Stepping through the archway of Shangluo Dao Academy, it felt as though they had entered an entirely different world.
Outside the gate, the world was peaceful and quiet. Inside, however, it was lively and full of movement.
Some controlled the wind and summoned rain, thunderclouds rolling through the sky, carrying floating realm stars within them.
Some walked upon massive scrolls, the pages unfolding before them while the words and images behind them faded away, stretching forward endlessly.
Some practiced sword techniques atop a lake, stepping on the phantoms of ghosts, while others forged weapons underground, flames roaring beneath the earth.
"Boom—"
Just as the group was engrossed in the sight, a tall spired palace near the archway suddenly rose from the ground, radiating immense energy as it moved forward.
"Thud, thud, thud—"
A towering giant ran past, carrying a small mountain on its shoulders.
In the blink of an eye, pavilions, towers, palaces, and even mountain peaks seemed to come to life, filled with a vibrant and dynamic energy.
"A historical scroll, recording the past prosperity of Shangluo Academy."
A scholar of starry sky history gazed at the flickering images above.
"Even after countless eras, this place remains completely intact."
"The book puppets look almost real."
Scholar Du Qing marveled.
"The scholars of the Moonfall Ancient Kingdom truly had incredible techniques."
The others could see the depth of craftsmanship here. Even though they had only glimpsed a fraction of it, it was enough to leave them in awe.
"Let's split up."
Du Qing and Peng Yuan suggested, "We've passed three trials and entered the Dao Academy's gates. The danger level should be relatively low now, so we should seek out our own opportunities."
You Yitian and Fan Yu exchanged a look and nodded.
"Alright, everyone moves separately. If there's danger, we can call for help through Fan Immortal."
Fan Yu possessed a minor divine ability called [Bridge of the Mind], which could link all team members together.
Even if they were separated, they could still communicate over long distances.
Of course, this was weaker than the [Karmic Communication] ability.
Its range wasn't as vast, nor could it span across star systems.
"Bridge of the Mind!"
Fan Yu formed hand seals, and behind her, fifty-two beams of white light condensed into a bridge, linking to everyone.
Zhao Xing did not resist this technique.
Soon, he felt a strange connection with Fan Yu, as if their thoughts were intertwined.
Then, Fan Yu formed another set of hand seals.
This time, she created five additional bridges, connecting to You Yitian, Du Qing, Peng Yuan, and the two physicians.
With the first cast, only she could communicate with the others.
With the second cast, the five designated members could now communicate among themselves.
This meant that even if Fan Yu were unable to respond, or in the worst case, if she died, the rest of the team could still contact You Yitian, the two scholars, and the two physicians for help.
"Fan Yu's Bridge of the Mind is still a bit limited. If she had a stronger divine ability like [Hall of the Mind], this process wouldn't be so complicated."
Once Fan Yu finished, the group split up, forming small teams of two or three, each searching for their own fortunes.
You Yitian didn't act immediately but first asked Zhao Xing if he wanted to team up with him.
Traveling with a Great Divine Ability Realm expert meant finding better opportunities and being much safer.
However, Zhao Xing politely declined.
"I've already benefited a lot. I wouldn't dare trouble Brother You any further."
Seeing this, You Yitian didn't insist.
"If you run into any danger, let us know immediately. We will come to your aid."
"Many thanks."
—
In the year Shixin 1204, Zhao Xing's main body arrived at Shangluo Dao Academy, searching for opportunities.
At the same time, a phase-one mission on Huri Continent had just been completed.
Zhao Xing sent one of his clones to collect the reward from Huri, report the situation to Lei Yunde under King Tianji, and then accept the second-phase mission—a century-long stationing task.
This gave him a legitimate reason to remain in Southern Luo's 21st Star Continent Group.
That same year, his Juyang Clone, along with members of the Spark Unit, finally left the starry sky formation of Moonfall Mausoleum.
"Everyone, we have landed on Yanshan Star Continent. I hereby announce that Spark Unit's mission is officially completed."
The leader, Bai Yang, smiled.
"Thank you all for your efforts on this journey."
Chen Xuan, Yue Nu, Yu Tianqing, Jing Yan, Lan Hai, Red Peach Fairy—all of them let out a sigh of relief.
Especially Zhao Xing.
This clone of his carried a precious treasure.
While inside the Moonfall Mausoleum, he never felt completely safe.
Only now, upon reaching solid ground, did he finally feel at ease.
"We finally made it."
Jing Yan sighed.
"It took us dozens of years to return. The core region is really hard to access."
"We had to take a huge detour. It wasn't easy."
Zhao Xing agreed.
They had exited from the northern region of Moonfall Mausoleum.
Now, they were on Yanshan Star Continent, which was under the territory of the Tianyou Ancient Kingdom.
With contacts here, the Spark Unit would soon return to Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom.
At this rate, it wouldn't even take a month to reach Tiger Head Star Continent.
Once they landed safely, Bai Yang, Chen Xuan, and Yue Nu began private discussions with their respective contacts—this was the phase of reward distribution.
Jing Yan, Yu Tianqing, and Zhao Xing stayed together.
Bai Yang led them into a secret chamber and sat them down for a briefing.
"Yu Tianqing."
Bai Yang spoke.
"You will receive the status of an Imperial Citizen of the Red Star Empire. You are permitted to bring five family members with you."
"If you continue contributing to the Spark Unit and complete more missions, your standing could improve significantly."
Yu Tianqing nodded.
"Thank you, Captain Bai Yang."
He felt that he hadn't performed exceptionally well during this mission, so earning such a privilege was already a great reward.
Additionally, he had awakened an innate grand divine ability, so this journey had been extremely rewarding for him.
Jing Yan sighed. "Even with a royal quota, it's still uncertain?"
He knew exactly what he wanted—at the headquarters of the Spark Unit in Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom, there was a powerful construct known as the [Grand Derivation Divine Armament].
It was a type of mechanical-origin divine weapon capable of deducing the principles of the Mechanist Path, essentially a law-based supercomputer.
Jing Yan's goal was to gain access and perform a single derivation, using it to perfect his [Myriad Law Dao Soldiers].
Since his Myriad Law Dao Soldiers had growth potential, and since he himself specialized in Dao Soldier techniques, in-depth research into formations was essential.
If he could use the Grand Derivation Divine Armament just once, it would be an invaluable opportunity for him.
However, this artifact was not freely accessible. Even if Jing Yan's request was approved, he would still need to wait in line.
Given his current contributions, the chances of immediate approval were slim.
"I suggest you change your request. How about assistance in breaking through to the Third Stage?" Bai Yang asked.
Jing Yan scoffed. "The Third Stage is nothing special. I could break through with a single blink. Why would I need Spark's help?"
He shook his head and sighed. "Without advancing my Roaming Spirit Path, without growing my Myriad Law Dao Soldiers, even if I reach the Third Stage, my combat strength won't see much of a difference."
Bai Yang shrugged. "Rules are rules."
Jing Yan sighed. "Fine, I'll change my request. I want to purchase a 'Heavenly Net Seven-Track Boundary Formation Diagram' from the Origin Heaven Palace. Based on my contribution points and my royal family quota, how much more do I need to pay?"
Bai Yang calculated for a moment and replied, "You still need to pay 1.5 billion Red Star Coins."
Jing Yan's face turned pale. "That much?"
Even if he sold everything he owned, he still wouldn't have enough money.
"I'll lend it to you."
Zhao Xing spoke up. "I still have some funds left."
"That's not appropriate." Jing Yan shook his head.
"What's appropriate or not? It's settled." Zhao Xing said firmly.
Bai Yang was surprised. "You have that much money?"
He had no idea that Zhao Xing had accumulated a fortune comparable to a Fifth-Stage Dao Domain expert!
Zhao Xing smiled. "I am the Marquis of Wuling in Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom."
"Ah, that makes sense."
A Dao Domain expert was usually required to earn marquis-level merit.
But Zhao Xing had dug his way to a marquis title by excavating tombs, so of course, he had money!
That said, his funds were nearly depleted.
Originally, he had 2.8 billion Red Star Coins, but now, he was almost down to zero.
"Alright, then it's settled." Bai Yang nodded.
—
In New Beginning Year 1207, three years later, Zhao Xing, Jing Yan, and Yu Tianqing returned to Tiger Head Star Continent and parted ways with Spark Unit.
Zhao Xing's Juyang Clone finally returned to Wuling Marquis Mansion, where he met the people from Great Zhou.
"Che, how is Ji Si progressing in cultivation?"
Zhao Xing's Juyang Clone entered the Xuanhuang Realm Vessel where the people of Great Zhou resided.
Ji Che reported, "Ji Si has already reached the Great Divine Ability Realm."
"We spent 5 billion Red Star Coins. Half of it went to hiring scholars to teach him, and 1 billion Red Star Coins were used to buy resources, spiritual materials, and secret techniques. Right now, he has mastered seven minor divine abilities—four historian abilities and three fate official abilities. He is now cultivating his eighth."
Zhao Xing was shocked. "That's really fast."
He had given Ji Si 5 billion Red Star Coins, expecting two minor divine abilities at most.
But now, Ji Si had not only mastered seven, but had also achieved Great Divine Ability Realm Perfection!
More importantly, he still had 1.5 billion Red Star Coins left.
With the same amount of money, Ji Si had accomplished far more than others.
"I should go see him."
"He is in Fengjing's Sky Tomb Mansion."
"Understood."
With a thought, Zhao Xing transformed into a stream of light and headed toward Sky Tomb Mansion.
The realm vessel that Great Zhou resided in was no longer the old, broken vessel that could only accommodate three provinces.
Now, its internal structure completely replicated the Xuanhuang Realm, encompassing all 19 provinces, even including the four seas.
"Swoosh—"
Zhao Xing appeared beside a spiritual lake.
Ji Si sat on a reef, meditating while facing the water.
"Greetings, Grand Shennong."
Ji Si rose and cupped his hands in salute.
"You seem surprised." Zhao Xing observed.
"Yes." Ji Si nodded. "I did not foresee that I would meet you today."
Zhao Xing raised an eyebrow.
He was only at the later stages of the Great Divine Ability Realm, while Ji Si already had seven divine abilities and could perceive both past and future.
By all logic, Ji Si should have been able to foresee this meeting.
But he couldn't.
"Hahaha! If you could predict it, I would have died a long time ago!"
Zhao Xing laughed heartily.
Especially considering that his Juyang Clone was currently carrying a page of the Xuanling Chronicles—if Ji Si could foresee that, he'd be as good as dead.
"Ji Si, in a hundred years, Great Zhou will begin its migration. But I need you to stay behind and help me."
Ji Si nodded. "I have already prepared myself."
"Aren't you going to ask what it is?"
Ji Si remained calm. "No matter how serious, it's just death at worst."
"I have already made peace with that."
Zhao Xing waved his hand. "It won't come to that."
"On the contrary, you must do everything you can to stay alive. Because I will entrust my life to you."
Ji Si was stunned.
He hadn't expected Zhao Xing to hand him such a heavy responsibility.
"My life and death… are in your hands?"
Zhao Xing's words echoed in Ji Si's mind, making him momentarily dazed.
"Take this Qiankun Ring and keep it safe." Zhao Xing took out a storage ring and handed it to him. "You don't need to concern yourself with it in normal times, and you won't be able to open it either."
"You'll know when to use it when the time comes… Of course, I hope you never have to."
Ji Si solemnly accepted the ring, understanding the gravity of this moment.
Zhao Xing did not tell Ji Si about the Time Page hidden within.
The ring was set with a special condition—it would only activate at the moment of Zhao Xing's death.
In the meantime, Zhao Xing would continuously transmit his location coordinates to Ji Si.
If he were to die, the ring would unlock, and Ji Si would have to rush over and use the Time Page to reverse time in the designated area.
"Alright, continue your cultivation." Zhao Xing said. "You don't need to worry about Great Zhou's affairs for now, and your cultivation resources will be taken care of."
"I will fully support you."
"Understood."
—
After settling things with Ji Si, Zhao Xing's Juyang Clone remained in Tiger Head Star Continent to rest.
Meanwhile, in Shangluo Dao Academy, at the rear mountains—
A vast range of mountains stretched endlessly, shrouded in rolling clouds.
A lone figure emerged from the mist.
"Three years… avoiding countless dangers… I've finally arrived." Zhao Xing gazed at the scene before him.
Ahead of him stood a barrier, constructed from dense spiritual energy.
It was a pale blue cube, appearing like a water prism embedded within the mountains.
"No one else should be able to find this place."
Sweeping his gaze around, Zhao Xing observed the surroundings.
"Not the book puppets, not the exploration teams… I've encountered quite a few 'fortuitous encounters' along the way."
Zhao Xing cautiously approached the Spiritual Water Cube Realm.
However, when he reached ten thousand miles from it, the barrier rippled.
Waves spread outward, distorting the space, and a moment later—
His vision blurred.
When it cleared again, he was back at his original position—thirty million miles away from the cube!
"What a powerful illusion… I didn't even notice I was trapped."
Looking down, Zhao Xing noticed his cloud-traveling path—one for approach, one for retreat—both clearly marked in the sky.
"Let's try again."
Zhao Xing soared forward once more.
His main body wasn't as fast as his Juyang Clone—he only moved at eight times the speed of light, whereas his clone surpassed sixteen times the speed of light.
Still, thirty million miles wasn't far for him.
As he reached ten thousand miles from the cube again—
His body automatically turned around and retreated.
Twice in a row, the same result.
Zhao Xing halted midair and began analyzing the situation.
"No matter how fast I move, the moment I get close, I get affected. Then I automatically retreat."
"This is a mental illusion!"
It was simple yet effective—rather than creating a complex dreamscape, it simply implanted a thought into his mind: "Retreat."
And that one thought dominated his entire will.
"A brutal but straightforward method—pure suppression through sheer level difference."
Most illusory techniques played mind tricks—some created false worlds, trapping the victim inside.
Others manifested deep-seated fears, confronting people with the things they dreaded the most.
Those techniques fell into the category of Soul Illusions.
Mind Illusions, on the other hand, worked differently—they directly manipulated the mind.
They were like Qi Cultivators among Martial Artists—crude but overwhelmingly effective.
Victims were fully aware of their condition yet unable to resist.
By contrast, Soul Illusions were like Sword Cultivators—finesse-based, often relying on enchanted talismans, paintings, or formations.
Victims would be completely unaware they were even trapped.
"Let's see if I can break through with an Intent Divine Ability."
Zhao Xing decided to test his mental fortitude.
He hadn't activated any Intent Divine Ability earlier because he wasn't sure if it would trigger an even stronger counterattack.
But after two failed attempts with no real harm, he decided to go all in.
This time, he slowed down his approach.
As the rippling illusion reappeared—
He unleashed his Intent Divine Ability—Slaughter Mind Blade!
"Blade cleaves the body, mind severs the soul. Slaughter Mind Blade, without self or others!"
Zhao Xing's gaze turned icy, brimming with killing intent.
His mind transformed into a bloodthirsty blade, seeking to cut down all enemies.
The pain of flesh and soul, the fear of death, were completely suppressed under the crushing weight of slaughter intent.
All other thoughts were erased.
This ability was not a conventional mind-defense technique—it was more of a desperate countermeasure.
One drawback of using Slaughter Mind Blade was that, if engaged in battle, it became extremely difficult to hold back—Zhao Xing would fight to kill without hesitation.
"Buzz—"
The water waves surged forward again.
Zhao Xing's mind trembled—
Even under the overwhelming bloodlust, a tiny voice still whispered:
"Retreat."
But the killing intent was stronger.
His body continued moving forward.
He reached the ten-thousand-mile range once again.
The Spiritual Water Cube Realm trembled violently—
His Slaughter Mind Blade held strong for ten breaths—
Then—shattered!
Zhao Xing lost control once more and was pushed back thirty million miles.
But this time, something changed.
On the Spiritual Water Cube, ancient Moonfall Kingdom characters appeared—
[Do not attempt again. This place is not your destined opportunity.]
Zhao Xing narrowed his eyes.
Immediately, he cupped his hands and bowed toward the cube.
"Senior Thousand Illusions, I was sent here by Senior Divine Fire Turtle."
He speculated that this message was from Thousand Illusions Tree.
Otherwise, the response would not have been this direct and personal.
Sure enough, the cube trembled.
Its walls flickered, revealing a shadow of green vines.
A new sentence emerged—
[What proof do you have?]
Zhao Xing thought for a moment and replied,
"Senior Divine Fire Turtle said you are an old friend of his. It has been a long time since you've met."
"He hopes that I can help you escape… so you may reunite with him."
He knew that Divine Fire Turtle was bound to Heavy Water River due to certain restrictions.
From this, he deduced that Thousand Illusions Tree was likely trapped as well.
Zhao Xing could hear a faint longing for freedom in the old turtle's words.
The tomb's master had been dead for countless years. Who would willingly stay trapped in such a place, doomed to solitude for eternity?
The Spiritual Water Cube remained silent for a long time. Only after a while did another line of text appear:
[Your cultivation is too weak. You cannot help me.]
Zhao Xing pondered for a moment and asked, "May I know what conditions must be met to help Senior escape?"
[The Spiritual Water Realm and I are one. I am the core of its formation. To rescue me, you must first destroy the Spiritual Water Realm.]
[If the Spiritual Water Realm is destroyed, I must immediately relocate. Otherwise, I will perish quickly. However, your Origin Space is far too small to accommodate me.]
Zhao Xing summarized the two conditions required to free Thousand Illusions Tree:
First, the Spiritual Water Realm must be destroyed.
Second, his Origin Space needed to be large enough to immediately contain the tree.
"The second condition is easy, but the first is tricky…" Zhao Xing mused.
The Yuanhai Realm he cultivated had three layers, and though it lacked any outstanding features, it was massive.
This technique was essentially built by burning resources, and those resources had been primarily invested in expanding spatial capacity.
Even Huangfu Yun, a Shennong focused entirely on self-cultivation, once remarked that Zhao Xing's Origin Space gave off an aura of immense grandeur.
As for the embryonic forms of the Five Elemental Grand Dao within, they were decent but nothing extraordinary.
"The difficulty lies in breaking the Spiritual Water Realm. But this isn't just my effort alone—let's see if Thousand Illusions Tree can contribute to its own escape."
With that thought, Zhao Xing expanded his Origin Projection to its fullest extent.
"Senior Thousand Illusions, please take a look."
"My Origin Space has a stable Spiritual Energy Index of 215, with a balanced Five Elemental Grand Dao. More importantly, it's very spacious."
"Would it be suitable for you to reside in?"
Thousand Illusions Tree quickly responded:
[It is sufficient, but that is meaningless. You are only at the Origin Realm. You lack the power to destroy the Spiritual Water Realm.]
Zhao Xing smiled. "Senior, I may be weak, but I am wealthy, and I have connections. If you have an escape plan, perhaps I can find a way to execute it."
To reinforce his words, he summoned Moyun Vine, allowing it to fully extend its Third Realm form.
Its shadow covered the sky, nearly enveloping the Spiritual Water Cube entirely.
Thousand Illusions Tree wasn't a void-based lifeform, and while Moyun Vine was of a lower grade, its Void Origin Essence was something even Thousand Illusions Tree envied.
Moreover, this demonstration subtly conveyed Zhao Xing's influence—
"I may only be a lowly Origin Realm cultivator, but I can afford to use a Third Realm Moyun Vine."
For a long time, Thousand Illusions Tree did not respond.
Seeing this, Zhao Xing didn't insist. "It seems I am not fated to assist Senior. I apologize for the disturbance."
With that, he turned and decisively left.
"Wait."
This time, Thousand Illusions Tree spoke aloud.
It had no choice.
Thousand Illusions Tree had been trapped for countless years.
It was from the same era as Divine Fire Turtle, nearly equal in age. But in terms of lifespan, it was nearing its end.
When a plant-based lifeform develops self-awareness, its instinct to survive becomes absolute.
Thousand Illusions Tree did not want to wither away in this place.
It had waited for so long, and now, someone had finally appeared.
If it let this opportunity slip away, who knew how much longer it would have to wait?
After all… what if Zhao Xing was the only person who would ever come here?
How long could it afford to wait?
"Senior, please instruct me."
Zhao Xing immediately turned back. He wasn't afraid of Thousand Illusions Tree refusing his help.
A drowning person would cling to even a straw—let alone a rope.
[The formation of the Spiritual Water Realm originates from the "Heaven and Earth Transformation Grand Formation." A long time ago, I was planted here, and it provided me with abundant nutrients and spiritual energy. However, once I reached my peak state, the formation turned against me.]
[It began continuously extracting my Origin Essence, channeling it elsewhere to be refined into artifacts.]
[The reason I cannot escape is that the stronger I grow, the stronger the formation's bindings become.]
Zhao Xing nodded frequently, signaling that he understood.
He had never heard of the Heaven and Earth Transformation Grand Formation, but as long as Thousand Illusions Tree described its effects, he could deduce its principles.
Once he grasped the underlying mechanics, he could compare them to similar formations he was familiar with.
"So in other words, Senior can never break free using your own power, because the formation uses your own Origin Essence as its core constraint."
[Correct.]
The power of the formation scaled dynamically with Thousand Illusions Tree's strength.
Even if it reached the Life and Death Dao Domain Realm, it still couldn't break free from the Spiritual Water Realm.
It was like a mortal trying to lift themselves by their own feet—impossible without external help.
"What realm is Senior currently in?"
[Life and Death Dao Domain Realm.]
"So you require external assistance at the Dao Domain level."
[Not necessarily at the Life and Death Dao Domain level. If I exert my full strength against the formation, the force of a Yin-Yang Dao Domain cultivator should be enough to break it.]
"Perhaps even lower than that," Zhao Xing mused.
He was very familiar with formations of this kind.
Some non-Shennong professions also liked to plant trees, but since they couldn't subdue them, they often used binding formations instead.
Even Shennong cultivators weren't always able to subdue spirit trees—it depended on relative strength.
Before agreeing to help Thousand Illusions Tree, Zhao Xing needed to make proper preparations.
Otherwise, if the tree turned hostile, it could easily tear apart his Origin Space.
Additionally, Thousand Illusions Tree specialized in mind illusions.
If things went wrong, instead of enslaving the tree, he might end up as its slave.
Plant-based lifeforms that grew in the wild typically developed self-awareness at their mature or peak stage—out of necessity.
However, in a safe environment, self-awareness developed much later, and the resulting consciousness was much gentler.
Thousand Illusions Tree, having existed for so long, was surely untamed and difficult to control.
Moreover, it specialized in mind illusions, whereas Zhao Xing's mental resilience was nowhere near strong enough to dominate it.
If he wanted to rescue it, he first needed to ensure his own safety.
Zhao Xing quickly formulated a plan, then responded:
"Senior, please be patient. I will find a way to rescue you."
Zhao Xing rushed out of Shangluo Dao Academy, and the moment he deactivated Divine Turtle Transformation, he was immediately expelled, his figure reappearing in the cold pool.
At this moment, Nameless Star Land had undergone another transformation. Its defensive mechanisms were getting stronger, but the number of explorers had not increased much.
"Zhao Xing, you're out! Did you gain anything?" Du Wen, the scholar, was still standing at the center of the Nine Light Gates, teaching others about Food Supplementation Techniques.
"Not much." Zhao Xing shook his head. In the second trial of Inquiry, he had only obtained a Yuanluo Pill, which nourished the soul. Its value was a little over ten million Red Star Coins, barely worth mentioning.
"Haha, no need to look so disappointed." Du Wen laughed. "The Lord of the Mansion came out two years ago. Even if you got nothing, you still have 10% of his share."
"The Lord of the Mansion is out?" Zhao Xing's eyes lit up.
The profit-sharing agreement with Du Yun was the real jackpot! He had been worrying about his lack of funds!
"Yes, the Lord of the Mansion said that once you're out, you should go see him." Du Wen smiled. "He's calling you over to split the earnings."
"Thank you for letting me know!"
Without hesitation, Zhao Xing rushed toward the base at full speed.
———
"Zhao Xing, you're here."
Du Yun was talking to a few guest elders. Seeing Zhao Xing arrive, he waved his hand, dismissing them.
The guest elders glanced at Zhao Xing with a hint of envy in their eyes.
Clearly, Du Yun had reaped great rewards this time.
For Zhao Xing to receive a 10% cut, that was a huge deal!
"Greetings, Lord of the Mansion."
"Hahaha, no need to be so formal." Du Yun waved his hand, stopping Zhao Xing from bowing. "You've brought me such great fortune—there's no need for such courtesy in the future."
"And don't call me 'Lord of the Mansion.' Just call me by my name."
It was clear that Du Yun had gained immensely, or else he wouldn't be in such a good mood.
"Alright, I called you here today to split the profits." Du Yun gestured for Zhao Xing to sit down.
"Take a guess—how much do you think this Dao Repository is worth?"
Du Yun deliberately teased him, making him guess.
"It should be worth more than one trillion Red Star Coins?" Zhao Xing estimated.
"Hahaha, guess again! Be bolder!" Du Yun laughed.
"Ten trillion?"
"Not bad! I had some experts appraise it—this Dao Repository is estimated to be worth fifteen trillion!"
"That much?!" Zhao Xing was shocked.
"I spent twenty years inside and obtained a Prime Origin Divine Weapon." Du Yun smiled. "Thanks to you, this is the third Prime Origin Divine Weapon I've acquired in my lifetime!"
"That's why I say this Dao Repository's total estimated value is fifteen trillion Red Star Coins."
"No wonder…" Zhao Xing muttered.
Weapons were ranked from Realm Star Dao Weapons to Lunar Dao Weapons, Solar Dao Weapons, and then Prime Origin Divine Weapons.
A cultivator at the Grand Divine Ability Realm or Five Elements Dao Domain Realm would typically wield a Lunar Dao Weapon to fully unleash their strength.
A Solar Dao Weapon was suited for those at the Yin-Yang Dao Domain Realm.
Prime Origin Divine Weapons, on the other hand, corresponded to the Life and Death Dao Domain Realm.
Beyond that, there were Reincarnation Dao Weapons. Not only were they incredibly powerful, but they were also essential for controlled reincarnation.
If a cultivator at the Reincarnation Realm attempted rebirth without a Reincarnation Dao Weapon, it was basically suicide—the success rate was abysmally low.
Reincarnation Dao Weapons were extremely rare. In the Xuanling Star Domain, there were one hundred thousand ancient nations, but each nation only had a handful of Reincarnation Realm cultivators. Weaker nations might have only a single one—their king. Superpowers had a few more, but even then, these weapons were scarce.
Moreover, the rarity of materials increased dramatically for higher-tier weapons.
Even low-grade Lunar Dao Weapons cost at least one billion Red Star Coins.
Low-grade Solar Dao Weapons? At least one hundred billion.
As for Prime Origin Divine Weapons? Even the lowest-grade ones started at ten trillion!
Du Yun had once sought five trillion Red Star Coins to secure an audience at the Reincarnation Temple. That price was just for a decent Prime Origin Divine Weapon as a gift.
Anything less than that wouldn't have been worth their attention.
Originally, Du Yun only had two Prime Origin Divine Weapons. Now, obtaining a third—and not just any ordinary one—was a huge windfall.
After clearing the first wave of exploration, Du Yun had estimated the total value of the Dao Repository at fifteen trillion Red Star Coins.
How could he not be in a good mood?
"Zhao Xing, based on our agreement, you get 10%—that's 1.5 trillion."
"Of course, this will be distributed in phases, since this is just an estimated value. The actual earnings aren't in hand yet."
"But I've already acquired a Prime Origin Divine Weapon, so you can receive one hundred billion Red Star Coins immediately."
"Now tell me—do you want cash, or do you prefer treasures?" Du Yun asked.
Zhao Xing understood. If he wanted cash, Du Yun would simply hand it over.
However, many rare items weren't easy to buy without connections.
So, Du Yun was kindly offering to act as a middleman, using his extensive network to help Zhao Xing acquire treasures instead.
This was perfect timing—Zhao Xing was still troubled about how to subdue Thousand Illusions Tree.
"Lord of the Mansion, I choose treasures." Zhao Xing cupped his hands. "Please assist me in making the purchases."
"Alright, tell me what you need." Du Yun was confident.
Anything below the level of Prime Origin Divine Weapons could be bought with standard currency.
However, for Prime Origin Divine Weapons and Reincarnation Dao Weapons, deals were done through bartering—exchanging rare artifacts like Five Emperor Coins or Xuanling Ancient Coins.
Such transactions took a long time to complete since the seller's requirements were often very specific.
"Tell me what you need, and I'll get it for you," Du Yun said.
Zhao Xing carefully considered his needs before speaking, "I need a Mana Talisman."
"A Mana Talisman?" Du Yun nodded. "No problem. What grade and type do you need?"
Mana Talismans were a simple type of talisman.
For spell cultivators, upon reaching the Dao Domain Realm, spiritual energy would fuse with their techniques, transforming into Mana.
At the Five Elements Dao Domain Realm, mana also divided into various elemental attributes. These talismans stored mana-infused attacks, enabling them to unleash Dao Domain-level power. It was a rather basic but effective form of talisman.
"Fire attribute, Yin-Yang Dao Domain Realm level," Zhao Xing specified.
Fire countered Wood, and though Thousand Illusions Tree had claimed that Five Elements Dao Domain Realm power would be sufficient, Zhao Xing wasn't about to trust it completely.
It was always best to be prepared. Of course, a Life and Death Dao Domain Realm-level talisman wasn't necessary—unless he planned on outright killing Thousand Illusions Tree and selling it for materials.
"That's not difficult. At most, it'll cost ten billion Red Star Coins," Du Yun said casually.
Mana Talismans at the Yin-Yang Dao Domain Realm level could be mass-produced and regenerated continuously. Naturally, they weren't too expensive. Being one-time consumables, if they were priced too high, no one would be able to afford them.
Du Yun had once gifted Zhao Xing a Purple Divine Talisman, which was a type of Mana Talisman—just a bit more powerful, worth far more than a few billion.
"Anything else?"
"I also need a Water-Origin Life Contract—preferably one crafted by a master from the Prime Origin Heaven Palace," Zhao Xing said.
Contracts were specialized covenant-based treasures.
For ordinary restrictions, cause-and-effect bindings or soul-binding oaths were enough.
But a Life Contract was different—it was a tangible contract with a physical medium.
A Water-Origin Life Contract was specifically designed for aquatic plant-type lifeforms—a specialized contract-type Dao Artifact.
Essentially, it was like putting a collar on Thousand Illusions Tree, allowing Zhao Xing to control its life and death.
"A Water-Origin Life Contract? That sounds like a contract artifact," Du Yun mused.
Although he wasn't entirely familiar with it, that wasn't an issue. As long as it existed, he could get it.
Since Zhao Xing specifically requested one crafted by a master from the Prime Origin Heaven Palace, it must be a known item.
"Alright, that's no problem either," Du Yun agreed. "If you don't need anything else, should I convert the rest into cash for you?"
Zhao Xing thought for a moment before saying, "I have one more request."
"Go ahead."
"Du Yun, please transfer fifty billion Red Star Coins to me, and keep the rest in your care for now," Zhao Xing said.
Du Yun was momentarily stunned. "Why? Are you afraid I'll kill you and refuse to acknowledge our deal?"
"No! I would never doubt you like that," Zhao Xing quickly explained.
"I just don't want to draw too much attention. If I suddenly have this much money, I'll be an easy target. Keeping the funds with you is far safer than keeping them with me."
He was just a lowly Marquis of Wuling, and now he suddenly had over a trillion Red Star Coins?
A cultivator at the Minor Divine Ability Realm with this much money?
Even newly ascended Life and Death Dao Domain Realm cultivators wouldn't necessarily have that much in liquid assets. Without a strong backing, he was nothing but prey!
Previously, Curse Master Kui Jiu had easily bypassed the defenses of Tiger Head Star Continent. Marquis He Yin had also tracked him down without effort... Zhao Xing had no faith in the Ancient Nation of Yuanhai to protect him.
It could barely protect itself, let alone a mere Marquis of Wuling.
Would Du Yun protect him? Possibly, but not for free.
"If I have the money on me, countless people will want to rob me. But if you hold onto it, no one will dare," Zhao Xing said.
Everyone knew Du Yun possessed two Prime Origin Divine Weapons—Twilight Cloud Sword and Sunset Armor. But despite that, no one had dared to rob him in all these years.
"That's true. I didn't think of that," Du Yun admitted.
Buying treasures and making discreet purchases was fine.
But transferring a massive sum? That was a different story.
Having fifty billion Red Star Coins in his account wouldn't be too suspicious. After all, in the Phantom God Star System, people struck it rich overnight all the time.
But anything more than that? That would draw too much attention.
"Alright, we'll do it your way," Du Yun agreed readily.
Zhao Xing was his lucky charm right now. Of course, he wouldn't refuse.
———
By the 1214th year of the Beginning of Renewal Era, Zhao Xing had received his two requested treasures:
Water-Origin Life Contract
Fire-Attribute Mana Talisman (Yin-Yang Level)
In addition, he had received fifty billion Red Star Coins.
Du Yun worked quickly, and Zhao Xing didn't delay either. He immediately headed back into the Dao Repository.
He fought his way through the trials again, eventually reaching Water Spirit Realm.
"Senior Thousand Illusions, I'm back."
"I've made all the necessary preparations and obtained a Mana Talisman."
Zhao Xing's voice echoed through the realm.
Inside the Water Spirit Realm, an ancient towering tree stood tall.
On its trunk, a vertical eye was embedded.
Its leaves were covered in golden runes, each one resembling watchful eyes.
Previously, the eye on the trunk had always been closed.
Now, however, it suddenly opened, and a humanoid shadow emerged.
"You've finally returned." Thousand Illusions Tree's eyes gleamed with suppressed madness.
"What is your name?"
"Senior, my name is Zhao Xing."
"Good, Zhao Xing. Once I leave this place, I will repay you well."
"I dare not expect repayment. All I ask is that you agree to assist me once in the future."
"Agreed."
The Water Spirit Realm began to tremble, but this time, the tremors were clearly different from before.
All across the surface of the Water Cube, golden and blue eyes began to emerge, interwoven in a dazzling pattern.
"Pop! Pop! Pop!"
As soon as the eyes appeared, they burst like bubbles.
At the same time, the Water Cube rapidly expanded in size.
Zhao Xing had already retreated to a safe distance, waiting.
It took Thousand Illusions Tree a full ten years to prepare. Only in the 1224th year of the Beginning of Renewal Era did it reach its final stage.
Zhao Xing could sense that the Water Cube had swelled to its limit, its surface even starting to crack, with sharp branches piercing through.
But it still couldn't break free.
"As expected," Zhao Xing thought coldly. "Without external interference, Thousand Illusions Tree will never be able to break its own prison."
He gazed at the ever-expanding Water Cube, his eyes growing colder.
He didn't believe that once Thousand Illusions Tree was freed, it would truly honor its promise. It hadn't even bothered to make a false oath to reassure him.
"I and the Water Spirit Realm have both reached our limits," Thousand Illusions Tree finally spoke. "You may begin."
"Senior, please wait a moment." Zhao Xing pulled out the Mana Talisman. "My cultivation is weak. I need some time to activate it."
"Why didn't you say so earlier?" Thousand Illusions Tree was annoyed but didn't press further. Fortunately, it wasn't at its absolute limit yet.
Another ten years passed. Zhao Xing held the talisman in his hand, but he still hadn't activated it.
"Are you ready or not?" Thousand Illusions Tree was growing restless.
Zhao Xing, however, stared intently at its shadow, using his status panel to observe.
"Senior, just a little longer! Almost there!"
Yet another ten years passed.
At this point, Thousand Illusions Tree had reached its absolute limit.
And yet, Zhao Xing still hadn't activated the talisman.
"Are you messing with me?! I can't hold on much longer!"
"Senior, just a little more! Almost there!" Zhao Xing feigned desperation, his forehead covered in fake sweat.
Thousand Illusions Tree was now on the verge of losing its mind.
Was this human truly going to free it?
But it had already burned so much of its origin essence to reach this point. It couldn't back out now.
Ten years.
Then another ten.
Zhao Xing waited until the 1315th year of the Beginning of Renewal Era.
By now, Thousand Illusions Tree had endured a full hundred years at its limit!
Just as it was about to collapse—
"Now!"
Zhao Xing suddenly hurled the Fire-Attribute Mana Talisman.
"Boom!"
The Yin-Yang level Mana Talisman exploded, instantly shattering the Water Cube!
The Water Spirit Realm shattered into fragments, disappearing into nothingness.
A gigantic tree, once bent under unimaginable pressure, suddenly straightened.
"Shhhhaa—"
Countless leaves shook, stretching as if basking in freedom.
The ground around them erupted, sending debris flying. Even Zhao Xing was blasted backward by the powerful shockwave.
Thousand Illusions Tree continued growing, as if about to burst from the earth itself.
"Shhhhaa—"
It laughed.
Zhao Xing's eyes, however, only grew colder.
Thousand Illusions Tree hadn't mentioned a single word about transferring itself to Zhao Xing's Origin Space.
Instead, it had begun moving on its own, shaking the entire ground.
It was planning to break through the void and leave!
"Senior, so your second promise was a lie after all," Zhao Xing said with a smirk.
"Shhhhaa—yes, it was a lie."
A shadow emerged from Thousand Illusions Tree's vertical eye. It took human form, resembling a scholar, much like the master of the tomb.
"What do you intend to do with me, senior?" Zhao Xing asked, his voice playful.
Thousand Illusions Tree smiled faintly.
"In my first era of imprisonment, I decided that if anyone freed me, I would repay them with all my strength."
"After a hundred eras, I decided that if anyone freed me, I would trap them in the Water Spirit Realm."
"And now?" The tree's smile turned cruel.
"I've decided that if anyone frees me, I will kill them."
"This form of repayment, are you satisfied?"
Zhao Xing's expression twisted into mock horror.
"Senior… y-you… how could you do this?"
"Are you not even giving face to Senior Divine Fire Turtle? Or… was Senior Divine Fire Turtle also lying to me?"
Thousand Illusions Tree shook its head.
"No, that old turtle didn't lie to you. We are friends. I believe it meant well."
"And to repay it, I will kill it too, and absorb its Turtle Essence."
The humanoid shadow stepped forward.
"I seek reincarnation, to break my shackles. The old turtle shall become my Dao nourishment. It is fortunate to be chosen."
"So that's how it is," Zhao Xing said with a nod.
"Do you have any last words?" Thousand Illusions Tree asked.
"None," Zhao Xing said, shaking his head.
"I've met plenty of treacherous creatures like you before. Nothing surprises me anymore."
Thousand Illusions Tree's expression darkened.
But before it could react—
"Snap!"
Zhao Xing snapped his fingers.
The humanoid shadow was instantly sucked back into the eye on the tree trunk.
"What did you do to me?!" Thousand Illusions Tree roared.
"I'll drop the act now," Zhao Xing smirked.
"The Mana Talisman I threw? Inside it, there was also a Water-Origin Life Contract."
"Oh, you old relic probably don't understand."
"It's a life-binding contract."
Zhao Xing lifted his palm.
A strange sigil appeared, forming the image of Thousand Illusions Tree.
Finally, in the center of his palm, a golden vertical eye emerged.
"Tell me… doesn't this look just like your life essence?"
"YOU BASTARD!"
Thousand Illusions Tree howled in fury.
"Shut up!"
Zhao Xing clenched his fist, roaring in command.
Instantly, Thousand Illusions Tree went silent. Though it still shuddered, its violent movements subsided.
"Shrink!"
"Buzz!"
Thousand Illusions Tree shrank in size, reducing to just one hundred thousand li tall.
"Now, fly into my Origin Projection."
Zhao Xing activated his Origin Projection.
Thousand Illusions Tree struggled, but it couldn't resist. Obediently, it moved into the Origin Soil.
"Hmph, you think you can outsmart me?"
Zhao Xing gritted his teeth, feeling exhausted from storing his Origin Projection.
"I've captured more lifeforms than you have leaves on your branches!"