Seven-colored flames flowed quietly, bathing this stretch of heaven and earth in shimmering radiance. Yet, strangely, they carried not the slightest scorching heat, as though one stood within the womb at the very beginning of life.
Xiao Yan looked over, his gaze warm and gentle, yet seemingly capable of piercing through every illusion in the world.
Mu Chen's gaze met that warm, gentle look in midair.
There was none of the scrutiny he had expected. Those dark eyes held only calm and a hint of appreciation.
"My young friend Mu Chen," Xiao Yan spoke first. His voice was not loud, but it rang clearly in everyone's ears, carrying a distinctive warmth. "You truly are an outstanding young man, with such steady composure. Excellent, excellent!"
It was a simple opening, without unnecessary pleasantries or the imposing airs one might expect of a powerhouse at the pinnacle of the Great Thousand World. Instead, he seemed like an ordinary elder.
But coming from his mouth, those words carried an entirely different weight.
There were very few people who could earn such praise from Xiao Yan.
"You flatter me, Senior Flame Emperor." Mu Chen cupped his hands in a calm, courteous salute, neither servile nor arrogant. Although he felt no fear of Xiao Yan, he still maintained the respect due to him.
Xiao Yan smiled faintly, his gaze lingering on Mu Chen for a moment. A barely perceptible trace of surprise flashed through his eyes before they grew calm again.
"That girl Xiao Xiao sent word before she returned and gave me a general account of what happened in Dragon Phoenix Heaven," Xiao Yan said casually.
He paused and looked at Mu Chen, the smile in his eyes deepening. "I also know about that deal for a hundred or so divine abilities. The Endless