9 Battle of the Stars

Even if one's current level of cultivation is relatively low, there are certain insights that might remain elusive for the time being. However, armed with his exceptional memory, he can retain these insights and grasp their meaning when he attains a higher realm in the future.

Thus, in this moment, he opened his eyes wide and observed the scene before him with great attention. Such a battle, even when considering the entirety of the Doupo Continent, is exceedingly rare and represents a unique opportunity.

A low, whistling sound resonated as an invisible tempest swept through the sky.

From the space portal forged by the Soul Clan, black mist emanated, surging into the heavens and rapidly extending toward the outside world.

Within the black mist, a frigid, potent aura emerged – the distinctive mark of the Soul Clan's army.

The black mist surged akin to a tidal wave, rapidly congealing in the skies. Concentrating potent energies, it ultimately transformed into an immense black blot covering tens of thousands of meters, shrouding entire settlements from view.

The Ancient Clan, unyielding, rapidly organized their Black Smoky Army, rays of light gleaming from their forms. This radiant energy amalgamated, shaping into monumental beams of light.

These beams of light united, eventually coalescing into a resplendent ancient mirror suspended in the sky. Comparable in size to the black blot, the mirror exuded a mesmerizing play of light, resonating with astonishing energy fluctuations.

"The Seal of Destruction!" Beyond the spatial threshold, a deep voice resonated as if thousands were speaking in unison. Subsequently, a black seal descended from the heavens, carrying energy so potent it could annihilate everything in its path. Where it struck, an area spanning hundreds of thousands of feet would be erased entirely.

"The Ancient Emperor's Mirror!" All members of the Black Smoky Army swiftly mobilized their inner energy, a resounding cry echoing through the skies.

The immense, iridescent ancient mirror launched forward, directly colliding with the vast black blot.

"Boom!" The world seemed to tremble at this moment.

The convergence of the black seal and the ancient mirror released an indescribable, devastating shockwave. Unleashed destruction swept recklessly in all directions.

Even the Ancient World, fortified through countless generations of saintly conflicts, vastly superior to the outside world, shattered under this impact. The argent space's strength cracked and twisted like a silver serpent in flight.

These two colossal forces clashed, eventually disintegrating. Nevertheless, the shockwaves from their collision surged on uncontrollably.

Countless soldiers of the Black Smoky Army spat blood, and wails of agony echoed from the Soul Race Legion within the spatial gate.

A luminous shield enveloped Gu Yuan's form, shielding him from the chaotic aftershock, while protecting Gu Xiao and Gu Xun'er. However, structures within a vast radius succumbed to the force, reducing them to rubble.

"Guru!" A gulp escaped Gu Xiao, witnessing the confrontation of the armies. The scene's grandeur deeply affected him. The awe-inspiring, destructive energy both terrified and inspired him, igniting a fervent yearning within.

He yearned for such power, and not only that – he aspired to wield might surpassing what he currently beheld.

"Strength!" A sigh formed in Gu Xiao's heart, bolstering his resolve. Within this strength-driven continent, the weak are insignificant, devoid of agency. True control belongs to those with formidable power.

The Ancient and Soul Clans vie for him, treating him as a commodity. Ultimately, it's because he's weak. If he were more potent, who would dare challenge him?

"System, stay vigilant, ready for escape at any moment."

Gu Xiao instructed mentally, seeking assurance. Only by departing the Ancient World can he truly develop with confidence.

Regarding the Ancient World, he'll undoubtedly return. After all, Gu Xun'er remains there. However, upon his return, he won't be as feeble. He will possess the strength to defend himself, instilling fear throughout the Ancient Clan.

"Prepared and ready to flee when needed," the system's voice rang icily, underscored by a faint smile.

"That's reassuring." Gu Xiao's tension eased upon hearing the confirmation from the system.

Slightly tilting his head, Gu Xiao gently squeezed Gu Xun'er's hand, offering comfort. Despite her precociousness, she's still a child. Confronted with this terrifying battle, her youthful visage pales.

"Don't be frightened, Xun'er!" Gu Xiao's soothing words held tenderness, his gaze full of affection.

"Brother Gu Xiao is here; Xun'er isn't afraid," Gu Xun'er declared, her voice resolute. The pallor that once marred her features diminished, replaced by a determined expression as she quelled her inner fear.

Relying heavily on Gu Xiao, his reassurance allays some of her anxiety.

With a faint smile, Gu Xiao affectionately tapped Gu Xun'er's collagen-rich cheek, all the while maintaining his firm grip on her hand.

"Gu Yuan, step forward for battle!" In the skies above, Emperor Soul Heaven stood with his arms folded, extending an invitation to Gu Yuan.

"You won't find me reluctant!" Naturally, Gu Yuan couldn't decline. As a Nine-Star Fighting Saint pinnacle powerhouse, only Soul Tiandi within the Ancient Clan can hold him at bay; otherwise, facing Soul Tiandi's intervention would result in severe losses.

"I doubt you'll be able to!" Gu Yuan's participation was inevitable. After all, the fierce clash between these two dominant figures was imminent. Their punches and strikes resonated with fearsome power and destruction, each blow obliterating swathes of space.

Even the supposedly sturdy Ancient World, its spatial integrity enhanced by generations of saintly blessings, crumbled before their force. The metallic space, akin to a silvery serpent, fractured and unraveled under their assault.

This titanic clash of their forces unleashed shockwaves that spread unabated.

Within the raging battleground, Gu Dao's form emerged, surging forward to where Gu Xun'er and Gu Xiao stood. He aimed to secure their retreat, recognizing the perilous battlefield as unsuitable for the two.

"Leaving so soon?" A cold voice echoed, as four figures materialized before Gu Dao. Each exuded a formidable aura, no less potent than that of Gu Dao himself. These were the Four Demon Sages of the Soul Race.