Lin Qian firmly believed that whether they were humans or members of other races, all beings yearn for a better life.
Furthermore, a more convenient and orderly lifestyle, along with a higher quality of life, would possess an irresistible allure.
Even powerful soul martial artists would not be an exception.
When the environment is stable and free from fear, allowing one to focus solely on cultivating their realm, who would still long for a life filled with constant danger and anxiety?
When the materials needed for cultivation can be easily obtained from the empire, when adventuring into dangerous lands comes with the ease of finding reliable companions, and when the empire provides supervision to prevent betrayal, wouldn't that be ideal?
As long as one puts in the effort and earns enough soul crystals, contributing to the empire, they can obtain the techniques they desire and the soul skills they need.
As long as one contributes to the empire, they can request guidance from stronger individuals. In turn, powerful soul martial artists who mentor lower-ranked soul martial artists and help them progress can apply to the Hua Xia Empire for the rewards they seek.
Advanced formations simulate special environments, allowing soul martial artists to experience life-and-death trials without actual danger. Failures only result in minor losses, akin to a painful sting.
This training ground, named "Dungeon" by the Renhuang Emperor and created with the help of the Engineering Department, is one-of-a-kind.
The vast territory can be traversed easily, training while on the move, thanks to the Hua Xia Empire's Transportation Department and its four branches. There's no longer a need for arduous and exhausting flights.
Furthermore, the Engineering Department, Fire Department, and Medical Department will work together to completely transform the environment of the entire Southern Region, planting spiritual trees to enhance the concentration of spiritual energy.
During the planting process, they will intentionally guide the growth of the spiritual trees to form natural formations. This will not only increase the concentration of spiritual energy but also purify it, refining impurities and making it easier for soul martial artists to cultivate.
At the same time, all citizens of the Hua Xia Empire, regardless of race, will be subtly transformed by the pervasive spiritual energy in their environment.
"In addition to what you've observed, ordinary households are equipped with spirit-gathering formations. You've also seen the transformation of the Hua Xia Empire's citizens," Lin Qian said, seated on the dragon throne in the Hua Xia Imperial Palace. The projection of the presentation gradually faded as he addressed those before him.
At that moment, the Hua Xia Imperial Palace was filled with a dense array of desks, behind which sat a vast number of individuals.
Besides the older figures from the imperial court two years ago, the former leaders and elders of the defeated factions who had sworn oaths of loyalty now occupied the grand hall of the palace.
The presentation shown earlier had captivated everyone, filling them with immense anticipation. They had no doubt that the Hua Xia Empire could achieve everything it had promised.
Transform the environment of the entire Southern Region?
If someone had mentioned such a thing to them in the past, they would have dismissed it as the ramblings of a madman.
But if Lin Qian said it, then it was undoubtedly possible.
This was the man who waged war against the entire Southern Region and conquered it as he declared. What was transforming over a thousand provinces compared to that?
Since arriving in New Qin City, these former leaders of other factions had felt like country bumpkins, marveling at everything they saw.
Especially after everyone had gathered, Lin Qian invited them to the first "Hua Xia Fried Chicken" restaurant in the empire to sample the cuisine.
The unique way of eating and the flavors were astounding, especially the drink called cola, which made these once top figures in the Southern Region burp uncontrollably yet crave more.
Compared to his previous life, the chicken of this world, prepared with soul beast meat, was even more tender. After special preparation, it not only tasted better but also improved physical fitness and invigorated blood circulation for ordinary people.
For soul martial artists, while the benefits were negligible, it was still a delightful culinary experience. Why shouldn't a powerful individual indulge in delicious food?
The orderly streets of New Qin City, the efficient pace of life, and the strength of the citizens showcased the bright future of a powerful empire.
"Since I have conquered the entire Southern Region, I must be responsible for the people of this vast territory. Since you have surrendered, assist me in building the strongest empire ever known," Lin Qian said as he rose from the dragon throne, his gaze fixed ahead. The imperial robe of manifested imperial will around him suddenly emitted a radiant golden light, with twelve layers of soul light intimidating everyone present.
His golden emperor's eyes exuded an overwhelming aura, and even through the soul vision devices, every citizen across the Southern Region could see him clearly.
For this grand assembly, the entire Southern Region had been equipped with soul vision devices, allowing almost every living being in the region to witness this unprecedented spectacle.
"I ask for your strength, every single one of you, to build an empire like no other."
"The unparalleled, invincible empire requires the contribution of everyone in this hall, but..." The entire Southern Region watched through the soul vision devices as the young emperor raised his hand, pointing directly at them. "I need each and every one of you. Welcome to the Hua Xia Empire."
Lin Qian's words reverberated throughout the heavens and earth of the Southern Region, his voice filled with an infectious passion that echoed in everyone's ears.
The people of the Southern Region looked up at the soul vision devices, recalling the changes brought about after the Hua Xia Empire conquered their land.
Roads were being widened, soul beasts were driven away, and the hardships they once faced seemed like distant memories.
There were no excessive taxes, and before them lay only a brighter future.
"Renhuang Emperor! Renhuang Emperor!"
"Hua Xia Empire, unmatched in the world!"
Gradually, cheers erupted from all corners, rising like waves, resounding across the skies of the Southern Region.
Inside the Hua Xia Imperial Palace, the former leaders of the many defeated factions also gazed at Lin Qian with fervent anticipation.
The victors write history, and the weak are devoured by the strong. Having harbored thoughts against the Hua Xia Empire, they had to face the consequences.
As the defeated, they were fortunate to have preserved their lives and stand before Lin Qian today. Now, they could assist in governing the empire—a blessing amidst misfortune.
In fact, it wasn't just due to the influence of the emperor's aura; they genuinely wanted to see where the Hua Xia Empire would go from here.
"May I ask, Emperor Lin, what is the ultimate goal of the Hua Xia Empire? How strong must the empire become to satisfy Your Majesty's ambitions? I am eager to know your aspirations," the former leader of the Sunset Sect asked as he stood and bowed to Lin Qian.
His manner of address and self-reference indicated a change in mindset, and his eyes were filled with expectation as he looked at Lin Qian.
He wasn't alone; many others also turned their gaze toward Lin Qian.
Was the goal to become the strongest among humanity? Or perhaps to dominate the entire soul martial continent?
"My goal can be summed up in four words: Never-ending ambition," Lin Qian replied, his voice filled with boundless confidence as he looked at the Sunset Sect leader. "My empire will always be stronger tomorrow than it is today."