Chapter 322 Guardian Of The Forest



Wang Jian delved deep into thought, considering their predicament. An idea then struck him, and he decided to consult the system for guidance. He pondered the question within his mind, 'Can you create a new ore?'

In response, the system's voice resonated in his thoughts, offering a solution.

[No, master. However, I can fuse two ores to generate a completely unique ore. The price of this fusion would depend on the level of ores that you wish to fuse and the type that you wish to form. It is to be noted that it's not necessary that the resulting ore would be compatible with qi. There is a chance that it can't be activated by utilizing normal qi.]

Wang Jian was taken aback by this revelation, his mind processing the newfound possibilities. A sinister smile tugged at his lips; a solution had presented itself, and their plan could finally be set in motion.

"Qiu," he said, turning to Luo Qiu, his voice laced with admiration, "that was a brilliant idea. It appears we do have a chance to accomplish our objective."

Luo Qiu couldn't hide her excitement at Wang Jian's praise. She responded humbly, her voice soft, "I'm happy to assist you, Jian."

As Wang Jian's group ventured deeper into the forest, the verdant canopy above cast dappled shadows upon them, the tranquil beauty of the surroundings belying the perilous nature of their mission. The forest teemed with unique species of plants and beasts, a mesmerizing array of life hidden beneath the thick foliage.

Han Xifeng couldn't help but marvel at the botanical treasures that surrounded them. "Look at these plants," she whispered in awe, crouching down to examine a vibrant, luminescent flower. "I've never seen anything like it."

Yan Niu nodded in agreement. "These forests feel strange. I have never seen forests like these even in our Empire," she mused, running her fingers gently over the petals. "We ought to bring over some of these plants back to the Empire."

Lady Zhuoran's keen senses detected a distant rustling, prompting her to raise a cautionary hand.

"Dwarves," she muttered under her breath. "They're coming."

Indeed, numerous Dwarven hunting parties moved stealthily through the bushes, their eyes sharp for any signs of prey. Beasts and plants alike were targeted, their valuable resources coveted by the Dwarves.

Wang Jian's group, however, remained concealed, their presence shrouded by his mastery of the Shadow Element. Were it not for his expertise, they would have undoubtedly attracted unwanted attention, leading to attacks or capture.

After the Dwarven parties had departed, Wang Jian decided it was time to make a more strategic move. The outer regions of the forest were the Dwarves' domain, but the deeper, uncharted territories remained unexplored by them.

Wang Jian perceived a sense of wariness among the Dwarves when it came to venturing into the heart of the forest.



Without hesitation, Wang Jian led his group deeper into the wilderness. His command of the Shadow Element allowed them to move with stealth and grace, maintaining their pace without slowing down.

The further they ventured, the more Wang Jian sensed the unique aura of an undisputed ruler of the forest, the Beast Emperor.

It wasn't long before they came face to face with the majestic guardian of this wilderness—an Azure Spirit Lion.

The imposing creature gazed at Wang Jian's party with a look that held both curiosity and intelligence. It was clear that this was no ordinary beast; it surpassed the realm of an Emperor in its power.

Wang Jian exchanged a meaningful glance with his companions.

This encounter had the potential to shape their mission significantly. With caution, he spoke aloud, addressing the formidable guardian of the forest.

"Guardian of the Forest," he began respectfully, "we come as guests to your domain. We wish no harm and seek your guidance and alliance. We are humans, and our quest involves the Dwarves who have encroached upon your forest. We hope to find a way to drive them away."

The Azure Spirit Lion continued to regard them with its piercing gaze, its response awaited with bated breath by Wang Jian's group.

"You claim to be here to help us oust the Dwarves. But are you humans any different?" The Azure Spirit Lion's voice reverberated through the forest. "For countless years, you have hunted the young ones of this forest. Every time I offered a chance, you humans squandered it due to your insatiable greed."

Wang Jian's companions were taken aback by the Lion's words, which forced them to confront an uncomfortable truth. The Dwarves couldn't be solely blamed for hunting these creatures for their resources; humans were equally culpable.

While facing this pointed question, Wang Jian remained composed. He replied nonchalantly, "You speak as if the slaughter has been one-sided. Countless human civilizations have been buried beneath the ground due to the raids of your kind."

The Azure Spirit Lion acknowledged his words, albeit with a stern tone. "You speak eloquently, human. But know this, if you didn't possess the Butterfly Spirit Queen's Mark, I wouldn't be asking questions—I'd be attacking."

Wang Jian remained composed as he continued, "I understand the law of the forest is that the strong survive. Beasts would not hesitate to prey on humans or dwarves if given the chance. The distinction lies in the fact that both races have evolved far beyond the capabilities of the beast race. This is why your kind is suffering at the hands of both humans and dwarves."

The Azure Spirit Lion maintained a steady gaze on Wang Jian, finally nodding in agreement. "You're right. Both your human race and the Dwarven race have progressed significantly beyond us beasts and our inherent abilities. Even the weaker individuals among your races can overpower the strong among us."

A wry smile crossed Wang Jian's lips. "What if I told you that I can change this?"

The Azure Spirit Lion, intrigued, asked, "What do you mean, human?"

Wang Jian explained, "My kingdom lies in the Southern Region of the Continent. I have successfully integrated beasts into our society, considering them citizens of our kingdom. Furthermore, my kingdom is open to accepting devils and demons as well."

The Azure Spirit Lion responded with disdain, "Even with the Butterfly Spirit Queen's Mark, all it proves is your recognition by her. Beasts won't listen to your commands."

"True," Wang Jian agreed, "beasts won't heed my commands, even with this mark. But what if the command comes directly from the Butterfly Spirit Queen herself? Additionally, I forgot to mention earlier that I am Wang Jian, the husband of Stella, whom you know as the Butterfly Spirit Queen."

The Azure Spirit Lion's eyes widened in shock, and realization crossed its features. "I see. That's why the scent of the Butterfly Spirit Queen is so potent on you. You've already absorbed her vital essence. So, you truly are her mate."

"Yes, I am," Wang Jian confirmed. "And, Lion Spirit, I have a proposition for you. If you accept my request, not only will I put an end to the hunting of beasts by both Dwarves and Humans in this region, but I'll also help you transform this forest into a safe sanctuary for your kind."

The Azure Spirit Lion, after some contemplation, inquired, "What is your request, human? I'll consider it after hearing the details."

"Please guide me to the locations of two unique ores, one of Saint Realm rank and the other of Immortal Realm rank," Wang Jian said.

"Do you take me for a fool, human? You'll likely use those ores to craft a powerful weapon capable of slaughtering Saints. There's a risk your kind will wield that weapon against us," the Azure Spirit Lion responded with skepticism.

"I have no intention of forging a powerful weapon," Wang Jian countered. "I simply wish to create a potent alloy that can act as bait to lure out the influential and greedy Dwarves from their territory."

"How will that work? How can you be certain you'll create an alloy enticing enough to coax those Dwarves out of their shells?" the Azure Spirit Lion asked, rolling its eyes.

"Leave that to me," Wang Jian replied with a confident smile. "Furthermore, in this scenario, I'll ensure that not only will the Dwarves be vanquished from this region, but humans won't rise to power either. Instead, it'll be your kind that will thrive and establish this Northern Region as your own domain."

"Are you serious?" Azure Spirit Lion asked, dumbfounded by the audacious proposal.

"Yes," Wang Jian replied calmly.

The Azure Spirit Lion approached, extending its mighty paw toward Wang Jian. Acting on instinct, Wang Jian stretched out his arm and touched the lion's outstretched palm.

"Swear on your bloodline that you will indeed fulfill your promises. Furthermore, swear that you will never harm us, the beasts of the Northern Region," the Azure Spirit Lion spoke with solemnity.

As their connection solidified, Wang Jian felt a peculiar power surging through his body and bloodline. This force was unlike qi or insights; it felt like pure determination. The sensation was akin to when he had signed the blood contract, but much more potent – almost as if breaking this oath would cause his body to instantly detonate.

That would be an unpleasant outcome.

"I, Wang Jian, the Emperor of the Everlasting Mystical Empire and the husband of Stella, the Butterfly Spirit Queen, solemnly declare that I shall uphold every word of my earlier promises. I shall never harm the beasts of the Northern Region without provocation," Wang Jian swore with gravity in his voice.

The Azure Spirit Lion noticed the careful wording in Wang Jian's oath and understood that he had left some leeway for himself. But this concession was acceptable to the Azure Spirit Lion.

As a Saint Realm beast, he knew not all beasts were without sin. Wang Jian's oath was sufficient for the Azure Spirit Lion to consider placing its trust in him.