Rise of The Demon General Chapter 807. Welcome Home Present

Amon received the crimson crystal, gazing at it with evident fascination.

"The intelligence concerning the Domain Lords is far too sensitive to be committed to mere paper. After obtaining such information, I always dispose of any physical records and store it within a crystal such as this. You may keep it; I possess an identical duplicate."

"And how, precisely, do I access the information contained within?" Amon inquired.

"Channel your aether into it, much like utilizing any other tool, but you must persevere," Yao Ai instructed.

Yao Ai executed a series of intricate hand gestures, causing words of power to materialize in the air where her fingers traced. At the culmination of her movements, these potent words coalesced into a minuscule point of light and merged into Amon.

"I have now imprinted the ownership of this data crystal onto you. You are thus empowered to access its contents."

Amon proceeded as directed. His consciousness felt as if it were penetrating the crystal, discovering an interior akin to what he would term a cybernetic realm. Digital interfaces laden with text hovered all around him. From his perception, these panels functioned as directories, each housing information on distinct subjects. The inscriptions upon these panels served as their titles, delineating the knowledge held within. He directed his focus toward a panel labeled 'Hai Di's alleged close relatives.' The panel expanded, dominating his field of vision. A compilation of names and portraits was subsequently displayed.

He scrolled through the roster, pausing upon encountering familiar visages: the two women he had encountered in Aetheria, Xin Lie and Li Jing. Concentrating on Xin Lie, several lines of text materialized adjacent to her likeness. These details provided her personal information, notably including her cultivation level—Peak Malicious Stage. However, a cautionary annotation indicated that this data was twenty-five years old, dating back to her return from a mission in Aetheria.

Included within this dossier was information regarding her purported connection to Hai Di. She was indeed suspected of being Hai Di’s daughter, though concrete proof remained elusive. Hai Di exhibited a clear favoritism towards her, yet it was not to an excessive degree.

Just as Amon prepared to examine Li Jing’s data, Yao Ai’s voice interjected, "You may study the information at a later juncture. This location is unsuitable for such a purpose."

Amon withdrew his consciousness and safely deposited the data crystal within his black space ring.

"I shall commence formulating a viable strategy once I have thoroughly analyzed the information contained herein," Amon informed Yao Ai. "However, it is imperative that I possess absolute autonomy for my plan to be executed effectively. Furthermore, I may require intermittent support from the faction when circumstances demand."

"What is your estimated timeframe for bringing your plan to fruition?" Yao Ai inquired.

"I cannot provide a precise estimate without first examining the contents of this data crystal. Nevertheless, I commit to exerting my utmost effort to conclude within fifty years."

"You have twenty years. Any duration exceeding this will be deemed unacceptable."

"And why is that limitation imposed? Is it in anticipation of the purge scheduled to occur?"

Yao Ai fixed Amon with a stern glare, realizing he had skillfully maneuvered her into disclosing the impending purge’s timeline.

"You still refuse to divulge any details regarding the purge?"

"My initial intention was to inform you, but your current demeanor is rather vexing. Therefore, I shall refrain from doing so."

Amon offered a nonchalant shrug. While curiosity about the purge lingered, it held no true significance for him. The fate of Aetheria was of little consequence to him.

Yao Ai emitted a soft chuckle. "Perhaps you shall have the opportunity to learn of it some two years hence."

"And what makes you say two years from now?"

"Because I intend to escort you to an audience with the ruler of this world. He is undoubtedly the most knowledgeable individual on such matters."

"Why would you facilitate my attendance at such a significant assembly?"

"Did you not express a need for intelligence regarding my rivals? While the data crystal I furnished may offer insights into Hai Di and Lang Man, direct acquaintance provides the superior method for comprehending an individual. Both of them will be present at this meeting. It shall serve as your opportune moment."

"I comprehend. However, why the two-year delay? I was under the impression that the Domain Lords convened with the world’s ruler annually."

"Initially, this was indeed the case. This is the general populace’s understanding, but it has not been the reality for a considerable duration. The meetings now occur decennially. The subsequent convocation is scheduled in two years."

Amon inclined his head. "I shall make the necessary preparations for this momentous occasion."

"That concludes our discussion. You are dismissed," Yao Ai stated.

"One further matter," Amon interjected. "It is imperative that my fugitive status be rescinded. Failure to do so will impose undue restrictions upon my liberty."

"Rest assured. I shall issue a formal pronouncement. Furthermore, I will disseminate the information that you are operating as my special agent. You may traverse freely within this Mercy Domain. Moreover, a significant portion of individuals will render assistance, provided your requests remain reasonable."

"My gratitude. That will prove immensely beneficial," Amon expressed. He offered a bow and took his leave.

Yao Ai observed Amon’s departure, her eyes narrowing slightly. Amon perceived that fleeting surge of lethal intent once more but maintained his steady pace. He harbored no apprehension that Yao Ai would act against him, at least for the present. His proposal for her to assume the mantle of sole Domain Lord was a temptation far too potent to relinquish.

As Amon emerged from the carrion tower, a low-tier member of the faction awaited him. It registered with Amon that this individual was once a subordinate of Lu Kang, who had joined his ranks after Amon defeated their former leader. Despite the man's low standing, Amon recalled his name.

"What is it you require, Su Lao?" Amon inquired.

A flicker of surprise crossed Su Lao's face; he likely hadn't anticipated Amon remembering a minor figure like himself. Unbeknownst to Su Lao, Amon was aware of every subordinate's name, from the most crucial to the least significant.

Su Lao bowed his head in deference. "Sir, we received word of your return. Sir Wi Zhuang requests your presence at his residence; he has a matter of great importance to discuss."

Amon's steady gaze unnerved Su Lao, who hastened to add, "Sir... Sir Wi Zhuang emphasized it is an emergency. He wishes you to come at once..."

To Su Lao's visible relief, Amon responded, "Very well. Let us proceed."

While Amon could have reached Wi Zhuang's home more swiftly on his own, he deliberately matched Su Lao's pace.

"You seem somewhat unsettled, what troubles you?" Amon asked Su Lao.

"It is nothing, truly," Su Lao replied evasively. "I apologize. I am merely a weak cultivator. If you wish, Sir Amon, you may proceed ahead. There is no need to wait for me."

"That is quite alright. I am not in any particular hurry."

Su Lao considered mentioning the urgency of the situation again but refrained, sensing it would be futile.

Upon reaching Wi Zhuang's residence, they observed several members of the Mercy Faction standing guard. These individuals also served Amon, having been part of Lu Kang's former contingent. They opened the door for Amon. When Su Lao moved to wait outside, Amon instructed him to come along.

Su Lao attempted to decline. "Sir, whatever the matter may be, it is far too significant for a low-ranking member such as myself. I am not worthy of involvement."

"Nonsense. I alone determine your worth. Come along!"

Unable to devise another reason to refuse, Su Lao reluctantly followed Amon inside.

As they passed through the courtyard and into the lobby, Amon sensed something was amiss. The absence of any servants was peculiar. Instead, an increased number of Mercy Faction members were present, milling about. A commonality linked them all: they were former followers of Lu Kang, now assigned to serve Amon. These men ceased their casual loitering upon Amon's appearance, subsequently following him as he advanced towards the main hall.

Even before stepping into the main hall, Amon had a premonition of what awaited him. The metallic tang of blood hung heavy in the air. A scene of utter devastation greeted him as he entered. Corpses were piled high, most disfigured beyond recognition. However, Amon could identify some as members of Wi Zhuang's family, including his children.

Only two members of Wi Zhuang's family remained alive: Wi Zhuang himself and his sister, Wi Yin. Both were in dire states. Wi Zhuang was covered in bruises and wounds, his limbs brutally severed. Wi Yin lay sprawled on the floor, naked. Available evidence suggested she had endured repeated violations. The brother and sister stared with vacant eyes, their minds shattered by shock and torture, entirely oblivious to Amon's arrival.

Surrounding them were Amon's subordinates, also survivors from Lu Kang's former ranks. Their leader, Guo Chao, was an Intermediate Fiendish Stage cultivator. Several others were at the Beginning Fiendish Stage, explaining their ability to overpower Wi Zhuang. Those with less potent Qi perhaps struggled to accurately gauge Amon's strength, but these Fiendish Stage cultivators were different. Wary expressions surfaced as Amon entered the hall.

"Supreme Stage...? How did your cultivation advance so rapidly?" Guo Chao demanded.

The others grew visibly more apprehensive upon hearing Guo Chao's words.

Forsaking a direct answer, Amon declared, "Assaulting your superior and slaughtering his kin constitutes a grave offense. Severe retribution awaits you."

Instead of fear, a sneer twisted Guo Chao's lips. A blade was held perilously close to Wi Zhuang's neck. "Regardless of your cultivation level, it is meaningless if you hesitate. Ensure you do not move, or I will cleave this friend of yours's head. Be sensible and accept your welcome home gift."