Chapter 643: Soul Sanctuary
With a whooshing sound, Xiao Xuan appeared in front of Xiao Ze. He curiously examined the crystal sphere in Xiao Ze's hands, immediately noticing that it contained its own unique world.
"Young one, what suddenly gave you the idea to create a space?" Xiao Xuan asked, somewhat puzzled.
Given Xiao Ze's current strength, creating a space was indeed feasible. However, Xiao Ze did not seem like someone who would engage in such a task without purpose. After all, the Xiao clan had declined, and its numbers were probably fluctuating around ten thousand far fewer compared to other thriving ancient clans which often boasted populations in the millions. Those ancient clans created vast worlds to sustain their people primarily to preserve the purity of their bloodlines, as intermarriage with other races could dilute their ancestral powers.
Although bloodline powers inevitably weaken over time, inbreeding within a clan can significantly delay this process. By creating a secluded world, these clans could prevent external influences from diluting their bloodline.
But Xiao Xuan knew the current state of the Xiao family from what Xiao Ze had told him. Xiao Ze and Xiao Chen were the last of the Xiao clan with the power of their bloodline. Other members of the clan had already exhausted their bloodline powers and thus didn't need to worry about such issues.
Thus, Xiao Xuan was puzzled, but Xiao Ze handed the crystal sphere to him. "Ancestor, I was inspired by the Soul Ocean I encountered earlier and wanted to create another one!"
Xiao Xuan raised an eyebrow as he sensed the scenery within the crystal sphere. Since Xiao Ze had deactivated the array's shielding, Xiao Xuan could easily perceive the situation inside. Inside the sphere, vast soul power surged, forming clouds that either soared like dragons, hung like inverted rivers, or exploded like stars creating a magnificent scene.
Seeing the efforts Xiao Ze had put into the crystal sphere, not only in terms of the solidity of the space but also the dense golden runes on the space barrier preventing soul power from leaking, Xiao Xuan understood his intent. "Creating another Soul Ocean…"
"You're interested in the slow passage of time within the Soul Ocean?" Xiao Xuan guessed. After all, creating such a space would be a demanding task for Xiao Ze, who was already an Emperor Soul Realm practitioner. The only feature that could motivate Xiao Ze was the unique characteristic of the Soul Ocean.
"Exactly, ancestor. The slow flow of time in the Soul Ocean would be incredibly beneficial for me," Xiao Ze nodded. "Although I am talented, the soul clan's plans are increasingly pressing. The urgency of our situation doesn't allow me the leisure to grow over time. If I can successfully create the Soul Ocean, I could gain decades' worth of time for development compared to the outside world."
Hearing Xiao Ze's explanation, Xiao Xuan's expression softened, and he sighed lightly, patting Xiao Ze's shoulder. "You've taken on a heavy burden alone, bearing the rise and fall of our clan."
"Ancestor, it's my duty," Xiao Ze said, his gaze resolute.
Xiao Xuan smiled warmly and patted Xiao Ze's shoulder again. He couldn't offer words of comfort as the situation was too critical for relaxation. Any lapse could lead to a disastrous defeat against the soul clan's forces in the future.
Afterward, Xiao Xuan returned the crystal sphere to Xiao Ze, noting there was still some work to be done. "What are your plans now? There probably aren't any opportunities left in the Heavenly Tomb that could further enhance your strength."
Xiao Ze agreed, well aware of everything within the Heavenly Tomb and that no opportunities remained that could be of use to him. "The situation in the outside world is tense, and ancient races have yet to take action. For now, my influence remains dominant in the Central State, so my constant presence isn't necessary. I'm considering traveling the continent, perhaps visiting the Endless Void or the vast starry sky."
Xiao Xuan nodded. The Dou Qi Continent indeed held endless opportunities for those who sought them. "With your current strength, rapid advancement is impossible. Only a tremendous opportunity could further your power."
"Before I leave, ancestor, I'd like to discuss something with you," Xiao Ze suddenly said, prompting a gentle smile from Xiao Xuan. "Whatever it is, just say it. If there's anything I can help with, just ask."
"Actually, since I've assimilated the Soul Origin of the Heavenly Tomb's spirit, I've gained control over the Heavenly Tomb. In a sense, I've become its master," Xiao Ze explained, which surprised Xiao Xuan, as he hadn't realized that assimilating the Soul Origin would confer such status.
"You mentioned that the Heavenly Tomb was created by that Dou Di as a place for souls to rest. I'd like to allow all the energy beings within to cease their struggles and let their souls truly rest in peace. Since the desire for mutual consumption implanted by the previous spirit of the Heavenly Tomb has dissipated, why not put an end to such behavior entirely?"
After considering for a moment, Xiao Xuan nodded in agreement. "That's a good idea. It indeed returns to the original intention of the Dou Di who created the Heavenly Tomb, allowing these souls to find peace."
Then, Xiao Ze consulted Xiao Xuan about various issues, seeking his opinions as well. Xiao Xuan had a deep understanding of the energy beings within the Heavenly Tomb, much deeper than outsiders like Xiao Ze had previously perceived.
Soon, a voice echoed in the ears of all beings within the Heavenly Tomb: "I am Xiao Ze, the master of the Heavenly Tomb. With the spirit of the Heavenly Tomb vanquished and the desire for mutual consumption dissipated, the Heavenly Tomb will return to its original purpose as a place of rest for souls. Hereafter, no energy being within shall engage in consuming their kind, attack or kill others without cause, or enslave any other being..."
(End of Chapter 643)
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