Because he had helped Lord of Nothingness open Southern Heavenly Gate, Emperor Lord had taken the old man's sword head-on, his blood staining his battle robes.
"I knew you'd do this."
The old man's expression was cold, his gaze steely, and his whole body brimmed with towering sword intent. He hadn't stopped Emperor Lord from guiding Lord of Nothingness through the gate; there was no need to. It was better to take the opportunity to wound Emperor Lord.
"Your strength really is formidable, Senior."
Emperor Lord stared at the old man. Sword Qi ravaged his wounds, leaving him unable to heal for the moment, and continued burrowing into his body, inflicting further damage from within.
"You're a minor level below this old man, yet you held out until now before showing me an opening. You're impressive, too."
The old man gave a faint, inscrutable smile. He was a stone sword cultivator, even more terrifying than an ordinary sword cultivator.
Despite his lesser cultivation and foundations, Emperor Lord had endured until the old man found a chance to wound him. That alone was something to be proud of.
No wonder, with the High-Level Heavenly Vault remaining out of the world, this man was known as the strongest Hegemon Grade expert.
His combat strength, his talent—he truly deserved to be called the greatest of the age!
"It's a pity that a talent like you chose to betray the Thirty-Three Heavens. What a waste," the old man said, genuinely regretful.
A talent like Emperor Lord should have served the High-Level Heavenly Vault, should have served the Thirty-Three Heavens!
"I didn't betray anyone. I'm only seeking freedom."
"After all these years of cultivation, this is the one thing I must do!"
Emperor Lord answered without a shred of guilt.
At least while the High-Level