Tian Zhu nodded and said, "The sect master and elders of the Tianyan Sect were the people those Immortal Venerables feared most.
"After that battle, every top expert of the Tianyan Sect was erased at the level of the rules.
"No one knows their names or appearances anymore."
Xu Changxing raised his eyebrows. "Not even you know the names of the Tianyan Sect's elders, Senior?"
Tian Zhu said evenly, "The means of Immortal Venerables have already transcended the rules.
"Those they erase disappear completely from heaven and earth.
"If this realm had not been sealed outside the Three Realms long beforehand, no one would even know the name of the Tianyan Sect."
Xu Changxing said thoughtfully, "Then does that mean you are the Tianyan Sect's last remaining disciple, Senior?"
Tian Zhu shook his head. "Several Immortal Venerables joined forces to erase the Tianyan Sect. How could any disciples remain?"
Xu Changxing paused in surprise. "Since you are not a successor of the Tianyan Sect, Senior, why are you guarding this place?"
Tian Zhu shook his head again. "I don't know either.
"When I awoke, I was already guarding this secret realm.
"All these memories of mine came from the Heavenly Gate.
"All I know is that my task is to remain here and wait for someone acknowledged by the Tianyan Pearl to arrive."
Xu Changxing asked, "And after they arrive?"
Without hesitation, Tian Zhu said, "Then I will help you cleave open the Heavenly Gate and ascend to the Immortal Realm."
As his words fell, a terrifying sword intent erupted from his body.
But rather than slashing toward Xu Changxing, this sword intent extended into the depths of the secret realm like a summons.
Immediately afterward, ringing cries of swords sounded from the depths of the secret realm, as though