The Selection Ceremony Was Suspended

Lin Hao slowly rose to his feet.

His Imperial Robe stirred without a breeze, and his white hair streamed behind him.

"Since that is the case..." His voice was calm, yet carried an unquestionable resolve. "The Selection Ceremony is suspended."

"Tomorrow, I shall personally go to Saint Burial Abyss."

"Those willing to accompany me may follow me to slay the demons and purge the threat from our hearts."

"Those unwilling may wait here."

His gaze swept over the crowd, finally settling on Xiahou Jie.

"As for Senior Xiahou... lead the way."

Xiahou Jie gave a bitter smile and bowed in acknowledgment. "This old man... will obey."

A grand selection came to an abrupt halt.

In its place stood an impending battle to slay demons, one that would decide the fate of the Western Domain.

And a question lingered in everyone's heart—

Had the Demon Emperor planted this demonic heart merely to devour the Western Domain?

Or, as Xiahou Jie had said... was it meant to make Lin Hao the "key"?

Xiahou Jie's words had struck the still waters like a boulder, and before the ripples could spread, Lin Hao's decision had fallen like a swift blade.

"The selection is suspended. We depart at once."

There was no lengthy discussion, no unnecessary hesitation. Six words, decisive as a blade striking stone.

The Saint Conferring Platform fell deathly silent, then erupted with a flurry of reactions. Huyan Lie tightened his grip on his saber, his crimson hair blazing like fire, Battle Intent and anger mingling in his eyes; Shi Gandang stood silent as a mountain, his dark golden body sinking slightly, as if ready to become the sturdiest shield at any moment; Mu Yi knitted his brows, the tender leaves on the withered branch in his hand trembling softly; Su Qingyin cradled