Zi Yan's words rendered the old Dragon Emperor speechless.
He longed to leave every moment, and this desire became even more urgent now that he had reunited with Zi Yan.
However, this was not something he could decide on his own.
Seeing the unusual expression on the old Dragon Emperor's face, Zi Yan and Grand Elder Green Mountains felt a jolt, immediately harboring a bad premonition.
"Your Majesty Dragon Emperor, are you unable to break free?"
Once they calmed down, it wasn't difficult to guess.
If the old Dragon Emperor could truly come and go as he pleased, why would he have been confined here for thousands of years? He would have likely gone out to find Zi Yan long ago.
Meeting the gazes of the three, the old Dragon Emperor nodded with a grim expression.
"You all saw it just now, this is the Ancient Emperor Cave, the doing of that old bastard Tuoshe Ancient Emperor!"
"When I brought Zi Yan here, I discovered the Ancient Emperor Cave. At that time, I was confident that nothing in this world could trap me, but I never expected to suffer such a great setback here. The reason I discovered the Ancient Emperor Cave was that old bastard's deliberate plan!"
"He wanted to attract a powerful expert with sufficient strength to guard this place for him. As long as the Ancient Emperor Cave remains unopened, I will never be able to escape from here!"
Upon hearing this, Grand Elder Green Mountains and Zi Yan's expressions changed slightly.
This was not good news. With the old Dragon Emperor unable to break free, all their previous plans had naturally fallen through.
The Void Ancient Dragon clan would still be unable to unify in the short term!
"Uncle, how can we save you then? Or rather, how can this Ancient Emperor Cave be opened?"
Sensing the anxiety of Zi Yan and Grand Elder Green Mountains, Chen Xiao asked with a deep voice.
He naturally knew the key point and was asking on behalf of Zi Yan and the others.
It would be more efficient to let the old Dragon Emperor explain the intricacies rather than him doing it.
Zi Yan and Grand Elder Green Mountains immediately looked at the old Dragon Emperor, their eyes filled with anticipation.
Although the Eastern Dragon Island's strength was no longer at its peak, it still had some foundation. As long as they knew the key, there might still be hope.
"Before that old bastard left, he left behind an Emperor Jade as the key to opening the Ancient Emperor Cave. If it can be found, the cave can be opened, and I will also break free from my restraints!"
Zi Yan and Grand Elder Green Mountains had never heard of these secrets before, and upon learning them now, they had no clue.
Sensing the shift in the atmosphere, Chen Xiao pondered for a moment and then delivered some good news.
"So it's the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade!"
"Little friend Chen Xiao, you know of this item?" The Grand Elder looked up, his expression excited as he grabbed Chen Xiao's arm.
Chen Xiao nodded slightly and said, "In the Jia Ma Empire on the Northwest Continent, Zi Yan and I had contact with a family surnamed Xiao. In the Xiao family, there was a fragment of an ancient jade."
"Later, I learned from Xun Er that it was the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade, related to a monumental secret."
"According to Xun Er, the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade has been divided into eight pieces, with each of the eight ancient clans possessing a fragment. They all know the origin of this item, which is why they value it highly. After the Xiao family suffered a disaster, their fragment was also brought back to the Ancient Clan by Xun Er."
"Therefore, of the current eight fragments, besides the Xiao Clan, the Ancient Clan has two, and the remaining ancient races each have one!"
Now that even the old Dragon Emperor had appeared, these secrets could be revealed.
After all, the matter of the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade was not a particularly big secret among the eight ancient clans.
If the Ancient Dragon Clan was willing to put in the effort, it wouldn't be difficult to find out.
The difficulty lay in how to obtain it!
Therefore, it was better for Chen Xiao to reveal it, which would not only enhance his own standing but also save the Ancient Dragon Clan some effort.
"The eight ancient clans..."
Grand Elder Green Mountains murmured, his brow furrowed with worry.
Just as one problem was solved, a new one had already arrived.
Although the Void Ancient Dragon clan did not often operate in the Central State, they knew what the eight ancient clans represented.
If the eight ancient clans did not know what it meant to possess the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade, then there would still be room for maneuver.
But now...
It was definitely not going to work.
And forcefully seizing it was also highly unlikely!
The current Ancient Dragon Clan was not at its peak. Internal issues had not yet been resolved, and relying solely on the Eastern Dragon Island, they might not even be a match for the weakest of the ancient clans.
"Chen Xiao, do you already have a plan?"
While the Grand Elder's brow was tightly knit, Zi Yan looked at Chen Xiao.
Just as Chen Xiao understood her, she also understood him.
Seeing that there was no urgency in Chen Xiao's expression, she guessed that he had an idea.
Grand Elder Green Mountains also looked up, and even the old Dragon Emperor's gaze towards Chen Xiao changed once more.
"It's not really a plan, I just think we can approach it from a different angle."
Shaking his head slightly, Chen Xiao smiled and said, "Because of Xun Er, I know quite a bit about the ancient races. The Clan Leader of the Soul Clan, Hun Tiandi, is ambitious and has always wanted to gather the Emperor Jade to find and open this Ancient Emperor Cave!"
"This person has both the strength and the boldness and methods. The Soul Hall in the outside world is the Soul Clan's pawn. They have been preparing for many years, and it's likely not far from truly taking action. At that time, Hun Tiandi will definitely try his best to gather the Emperor Jade!"
"The Soul Clan's strength is formidable, no less than the Ancient Clan. For Hun Tiandi to collect the Emperor Jade will be much simpler than for us."
"We only need to wait for him to gather the ancient jade, and Uncle will naturally be able to break free. Moreover, at a special time, we can even lend him a hand!"
Chen Xiao had this thought a very, very long time ago.
This Ancient Emperor Cave was bound to be opened!
Even if he could pre-pay for Origin Qi in the future, opening the Ancient Emperor Cave and using the Origin Qi within to repay debts would be the most convenient.
However, for Chen Xiao to gather the ancient jade himself would be very troublesome.
When he lacked strength, it was as difficult as climbing to heaven.
Even if he had the strength, it would still be a time-consuming and labor-intensive matter.
Therefore, the best method was to use Hun Tiandi's hand!
All Chen Xiao needed to do was to secretly control one fragment.
Anyway, as long as it wasn't all gathered, there was no difference between having one fragment or seven.
Controlling one fragment would give him a great deal of initiative!
"Soul Clan, Hun Tiandi..."
"What is this person's strength?" the old Dragon Emperor muttered, asking Chen Xiao.
"It is said that a thousand years ago, he had already reached a point where he could no longer advance."
Upon receiving this answer, the old Dragon Emperor's heart stirred.
This was a powerful competitor!
"Regarding the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade matter, we will do as you say. The Ancient Dragon Clan does not need to interfere for now. Everything should focus on improving strength. This way, when the Ancient Emperor Cave truly opens, we will be able to obtain the greatest benefits."
Glancing at the Ancient Emperor Cave, a sharp glint flashed in the old Dragon Emperor's eyes.
He truly regretted it, but it was only regret for his past recklessness, which had caused Zi Yan to be cast out and separated from her father for thousands of years.
But his covetous desire for the Ancient Emperor Cave had never ceased!
Even guarding the great gate for thousands of years had made him even more eager for the opportunities within the Ancient Emperor Cave.
Zi Yan and Grand Elder Qing Shan both nodded in agreement.
Putting this matter aside for the moment, the old Dragon Emperor took a deep breath and said, "As for the unification of Dragon Island, it's simple!"
"Over these past few thousand years, because of me, the Ancient Dragon Clan has become what it is today. I, as the Dragon Emperor, have been derelict in my duty. Zi Yan, from this day forward, you will be the Dragon Emperor of our Void Ancient Dragon Clan!"
"Those rebellious dragons can be used by you to establish your authority. This will be their final value!"
Plop!
As the old Dragon Emperor made his announcement, Grand Elder Qing Shan immediately knelt on the ground without the slightest hesitation.
Zi Yan's bloodline was evident. They had known before that with the old Dragon Emperor missing, Zi Yan was the sole successor to the position of Dragon Emperor.
However, at that time, Zi Yan had not truly ascended the throne.
Therefore, their interactions with her were somewhat casual.
But from now on, everything would be different.
"Qing Shan pays his respects to His Majesty the Dragon Emperor!"
"Grand Elder, please get up. There are no outsiders here."
Zi Yan was stunned for a moment before snapping back to reality, quickly helping the Grand Elder up.
This sudden succession, as simple as eating or drinking, made her feel as if it were a joke.
The old Dragon Emperor looked on with satisfaction. When he had left, Grand Elder Qing Shan was still just a young boy, unremarkable in the clan except for his youthful passion.
Now, after thousands of years, although Grand Elder Qing Shan's strength was somewhat weaker in his eyes, his loyalty had not disappointed him.
After helping the Grand Elder up, Zi Yan finally glanced at the old Dragon Emperor.
"Those three Dragon Kings are all Dou Sheng powerhouses. I don't have the ability to use them to establish my authority."
She had only recently advanced to Dou Zun less than a year ago. Even with Zi Yan's confidence, she did not dare to arrogantly claim she could suppress three veteran Dou Shengs.
The old Dragon Emperor didn't mind and said with a smile, "Not now, but you will soon. Don't you have news of the Dragon Phoenix Origin Fruit? As long as you obtain this item, it will allow you to soar to the heavens. At that time, you can easily defeat those three rebellious dragons!"
The old Dragon Emperor had already learned the specific strength of the three Dragon Kings from Grand Elder Qing Shan. Therefore, although he was angry, he didn't take them seriously at all.
The so-called three Dragon Kings were merely monkeys acting like kings in the absence of a tiger. They weren't even qualified to die by his hand. Using them as a target for Zi Yan to establish her authority was simply making the best use of waste.
"Your Majesty the old Dragon Emperor, the information regarding the Dragon Phoenix Origin Fruit is now very scarce within the clan. Do you need us to prepare anything in advance?"
"No need. Just bring the Dragon Phoenix Origin Fruit here when you find it, and I will personally ensure Zi Yan absorbs its medicinal effects perfectly!"
The old Dragon Emperor smiled confidently. After all the important matters were settled, his gaze finally swept towards Chen Xiao, who was beside Zi Yan.
"Kid, come with me. I want to have a chat with you."
Upon hearing this, Zi Yan immediately took a step forward, glaring warily at the old Dragon Emperor.
The old Dragon Emperor's brow twitched at this, but meeting Zi Yan's gaze, he eventually softened.
"Zi Yan, your father isn't someone who repays kindness with enmity, so don't worry. I'll just have a few words with him, I won't make things difficult for him."
Zi Yan wanted to say more, but Chen Xiao stopped her.
For all intents and purposes, the old Dragon Emperor wouldn't harm him.
At most, he'd give him a good beating in secret.
"Don't worry."
Zi Yan nodded slightly, her gaze fixed on the two figures walking away. It was as if the moment the old Dragon Emperor made any move, she would immediately rush forward.
Meanwhile.
Chen Xiao walked beside the old Dragon Emperor, silent, waiting for him to speak.
This was his first time meeting the old Dragon Emperor, but thanks to the memories, Chen Xiao knew quite a bit about him.
Therefore, he could roughly guess what the old Dragon Emperor would say to him.
"Chen Xiao, how old are you now?"
A casual question from the old Dragon Emperor initiated the conversation.
"Twenty-two."
"Twenty-two years old, a Two-Star Dou Zun, with a Spirit Realm soul, and a Heavenly Flame within your body. Not bad at all."
If these words came from anyone else, they would sound boastful.
However, the old Dragon Emperor, standing at the pinnacle of the continent, truly had the right to make such an evaluation.
Chen Xiao neither felt proud nor humble, his expression remaining calm as he awaited the rest.
"I can see that Zi Yan relies on you greatly. As that kid Qing Shan said, you can't find any fault with Zi Yan. Helping her return to Dragon Island, including the upcoming Dragon Phoenix Origin Fruit, these are all acts of kindness."
"However, to me, I am even more grateful that you brought her here, and for the kind words you spoke for me just now."
Chen Xiao smiled, "Uncle, you flatter me. I believe Uncle can also see clearly that when Zi Yan asked me, she already had an answer in her heart. No matter what I said, it couldn't change the outcome of your reunion. I was merely going along with her wishes."
The old Dragon Emperor offered no comment, his steps also halting. He turned to face Chen Xiao directly.
"I had promised Zi Yan earlier that I would do whatever she asked, and give her whatever she wanted. That was not a lie. I can't interfere with your relationship. After all, Zi Yan and I have only just reunited today. Perhaps in her heart, your position is even higher than mine. If I say too much, it might displease her."
"Therefore, I have only one thing to say: if you ever betray her, I will skin you alive!"
Although he knew that once they left this strange space, the old Dragon Emperor would have no way to deal with him.
However, looking at the stern-faced old Dragon Emperor, Chen Xiao had no intention of giving a perfunctory response.
Setting aside the fact that he had a few too many women around him, and the intentional contact at the very beginning, he felt he had a clear conscience regarding Zi Yan.
After all these years, given Zi Yan's trust in him, if Chen Xiao had harbored any improper thoughts, the old Dragon Emperor would already be a grandfather by now...
"Uncle, time reveals a horse's strength, and the days show a person's heart. The situation you mentioned will absolutely not occur."
After staring at Chen Xiao intently for a while, the old Dragon Emperor finally broke into a smile again.
"I hope you keep your word."
"I will."
"You and Zi Yan have known each other for so many years and experienced many things, right? Tell me about it."
Chen Xiao nodded, chose his words carefully, and began recounting his story from when he entered the Inner Academy and Zi Yan came to visit.
From the Inner Academy to the Black-Corner Region, from the Black-Corner Region to the Jia Ma Empire, and then to the Central State, Chen Xiao spoke eloquently, elaborating on the details where necessary and summarizing where appropriate.
The old Dragon Emperor listened quietly, his imposing aura as a peak expert completely gone. He would occasionally smile knowingly, and at other times, his face would be serious.
After chatting for over an hour, Chen Xiao finally paused.
The old Dragon Emperor took a deep breath, his gaze towards Chen Xiao holding a hint of envy.
It was as if he envied Chen Xiao for being able to stay by Zi Yan's side all along.
He glanced back at Zi Yan, who was still watching them from a distance, and smiled helplessly. He patted Chen Xiao's shoulder, which made Chen Xiao feel unexpectedly honored.
"That's enough idle talk for now. We'll have plenty of time to chat later. I want to discuss some serious matters with you first."
Chen Xiao looked up.
The old Dragon Emperor got straight to the point. "Your strength is probably second to none among the younger generation. However, once Zi Yan obtains the Dragon Phoenix Origin Fruit, she will instantly be far ahead of you."
"At that time, if you two stand together, I don't know what others will think, but I will definitely feel it's inappropriate. To prevent myself from looking down on you then, I'll give you some benefits today. It's a small token of my appreciation for you taking care of Zi Yan and for your kindness to the Ancient Dragon race."
As his words fell, and before Chen Xiao could react, the old Dragon Emperor slammed his palm down, causing Chen Xiao to sit down on the spot.
At the same time, a sound like tearing through the air echoed from the sky, as if it were splitting space itself. It instantly fell into Chen Xiao's slightly open mouth.
It was only at this moment that Chen Xiao, Zi Yan, and the Grand Elder Qing Shan in the distance could vaguely see what it was – a drop of blood!
The moment this drop of blood entered his mouth, Chen Xiao felt a surge of immense energy erupt within his body, causing his meridians and bones to feel as fragile as paper, being destroyed with overwhelming force.
The pain was bone-deep!
Without time to ask, and no time to even think about it, Chen Xiao quickly circulated his cultivation technique, desperately trying to regulate this terrifying energy.
However, his efforts were like a mantis trying to stop a chariot, with minimal effect.
At this moment, Chen Xiao truly felt like he was about to explode!
Fortunately, just as he was about to burst, a large hand pressed down on his shoulder.
Instantly, the surging, boundless energy within his body, as if guided, finally began to calm down. Although the pain remained, it was no longer enough to cause him to explode on the spot.
"Chen Xiao!"
"Zi Yan, don't worry. You watch here. Do you think your father would harm him? I'm merely bestowing an opportunity upon him."
In his dazed state, Chen Xiao heard Zi Yan's anxious cries and the old Dragon Emperor's explanation.
But immediately after, he no longer had the capacity to care about the outside world.
The intense pain within his body suddenly began to worsen. Under the control of the invisible hand, the boundless energy spread to every limb, every bone, and every pore.
Chen Xiao had the illusion that his meridians, flesh, and bones were being shattered and then constantly reshaped, his consciousness gradually blurring.
"Circulate the cultivation technique."
A voice echoed in his mind, like a thunderclap.
Chen Xiao instantly regained some clarity. Daring not to hesitate, he focused all his attention on maintaining the circulation of the cultivation technique.
After an unknown amount of time, perhaps three days, perhaps half a month.
When Chen Xiao's consciousness gradually cleared and he awoke, he was met with Zi Yan's relieved and joyful smile.
"Chen Xiao, how do you feel?"
Calming himself, Chen Xiao examined his body, and a look of astonishment appeared on his face.
"Five-Star Dou Zun?"
The immense change in his strength made Chen Xiao doubt if he was awake, but after checking repeatedly, it remained the same.
With a blink of his eyes, he had truly become a Five-Star Dou Zun!
"Heh, it's just a minor improvement. If your body could withstand it, I could have increased your star rank by several more. For now, feel the changes in your body."
The old Dragon Emperor strode forward from behind, his expression as calm as still water, as if he had done something insignificant.
Damn it, he got to show off again!
Pushing aside the impulse to let the old Dragon Emperor show off again, Chen Xiao examined his own changes more meticulously. Only then did he discover that beneath his skin, there was a faint purplish-gold hue, appearing as hard as metal and giving off an extremely tough impression.
Focusing his mind, he further sensed a strange energy swirling beneath his skin.
With a thought, Chen Xiao activated it.
As this energy was spurred on, Chen Xiao suddenly felt a sour, itchy sensation all over his body.
The feeling was as if countless ants were gnawing at him. This change startled him, and he quickly opened his eyes, only to see with shock that, except for his head, all other parts of his body were covered in countless purplish-gold dragon scales!
"Little friend, do not panic. This is the Dragon Scale Garment, a defensive skill possessed by all members of my Void Ancient Dragon clan. His Majesty, the old Dragon Emperor, condensed all the remaining energy you couldn't digest into this Dragon Scale Garment, greatly enhancing your physical strength. Although your Dragon Scale Garment cannot reach the level of the legendary Dragon Phoenix Ancient Armor, it can still be called the Dragon Emperor Ancient Armor!"
"After this refinement by His Majesty, the old Dragon Emperor, with this Dragon Emperor Ancient Armor alone, you will have no life-threatening danger even if you take a direct blow from any Dou Zun below the Nine-Star level. As for ordinary Dou Zuns, it's even less of a concern; at most, the corners of your garment will be slightly soiled."
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