The Heavenly Realm was alive with joy. Azure skies stretched endlessly, adorned with streaks of golden light as the divine Butterflies of Xue fluttered gracefully across the Celestial Garden. Their sapphire wings shimmered, scattering trails of iridescent dust that blessed the lands with tranquility.
Every corner of the garden bustled with activity. Purple Fairies, clad in flowing robes that sparkled like stardust, prepared for the grand celebration. Today marked the 100th Year Heavenly Celebration of His Majesty, Tianlong, the Supreme God of War. Leaders from every clan—the Animal Clan, Water Clan, Fire Clan, Bird Clan, and Merman Clan—gathered to pay homage to their revered god.
In the midst of the commotion, a newly-born fairy with delicate lavender wings and curious eyes tugged on the sleeve of her elder.
"Why is everyone so busy today? What's happening?" the young fairy asked, her voice soft as the morning breeze.
The elder fairy smiled indulgently, her ancient eyes twinkling. "Little one, today is no ordinary day. It is the Hundred-Year Tribute to the Supreme God of War. His Majesty was born under the Celestial Flame Lotus five millennia ago, and every century, we honor his birth with a grand celebration. The Celestial Wine of the Nine Suns will flow, and every clan leader will offer gifts of unmatched power. It is a day of dance, revelry, and divine blessings."
The young fairy's wings fluttered with excitement. "So that's why the Celestial Garden is so full of life today!"
As the fairies worked tirelessly to hang spirit lanterns imbued with divine light, the air shifted. A wave of ethereal pressure swept over the garden, silencing the hum of activity. Whispers broke out among the fairies: "She's here."
Emerging from a path lined with Moon Petals, Purple Mistress Yuexiang, the leader of the Color Clan, strode into the Celestial Garden. Her presence was a symphony of elegance and authority. Her robe, woven from the threads of a thousand sunset clouds, billowed softly behind her. Her violet hair cascaded like a waterfall, adorned with delicate lotus pins that glowed faintly with spiritual energy.
The Purple Mistress was a vision of ethereal beauty, envied by the Golden Guards of Heaven, many of whom harbored secret admiration for her. She was born from the Immortal Lotus of Eternity, a sacred flower said to bloom only once every ten thousand years.
As she approached, the fairies bowed deeply, their wings trembling in reverence. Even the Celestial Birds, perched high on golden branches, fell silent.
"Is everything prepared?" Mistress Yuexiang's voice was calm but commanding, carrying the faint echo of celestial bells.
"Yes, Mistress," replied one of the senior fairies, her head bowed low. "The Nine Suns Wine has been brewed, the Phoenix Feather Curtains are hung, and the spiritual arrays are in place for the dance of the elements."
"Good." Yuexiang's amethyst eyes scanned the garden, lingering briefly on the younger fairies. "Remember, this celebration is not just for spectacle. It is to honor His Majesty, the pillar of the Heavenly Realm. Every detail must be flawless."
The young fairy, still curious despite the solemn atmosphere, gathered her courage and spoke, "Mistress, what makes His Majesty so special? Why does the entire Heavenly Realm celebrate his birth every century?"
Yuexiang turned her gaze to the young one, her expression softening. "His Majesty, Tianlong, was born during the War of Divinity, a time when the heavens trembled and chaos reigned. He was chosen by the Celestial Flame Lotus, a flower that only blooms to mark the arrival of a savior. From his first breath, he has protected the realms, bearing burdens no other immortal could endure. He is not just our god; he is the embodiment of hope and strength."
Satisfied by Purple Mistress Yuexiang's answer, the garden was filled with smiles and soft murmurs of praise. Her wisdom and devotion to His Majesty, Tianlong, were undeniable, and her words had brought a renewed reverence for their Supreme God.
"She truly is one of the most loyal and respected servants to His Majesty," someone whispered, and others nodded in agreement.
The atmosphere of admiration was suddenly interrupted by a loud, booming voice that echoed across the Celestial Garden:
"Why is everyone discussing His Majesty without me?"
Laughter rippled through the crowd as the speaker emerged—a tall, broad-shouldered man clad in golden armor adorned with phoenix feathers, his long hair tied back carelessly. It was Jinfeng, the Golden Phoenix Warrior, leader of the Golden Heavenly Guards, and one of the most formidable warriors in the Heavenly Realm. Despite his immense strength and position as His Majesty's War Guard, he was known for his carefree and mischievous nature, often lightening even the most serious moments with his humor.
The young fairy, still clutching her elder's hand, tilted her head and asked, "Who is that?"
The elder chuckled softly. "That is Jinfeng, the leader of the Golden Guards and one of His Majesty's closest allies. Don't be fooled by his attitude. Though he appears carefree, his strength is unmatched. They say his laughter echoes louder than thunder, but his blade strikes swifter than lightning."
"Come now! You all flatter Mistress Yuexiang, yet not a word for me, the mightiest and most handsome warrior in the Heavenly Realm?"
The crowd burst into laughter. One of the purple fairies quipped, "Handsome? Perhaps if you didn't leave your armor half-polished!"
Jinfeng clutched his chest in mock offense. "How cruel! I am wounded by your words." He grinned and turned his attention to Yuexiang, bowing deeply. "Mistress Yuexiang,
Yuexiang rolled her eyes, though a faint smile tugged at her lips. "Perhaps if you spent less time chasing the Phoenix Maidens and more time polishing your blade, you would have heard about it sooner."
More laughter erupted, but Jinfeng simply straightened and laughed along with the rest. "Ah, but my blade needs no polishing. After all, it is a gift from His Majesty himself!"
He unsheathed his sword, the Phoenix Shard Blade, its surface glinting with fiery hues. Forged from the bones of a lost phoenix, the sword emanated an aura of ancient power, its edge sharp enough to cut through even the toughest spirit beasts.
"It's said that this blade was forged from the remains of the last Phoenix who fell during the War of Divinity," the elder fairy whispered to the younger one. "Only someone truly worthy could wield it, and His Majesty entrusted it to Jinfeng himself."
Jinfeng waved the sword theatrically. "A masterpiece, isn't it?
One of the Golden Guards, standing nearby, smirked and shouted, "Strongest? Only if strength is measured in how loud you can yell!"
The crowd erupted in laughter again, and Jinfeng joined in, his booming voice blending with the mirth.
After hours of lively music, dancing, and celestial revelry, the Celestial Garden began to settle. The leaders of the Heavenly Clans—majestic in their regal robes—slowly took their seats around the grand Lotus Pavilion, an open structure built from Eternal Jade and surrounded by floating spirit lanterns. Each seat bore the sigil of its respective clan, imbued with spiritual energy.
At the center of the pavilion was a raised platform, where the Celestial Flame Lotus Chalice, a divine artifact used for the ceremonial wine, rested. Everyone waited patiently for His Majesty, Tianlong, to appear and open the wine, a gesture that symbolized unity and peace in the Heavenly Realm.
Amid the serene atmosphere, a soft commotion drew attention. Near the edges of the pavilion, a young man from the Fire Clan, dressed in a striking red hanfu embroidered with golden flames, was playing with miniature fire dragons. The tiny creatures danced and spiraled around him, their fiery forms crackling with energy as they playfully nipped at his hands.
The Fire Clan Leader, Yaozhong, smirked slightly at the display but didn't intervene, letting his successor enjoy the moment. The boy—Feng Lie, the newly appointed young lord of the Fire Clan—seemed utterly unbothered by the formalities of the event.
But the tranquil moment was broken when Yunfang, the stern Water Clan Leader, spoke, his voice dripping with sarcasm.
"What a shame," Yunfang said, folding his arms. His blue and silver hanfu shimmered with spiritual water patterns as his words cut through the silence. "The Fire Clan, once one of the most powerful clans in the realm, has fallen into such hands. To think your father handed the crown to someone so… childlike."
The other leaders glanced toward Feng Lie, curious to see how the fiery young lord would react. For a moment, the boy continued playing, as if he hadn't heard the insult. Then, with a flick of his wrist, the fire dragons vanished into thin air, their warmth dissipating like embers on the wind.
He turned his sharp amber eyes toward Yunfang, a sly smirk curling his lips. His voice was calm but laced with a playful edge that made everyone sit up straighter.
"Ah, Clan Leader Yunfang," Feng Lie said, tilting his head innocently. "I've heard many tales about you. They say you possess the strength to summon tsunamis greater than the heavens themselves, yet…"
Feng Lie paused for dramatic effect, letting his gaze sweep across the table. "…I also hear you've taken thirty concubines, all before the age of thirty. One must wonder, is that strength truly to command water, or… perhaps something else?"
The room erupted into stifled laughter, the more reserved leaders coughing into their sleeves while the bolder ones openly chuckled. Even the stoic Bird Clan Leader, a woman known for her discipline, allowed herself a faint smile.
Yunfang's face flushed red with anger, his hand tightening on the edge of his table as his spiritual energy flickered. The water patterns on his hanfu shimmered violently, reflecting his rising temper. "You dare—"
The ripple of laughter subsided as a graceful figure stood from her seat, drawing everyone's attention. The Bird Clan Leader, Lady Meiyue, draped in a flowing yellow hanfu embroidered with intricate feather patterns, exuded an aura of wisdom and quiet authority. Her calm yet piercing gaze swept across the gathering, silencing the remaining whispers of amusement.
She raised a delicate hand to her lips, laughing softly behind her sleeve. The sound was melodic, like the song of a sparrow at dawn. "Enough of this, gentlemen," she said with a smile that was equal parts kind and sharp. "Shall we not set aside these squabbles on a day meant for celebration?"
Her words were measured but carried a weight that commanded attention. Meiyue's reputation as one of the most sensible and educated leaders in the Heavenly Realm preceded her, and even the most prideful among the clan heads often found it difficult to argue with her logic.
Her gaze flickered to Yunfang, her tone turning lighter but still tinged with reproach. "Clan Leader Yunfang, it is unbecoming to question the choices of others so openly, especially when they pertain to their clans' internal matters. After all, no leader here would take kindly to outsiders critiquing their decisions."
The corner of Yunfang's mouth twitched, but he said nothing, choosing to avert his eyes.
Meiyue then turned her attention to Feng Lie, who was leaning lazily against his seat, still grinning from his verbal victory. "And as for you, Young Master Feng Lie," she continued, her voice softening, "though your wit is sharp, it is best wielded with care. A flame uncontrolled can burn even its wielder."
Feng Lie straightened slightly, inclining his head with a sheepish smile. "Your wisdom humbles me, Lady Meiyue."
"Let us not forget why we are here. Today is a day of joy for His Majesty, Tianlong, not a forum for trading barbs. We are gathered to bow in respect and celebrate the peace and unity he has brought to our realm."
She paused, glancing meaningfully at the young Fire Clan leader. "And if I may add, Clan Leader Yaozhong's decision to pass his title to Feng Lie is far from reckless. Though young, he has proven himself in ways many twice his age have not. I heard that only recently, he led a campaign to drive back the South Demons of Deepnight, achieving victory with minimal losses. A feat such as that requires not only strength but also strategy, leadership, and courage."
Meiyue clasped her hands before her, her yellow robe shimmering like sunlight as she concluded, "Perhaps it is precisely because of his youth that this was the wisest choice. A young leader learns and grows with his clan, adapting to the world as it changes. That is the mark of a true leader."
A wave of agreement rippled through the crowd, and even Yunfang nodded begrudgingly, though his expression remained sour.
Feng Lie chuckled quietly, leaning over to one of his Fire Clan guards and whispering, "Remind me to send her a gift later. Perhaps a golden feathered quill. She might need it to keep writing all these compliments."
A hush fell over the Celestial Garden as the gates opened once more, revealing the Animal Clan Leader, Elder Baotian, stepping gracefully onto the pavilion. Clad in earthy tones of deep green and golden accents, his robes were embroidered with majestic beasts in flowing patterns, each thread seemingly alive with spiritual energy. Beside him strode his Snow Sun Lion, a magnificent beast with fur as white as freshly fallen snow
Elder Baotian's presence alone commanded respect. He was the oldest of the clan leaders, a sage whose wisdom was sought even by the Heavenly Scholars, and his strength, though rarely displayed, was said to rival even the ancient guardians of the realm.
As he walked forward, everyone stood to greet him, bowing in unison. Even the normally irreverent Feng Lie rose, his playful smirk replaced with a look of genuine respect.
Once he reached his seat, he raised a hand, and his deep, resonant voice filled the pavilion.
"Peace, my friends," he began, his tone like the rumble of a distant mountain. "Let us remember why we are here—not only to celebrate the majesty of Supreme God Tianlong but also to honor the sacrifices that brought us to this day."
With a solemn expression, Elder Baotian continued, quoting an ancient proverb:
"'A tree grows tall only when its roots are deep, and its shade cools only because the earth once bled for it.'"
The weight of his words settled over the assembly like a heavy fog.
"Let us not forget," he said, his voice steady and grave, "that the harmony we enjoy today was not given freely. Our fathers, and their fathers before them, shed their blood for the jade that built this realm, for the peace we so often take for granted."
The harmonious atmosphere that followed Elder Baotian's solemn speech was broken by a subtle shift in the air. A gentle breeze, carrying the faint scent of celestial blossoms, swept through the Celestial Garden, and the space seemed to brighten as if the heavens themselves recognized the approach of their ruler.
From the long, ornate path at the back of the pavilion, a figure appeared, his every step radiating both power and tranquility. It was Tianlong, the Supreme God of War, his golden robes flowing around him like liquid sunlight. His dragon-embroidered hanfu shimmered with an ethereal glow, and a faint halo of divine light circled his form, marking him unmistakably as the one who bore the crown of the Heavenly Realm.
As one, everyone in the garden rose to their feet, bowing deeply in respect. Even the most rebellious among them, like Feng Lie, straightened with reverence.
"Indeed, Elder Baotian," he began, inclining his head slightly in deference to the revered leader. "Your wisdom never fails to guide us. Your words remind us of the weight we bear, not only for ourselves but for those who came before us and those who will come after."
His gaze turned to the rest of the assembly, his expression softening into a faint smile. "But please, my friends, you may sit. There is no need to make yourselves uncomfortable for this immortal who merely bears the title of Supreme God."
The leaders hesitated for a moment, almost reluctant to sit in his presence, but Tianlong gestured gently, and they obeyed, settling back into their seats.
As he walked toward the center of the pavilion, the Celestial Flame Lotus Chalice
"You honor me with your presence today," Tianlong said, his tone now lighter, almost conversational. "This gathering is not merely to celebrate my ascension or the peace of the Heavenly Realm. It is a reminder of the bond we share as clans and as stewards of this world."
He paused, his gaze lingering on each leader. "We face trials, and we will face more in the days to come. But so long as we stand together, as our forebears did, there is no force, mortal or immortal, that can shatter the harmony we have built."
As the leaders took their seats, a noticeable absence hung over the gathering. The chair reserved for the Merman Clan Leader, King Xuanlong, remained conspicuously empty. Whispers broke out among the attendees, their tones laced with mild irritation and curiosity.
"It seems Xuanlong has once again decided that his presence is unnecessary," muttered the Water Clan Leader, Yunfang, swirling his wine goblet. "Such arrogance, especially today of all days."
Feng Lie leaned back, smirking. "Arrogance is his talent, second only to his cunning. I've always said Xuanlong is better at politics than leadership."
Elder Baotian sighed, his calm voice cutting through the chatter. "Let us not waste our words on the absent. The tides of his behavior will bear their consequences in due time."
Lady Meiyue chimed in with her characteristic grace. "Indeed. His Majesty has always extended his patience toward the Merman Clan, despite their leader's… difficult nature. Perhaps it is best we focus on the purpose of our gathering."
Tianlong, who remained unperturbed. He raised a hand, silencing any remaining whispers. "King Xuanlong has chosen his path, as he often does," he said evenly. "But we are here to celebrate and strengthen the bonds between our clans. His absence shall not overshadow the unity we seek to honor today."
The gathering transitioned to one of the most anticipated parts of the day: the Power Gift Ceremony. This sacred tradition required each clan leader to present a unique gift imbued with their clan's spiritual essence to the Supreme God. It was a symbolic act of loyalty and appreciation, representing the strength and individuality of each clan.
Elder Baotian, being the most senior, rose first. He approached Tianlong with the Amber Pearl, a radiant gem encased in vines that shimmered with the vitality of the Animal Clan's Spirit Beasts. Bowing deeply, he said, "This pearl, harvested from the heart of the Great Beast Forest, carries the blessing of our ancestors. May it guide your wisdom and fortify your strength, Your Majesty."
Tianlong accepted the gift with gratitude, his golden eyes gleaming. "Your wisdom is a treasure to this realm, Elder Baotian. I will honor this gift as I honor the trust you place in me."
Next came Lady Meiyue, her golden hanfu flowing like sunlight as she presented a delicate Phoenix Feather Fan, its vibrant plumes infused with the essence of the wind. "A fan of the heavens," she said, her voice soft but clear. "May it cool your thoughts in times of turmoil and guide you like the wind beneath a bird's wings."
Tianlong inclined his head. "Your thoughtfulness and clarity are unmatched, Lady Meiyue. This gift will serve as a reminder of your wisdom."
The ceremony continued as each clan leader presented their gifts, ranging from Yunfang's Ocean Sapphire, said to carry the power of unyielding waves, to Feng Lie's Flame Blossom Crystal, a fiery gem that pulsed with the heart of the Fire Clan's Spirit Flames.
When Feng Lie approached, his grin as irreverent as ever, he added a playful comment as he handed over his gem. "Careful with this one, Your Majesty. It's known to set hearts ablaze—just like its maker."
Laughter rippled through the room, and even Tianlong couldn't suppress a faint smile as he accepted the crystal. "I shall wield it carefully, Feng Lie, though I suspect its creator's wit is the real danger here."
As the ceremony neared its end, the leaders settled back into their seats, the air buzzing with the energy of the gifts that had been presented. It was then that a soft yet resolute voice rose from the gathering.
"Your Majesty, though my clan is among the smallest, my loyalty and devotion to you remain unwavering."
The assembly turned toward the Purple Mistress, her lavender robes shimmering like twilight. She stepped forward gracefully, bowing low before Tianlong. Her voice carried both humility and strength as she continued. "I am but a humble servant, and though my gift may not rival the grandeur of my peers, I have poured my heart and soul into its creation."
From her delicate hands, she presented a small, ornate box adorned with lilac petals. She handed it to the Golden Phoenix Guard, who, with a respectful nod, carried it to Tianlong.
The Supreme God opened the box, revealing two radiant Rainbow-Clustered Jade Bangles. The jades glowed softly, each band shimmering with the iridescent hues of seven colors. The light seemed alive, shifting and dancing as if imbued with the blessings of the heavens themselves.
The Purple Mistress lowered her head slightly and explained, "These bangles, Your Majesty, are forged with the essence of the Seven Colors of Irrational Virtue—each representing one of the seven blessings of the clans. One is meant for you, and the other, for the one who shall stand beside you in the future—a soul destined to lead the realm alongside you in the coming millennia."
he clan leaders listened intently as she continued, "These bangles are bound by a spell I've crafted. They will remain vibrant, their colors radiant, as long as the bond they represent is strong. Should the second bangle ever lose its colors and turn cloudless, it will signify that your other half is in peril. This is not merely a gift but a guide—one to aid you in finding someone worthy of your trust, Your Majesty."
The sincerity in her words and the delicate beauty of the bangles left the entire gathering in awe. Tianlong studied the glowing jades for a moment before lifting his gaze to the Purple Mistress.
"You have not only offered a gift, but a vision of hope and unity for the future," Tianlong said, his voice warm yet steady. "Though your clan may be small, your heart surpasses even the grandest treasures. I am deeply impressed by your dedication, and I accept this gift with gratitude."
The celebration neared its conclusion, the harmonious chatter of the clan leaders filling the celestial garden. The wine was flowing, and a sense of camaraderie enveloped the gathering. But just as the final toast was about to be raised, a sudden shift in the air silenced the festivities.
A tremendous wave of water rose outside the Jade Pavilion, cascading down like an ethereal waterfall. The tranquil atmosphere shattered as an imposing voice echoed across the garden, dripping with sarcasm and disdain.
"How cruel of you, Your Majesty, to commence this joyous celebration without me," the voice bellowed. "As one of the top three clans in this realm, I am afraid my absence has been treated as mere insignificance. Is this how the Heavenly Realm respects the Merman Clan?"
The water parted, revealing King Xuanlong, the leader of the Merman Clan, standing atop a swirling vortex of oceanic energy. His silver-blue robes billowed around him, and his piercing aquamarine eyes glinted with arrogance and malice.
Tension gripped the air as Xuanlong descended from the watery cascade, his every step exuding an aura of defiance.
Xuanlong strode toward the assembly, his gaze sweeping over the gathered leaders. His smirk widened as he noticed their unease, particularly the clenched fists of Yunfang, the Water Clan Leader, and the sharp glare of Feng Lie, the Fire Clan Leader.
"Ah, how delightful it is to see all the clans gathered here," Xuanlong drawled, his voice mocking. "It would have been an even greater joy had I been invited properly, but alas, it seems I am an afterthought in this grand occasion."
Ignoring the rising murmurs of disapproval, Xuanlong flicked his wrist, and a glimmering blue box materialized in the air. With a subtle gesture, he sent the box spiraling toward Tianlong, carried on a current of wind and water.
"This, Your Majesty, is my gift to you," Xuanlong said, his tone laced with venom. "May it serve as a token of my respect—or lack thereof."
The box landed before Tianlong with a soft thud. The Supreme God regarded it for a moment, his golden eyes narrowing. He opened the lid cautiously, his expression unreadable at first. But as he fully unveiled its contents, a flicker of unbridled anger crossed his face.
Tianlong rose to his feet, his aura flaring with divine power. The sudden surge of energy caused the celestial garden to tremble, and the light dimmed as the tension grew unbearable.
"What is the meaning of this, Xuanlong?" Tianlong's voice boomed, sharp and cold as the edge of a blade.
The gift that Xuanlong, the Merman King, gave to Tianlong, the Supreme God of War, was a blue box, which he presented with a mocking air of superiority. Upon opening it, Tianlong discovered that the gift was a mirror of sorts, symbolizing the reflection of truths about the realm—likely exposing uncomfortable truths or secrets meant to provoke tension.
Xuanlong's cryptic words suggested that the gift was designed to highlight the precarious balance of power in the Heavenly Realm, challenging Tianlong's rule and leadership.
As the last echoes of Xuanlong's sarcasm faded into the heavy atmosphere, a sudden sharp whistle pierced the air. Without warning, a glinting arrow streaked toward Tianlong, its speed almost blinding. The entire celestial garden fell into a tense silence as the arrow shot through the air with deadly precision, aimed directly at the Supreme God of War.
In an instant, Jinfeng, the leader of the Golden Heaven Guards, leaped forward, his golden sword flashing through the air. With a swift motion, he caught the arrow in mid-flight, his expression stone-cold as the projectile clattered to the ground at his feet.
The garden erupted in a collective gasp as the skies darkened, and a tear-bone thunder crackled across the heavens. It was an ominous black streak, followed by an eerie silence, broken only by the howling of demonic ghosts and the cackling of devilish apparitions that swirled around it. The air grew heavy, suffused with the oppressive aura of malevolence.
Suddenly, the bolt of thunder struck toward the celestial garden, aiming to corrupt the sanctity of the moment. With a quick and decisive motion, Madam Yue, the Bird Clan Leader, stepped forward. Her yellow hanfu shimmered with celestial energy as she raised her delicate hands, summoning a radiant barrier of light. The thunder shattered upon her shield, dissipating into nothingness as her calm voice rang out like a bell:
"Who dares to defile and curse this place on a day of celebration?"
Her words were laced with indignation, a protective force emanating from her that briefly restored calm to the frightened assembly.
Before anyone could respond, Clan Leader Yunfang of the Water Clan stepped beside her, his expression darkened with anger. He added coldly, "Whoever dares to challenge the sanctity of the Jade Pavilion must be prepared to pay the price. Is this not a day for rejoicing, a day to honor His Majesty? What vile creature dares disrupt this moment?"
The words had barely left his lips when another thunderclap rent the air, shaking the Jade Pavilion. The ground quaked as blackened flames erupted in the middle of the gathering, consuming the jade tiles with cursed energy. From within the flames, a figure emerged, his presence suffocating and dark, the very embodiment of chaos.
The Demon King, the God of Curses, had arrived.
The Demon King stepped forward onto the Jade Pavilion, the cursed energy surrounding him pulsating like a living entity. His towering figure was clad in an ominous black titanium euphoryte robe, adorned with runes that seemed to crawl like living shadows. His sharp titanium nail gloves gleamed as he flexed his fingers, his movements calculated and deadly.
His eyes burned an unnatural shade of crimson, exuding malice and scorn. His expression was unreadable, but the cruel smirk playing on his lips spoke volumes.
"I thought this was a celebration meant for every clan," his voice rumbled, low and menacing, carrying the weight of ages-old hatred. "But it seems His Majesty, the great Tianlong, has conveniently forgotten that the Demon Clan exists as well."
Tianlong rose slowly, his golden eyes locking onto the Demon King. His presence alone commanded the attention of the room, his divine aura pushing back against the suffocating darkness. Yet, he did not act immediately. Instead, his voice rang out, calm yet filled with authority, like the steady toll of a divine bell.
"God of Curses, Demon King of the Abyssal Realm, you enter my domain without invitation, disrupting the harmony of this sacred gathering. Tell me, is it arrogance, or do you seek a swift end to your defiance?"
The Demon King laughed, his voice echoing with dark humor. "Your domain? How quaint, Tianlong. You claim the heavens as your own, but I see it for what it is: an illusion of peace, a crumbling throne of hypocrisy."
The clan leaders instinctively prepared themselves, their hands moving toward their spiritual tools, ready for battle should it erupt.
The Purple Mistress whispered urgently to Jinfeng, "If this escalates, we must protect His Majesty at all costs."
Jinfeng's hand tightened on the hilt of his Phoenix Shard Sword, his sharp gaze never leaving the Demon King. "Let him try," he muttered, his tone resolute. "No demon can stand before His Majesty."
Suddenly, a sharp blade materialized, its edge glinting with deadly intent as it sliced through the air, aiming directly for Tianlong's heart. Gasps echoed throughout the Jade Pavilion, and the spiritual pressure in the air grew suffocating. Yet, the blade stopped short of its target, as if striking an invisible barrier.
Tianlong's divine protection, granted by the Upper Gods, shimmered momentarily, creating a golden halo around him that nullified the attack. The blade disintegrated into black ash
Feng Lie, the fiery leader of the Fire Clan, was the first to react. Rising from his seat, his fiery aura flared, and his Phoenix Flames coiled around him like a living inferno. Pointing his finger at the Demon King, his voice thundered with rage:
"How dare you defy the sanctity of this place, Demon King? You've crossed the line! This attack is treason, and now you will pay the price! The clans can end you here and now!"
"Enough, Feng Lie. Do not act out of impulse."
The Fire Clan Leader hesitated but relented, stepping back, though his aura still burned with frustration. The other leaders followed suit, their energies dissipating, though their eyes remained locked on the Demon King with suspicion and anger.
The Supreme God of War's tone was cold, like the edge of a blade.
"Do you think cheap tricks like this will weaken my resolve, Demon King? Or do you truly lack the courage to face me directly?"
The Demon King chuckled darkly, his crimson eyes glinting with amusement. He spread his arms wide, the mocking grin on his face growing.
"Cheap tricks? Oh no, Supreme God," he said, his tone laced with sarcasm. "That wasn't an attempt to kill you—it was merely a test, a little... provocation
"Since this is a day of celebration, I, too, bring a gift," the Demon King announced, his tone mocking yet deadly serious. "Open it, Supreme God of War. It is not merely a present—it is my answer."
Tianlong's eyes narrowed as he looked down at the chest. Despite the oppressive energy radiating from it, he showed no fear, only a calm resolve. With a flick of his hand, he opened the chest, and a crimson mist spilled out, filling the air with a chilling aura of destruction.
Inside the chest lay a black iron seal, etched with demonic inscriptions that pulsed faintly with cursed energy. Its presence seemed to darken the pavilion further, suffocating the divine light that emanated from Tianlong.
The Demon King's voice rang out, triumphant and defiant. "This is the Seal of War, a declaration that the time for diplomacy has ended. You, Tianlong, and your celestial realm have thrived on borrowed time. War is coming,
The Demon King, his wicked grin widening, cast a mocking glance around the Jade Pavilion before his gaze landed on the newborn fairy, nestled safely in the arms of an elder. With a flash of darkness, he materialized before her, his shadowy form towering ominously over the delicate creature.
The elder instinctively tightened her grip, shielding the young fairy, but the Demon King moved with unnatural swiftness. With a clawed hand, he snatched the infant away, his movements too quick for anyone to intercept.
"I gave you a gift," he sneered, addressing the room. "Now, I'll take one in return."
Gasps of horror rippled through the gathering as the Demon King held the crying fairy aloft, her fragile form illuminated by his cursed energy. Before anyone could react, he vanished into the storm with a burst of thunder, his laughter echoing ominously through the celestial skies.
The elder who had been holding the fairy collapsed to her knees, tears streaming down her face. "She was only fifty years old, my lord! A child, barely learning to harness her wings..."
The Purple Mistress, her face pale with fury, stepped forward, her voice trembling with both rage and sorrow. "Guards!" she commanded, her tone sharp as a blade. "Pursue the Demon King! Bring that fairy back, or I will see your corpses displayed in the Celestial Garden as a warning to all!"
The celestial guards, though hesitant, prepared to set out, their divine weapons shimmering in the light. But before they could move, Tianlong stood abruptly, his golden aura flaring like the rising sun. His voice carried an unyielding resolve as he declared, "The safety of the Jade Pavilion and this realm is my responsibility. It is my failure that this happened under my watch."
Without another word, he rose into the air, the sheer force of his spiritual energy scattering the lingering mist of the Demon King's presence. The Azure Skies of Heaven parted for him as he sped into the storm, his figure a streak of golden light against the gathering darkness.
Clan Leader Yunfang of the Water Clan, watching the scene unfold, shook his head in disbelief. "His Majesty must be mad," he muttered, his tone dripping with disdain. "To charge headlong into a thunderstorm created by the Demon King himself... it's a death wish!"
The Animal Clan Leader, seated calmly beside him, let out a soft chuckle, stroking his Snow Sun Lion. "You forget, Yunfang," he said, his voice wise and steady. "His Majesty has his own rules, his own laws. He does what he deems right, not what others expect. That is why he stands as the Supreme God, and we bow before him."
Yunfang's expression twisted in irritation,
Madam Yue, the Bird Clan Leader, rose gracefully, her yellow robes shimmering with a divine glow. Her eyes, fixed on Tianlong's vanishing figure, were filled with quiet admiration. "Our Majesty," she said softly, "is a being of heart and mind, using each at the time it is needed most. His persistence and courage are why the heavens have not fallen, despite the storms that threaten us."
The pavilion fell into a hush as they watched Tianlong disappear into the distance, his golden aura swallowed by the tempest.