I Am Unaware That I Am the Peerless Martial God Chapter 1421: What a Steal

A frown creased Long Tian's brow, his smile vanishing as he voiced his inquiry. Despite possessing commendable acting abilities and a composed demeanor, a palpable disappointment settled in his heart upon realizing the newcomers were merely ordinary individuals.

This subtle shift in his expression was readily observed by all present.

At the forefront of the assembled group.

Master Lu, Lu Qingshan, and other seasoned cultivators stood with their heads bowed, their gazes lowered. Having instantly assessed Long Tian's cultivation level, a wave of disdain washed over them, nearly compelling them to unleash a torrent of curses.

This offspring of the Demon Race was truly an exasperating character.

With his current level of power, he would barely be more than a nameless extra on Shadow Island, not even deserving of a proper meal. If not for the explicit orders from the Fifth Miss, who would even consider associating with such a pitiful excuse for a cultivator?

Little did they expect that he would dare to look down upon them.

Alas, the individual lacked any semblance of self-awareness. The so-called prodigy of the Demon Race was nothing more than an unwitting pawn in the grander scheme of things, truly a subject of pity.

In the ensuing moments.

The assembled crowd remained still, their hands clasped behind their backs, too indifferent to even address him.

Thankfully, the Star God Guard quickly offered an apologetic smile, initiating an explanation that somewhat diffused the tense atmosphere.

"Star Lord, your understanding is greatly appreciated!"

"These esteemed individuals are the venerable elders of our Cloud Star. Their cultivation realms far surpass our own humble abilities. It was no small feat to persuade these seniors to lend their aid, thus, Your Lordship must show them the utmost respect..."

The Star God Guard, who had previously worked at a butcher shop and spent years establishing connections on Shadow Island amidst the everyday chatter of gossiping aunties and the presence of countless influential figures, possessed an exceptional talent for discerning people's intentions through their expressions.

His carefully chosen words offered a measure of respect to Master Lu and his companions while subtly cautioning Long Tian, his phrasing and tone masterfully balancing both objectives.

Upon hearing the hushed explanation, Long Tian's eyes widened in astonishment.

"Stronger than the Star God Guard..."

"Could it be that all these dozens of individuals have attained the Heavenly Transformation stage of the Desolate Realm, or perhaps even reached the initial phase of the Desolate Realm Law?"

"Is it truly possible for Cloud Star to possess such a multitude of formidable experts?"

"How could such a thing be feasible?"

Long Tian, understandably, did not readily accept these assertions. A profound suspicion began to take root in his mind, yet he couldn't help but cast a glance at the group with a newfound flicker of interest.

After observing them for a few breaths.

He was unable to detect any discernible energy signatures emanating from them, as if they possessed a genuinely solid presence.

Finally.

Long Tian turned his serious attention towards the assembled crowd, seizing the opportunity to subtly probe their capabilities with a smile.

"Esteemed everyone."

"Your Star Lord is poised to lead the charge against the Demon Race. Should any unintentional disrespect arise due to the urgency of the situation, I implore your forgiveness."

As he spoke, Long Tian discreetly unleashed the full force of his imposing aura.

As a former prodigy of the Demon Race, he believed that a personal assessment would undoubtedly reveal the true depth of their cultivation!

If they were indeed cultivators of significant power, it would prove advantageous to his grand scheme of vengeance, a most welcome development. Conversely, if they lacked such prowess, he could casually assert his dominance over these Cloud Star natives, reminding them of who currently held sway over the region.

At the very least, these individuals needed to understand their role as potential cannon fodder!

This silent maneuver served a dual purpose, a remarkably astute strategy.

Long Tian clasped his fists together, a smile gracing his lips, his eyes radiating the unchallenged authority of a Star Lord!

However, in the ensuing moment.

His exceptionally potent aura washed over the assembled group as if it were merely a gentle breeze. The elders at the front calmly maintained their lowered gazes, not even the slightest ripple disturbing the fabric of their robes.

Long Tian stood utterly dumbfounded.

"Impossible?"

"Could the cultivation levels of every single one of these individuals genuinely surpass my own?"

"Is it possible that, as the Star God Guard had proclaimed, they are all true experts of Cloud Star?!"

An instant later.

Long Tian's gaze became fixed, his expression contorting into one of awkwardness, akin to a rider trapped atop a tiger, unable to dismount.

He abruptly turned his head to face the Star God Guards, the shock etched upon his features undeniable!

"This... this is..."

He had vehemently denied the possibility, only to find himself utterly embarrassed after a direct confrontation. Truly a case of refusing to acknowledge the truth until faced with undeniable reality, a complete imbecile!

The Star God Guards, inwardly cursing Long Tian's foolishness, maintained their composure and cooperative smiles for the sake of the larger objective.

"Uh..."

"Star Lord, every word we spoke was the unvarnished truth."

"That is correct, these venerable seniors have been in seclusion for tens of thousands of years. They only emerged in righteous indignation upon learning of the impending massacre. We hope Your Lordship can understand!"

"Your Lordship must absolutely avoid any disrespect and consider the greater good."

Upon hearing this, Long Tian's eyes widened considerably!

Were they truly reclusive seniors?

These were dozens of high-level Desolate Realm experts, no less!

Let alone tens of thousands of years, it might be impossible to produce such a multitude of experts even in an entire epoch. Yet, Cloud Star possessed such a profound foundation; it was simply defying the heavens. He had never known Cloud Star to be this formidable. Could it be that Cloud Star had truly experienced past glory? Or was there some hidden secret? Shock mixed with pleasant surprise coursed through him, and Long Tian's heart churned like waves. Despite having countless questions, his mind couldn't process them all at once. His vacant expression mirrored that of an innocent fool bewildered by the world.

Master Lu and the others discreetly shook their heads, deeming it beneath them to dwell on his reaction. Recalling their mission and the wager of ten movie tickets, they finally revealed a sliver of their imposing presence, clasped their fists, and responded.

"We have come solely to vanquish demons and shall certainly heed the Star Lord's commands!"

"Our sole purpose is to slay demons; please understand, Your Lordship."

Although some reluctance lingered in their hearts, the assembled group put on a convincing act to appease Long Tian, simultaneously exuding waves of Desolate Ancient Power. Instantly, brilliant streams of light converged among them, flowing like a river across the elegant courtyard. The entire Star Lord's Mansion was bathed in boundless rosy clouds, and the terrifying aura silenced the entire city into utter stillness!

Even though they only subtly displayed their capabilities, the gentle convergence and dispersal of the Desolate Ancient Power were enough to make Long Tian turn pale, as if an immense weight was crushing his shoulders. From the gesture of cupping their fists to the release of their imposing auras, the entire process lasted mere moments. Yet, Long Tian perceived it as an eternity, as though he had been trapped in an endless abyss for millennia, struggling to breathe under an unbearable torment.

As their voices ceased, the oppressive aura surrounding them dissipated, and Long Tian finally felt as though he had been reborn. His body felt significantly lighter, yet he dared not even draw a deep breath. He stared fixedly at the assembled group, as if he had witnessed specters!

Desolate Realm experts... These individuals radiated pure Desolate Ancient Power, undoubtedly true high-level Desolate Realm existences. Particularly the elders at the forefront; they had very likely already attained the initial stage of the Desolate Realm Law. These were all formidable figures. Even within the Demon Capital, they could potentially rank among the elite! My heavens... What astonishing might was this?

Cloud Star's underlying strength was truly terrifying; it was utterly unbelievable! The surroundings suddenly plunged into an unusual silence. Long Tian found himself questioning the very nature of his reality.

He had harbored no great expectations initially, merely intending to test the waters, assert his dominance casually, and make them acknowledge their fate as mere cannon fodder. Now, it appeared that, in terms of cultivation level, he was the one designated as cannon fodder? This was preposterous!

When they eventually confronted the Demon Race, who would truly be leading whom? Upon grasping what he perceived as the truth, Long Tian's fair complexion flushed with sheer embarrassment. His toes curled, and he forcefully restrained himself from uttering a single word. Observing his sudden compliance, Master Lu and the others found him much more agreeable. They clasped their fists once more, their eyes alight with smiles that spoke of practiced acting.

"Star Lord, you must now believe our genuine resolve to slay demons, correct?" The instant the words left his mouth, Long Tian flinched violently.

"I believe, I believe!" Seeing that Long Tian had finally grasped the situation, Master Lu smiled and clarified his position, casting a meaningful glance towards the group. Immediately, a chorus of declarations of loyalty resounded through the courtyard.

"Your Lordship is wise; we shall undoubtedly aid in the grand endeavor of demon slaying and await Your Lordship's command!"

"From this moment onward, we shall surely follow Your Lordship's lead!"

"Our determination to slay demons is as undeniable as the heavens and earth!"

The sudden appearance of a troop of paramount figures bowing in deference left Long Tian reeling, his steps faltering backward in sheer astonishment, disbelief etched onto his countenance and a flicker of apprehension in his eyes.

"This, this..."

"How, how could I possibly be deserving..."

He had once held considerable sway among the demon race, effortlessly commanding various auxiliary forces. But now?

A multitude of peak experts from the Desolate Realm had materialized before him, beings likely equivalent to the highest echelons of demon leadership. How could he possibly muster the confidence or resolve to direct such formidable individuals?

While an influx of powerful allies should have been a delightful turn of events, their overwhelming strength transformed what should have been a pleasant surprise into sheer panic and a daunting responsibility. Could he even hope to control subordinates of such immense power?

Master Lu, perceiving Long Tian's apprehension and uncertainty, stepped forward with a reassuring smile. He offered words of comfort while bestowing upon him a grand and weighty title.

"Lord Star Master, I implore you, cease your modesty!"

"As the sovereign of our Cloud Star, you are its destined ruler. It is only fitting that you command us to vanquish the demons. We, as cultivators of Cloud Star, are bound to heed your directives!"

"Henceforth, any who dare defy your commands will be acting against the very will of the heavens, and we shall ensure their bones are ground to dust!"

Lu Qingshan and the other seasoned strategists echoed their sentiments, their voices brimming with encouragement.

"Indeed, this monumental endeavor to eradicate the demons is vital for the safeguarding of the entire galaxy. Beyond you, Lord Star Master, I truly cannot envision another individual fit to lead such a heroic charge!"

"Ah, yes, yes, yes! With the exception of Lord Star Master, I shall pledge allegiance to no other!"

"We humbly await your command, Milord; we will follow you unto death!"

In a final display of their earnest commitment, everyone present bowed in unison.

Witnessing dozens of high-level Desolate Realm experts demonstrating such profound respect was arguably the most magnificent spectacle of Long Tian's life, surpassing even the accolades once bestowed upon the aloof Demon Venerable.

Observing this scene, Long Tian's throat constricted involuntarily.

"Gulp..."

He was deeply moved.

The palpable reverence shown by these powerful figures suddenly instilled in Long Tian a newfound sense of capability. A burgeoning feeling of accomplishment surged within him, gradually melting away his earlier anxieties and transforming them into a tide of overwhelming joy that gently soothed his lingering doubts.

To have so many elite subordinates practically delivered to his doorstep was an unexpected boon of incredible magnitude. Eradicating a few demon strongholds seemed trivial; even assaulting the demon capital felt within reach...

Regardless of the cost, he was determined to make the demon race pay for their transgressions!

If they succeeded in annihilating the demon race, he would not only find vengeance for his deep-seated hatred but also restore the former glory of Cloud Star, etching his name into the annals of history as a legendary hero.

It was even possible he could achieve victory with minimal personal involvement, perhaps by merely guiding the charge.

He had stumbled upon an extraordinary opportunity, a truly game-changing stroke of fortune.

This was, without a doubt, a heaven-defying windfall!

Such incredible luck must surely be what the human race referred to as extreme sorrow culminating in profound joy.

The more he contemplated this turn of events, the more his resolve solidified, and a bright luminescence began to emanate from Long Tian's eyes.

He had dedicated much of his life to navigating the treacherous politics of the demon race, only to be met with hollow promises from the Demon Venerable and ultimately witness the annihilation of his own tribe, leaving him in a state worse than any lowly beast.

Now, amidst the human race, within the span of mere days, he had ascended to a position of supreme authority and was bathed in unparalleled glory!

A simple comparison made the path forward undeniably clear, even for the most obtuse observer.

The demon race?

Heh, from this moment forward, we are strangers.

Those sworn enemies would have their existence extinguished by his own hand, thereby assuaging the burning hatred within his heart!

At this pivotal juncture.

Long Tian's mind was utterly cleared of any lingering distractions. His very blood thrummed with excitement, and his voice resonated with unshakeable confidence!

"Since you all share such fervent enthusiasm, I shall no longer refuse this mantle!"

"Though my cultivation as Long Tian is still nascent, in order to overwhelm the demon race, I must brazenly lead you forward. As the ancient saying goes, speed is of the essence in warfare. Therefore, I issue this command: all who harbor the desire to eradicate demons are welcome to join the demon-slaying legion. Rendezvous at the Returning Antiquity Corridor in one hour to launch an assault on the nearest demon stronghold!"

As the spirited Long Tian made his grand gesture, Master Lu and his companions responded with smiles and clasped fists. Subsequently, they covertly dispatched messages to Shadow Isle, and the Star Master's decree traveled from Luohai City, reaching every significant immortal domain.

In a short while.

Innumerable streaks of light erupted from all directions, streaming towards the heavens like meteors igniting the celestial expanse. This extraordinary spectacle caused the common folk to gaze upwards in astonishment, as the palpable battle intent had already stirred the very sea of stars into a frenzy!