344 - Rebirth of a Star: Another Day, Another Drama

Chapter 344: The Three-Day Deadline "The Heavenly Path is our last resort, so when the secret realm opens this time, you must join us," Shen Hansong concluded with a finality. "What about Shen Mengjie?" Ye Linglong asked suddenly, looking at the group. The four were momentarily taken aback until Ye Linglong corrected herself, "Oh, I almost forgot. We should call her Yan Ke now." "Of course, she has to go too," Huang Tianya, who was known for his impatience, stated bluntly. "Whoever turns out to be the key figure among you doesn't matter. If we can't find a solution on the Heavenly Path, we might as well release the demon tribe." Ye Linglong studied the four closely. She could sense their intentions—they were placing everything on one final bet. If they found the Heavenly Path, it would be a joyous outcome for all. However, Yan Ke's fate seemed sealed. If the issue of ascension was resolved, Yan Ke would lose her purpose. They would not allow a ticking time bomb like her to remain close. The demon tribe was too formidable, and the saying 'Not of our kind, its heart must be different' was not to be taken lightly. But if the Heavenly Path's methods failed, they might resort to the most extreme measures. As Huang Tianya had said, "out of destruction comes rebirth"; perhaps they should release the demon tribe and collaborate with them. Facing such thoughts, Ye Linglong couldn't help but smile faintly. She thought, "Whether I go or not isn't for me to decide, is it?" Shen Hansong stroked his long white beard and stated, "This is for the future of our world; we have no choice." Feng Mian sighed softly, "Don't worry, little one. Once we enter the secret realm, I will protect you." Then, as if recalling something, he added, "Though, with your combat skills, you might not need our protection." They weren't really asking for Ye Linglong's opinion. Rather, they were informing her. They set the departure for three days later. Ye Linglong, having many things to prepare, left the bamboo grove alone. Once Ye Linglong departed, the others also said their goodbyes, leaving Feng Mian alone by the stone table. He seemed in no hurry to leave. When everyone was gone, Feng Ming turned to Mo Lao, his expression complicated. He waved his hand, creating an invisible barrier around them. "Mo Lao, you raised me. As the last high priest of the Phoenix clan, are you certain we should pin all our hopes on that girl, Ye Linglong?" Feng Mian's handsome face was touched with a hint of worry, his phoenix eyes gazing at the swaying green bamboo. Mo Lao sipped his tea slowly, "What I have seen is not wrong. Besides, during the great battle between immortals and demons, we of the Phoenix clan killed many demons. If the sealed demons were to emerge, there would be no happy ending for our clan." A heavy silence followed, broken only by a deep sigh echoing in the air. ... Outside the bamboo grove, Ye Linglong encountered Ye Tianming, Hong Ye, and others waiting anxiously. As she emerged, they immediately surrounded her. "What happened? When is it happening, and what’s it all about?" Ye Tianming asked directly. Jiang Fengyao joined in, "Yes, Linglong, did something happen? Tell us, and we will help you," his eyes filled with concern. Hong Feng added, "Yes, Linglong, even though you and Lingyun haven't officially held the ceremony, we've all recognized you as our daughter. If there's anything, you must tell us so we can figure it out together." Other friends, including Hong Ye, Jin Yuanbao, Feng Li, Huang Bufan, even Xiao Hei and Xiao Huang, all voiced their agreement. Ye Linglong felt warm at their concern. She gave them an overview but withheld some truths. She only mentioned that in three days, she would head to a small secret realm, omitting the dangers and formidable entities awaited there. She knew that if she fully disclosed the truth, they would insist on accompanying her. The secret realm held complexities far beyond their knowledge. Five thousand years ago, those in the Tribulation Period were far more powerful, yet many perished back then. The danger level was unimaginable. Ye Linglong had spatial magic for escape, but they did not. If something happened, she might not be able to protect them all. Over the next three days, Ye Linglong revamped the entire protective formation of the Liuli Sword Sect. The day was filled with constant formation tribulations in the skies above. Ye Linglong used fusion techniques, blending three ninth-grade formations to complement each other, leaving Xuan Yuanwen, who observed, utterly speechless, his jaw hanging open. When completed, Xuan Yuanwen was in a daze, mumbling incoherently as he walked back to his quarters. "What's up with Xuan Yuanwen?" Ye Tianming asked. Ye Linglong smiled softly, "Maybe he's had some kind of inspiration." "He is a bit straightforward," Ye Tianming sighed, his eyes full of concern as he looked at Ye Linglong. "Little Linglong, time flies. You've grown so much, and now your skills surpass mine. When I first brought you back, you were this small," Ye Tianming gestured with his hands, his eyes filled with memories. Watching him, Ye Linglong thought of her predecessor, but held back her words. "What's wrong, Little Linglong? You wanted to tell me something?" Ye Linglong shook her head with a smile, "Nothing. I'll tell you once I'm back from the secret realm." Ye Tianming nodded firmly, "Alright! Your master will be waiting here at the Liuli Sword Sect for your return!"