Chapter 431: Countermeasures

“The Sacred Land of Divine Sobs?” Clearly, everyone was surprised to learn that the Sacred Land of Divine Sobs had such an effect. They originally thought it was just a deathly place difficult for outsiders to penetrate—who would have imagined it also had this function, and that for millions of years?
“This is only a temporary solution; it won’t hold them back for long—maybe just ten years. During that time, we have much to do. First, we need to train to quickly improve our strength. At the same time, we must stay vigilant for any changes at the Gate of Gods and Demons. Once any demonic souls break through, we must control them immediately to avoid future problems.
When we’re strong enough to confront them, we’ll capture them all! Ideally, just like that glorious dynasty millions of years ago, we can emerge with superpowered warriors at the Xuanhuang realm before all the demonic souls are sealed, and lock them away again until the next cycle of battle. That way, our chances of victory will be much higher!” As he spoke of that cycle millions of years ago, the Wolf Emperor’s eyes shone with fervor. It was a glorious dynasty, an era of abundant talent, filled with powerful warriors. Back then, the Gate of Gods and Demons opened, and demonic souls broke free, but they had no chance—within just a few decades, they were all sealed, preventing that great war from erupting. It wasn’t until millions of years later, when the seals weakened, that the war finally broke out—a delayed war, and the only one that was averted.
Hearing the Wolf Emperor’s words, everyone’s hearts burned with passion, as if they could see that glorious era. Their attention turned to Rod, filled with anticipation—hoping this young man would create another glorious era for them.
“Alright, once we return today, everyone must start acting immediately. We must find the hosts of these demonic souls as soon as possible and uncover them all within a year!” At this point, no further words were needed—the goal was clear: to locate these creatures as quickly as possible.
The Wolf Emperor didn’t idle away his time. He explained to everyone how to identify those harboring demonic souls. But with such a vast population, it wasn’t simple—they could only start from where the cyan-black light disappeared.

After dividing the tasks, everyone decided to gather the members of various major families once the Dark Source was unified to explain the situation clearly. Of course, for now, this matter couldn’t be revealed to the lower ranks—letting ordinary people know would only cause chaos, and internal turmoil would be the biggest problem at that time!
Moreover, even if ordinary people knew about it, they wouldn’t be of any help in such a high-level conflict. They couldn’t assist and would only cause trouble, so why tell them?
The Wolf Clan, Black Phoenix Clan, Dragon Clan, Scorpion King Clan, along with the opposition, all had large numbers of members. It was believed these people would be enough to dig out those demon souls. As for those demon souls hidden on the continent, they could only hope to resolve the situation at the Dark Source first before negotiating with the powerful forces there.
At the same time, the Wolf King suggested seeking out the Trolls in the Netherworld. After all, they were a major clan with a long history, and they surely knew more. Perhaps they had better ways to locate those creatures more quickly.
“Alright, I’ll set off for Water Curtain City this afternoon!” After all the discussions, Rod pondered for a moment before speaking to everyone.
“Set off for Water Curtain City this afternoon?” Everyone was surprised, not expecting Rod to be so eager. After all, the battle had just ended last night, and it was still early in the morning—there wasn’t even time to rest before rushing to Water Curtain City?
Although it might seem like false urgency, there wasn’t any need to rush to such an extreme, right?
“The soldiers might not be able to handle it!” Aida said worriedly. After all, those soldiers couldn’t compare to them and definitely needed rest.
“We don’t need those people. I’ve already arranged everything in Water Curtain City. I’ve also sent Bianuo and members of the Death Scythe Squad there in advance to make arrangements. The Scorpion King Clan will also help. Nothing serious will happen in Water Curtain City right now!” After thinking for a while, Rod said to the group. Dark Moon City had just calmed down, and there was still much to do—there was a shortage of manpower, so there was no need to bring anyone along.
“That’s good!” Hearing Rod’s analysis, no one objected. Water Curtain City indeed posed no threat at the moment.
“The Dragon Clan won’t participate. We need to return and report this to the Dragon Emperor, who must arrange someone to handle this as soon as possible!” After thinking for a moment, the Dragon Clan’s eldest elder said directly.

“Well, this matter also needs to be reported to the Black Phoenix Clan and the Scorpion King Clan as soon as possible, so they can prepare promptly. Our Wolf Clan doesn’t need to worry. I’ll arrange everything right away. Also, Rod, let’s set off together tomorrow morning. I’ll go with you to Water Curtain City as well—there’s something that feels off!” said the Wolf King thoughtfully. For some reason, he couldn’t help but feel worried, sensing that something might go wrong in Water Curtain City.

“Good, then let’s do that. We’ll set off together tomorrow!” After some consideration, Rod agreed without objection, thinking that it was indeed safer if the Wolf Clan went together.

After discussing some minor details, the meeting came to an end in a hurry, leaving everyone feeling heavy-hearted.

Outside, the sun was shining brightly—perfect weather. Yet the harsh sunlight made Rod frown.

Throughout the city hall, there was an atmosphere of joy. Noise and celebrations filled every corner of Dark Moon City, and people’s cheers and festivities could be heard clearly. That day, Dark Moon City was in a frenzy. After nearly a year of hardship, they had finally made it through, and a new life had begun. There would be no more battles, no more danger—peaceful life had returned.

Rod and the others didn’t participate in the subsequent activities. Checking the time, they felt extremely tired, with heavy hearts. But thinking of what the Wolf King had said, their expressions darkened as well. Watching those joyful people, Rod wondered silently whether such a life could truly continue. Was the war really over? Had the disaster truly passed? Perhaps this was just the beginning.

Compared to what was to come, this might as well be just a minor issue.

In the courtyard, Viski and the others reported right away that Dark Moon City had finally returned to its usual liveliness, with the whole city celebrating. By now, those girls and Sognar and the others had already joined in the festivities. It seemed everyone was truly happy. Naturally, Rod became the hottest topic of conversation. He was regarded as a hero by everyone, even as a god. But in reality, he was indeed a god—now a God King, at most with the label of “commander-in-chief” added to it.

Rod just smiled at this and, after a moment’s thought, said to Viski and the others, “Get ready. We’re setting off tomorrow!”

“Set off? Where to?” Rod’s words left Viski stunned, and he asked in confusion. The battle had just ended, and now they were to set off again? Where? Was there still something unfinished?
The other members of the Reaper Scythe Squad standing beside him also looked at Rod in doubt. Earlier, some of their team had been sent with Nightingale to recover, and a few days ago, Rod had sent others with an old man to Wuyou City. He had also dispatched several people on secret missions. Now, fewer than fifteen people remained.
“Water Screen City!” Rod took a deep breath and spoke slowly, feeling unprecedentedly relaxed.
“Water Screen City?” Viski murmured in confusion, but soon understood and became excited. “Great, let’s get ready right away!” They knew it was time to wrap things up!
Rod hadn’t told them about the demon souls right away. He wondered if they would still maintain such a positive attitude if they knew. Likely, they would frown again. After all, who wants to live in turmoil? Who wants to risk their lives on the battlefield? Death is something everyone fears.
Watching the members of the Reaper Scythe Squad leave, Rod slowly headed toward the city lord’s mansion. The mansion was rather quiet now, perhaps because everyone had gone to the streets to celebrate this rare victory.
Outside the mansion, the streets were crowded with people. Everyone had gathered there, creating a lively atmosphere filled with noise and festive cheer. Rod couldn’t help but feel emotional. Just yesterday, it had been a cold and merciless war, giving off a lifeless vibe. Such a huge change in just half a day felt almost like a dream.
The pro-war faction was finished—out of a hundred thousand troops, one-third died, and the rest surrendered! The small remaining force of Water Screen City was insignificant. Those captives would likely be absorbed by the opposition soon to form a true demon army.
Members of the Wolf Clan and Dragon Clan could be seen everywhere in the city. These two major clans had played a decisive role in the battle. Rod felt somewhat relieved. Perhaps the only disappointment was their deliberate delays earlier.
But now, upon reflection, it was understandable. After all, everyone has selfish motives. As Melon said, if he were in their position, he might do the same.

There’s no need to worry about petty matters. How to handle relations from now on is between the opposition and them; Rod doesn’t want to get involved. However, he believes things won’t go too badly—at least they won’t fall out! Besides, now is the time when they need to unite against external threats.

After this battle, the Dragon Clan, Wolf Clan, Black Phoenix Clan, and Scorpion King Clan will form four new major clans. As for the opposition, if they manage to unify the Demon Clan alone, their strength is likely no less than that of these four clans. With these five powerful groups, despite the trials of war, the Source of Darkness not only hasn’t been defeated but seems to have grown even stronger. War always drives societal progress.

At this moment, Rod is thinking more about matters related to gods and demons. With the Gate of Gods and Demons opened and him having obtained the divine status of a God King, it feels somewhat illusory and abstract, yet it’s real. Moreover, something else is about to happen soon.

Those are the truly troublesome issues—the matter of demon souls continues to plague Rod’s mind to this day.