Chapter 1699: Living Is Good

“That’s not Emperor Wu Shi; it’s the Bell Spirit, a divine entity residing within the Chaotic Bell!” Ye Fan sighed.

That bell was incredibly powerful. Normally, a divine entity, being an interwoven manifestation of laws, wouldn't break free and materialize—it was very rare. But the spirit within the Chaotic Bell had taken human form, solely because it was too powerful, appearing identical to Wu Shi!

The ancient bell chimed, shaking off the sorrows and joys of a bygone era. It dragged the monstrous sphere into another realm, disappearing forever, heading for a decisive battle.

On the great bell, the figure with its back to all beings appeared desolate yet incredibly majestic, without beginning or end, vanishing into the fabric of space-time.

The green lotus swayed, shrinking to half a zhang tall, then transformed into a green beam of light. Carrying a piece of the chaotic sea, it tore open the void and vanished.

Ye Fan was speechless. The small lotus had escaped, no longer under his control, representing a significant loss. His only consolation was that the Immortal Bell's dao patterns had been absorbed into the cauldron's wall.

Overall, Ye Fan still felt a sense of joy. He had unexpectedly resolved a major disaster on Mars. He vaguely guessed the identity of that person—one of the strongest beings throughout the ages, unstoppable once they fully emerged.

“So, the blood and chaos of Mars have just been quelled?” The dozen or so great demon lords all felt a sense of unreality.

They knew that all the powerhouses of an era, even Imperial Dao experts, had perished here. Yet, this crisis had been resolved in such a manner.

Or perhaps, more accurately, they were merely witnesses, observing the Emperor's supreme demeanor and methods.

Mars had cracked but did not shatter, as it contained supreme array patterns that sealed the realm.

Ye Fan acted, closing and resealing the planet's cracks, then cast it into this desolate star sea, banishing it forever.

Now, it was merely a great tomb, holding no other significance. It was best if it never reappeared.

The starlight shone brightly, far from the deterrence of Imperial Dao experts. All thirteen great demon lords let out a long breath, completely relieved. The preceding period had felt like an torment to them. In the past, each of them could dominate an entire star field, but here, they were as insignificant as ants.

“I say, Brother Ye, when can you let us old bones retire and return home? After being suppressed for so many years, we really can't help you conquer the world.”

The group embarked on their return journey to the Heavenly Court. Although these demon lords complained, they had no choice. Ye Fan couldn't release them now, fearing their unruly nature might cause trouble.

“Brother Ye, you're so young, yet you've reached the Sixth Heaven of Quasi-Emperor cultivation after only five or six hundred years of cultivation. Could you be the descendant of an Emperor? Perhaps a direct son of Emperor Wu Shi, or of Emperor Qing? How else would you encounter beings like them?”

Along the way, the group of old demons, bored to death, were consumed by gossip. They wanted to know everything, as they had been sealed for two thousand years and knew nothing about the outside world.

Ye Fan smiled in response. Subduing thirteen great demon lords, including one Quasi-Emperor, was a significant boon to the Heavenly Court. They were a formidable group of heavenly generals.

He quickly calmed down. Having witnessed that glimpse of the future, it felt as though he had truly lived through ten thousand years, experiencing great sorrow, suffering, and joy. Now, for him, as long as his family and friends were alive, everything had meaning; he sought nothing else.

When one is in a good mood, even the starlight seems brilliant. Learning that Xiao Zi and other kin from the Heavenly Court were still alive, Ye Fan's mind became peaceful, knowing it had just been a dream. This naturally tranquil state also solidified his Dao Fruit.

Furthermore, listening to the chime of the Wu Shi Bell and witnessing Emperor Qing's runes had given him profound insights, firmly solidifying his current cultivation realm and allowing him to progress steadily.

“Oh, this is my homeland, the Celestial Worm Galaxy,” said the Centipede Heavenly Worm. “Since we're passing by, we should definitely take a look.”

Ye Fan, naturally not one to be unkind, headed towards the ancient life-star ahead. The Centipede Heavenly Worm was greatly excited; after two thousand years of separation, returning home alive was the most wonderful reason to celebrate.

“Roar...”

“Who dares trespass upon my Celestial Worm Ancestral Star?” Immediately, a divine thought surged forth, a powerful will. A middle-aged man in silver robes ascended into the sky.

The Centipede Heavenly Worm's body instantly stiffened. The man opposite him also froze, then asked tremblingly, “Father... is that you?”

“It's me, I'm back!” It was indeed a scene of father and son reunited.

This was naturally a moving scene. Both father and son were incredibly excited, with so much to say, and it was a long time before they calmed down.

“Where did the others go? Are they still alive?” The Centipede Heavenly Worm, now in human form, landed and asked, trying his best to keep his voice from trembling.

“During the Dark Turmoil, all your brothers died. Our ancestral planet's population was reduced by ninety percent,” the silver-robed middle-aged man said, shedding tears.

This evoked sighs. No one dared to disturb them. Ye Fan nodded, watching as hot tears streamed from the old Celestial Worm's eyes, revealing him to be a person of deep emotion.

Ye Fan said, “You may stay, but do not let me hear of you causing trouble anywhere. Otherwise, even if you flee to the ends of the heavens, I will catch you and turn you to ash.”

“Who are you to speak to my father like that?!” The silver-robed middle-aged man glared angrily.

The Centipede Heavenly Worm waved his hand, saying, “Do not be rude.” Then, he turned to Ye Fan and said, “Though I am an old bone now, I am unwilling to stay dormant. I wish to accompany you, but first, I must return to my ancestral star for a look.”

Ye Fan nodded in agreement. This was human nature.

The other ancient demons grumbled inwardly. Having lived for so many years, they were shrewd and naturally understood the Centipede Heavenly Worm's intentions. Ye Fan, so young, was already at the Sixth Heaven of Quasi-Emperor. He might very well become a Great Emperor in the future. By following him now and helping him "conquer the world," they knew that once he achieved the Dao, he would certainly find ways to extend their lifespans.

Why miss such a young master with endless potential? Even for the sake of their descendants, they should strive to forge connections. Although they constantly complained about wanting to leave, after careful consideration, they had all decided to stay.

Soon after, the Centipede Heavenly Worm returned, and the group resumed their journey. In the distance, the silver-robed middle-aged man saw them off, stating his wish to join the Heavenly Court in the future.

With the first example set, the others naturally also wanted to revisit their homes. Ye Fan nodded; how could he refuse?

And so, they traveled through star field after star field. During this time, some rejoiced upon reuniting with loved ones, while others were deeply saddened, some even letting out cries of grief. Their descendants, or even their ancestral stars, had been destroyed and could never be seen again.

“Finally, we're reaching my old home! Here, I am the supreme one, and I will surely entertain you well,” said the Silver Serpent, one of the thirteen great demon lords. He flew forward, shouting, “Children! Greet your ancestor, your sect master has returned!”

However, in the outer space of that planet, three people simultaneously turned their heads, glanced in his direction, and ignored him.

“Juniors, have you truly forgotten me? There once was a Silver Serpent Supreme, who has returned after two thousand years! Quickly, welcome me!” The Silver Serpent put on airs.

This was because, not long ago, the other great demon lords had displayed impressive authority. As soon as they appeared, their disciples and grand-disciples worshipped them, shaking the entire star field.

But the scene the Silver Serpent had expected did not materialize; the three ignored him.

“Old Snake, do you need help cleaning up your household?” someone jested.

They were three young people. Two of them appeared to be siblings, as they looked very similar, both with long, flowing aquamarine hair that exuded a serene aura.

The other man had a pale complexion, handsome features, and a somewhat sickly beauty. At this moment, all three were staring at Ye Fan, not looking at the Silver Serpent or the others.

“Even a puny little Silver Serpent dares to act so wild,” the blue-haired man opposite said, his voice cold.

“Oh dear, I, your ancestor, have been away for two thousand years, and no one recognizes me anymore. Even a random junior is mocking me,” the Silver Serpent said, laughing at himself.

“Don't act rashly. You are not his match,” Ye Fan stopped him.

“I'm not his match?” The Silver Serpent stared blankly.

“He's a Quasi-Emperor,” Ye Fan said.

“What?” The group of great demons was astonished.

“Brother Ye, long time no see.” The blue-haired woman smiled, exuding charm and unparalleled beauty. Her fair face showed no hostility, and the corners of her crimson lips were slightly upturned, giving her a playful look.

“I'm well,” Ye Fan replied. “Though your brother doesn't seem to welcome me.” He hadn't expected to meet the siblings Huo Linzi and Huo Lin'er here, and the person confronting them was An Pu from Undying Mountain.

“They all seem to be...” Shan Huang, also a Quasi-Emperor, could naturally sense the extraordinary nature of the people before them.

“Indeed, three Quasi-Emperors,” Ye Fan nodded.

The dozen or so great demon lords were instantly shocked. When did Quasi-Emperors become so common? They had just encountered three at once. In the past, a clash between figures like Sakyamuni and Shan Huang was extraordinary, shaking the entire universe. Now, they suddenly faced several, and all so young.

“They are all descendants of ancient Emperors, sealed until this era,” Ye Fan explained.

The great demon lords were dumbfounded, feeling completely out of touch with the times. Suppressed for two millennia, so much had happened in the outside world, and they had even personally seen so many descendants of ancient Emperors!

“I indeed don't welcome you much,” Huo Linzi said. “You've interrupted my duel. Why don't you take my place?”

“Alright, no problem,” Ye Fan smiled.

Huo Lin'er's eyelids twitched. She wanted to stop her brother because she truly couldn't discern Ye Fan's depth; he had clearly broken through again. Yet, she knew her brother's stubbornness, and how he insisted on fighting any strong opponent he met.

“Please, Brother Ye, be lenient,” Huo Lin'er pleaded. Ye Fan was known as the 'Ancient Prince Killer,' his fearsome reputation having spread far and wide over the years. For all those with ancient Emperor bloodlines, he was undoubtedly their paramount enemy.

“No problem,” Ye Fan nodded.

Upon hearing this, Huo Linzi's eyebrows rose, and he attacked directly. His Quasi-Emperor might shattered the nine heavens, his divine power vast and overwhelming.

However, what awaited him was merely a large sleeve. With a casual strike, Ye Fan used "Sleeve Universe" to suppress him, swift and decisive.

Everyone present was petrified. The gap was immense; though both were Quasi-Emperors, there were at least several cultivation heavens between them, a completely different order of magnitude.

Huo Lin'er sighed softly, her beautiful eyes flickering. She knew that Ye Fan had completely left his peers behind. From this day forward, he would have no rivals among his generation!

This heralded the reign of an invincible Sacred Body throughout this era!

Huo Linzi roared, unable to break free. He couldn't believe that in just twenty years, Ye Fan had surpassed him by several realms; it was unimaginable.

“I hope one day I can fight you at the same cultivation realm,” Huo Linzi said. He couldn't remain defiant; faced with the undeniable truth, he had to concede that he truly couldn't compare to Ye Fan now.

“Has this day finally arrived?” On the other side, when An Pu saw Ye Fan turn to face him, he remained calm, not a ripple on his face. After his defeat at the Heavenly Court ruins twenty years ago, the gap between them had only widened further over the years.

“Make your move!” Ye Fan said.

An Pu said no more. A great halberd appeared in his hand, and his entire body blazed. His fragile, sickly appearance vanished, and he immediately unleashed his full power, fighting desperately.

However, before absolute strength, burning one's life force was futile. With a single descending palm strike from Ye Fan, An Pu's weapon shattered inch by inch, and he himself was drenched in blood, pressed down below.

At this moment, Ye Fan's aura fully erupted.

“Sixth Heaven of Quasi-Emperor!” An Pu sighed inwardly, “How can this be surpassed?” He threw away the broken halberd in his hand.

Ye Fan felt no joy, for he knew that even more terrifying enemies awaited him on the path ahead. If he did not strive, everyone in the Heavenly Court would perish.

He did not immediately strike to kill. Instead, he made a sweeping motion with his hand, preparing to strip away some of An Pu's cultivation, leaving him a path to survival.

After all, whether it was their first meeting or later at his wedding with Ji Ziyue, An Pu had always shown a certain degree of composure. He had even thwarted Shen Ming's destructive acts, leaving a good impression on Ye Fan.

“Defeat is defeat. You and I are destined to be mortal enemies, and there is no way to reconcile Undying Mountain and the Ji family. I only ask for a decisive battle to end it!”

An Pu appeared frail and pale, but his character was unyielding. Upon discerning Ye Fan's intentions, he refused to surrender. Even the Headless Knight had died for him. He was unwilling to have his cultivation stripped away to save himself; better to die than become a cripple.

“Kill!”

An Pu roared, his hair standing on end. He defied the heavens, surging towards Ye Fan, his life bursting forth. His entire body, fueled by imperial blood, ignited, triggering the Divine Restriction realm!

Ye Fan was surprised; it was the first time he had seen a contemporary activate a Divine Restriction in front of him. An Pu's aura instantly surged in power, his body enveloped by infinite Dao rules.

However, it was still not enough!

After a brief attempt, Ye Fan instantly activated his own Divine Restriction. Although his impression of An Pu was not bad, they were destined to be enemies in this life; there was no other choice. To show An Pu respect, he didn't wish to humiliate him.

“Boom!”

A golden hand descended. Amidst the myriad divine lights, a life blossomed, showcasing its most powerful attack within the supreme realm of Divine Restriction.

Yet, he could not escape defeat. The figure was torn into pieces, blood staining the cosmos. An Pu had fallen!

Ye Fan sighed softly. There was no right or wrong; their paths in this life were different, destined to be adversaries, unable to coexist.

“Would you two be willing to visit my Heavenly Court as guests?” Ye Fan turned and asked the siblings, Huo Linzi and Huo Lin'er.

“Yes!” Huo Lin'er quickly replied, preventing her brother from having an extreme reaction.

Ye Fan's return, accompanied by three Quasi-Emperors and twelve peak Great Sages, instantly caused a sensation in the Heavenly Court. A group of people came out to welcome them.

“Father!”

In the pure land, Xiao Zi wobbled, taking unsteady steps, and ran towards him with outstretched hands.

“Xiao Zi!” Ye Fan was overcome with emotion. He picked her up, and Xiao Zi, giggling and babbling innocently, gave him a slobbery kiss on the cheek.

Everyone laughed, but Ye Fan almost wept.

That dream was too real, a glimpse of the future. He vividly remembered Xiao Zi being so helpless and tiny, yet driven to a desperate end. To see her now, holding her in his arms, felt incredibly precious, and he didn't want to let go.

“Daddy will protect you well. No one will ever harm Xiao Zi,” Ye Fan whispered.

Then, he put the child down and hugged Pang Bo and the others tightly. These brothers, who had shared life and death with him, were all still here, all alive. That feeling was truly wonderful.

“Big brother, big brother, I'm here too!” Xiao Nian Nian said with a joyful smile.

Ye Fan's nose stung again. In the future, Xiao Nian Nian had faced several Supremes alone, with no one to help her. The brutal battle had nearly destroyed the universe, and in the end, all living beings, restricted areas, and even she herself had ceased to exist.

“In the future, big brother will definitely protect everyone, and won't let you fight alone!” Ye Fan picked her up, suppressing his emotional turmoil, and swore in his heart.

Even so, tears welled up in his eyes, born of joy and emotion. That dream had been too real and terrifying; he felt as though he had been separated from these people for ten thousand years. Seeing them now, he cherished and was moved by the reunion all the more.