"The word '霰' refers to scattered star-like fragments."
"The spiritual energy here is dispersed like stars, scattered thinly across the ground, resembling a layer of rice grains."
"The name Starhail Pass comes from the characteristics of the local spiritual energy, which also proves that the spiritual energy in this place isn't particularly abundant."
As they waited for the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion to arrive, Zhao Xing, Purple Bone, Yun Tiandao, Lu Ying, Liu Tianning, Dong Ze, King Luohou, Qiu Yuanshan, Xia Jing, and Ye Yukong—all ten of them—took the opportunity to immerse themselves in knowledge about the cosmos. Others were focusing on divine weapons and cultivation techniques, but Zhao Xing was different. He was studying the customs, history, and background of the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom.
"The Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom has been established for five hundred fifty-three eras. In the Xuanling Star Domain, its founding time ranks among the upper tier."
"For a nation to qualify as an Ancient Kingdom, it must have stood for at least ten eras."
"The longer a nation has endured, the greater its wisdom for survival."
"Powerful figures, secret arts, resources, unity—these are all the foundations of history. There are over one hundred thousand ancient kingdoms and ancient forces in the Xuanling Star Domain, but few have surpassed one hundred eras."
"Five hundred fifty-three eras… Such a long history should place it in the top one hundred, yet why have I never heard of it in my previous life?"
Sitting aboard the flying vessel, Zhao Xing kept pondering this question. There were just too many ancient kingdoms, and much information was deliberately concealed. Looking at surface-level reports about a country's strength—such as how many strong cultivators it had—was not reliable. After all, what kind of nation would fully reveal its strength for others to see? Thus, the length of a nation's existence became a crucial indicator. In his previous life, Zhao Xing had memorized the top one hundred ancient kingdoms, but Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom had never left an impression on him.
"Comparing the timeline, I've entered the cosmic era about two thousand five hundred years earlier than in my previous life."
"But in the grand scale of the cosmos, two thousand five hundred years isn't much."
"Even if the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom was destroyed or disbanded during this period, I should have at least heard of it."
Zhao Xing frowned. "Why is this happening?"
A kingdom that perished two thousand five hundred years ago should still have historical records. But no trace of it remained. That was too strange.
"Zero-One, display the Xuanling Star Domain's stellar map," Zhao Xing said, stepping toward the water mirror interface.
"Yes, big brother," responded Zero-One, the artifact spirit left behind by Puta, now under Purple Bone's ownership. Since Purple Bone had marked Zhao Xing as "big brother," Zero-One addressed him the same way.
For safety, none of the ten-member team had stepped off the realm vessel. They only studied information from Zero-One's data banks.
As the stellar map activated, countless stars sparkled around Zhao Xing. Zero-One projected both a three-dimensional and a flat map of the Xuanling Star Domain. The vast Xuanling Star Domain looked like a swirling vortex in flat form, while its three-dimensional projection resembled a contracting jellyfish.
"Show the Shenluo Barren Domain, where the Xuanhuang Realm is located."
"Yes, big brother."
The stellar map zoomed in. Both the flat and three-dimensional versions adjusted accordingly.
"Mark all Ancient Kingdoms, dynasties, and ancient forces surrounding the Shenluo Barren Domain."
Zero-One complied.
Zhao Xing took one look and immediately realized the map was still too cluttered. There were too many nations. After all, the Shenluo Barren Domain was immense.
"Remove all dynasties, and only keep the Ancient Kingdoms and Ancient Forces."
With this adjustment, ninety percent of the locations disappeared, leaving a much clearer view.
"Wait a second…"
Comparing the maps, Zhao Xing quickly noticed something was off.
"Zero-One, save this current stellar map as a reference."
"Yes."
Zhao Xing then manipulated the map, drawing and editing in mid-air. Some Ancient Kingdoms were enlarged, some shrunk, and others were crossed out entirely. Some regions were even merged. After a long period of adjustments, Zhao Xing finally reconstructed a version of the Xuanling Star Domain's map according to his memories. The newly adjusted map now looked vastly different from before—closer to what he remembered.
"Big brother, I don't understand," Zero-One said with confusion. "Are you trying to predict the future territorial shifts of the Xuanling Star Domain?"
Zhao Xing was too precise. He wasn't just randomly drawing but was inputting exact coordinates for calibration.
"These are notes left behind by Qing Yuzi's teacher," Zhao Xing casually replied.
"Zero-One, now remove all other star systems, except for those related to the Ancient Kingdoms I marked."
"Buzz~" The map dimmed, leaving only the marked territories.
"Now scale the map to a one-to-one-thousand ratio."
This was the scale Zhao Xing was most comfortable using in his past life.
"Overlay the adjusted map with the current stellar map for comparison."
"Overlay complete."
Zero-One's processing speed was instantaneous.
Zhao Xing glanced at the Shenluo Barren Domain, then at the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom.
"Big brother, what did you discover?"
"Nothing," Zhao Xing replied calmly. "Delete the map I just drew from your data storage."
"I'm sorry, big brother, but you don't have permission to delete files. However, I will encrypt both the conversation and the map."
"Fine."
Zhao Xing waved his hand dismissively. It wasn't a big deal. After all, it was just a rough sketch. He was merely being cautious.
After that, Zhao Xing didn't speak to Zero-One anymore. Instead, he stood at the realm vessel's observation window, gazing at the cosmos in deep thought.
"Based on my comparison, the Shenluo Barren Domain has expanded by approximately one-fiftieth."
"In other words, two thousand five hundred years later, its territory has greatly increased."
An increase of one-fiftieth didn't seem significant in the vast Xuanling Star Domain. But at the galactic level, this was a frighteningly rapid expansion.
"The barren domain's expansion has overtaken Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom's territory."
"Could this be the reason Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom was wiped out?"
Zhao Xing pondered.
"This doesn't fully explain it, though."
"The expansion of barren domains has always been a thing."
"If Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom relocated or fought back, it should have at least left a trace in history."
"It seems like something far more terrifying happened."
"Something that wiped all records of it."
Zhao Xing decided not to dig any further. He was too weak at the moment. If he truly uncovered something, it might not be a good thing.
"With only a few thousand years left to prepare, Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom isn't safe."
Zhao Xing looked at his excited companions who were studying and discussing on the vessel.
"Once I meet the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion, I'll secure my foundation in Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom…"
"And then… I'll find a way to leave."
As for when, that depended on circumstances. A nation's destruction could never be without warning. For now, based on Zero-One's gathered data, Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom and its surroundings seemed peaceful.
But how long would that last?
"Let's wait until I meet Qing Yuzi's teacher before making a decision."
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion would take five days to arrive. Knowing that a significant figure from the Purple Divine Mansion was coming to Starhail Pass, Nalan De and his nephew became even more diligent.
Three times a day, Nalan De came to pay respects, always bringing his nephew Nalan Hao along. Each visit, he came bearing gifts. This time, he had spent several days preparing, having his people urgently gather treasures. He had truly put his heart into it.
"Senior, this is just a small token of my appreciation. Please accept it with a smile." Nalan De respectfully offered a small storage pouch.
Today, Zhao Xing had sent one of his avatars down. It was still disguised as Qing Yuzi.
Since Qing Yuzi was a classic Heavenly Timing Shennong, it was perfectly reasonable for one of his Straw Puppet Avatars to only be at the Ascension Stage.
Nalan De had no doubts. After all, Qing Yuzi had just reconnected with his family elders. There were surely many things to discuss and sort out.
For someone like him to take time out of his busy schedule to send an avatar to meet them was already a great honor.
"Nalan De, what are you doing?" Zhao Xing did not accept the pouch. "I only stepped off the ship because of your sincere request for guidance. Do you think I am here to greedily accept your offerings?"
Look at that! This was the demeanor of a true expert!
"No, no, no! Senior, you misunderstand!" Nalan De became even more reverent. "I simply thought that since you've been away for so long, now that you've returned with honor, it's only natural to have some gifts to reward the younger generation."
"The things I've prepared aren't particularly valuable, but they are all rare and unique treasures."
Zhao Xing was about to refuse again when Nalan Hao chimed in to assist his uncle. "Yes, Senior! My uncle went through a lot of trouble to gather one hundred top-tier Star Dao Weapons! Please accept them!"
Wait… One hundred pieces?
On the flying vessel, Purple Bone nearly dropped his jaw when he overheard the conversation.
Damn it! This was considered a small gift?!
"By the heavens, Brother Zhao just struck it rich!" Xia Jing's breathing turned heavy.
"One hundred top-tier Star Dao Weapons… Nalan De is truly generous," Ye Yukong's eyes widened. "Even our entire Great Zhou doesn't have one hundred top-tier Star Dao Weapons in total!"
"The Grand Shennong truly lives up to his name. Passing through a single checkpoint, not only did he face no danger, but he even received a fortune in treasures."
"Incredible!"
"Big Brother, take it! Hurry up and take it!" Purple Bone muttered to himself. "Don't pretend anymore! This is one hundred top-tier Star Dao Weapons!"
Zhao Xing had initially intended to decline, but hearing this number, he was tempted.
He had no choice—he was currently broke!
Still, he didn't immediately accept it. Instead, he smiled faintly and said, "Your uncle worked hard to gather these treasures, and I should just take them?"
Hearing this, Nalan De shot his nephew a glare. "You talk too much! Step back!"
Nalan Hao immediately apologized and retreated.
"Senior, it wasn't hard at all. It is my honor that you even consider accepting them," Nalan De hurriedly said, sensing Zhao Xing's hesitation.
He believed that someone of Qing Yuzi's stature wouldn't care about material wealth. However, after being away for an entire era, surely there were things that had changed—things Qing Yuzi had never seen before.
This was the perfect opportunity to offer gifts! He couldn't let his nephew ruin it.
"Fine, I'll accept them," Zhao Xing said lightly, waving his hand and storing the pouch. "You are truly thoughtful as an uncle."
"Senior is wise—nothing escapes your keen insight!" Nalan De said with a flattering smile.
"Your nephew has potential." Zhao Xing casually selected a distinctive treasure from Qing Yuzi's relics. "I'll leave him with a keepsake. In ten years, have him bring this item to the Purple Divine Mansion and find a man named Zhao Xing."
"Thank you, Senior! Thank you!" Nalan De gratefully accepted the keepsake, his heart soaring with joy.
This was worth it!
All his efforts over the past few days to raise funds for this "small gift" had paid off.
"You may go now," Zhao Xing waved him off.
"Yes, I take my leave." Nalan De, elated, went to find his nephew.
Zhao Xing also returned to the ship.
The moment he stepped aboard, he was met with a hero's welcome. A crowd gathered around him.
"Big Brother, you are truly amazing!" Purple Bone looked at Zhao Xing with pure admiration. "You didn't do anything, yet Nalan De proactively came to curry favor and gifted you so many treasures!"
"Incredible!" Ye Yukong said. "We've only visited one place, and we've already received one hundred top-tier Star Dao Weapons. If we go to a hundred places, wouldn't that be ten thousand pieces?"
"Stop joking. If it were that easy, we'd all quit everything and just wander around collecting gifts," Xia Jing scoffed. "Taking something means you have to do something in return. If you don't, your reputation will be ruined. You can't just take and run."
"That's right. Even the Purple Divine Mansion wouldn't allow that," Liu Tianning added. "Zhao Xing, what will you do if this person brings the keepsake later and finds out Qing Yuzi is dead?"
"What else?" Zhao Xing chuckled. "Even if Qing Yuzi is dead, I remain an existence beyond their reach. Being connected to me is still an unimaginable fortune for them."
"You sure are good at milking benefits," Yun Tiandao remarked, his expression unreadable.
Back in Great Zhou, Zhao Xing had been regarded as nearly saint-like. But now, in the cosmic era, he acted like a cunning opportunist.
It felt as if this was his true nature.
"Brother Yun, what are you implying? I never explicitly said anything or hinted at anything," Zhao Xing retorted, pretending to be offended. "Don't slander me!"
"Alright, quiet down." Purple Bone interjected. "Zero-One just reported that the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion has already arrived at Meigeli Star in the Great Ye Dynasty. She's only half a day away from here."
"She arrived so quickly?" Liu Tianning mused. "It seems Qing Yuzi and the others were highly valued in the Purple Divine Mansion."
According to the known intelligence, the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion was at the Dao Domain Realm—and had been for quite some time.
As a Dao Domain expert, she had countless disciples under her command.
The fact that she was personally coming meant that Qing Yuzi was of great importance to her.
She had originally planned to arrive in five days, but she had cut it down to four. That meant she had used her connections to arrange for emergency teleportation.
For example, she likely utilized military transport channels—ones that wouldn't normally be accessible during peacetime.
Under normal circumstances, even with significant wealth, it would take at least one to two months to travel to the Purple Divine Mansion's star system.
"Stop whatever you're doing. Get ready to meet the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion," Zhao Xing instructed.
Bringing the Great Zhou experts here was primarily for her.
Three of her most important disciples had died. She would definitely investigate in detail.
And when someone like her investigated, she would ask many people. That was why Zhao Xing had deliberately selected several high-ranking officials from Great Zhou to act as witnesses—so that the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion could get a full account in one sitting.
When facing a Dao Domain expert, there was no room for deceit.
"Purple Bone, remember, do not try to hide anything. But also, don't be afraid. Just be honest and describe the events objectively."
"Understood, Big Brother."
Starhail Pass, Fifth Continental Island.
On the fourth evening after Zhao Xing entered the pass, a bright beam of light suddenly shot down from the vast cosmic starry sky onto the formation of the continental star island.
Warning!
Sensing the presence of a powerful intruder, the artifact spirit Aina immediately manifested her form.
This formation had been built at great expense by a Third Realm Mechanist. Any anomaly would instantly alert her.
"Traversing the Void River… The Void River beneath his feet is as docile as a lamb."
"The sun and moon stars of Starhail Pass are completely under his control."
"The earth veins of the ringed star continent are suppressed, and all formations have instantly lost effectiveness. Comprehensive assessment—Dao Domain Realm!"
Aina transmitted her assessment to the Third Realm commander stationed at Starhail Pass.
The commander was shocked.
"A Dao Domain Realm expert has arrived at the Fifth Star Continent?"
"Aina has been forcibly shut down."
The Third Realm Mechanist guarding the pass was so startled that his body stiffened.
"It seems this Dao Domain expert doesn't want to be disturbed, nor does he want anyone eavesdropping."
"Fortunately, he hasn't interfered with the other ringed continents aside from the Fifth Star Continent."
The Mechanist immediately pretended to have seen nothing and obediently stayed in his quarters, acting as if he had heard nothing.
This was a major defensive stronghold arranged by the Great Ye Dynasty—a critical military site—yet a Dao Domain expert had just barged in effortlessly.
But what could he do? The most powerful force in the Great Ye Dynasty was only at the Third Realm.
Buzz—
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion descended on a cloud of light, accompanied by two other figures.
The moment he landed, everyone on the Fifth Star Continent, including Nalan De, instantly fell into a deep sleep. All formations and mechanisms lost their effectiveness.
The realm vessel where Zhao Xing and his group were docked was lifted into the air, and in the next moment, its hatch automatically opened.
They found themselves standing beneath the boundless starry sky.
Seeing this, Zhao Xing immediately led Purple Bone forward.
Kneeling toward the three figures standing on the light cloud, they saluted.
"Junior Zhao Xing."
"Junior Purple Bone."
"We pay our respects to the three esteemed seniors."
"Rise and look up to answer."
"Yes."
Zhao Xing and Purple Bone immediately stood up and lifted their heads.
As soon as they looked up, their eyes were drawn entirely to the imposing figure standing atop the light cloud.
Behind the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion, a vast purple moon hung high, radiating an aura of innate transcendence.
He was clad in a dark robe, its hem embroidered with intricate silver star patterns, as if he had draped the boundless night sky upon himself.
The light from Starhail Pass's sun and moon stars seemed to be absorbed entirely by this man.
Where spiritual energy had once been faint like scattered grains of rice, it now flowed around him like a vast star river. Every pattern on his robe exuded a profound Dao resonance.
His wide sleeves billowed despite the absence of wind, rustling like surging ink clouds.
Around his waist, he wore a deep blue jade belt, the jade as smooth as the heavens themselves. Embedded within it was a translucent spirit crystal, occasionally flickering with lightning—seemingly containing the sealed essence of ancient divine thunder.
A faint golden light formed a halo around him, composed of ancient and mysterious runes, gleaming like the stars of the heavens encircling him.
His boots emanated a subtle purple-gold radiance, and upon closer inspection, they shimmered like countless stars, making it seem as though he had stepped upon an entire realm of stars beneath his feet.
There was a saying: "A person is defined by their attire, just as a horse is by its saddle."
The sheer presence exuded by the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion's appearance alone was enough to instill terror.
Purple Bone's entire skeletal structure trembled uncontrollably, and even Zhao Xing found his breath becoming labored.
However, this overwhelming aura lasted only for a brief moment.
After realizing that Zhao Xing and Purple Bone were merely at the Ascension Stage, the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion immediately withdrew all his overwhelming phenomena, even concealing the radiance of his Dao Weapons.
"How did Qing Yuzi, Puta, and Su Wan die?" The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion turned his gaze to Zhao Xing.
"Senior, this is the body of Senior Qing Yuzi, along with the relics he left behind." Zhao Xing retrieved a storage pouch and respectfully offered it up.
Then, from his Pure Origin Space, he withdrew an ice coffin. Inside, the frozen remains of Qing Yuzi lay still.
"Inside is also his personally recorded final testament."
The storage pouch and ice coffin were instantly taken away.
At the sight of his disciple's lifeless body, grief welled up in the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion's heart.
"My Yu'er… My Yu'er…"
Even a Dao Domain expert was still human, capable of experiencing deep personal emotions.
At this moment, he was not an unrivaled expert, but a sorrowful elder.
Purple Bone and Zhao Xing immediately lowered their heads, unwilling to witness this powerful figure's moment of vulnerability.
It was a cruel reality, but for them, the fact that the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion valued Qing Yuzi so highly was an immense blessing.
"Teacher, your disciple has failed you… I cannot fulfill my filial duty before you—"
Through the Time Jade Slip, Qing Yuzi's image reappeared.
Kneeling on the ground, he kowtowed toward an unseen direction.
"Please do not grieve too deeply. Your disciple has died of old age, passing peacefully at the end of his lifespan."
"Back then, Junior Brother Puta, Junior Sister Su Wan, and I ventured out to investigate the anomalies of the Barren Domain. Around one hundred twenty thousand years ago, we arrived at a place called—"
Zhao Xing and Purple Bone could hear Qing Yuzi's final words.
However, certain details seemed to have been deliberately obscured.
It was as if the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion had isolated parts of the message, preventing them from hearing certain things.
"I spent approximately thirty thousand years investigating and finally found some clues. So, my junior brother, junior sister, and I decided to return."
"Unexpectedly, we were ambushed while passing through a certain star system in the Shenluo Barren Domain."
"The ones who ambushed us were two Divine Ability Realm cultivators—both from the Dongyan Ancient Clan!"
Dongyan Ancient Clan?
This was the first time Zhao Xing and Purple Bone had heard of Qing Yuzi's enemies. It seemed to be an ancient and powerful force.
In the cosmic world, the term Ancient Clan referred to long-established forces within ancient nations. These clans had survived for countless years, controlling vast territories and boasting many powerful cultivators.
"My fellow disciples and I used all the treasures bestowed upon us by our elders just to escape with our lives. However, our realm vessel was destroyed."
"Unfortunately, during our escape and recovery, we landed in a strange minor world."
"At that time, Junior Sister Wan'er was unconscious, and Junior Brother Puta was severely injured. Within that world, our cultivation was suppressed to the Ascension Stage at most—"
Qing Yuzi continued his tale, which was identical to what Zhao Xing had already learned.
This series of misfortunes was truly heartbreaking, enough to bring tears to the listener's eyes.
"Xuanhuang Realm… Damn Xuanhuang Realm! Return my disciple to me!"
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion was overwhelmed with sorrow. His disciple should not have reached his life's end so soon.
They had survived their enemies' pursuit, barely escaping with their lives.
Yet, after landing in this so-called Xuanhuang Realm, they had been trapped until death!
Puta had suffered the worst fate, perishing within a thousand years.
Qing Yuzi and Su Wan managed to live for several hundred thousand years longer.
"Afterward, I set up a trial within the Xuanhuang Realm, waiting for someone who could bring my relics back to Purple Divine Mansion."
"The fact that the Time Jade Slip was activated proves that it was Teacher who opened it. I am happy that I can return to my roots. Teacher, please bury me in Qingyu Star."
Qing Yuzi bowed respectfully toward the image before him.
"My final wish, aside from asking Teacher to take care of himself, is one more request: please treat kindly the one who brings me home."
"If the person who retrieved my remains is my disciple, I hope Teacher can guide them. If they are merely a fellow cultivator, then please fulfill their wish to the best of your ability."
"Oh, right."
Qing Yuzi scratched his head and muttered to himself, "I almost forgot… I don't even know how many years have passed since this message was recorded. If Teacher has already reached the Reincarnation Realm, wouldn't that mean you could resurrect me?"
"Teacher, my last request: Please revive me."
"If that's not possible, then forget I said anything, hahaha!"
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion seemed to be affected by his disciple's carefree attitude. His sorrow gradually faded, and a faint smile appeared on his face.
He carefully put away his disciple's remains, gazing at the starry sky for a long while before finally turning his attention back to Zhao Xing.
"What is your name?"
"Senior, my name is Zhao Xing."
"So, you passed my disciple's inheritance trial?"
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion locked his gaze onto Zhao Xing.
"Yes, it was only thanks to Senior Qing Yuzi's legacy that I was able to make it here safely."
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion frowned. "Since you accepted the inheritance, you should address him as Master. Or do you refuse to acknowledge him?"
Zhao Xing hurriedly replied, "Senior, in my heart, I have long regarded Senior Qing Yuzi as my Master. However, he was born into a prestigious sect, while I come from humble origins, my life as insignificant as a blade of grass. I dare not claim such a lineage."
"Being guided by Master's teachings and stepping into the vast cosmic sky is already an immense fortune for me. I would not dare ask for anything more."
Hearing Zhao Xing's careful and humble response, the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion instantly understood.
For a native cultivator from a minor world to reach the Barren Domain, the journey itself was already an ordeal. Even passing through checkpoints required layers of disguise, each step needing extreme caution.
Had he not been so cautious, he might not have survived to this day.
It was no wonder he dared not openly declare Qing Yuzi as his master.
He wasn't trying to leech off a grand lineage—perhaps it was merely his nature, or perhaps he was being overly cautious, fearing rejection.
At this realization, the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion softened his tone.
"You do not need to be afraid. From now on, you are completely safe."
"Since you passed Yu'er's trial and became his disciple, that makes you my grand-disciple—a part of Purple Divine Mansion. From today onward, no one will dare to bully you."
"Yes, Grandmaster."
Zhao Xing respectfully bowed.
In reality, this was not what the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion assumed.
From the beginning, Zhao Xing had believed that the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion was a high and aloof cultivator, detached from worldly concerns.
The Heavenly Bureaucrats of the Grand Shennong often carried an air of cold detachment—this was the conclusion Zhao Xing had reached during his time wandering the cosmic world.
Thus, he had lowered his stance from the start, making it clear that he was not a greedy person.
If the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion truly was the type of cold-hearted expert he imagined, then presenting himself in this manner would be the most appropriate approach.
Another reason was that Zhao Xing had never intended to stay in Purple Divine Mansion for long.
However, after observing this sentimental and loyal Lord of Purple Divine Mansion, Zhao Xing realized that staying for now might not be a bad idea.
"You are Puta's successor? Walking the Path of White Bone—quite rare."
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion shifted his gaze toward Purple Bone.
"Yes, Senior." Purple Bone nodded. "It was only by luck that I passed the trial."
"You should address me as Grand-Uncle Master."
"Yes, Grand-Uncle Master." Purple Bone immediately bowed respectfully.
"Where is Wan'er's successor? Why are there only the two of you?"
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion looked around in confusion.
"Grandmaster," Zhao Xing spoke up, "your grand-disciple also received the Soul Inheritance Trial."
"Oh?"
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion finally examined Zhao Xing more closely.
Earlier, his grief had clouded his attention. Now, as he focused his senses, his expression immediately brightened.
"You have actually mastered the Three Divinities Destiny Palace?"
To be completely imperceptible to karma—there was no doubt. Only by mastering the Three Divinities Destiny Palace could one achieve this.
"Yes, this disciple was merely fortunate."
Indeed, it had been luck.
During the final stage of the Soul Inheritance Trial, Zhao Xing hadn't needed to do anything—he had simply walked up the steps.
"Fortunate?"
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion chuckled.
"Fortune alone cannot accomplish such a feat. Before one reaches Divine Ability Realm, there are still the stages of Initial Realm and Void Realm, Initial Realm—that's one thing, but Void Realm is an essential step toward unleashing Minor Divine Abilities."
In the cultivation system of the cosmos, what the natives called Ultimate Law was actually referred to as Heavenly Law, which was further divided into Heavenly Origin Law and Heavenly Spirit Law.
Initial Realm was easy to understand—it involved delving into the essence of spiritual qi, and as one's control over its source deepened, the power of spells increased accordingly.
Between Heavenly Law and Initial Realm, there wasn't an obvious distinction of superiority.
After all, in some minor worlds, the heavens were vast, and cultivators used spells to break through their restrictions, establish their Dao, and ascend. That was Heavenly Law.
However, Void Realm was distinctly a level above Initial Realm and Heavenly Law.
"My Three Divinities Destiny Palace, aside from its own amplification effects, can only unleash spells in stable voids," Zhao Xing explained.
This was because soul law and spiritual qi essence weren't closely linked.
For example, Eight Epochs of Purple Light—Zhao Xing couldn't even cast it right now.
Although he had memorized its principles, his body still wasn't capable of executing it. Back in Qing Yuzi's Dao Field, he had only learned it conceptually but had never actually used it.
"Even so, your talent is quite remarkable," the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion looked at Zhao Xing with a hint of admiration. "I never expected Yu'er to bring me such a surprise. It seems he truly has a successor now."
The ability to grasp specific techniques through a trial meant that the one who designed the inheritance had evaluated the recipient's future potential.
Once Zhao Xing stepped into the Origin Stage, his advancement would undoubtedly be much faster than ordinary cultivators.
And indeed, it was.
After entering the Xuanling Star Domain, Zhao Xing could feel a significant increase in his cultivation speed, thanks to the rise in the spiritual qi index.
His comprehension of techniques also became much clearer.
Compared to the Xuanhuang Realm, it was like switching from blurred vision to crystal-clear sight—as if he had taken off a pair of presbyopic glasses.
Even without acquiring any specific Origin Law cultivation techniques, he was already moving toward the Origin Stage purely based on his innate talent.
"Since the Xuanhuang Realm has such bizarre laws, there must have been more ascenders than just the two of you. Where are the others?" the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion asked.
Zhao Xing waved his hand, and Yun Tiandao, Liu Tianning, Xia Jing, and Ye Yukong immediately stepped out from the realm vessel.
"We pay our respects to Senior," the eight of them bowed toward the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion.
"Grandmaster, these are the high ministers of the Great Zhou Dynasty, as well as my close friends," Zhao Xing introduced them. "The others are waiting beyond the borders. I humbly request Grandmaster to bring them inside."
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion immediately turned to a black-robed cultivator beside him.
"Su Qin, wake the local guardian general and have him go receive them."
"Yes, Martial Uncle."
The black-robed cultivator named Su Qin swiftly carried out the order.
Before long, Nalan De awoke from his meditative state—only to find a Third Realm powerhouse personally giving him orders.
"Y-yes! I'll handle it right away!"
Nalan De didn't dare ask any questions and immediately piloted the realm vessel beyond the border to fetch the remaining people.
Meanwhile, the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion continued speaking with Zhao Xing and Purple Bone, asking about their experiences.
"Purple Bone, this is Mu Luo, Puta's junior disciple. According to the hierarchy, you should address him as Martial Uncle."
"Martial Uncle Mu Luo," Purple Bone obediently greeted.
Mu Luo, however, was indifferent, merely giving a soft "Hmm" in acknowledgment.
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion then inquired about the others from the Xuanhuang Realm, including Yun Tiandao and Liu Tianning.
Both of them had served as Shennong, and at one point, both had held the position of Grand Shennong.
At first, the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion was merely making casual inquiries.
However, when he turned to Yun Tiandao, he suddenly looked surprised.
"There's a trace of time stagnation on your body… Have you used some special Dao Soldier or consumed a certain treasure?"
"Senior, in my homeland, the ancestors left behind a unique artifact known as the Epoch House."
Yun Tiandao briefly explained its effects.
"I see," the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion nodded in understanding.
"Grandmaster, my friend here has created four original Minor Divine Abilities. Would Purple Divine Mansion be willing to take him in?" Zhao Xing asked.
"Hmm?"
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion raised an eyebrow.
"You've created Divine Abilities?"
"I don't know if they count as Minor Divine Abilities, but the techniques I developed far surpass Heavenly Law," Yun Tiandao replied.
After spending time in the Xuanling Star Domain, he still wasn't certain if his techniques qualified as Minor Divine Abilities.
After all, in the Xuanhuang Realm, it was believed that above the Ultimate Law (Heavenly Law), one would attain Divine Abilities.
However, cultivators who had reached this level were extremely rare, making it difficult to find anyone for comparison.
"Show me."
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion waved his hand.
"This location—the Fifth Star Continent—has a sufficiently stable void for casting."
"Understood."
Yun Tiandao stepped forward and displayed two of his self-created abilities:
"Star Cloud" and "Sky Rend".
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion had extraordinary vision.
After observing the techniques, he immediately recognized that both spells had already stepped into the realm of Minor Divine Abilities.
He then delved into Yun Tiandao's cultivation journey and reached a startling conclusion—
Yun Tiandao had completely bypassed the Void Realm stage and directly grasped Minor Divine Abilities!
However, he still could not cast them in an unstable void because he had yet to step into the Origin Stage.
Zhao Xing also realized why he had never been able to learn Star Cloud and Sky Rend—
It turned out that Yun Tiandao had never developed the Void Realm stage techniques to bridge the gap.
He understood the abilities on his own, but no one else could replicate them.
It was similar to what had happened with Li Boqian's Primordial Sealing Techniques—they lacked lower-tier progression, starting directly from four top-tier laws.
If someone could learn them, great.
If not? Too bad.
At this moment, the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion was visibly delighted as he gazed at Yun Tiandao.
"Yun Tiandao, would you be willing to join Purple Divine Mansion?"
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion formally extended an invitation.
"This disciple is willing," Yun Tiandao nodded.
This had already been discussed earlier—joining Purple Divine Mansion was their best option.
"Excellent, excellent."
The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion's previous sorrow seemed to be washed away by joy.
To create Minor Divine Abilities at the Ascension Stage—even among the Ancient Nations, this was almost unheard of!
Of course, Yun Tiandao had spent nearly four to five hundred thousand years achieving this.
However, since he had created Divine Abilities at the Ascension Stage, the time taken didn't matter—his talent was still extraordinary!
At this moment, in the eyes of the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion—
Yun Tiandao's potential far surpassed even Zhao Xing's!
As for Liu Tianning, King Luohou, Lu Ying, Qiu Yuanshan, Xia Jing, and Ye Yukong, the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion examined their aptitudes one by one.
"You're not bad," the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion said, looking at Liu Tianning. "You may enter Purple Divine Mansion as an outer disciple."
"Thank you, Mansion Lord," Liu Tianning respectfully saluted.
For the others, the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion had no further comments.
After all, he had seen countless geniuses, and very few could truly catch his eye.
"A small place like the Xuanhuang Realm, yet it produced four prodigies…" The Lord of Purple Divine Mansion pondered. "And among them, there's even someone who has grasped Severing Heaven and Earth's Connection Divine Ability? I seem to have heard of this technique somewhere before…"
But try as he might, the memory remained hazy.
It was like something he had overheard in passing long ago, so distant that the details had faded into obscurity.
Meanwhile, Nalan De executed his mission with impressive efficiency.
In just half a month, he completed the retrieval and relocation.
Yet, from start to finish, the Lord of Purple Divine Mansion never met him once.
Everything was handled entirely by Su Qin.
Even so, Nalan De never got a clear look at Su Qin's face.
It was as if a veil shrouded her features.
The moment one saw her, she vanished from memory.
Even when attempting causal deduction, there was no trace of her presence, as if she had never existed in the first place.
"Purple Divine Mansion is truly unfathomable…" Nalan De thought to himself.
"I couldn't sense any causal connection to Qing Yuzi, and now, this third-realm powerhouse named Su-something… I can't sense anything from her either."
"Huh? Wait… what was her name again?"
Nalan De suddenly realized he couldn't even recall her full name.
"At least I still remember Qing Yuzi's name…"
Shaking his head, he muttered, "That one I can't afford to forget—I paid good money for it."
Leaving the Fifth Star Continent, the realm vessel of the Xuanhuang Realm was completely replaced.
Their new realm vessel was a true interstellar-class vessel!
It was called "Mu Luo", named after the mechanist Mu Luo, who personally crafted it.
Throughout the journey, Zhao Xing and the others kept teleporting forward, traveling through the Void River and crossing countless star systems.
Most of the negotiations along the way were handled by Su Qin.
Zhao Xing vaguely sensed that Su Qin had also cultivated the Three Divinities Destiny Palace, making her immune to causal interference.
Because of this, she was in charge of navigating passage through checkpoints and securing travel routes.
On the way to the Purple Divine Star System, they didn't need to rely on favors or borrowed pathways.
Thus, their journey took an entire month.
"The further we travel, the denser the spiritual qi becomes."
Looking out from the ship's arc-shaped window, Zhao Xing noticed that more and more cultivators were flying outside the planets with their physical bodies.
Unlike the absolute vacuum of ordinary space, spiritual qi star domains contained abundant spiritual essence, eliminating the suffocating pressure of deep space.
Imagine a section of the universe that wasn't empty but filled with air—
Except here, instead of air, the space was filled with spiritual qi.
All across planets, star continents, and even asteroids, lush greenery thrived.
Life flourished!
"In a place like this, even Ascension Stage cultivators can freely fly between moons and planets."
"It's slow, sure—but they don't necessarily need a vessel to do it."
Outside, Zhao Xing saw people traveling in various ways:
Some rode auspicious clouds.
Some used swords to soar through the stars.
Others relied on nothing but their own physical strength, breaking through the void with their bare bodies.
They could freely traverse the stars!
"A land of abundant spiritual qi…"
Zhao Xing pressed his hand against the cabin wall, activating the external circulation system.
Immediately, a surge of pure, dense spiritual qi rushed in, flooding the entire cabin.
His body felt light, as if floating in an immortal realm.
"In the legends of the Xuanhuang Realm, descriptions of the Immortal World probably came from ancient cultivators who reached star domains with a spiritual qi index exceeding 100," Zhao Xing thought.
Taking a deep breath, he suddenly saw a semi-transparent interface appear before his eyes.
"Hmm?"
His eyes flickered.
"Why did the panel suddenly pop up by itself?"
Focusing his mind, he examined it closely—
Two new notifications had appeared.
[Spiritual Qi Index Exceeded 50 – You Have Entered the Cosmic Spiritual Qi Domain]
[Cosmic Version Unlocked – The Panel Will Upgrade with the New Version]
"The panel upgraded?"
A surge of excitement filled Zhao Xing's heart.
"Finally, I can access more functions?"
"This is insane!"
He clenched his fists in excitement.
Zhao Xing had been relying on this panel for a long time, but its capabilities had been limited in the Xuanhuang Realm.
Now that they had entered a higher realm of existence, the system itself had evolved.
And that could mean only one thing—
New powers, new insights, and a path to even greater heights!