The Ethereal Domains

Chapter 360: Who Are You?

Who Are You? . . .

Long Tianyun, renowned as the wisest figure within the eight noble clans, had demonstrated his exceptional intellect yet again. In a matter of mere moments, he devised an intricate strategy, revealing his remarkable acumen. As the room fell into hushed contemplation, all eyes focused on the mysterious guest, the uninvited presence that had disrupted their clandestine assembly.

The stranger exuded an air of unwavering self-assuredness. His gaze, laden with supreme confidence, seemed to belittle their group, reducing them to a mere collection of feeble and easily vanquished poultry. This level of assurance hinted that approaching him for assistance would be no straightforward task. If they hoped to enlist his aid, it would require a considerable offer, a valuable incentive that matched his apparent self-assurance. Thus, the situation appeared more complex than Long Tianyun had initially envisioned.

Observing the stranger, Long Tianyun arched a tranquil smile and extended an inviting hand, gesturing toward an unoccupied chair. "A guest familiar to us has graced us with his presence this night. Please, join us for a cup of tea."

Amidst these cordial words, Long Tianyun's thoughts churned. His curiosity about the stranger's identity swirled with uncertainty. "Who might this individual be?" he pondered, discounting the possibility of the man's affiliation with the two great sects. After all, concealing his visage and altering his voice would serve no purpose if he were their ally. This enigma added layers to an already complex situation.

The stranger responded to Long Tianyun with an insouciant smile, declining the offer of hospitality. "Clan Master Long, my unexpected presence may have taken you aback, and for that, I apologize. Yet, I find myself deeply intrigued by your unfolding plan. You and your compatriots have committed your lives to this endeavor. Why not provide me with the names of those designated for survival? I could discreetly ensure their well-being, relieving you of this burden."

This audacious proposition incited frustration among those present. "How could he be so inconsiderate as to discuss our impending demise right before us?" they collectively fumed. Sharing the names of the chosen survivors was out of the question, for these individuals were invaluable to their cause.

Long Tianyun, outwardly calm but inwardly torn, grappled with the realization that his earlier judgment might have been amiss. The stranger's initial words had sown doubt, painting a less-than-amicable picture. While the stranger professed to be acting in their best interest, he bore a palpable thirst for the supreme dan beads, a craving that stirred revulsion among the group.

It was with a growing sense of unease that Long Tianyun realized his initial assessment of the situation may have been flawed, and he embarked on a new line of thought.

"I presume you are not affiliated with the great sects," Long Tianyun's gaze remained icy as he delivered his words in an even tone. "Nevertheless, all the other sects have secured their own supreme dan beads. They, like us, are in hiding, striving to evade annihilation. I believe I have a fairly accurate understanding of your true identity."

The enigmatic figure in black, his voice unwavering, responded, "Long Tianyun, you are indeed a man of wisdom. Despite the dire circumstances, your composure is admirable. Yet, even if you discern my identity, what significance does it hold for you?"

Long Tianyun offered a nonchalant smile as he replied, "In truth, your identity is of little importance."

The man in black nonchalantly continued, "Indeed. The pivotal matter at hand is that I possess intimate knowledge of your plan, and, most crucially, you are powerless to hinder me."

A flicker of emotion passed through Long Tianyun's eyes as he retorted, "While you may possess the audacity to present yourself here, you undoubtedly have an escape route. Nonetheless, we do possess a means of uncovering your true identity. You are likely affiliated with the Cyan Cloud Sect. Since you have chosen to reveal yourself, why not unveil your visage? Allow me the pleasure of confirming which old acquaintance would resort to such tactics against me."

The man in black shook his head and admonished, "Long Tianyun, for a man of your intellect and cunning, your words at this critical juncture are hardly amicable. Do you comprehend that your remarks could jeopardize the future of your clans?"

Long Tianyun took a step back, his eyes ablaze with anger. He spoke with unwavering determination, "The die is cast. Whether we meet our demise or not, we shall do so with resolute minds. My comrades, let us employ every means to compel him to reveal his identity. Even if our fate is sealed, let him share it!"

More than twenty superior cultivators fanned out, encircling the man in black. He found himself at the center of their tightened formation. Meanwhile, those who had been stationed outside the room rushed in to join the fray.

Within the confines of this encirclement, the man in black had no means of escape.

The glint of a sword flashed as an operative from the Gongsun Clan initiated the first strike. Following him, an onslaught of sword techniques ensued. This enigmatic intruder had disrupted their last sliver of hope, invoking a collective loathing among their ranks.

"Let us join forces and vanquish him!" Long Tianyun remembered something that energized him, and his voice resounded with greater urgency. "Since his arrival, he has been deceiving us from the start. I suspect he is here alone today, aiming to seize the dan beads for himself. If we eliminate him, our plan may yet prevail!"

This declaration elicited a surge of elation among the assembled group.

Indeed, their reasoning was sound.

The absence of any additional figures accompanying the man in black seemed to confirm Long Tianyun's assessment: he was acting alone.

The situation was clear – they had a choice to make. Eliminating this enigmatic intruder would ensure the preservation of their intricate plan; failing to do so would result in the utter collapse of their carefully constructed strategy.

The man in black perceived the escalating intensity of the onslaught. His movements began to slow, and with a swift flourish of his hand, he conjured a slender, elongated sword. As the blade danced, a mesmerizing display of innumerable shadows and shimmering lights radiated from its razor-sharp edge. An inscrutable smile graced his lips as he addressed the group. "Long Tianyun's shrewdness is truly commendable. I must express my admiration. However, do you believe that a mere multitude can confine me here? I boldly revealed myself because I am confident that I can safely depart this place.".