Huo Yuhao hadn't been enjoying his new role as the "working emperor" of the Dou Ling Empire for very long before a message from Shrek Academy sent him off to the Star Luo Empire.
It turned out the Sun Moon Empire and the Star Luo Empire were preparing to negotiate and needed a neutral third party as witness. Naturally, the Sea God Pavilion was the best choice for that role. And when it came to matters of empire-level diplomacy, the Pavilion Master—Huo Yuhao—was unquestionably the right person to step forward.
Huo Yuhao couldn't help but feel like he was nothing more than a glorified errand boy.
No real power, just a title—and yet, whenever something came up, it was always his face that had to show up.
Damn, he really had become a corporate lackey!
Still, his fortune was real, and the Golden Ancient Tree was at his disposal. So Huo Yuhao didn't bother bickering with others over these roles—after all, in the future, they'd all be on the same side.
The young women were, of course, incredibly reluctant to see him leave, but they didn't forcibly stop him.
They merely exchanged bittersweet farewells with him.
Before he departed, they collectively showed up and thoroughly "squeezed out" every last bit of value from Huo Yuhao.
As a result—none of them could even stand against him afterward.
When they came to send him off, not a single one dared to meet his gaze—just like students afraid to make eye contact with a teacher when they didn't know the answer to a question.
The rest of the people in the town, upon hearing of Huo Yuhao's departure, also came out to bid him farewell.
In fact, it seemed like every member of the Surveillance Corps in the town showed up.
Those who were familiar with Huo Yuhao shared some final words with him:
Xu Sanshi said, "Brother Huo, if you return to the Academy, please check in on Nannan for me. I know she won't accept me anymore, but I still care about her."
Cao Jinxuan said, "Captain, take care on the road."
Wang Yan added, "Pavilion Master, this negotiation between the Sun Moon and Star Luo Empires may not go smoothly. I suspect the Sun Moon Empire isn't sincere. Please warn the Star Luo Emperor to remain vigilant."
Huo Yuhao's eyes narrowed slightly.
Wang Yan was sharper than he looked.
"Thank you, Teacher Wang Yan, for the reminder. I'll inform the Star Luo Emperor. The fate of the Star Luo Empire impacts the peace of the entire continent now," Huo Yuhao replied seriously, clearly giving weight to Wang Yan's words.
Wang Yan waved his hands repeatedly, saying he didn't dare accept such praise—but his heart was warmed. Huo Yuhao still addressed him as "teacher."
At that moment, Wang Yan couldn't help but feel: the elders had chosen well. Huo Yuhao was like a warm sun, drawing people to him, shining light on everyone, and leading them toward a brighter future.
Of course, Huo Yuhao wasn't so petty as to act against Wang Yan. And without any real power, Wang Yan's usefulness was limited anyway.
Xiao Xiao saw him off with red eyes, her emotions plain as day on her face.
This made both those who knew and didn't know the full story fall silent.
Everyone could only marvel:
"No wonder he can openly maintain a harem in the Inner Court. His methods in love are just too formidable. Is this the charm of the Inner Court's king of romance?"
Meng Hongchen stood beside Xiao Xiao. At that moment, she realized the "danger" Huo Yuhao posed.
Honestly, the way Huo Yuhao had refused to seriously injure her during their match—even injuring himself instead—and their interactions in the time since had already made her develop significant feelings for him.
As far as Meng Hongchen was concerned, Huo Yuhao was... perfect.
But when she saw Xiao Xiao's reaction, she suddenly realized that she herself was falling... deeper than she had imagined.
And upon realizing that, she made a decision.
"Xiao Xiao, even though we're close... when it comes to love, there are no sisters. From here on, may the best woman win."
Meng Hongchen joined the race.
"Yuhao, take care on your journey. Remember to write us," someone said.
"Mm-hmm. I will," Huo Yuhao nodded.
Then, he left the small town where he had been stationed.
He didn't need an escort.
After all, his route passed through safe territory, so there was little danger.
And just because he couldn't use his full strength didn't mean he was helpless. Even without his martial soul, just with his physical strength and combat techniques, Huo Yuhao wasn't someone an average Titled Douluo could threaten.
But things were far from over.
When Ning Tian and the others heard about Huo Yuhao's departure, they were completely stunned.
Wait, what? They hadn't even gotten their turn yet, and now he was leaving?
And so, this journey to the Star Luo Empire turned into something akin to a pilgrimage to the West—filled with alluring temptresses at every turn.
Some familiar, some new.
After the catastrophe in the Dou Ling Empire, many families and sects had been wiped out. Though many had died, there were survivors.
Thus, sects like the Nine Treasure Glazed Tile Sect had rescued a number of these "survivors," mainly talented women.
And whenever Huo Yuhao passed through territories controlled by these powers, they'd always show these survivors a "bright path."
And to be honest, the quality of these survivors... was excellent.
Many of them had even competed in the Soul Master Tournament.
Take, for example, An Lengye and Fei Yuyan from the Qianling Academy. One wielded the Frost Bear martial soul, the other the Scorching Tiger. Both could manifest their martial souls as physical beings during battle.
They had already graduated and taken official positions in the empire when disaster struck.
Their families were destroyed, their lovers killed—they were the only ones who "miraculously" escaped.
To seek revenge, they turned to Ning Tian, leader of the Nine Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, who in turn "introduced" them to Huo Yuhao as he passed through.
After evaluating them, Huo Yuhao found that while they had lost their original yin (virginity), their overall quality was still excellent. Frost Bear and Scorching Tiger were both top-tier beast martial souls. Their families had built great power and status in the Dou Ling Empire based on these bloodlines.
Yes, the two had lost their virginity—because they had both been in relationships with teammates from the Qianling Academy tournament squad. If not for the recent disaster, they'd be married by now.
Still, they were worth cultivating.
Huo Yuhao gave them each a few Heavenly Fortune Creation Holy Cigars, enhancing their potential. He planned for them to either become Ning Tian's enforcers or possibly his own cultivation cauldrons.
This investment was largely thanks to Electrolux.
No, it wasn't Electrolux indulging in some youthful fantasy—he had noticed that the Frost Bear and Scorching Tiger martial souls closely resembled two fifth-tier magical beasts from the Holy Demon Continent.
Fifth-tier beasts were already elite-level monsters there, the pinnacle of ordinary magical beasts.
Beyond that were sixth-tier magical beasts, who often had intelligence on par with humans and possessed unique bloodline abilities. They weren't even considered "ordinary" anymore.
So, if the two girls' martial souls were related to the sixth-tier beasts of the Holy Demon Continent, further cultivation might yield incredible surprises.
And after those Holy Cigars were consumed, neither Huo Yuhao nor Electrolux were disappointed—their martial souls evolved into the sixth-tier versions from the Holy Demon Continent.
The Frost Bear became a White Frost Giant Bear.
The Scorching Tiger evolved into a Roaring Flame Tiger.
These hadn't appeared in the original story, but with Electrolux—who was basically a local god—it was no surprise he recognized them.
Sixth-tier beasts on the Holy Demon Continent had high value for cultivation and immense combat prowess.
And so, Huo Yuhao stumbled his way through the journey—barely making it to the Star Luo Empire on the day of the deadline.
Time-wise, it was cutting it extremely close.
Star Luo Empire, Star Luo City.
Huo Yuhao once again arrived at the capital of the Star Luo Empire.
Though the city remained bustling, a shadow now loomed over it. The looming crisis facing the Empire left the residents of Star Luo City uneasy and restless.
The tragedy of Lingdou City had already spread across the continent, leaving the other two great empires deeply alarmed.
Now that the Sun Moon diplomatic delegation had arrived, tensions among the people of the Star Luo Empire were at an all-time high. Of course, there were also patriots who, full of tragic heroism, were willing to die for their country—but when it came to affairs of state, they had no power to intervene. All they could do was sigh in frustration over the empire's calls for peace.
When Huo Yuhao entered the capital, Xu Jiawei—accompanied by Xu JiuJiu and his civil and military officials—personally greeted him outside the royal palace, demonstrating their great respect.
Huo Yuhao couldn't recognize all the nobles and officials of the Star Luo Empire, nor could he count exactly who was present.
But with a single glance, he saw who wasn't there—
The White Tiger Duke's household hadn't shown up.
According to his intelligence, Dai Huabin had already returned to the White Tiger Duke's manor but had not faced any punishment. After all, Dai Huabin hadn't been the frontline commander, and the blame for defeat wasn't solely his.
Moreover, many from the Duke's household had died bravely in battle. Xu Jiawei couldn't punish Dai Huabin for that; on the contrary, he had to pacify him.
"Welcome to the Star Luo Empire, Lord of the Sea God's Pavilion and Ice God, Your Excellency," Xu Jiawei greeted Huo Yuhao warmly.
"Ice God"—that was Huo Yuhao's honorary title, bestowed upon him by the Sea God's Pavilion elders.
"Your Majesty, ministers, thank you for coming out to greet me. It's been a long time—Your Majesty still looks as dignified as ever," Huo Yuhao replied with a polite smile.
"You are the true prodigy, Your Excellency—unparalleled in your brilliance," Xu Jiawei praised sincerely.
The young man Xu Jiawei had once looked down on now had to be flattered by him. And it had only taken six or seven years to flip the dynamic.
Both men wore smiles and appeared close, but in reality, there was no friendship—only hidden grievances.
Not due to minor past disputes like those during the Soul Master Tournament.
No—the real tension stemmed from a more serious matter: Huo Yuhao had once asked Xu JiuJiu to persuade Xu Jiawei to have the Star Luo Empire join him. But Xu JiuJiu had failed because Xu Jiawei simply refused.
That incident revealed Huo Yuhao's true nature to Xu Jiawei—he saw the ambition behind the polite exterior. Huo Yuhao wasn't like previous Pavilion Lords; he had imperial aspirations.
Xu Jiawei understood. If he had Huo Yuhao's talent and backing, he'd be even bolder.
But understanding didn't mean acceptance.
He never exposed this secret, out of fear—fear of Huo Yuhao's strength and of the Sea God Pavilion's reach. Xu Jiawei also suspected that Huo Yuhao had already planted people inside the empire. Without absolute certainty, Xu Jiawei dared not turn against him openly.
Xu Jiawei's unwillingness frustrated Huo Yuhao, but he found it understandable.
Yet now, with the threat from the Sun Moon Empire, the Star Luo Empire had no choice but to lean on Shrek Academy and Huo Yuhao.
What emperor would willingly bow his head to another?
Huo Yuhao: No rush—let's play along.
After a brief welcome ceremony, Huo Yuhao was escorted into the imperial palace and treated to a banquet hosted personally by the emperor.
News of his arrival spread through Star Luo City, lifting the spirits of the people—bringing them hope, as if their backbone had returned.
"Shrek has arrived—our skies are clear again!"
"Shrek is here—Star Luo will know peace once more!"
Such was the weight Shrek Academy now held across the Douluo Continent.
Even though the Sea God Pavilion claimed it was merely "observing," everyone believed that if real trouble arose, Huo Yuhao would take action.
And such prestige? Which emperor wouldn't feel threatened? Which ruler wouldn't be wary?
Naturally, others took notice too—including spies from the Sun Moon Empire and the diplomatic delegation itself.
This was no accident—it was Xu Jiawei's deliberate move, intended to intimidate the Sun Moon Empire and gain the upper hand at the negotiating table.
The real outcomes of negotiations are never decided at the table—they're won or lost in the power games outside it.
The negotiation table? That's just where you sign the papers.
But Xu Jiawei had no idea who truly stood behind the Sun Moon Empire. He had completely misjudged the situation.
If the Sea God Pavilion had sent anyone else, they might have helped the Star Luo Empire—but unfortunately for them, it was Huo Yuhao who came.
In truth, the Sun Moon delegation did harbor fears toward Shrek Academy, the Sea God Pavilion, and Huo Yuhao.
However, before they departed, Juzi had sent them a secret letter:
Ignore the Sea God Pavilion's stance—negotiate however you like.
Though they didn't know the reason, the envoys chose to trust her and stuck to the plan.
If we die, so be it—history will remember us, our families honored.
In short—sacrificial diplomacy.
Besides, the delegation's real purpose wasn't to reach any actual agreements—it was to distract the attention of Star Luo's leadership.
Night fell.
Huo Yuhao temporarily resided in a palace guest hall. Xu Jiawei had assigned him a group of beautifully dressed palace maids.
Many of the maids were not only stunning but had considerable soul power—and some didn't even seem like maids at all, more like noble daughters.
The implication was clear—even the Skydream Iceworm noticed it.
"Brother Hao, aren't you tempted to try?" the Skydream Iceworm asked curiously.
Huo Yuhao rolled his eyes, annoyed. "Brother Tianmeng, I cultivate with cauldrons for advancement, not because I'm lust-driven. Most of them barely help anymore."
So, he stayed quietly in the palace, not reaching out to anyone.
He also refused to see Xu JiuJiu, who came to visit.
"Yuhao, that Star Luo emperor seems to have his own agenda," Electrolux remarked.
The Holy Spirit Feathered Serpent added, "If I'm right, he'll use your reputation in talks with the Sun Moon Empire. And during the process, he'll also try to impose some limitations on you, Shrek Academy, and the Sea God Pavilion."
"This crisis might actually be a hidden opportunity. If they drag the Sea God Pavilion into it, not only could Star Luo survive the danger, it could also boost its prestige."
"And besides, the agents you planted—some have likely been exposed, especially Xu JiuJiu. Based on her behavior at tonight's banquet, it's clear she and the emperor are no longer aligned."
"But it's also possible they're putting on a show—playing 'Infernal Affairs.'"
Huo Yuhao hadn't thought that deeply about most of this, but he had also sensed the rift between Xu JiuJiu and Xu Jiawei.
At the banquet, Xu JiuJiu was seated right beside Huo Yuhao, while she and the emperor barely interacted—that said enough.
"Their tactics are nothing but petty, disgusting schemes. But this war's outcome is already sealed."
"If Xu Jiawei doesn't want to keep his dignity, I'll help him preserve it. And while I'm at it, I'll bring the Star Luo Empire under my control."
"Also—it's about time to settle things with the White Tiger Duke's household."
Dawn broke. The Star Luo Empire—was ready to fall.
The day after Huo Yuhao arrived in the Star Luo Empire, negotiations between the Sun Moon Empire and the Star Luo Empire officially began.
As a third party, Huo Yuhao also took a seat at the negotiation table to witness the talks between both delegations.
The Sun Moon Empire's delegation consisted of the four outstanding individuals from their envoy group.
The Star Luo Empire was likewise represented by four delegates, each representing one of the empire's key factions:
Princess Xu Jiujiu for the royal family,
The Imperial Prime Minister for the civil administration,
A representative from the White Tiger Duke's household for the military,
And Douluo Cheng Gang from the Hall of Consecration as the empire's national guardian.
The representative from the White Tiger Duke's household was an eight-ring Soul Douluo with the White Tiger as his martial soul.
Each of the four major empires—Sun Moon, Dou Ling, Heavenly Soul, and Star Luo—had their own National Guardian Douluos, typically drawn from their respective Halls of Consecration.
In theory, each empire could have multiple guardian Douluos, but within that hierarchy, there were distinctions. Some were simply guardians, while others were revered as "Protectors of the Nation." These elite individuals usually served as the head of their Hall of Consecration and were considered the strongest in their empire.
For example, Dou Ling Empire's Tianyang Douluo was known as their national protector and also served as head of the Hall of Consecration. However, all of Dou Ling's guardian Douluos—including Tianyang—had perished during the Battle of Lingdou City.
The Heavenly Soul Empire's protector was a Level 97 Douluo known as the Battle God.
Star Luo Empire's protector had not been mentioned in the original story. Only Vice Hall Master Wang Xian'er had ever appeared. Because of her unique abilities, she received the same privileges as the actual Hall Master.
Huo Yuhao had learned the identity of Star Luo's true national protector through intelligence gathered by Shrek Academy: a Title Douluo with the title "Lion King," whose martial soul was the top-tier Golden Lion, possessing strength at Level 97.
Interestingly, among the three major empire protectors, Sunlight Douluo of Duo Ling had been the first to reach Level 97, while the other two reached it shortly afterward.
All three had been stuck at Level 97 for quite some time now without further breakthroughs.
As for the Sun Moon Empire, their national guardian was unquestionably the head of their Hall of Consecration: Silver Moon Douluo, Kong Deming.
Among the four protectors, Kong Deming had the lowest soul power—initially at Level 95. After training under Xu Tianchen, he had just recently broken through to Level 96. However, his combat prowess was the greatest of them all. Equipped with top-tier soul tools, Kong Deming could even repel an Ultimate Douluo.
In the original story, he once battled Xuan Zi, a peak-level Ultimate Douluo, and held his ground—a feat well documented.
Returning from his wandering thoughts, Huo Yuhao watched the negotiation unfold with a sigh. To put it bluntly, it wasn't what he expected at all.
No clever psychology, no insightful social maneuvering, no strategic mind games or understanding of human nature—none of that was on display.
All he saw was both sides exchanging spitfire barbs. Even with the Star Luo Empire's borders essentially opened, its four representatives didn't back down one bit—they met every provocation head-on with fierce words.
At one point, Cheng Gang even got physical.
It wasn't until Xu Jiujiu noticed the tension escalating—especially when the four Sun Moon delegates began rolling their eyes—that she rushed to pull Cheng Gang back.
Had he actually killed a representative of the Sun Moon envoy, it would have turned into an enormous scandal. The Sun Moon Empire might have abandoned all other fronts to launch a full-scale war against Star Luo.
But the Sun Moon delegates weren't scared off. Instead, they jumped back up and provoked Cheng Gang even more—practically handing him a knife and daring him to do it.
Fortunately, the farce didn't last too long.
The Sun Moon Empire made sky-high demands. The Star Luo Empire refused to give an inch. Eventually, Star Luo revealed its bottom line and showed sincerity.
They agreed to pay reparations and cede territory—terms that had already been proposed. But they added one special concession:
"The Star Luo Empire is willing to offer Princess Xu Jiujiu in marriage to Your Majesty the Emperor of the Sun Moon Empire, to solidify the peace between our nations and work toward a shared future," the Prime Minister declared.
Xu Jiujiu looked at him in stunned disbelief. If not for her iron self-control, she would have stood up and confronted him on the spot.
Yet the White Tiger Duke's representative and Cheng Gang remained expressionless, clearly already aware of this plan.
The Prime Minister's composure didn't waver either. He was clearly confident and prepared.
Huo Yuhao even noticed Cheng Gang sneaking glances at his reaction.
Huo Yuhao calmly sipped his tea, mentally noting how real the taste of this tea was.
The clever Xu Jiujiu quickly understood: this was Xu Jiawei's decision.
Her face turned pale as she slumped into her chair and closed her eyes.
She had always been willing to sacrifice for the royal family—but never imagined it would end like this.
Everyone knew the Sun Moon Emperor's reputation.
If she were truly sent to marry him, her fate would be that of a mere plaything, with no hope for the future.
The Sun Moon envoys sensed something was off. Thinking quickly, they neither accepted nor rejected the offer, stating they needed to report to their Emperor—effectively buying themselves time.
And just like that, the negotiations were postponed.
Both sides withdrew from the chamber.
Huo Yuhao also got ready to leave.
Just as he reached the door, Cheng Gang's voice came from behind, "Your Excellency Ice God, I hear you're quite close with Princess Jiujiu?"
Still seated in her chair, Xu Jiujiu trembled slightly.
Huo Yuhao paused, half-turned, and replied, "We've had a few exchanges."
He was thinking—what's with this Cheng Gang? He didn't even bother calling him "Lord Huo."
Cheng Gang smirked and said, "I hope Your Excellency Ice God will refrain from unnecessary interference. Princess Jiujiu will be the symbol of eternal peace between our nations."
"For an empire that can only survive by selling off its women, I don't feel much inclination to get involved," Huo Yuhao replied with a faint smile. "Do give my regards to His Majesty the Emperor. The weather's starting to get chilly."
Cheng Gang's smile froze. He scowled and said, "Thank you for your concern, Ice God. I'll be sure to pass on your message."
Without looking back, Huo Yuhao walked out of the chamber, leaving everything behind. Outside, he raised his head to the sun, basked in its warmth, and stretched.
Then, he leisurely made his way toward his residence.
Night fell.
The last light disappeared beyond the horizon.
Xu Jiujiu stood at her palace window, dazed, watching the sunset vanish—as if the last thread of hope was fading from her world.
To avoid further dragging down the empire, she had revealed herself and withdrawn from the center of power. But she never imagined it would lead to this ending.
Man Yi appeared at her side, calling her name with heartfelt concern, "Jiujiu... I'm sorry. This old woman failed to convince Xu Jiawei to change his mind."
After the marriage proposal was made, Man Yi had immediately tried to reason with Xu Jiawei. But not only did she fail, she was intercepted and forced to retreat by other National Guardian Douluos from the Hall of Consecration.
"Granny Man Yi, it's okay. I had already mentally prepared myself," Xu Jiujiu forced a smile, then gently shut the window. "Granny, I'm tired. I'd like to rest."
"Sigh…" Man Yi sighed deeply and said before leaving, "I'll be right outside. If anything happens, you must call me. I don't have many years left in me, but if you really want to run... this old body can still fight one last time. And that person—he might still…"
"Granny Man Yi! I'm tired!" Xu Jiujiu abruptly cut her off.
Man Yi sighed again and left in silence.
Inside the Star Luo Palace, darkness reigned.
This was clearly abnormal.
Could it be that the grand Star Luo Palace didn't even have a single soul tool lamp?
Anyone approaching the Star Luo Palace would immediately notice it was completely shrouded in a field of darkness. No sound could escape, no one inside could get out or send word.
But who would dare approach the imperial forbidden grounds at night without reason?
Thus, undisturbed, a quiet slaughter unfolded within the field of darkness.
Xu Jiawei, the Emperor of the Star Luo Empire, was unleashing his martial soul—the Star Crown. Nine soul rings flickered in turn: two yellow, two purple, four black, and one red.
The Star Luo Emperor actually possessed a hundred-thousand-year ninth soul ring—something even Shrek Academy had never discovered. He had hidden it deeper than anyone could have imagined.
Yet at this moment, Xu Jiawei's forehead was covered in cold sweat.
When night fell, a vast domain of darkness had enveloped the entire palace.
Immediately, all powerful soul masters within the palace were alarmed.
But the enemy struck with overwhelming force.
The moment the dark domain descended, countless assassins broke into the palace, killing on sight, bathing the palace in blood.
These assassins were frighteningly powerful. Even the Soul Douluo-level commanders of the imperial guards didn't survive a single strike—killed instantly in showers of blood.
Fortunately, the Kingdom Protector Douluo from the Offering Hall had come to support, saving Xu Jiawei in the nick of time. Together, they joined forces to counter the attackers.
The Douluo who came to aid included:
Heavenfiend Douluo, Huang Jinxu, Rank 92, Martial Soul: Heavenfiend Lone Star
Mighty Force Douluo, Cheng Gang, Rank 91, Martial Soul: Ant Emperor
Gigahammer Douluo, Rank 94, Martial Soul: Giant Hammer
And the guardian deity of the Star Luo Empire: Lion King Douluo, Rank 97, Martial Soul: Golden Lion King
Only these four could come because the other Titled Douluo and worshippers were leading armies on the frontlines against the threat of the Sun Moon Empire.
What terrified them was that even with five Titled Douluo combined, they could barely avoid defeat.
Yes—barely.
Among the assassins were also Titled Douluo—more than five of them!
And among them was one who could go head-to-head with the super Douluo, Lion King Douluo.
The assassins remained hidden in the shadows. Even now, the five defenders hadn't figured out who they were.
Could they be evil soul masters from the Sun Moon Empire?
The thought gnawed at all their minds.
"Retreat! Head toward the palace where Huo Yuhao is! We need his power now!" Xu Jiawei made a decisive command.
They had to gather more strength to face this crisis. No matter who these assassins were, only by surviving could they seek revenge.
As the five Titled Douluo broke out of the encirclement, their enemies finally revealed a flaw—or rather, revealed themselves for the first time.
With a chilling cat's screech, a Nether Spirit Cat lunged from the darkness straight at the five.
"It's the Nether Spirit Cat!" Xu Jiawei's pupils contracted.
"Impudent!" roared Lion King Douluo. He struck out with his palm, summoning a golden lion's claw out of thin air and swatting the Nether Spirit Cat aside.
This was the true body of a Nether Spirit Cat—merely a standard Titled Douluo. It couldn't break past the Lion King's defense.
"Could the Zhu Clan be involved?" Huang Jinxu voiced his suspicion.
Seeing they were exposed, the assassins no longer hid themselves.
From the shadows, eerie green cat-eyes lit up one after another. The sight sent shivers down the spines of the five men.
More than thirty enemies lurked in the dark—and over ten of them were Titled Douluo level!
They were all from the Zhu Clan!
This wasn't just Zhu Clan participating in the assassination—they were leading it!
One after another, Zhu Clan assassins stepped out of the darkness, some in their martial soul true forms, others as soul masters. The weakest among them was still of eight-ring strength.
"All Zhu Clan? Since when did they have so many powerful soul masters?" Cheng Gang asked in a trembling voice.
No one answered. Everyone else was just as shocked.
Only Xu Jiawei seemed to be deep in thought. He boldly speculated—this change in the Zhu Clan was likely tied to Huo Yuhao.
The moment he saw them, Xu Jiawei was convinced—this attack was orchestrated by Huo Yuhao himself!
How dare he? How could he?
Did he really think being Sea God's Pavilion Master gave him the right to act without restraint?
Gigahammer Douluo roared at the Zhu Clan, "Are you betraying the empire? Are you committing treason?"
But none of the Zhu Clan answered. Instead, they silently raised their claws, locking their killing intent on the five.
"Your Majesty! The Zhu Clan is rebelling! We must ally with Huo—Ice God Douluo to eliminate these traitors!" Cheng Gang urged Xu Jiawei, feeling unsafe surrounded by so many Titled Douluo.
Lion King Douluo remained silent, awaiting the emperor's stance.
Xu Jiawei clenched his fists tightly, scanning the Zhu Clan members with cold eyes. He said bitterly, "No. We'll go to the imperial harem and unite with the empress and her guards!"
"And if I'm not mistaken, this assassination... was all orchestrated by Huo Yuhao!"
"What?!"
Xu Jiawei's words sent a shockwave through the other four. They doubted their own ears.
Huo Yuhao, the Pavilion Master of Sea God's Pavilion, using the Zhu Clan to massacre the Star Luo Palace?
They understood every word—just not the meaning when strung together.
But Xu Jiawei had already adjusted his mindset and continued grimly, "Is this about Jiujiu? I suspected he'd act, but thought he'd target the Sun Moon Empire. I never imagined he'd dare defy all norms and bloodbathe the palace! What a tyrant! What an arrogant Sea God's Pavilion!"
The only reply was more cat-like screeching—signals of attack.
More Titled Douluo, along with Soul Douluo-level fighters, charged at Xu Jiawei's group.
Leading them was an elder of the Zhu Clan, a powerhouse at Rank 96. Though a level below Lion King Douluo, her terrifying speed and attack power made up the difference.
"Go!" Lion King Douluo commanded. "Take His Majesty to the harem. I'll cover the rear!"
Huang Jinxu, Cheng Gang, and Gigahammer Douluo didn't waste a word—they immediately escorted Xu Jiawei toward the imperial harem. Xu Jiawei, too, wasn't just fleeing. He used his Star Crown martial soul to amplify his allies' strength.
The Star Crown was suited for control- and support-types. As a control-type soul master, Xu Jiawei still had some auxiliary capabilities.
Under heavy pursuit from the Zhu Clan, the five of them finally reached the Empress's chambers.
For four of them, this was their first time here.
But the moment they entered, they knew something was wrong.
It was too quiet.
There were no signs of battle—no preparation for danger. Not even the slightest response as if anything unusual had happened.
The Star Luo Empress was not someone careless or foolish.
Even more unsettling—through the chamber window, they could see dim, suggestive red candlelight flickering, and their keen senses picked up sounds that absolutely shouldn't be heard.
All four looked toward Xu Jiawei at once.
Xu Jiawei's expression had turned pitch black, like a scorched pot bottom.
But before anyone could act—
The Zhu Clan had already arrived.
From all directions, more Zhu Clan members converged on their location.
Another battle between Titled Douluo was about to erupt!
This time, for the operation against the Star Luo Imperial Palace, the Zhu family's experts were fully mobilized. By utilizing various methods to conceal their presence, they launched their assault silently and without alerting anyone.
As for how they infiltrated the palace—
Naturally, it was an inside job.
Several key sentries inside the palace had their eyes glazed with a faint golden hue, turning them into puppet-like thralls.
After spending a night in the palace, Huo Yuhao had already made thorough arrangements both inside and out. As a result, the palace's defensive force became nothing more than decoration.
The Grand Elder of the Zhu family was the first to infiltrate, unleashing the domain granted by her evolved martial soul: the Domain of Darkness.
By the time the elite defenders of the Star Luo Palace realized something was wrong, the Zhu family had already reached them. Under the crushing superiority of strength and tactics, the Zhu experts quickly tore through the palace's defenses.
Then followed a massacre targeting the royal family.
Not only those in the palace, but also members of the royal bloodline scattered across the empire, along with royal loyalists, were all systematically assassinated.
Tonight, Star Luo City was in chaos.
———
It had been five or six years since Huo Yuhao had passed the cultivation technique to the Zhu family. During this time, with Yuhao's guidance and the Zhu family's own efforts, the clan had undergone a complete transformation.
Of all the devout families, the Zhu family had changed the most. Only the Nine Treasure Glazed Tile Sect could somewhat compare.
Within the Zhu clan, aside from children who had yet to awaken their martial souls, every member over six years old was now a Soul Master.
Moreover, all Soul Masters above three rings had already completed their martial soul evolution—except the newly awakened.
The clan's upper echelon, including the Patriarch and the Nine Elders, had all reached the Super Douluo level. This was partly due to the help of the Divine Snow Cigar of Creation.
Over twenty Title Douluo were appointed as stewards.
There were over a hundred high-level Soul Masters in the Soul Saint and Soul Douluo realms.
This fighting force already surpassed the Beast King Legion of the Sun-Moon Empire.
The cost? Many soul beast forests had been ravaged.
However, the Zhu family operated discreetly, sending groups to train away from the clan, always under the guidance of powerful leaders. So far, no one had discovered the truth.
Star Luo Empire's Soul Masters only noticed that in recent years, the population of soul beasts in their forests had sharply declined—suspected to be the work of evil Soul Masters.
Naturally, once someone gets a taste for blood, they can no longer rein in the beast within.
There were indeed Zhu clan Soul Masters who had cultivated using human Soul Masters, their actions no different from evil Soul Masters. However, due to the unique nature of their technique, the usual telltale aura of an evil Soul Master was erased, making them nearly impossible to detect.
Their cultivation technique remained the same—"Nether Goldflower Art."
Through normal cultivation, a Soul Master's martial soul would naturally evolve into the Nether Goldflower Cat, with only a few rare talents evolving into other forms.
For instance, the Grand Elder had originally been a man over a hundred years old. After practicing the technique, his latent potential was awakened, his martial soul evolved into the Dark Spirit Cat, and he awakened the Domain of Darkness.
This was the domain currently enveloping the Star Luo Palace.
It was thanks to this domain that the infiltration succeeded. The domain not only controlled dark elements but also helped hide the presence and aura of the Zhu experts.
In other words, all Zhu clan members fighting within the domain could melt into the shadows and ambush their enemies.
To deal with the strong defenders of the Worship Hall and prevent Xu Jiawei from escaping, the Zhu family sent five Super Douluo-level Elders and ten Title Douluo stewards to ensure success.
———
The battle was fierce but ended swiftly.
Under the siege of powerful enemies, Xu Jiawei and his allies began to fall one by one. In the end, only the Lion King Douluo could barely hold on, aided by Xu Jiawei's support.
Cheng Gang, Huang Jinxu, and the Giant Hammer Douluo were all captured alive.
It was clear—Xu Jiawei and the Lion King Douluo were just caged beasts, struggling in vain.
Meanwhile, the empress's chambers remained untouched, clearly protected.
But the sounds coming from within were constant, driving Xu Jiawei to frustration.
Other Title Douluo guarded the prisoners.
Four Super Douluo besieged Xu Jiawei and the Lion King Douluo.
Among the four, three were Rank 95 and one was Rank 96, creating immense pressure.
When strength was close, numbers made the difference.
When the fifth Super Douluo appeared—the Grand Elder of the Zhu family—the battle's outcome was sealed.
A figure in bright red robes descended from the sky—a mature woman wielding a cat-headed cane. Though her hair was white, her skin was fair and delicate, her figure graceful, her eyes radiating flirtatious charm—she was strikingly beautiful.
Yes, this was the Grand Elder—once a male elder over a hundred years old!
Because the Nether Goldflower Art was originally a dual-cultivation technique intended for female hosts, male Soul Masters could still cultivate it, but it was less efficient. However, there were no bottlenecks, and they could still gain its benefits.
The side effect? Male Soul Masters gradually feminized, in both body and mind.
Now, the Zhu family's men could all bear children.
Even someone as aged as the Grand Elder was no exception. On the contrary, due to his power breakthrough, he had regained youth and become even more captivating.
The Zhu clan didn't see this as anything odd. Their now-feminine hearts and bodies made them completely comfortable in their new forms.
They only kept up appearances when in public.
But in battle—dressed in their favorite outfits, wearing their favorite makeup—they fought more fiercely and joyfully.
In the cultivation world, such people were often called "Enchanteds."
In Douluo Continent?
They were to be called with respect: "Powerhouses!"
Realizing escape was impossible, Xu Jiawei asked the question burning in his heart, "Who… who are you people? When did the Zhu family gain experts like you?!"
He couldn't die without knowing.
The Grand Elder gave a seductive smile. "Jei Jei Jei, Your Majesty really has a short memory. I am Zhu Ze, Grand Elder of the Zhu family—Title: Dark Cat."
The other four Super Douluo followed suit:
"I am Third Elder Zhu Kang—Title: Night Cat."
"Fifth Elder Zhu Hong—Title: Hidden Cat."
"Seventh Elder Zhu Xin—Title: Charm Cat. Don't forget me~"
"Eighth Elder Zhu Yu—Title: Blood Cat."
Xu Jiawei and his allies were frozen in disbelief.
Hearing these familiar names, and looking at the five alluring women before them—compared to the wrinkled old faces from memory—there was indeed a haunting resemblance.
"BLEAUGH!!" Cheng Gang vomited on the spot.
The others turned pale, expressions grim.
They didn't want to believe it.
"No! Impossible!" Xu Jiawei shouted.
Not because of their appearances—but because he couldn't accept that these people had grown so powerful.
Zhu Ze narrowed her eyes, a cold glint flashing. "Sisters, let's show His Majesty our respect—with that move."
"All right~!" ×4
The Lion King Douluo leapt in front of Xu Jiawei, bracing himself.
The five Super Douluo elders of the Zhu family stood in the five-element formation, their soul power and attributes merging.
An overwhelming darkness descended.
They chanted in unison:
"Dark Heaven Grand Array—Great Dark Heaven!"