Emperor’s Domination

Sky Step King had enough authority to represent Ancient Step and his master, Beneficence Grand Emperor.

On an ordinary day, tiny sects such as these eight weren’t worthy of Sky Step King’s attention. He mingled with members of the powerful kingdoms and even the three grand dynasties.

His appearance startled everyone below. His aura alone made them feel as if mountains were pushing down and suffocating them.

“Sky Step King.” They had no choice but to bow and show respect.

He alone was stronger than all of them, enough to sweep through the ancient alliance.

Six-step Saint Child was no big deal since the youth’s cultivation wasn’t an actual threat. The same couldn’t be said about Sky Step King.

“My disciple died here?” He glared at those beneath him. The disparity in power made them feel as if they were being cut by blades.

“We didn’t kill him.” Furious Wind hurriedly answered.

Sky Step’s eyes turned cold to everyone’s dismay.

“Hmph, you dogs lack the courage.” He uttered.

They felt both insulted and relieved since at the very least, he didn’t view them as culprits.

Sky Step turned his attention toward Li Shrine and noticed something: “Divine lotuses?”

Their expression soured since they feared this development the most.

“They were planted by our Virtuous King.” The first elder answered honestly since it was too late.

Sky Step then took a closer look at the shrine and said: “Not bad, Insane Gate. Looks like some of your ancestors’ resources are still around, the ancestral weapons are emerging soon.”

His contemptuous tone only worked in the present since Insane Court was one of the ten dao lineages. Ancient Step was still playing with mud during its golden age.

Alas, its descendants couldn’t retort since a fallen phoenix was inferior to a chicken.

“Your Majesty, this shrine has two weapons, Insane Spear and Furious Immortal Sword.” Eight-treasure Monarch said with a smile.

He coveted these weapons but could read the situation. His chance was gone so he might as well curry favor with Sky Step King. At the very least, it was imperative to keep the latter happy to avoid sect destruction.

Furthermore, by building a relationship with Sky Step, he might be able to see Beneficence Emperor one day.

“Insane Spear, the weapon of Soaring Phoenix Commander.” Sky Step King’s eyes narrowed upon hearing this.

Once again, the others felt helpless since they could do nothing to protect their heirlooms.

“That’s the one. And then there’s Furious Immortal Sword that was once used by the guardian of Insane Court as well.” Eight-treasure added.

“Both are renowned, definitely divine artifacts.” Sky Step remarked, having heard of the commander and the guardian’s exploits.

He looked back at the crowd and said: “They are your ancestral heirlooms so I will not take them. I just want the two lotus trees since they are perfect to heal my ancestor’s injuries.”

“!” The group exchanged glances upon hearing this.

At first, the king sounded benevolent when not seizing the two divine weapons. It seemed like he was doing them a favor for just taking the two ancestral lotus trees. The problem was that these things all belonged to Insane Gate.

Alas, they had no input in the matter. Sky Step cared about face and reputation, hence his decision to not take their famous ancestral weapons.

He considered himself generous for only taking their lotus flowers. Of course, they naturally didn’t want this and remained silent.

“I will not pursue the death of my disciple, be smart and hand the flowers over.” Sky Step glared at Furious Wind.

“Your Majesty, this is our holy heirloom for eras now.” The first elder said: “Nevertheless, we are willing to gift you the seeds.”

“This isn’t a negotiation, hmph!” Sky Step uttered coldly. His scowl made everyone in Insane Gate shudder.

“Must I do it myself?” Sky Step instilled fear into the crowd: “If I have to do it, it won’t just be the trees.”