Black and red genetic energy exploded from the monarch of stars as he shouted, "That wasn't a smart decision. Regardless of how you try to protect them, they'll die!"

"That's not something you can decide!" Zhang Lie struck with a fist. "[Fists of the Silent Sea: Soar]!"

A frightening explosion engulfed the two combatants.

Zhang Lie's fist was so strong that the monarch of stars' very bones were trembling upon impact. If not for his extreme constitution, the monarch of stars' arm might have been crippled just from this one punch.

Even so, the monarch of stars could feel his bones creaking after the impact. Countless beasts seemed to materialize behind him, elevating his strength and sending Zhang Lie stumbling back.

"In my youth, I had my own goals and passion—to...