Published: February 26, 2025
"Greetings, father emperor." Yu Yunxi bowed respectfully.
The Western Continent Emperor's expression softened slightly at her words, but he quickly regained his composure.
"What is the matter, Yu Yunxi? Why are you in such a hurry?" he inquired, his voice steady but with an undertone of concern.
Yu Yunxi took a deep breath, trying to steady her racing heart. "I... I just heard some news from the East Town that I think you should know."
The emperor raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What news could possibly warrant such a commotion?"
"It’s about the grand marshal of East Town, Qi Long. He has challenged the number one powerhouse of the Lower Universe to a duel!" she exclaimed, her eyes wide with urgency.
The emperor’s expression shifted, a mix of surprise and interest. "A challenge for marriage, you say? This could have significant implications. What do you know about this duel?"
Yu Yunxi hesitated for a moment, then continued, "They say Qi Long is determined to prove his strength and win the hand of the third princess."
The emperor stroked his chin thoughtfully, weighing the information. "Qi Long has always been ambitious, but challenging a powerhouse is no small feat."
"Yes, father emperor," Yu Yunxi nodded. "Many are worried this duel may lead to conflict with the Divine Domain or even provoke the wrath of the celestial gods."
The emperor's gaze turned serious. "We cannot afford such turmoil. Summon Qi Long at once. I want to hear his intentions directly."
"Understood," Yu Yunxi replied, relief flooding her. She knew the emperor would handle the situation wisely.
With a wave of his hand, the emperor dismissed her. "Go now, and keep a close watch on the developments in the East Town."
As Yu Yunxi exited the hall, the emperor's expression darkened. He knew that the balance of power was delicate, and he would need to act swiftly to protect their interests.
"Paying respects?" the Western Continent Emperor feigned anger, "You returned to the city yesterday, yet you only come to see your Father Emperor now."
"What time is it that you finally come to pay your respects?"
Yu Yunxi playfully stuck out her tongue, her head lowered, "Father Emperor, I know I was wrong."
"Alright, alright, this will be the last time." The Western Continent Emperor said.
"Hehe, Father Emperor is the best to his daughter." Yu Yunxi said happily.
In Yu Yunxi's heart, as long as she didn't think about her deceased mother, she still felt that her Father Emperor treated her very well. However, once she thought of her mother, she understood that her Father Emperor's indulgence was merely a way to make up for his irresponsibility towards her mother!
Later, after the Western Continent Emperor asked about Yu Yunxi's cultivation and her journey to the Ancient Fire Prison, he said, "Xi'er, I need to tell you something."
"Wait a moment, Father Emperor. Before you say anything, let me introduce someone to you." Yu Yunxi smiled.
"Who?" The Western Continent Emperor was curious.
"It is my friend and also my personal guard." Yu Yunxi replied.
"Hahahaha, really?" The Western Continent Emperor laughed, "Xi'er, this is the first time I’ve heard you mention having a friend and wanting to introduce them to your Father Emperor."
"I’m quite eager to see who it is that you want to bring into the hall to speak."
"It’s Father Emperor." Yu Yunxi turned back and called out, "Xiao Zhang, come in."
"Understood." A white-haired Tan Yun, after disguising himself, walked into the hall with an extraordinary demeanor and bowed to the Western Continent Emperor, "Xiao Zhang pays respects to Your Majesty."
"Mm, rise." The Western Continent Emperor gestured for Tan Yun to stand, then began to scrutinize him, nodding, "Not bad, a handsome talent."
"Xiao Zhang, who are you?"
Tan Yun respectfully replied, "Replying to Your Majesty, I come from the Lower Universe."
"Mm, not bad." Although the Western Continent Emperor said this, he quickly lost interest in Tan Yun. In his view, someone from the Lower Universe had a humble background and weak strength, making it difficult for them to achieve great things.