The female powerhouse's heart jolted when Azure King appeared without the slightest warning. She hurriedly lowered her head.
She had never imagined that the National Ruler himself would descend in person.
Jiang Ping An was standing so close to the Princess. With the National Ruler catching such a scene directly, they were likely in trouble.
"Greetings, National Ruler."
Jiang Ping An was equally startled, but his expression remained unchanged. He cupped his hands and bowed in salute.
Lan Shi'er followed suit. Though she did not feel much closeness toward this man in her heart, the proper courtesies could not be neglected.
Azure King ignored the female powerhouse kneeling on the ground. With a casual wave, Jiang Ping An and Lan Shi'er felt the space around them twist. In the next moment, they vanished from the spot with him.
When they reappeared, they were already inside an incomparably magnificent divine hall.
On both sides of the hall stood metal statues a thousand meters tall, like loyal guards, emanating terrifying pressure that made souls tremble.
A solemn, majestic aura filled every corner.
Jiang Ping An was no stranger to this hall. He had come here once before.
Azure King sat upon the lofty throne, his expression indifferent as his gaze fell upon the two of them.
"You two performed very well this time."
His voice was steady, revealing neither joy nor anger. "Especially you, Jiang Ping An. You actually passed that Nightmare Trial."
"You overpraise me, Senior. I was merely fortunate, and I also had Blue Sea Country's cultivation to thank," Jiang Ping An said, bowing once more with a sincere tone.
"When did This King ever cultivate you? Are you saying this to mock This King for being blind and failing to recognize talent?"
Azure King's tone was calm, without the