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Chapter 26 - The Stellar Empire’s Stand

Across the worlds and countless factions, some form alliances—like the Blood Shadow Demon Army and the Heaven and Earth Alliance—while others define themselves by race, such as the Spirit Race and the Dragons. Ancient sects, powerful empires, and independent forces all seek dominance in the vast Chaos Universe.

Among them, one empire stands at the pinnacle: the Stellar Empire.

While many proclaim themselves as empires, only the Stellar Empire has truly ascended to the top, its strength unmatched. The reason is simple—within its ranks stands a supreme powerhouse, an entity at the peak of the Extreme God Realm. Any force with such a being naturally claims the highest position in the hierarchy of the universe.

Stellar Empire—The Imperial Palace

A colossal palace, as if crafted by the hands of an ancient god, towers over the galaxy. Its size alone rivals continents, even entire worlds. Within this magnificent structure, the most powerful figures of the empire have gathered.

Their purpose? To decide whether to align with the Heaven and Earth Alliance.

Surrender is out of the question for an empire led by an Extreme God. They do not seek submission, only a temporary alliance—a united front against Blood Shadow Demon Lord, Ling Ye.

The upcoming battle between Ling Ye and Ye Tian is more than just a conflict; it will determine the future ruler of the heavens and the myriad worlds. For the Stellar Empire, now is the time to choose a side.

At the head of the grand hall, seated on the throne-like Dragon Chair, is a middle-aged man clad in golden armor—Chu Yuntian, the emperor of the Stellar Empire and its supreme force at the Extreme God Realm.

His voice echoes through the hall, steady and authoritative:

"This war is not about justice or righteousness—it is simply a struggle between two powers.

Ling Ye and Ye Tian are battling for the throne of the heavens and the world.

This fight does not directly concern us, but… choosing the right side is critical.

Stand with the victor, and we gain a powerful ally.

Stand with the loser, and we risk annihilation.

So tell me—what do you all think?"

Silence falls before voices begin to rise in debate.

Some ministers advocate neutrality:

"Your Majesty, I believe we should simply observe from the sidelines."

"Yes, if we choose now, we risk standing on the wrong side. The consequences could be disastrous."

"Many forces across the worlds are waiting. We don't need to be the first to move."

"Let Ling Ye and Ye Tian fight. It won't affect us."

Others argue for action:

"This is a rare opportunity! If we align with the future ruler, our empire will flourish."

"Yes, missing this chance could make us irrelevant in the eyes of the victor."

"We must take a side—this is how empires rise to true dominance."

Chu Yuntian listens, then finally speaks:

"Indeed, this is our only chance to build ties with the future ruler of the universe.

Waiting until the battle is over will be too late. If we delay, we risk being seen as opportunists, undeserving of respect."

The ministers exchange glances, nodding in agreement.

"Then, Your Majesty," someone asks, "should we align with the Heaven and Earth Alliance or the Blood Shadow Demon Army?"

A slight smile appears on Chu Yuntian's face.

"Ye Tian has the better chance."

Murmurs ripple through the hall. Chu Yuntian continues:

"Ling Ye has ruled through sheer dominance, striking fear across the heavens.

He has reigned for countless years, but in doing so, he has made enemies everywhere.

No one wants to live under his shadow of terror. If given a choice, most will side with Ye Tian."

He pauses, then adds:

"Furthermore, there is a difference between an ascension achieved by gathering the power of all worlds and one obtained through sheer individual strength. Ye Tian is condensing the power of the world to reach the Boundless Realm, while Ling Ye has done it alone.

Ye Tian is the safer bet."

His words solidify the empire's decision.

The ministers nod in agreement.

"If that's the case, we should prepare to join forces with the Heaven and Earth Alliance."

"Yes, Ye Tian is easier to work with than Ling Ye. Befriending him will benefit us greatly."

With the consensus reached, Chu Yuntian gives his command:

"Pass my decree—during the war, the entire Stellar Empire army will deploy to support the Heaven and Earth Alliance."

"Yes, Your Majesty!"

The order spreads through the palace like wildfire. Ministers and generals begin preparations.

Hum…

A faint humming sound resonates through the grand hall.

The air distorts. A crimson haze swirls in the center of the chamber.

A figure slowly materializes.

Ling Ye.

"B-Blood Shadow Demon Lord?"

"Ling Ye?!"

The hall erupts into chaos.

On his throne, Chu Yuntian's expression darkens, and he rises immediately.

The once-calm atmosphere turns suffocatingly tense.

How did he get here?

They were just discussing their allegiance to Ye Tian, and now Ling Ye appears?

Did he hear everything?

Is he here to eliminate them before they can join the Heaven and Earth Alliance?

Chu Yuntian's voice booms:

"The entire empire—prepare for battle!"

Instantly, the high-ranking officials draw their weapons.

Power surges through the palace. Inside and outside, countless warriors gather.

The skies darken with millions of soldiers. The ground trembles under the weight of legions assembling in formation.

In mere moments, the entire Stellar Empire stands at the ready—its forces mobilized for war.

Inside the hall, Chu Yuntian grips a golden halberd, his aura surging. He knows the truth—despite being an Extreme God, he is no match for Ling Ye.

Yet, he stands firm.

All eyes are on him, waiting for his command.

And Ling Ye?

He simply stands calmly in the center of the hall, his hands behind his back.

Saying nothing.

Doing nothing.

And yet… his mere presence has thrown the entire empire into panic.