Ling Yun pushed his speed to the limit, racing toward Heaven Dou City like lightning tearing through the sky. Along the way, he could already see the bizarre changes in the heavens: though it was broad daylight, the sky had taken on an unnatural dark-red hue. Countless tiny meteors streaked across the firmament with flaming tails, while enormous fireballs occasionally crashed down in the distance, erupting into soaring flames and explosions. The ambient energy had turned violent and chaotic, filled with unsettling stellar radiation and an evil aura.
By the time he reached Heaven Dou City, the continent's most prosperous city had already entered its highest state of alert. Its massive Soul Tool defensive barrier was fully activated, radiating a gentle yet resilient glow. The city walls were packed with tense soldiers and Spirit Masters, while all manner of defensive Soul Tools stood fully charged, glinting with dangerous light. Pedestrians were scarce on the streets, and the atmosphere was grim and oppressive.
The Alliance's central command headquarters was a hive of activity. Ning Fengzhi, Sword Douluo, Bone Douluo, and the other core leaders had gathered there, every one of them wearing a grave expression. On the enormous Soul Tool sand table, red points of light representing the invasion of extraterrestrial creatures spread across the map of the continent like a plague. Around several Spatial Rifts in particular, the red light had nearly merged into one.
"Elder Ling Yun! You're finally back!" At the sight of Ling Yun, Ning Fengzhi seemed to have found his pillar of support and hurried forward to greet him.
"How is the situation?" Ling Yun walked straight to the sand table and asked in a low voice.
"Very bad!" Ning Fengzhi pointed at the sand table, speaking at a rapid pace. "We have confirmed three major