Chapter 2137: Sword Point at Dian Jiuzhi
Yuan Huang’s words shook the soul like a divine sound from the heavens, the shock in everyone’s hearts swelling to an indescribable intensity.
A pure child of darkness… Those gathered here were the most top existences of the Abyss, and they clearly understood what those few words meant.
It referred to the records concerning Dark Profound Force—a body that could perfectly attune to and wield Dark Profound Force… a pure dark body that, until today, had only existed in written records!
Throughout the entire history of the Abyss, it had never appeared.
And now, this former Divine Son of Xiaodie, now abandoned and even cast out by the Xiaodie Divine Kingdom, Pan Buwang, had actually become an unprecedented divine miracle of darkness in Abyssal history, one that had even caught Yuan Huang’s attention!
Pan Yusheng stepped forward. This dignified Qiheng Divine Venerable’s throat churned wildly, the corners of his mouth twitching visibly, yet for a long time, he could not utter a single sound.
Behind him, the expressions of the Xiaodie elites could only be described as ever-changing and utterly spectacular.
On Yun Che’s face was the most reasonable surprise and curiosity. He asked in a low voice: “Senior, what exactly is the concept of a ‘pure child of darkness’?”
Meng Kongchan replied with four words: “Unprecedented and unparalleled through the ages.”
Yun Che’s face showed astonishment. After a moment, he said softly: “Then hasn’t the Xiaodie Divine Kingdom personally thrown away a pearl that would have illuminated its history? Ah, no—after today, Xiaodie’s attitude toward Pan Buwang will surely change drastically. It seems the Divine Son of Xiaodie will be changing hands again.”
But Meng Kongchan slowly shook his head, then sighed softly: “Unfortunately, the entire Xiaodie Divine Kingdom went too far against Pan Buwang for the sake of Pan Buzhuo… and cut off any chance of retreat.”
Yuan Huang’s gaze never wavered for an instant. But if one looked closely, they would notice that his eyes were not actually fixed on Pan Buwang’s face or eyes, but on the naturally rippling dark aura above his head.
So pure… so pristine…
So gentle and soft…
Thread after thread… the aura of Pan Ming…
Was this the blessing in your dreams…
Was this the omen of your impending return…
Indeed…
Indeed…
This must surely herald…
That Eternal Pure Land…
Is the destination that will end all Dream Abysses…
“Pan Buwang,” Yuan Huang spoke, his voice still so gentle: “I have heard a little of your affairs, and I can also sense your sorrow and pain. Perhaps it is your extraordinary talent, or perhaps it was the utter darkness and despair that gave birth to the miracle of darkness within you.”
He did not ask when or under what circumstances Pan Buwang had achieved such perfect dark attunement. Perhaps the answer was unimportant, or perhaps he did not want to hear a response that did not align with his own thoughts.
“You have made my long-cherished wish come true. I am very pleased. As such, I can fulfill one wish of yours. Tell me what unfulfilled wish you have, or what you seek. As long as it does not harm the harmony of heaven, I will grant it.”
For a moment, soft gasps rose and fell one after another.
This was a promise from Yuan Huang’s own mouth, given publicly and offered voluntarily.
It was a grace and honor that many Divine Sons and Divine Daughters would not dare to dream of in a lifetime.
Pan Buzhuo’s face turned deathly pale in an instant. The already extremely complex expressions of the Xiaodie elites became even more colorful.
They could foresee that what Pan Buwang wanted most was surely to be restored as the Divine Son of Xiaodie… and as the sole Divine Son.
Otherwise, why would he have gone to such lengths to come to the Pure Land via the Star Moon Divine Kingdom? Why would he have betrayed Star Moon with a spear strike to greatly win face for Xiaodie? His purpose was as clear as day, and Yuan Huang’s personal promise made it all within reach.
On the other hand, with a body that was a miracle of darkness, today’s impressive achievements, and Yuan Huang’s attention… even if his divine rank was inferior to Pan Buzhuo’s, who would dare say that Pan Buwang of today did not have the qualifications to replace him?
Under everyone’s gaze, amidst the trembling eyes of the Xiaodie crowd, Pan Buwang, who had been stunned for a moment, showed the excitement everyone expected. His body trembled slightly, and his voice also shivered:
“Today, I have gone through great hardships to reach the Pure Land… and have spared no effort to display my sharpness, all to seek a little favor from Father God… I only beg for one thing…”
He half-turned, facing the direction where Pan Yusheng stood.
Their eyes met briefly, then he slowly lowered his head: “I beg Father God… to bestow…”
Pan Yusheng’s face was livid, and Pan Buzhuo’s face had lost all color. His body swayed slightly, already on the verge of collapse.
After he became Divine Son, in order to completely eliminate Pan Buwang, the greatest threat, he had used all kinds of despicable means. In the end, he had succeeded in driving him to utter despair and even expelled him from the Xiaodie Divine Kingdom.
He could never have dreamed that a trouble he thought permanently eliminated would actually have a day of complete resurgence.
And once he turned the tables, the consequences he would face…
“…The Hengxin Knot sealed when my mother married Father God.”
Pan Yusheng’s expression instantly froze, a flicker of bewilderment and… confusion? reflected in his eyes.
Everyone in Xiaodie was stunned. Pan Buzhuo’s body stopped swaying, and he stood completely rigid, as if he had heard the most absurd words from beyond the heavens.
This was an answer that completely, utterly exceeded everyone’s expectations.
Yuan Huang’s expression did not change. He said indifferently: “Is that what you seek?”
“Yes.” Pan Buwang answered without hesitation: “I have now put aside all thoughts of death. For the long remainder of my life, I only ask for a place for my heart to rest, and for my thoughts to have something to hold onto.”
“Of my mother’s legacy… aside from the Silent Night Changeng in my hand, everything else was destroyed. Only the Hengxin Knot from my mother’s wedding day remains, within which is sealed the last wisp of my mother’s soul left in this world…”
Facing the direction of Pan Yusheng, he knelt on one knee, bowing his head deeply.
“Good.”
With that single word, Yuan Huang made the choice for Pan Yusheng.
“Yusheng.” His gaze shifted to the Qiheng Divine Venerable. Just two words, not an order, yet it was an imperial command that could not be refused.
Without another word, Pan Yusheng reached into his personal space. With a soft hum, a black light appeared in his palm, which he pushed toward Pan Buwang.
Pan Buwang’s body staggered, nearly lurching forward as if kneeling. Hastily and carefully, he caught that black light in his hands.
It was a small jade knot. At the center of the jade knot was tied a tiny soul crystal, flickering with a faint soul light.
The Hengxin Knot is used by the men and women of the Xiaodie Divine Kingdom during their wedding ceremonies to jointly seal a soul thread, symbolizing the eternal union of their hearts and souls. But within this Hengxin Knot, Pan Yusheng’s soul thread was already gone, likely removed by him before… or just now.
Feeling the soul aura of his mother, so faint yet so warm, Pan Buwang’s tears burst forth like a spring. He slowly pressed the small jade knot against his heart, his hands trembling and tightening continuously, as if trying to knead it into his very heart.
This outburst of emotion in that instant infected everyone with the utmost sincerity… so real and soul-stirring that it was impossible for there to be even a trace of pretense or falsehood.
He truly… only wanted the last wisp of his mother’s soul left in this world.
“Thank you… Yuan Huang for your grace… thank you, Father God, for… fulfilling my wish…”
Every word trembled, every word carried tears… yet earlier, even when he defeated two Divine Sons in an instant, shaking the entire audience, he had shown no emotional fluctuation at all.
“… ” In Sha Xing’s gaze, anger and shame had already vanished, replaced by an extremely complex feeling.
“Rise.”
As the words fell, Pan Buwang’s body was lifted by a gentle but irresistible force.
Looking at the tear streaks on Pan Buwang’s face, he asked: “Pan Buwang, where do you wish to go next?”
Since Yuan Huang asked thus, if Pan Buwang took the opportunity to answer that he wanted to stay in the Pure Land, he would certainly not refuse.
Pan Buwang clasped his hands together, holding the last warmth in his world, and said softly: “My wish has been fulfilled. I have no reason to trouble the Pure Land any further. I now take my leave in reverence.”
He made a deep bow, his voice relieved and resolute.
“Mm.” Yuan Huang nodded, saying no more, only offering one piece of advice: “No matter what situation you find yourself in, do not kneel to fate.”
Pan Buwang left, without hesitation or reluctance.
But the shock to the hearts and souls of everyone present lingered for a long time.
“Yusheng,” Yuan Huang said, looking ahead, his distant voice stretching to the clouds: “I have never wished to interfere in the causal karma of others, much less meddle in their family affairs. I only hope… you will not regret your choice.”
Pan Yusheng made a respectful salute: “I humbly receive your teachings.”
Yun Che’s eyes narrowed slightly as he quietly breathed a sigh of relief.
As he had thought, even though Yuan Huang had detected Pan Buwang’s perfect divine rank, he did not mention it.
Because that pure dark body was the sole reason for his attention. Everything else was beneath his notice to elaborate on.
Although revealing this “surprise” now would not be impossible, it would obviously be much better to detonate it at some later timing.
Within the barrier, Shen Wuyi wore a black dress and plain skirt, yet still overflowed with immortal charm, her divine posture pure and otherworldly, carrying a solitary nobility.
Meng Jianxi leisurely stepped forward, unhurriedly saying: “I’ll go test her out.”
But his arm was grabbed by Yun Che: “Watch one battle, then decide.”
“… Very well.” Although surprised, Meng Jianxi naturally would not argue with Yun Che’s words.
Over at the Xiaodie Divine Kingdom, an extremely strange atmosphere still lingered.
At this moment, the elder who had been standing behind Pan Yusheng could no longer hold back and transmitted to him: “Your Excellency, are you truly not going to recall Buwang?”
“Hmph!” Pan Yusheng said coldly: “He’s just putting on an act. Making this kind of show is actually just waiting for us to call him back.”
“Let him cool down for an hour… let him cool down for two quarters of an hour, then go find him. He definitely won’t have gone far.”
At the same time, Sha Xing suddenly gritted his teeth and rapidly turned to leave.
Xianyue subconsciously reached out, but withdrew her hand halfway. The Witch God Star frowned slightly but also did not call him back.
Just then, Shen Wuyi finally locked onto her opponent, her gaze fixed on the Senluo Divine Kingdom.
“I have long heard of the name of the First Divine Son. Please grant me your instruction!”
…………
Pan Buwang left Eden Cloud Summit, left the Pure Land, and made no stops along the way.
His heart was filled with the excitement of reclaiming his mother’s final relic, as well as a deeper awe for his master.
When he was less than a hundred li away from the Pure Land, an unexpected voice called out to him.
“Brother Buwang!”
Pan Buwang’s pace gradually stopped. Without turning around, he faced away from Sha Xing and said coldly: “You treated me as a friend and helped me greatly, yet I used you as a stepping stone. As such, the name ‘Brother Buwang’ is no longer necessary.”
“Brother Buwang.” But Sha Xing still used the former title, his eyes no longer holding the anger and mockery from their fight, but instead showing the same sincerity as before: “I was consumed by rage earlier and had lost all reason. I said too many hurtful things to you.”
Pan Buwang: “…”
“Now that I’ve calmed down, I understand that everything you did was not about stepping on me to return to the Xiaodie Divine Kingdom. Quite the opposite—you are so devoted to your mother. How could you be… an ungrateful and faithless person?”
Pan Buwang finally turned around, but there was no gratitude or nostalgia in his eyes—only a sheet of coldness: “What do you want to say? Or rather, what are you trying to prove?”
Sha Xing took a deep breath and said: “Brother Buwang, do you still remember how we became friends? You would hurt your own clansmen to protect the common folk of the mortal lands. You would resolutely bow your head and apologize to me for a wrong judgment. The Eternal Night Divine Maiden (Shen Wuqing), whom no one dared to approach—only you took the initiative to go forward, not letting her be alone.”
“I was very happy to become friends with you. Your former grace has never faded in my heart just because you lost your status as Divine Son. I also believe that a person’s nature is not easily changed.”
“So, Brother Buwang… no matter what, you must never do something that abandons yourself, something from which there is no turning back. If you need any help—even if it’s a stepping stone—you can come to me again. Even if it’s once, ten times, I am willing!”
He knew Pan Buwang’s greatest secret… his master was the Mist Emperor.
Therefore, when Pan Buwang surprised everyone by not requesting to return to the Xiaodie Divine Kingdom, he vaguely felt that Pan Buwang might… be plunging himself into a terrifying dark abyss.
“Heh!” Pan Buwang laughed, his laugh not gentle at all, but rather quite harsh.
“Star God Son,” he said coldly: “Have you ever had dozens of people take turns stepping on your head, pushing you into the foulest mud, for a full seven hundred hours?”
“…” Sha Xing was stunned.
“I have. Right in front of my mother’s grave, I could not resist in the slightest—otherwise, they would shatter the tombstone I had just carved for her.”
“…” Sha Xing’s lips opened and closed, his breathing becoming heavy, at a loss for words.
The corner of Pan Buwang’s mouth twisted into a sinister grin. He extended his little finger, pressing another finger on top, revealing only a barely visible sliver: “This is but the tiniest fraction of the humiliation I suffered in those years.”
“Why?” Sha Xing asked subconsciously: “What deep grievance did you and Pan Buzhuo have that he treated you this way after becoming Divine Son?”
“Good question.” Pan Buwang’s smile became even more mocking: “Unfortunately, the answer is: nothing.”
“And it was all simply because… I was a threat. Like you, Star God Son—accustomed to being the Divine Son of the Star Moon Divine Kingdom, could you accept suddenly losing this most noble position one day?”
“…” Sha Xing could not bring himself to say the word “yes.”
Pan Buwang continued: “I was the first Divine Son of this generation of the Xiaodie Divine Kingdom. I grew up surrounded by flattery and praise. I was used to everything around me, thinking that the world was supposed to be like that. I thought life would continue that way forever. The troubles I worried about were cultivation bottlenecks and disappointing Father God… how foolish and laughable.”
“And Pan Buzhuo—he is the replacement. He knows what true worry is. He fears being replaced himself one day. He fears that I… like many historical records of those who awakened their divine rank postnatally, might surpass him. Even if it was only a slight possibility.”
“So, he had to completely eradicate what he saw as the greatest threat… He couldn’t kill me, but he could take away everything from me, leave me with no support, and even destroy me on a spiritual level.”
“… Just… that?” Sha Xing murmured in disbelief.
“Yes, just that.” Pan Buwang said indifferently: “Do you know why, when I defeated you and the Moon God Son, winning great face for the Xiaodie Divine Kingdom, not a single one of them could smile?”
“Because among them, either themselves, or their children and descendants, too many had trampled on me to curry favor with Pan Buzhuo. Those so-called siblings who once overwhelmed me with flattery, fawning, and adoration—their faces can change overnight into something you could never dream of in your wildest nightmares. Heh… hehehe!”
He laughed coldly, a bitter laugh: “But, I must say, Pan Buzhuo’s methods, though vicious and deserve a thousand cuts, were also very successful. Even if I now have the qualifications to surpass him, the whole of Xiaodie would not… would not dare to make me Divine Son again, would they?”
“But…”
“But,” Pan Buwang interrupted coldly: “My Father God, who once cared for me so much, only offered a few perfunctory reprimands… Later, even the reprimands stopped… And then, it was I who was blamed. In the end, you saw the result. Heh. The many faces of people—truly fascinating.”
Sha Xing: “…”
“During the hardest times, Wuqing was my only spiritual support. Then she died… Star God Son, have you ever experienced the collapse of faith? That feeling of everything in the world turning gray… quite wondrous.”
“Oh, I’m sorry, I forgot—your beloved is the Thirteenth Princess of the Zhaoxing Domain. You two are in perfect harmony, deeply in love, and it seems your wedding is near. How could I say such inauspicious words?”
“…” Sha Xing raised his hand, but his throat was dry.
“Do you know the powerlessness and despair of having your mother murdered, with the culprit clear, yet your father does everything to shield him? Do you know the pain of watching your mother’s relics destroyed one by one? Even if you used your Celestial Wolf Star-Coiling to scrape my internal organs, it would not compare to even that single moment…”
“Stop, stop…” Sha Xing’s hands began to shake slightly. Following Pan Buwang’s words, for one brief instant, he projected the scene onto himself…
He dared not even think about a second instant.
Pan Buwang turned around, once again facing away from Sha Xing: “So, you, who are honored as a Divine Son, with your parents and beloved still alive, whose greatest life turmoil was being wounded in the Mist Sea—on what grounds do you try to console me?”
“And with what qualification do you arrogantly claim that people do not change easily?”
Sha Xing’s gaze was blank.
Pan Buwang’s chest heaved. When he spoke again, his tone had softened: “Star God Son, enjoy your nobility and your innocence. May you never need to lose that innocence and kindness.”
He stepped forward, then stopped: “One last piece of advice—don’t try to get close to me anymore, and especially don’t bind yourself with so-called ‘old friendship.’ You should not, and I am not worthy.”
Pan Buwang left, moving swiftly, vanishing over the horizon in the blink of an eye.
Sha Xing did not give chase. He stood there in a daze for a very long time.
…………
At Eden Cloud Summit, Dian Jiuzhi slowly stepped forward. The grace of the First Divine Son drew all eyes to himself.
None of them, including him, had expected that someone would challenge him so quickly.
Although in battles among Divine Sons, the profound cultivation of both sides would be balanced to the same realm.
But… as the one with the highest cultivation and the oldest age among the contemporary Divine Sons, his profound foundation and understanding far surpassed that of the other Divine Sons.
In other words, at the same realm, when facing other Divine Sons, he was unquestionably in an invincible position.