The void had returned to deathly silence. Only lingering destruction aura and shattered laws drifted away like smoke.
The Destruction Greatsword sealed by Ming Xin floated at his side, like both a trophy and a warning bell, silently recounting the brief yet fierce clash just moments ago.
The three Venerables—Zhu Yan, Huan Meng, and Wan Hua—gathered beside Ming Xin. As they looked at this outsider whose aura was unfathomable and whose methods were profound, their expressions were too complicated to describe.
Admiration, gratitude, and an indescribable trace of reliance.
Having repelled the Void Clan twice in succession, especially after severely wounding their elite, Garm, Ming Xin had completely earned their unreserved trust through his strength and wisdom.
"Fellow Daoist Ming Xin, thank you... for this battle."
Venerable Zhu Yan's voice was low and hoarse with exhaustion. The scorched marks across her body, where destruction aura had grazed her, were still slowly healing.
Ming Xin shook his head slightly, his gaze sweeping over the devastated battlefield and the remains of the Dao Devouring Beasts and Void Clan Warriors that had been sealed or slain.
He said gravely, "Though we won this battle, it was still a costly victory. Nearly half the formations around the perimeter have been destroyed. Garm escaped back there. When they come again next time, I fear..."
He did not continue, but the three Venerables all understood.
The next one to come would likely not be someone of Garm's caliber. It might well be a true major figure within the Void Clan, one who wielded real authority.
"We must repair the defensive line as quickly as possible and reinforce the defenses around the core region."
Venerable Huan Meng's voice was ethereal, yet heavy with concern. "I can sense that Ancient Venerable Qing Xuan's aura seems... even more dormant."