However, Xu Sanshi is currently at Shrek Academy and cannot possibly return to the Dou Spirit Empire. Furthermore, the Dou Spirit Imperial Family would never accept an outsider like Xu Sanshi, even if he possesses their royal bloodline.
Thus, in this Holy Grail War, the Dou Spirit Empire seems to have been ruthlessly excluded. They have not been able to promptly sense the immense changes sweeping across the continent.
After all, without a Master, one cannot summon a Servant, and naturally, one would not know the world-altering impact of a Servant's arrival.
"A'Ming, I'm so sorry, I couldn't make it to your coming-of-age ceremony in time."
The moment Xu Jiujiu saw Lu Jingming, her eyes instantly flashed with a mix of surprise and guilt. She flew into his embrace like a weary bird returning to its nest.
She gently inhaled his familiar scent, her face etched with apology.
Due to the complex situation surrounding the Holy Grail War and frequent changes in domestic affairs within the Star Luo Empire, Xu Jiujiu had been constantly swamped. She spent her days shuttling through every corner of Star Luo City, dealing with mountains of accumulated tasks.
Even for a moment as crucial as Lu Jingming's coming-of-age, she could only spare a brief time for a hasty reunion with him in the simulated universe.
Therefore, as soon as she finally managed to settle her affairs, Xu Jiujiu did not delay for a moment and rushed to Sea Abyss City.
"It's okay, Sister Jiujiu. It really wasn't a big deal. You've been working too hard lately. I just hope you don't wear yourself out," Lu Jingming said with a gentle smile, softly stroking Xu Jiujiu's cheek.
He knew that the Star Luo Imperial Family was currently suffering from a talent shortage and a generational gap. Among all their affairs, the only people truly capable of handling major responsibilities, besides Xu Jiawei, were Xu Jiujiu.
It was only natural that Xu Jiujiu was so busy.
What's more, in this continent-wide Holy Grail War, Xu Jiujiu had also been chosen by fate to become a Master and had successfully summoned a Servant.
This made her burden even heavier, making it nearly impossible for her to find more free time.
Lu Jingming had no intention of blaming Xu Jiujiu. In his eyes, it was a good thing that his wife was so driven and ambitious.
Given his vast enterprise and the complexities of his various affairs, he definitely needed capable people like Xu Jiujiu to help him share the pressure.
He has always been the typical hands-off manager, only focusing on the grand strategy. Everything else is left to Changli, Ningguang, and others to handle.
This situation was much like that of the Geo Archon (Rex Lapis), who holds only one Rite of Descension each year to issue policies for the coming year, delegating all other matters to the Liyue Qixing to manage.
However, Lu Jingming was arguably more "excessive" than the relatively responsible Archon, being only slightly better than a certain perpetually drunken tone-deaf bard.
Of course, he was much better than a certain reclusive shut-in goddess.
At this moment, Lu Jingming tightly embraced Xu Jiujiu, fully enjoying the cozy warmth of the soft beauty in his arms.
Unintentionally, his gaze drifted over Xu Jiujiu's shoulder to the spot not far behind her.
There, a Servant stood quietly, radiating a unique aura.
"I knew my senses weren't wrong. My Sword Cavalier, Hysilens, I'm so glad to see you."
With a subtle ripple, Cerydra gracefully appeared, holding her scepter.
She looked at Xu Jiujiu's Servant, her face displaying a genuinely joyful and warm smile.
"Caesar, it is equally surprising to stand with you again in this foreign world."
Xu Jiujiu's Servant, Hysilens, was a black-haired maiden surrounded by elements of the sea.
Compared to the petite Cerydra, Hysilens appeared a bit more mature.
Her exquisite beauty, paired with the black stockings she wore, added a touch of mystery and allure.
However, who would have thought that such a seemingly delicate and beautiful maiden could erupt with astonishing power on the battlefield, single-handedly cutting through sixty thousand troops, like a true God of War?
The powerful aura unique to a warrior created a stark contrast with her youthful appearance.
Yet, beyond her heroic battlefield presence, Hysilens was, in some ways, more like an elegant artist, a musician immersed in the world of music.
She was not only Cerydra's capable subordinate but also a noble Demigod of the Sea, bearing the esteemed title of the Sword Cavalier of the Surging Tide.
"Standing together? That is not certain, Hysilens. There is only one Holy Grail," Cerydra countered softly, the corner of her mouth curving into a knowing smile.
In this unpredictable Holy Grail War, the fate of the Grail was uncertain. Even though they were once close comrades, they now had to face each other as competitors.
"If we were in Amphoreus, I would not hesitate to dedicate the Grail to you. But in this strange foreign world, I must adhere to the position I must uphold," Hysilens smiled in return, her voice gentle yet incredibly firm.
Her eyes subconsciously glanced at Xu Jiujiu in Lu Jingming's arms.
Hysilens was a person of strong principles. She would not easily betray her current Master just because the person before her was her former superior.
After all, she was not here in her true body, and the place she was in was no longer the familiar Amphoreus.
"It's alright. See this as just a dream. Stick to your principles," Cerydra showed no sign of displeasure. Instead, her eyes conveyed understanding toward Hysilens.
In her heart, Hysilens was not simply her subordinate; she was also a Demigod carrying the flame of civilization.
Theoretically, there was no absolute hierarchy between them.
Hysilens chose to follow her because she firmly believed that Cerydra could lead them to a beautiful future.
But if Cerydra were to stray from the right path, Hysilens would definitely not hold back.
"Ladies, there is no need for this. At least for now, you are not enemies. As for the end, may the best one win."
Lu Jingming, holding Xu Jiujiu's hand, slowly walked up to Cerydra and Hysilens.
Heaven help him, after his persistent efforts, he was finally permitted to approach within five meters of Cerydra.
Sensing Lu Jingming's approach, Hysilens first glanced curiously at the unmoving Cerydra, and then began to scrutinize the man who was her Master's love interest.
She was trying to discern what kind of quality in Lu Jingming had earned Cerydra's trust.
"Hysilens, welcome to the Douluo Continent. I hope you have an incredibly beautiful memory on this journey of yours," Lu Jingming said sincerely, a gentle smile on his face.
"A journey? I suppose that's accurate," Hysilens paused slightly, then nodded gently.
She pondered for a moment and found Lu Jingming's description very fitting. For her, this truly was a journey, one that she might not even recall in the end.
In this foreign world, everything was so unfamiliar, and the future was full of uncertainty.
After a brief introduction, Lu Jingming led Xu Jiujiu away, leaving this rare time and space for the two comrades who had unexpectedly reunited in a different world.
On the way back, Lu Jingming learned from Xu Jiujiu that Hysilens had helped the Star Luo Empire establish a unique unit called the Surging Tide Cavalry.
She had consecrated this unit with her personal control over the power of the sea, which significantly boosted their combat effectiveness.
Hysilens was already an experienced Knight Commander capable of leading large armies. Coupled with her formidable power as a Demigod of the Sea, and with the Star Luo Empire's heavy and generous investment of resources, a powerful and fearsome army was quickly and successfully assembled.
The creation of this army would undoubtedly provide the Star Luo Empire with a powerful boost in the evolving continental situation.
Immersed in such gentle affection, time always slipped away unnoticed.
Lu Jingming and Xu Jiujiu walked hand-in-hand through the streets and alleys of Sea Abyss City. Before they knew it, night had fallen, and the city lights came on, decorating the city like a dream.
As always, everyone gathered for dinner, enjoying this warm and joyful time.
The head chef tonight was still the gentle and virtuous Raiden Mei, with Jinhsi and Raiden Makoto helping out to prepare a rich dinner for everyone.
Jinhsi's specialty was Steamed Buns, but not just any ordinary ones—these were a unique delicacy from Huanglong, featuring a distinctive flavor.
The preparation process was unique, and the filling was expertly combined. With one bite, the savory soup burst out, making it incredibly delicious and unforgettable.
Of course, there were plenty of other cooking experts among the Servants.
For instance, Lemuen was skilled at making all kinds of delicious desserts, especially apple pie, which was exquisite.
This dessert was her sister Exusiai's favorite, and Lu Jingming was also very fond of it.
Every time he tasted Lemuen's apple pie, the sweet flavor, the crispy crust, and the soft filling seemed to make him forget all his troubles, immersing him in sweet happiness.
These gatherings were always lively.
Everyone sat together, constantly laughing and talking, sharing the day's anecdotes, playfully teasing each other, or engaging in a small "scramble" for a particular dish.
Seeing the familiar characters he had only known through a screen in his past life now so vividly alive—laughing, bickering, and fighting for food—Lu Jingming felt an indescribable sense of satisfaction.
This feeling was like a dream brought to reality, allowing him to genuinely feel the beauty and happiness of life.
"Oh my, so lively, and so many beautiful maidens! A'Ming, you never told me!"
Just then, a sincere and enthusiastic voice rang out like a silver bell.
Everyone turned to look. The arrival was the lovable and charming Pink Fairy Miss—Elysia.
Her pink hair cascaded over her shoulders like a waterfall, her lively eyes sparkled brightly, and her signature brilliant smile was perpetually on her lips, capable of dispelling all the gloom in the world.
"It's precisely because of your personality that I haven't brought you back until now!" Lu Jingming sighed resignedly, yet his heart was full of affection for Elysia.
He knew just how immense Elysia's charm was. Like the sun, she radiated warmth and dazzling light that was irresistible; practically everyone adored her.
Moreover, in that parallel world, Elysia had an important mission, playing a crucial, stabilizing role.
Thus, despite missing her greatly, Lu Jingming had held off on bringing Elysia back to this world.
However, the situation there had temporarily stabilized.
According to Elysia, Bibi Dong had already obtained the Rakshasa Skirk and had begun preparations to ascend to godhood.
And Qian Renxue had returned to the Spirit Hall, wholeheartedly immersing herself in taking the Angel God's trials.
As a result, that world would soon welcome the birth of two deities.
With the formidable strength of the Angel God and the Rakshasa God, even if they were newly ascended, they would be sufficient to suppress the gradually expanding Corruption Points.
After all, both the Angel God and Rakshasa God are Level 1 Deities, and their divine power is certainly not something ordinary True Gods can easily contend with.
As the situation developed in a favorable direction, Lu Jingming continued to gain True Reality Power. Therefore, he no longer paid constant attention to the situation there.
As for how the continental situation in that parallel world would ultimately unfold, it was no longer his concern.
With Qian Renxue, the Angel God who symbolized justice, present, the situation was somewhat guaranteed.
While Bibi Dong's conduct was often quite extreme, she had not completely lost her sanity, and a sense of maternal love for Qian Renxue still lingered in her heart.
In this case, the Douluo Continent likely wouldn't descend into utter ruin because of her actions.
Once the Spirit Hall had two deities, the other powers would face a choice: submit or rise in resistance. Lu Jingming was indifferent to either outcome.
His main foundation and power lay in this world. For the parallel world, he only needed to safeguard the Jade Chamber and the Element Academy that followed them.
Moreover, given his relationship with Qian Renxue and the deterrents he held, even if the Spirit Hall eventually unified the continent, it wouldn't necessarily mean the annihilation of other powers.
It was based on this situational analysis that Lu Jingming finally decided to bring Elysia back to this world.
After all, leaving her alone in the parallel world for such an extended period felt wrong to him.
Although Elysia herself didn't seem to mind, and was even having a great time there, Lu Jingming, adhering to the principle of treating everyone equally, felt that since she was someone he summoned, he shouldn't exclude her. She deserved the same companionship and care.
"E-Elysia!" The moment Raiden Mei's eyes met Elysia's, she froze instantly, as if time had stopped.
Memories from the Elysia Realm flooded her mind. She could not have imagined that in this lifetime, she would ever have the chance to see Elysia again, the woman who had left such a deep and unforgettable impression on her heart.
She had always believed that their last parting was eternal, and she would only be able to pursue Elysia's image in her memories.
"Oh, it's Mei! You've grown, and you're even more charming now. What a lovely surprise!"
Elysia also spotted Raiden Mei immediately, her eyes lighting up with joy.
She eagerly took two steps forward, grabbed Raiden Mei's hands, and held them tightly against her chest, as if the joy of their reunion could not be expressed in words, only through this intimate gesture.
The Elysia summoned by Lu Jingming was her true self, possessing all the memories and experiences of her Elysia Realm Memory Fragment.
It was for this reason that she recognized Raiden Mei.
After all, Elysia's true body had long since perished. It was the Memory Fragment in the Elysia Realm that had truly come to know Raiden Mei.
"Elly, I never thought I'd see you again. This is wonderful."
Raiden Mei's voice was filled with unrestrained emotion and joy. For anyone, reuniting with an old friend was undoubtedly a cause for extreme happiness.
This joy of reunion was like a warm sun in winter.
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