Emperor’s Domination

“Enigma Grotto.” The group exchanged glances, not expecting this.

They thought the place would be mysterious on top of possessing numerous seals and mysteries. Immortal dao laws could block their way, preventing anyone from getting close.

All in all, its appearance should indicate its supreme nature. Even an emperor couldn’t come close to opening it.

In reality, it didn’t look impressive outside of the arched door requiring the ten loops and a particular method from the right person.

A guide such as the woodcutter wouldn’t have been able to do so even with the loops. Li Qiye was the first to enter and the water gate collapsed instantly.

This inconspicuous area turned out to be the most secretive location of Enigma Dynasty, revered as their holy ground for eras.

“Wait here, this might take a while.” The woodcutter sat down and the others did the same.

***

“Buzz.” Li Qiye entered a different area - a small village surrounded by mountains. It looked tiny with only a barren plot of land, unable to sustain anything.

Thus, there was only one village, which was apparent from the start. An old wutong tree stuck out the most, thick enough to require three or four men clasping hands to surround it.

The barks looked like dragon scales, thick and hard. There weren’t many leaves left. This could be due to the fall season or its age.

Next to it was a well. Its bricks were worn down from time and repeated use. While looking down, one saw clear water but no bottom in sight. This painted a creepy feeling as if it were an entrance to hell.

A small lodge was built beneath the tree, small enough to only accommodate one or two people. It was simple and made from clay and grass. Heavy rainfall could knock it down without the protection of the wutong tree.

A coarse, unpolished rock sat in front of the lodge and looked somewhat like a toad at first glance. According to mortal folklore, having this rock would prevent mosquitoes and pests from approaching.

Moreover, a furnace and anvil were also present.

“Clank! Clank! Clank!” Someone was busy at work - an old man with white hair and wrinkles. Time was not kind to him.

He struck the red-hot iron block repeatedly, seemingly forging a farming tool - a wood chopping knife or a plow.

An old woman tended the fire and added wood when necessary. She looked frail with many missing teeth. Her hands were so thin they resembled chicken feet.

The two lived in this isolated village in their broken-down hut. One stoked the fire while the other forged iron as if they were the only ones in the world. Both were fully immersed in this process.

They didn’t need words and had an implicit understanding. Their movements and breathing were in tune with the rhythm of the world, seemingly driving it.

Therefore, any visitor would feel rather lonely and sentimental. This village was at its dusk, the end of the road. Alas, the duo wouldn’t think so. They spent their time together until death; they had everything and needed nothing.

Li Qiye observed the scene with a smile on his face. He glanced at the tree and the well along with the toad-like rock.

The two didn’t notice Li Qiye’s arrival, still carrying on with their task. Perhaps they weren’t forging a farming tool but rather, a peerless divine artifact.

“Sizzle…” The iron was forged and quenched in water, issuing hissing noises. It was in the shape of a chopping knife.

The elderly couple finally snapped back to reality.

“Honored guest, we apologize for the lack of reception.” The old man wiped his hands with a cloth initially tied around his neck. He smiled and bowed at Li Qiye.

“It seems like I’ve come at an inconvenient time.” Li Qiye smiled

“It’s always the right time when you arrive, Sir.” The old woman replied warmly. She brought out a stool for Li Qiye, brewed tea, and prepared snacks.

Her voice was as pleasant as an oriole. Just listening alone would make one imagine she was only eighteen.

“Unfortunately, I’m not who you two are waiting for. Otherwise, it would be quite a flashy spectacle.” Li Qiye sat down and said, glancing at the surroundings.

“Such trivial tricks cannot fool an immortal such as yourself.” The old man laughed heartily.