Chapter 1630: Power and responsibility

Cain observed the conflicted emotions flashing in his sons’ eyes but made no attempt to comfort or soften the harsh reality. The universe was a dark, unforgiving place, drenched in blood and pain. If Magnus and Rylanor entered it naively, believing themselves heroes who could save everyone without consequence, they would inevitably perish.

“The people of Aether, and all who follow me loyally, their lives hold more value to me than any treasure imaginable,” Cain’s voice resonated, cold and sharp as a blade. “However, those who oppose me, obstruct my path, or simply become an inconvenience—they mean absolutely nothing. I find no pleasure in their deaths, but neither do I experience guilt.”

Cain raised his hand, and instantly millions of individuals appeared before them, spread throughout the sky. Each person’s body was in a horrifying, pitiable state, ravaged internally by grotesque insects consuming their flesh and organs.

Some had already lost limbs; their agony was so extreme that their silent screams reverberated clearly through their contorted expressions. Witnessing this horrific sight, Rylanor and Magnus visibly trembled, unable to fully suppress their shock.

“These people belong to the Dark Army,” Cain stated coldly, his gaze unflinching, devoid of any empathy or mercy. “It’s a rebellious organization that festered secretly in the shadows of Aether.”

Cain did not spare even a fleeting glance toward the tormented individuals, fully aware of their unbearable suffering but feeling no inclination to lessen their agony. Unlike his sons, who were still sheltered and innocent, their pain meant nothing to him.

“Although these individuals are filled with xenophobic hatred that permeates their very bones,” Cain continued, his tone devoid of warmth, “the truth is, over ninety percent of them have never committed a severe crime punishable by death. Their inaction wasn’t due to morality but to their fear of my retribution and the schemes I orchestrated to prevent chaos. Still, I intend to execute every single one of them here and now.”

Without a moment’s hesitation, Cain’s eyes ignited fiercely with boundless scarlet flames, and the prisoners instantly vanished from view, and teleported into the Gu World’s World Will.

There, the insects would complete their gruesome task, consuming every iota of those people, and providing nourishment for Anark’s soul, before melting into the World Will. Through this grim process, Anark would regain strength, forge a new form, and eventually assume control over the Gu World, using it as his vessel to reincarnate.

Only after confirming the completion of his ruthless plan did Cain return his attention to Magnus and Rylanor. Despite their attempts to appear resolute, Cain recognized the turmoil within their young hearts.

Offering a gentle, encouraging smile, he moved forward, placing a reassuring hand on each of his sons’ shoulders.

“I intend to carve out a path that will revolutionize the entire universe and reshape its very nature,” Cain said, his voice firm yet filled with a father’s warmth. “To accomplish this, I’ll undoubtedly have to take billions of lives. It’s a burden I willingly accept, so that my people may live in freedom and safety.”

Cain gently lifted their chins, forcing them to meet his intense, blazing gaze. “We are powerful, and it’s our responsibility to use that power to accomplish what others simply cannot.”

Rylanor and Magnus stared deeply into Cain’s eyes, which burned brilliantly like twin scarlet suns. Their fists clenched as a surge of fiery determination ignited within them, their minds and hearts aligning with their father’s brutal but necessary philosophy.

Cain’s smile widened proudly. “Good. Now, let’s move. My task here is complete.”

With another gentle wave of his hand, Cain enveloped the entire group in his powerful Ego Wave. In an instant, they disappeared from the Gu World and returned once again to the chaotic void, standing securely atop the colossal Void Creature awaiting them.

Cain noticed Magnus and Rylanor immediately lost in deep contemplation, processing the profound lesson they’d just learned. Understanding their need for introspection, he did not disturb their thoughts. The harsh realities he exposed them to would take time to fully grasp, but Cain was patient. Every journey began with a single step.

With a subtle tap, Cain instructed the obedient Void Creature to advance toward the Everstrife Empyrean World. During the journey, he turned his attention to Shura and Astrid, simply enjoying their quiet companionship.

Their conversations were gentle and ordinary, but these simple interactions filled Cain’s heart with immense peace, offering a rare moment of tranquility amidst the endless bloodshed he faced.

As the group entered the Everlife Continent, Cain carefully guided the Void Creature onward, bringing them through breathtaking landscapes filled with wondrous phenomena.

Astrid and Shura couldn’t help but marvel openly at the magnificent sights before them. Even Magnus and Rylanor, still wrestling internally with their newfound awareness of life’s brutality, couldn’t suppress their awe.

Massive lightning storms painted the skies, birthing spectacular elemental creatures that battled fiercely, their conflicts echoing in thunderous roars.

Glacial volcanoes erupted, spilling rivers of frozen blue magma that paradoxically chilled rather than burned.

Musical geysers created symphonies so captivating they defied description.

Although these phenomena were extraordinarily dangerous, Cain’s presence alone pacified these chaotic energies, allowing his family to safely witness wonders that would normally threaten even Divine Transcendence Masters.

After traveling through these mesmerizing regions for nearly six hours, they finally spotted a distant battle unfolding.

Two small armies, each numbering no more than two hundred cultivators, fiercely engaged one another. None surpassed Divine Transformation. Both sides bore banners with eagle emblems boasting six magnificent wings. Yet, one side’s eagle shimmered golden, while the other’s burned with vibrant flames.

At the sight of Cain’s group, especially the imposing Void Creature beneath them, terror overtook both armies. Before panic erupted, Cain’s crimson Ego Wave swept across the battlefield, instantly rendering all combatants unconscious, except the two commanders.

Instead of fleeing or continuing their fight, the two leaders turned toward Cain, dropped respectfully to their knees in midair, and bowed deeply, their voices filled with profound reverence.

“Hail the Scarlet King!”