Chapter 987

As Xu Yang's gaze settled on the point where the two exchanged their final blow, the power unleashed by the clash of their blades utterly shredded the surrounding void. It was precisely at this critical moment, as everything in the void began to collapse, that Xu Yang's Angelic Domain descended once more.

However, this time, he didn't just extend the angelic protection to Ling Yao; he also enveloped Whirlwind Wulang, who was on his other side, within the domain.

"It's regrettable that you couldn't achieve a decisive victory," Xu Yang's voice resonated simultaneously within the Angelic Domain, reaching both Ling Yao and Whirlwind Wulang's minds. "But I believe that both you and my teammate have gained immense insights from this battle. I am confident that in the near future, this intense experience will lead you both to new breakthroughs."

Whirlwind Wulang offered a faint, elegant smile. "Heh, the leader of the Glory Squad, do you enjoy playing the role of a savior so much?"

At the same time, the black blade in his palm completely vanished. He understood clearly that Xu Yang's intervention was to prevent everything from collapsing. He also knew that his own power was insufficient to stop Xu Yang by force, so he simply abandoned any further combat actions, withdrawing all his strength. He allowed the incredibly gentle glow of the Angelic Domain to envelop his body, healing every wound.

"It would be a great waste of talent if someone as exceptional as you were to perish meaninglessly on a battlefield," Xu Yang said. "From today, Whirlwind Wulang, you will join the Glory Squad. Although our squad's seven-member roster is full, this doesn't prevent you from serving as my first retainer during our journey across the Endless Sea."

Whirlwind Wulang sneered, "What makes you think you can control me? You should know very well that while my strength is no match for yours, no one can control me or force me to do anything I don't want to do."

Xu Yang burst into laughter. "Of course, I know what you're thinking. If you were so easily subservient to me, you would never be qualified to follow me. It's precisely because of your pride and rare martial spirit that I am making an exception for you, offering you an opportunity to change your destiny and reach a higher level."

Whirlwind Wulang fell silent for a moment, appearing to be indecisive deep down. He was a martial artist, a lone wanderer; solitude was his hallmark. For years, he had been accustomed to a life of free wandering. Now, suddenly finding a place to settle, he felt a genuine sense of unease.

However, Whirlwind Wulang also understood that after this battle, he indeed needed a relatively peaceful haven to cultivate the clarity of mind required for further enlightenment. From this perspective, following Xu Yang was an excellent choice, as the leader was simply too powerful.

Soon, the golden light within the Angelic Domain rapidly healed Whirlwind Wulang's eyes and wounds. His newly restored eyes, imbued with an angelic aura, granted him an unprecedented clarity of vision. He could now clearly scan the surrounding sea, as if a new, more expansive path for his cultivation had been opened to him. With his new, slightly golden eyes, Whirlwind Wulang gazed into the distance.

A moment later, he finally sighed softly. "Very well... I accept. Perhaps after so much wandering, it's time to stop and rest. However, I haven't promised to be tied to your side forever, to blindly follow your every command. My commitment to you is only for the duration I choose to follow you, during which I can do things for you."

Xu Yang shook his head with a wry smile, seemingly resigned to this highly individualistic and proud man. Yet, he genuinely admired this spirit in Whirlwind Wulang. Even with his independent nature, Xu Yang chose to be tolerant. He greatly needed such an untamed individual by his side to bring new and refreshing elements and rhythms to his otherwise monotonous life, enabling him to better seek ways to break through the limits of his primal power.

Soon, both Ling Yao and Whirlwind Wulang, fully restored to peak condition by the powerful aura of the Angelic Domain, returned to the deck of the Executioner's flagship and stood before Xu Yang.

"Thank you..." Whirlwind Wulang gazed deeply at Xu Yang. While he didn't assume the deferential posture of others, he still maintained his unique individuality. Yet, everyone present understood the true significance of hearing the word "thank you" from Whirlwind Wulang. In fact, at that moment, Whirlwind Wulang had already shown his respect for Xu Yang's unfathomable domain and cultivation, as well as his extraordinary magnanimity and foresight.

With a calm expression, Whirlwind Wulang walked back into the flagship's cabin, finding a spot to cultivate. His demeanor indicated that he had completely relinquished the title of "Executioner" and was beginning to fulfill his promise. He was now a relatively special follower under Xu Yang, perhaps even a secret weapon among Xu Yang's many companions, and indeed, Xu Yang's first retainer.

Ling Yao, smiling, returned to Xu Yang's side. The understanding between them had long surpassed the need for words; a mere glance conveyed everything they thought.

"Congratulations, Boss, on gaining such a formidable general!"

Xu Yang shot Ling Yao an annoyed look. "You girl are really getting crazier and crazier. I bet it won't be long until you become a madman just like Whirlwind Wulang."

Ling Yao, however, decisively shook her head with a smile. "I'm different from him. I have the strongest backing. Even if I go too far, you'll always protect me. Otherwise, do you think I would have so boldly challenged that madman?"

Xu Yang, of course, knew Ling Yao was boasting. Even without his presence, Ling Yao would have undoubtedly given her all against an opponent like Whirlwind Wulang, for they were, at their core, kindred spirits.

"All members of the Executioner Legion, from the Three Heavenly Kings down to the ordinary sailors, listen up! Everyone who was once part of my Executioner Legion will, from today, be incorporated into the Glory Squad, to be named Glory Two. You will report directly to the seven core members of the Glory Squad."