The Epic Tale of Chaos vs Order

Chapter 1899: Final preparations (III)

The auras of Gabriel and Zero Mint intensified, growing stronger and stronger until they finally broke through an invisible barrier, surging into the sky. Their eyes glowed brilliantly with scarlet flames, brighter even than twin suns, as an extraordinary psychic energy radiated from their bodies, reaching unprecedented heights. Although their Astral Rebirth Paths remained at the Divine Transcendent Rank, their minds and egos shattered the barriers of the Third Realm, achieving the revered state of Mind and Body as One.

Wide smiles broke across the faces of every member of the Scarlet Alliance, pride filling their hearts as they welcomed two new Prima Deities into their ranks. Nullavir’s group and the observing Prima Deities from the Endlesslight Continent watched from a distance, their expressions marked with envy. Not only had Gabriel and Zero Mint successfully evolved along one of the most challenging paths of cultivation, but their psychic might was now formidable enough to rival even weak Middle Prima Deities.

Cain himself was exhilarated, utterly thrilled by their evolution. He knew that while the most perilous foes would undoubtedly be the powerful Archdeities, numerous Prima Deities would accompany them, each capable of devastating destruction if left unchecked. Therefore, each new addition to the ranks of powerful warriors significantly bolstered their odds.

Of course, not all organizations would react like that to the rise of new warriors, since in many others, there would be envy and slight resentment as they saw others arise while they remained behind. That was one of the beauties of the Scarlet Path, as there was no reason to envy others when you saw the same paths open for you. It was just a matter of offer and time.

Despite his pride and excitement, Cain maintained his sharp focus. With a subtle gesture, he motioned Terent and the two newly ascended warriors, Gabriel and Zero Mint, to join their fellow Prima Deities. He then turned his golden gaze toward Nullavir and the remaining Prima Deities of the Shadowcradle Continent, beckoning them forward with a commanding wave of his hand.

Nullavir and the other Shadowcradle Prima Deities reacted much as Auramyth’s group had earlier, cautious and apprehensive, having witnessed firsthand the devastating power of the Scarlet Path, which had purged their continent with fire and death, consuming any deemed unworthy.

Cain activated The Flow, the mystical perception glowing within his eyes as he observed their inner emotions and true intentions.

"Time is short," Cain began firmly, "so I will speak plainly. I am now the ruler of the Shadowcradle Continent, and your lives rest within my grasp. Nevertheless, I believe deeply in personal freedom and the right to shape your destiny."

Cain momentarily eased the overwhelming pressure of his presence, allowing them room to consider his words carefully. "You can join us in our forthcoming battle against Divine Calamity and his coalition, placing your very lives on the line, and in return, I shall devote my power and resources to aid your advancement. Alternatively, you may choose to bow your heads, remain hidden, and pay a substantial fine. Though the price will be steep, as I assured Auramyth and his group, it will not be something from which you cannot recover."

Instantly, Nullavir and the Shadowcradle Deities glanced toward Auramyth and the others in the distance before shifting their gaze to Terent. The old man had clearly benefited immensely by accepting Cain’s offer, but their situations were distinctly different. Their powerful souls sensed clearly the approaching threat of war and death, leaving them skeptical about the potential gains, even with Cain’s abundant offerings.

Just when it appeared that Cain’s proposal would be universally rejected, one Prima Deity stepped forward confidently—a young woman from the Hell Clan. Nullavir’s eyes widened in genuine surprise, her voice carrying evident disbelief as she spoke the woman’s name.

"Lucrezia?"

Lucrezia was among the most talented and promising Prima Deities of the Shadowcradle Continent, a cultivator with immense potential and a future undoubtedly bright. Nullavir and the others struggled to comprehend why she would willingly risk everything, given the uncertain odds of the Scarlet King’s eventual victory.

The Scarlet King observed Lucrezia closely, sensing a deep-seated, burning desire within her soul through The Flow. He saw ambition clearly but sought greater clarity. "Why?" Cain asked bluntly, prompting the woman to explain herself fully.

Lucrezia faced Cain directly, unwavering and resolute, her expression one of absolute determination. "I missed my chance to join you during the conquest of the Endlessdeath Continent, and I will not make the same mistake twice," she admitted openly. "I refuse to experience the same regret and frustration as those who chose safety over opportunity." She gestured toward Auramyth and his companions in the distance.

Her eyes blazed intensely as she continued, "What I see in front of me is raw power—an unprecedented chance to shatter my limits and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with those who command the peak of cultivation. The Scarlet Path offers precisely what I desire."

Lucrezia paused briefly, surveying the diverse individuals assembled below her. The harmonious interaction and the lack of racial barriers within the Scarlet Path felt alien and unusual to her. It inspired neither aversion nor affection. Fully aware she could hide nothing from Cain’s perceptive gaze, she continued with complete candor.

"To speak plainly, your ideals and vision do not particularly interest me. Yet, I stand here fully prepared to stake my life in battle for the Scarlet Path, driven purely by my ambition for power and prosperity."

Cain regarded Lucrezia thoughtfully for a prolonged moment, a complex expression crossing his features. The frankness of her admission was striking; she held no genuine loyalty to his overarching vision, motivated solely by personal ambition and potential rewards. It wasn’t the purest form of loyalty, but The Flow revealed clearly her sincere willingness to put her life on the line and fight earnestly for the Scarlet Path.

After careful contemplation, Cain’s expression softened into an approving smile. "Very well," he acknowledged warmly. "Then it appears we can proceed to the next phase."