readytorunbook Chapter 468: Imperial Blood Lotus Empress: I Can Also Commit Myself To You!
Chapter 468: Imperial Blood Lotus Empress: I Can Also Commit Myself To You!
Chapter 468: Imperial Edict from the Blood Lotus Empress: This palace is willing to devote itself to you!
The ceasefire negotiations between the two major Transcendent-Level forces came earlier and faster than expected. At the beginning of the war, almost no one had faith in the Female Cultivators Union Alliance, believing that their defeat was inevitable. The only disagreement was how long they could hold on.
However, just over a year has passed, and under normal circumstances, the two sides should still be in the stage of testing and probing each other, far from revealing their trump cards.
But the Transcendent-Level alliance led by the Demon Dao Ancestral Court recently made it clear that they have no intention of continuing the war and are willing to engage in substantive ceasefire negotiations with the Female Cultivators Union Alliance.
The real reason is that those high-ranking figures who were affected by the curse can no longer hold on. If they don't reach a peaceful agreement with the Female Cultivators Union Alliance as soon as possible and lift the deadly curse, none of them will survive.
Moreover, if they cannot appease the anger of the Female Cultivators Union Alliance's high-ranking members, more high-ranking figures will be affected in the future.
Given enough time, Qin Muling can kill all the high-ranking members of the thirty Transcendent-Level forces, resulting in the collapse of their foundations and the destruction of their legacies and glory that have lasted for billions of years.
One day later, the negotiations between the two sides officially began. As for the location, it was chosen to be the void outside the protective mountain formation, within the Void Divine Cauldron of the Other Shore.
Under the current circumstances, Zi Shiyun, the Grand Palace Master, and the others dare not let the other party enter the main hall of the sect, to avoid any unforeseen accidents.
The Void Divine Cauldron of the Other Shore is Qin Muling's territory, and as long as he is within its domain, he is not afraid of any tricks from the other side.
Originally, Immortal Venerable Qing Yao did not intend for Qin Muling to appear, but after the previous battle, his true identity could no longer be concealed, and there was no point in hiding it anymore.
Moreover, Qin Muling's current cultivation has reached the level of a Quasi-Saint Emperor who has severed the incarnation of Evil Thought, giving him enough power to protect himself and not fear the calculations of top experts from hostile forces.
Inside the divine cauldron, in a temporary Cave Mansion, Qin Muling sat with Immortal Venerable Qing Yao, Zi Shiyun, Tranquil Brahma Heavenly Maiden, and Emperor Xin Yu. On the other side were the Demon Lord Tai Yuan, the Savage Empress, the Heartless Dao Lord, the Blood Lotus Empress, and Suli Tai.
Each side had five top experts present, and there was also a guest, the Witch Emperor from the Immemorial Witch World.
The Immemorial Witch World is a neutral force that did not participate in this war. The Witch Emperor was specially invited by the Demon Lord Tai Yuan to participate as a mediator and had obtained the approval of the Female Cultivators Union Alliance's high-ranking members in advance.
"...Indeed, you are the legendary Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus,"
Upon seeing Qin Muling, the Demon Lord Tai Yuan confirmed his inner speculation, his expression unable to hide his shock.
"I never expected that you have already taken human form and were obtained by the Cloud Dream Heavenly Palace. No wonder their strength has grown so rapidly in recent years. It's all because of you, right?!"
The other high-ranking figures, including the aged Witch Emperor, all focused their gaze on Qin Muling.
This young man in a purple robe, with his red lips and white teeth, and a mysterious and profound aura, was actually the Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus who had taken human form? And he represented the hope for countless beings in the myriad worlds to achieve enlightenment, transcendence, and eternal liberation?
There have been countless legends about the Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus since the recorded history of the myriad worlds. After countless calamities, numerous versions of the legend have emerged, but no one has ever seen what the true Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus looks like.
Having heard too many rumors, no one was willing to believe them anymore. Therefore, when these high-ranking figures first learned about Qin Muling's connection, even though there were many things that didn't make sense about him, they didn't associate him with the legend. They simply thought he was a child of luck, just stronger and with a more intense heavenly favor.
But as time passed, the high-ranking figures gradually realized that something was amiss, leading to a series of tests and calculations, including direct confrontation with the Female Cultivators Union Alliance.
Now, although they finally understand the truth of the matter, their losses cannot be recovered.
"Since it has come to this, there is no need for unnecessary words, right?"
Immortal Venerable Qing Yao's tone was indifferent: "You were the ones who initiated the war, colluded with the outsiders on a large scale, and betrayed the interests of the Upper Realm and the Extreme Void Starry Sky. Now that you have been defeated and want to seek peace, you must follow the usual practice and pay a sufficient price for compensation in order to restore long-lasting peace."
"..."
The face of Demon Lord Taiyuan stiffened slightly, and he chuckled, saying, "Fellow Daoist Qing Yao, you can't say that, can you? The Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus is the hope for countless beings in the heavens and myriad realms to transcend. How can it be monopolized by your family alone?"
"Since ancient times, those who have virtue will possess opportunities. The war between us ultimately boils down to the competition for this opportunity. Even if we sit down for negotiations now, it is for the consideration of the future paths of our disciples, so as to avoid the suffering of sentient beings. Therefore, it is unreasonable for your side to demand war reparations or anything of the sort!"
"On the contrary, I believe that for the stability of the Upper Realm and the common interests of billions of cultivators, your side should not continue to monopolize the ownership of the Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus. Instead, you should share it with all the forces of the Dao, which would be a mutually beneficial and win-win choice. Isn't that right?"
Before Immortal Venerable Qing Yao could speak, Qin Muling stood up with a cold face and made a gesture of seeing the guests off, saying, "Since that's the case, there's no need to continue the discussion. You may leave now. We will settle everything on the battlefield!"
"You..."
Demon Lord Taiyuan's face changed slightly, as if he wanted to get angry. However, he thought of the true identity of the beautiful youth in front of him and immediately changed his expression, smiling and saying, "Fellow Daoist Qin, regarding this matter... I think it's better for you to stay out of it. This is a conflict between us and the Female Cultivators Union Alliance. As the Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus, your status is transcendent, and there is no need for you to speak for them..."
Tranquil Brahma Heavenly Maiden calmly said, "Fellow Daoist Taiyuan, it seems that you have overlooked a crucial point. The Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus has now taken human form and possesses human identity and wisdom. No one can treat him as a precious treasure or an object anymore."
"We have never forced him to do anything. His willingness to help us and stay in the Female Cultivators Union Alliance is his own choice. So if you want to undermine his relationship with us and sow discord, I think you should think twice before acting."
"..."
Not only Demon Lord Taiyuan, but also the several important figures on the other side, including the Witch Emperor, had their expressions changed.
Regarding how to deal with a special existence like the Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus, everyone was uncertain. Subconsciously, these powerful beings were still accustomed to treating it as some kind of Innate Primordial Supreme Treasure. They believed that it could be controlled and traded.
But if it is a human being with independent consciousness and wisdom, and possesses the immense power of the Divine Ability, then it is impossible to adopt such an attitude.
The face of the Witch Emperor looked extremely old, but his eyes were exceptionally bright and sharp. He examined Qin Muling for a moment and slowly asked, "Fellow Daoist Qin, did you voluntarily stay on the side of the Female Cultivators Union Alliance?"
Qin Muling nodded gently, "Of course, and they are now my Dao companions."
"I see."
The Witch Emperor suddenly realized that the Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus could also possess the seven emotions and six desires of a human. This sounded somewhat unbelievable, but since it was the case, it seemed that things would be much easier than imagined.
After a moment of contemplation, the Witch Emperor looked at the side of Demon Lord Taiyuan and said, "Since this is the reason, your war against the Female Cultivators Union Alliance can also be regarded as a provocation and hostile action against Fellow Daoist Qin. At least, that's how he sees it. If you want to pass over this matter, you will have to pay a sufficient price, otherwise the negotiations cannot continue."
"But..."
Demon Lord Taiyuan hesitated to speak, his face changing constantly. The Witch Emperor was reminding him as a neutral party that the will of Qin Muling should not be ignored. If he displeased him, not to mention sharing the opportunity, it would be difficult to even guarantee his own life!
The Unintentional Daoist stared deeply at Qin Muling for a while, and finally said, "Since Fellow Daoist Qin said so, then... let's do as you say, shall we? How much compensation do you need? Give us a number."
Whether they liked it or not, for the sake of the Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus, it was impossible to avoid shedding blood today.
Otherwise, if it weren't for Immortal Venerable Qing Yao and the others speaking, Qin Muling would have directly kicked them out, and they would never have another chance.
"For the thirty Transcendent Level forces, each one needs to contribute an amount equivalent to ten times their own sect's financial income, along with thirty prosperous territories from the Upper Realm's thirty major Immortal Domains. Each sect must also hand over one Innate Primordial Supreme Treasure, ten Peerless Grade Innate Spiritual Treasures, and five hundred billion merits. In the future, you are not allowed to interfere in any internal affairs of the Female Cultivators Union Alliance..."
Immortal Venerable Qing Yao's face was cold as she listed more than thirty demands in one breath. Except for the silent Female Barbarian Empress, the faces of the other important figures were as ugly as they could be.
"Fellow Daoist, you're simply... simply being ridiculous!"
The Demon Lord Taiyuan suddenly stood up, his face turning pale as he angrily roared. He had thought that paying a symbolic price would be enough, but little did he know that the Female Cultivators Union Alliance would dare to make such outrageous demands. How could they dare?!
Sulitai's face turned cold and gloomy as he said in a cold voice, "It seems that Fellow Daoist has no intention of resolving this peacefully? Whatever happens next, don't regret it!"
The Grand Palace Master Zi Shiyun smiled and said, "Then let's continue fighting! Don't think that we will be afraid of you. Of course, you are already cursed and probably won't live for much longer. We don't need to waste any more time with you. When you die, there will naturally be more reasonable people to negotiate with us!"
"..."
The important figures looked at each other, unable to react for a moment.
Regardless of whether they admitted it or not, they had no confidence when facing the Female Cultivators Union Alliance. The other side held the most crucial bargaining chip and could set the price as they pleased.
Dare to turn their backs? Then they could prepare for their own funerals when they returned.
With this in mind, Wuxin Daojun gritted his teeth and said, "Fellow Daoist, this price is a bit excessive. Can it be reduced?"
"Impossible," Qin Muling firmly refused, "Not a single bit less! Of course, you can choose to refuse, as long as you can bear the consequences!"
Now was not the time to be soft-hearted. If they didn't cut them deeply and make them truly feel the pain, similar things would definitely happen again in the future.
The Demon Lord Taiyuan gritted his teeth and wanted to leave several times, but he held back when he thought about the state of his body and soul. Now that Moyuanzi's whereabouts were unknown and the highly effective mysterious potion was out of stock, if he couldn't negotiate with the Female Cultivators Union Alliance, he would truly have no hope.
Thinking about it, it was really unfair. Why should the Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus unconditionally support them?
The Female Barbarian Emperor looked at the expressions of her allies and sighed softly, saying, "These conditions are indeed harsh, but for the long-lasting friendship between the Barbarian Divine Empire and the Female Cultivators Union Alliance, I agree! Within a month, we will pay the compensation in full."
She had already secretly agreed to surrender to the Female Cultivators Union Alliance. Now that she learned Qin Muling's true identity, she had no hesitation!
Being able to serve as a maid and servant to the Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus was not only not embarrassing, but also something that countless female cultivators outside would never have the chance to do!
She had finally obtained such an opportunity, so she should just enjoy it secretly. If time passed, no matter how noble and distinguished a woman's status and position were, she would have to wait in line obediently.
Immortal Venerable Qing Yao nodded in satisfaction, "Since that's the case, it's settled. The curse of bad luck on all the powerful beings affected by the Barbarian Divine Empire will be completely lifted from today onwards. As long as you behave yourselves, you won't have to worry about such troubles anymore!"
The pure and lovely Chiyu Blood Lotus silently weighed her options and said simply, "Since that's the case, I agree too."
As fellow women, she instinctively felt that something was wrong with the Female Barbarian Emperor. Looking at Qin Muling's gaze, it could melt even the stars! Of course, she seemed to be the same...
Sulitai, with a pale face, let out a heavy sigh and said in a deep voice, "I agree!"
Reluctance was inevitable, but for the sake of his own life and path, he had to endure any grievances. After all, they were just external things. Once given away, they were given away. As long as the green mountains remained, there would be no shortage of firewood.
Wuxin Daojun narrowed his eyes and asked softly, "Qin Fellow Daoist, if we pay the compensation in full, will you leave the Female Cultivators Union Alliance and come with us?"
"???" Qin Muling looked at him as if he were an idiot and said, "What nonsense are you talking about? They are my Dao companions. Why would I abandon them and leave the Female Cultivators Union Alliance?"
This old dog must have damaged his brain through cultivation. How could he have such a ridiculous idea? Who does he think he is?
Tranquil Brahma Heavenly Maiden smiled calmly and said, "Muling is the Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus. He can stay wherever he wants, and no one can force him to do anything! You are no exception. Stop dreaming unrealistically!"
The Carefree Daoist Lord frowned slightly and said, "But if that's the case, won't your Female Cultivators Union Alliance be taking advantage of the situation? In a few hundred years, will there still be a way for our Daoist forces to survive in this world?"
"That's not a problem we need to consider. Figure it out yourselves, or consider becoming a vassal of the Female Cultivators Union Alliance. That wouldn't be a bad outcome!" Zi Shiyun, the Grand Palace Master, said with a smile. There is no friendship between forces, everything is based on strength and interests.
"You can't obtain the goodwill and favor of the Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus, that's your own problem. Don't blame the Female Cultivators Union Alliance for it," said Qin Muling, looking to Witch Emperor for help, hoping this respected figure could resolve the situation. The current situation was extremely unfavorable for their side.
Witch Emperor paused for a moment, then slowly said, holding his scepter, "Fellow Daoists, calm down. This matter will ultimately have to be resolved completely. Since you initiated the war against the Female Cultivators Union Alliance and lost, you have to follow the rules of the game and deal with it first."
"As for the ownership of the Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus... since it has taken human form, it seems we don't have the right to decide for it anymore. Wherever it wants to go, we can't interfere!" Qin Muling couldn't help but give Witch Emperor a second look. He thought this old guy would take sides, but his attitude was relatively objective and fair. In that case, he wouldn't need to argue with him about the matter of lifting the luck curse last time.
The Carefree Daoist Lord's face turned dark. Although Witch Emperor's viewpoint was correct from a rational perspective, in the face of this unprecedented opportunity, no one could consider these things anymore.
If they couldn't control the Innate Primordial Good Fortune Azure Lotus, the goal of transcending and achieving enlightenment would be nothing but a dream. What sane person could accept such a result?
In the current situation, it was not feasible to turn hostile, but they were unwilling to give up like this.
"Fellow Daoist Qin, is there really no room for negotiation in this matter?" asked the Nether Ghost World's Lotus Empress with a slight frown, her soft voice questioning, "If you can favor the Female Cultivators Union Alliance, why can't you favor our Daoist forces? What conditions do you need? Just say it! Let's see if our forces can meet them."
As soon as these words were spoken, all the important figures became alert, staring at Qin Muling without blinking, even Witch Emperor included.
On the other hand, the Immortal Venerable Qing Yao and the other women were a little nervous. As Qin Muling's close companions, they naturally understood his preferences. He didn't love anything else, only beauty.
If these Transcendent Level forces really catered to his preferences and gathered all the stunning female immortals in their sects, seducing Qin Muling at any cost, there might be a chance that he would be enticed away?
Although they were not purely female cultivation forces, due to their deep accumulation and the vast number of disciples they had, it would be a simple matter to gather billions or tens of billions of stunning female immortals when needed, just by giving the order.
Qin Muling shook his head and said, "I've said before that they are all my Dao companions, so I won't leave them or the Female Cultivators Union Alliance! Don't waste your efforts."
The Lotus Empress narrowed her beautiful eyes slightly and carefully looked at the Immortal Venerable Qing Yao and the other women, then nodded slowly.
"I see. In that case... Fellow Daoist Qin, my Nether Ghost World is also filled with countless enchanting beauties. If you're willing, you can have any beauty you desire, even if it's a beauty that can overturn a country. Even I can offer myself to you. What do you think?"
"..." Qin Muling remained silent.
The Empress of the Savage Barbarian Empire pursed her lips, secretly cursing the shamelessness of this woman. How could she shamelessly approach him like this? What about the face and dignity of the Supreme of the Nether Ghost World?
But on second thought, she didn't seem to be much better herself, right? Well, she had to quickly select a group of stunning beauties from within the Barbarian Divine Empire and bring them over to serve Qin Muling. Otherwise, the Female Cultivators Union Alliance would not lack beautiful women, and she alone couldn't compete with them.
The Carefree Daoist Lord and the other two big shots suddenly woke up as if from a dream. They all swore and vowed that they would gather the most top-tier beauties from their sects and let Qin Muling have his way, as long as he agreed to get close to and favor their thirty Transcendent Level forces.
Qin Muling: "..." Wellヽ(○^^) Will the protagonist agree?
(End of this chapter)