"I still believe the Hell Dynasty cannot win!" Lu Fan smiled faintly. "At least, in my opinion, the Heavenly Dynasty will not be defeated!"
"Your 'cannot' is merely your own assumption!" Bei Cheng said coldly. "But one day you will discover that this world is not as you imagine!"
"Young Master, we should depart! If the Heavenly Emperor discovers us, we won't be able to leave!" The Black Lotus Envoy clasped his fists, his expression growing more solemn.
Bei Cheng nodded slightly, smiled at Lu Fan, and then stepped into the air. A powerful surge of energy accompanied him, making it impossible for ordinary people to pursue.
Observing the scene before him, Lu Fan's eyes gradually sharpened. He hadn't expected things to turn out this way, and it caught him somewhat off guard.
"What exactly is going on!" Grand Tutor Wen arrived, his gaze sharp. He hadn't anticipated such turmoil within the imperial capital.
Lu Fan paid him no mind and headed directly towards the imperial palace. The events had already unfolded, and there was little more he could say.
Not long after, within the imperial palace, the Heavenly Emperor stood tall, his expression grim. He had already received the news of Prince Bei Cheng's defection and his allegiance to the Hell Dynasty. This news struck him like lightning, making it difficult to accept. Ever since the eldest prince had fallen, he had placed all his hopes on Bei Cheng. Yet, he had never imagined that his most valued son was a man of the Hell Dynasty, his blood flowing with the essence of their realm.
"King of the Northwest, has that unfilial son departed?" the Heavenly Emperor inquired.
"Indeed, he has fled the imperial capital and has likely already reached the Hell Dynasty!" Lu Fan clasped his fists. "Congratulations to the Heavenly Emperor, the hidden traitor has been identified, and you no longer need to worry about them!"
To this, the Heavenly Emperor shook his head. "The situation has unfolded beyond my control. I never would have imagined that Bei Cheng would do such a thing!"
"What's done is done, Your Majesty need not dwell on it. The most important matter now is to face the offensive from the Hell Dynasty. This full-scale invasion by the Hell Dynasty will undoubtedly be a tremendous blow to the entire Heavenly Dynasty!" Lu Fan's expression was solemn.
"While that may be true, our Heavenly Dynasty boasts numerous experts. Why should we fear them!" The Heavenly Emperor's demeanor was indifferent, laced with a hint of coldness.
Lu Fan nodded slightly at these words and said no more.
A few days later, news arrived from the borders of the Heavenly Dynasty: the Hell Dynasty's army was approaching, their presence exuding a formidable aura, seemingly intent on devouring the entire Heavenly Dynasty. Even the River of Darkness had instantly dried up, suggesting that all of this had been meticulously planned.
In the imperial court, civil and military officials trembled, their faces etched with worry. They understood all too well what this meant. The conflict between the two dynasties would inevitably lead to bloodshed, which would certainly not be beneficial for them.
"With the two dynasties at war, someone must lead the army!" the Heavenly Emperor declared, his eyes sharp. "Who among you is willing to take command?"
At these words, everyone present fell silent. They knew what it meant to lead. It could involve direct combat with many of the Hell Dynasty's experts, and even facing assassination attempts. This was a high-risk profession, especially during wartime.
"What, our Heavenly Dynasty is filled with talented individuals, and yet no one is willing to lead?" The Heavenly Emperor's gaze became stern, sweeping over the assembled officials with a hint of displeasure.
Following his words, no one dared to speak. They subtly retreated, their expressions conveying their apprehension, lest the Heavenly Emperor choose them.
"King of the Northwest, you are deeply favored by the Heavenly Emperor. For this command, you are surely the one to take it!" The Grand Tutor said with a faint smile, his intentions seeming less than benevolent.
"If it is possible, I am naturally willing to share the Heavenly Emperor's burdens!" Lu Fan clasped his fists, his expression indifferent. "However, this matter of command is not so easily undertaken. Is the Heavenly Emperor willing to grant me this command?"
"King of the Northwest, if you are willing, this Emperor would be overjoyed!" the Heavenly Emperor stated directly, his expression earnest, as if all this was insignificant in his eyes.
Upon hearing this, Lu Fan clasped his fists again. "Since the Heavenly Emperor has spoken, I shall personally lead the charge to quell the Hell Dynasty!"
Many ministers breathed a collective sigh of relief. It was best that someone stepped forward. From then on, they would no longer fear assassination by the Hell Dynasty's forces and could remain secure in their positions.
"The King of the Northwest possesses extraordinary courage and a magnificent presence. He is the fortune of our Heavenly Dynasty!" the Heavenly Emperor laughed heartily. "Since that is the case, the Linglong Treasure Pagoda shall be entrusted to your care. I hope you will be able to annihilate the forces of the Hell Dynasty on the battlefield and return victorious!"
Holding the Linglong Treasure Pagoda in his hand, Lu Fan felt a surge of emotion. He knew it was an ancient divine artifact. The Heavenly Emperor's willingness to entrust it to him was a testament to his trust.
"Your Majesty, rest assured, I will not disappoint the Heavenly Dynasty!" Lu Fan clasped his fists once more, his tone quite solemn.
"The Linglong Treasure Pagoda, they've actually activated the Linglong Treasure Pagoda!" Many in the hall exchanged glances. They knew very well what the Linglong Treasure Pagoda represented – supreme authority.
"The King of the Northwest certainly puts on a grand display. However, I hope the King of the Northwest returns victorious this time!" The Grand Tutor smiled, his eyes holding a trace of indifference, as if Lu Fan's actions were akin to seeking death. He knew well that war between dynasties was extremely perilous for those who led. Without immense strength, one could easily be eliminated by the enemy's experts, which would then impact the dynasty. They had never doubted this.
However, Lu Fan paid no heed to these sentiments, his expression remaining indifferent, as if all of this was utterly insignificant in his eyes.
After a considerable time, Lu Fan returned to the Northwest King's manor. After making his preparations, he intended to head to the border of the Heavenly Dynasty to lead the army in a life-or-death struggle against the Hell Dynasty's formidable experts.
Throughout the Heavenly Dynasty, the populace was filled with unease and fear. They understood the implications: the war between the two dynasties would undoubtedly cause endless turmoil, and the common people would inevitably suffer. Yet, they possessed no power to resist and could only endure it silently. As for who would emerge victorious, it remained unknown. However, such a powerful confrontation within the Heavenly Realm would surely bring about boundless disaster.