"When I established the Yu Dynasty, it was the 500th year since we entered this world."
"At that time, I, along with my two companions, Puta and Fairy Su, believed we had fully deciphered the ascension rules of this world. Although we had all fallen to the Ascension Realm, we considered ourselves invincible in this realm."
Hearing this, Zhao Xing couldn't help but reveal a trace of pity. "Pitiful. Absolutely pitiful!"
"Invincible? How could anyone be invincible here? The guardians of the Southern Barbarian Sacred Mountain and the Abyssal Ruins are not just for show. In Xuanyang Realm, even dragons have to coil."
What's more, Qing Yuzi went as far as establishing a dynasty, which was undoubtedly a fatal move.
"No spiritual energy? No problem. I cultivate the Dao of Shennong. It's still possible to summon a spiritual rain and create a short ascension window in this world."
Zhao Xing listened silently. He had already discerned Qing Yuzi's role as a Shennong cultivator.
Qing Yuzi's exceptional foresight led him to make a decision similar to Zhao Xing's: manually reviving spiritual energy to force the world's foundational rules into a state suitable for ascension.
Zhao Xing was deeply interested in this because what Qing Yuzi once attempted to accomplish was exactly what Zhao Xing aimed to do. He wanted to learn from Qing Yuzi's failures and avoid similar pitfalls.
...
Of course, their circumstances were not identical.
For Qing Yuzi, the task he aimed to achieve was hellishly difficult.
By then, the Xia Dynasty had recently ascended, taking with it the majority of spiritual energy and materials. The Xuanyang Realm had irreversibly entered a decline cycle, with even vital energy becoming sparse, let alone spiritual energy.
"We quickly ended the chaos in the Central Plains and established a dynasty of Fortune."
"Only then did I realize how cursed this world was, bound by three unbreakable rules."
"First, the Abyssal Ruins. This place perpetually absorbs spiritual energy, inexplicably devouring the last remnants left after the Xia Dynasty's ascension."
"Second, the Southern Barbarian territory. I never imagined such a place would house a divine ability that severed connections with heaven and earth. My army, after crossing a location called Yin You Mountain, was almost entirely reduced to ordinary mortals."
"I'm not skilled at commanding troops, so I handed over the command to Puta." He smiled bitterly. "But we lost."
Qing Yuzi chuckled wryly. "Don't laugh, Daoist. I, Qing Yuzi, was once the master of Qingyu Star and held some status in the Yuanhai Kingdom. Yet I stumbled in this minor Xuanyang Realm."
"My friend Puta was an elite disciple of a great power in the Yuanhai Kingdom, walking the path of divine craftsmanship. Fairy Su cultivated the soul path. Even with the three of us combined, we couldn't conquer the Southern Barbarians."
Zhao Xing felt a twinge of sympathy. Qing Yuzi, Fairy Su, and Puta were Origin Realm cultivators capable of exploring the universe, yet they were completely outplayed in Xuanyang Realm.
"The Southern Barbarian territory, even with 99% of its population reduced to mortals, still had dozens of individuals capable of using spiritual energy!"
"Spiritual energy!" Qing Yuzi's tone grew agitated. "We were reduced to mortals, but they still had people capable of using spiritual energy? The disparity was insurmountable!"
"Our mechanical beasts turned into piles of scrap, and our martial experts fell ill as soon as they entered."
"We fought for 500 years but found it impossible to break the Southern Barbarian territory under those conditions."
"And then, the second unbreakable rule revealed itself," Qing Yuzi sighed.
Zhao Xing also exhaled softly.
He had already guessed it: Qing Yuzi had encountered the Xuanyang Realm's second unbreakable rule—no Fortune Dynasty emperor could live beyond a thousand years.
"In this world, the lifespan of a Fortune Dynasty emperor cannot exceed a thousand years."
"Although I established the Yu Dynasty, the one who became emperor was my friend Puta."
"Puta, despite his severe injuries, could have lived for tens of thousands of years had he not become emperor. But after ascending to the throne, his lifespan ended at just 500 years."
"Daoist! If you ever find yourself in Xuanyang Realm, trapped by the ascension dilemma, never, ever become the emperor of a Fortune Dynasty!"
"Never!" Qing Yuzi's solemn warning left Zhao Xing speechless. "Brother, you really stepped on every pitfall this realm has to offer. But such is the nature of cosmic adventures."
"Seemingly unremarkable places can turn into the graveyards of powerful adventurers."
"The third unbreakable rule is 'information blockade.' No message can be transmitted outside."
Qing Yuzi lamented, "After Puta's death, Fairy Su and I realized this method was futile. We began sending messages to the outer heavens."
"My Yuanhai Kingdom faction, Purple Divine Mansion, is a deeply rooted force within the Yuanhai Kingdom."
"If they knew I was trapped, my sect and friends would surely come to rescue me."
"For anyone surpassing the Origin Realm, rescuing me from Xuanyang Realm would be effortless."
"This world is perilous. We even vaguely sensed greater threats, so we retreated to the Western Continent, erased our traces, and hid ourselves."
"In the Western Continent, we created a small world to extend our lifespans while continuously sending messages to the outer heavens."
"But..."
"None of our messages received a response."
"Twenty thousand years passed, and Fairy Su died. By then, I had given up hope."
"I knew I could only live another 50,000 years at most, thanks to my cultivation in the Dao of Shennong, my robust vitality, and countless longevity treasures."
"Until those 50,000 years were up, and I was nearing death…"
"That's when I confirmed the information blockade was the third unbreakable rule of this realm."
Hearing Qing Yuzi's story, Zhao Xing didn't know how to respond.
It seemed these three were fated to endure such a tribulation.
Had they arrived a few centuries earlier, they could have encountered the Xia Dynasty during its ascension.
At that time, they could have healed quickly, ascended alongside the Xia Dynasty, and even served as guides, earning veneration.
But fate brought them to the post-ascension Xuanyang Realm instead.
Spiritual energy depleted, even vital energy scarce—ascension was out of the question.
The Xuanyang Realm had entered a period of self-recovery and accumulation, with ascension-blocking rules growing stronger.
At such a time, the only viable option was to abide by the realm's rules, enter "hibernation," and await the next spiritual revival.
Unfortunately, Qing Yuzi and his companions chose to defy heaven.
But that was understandable. They likely knew the hibernation technique, but hibernation wasn't without its costs. Who knew how long they would have to wait? Entrusted with a mission and having narrowly escaped their pursuers, they couldn't simply rest.
"Truly, time and fate conspired against them. Even Origin Realm cultivators can be trapped if they make mistake after mistake," Zhao Xing sighed.
Qing Yuzi and his companions even established a dynasty, ruling with absolute power. To them, Xuanyang Realm was an utterly ordinary place. Yet this seemingly unremarkable realm entrapped three elite cultivators from Yuanhai Kingdom.
"By absorbing the Origin energy of these three cultivators, Xuanyang Realm might recover more quickly."
"Wait, Qing Yuzi mentioned sensing other threats? Could there be others like them?" Zhao Xing's mind raced with possibilities.
"It seems there's much about this novice realm that remains unexplored. After all, who returns here to dig up secrets once they've ascended? At most, people use fate-related spells to catch glimpses of past events for fun."
Qing Yuzi shared many stories with Zhao Xing, his fellow "compatriot." After detailing the past, he finally revealed his purpose.
"Daoist friend, since you hail from the Grain God Star faction, if you are in a similar predicament as me, consider this advice from an unlucky ally."
Qing Yuzi smirked wryly. "I hope it proves useful to you."
Zhao Xing blinked. "Useful? I already knew all this. Do you have anything better to offer?"
Qing Yuzi clasped his hands respectfully. "If your strength surpasses mine, I ask that you, as a senior, return my relics to the Purple Divine Mansion in Yuanhai Kingdom. These trinkets will hold no value to you."
"But my teacher, the 'Purple Moon Mansion Lord,' will surely reward you."
"My relics are stored in the staff beside my corpse."
Zhao Xing glanced over and saw that as Qing Yuzi finished speaking, the staff propped against the table gleamed with a small pouch hanging from it.
"A Qiankun Storage Pouch."
However, he didn't rush to make a move.
This was because when he first entered, he didn't see anything.
It was clear that Qing Yuzi had set rules here. Only after listening to his words could the items become visible.
After a brief moment, Qing Yuzi continued, "If your strength has fallen below the Ascension Realm, it proves your injuries are more severe than mine. I've also left a gift for you, Fellow Daoist, to aid your recovery."
"What I've left can help you rebuild your cultivation to the peak of the Ascension Realm and give you enough time to wait for the next revival of spiritual fortune."
"At that time, please take my relics back. As I mentioned before, just go to the Yuanhai Kingdom in the Wasteland Ancient Alliance and find the Purple Moon Mansion Lord' in the Purple Divine Mansion, and you'll receive generous rewards."
Zhao Xing noticed that another Qiankun Storage Pouch appeared on Qing Yuzi's desk. "This one's of a much lower grade."
Old Master Zhao immediately assessed its quality.
Still, he didn't move, waiting to see if Qing Yuzi had any more final words.
"Puta, Fairy Su, and I have all left inheritances in this ruin."
"If you encounter someone who has inherited our legacies, please take them along as well," Qing Yuzi bowed deeply on behalf of his two friends before his Dao avatar dissipated completely.
"What a tragic end. Sigh," Zhao Xing let out a sigh before stepping forward.
He effortlessly retrieved the Qiankun Storage Pouch from the desk.
Next, he approached Qing Yuzi's body, reaching for the higher-grade storage bag but found his hand grabbing at nothing. "Protected by rules," Zhao Xing thought to himself.
It seemed Qing Yuzi had left this setup assuming that if someone entering was a 'senior' with a realm surpassing his, they would naturally be able to take the relics. Otherwise, it wasn't meant for them.
"This bag probably requires one to reach the Dao Establishment Realm to retrieve it," Zhao Xing mused. It was clear Qing Yuzi had accounted for various scenarios during his lifetime.
But ultimately, the goal was singular: to deliver his relics to the Purple Divine Mansion in the Yuanhai Kingdom within the Wasteland Ancient Alliance and hand them over to the Purple Moon Mansion Lord.' "A Manson Lord. That title alone suggests they hold significant status. Qing Yuzi must have been quite remarkable. However, I've never heard of this place before."
"I'm not even sure where it is within the Wasteland Ancient Alliance," Zhao Xing thought. Given the vastness of the Wasteland Ancient Alliance, not knowing a specific nation was understandable. "Let's first see what's inside the storage bag."
Unable to take the larger one, he opted to inspect the smaller one.
Based on Qing Yuzi's words, this was supposed to contain treasures that could help him rebuild his cultivation to the peak of the Ascension Realm and increase his chances of surviving until the next spiritual fortune revival. "Buzz~"
As Zhao Xing infused his soul power into the bag, it was easily refined, as it was an ownerless Qiankun Storage Pouch. "As expected of an elite disciple, even this spare storage bag has considerable space."
The bag's opening rapidly expanded, transforming into a large gate five meters tall and three meters wide. The size of the opening depended on the internal storage space.
The general rule was that it should be large enough to accommodate items going in or out.
If the internal space was as vast as a mansion's grounds and ten thousand meters tall, the opening could expand accordingly. "Split!"
Zhao Xing's soul power transformed into an ethereal shadow, diving into the bag. The Qiankun Storage Pouch was the opposite of a Pure Essence Space.
The Qiankun Storage Pouch couldn't store living beings, while Pure Essence Space could only house lifeforms and pure energy entities.
"Impressive. As expected of an elite, even their backup storage bag is this large. There's even a palace inside." At first, Zhao Xing thought it was merely a decorative feature to help organize items.
Of course, if one disliked the overly ornate design, they could dismantle the palace to free up more space. But that wasn't necessary.
The space was already substantial.
"The space is five kilometers long, with a width and height of a hundred meters each. The palace is at the very end, facing the opening."
"Such extravagance, to build it in this format." Zhao Xing, a staunch advocate of practicality, thought that a spherical space would allow for storing more items. With this elongated cubic space and a palace taking up room, it significantly reduced storage capacity.
"Hmm? It's not just decoration."
"The Sun and Moon Palace itself is a treasure-class palace. It can be used to smash opponents, trap enemies, and its greatest strength lies in defense. In the Xuanhuang World, it would be considered an ultimate wonder."
"In the cosmic rankings, it's classified as a Star-tier Dao Weapon." After refining it, Zhao Xing immediately sensed the treasure Sun and Moon Palace.
Star-tier Dao Weapons were categorized by different grades—planetary bodies, such as ordinary stars, massive celestial bodies, or even suns.
"This Sun and Moon Palace is just an ordinary Star-tier Dao Weapon. If it were a Lunar Dao Weapon, Solar Dao Weapon, or even a World Star Dao Weapon, it would be priceless." These classifications were primarily determined by the weapon's power and range.
If it could influence an ordinary star and cover its entire area, it would qualify as a Star-tier Dao Weapon. In the Xuanhuang World, it would be considered a wonder.
A World Star Dao Weapon could break the rules of a world. If Qing Yuzi had one of those, he would have long since escaped.
Lunar and Solar Dao Weapons were commonplace in each starfield. Typically, World Star Dao Weapons were weaker than Lunar and Solar Dao Weapons, though this varied depending on circumstances. Some World Star Dao Weapons, formed by refining incredibly powerful celestial bodies, were unimaginably potent.
"This Star-tier Dao Weapon likely incorporates materials from both lunar and solar stars, making it a superior-grade item," Zhao Xing thought.
On a desolate planet, deploying the Sun and Moon Palace would prevent one from having to endure the planet's geodynamic forces or rough living conditions. "Compared to the Matrix Palace, which excels in teleportation and offensive capabilities, the Sun and Moon Palace specializes in defense and trapping."
"I wonder which is stronger—offense or defense?" Zhao Xing wasn't a mechanist, and the true capabilities of such massive devices would require further research to fully understand. He sent his soul power avatar into the Sun and Moon Palace for a closer inspection.
He quickly discovered three more treasures.
"A complete Heavenly Qi Soul Artifact! This is a cultivation auxiliary treasure. Could it have belonged to Qing Yuzi, Puta, or Fairy Su?" Entering the hall, Zhao Xing saw a seven-colored orb placed on a display case.
"Tian Qi, in Qing Yuzi's time, must have been a renowned forging master."
"From its appearance, it matches the description of a complete soul artifact. Back when Wuyuan's life soul exploded, it only yielded a thumb-sized shard. This small orb, however, is flawless." He noted, "From my senses, its rule power is intact. The balance of Yin-Yang and the Five Elements far surpasses what was in Deus's possession."
When Deus and his followers perished, only Deus dropped a Heavenly Qi Soul Artifact, with the others disappearing into the void. Soul artifacts designed for enlightenment were intentionally fragile, with some even having usage limits.
"This one is called the Ascension Soul Artifact, once used by Qing Yuzi." Approaching it, the artifact's purpose became evident. It served as a cultivation accelerator, helping its user reach the peak of the Ascension Realm.
"No usage limits, easy to unbind and refine. This could become a family heirloom," Zhao Xing thought. Artifacts with limits or binding restrictions were far less valuable.
Such items could only be used by one person.
The Ascension Soul Artifact, however, could repeatedly help someone reach the Ascension Realm.
Limited-use items were usually prepared by experts for their descendants born on small worlds or planetary stars, allowing them to quickly escape their original restrictive rules. Unlimited-use items, on the other hand, could become heirlooms, enabling entire families to flourish!
"Countless Ascension Realms would eventually give rise to at least one Origin Realm cultivator."
"This might not be as impactful in the Xuanhuang World, but in the cosmic realm, it's a priceless treasure." Zhao Xing was overjoyed.
In the future, when venturing into the cosmic realm, opportunities for earning wealth and development would be scarce. Cruelty and chaos were the main themes, unlike in the Great Zhou, where stability and safety were guaranteed. With the Ascension Soul Artifact, he could earn a fortune if needed, serving as the foundation for development.
"The second treasure."
Zhao Xing turned to another display case.
Hovering above it was a hemisphere. Inside were miniature flora, mountains, rivers, and engraved sun, moon, and stars on its surface. The Five Elements flowed within, resembling a microcosm.
"The Seasonal Qi Panorama World?" Zhao Xing's eyes lit up.
The scene depicted an intricate cycle of Seasonal Qi in perpetual motion.
In the cosmic version of the Shennong, there were three distinct schools of thought, and this was clearly a Seasonal Qi treasure.
"Let's see how many Seasonal Qi cycles it contains. The more cycles, the more valuable it is," Zhao Xing thought to himself. For someone like Qing Yuzi, who was a Shennong, carrying such a treasure was only natural.
Due to the unique traits of the Heaven school, even other professions could make excellent use of such treasures.
"Start of Spring, Spring Equinox, Start of Summer, Summer Solstice, Start of Autumn, Autumn Equinox, Start of Winter, Winter Solstice. This is the Four Seasons Eight Qi Panorama World! An open door, truly an open door to fortune!" Zhao Xing couldn't help but cheer, overwhelmed with excitement.
If it were another type of treasure, its value wouldn't be as high. However, having the ability to emulate the eight key Seasonal Qi cycles of the four seasons made this immensely valuable. Of course, the most priceless variation would be one that included all the Seasonal Qi, but Qing Yuzi evidently didn't have such a treasure—or perhaps he did, but didn't leave it here.
"The Four Seasons Eight Qi Panorama World possesses three functions."
"First, it heals its user. From the depths of one's inner Five Elements Heaven and Earth, it restores injuries, especially those inflicted by poison. Most poison-related injuries would fade entirely by the Winter Qi phase. What kind of Worm Shaman would dare stand before this treasure? They'd be bowing in submission!"
"Second, it restores the Heavenly Timing. On barren planets, it can create a temporary ecological sphere for habitation. In the cosmic version of the Heaven school, such a treasure serves as a classic representation of its power."
"Third, it facilitates comprehension. The treasures of the Heaven school simulate fundamental rules, allowing even other professions to grasp the mysteries of the four seasons and derive new techniques. The Ascension Soul Artifact aids in understanding the Dao."
"The Four Seasons Eight Qi Panorama World, on the other hand, aids in comprehending methods," Zhao Xing concluded.
The third object was an Ice Coffin.
"This is the Grand Cold Seal Coffin," he muttered, noticing that its design incorporated techniques reminiscent of the Xuantian Sect. He carefully examined the coffin, which was a transparent crystalline construct measuring ten meters wide, twenty meters long, and five meters thick.
Its intricate patterns and secret inscriptions evoked a sense of familiarity in Zhao Xing.
"It seems Qing Yuzi not only learned about the Xuanhuang World during his time here, but he also embraced its local culture and cultivation methods. Or no, wait—he's a Shennong. This was likely crafted by his friend, Puta."
Zhao Xing could vividly imagine it. Qing Yuzi and his two companions, after repeatedly failing in the Xuanhuang World, finally set aside their pride and earnestly studied its native practices and techniques. Given their strength, locating a few strongholds of the Xuantian Sect wouldn't have been difficult.
This eventually led to the creation of the Grand Cold Seal Coffin.
"Its primary function is preservation."
"The Ice Coffins of the Xuantian Sect have numerous flaws. However, this particular coffin has reached the level of a Star-tier Dao Weapon. According to the accompanying notes, one could sleep within this coffin for ten thousand years without issue, as the consumption of one's lifespan would slow to an extreme degree."
"Beyond ten thousand years, up to a hundred thousand years, the ratio increases, and side effects may arise. But for an outsider, using this Ice Coffin could significantly extend their life."
Zhao Xing sighed in admiration. "If such a treasure existed during Emperor Wu's time, even if one failed to ascend, they could simply wait for the next revival of Spiritual Fortune."
Looking around, Zhao Xing noticed several bottles and jars on display. Most were empty.
"Only about three hundred bottles contain anything, including spiritual liquid and various elixirs, all of which are precious consumables," he noted.
"Qing Yuzi wasn't exaggerating. He truly left behind resources capable of helping someone quickly recover to the Ascension Realm. This startup capital is quite generous!"
After taking inventory, Zhao Xing's soul avatar withdrew from the storage bag's space. He carefully stored the bag and then turned to Qing Yuzi's remains, bowing deeply.
"Fellow Daoist, I, Zhao Xing, having taken your belongings, will certainly fulfill your request."
"If I succeed in my ascension this time, I will journey to the Yuanhai Kingdom and the Purple Divine Mansion to deliver news to your master."
Four skeletal remains rested near Qing Yuzi's desk. These were evidently disciples who had chosen to accompany their teacher in sitting for eternity.
Seeing no further activity within the Water Mansion, Zhao Xing exited through the light portal.
"Buzz~"
The walls closed seamlessly behind him, as if nothing had ever occurred. Simultaneously, the reverberating voices in the corridor vanished.
After some thought, Zhao Xing continued walking forward.
"Qing Yuzi left instructions for a potential 'compatriot,' but he didn't pin all his hopes on an unknown 'compatriot.'"
"It's clear that he also aimed to train local disciples to reach the Ascension Realm."
"This approach is far more reliable."
"However, why did he erase certain traces? Was he trying to guard against something? Could Qing Yuzi still have disciples out there, building forces that have persisted to this day?"
"Does the Xuanhuang World have more stories like Qing Yuzi's?"
"If the Southern Barbarians inherited similar legacies, wouldn't my conquest of their lands become far more challenging?"
"And what about the one from the Land of Return to Ruins—does he or she still exist?"
Lost in thought, Zhao Xing soon found himself at the corridor's end. There stood three massive stone tablets.
One, in particular, caught Zhao Xing's attention.
"The Yanshen Tablet?"
Indeed, the central stone tablet was the Yanshen Tablet.
"The Yanshen Tablet is a cosmic construct, so it's not surprising for Qing Yuzi to possess one."
"By comparison, the Yanshen Tablet held by the Great Zhou is much smaller and incomplete."
Zhao Xing had seen the Great Zhou's Yanshen Tablet before. Its associated might was faint and unclear. This one, however, was much more distinct.
"It turns out the source was incomplete. Naturally, cultivation would face obstacles," Zhao Xing realized. "Using the Yanshen Tablet as a trial is indeed a standard method of selection."
As for the other two stone tablets, they bore carvings of murals that Zhao Xing couldn't identify.
"They must be legacies from the Yuanhai Kingdom."
After a brief wait, three Dao avatars coalesced near the stone tablets, all of them versions of Qing Yuzi.
This Qing Yuzi was markedly different in demeanor—his expression was cold and imposing, exuding an overwhelming aura that stood in stark contrast to the version that delivered a farewell message.
"Well, of course. A teacher needs to project authority."
Zhao Xing patiently awaited Qing Yuzi's instructions.
"Comprehend the three murals before you and create your own secret technique."
"If the technique you create can penetrate the murals, you will advance to the next trial."
"The three stone tablets' murals represent Yanshen Decision, Purple Moon Origin, and Wind of the Void."
"You will have a set time to comprehend them, determined by your abilities. In your case, you have five years."
"If you fail to pass the first trial within five years, you will forget this ruin but retain your self-created technique."
The rules were simple: create a secret technique capable of shattering the murals to proceed.
"Back then, Li Boqian crafted his ultimate technique. Its first transformation alone wielded the might of a pinnacle rule yet still failed. Qing Yuzi's standards are indeed high."
"But that's understandable. To reach the Ascension Realm, one must be extraordinarily gifted."
"Yet Qing Yuzi demands talent even among the Ascension Realm cultivators. Otherwise, his aspirations cannot be fulfilled."
"It seems there are more treasures awaiting his chosen inheritor," Zhao Xing speculated.
"The Dao Weapon he left behind for a potential 'compatriot' was a Star-tier Dao Weapon. What would he reserve for his true inheritor? It won't be anything less."
"Five years. I wonder if I can pass this trial."
"I can't begin now. The situation outside is still uncertain. My external avatars have lost connection, and five years is too long to remain silent. I need to inform others before proceeding."
"And it's a perfect opportunity to use the Heavenly Qi Soul Artifact."
With his plan set, Zhao Xing retraced his steps, exiting the temple.
As Zhao Xing exited the temple, the familiar surroundings of the ruins reappeared. The stone walls seemed to shimmer slightly, sealing the entrance to the temple as though nothing had transpired.
"Hmm? How did I come out from here?" he murmured.
From a distance, Chen Ju and King Shenluo noticed him. They immediately approached, their expressions a mixture of surprise and confusion.
"Zhao Daren," Chen Ju called out, his tone laden with curiosity.
"Zhao Xing," added King Shenluo, his usually calm demeanor betraying a hint of astonishment.
"You're back. How was it inside?" Chen Ju asked eagerly.
Zhao Xing glanced at the two men, noting their expressions. "What about you? Did you manage to gain anything?" he countered.
Chen Ju shook his head and sighed. "Progress has been minimal. So far, we've found no way to secure or move the entire ruin. Zhao Daren, did you make any progress?"
A faint smile played on Zhao Xing's lips. "A bit," he replied.
The so-called "bit" was an understatement. Zhao Xing now carried treasures left behind by Qing Yuzi: the complete Heavenly Qi Soul Artifact, the miniature Four Seasons Eight Qi Panorama World, the Grand Cold Seal Coffin, the Sun and Moon Palace, and over three hundred bottles of precious spiritual elixirs and pills—each an extraordinary resource.
Chen Ju's sharp gaze didn't miss Zhao Xing's subtle demeanor, but he wisely refrained from probing further. "That's good to hear, Zhao Daren. Any insights you gained could prove invaluable."
Zhao Xing nodded. "Indeed. But for now, I need to address a few things. Let's regroup later."
With that, he dismissed himself, leaving Chen Ju and King Shenluo to exchange glances. Both men were curious about Zhao Xing's experiences inside the temple, but they knew better than to press him.
From Zhao Xing's perspective, the treasures left behind by Qing Yuzi, a Shennong practitioner, were even more valuable than the ancient relics of the Dragon Court. Naturally, there was no need to disclose this to Chen Ju. If anything, it would be better discussed later with Emperor Wu.
"Zhao Daren, are you able to resist the influence of the rules?" Chen Ju's focus was sharp.
"It's not resistance in the true sense," Zhao Xing replied with a shake of his head.
As a member of Qing Yuzi's cosmic alliance, Zhao Xing was considered a fellow countryman. Naturally, he wasn't subjected to the rules' influence that would erase memories of such encounters. However, taking the inheritance trial was another matter entirely.
Regarding the inheritance, if Zhao Xing failed the trial, his memories would still be erased as per the mechanisms of the site. One aspect didn't interfere with the other; assisting in recovery was Qing Yuzi's way of transmitting information, while learning the inheritance required adherence to the rules of the Purple Divine Mansion.
"There's indeed a selection mechanism inside," Zhao Xing explained further. "The time allotted for comprehension varies based on individual talent and aptitude."
"The stronger one's natural gifts, the more lenient the timeframe. Conversely, if there's no hope of passing, the system recognizes it immediately, sparing one the waste of time by ejecting them early."
Chen Ju was taken aback. "Talent and aptitude? Are you saying that even the nine individuals who entered the temple earlier weren't qualified enough?"
Zhao Xing nodded, delivering the harsh truth. "Unfortunately, that's how cruel reality is."
With that, Zhao Xing announced, "I'll head out first. You can continue exploring at your own pace."
He didn't linger to explain further. Now that he had confirmed there was no immediate danger in the Purple Light Divine Relic, Zhao Xing's priority was to adjust Great Zhou's overall strategy. Additionally, Qing Yuzi's messages had revealed significant information, requiring Zhao Xing to reevaluate his future plans.
With a flicker, Zhao Xing activated the A Step to Infinity, propelling himself toward the entrance.
"Reaching the Ascension Realm after enduring countless hardships amounts to nothing in the vast universe," Zhao Xing mused.
"In my previous life, many of us players who ventured into the universe ended up mining, waiting tables, or doing menial labor. The lucky ones could become low-ranked soldiers."
"Most Shennong players lived miserable lives, farming under exploitative conditions without even getting paid."
"Yet even that was considered fortunate—you were alive and still had hope. What else could you ask for?"
"The cosmic version of life is cold, chaotic, and brutal—it's the main theme!" Zhao Xing reflected grimly.
"I must accumulate more wealth and resources in the Xuanhuang World before ascending. Having sufficient startup capital is the only way to succeed."
Qing Yuzi's experience reinforced Zhao Xing's determination. "For travelers like Qing Yuzi, there must have been others. How long had they stayed? Did some ascend alongside the divine dynasty?"
"Many legendary divine artifacts from the past are unaccounted for. This scenario seems highly likely."
"There's also the Void Returning Land, the Holy Mountain of the Southern Barbarians—have they been reinforced? These mysteries must be clarified."
Though Qing Yuzi's legacy had left Zhao Xing with numerous gifts, he remained uncertain about his Ascension plans. "The more I know, the more I have to think about. Ignorance can indeed be bliss."
"Still, Qing Yuzi, Puta, and Fairy Su left behind items that must be secured. Otherwise, I'll only add unnecessary difficulty to my journey."
Zhao Xing knew that after Dies revealed the relic's existence, many factions would come to compete for it. The mere mention of the Heavenly Qi Soul Artifact would cause a sensation.
Exiting the barrier, Zhao Xing immediately activated the Rule Leap, reappearing on Liu Tianning's ship.
"How did you get out so quickly?" Liu Tianning sensed Zhao Xing's presence and came to check.
"There's critical intelligence that must be reported immediately," Zhao Xing said. "Please, Master, take me to the Matrix Palace to submit a report to His Majesty and convene the Six Ministries."
Without hesitation, Liu Tianning nodded. "Very well."
With a splash, the deep-sea vessel surfaced. Zhao Xing glanced around, noticing the transformation that had occurred above the glacial surface. A massive walled encampment now surrounded the area.
The fortress stretched over 300 li, its walls embedded with flowing formations and enveloped by thunderclouds. Even the ground bore traces of soil, a stark contrast to the barren ice from just days earlier.
"They even used the Kunyuan Divine Hoe," Zhao Xing remarked, observing the thick soil layers and several newly-formed mountains in the distance. "The court's response is swift."
"Most of the materials came from the Seven Cave-Heavens and Two Blessed Lands of the Western Extreme State," Liu Tianning explained as they made their way to the Matrix Palace. "The military supplies were also transported from there."
"Word has already spread widely. A battle here is inevitable."
"You must be under immense pressure, Master," Zhao Xing noted.
"Indeed, it's overwhelming," Liu Tianning admitted. "Not just me—Lord Luohou, Wei Hong, and Lu Ying are under equal strain. Even His Majesty is deeply concerned."
"The four royal courts of the Southern Barbarians have mobilized entirely. The Ten Divine Sects and Thirty-Six Top Sects are also fully involved."
"Eastern Ying, Northern Seas, and the indigenous factions of the Western Extreme Continent are all restless."
The scale of mobilization gave Zhao Xing the impression of an impending world war involving the entire Xuanhuang Realm. Meanwhile, Great Zhou's allies consisted of weaker vassal states and scattered aquatic tribes.
Upon arriving at the Matrix Palace and reviewing the complete intelligence reports, Zhao Xing grasped the severity of the situation.
"In this location, we hold no real advantage. The court's investment in the Western Extreme Continent pales in comparison to Pinghai Province," commented Lord Luohou.
Zhao Xing nodded in agreement. During Emperor Jing's reign, Great Zhou had prepared for the Southern Barbarian campaigns for 278 years in Pinghai Province.
Military preparations, logistical mobilization, strategic placement of powerful individuals, and Creation Disc deducements—all these efforts far exceeded anything done in the Western Extreme State.
"No one could have foreseen such large-scale operations on the Western Extreme Continent," Zhao Xing said.
"Of course, the opposing forces are just as unprepared. It puts everyone on equal footing; it all comes down to determination," Lord Luohou remarked.
"What is His Majesty's stance on this?" Zhao Xing asked.
"Fight while negotiating, delaying for time," Lord Luohou explained. "Our goal is to extract as much of the treasure as possible. If all that's left are scraps and remnants, it won't matter if others claim them."
Zhao Xing gave a slight nod of approval. A new emperor taking such a balanced approach was a commendable achievement.
Fighting a war over glaciers on the distant Western Extreme Continent was hard for anyone to rationalize. The resources consumed and the lives lost in this endeavor were bound to surpass the costs of Emperor Jing's campaigns against the Southern Barbarians, which hadn't even been that long ago. Undertaking another, even larger-scale war would strain Great Zhou's capacities immensely.
"Zhao Xing, what did you discover below? Speak plainly," Lord Luohou urged, his eyes sharp with anticipation. Although he was known as a war enthusiast, even he had to consider the cost. Any potential gains—or forecasts of gains—would make it easier to justify large-scale mobilization and coordination.
"There's been a major discovery," Zhao Xing confirmed, his tone firm. "The Purple Light Divine Relic is the legacy of a visitor from beyond the heavens. I've already acquired a portion of the treasures."
Zhao Xing took out his Qiankun Storage Pouch and gave it a light tap. Over 300 jars and containers floated out, shimmering in midair.
Following that, he presented the Sun and Moon Palace, the Heavenly Qi Soul Artifact, and the Grand Observation Sphere, displaying them for Lord Luohou, Liu Tianning, and the other gathered officials.
"In addition to these treasure-grade materials, the Sun and Moon Palace, Heavenly Qi Soul Artifact, Grand Observation Sphere, and even this storage pouch are all treasures of extraordinary value."
"I'll provide you with a detailed explanation…"
As Zhao Xing introduced the items one by one, the Matrix Palace fell into silence. The only sounds were a few deep, shaky breaths.
These treasures—Sun and Moon Palace, Heavenly Qi Soul Artifact, Grand Observation Sphere, and Qiankun Storage Pouch—were all peerless wonders in the Xuanhuang Realm!
Even Chen Ju, who had followed Zhao Xing up from the relic, couldn't hide his shock. Though previously aligned with the pacifist faction, he now stood with eyes reddened, breathing heavily.
In his mind, one thought dominated: Pacifism? That was yesterday's concern! Whoever dares fight us for this will be my mortal enemy!
"Grand Marshal, Grand Shennong, Grand Engineer, Grand Ritual Official, esteemed Deputy Ministers… Do these treasures justify Great Zhou committing to defending this site?" Zhao Xing asked, his voice steady as his gaze swept across the room.
"They do! Absolutely!" Chen Ju shouted, unable to contain himself. His voice rang out so loudly that even Lord Luohou flinched in surprise.
What's gotten into you, old friend? Weren't you the one always preaching peace and moderation?
Chen Ju ignored the startled looks from his colleagues, his eyes locked firmly on the floating miniature palace, spherical Grand Observation Artifact, and the Heavenly Qi Soul Artifact. Zhao Xing's earlier statement that this was just a small fraction of the relic's treasures had completely obliterated Chen Ju's composure.
"I also think it's worth it," Wei Hong added without hesitation.
"I concur," Liu Tianning agreed, smiling faintly.
Lord Luohou took a long, steadying breath before declaring, "Report this immediately to His Majesty. This is a divine gift of unparalleled value, and we must secure it at all costs!"
"My recommendation is to mobilize the forces of the 19 provinces, 367 Cave-Heavens, and 82 Blessed Lands, leveraging the entire might of the nation to protect the treasures of the Western Extreme Glacier!"