Top Ranker of the Immortal Ascension Rankings

Top Ranker of the Immortal Ascension Rankings . . .

All eyes turned skyward to behold the descending figure, their expressions shifting to surprise and uncertainty.

He had arrived, an unexpected presence that left them all astounded.

In this moment, the gaze of nearly every onlooker was fixed upon the young man gracefully descending from the heavens. A perplexed furrow creased Qin Wentian's brow. This newcomer must indeed be someone of remarkable stature. Even the entrance of Nanfeng Yunxi had not elicited such a response from the audience.

A sense of intrigue coursed through Qin Wentian as he speculated about the newcomer's identity. Only two individuals could possibly overshadow the three supreme beauties who graced the scene, and this young man was unmistakably one of them.

Though he exuded an air of nonchalance, his commanding presence was undeniable.

"Zi Daoyang, the son of the Violet Emperor," Qin Wentian pondered in silence. Zi Daoyang held the coveted top rank on the Immortal Ascension Rankings, earning him the reputation of the most prodigious genius in the City of Ancient Emperors. On a broader scale, within the realm of Celestial Phenomenon cultivators across the immortal realms, he stood at the pinnacle as one of the top one or two.

"Lengyue, are you alright?" Zi Daoyang inquired, his gaze shifting between the wounded Xiao Lengyue and Qin Wentian.

"Daoyang gege!" Despite her injuries, Xiao Lengyue managed to utter these words with a trace of tenderness in her voice. Her melodious tones possessed an enchanting allure that held sway over the hearts of nearly every man present. This was the stark reality—while all assembled were undoubtedly geniuses, the chasm separating them remained vast. Countless suitors had vied for Xiao Lengyue's affections, yet none had succeeded.

Yet, at the mere sight of Zi Daoyang, Xiao Lengyue had addressed him with such familiarity, even endearment, as 'Daoyang gege.' Her preference for Zi Daoyang was evident, leaving those who had once harbored hope for her to wither in despair. Such marked favoritism shown by Xiao Lengyue toward Zi Daoyang cast a bleak shadow over their hearts. It was clear that regardless of their own talents and accomplishments, their status paled in comparison. To Xiao Lengyue, Zi Daoyang occupied a lofty, unattainable pedestal.

"I hope your injuries are not too severe," Zi Daoyang inquired with genuine concern. Xiao Lengyue gently shook her head, responding, "Daoyang gege, weren't you in seclusion? Why have you emerged today?"

"I received word of the Brahma Heavenly Emperor's legacy within the Underworld Mountains, prompting my early exit from seclusion," Zi Daoyang explained. His attention then shifted to Nanfeng Yunxi, a smile forming. "Descendant of the Southern Phoenix Clan, daughter of the current Empress, Princess Nanfeng. It's a pleasure to meet you; you've certainly lived up to your reputation."

"Do you also believe in the reports about the Brahma Heavenly Emperor's legacy?" Nanfeng Yunxi inquired, her gaze steady upon Zi Daoyang.

"I do," Zi Daoyang replied confidently. "I have reason to believe because I know someone who entered the Underworld Mountains and has been there for quite some time. I don't believe he would meet his end so easily."

His words stirred a complex reaction in Nanfeng Yunxi. "Are you referring to 'him'?"

In the illustrious City of Ancient Emperors, few were capable of capturing the attention of the enigmatic Zi Daoyang. He was among the most distinguished figures within this realm, and when he alluded to knowing someone who had ventured into the enigmatic Underworld Mountains, it was evident that this elusive figure had remained absent from the city for an extended period.

As the spectators eavesdropped on the candid exchange between Zi Daoyang and Nanfeng Yunxi, their speculations buzzed like an electrifying current. The "him" to which both Zi Daoyang and Nanfeng Yunxi alluded could be none other than a peer who ranked somewhere between the top positions occupied by these two formidable cultivators—the number one and number three on the Immortal Ascension Rankings. The enigmatic second ranker had taken his bold plunge into the Underworld Mountains, a perilous land within the City of Ancient Emperors.

"Who else could it be but him? His sole ambition was to surpass me and seize the title of the top ranker in the Immortal Ascension Rankings. He ventured into the Underworld Mountains in search of unparalleled opportunities. Truly, he possesses an almost reckless determination. Now, with rumors of the Brahma Heavenly Emperor's legacy, if he indeed managed to secure it..." A glint of sharpness sparkled in Zi Daoyang's discerning eyes. In the entire City of Ancient Emperors, only this second-ranked individual had the power to stir unease within him.

Although Qin Wentian and Qing'er had previously explored the depths of the Underworld Mountains, they had encountered no living souls during their sojourn. However, Zi Daoyang's revelation hinted that it had been a considerable time since the second-ranked individual had vanished within the Underworld Mountains. Could this imply that this enigmatic figure had already surpassed the mountainous challenges that lay ahead? Qin Wentian couldn't help but worry about Little Rascal. The creature had detected something alluring within those mountains and was entrusted to explore it, anticipating untold treasures. Now, Qin Wentian couldn't help but fret over his cherished companion's safety.

Zi Daoyang then shifted his gaze toward Qing'er, who stood beside Qin Wentian. A nod and a warm smile graced his countenance as he uttered, "Lil Sis Qing'er."

The utterance immediately piqued the interest of the onlookers. While Xiao Lengyue had addressed Zi Daoyang with familial endearment as 'Daoyang gege,' his response had been somewhat detached with a simple 'Lengyue.' His form of address for Nanfeng Yunxi bore a respectful air as he referred to her as "Princess Nanfeng." However, when it came to Qing'er, Zi Daoyang opted for a more familiar tone, addressing her as 'Lil Sis Qing'er.' These distinctions in address revealed subtle nuances—familiarity for Xiao Lengyue, respect for Nanfeng Yunxi, and a degree of congeniality with Qing'er.

Zi Daoyang's effortless interactions with the three supreme beauties of the City of Ancient Emperors bore witness to his exceptional self-assuredness. These three, all ranked within the top ten of the Immortal Ascension Rankings, were treated with varying degrees of familiarity. Yet, while he appeared at ease, there was an unmistakable chill in Qing'er's gaze as she regarded Zi Daoyang. It was evident that she was less than pleased.

"Uncle Evergreen often frequents my father's residence as a guest. He's like a younger brother to my royal father, and I've often heard Uncle Evergreen speak of you during their conversations. Regrettably, we hadn't had the opportunity to meet until now. Given our familial connections and my seniority, it is not unreasonable for me to address you as 'Little Sister.' So, Lil Sis Qing'er, I hope you won't take offense. It is a request made by your father, who also entrusted me with your care while we're in the City of Ancient Emperors. However, considering your strength, it appears that I won't need to extend much assistance."

Zi Daoyang's smile held a sincere warmth. Had anyone else addressed Qing'er in such a manner, it might have been perceived as a veiled attempt to cozy up to her or assert dominance. However, when Zi Daoyang employed this approach, it seemed entirely natural.

The intricate relationships among those at the immortal emperor level remained beyond the comprehension of younger generations. Little did they realize the complexity that underpinned these dynamics. Indeed, the Violet Emperor held immense sway among the immortal emperors, with several choosing to follow his lead. The Evergreen Immortal Emperor considered the Violet Emperor as an elder brother, a relationship steeped in tradition and respect.

Qing'er's voice cut through the air, its icy tone contrasting sharply with the warm sunlight that bathed the arena. Her words were a demand for respect, a plea to be treated like any other individual. Zi Daoyang met her unwavering gaze, his features softening into a smile. "Certainly," he agreed, nodding amicably. "There's no need for formalities. In the future, when you find yourself with leisure, you and your esteemed father are welcome to visit my residence in the City of Ancient Emperors."

Qing'er remained silent, her demeanor unyielding. Zi Daoyang's attention shifted once more, landing on Qin Wentian and Xuan Yang. To Xuan Yang, he addressed a plea for reconciliation. "We are all acquaintances here," he began, his tone carrying an air of earnestness. "There's no need to prolong this confrontation, Xuan Yang. Allow me to save face and end this strife. Take Lengyue and your companions from the Twin Stars Alliance back with you."

Xuan Yang's expression stiffened, his face contorting into an unsightly visage. Zi Daoyang's words seemed a calculated move to broadcast his close association with Qing'er to the world. Implicitly, this suggested that Xuan Yang should abandon his vengeance against Qin Wentian for the sake of preserving their fragile alliances. Such a course of action would force him to relinquish his quest for retribution against Qin Wentian for the harm inflicted on his younger brother, Xuan Xing.

Zi Daoyang furrowed his brows when he detected Xuan Yang's reluctance. "Is there a problem?" he inquired, puzzled by Xuan Yang's somber demeanor.

"Though I am willing to accede to your request and discontinue this battle," Xuan Yang began, his voice heavy with concern, "I must point out that Qin Wentian has caused significant harm to members of the Xiao Branch, including Lengyue. It wouldn't be fair to let him off without consequences."

While Xuan Yang held the respectable rank of fourth within the City of Ancient Emperors, his fame was undeniable. Yet, even with his prestigious status and remarkable abilities, he was compelled to heed Zi Daoyang's request. In terms of both power and prestige, he paled in comparison to Zi Daoyang.

Within the City of Ancient Emperors, numerous descendants traced their lineage back to immortal kings or emperors. However, the strength and standing of these ancestral figures varied considerably. Zi Daoyang's father was a supremely influential immortal emperor, even commanding the allegiance of other immortal emperors. The Violet Emperor, therefore, held a higher rank than the Xuan Emperor.

This hierarchy within the immortal emperor community explained why the Xiao Emperor had not dared to confront Qing'er directly. Her supporters included the Evergreen Immortal Emperor and Matriarch Ji, both of whom were more powerful than the Xiao Emperor. In normal circumstances, these immortal emperors would not interfere in matters concerning the younger generation. Yet, if the Xiao Emperor chose to persecute Qing'er, the Evergreen Immortal Emperor and Matriarch Ji would undoubtedly intervene.

Zi Daoyang's gaze shifted once more, this time settling on Qin Wentian. He calmly suggested, "Xuan Yang's request is reasonable. Since you are responsible for injuring Lengyue, and I have already persuaded Xuan Yang to end this conflict, how about you offer an apology to her?"

Qin Wentian's eyes locked onto Zi Daoyang, his countenance unyielding. He couldn't comprehend why Zi Daoyang had intervened in this manner, positioning himself as a mediator and demanding that everyone acquiesce to his wishes. Zi Daoyang's status was unquestionably esteemed, rendering such actions unnecessary.

Qin Wentian's demeanor remained frigid; he found Zi Daoyang's attitude displeasing. He resented hearing Zi Daoyang casually utter the term 'Lil Sis Qing'er,' and questioned Zi Daoyang's authority to direct Xuan Yang to abandon his pursuit of vengeance. Why should he issue an apology under these circumstances?

"Why should I apologize?" Qin Wentian demanded, his voice unwavering. He met Zi Daoyang's gaze squarely, unwilling to yield to the pressures exerted by the top-ranked Immortal Ascension expert.

The spectators' eyes narrowed, their collective attention drawn to the young man now confronting Qin Wentian. It was none other than Zi Daoyang, the unrivaled champion of the Immortal Ascension Rankings. Even Xuan Yang, who had reluctantly agreed to a truce, seemed astounded by Qin Wentian's audacity in questioning Zi Daoyang's request.

The unspoken truth hung heavy in the air—it was Zi Daoyang's unparalleled strength that lent credence to his demands.

A serene smile curved Zi Daoyang's lips as he responded to Qin Wentian's inquiry. "You wonder why?" he mused, his tone light and amicable. "Though you've acquired the God's Hand, Emperor Yi's lost secret art, and bested Lengyue, you still lack the power to challenge me, even at the ninth level of Celestial Phenomenon."

Qin Wentian's response was a cold, mirthless chuckle. "As I've said before, might dictates the rules in the City of Ancient Emperors. When has the victor ever needed to apologize to the defeated? If your intention is to use your strength to suppress me, speak it openly. No need for veiled words and hypocrisy."

His candid words resonated with the crowd, all eyes now on Zi Daoyang. It was clear that Zi Daoyang's arrival had been marked by an ostentatious display of his status and power.

"Entering the ninth level, who's to say if I've grown weaker or stronger?" Qin Wentian continued, his tone unwavering. "But to demand an apology based solely on your words, you may be overestimating your influence."

Despite Qin Wentian's confrontational stance, Zi Daoyang remained unruffled. He regarded Qin Wentian with a calm, steady gaze, a glint of determination in his eyes. In that moment, Qing'er moved to stand by Qin Wentian's side, her unwavering gaze fixed on Zi Daoyang.

Zi Daoyang's voice softened as he addressed Qing'er. "Qing'er, is he a close friend of yours?" he inquired.

Qing'er's expression remained frosty as she maintained her silence, her piercing gaze never wavering from Zi Daoyang. Unperturbed by her reticence, Zi Daoyang wore a gentle smile. "Given the circumstances, I won't press the matter further."

With his sharpness now veiled by affability, he turned his attention to Xuan Yang. "Xuan Yang, let us put an end to this affair. Uncle Evergreen entrusted Qing'er's safety to me during my stay in the City of Ancient Emperors. As I mentioned earlier, there's no need to incite discord here."

Xuan Yang, though initially hesitant, recognized the weight of Zi Daoyang's words. Despite his impressive ranking within the city, he paled in comparison to Zi Daoyang, both in terms of strength and status. In a city where the descendants of immortal kings and emperors abounded, disparities between their forebears' power were stark. The Violet Emperor, Zi Daoyang's father, commanded the loyalty of other immortal emperors, outstripping the Xuan Emperor in both prestige and strength.

This hierarchy of immortal emperors explained why the Xiao Emperor had refrained from provoking Qing'er directly. Her powerful allies—Evergreen Immortal Emperor and Matriarch Ji—outmatched the Xiao Emperor. Though it was unusual for these immortal emperors to interfere in affairs of the younger generation, any hostility directed at Qing'er would undoubtedly incur their wrath.

As Zi Daoyang pivoted once more, fixing his gaze on Qin Wentian, a frosty silence enveloped the arena. The crowd waited with bated breath, eager to witness the resolution of this tense standoff.