Lu Xiaotian's appearance was within Lu Luo's expectations, but the manner and place of her appearance were beyond his anticipation!

How could she possibly be with Ludie?

What exactly happened during this time? Did the Nightmare Demon and Ludie reach some kind of agreement or pact?

Or had Lu Xiaotian and Ludie already acknowledged their kinship? Fatherly love and filial piety?

Lu Luo wanted to say something, but Bitter Ding waved its hand at him.

The old lizardman is reminding you. It's well-intended, I guess! And I also think that now is not the time for anyone to disturb them!

In the twilight glow, Lu Luo watched the family of three slowly walk into the hall and finally lowered his hand.

Ludie, in a suit, looked particularly handsome, and the smile on his face didn't seem forced. On the other hand, his bride, Qiu Guling, had a cold expression but held tight to Ludie as if afraid he would walk away. Lu Xiaotian was also all smiles; it was clear she was very happy, or perhaps, very blessed.

The Wasteland seldom sees sunlight, but today's sun was exceptionally abundant, as if even the heavens were showing special favor.

Ludie's face was somewhat pale as he noticed Lu Luo's slightly astonished gaze.

But he did not explain anything, just nodded faintly at Lu Luo, continuing to walk towards the center of the hall with Lu Xiaotian in one arm and Qiu Guling by his side.

At this moment, Ludie seemed to be undertaking the roles of a husband and father, although he had never served in these roles before.

But now, he wanted to perform these roles well.

Lu Luo knew this was Ludie's most genuine display of emotion.

He had struggled for seven years, and it was time to rest.

As a friend, he shouldn't disturb Ludie's moment of happiness at this time.

The other three grooms, as well as the other five candidates, also had various expressions after seeing Ludie's family.

But none of them spoke; some were controlled by their brides, while others did not wish to break the rules.

Perhaps there were others who genuinely wished Ludie and his family well, just like Lu Luo did!

When the three of them reached the center of the hall, a strong Netherflame suddenly ignited.

This was true Netherflame, burning throughout the whole castle!

Those present were somewhat terrified, especially the five candidates who knew the power of Netherflame well!

However, the four grooms remained composed; Lu Luo because of the Nether Source Flame Seed.

That Gu Fangyi and the other two were so calm was rather strange.

Could Brother Gu and the others have gained power similar to that of Netherflame? Lu Luo wondered.

Ludie and his family seemed unaffected by the situation, as if the Netherflame capable of destroying everything was just an embellishment to this wedding ceremony.

He slowly set Lu Xiaotian down, then patted Da Tian on the head and looked up at the crowd.

"I'm very grateful that everyone could come today to attend my and Qiu Guling's wedding ceremony.

There may not be many people, and some might not even be human, but I'm still very happy!

Because today is a day worth commemorating.

Plus, some history always needs to be witnessed by people!

I, Ludie, am past my thirties, have experienced half a life of indifference, and have also strived out of self-discipline for the Fourth Ring, with a passionate heart!

When I was young, I dreamed of standing tall and heroic atop the Fourth High Wall, defending the East Ring.

But life always has its dissatisfactions, often worn down by setbacks, touched by concerns, weathered by worries.

In the Wasteland, personal problems are insignificant, and I couldn't even talk about them or seek help.

I don't want to talk about all those things anymore!

Fortunately, I met a friend who could change these things, and his presence let me see hope."

At this point, Ludie glanced at Lu Luo.

But Lu Luo didn't feel happy; Ludie's demeanor...

"Seeing hope, I always need to do something about it.

Just like people need to grow, some things have to be faced, and it's the same for everyone.

Thankfully, heaven has been kind to me, allowing me some gains.

Such as my daughter, and my bride!"

Here, Ludie stopped speaking, but Lu Luo felt his words were unfinished.

As to why he didn't finish, Lu Luo could only guess.

"Lu Luo!" Ludie suddenly called out to Lu Luo.

"Hmm?"

"You know a lot, and you're very capable too. Although I'm not quite sure why someone your age has read so much.

But that's not important anymore. Come and be my witness for the wedding."

Lu Luo was startled at first, but a smile quickly appeared on his face.

"Sure!"

They might have many identities, but at least in this moment, they were merely the groom and the groom's friend.

Lu Luo walked up to the old lizardman, Bitter Ding, and waved his hand at it.

"Hey, move aside! What are you looking at? It's the groom who asked me to officiate. Do you have any objections?"

Have you been enduring it for a long time?

"Yes! This guy has been nagging in front of me all the time; anyone would get annoyed.

Even though its species isn't bad, that doesn't stop me from being annoyed with it!"

Bitter Ding was pushed aside with an aggrieved face, but there was nothing it could do, as nobody at that time could go against Ludie's will.

Lu Luo, feeling quite smug, took the position of the witness. Though there were not many people present, he held his head high.

He nodded to Qiu Guling, but the aloof bride did not pay him any attention.

It was Lu Xiaotian who covertly winked at Lu Luo.

He straightened his clothes and cleared his throat.

"I stand before you to witness and bless this man and woman as they enter the sacred hall of matrimony.

Under my witness, Lu Luo, the two shall join together, solemnly embarking on their wedding vows to remain side by side for life, for all eternity.

If anyone has any objections to their union, speak now or forever hold your peace."

Of course, no one dared to invite trouble at this time.

But more than the wedding ceremony before their eyes, they were eager to know how they were going to leave with the Netherflame already burning so fiercely!

Since there weren't many people, the hall wasn't too chaotic at this time!

Lu Luo looked around with a "let's see who dares to show off in front of me" attitude. After confirming no one was going to interrupt, he continued.

"Mr. Ludie, Miss Qiu Guling, you are now of different species, different identities.

But I know, that can no longer stop you from loving each other.

Qiu Guling, do you take this man to be your husband, to enter into marriage with him?

Whether in sickness or in health, or for any other reason, to love him, care for him, respect him, accept him,

To remain devoted to him until the end of your life?"

Qiu Guling, who had always been indifferent, finally showed emotion; she smiled.

Ordinary yet beautiful!

"Thank you. I do."

Lu Luo also nodded, looking towards Ludie.

"Ludie, do you take this woman to be your wife, to enter into marriage with her?

Whether in sickness or in health, or for any other reason, to love her, care for her, respect her, accept her,

To remain devoted to her until the end of your life?"

Ludie also nodded.

"I do."

Lu Luo slightly raised his hands, just like a Priest from the Dawn Church.

Qi Xinzhu, watching Lu Luo from a distance, was genuinely happy in her heart.

Because at that moment, Lu Luo truly shone with the radiance described in prayers, just like the dawn!

Lu Luo also looked up at the hall that was ablaze.

It should last for a while. Continue!

After confirming that it could burn for a while longer, he turned his head.

"Since both the bride and the groom are willing, the testimonies of others are irrelevant now.

Mr. Ludie, Miss Qiu Guling, for this day you have already sacrificed so much. What you need now is just the blessings from others.

As the wedding witness, I declare that we will skip the part where everyone gives testimonies; I will act in their stead."

Lu Luo gave Ludie an inquiring look. Ludie winked at him, indicating for him to continue, and Lu Luo spoke eloquently:

"With the union of two families, a covenant is made in this hall, a fine match bound for eternity, equal in renown.

Behold, on this day, the Nether Flowers burn brightly, auspicious for home and family; divine the coming years of flourishing descendants, your prosperity ever blazing.

With this pledge of lifelong companionship, I record this on grand parchment, and bind this moonlight covenant in the eternal annals of matrimony.

This I witness!"

Lu Luo made a slight bow to the couple, and Ludie and his wife returned the gesture in kind.

After this exchange, Lu Luo looked at the somewhat frail Ludie and sincerely offered his congratulations:

"Congratulations, Master!"

Ludie then pointed at Qi Xinzhu and patted Lu Luo's shoulder.

"Ha! You too. Take good care of her."

The usually mischievous Lu Xiaotian was quieter than a kitten at this time, never letting go of Ludie's large hand.

She embodied the sincere emotions of a loving daughter who hadn't seen her father for a very long time.

Ludie once again stroked Lu Xiaotian's head and then gestured to Bitter Ding, who was nearby. Bitter Ding hurried forward.

"Lord Ludie, what are your orders?"

"Mr. Bitter Ding, please take a photo for us!"

Bitter Ding's lips twitched. "Alright!"

Soon, Bitter Ding brought the camera, but Lu Luo proactively took it.

"I'll do it, Mr. Bitter Ding."

Bitter Ding looked even more crestfallen, but it could only nod.

"Alright. Thank you for your trouble, Mr. Lu Luo."

Looking at Ludie's family of three, Lu Luo raised the camera.

"One, two, three, cheese!"

CLICK!

Lu Luo took several photos of Ludie's family: there were formal shots, as well as playful ones of Ludie and Lu Xiaotian.

Pictures where Lu Xiaotian rode atop Ludie's head, or when she was hoisted single-handedly by him.

Throughout the photo session, Qiu Guling stayed close to Ludie's side, not stepping away for a moment!

After taking a few pictures, Ludie gestured Lu Luo over again.

"Hey, we haven't taken a picture together. Let's have one, and bring your little girlfriend along!"

"Cut it out. She's already my wife."

"Without marriage, what kind of wife is she? You don't think that just by getting on the train, you're guaranteed to reach the final destination, do you?"

"What nonsense are you talking!"

Seeing Lu Luo's disgruntled face, Ludie shook his head.

"What I'm saying is the truth, not nonsense. Just like me.

Miss this train, and you wait... for seven years."

Lu Luo paused, feeling there was more behind Ludie's words.

"What do you mean?"

Ludie patted Qiu Guling's hand, let go of Lu Xiaotian, and took Lu Luo through the Netherflame to the castle's entrance.

Once out of the castle, Lu Luo finally understood what the Nightmare Demon had meant!

At this moment, the Red and White Castle was truly situated atop the Fourth High Wall!

"How was this done?"

Looking at the Fourth Ring, now in ruins, Ludie smiled.

"Asking these questions now is meaningless. The destruction of the Fourth Ring, in a sense, is a good thing."

"Why do you say that?" Lu Luo couldn't quite grasp Ludie's point.

"The oppression and exploitation of the Wasteland Alliance continuously affect the Fourth Ring.

They drain the blood of the Fourth Ring, they rot its rules, yet the Fourth Ring has no power to contend with the Inner Ring!

Only through destruction can rebirth happen!

Sufficient Dark Energy, sufficient despair, sufficient unity.

When all these conditions are met, the new Fourth Ring will finally break free from the poisonous grip of the Alliance, and it will be completely reborn!"

Ludie's words made Lu Luo narrow his eyes.

Something had definitely happened between Ludie and the Nightmare Demon, something Lu Luo didn't know and found hard to understand.

"What exactly happened between you and the Nightmare Demon?"

"I've said it's not important anymore, Lu Luo.

In this short life that will soon pass, you might as well be bold."

Hearing Ludie's tone, Lu Luo scoffed.

"You're not going to tell me to go love someone, climb a mountain, chase a dream, are you?

Do you think such words have any meaning for me?

Am I lacking a mountain? Or am I lacking a woman?"

Facing Lu Luo's questioning, Ludie shook his head.

"Lu Luo, you're still not bold enough. Like I said, you should be a bit more daring."

"Bold? I've even slept with the Church's Saintess. How much bolder do I need to be?"

Ludie looked at Lu Luo with a somewhat scornful gaze, as if to say, Always talking about sleeping with women, that's the extent of your ambition.

"Sleeping with women is something every normal man does. The boldness I'm talking about is not that."

"Then what do you mean by boldness?" Lu Luo was somewhat curious.

Ludie extended his finger and drew a circle over Lu Luo's head.

"For example, leading a new revolution to make world peace and half-priced groceries a reality.

Or to put it another way, becoming the Wasteland's...

New King."

Lu Luo's pupils shrank slightly—the idea was indeed very bold!

But even though they were good brothers now, this wasn't something to joke about.

"That's a bold idea, indeed, but I'm not interested in such thoughts."

"I know you're not interested, but even if you're not, there are many things you still have to do.

You've got women that a Fourth Ring mud-leg like you shouldn't have. And I'm not just talking about Qi Xinzhu, but also your little Dumb Hair!

The Inner Ring hasn't touched you yet simply because they're too preoccupied, and your relationships with them haven't reached the final step.

But now it's different. If you truly want them to become your wives...

You need the power to discard all worldly concerns!

In the Wasteland Era, those who possess such power will surely be called—

King!"

Lu Luo fell silent.

…

Ludie brought Lu Luo back. Lu Luo, somewhat stiffly, handed the camera to Bitter Ding.

Then he took a photo with Ludie and his family!

The Netherflame burning in the hall grew more intense. At this point, the Red and White Castle was at risk of collapsing at any moment.

The candidates were getting restless, and just as they were thinking of escaping—

BOOM!

The Nightmare Demon, wreathed in roiling Netherflame, descended into the center of the hall!

The Nightmare Demon was covered in scars; black blood flowed profusely from its body, and each drop scorched the ground it touched.

The formidable pressure caused everyone present to tremble!

However, the Nightmare Demon's target seemed not to be them, but Ludie, in the middle of the ceremony.

"Everyone! Must die!"

With a low shout from the Nightmare Demon, the wild Netherflame ignited the entire hall!

Lu Luo's first reaction upon seeing the Nightmare Demon was to look at Ludie.

Steam mixed with blood mist began to rise from Ludie's body. He smiled at Lu Luo, then his gaze regained its determination!

"Lu Luo!"

"Let's go!"

Lu Luo glanced at Lu Xiaotian, clenched his fist, and gritted his teeth slightly.

"What about you?"

"The rise of the Fourth Ring needs spirit and will, even a resounding slogan.

To put it simply, the Fourth Ring needs a hero!"

Lu Luo felt terrible. He started swearing at Ludie outright.

"What the hell are you talking about? What kind of crap is that? How could a guy like you become the hero of the Fourth Ring?"

"Lu Luo, take my daughter. Then tell the Hunters of the Fourth Ring!

Restoring the Fourth Ring's glory is our unshirkable duty."

Ludie smiled again; steam, already mixed with his blood, was now intertwining with the Nightmare Demon's Netherflame.

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