"The reason is simple. The Penglai Commerce Association's true origins lie in our Origin Heavenly Court! Its Four Secret Clans-the Eastern Clan, Southern Palace Clan, Western Gate Clan, and Northern Darkness Clan-are actually branches of the four great retainer families of our First Source Clan. They entered seclusion in the Pangu World long ago, entrusted with a vital mission, and have remained here ever since."
"Hm?"
The Great Huan officials in the hall looked at the Penglai Commerce Association's people in considerable surprise. They had never imagined that the association had such origins and connections, or that its members were descendants of immortal gods from the Upper Realm.
One question merited deeper thought: after untold ages, were the bloodlines of the association's Four Secret Clans still recognized? Were they still pure?
Xiao Ying and Bai Ze exchanged looks of surprise tinged with shock, for only the Descended Immortal Gods knew how glorious and powerful the Origin Heavenly Court had once been.
As descendants of the First Source Clan's four great retainer families, the Four Secret Clans likely possessed reserves and influence far beyond anyone's imagination.
As for that "vital mission," it had almost certainly been to search for the Mysterious Supreme Treasure.
Amid his tangled thoughts, Xiao Ying asked in puzzlement, "Then what about Heavenheart Island?"
Princess Yunmiao gave a cold smile and answered icily, almost through gritted teeth, "Traitors and rebels whom anyone has the right to slay! Heavenheart Island was originally a station for retainers dispatched by our Origin Heavenly Court to the Heavenfall Sea. Yet they forgot their ancestors, betrayed their master, and abandoned their duty!"
As she spoke, her expression also carried wistfulness, grief, helplessness, and hatred-a complicated blend of emotions.
Princess Yunmiao offered no detailed explanation, but Xiao Ying and the others could guess the