Emperor’s Domination

r ”>Nonetheless, their crimes weren’t overly wicked and brutal.
After years of accumulation, they became rather powerful despite their nomadic nature.

“I actually know a few of their members.
I think we should start with Golden City, we can find their clan there.” Jian Ming said.

“So be it.” Wise didn’t have a better plan.

The marriage of the Lu’s ancestral aunt was a hundred thousand years ago.
The Yu’s descendants might deny it and not give back the dao stone. 

Moreover, given their unsavory nature, they might even take advantage of this and bully the four clans.

“I’ll go with you.” Wise decided to tag along with Jian Ming since he worried that the youth alone didn’t have enough influence.

“Young Noble, please wait.
We will find the dao stone and bring it back.” He requested.

“It’s boring to stay here, you two might not be able to get it back so I’ll go as well.” Li Qiye smiled.

“We will follow your lead then, Young Noble.” Wise agreed.

They had a quick discussion about the trip.
Wise would get to go while Purpose would have to stay behind.
The four clans required a powerful ancestor to stick around in case of unexpected enemies.

***

“Which way?” Wise asked Jian Ming.

The latter rubbed his nose and said: “The Yu might be somewhere in Golden City.
I heard that they got a big catch not long ago and will want to unload the stolen goods there.
I know enough people there to get more information.”

“So you hang around with these bandits?” Wise aid.

“Ancestor, of course not.
I always abide by the law, I’m a good kid.” Jian Ming smiled awkwardly.

Wise gave him the side-eye.
If he was considered a good kid, then all the youths of the four clans would be considered angels.

The kid was famous for his trouble-making.
He disappeared for a long time and everyone thought he was killed after antagonizing others.
They searched extensively and eventually gave up.
In the end, he came back without a scratch.

“Head for Golden City.” Li Qiye ordered.

Wise immediately prepared for the journey.

Inner Ruins was large with many inhabitants.
Many cities were built along the outskirts.
They served as entry points for adventurers wanting to enter Inner Ruins.
Of course, they were few in numbers due to the potential danger.

The most prosperous location was none other than Golden City.
One would think that the walls were made from gold.
However, the name was metaphorical – implying that this was a city of opportunities.

Like many famous places in Inner Ruins, it also had an ancient history, rumored to be as old as Inner Ruins.
There were indeed records of it being around during the Chaotic Era.

The architecture was indeed impressive and diverse, originating from Sword Continent, Sky Border, West King… A few weren’t traceable at all.

Among the halls, pagodas, and busy streets were different races from all over the world.
This might be the most diverse area in all of Eight Desolaces.
Moreover, they have been living in peace for so long – something rather miraculous.

In Golden City, one’s background and race didn’t matter.
They were allowed to stay in Golden City as long as their pockets were full enough.