Politically, within this largely feudal era world, the Central System's model and efficiency were groundbreaking. It spurred rapid advancements in public welfare, infrastructure development, societal norms, and legal standards. For the people of this world, perhaps for the first time, their concern shifted from inadequate governance to fearing they couldn't keep up with the care provided by the government. Simultaneously, officials involved in administration faced the significant challenge of finding their roles under this entirely new governance model.
In summary, despite layers of new challenges, the era was rapidly advancing like a train on its tracks. All that remained needed was time for further integration and refinement.
On the military front, Durandal's spearheaded reforms progressed smoothly—not without resistance, but once she witnessed the potential of the restructured forces, the Empire's foremost warrior showed no hesitation in bulldozing through all obstacles, be they demonic or monstrous.
Fortunately, this wasn't merely a feudal age; it was a world with supernatural powers at play. Although far from reaching the level where Herrschers and MANTIS danced together, the gap between elite combatants and ordinary individuals already resembled an insurmountable chasm.
Overall, the development of the new army proceeded swiftly. Despite cutting personnel by half, their capabilities leaped forward at an unprecedented pace, matched by extraordinary advancements in weaponry. Their combat strength grew increasingly formidable, bolstered by miraculous technologies such as the Hall of Heroes. The future indeed held immense promise, filled with awe-inspiring possibilities.
The profound progress in politics and military naturally permeated every aspect of society, driving positive changes across various sectors. This transformational impact signaled a genuine shift akin to reshaping heaven and earth.
"Tap... tap... tap..."
As Zeke listened to reports from his three key ministers on various fronts, he tapped the table, updating his mental database on the Empire's status. Finally, he let out a long breath.
"Well done, excellent work."
Zeke praised them with a slightly warmer tone than usual.
The trio bowed their heads uniformly, their solemn deference clearly indicating their submission to this new Emperor.
Rita harbored grand aspirations to govern the realm and save its people; Durandal was a staunchly loyal servant of the Empire; even Kiana, despite her seemingly carefree demeanor, had a heart dedicated to her nation's prosperity. Thus, faced with an unstoppable emperor who brought unprecedented benefits, they could only yield.
"The Central System... Hall of Heroes... Administrative reforms... Wait, what truly matters is: How far do you intend to go? Who exactly are you?!"
Zhuge Kongming stared intently at Zeke, her gaze flickering as she unconsciously clenched her fists.
Rationally, she initially thought the data presented by the other three must be some kind of joke.
Yet simultaneously, Zhuge Kongming knew these three individuals well. The fact that they all reported such absurd circumstances independently indicated their truth.
In just one month—merely a brief respite from worldly affairs—the world seemed to have transformed beyond recognition. Who exactly was this enigmatic figure responsible for these changes, previously unknown until now?
Zhuge Kongming swallowed hard, feeling a tremor within his unparalleled intellect.
"Who am I?" Zeke muttered, momentarily lost in thought over the question.
"In my world, people have many names for me: Tyrant, Dictator, Almighty One, Scourge Fire Descending from the Heavens, World's Strongest, Old Monster, Conspirator... All those refer to me. And soon, I will ascend to the highest throne, commanding both the great warriors of fifty millennia past and billions of humans from fifty millennia hence. With countless mighty beings at my beck and call, I'll unleash a torrential steel tide encompassing sky and earth, drawing my sword against the higher will that has hovered over our world for eons. That too shall be me."
Zeke spoke leisurely, less as an answer to Zhuge Kongming than a contemplative reflection and clarification for himself.
Standing beside him, Fu Hua tilted her head, her flowing sleeves revealing a gentle, saintly smile.
Then, Zeke turned to Zhuge Kongming. His blue eyes were tranquil like sky or sea, his exceptionally handsome face expressionless yet exuding an awe-inspiring presence. He said,
"Who I am? That question can be quite complex. However, if pressed, I am simply Zeke."
The name "Zeke," though uttered calmly, carried a profound weight. The unintentionally released bio-energy force field and mental pressure accompanying it left everyone present trembling.
For Zhuge Kongming, this was his first encounter with the power of such advanced lifeforms, momentarily freezing his thoughts out of instinctual awe. Then he heard Zeke continue:
"I will help you deal with the so-called Xenobeast, the Hound of Baskerville. In return, you must work for me. Alright, that's enough for today. You all have much to discuss among yourselves; you may now take your leave."
"Long live my Sovereign!" × 3
Rita, Durandal, and Kiana rose to their feet, hands clasped together, bowed deeply, offering a solemn reverence.
Then, Rita and Kiana each took one side, supporting Zhuge Kongming who had yet to recover fully and was temporarily too weak to stand on his own. Together, the four left the palace.
With only one person and a ghost remaining at the scene, Zeke leaned back, adopting a relaxed demeanor, shedding his enigmatic facade.
Zeke glanced sideways, noticing Fu Hua's spiritual projection stroking her chin with a thoughtful expression.
"What's on your mind?"
"Hmm, I was thinking... when they say 'long live,' is it truly a blessing for you or more of a curse?" Fu Hua asked earnestly, but there was a hint of amusement in her eyes.
After all, if even the Three Heroes from the previous civilization could survive for fifty thousand years, Zeke's true lifespan naturally far exceeded a mere ten millennia.
Zeke rolled his eyes.
"You seem to be growing younger and livelier these days, Red Kite Immortal."
"Do I?"
"In the past, you wouldn't have made such jests. Just as that naughty child put it, you were purely a stubborn old relic—an antique."
"Ha! I suppose Senti's influence is indeed at work here. Seeing her so pure and carefree makes me want to feel young again too." Fu Hua smiled, her eyes curving like crescent moons with radiant charm.
Zeke chuckled softly, snapped his fingers, and conjured a pitch-black metallic cube from midair.
"I'll craft you a Soulium body. Floating around all the time must be quite inconvenient."
"Hmm, isn't Soulium incredibly expensive?"
"Yes, but I'll keep track of it. Remember to repay me later."
"Haha, I've lost count of how much I owe you already. Should I just become Your Majesty's personal attendant someday, selling my services to settle the debt?" Fu Hua said jovially as she merged into the Soulium body Zeke had casually fashioned for her.
Regaining physical form, Fu Hua flexed her hands, smiling slightly.
"Now that I have a tangible presence, may I go check on Senti? Don't worry, I'll observe from afar without interfering with your plans."
"Let's go together."
"Hm? Aren't you still busy with administrative matters and such? Do you have the time?"
"I've already done my part. After all, it's these girls who want to build this nation; from the beginning, my sole objective has been to experiment, identify errors, and make improvements. Overstepping too much would hinder both my goals and their progress. Ultimately, this country belongs to them."
"Oh? It's not just about avoiding work?"
"It's true that I dislike labor, but when have you ever seen me shirk responsibilities? In fact, shaping Senti's character is far more crucial than this current experiment. World bubbles suitable for experimentation abound—should this trial prove insufficient, we can always conduct a second or third until achieving satisfactory results. However, her unique and invaluable existence is irreplaceable. Any mishap here leaves no room for repeating the experiment."
Zeke rose, circled around the long table, and began walking towards the exit of the hall.
Fu Hua followed suit, unconsciously maintaining half a step behind Zeke, her gentle demeanor giving off an impression akin to a dutiful and elegant young attendant.
Senti was hard at work.
Clearing barren fields with her bare hands or selling physical labor at construction sites was manageable; as a Herrscher and MANTIS Fusion Warrior, she had never shied away from strength and endurance tasks.
However, activities requiring finesse like caregiving, searching for items, repairs, and cleaning were truly her Achilles' heel.
Under the midday sun, beneath the eaves of a house,
a little girl sat on the doorstep, her chubby hands supporting her adorable baby-faced cheeks, gazing intently down the street.
Just over an hour ago, a big sister arrived, claiming to have received an official commission to help find her lost puppy. So, she patiently waited here, hoping against hope that her beloved A-Zhu would return home—though deep down, she knew it was unlikely.
Suddenly, a familiar figure emerged from the sunlight.
"Here, your A-Zhu."
The woman before her had striking crimson eyes, initially giving off a somewhat menacing aura. However, upon speaking with her, one quickly realized how genuine and kind-hearted she was. Despite this, the little girl still looked perplexed at the fluffy creature held out to her.
"But Big Sister, A-Zhu is a dog... not a cat."
"Huh? What's the difference? Aren't they both furry and white? If you don't believe me, I'll make it bark for you. Hey, give me a bark!"
Senti held the cat up firmly, her voice brusque as a hint of red flashed in her eyes.
"Yip! Yip!" The cat responded, its long tail drooping straight towards the ground, seemingly exuding resignation.
The little girl's eyes widened slightly.
"It really barks like a dog! Could it be a small puppy that just looks like a cat?"
Her worldview began to waver slightly.
Senti thrust the cat forward again, sounding irritable, "Take it quickly! I searched for ages; this one is very obedient and smart enough—it must be your A-Zhu!"
"...Actually, I overheard when you were talking with my papa. A-Zhu has already passed away, right? There was no chance of finding him. I'm sorry, Big Sister. Even though I knew, I didn't say anything, making you endure the scorching sun... That's why I've been waiting here, wanting to apologize to you and tell you there's no need to continue searching."
"Aiya! Enough nonsense! This is definitely your A-Zhu, genuine without any doubt. It will always keep you company, so just accept it!"
"Okay, thank you, Big Sister. I'll take good care of it." Holding the cat close, the little girl felt its gentle warmth against her chest, tears welling up at the corners of her eyes as she sniffled.
Suddenly, something sweet was placed into her mouth.
She blinked and noticed it was a beautifully crafted strand of candied hawthorn berries.
Senti herself held another strand as she watched the little girl take her treat, then grinned widely.
"Alright, that's settled. Bye-bye!"
Senti patted the girl's head, turned around, and gracefully waved goodbye with a flourish.
"Thank you, Big Sister!!!"
The little girl's clear and joyful voice brought smiles to those nearby.
As Senti continued walking, rounding the corner, she took out the lengthy mission list from which she had just crossed off several items. With a candied hawthorn berry still in her mouth, she unfolded the sheet.
"The next task: The children at the Imperial City Orphanage wish to see a theatrical performance, specifically something fresh, entertaining, and with a happy ending... Zeke, you mangy mutt, just wait! One day, I'll make you pay dearly!!!"
Chewing angrily on the candy, Senti stuffed the mission list back into her clothing and strode towards the orphanage.