several mountains were obliterated, but they were unaware of their impact on their surroundings. One side was an ethereal cold foxy beauty d in an icy white robe, and the other was the gant bear-like man in full-body armor. "I shall take you home as my wife, cold vixen." The Fiery Bear spat out a mouthful of blood, but his face still looked radiant, and his smile had not faded. "Go away and don''t bother me ever again." The snow vixen rolled her eyes. She considered killing this troublemaker once and for all but didn''t feel it was worth it. It would just invite more trouble instead. "Heh, I may still be far inferior to you. However, one day, I will definitely surpass you and conquer you. Even if you are the Celestial Fox, that day wille. I shall prove it and engrave my figure into your heart!" The Fiery Bear drew his greatsword, and an immeasurable cold qi surrounded him. He would defeat this cold beauty and bring her home this time with his new ultimate move. "You will be half dead, at least. Don''t me me for this." The snow vixen brandished her ice sword. The two said nothing more and soared for another fierce sh through the sky. The snow vixen held her true power back, but her opponent exerted his all for that one move. *Swoosh!* *Boom!* A super-hot sun arrow shot from the foot of the mountain into the sky at supersonic speed. Arge hole was created amidst the blizzard, and golden mes exploded in the sky. It caused the temperature to rise significantly. "!?" The two Demi Gods gasped and immediately backed away to a safe distance. An attack of that ss was far above their league, and it almost hit them if they had shed a second earlier. "I''ve had enough of this! Don''t you dare swallow me up in a blizzard while I''m crossing this mountain range!" The shadow nine-tailed fox crawled out from the gigantic snow hole on the ground. Sheined about the dispersed blizzard while brushing the pile of snow off her body. "Phew..." Ely breathed a sigh of relief. Solving the problem with a violent smart move was sometimes the best solution. She put down her Sunfire Bow and cooled the mes with another artifact of water and ice. After securing her things, she walked away casually. However, she suddenly felt a pair of gazes from the northeastern mountainside. She nced in that direction and found two foreign experts floating in mid-air. Thedy was enveloped in an icy elemental aura, and the man was burning in blue mes. "So, the blizzard just now was because of your battle? Don''t mind me, and please continue after I pass this mountain range." Ely waved her hand high, then quickly walked away. It was like a fast hopping rabbit across the snowy region, but her movement speed was still so slow in the eyes of the two Demi-Gods. "Another nine-tailed fox? Is she your little sister? She is pretty young, but her beauty is not inferior to yours, cold vixen." The Fiery Bear rubbed his chin as his mouth curved into a meaningful smile. "!!!" The cold vixen widened her eyes. The previous deadly move made her wary of that shadow fox, but her inner self said something different. The coldness in her gaze instantly melted away as she felt an inexplicable feeling in her heart. Nevertheless, she didn''t feel sure about the truth because that shadow fox was shrouded in an unsolvable mist of mystery. She felt a familiar aura and sense of belonging from that shadow fox, but that fox was not someone she had been looking for all this time. Even so, she had no intention of letting that shadow fox getaway. They were from the same kin, but the other party might hold valuable clues regarding the person she sought. Therefore, she immediately grabbed the Fiery Bear with immense spiritual energy and threw him into the distant sky. She was afraid that the lecherous bear might make his move to that young shadow fox. "Aaahhh!!!" The Fiery Bear disappeared into the sky like a shooting star. No one knew how far he was sent flying or where he wouldnd. The cold vixen didn''t hold back her true power at the slightest bit because of her sudden excitement. "Please wait." The cold vixen hastily chased after the running away shadow fox. "!?" Ely was shocked because the Demi-Goddy suddenly targeted her. Thatdy was also a legendary nine-tailed snow fox! Her fur was purplish-ck, but the other party was snow white. Perhaps, there was a bit of conflict? Whatever it was, Ely didn''t want to take the risk and immediately blew the emergency whistle. Her whistle''s sound was inaudible to any living beings. However, it could be heard as a distress call to the nearby nature or elemental spirits. There was no more blizzard, and she could call for help now. *Poof* The snow spirit popped out from the nearby pile of ice to answer the distress call from the sacreddy favored by heaven. "I didn''t offend you or cause any trouble, but why are you chasing me,dy snow fox!? I was crossing this mountain range to pick herbs!" Ely hurriedly climbed into the snow cloud. *Swoosh* The snow spirit shot out at an impressive speed, carrying Ely away. However, the Demi-God snow fox continued to chase after it like there was no tomorrow. "Please wait! Just for a moment... I don''t mean any harm." The snow fox was agitated when she saw the shadow fox anxious to escape her pursuit. "No!" Ely was frightened by thatdy''s predatory gaze. She felt like amb before the wolf, and she couldn''t believe that snow fox''s words easily. "Ugh!" The snow fox didn''t know what to do. She desperately wanted a proper conversation with that shadow fox, but that snow cloud flew so fast. She might lose her precious clue at this rate. With that in mind, she used her secret technique to catch the other party. That way, they could talk peacefully afterward. "Eh?" Ely was stunned when her firstyer of defense suddenly shattered into pieces. She fell from the snow spirit and rolled on the snow. The snow fox caught her and gripped her arms tightly with both hands. "You can''t run anymore now. Please hear me. I mean no harm. Eh?" The snow fox gazed at the shadow fox''s mesmerizing purplish-blue eyes. It was like she was looking into a starry night sky, but there was a hidden endless abyss within. Her consciousness seemed sucked in, and she couldn''t help but go pensive and enthralled. This sense of familiarity was not her gut feeling but something from her spirit. Her lips trembled, her spirit shook, and tears filled her eyes. Upon closer look, she thought this shadow fox was the one she had been looking for all this time. However, she brushed that thought aside because her spirit connection was not connected to this young shadow fox. Might it be just people with simr appearances? "Bad. Don''t move." Ely pressed a sealing talisman onto the snow fox''s forehead. She was safe for now but couldn''t free herself from the snow fox''s grip. The other party''s movement was sealed for several minutes, but she had no physical power to break free! "I can''t move? You, who are you? Why, why are you so much like someone I know? But, you''re a nine-tailed shadow fox..." The snow fox embraced the shadow fox tightly before her movements werepletely sealed. She had no intention of releasing this shadow fox. "What''s wrong with shadow fox? Let me go, pervert! Is that your pickup line to trap an innocent young fox like me?" Ely struggled to free herself again. However, her fate was already sealed, just like the fish gripped by a cat. It was difficult to break loose. Chapter 38 Long Lost Friend

Chapter 38 Long Lost Friend

"..." "..." Ely and the snow foxdy looked at each other without uttering anything. The former gave up her futile resistance because she couldn''t move now. However, thetter was waiting for the movement sealing talisman''s effect to wear off. Ely felt her luck struck her at the wrong moment. She had already prepared for this kind of encounter with another legendary creature. She was mentally prepared since she decided to disguise herself as a nine-tailed fox. However, she didn''t expect this kind of situation. She couldn''t appreciate this snow foxdy hugging her so tightly. If she may say it, she was actually scared. The gravest situation for her weak self was caught with zero motion distance. She had no idea why this authentic legendary nine-tailed fox would go so far as to catch her like this. Yet, she could now confirm the snow foxdy had no malicious intent. That pair of bright yellow, almost golden, entrancing eyes also showed no hostility, only a pure yet profound desire for something inexplicable. However, there was also considerable curiosity and unknown emotional outbursts. ''I''d better listen to her first! Ely made up her mind. [Yuuki (FV: 6970) | 9th Rank Peak Stage] [Loyalty: 99%] [Talent: 5 Stars | UR] When Ely checked this snow fox''s status screen, she found that it was a bit strange. Loyalty would only appear for her disciples and her people. It would still make sense if it was Favorability... She and this snow foxdy were supposed to beplete strangers. And yet, it was Loyalty, and ny-nine!? This legendary snow fox was a Demi-God with five stars talent! Not to mention that FV was the highest one she''d ever seen. Not even the God of Light possessed such a high number. "Gulp..." Ely was nervous. ".." The snow spirit didn''t even know what to do. The snow fox pinned down the blesseddy, but the former only looked emotional and didn''t intend to do anything evil. "Have you calmed down?" The snow fox took a deep breath and regained her calm. "I''ll bite you to death if you try to do something sus. I can''t beat you in a contest of physical strength but don''t think my power lies there. I''m actually super duper powerful." Ely bared her teeth to intimidate. She only needed to make a small gap to take her artifacts out. It would determine her victory. "How cute. Yes, you''re super duper powerful. Then, can we talk now? I want to discover the truth." The snow fox curved her lips into a subtle smile. She felt this shadow fox was too adorable. This shadow fox''s hair and fur were midnight-ck but purplish in hue when exposed to light, a unique shadow fox. Even if this shadow fox was unrted to the person she was looking for or had nothing to do with anything, she would try her best to recruit this shadow fox under her banner at all costs. It was dangerous for a fox-kin to roam alone, especially for such a beauty. "What do you want? If you can help me find a particr herb, I can answer your question. You are a local, right? Legendary snow foxdy?" Ely sighed as she saw her movement sealing talisman''s effect going to expire in a few seconds. "Alright, then tell me your name." The snow fox brought her face closer. "Miko." Ely answered spontaneously. "Hmm~ Is that your real name?" The snow fox just wanted to make sure. She stared deeply into the shadow fox''s captivating purplish- blue starry night sky eyes as if she wanted to discover the truth from one''s soul. "..." Ely was resolute, but she turned her face to the side because the snow fox''s face was too close to hers. "You are too close, snow foxdy. Can you please release me now?" "No, you are not honest, but you are not lying either. Please tell me your real name. Do not be afraid. I won''t eat you, little sister." The snow fox spoke softly near the shadow fox''s foxy ear. Ely trembled as it was ticklish. The other party was adamant about knowing her real name. She had no choice, and her name came out of her mouth reflexively. "Ely." "E-eh?" The snow fox was startled beyond measure. She propelled her body to sit up and looked at this shadow fox again. After that, she examined the shadow fox''s hands, arms, and left chest area using her magical eyes. She tried to see Ely''s heart and spirit. It was faint, but she could feel her spirit resonate with Ely''s. There was a dormant spiritual connection. "Wha-what are you trying to see?" Ely covered her breasts with both hands. "Your name is Ely, right? May, may I know... do you remember me?" The snow fox tried her best to remain calm, but her emotions got the better of her. ? "..." Ely shook her head as she felt something was wrong with this snow fox. This snow fox might have an acquaintance that resembled her in appearance? "Not even my name?" The snow fox bit her lower lips. Ely didn''t know why, but she couldn''t bear to see this snow fox sad. Her mouth then blurted out a name spontaneously. "Yuu- Yuuki?" "I know, right! You, you remember me. You are Ely, Ely! I was doubtful before, but you must have a reason and story. I''ve been looking for you for the past five years...." Yuuki wiped the tears from the corners of her eyes. She held Ely''s hands with a genuine smile on her face. If a third party saw her current expression, they would be surprised because the frozen cold beauty smiled genuinely like a happy girl. Ely finally could connect the missing dots. This snow fox was probably someone who knew her in the past. Her long-lost friend! However, she couldn''t remember everything because her memory was still hazy. "I don''t know if I am the same person as the one in your memory. Can you tell me who I am?" "You lost your memory? You are my family, Ely." Yuuki stared at Ely''s disoriented expression. She wanted to say everything and poured her heart out. Yet, she realized the one before her was notpletely Ely. Ely''s nine-tailed fox appearance was clearly just a disguise with perfect transformation, one of Ely''s divine-like skills. The one before her was Ely, but not entirely Ely. It would exin why she felt a sense of familiarity, but her spirit didn''t get a response from Ely. The spirit connection was still dormant. Before meeting the ''true'' Ely, she didn''t dare to say much because there were too many unknown variables. However, she already put this shadow fox as part of her family. The one that she had to protect with everything. "That is not fair... Please tell me about our past." Ely widened her eyes in surprise, but she was happy because she might be able to discover more about her past. Yuuki then exined a few things about their past to gain Ely''s trust, but not everything in detail. Ely and Yuuki tried to peer deeper into each other''s situation, and finally, they got each other''s trust. The past stories exchange matched with what they remember. At first, they were suspicious of each other, but they eventually became best friends who had not seen each other for a long time. Yuuki was a distinguished elder of Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce, the holynd of the extreme north with over a thousand talented disciples of various races. While Ely was the shrine priestess of the Sacred Sakura Holy Land. Yuuki searched for Ely throughout the entire Tearobis Great Continent and hundreds of secret realms in the past five years. However, Ely had suffered from partial memory loss and had never left far from Sacred Mountain. To think the person she was looking for was just a short distance from her current location... Yuuki wanted to learn more, but she''d better take one step at a time. ''I''ve found Ely. I must inform the others soon, but I can''t leave her. Because spiritual telepathy is still not working, our Goddess Master is still sealed in the Sacred Sakura Holy Land. I have to go there..! Yuuki made up her mind from the conclusion she drew. "Ely, you want to find a herb, right? I''ll help you. But may I know what you''re looking for specifically?" Yuuki offered a favor as promised. "Vitality herb." Ely was pleased with that help. ? "All right. I have one in Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce. You may have it. Let''s go there with me." "Okay!" "You don''t suspect me at all?" "I can see the truth. Your soul is pure. So, you can''t possibly trick me." "Eyes of Truth? I see..." Yuuki was about to take Ely to fly, but her umted spiritual energy suddenly soared. She was on the verge of a breakthrough, but because of meeting Ely, her state of mind couldn''t get any clearer. Her umted energy pushed her to ascend right away. *Boom!* Yuuki broke through to 10th Rank on the spot. The impact caused a towering explosion, and Ely was again buried in the snow. Chapter 39 Who Gave You the Courage?

Chapter 39 Who Gave You the Courage?

"It was my fault. I already apologized... Please don''t give me this kind of silent treatment." Yuuki couldn''t stand Ely''s silence for that long. Ely heaved a subtle sigh as she couldn''t feel angry for long. She then nced at Yuuki and took on this nine-tailed snow fox''s overall look. Yuuki was an attractive foxdy d in a traditional white icy robe with multipleyers. A crown-like ice circle adorned her head as if she was the Empress of the snowy region. Her long sparkling white hair cascaded down below her hips, skin as white as snow, and bright amber, almost golden, foxy eyes entuated her mystic charm as a legendary being. Yuuki''s beautiful appearance resembled an untouched exquisite flower in the middle of an icy meadow. However, her power seemed to say she was the Tyrant Empress of Extreme Ice. That was Ely''s first impression of the cold beauty before her. "That was the second time you buried me in the snow. Also, my firstyer of protection was destroyed because of you. It''s good that you didn''t show any malice, or you might turn mush." Ely showed the pieces of her broken artifact. "What can I do? You keep running away, and I''m desperate to catch you. Do you still have another eightyers of protection? But I will take care of you if you get hurt." Yuuki shifted her gaze to the side because she felt guilty. "Never mind. So, your holynd is at the highest peak, the ground above the ice clouds?" Ely looked up at the tallest mountain covered in the thick cold fog. She couldn''t imagine how a holynd could be present on the clouds above that mountain. "Yeah, I''ll take you there. But that''s not my holynd. I''m just a distinguished guest elder there. They can never ever control me." Yuuki tapped her Ice Lotus, telling it to fly faster. "Nee, Ely... Please tell me. You are a human, but why did you disguise yourself as a nine-tailed shadow fox?" Yuuki asked in a mellow voice. She was concerned about something and worried that Ely would get into trouble. "That''s because we''re in the Northern Realm where beastkin and demi-humans rule. Hehe, even a Deity can''t see through my disguises. I feel proud of my skills." Ely felt proud of her skills, but her face implied, ''Isn''t that obvious?''. "I see... Then, let me remind you, Ely. The fox-kin, especially the nine-tailed fox, can be considered the best furnace to boost one''s cultivation. Never let anyone catch you, or they will swallow you alive, especially the fiend." Yuuki emphasized her point with a solemn expression. "Is it that bad? Um, okay. Thanks for reminding me. I will be cautious." Ely felt anxious, but she was the evil''s nemesis. Therefore, she was not too worried. "Good, but this big sister shall protect you. The nine-tailed fox is revered because of our power and beauty, but there are countless beings plotting tricks to take us down. You don''t have to worry. No one under heaven can harm you under my watch." Yuuki puffed out her chest as she had already made up her mind. "Ah-um, thank you." Ely felt happy to have a strong sister willing to care for and protect her voluntarily. They arrived at a holynd above the ice clouds a few momentster. A grand ice pce was in the middle of the valley, surrounded by eleven peaks and settlements resembling an ice town. ? Yuuki immediately went to her abode on one of the peaks around the ice pce. She asked Ely to wait in a garden pavilion as she had to take care of something and tidy up a few things. "..." Ely sipped the warm blue tea while ncing left and right. It was her first experience to visit the holynd, and it was fair to say this ce was above the mortal boundary. The spiritual energy here was more prosperouspared to anymon area. Only slightly superior to the Sacred Mountain''s forest but far inferior to her residence. As for Yuuki''s abode, it was a small blue bamboo house with lots of ice decorations. A garden with dozens of ice nts thrived around the pavilion. It was a simple residence for a Demi-God, or now, a Deity. Ely felt if it was her, she would not feelfortable living in an extreme environment like this because the natural temperature was so cold. She might have frozen to death if it wasn''t for her multiple cold resistance artifacts. The ground was blue or white in color, but it wasn''t ice or snow. Ely noticed the presence of a vitality herb near the pavilion. It was like a Peace Lily nt thriving in a sizeable cauldron-like pot. Dozens of defense mechanisms were installed around it as if the owner feared it being touched or stolen by anyone. Ely was amazed that the vitality herb had dozens of leaves and five flowers! There were also no signs it had ever been harvested. Her vitality herb at home had at most three flowers and ten leaves every half year. She could only pick a few of them every six months under the said vitality herb''s permission. However, Yuuki''s vitality herb was far superior! She could even sense that herb giving a smug response to her surprise. "O-oh-" Ely just nodded as if she understood that herb''s arrogance. ? It was a Super-tier life-saving material, after all. However, a herb was still an herb. It would still be material for medicine, potion, elixir, or something else. *Creak* The blue bamboo gate was opened from the outside, and two people d in white-blue robes with ice cloud patterns entered carefully. They were the white-haired human and the long-blue-haired bunny woman. They were the disciples of the Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce. They sped their hands in front of Yuuki''s abode, then the blue bunny announced the purpose of their arrival. "Elder Celestial Fox, we havee to inform you that Pce Master expects your presence at the Immortal Pce." Unfortunately, they got no response even after waiting a few minutes. "..." Ely somehow felt a bit awkward too. She watched from the side silently while drinking her tea without making any noise. She then paid them no more attention and nced at her blue tea. It resembled the bubblegum milkshake, but it was an authentic tea with an exceptional taste. She poured another cup to enjoy it more. "Has Elder Celestial Fox left again? I believe her Ice Lotus justnded here a few minutes ago." The white-haired human whispered to his senior sister. "No, that''s impossible. The gate''s protective array is disabled, so Elder Celestial Fox is still inside. Otherwise, we won''t be able to enter." The blue bunny spoke in a whisper-like voice. "Hmm?" The white-haired human suddenly noticed the presence of a fox beauty in the garden pavilion. ? That beauty was a young fox demi-human with an angelic visage and charm. Her captivating foxy eyes gave a sacred impression that was hard to describe in words. Unfortunately, that beauty''s hair and fur were dark in color. Her outfit was even dark-purple in color. The brilliant and bright color meant welfare and prestige in Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce. The neutral pure was superiority, and the light color was respectability. Any color meant goodness, as long as it was not ck or dark, which was always associated with darkness and evil! The blue bunny also looked to the side and noticed that shadow foxdy. It was gross for that inferior, dirty creature to share the same kin with the Elder Celestial Fox. That shadow fox had probablye here to ask Elder Celestial Fox for help. However, Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce would never ept that dark color thing as a disciple, not even a servant! "Excuse me, shadow fox. I believe you are not a guest of the Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce. May I know what you are doing in Elder Celestial Fox''s residence?" The blue bunny came closer in an intimidating and unfriendly manner. "Elder Celestial Fox asked me to wait here." Ely ignored that blue bunny''s hostility in a calm manner. She continued to sip her tea in peace. She believed these teenagers wouldn''t dare make presumptuous moves at Yuuki''s residence. "Don''t joke with me, dirty fox! Do you wish to hug Elder Celestial Fox''s thigh to enter Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce through the back door? I advise you to stop dreaming and leave here immediately. You will never be weed anywhere in this holynd." The blue bunny mmed her hand onto the table. *Bam* The impact made the bamboo table shake, and the blue tea spilled, wetting Ely''s thighs and legs. "..." Ely had no idea what was wrong with this blue bunny''s unreasonable hatred. She also didn''t understand why she needed to hug Yuuki''s thigh or enter through the back door. Yuuki brought her here via a clear path for all to see. "That''s no concern of yours, and I shall take my leave once my business is over. Please mind your own personal affairs, miss bunny." Ely took out a handkerchief to wipe her wet thighs and legs. "You! You don''t know good from bad!" The blue bunny was feeling extremely annoyed. She had never once been belittled and insulted, let alone by an inferior creature. She stretched out her hand as she was about to grab this shadow fox''s hair. But, an ice dagger shot before her hand could reach anything, stopping her movement mid-air because of a sense of danger. "Who gave you the courage? Try to touch her, and I will kill you." Yuuki came out of her abode with a cold, death stare. Her extreme ice-cold aura broke out, instantly causing the temperature to fall below zero. Chapter 40 Have You Forgotten Your Promise? 40 Have You Forgotten Your Promise? "Elder Celestial Fox, this, this... It was just a friendly, casual conversation. I didn''t mean anything bad." The blue bunny showed a sense of shock and fear. It was her first time seeing Elder Celestial Fox so angry. "So, you imply that I am oblivious? I asked. Who gave you the courage to do as you please in my ce?" Yuuki took a single step and arrived at the garden pavilion in a blink. "This disciple doesn''t dare!" The blue bunny knelt down as the mental pressure and extreme cold aura almost killed her from within. "Elder Celestial Fox, please refrain from your anger. Senior Sister Lan Tuzi is ignorant and has never seen the outside world. Please forgive her offense." The white-haired human tried to plead for his senior sister''s life as he knew she would die at this rate. "Hmm..." Yuuki never left the offender unpunished. It was about honor, and she pped the offender in the face, freezing the blue bunny in a hunk of extreme ice. "Even if freed from my ice, her cultivation will still be sealed for several weeks. Consider it as her punishment. Take her away." "Ye-yes, elder." The white-haired human broke into a cold sweat. They cultivated ice and cold qi and were supposed to be frost and cold-resistant. And yet, his senior sister was frozen in ice without being able to resist or react. He dragged that hunk of ice away but didn''t forget his purpose. "Elder, Pce Master expects your presence at the Immortal Pce now." Yuuki only responded with a dismissive hand wave. She then used her ice to close the gate. ? "Did I scare you?" Yuuki''s cold expression melted and became warm instantly. She sat next to Ely and put on a concerned look. "I''m so scared; what are you going to do?" Ely pretended to be afraid, but her eyes said otherwise. "I need to console andfort you first, then. I don''t want my little sister to be afraid of me. Truth be told. There are countless people with various nasty attitudes. They respect the strong and intimidate the weak. Some hate the color differences for ridiculous reasons." Yuuki smiled faintly. She knew Ely was ying on words. "Are they your disciples? Their attitude really does not reflect any respect or decency." Ely took a bit of distance as Yuuki was too close to her. "I have no disciple. I''m not even a genuine elder here." Yuuki shrugged her shoulders. "The Pce Master expects your presence." Ely checked the teapot and found there was still a bit of blue tea in it. "I shall announce my departure altogether then. Ah, if you like that blue tea that much, I still have plenty. Leave that alone and help me pack my things up." Yuuki pulled Ely''s hand. "You want to leave this holynd? Why?" Ely followed Yuuki obediently. "I became the distinguished elder because they were willing to help me find you. However, you came to me on your own, and I have no reason to stay here any longer." Yuuki picked up the vitality herb pot and handed it over to Ely. "This for you." "!?" The Peace Lily was shocked because it was treated like a cheap gift. It was the precious vitality herb! "I will treat you well as long as you will help me. Fret not; you will suffer no loss." Ely tapped the vitality herb in amusement. She then expressed her gratitude. "Thank you very much, Elder Celestial Fox." "Hm, cut the formalities. But you can talk to any living creature, huh... Does this herb talk ill of me?" Yuuki was intrigued. "No, I just read its emotion. The herb was surprised, but it soon cheered up." Ely put that vitality herb into her herb pouch. It was simr to a pet pouch, a storage space for living things. Ely then helped Yuuki to pack everything. That residence soon became void of any life. All precious things, even the random spiritual grass, were taken back by Yuuki. "We''re not taking that away, are we?" Ely pointed to the blue bamboo house. "No, it''s not worth anything. We''ve packed everything. Now it''s time for us to go." Yuuki took out her Ice Lotus artifact and stretched her hand to Ely. "Um, okay." Ely boarded the Ice Lotus, then they flew towards the valley. "Uh?" The white-haired human was transporting his senior sister down the mountain. However, he suddenly discovered the Elder Celestial Fox''s Ice Lotus crossing the sky, flying into the Immortal Pce. At that moment, he gasped, and his face paled when he discovered that the shadow fox had nine tails! He didn''t know it until now because he didn''t observe her rear when she sat in the garden pavilion earlier. His senior sister would surely be dead if that shadow fox was angry. To offend a single nine-tailed fox was something even Pce Master did not want to face, let alone two. Nevertheless, he was relieved not to offend that young shadow fox. "You are lucky to be alive with only this punishment. You must be disciplined immediately to avoid Elder Celestial Fox''s anger." The white-haired human patted the hunk of ice, then brought his senior sister away for disciplinary proceedings. The two nine-tailed foxes entered the Immortal Pce without anyone daring to stop them. Everyone was skeptical of the shadow fox''s presence. Yet, no one dared to confront or offend Elder Celestial Fox. "Apparently, dark colors are hated in this holynd. What a racism." Ely sighed after they passed through the main gate. "Yes, not only ck, but all dark colors are considered a bad omen, evil, or cmity here. Ridiculous, right? Don''t mind those insignificant people. We''ll sort things out here quickly." Yuuki gripped Ely''s hand. "Elder Celestial Fox, Pce Master, and the elders have been waiting for your presence in the great hall. But, this is-" The pce servant came closer and nced at the shadow fox beside Elder Celestial Fox. "Don''t stick your nose into what is beyond your authority. Lead the way!" Yuuki squinted her eyes. "Uh, understood." The pce servant spoke nothing more. She walked in front, then opened the door to the great hall. Although it was called a great hall, it was much like arge courtroom. The Pce Master and the two highest authorities were the judges and a few other important people as audiences. It was as if they wanted to judge Yuuki as the used. "..." Ely scanned left and right, observing the strengths and talents of everyone in that great hall. Among the twenty-four people present, someone could threaten Yuuki''s life. That olddy was 10th Rank expert like Yuuki. But she stood like a statue behind the three people at the court table, silently observing everything. However, no one seemed to have noticed that olddy''s presence. "Elder Celestial Fox, do you know why I summoned you here?" The Pce Master frowned when she found Elder Celestial Fox bringing that shadow fox to this sacred pce. "How lively, you even summoned all ten elders and their respective direct disciples. Two great elders are even here. Are you seriously going to do this, Pce Master?" Yuuki stood behind a lectern as if she knew what was happening. "Not only have you seriously injured an elder from another holynd and sparked a major conflict, but you also brought a disgraceful dirty creature here?" The elder in a blue robe sneered. "I do not mind killing you here if I hear anyone speak ill of my sister." Yuuki replied with a cold, death stare. She then nced at the Pce Master and the great elders. "Say your intentions." The Pce Master felt disgusted by that shadow fox''s dark midnight fur, but she hid it very well. "We''ll deal with that thingter. The first problem is that the Elder Fiery Bear of the Tiangong Sacred Land was seriously injured in our region, and his great elder uncle asked us for an exnation. A big conflict will ur if we can''t provide a proper exnation andpensation." "Since when did Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce be so weak? Has this ce declined so badly that you have to bend over? The only exnation that can be given is no exnation. That Fiery Bear dared to trespass this region and do as he pleases, and it''s natural for him to be injured after what he did." Yuuki indifferently crossed her arms. "Presumptuous! Don''t you know the weight of what you did? You almost killed him. An unnecessary war will break out because of you!" The elder in a yellow robe hit the table in a rage. "So, you''re saying it''s fine if I get hurt and kidnapped to their holynd? I''ve been holding back too much when he went all out. Only he can be med for being weak. You and them should be grateful I didn''t kill him after his repeated offenses." Yuuki snorted softly. "No, the problem is moreplicated than you think. You can easily send him away with minor injuries with your strength." The great elder in a bluish-white robe raised his hand to speak before internal conflict broke out. "I''m not going to reason with you. What are you going to do then?" Yuuki expected this situation long ago. These people were convinced to sell her to that ce, but she didn''t even belong to this ice pce! "I''m afraid to say it, but they demanded you apologize and nurse Elder Fiery Bear until he recovers. No one wants an unnecessary conflict between two holynds to break out." The Pce Master sighed. "Pce Master, have you forgotten your promise? Have you forgotten my purpose and the reason I epted your offer?" Yuuki''s eyes shone bright golden light, staring menacingly at the people before her. Chapter 41 Nefarious Scheme

Chapter 41 Nefarious Scheme

"!!!" The people in the great hall gasped at the sudden enormous mental pressure. The elders didn''t know the agreement between the Pce Master and the 11th Elder. Regardless, this kind of pressure only belonged to someone at the 10th Rank expert! "You, you''ve broken through to the Great Ascension Realm and be a Deity!?" The Pce Master was shocked beyond measure. She had no idea what kind of fortuitous encounters Elder Celestial Fox encountered in such a short time, but to break through a whole great realm in a few hours was something she had never seen or heard of before. "I''ve found my sister. As for the previous matter, you can ce all the me on me personally. If they want revenge regardless of my mercy, they should onlye to me. The Tiangong Sacred Land will not make trouble with the Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce." Yuuki nced at the subtle energy fluctuation behind the three highest authorities. She was sure the Pce Ancestor was there, ready to do anything for this holynd. Her alertness increased, and the ice pce''s trouble was no longer her business. "Wha, what?" The Pce Master nced at the shadow fox once more. Was that fox Elder Celestial Fox''s sister? Even though there were doubts and suspicions, the current matter suddenly became beyond her control. "I shall return this crystal que as I am no longer Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce''s person. Thank you for these three years, Pce Master. However, the deal ends, and our exchange will end here." Yuuki returned the elder identity token to the Pce Master. ? "Presumptuous and ungrateful! Do you think you cane and go as you please? Once you are Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce''s people, you forever belong to us!" The great elder in a grey robe jolted into a rage. "Hou? It''s just an exchange, am I right? Pce Master, you must speak up for this. I am not the 11th elder but a distinguished guest elder. You promised to help me to find my sister in exchange for my service to the pce. The day for me to go is already here." Yuuki smiled faintly. "Wait, is she the person you are looking for? You never said that person was your sister. Also, your drawing depicts a human rather than a nine-tailed shadow fox! She is just an imposter, an impersonator tricking you into thinking she is your sister!" The Pce Master panicked. She took a painting scroll and showed it to everyone to prove her point to Elder Celestial Fox. She and the elders nned to solve the problem with the best solution. Yet, no one ever expected Elder Celestial Fox would decide to leave right away. And again, it was because of the shadow fox! "..." Ely was speechless. It was supposed to be a painting of her, but it looked more like a doodle-like melon drawing than a person. It was a far cry from her appearance when she was in her original human form. Not even a God could help Yuuki to find her with that kind of poster. Yuuki should enter her drawing ss first. "I suspected that before, but I''ve confirmed the truth. My sister has foxy transformation abilities. Her previous form was human, so I thought she would still be human. You can announce my banishment from Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce, Pce Master. It''s time for us to part ways." Yuuki raised her hand in farewell, then turned around. She took Ely''s hand and walked away from the great hall. "I''m sorry, but we can''t let you leave." Several elders and their respective direct disciples immediately blocked the exit. Yuuki didn''t budge and only stomped her foot lightly on the floor. *Tap* Deity-level pressure exploded and suppressed everyone''s spiritual energy and cultivation realm. Yuuki''s eyes glowed a bright blue as she used her secret technique. An extreme cold aura expanded and froze the eternal ice far below zero. "That is if you can restrain me. I no longer have a reason to stay. I hope you do not appear as my enemy the next time we meet." Yuuki passed by the elders and direct disciples. *Swoosh* The Pce Ancestor decided to make her move. Yet, the shadow fox suddenly bonked her head with a wooden stick before she could even touch the Elder Celestial Fox. That simple hit was super effective. The Pce Ancestor''s spiritual entity received a critical hit straight to one''s soul. "I thought this holynd was awe-inspiring, but how is it different from mortal''s sect? Have an all-high and mighty attitude, even though you are not immortals. Prejudice, arrogance, selfishness, greed, and many more... too many negative emotions. You have never helped or protected my sister sincerely. Let me remind you, she belongs to no one but herself." Ely pushed the unconscious olddy. ? *Thud* The Pce Ancestor''s spiritual avatar fell to the floor. Her invisibility shattered into pieces, and her presence appeared before everyone. Her avatar''s soul fragment still received a tremendous impact from that seemingly harmless blow. "..." Yuuki was amazed beyond words. Ely only used a wooden wand with two zigzagging paper streamers to inflict a gentle blow. Yet, the Pce Ancestor fell unconscious to that simple attack. Yuuki regained herposure right after and immediately took Ely away from there before the others returned to their sense. It was dangerous if everyone ganged up on her from all sides. Ely could get hurt. Thus, they had to leave as soon as possible. Several minutes after Ely and Yuuki left the Immortal Pce, the Pce Master and everyone soon recovered from the suppression and shock. The one they mistook for the Oth young shadow fox, the impostor demon fox, and a dirty creature, was an unfathomably strong expert. That shadow fox managed to send their ancestor unconscious with a super light tap on the head and barely exerted any effort. "Why did it turn out like this? We''ve treated the Elder Celestial Fox well, but it''s always just an exchange?" The Pce Master put her hand to her forehead. "It''s all because of that shadow demon fox. We must uncover the truth and make the 11th elder realize her mistake." "Then, what about Tiangong Sacred Land? Shall we let her go?" "But, she is already in the Great Ascension Realm. Even the ancestor wouldn''t be able to catch her that easily." ? "Argh! I already said that we shouldn''t be doing this. Look what happened. The 11th elder decided to leave our pce." "Yeah, we should catch up with her soon. Maybe, she''lle back if we recruit her sister too." "That will upset a lot of people. That dirty shadow fox shouldn''t be here! The 11th elder should be sent to the Tiangong Sacred Land. The conflict that sparked a war will happen because of her." "We can''t control her, and you hope that ce can do that for us? She is the Celestial Fox for a reason! She actually is never a part of us." Disputes broke out between the elders and divided them into two factions. One side was hostile to the Elder Celestial Fox, while the other defended her. "We might be able to bring back Elder Celestial Fox if we can sessfully prove that shadow fox is not her sister." The great elder in a grey robe muttered softly. "That''s it! It is a great loss to lose a Great Ascension Realm expert. We can assassinate that shadow fox and throw the me on others. Elder Celestial Fox will go killing spree and feel at a loss. We can take advantage of the situation to help and bring her back there. Once her beloved sister dies, she will be much easier to control." The elder in a yellow robe agreed with that. *Bam!* "Shut up for me!" The Pce Master mmed her hand onto the table and exerted her 9th Rank pressure with great annoyance. "That shadow fox can send our pce''s strongest powerhouse unconscious. Do you think she is a herbivore? She is so calm even in front of us, and can any of you measure her real cultivation realm? She looks like an ordinary weak mortal, but did our ancestor lose at the hands of a mortal in an instant!? Once you try to assassinate her, our pce will cease to exist!" The Pce Master was panting slightly with anger. "Ugh, to think her sister actually existed and appeared here. I''ve tried so hard to prevent her from finding her sister. In the end, fate brought them together." The Pce Master slumped down into her seat.1 She previously thought the Elder Celestial Fox was quite loyal to Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce after years of win-win exchange. However, it seemed that it was just a self-deception. "Then, what should we do?" The great elder in a bluish-white robe asked. "We cannot afford to sh with Tiangong Sacred Land now. Let her wish to bear all the me fulfilled. Announce that Elder Celestial Fox is no longer Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce''s people!" The Pce Master announced her decision, and the majority couldn''t help but agree with it. The great elders then brought their unconscious ancestor for treatment. Regardless of the results that had already been announced, the elders, who had split into two factions, had already taken steps for an action that waspletely opposite to each other. The friendly party wanted to mend rtions with the Elder Celestial Fox and bring her back. While the hostile party intended to catch or kill the shadow fox with a nefarious scheme to control the Elder Celestial Fox. Thetter believed that the shadow fox was using dirty tricks to knock unconscious their ancestor''s spiritual avatar. Chapter 42 Pleasant Long Lecture

Chapter 42 Pleasant Long Lecture

"Ely, how did you beat the Pce Ancestor with just a simple blow? You barely even made an effort." Yuuki was so curious. Her fluffy fox tails swayed to the right and left as she was overjoyed by the result. "Hmm, that olddy is not a real person but a spiritual entity." Ely looked back and was relieved to find no one had followed them. "Hum, the real one probably is still in seclusion. However, that doesn''t exin how you defeated the Deity''s spiritual form." Yuuki nodded in understanding, but that still didn''t exin anything. She could see Ely was an Oth Rank expert. However, Ely possessed countless magical items and was blessed by many God-tier blessings to ensure personal safety. However, no one in this big wide world could take down a Deity with a simple, gentle head tap with just Oth Rank power. Ely was the first one. Well, that was what she could expect from Ely. "Hmm, I will tell you." Ely crossed her arms as if considering something. She believed in Yuuki because they shared the same past, but this snow fox had already triggered big trouble. "Hum? Are you displeased with those people? As you can see, I caused a lot of trouble. Since I left with you, trouble wille to you too. Do you want to abandon me then?" Yuuki also felt guilty about it, but that was beyond her control. She could only me those people for giving her trouble, but she didn''t know what to do if Ely didn''t want her around. "No, you are in a difficult situation too. It''s not your fault. You have endured for so long... If you seek asylum, I am willing to protect you. Believe me. Even a Heavenly God cannot leave unscathed before me. You said we are family, but I couldn''t help thinking about this twice." Ely waved her hand as she tried tofort the sad Yuuki. ? "And what is it?" Yuuki looked up and stared into Ely''s eyes. "You won''t be mad, will you? I''ll be frank." "Okay, I promise." "Then-" Ely took a deep breath and then raised her finger up. "Are you stupid? You said any fox-kin, especially the nine-tailed one, was coveted by many evildoers to be, err, furnace? That''s a kind of sacrifice? And yet, you allowed yourself to be taken advantage of by those people for years for exchange and benefit? I don''t know what happened, but that ice pce is terrible, and the mentioned sacrednd is no better either. It''s easy to see that sacrednd is putting pressure on that ice pce to take possession of you. They want to control you. That sacrednd has a deal with ice pce over something that''s clearly not good for you." ".." Yuuki was stunned for a few seconds. How nostalgic and familiar... a pleasant long lecture was spoken out of concern. She couldn''t help but chuckle and wiped the tears from the corner of her eyes. "Pfft." "This is great advice, but youugh at it?" Ely pursed her lips in discontent. "Mm, thank you for worrying about me. They were still useful to me before you came to me. They often sent me on some trap missions too. It''s not easy for the only nine-tailed fox to survive out there if I''m gullible. Fortunately, I am strong enough to trample all those unpleasant things." Yuuki tried to reassure Ely. She wanted to say that she was aware of her overall situation. "Hum, alright. You are big and wise; I won''t discuss that anymore since you understand your situation better than anyone else. I''m sorry to scold you. I can''t help it because they are outrageous. But where did the other fox-kin go? They weren''t really extinct, were they?" Ely knew the nine-tailed was a legendary creature, but what about the other fox-kin? "Some can still be found in various remote regions in limited numbers, but theye from inferior blood. The others, they are under the protection of their own nation in a sealed secret realm. They will never set out of their realm for safety reasons." "There''s only one nine-tailed fox?" "That''s two because of you." "O-oh~" Ely nodded in understanding. "H-Hey! Your mouth is so adept at taking over the topic of conversation. I asked you, but in the end, I answered all your questions." Yuuki pinched Ely''s cheek in frustration. She just realized that she was being yed by Ely''s words. "Oww, owwie... I''ll teww wou, I tell you." Ely held her cheek and Yuuki''s hand. It was hurt. Ely then shared a bit about her secret abilities. Her move was super effective against spiritual creatures, especially the evil. For anything that harboured evilness and malice, they would receive significant damage from her holy artefact''s blow, regardless of all kinds of defence. More evil was equal to more damage dealt. "I see.." Yuuki finally understood, but she shivered a momentter. No wonder Ely said it was fortunate she didn''t harbour malice, or Ely would injure or kill her at their first meeting. It wasn''t a joke but a definite threat. "Yuuki... Do you know where the others are? I mean, our other family and friends. I need their help." Ely intertwined her fingers while looking up at the distant sky. ? "Am I not enough?" Yuuki nced at Ely''s face, but Ely only looked at her with an innocent gaze and pure desire. She ended up sighing as the others'' situations wereplicated. "They... I know only three of our people are in this Tearobis Great Continent. The others have gone to the other side of the world to look for you three years ago. I don''t know about their news since then." "I see... Then, I can''t let them keep looking for me. I will find everyone soon." Ely nodded slightly. She then spoke in a subtle whisper-like voice. "Do you know our Goddess Master is still waiting for us?" "!?" Yuuki''s face brightened. That was the most important thing she wanted to know, and Ely finally believed her to share this kind of important information. "What did our Goddess Master say? How about her condition." "She is injured, sealed, shackled by a heavenly curse. She is waiting for our help. I am on a mission to help our Goddess Master. Yuuki, are you willing to help me?" Ely asked for help straight away. She knew having someone who understood her real purpose was something she really needed right now. "I, I''m more than willing! Allow me to help you!" Yuuki expressed her agreement with great enthusiasm. So, Ely already trusted her to that extent despite the memory loss. She would never betray that trust because she had to save their Goddess Master immediately. "Then, wee to the Guardian of Dream. I shall appoint you as the position of elder. But all vital information about us and our past is a secret, okay? My disciples'' situations are a bit special..." Ely held out her hand. "Uh-um, okay..." Yuuki was dumbfounded when she heard that familiar name. She didn''t expect that Ely would revive that organization here. ? Regardless, she would y along with all of Ely''s arrangements for now. Yuuki then shook Ely''s hand to seal the deal. "Ah, this is bad!" Ely checked her clock cube and eximed with dismay. "What''s the situation?" Yuuki checked her surroundings. She found no living creature or danger within a six-kilometer radius. "I have to return to the rest cave as soon as possible. I must regroup with my disciple before dusk, but it''s already almost half a day since I split up with her." Ely was worried. "Then hold me tight. Tell me where the mentioned rest cave is. We will be there in no time." Yuuki took Ely''s hands and put them around her waist. Ely then described a ce, and Yuuki immediately brought Ely out of the Frozen Cloud Secret Realm. Chapter 43 Wait and Keep Waiting

Chapter 43 Wait and Keep Waiting

It was about four hours since Jophiel split up with her master. She went to plunder some treasures, resources, and precious materials from several ces. Whenever she discovered a hidden treasure trove, she plundered it with justification regardless of whose it was. She had secured quite a lot of treasures in her storage pouch. However, she wished to search for another hidden treasure trove before returning to the rest cave to regroup with her master. Jophiel took out a silverpass. It was a mid-tier artifact with an ordinary appearance and no impressive special effects. However, it was extremely useful for the Guardian of Dream''s members to find precious things within a three-kilometer radius. "Wow, I''m so lucky. Who would have thought so many kind-hearted experts would leave their hidden treasure troves on this snowy mountain? Thank you for saving me a lot of precious treasures ~" Jophiel looked east because thepass arrow was pointing that way. It sounds cruel, but the resources and treasures should be utilized rather than buried to deteriorate. No one could even tell whether the original owner was still alive. Whatever it was, Jophiel would plunder them all for a greater cause. Everything was for her future, her master, and the Guardian of Dream! Jophiel arrived at a secret underground dungeon under a massive iceberg a few momentster. She entered a remote cave by the icyke and went through a secret passage. "!?" Jophiel was pleasantly surprised when she found a pile of shiny treasures and spirit stones of various colours within the ice prison. ? Her luck was superb today. She found a treasure trove one after another in no time. That was all thanks to her master. She received a significant luck booster. However, her attention was immediately drawn to a mysterious ice flower in the ice prison''s corner. That flower was brimming with life and sparkling with splendour as if it was the most precious thing in that ce. ''Vitality herb! Yes, I shouldn''t be wrong again. This way, I can easily secure my top ten positions in the treasure hunter list and receive lots of praise from my master~'' With that in mind, Jophiel went to secure that ice flower. Jophiel brought a mini shovel and secured the flower and the ice around it. She made sure not to cut a single root. "Grr..." Some growing noises could be heard from the other side of the ice tunnel. Jophiel''s face went pale in an instant. She looked to the side and found a group of furious snow apes. Their eyes were blue as fiery fire, and they even carried heavy ice weapons. It was like they couldn''t wait to tear her to pieces. Even so, Jophiel first secured the ice flower into her treasure pouch. After that, she turned around and rushed away in the direction she came from. "Roar!" The snow apes crazily run after the intruder. The ground shook because of them, but Jophiel smirked as she arrived at a narrow ice passage. "I''m sorry, big guys. This is the wild world." Jophiel adjusted her veil and then made an abrupt stop. She made a finger gun and aimed it at the berserk snow apes. "Fall under my enchantment and illusion. Desire Amplifier Bullet, fire!" ? *Pew* Jophiel fired a pink heart-shaped illusory bullet, which exploded amidst the snow apes. It caused no damage, but they were pensive, as if they had suddenly lost their senses for a moment. Jophiel took advantage of the dy to sneak back into the treasure trove in an ice-coloured cloth disguise. *Bam* *Bam* *Bam* Some weird noises could be heard from behind, but Jophiel ignored them. She had to be very careful because if she was discovered, those snow apes would be more frenzy and hunt her like there was no tomorrow. Jophiel plundered the treasures and spirit stones in that treasure trove. However, she only took half of everything because she didn''t have the heart to plunder them all when she knew the rightful original owner existed. Once her business finished, she fled through the ice passage disguised inside an ice-coloured cloth. She walked near the wall, and those snow apes shouldn''t notice her presence because she seemed to be one with the ice. *Bam* *Bam* *Bam* Various weird pounding noises grew louder as she approached the ''fight'' scene. Jophiel took a peek to see what those snow apes were up to. She thought they were fighting each other because her charm and illusion amplified their wrath. However, who would have thought those snow apes did various unspeakable things to theirrades. "Animals are still animals..." Jophiel felt a little embarrassed, but she quickly ran away from there. ? "Hmm-mm- My mood is so good. Master, I''ming. After this, we can travel together leisurely. Just the two of us, how romantic~" Jophiel hopped on the snow like a happy little rabbit. *Swoosh!* A gigantic ice eagle crossed the sky, leaving a gust of violent wind behind. Jophiel fell down, face first. She was buried by the snow too. "Damn, you, ice eagle. Don''t let me find your nest, or I will plunder all your treasures." Jophiel cursed that eagle in annoyance. After saying that, she found the ice eaglended on a particr ice cliff and passed through a hole. She used her binocrs to get a better view, and vo, a hidden cave high up on a steep ice cliff could be seen in the distance. Unfortunately, she had promised to return and regroup with her master before dusk. Therefore, she only recorded that nest''s position and location and left that ce. Her master and her could always visit that ice eagle''s nest tomorrow. It was nearly six hours since Jophiel parted ways with her master. She still had an hour before dusk, but her master had not yet arrived at their temporary rest cave. "Master hasn''t arrived here yet. She will probably arrive in a few minutes since she is so punctual. This ce is also quite secluded and safe from wild animals. Let''s cook something nice and warm for dinner." Jophiel made a bonfire and cooked some meat. It was already past dusk, and the sky was already getting dark. However, her master hasn''te there yet. Jophiel''s worry was growing by the minute, and her imagination kept imagining the worst-case scenario that had happened. They shouldn''t split up for the treasure hunt. She should have gone with her master! ? The fire was out, and dinner was frozen. Jophiel tried to contact her master via telmunication talisman, but it couldn''t reach her master. She repeatedly considered going out to find her master, but she put that aside because her master mighte here while she was out. It was several hours before midnight. Jophiel was desperate, but she kept waiting because they had promised to meet again there. At that moment, a fleeting thought crossed her mind. She was afraid that her master was injured and couldn''te back soon. However, the thing that scared her the most was her master chose to abandon her. She didn''t want her master to leave her behind. That wouldn''t likely happen, considering how well her master treated her and the other disciples. However, her state of mind at that time was so chaotic. She couldn''t think straight or stay positive. She kept waiting and waiting until she unconsciously fell asleep, shivering while muttering incoherently in a semi-conscious state. Her body was losing heat faster than it could produce heat, causing a dangerously low body temperature. It was a few minutes after midnight. Ely finally arrived at the secret rest cave. Herplexion paled when she found a pink elf lying in the corner in severe hypothermia. "Jophi-chan!" Ely rushed to provide emergency aid. Her disciple''s condition was so life-threatening. Jophiel''s body was frozen cold and pale like a corpse, making her so scared. She could tell her disciple was almost frozen to death. Ely used her healing skill regardless of the sacrifices she needed to save Jophiel''s life. She took off Jophiel''s jacket and outfit. The ice and any dangerous cold qi were removed. Ely repaired the broken cell as her spiritual energy flowed through Jophiel''s body from inside. After Jophiel was out of her life-threatening state, Ely still couldn''t stop her tears. She managed to save her disciple. However, she couldn''t help but me herself. "I''m sorry. It''s my fault..." Tears welled from deep inside and coursed down her cheeks. She hugged her unconscious disciple and wrapped their bodies with a thick nket. "..." Yuuki observed everything from the cave entrance. She could feel Ely''s grief and guilt for arrivingte than the promised time. Not to mention that the pink elf was almost frozen to death. Well, it was partially also because of her fault. It was already challenging for the visitor to exit the Frozen Cloud Secret Realm. Ely was losing direction and swallowed up in the blizzard for several hours. And then, they went to the Immortal Pce. Anyone could quickly lose the sense of time as the Frozen Cloud Secret Realm was forever daylight. Chapter 44 Prepare for Upcoming Trouble ? 44 Prepare for Uing Trouble It was warm. Jophiel returned to her senses and felt she was enveloped in tenderness and warmth. She remembered that she was waiting for her master, but she fell asleep? She opened her crystal pink eyes and found herself in her master''s arms. They were covered in a thick nket, and the warm light from the fire orb illuminated the cave. A sense of relief andfort enveloped her from the inside out. Her master finally came back for her. Her master''s soothing scent, soft breath, gentle heartbeat, and tender touch. Everything was real. It was not a dream. She could even feel her master''s fluffy tails wrapping around her body under the nket, touching her skin directly. Directly to her skin? Jophiel''s satisfied smile soon turned into confusion and curiosity. She peeked into their nket and found she was wearing only her sexy pink underwear. Her face flushed red, but her smile didn''t fade. As soon as she gazed at her master''s face, she was shocked. Her master just cried. The trail of tears was still not yet dry, so she felt sure. "That''s right... I fell asleep while waiting, and my artifact didn''t work when I passed out. The bonfire crystal was extinguished, and the magic items had not been activated. I, I almost died, didn''t I?'' Jophiel muttered in her mind. Her master saved her before she froze to death. "Hmm?" Ely woke up because of Jophiel''s sudden movement. She looked at her sixth disciple''s flushed face and spoke tenderly. "Jophi-chan, your master, let you suffer. I failed to return in time and almost let you freeze to death. Please forgive me." "Master, it''s not your fault. I''m sure something happened on your side. It was me being stupid and almost letting myself freeze to death." Jophiel replied with a warm smile on her face. She gently wiped the trail of tears from her master''s cheeks. "It''s been a tiring day. I''ve set up a protective array. We can sleep until dawn without worry." Ely stroked Jophiel''s head. "Ehehe, then master also needs to sleep. Please forgive me for being spoiled. It''s already veryte, but will we sleep like this?" Jophiel chuckled lightly. She was indeed still sleepy. "Mm, I''ll sleep in this position." Ely didn''t mind sleeping in a sitting position, leaning against the wall. Therefore, Jophiel pulled the hand on her waist and intertwined her fingers with her master''s. She wrapped her other hand around her master''s waist before closing her eyes. Her master didn''t abandon her, and she didn''t wish to bring up any depressing topic to ruin the pleasant mood. Nevertheless, her master was soft andforting... She drifted off into sleep in her master''s arms shortly after. "Thank you, mama.." "Sleep talk?" "Huu... huu..." Ely blinked her eyes in bewilderment, but she only got Jophiel''s soft breath in response. She then brought Jophiel closer and adjusted their nket. Only their head was visible outside, and it was really like a big cocoon. She was still feeling guilty. Hence, she hugged Jophiel closely because she wanted to again convince herself that her sixth disciple was safe and sound. ''You care so much for that pink elf, Ely. You said she is your disciple, but why does she call you mama?'' Yuuki peeked into the cave. Ely took out a telepathy talisman and used her simple wind magic to send it to Yuuki. She couldn''t use direct telepathy. Yuuki received it, and then Ely answered with a concerned tone. ''Could youe in here first, Yuuki? It''s cold and lonely out there! ''I''ll be on guard here. Snow, ice and cold are where Ie from! Yuuki leaned against the cave entrance, gazing up at the northern night sky illuminated by the aurora. ''Pleasee in. Ely repeated her request. ... Yuuki observed Ely''s expression with her perception for a few seconds. She finallyplied with Ely''s request and entered the warm cave. ''She is Jophiel, my sixth core disciple. Each of my disciples has their own backstory because of their bloodline. I am not only their master but their guardian as well. Some of them even regarded me as their mother: Ely rested Jophiel''s head on her shoulder. ''What''s wrong with their bloodline? I''d love to hear the details! Yuuki observed this stunning pink elf closely with her magical eyes. Yet, she couldn''t find any curses that might lead to anything terrible. "They have the bloodline of Gods who died in the previous circle because of the Heavenly Demon''s curse. We call them the heroes'' descendants. Due to their impable affinity with their ancestral divine power, the curse was also passed to them. They were demonic creatures before I saved them by purification. Have you ever heard of this story, Yuuki?'' Ely looked at Yuuki''s foxy eyes as she tried to pry deeper into Yuuki''s train of thought. ? ''Heavenly demon, curse... So, it''s a story recorded in the ancient bible of the Holy Church in the Great Yan Empire, Human Realm. The heroes saved the world from the Heavenly Demons, but the destruction of the second circle had nothing to do with that battle. Ely, are you also aware of Heavenly Rebels?'' Yuuki put her hand to her chin as she felt Ely knew more than she could have guessed. ''Heavenly Rebels? I''ve heard of this but don''t know the details. However, I miraculously killed one a few days ago! Ely recalled the emergency quest sent directly by the Constetion of Fate. ''Hunh!? W-what!?'' Yuuki was dumbfounded, full of shock. She crawled closer and looked closely at Ely''s face. She could tell it wasn''t a joke, but a few days ago!? Ely just triggered a big event and killed a Heavenly Rebel! "That''s surprising, right? I was also surprised! Ely nced sideways. She didn''t know why this snow fox was fond of looking at her face so closely. "Tell me more about it. Even though the path to the Divine World was severed and tightly sealed, what just happened is truly dire, Ely! Yuuki sat right in front of Ely with a solemn expression. Ely then exined what happened in Lumina City, but she didn''t exin the quest because it wasn''t necessary. ''I see... But are you sure you are okay? You didn''t receive any curse or anything?'' Yuuki was genuinely worried. She scanned and double-checked Ely to ensure everything. ''I am healthy and fit! Ely smiled brightly to reassure Yuuki. ''Phew, to think those lunatics would go as far as to make the sacrifices to open their sect''s forbidden gate and summon their Demon God to the mortal world... Yuuki sighed. Yuuki, for that sacrednd. You just threw that big guy into the faraway sky, but how could a Demi-God be seriously injured that easily? It''s just a ridiculous excuse, right?'' Ely shifted the topic to the event they had to handle soon. ''Yeah, they won''t let me off the hook, that Elder Fiery Bear and his troublesome sacrednd... Pce Master will definitely send people to deal with us too. They all want a piece of me! ''Do you have a n to deal with them?'' "They will end up dead if they cross my bottom line! ''So, no n? I have a brilliant idea if you need a proper n to deal with uing trouble. Would you like to hear it, Elder Yuuki?'' ''Uhm... You have the pseudonym, Miko, so I need one too. I used Celestial Fox in recent years, but now it''s time to change. Please give me a good pseudonym, Ely! ''Miko means shrine priestess, you know? It''s more of a stage name or title than a pseudonym. But, well... If you need it, I''ll suggest a nice pseudonym for you. What about Gumiho? It means nine-tailed fox. What do you think?'' ''Eh? I see, but I still need one for some situations. Gumiho is good. I shall use this one, then. Regarding the previous topic, I''d like to hear your ns, Ely! ''Good.'' Ely then exined details about her ns to deal with the uing trouble. Once she was finished and Yuuki agreed, she put on an additional protective array and concealment. It was time to rest. ''Yuuki, please tell me about the three members of our family who are still in this Tearobis Great Continent: Ely closed her eyes, but she decided to ask that before sleeping. ''That''s me, the devil Sylvia, and the radiant knight Evelyn. Evelyn is in Aubourus Empire, Human Realm. She served the Sword Maiden to get the Empire''s help to find you. Sylvia should be in the Demon Realm''s central region, and she is half devil and half demonic dragon. However, her nature has be very strange since west managed to find you for years, Ely. Please be careful of her! Yuuki heaved a subtle sigh as she could only discover two out of everyone. She already expected their group members would split up due to Ely''s absence, but it was time for them to unite again. ''Devil? It will be tricky, but that''s not a problem! ''Huh? Why?'' ''Demon, human, and the devil are just races. There is good and evil. Jophi-chan is a demoness, but she is a sweet girl. Sylvia and Evelyn, huh... We will meet them soon! ''All right, but we should start with Evelyn first! ''Alright then. Yuuki, thank you, and... Goodnight~'' ''Sleep well, Ely!'' Ely, Yuuki, and Jophiel then rested until dawn. Chapter 45 Live the Life that You Love ? 45 Live the Life that You Love It was less than half a day since Ely left the Sacred Mountain. However, the local beasts and demons had already invaded the eastern great forest region in response to the particr tribe''s deration of war. Rather than calling it a battle or a war, it was closer to a massacre. The 7th Rank sea eagle took themand as the Commander and led three hundred experts. Their opponents were more than ten times their number. Yet, all thebatants on the enemy''s side were utterly annihted even before dusk. Innocent residents were spared, and those who surrendered were held as prisoners of war. "Why are you doing this. I do believe I have never offended you before..." The dying big bull muttered with difficulty. "me yourself for dering war on us, bodacious bull. The Sacred Mountain and its surrounding is the sacred shrine priestess'' territory. We attacked before you could invade our holynd. You should have expected this oue after your deration." The herculean golden pig dragged the enemy''s leader. "Guh, wh-what!?" The bodacious bull was surprised but had no idea where the Sacred Mountain was. "Just kill him, speak less, and do more useful things, wild pig." The sea eagle was dissatisfied. "Well, the war is over. I will send you away, bodacious bull. We will have a good beef for winter." The herculean golden pig raised his barbarian spear. "W-wait!" The bodacious bull tried to beg for mercy, but the herculean golden pig beheaded him before he could say more. ? "Hehe, how about my performance,dies?" The herculean golden pig rubbed his hand. "Pretty decent, but don''t becent with just that. You should handle the rest and clean up the mess. The war was over before it started, and now it''s time for us to go." Uriel heaved a subtle sigh. She guessed the result, but these beasts and demons were more ferocious than expected. "W-wait! When you see the shrine priestess, please say a good word for us? It''s been a while since she held an open party with us." The sea eagle flew before the two Apostledies. "We still need to hunt, but we''ll try to put in a good word or two for you. You can expect some good news in nine days from now. However, you''d better prepare everything by the time we return." Uriel would grant the request as it was an easy thing to do. "Save more meat, herbs, and spirit stones!" Remiel reminded the surrounding beasts. "Yes, yes, we will." The sea eagle was satisfied with that. After the twodies left, he ordered his underling to clean up the mess and bring the meat for their winter supplies. That day, arge tribe vanished, with less than twenty survivors left. They managed to save their lives because they fled in fear. The news about the Sacred Mountain''s prowess soon spread, and no one dared to challenge the sovereignty of the central mountains, even if the ce was not inhabited. Uriel and Remiel visited the western mountains and forests for their treasure hunt. They hunted and investigated an unexplored secret realm and its ruins for several days before leaving to follow their master in the snowy mountains. ? It was five days since the seasonal treasure hunt started. Ely was oblivious to what the docile beast and demon in Sacred Mountain did. Jophiel, Yuuki, and Ely hunted some prey and searched for treasure together. However, Ely''s thoughts were distracted by something. She still needed clues about Jophiel''s improvements in thest five days. [Jophiel (FV: 2530) | 5th Rank Late Stage] [Loyalty: 99%] [Talent: 3 Stars | SR] Jophiel''s cultivation realm had risen since thest intense practice, but what intrigued Ely was Jophiel''s FV. It went up by 550 in just five days, mysteriously! She didn''t even know the real meaning behind FV. Yuuki even got 50 FV points up. Even so, she was happy to see Jophiel''s loyalty increase. The only setback was her sixth disciple clinging to her during leisure time. "Master, we still haven''t found any clues regarding the mysterious giant snow monster. Is that monster a legendary creature?" Jophiel tugged at the hem of her master''s sleeve for attention. She stole several nces at the nearby nine-tailed snow fox. It was still hard for her to get along with this newly appointed elder at her master''s side. But this nine-tailed snow fox was her master''s old friend who had been separated for a long time. Elder Yuuki was also powerful... Elder Yuuki was also considerate and caring, albeit a bit cold. Even so, Jophiel had already epted Yuuki since their first meeting. Ely returned to her senses. She and Yuuki also apanied Jophiel to investigate a mysterious snow monster that had destroyed the vige where little Jophiel lived in the past. ? Ely had erased most of Jophiel''s memories of the past tragedy, but some memories remained before that dark event. The mentioned giant snow monster was one of the few memories Jophiel could remember. Jophiel tried to find that monster because she wanted to pay back the terror. "I don''t think so. Legendary creatures can feel each other''s presence within a radius of three thousand kilometers. Unless the other party deliberately conceals their aura with a secret technique..." Yuuki shook her head. "The mysterious giant snow monster might be in a certain secret realm? He is four meters tall, has thick white fur, and resembles a human... We will definitely find that monster sooner orter." Ely drew a yeti and gave it to Jophiel. "Is the monster like this?" "Mm, it should be simr to this. That monster was so savage, killing many vigers and kidnapping many children. I was so small back then. It was so scary." Jophiel showed her hate toward that snow monster. "Are you one of the kidnapped?" Yuuki was curious. "I''m not really sure, but I guess I got lucky. I can''t remember that much in detail because it was over ten years ago." Jophiel scratched her head in confusion. She barely had any memories of herself beside a brief lonely life in a remote forest vige. She didn''t even know how she became a demonic slime before being rescued by her master. It was like all terrible memories vanished during purification. Right now, everything was reced by warm and beautiful memories of her new life. It was a blessing, but she wanted to punish that mysterious giant snow monster. ? She was weak back then and could only cower in fear inside a hidden wooden crate. However, she was strong now. "..." Ely heaved a subtle sigh. It was the beginning of the real nightmare. The one that kidnapped little Jophiel was another monster, but that was already past. "Jophi-chan, do you want to punish that monster for the vigers?" Ely stroked Jophiel''s long lustrous pink hair. "Yes, punishment for the evil! No revenge for them because there is no sentiment with those vigers." Jophiel nodded several times. "Hmm~ Even though the best kind of revenge is to move on and live happily? You will live the life that you love. You can reach the higher realm and immortality by pursuing your dao. No one under heaven can bully you and those you want to protect." Ely tried to bring Jophiel to the right path, though she still had no idea what kind of dao Jophiel was focused on. "O-oh-" Jophiel felt enlightened. Her pink crystal eyes twinkled like stars due to the revtion. She cultivated the path of beauty and love, but she focused everything on her master. Since her master was the pinnacle, she could achieve immortality as long as she stayed next to her master and true to herself. She wished to stay by her mama''s side forever. Her brothers and sisters should also achieve immortality together. That way, no one would be left behind. Their only obstacles were the Heavenly Demons, The Demonic Seeds, and the great evil lurking in the darkness. The ones the Guardian of Dream had to exterminate. It was their master''s wish and the main reason they had to fight. After thinking about that, Jophiel could see the broader horizon. The mysterious giant snow monster was insignificant in her path. ? "Disciple understands. I won''t be looking for that mysterious giant snow monster anymore, but I will kill him if he appears before me. Let''s go to Sumore City, master. Fifth and tenth sister are probably already there." Jophiel clenched her fist in determination. She then pulled her master''s hand. "Please wear your veil, Jophi-chan. No trouble hasn''te our way in the past five days, but it should be easy for them to get news of our movements in the big forest city." Ely put a veil on her disciple. Author updates n0velfuIIbook. "Thank you, master. But, trouble? I''m not afraid of trouble, but why would they want to target us? Who are they, to begin with? Hum- humph!" Jophiel raised her fist as if ready to beat those troublemakers ck and blue. "They are some people from Tiangong Sacred Land and possibly Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce. They covet Yuuki''s body and probably also desire me." Ely nced at Yuuki and raised her eyebrows repeatedly. "..." Yuuki facepalmed. That was right, but the others could easily misunderstand such phrases. "Ah, how dare they go to find trouble with us? Hmm-mm~ They are courting death. If they dare to cross our bottom line, I reckon it will be a massacre." "They are the two prominent holynds in the Northern Realm. Are you not afraid?" "With master by my side, there''s nothing to be afraid of, even if the world ends tomorrow." Jophiel and Ely walked side by side. They immediately changed the topic of conversation to something more pleasant. Yuuki followed them from behind with a faint smile on her face. She felt everything would be fine, just like what Jophiel said. Ely''s n was also pretty sinister, worthy of being called a cunning fox. Chapter 46 Stirring Up a Bigger Problem ? 46 Stirring Up a Bigger Problem Problems couldn''t be solved by just letting time pass them by. It could get bigger if not handled as soon as possible. Ely wanted to avoid living with the problem, but solving a big problem was moreplex than it seemed. Not to mention, there were too many unknown variables. However, Ely didn''t focus on the problem because she didn''t want to overlook the easy solution. She and Yuuki agreed to stir up the bigger trouble and leave it elsewhere by involving more variables to take control of the overall situation. Not all problems have solutions, but they have oues. In the murky water of a flowing river, they could slip away from the enemy''s focus, much better than being trapped in a pond surrounded by predators. Also, some parties might solve their problem for them. ''Hmm, when the timees, we''ll strike them in their own game. Or perhaps, they will fall into the counter-trap. Ely nced outside as she felt the wind was still blowing in a direction she could not predict. She was already arrived at the Sumore Forest City, one of the major cities in the Northern Realm. Yuuki and Jophiel sat on either side of her, observing the forest city inhabited by many kinds of beastfolk and demonfolk. They currently entered the downtown area on a giant centipede. Unlike the carriage or chariot poprity in the Human Realm, the Northern Realm had a trend of giant monsters being used as mounts, even if it was for the transportation business within the city. It was a terrifying and intimidating giant centipede and arge pnquin strapped to its back. It was like a centipede limousine. No one dared to stand within a two-meter radius of the giant centipede. Ely''s group trip into the city went quite smoothly. ''Ely, several unknown experts have followed us. Two of the three have a malicious aura! Yuuki informed Ely as she felt they needed to take precautions. ''They''re not too stupid to act rashly. For now, just let them be! Ely responded with a telepathic talisman. Why are you so calm, Ely? We are being chased by two holynds. Do you want me to handle those malicious people in secret first?'' Yuuki wanted toprehend the source of Ely''s confidence. ''No, people are not problems to be solved but mysteries to be explored. They also have their problems and reasons, but that''s none of our business. I''m not saying I''m a good problem solver, but the solution might be easier than you think, Yuuki. Also, they are still haunted by a great taboo. You have agreed to our n. I wonder if you can put your faith in me! Ely wondered why the ever-calm Yuuki suddenly became agitated. ''Is it? I have faith in you, but a great taboo? What do you mean?'' Yuuki tilted her head. ''Hehe, both holynds don''t have any information about me. No matter how much hatred or grievance they have towards us, like Frozen Cloud''s discrimination against my hair and fur color, I believe those old monsters would never dare to act rashly. N0veIfulIbo0k top update ce. Do you think a random legendary nine-tailed shadow fox dares to roam the outside world for no reason? She even has a Deity-level elder sister~ Anyway, this isn''t the time for us to act." Ely replied with a wink. ''O-oh-'' Yuuki finally understood. Apart from the many weaknesses and limitations, she knew Ely was unbeatable in nning aspects. The most dangerous person was those who lived the longest, but what these types of people fear the most was the unknown. ? To think Ely had thought so far ahead. The original n that Ely suggested and they devised was turning the old problem into a big problem and gaining some allies after turning a particr faction into a public enemy. Apparently, Ely still had profound ns beneath the original method for a bigger chance of their safety and sess. Ely didn''t even need to dispatch the Guardian of Dream for this. Yuuki couldn''t predict the future, but she trusted Ely. "Master, where are we going now?" Jophiel spoke in a whisper-like voice. She knew her master would y a high-profile role again, but this would be really fun because she was involved in the limelight! "Auction house." Ely answered confidently. "Is there anything that catches your eye?" Jophiel was curious. "No, We will put some interesting items up for auction. Are you willing to ride the boat on the wild waves with us?" Ely offered her hand for solicitation. "Willing, more than willing! Let me join the fun, master~" Jophiel pumped her fist as she was excited. It was always fun to be around her master. "Mm-hmm~" "Yay!" Ely managed to receive Jophiel''s help. She then summoned her grimoire and checked a few things. [Ely (???) | Oth Rank] [HP: 31,900/100 | MP: 6.68M/4,500 | SP: 301,354/4,500] [Talent: 6 Stars | Legendary] [STR: 10 (Limit) | DEX: 10 (Limit) | CON: 151 | PER: 100 | ARC: 10 (Limit) |VIT: 547K | LCK: 100 (Max)] ? Her stats rose after four days of hunting. Nevertheless, it wasn''t significant in number since she could only get a lot of extra stats by eliminating super-strong evil creatures. Anything below 5th Rank could only give three digits of MP or SP at most. Heaven apparently didn''t want her to be a death reaper or spree killer just to increase her stats. However, she might be able to meet the requirements to unseal her Goddess Master just by exterminating around a hundred God-tier evil creatures. Nevertheless, it was a difficult thing to do. Finding a God-tier evil creature was beyond difficult, let alone exterminating them. She was just an ordinary mortal with some blessings. Her attack-type Mythical-tier holy artifacts were limited in number. All of her skills were nonbat and rted to support only. Unless the enemy was evil, her attack might be ineffective. Those weapons always had long cooldowns and required many spirit stones after every use. Regardless, Ely was currently happy. She finally figured out how she could increase her HP. There were many ways to earn MP and SP, but not HP. She would obtain some HP after ying an evil monster with great vigor, physically strong and potent in defense. It was just one inconvenient method. But, she would definitely find a more effective and graceful way to increase her HP with the help of her grimoire''s feature, namely the log history list. "There are ten stats. HP, MP, and SP are rted to my body; the rest are my capabilities. STR is strength, DEX is dexterity, CON is still a mystery, PER is perception, ARC may be arcane the magic, VIT is my precious vitality, and thest is LCK for luck. Ely observed her stats once again. ? The threebat-rted stats had reached their limit and were bright red, indicating she couldn''t raise them no matter what. However, her luck was perfect, one hundred. She thought of trying to test her chance at a gambling house or something just for fun. After all, it was rare, almost never, for her to be struck by bad luck. The one blessed by heaven and worlds was so nice. Ely checked the quest list, but most were rted to some ''hideous'' affairs like killing or something simr. She didn''t want to actively kill people unless they had a death wish. ''Nevermind, I can''t be careless. Luck and beautiful fate is rted to virtue, merit, and good deed. Ely closed her grimoire and put it back into her subspace. However, she just realized Yuuki''s face was right next to hers, and their cheeks almost touched. "I wonder what you read in that fancy silver-gold book. It''s all just nk paper." Yuuki leaned back in her seat. "It''s a grimoire, the special magical item for mages. Each grimoire has different abilities; only the owner can see its contents." Ely shrugged as she didn''t intend to exin further details. A few momentster, they arrived at the most famous auction house in the city. The exclusive weekly auction would be held in two days for the experts participating in the ancient secret realm exploration. A gigantic ancient portal gate manifested on the border between the Human Realm and the Demon Realm but adjacent to the Northern Realm. It was an unexpected urrence that postponed the war between humans and demons, and the realm''s gate would open in 25 days. The public was oblivious to the truth, but the major forces had started preparing themselves. ? After all, everyone wished to find their own lucky encounter. Unmeasurable treasures definitely awaited them in that unexplored ancient secret realm. Every major force in all realms agreed to hold three weeks of preparations because they would face terrifying dangers and unfathomable mysteries within that ancient secret realm. The auction house was hectic because it was the first-week auction for the grand event preparation. There were so many great and attractive items up for auction. "How lively." Ely got off the centipede limousine. The surrounding people were surprised when they discovered the stunning nine-tailed fox in the middle of the city. Not one, but actually two! The gorgeous, wild, and incredible legendary creatures'' arrival soon became sensational news that quickly spread throughout the forest city. Chapter 47 S Rank Alchemist ? 47 S Rank Alchemist "Look, isn''t that the nine-tailed demon fox?" "This is my first time seeing them. They are so stunning and mesmerizing. No wonder they can be called the legendary creature." "One is like the darkness of midnight, and the other is as pure as snow. They are like the harmony of yin yang." "Their beauty can topple several Empires and lead the new war. Oh no! Those powerhouses will definitely make their move once they catch wind of this. It will be a bloody war soon!" "You fool, have you forgotten that the more beautiful a woman is, the more dangerous they are? Did you think those nine-tailed foxes appeared in the outside world for no reason?" "Uh, that makes sense. They definitely possess unfathomable prowess too." "Anyway, we need to be careful. A great event might soon happen in this forest city because of their arrival. Legendary ones often attract each other, and the other legendary beasts or demons might appear as well." "Less caught in the fire. The ancient secret realm may also attract their attention. Obviously, there are items in the auction that catch their eyes!" Various conversations from the beastfolk and demonfolk began to spread, but it was just as Ely had expected. She then gave some silver coins to the coachman. "Thank you, esteemeddies. Have a lovely visit. Then, if you''ll excuse me." The coachman immediately pulled the reins, and his giant centipede left the vicinity. If he could voice it out, he was terrified because his passengers were two legendary nine-tailed foxes. They spelled trouble and disaster because of their beauty, but he didn''t dare to offend them. Ely''s group of three entered the auction house. Oddly enough, no one dared to stop them. Thus, their trip to the distinctive deal chamber was smooth sailing. The auction house''s manager even came to greet them. Ely didn''t even have to talk or wait. So, everything was still easy to progress without impediment. ''ying high-profile is fun. I don''t understand those who always try toy low but invite trouble from right to left. Since problems cannot be avoided, ying big is always the solution!'' Ely sat on the sofa, waiting for the merchant-looking bear man to sit. "Wee to the Grande Auction House, esteemed guests. My name is Griz Kwiecinski. Having the legendary demon foxes visit my auction house is an incredible honor, but I''m curious about the situation. May I inquire about it?" Griz rubbed his hands with a crafty smile on his face. He had thought the two nine-tailed foxes wanted to get tickets to enter the exclusive auction in two days, but his guess was wrong when the shadow fox ced a storage pouch on the table. "Pleased to meet you, Mister Griz Kwiecinski. My name is Kitsune. Let''s talk about the deal and business. We didn''te to get an entry ticket as the bidder, but the seller. We want to leave some interesting items to be auctioned in the first exclusive week auction." Ely tapped her finger on the table for attention. "You want to auction off some items? Then, let me inspect them first." Griz was stunned for a few seconds, then nodded in understanding. Profitable business deals were always wee, but not all precious items were eligible for auction in the exclusive week. After all, the bidders and audience who attended the event were prominent figures from various regions. In the Northern Realm, only three auction houses gained the trust of many people to hold this exclusive event. So, everyone was eager to secure some life-saving treasures before going to the ancient secret realm in three weeks. "This!" Griz was surprised to find thirty marvelous life-saving treasures inside that storage pouch. Elixirs, potions, herbs, precious materials, magical items, and artifacts... They ranged from mid-tier to top-tier, but the most precious things were two Super-tier potions! The exnation said it could heal any wound, curse, recover spiritual energy, and more! These Super-tier healing potions were heaven-sent treasures! "Each item has an exnation inscribed on them. You can test it, but we don''t want to lose money." Ely tapped the table again for attention. Griz gulped his saliva. These nine-tailed foxes had his curiosity, but they now gained his full attention. "This... Is it possible for you to sell some life-saving items directly to our auction house? We will offer you a sky-high price that will satisfy you." Ely was silent for a moment. This Grande Auction House was supported and protected under the banner of an 8th Rank ferocious beast, the overlord of the surrounding mountains, and some mysterious experts. Since those old monsters would also be present at this auction, why did she need to sell the items directly to the auction house? It waspletely unnecessary because the main goal was not money. "Fufu, that depends on how you perform as the auctioneer. Isn''t it lovely to see them in the bidding war? Please update your auction item list and announce the new items." Ely unfolded her purplish- blue folding fan to cover her mouth. ? "Well then..." Griz was fully aware. More prominent audiences would be eager to participate after the updated list was released and announced. However, the bidding war would be very intense in due course. After all, the highest items initially would be auctioned were only three A Rank, top-tier life-saving treasures. However, it would be two S Rank, Super-tier life-saving potions! "Is it possible that you concocted these Super-tier potions, Lady Kitsune?" A weird idea suddenly came to Griz''s mind. *Fwoop!* The calm atmosphere suddenly became stifling. Griz''s 5th-rank cultivation base was suppressed beyond measure by Yuuki''s 10th- rank pressure. "!!!" Griz froze in his seat, unable to move or breathe. It was also hard for him to think clearly because he felt frozen in his soul. Fear crept up from deep within his soul and reminded him of one thing: the ones before him were the legendary nine-tailed foxes. Demon foxes, spirit foxes, fox demi-human, and their kin were long known for their beauty and body constitution craved by many. Whether male or female, they had been hunted by many powerhouses since ancient times to be concubines, ves, or just furnaces to improve one''s cultivation. The fox-kin fled to an uninhabited secret realm and sealed it for eternity for safety reasons hundreds of years ago. Because of that, the fox-kin had long been considered extinct from the mortal world, leaving only a few low breeds with inferior bloodlines. However, a powerful nine-tailed fox appeared five years ago and shook the cultivation world with her unfathomable prowess. That was the beginning of the nine-tailed fox bing one of the legendary creatures. ? Then, the ones before him... Griz could finally connect the dots, but he had almost passed out. "Don''t you dare have any weird ideas. My little sister proposed a win-win deal. You only need to agree. No need for unnecessary questions." Yuuki spoke in a cold tone. Her cold aura spread through the room subconsciously. "Elder sister, calm yourself down. He is a merchant, and it is only natural to have a business mind." Ely extended her hand in front of Yuuki. She then bowed slightly after Griz was released from Yuuki''s pressure. "My apologies for my elder sister''s impulse, Mister Griz Kwiecinski.n0veIfullb00k top update ce The answer to your question, yes, I am a pristine alchemist from the Sacred Sakura Holy Land. All items that I want you to auction are my products." "Cough, cough! Yes, thanks for enlightening me, Lady Kitsune. Since you can concoct Super-tier potions, is it safe for us to refer to you as the S Rank alchemist?" Griz rubbed his neck with a pale face. He had someints, but he didn''t dare to voice them. However, these nine-tailed foxes were from a holynd!? "Yes, that''s good." Ely nodded in agreement. It was her intention, and everything was still going ording to her expectations. Griz then discussed a bit with the S Rank alchemist regarding the auction that would be held in two days. He then applied for a blue diamond card in Lady Kitsune''s name. He also gave an entrance ticket for the exclusive auction event, but Ely refused because it was VIP room number one. She asked for another VIP room to spark less hassle. "You can use the card to enter the auction event anytime at any branch of the Grande Auction House. This is a VIP room ticket." Griz put a golden ticket with a crown symbol and the number eleven. "It''s a pleasure to do business with you. We will collect the money after the event is over. This will definitely be more lively and fun~" Ely chuckled elegantly. She then bid her farewell to the auction house''s manager. "10th Rank expert and S Rank alchemist. I need to urgently investigate the Sacred Sakura Holy Land. But this is the first time I''ve heard of that name. Preferably, I also need to contact my lord immediately. Two nine-tailed vixens. The world could go awry because of them, gulp..." Griz knew the entire city would be shaken by the two nine-tailed foxes'' presence. He still couldn''t figure out their real intentions, but he had the wild guess they were doing things just for amusement. The auction event could be out of hand anytime, so he contacted many allies for help. Chapter 48 Calm Before the Storm ? 48 Calm Before the Storm Many people gathered in front of the auction house as they hoped to see the presence of the legendary nine-tailed foxes. However, they could only see the nine-tailed foxes enter the auction house and nevere out. Even though there was some dissatisfaction, everyone was surprised after the auction house announced the new items to be auctioned in two days. The ones waiting at the auction''s peak were no longer three A Rank life-saving treasures but two S Rank super life-saving potions! The description of those potions was exaggerated. That was what everyone thought at first, but it was identified by the experts and guaranteed by the 8th Rank overlord, the Grande Auction House''s backer! Therefore, the news was soon spread like wildfire. Everyone was excited to join the event even though they didn''t have tickets. The hidden powerhouses and old monsters from distantnds even sent their envoys to win the Super-tier potion. While everyone was busy with their respective affairs, Ely slipped away from the auction house. She and her little group had booked a cabana room at a reputable hotel in the downtown area. It was a type of room of about fifty square meters with a private pool next to the bedroom, separated by a thick ss wall. Ely''s other disciples already arrived there. "Hehe~ Everything went ording to master''s n." Jophiel peeked out the window as she eavesdropped on the people''s conversations outside with her amplified sense of hearing. "We will be idle for two days." Ely sipped her warm blue tea. "Blue tea?" Remiel nced down at the tea in her hand. It was like blue juice plus milk instead of tea. "That is Lingnania Tropical Blue, an authentic tea. Originally, it was the wild herb that Elder Yuuki identally found in the Demon Realm. However, those herbs are part of our tea garden now." Ely was pleased to know her family owned one more type of tea. "Hum." Yuuki replied with a subtle nod. "..." Uriel was still somewhat wary of the new Elder. Unlike her master''s new identity, Elder Yuuki was a genuine legendary nine-tailed fox. To think her master would attract a legendary creature and appoint this 10th Rank expert as an elder... She had faith in her master''s judgment, but that differed from her trust in new people. To put it bluntly, she still couldn''t trust this snow fox, even though Yuuki was her master''s sworn sister and a long-lost friend. The water spirit returned and reported the recent news to Ely. Those troublemakers would make their move soon because Ely and Yuuki''s whereabouts were exposed. "Understood. Thank you, water spirit." Ely patted the water bundle, and then the water spirit left happily. "We will y a little hunting game soon. They will probablye for us tonight." Ely announced that casually and then sipped her tea again. The event was precarious, but there was no sense of urgency. "Tonight, huh. Alright, I shall deal with them as nned. Jophiel will move with me." Yuuki closed her eyes, periodically scanning her surroundings. "Eh? M-me? What are we going to do?" Jophiel pointed at her face. "Just assist me. Your charms and illusions wille in handy!" Yuuki opened one eye to nce at Jophiel. She then heaved a subtle sigh and looked at Ely. "Ely, you are no longer using Miko, but Kitsune? How many stage names do you n to use?" ? "It''s just to suit my new identity. Miko is a shrine priestess, and Kitsune means fox spirit, simr to Gumiho. It''s about time for Sacred Sakura Holy Land to be known to the world."Author updates n0VelfuIlb0ok Ely had thought about it and felt she couldn''t use the name Miko for her current identity. It was exclusive to the shrine priestess version of her. "So it''s like that." Yuuki understood Ely''s thoughts. She admired Ely''s ability. Ely''s transformation skill was beyond amazing, more fabulous than her innate talent to change form. "Hmm-mm~" Jophiel was in a good mood and hummed melodiously. She went behind Remiel and touched that fluffy wolf tail. As she thought, her master''s fluffy fox tails were the best. "What is it, sixth sister?" Remiel nced back with a clueless expression. "No, it''s nothing. So, how about your treasure hunt? Did you get what you hoped for?" Jophiel nced at Yuuki''s fluffy snow-white tails. She wanted to touch them, but she didn''t dare. Thus, she approached her master for more-move. "Everything was good until the evesting earthquake urred. We were forced to escape that unexplored secret realm for safety reasons. Look, the fifth sister is still in a bad mood." Remiel pointed at the gloomy Uriel. "Well, everything is good. We plundered the entire mine there. I''m confident of securing the top ten spot. Remi gets a share, and with the addition of her prey, she can also enter the top ten. How about you, Jophi?" Uriel waved her hand to reassure everyone, as she didn''t want to look crummy. "I''m good, but my gain may be far above yours. Also, my talent will rank up soon and rival first sister and second sister! The time for me to shine wille soon~" Jophiel was overjoyed by her hunch. ? She was already in the 3 Stars talent''s bottleneck, and it was so close to ranking up. As her master said, once she achieved SSR talent, she could control her bloodline power better! "W-what?" Uriel was stunned. The first person to receive a talent rank-up was Rafa. However, Jophiel got that welfare too? Uriel suspected the secret was always with her master. Her master gave some assistance to raise Jophiel''s talent qualifications. There were already two disciples in SSR rank talent, which would soon be three or maybe more. With that thought in mind, Uriel couldn''t wait for her lucky encounter under her master''s tutge. She wished for her master''s private pointer like what Jophiel got too! Her master was always fair and kind. All the disciples would get their chance. "Fufu~ You''re feeling jealous. You can only reach four stars or above if you''re a good girl. ming you for always bullying me~" Jophiel poked Uriel''s cheek as sheughed with satisfaction. It was rare she could tease her fifth sister like this. "Uh, we cultivate our path to immortality together. So, you won''t ascend by yourself. It''s only a matter of time. Go away. Your smug face pisses me off. I''m afraid I''ll pull your veil and scratch your face identally." Uriel pushed Uriel away. "Fufu, look what the fifth sister is doing. She just isn''t being honest." Jophiel fled to her master''s side with the joyousughter of a cheerful little girl. "Um, it''s only a matter of time... Ely got a little cold feet. She couldn''t predict what would happen if her disciples ascended and became immortals, but she remained at Oth Rank. Her pretentious manner might be exposed, and they would ascend to the Divine World, leaving her behind. Before that happened, she had to upgrade her stats as soon as possible and unseal her Goddess Master. After all, her disciples were unlikely to help her and be with her forever. Even if her pretending as a powerful master was not exposed, it would also be a matter of time for a mother to see her children leave her. They would grow up and obviously pursue their careers and futures in the vast outside world. Ely felt a little sad at that thought, but she buried it deep in her heart. Yuuki noticed Ely''s change in expression. She could guess a few things because she had carefully observed Ely. There was something that made Ely feel sad, and that was rted to Ely''s disciples. She was aware that Ely revived the Guardian of Dream so those disciples could help some of Ely''s goals. However, there also existed a noble cause where they wished to eliminate the Heavenly Demon''s seeds from the mortal world and, perhaps, exterminate the Heavenly Demons. "Ely, I''m already an elder, but I still don''t know about your disciples. Can you borate more about your ten core disciples and the others?" Yuuki tried to divert Ely''s attention to something else. "Mm, there are ten core disciples, known as Apostles, and 144 disciples. They have been running the Guardian of Dream for thest three years, and I believe they already have thousands of employees in total." Ely then shared some details about the ten Apostles and her outstanding disciples. As for the Guardian of Dream''s affairs, she didn''t know much about it because she left everything to Gabrie. Rafa assisted the leadership, but they weren''t around to help her exin. ? They also have yet to share detailed information about the Guardian of Dream''s scope of influences. However, their career and business were booming since their organization covered almost every city in the Human Realm. It was fair to say the Guardian of Dream had be something like an internationalpany with many subsidiaries. "Hum~" Yuuki understood many things from Ely''s point of view and wished to talk to all of Ely''s core disciples too. She already knew Jophiel was good for Ely''s cause and future. However, two others were also present here. She would take the liberty of having a private chat with them soon. Chapter 49 Conflicted and Complicated ? 49 Conflicted and Complicated The city has be more lively and bustling because of the Grande Auction House''s new announcement. Far away, people came, whether it was using teleportation arrays or simply using air transportation. People on flying swords, flying boats, flying chariots, etc. More representatives from prominent ns and renowned sects would also attend the auction. Amidst the crowd, three white tiger demi-humans had just arrived at Sumore Forest City. Bai Yuchen brought his newly recovered grandfather and little brother because he had business here. Yet, he couldn''t leave them in the sect due to some security reasons. "Big brother, the people in this forest city are so crowdy. It''s very different from our sect. There are so many people and stalls here!" The tiger cub cheered. He was smol and could barely see his surrounding because of many passers-by, but he looked happy because it looked like a festival. "Don''t wander around, Bai Liang. Here, let me carry you on my shoulder." Bai Yuchen was worried that his little brother would get lost in the crowd. Thus, he carried the young tiger on his shoulders. "Wow, is this a festival? Can I buy that? Those candied apples look delicious..." Bai Liang looked around with sparkling eyes. He then wiped his saliva when he found the nearest stall. The old white tiger tapped his grandson on the shoulder with his wooden cane. "Don''t cause trouble, little cub." "Haha, it doesn''t matter, grandfather. It''s just candied apples." Bai Yuchenughed lightly. He had just be a multi-millionaire. He could say goodbye to his miserable life. ? This old, frail white tiger was his savior when he was crippled, dying, and thrown into the middle of the forest. He was still a human back then, but this old white tiger still chose to help him. Due to that kindness and sincerity, he already regarded this old white tiger as his grandfather, then the tiger cub Bai Liang.... his new family of three. He even shared the same surname with them by chance. Only his new family knew he was actually a human. His white tiger disguise was wless and indiscernible to the sect''s elders. After buying two candied apples, Bai Yuchen went to book a room at a nearby inn. However, every inn was fully booked. "Sorry, young man. But, all rooms are booked." The receptionist couldn''t help with anything. "What? This is already the eighth inn. This is an inn on the outskirt, and everything is also fully booked?" Bai Yuchen couldn''t believe his heaven-defying luck would hit rock bottom now. "I can do nothing even if youin, young man. This city became bustling because of the festival, and it got even busier because of the grand auction." The receptionist shrugged her shoulders. "Cough, cough..." The old white tiger coughed. "Grandfather, you must be tired. Please have a seat and drink some water first." Bai Yuchen led his grandfather and little brother to the nearest bench. ".." The receptionist felt somewhat sympathetic. No rooms left, but she could spare an empty warehouse space that she could convert into lodging if the other party was willing. She proposed it to the white tiger boy, and he readily agreed without further ado. ? It was tiring to look for amodation space, and he probably would never get a simr deal anywhere. Not to mention, the room was pretty cheap! Well, even though it was cheap, the newly converted room was decent enough for three people to live in for a few days. "Grandfather Bai Chang, please have a rest. Bai Liang, please look after grandfather and don''t wander anywhere before I return. The bustling city is dangerous." Bai Yuchen prepared to go out. "Roger, big bro. Please be careful too." Bai Liang replied with a salute. "There are many crouching tigers and hidden dragons. I can feel there are many unfathomable experts in this city. Go for your objectives, but don''t cause trouble." Bai Chang pped his wrinkled hand as hey on the bed. "Understood. If you need anything, please call the receptionist. Then, I''m off." Bai Yuchen raised his hand in farewell, then left. He went to buy some materials that he could only find in major cities. Yet, he identally overheard the rumors about the auction that would be held in two days, then the arrival of two legendary nine-tailed foxes. Therefore, he picked several items to buy while approaching the chattering beast folks. He then decided to ask. "Excuse me, bro. May I know more about the legendary nine-tailed foxes you are talking about? That''s not one, but two?" "Oh, you must have juste like us. I don''t know the details, but two legendary nine-tailed foxes are present in this city. One is as pure as snow white, and the other is as mysterious as the darkness of the night. Their appearance is rumored to be that of peerless beauty." ? "Tch, I''m afraid that a mess will ur soon. Not to mention the new items in the auction. This can''t be an exclusive event anymore. Do you know, I saw several Emperor''s chariots and super flying boats already entered this forest city." "So, those Emperors and renowned families have also arrived in this city? Holy cow, no wonder the situation has be so tense." "Do you think those new people came because of those Super-tier potions?" "I''m notpletely sure of that. I suspect they came for the nine- tailed foxes. Don''t underestimate the power of the horny and lecherous old monsters." "Wow, that''s so sick. Will other legendary creatures appear, then? It will be a disaster." "Who knows, but the ancient secret realm is about to open. Geniuses below 6th Rank are allowed to participate as agreed upon by the three major realms." The beastfolks were too engrossed in their conversation and identally revealed some information that should be pretty sensitive.n0veIfullb00k t0p update ce. However, it was a cultivator specialty shop, and what they said was also a public secret now. So, no problem. Bai Yuchen excused himself and immediately purchased his selected items. They were expensive, but he was still a multi- millionaire, thanks to his previous loot. At that moment, his mind was going somewhere. The one that made a fair trade with him in that forest a few days ago was a nine-tailed fox with fur as dark as night. He had thought they would meet again, but who would have thought she was being targeted by many parties now. Life wasn''t easy, and she would be in danger. ? Not to mention, an ancient secret realm was about to open. He should find out more information about it. However, his thoughts and conscience were conflicted and becameplicated. On the one hand, he wanted to warn that nine-tailed shadow fox and help her out, but on the other hand, he shouldn''t get involved because it was none of his business. He was only a 3rd Rank crook... He would only suffer and possibly die if he was involved in the sh between hegemony. However, she left a good impression that he could never forget. She saved his life and his grandfather''s life with that life-saving potion. "Ugh, I might have gone crazy." Bai Yuchen ruffled his hair. He went out on a limb for his own peace of mind. After all, it would be a significant loss if such a kind, fair, and beautiful big fox sister fell into the hands of those lecherous old monsters. If there were anyone who had to suffer, then they should be selfish, greedy, and evil people. The bright white sky typical of the Northern Realm gradually became the night sky full of stars. The festive lights illuminate the city to apany the festival of the exclusive weeks. Bai Yuchen went to several ces to find the nine-tailed shadow fox, but he couldn''t find her whereabouts or news. His luck couldn''t help him either. In the past few hours, he had collected enough information about the ancient secret realm that would open in 25 days on the border between the Human Realm and the Demon Realm. He would go there when the time came, but his current matter made him uneasy. It was like the calm before the storm. So many experts gathered in one city as if they were going to do something big, but being oblivious to the actual situation irritated him. He had better get his grandfather and little brother out of the city immediately so they wouldn''t be caught in the mess. Chapter 50 Capture the Hunters 50 Capture the Hunters "Are you sure the cold vixen and her sister are there?" "Yeah, that snow-white nine-tailed fox and her little shadow fox sister were seen by scouts. They are heading to a remote district on the outskirts." "They seem to have just shed with another team." "Then, what are we waiting for? Let''s catch them before anyone does. I hear they are extraordinarily beautiful and have heavenly-ss physiques. We might be able to have a taste for the younger one." "Are you nuts!? That dark midnight nine-tailed fox is cold vixen''s little sister." "No, that makes sense. Elder Fiery Bear and Great Elder Grieved Panda only want the older one. So, as long as we can kidnap the snow-white beauty, we can do anything with the dark midnight lil beauty." "Keke, let''s do it then. We can make her a good furnace and an obedient ve." "Let''s move. The Green Snake Emperor will assist us in this operation, and two Demi-God Elders will back us." Several experts d in navy blue robes had a brief discussion on the roof of a building. They then rushed south to follow the cold vixen''s aura. "!!!" Bai Yuchen was still hiding by the pile of trash, with his presence and breath hidden. No one noticed him there, and he managed to eavesdrop on a surprising conversation. He was there because he felt the several experts'' sudden arrival, and he hid for safety reasons. Regardless, he felt the need to follow those bad guys right now. Their target was the same shadow fox who had helped him in that forest. However, he thought again whether it was worth it. Even so, his feet had already guided him south to a remote area on the outskirts. *ng* *ng* *Thud* Several sparks could be seen in the distance, and several loud thuds followed shortly after. That night was quiet, but the noise of the experts'' battle ended before it started. No one could tell whose side had the advantage. Yet, Bai Yuchen widened his eyes in surprise when he found more than twenty Spirit Transformation experts and above already lying on the ground. They were all already battered and unconscious. The beautiful nine-tailed shadow fox was nearby. She didn''t make any effort to take down many experts in a matter of seconds. There were also two veileddies, but their cultivation realm was still at Nascent Soul. So, it was clear the legendary nine-tailed shadow fox was just too overpowered. ''I worry for nothing. She is targeted by many people because of her beauty and body, but she is strong enough to protect herself.'' Bai Yuchen smiled wryly and shook his head. --- "Loot all their possessions to prevent resistance. Tie them tightly and throw them into the hostage pouch." Ely wiped her wooden wand with a handkerchief. After draining the enemies'' spiritual energy, she retrieved her green lotus artifact. With no qi or mana, these offenders couldn''t do anything even if they wanted to. "Master, why don''t we just kill them? It''s so cheap for them to be left alive." Remiel needed to understand why they would do such a hassle. Killing enemies was doing good for oneself. "Fufu, they are still useful." Ely replied with a subtle smile. She thought everyone already knew her intentions. Once they killed the younger ones, the older ones woulde for revenge soon after. And once the older ones were defeated, the much, much old monsters would definitelye to make trouble. So, it was much better to take lots of hostages than to kill them. They could ask for a ransom or something else. However, she would think about thatter, depending on the future development of the situation. "O-oh~ Master is wise." Remiel nodded as if she understood her master''s intention. She wasn''t good at thinking profound ns, but these ignorant beastfolks might be bargain chipster. For this reprisal operation, she only had to follow her master''s orders without question. "Keep moving and put them in the pouch." Uriel smacked her junior sister''s back. "Ouch. Uh-huh, alright." Remiel didn''t speak anymore and immediately moved. Once the unconscious offenders were secured, they prepared to catch up with Yuuki and Jophiel. "Hmm?" Ely nced aside as she caught a shadow of someone near the hidden alley. He was about to run away, but she called out to him with immediate threats. "Take one step, and no one can guarantee your safety." "!!!" Bai Yuchen didn''t dare to sneak away. "Oh, it''s you, little guy. What are you doing in a remote area like this? Are you one of them?" Ely didn''t expect to meet the young hero here. She had a good impression of him, but it was another matter if he was in the same group as the bad guys. "Ah, no-no, my fairdy. I was passing by. Anyway, it''s a pleasure to meet you again. I want to express my gratitude to you. Because of your potion, my grandfather has recovered from his illness." Bai Yuchen waved his hands frantically. He didn''t want this fierce fox sister to misunderstand. "Is it? I will believe you because you do not harbor malice. So, you are not one of them. However, it would be best to stay out of this mess, little guy. If possible, get out of this city as soon as possible. Their only targets are me and my sister." Ely tapped her folding fan to her chin. "Uh, yeah, thanks for your reminder. But, will the entire city''s people get involved in this mess?" Bai Yuchen rubbed the back of his head. "No, why did youe to that conclusion?" "Hehe, the situation is not as simple as it seems. And the battle within the city has already happened. So, I can''t help but think in that direction." "Hmm, but we never know what those bad guys will do. We want to live peacefully and happily, but they are hunting us. If they want to cause destruction in the city, wouldn''t a certain Emperor and his ancestor intervene?" "That makes sense." "You need to leave immediately, little guy. This is just the beginning of the battle between the holynds." Ely turned around as she couldn''t waste time here. Yuuki and Jophiel might need some assistance. "W-wait, at least, please leave your name, fairdy." Bai Yuchen called out in a hurry. "Kitsune." Ely responded briefly without looking back. She returned to her disciples'' side, then the wind spirit took them away. They disappeared amidst the dark night sky. "Kitsune, huh... Such a wild yet lovely name." Bai Yuchen stared at the twin moons in the night sky. Her problem was much moreplicated than he thought. Apparently, she had everything nned to strike back at her enemies. "Sigh..." Bai Yuchen sighed because he had yet to appreciate Lady Kitsune''s mythical, ethereal beauty. That was all those bad guys'' fault. He finally understood the real meaning behind the disaster-level beauty that could topple an Empire just because of her beauty. Such a beauty came out to have fun. Yet, many evildoers immediately hunted her because of their desire, lust, and selfishness. If only he was stronger, he could protect her from harm. "What I am thinking." Bai Yuchen shook his head, but his objective of getting stronger increased by one. It was not just about revenge but the strong desire to protect the ones he had to protect. --- "Hey, I sensed the Elder Celestial Fox''s aura at thirty degrees north, about six hundred meters away." "Are you sure she is there?" "Yeah, looks like those brutes have made their move." "Then, we also need to go there soon." Severaldies d in bluish-white robes with ice cloud patterns rushed to the north. --- "Master, who is that person? He looks like a tiger-kin, but his tiger smells are weird." Remiel looked back, but that person had already left. "He is a young hero that I met on a trip to the snowy mountains four days ago." Ely exined a bit. "A young hero?" Uriel could interpret her master''s statement as a shocking revtion. "What''s wrong, fifth sister?" Remiel didn''t understand why Uriel had such a surprised yet enlightened expression. "Master referred to him as a young hero. So, he could be a lucky reincarnation of a God, right?" Uriel spoke in a whisper-like voice. She felt they had to keep an eye on that white tiger boy. "Huh-ueh!?" Remiel was taken aback. "!?" Ely was also surprised, but her expression remained calm. Uriel had said it, and she felt it made sense now. Maybe, and that could be... That boy was the reincarnation of a God. Lost Prayer referred the young hero to him, but she wasn''t so sure either. Well, she would find out the truth in the future. At least, the impression at their meeting wasn''t a bad one. "Master, do we need to dispatch a team to keep an eye on him?" Uriel inquired, but that sounded more like asking permission. "No need, at least not now." Ely didn''t want to involve herself in double trouble. They were still busy right now. Chapter 51 We didnt come Unprepared 51 We didn''te Unprepared Ely managed to take down the previous bad guys easily thanks to her Mortal Field passive skill, then with an ambush attack assisted by her disciples. Her attack was mediocre, but it was still super effective, especially with the help of the holy artifacts. She had just arrived where Yuuki and Jophiel were, but the situation there seemed somewhat ambiguous. The enemies'' faces looked dreamy, their smile was a bit weird, and they rolled their eyes up in a trance as if they had just reached the peak of pleasure. Nevertheless, the enemies had already fallen into Jophiel''s illusion. No battle urred. "You''re back, Ely. They only sent the small fish." Yuuki greeted. She didn''t need to make her move as Ely''s disciple was capable. "Ahem, yeah, you''re right. But what''s with this situation?" Ely nced at Jophiel. "I, I just amplify the random desire. I don''t know, I don''t know they will be like that." Jophiel blushed badly from embarrassment. She hoped the amplified desire was depression orziness, but that was another kind of lust amplifier bullet. "Alright, knock them out." Ely only gave short orders, and her disciples did their jobs nimbly. "People from Frozen Cloud asked me to return, but I refused. They also said they would allow you to enter as my direct disciple. It seems the pce has split into two factions. Please treat them with a little consideration. They are not that bad." Yuuki tugged at the hem of Ely''s sleeve. "Alright." Ely nodded in understanding, and her disciples spared the people from Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce. However, the enemies were still tied up like prisoners and thrown into the hostage pouch after Ely drained their spiritual power to prevent resistance. "Let''s go back." Ely breathed a sigh of relief. Yet, someone suddenly descended from the sky andnded near them. The green-scaled big guy floated three centimeters above the ground. He swung his giant mace and set up a barrier to seal any escape path. "Why are you in such a hurry to leave, beautifuldies? The night is still young." *Swoosh!* Yuuki made her move before the dust faded, but the other party reflected her ice bullets, and the rest stopped mid-air. Her ice then spiked up and sealed the enemy''s lower half, but it copsed a secondter. "Keke, you''re surprised, right? Even though you''re a Demi-God, we didn''te unprepared. Thanks to a particr magic item, I can suppress your ice abilities." The Green Snake Emperor sneered as he pointed at the magic item on his chest. He then nced at the nine-tailed shadow fox, the younger sister of his primary target. He immediately slithered super fast to take her hostage. "!?" Ely''s self-defense instinct kicked in. Her wless Perception was effective for the two-meter radius with her as the pivot. Time passed so slowly, almost to the point of time stopping, and the big green snake guy tried to catch her in slow motion. Her movement was also quite slow within her wless Perception scope of the domain, but it was still faster than the big bad guy. She used her Gohei to precisely smack his smug face hard on the 13:39 cheek. *Smack* *Bam* *Whamp* The big bad guy received tremendous spiritual damage. Moreover, Yuuki and Ely''s disciples beat up that big guy mercilessly. He staggered from the impact and fell like a broken doll. He was knocked out. "Whew..." Yuuki was ready to use her extreme ice secret technique to protect Ely. Yet, Ely was more capable than she thought. She knew Ely was the evil nemesis. Ely''s attack was simple and could barely deal any damage. However, the impact multiplied many times depending on the enemy''s evil. Not to mention, the damage bypassed any defense and directly hit one''s spirit and soul. So, no matter how strong the enemy was, as long as they were evil, they would suffer tremendously from Ely''s blow. Also, Ely''s evil suppression skill was beyond impressive. It was super effective at suppressing the evil''s overall strength to the mortal level. Qi, mana, and spiritual energy could also be sealed. It was just a simple smack from a wooden wand, a holy artifact, and the 8th Rank expert could do nothing against it. "Uh-huh, that surprised me." Ely breathed a sigh of relief. It was only natural to target the weakest one as a hostage. Her heart skipped a beat as it was truly dangerous. "He targeted the strongest one, thinking our master was easy prey to be taken hostage. This ugly guy just overestimated himself." Jophiel snorted sarcastically. "He is the Green Snake Emperor. The despicable, vicious, and poisonous snake-kin from the distant east. Allow me to handle him, Ely." Yuuki pulled Ely back to a safe distance. ''I''m sorry, but the weakest one is none other than me...'' Ely cried in her mind. She let Yuuki handle the rest. Yuuki then took all the artifacts and valuables from the Snake Emperor. She seized everything except his underwear. After that, she smacked him with an ice hammer to crush his scales until he was ck and blue. Once satisfied, she tied him tightly and handed him over to Ely. "Wow..." Ely didn''t want toment on anything, but she could tell Yuuki had a grievance with this Green Snake Emperor. She drained his spiritual energy, then threw him into the hostage pouch. "Let''s go back now." Ely checked her surroundings. The barrier was already copsed. There shouldn''t be any more threats lurking in the darkness. Ely, Yuuki, and the girls then left the vicinity. They returned to their hotel room after taking some precautions. --- "Phew, a warm shower after a tiring day is life. I''m sleepy now." Ely rubbed her eyes and yawned as she came out of the bathroom. "You can go to bed first, Ely." Yuuki patted the bed. "Um, I really appreciate it. Then, please excuse me." Elyy down on the bed and wrapped herself in a nket. It only took a few minutes, and she fell fast asleep. "Shall we go outside? I''m sure you want to discuss some things with me." Yuuki pointed her thumb at the private outdoor pool. "Hmm." Remiel nodded in agreement. She had been waiting for the opportunity to speak privately with this new elder. "OK." Uriel readily agreed. She wanted to know about something too. "What about me?" Jophiel pointed at her face with a confused look. They excluded her on purpose! "Take a good shower, sleep next to Ely, and look after your master well. Can you do that?" Yuuki opened the ss door and nced at the sleeping Ely. "Okay~" Jophiel readily agreed. Yuuki, Uriel, and Remiel sat on wooden lounge chairs by the pool. "Master is even willing to get involved in trouble and offend the two holynds just for you. However, may we know your intentions and goals?" Uriel didn''t beat around the bush and went straight to the main point. "Do you know why the nine-tailed fox is ssified as a legendary creature, but we are still hunted down by those people?" Yuuki was unhurried in her response. "That''s because nine-tailed foxes are famous for their prowess and unfathomable illusion. However, many people desired the fox-kin physique or body constitution?" Uriel was curious about the truth since information about the nine-tailed fox was scarce. "That''s because we are seen as precious Mythical-tier elixir to improve one''s cultivation by many powerhouses. They crave our beauty, body, blood, and soul to refine,monly known as the legendary furnace." Yuuki replied with a faint smirk, but her eyes shed a cold aura. "!!!" Uriel and Remiel gasped. They didn''t know it, but the truth was surprising beyond their expectations. So, Yuuki had lived a very difficult life. If this snow fox didn''t have unfathomable power, then it was clear the fate that would await Yuuki would be dire. No wonder the fox spirit and its kin were almost extinct in this Terra World... Their master tried to save Yuuki and punish the bad guys! "Ely is my sworn sister, long before you met her. However, an unexpected event separated us five years ago. Ely was a young human girl back then, and she was the first one who gave me warm shelter and taught me the meaning of life. She gave me a ce I can call home and invited me to her family." After saying that, Yuuki proceeded to ask Uriel and Remiel a few things. She wanted to make sure they were good variables for Ely''s causes. She had seen much tragedy and misery in the master-disciple rtionship. Because of that, she didn''t want Ely to suffer from betrayal or anything like that. Oh no, they have a method to suppress ice techniques. However, they chose the wrong opponent. ^^ Chapter 52 Wariness and Prejudice 52 Wariness and Prejudice Two days passed, and the first exclusive week auction would soon be held in the afternoon. Several factions sent their people to test the water in thest two days, but neither side got any results. Many parties sent people to scout or capture the nine-tailed fox sisters, but their people disappeared without a trace. The battle between powerhouses also didn''t ur. So, the leaders of the various factions could hardly understand what was happening. The fox sisters were still rxing in their hotel room while waiting for the auction, but none of the scouts returned as if they had disappeared from the world, but they weren''t dead. "No news from them?" The sad-looking old panda-kin chewed something with an irritated expression. "They mysteriously disappeared too, Great Elder Grieved Panda." The nearby cultivator responded respectfully. "Useless! It''s just a Demi-God cold vixen and her young little sister. How could they get rid of dozens of experts without causing anymotion!? Not to mention, several forces have also helped us! We have that magic item too!" The injured snow bearined angrily. "Elder is angry. The Green Snake Emperor and Elder Ferocious Tiger have already made their move but also mysteriously disappeared. Our allies are starting to ask for exnations because they think we are capturing their people." Another cultivator reported respectfully. "Calm yourself down, my nephew. I will surely catch them to be your ves soon. They need to pay for making you suffer." Grieved Panda frowned. "That cold vixen, she is so vicious. She didn''t hesitate to cripple me and freeze my dantian. She needs to ept my love and live a prosperous life as my wife, but she is ungrateful." Fiery Bear held his half-frozen belly. His crush threw him with a secret techniquest week, and he almost died in that icyke of death. If not for his life-saving heirloom, he would probably have frozen at the bottom of theke, and no one could find him. "Hmm, is it possible that Frozen Cloud is ying tricks on us? I heard they split into two factions. Is it true that that cold vixen was driven out of that pce? That is simply absurd." Great Elder Grieved Panda pondered for a moment. He suspected the Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce schemed something. The so-called good cooperation has been fake a long time ago. His nephew took a fancy to that cold vixen. He had pursued that woman for two years because of her body constitution. Still, a scheme was already going on behind the scenes of both holynds in the name of benefit. For the current situation, various forces from all over the Northern Realm have gathered in this city. So, other factions, especially the opposing ones, would likely have intervened from behind the shadows. The old panda then shared his thoughts with his nephew. They then came to a conclusion. Their sacrednd was being targeted by many factions, and those people would obviously be happy if they suffered a loss. The cold vixen and her sister reported never leaving the hotel. So, it was very likely that the sh had urred before their people could reach that ce. Also, the enemies came with an overwhelming force. Hence, it was reasonable their people could be taken care of without causing any significant fuss. There were some suspicions, but they didn''t dare to act rashly after suffering losses in the past two days. However, their current urgent objective was one. They had to win that Super-tier healing potion. So, the problem regarding the nine-tailed fox sisters would have to wait until the auction was over. While the people from the Tiangong Sacred Land were suspicious and uneasy, those on Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce''s side were also worried. Even though they were split into two factions, both sides kept Elder Celestial Fox''s breakthrough news a secret. Not to mention, the nine-tailed shadow fox was still so mysterious. No one dared to take open action because there were still too many unknown variables. It was already two days, but no one from the investigation teams managed to return to their respective secret base. Whether it was those who wanted to recruit the Elder Celestial Fox back or those with evil intentions. Because of that, the two factions decided to discuss the situation. "Do you think Elder Celestial Fox was the one who did it?" "I don''t think so. We sensed her aura several times even though it was faint, but she didn''t go to battle." "So, it''s probably a trap?" "Tiangong Sacred Land might be carrying out another dirty scheme." "That could be it. We received reports that Elder Celestial Fox and her sister never left the hotel for the past two days. The Sumore Forest City has be much moreplicated due to those Super-tier life-saving potions and more precious items." "Tch, that Tiangong Sacred Land might want to pit us? Ourrades disappeared overnight without us knowing why or how." "That''s too odd. However, is it possible for outside forces to interfere in this matter? After all, the fox-kin is high in demand, not to mention the legendary nine-tailed fox, the pure breed with superior bloodline." "The legendary nine-tailed fox will be hunted regardless of the danger. Our pce can''t even protect her properly. Elder Celestial Fox''s life is not easy." "But, what do we need to do? We can''t move now or even see the Elder Celestial Fox?" "Even the holynd needs to think twice before acting. After all, many Void Tempering Realm experts or above have gathered in this city." "If we act openly, our Immortal Pce''s reputation may be tarnished. We''re not Tiangong Sacred Land. Please move with caution." "We will inquire directly from Elder Celestial Fox after the auction this afternoon. You better not try to touch the young shadow fox and make things even more chaotic." "Hmph, you can''t manage us. We only cooperate to handle Elder Celestial Fox. She is a precious Great Ascension Realm expert. Ancestor even ordered us directly to bring her back~" "I''m serious, or I will draw my sword against you, you hear me. We can''t let our guard down even if we bring a force capable of toppling an Empire. This city is currently filled with many crouching tigers and hidden dragons." 13:40 "Tsk, fine." The Frozen Cloud''s experts had a brief discussion, and they would work together to bring back the Elder Celestial Fox for themon good. Although, the reason for their decision was somewhat different. Their losses were also significant, and the city''s current situation was unfavorable for their side. After losing more than two dozen precious experts above the 4th Rank, they could not make hasty movements. The risk was too great. "..." The Frozen Cloud''s saintess heaved a subtle sigh. The elders and the others had their own motives for this mission. This was the third time she hade down to the mundane world. This time, they were noting to solve a problem, bring justice, or something worthy of praise. They came as a problem to involve themselves in more significant trouble. That was her impression of their current situation. She was the prime disciple under the Pce Master. Still, she had nothing to say in this discussion because of her guilty conscience. She knew the Pce Master also had an ulterior motive for the Elder Celestial Fox. Elder Celestial Fox joined Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce because of an ''exchange''. That young nine-tailed shadow fox was actually innocent. Still, that pitiful girl received so much hate because of the ridiculous color discrimination in Frozen Cloud that had existed since ancient times. "Sigh..." The Frozen Cloud''s saintess sighed again, then looked up at the bright white sky. The weather was unbelievably good, but the atmosphere in this city looked chaotic, as if a storm was about to hit. She hoped they wouldn''t give the Elder Celestial Fox more trouble to the point of irreconcble hatred. Elder Celestial Fox''s little sister was also mysteriously strong. She prayed that no idiot from her group would touch that shadow fox. Even if the Elder Celestial Fox didn''t want to return, at the very least, they should develop good rtions, including with the shadow fox. Simr to the situation of the two holynds in response to the strange circumstances that had urred in thest two days. Other renowned sects and prominent ns also had their respective anxiety and suspicions. Not a single person from the investigation team reported anything back after trying to keep an eye on the nine-tailed foxes. Yet, the said targets never went out of the hotel room at all. ording to the emergency spy report, those nine-tailed foxes were rxing in the hotel, enjoying the mortal world''s VIP treatment. It was either a particr mysterious group that tried to protect the fox sisters or wished to im the fox sisters for themselves. No one held prejudice against the two nine-tailed foxes, even though one was known as the Celestial Fox, a Demi-God expert. After all, a Demi-God couldn''t possibly eliminate many Spirit Transformation Realm experts and above without causing anymotion. The day was bustling as usual, and the night was still as calm as ever. Most likely, the opposing forces targeting them had already taken care of their spies. Because of that mindset, each faction stared at the opposition forces with wariness and prejudice. Chapter 53 Mood Swing ? 53 Mood Swing Ely and her three disciples carried out a wless kidnapping of suspicious people from various factions who were sent to spy on them or cause them harm. Yuuki was the damage dealer, while Ely and her three disciples were the support. Their actions managed to take down nearly 200 experts without causing anymotion. The ones with malice received a lot of beating, and those who came with suspicious intentions got a bit of leniency but were still beaten ck and blue. Either way, Ely''s disciples looted their hostage possessions for safekeeping. "As expected by master. The troublemakers only dare to move at night. They were like rats that had voluntarily walked into a trap. Those whoe during the day are just small fries." Jophiel was amazed by her master. "We have arrested 198 people from eighteen different factions. I''m sure their respective forces are panicking and suspicious of each other." Remiel covered her mouth as she almost couldn''t contain herughter. "Fufu, it''s all thanks to our master''s profound n. The wind spirit also ys an important role in ensuring our camouge." Uriel put the MVP to the wind spirit, but the one she mentioned was nowhere to be seen. "Uh, but Elder Yuuki sure is amazing. She is a 10th Rank expert for a reason." Jophiel still remembered how Yuuki froze many experts easily. Even a Demi-God couldn''t stand that extreme ice. "Mm, our master has a lot of good allies and friends too. We''ve only met one, but what about the others?" Remiel asked in wonder. "Our master is in mysterious conditions and circumstances. She was missing in action five years ago, and her friends have been looking for her until now. What actually happened to our master before we encountered her?" Uriel became very curious about her master''s background and story. Yet, she couldn''t interpret many things since her master never discussed them. In these three years, her master imparted considerable knowledge beyond mortalprehension. It was very useful foreign world knowledge, but it proved that her master was not from this world, and it was probably the upper realm. "Yeah, it would be great if our master told us a bit about her story too." Remiel''s wolf ears went limp as she was feeling a bit depressed. *Whamp* Jophiel gave a head chop to Remiel. "Don''t say it like that. Our master will tell us when it''s necessary. Our master is also our mama. She is so good and kind to us. We are still too weak and unprepared to know more about divine secrets. The time just hasn''te yet." "Ooowie, it hurts, Jophi..." Remiel held her head with teary eyes. "Mm, Jophi has a point. Anyway, the auction will start this afternoon. I don''t think those troublemakers will take action soon, but let''s see how they dance on our master''s palm." Uriel covered her mouth as she couldn''t help but grin. "Yeah, they thought everything was within their palm, but we''ve jeopardized their n. Hopefully, they''ve started attacking each other because of their prejudice and hostility." Jophiel grinned slyly. "Uuu..." Remiel didn''t understand what her sisters were talking about, but her master was the best of the best. It was just that her master hadn''t woken up yet. Yuuki was also still lying on the bed, sending and receiving some ice birds that frequently came in and out of the room. "Hmm..." Yuuki retracted back her spy ice birds. The n of pitting the enemies against one another effectively took effect in thest two days. Those evil factions red at the other forces with suspicion and prejudice. Those people thought the missing spies were the opposing party''s doing. Everything was still going ording to Ely''s prediction. So, for the time being, they would be safe. No one would dare make any big moves directly at them. However, she could tell a bigger mess would ur during or after the auction. She was sure Ely had predicted it. An S Rank alchemist, healer, and doctor... Ely took on those glorified nonbat roles because Ely would appear as an extremely precious asset that many forces would fight over. There were several taboos in the cultivation world, and some of them could even make the offender an enemy of the world. All factions would want to take Ely''s good side the moment that was revealed. After all, those cultivators and mages obviously need high- grade pills, potions, or elixirs to solve their problems. Moreover, the doctor... The S Rank alchemists in this Terra World could be counted on one hand, and the interests and honors of such a talent would obviously be protected by countless forces. So, at the end of the day, most likely, the Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce and Tiangong Sacred Land could only swallow their grievances back. "Fufu~" Yuuki couldn''t help but chuckle. "Uh-uuh..." Ely got up while holding her tummy as she felt unwell. "Ely, are you okay? Your face is a bit pale." Yuuki rushed to Ely''s side to check on Ely''s condition. "It''s okay, Yuuki. That''s just my monthly mood swing. Is it because I haven''t slept enough thest two days? Today isn''t good." Ely held her head. She felt her strange monthly phenomenon shouldn''t be happening right now, but it did. "Ugh, it''s already ten o''clock? You haven''t had breakfast yet, have you? We should order some breakfast first. The auction will start in four hours. We need to get ready quickly." Ely went to the bathroom to wash her face. Jophiel immediately caught up with her master in case her presence was needed. Her master was not feeling well, and that made her anxious. "Tell me the truth, Ely. I can see the spiritual energy in your body is a bit chaotic. The so-called mood swing is a result, not a cause! Yuuki sent a telepathy direct to Ely''s mind as she felt something was wrong. "I don''t know either, Yuuki. It''s been a monthly mood swing for years already. The result may vary and be random. Do you know anything about these weird symptoms?" Ely peeked out of the bathroom.the s0urce 0f n0velfuIIbo0k She didn''t carry a telepathy talisman, so she answered directly with her mouth. "Well, I will find out soon. Stay close to me for this entire day. Today will not be peaceful." Yuuki nodded her head. Ely was also unsure of the reason, and she had to figure it out herself. Ely was not aplete human being, so finding the bottom of Ely''s monthly strange mood swing was difficult. Even so, Yuuki would still try and observe Ely closely. Jophiel was also clueless. She was sensitive and keen but also didn''t understand the cause of her master''s monthly mood wing. She found no significant difference from her master''s normal day. It was just that her master''s emotions could change so easily on the mood swing day. ? On that day, her master usually did fun things to improve the mood and remained in the humble abode for the whole day. However, they were currently in the middle of a troublesome event. So, she was worried that some troublemakers would trigger something they shouldn''t have done. The world would cease to exist if her master was truly angry and identally destroyed it! Jophiel had an unusually wild thought as she assisted her master back into bed. She massaged her master''s arms while asionally acting cute to entertain her master. "Phew, my mood improved greatly, thanks to you all." Ely was in a good mood. She praised her three disciples with appreciation. "Don''t mention it, master. Bad mood''s best friend is always sweets!" Jophiel devoured her shortcake with a sweet smile on her face. Uriel and Remiel nodded in agreement. The second best who understood their master''s feelings and needs was Jophiel. After lunch snack, Ely and her group left the hotel. Some crude spies were seen stalking them, but Ely ignored them because her mood was simr to sunny weather. "Halt! We-" *Bam* *sh* *Whack* Three big guys confronted Ely''s group, but Uriel got rid of them before those bad guys spoke any more nonsense. She was afraid that their master''s mood would be ruined. "Don''t bother us, thugs." Uriel snorted sarcastically and threw those thugs into the trash bin. She quickly returned to her master''s side. "What''s wrong with those people?" Ely nced back, but Yuuki pulled her hand so she would continue walking forward. "Those insignificant plebs worth no attention, master. They deserve to receive a few beatings and be arrested by the city guard." Uriel nodded in confirmation, but the so-called thugs could no longer be seen. "Good job, Uri-chan~" Jophiel gave a thumbs up. Ely''s group then boarded the giant beast transportation to the auction house. It only took a few minutes, and the people were already bustling there. More than four hundred people didn''t get an entry ticket. However, they didn''t give up easily because they might still have another chance even if they couldn''t be the bidders. ".." Yuuki spoke nothing, but she had prepared dozens of countermeasures. She was the first one to get off the pnquin and offered her hand to help Ely get down. "Thank you." Ely appreciated Yuuki''s consideration. The rumored legendary nine-tailed fox sisters soon caught everyone''s attention. The fox sisters'' breathtaking appearances caused almost everyone to take a moment to appreciate such a gorgeous sight. Chapter 54 Uninvited Guest 54 Uninvited Guest Hundreds of people talked about the fox sisters, but Yuuki and Ely ignored them and headed straight for the auction house. Experts from prominent ns and renowned sects were already present in the auction house, including the two holynds. "Who would have thought you woulde straight to this auction house. Do you also want to win that Super-tier healing potion?" The hunk brown bear crossed his arms, blocking the entrance. His four bear brothers stood beside her as if they had formed a bear wall to block the fox sisters from entering. "Who are they? Are they the auction house''s bodyguards or staff?" Ely pointed to the five muscr bear-kin in front. "They are that Fiery Bear''s underlings. We arrived quitete, and the major forces gathered inside." Yuuki spoke in a whisper-like voice. "!" The brown bear frowned. That shadow fox dared to treat him and his bros for auction house workers? "Oh, then what did they do by blocking the entrance? Can we push them away?" Ely lost interest. Those bears'' cultivation base was only at 4th Rank, and they were servants in that sacrednd. Since they weren''t the auction house''s staff, wasting time was unnecessary. "As your wish, little sister." Yuuki understood the meaning. She then made a simple swipe hand movement, and those bears were thrown aside. "Argh, I froze! Murder!" The ck bear screamed as half of his body was frozen by the cold qi. "Just melt it, and you will be safe. Your Great Elder even needs careful consideration before offending me, and who are you to confront me?" Yuuki threw several sharp ice des, and theynded near the terrified bears'' groins. Two of the five bears fainted on the spot due to mental pressure, and the rest immediately apologized. They never expected the snow fox to attack them publicly when the Great Elder Grieved Panda and the other elders were inside. However, those people did not evene out for them, though they were ordered to guard near the entrance... After the fox sisters and their beautiful servants entered the auction house, people outside returned to their senses. Such a terrifying dominance. That legendary nine-tailed snow fox was rumored to be a Transcending Tribtion Realm expert. Those bears were the servants of the sacrednd, but they were no more than pebbles in that snow fox''s eyes. From that exchange, everyone realized that the fox sisters were unafraid to provoke a holynd openly! ''They''re still trying to test the waters?'' Jophiel sent telepathy to her sisters with the talisman. ''What can we expect? A grand event is about to happen, but those small fries are nothing more than disposable pawns.'' Uriel softly snorted from behind her veil. ''Master is wise. Everyone dances on her palm.'' Remiel looked at her master''s back with sparkling eyes. "Achew..." Ely''s nose tickled from the dust, and she covered her mouth with a handkerchief. "Are you okay? Did you catch a cold, perhaps?" Yuuki thought Ely wouldn''t get sick, but she was still clueless about Ely''s condition. "No, I just sneezed. Thanks for asking, but I''m fine." Ely replied with a bright smile to reassure the worried Yuuki. The auction house''s staff then confronted them to check visitor tickets. Ely showed her VIP ticket, and an attendant immediately guided them to the VIP room. "They sure aren''t afraid of trouble, huh..." Bai Yuchen muttered softly in the waiting hall when he saw the fox sisters going to the VIP room upstairs. They were oblivious to his presence there, but he didn''t want them to notice him. "What are you looking at, boy? Are you mesmerized by those vixens'' beauty too?" The nearby cat girl pursed her lips as she pinched her friend''s arm. "Ouch, what are you doing, Hua Rong? Beauty is easy to attract attention, and it doesn''t hurt to have a look." Bai Yuchen rubbed his arm. It was really hurt. This new friend is fond of responding to various kinds of physical abuse. If she wasn''t the considerate person who helped him, he wouldn''t want to associate with her all this time. Well, but she was a pretty cat girl. So, he didn''t suffer a loss even though this cat girl was sometimes ridiculous. "But, those fox sisters are really unfortunate." Hua Rong sighed and looked at the stairs with pity. "What do you mean?" Bai Yuchen frowned. "I heard many old monsters want them as their furnaces, and the fox-kin race is almost extinct. And here are two legendary nine-tailed foxes. Do you think that the major forces and many foreign experts gathered in this city just for the auction''s items?" Hua Rong pointed her dainty finger at her eyes, then pointed at several suspicious people around the hall. "The fox sisters have fallen into a trap? Then-" Bai Yuchen''splexion paled instantly. "Don''t try to do anything ridiculous. It''s way beyond your capabilities. My n won''t be able to help you if you provoke those old monsters just for those fox sisters. Your lives are at stake. I''ve seen the legendary nine-tailed fox, and I''m satisfied. Come go to our bidder seat and win some good items." Hua Rong pulled her friend''s arm, or rather, she was dragging him away. "Hmm, they dare not pull a trigger or make any move? Too bad then." Yuuki muttered softly as they arrived at their VIP room without a hitch. "They will wait until the event is over. Despite all the risks involved, we will have many powerful experts on our good side." Ely looked at the auction hall through the ss wall. She was somewhat surprised that more than a dozen powerful experts above the 5th Rank had a favorability of over 50%. There was even an Emperor and a Demi-God with 70% favorability. "Esteemed guests, you can ce your bid with that bidder tool. The room''s ss can see out, but not the other way around. Your privacy is safe here." The staff gave a little guidance. "Good, you can leave now." Jophiel opened the door and asked the staff to leave. Once the outsider went out, Jophiel let out a soft sigh. She and her sisters were always out shadowed by their master and Yuuki regardless. The fox sisters'' presence was too bright, but to think those random people harbored some malicious intent was really irritating. She couldn''t wait to see them suffer. "You can bid whatever you want." Ely pointed at the bidder tool as she satfortably on the soft couch next to Yuuki. "Mkay~" Remiel replied with a salute. A few momentster, the auction started, and Ely''s disciples observed the items to be auctioned. They thought at least one or two things would catch their attention, but the reality said otherwise. What was auctioned in the event''s first half could be considered trash or even super trash. Their master''s failed product was even more impressive than those things. Because of that, the auction event quickly became nd. The Guardian of Dream has dozens of auction houses in the Human Realm. Their master also often entrusted some fantastic products to be auctioned every month. However, most of those products were won by the people from Guardian of Dream themselves. Ely''s disciples would not be easily impressed by the so-called precious treasures because their standards differed from those out there. "Huu... Huu..." Ely''s soft breath sounded melodious in Yuuki''s ear. Ely was currently asleep because the auction did make her sleepy. After all, she wasn''t there to bid anything but to wait for someone to bring money to her. "..." Yuuki nced to the side. Ely''s head was on her shoulder, and Ely also hugged her arm. This carefree girl fell asleep amid danger after putting all the chess pieces in a ce to sh... Once the auction event was over, it was apparent there would be countless experts blocking them from leaving. However, to be this rxed at knowing that Ely had prepared everything. As expected of the one whom she respected. *Knock* *Knock* Someone knocked on the door from outside, but Yuuki didn''t feel it was staff because she could feel a familiar breath and cold qi on the other side. It was a person from Frozen Could Immortal Pce. However, Yuuki felt astonished because there wasn''t a bit of negative emotion or hostility from the other party. The other party was only a Nascent Soul Realm expert. The most apparent aura from that person was anxiety and worry, but why did Frozen Cloud''s people feel like that? Regardless, Yuuki revoked the room''s barrier and opened the door for the guest to enter. "Please excuse me. I came alone to speak in peace. Please be merciful." The clear and tender voice came from the entrance. The uninvited guest? Ely''s disciple immediately turned to the Frozen Cloud''s people who dared toe here alone. "I didn''t expect you toe directly to us alone, Front Cloud''s holy saintess. Did Pce Master instruct you to do this?" Yuuki moved her finger, and the door immediately closed, and the room was sealed in the barrier again. Roses are red, a king has a crown Your life is a clock, and I''m counting down *insert menacing rumble* Chapter 55 Frozen Clouds Holy Saintess 55 Frozen Cloud''s Holy Saintess "What does the Frozen Cloud''s holy saintess want to do here? She is one of those targeting our master and her sister, right?" Remiel asked bluntly. She didn''t even hide her bloodlust and hostility. "Please don''t misunderstand. I came here to talk peacefully. Also, I was not instructed by anyone. This is my personal decision." The Frozen Cloud''s holy saintess grasped her fist and bowed slightly. "Say what you want to say, Shui Meiying. As you know, the Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce and I are not on good terms anymore." Yuuki secretly created an ice line between herself and the guest. "Elder Celestial Fox, I hope you can return to Frozen Cloud. Your sister can also join as your direct disciple. We only need to dye her hair and fur color, and everything will be fine. No one could voice anyint." Shui Meiying worked up the courage to request it frankly. "And you think I''ll agree to it? As Pce Master''s prime disciple, you should also know about my exchange with your master. Our deal is over, and I don''t have any reason to join Frozen Cloud." "This is not for exchange, but for real parts. Pce Master and ancestor will not treat you and your sister unfairly if youpletely be part of Frozen Cloud. We will protect you two with all our might." "Is that all you wanted to talk about? If so, please go. My little sister is asleep, and I don''t want you to disturb her." Yuuki nced back as she asked the guest to leave. Her answer was evident in her intonation and profound coldness. "..." Shui Meiying took a moment of silence. The situation was as she could have guessed. It was no longer possible for the Elder Celestial Fox to return to Frozen Cloud, and all of that was because of that shadow fox. Elder Celestial Fox loved her little sister far too much, and it got to the point she would leave everything behind for her little sister. And that little sister was sleeping even though the current situation was dire for these fox sisters. More than a dozen major forces would bring these fox sisters home by force. Not to mention the Tiangong Sacred Land''s obvious evil intention... Even though Elder Celestial Fox was a newly ascended Deity, it would be very difficult to face all the threats by herself, especially when Elder Celestial Fox needed to protect her little sister. "Did these years of sentiment mean nothing to you, Elder Celestial Fox? This is for the benefit of you and your little sister. If you be a rogue cultivator, you and your little sister''s safety will be in danger. At the very least, please reconsider, for your little sister''s sake as well." Shui Meiying felt a little sad. She had known the Elder Celestial Fox for more than three years, but she never expected that there wouldn''t be any sentiment left. "You don''t know a thing about us, it seems. Have they not told us anything about us? Shui Meiying, let me tell you a thing. I don''t intend to harm you or Frozen Cloud, but they brought it upon themselves. Let me give you a piece of good advice." Yuuki heaved a subtle sigh. This holy saintess was a good girl, but the environment didn''t support her. Pce Master cultivated this girl for a reason, but this girl was still oblivious to the truth. However, since that would only benefit this girl, she wouldn''t meddle. After all, she had other things to take care of. "Please enlighten me, elder." Shui Meiying''s eyes brightened as she felt Elder Celestial Fox was not so heartless. "Don''t involve yourself any further. Quickly step back and withdraw those who are willing to listen to you. This mess is not just about the two holynds and dozens of major forces. They have all underestimated us, and that will ruin them." Yuuki emphasized her sentence''s end as the most important one. "Meiying understands. Please be merciful and leave a way out for those stubborn elders. I beg you." Shui Meiying sped her fist and bowed again. "..." Yuuki remained silent, but her floating ice gestured for the guest to leave. "Uh-uhm... Fwahh~" Ely''s fox ears twitched as she woke up. She rubbed her eyes and yawned. "You awake?" Yuuki blinked her eyes in confusion. She was sure she had blocked the noises with her magic to not disturb Ely''s sleep. "Uh, I''m sorry, I fell asleep. Ah, I didn''t cause any inconvenience, right?" Ely apologized to Yuuki, then checked the auction event. Yet, she identally noticed the presence of a stranger in the room. "Who?" "It''s okay; you can lean on my shoulder whenever you want. She is Shui Meiying, the holy saintess of Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce." "Woah, holy saintess? I finally met one. She wasn''t in that great hall at the time. She also didn''t look hostile." Ely nced at Yuuki and Shui Meiying alternately. The Frozen Cloud''s holy saintess was also the embodiment of cold beauty. Long sparkling snow white hair, elf-like pointy ears, charming well-developed body wrapped in a bluish-white robe with a unique ice and fog pattern, and a mesmerizing appearance. Those magical icy blue eyes even resembled the luster of a sparkling gem. Ely had just yed the role of a holy saintessst week, and she finally found one for reference. At that time, she hadpletely immersed herself in her role, and her holy-like aura from dozens of artifacts helped her give off a sacred impression. However, this holy saintess from Frozen Cloud looked like a respected nobledy. So, she yed her game with an exceptional stst week? No wonder those people exaggerated things about her. "Ahem, since you''vee, why don''t you sit down, and we can talk about some things? I''m sure you didn''te to find trouble with us." Ely invited the guest to sit down. "This..." Shui Meiying hesitated. She nced at the Elder Celestial Fox awkwardly. "Fret not, we will not eat you. My name is Kitsune. Pleased to meet you, Lady Shui Meiying~" Ely pushed Shui Meiying from behind and motioned for the girl to sit down. She even brewed tea for her guest. "..." Yuuki felt a bit awkward. She had just sent Shui Meiying to leave, but Ely wanted this girl to stay. Therefore, she just remained silent to see what Ely wanted to do. "Here is your tea, please." Ely put the tea in front of her guest. "Y-yes, thank you." Shui Meiying was feeling a bit nervous now. She seemed unable to resist this shadow fox''s charm... She stole several nces to take a closer look at Elder Celestial Fox''s little sister. Her attention was frequently drawn to those mystic purplish-blue eyes. If she needed to put in one word to describe this shadow fox, then lovely would be the one that would best fit. However, how could the freezing-cold elder sister have a little sister with such a warm, sunny personality? "Hmm, you drank the tea without hesitation. Wouldn''t you suspect that I put poison in there? Your holynd gave us some trouble in the past few days. You know that, right?" Ely made a steeple of her fingers with a faint smile. "Cough! Cough..." Shui Meiying gasped and choked as a result. "Fufu, I was just kidding. It''s just pure blue tea. I''m sure you''d be more alert in a normal situation." Ely chuckled lightly. "..." Shui Meiying wiped her mouth with a handkerchief. To think she would be this careless and disy such unbing behavior. That was true, and she was usually so vignt. [Shui Meiying (FV: 2310) | 5th Rank Late Stage] [Favorability: 61%] [Talent: 4 Stars | SSR] Ely checked Shui Meiying''s status screen. This holy saintess FV almost rivaled Gabrie, and she knew this girl''s future was bright. Therefore, she''d better made more friends on this asion. Currying favor and having a good rtionship with future big-shot figures was always good. "Nee, can you please tell me more about you? I want to know~ What is your view of the holynd and the world like? Why do people in the holynd consider themselves above mortals, even though they are still mortals? Are--" Ely sat beside Shui Meiying and asked many things like a curious little fox. Shui Meiying was a bit overwhelmed, but she had no choice but to entertain this curious fox. Shui Meiying excused herself a few momentster because she couldn''t stay there too long. She managed to satisfy the shadow fox''s curiosity, which was how she could escape. "Thank you for your gift, Lady Kitsune. I will remember this favor." Shui Meiying bowed respectfully. It was truly mind-blowing. She also didn''t expect Lady Kitsune to be from a holynd. Sacred Sakura Holy Land... That name was overbearing because it contained sacred and holy merged into one name. However, it was her first time hearing of this name. Even so, she didn''t doubt it. However, those greedy and wicked people would involve in one more holynd. A particr sacred ce was also likely to join the chaoster. So, the future mess would involve three or four holynds and dozens of major forces. It was really terrible and made her scared. Frozen could have better withdrawn immediately to avoid excess losses. She did not expect to build good rtions with Lady Kitsune and the Elder Celestial Fox. This way, she was sure everything would be fine. A friendly holynd as an ally. "Hum, we may meet again soon." Ely waved her hand. She gave a protective talisman for the first meeting gift. "This junior is grateful, Lady Kitsune." Shui Meiying sped her fist to salute once more. "Fufu, you are a good and wise girl, Saintess Meiying. You can go now and be careful on the road. Please befriend our holy saintess if you meet her someday. Her name is Miko. You might be able to be a good friend with her." Ely covered her mouth with a folding fan. "Meiying is looking forward to that day." Shui Meiying then excused herself and left that room with the permission of Elder Celestial Fox as well. Let people underestimate you. That way, they''ll never know for sure what you''re capable of ^^ Nevertheless, more friends, more goodness~ Chapter 56 Bid War 56 Bid War "You also want that girl too?" Yuuki closed one eye, feeling a little doubtful. "Why does that sound a bit wrong? Saintess Meiying is good and has a bright future, unlike those greedy people with bleak insight." Ely shook her head and watched the auction event. It has reached the second half, and the precious items have begun to be taken out one by one. Thest jackpots would be auctioned off soon, and she was looking forward to making a few sparks. "..." Yuuki rolled her eyes. "That holy saintess is another chess piece for our master grand game. She may be of use to our master''s other identity." "Mm, our master is a shrine priestess too." "Anyway, Shui Meiying is no longer an enemy then. Let''s look forward to seeing her future performance." Ely''s three disciples had a brief secret discussion as if they fully understood their master''s intentions. The auction kept going. The twenty-eight items Ely put into this auction house livened up the atmosphere and added some pocket money. Spirit stones are ssified into ten tiers, with tier 1 as the highest. Each tier was ten times more valuable than the previous tier. For example, the tier 9 spirit stone has ten times more value than tier 10. Ten kilograms of tier 10 spirit stones are usually worth one kilogram of tier 9 spirit stones. However, it could also depend on the market situation. Sometimes, stocks were scarce, and prices skyrocketed. There were also high-tier spirit stones that money couldn''t buy. The jackpot has yet toe out, and it was estimated that Ely could bring eight kilograms of tier 3 spirit stones home. If it was converted into the world''s universal currency... Ely''s brain stopped working to calcte it. She didn''t even know the actual value of money. She only knew about the spirit stone, the valued currency for anything rted to magic and cultivation. Her organization and disciples were prosperous, and she rarely bought anything with her money. They paid everything for her. Metals, minerals, and spirit stones were precious. Owning several mines was the same as having great wealth for multiple generations. Ely has never even tried to calcte her overall wealth. Not to mention the Guardian of Dream''s total assets. She needed to supply much spiritual energy for more than two hundred top-tier holy artifacts or above. There were also 154 talented disciples to feed. Because of that, she always craved more resources because the total need was enormous. "Hm-mm~" Ely waited until the final item was brought to the stage. It was two Super-tier healing potions that would be auctioned separately. "Ladies and gentlemen, we have reached the event''s peak, and the final item has finally arrived on the stage. We have two Super-tier healing potions concocted by an S-Rank pristine alchemist! Whether lifting a curse, curing sickness, returning one to full health, opening meridians, repairing broken dantian, or even increasing one''s lifespan! Everything can be achieved with just this potion! We will start the auction per bottle, and the opening price is one kilogram of tier 7 spirit stones." The auctioneer announced the final items excitedly. The bidders soon ced their bids until the price immediately soared to ten kilograms of tier 4 spirit stones! "11 kilograms of tier 4." An old man''s voice came from VIP 4 room raising their bid. "11.1 kilograms of tier 4." Ady''s voice sounded from the VIP 3 room. "12 kilograms of tier 4!" "12.1 kilograms of tier 4." The old man and youngdypeted as they would never back down. "6 kilograms of tier 3!" "6.1 kilograms of tier 3." Thepetition soon left only those two people alone. The rest of the people watched the two opposing factions with great interest. "9 kilograms of tier 3! Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce, please give me some face. I need that healing potion to treat my nephew''s injury." The old man from VIP 4 room tried to intimidate the others. "9.1 kilograms of tier 3. I don''t know who you are, and I don''t care about your business. If you have no money, then please go home, old thing. Also, we are not Frozen Cloud''s people." Thedy from VIP 3 room responded casually as if she wouldpete to the end. "Damn, we are from the Tiangong Sacred Land. State your name, you arrogant btch!" The other people from VIP 4 room growled in annoyance. "So, you are from that sacrednd. I thought who you were. So that old panda is with you? If you want to get that healing potion to treat that nephew of yours, then sacrifice some money. If not, pleasepete in the second potion. We only need one. 11 kilograms of tier 3." Thedy from VIP 3 room raised her own bid. It was of enormous value because tier 3 spirit stone was rare even for the holynd. The people from Tiangong Sacred Land decided to withdraw from this bidding war. They would only suffer a loss if they tried challenging the super-richdy in the next room. They didn''t know thatdy''s identity, but they had nned to discover that presumptuous woman who belittled their sacrednd. "Oh,. Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce, Tiangong Sacred Land, and now this mysteriousdy from an unknown background. She dares to openly offend Tiangong Sacred Land. Isn''t she afraid of their revenge?" "You fool, since there are representatives from two holynds here, do you think thatdy as stupid as you? She might alsoe from another sacrednd." "Yeah, look at how she is so rxed to mention that powerful powerhouse like nothing noteworthy. She is obviously also strong and has a profound background." "So, nobody wants to ce their bid?" "I''m not insane enough topete at these super high numbers. I don''t even know if I can have ten kilograms of tier 3 spirit stones in my lifetime..." "Even if there is money, it would be unwise to offend the holynd." The audience muttered to one another. They wondered about the identity of the mysteriousdy, but the first potion would definitely fall into her hands. At that eye-opener auction, a particr young hero felt depressed. He thought he was rich, a young multi-millionaire. Unfortunately, his money was only worth a few grams of tier 5 spirit stones... The auctioneer then repeated the highest bid in case anyone would raise the price, but there was no more. Therefore, the mysteriousdy in VIP 3 room won the first Super-tier healing potion. The item was sent directly to the VIP 3 room in front of everyone and ced into a particr slot under the ss wall. When the auctioneer announced thest Super-tier healing potion, people from the VIP 4 room set their starting price at 9 kilograms of tier 3 power spirit stones right away. "10 kilograms of tier 3." Uriel ced a higher bid. She didn''t want those brutes to buy her master''s potion at such a low price. At the very least, she had to make them bleed a little. "Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce!" Fiery Bear jerked a fury from his room. "You ran out of money? You need to contact your boss for more pocket money then. Also, Frozen Cloud''s people have long since retreated from thepetition. They don''t have the money to bid for more items." Uriel responded casually, but she smiled sweetly at her master. "..." Ely had nothing to say. Her disciple was yful, but that was fine since a mess would ensue after this. "I don''t know who you are and what your goals are. However, my sacrednd will not let you go! 11 kilograms of tier 3." Fiery Bear was furious. Today, many people got on his nerve. "Tiangong Sacred Land is not the only holynd here. 12 kilograms of tier 3." Uriel provoked more. A few momentster, she managed to provoke the Tiangong Sacred Land into cing a bid for one Super-tier healing potion at 15 kilograms of tier 3 spirit stones. She didn''t put in any bid because her master stopped her. "Stop, that''s their limit." Ely pinched Uriel''s cheek as she saw a thick, desperate, malicious aura from the VIP 4 room. "Hehe, they are bleeding, and their pouches are dying there~" Jophiel gave a thumbs up to her senior sister. "..." The auction hall was silent momentarily because the VIP 11 room no longer tried topete. Fiery Bear also broke out in cold sweat because his people remaining spirit stones umted, including his uncle''s. Even though they won, they immediately fell into poverty with no spirit stones left. "That girl set you up." Great Elder Grieved Panda stroked his beard. "Damn. Find out who''s in VIP 3 room and VIP 11 room too." Fiery Bear mmed his fist into the table. With that, thest healing potion fell into the hands of the Tiangong Sacred Land. Fiery Bear immediately drank that healing potion and instantly felt its magical effects. *Boom!* "Argh, I can feel it. My dantian is repaired, and my 720 meridians are all open and cleaned! I am back in my prime! I can definitely fight that cold vixen a thousand rounds without getting tired. Hahaha!" Fiery Bear grasped his fist as heughed out loud. The mic was still on, and everyone could hear it. His 9th Rank aura was burning with passion as if he couldn''t wait to catch those fox sisters and pound them on his bed. "Interesting; who is in the VIP 11 room?" Thedy in a majestic crimson robe nced at her attendant. "We don''t have a clue, mydy. They put up an anti-monitoring barrier. However, I suspect the fox sisters are there." The attendant tried to use her magical vision, but it was no use. "Is it? To think that Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce has declined in recent years and can no longerpete with other holynds. They even abandoned their fox elder..." The crimsondy rested her cheek on her hand. "What are we going to do next, mydy? Do you also want to catch the fox sisters too?" "Hmm, how about that? I''m still wondering. I heard that one of them was a former Frozen Cloud elder. She offended the Tiangong Sacred Land and was kicked out. Celestial Fox. What a domineering name." "She is a Transcending Tribtion Realm expert, mydy. One of the powerhouses that turned the northern mountains upside down for some mysterious reason five years ago." "Oh, the battle between Demi-God will be interesting. However, the snow fox may suffer because her opponents are hundreds of experts targeting her body... Wait, there are two of them, right? What''s her identity?" "No information, but they are not as simple as they seem, mydy. You are also a Transcending Tribtion Realm expert, but please don''t involve yourself in unnecessary chaos. Your father will be angryter." "You can''t control me for what I''m going to do, my little maid. Not you, not my parent, and no one else but me~" The crimsondy stroked her maid''s chin with a teasing smile. After that, they left their room because they knew an interesting event would happen as soon as people left this auction house. Many people gathered to catch the fox sisters, and she had to watch it. The money you make is a symbol of the value you create ^^ YuuZu Chapter 57 Illusory Nightmare Paradise ? 57 Illusory Nightmare Paradise "Are you sure you don''t need our help, Lady Kitsune? My lord can safely get you out of the city without those people knowing it. This may be bold, but so many people are after you and your sister." Griz expressed his worries after handing over the spirit stones. "You don''t need to worry, Mister Griz. These kinds of trouble are nothing. Might as well make those hypocrites realize that we are never the prey. Anyway, thank you for your cooperation." Ely raised her hand in farewell. A few momentster, Ely and Yuuki exited through the backdoor. Three veileddies followed a few meters behind them. The fox sisters leisurely walked away from the auction house even though they knew hundreds of eyes were watching them. However, those people did not act immediately. After the fox sisters arrived at the secluded area, the other parties finally made their moves. "Why are you in a rush to leave,dies? Why don''t you stay and apany this young master?" Fiery Bear licked his lips as he flew to block the fox sisters from leaving. The people from the Tiangong Sacred Land soonnded around him. "Fufu, are you trying to hit us up? We are not easy girls, blue fire snow bear." Ely nced left and right. The time for action has arrived, and all the pieces have gathered in one ce. "How lively. Shall we join in the fun? You can''t possibly intend to enjoy the feast by yourself, right, Fiery Bear?" The fierce golden tiger stood tall above a building. Tens of his powerfulrades blocked the right path. "Fufu, so they are the rumored fox sisters? Tiangong Sacred Land, our Snake Emperor, disappeared two days ago because of helping you. I hope you exin the situation, or this won''t end peacefully." ? The buffed greenmia blocked the left road with dozens of her people. "It is rare to find fox spirits wandering leisurely in the outside world. Imend your courage, but do you know how fucked up your current situation, little sisters? Those lecherous men desire your body as they have never seen a beautiful woman before." The lizard-kindy grinned widely as she exhaled smoke from her pipe. More than a dozen forces from different factions soon appeared, blocking the fox sisters'' escape paths. They either wanted to capture the fox sisters, join the fun, take advantage of the situation, or avenge the people who mysteriously disappeared. "That depends on whether you have the ability or not. I must say this, these fox sisters belong to me and the Tiangong Sacred Land." Fiery Bear raised his middle finger at the other major forces. He had his uncle on his back right now, and he was not afraid even though he would be ganged up on by several Form Synthesis and Void Tempering Realm experts. "We haven''t spoken, and you treat us like easy prey? What will you do after you catch us, to begin with?" Ely spread her arms, signalling that she was harmless. "Hee~ the prey talk about reasons? You can only me your sister for rejecting my advance. I shall make you and your sister my properties. You both can only be my obedient ves to please men, or you may be refined into something you couldn''t imagine, Keke." Fiery Bear licked his lips with a lewd smile. He felt these fox sisters already belonged to him and could do as he pleased with them soon. Their beautiful face, sexy body, charming appearance... these peerless beauties should belong to him! "Is it like that? Then, please forgive me for taking such a cruel measure in return." Ely confirmed everyone''s emotions. Mostly, they were malice and lust. ? Several people from Frozen Cloud Immortal Pce were also nearby. However, they were far behind the siege, as if waiting to reap the benefit from this situation. Whatever it was, Ely had intended to make those currently blocking her path suffer not only for herself and Yuuki but also for other unfortunate foxes. "Haha, not even your Demi-God sister can save you from this situation. Be obedient, and you won''t have to get hurt, young vixen." Fiery Bear stretched out his hand and intimidated the young fox and the other forces with his 9th Rank mental pressure. "???" Ely could only see the malicious negative energy exploding from that snow bear. Yet, it was easy to tell the surrounding people were oppressed, especially those below the 8th Rank. Ely pulled her disciples to stay close to her to protect them in her Mortal Field passive skill range. "You talk too much, wicked thing. Freeze." Yuuki released her AoE ice technique to freeze the enemies. "Your ice and Frozen Cloud''s technique is useless. Break!" Fiery Bear snapped his fingers. The five people beside him activated their artifacts, and the expanding icicles shattered into ice kes. "Profound Ice." Yuuki had expected that and immediately released the more powerful move. "Break!" Yuuki''s ice didn''t break that easily this time, but the expanding ice stopped. It couldn''t even reach any enemy. *Crumble!* The thick ice shattered a secondter. The people from the Tiangong Sacred Land werepletely unharmed. ? "We have developed a secret array and artifact to counter the ice technique, especially for suppressing Frozen Cloud. You force me to use this. You''re just a helpless little fox now." Fiery Bear clenched his fist with a confidentugh. "Extreme Ice." Yuuki was unfazed and used an even more powerful move. "!?" The people from the Tiangong Sacred Land were shocked and immediately protected themselves. Even with the counter artifact to negate the cold qi, they still suffered a bit of body freezing. Even so, they could guarantee the ice technique wouldn''t threaten them. They destroyed the ice with their techniques. However, the other forces had their bodies frozen in half by Yuuki''s ice. They tried their best to free themselves. "It''s useless, haha! Give up, and I''ll give you a little relief. I''ll also give you a chance to be my wife if you perform well!" Fiery Bearughed loudly. "Then, how about this one. Heavenly Ice." Yuuki cast her secret technique and froze everyone''s lower half to the ground. The super cold ice expanded within a two-hundred-meter radius instantly, and the counter artifact was also frozen without being able to take any effect. "What!?" Fiery Bear gasped in surprise. He never expected this cold vixen to have four kinds of ice, and thest one was beyond scary. It could even freeze the qi flow within people''s bodies! "That''s just your wishful thinking. Even if your ancestors came here, all of you would end up miserable." Yuuki exposed her 10th Rank aura to intimidate the enemies. "You, you''ve broken through to the Great Ascension Realm!? How can you break through a whole realm in a few days!?" Grieved Panda eximed in surprise as he tried to resist the pressure. "Hmph! But, too bad. This time is for my little sister to shine. It will only end me killing all of you if I make a move. My dear lil sis now is your turn." Yuuki stepped back and went behind Ely. She had partially frozen the enemies and ensured they couldn''t move or cast any technique temporarily. "Ah-uh, okay." Ely was still shocked. It was the first time she saw Yuuki''s heavenly ice, and it was super impressive. Yuuki could probably freeze anything in the future. "The despicable evildoers, we don''t know how many pitiful souls have fallen in your hands. However, you target us, and this is your greatest misfortune. Fall into the deepest nightmare, Illusory Paradise, activate!" Ely activated her newly created talisman. It floated into mid-air and then formed an illusory dome. Everyone within a five-hundred- meter radius fell into a high-level realistic illusion directly impacting one''s spirit. Ely wanted to test her newly created talisman and set it up for the nightmare illusion that could traumatize the enemies. It was about the terrifying fox demons'' cruelty, especially the nine-tailed ones. She still needed her identity as Kitsune in the future. It would be troublesome if everyone regarded fox-kin as a furnace and prey. Time for change was required. "..." Everyone went pensive as if they had lost their senses. Their gazes were nk, but their expressions revealed extreme fear right after. "Ah, argh!" "No, no, don''te any closer!" "Fox demoness! Don''t eat me! Argh!" ? "It hurts!" The people soon screamed in agony. Even the Demi-God Great Elder was also fallen prey to that nightmare illusion. The quiet night was soon enlivened by anguished screams like hundreds of people tortured in hell. "What''s that?" Yuuki was curious, and so were the three disciples. "They fall into the abyss full of fox demons. This is a powerful nightmare illusion. I hope that''s enough to traumatize them." Ely spoke in a whisper-like voice. She was impressed by this illusion talisman''s capability. She was also satisfied with her craftsmanship. This illusory paradise talisman was recognized by heaven, and of course, its effect would be unique. It was worth the high-level resources she used to create this talisman. "So what are we going to do with them now?" Yuuki heaved a subtle sigh. She felt Ely didn''t need to y schemes as she knew Ely''s worth. "We''ll wait a bit. We can also ckmail them, fufu~" Ely covered her mouth and gave her three disciples a thumbs up. They replied with their thumbs up also. Chapter 58 They will Fight the Villains for Us ? 58 They will Fight the Viins for Us It was only half an hour of nightmare punishment, and almost two hundred powerhouses had already suffered severe mental damage. Some of them had already passed out with foaming out of their mouths. Ely''s also drained 99.99% of the offenders'' spiritual energy as revenge. That way, those bad guys wouldn''t pose a significant threat even if they woke upter. Inside the illusion, hundreds of super strong demon foxes were devouring those people alive and tearing the prey to pieces, just like a bunch of hungry beasts devouring their prey. What the others could see were those experts screaming in agony. No one knew what they were going through, but it was horrifying. "Ugh, this kind of petty trick won''t mean anything!" Grieved Panda managed to break out of that terrible illusion. "Shut up." Ely smacked the old panda with her Gohei. Her performance needed to be prepared, and the troublemaker must be sent unconscious first. "Splurt!" Grieved Panda identally bit his tongue. He spat out a mouthful of blood and fell like a broken doll. Ely''s disciples took the storage pouches from the surrounding experts for safekeeping. They gathered those people in several rows, but it became like rows of natural disaster victims. After that, Ely deactivated her Illusory Paradise Talisman. The half- frozen experts were freed from the terrible nightmare illusion a few secondster. They regained consciousness, but they still didn''t look sober. The experience they had just been through was too terrifying. It was as if they had died, been revived, then killed again as food for hundreds of monstrous demon foxes. "Evildoers, it was just a demonstration of what might await you. The Fox God is angry. Fortunately, the Fox God is merciful. You are getting a second chance to turn over a new leaf." Ely spread her hands over a wooden box, exuding a holy aura to the hundreds of frightened experts. It was like a messiah giving her revtions to enlighten the lost littlembs. "Fox God is angry!" "Please forgive us, Lord Fox God!" "We''ll never touch any fox-kin ever again!" "Please don''t kill me!" "Amen, amen!" The shadow fox standing in a T pose before them seemed to shine brightly like a messenger from heaven. Hundreds of powerhouses couldn''t help but kneel and beg for mercy. "Fox God will spare you, but you must prevent fox hunting. Fox God doesn''t want any fox-kin to be hunted as prey again. Repeat over me! Foxes are friends! Not food or furnace!" Ely shouted her hypnotic suggestion with enthusiasm. "Foxes are friends! Not food or furnace!" Hundreds of experts, even the unhypnotized ones, repeated Ely''s words with passion. They believed they had to do that to gain the Fox God''s mercy. Momentster, Ely snapped her fingers. "Will it work?" Yuuki whispered softly. "I don''t know. This is my first time trying the hypnosis technique. However, the effect will be realistic since it was done right after the nightmare illusion." Ely also answered in a soft whisper. She wasn''t too sure, but she hoped it would work. "Well..." Yuuki scratched her head. Several experts were frightened when they found two foxes nearby. They then begged for mercy, swore not to hunt any fox-kin, and would stop any fox hunting. However, a particr expert tried to assault the fox sisters out of spite and anger. "Demon Vixen! Argh! I will drag you down to hell with me! Not even the Fox God can stop me!" Fiery Bear tried to catch the shadow fox. The torture he experienced and the hypnotic suggestions carved into his spirit were insufficient to rewrite the grudge that filled his heart. *p!* Yuuki used her ice to p the insane bear hard on the cheek. He was sent flying and spat out a mouthful of blood, trembling on the ground with a hateful look. "This is the umpteenth time I give mercy to you. I should kill you here, but my little sister has other intentions. Be grateful, but I will kill you the next time you dare to offend us.offIcial website n0veIfuIIb00k Whether it''s your sect or the entire world, I don''t mind purging the ant like you if necessary." Yuuki dered her threat loud and clear. "Arrogant!" Grieved Panda stood up. He took out several hidden killing artifacts with his trembling hands. However, all of them were already frozen by Yuuki''s heavenly ice and shattered into pieces. The surrounding experts immediately ganged up on the Fiery Bear and Grieved Panda to protect the fox-kin, or the Fox God would be furious and kill them painfully. Fiery Bear and Grieved Panda were battered, but they managed to escape the encirclement by sheer luck. ? "You don''t even know a thing about us. I''m the Celestial Fox, the future Fox Goddess. I have the strength to back it up." Yuuki created a needle of extreme ice. "You had a chance for a new leaf because of my little sister, but you ignored our mercy." Yuuki released her ice needle. *Swoosh* It flew at supersonic speed, pierced the Fiery Bear''s dantian, and shattered it into tiny pieces. "Argh!" Fiery Bear screamed in pain but soon became a high- pitched scream of despair. He previously went into despair because of the loss of his cultivation and the strength he painstakingly cultivated for hundreds of years. Then, he regained his power again because his dantian was healed. And yet, the current agony was beyond terrifying as his dantian was utterly destroyed with no chance of repair. The pain was tremendous, but he was still forced to stay conscious to feel the hopelessness. "My nephew!" Grieved Panda immediately went to his nephew''s side. His nephew''s dantian had disappeared into bits of ice. So, his nephew was crippled once again, but there was no longer any chance to cultivate. "You are so vicious. I swore I would exact this revenge in the name of my dao and soul!" Grieved Panda raised his hand high, and the sky answered with rumbling thunder. "Kekeke, it''s truly a spectacle to watch. To see you all suffer. The Tiangong Sacred Land is only so-so." The muscr red lionnded nearby, followed by dozens of experts. "The Lion Emperor of the north!? If I were in my prime condition, your insignificant Form Synthesis Realm power would pose no threat. You dare to be arrogant in front of me?" Grieved Panda stood up and summoned his treasured sword. "Unfortunately, many people want you to suffer or die. Do you think we''ll let you do as you please in someone else''s territory? Not to mention, you offended people you shouldn''t offend. One is a Great Ascension Realm expert, and the other is an S Rank alchemist. Even if they are fox-kin, the world will not dare to offend them." The Lion Emperor smirked. His other allies soonnded from the sky to surround the site. They were people from renowned sects and prominent ns who wanted the Tiangong Sacred Land and its aplices to suffer. "S Rank alchemist? Then-" Fiery Bear muttered with difficulty. He finally understood the entire situation. The previous Super-tier healing potion was concocted by that shadow fox. He lost hope, then gained it, but it was crushed again. Nothing is more painful than someone who has just risen from adversity but is immediately faced with another despair. Fiery Bear coughed out a lot of blood and fainted right away. "What are you all going to do then?" Grieved Panda knew this situation was a dead end. He intended to blow himself up and drag as many people as possible with him to hell, especially those fox sisters. "You may go." Ely replied in a gentle and peaceful tone. "Eh?" The Lion Emperor and hundreds of other experts widened their eyes in shock. They came to help and fawned over the powerful fox sisters, but the younger fox just let the viins go? "Young shadow fox, do you want to let the viins go and exact revenge in the future? It''s not just you... they will definitely target your loved ones too." The Lion Emperor rubbed his head in confusion. "They bettere fully prepared. Otherwise, they''ll wash their necks. Also, I don''t believe you came purely to assist us." Ely shook her head. Her suggestion failed to influence one person due to his obsession with the fox girl. The possible yet questionable allies came right after everything was finished. She felt a bit nervous because there were already so many experts in her surroundings. However, she remained firm and tough with no room for weakness as she had put all the pieces together. "Kekeke, hahaha! Your sister is arrogant, but the young fox is more arrogant than her witch sister. You little piece of shit, you haven''t even seen the broader horizon and the greater worlds, and yet, you dare to say that you will eliminate my holynd!?" Grieved Pandaughed out loud as it amused him. "For someone with a dry lifespan and a few years left to live, you sure like to talk nonsense. You can''t fathom our capabilities, not to mention our background. Scram before I change my mind." Ely retreated back to Yuuki''s side. ".." Grieved Panda went silent. If he didn''t leave immediately, the surrounding forces would make him miserable, and his life would be in danger. It was true... Everyone underestimated their opponent. They thought the only threat was the 9th Rank Celestial Fox, but they were wrong. The fox sisters were powerful, and the Celestial Fox had already broken through to the 10th Rank! Grieved Panda turned around to leave as he carried his dying nephew, but he suddenly stopped. "Shadow fox, Are you the mastermind behind the mysteriously disappearing experts in thest two days?" ? "I guess.... They''re in Frozen Cloud''s hands. If you want those bold offenders back, you''d better pay them a handsome ransom." Ely tapped her chin in wonder. "!!!" The Frozen Cloud''s people gasped. They immediately questioned their holy saintess for an exnation. "Is that so?" Grieved Panda nced at other forces as he could guess what his people might be going through. He considered those spies as good as dead but would check who killed them when he returned to his sect. ''Is this going to be okay?'' Yuuki expressed her concern via telepathy. ''It''s okay. We are not easy prey, but we will not be the first target when they take their revenge. Many people will help us to fight them for us. Our purpose is to gain allies for fox-kin''s good sake! Ely grasped Yuuki''s arm. ''Alright then, I believe you. After we get lots of useful pawns, we can go straight to that sacrednd and crush them! Yuuki heaved a subtle sigh. Ely and her little group then walked away, but the Lion Emperor immediately called out from behind. "Please wait." The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!