The Ethereal Domains

Chapter 641: Boundless Lake

Boundless Lake . . .

In the city, a multitude of assassins had converged, all drawn by the allure of a generous reward, and Cha Eun Xiao watched as they entered through the city gates in an ostensibly peaceful manner. Subsequently, a select few among them exhibited their intelligence by promptly vanishing into the shadows, leaving no trace of their whereabouts. No one could ascertain their destination as they discreetly departed from the Ling-Bao Hall.

Such a windfall of riches naturally beckoned for clandestine concealment; after all, in this case, opportunity made thieves. Cha Eun Xiao couldn't help but ponder his newfound affluence and the lurking risk of being robbed.

On the other hand, those less adept at their craft found themselves with limited options and decided to seek refuge within the protective confines of the Ling-Bao Hall, pleading for safeguarding. Cha Nantian, the father of Cha Eun Xiao, was perplexed by this behavior. Were these individuals truly assassins? Their behavior seemed anything but typical of assassins; they appeared gripped by an inexplicable fear, a stark contrast to the fearless demeanor one would associate with their trade.

Clearly, Boss Wan Zhenghao failed to grasp the intricacies of human nature. Those who lacked wealth were willing to stake their lives in pursuit of it, while those who had already accumulated riches sought to safeguard their lives at all costs. This fundamental contrast was glaringly evident.

The situation reached a climax when the Boundless Lake assassins arrived in pursuit of the rewards. At that precise moment, individuals like Ning Biluo, Liu Changjun, and Zhao Pingtian had all returned to the Ling-Bao Hall. A significant contingent of assassins from Ling-Bao Hall had also made their way back.

Coincidentally or by design, as Feng Monarch conversed with the trio of assassins within a room, news surfaced regarding the imminent arrival of the Boundless Lake assassins seeking their reward. Without hesitation, Feng Monarch ventured outside to confront them.

Cha Eun Xiao, who was typically composed, couldn't help but be taken aback by the turn of events.

Ning Biluo and Liu Changjun found themselves in a state of profound shock, their initial astonishment giving way to unrestrained fits of laughter. This unexpected eruption of mirth came despite their deep-seated aversion to Boundless Saint, and it echoed throughout the Ling-Bao Hall.

Over a dozen individuals, distinct from the usual cadre of assassins, made their entrance through the main gate. These newcomers, clad in opulent, silken attire reminiscent of nobility, stood in unison like a garden in full bloom. Their countenances bore the unmistakable signs of contentment, and while an aura of coldness still enveloped them, it was notably subdued.

Their collective demeanor closely resembled that of successful individuals who had come into their own. The man who appeared to be their leader, however, stood out. His pallid complexion and slender physique were accentuated by attire conspicuously oversized for his frame. This peculiar disjunction aside, his considerable height offset any irregularities, rendering his overall appearance somewhat fitting.

It was none other than Boundless Saint himself who stood before them. This marked the first occasion that Ning Biluo and the others had the privilege of laying eyes upon the countenance of the enigmatic assassin. Simultaneously, it was Boundless Saint's debut in the public eye, a significant and rare occurrence.

While Cha Eun Xiao and his comrades had long suspected the true identity of the man before them, they remained uncertain regarding the authenticity of the face that now lay exposed.

The humorous manner of Boundless Saint's arrival signified the dissolution of Boundless Lake, a watershed moment in the annals of the assassin world. In fact, had Ning Biluo possessed the financial resources to adequately provide for the substantial number of individuals under his care, he would have long retired to bask in a life of leisure and luxury.

The men in their peculiar attire were undoubtedly the exclusive cadre of golden-label assassins under Boundless Saint's command. Their synchronized appearance bore testament to the significant gains accrued during the recent warrant event. Beyond the material reward, their presence suggested unwavering dedication to their shared goal, fuelled by the promise of a brighter future.

Indeed, there was a deeper motivation at play; they were driven by a critical decision that bound them together. Cha Eun Xiao's expression underwent a subtle transformation as a vague sense of foreboding crept over him, while Ning Biluo's initial smile waned. His countenance darkened as he too began to fathom the gravity of the moment.

Boundless Saint's voice, devoid of mirth and carrying an almost feminine quality, resonated through the chamber. "Feng Monarch," he began, "after our arduous efforts, we've successfully severed many of the heads on your wanted list. I find myself wondering if you intend to honor your promise, even to individuals such as us."

Cha Eun Xiao, known as Feng Monarch, responded affirmatively, his commitment unwavering. "Absolutely! Regardless of our relationships—whether as friends or foes—I assure you, once you deliver the heads we seek, you shall receive the agreed-upon compensation."

The relief washing over Boundless Saint was palpable. This Feng Monarch was far from the person he had known before; the esteemed Master Bai had spoken highly of Feng Zhiling before the world. Boundless Saint couldn't deny that a measure of fear had gripped him earlier, but now that Feng Zhiling had given him the response he sought, he spoke further. "In that case, we shall claim our payment at a later time. For now, I implore your understanding, Feng Monarch, for I have a private matter to attend to, one that has weighed heavily on my mind. It's preferable to resolve it without delay."

Cha Eun Xiao accepted Boundless Saint's request without hesitation. "Fair enough. I have no objections. Please proceed."

With those words, Boundless Saint turned his gaze toward Ning Biluo, his expression suddenly taking on an odd complexity. The mix of emotions on his countenance included an unmistakable eagerness.

Ning Biluo, in turn, wore an expression that mirrored this intricate blend of sentiments. It was as though he had an inkling of what Boundless Saint was about to say, yet the turmoil within him was evident, etched into his features.

Zhao Pingtian, one of the world's top three assassins, observed the unfolding drama. No one had a more intimate understanding of the profound enmity between Ning Biluo and Boundless Saint than he did.

Boundless Saint broke the silence, his tone calm. "Ning Biluo, I believe you already anticipate what I am going to say."

Ning Biluo responded in kind, "I do. Of course, I do. Ever since you and your comrades entered, I knew." He drew a deep breath before continuing, "But what's the use of saying it now? Do you not find this situation absurd?"

Boundless Saint's eyes darkened as he replied, "I acknowledge my naivety, and I am aware that you share this perspective. However, I've grown weary of this existence. I no longer desire such a life."

Ning Biluo's voice took on a chilling edge. "You're tired, and you no longer want it. Now, you have a golden opportunity to escape and lead a life of happiness. But what about the innocent lives you've taken? What becomes of them? Did they not yearn for happiness? Who snuffed out their lives? Who was responsible for their tragic fates?"

Boundless Saint stared at him intently, then pivoted to gesture toward the thirteen assassins standing behind him. His voice carried an undercurrent of resolve as he asked, "Very well, you wish to discuss lives. Let us talk about lives. Do you know the numbers associated with Boundless Lake? Are you aware of the twenty-four golden label assassins, the one hundred and eight silver assassins, and the five hundred iron label assassins?"