The smoke dispersed, the light faded, and sound and color returned to the world.
Only then did everyone see, in shock, a bead of dark red blood seeping from between the Heavenly Emperor's brows, so dark it was almost black.
Was his Spiritual Platform damaged?
Was it fatal?
Could the mighty Heavenly Emperor really die from a single strike? However badly he had been outnumbered, however grievous his wounds, that should not have been possible...
"My sword... the sword of 'myself.'" The Heavenly Emperor murmured it twice, then laughed softly. "We all seek the 'self.' Why be so eager to destroy one another... Even now, I do not understand. Have you mistaken your friends for your enemies?"
Qiu Wuji looked terribly pale. That strike had clearly drained almost all her strength; even as she hovered in midair, she seemed on the verge of falling.
The Heavenly Emperor's question left Qiu Wuji somewhat dazed, but she still shook her head. "The Heavenly Dao created all things and gave you and me life, a lifetime to roam freely, long years of fortune... You speak of defying Heaven, but what does he owe you?"
The Heavenly Emperor scoffed without arguing.
This was not a question of owing anyone anything. For someone seeking the "self," saying such things was simply laughable.
A faint flush rose on Qiu Wuji's pale face. She herself had nearly killed him with her sword back then; she did not seem to have much ground to say this.
She sighed softly. "The Azure Dragon was shattered, the White Tiger imprisoned, the Vermilion Bird scattered, the Black Tortoise's legs severed... What had the Four Symbols done wrong? Did you know of their towering resentment, Your Majesty? I fear you have somewhat confused seeking the self with seeking selfish gain."
Behind the