Emperor’s Domination

“Shouldn’t you start running if you want to live?” Li Qiye asked with a smile.

“I wouldn’t have been anxious if running were feasible. To even try is ignorant and disrespectful.” Xian Chengtian shook his head.

“A bastard, yes, but an interesting one.” Li Qiye said.

“A direct confrontation is necessary when running is of no use. Moreover, I left an intent with my disciple, a promise that I would save her. Not showing up purposefully would have made me a terrible master.” He said.

“Yes.” Li Qiye nodded.

“Sacred Teacher, I was not a good disciple, a traitor even. However, I wanted to be a good master and never asked much of my disciples. As I’ve said, I believed in an even exchange. A strong demand requires proper reciprocation.” He said.

“That would make you a good master indeed.” Li Qiye said.

“I couldn’t save her given how weak I am relative to you, but I still didn’t run.” He said.

“Although having you as a disciple is a tragedy, the opposite applies with you as a master.” Li Qiye said.

“As my poor disciple said, we can only blame ourselves for being weak.” He said sentimentally.

“That’s just how it is when facing me. Nothing would have changed even if you were an immortal.” Li Qiye said.

He fell into silence briefly before nodding: “Yes, but I still don’t want to die.”

“Is there any opportunity?” Li Qiye asked.

“Only if you forgive me.” He said.

“That’s impossible, I have agreed to kill you. However, since you have amused me, you may choose your preferred death.” Li Qiye said.

“If I don’t choose?” He asked.

“Then it will be an ugly death. I’m sure it’s not something you want.” Li Qiye said.

“I suppose I still hope to die a bit beautifully.” He thought about it and answered.

“I’m sure you don’t want to commit suicide.” Li Qiye said.

“Of course not, I will struggle even with only a sliver of hope.” He said.

“Then this will be one bad thing in your life. Can’t have it all.” Li Qiye said.

“Perhaps you can make my death meaningful and even be positive.” He said.

“How so?” Li Qiye asked.

“You can break my curse and help me become an immortal, sparing my life.” He said. Something about his aura and the way he spoke made him able to say the most ridiculous things without being ridiculed by listeners.

“Why would that happen outside of your fantasy?” Li Qiye asked.

“Yes, but I’m sure you will indulge my ramblings, Sacred Teacher.” He said.

“Go on.” Li Qiye nodded.

“For you, killing an overlord like me is no different from killing a chicken.” He said.

“Everyone says you are the strongest beneath the immortal realm.” Li Qiye replied.

“Speculation brings excitement to them.” He shook his head: “Nevertheless, I believe it is true while I’m under my masters’ empowerments and methods. In reality, my cultivation stagnated after their curse. I am not the strongest at all.”

“An accurate assessment.” Li Qiye said.

“I know you have killed more than one immortal before. Therefore, an overlord’s life is meaningless.” He continued.

“And so?” Li Qiye entertained him.

“Isn’t it boring to kill me? I’m sure there is a way to make this more interesting.” He said.

“Adding a bit of fun and treachery to your death, I see.” Li Qiye smiled.

“I admit it is my only way to survive.” He said.

“My refusal would imply a lack of confidence in killing you.” Li Qiye said.

“Victory has always been firmly in your grasp, it will be easy either way.” He said.

“Your flattery is working. If I don’t agree, it would kill the mood.” Li Qiye smiled.

“I know you are an interesting person, the world just didn’t know it. Given what I know about you, I’m sure you will grant my request.” He said.

“You do understand me. I’ll play your little game then because yes, killing you outright is boring. I won’t disappoint you since you took the time to come here.” Li Qiye said.

“My idea is simple. I believe you have a list of people to kill in Three Immortals, and I am confident I will be the last one to survive.” He said.

“Is that so?” Li Qiye stroked his chin.

“As long as you agree to play the game, I know I will.” He said.

“The game itself guarantees your death.” He said.

“At the very least, it will give me a final win in being the last survivor and a better chance of survival.” He said.

“True.” Li Qiye nodded.

“Once it starts, you cannot hunt me down immediately. Go find other targets first until I grow complacent while hiding and then kill me unexpectedly. It should be an enjoyable process for you, Sacred Teacher.” He said: “The truth is that I don’t think I’ll outlast the others but I don’t want to die here today in this manner.”

“Yes, boring indeed.” Li Qiye said.

“The game will make it more interesting for you, given the number of participants.” He said.