https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-316-Starlight-s-Ascension-The-Night-Demon-s-Move-Part-2-/12980352/
https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-317-Starlight-s-Self-Reflection-Seeking-Advice-from-Beihan-and-the-Night-s-Deadly-Plot-P/12980354/
Chapter 317: Starlight's Self-Reflection, Seeking Advice from Beihan, and the Night's Deadly Plot (P
Chapter 317: Starlight's Self-Reflection, Seeking Advice from Beihan, and the Night's Deadly Plot (Part 1)
Seated on his throne, the Starlight Commander pondered, "How long can this admiration and reverence they have for me last?"
Humans cannot remain in a divine position forever.
If one day they are brought down, the fantasies they have woven will shatter.
Instead, it will bring turmoil.
Therefore, the Starlight Commander contemplated, "It's time to initiate the third phase of the Self-Reflection Plan. The Night Demon's arrival to kill serves two purposes: eliminating those annoying individuals and setting the stage for the third phase of the plan."
"The Night Demon has paid a visit. What are your impressions of him?" the Starlight Commander asked.
"We're terrified. We dare not approach him, let alone speak," Zheng Yunqi spoke for everyone, expressing their genuine feelings.
The Starlight Commander let out a bitter laugh, a hint of disappointment in his voice, "Before, when you saw me, you might have thought I was quite impressive, and my cultivation wasn't too bad...right? But now that you've seen the Night Demon, let me tell you, there are people in this world known as Heaven's Pride."
"Today, you've witnessed Heaven's Pride."
The Starlight Commander sighed with a mix of complex emotions, "The Night Demon is indeed Heaven's Pride!"
No one could deny this statement.
The Night Demon was, without a doubt, Heaven's Pride!
Compared to the Starlight Commander, one was like the bright moon in the sky, unattainable, while the other was right before their eyes, a tangible person.
"We acknowledge the truth in your words," Zhao Wushang said, "The Night Demon is indeed Heaven's Pride. Whether it's his opportunities, encounters, talents, or cultivation speed...he is Heaven's Pride, and there's no competing with that."
"However, you, Commander, are also a generation's pride. While we can't reach the Night Demon, we can still aspire to follow in your footsteps."
Zhao Wushang's words were simple and sincere, and it was evident that he spoke from the heart.
The Starlight Commander smirked, "What? After seeing the Night Demon, you have no aspirations? Following him would be far better than following me."
"That's not the same! The Night Demon is someone we can't keep up with, and we dare not even try."
Zheng Yunqi forced a bitter laugh, "How dangerous is it around the Night Demon? Moreover, he doesn't value human lives and wouldn't care about us. In his eyes, perhaps only Yan Beihan, Chen Yin, and a few others can be mentioned in the same breath. What are we compared to them? To be blunt, if we were to follow the Night Demon, we'd likely be killed or discarded."
"But you, Commander, are different. Despite your temper, we can sense your genuine care for us. You're paving the way for our future, and even if you have personal motives, it's those motives that make us feel secure."
"So, if given the choice, we wouldn't choose to follow the Night Demon. Instead, we'd choose to stay by your side and serve as your escorts."
Zheng Yunqi's words resonated with everyone.
They all felt she had spoken their minds.
Yes, that's exactly how I feel!
They nodded fervently.
Even the girls who idolized the Night Demon couldn't help but agree.
The Night Demon was indeed an idol.
After tonight's encounter, their idolization of him became even clearer and more solidified!
They could confidently declare, "The Night Demon is my idol!"
There was no doubt about it!
But...following an idol...well, that's another story.
I'd rather stay alive a little longer.
This was the most honest thought in everyone's minds.
The Starlight Commander smiled faintly, a hint of bitterness in his smile.
Addressing the crowd, he said, "Today, the Night Demon's visit has shattered the authority I've maintained for so long. Let's put aside our roles and talk as friends."
He stood up, hands behind his back, and spoke with a hint of weariness, "You probably don't understand why I've been so good to you."
Zhao Wushang and the others were indeed intrigued by this statement.
Isn't it because of your personal motives?
"Regarding personal motives, that's a story for another time. I'm not sure if I'll live long enough to discuss them...I don't even have the confidence to make it to that point..."
The Starlight Commander smiled faintly, "Through countless rivers and mountains, endless years, numerous battles, and life-and-death situations. My friends, personal motives...let's set them aside for now. It's just an excuse."
Everyone realized the truth in his words.
If they continued down this path, talking about the plans for decades or even centuries to come...it seemed too far-fetched.
The Starlight Commander smiled faintly and said, "In my eyes, we all belong to the side branches, the collateral lineages."
His words struck like thunder.
Side branches!
Collateral lineages!
These words were the source of everyone's pain. No matter how talented they were, these four words kept them from the core of the family.
Moreover, the more talented they were, the more they faced control and suppression—because once they grew up, the family's main lineage would inevitably change.
When a side branch talent rose to prominence, the entire family would face a bloody purge.
Because...bloodlines clashed!
This was even more prevalent within the families of the Only Righteous Sect.
Hence, there was a saying, "Collateral lineage talents often fall."
But because of this, when a collateral lineage talent rose to power, they became ruthless! To gain control, they had to eliminate the obstacles posed by the main lineage!
"In the One Heart Sect, just like in your families, we don't have the proper channels. You understand the thoughts and feelings of the main lineage talents in your families, just as I understand the Night Demon."
"Powerful, majestic, yet unapproachable, and enviable. I want to get closer, but I can't bear to be subservient."
"Night Demon is high above, and I can only bow in submission. He doesn't even spare me a glance, but I must keep him in mind."
"With such high self-regard, I feel like I do everything well, and I'm no worse than him. Even if he were to do the same, he might not do it as well as I do, but... when I see him, I instinctively feel inferior."
"Wherever he goes, he's the center of attention, the star among stars, with hundreds and thousands gathering around him. He's always at the core, while I can only watch from the sidelines, clapping or flattering him. I can't even get close, only watch from afar."
"The higher-ups' attention is always on him. Even a small deed earns him praise and rewards, while I exert myself tenfold, making things perfect, only to be met with a casual 'it's okay,' or sometimes not even that, just ignored."
"When something happens, when there's danger, I'm the one pushed forward to take the knife, to bear the blame, to sacrifice. It's never him; it's always us. Anyone can be chosen and pushed forward."
Starlight Branch Leader sighed softly, "Do you know that we are such a group? Always overlooked, never valued, never... never reaching the true heights, yet enduring tenfold the hardships of others!"
Instantly, everyone in the hall lowered their heads, each face filled with empathetic pain.
Many had tears in their eyes.
Especially the girls, some with tears streaming down their faces.
As women, with their delicate thoughts, this feeling was even more profound.
The direct lineage sisters of the main family were like precious gems, cherished from a young age.
But for those of us from the side branches... we're not even as good as maids."
Starlight Branch Leader's words resonated with everyone.
It was as if he spoke their very thoughts. Many felt like these words were their own.
These words, hidden for so long, were now spoken by Starlight Branch Leader!
Even the coldest of hearts felt a stir within.
"Perhaps some will say that you were born into great families, with silk and jade from birth, never worrying about food or drink, and even if you do nothing, you can live a life of luxury until you die. What do you have to complain about?"
Everyone nodded in agreement.
Yes, those who say these words will never understand the thoughts of those born into such families.
Their current life is what countless others dream of, but...
"So I often ask, why? Why me?"
Starlight Branch Leader's voice was soft, yet it struck like muffled thunder in everyone's hearts.
Echoing loudly.
"Why should I bow and scrape? Why should I always look up to others? Why can't I have a proper promotion path?"
"Why should I be forced into arranged marriages? Why should I be pushed to take the fall? Why, after all my efforts, does no one notice me?"
Starlight Branch Leader walked past, looking at each person, yet it seemed like he wasn't looking at all.
But he felt a flame burning within.
"When I saw you all."
Starlight Branch Leader whispered, "Then I thought, what if I gathered those who are overlooked in their families, in their sects... what if we could we change the world? What if we could defy fate? What if... we could change our circumstances?"
"So, we've come this far."
"I don't know what the future holds."
"But I, and all of you, are different now."
Starlight Branch Leader's voice wasn't loud, but everyone felt a profound impact.
Their minds buzzed with new, unimaginable thoughts.
"So I provoke and whip you daily... when I see you unmotivated, I feel like killing."
Starlight Branch Leader chuckled bitterly, "What if one of us succeeds... even if it's just one?"
Everyone lowered their heads in shame.
"My greatest dream, my greatest selfishness, is that one day, we can do something together. Together, we can watch over and help each other. Together, we can form an alliance... and live at the top."
"But I know it's impossible, even for me. When that time comes, I might not even be alive. Perhaps, before reaching that point, I'll be gone."
Starlight Branch Leader smiled, "But you're different. Here in White Cloud Continent, you're like a dragon stranded in shallow waters, a tiger trapped on flat land. But when you leave here, return to headquarters... at the very least, you won't face life-threatening dangers."
"So, you have a chance."
"For our ambitions, I ask that when one of you reaches a high position, when I'm no longer here, please offer a stick of incense at my grave and tell me, 'Someone has succeeded!'"
Zheng Yunqi suddenly raised her head.
Starlight Branch Leader stopped her with a gesture, "Tonight, Night Demon stirred my heart's injustice, so I shared these thoughts with all of you. These words, after today, will never be spoken again."
"So, you don't need to speak either."
"Keep your thoughts to yourself."
"Now, it's pointless."
Starlight Commander gave a faint smile, "Everyone, after today, I'll still be the same unpredictable, mentally unstable Starlight Commander. Because I'm a demon! So... Disperse and go to sleep!"
Starlight Commander waved his hand, suddenly feeling a bit disinterested.
Leaning against the throne, his body slumped sideways, exuding an indescribable weariness.
The crowd wanted to speak, but seeing Starlight Commander like this, they all dared not say a word.
Zheng Yunqi bowed deeply and respectfully, then quietly retreated.
Zhao Wushang followed suit.
Then, everyone held back the bitterness in their hearts, bowed deeply, and silently withdrew.
As they reached the hall's entrance and looked back, they saw Starlight Commander leaning against the throne in the silent grand hall, alone. Despite the splendor and extravagance, everyone felt that Starlight Commander was so lonely and helpless.
It was a helpless loneliness after a desperate struggle.
The kind of loneliness and isolation that comes from giving it your all and knowing that no one will ever truly appreciate your efforts, not even in the future.
Everyone remained silent.
Thinking of their own situations, their hearts trembled.
The crowd silently made their way to their accommodations, and that night, almost everyone was sleepless.
They stared at the ceiling, into the darkness, thinking of Starlight Commander's words, their hearts stirred.
Some of them, especially the girls, spent the entire night in silent tears.
That night, Starlight Commander's sudden display of vulnerability and his heartfelt words, filled with sincerity, touched everyone's hearts.
This demon, with his hideous appearance, cruel actions, vulgar language, and unpredictable temperamental, suddenly became a vivid and relatable figure in the hearts of the young demons.
And he felt so close! Although he seemed to have fallen from his divine position, he was actually more firmly rooted in that place, more real, and more reliable. He was one of us, our leader!
He was like us, but he could always do better than us.
After that night, all the respect and admiration turned into adoration!
Even if he was beaten, scolded, punished, or scolded by Starlight Commander without reason... it all became justified, a source of motivation.
It was just scolding, but he never discriminated against me, never ignored me.
From this moment on, Starlight Commander's radiance replaced that of Night Demon, Yan Beihan, and Chen Yin in the hearts of these young demons.
Because they... were all heaven's favorites, things we thought about were things they could never understand in their lifetime.
But Starlight Commander understood.
He understood me!
That's enough!
...
After a night of deep reflection, Fang Che, the custodian, arrived with a bright aura.
He was mentally refreshed, thinking about the words he had spoken the night before. Would they have any impact? How would these people react after returning to headquarters? How would they fare within their families?
Under such stimulation, would they eventually reach a certain position? When the Only Righteous Sect soars to new heights, how many of these people would be useful?
The words from the previous night would deeply resonate with these people, undoubtedly stirring their emotions. In the days to come, they would surely be influenced.
"I don't ask for much. If five or six of these three to four hundred people can be of use in the future... then all my efforts during this time won't have been in vain."
Fang Che thought to himself.
The crowd greeted him with friendly nods and smiles.
Hong Erquezi quickly lowered his head.
Fang Che nodded and returned to his seat, feeling a bit puzzled. Ever since the last attack, there had been no news of Zhao Wushang.
It seemed he had vanished without a trace.
But it didn't matter, as Tang Zheng was a know-it-all.
As they went out to patrol the streets, Fang Che asked, "How's Zhao's condition?"
"Zhao Ying'er?"
"Is there anyone else?"
"After Zhao was injured, I heard he was taken home to recover." Tang Zheng was indeed knowledgeable.
"Home?"
Fang Che was surprised, "Where?"
"I don't know. Zhao's background has always been a secret." Tang Zheng explained, "I've tried to find out for a long time, but to no avail."
"Even you couldn't find out?"
Fang Che was shocked.
"I don't know," Tang Zheng sounded a bit sullen.
"But for Zhao to keep his background a secret for so long at the Guardian Pavilion is quite impressive."
Fang Che was impressed.
"So long?"
Tang Zheng was taken aback, "What do you mean, so long? Zhao has been here for less than three months, even less than that!"
Fang Che stopped in his tracks and turned abruptly, "Less than three months?"
"Yes."
"Are you sure?"
"It's not just me, everyone knows."
Tang Zheng was surprised, "What's wrong?"
Fang Che furrowed his brows, deep in thought.
He remembered clearly.
Zhao Ying'er had once said to him, "The last time I experienced such a battle, I was at the Royal Rank..."
But such battles occurred at least once every three years.
Yet, Zhao Ying'er had been at the Guardian Pavilion for less than three months?
Why did she say that?
Either she was lying, or she had been at another Guardian Pavilion before, and was transferred just before Fang Che's arrival.
Fang Che's eyes narrowed, if Zhao Ying'er was lying, why would she do so?
If Zhao Ying'er was transferred from another Guardian Pavilion, then why was she transferred?
What's her background, and why is it so mysterious?
Suddenly, a puzzle formed in Fang Che's mind.
With this puzzle in mind, Fang Che continued his patrol.
...
The annihilation of the Night Demon Sect was a significant event during this period.
The headquarters was gone, and everyone there had perished.
The lower-level branch offices were in disarray, becoming like stray dogs without a home.
The Guardian Pavilion relentlessly hunted them down, while the One Heart Sect, Bright Sect, Three Saints Sect, and Divine Sect worked hard to absorb the remnants of the Night Demon Sect.
On White Cloud Continent, Fang Che used various methods to locate the remaining incense hall strongholds of the Night Demon Sect. Based on the limited information he had gathered when Zhao Wushang and others were in the Night Demon Sect, he slowly uncovered the truth like tracing a vine to find the melon.
(End of Chapter)
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