"The world appears vast. The Shanyue Continent alone spans roughly fifty thousand miles in diameter. As for Tianlu Continent, ancient records suggest it could be twice that size… The Tianlu Continent must harbor countless secrets about the origin of the world. I need to acquire this knowledge," Feng Qi pondered silently.
Meanwhile, he, Luo Zixuan, and Bai Lan, accompanied by other guards, traveled along the route with several ornate carriages. Everyone knew that these elegant, well-crafted carriages belonged to the government.
Ahead, the Tian Mansion was far more than a mere residence; it was an empire rooted in the very essence of Qingyao City. Perched atop a vast hill that seemed to caress the sky itself, its golden gates rose with such majesty that any traveler approaching would immediately feel the weight of the power contained within. The pillars, carved with dragons and floating clouds in pure jade, gleamed under the sun as if alive, while the breeze carried the delicate scent of rare flowers cultivated exclusively within the inner gardens—flowers reserved only for the highest elite.
The main courtyard stretched like a polished marble ocean, vast enough to resemble a lake of stone, reflecting light as though it were crystal water. At its center, a fountain of pure gold jetted water into the air in intricate patterns, forming symbols of longevity and fortune. Corridors ran long and wide, lined with tapestries woven with threads of gold and silver, narrating the Tian Family's history across generations, from humble beginnings to their current dominance over Qingyao.
In the back, suspended gardens defied gravity—floating stone platforms connected by jade bridges, where ancient trees grew as if untouched by time. Some had trunks reminiscent of celestial serpents, others bore luminescent fruits that only blossomed under the moonlight. Small mirrored lakes reflected clouds and rare birds that roamed freely, while golden fish swam like liquid flames.
Inside the mansion, private cultivation chambers were arranged like mini kingdoms. Each room bore runes engraved in gold, floating spirit stones, and streams of Qi energy that allowed the family's cultivators to train with efficiency that other clans could envy for generations. No luxury lacked purpose, no ornamentation was without power.
Above all, in the main hall, a throne of black jade veined with gold dominated the space, reserved for the Family Patriarch. This was the foremost power in Qingyao. Any who approached the throne would feel not only wealth but an aura of supremacy cultivated over decades—a presence so heavy that the very air seemed to bend before the Tian Family's authority.
This mansion was not merely grander than the Governor's—it was a living symbol of absolute power, where every stone, every thread of gold, and every breath carried the imprint of a clan that had conquered Qingyao through the strength of Qi and cunning, not just wealth or titles.
The truth was that the Tian Ancestor was one of the ancient forces that ruled the southern region of the empire, standing at the pinnacle of Core Formation. From the family's founding by the young ancestor to the present day, the Tian Family had honed its strength over time, labor, and effort, eventually rising to become the dominant power in the southern region.
The colossal gates of the Tian Mansion opened before Bai Lan, revealing gardens that seemed to defy reality itself. Feng Qi walked beside her, his gaze sweeping every corner as if he could sense any trace of danger. Luo Zixuan followed closely, his steps silent, yet the aura of a seasoned cultivator radiated a quiet warning to any ill-intentioned soul. Behind them, other guards and servants formed an invisible protective barrier, their presences almost as unyielding as the dragon-carved pillars of the mansion.
Bai Lan advanced with the poise of someone used to being observed. Indeed, all eyes turned toward her. Young and old, cultivators and nobles, every face reflected a mix of fascination and desire—few dared approach, for the Governor's daughter exuded an aura of both dignity and danger, amplified by her entourage.
In the main hall, Tian Ming awaited. The favored son of Tian Wenzhao leaned casually against a black jade counter, his gaze steady yet curious, measuring Bai Lan's every step. Young as he was, he carried the confidence of one who knew he could dominate the space around him. When his eyes finally met hers, a faint smile appeared on the heir's lips—not just a gesture, but a silent summons. He sought to capture her attention, guide her through the floating gardens, and reveal the mansion's secrets that few dared to know.
Bai Lan maintained her composed gaze, though tension radiated in the air. Feng Qi remained alert, his body a silent wall of defense. Luo Zixuan stayed close, ready to intervene if Tian Ming attempted more than mere charm.
Meanwhile, the mansion's hall seemed to breathe with the scene—the murmur of golden fountains, the glow of engraved runes on the floor, and the subtle fragrance of rare flowers intertwined, creating a space where power, beauty, and danger merged. Bai Lan knew every step was watched, every motion evaluated; in this place—grand beyond any home in Qingyao—even walking could be a challenge.
Tian Ming stepped forward, as if the distance between them was measured not in meters, but in intent.
"Welcome to the Tian Mansion," he said, his voice soft but imbued with authority and confidence—a greeting and a test all at once.
At that moment, Bai Lan realized this was not merely a visit—it was a silent dance of power, desire, and respect, where every gaze carried its own intention.
Tian Ming extended his hand, inviting Bai Lan forward, and she accepted with the natural elegance that defined her. Feng Qi remained at her side, every muscle alert. To him, this level of opulence was unprecedented; the influence of his former, small clan could not compare to such forces. This was excess beyond comprehension.
Luo Zixuan discreetly scanned the surroundings, evaluating every shadow, every hidden corner. He was accustomed to such wealth—not for his work, but because he himself belonged to a Great Family.
The marble corridor seemed to stretch infinitely, reflecting the light of floating lanterns, turning every step Bai Lan took into a silent spectacle of power and grace.
"Today," Tian Ming began, his voice low but firm, "we honor the visit of one as significant as the Tian lineage itself. My ancestor, Tian Zhenyu, would be proud to receive you."
The mention of the ancestor resonated throughout the mansion, as if even the stones and golden fountains felt the weight of the name. Tian Zhenyu, the legendary patriarch, whose strength and wisdom still shaped the Tian Family's reputation, was an invisible yet omnipresent force. Bai Lan's visit was not mere courtesy—it was a rare and significant honor, meant to strengthen ties while reminding all of the Tian Family's supremacy.
Yet another layer lingered in the air. The rivalry between the Tian and Han clans, along with the Governor Bai's family, remained alive—a taut cord ready to snap. This carefully orchestrated meeting also served to ease tensions, show mutual respect, and gauge strength; every gesture, glance, and word carried layers of intention and politics.
The floating gardens lay ahead, jade bridges connecting levitating platforms adorned with luminescent trees and rare flowers. Tian Ming walked beside Bai Lan, his hand near hers but not touching—a gesture of deference, yet observant, noting her reactions. Feng Qi and Luo Zixuan followed discreetly, forming an invisible barrier no one would dare breach.
"These platforms were designed by Tian Zhenyu himself," Tian Ming continued, gesturing to the floating gardens that defied gravity. "Every tree, lake, and stone was placed to convey harmony, discipline, and strength. As you walk here, I hope you feel the greatness of our lineage."
Bai Lan remained composed, absorbing every detail. She understood that the visit carried multiple meanings—a tribute, a test of etiquette, and a silent game of power and influence. Each step was scrutinized, not just by young Tian Ming, but by all present Tian Family members; every gaze an evaluation, every gesture a subtle trial.
Feng Qi exchanged a glance with Luo Zixuan, silently signaling that they would be ready for any contingency. The tension in the air was almost tangible, yet Bai Lan showed no fear. She walked like one in command of her own destiny, aware that diplomacy could also be a form of power.
Tian Ming smiled faintly, satisfied with her composure, and subtly extended his arm to guide Bai Lan across a jade bridge leading to a suspended lake where luminescent fish swam like liquid flames.
"I hope you accept this walk," he said, "not only as an honor to our ancestor but also as a gesture of goodwill between our families."
Though seemingly cordial, his words carried layers of meaning: respect, curiosity, desire, and a subtle warning. Bai Lan understood that in this space, every action could be interpreted as politics, provocation, or opportunity. Walking through the Tian Mansion's floating garden, she felt the weight of history, rivalry, and grandeur surrounding her, conscious that this visit would be remembered as deeply as the name of Tian Zhenyu.
Once the respective heads of the families stepped aside, no one dared approach. All present knew what was at stake; this was not a romantic matter—respect was merely a facade, while beneath, chaos could erupt at any moment.
At the center of the floating gardens, Tian Ming laid his cards on the table:"Princess, do you know why I summoned you here?"
Bai Lan's eyes narrowed, a somber expression forming instantly. She murmured, "Your family and the Han Family have reconciled and joined forces against the Bai Family."
There was no beating around the bush; Bai Lan spoke directly and precisely. Luo Zixuan and Feng Qi could hardly believe what the young lady had just revealed.
Apparently, hours earlier, Governor Bai Tianheng had requested his daughter to win Tian Ming's favor, by any means necessary. The Governor was willing to concede many resource areas and offer support. If the Tian and Han families worked together, Qingyao could spiral out of control.
However, Bai Lan stated the truth bluntly, revealing information not yet public, without hesitation.
"Oh? Princess Lan, what are you saying?" Tian Ming could not hide a smile, turning his back to conceal it.
"I know you're laughing, and don't pretend to be innocent. This is no longer a secret among the Great Families," Bai Lan's cold gaze fixed on Tian Ming's back.
Behind them, two guards assumed positions, watching constantly. Each hand rested on a Refined-grade sword; even a Qi Refinement cultivator could be cut easily. They were ready to lay down their lives if necessary.
Suddenly, a laugh echoed and then fell silent. "Princess, being less direct can also be a form of negotiation. How would you and your father act if people considered this statement improper?" Tian Ming asked.
"I do not care. Beneath that mask, countless lives are taken. If you care about public order and the law of the Court, you should heed my words," Bai Lan replied.
"Princess… look, this is about control, not a game. Look at yourselves—the great Bai Family refuses to yield the throne or abandon the Imperial Seal… You fought for it in the past, remember?"
"It was granted to us by the Imperial Crown!" Bai Lan raised her voice.
"Granted due to connections… do you think we are children, Miss Bai Lan?" Tian Ming's tone suddenly grew sharp. "Within the Court, many forces support Governor Bai Tianheng. Why do you resist so much? We are merely learning from the elders."
"The Bai Family hails from the Imperial Capital! We were handpicked by the Emperor among countless possibilities. How dare you speak otherwise?!" Bai Lan's chest burned with righteous fury. She felt the need to erase the Han and Tian families from the map.
"I see you didn't come to negotiate… you want to control Miss Lan."
"Your—" Bai Lan suddenly felt a hand touch her; when she turned, she saw Feng Qi. Collecting herself, she exhaled and inhaled deeply, saying, "I admit I let my emotions carry me, but there is a reason behind this, Tian Ming. Do you intend to betray the Imperial Court?"
The smile on Tian Ming faded as a serious expression took over. He stared deeply at her, then took a few steps away into the gardens.
Bai Lan met his gaze with equal seriousness.
"To betray the Court… actually, Miss Bai Lan, the Court has already fallen," he replied.
The revelation shocked all three, especially Bai Lan. Her eyes widened, fear creeping into her body. Her hands trembled slightly, but Feng Qi suddenly gripped her wrist, steadying her.
"What are you saying? How has the Imperial Court fallen?"
"That is what you heard. Not in the sense I would have wished—the Court still exists and is maintained by the Imperial Family, but Northern forces have paid them a visit."
All three widened their eyes again, this time Feng Qi most of all. Political conflicts could be far more intense than he imagined. If it came from the North, then Core Formation and Nascent Soul forces lurked, waiting for the perfect moment to topple the empire.
Despite the momentary shock, none could predict the thoughts running through Feng Qi's mind, known until now as Zhao Long.
With eyes half-closed and expression neutral, Feng Qi calculated his next move. If the Chenyang Empire had fallen to the Northern forces, there was little to be done, but it remained possible to secure some resources from the capital and embark on a journey north.
The young Feng considered it: reaching the Northern region would be difficult before breaking through Core Formation. Thus, after a year's stay, Feng Qi would depart for Chenyang, seeking alliances with Northern forces. The fall of Chenyang? Feng Qi did not care. His interest lay solely in the opportunity to explore the world.
Since the day Feng Qi acquired the Sanskrit Armor, something within him had changed—a calling, a desire, a determination. A blazing passion to explore the world had awakened. Nothing could stop him, neither moral nor religious concerns, nor family ties.
For Feng Qi, the world itself had become his new passion.
As Bai Lan and Tian Ming conversed, a somber expression formed on Feng Qi's face. Luo Zixuan noticed, but it was Tian Ming who touched the young Feng's shoulder.