Chapter 189 – When the Heart Compels, One Must Act

Cold sweat, once seeping out, seemed uncontrollable.

Ye Kuang thought even more. He had originally believed that the Xingyi Sect existed solely to prevent the Dragon King from escaping prison.

Now, it seemed it wasn’t that simple!

This world, seemingly stable on the surface, was actually already turbulent and seething beneath.

If he didn’t want to die an untimely and unclear death, he had to find a backer.

But who should he turn to?

It could be said, this was a problem!

A problem so big it seemed unsolvable!

But suddenly, Ye Kuang couldn’t help but look at the Elder.

“It seems you’ve figured it out.”

“How could I not? This is truly irresistible. Tell me, who am I protecting?”

“That’s not urgent for now.”

Hearing this, Ye Kuang felt overwhelmed, but given his current situation, he had no choice but to comply.

Elder: “First, I must clarify a fact: this world, though seemingly peaceful, is already in a state of extreme change.”

After saying this, the Elder continued: “If the heart dies in brilliance, love will be reborn from the ashes. Kid, to be honest, we all want to see your limits.”

As soon as he finished speaking, the Elder couldn’t help but feel conflicted: “Because I’ve discovered your starting point is very, very high. Perhaps that alone doesn’t highlight your uniqueness, or maybe it’s because of the Dragon Subduing Eighteen Palms. We all agree that someone capable of mastering such supreme knowledge is no ordinary person.”

Ye Kuang: “What are you trying to say, Elder?”

Elder: “Good! Straight to the point, then I’ll speak plainly. In the process of growth, without experiencing setbacks and hardships, it’s nearly impossible to become a dragon of the heavens.”

After saying this, the Elder sighed as if struck by a sudden impulse: “Hold fast to your original intent and move forward; it will surely help you see the light through the clouds. One day, by then, you will likely have surpassed me.”

Ye Kuang couldn’t help but stiffen at these words, clearly puzzled by the implied meaning. However, he had always been one to let things go in one ear and out the other, showing little interest in so-called sense of mission.

But he always acted according to his conscience; not harming others or engaging in deceit was one of his principles.

Otherwise, how would he be any different from those with ulterior motives!

If he wanted to do something, he would do it—success or failure were two separate matters.

Because not doing it was a matter of attitude or having no hope at all, but once he acted, there might still be a sliver of possibility.

Elder: “Of course, if you can successfully complete this bodyguard mission, we will open the door of convenience for you. Make as much noise as you want; it’s best to stir up all the big fish lurking in the shadows. When that happens, well… hehe…”

At this point, the Elder’s murderous intent sent chills down one’s spine.

But Ye Kuang seemed indifferent, though in reality, he was deeply enticed by this grand promise and couldn’t extricate himself.

Elder: “Kid, I must also give you a warning: if something seems impossible, don’t force it. Otherwise, we will also act according to the rules.”

Then his tone shifted, becoming bone-chillingly cold: “However, the jianghu belongs to the jianghu, and the city belongs to the city. Some big fish might still be hard to catch, and we can’t easily take action. If you have the ability, feel free to unleash your skills to the fullest.”Ye Kuang: “Then what if it doesn’t work out? Wouldn’t I become a sucker? I’d probably die without even knowing how it happened.”

After saying this, he realized this grand opportunity didn’t seem so appealing anymore.

It was like a spider web had been fully laid out, just waiting for a reckless fool like him to stumble into it.

Elder: “Hey… why think like that? One should always look at the positive side of things. What if it succeeds?”

Ye Kuang: “You said ‘what if’ yourself. And what if I end up dead?”

Hearing this, the Elder responded with clear mockery: “Do you even have any backbone? I heard from Tie Feng that you’re someone who fears nothing. When did you become so wishy-washy?”

Ye Kuang: “If you were in my position, why don’t you give it a try yourself?”

“You…” The Elder’s expression shifted at these words, but his face changed so quickly it was like instant mask-changing. He then said coldly: “I warn you – you can either do this willingly, or you’ll be forced to. There’s absolutely no room for negotiation in this matter!”

Ye Kuang: “…”

Elder: “Alright, alright, stop looking like you’ve been wronged, appearing like a forced bride. Let’s get back to business.”

Ye Kuang: “What else do you have to instruct?”

“What do you mean ‘instruct’? I’m discussing this with you.”

“You call this discussion? This is more like coercive business!”

“Sometimes coercive deals aren’t entirely bad. Just think – once you achieve your ideal outcome, what’s a little hardship? It might even become your most memorable seasoning when you grow old.”

Hearing this, Ye Kuang seemed to have resigned himself to fate.

He had heard that forced melons aren’t sweet, but who knew that coercive business would be so difficult.

Seeing this, the Elder suddenly asked in a suppressed tone: “Kid, I’ve been completely straightforward with you about this matter. Now it’s up to you.”

Ye Kuang: “Can you finally get to the main issue now?”

“Hmm…” The Elder thought for a moment before saying: “There’s an exchange conference coming up that requires participation from one of our top scientists to present our perspectives. Your only job is to ensure his personal safety.”

At this point, the Elder couldn’t help adding: “Your top priority is ensuring this scientist’s safety. Just get him to the destination safely. As for arrangements afterward, you can handle them as you see fit.”

Hearing this, Ye Kuang couldn’t help but laugh, suddenly full of confidence: “Hey, I thought it was something serious. So it’s just this simple?”

Hearing this, the Elder suddenly turned stern and felt compelled to warn again: “Don’t say I didn’t warn you beforehand. The reason we can’t intervene is because we have a three-part agreement prohibiting those Above Dao Inquiry Realm from setting foot in the Foreign Land. You should be able to read between the lines about what this implies.”

“Ah…” Finally understanding the full picture, Ye Kuang couldn’t contain his shock and anger: “So this trip means I might not return alive?”

Right after saying this, he suddenly asked: “Can I not go? This looks like a thankless task anyway.”

“Do you really have a choice?”

After saying this, the Elder appeared to have Ye Kuang by the throat, leaving the young man trapped between a rock and a hard place.

It was clearly a situation of forced compliance – what else could he possibly do?