The demon Li Hao rode was the Candlelight God. He had revealed his true form, though not fully, showing only a semblance of it.
After all, the Candlelight God's original body was over a hundred zhang long. Every step shook the earth and mountains, making far too much commotion.
Returning to familiar lands, Li Hao felt a long-lost sense of nostalgia. The difference between the inside and outside of Great Wasteland Heaven was stark: the energy drifting through the world was noticeably diminished. Its scarcity was why this place was called barren.
Yet the earthy scent of this "barren" land seemed buried in his bones. It was the familiar smell he had breathed since childhood, ever since coming to this world.
It felt comforting.
It was not the comfort of cultivation, but it brought ease to both body and mind.
His thoughts crossed a thousand mountains, returning to Heaven's Gate Pass, that Hedge-Enclosed Courtyard, the old man within it, and the little girl who held a sword in her arms.
If he had time, he could invite that gluttonous woman over for another barbecue.
Remembering those occasional moments of peaceful contentment amid the wind and snow, Li Hao's lips curved slightly.
He had the Candlelight God continue onward.
Through the Universe Chart's attributes, Li Hao saw that the number of markers he had left had dropped from 100 to 96. He had lost only four Battle Flags.
That was the total number of Battle Flags he had left at Heaven's Gate Pass. Some might have been damaged by accident, but judging from the number, the pass should still be safe.
Carrying Li Hao on his back, the Candlelight God flew through the air as mountains, rivers, and lakes swept past below.
Seeing those vast ravines and lakes, Li Hao could