Abyss Sovereign 141 to 150

 

Abyss Sovereign Chapter 141

The crowd gasped in astonishment. As expected of the competition’s top winner, being personally promised the status of a direct descendant by the head of one of the three great families—equivalent to Chen Yan’s standing—was an immense privilege. Countless people would leap at the chance to join such a prestigious family.

It was easy to imagine that as a direct descendant of the Chen family, backed by their resources, Lin Xiao would never have to worry about finding herbs in his lifetime.

“Moreover, we’ll gift you a set of Earth-tier elementary martial techniques. Though your primary talent lies outside vitality, having an Earth-tier technique offers an extra means of self-preservation,” Chen Wendao added.

“Earth-tier elementary martial technique!” The crowd sucked in sharp breaths. Earth-tier techniques were the highest-grade martial skills held by the great families!

They were also the pinnacle of martial techniques in the Lanlan Empire!

“Earth-tier techniques are kept strictly within the family, never taught to outsiders. To think the Chen family head would offer one just to recruit Lin Xiao!”

“That’s the Chen family’s real trump card!”

The crowd sighed in awe. Even Ye Fenghua and the other seated faction leaders furrowed their brows.

“That old fox, pulling out all the stops!” Zhou Moyi cursed inwardly, “But with the Chen and Feng families making such bold moves lately, we can’t let Heimu join the Chen family, no matter what.”

“Of course, I also hope you, along with Yan’er and Qing’er, can elevate the Chen family to greater heights in the future,” Chen Wendao concluded.

The crowd gasped again. Chen Wendao was subtly implying that the Chen family intended to marry Chen Qing’er to Lin Xiao and eventually pass the leadership to Chen Yan, letting Lin Xiao join the siblings in ruling the family.

Becoming one of the Chen family’s powerholders was a temptation that left countless onlookers green with envy.

Chen Wendao looked at Lin Xiao with hopeful eyes, having offered the greatest stakes the Chen family could muster.

Yet unbeknownst to all, Lin Xiao’s heart burned with fury. Had he not encountered the Heaven-Devouring Spirit Emperor, he’d have died at Chen Yan’s hands long ago. Join the Chen family?

Impossible!

And an Earth-tier elementary martial technique, while a massive lure for others, held little appeal for him.

“Heh!” Suppressing his rage, Lin Xiao let out a cold laugh, about to refuse, when Zhou Moyi abruptly stood from the other side of the platform, cutting in, “Young friend, no need to decide just yet. My Zhou family is also willing to offer terms no less than the Chen family’s to ally with you.”

Chen Wendao’s brows furrowed. Interrupted at this critical moment, he couldn’t help but snort, “Hmph, I’d like to see what the Zhou family can possibly offer!”

Ignoring Chen Wendao’s reaction, Zhou Moyi continued, “The Zhou family and you have already crossed paths in a way that’s brought us closer. We don’t require you to join us, only to serve as a guest spirit controller. The Zhou family will provide you with a steady supply of herbs as long as you don’t work for our rival factions. In return, we’ll grant you the core of our family’s martial techniques—the first two levels of the Earth-tier elementary Zhou Heaven Fist.”

Zhou Moyi glanced at Chen Wendao, a flicker of smugness crossing his face.

Chen Wendao’s frown deepened. Everyone could tell the rival faction Zhou Moyi meant was the Chen family.

Zhou Moyi’s offer was a direct counter to the Chen family’s. Without needing Lin Xiao to join, as long as he didn’t side with the Chen family, the Zhou family would match nearly the same benefits.

Becoming a guest elder, free from serving rival factions, and receiving the first two levels of the Zhou Heaven Fist—an Earth-tier elementary technique only the family head could master fully—was an allure arguably greater than the Chen family’s offer. A guest elder’s obligations were far lighter than joining the Chen family outright.

Joining versus serving as a guest elder carried entirely different implications.

“The Chen family’s waters run deep. With almost the same rewards, I’d definitely pick the Zhou family. Being a direct descendant can’t compare to the freedom of a guest elder!”

“Who says that? Joining the Chen family gets you Chen Qing’er, one of the four great beauties, and a shot at co-ruling with Chen Yan. I’d choose the Chen family hands down!”

“A brother-in-law will always be an outsider. The Chen family wouldn’t give him real power. With Heimu’s talent, does he lack for beauties? The Zhou family has Zhou Ruoyi too!”

The crowd buzzed with debate. The offers from both family heads were so enticing that everyone wished they were in Lin Xiao’s shoes.

“Young Brother Heimu!” At that moment, a white-haired elder with sharp, hawk-like eyes rose, speaking slowly, “I am Yan Yitian, Grand Elder of the Tianxuan Sect. While our sect’s benefits may not match the great families’, there’s one place in Tianxuan that might interest you.”

Curious gazes turned toward Yan Yitian, the Grand Elder of the Tianxuan Sect.

They all knew that since the sect leader vanished over a decade ago, Yan Yitian had effectively taken charge.

The Tianxuan Sect’s power rivaled the great families, and for a prodigy like Lin Xiao, every faction present was eager to recruit him. The question was what the sect could offer.

“Hm?” Lin Xiao’s expression cooled. He hadn’t expected Chen Yan’s master to join the bidding.

But Yan Yitian’s words piqued his curiosity. Having spent little time in the Tianxuan Sect a year ago, he was unaware of any particularly special place within it.

“The Tianxuan Sect has an ancestral tomb, a highly mysterious site. Only past sect leaders were permitted entry, and even they couldn’t fully grasp its contents.”

“Yet every sect leader who entered saw their strength surge dramatically, eventually ascending to Martial Venerable rank. The Tianxuan Sect’s enduring prominence owes much to this tomb.”

“If you’re willing to join the Tianxuan Sect, I’ll act on behalf of the sect leader to grant you a single chance to enter the ancestral tomb.”

The crowd gasped, especially the older figures present. The Tianxuan Sect’s ancestral tomb was a mystery that even they coveted.

But it was guarded by an inexplicable force. At their level, without a sect leader’s token, entry was impossible—they couldn’t force their way in.

Otherwise, these Martial Venerables would have stormed it long ago.

Even those below Martial Venerable rank required the sect to activate a special formation to enter. Many had sent youths to infiltrate the sect over the years, yet none uncovered the tomb’s secrets.

“Every sect leader who entered the tomb eventually broke through to Martial Venerable?” Lin Xiao’s heart jolted. The promise of reaching Martial Venerable rank just by entering was a mystery that stirred even him, a temptation too great to ignore.

The Tianxuan Sect’s offer outstripped the previous two by a wide margin.

The crowd’s eyes blazed with fervor, some even harboring darker thoughts in secret.

Abyss Sovereign Chapter 142

“The temptation is indeed great, but I’m afraid it’s not as simple as just entering and becoming a Martial Venerable, right?”

Glancing at the expressions of the other Martial Venerables on the platform, Lin Xiao could guess a thing or two. Such a mysterious place likely wasn’t easy to access.

Even if one entered, not everyone might break through to Martial Venerable. Otherwise, if the Tianxuan Sect allowed more people in, wouldn’t they produce multiple Martial Venerables and dominate the empire?

Taking a step back, even if Lin Xiao wanted to enter, he’d seek out Yi Xuanfeng, the true master of the Tianxuan Sect, rather than joining now.

After all, he’d been expelled from the Tianxuan Sect a year ago.

The Grand Elder before him was Chen Yan’s master, just like Chen Wendao of the Chen family. No matter what, Lin Xiao couldn’t join the Tianxuan Sect this way—or ever again.

“Heh, the Tianxuan Sect’s ancestral tomb is indeed a fine place, but opportunities like that aren’t guaranteed just by entering!” At that moment, Emperor Meng’s voice rang out from his seat.

The crowd paused, their attention shifting toward the source—a middle-aged man in imperial robes rising from his chair.

This was Emperor Meng, ruler of the Lanlan Empire, backed by the empire’s mightiest figure, Empress Dowager Meng Xi.

“The imperial family’s stepping in!”

“What kind of offer will the royals make to recruit Lin Xiao?”

Curiosity flickered in the crowd’s eyes. The previous offers had been staggering; they wondered how grand Emperor Meng’s would be.

“Young Friend Heimu, have you heard of the Shengyuan Academy?” Emperor Meng asked slowly.

The crowd stirred slightly. They’d all heard of Shengyuan Academy, though they weren’t sure why he’d mention it now.

“I’ve heard a little,” Lin Xiao nodded.

Emperor Meng continued, “Shengyuan Academy is renowned across the continent, a gathering place for geniuses. For our empire, it only accepts disciples with dantian anomalies, and recruitment happens just once every three years.”

“The imperial family has secured a slot, unrestricted by time. As long as you’re willing to serve the royals, I’m prepared to grant you this opportunity.”

“A Shengyuan Academy slot!”

Lin Xiao’s heart stirred at Emperor Meng’s words. He’d once heard that a second-grade spirit controller, Heng Yuan, could bring a disciple there, assuming it was akin to the Tianxuan Sect, perhaps slightly stronger.

But now, it seemed Shengyuan Academy was far more than that.

Heng Yuan’s ability to bring a disciple likely stemmed from some connection to the Tianxuan Sect, allowing him to escort a disciple with a dantian anomaly.

“It’s a secret imperial method to nurture geniuses. I can’t believe that old hag is willing to offer up this slot,” Yan Yitian muttered darkly to himself. He was irked by Emperor Meng debunking the guaranteed gains of the Tianxuan tomb but didn’t dare clash with him.

He knew full well how terrifying the empress dowager behind Emperor Meng could be when provoked.

“My thanks for Uncle Meng’s kindness,” Lin Xiao said, cupping his hands in a polite gesture. This slot was likely precious even to the royals, and Emperor Meng’s offer carried genuine sincerity.

“Heh! It’s clear Young Heimu’s vitality talent isn’t weak, but his true gift lies in spiritual power,” Ye Fenghua spoke up then, standing with a faint smile, his gaze fixed on Lin Xiao, “If you don’t mind, I, Ye Fenghua, would like to take another disciple and pass down all I’ve learned.”

“What, Ye Fenghua’s taking a disciple!”

The crowd erupted in shock. In all these years, Ye Fenghua had never taken a disciple, only mentoring his nephew Ye Yu with full dedication. Now, he was offering to take one.

In the spirit controller world, Ye Fenghua was a pinnacle master. At forty, he was halfway to fifth-grade spirit controller—a rare feat in history. With such dazzling talent, he’d surely reach that rank someday, and his future achievements could soar even higher.

Becoming his disciple promised boundless prospects in spirit control. As the Spirit Controller Alliance leader, Ye Fenghua’s wealth, influence, and resources in the field outstripped any faction.

His offer was richer than anyone else’s, perfectly suited to Lin Xiao.

Lin Xiao blinked, caught off guard. He hadn’t expected Ye Fenghua to propose this.

“And the Spirit Controller Alliance is willing to appoint you as a Grand Elder. As long as you agree, I’ll impart everything I’ve learned in my lifetime…”

For a prodigy like Lin Xiao, Ye Fenghua cast aside propriety, offering the most enticing terms to secure him.

The crowd gasped again. Grand Elder status matched the two existing fourth-grade elementary spirit controller elders—second only to the leader and vice leaders.

That authority was substantial, granting access to the alliance’s vast resources. Everyone envied it, especially the spirit controller disciples, who wished they were Lin Xiao. The offer was outrageously generous, a straight path to the top.

“Heh, Brother Heimu, we’ve crossed paths in a memorable way,” a light, melodic laugh sounded then, as a stunning figure rose from her seat.

All eyes turned to the speaker—none other than the pride of the heavens, Feng Lanyue.

With a leading figure in the spirit controller world speaking, it seemed the Feng family couldn’t sit still either.

But as Feng Lanyue spoke, Lin Xiao’s gaze hardened, his expression turning cold.

“The Pan family matter was my recklessness. I hope you won’t hold it against me, young brother!” Feng Lanyue smiled radiantly, her breathtaking beauty melting hearts.

“Heimu and Feng Lanyue have history?”

“I heard the Feng-Chen marriage rumors started in a vassal family of the Fengs. The Pan family head was killed then—could it be tied to Heimu?”

“If it’s true, Heimu’s at odds with the Feng family. It’ll be tough for them to recruit him.”

The crowd murmured in confusion, eager to hear how the ascendant Feng family would entice Lin Xiao.

“Miss Feng’s magnanimity is admirable,” Lin Xiao said, his voice low and measured. At the Pan family, they’d nearly come to blows, yet now she was apologizing to recruit him.

“Heh, my heart’s not half as broad as Young Master Heimu’s!” Feng Lanyue maintained her smile, chuckling softly, “If you don’t mind, the Feng family would love to welcome a genius like you.”

Lin Xiao’s expression tightened slightly.

“No need to refuse just yet, Young Master Heimu. Our offer might intrigue you,” Feng Lanyue said calmly.

“What offer?” Lin Xiao asked.

Abyss Sovereign Chapter 143

“The Feng family is willing to offer one-sixth of a sixth-grade spirit stone,” Feng Lanyue stated calmly.

Yet her words struck the crowd like a thunderclap.

A sixth-grade spirit stone—a marvel of heaven and earth, formed over tens of thousands of years by condensing the world’s spiritual energy—was rarer than a sixth-grade elixir.

Once refined, it could drastically boost both vitality and strength.

Even a Martial Venerable refining a sixth-grade spirit stone had a chance to ascend to Martial Lord. It was a treasure even the Martial Venerables present coveted desperately.

At the mention of a sixth-grade spirit stone, Zhou Xiong’s eyes blazed with fervor.

Years ago, a fingernail-sized piece of sixth-grade spirit stone had appeared in the Lanlan Empire. Publicly, it was auctioned for millions of gold coins, but in truth, it was traded for fulfilling a monumental favor for the seller.

Since then, no further news of sixth-grade spirit stones had surfaced.

Over the years, Zhou Xiong and the aging Empress Dowager Meng Xi had scoured the land with vast resources, seeking one to break through to Martial Lord and extend their lifespans, but to no avail.

Now, the Feng family was offering a fingernail-sized piece to recruit Lin Xiao.

This implied the Fengs possessed at least several times that amount—otherwise, they wouldn’t part with such a precious fragment.

It underscored the astronomical cost the Feng family was willing to pay.

Unlike sixth-grade elixirs, which only Martial Venerables or Lords could refine, spirit stones had minimal refining requirements. Nearly any cultivator, regardless of realm, could refine a portion with negligible side effects.

Every Martial Venerable and high-tier spirit controller present was stunned.

Feng Ziyang’s brows twitched nearby. The sixth-grade spirit stone was a closely guarded family secret, a treasure even he lacked enough of to refine. Feng Lanyue had not only revealed it but was offering it to an outsider?

Even if it was to recruit a genius with limitless potential.

After all, an outsider, no matter how great their future achievements, might not bring proportional benefits to the Feng family.

And by the time Lin Xiao matured, who knew how long that would take… At this thought, Feng Ziyang’s frown deepened, though he refrained from objecting, knowing it was the family head’s private authorization to Feng Lanyue.

“Lanyue…” Chen Yan tugged at her urgently from the side.

“I know what I’m doing,” Feng Lanyue replied, pursing her lips, her gaze fixed on Lin Xiao, “So, Young Brother Heimu, are you interested in a sixth-grade spirit stone?”

“Sixth-grade spirit stone!” Lin Xiao’s heart surged with boundless killing intent. That stone—a full piece—was a keepsake from his mother, stolen from him a year ago by Feng Lanyue and Chen Yan’s scheme.

Now, Feng Lanyue dared offer him a mere fingernail-sized fragment to win him over…

“I won’t join the Feng family!” After a moment of stillness, suppressing his fury and murderous intent, Lin Xiao spoke softly but firmly.

Feng Lanyue’s brows furrowed. She hadn’t expected such a swift rejection despite her hefty offer.

“Please reconsider, young brother,” she pressed, unwilling to let it go.

“No need to reconsider. Today, I, Heimu, won’t join any faction,” Lin Xiao said decisively, glancing at the family heads on the platform, “I appreciate your kindness, but I must decline.”

Turning to Emperor Meng, he added, “Thank you, Uncle Meng. Shengyuan Academy’s fame across the continent is indeed enticing, but I have matters to attend to and can’t serve the royals for now.”

Then, facing Ye Fenghua, “Thank you for your generosity, Alliance Leader. However, I’ve already taken a master, so I won’t take another. Please forgive me.”

The crowd was dumbfounded. Lin Xiao had rejected every faction outright, spurning their lavish offers?

The family heads and Martial Venerables stared in disbelief, their eyes flickering with confusion and disappointment.

“Then where do you plan to go, young friend?” Ye Fenghua asked, equally surprised.

“I’m already part of the Spirit Controller Alliance in a way. If possible, I’d like to stay on as the guest vice leader of the Linshui City branch,” Lin Xiao replied.

Ye Fenghua blinked, and the arena fell silent.

Then he burst into laughter, “Of course, that’s fine! Not just the vice leader of the Linshui City branch, but also a guest elder of the main alliance, with the same privileges as other elders—and you can still receive my guidance.”

Ye Fenghua’s delighted voice echoed across the plaza. Though Lin Xiao wouldn’t take him as a master, his intent was clear: rejecting all other factions to align with the Spirit Controller Alliance, even as a guest. That was still a win for them.

If they nurtured Lin Xiao, both he and the alliance could reap immense rewards.

And Ye Fenghua longed to personally train someone even more formidable than himself, a boon for his own future.

“Then I’ll thank you, Alliance Leader,” Lin Xiao said, cupping his hands.

“Since Young Master Heimu wishes to remain with the Spirit Controller Alliance, we won’t press further. But I hope you’ll reconsider. If you ever change your mind, come to the Feng family. We’ll reserve that sixth-grade spirit stone fragment for you for a time,” Feng Lanyue spoke again, her tone tinged with reluctance yet courteous, “Also, a month from now, I’ll wed Brother Chen Yan. No matter what, I hope you’ll grace us with your presence.”

Lin Xiao’s killing intent surged again, but to avoid suspicion, he forced it down, replying stiffly, “I’ll definitely be there.”

He’d come to the imperial city to kill Feng Lanyue openly, and the wedding was his only chance to take both her and Chen Yan together. Otherwise, killing just one would make staying in the city impossible.

He’d been waiting for their wedding!

“Then I’ll look forward to your visit, Young Master Heimu,” Feng Lanyue said with another polite gesture.

The others followed suit, offering reluctant pleasantries, though some showed visible concern.

With such talent, certain factions might not want him to grow.

Next, the major factions offered terms to recruit other top-ranked talents with generous conditions, though they paled beside Lin Xiao’s offers.

Of the top fifty, half joined various factions, while the other half stayed with their original groups.

This year’s Refining Competition concluded amid fervent discussion. Everyone knew a genius named Heimu had refined a fourth-grade elixir, seizing the championship against all odds. His name would go down in history.

The name Heimu would soon resound across the empire.

As the crowd dispersed, still buzzing, the plaza quieted. The Spirit Controller Alliance grew calm too.

Yet the competition’s second-place finisher, Yunfeng, mysteriously vanished after the event, startling many factions.

Lin Xiao, meanwhile, was welcomed triumphantly into the Spirit Controller Alliance alongside Ye Fenghua and the others.

Abyss Sovereign Chapter 144

Traversing the main avenues and side paths of the Spirit Controller Alliance, Lin Xiao was eventually led by Ye Fenghua alone to his private courtyard. This area was heavily guarded, a place even the vice leaders rarely stepped foot in.

“No wonder it’s the Alliance Leader’s private courtyard—the spiritual energy here is double that of the outside!” Entering the simple, ancient room, Lin Xiao couldn’t help but marvel inwardly.

“At sixteen, reaching third-grade intermediate spirit controller status, able to refine fourth-grade elixirs, and wielding spiritual energy—I can’t imagine what kind of figure your master must have been to raise a prodigy like you,” Ye Fenghua said, his tone a mix of admiration and probing as he looked at Lin Xiao. His curiosity about Lin Xiao’s master rivaled his interest in Lin Xiao himself.

“To be honest, Alliance Leader, my master has already passed away,” Lin Xiao said plainly.

It was the truth—the Heaven-Devouring Spirit Emperor, half a master to him, had been consumed by him in a sense.

“Passed away…” Ye Fenghua froze, staring at Lin Xiao in surprise.

“For such a figure to have passed, what a pity. With even the explosive elixir recipe in his possession, your master must have been a renowned figure in his time!” Ye Fenghua sighed with deep regret.

“In truth, my master wasn’t much different from you, Alliance Leader. He just left behind more recipes. As for the explosive elixir recipe, if you want it, I’d have no issue giving it to you,” Lin Xiao said casually.

The explosive elixir recipe wasn’t particularly precious to him.

Moreover, refining it required specific herbs—not just any recipe would do. Handing it to Ye Fenghua wouldn’t hurt, and it might even earn him a favor.

“What? You—you mean you’d give me the explosive elixir recipe?” Even a figure like Ye Fenghua, the top spirit controller, couldn’t stay calm, his voice trembling with disbelief.

“Yes,” Lin Xiao nodded, showing no trace of reluctance, as if it were a trivial thing.

“Chi!” Ye Fenghua took a deep breath, his face alight with uncontainable excitement, solemnly promising, “Heimu, whatever you need, just say it. As long as I can manage it, as long as the Spirit Controller Alliance can provide it, I’ll make it happen!”

“You’re too serious, Alliance Leader. My master hoped the explosive elixir could be carried forward,” Lin Xiao said, spinning a tale, “To be frank, I do need help. I have many enemies. If I’m ever in danger, I hope you’ll lend a hand.”

“Oh? Someone’s out to get you?” Ye Fenghua blinked, caught off guard.

Lin Xiao nodded. Sharing the explosive elixir recipe was his way of securing the alliance’s support. Facing two great families, Ye Fenghua’s aid could tip the scales in his favor.

“Perhaps,” Lin Xiao sighed, adding, “Of course, if it’s inconvenient, you don’t have to step in.”

“Heh, what are you saying, young friend? Am I, Ye Fenghua, the sort to forget righteousness for profit? You’re willing to give me the explosive elixir recipe—if I ignored your troubles, how could I live with myself?” Ye Fenghua nodded firmly, “Rest assured, whenever you need help, I’ll be there without hesitation!”

“And now that you’re part of the Spirit Controller Alliance, anyone who opposes you opposes us. That alone is reason enough for me to act if necessary.”

“Then I’ll thank you, Alliance Leader!” Lin Xiao nodded, then added, “By the way, you’ve been at fourth-grade advanced spiritual power for quite a while, haven’t you?”

Ye Fenghua paused at the question, a wry smile crossing his face, “Years now. The higher the spiritual power, the harder it is to advance. This step might take a long time. Reaching fifth-grade spirit controller status is tough!”

Lin Xiao nodded slightly. Ascending to fifth-grade spiritual power was exponentially harder than third or fourth grade. Many were stuck at that threshold, which was why the empire had no fifth-grade spirit controllers—only Ye Fenghua had reached fourth-grade advanced.

“I happen to have a recipe that boosts the odds of breaking into fifth-grade spiritual power by fifty percent—the Jade Spirit Elixir. It’s not much use to me yet, so I’d like to give it to you. If you can find the herbs and refine it, with your foundation and talent, you might leap to fifth-grade spirit controller in one go,” Lin Xiao said again.

This was the real bait for Ye Fenghua, his trump card.

“What? A recipe to boost the odds of reaching fifth-grade spiritual power?” Sure enough, Ye Fenghua’s eyes blazed at the mention of the Jade Spirit Elixir.

He’d been stalled at fourth-grade advanced for years, exhausting every method without success. At this rate, reaching fifth-grade might take another decade.

Now, Lin Xiao was offering a recipe with a fifty percent chance!

Ye Fenghua’s heart surged like a tidal wave. Even a ten percent chance would spur him to scour the land for herbs.

Lin Xiao nodded calmly, and Ye Fenghua’s excitement flared, “Heimu, whatever you need in the future, just ask. I’ll back you with all I’ve got!”

“If I need help, I won’t hesitate to ask,” Lin Xiao replied, refraining from further requests. Ye Fenghua’s intent was clear—he’d almost certainly aid Lin Xiao in a crisis.

He then handed over the Thunderclap Evil Fire Elixir and Jade Spirit Elixir recipes. Ye Fenghua’s enthusiasm left Lin Xiao both amused and bemused.

Perhaps only he’d seen this peerless master so flustered.

Recipes truly were a spirit controller’s lifeblood—no one could resist.

Before leaving, Lin Xiao requested privacy, and Ye Fenghua promptly issued a stern order to the alliance. The entire organization tightened its security.

After Lin Xiao left, Ye Fenghua immediately mobilized the alliance, offering hefty rewards to dispatch scores of members to hunt for the Jade Spirit Elixir’s herbs.

The herbs became the alliance’s top priority. Members from various branches returned, joining the search.

The alliance even offered bounties for the herbs externally, startling other factions with their fervor.

Lin Xiao had anticipated Ye Fenghua’s reaction and paid it little mind.

Back in his room, he shut the door tight, retreated to a corner, and eagerly retrieved the Serpent Blood Void-Breaking Elixir from his storage ring.

“Serpent Blood Void-Breaking Elixir—here’s hoping it works on my Blood Dragon anomaly dantian!” With a deep sigh, Lin Xiao sat cross-legged and swallowed it.

As it slid down his throat, it felt like a burning coal. A searing heat hit him, and as it reached his stomach, a terrifying energy began to surge.

His dantian sea boiled, the ferocious energy flooding through his flesh and blood, a trace of potent blood essence seeping into his entire body.

Abyss Sovereign Chapter 145

Lin Xiao felt as though his entire body was being scorched, his veins straining as if they might burst. The surging, roiling energy left him dazed.

Yet, with sheer willpower, he gritted his teeth and endured. As time slowly passed, it wasn’t until the dead of night that he sensed the refining process nearing its end.

But just then, a thick wave of danger flooded his heart. Immediately after, a voice filled with regret and fury rang out, “You actually refined the Serpent Blood Void-Breaking Elixir!”

“Chi!” A massive, terrifying spiritual force enveloped Lin Xiao, seizing control of his body and hurling him toward the wooden window.

“Fourth-grade advanced spiritual power!”

Veins bulged on Lin Xiao’s forehead. He couldn’t fathom that, just as he was about to complete the refining, a fourth-grade advanced spirit controller would attack him.

In that instant, he forcibly refined the last of the Serpent Blood Void-Breaking Elixir.

“Kid, you’d better not move, or your life’s forfeit!” An elderly voice reached his ears as his body crashed into the window.

Roar!

At that critical moment, a dragon’s roar erupted from within him. A faint earthy glow burst from his dantian, and a colossal blood-red dragon shadow materialized behind him. An ancient, overwhelming pressure surged forth, its terrifying force shattering the spiritual power binding him. The room collapsed in a deafening boom, splintered wood flying everywhere.

“Blood Dragon anomaly, Earth-tier elementary!”

A shocked, aged voice cried out as Lin Xiao’s eyes blazed with twin beams of light.

In that moment, he felt the vitality in his dantian surge wildly, his body brimming with unparalleled strength.

His cultivation had broken through two stages, leaping from Heavenly Martial First Layer to Third Layer.

Moreover, his Blood Dragon anomaly, bolstered by the Serpent Blood Void-Breaking Elixir, had upgraded from Mysterious-tier advanced to Earth-tier elementary.

A dantian anomaly’s explosive power, capable of manifesting a vision, signified supreme cultivation talent—an innate gift fixed at birth, unchangeable.

Lin Xiao hadn’t expected his Blood Dragon anomaly to evolve from Mysterious-tier advanced to Earth-tier elementary.

An Earth-tier advanced anomaly was rare not just in the Lanlan Empire but across the entire continent.

With it, his cultivation speed would skyrocket, and his strength would soar.

At that moment, the freshly upgraded anomaly and breakthrough unleashed a force so formidable it repelled even fourth-grade advanced spiritual power.

Yet Lin Xiao’s heart seethed with shock and rage. Had he not succeeded in refining it and upgrading his anomaly while breaking through, that terrifying spiritual force might have crushed him instantly.

But just moments later, the same fearsome fourth-grade advanced power enveloped him again, locking his body in place.

“Didn’t expect this—a peerless genius like you. Pity your strength isn’t enough. Cooperate, and you might live. Resist, and you’re dead!” A masked, black-robed elder appeared, controlling Lin Xiao’s body as he sped out of the Spirit Controller Alliance.

“How dare you!” At that instant, another wave of fourth-grade advanced spiritual power latched onto Lin Xiao, breaking the elder’s hold.

A peerless figure swiftly dashed forward.

“Alliance Leader!” Lin Xiao’s heart leapt with joy. It was Ye Fenghua, the fourth-grade advanced spirit controller.

In a flash, Ye Fenghua reached Lin Xiao, unleashing a torrent of spiritual power toward the black-robed elder.

“Kill him!”

A voice dripping with killing intent burst from the masked elder as his spiritual power surged from his mind, clashing with Ye Fenghua’s.

As the words fell, a glint of cold light flashed in the night—a dagger hurtling toward Lin Xiao at blinding speed.

Lin Xiao’s brows furrowed. He summoned his third-grade intermediate spiritual power to its limit, precisely latching onto the dagger and redirecting its path.

“Chi!” The dagger grazed past him, slicing a tear in his clothes.

Fortunately, it was only third-grade advanced spiritual power. With his cross-grade combat ability, his third-grade intermediate power sufficed.

Had it not been a sneak attack, Lin Xiao was confident he could’ve avoided even a scratch.

After the dagger passed, he seized control, spinning it back toward a masked, black-robed youth charging at him.

“Chi!” The youth countered with his own spiritual power, halting the dagger between them.

The youth’s brows knit, and without hesitation, he produced a blue elixir. At its appearance, Lin Xiao’s eyes flared with intense killing intent.

“Thunder Spirit Elixir!” Lin Xiao spat coldly.

The Thunder Spirit Elixir was the near fourth-grade elixir Yunfeng had refined earlier that day. Once consumed and refined, it granted temporary thunder energy, wielding power akin to spiritual energy.

It was obvious—this was Yunfeng.

Lin Xiao hadn’t imagined Yunfeng would dare infiltrate the Spirit Controller Alliance to assassinate him.

And after failing once, he was ready to use the precious Thunder Spirit Elixir without a second thought.

“Wait for death!” The youth’s voice emerged from the black-robed figure as he prepared to swallow the elixir.

But at that moment, an overwhelming pressure descended, a majestic voice rolling in from afar, “Heh, I suspected someone might visit in the night. Looks like this old lady’s night call to our young friend was well-timed.”

In an instant, a gaunt figure appeared in the sky. The black-robed youth’s body froze under the terrifying pressure, his right hand—poised to toss the Thunder Spirit Elixir into his mouth—locked in place.

“Empress Dowager Meng Xi!” The youth cried out in horror. He hadn’t dreamed that the Lanlan Empire’s mightiest figure would appear now, her strength so unfathomable that her mere presence immobilized him.

“Go!” A shout erupted from the black-robed elder. Moments later, the youth’s body regained mobility, whisked away by the elder’s control.

“Chi!” Lin Xiao’s eyes flashed. He instantly latched his spiritual power onto the Thunder Spirit Elixir in Yunfeng’s hand. As Yunfeng’s body was pulled away, the elixir shot free.

“My Thunder Spirit Elixir!” An enraged roar echoed as the two black-robed figures vanished into the night beyond the alliance, their speed lightning-fast.

“It’s the Moyu Empire’s royal chief spirit controller, Zhuifeng!” Ye Fenghua exclaimed, recognizing that speed.

Abyss Sovereign Chapter 146

“The Moyu Empire’s chief spirit controller!” Lin Xiao’s gaze sharpened. The black-robed elder who’d attacked him was the Moyu Empire’s top spirit controller?

“True to his name, his speed is something even I can’t catch up to!” A stooped figure sighed, gazing at the vanishing silhouette against the horizon.

“Even Empress Dowager Meng can’t catch him?” Lin Xiao was stunned again. Meng Xi was the Lanlan Empire’s mightiest figure—if even she couldn’t keep up, then likely no one in the empire could.

No wonder Yunfeng had brazenly joined the Refining Competition and dared infiltrate the Spirit Controller Alliance to assassinate him—he had such a powerhouse backing him.

Lin Xiao’s eyes shifted to Meng Xi. Her body was hunched, her white hair nearly gone, her face like wrinkled orange peel, creases so deep they almost hid her eyes, her mouth toothless.

At first glance, she looked like a corpse risen from a coffin—hard to imagine she’d just exuded such earth-shaking might.

“Zhuifeng’s spiritual power is fourth-grade advanced, naturally no match for Senior Meng’s cultivation, but he possesses a secret technique that maximizes explosive speed, making him fearless,” Ye Fenghua explained beside him.

Lin Xiao nodded in understanding. Fourth-grade advanced spiritual power couldn’t rival a high-tier Martial Venerable, so Zhuifeng’s edge must lie in a unique technique that pushed his speed to the limit.

Glancing at Ye Fenghua and then Meng Xi, Lin Xiao cupped his hands sincerely, “Thank you, Empress Dowager Meng and Alliance Leader, for stepping in. Otherwise, I’d have been in grave danger.”

“Young one, you’re too kind. Even if they hadn’t targeted you, I’d have acted. If I’m not mistaken, those two are the ones who attacked my Yingying, aren’t they?” Meng Xi’s raspy voice carried a hint of coldness.

“Oh?” Lin Xiao jolted, his mind racing to connect the dots.

That day, a third-grade and fourth-grade spirit controller had targeted Meng Ying, striking after Zhou Xiong’s defeat at his hands. It seemed like the Feng and Chen families framing Zhou Xiong, deepening the royal family’s suspicion and widening the rift between the three great families and the crown.

But in truth, it was likely Zhuifeng and Yunfeng stoking the flames. If so, the Moyu Empire had bigger plans.

Their blatant presence in the Lanlan Empire’s sights hinted at a grand conspiracy brewing.

Still, even if war broke out between the nations, that wasn’t his immediate concern.

“It seems the Moyu Empire’s strength has grown considerably in recent years,” Ye Fenghua sighed with a touch of worry.

Meng Xi’s brows furrowed, a cold glint crossing her face as her wrinkled lips twitched, “If they dare stir trouble, with the Lanlan Empire’s reserves, we’ll ensure they regret it.”

Ye Fenghua nodded, sharing her confidence on that point without excessive concern.

A clash between nations would bring immense losses—explaining why, despite longstanding tensions, neither had made bold moves.

“By the way, Heimu, your cultivation’s reached Heavenly Martial Third Layer?” Meng Xi’s gaze fixed on Lin Xiao, her tone laced with astonishment.

His true cultivation couldn’t escape her keen eyes.

Sixteen and at Heavenly Martial Third Layer—his vitality talent matched Feng Lanyue and Chen Yan’s.

“I got lucky refining the Serpent Blood Void-Breaking Elixir and broke through,” Lin Xiao nodded honestly.

“Dual cultivation in vitality and spirit with such achievements—you’re a rare gem in the Lanlan Empire. In a few years, the Moyu Empire might be left in the dust,” Ye Fenghua said with an approving nod.

Of course, he still saw Lin Xiao’s primary gift as spiritual power.

“You flatter me, Alliance Leader,” Lin Xiao replied modestly.

At that moment, Le Zheng Hongmao, Situ Guang, Wen Renliang, and other alliance experts rushed over.

“What happened?” Le Zheng Hongmao asked, frowning at the scene.

“Someone got jealous of Heimu and tried to snatch him. When that failed, they aimed to kill him to silence him,” Ye Fenghua answered.

The group had arrived swiftly, but Zhuifeng and Yunfeng’s attack had been lightning-fast.

“Who’s bold enough to come murder someone in our Spirit Controller Alliance!” Situ Guang roared, furious.

“Exactly! We’re not a pushover. To blatantly disrespect us like this—we’ll make them pay!” another elder chimed in.

“Calm down. They’re not from our empire, so rooting them out won’t be easy. I’ll handle this,” Ye Fenghua said to the group.

“Not from the Lanlan Empire—could it be the Moyu Empire?” The crowd’s brows furrowed, anger flaring on their faces.

“Heimu, are you alright?” Wen Renliang stepped forward, concern etched on his face.

“I’m fine. Thanks for your worry,” Lin Xiao smiled, easing their tension.

“Heh, Little Ye, I’ve got some matters I’d like to discuss with Heimu alone,” Meng Xi said, her wrinkled face quivering as she grinned.

Only then did the group notice her, their hearts tightening. No wonder he was safe—with the empire’s top powerhouse here, who could touch him?

Ye Fenghua frowned slightly, scanning the gathered crowd, “It’s over now. Disperse and tighten security.”

“Senior Meng, let’s head to that room over there,” he said, pointing to a nearby courtyard.

With a chuckle, Meng Xi shuffled toward it, her frail, wind-swayed gait like that of a dying elder—nothing suggesting she was a Martial Venerable.

After a quick farewell to the others, Lin Xiao followed her slowly. Once inside the room with the door shut, he asked, “May I know why Empress Dowager Meng sought me out?”

“Heh, I hear your talent’s something extraordinary,” Meng Xi cackled, her wrinkles nearly swallowing her eyes.

“You’re too kind, Empress Dowager,” Lin Xiao replied humbly.

“I also heard you’re not too keen on Shengyuan Academy?” Emperor Meng cut straight to it.

“Uh… not exactly. I just don’t plan to head there anytime soon,” Lin Xiao said, a touch of awkwardness on his face.

“Looks like you really don’t know what Shengyuan Academy is,” Meng Xi sighed, explaining, “I won’t even get into how deep its resources run, but it’s famous across the continent because it holds the Nine Heavens Thunder Dragon spiritual energy. Disciples there cultivate with it, advancing countless times faster than outside. That place might be of great use to you.”

“What, Nine Heavens Thunder Dragon spiritual energy!” Lin Xiao’s heart jolted hard.

Ranked thirteenth on the spiritual energy list, it embodied thunder’s might—wild and powerful, rivaling even the peak Heaven-Devouring spiritual energy.

He’d never imagined Shengyuan Academy housed such a cosmic force.

Of course, the spiritual energy rankings were relative. A millennia-old energy far outstripped a newly formed one, though age alone didn’t dictate strength—comparing them precisely was tricky.

Still, this revelation reshaped Lin Xiao’s view of Shengyuan Academy.

It was far from the simple place he’d assumed.

Abyss Sovereign Chapter 147

“If I could fuse three spiritual energies, it might upgrade the Eternal Heavenly Spirit Technique again. The power of three fused energies…” Lin Xiao’s mind raced instinctively.

Fusing three spiritual energies was unthinkable for others, yet he had the chance. Having already fused two, it was the condition to advance the Eternal Heavenly Spirit Technique in his mind.

Even he felt a shiver of awe at the thought. Fusing two was already a rarity across millennia; three would wield a power he couldn’t even fathom.

“I must go to Shengyuan Academy, no matter what!” Lin Xiao clenched his fists in determination.

Seeing his reaction, a flicker of satisfaction crossed Meng Xi’s face. She produced an ancient token, saying, “This token is your entry to Shengyuan Academy. I see a bond between you and my royal family, so I’ll give it to you—no need to serve us. If you’re willing and able in the future, just lend Yingying a hand.”

“This…” Lin Xiao hesitated, feeling awkward, but before he could refuse, Meng Xi cut in, “No need to decline. The royal family has no suitable candidate for Shengyuan in the next few years. Keeping it is pointless.”

“Then I’ll accept with gratitude!” Lin Xiao didn’t refuse further, pocketing the token, “Rest assured, if there’s ever a need, I’ll do my utmost to help.”

“Heh, your talent makes it hard not to bet on you!” Meng Xi shook her head with a sigh.

Though she said this, Lin Xiao was deeply grateful. Gifting him a Shengyuan Academy slot without strings wasn’t just a wager—it was genuine generosity.

After a brief chat, Lin Xiao found the empire’s top powerhouse less distant than expected. Still, he avoided mentioning Feng Lanyue. Meng Xi was tied to the entire royal family, and he hoped his past rescue of Meng Ying would keep them from turning against him later.

Pulling out the Thunder Spirit Elixir, Lin Xiao’s face lit with excitement. Yunfeng had lost big—failing to kill him and leaving this precious elixir behind.

The Thunder Spirit Elixir, once refined, mimicked thunder spiritual energy for a time, offering a potent attack method countless spirit controllers craved.

Zhuifeng and Yunfeng had spared no expense to kill him, even ready to use the rare elixir, only for it to end up in his hands.

Yunfeng must be fuming, Lin Xiao mused.

Both acted decisively—knowing the alliance’s experts would arrive soon, they’d tried to abduct him, and failing that, aimed to kill without mercy.

When that failed, they fled instantly.

Lurking in the shadows, they remained a massive threat.

But Lin Xiao wasn’t overly worried. He had the Sky Demon Scorpion card up his sleeve—a life-saving trump if push came to shove.

With the alliance and royals watching Zhuifeng and Yunfeng, another move wouldn’t be easy for them.

His priority now was preparing to face Feng Lanyue and Chen Yan.

For the next month, he stayed low-key in the alliance, cultivating and preparing elixirs like the Spirit Recovery Elixir to replenish his spiritual and vitality power.

As a guest elder, he enjoyed easy access to rare herbs—a perk he savored.

With his Blood Dragon anomaly upgraded to Earth-tier elementary, his cultivation talent and speed had surged exponentially. He aimed to peak his strength within a month.

News of the midnight assassination attempt spread quickly through the imperial city. Many sought to visit him, but the alliance used it as an excuse to turn most away.

They also announced he was secluded, refining the Serpent Blood Void-Breaking Elixir.

The Chen and Feng families were among those rebuffed, even when Chen Qing’er came calling.

To avoid complications, Lin Xiao sidestepped her entirely.

The Fengs sent Feng Huo, whom he politely declined, citing cultivation seclusion.

Still, his name and deeds stirred the city for nearly a month.

Yet an even bigger event soon overshadowed it.

Feng Lanyue and Chen Yan’s wedding.

As their grand ceremony neared, the city grew crowded. Major and minor factions across the Lanlan Empire received invitations, and streets buzzed with news and speculation about the union.

The entire empire discussed it, eclipsing Lin Xiao’s rise to fame.

Meanwhile, rumors swirled that Zhou Ruoyi and Meng Sheng were also to wed, signaling a Zhou-royal alliance.

Forces from the royals and three great families poured in from other cities, tightening the capital’s defenses.

An air of impending storm hung over the city. The balance among the three families and royals might shift—possibly from a four-way standoff to paired rivalries.

The capital teemed with a mix of onlookers and schemers, from spirit controller elites to martial experts, all lurking in the shadows.

Figures like the Moyu Empire’s Martial Venerable Ge Mu and Yi Xuanfeng stayed out of sight, even during the competition.

Yunfeng and Zhuifeng, too, hadn’t resurfaced.

By the eve of Feng Lanyue and Chen Yan’s wedding, the city was packed—inns and taverns full, streets thronging, minor clashes erupting among factions.

Royal troops heightened their vigilance.

That night, Lin Xiao halted his cultivation. With his upgraded Blood Dragon anomaly, his Heavenly Martial Third Layer had fully stabilized after two breakthroughs.

Sitting cross-legged, he took out an Ascension Elixir prepared back in Spirit Beast City, swallowing it to begin refining.

Crafted by countless predecessors for the Heavenly Martial realm, it offered a high chance of advancing one layer.

For Lin Xiao, the odds were even better. Within an hour, a powerful aura radiated from him, pushing him from Heavenly Martial Third to Fourth Layer.

The breakthrough didn’t surprise him. His mind remained calm as he rose, spiritual power flicking the door open. He stepped outside.

“Feng Lanyue, Chen Yan—it’s time we settled this!” Gazing toward a certain spot, Lin Xiao sighed faintly.

Over the past year, he’d built the strongest power he could muster for this unknown challenge.

Victory or defeat hinged on tomorrow.

Killing them had been his driving goal since returning to the martial path—his belief, his martial heart.

Tomorrow, no matter the odds or the families’ might, he would go. He would kill. That was his conviction. Only by holding to it could his martial path flow smoothly; otherwise, he’d stall before it.

Glancing at the sparse stars and bright moon, Lin Xiao stepped out, heading beyond the alliance, fading into the night.

Abyss Sovereign Chapter 148

The following day, at dawn.

The clamor of the crowd outpaced the sunrise. As warm sunlight bathed the earth, the streets of the imperial city were already teeming with people.

Both sides of the streets were adorned with festive colors, the din of celebration rising and falling, a relentless wave of joyous noise.

On an unremarkable rooftop, Lin Xiao sat cross-legged, eyes closed. A gentle breeze brushed past, fluttering the sleeves of his black robe. With a pulse of vitality, the concealing powder on him dissipated, and his entire aura shifted. The mask on his face shattered under the force, revealing a clean, slightly refined visage to the open air. From this moment, the name “Heimu” could vanish.

His true name was Lin Xiao.

That clean, refined face now bore a trace of resolve, his expression utterly calm.

With a flick of his body and a sweep of his long robe, the fabric billowed behind him. No vitality flowed visibly, yet he exuded the sharpness of a sword about to be unsheathed.

Reaching into his storage ring, he pulled out a black iron staff over half a zhang long. With a casual swing behind him, a faint metallic clang rang out, stirring a surge of momentum that rippled through his robe.

Securing the staff to the strap on his back, Lin Xiao leapt from the rooftop, landing silently in the alley below.

The thousand-jin staff now felt ordinary on his back. He stepped forward slowly, heading toward the main street beyond the alley.

As the morning sun climbed halfway up the mountains, the sound of gongs and drums erupted in rapid succession. A grand procession emerged from the Chen family’s direction.

At its center was a strikingly handsome young man in a red robe, his fair face adorned with a warm, elegant smile. He held a red embroidered ball, striding confidently down the street’s center, radiating charm and vigor.

This was Chen Yan, one of today’s protagonists in the imperial city.

Beside him stood a black-haired elder with an air of inviolable authority. Despite his smile, he inspired awe—this was Chen Wendao, the Chen family head and a Martial Venerable of the Lanlan Empire.

To Chen Yan’s left was a stunningly beautiful young woman, dressed in elegant splendor, her serene demeanor like that of an untouched仙女 (fairy).

This was Chen Yan’s sister, Chen Qing’er.

Behind them stood rows of imposing elders, middle-aged men, and spirited youths.

Chests of lavish gifts were carried forth, flanked by experts moving with ease. The procession surged like a wave down the main road, nearly filling it. Smaller factions invited by the Chen family joined the ranks, their collective momentum driving toward the Feng family in a grand spectacle.

As the long procession passed, the onlookers lining the streets surged along, the atmosphere boiling over with excitement.

Soon, the Feng family’s sprawling complex came into view. Before its majestic palaces stood two towering stone pillars, topped by a massive horizontal slab. The slab, ancient and imposing, bore the intricately carved “Feng Family” in a style reminiscent of dancing dragons and phoenixes, exuding a grand, mysterious aura.

The Feng family, clad in festive red robes, welcomed the Chen contingent under the guidance of Feng Ziyang—one of the empire’s top experts—and the alluring Feng Huo.

The wedding banquet was set in the Feng family’s vast training ground, now transformed into an opulent feast. Thousands of tables stretched across the space.

The area buzzed with activity, filled with representatives from countless factions—outnumbering even the Chen procession. As the Chen family arrived, everyone rose to greet them.

A long red carpet ran through the center of the training ground, where several figures stood.

The most eye-catching was a young woman at the heart of it all. The Chen family’s thousands turned their gazes to her first.

She wore a resplendent, trailing red gown, its silken threads fluttering without wind. Her hair was elegantly pinned, adorned with delicate, glistening ornaments. Her breathtaking beauty, framed by the attire, resembled a fairy descended from the heavens, her aura transcendent, outshining the sun and moon. Beneath her snowy neck, her jade-like skin flowed into graceful curves, her lithe legs hinting at endless allure.

This was Feng Lanyue, today’s star—one of the four great beauties of the imperial city’s younger generation. Like a radiant moon, she dimmed all other stars, the center of everyone’s attention.

Beside her stood another woman, equally captivating, with an ethereal grace that faintly surpassed Feng Lanyue’s. Appearing in her early twenties, she exuded a haunting charm—skin like snow, features like a painting, her exquisite face a rare bloom of otherworldly beauty.

Yet her attire was understated—a simple dark gown with a few red floral accents for the occasion.

Compared to Feng Lanyue’s dazzling ensemble, she didn’t stand out as much. More crucially, a faint, sacred, and inviolable aura emanated from her, discouraging lingering glances or any hint of irreverence.

This was Feng Youyu, the Feng family head!

“Family Head Feng truly is a prodigy. Emerging from seclusion with another breakthrough!” Chen Wendao’s eyes flashed with surprise as he regarded the dark-gowned woman.

The Fengs had planned for Feng Ziyang to host, but recent news of Feng Youyu’s emergence from seclusion revealed her strengthened aura—a clear sign of a new breakthrough.

“Family Head Chen flatters me. Now, we’re in-laws,” Feng Youyu smiled, her demeanor calm.

“My apologies for being distant!” Chen Wendao nodded.

“Family Head Zhou arrives!”

“Empress Dowager Meng Xi of the royal family arrives!”

At that moment, the announcer’s voice rang out. Feng Ziyang and Feng Huo led two groups of dozens toward the banquet area.

Leading them were a gaunt old woman and a robust elder, accompanied by a sturdy youth and two breathtakingly beautiful women.

“The royals and Zhou family are here!” The crowd parted, making way for the two groups.

“I didn’t expect Family Head Zhou and Empress Dowager Meng to come personally—what an honor for the Feng family!” Feng Youyu smiled gracefully.

“Heh, the Feng young master marrying the Chen young master—how could we not attend?” Meng Xi sighed, her tone carrying depth.

“You jest, Empress Dowager,” Feng Youyu replied lightly.

“Family Head Feng’s seclusion must have boosted your strength again, I presume?” Zhou Moyi’s brows furrowed as he scanned Feng Youyu. The Fengs’ growing power wasn’t good news for the Zhou family.

“How could I compare to you seniors?” Feng Youyu replied humbly.

“The Spirit Controller Alliance arrives!” Another voice called out just then.

Abyss Sovereign Chapter 149

The crowd turned their gazes as a strikingly handsome man, exuding an air of peerless elegance, led dozens toward the Feng family’s banquet grounds. At the forefront was none other than Ye Fenghua, a towering figure in the spirit controller world—the Lanlan Empire’s top spirit controller.

Ye Fenghua moved with grace, his stunning features paired with an intangible aura of authority, captivating countless young women’s hearts.

Behind him were others of notable standing: fourth-grade intermediate spirit controllers Le Zheng Hongmao and Situ Guang, two fourth-grade elementary spirit controllers, and seven or eight third-grade advanced ones.

Among the younger generation’s elite were Ye Yu, Wu Sha, Wu Gong, and others.

“Welcome to the Feng family, Spirit Controller Alliance. I’m deeply honored!” Feng Youyu’s gaze tightened as the group approached. She scanned the crowd, frowning slightly when she didn’t spot the figure she sought, then asked, “May I ask which one is the recently famed genius spirit controller, Heimu?”

“Uh…” Ye Fenghua’s face flashed with awkwardness at her question. “Heimu isn’t here. He might be in seclusion. Please don’t take offense, Family Head Feng!”

Heimu had been present yesterday, but this morning, Ye Fenghua discovered he’d vanished from the alliance.

Heimu was a pride of the alliance, a name that brought prestige wherever he went, but Ye Fenghua had no idea where he was now and could only offer an excuse.

Failing to attend after such a grand invitation was indeed a slight to the Feng family’s face.

Not just Feng Youyu, but Feng Lanyue beside her also frowned. To her, Heimu’s absence likely stemmed from their past conflict, suggesting he wanted no ties with the Fengs.

If so, losing a talent like Heimu would be a significant blow to the family.

“A genius like Heimu could break through at any moment—seclusion takes priority. It’s no trouble!” Feng Youyu waved it off lightly.

With a faint smile, Ye Fenghua’s eyes lingered on Feng Youyu with a hint of admiration, saying warmly, “Family Head Feng, how did your month-long seclusion go?”

“Thank you for your concern, Master Ye. Everything went well!” Feng Youyu nodded faintly, though she felt a subtle unease under his gaze.

“The Tianxuan Sect arrives!” the announcer’s voice rang out again. A new group approached slowly, led by a grizzled, white-haired elder in brown robes—Yan Yitian, the Tianxuan Sect’s Grand Elder.

“Greetings, Master!”

“Greetings, Elder Yan!”

Chen Yan and Feng Lanyue spoke in unison, cupping their hands toward Yan Yitian.

“Welcome, Elder Yan!” Feng Youyu added.

“Hahaha, seeing you two wed brings joy to your old master. We’re family—no need for such formality!” Yan Yitian beamed, his face radiant with pride as he laughed heartily.

With a faint nod, Feng Youyu surveyed the gathered guests and said, “Since everyone’s here, please take your seats.”

The crowd dispersed, guided by attendants to their assigned places. Only the leaders and key youths of major factions could sit at the same table as the Feng and Chen family heads.

Once all were seated, Feng Youyu remained standing, addressing the assembly, “Thank you all for honoring us by attending Lanyue’s wedding. I must clarify: Lanyue isn’t marrying out—Chen Yan, my wise nephew, is joining the Feng family.”

“What!” The crowd gasped. Typically, the bride joined the groom’s family. A groom entering the bride’s family was seen as a mark of inferiority, suggesting the groom’s side lacked wealth or power, bowing to the bride’s family. For a major faction, this was a significant hit to reputation.

For a top-tier family like the Chens to let their genius young master become an in-law son-in-law was unthinkable.

Emperor Meng, Zhou Moyi, and others were stunned, but glancing at Chen Wendao’s face—showing no obvious displeasure—they realized this had been agreed upon.

“Something’s off. Did the Fengs offer the Chens some massive benefit, or strike a deal? Otherwise, Chen Wendao wouldn’t agree!” Meng Xi’s brows furrowed, sensing an unsettling undercurrent.

“What are these guys up to?” Zhou Moyi’s frown deepened as he racked his brain. This shouldn’t be happening.

“Unbelievable—Chen Yan’s joining the Feng family!”

“He’s the Chens’ future head, a prodigy. This is a huge loss for them—shocking! What did the Fengs promise, or is there a plot?”

“The Chens are bowing to the Fengs!”

Whispers rippled through the crowd. They’d assumed Chen Yan was here to fetch Feng Lanyue, not to join her family—a jarring twist.

Hearing the speculation and pointed remarks, Chen Wendao’s face grew awkward. He coughed twice, stood, and addressed the crowd, “Everyone, my niece Lanyue, at sixteen, is already a Heavenly Martial expert with boundless potential. It’s my son Yan’er’s fortune to join the Feng family.”

“Yan’er bears a Mysterious-tier elementary dantian anomaly. At just over twenty, he’s Heavenly Martial Fifth Layer—a talent rare among the youth, worthy of Lanyue.”

The crowd murmured skeptically. The reasoning felt forced, but with Chen Wendao speaking, no one dared press further.

Their talents were indeed unmatched among the younger generation. Chen Yan, with his Mysterious-tier elementary anomaly, had a cultivation speed and strength far beyond ordinary, with potential to reach Martial Venerable—a dragon among men. Even among the older generation, anomaly-bearers were scarce.

His gifts were beyond doubt.

Feng Lanyue, meanwhile, had reached Heavenly Martial at a tender age—a rarity in the empire. Her rapid rise within a year added a mysterious allure.

Some even speculated her talent outshone Chen Yan’s.

Regardless, they topped the empire’s four young masters and four beauties—an undisputed pair of leading geniuses.

“Oh, is that so? If that’s the case, dare you both face me in combat before everyone here?” Just then, an untimely voice cut through the crowd from outside.

Abyss Sovereign Chapter 150

The crowd was momentarily stunned. At the grand wedding of the Feng and Chen families, with every major figure of the empire present, someone dared to speak such words?

The scene, filled with tens of thousands, fell so quiet you could hear a pin drop. All eyes turned in shock toward the source of the voice.

The crowd saw a young man in a black robe, a black iron staff strapped to his back, striding calmly and steadily toward the banquet’s red carpet.

Barely sixteen or seventeen, his clean face bore a mature resolve. No aura emanated from him, yet facing thousands, he showed no fear—his demeanor utterly composed.

The crowd’s faces filled with astonishment. This unfamiliar young man dared to storm in alone, challenging Chen Yan and Feng Lanyue at their wedding, defying both families in front of everyone?

It was a jaw-dropping act.

“Hmph, where did this brat come from, daring to cause trouble at my Feng family!” Feng Ziyang’s thunderous roar erupted, a powerful aura radiating from him.

Ordinarily, who would dare offend the Fengs? Even the royals or the Zhou family showed them deference. Yet now, at such a moment, an unknown youth swept aside their dignity?

Fury surged through Feng Ziyang, his killing intent unleashed.

The Feng family erupted in outrage.

Chen Wendao and the Chens were equally incensed—this wasn’t just a slight to the Fengs but a slap to their face too.

“How can it be him!” Feng Youyu, the Feng family head, gaped in disbelief as she recognized the young man.

A year ago, during her battle with the Azure Bird, this young man had been struck by spiritual energy, saving her life but leading to an unintended entanglement.

Their statuses and strengths were worlds apart, destined for no further intersection. Yet that physical connection left a knot in her heart, even a faint hope.

She recalled her parting words, spoken with a helpless sigh, “If you truly want to take responsibility, come find me in the capital when you reach Martial King.”

Now, he was here.

But not for her—he aimed straight for Feng Lanyue and Chen Yan.

Complex emotions swirled within Feng Youyu as she scanned Lin Xiao with her divine sense, only to find she couldn’t discern his cultivation.

Still, she was certain he bore no Martial King aura—likely concealing it with some technique.

A flicker of hope dimmed, and she mocked herself inwardly. He’d been at the Origin Martial realm back then—how could he reach Martial King in a year?

“It’s you!” Seeing Feng Youyu, Lin Xiao’s heart jolted. He mouthed the words in shock but kept silent.

That dreamlike woman, the one he’d vowed to surpass Ye Fenghua before, the Martial Venerable he’d aimed to catch up to…

He’d never imagined she was the Feng family head, Feng Lanyue’s superior.

If he could choose, he’d rather have no ties with her.

But Feng Lanyue had to die.

This put them squarely at odds…

Caught off guard, Lin Xiao stood speechless for a long moment.

“Lin Xiao!” Chen Yan and Feng Lanyue’s pupils shrank as they recognized him, blurting his name in unison.

A year ago, they’d tricked him, crippled his dantian, and forced a first-grade beast core into his mouth—unbeknownst to anyone.

Elder Sun had sent the unconscious Lin Xiao back, and they’d turned their focus to refining the sixth-grade spirit stone, dismissing him entirely.

Though he’d been comatose, they were certain that with a destroyed dantian and a swallowed core, death was inevitable. Elder Sun had returned a corpse.

Yet here he stood, alive and seeking revenge.

It defied belief.

“It’s him?” Elder Sun, among the Tianxuan Sect group, blinked in surprise.

He’d taken Lin family bribes to grant Lin Xiao a sect slot, only for him to offend Chen Yan within three months, get his dantian ruined, and be expelled.

Later, rumors claimed he’d swallowed a beast core in a suicide attempt and fell into a coma. Sun had reluctantly sent him back to the Lin family.

He’d assumed Lin Xiao was dead, but somehow, he’d clung to life.

“He must hate Chen Yan bitterly. Surviving death and growing stronger, yet coming back like this is suicidal—foolish. He’s too fixated on Feng Lanyue.”

Elder Sun shook his head, assuming Lin Xiao couldn’t let go of her and returned to spite Chen Yan at their wedding.

A doomed endeavor.

“Lin Xiao… wait, isn’t that the kid we kicked out?”

“His dantian’s ruined, and he still hasn’t learned? He dares come to the Fengs?”

Tianxuan Sect disciples who’d ousted him froze, racking their brains before recalling his name, whispering among themselves.

“That figure… why does it feel familiar?” Ye Fenghua, gazing at the young man, paused and muttered.

“I feel it too—like I’ve seen him somewhere. But this kid’s got guts, storming the Fengs alone!” Zhou Moyi sighed nearby.

Meng Xi nodded in agreement, her eyes tinged with suspicion.

Ignoring the stares and Feng Ziyang’s words, Lin Xiao shifted his gaze from Feng Youyu to the pair, his voice icy, “Chen Yan, Feng Lanyue—one year ago, you conspired against me, stole half a jin of sixth-grade spirit stone from me, then soared in cultivation, becoming family heirs and the empire’s brightest geniuses. Living grandly, aren’t you?”

Chen Yan and Feng Lanyue’s eyes narrowed. They hadn’t expected Lin Xiao to blurt out the sixth-grade spirit stone matter.

“What, half a jin of sixth-grade spirit stone!” Meng Xi’s eyes blazed at his words.

She knew what that meant—a chance to break into Martial Lord and extend her waning lifespan.

She didn’t doubt the young man for a second. With her experience, she could tell he wouldn’t dare lie in such a setting.

More crucially, during the spirit controller competition, the Fengs had offered a sixth of that stone to recruit Heimu—proof they held a substantial stash!

Otherwise, they’d never part with such a treasure for an outsider!

Coupled with Feng Youyu’s breakthrough and Feng Lanyue’s rapid rise, Meng Xi was certain the young man spoke the truth.