Bai Zhen’s decision to relay Zhi Hao’s proposal to the Patriarch of the Bai Clan marked the first tense step in the journey toward the desired alliance. After the meeting, Zhi Hao felt a sense of relief wash over him, though he knew the path he had chosen would not be easy.Before leaving the private room, Zhi Hao gave Bai Zhen a final message: "Remember, this is not just about strengthening one clan. It's about building a foundation that can support all of us in a world full of uncertainties."Bai Zhen looked at him seriously. “I understand, Young Master. We will consider it carefully.”After parting ways, Zhi Hao returned to the inn to reflect. Tonight, the calm of Yunlan City felt in stark contrast to the turbulence in his mind. He knew that even though the Zhi Clan had forged alliances with several powerful forces, every step toward a new alliance carried risks. The Bai Clan was not a small clan; they had resources and a strategic position that made them a key player in the local

The calmness of Yunlan City was merely an illusion for those unaware of the brewing storm. Behind its majestic walls and bustling streets, schemes were being plotted. Zhi Hao, who had successfully orchestrated an alliance with the Bai Clan, knew it wasn’t the time to be complacent. The Luo Clan’s threat loomed closer, and opportunistic moves from smaller clans were beginning to disrupt the power balance.That evening, Zhi Hao sat at a large table in the main hall of his lodging. Before him was a map of the surrounding areas of Yunlan City, marked with key positions: the spiritual stone mines, the Luo Clan’s stronghold, and the Bai Clan’s sphere of influence. Black 3 and Black 4 stood nearby, delivering their latest reports.“A report from our scouts,” Black 3 began. “The Luo Clan has sent envoys to three minor clans near Yunlan’s borders. They’re attempting to form alliances to bolster their position. Additionally, they appear to be planning disruptions to the Bai Clan’s spiritual sto

The eastern sky began to glow with golden orange hues. After a night of turmoil, the mine had returned to calm, though the air still carried remnants of the intense battle. The miners, who had sought shelter during the chaos, cautiously emerged. Their faces showed relief, mixed with profound admiration for Zhi Hao.“Master,” Bai Lin approached, carrying a detailed report on the damages. “The destruction is significant, but fortunately, there were no casualties on our side. Repairs will commence immediately.”Zhi Hao nodded, his gaze fixed on the mine now scarred with large craters. “Material damage can be repaired, but ensure the workers' safety is the priority. Build layered defensive formations. I don’t want this to happen again.”“We will see it done, Master,” Bai Lin replied, bowing respectfully.After ensuring the mine’s situation was under control, Zhi Hao stood atop a small hill overlooking the battlefield. In his mind, he knew this was only the beginning of the Luo Clan’s plan

The sky began to clear, but the battlefield at the border remained scarred by devastation. The explosion of energy from Zhi Hao's final attack left a deep crater, and the Bai Clan warriors stood in stunned silence, witnessing the power of their leader.In the center of the massive crater, Luo Tianyu stood trembling. The dark aura that had once surrounded him was gone, and the Abyss Shadow he had summoned had vanished without a trace. His face was pale, and his eyes no longer held their usual arrogance."How... is this possible?" Luo Tianyu muttered weakly. "I sacrificed everything—my strength, my life—and still, I lost?"Zhi Hao, standing several meters away, calmly lowered his Qianlong sword. His body was clearly exhausted, but his gaze remained sharp. "Power founded on darkness and betrayal never lasts, Luo Tianyu. You have only destroyed yourself."Luo Tianyu let out a weak laugh, filled with bitterness. "You don't understand, Zhi Hao. There’s no place for the weak in this world. I

The icy wind pierced to the bone as Zhi Hao stepped out of the Pure Snow Mountain Inn. The snowfall grew heavier, blanketing the streets in white layers. Red lanterns swayed gently in the wind, casting dim, somber light.Black 3 and Black 4 stood behind Zhi Hao, their hands tightly gripping their weapons. The faint sound of footsteps could be heard approaching from the distance."It seems our guests for the night have arrived," Zhi Hao said coldly, his sharp eyes scanning the surrounding darkness.From the shadows, several figures emerged—men and women dressed in thick clothing adorned with a snow dragon emblem on their chests. Yet their gazes were empty, and sinister smiles stretched across their faces."Welcome to Hanxye, Young Master," said one man, who appeared to be the leader of the group. His voice was deep and echoed as if mingled with dark energy. "We rarely receive distinguished guests like you. Unfortunately, you won’t be leaving here alive."Zhi Hao drew the Qianlong Sword