I seek reincarnation, to break free of my cage!
Stepping through the Upper Luo Daoist Academy feels like entering another world.
The world outside the gate was peaceful and quiet, while the world inside was bustling with activity.
Someone Summoning Wind and Rain and rain, and thunderclouds fly across the sky, carrying with them Realm Star.
Someone steps on a scroll, the scroll opens forward, but the words and paintings behind it disappear, extending infinitely forward.
Some people practice swordsmanship by stepping on ghosts in the lake, while others forge weapons by starting fires underground.
"Boom!" Just as everyone was engrossed in watching, a pointed palace next to the gate suddenly rose from the ground, its imposing presence spreading out as it moved forward.
"Damn it!" Another burly giant carrying a small mountain ran past.
In the blink of an eye, the pavilions, towers, palaces, and strange peaks seemed to come alive, full of vitality.
"A historical scroll, recording the former glory of Shangluo Academy." A Starry Sky Historian gazed at the scroll flashing across the sky. "Countless years have passed, and this place is still perfectly preserved."
"The Book Puppet seems to be real. The scholars of the Yue Luo Ancient Kingdom are truly remarkable," Du Qing exclaimed.
The others could also see some clues, and even if they could only glimpse a corner, it was enough to be shocking.
"Let's split up and go our separate ways," Du Qing and Peng Yuan suggested. "Now that we've passed the three trials and entered the Attaining Dao, the danger shouldn't be too great. We can start looking for opportunities on our own."
You Yitian and Fan Yu exchanged a glance and nodded. "Alright, everyone go your own way. If there is any danger, you can ask Fairy Fan for help."
Fan Yu possesses a Minor Divine Ability called "Spirit Bridge," which can connect all team members.
Even if we are separated, we can still communicate over long distances.
Of course, this is weaker than [causal communication]. The scope is not as large, and the distance is not as far.
Spirit Bridge are generally used for localized connections, but causal communication can transcend galaxies.
"Spirit Bridge!"
Fan Yu formed a hand seal, and from behind her, fifty-two beams of white light condensed into a bridge, connecting everyone.
Zhao Xing did not resist the spell, and soon he felt a strange connection between himself and Fan Yu, as if they were of one mind.
Fan Yu then formed the hand seals again.
For the second time she performed the hand seals, she specially created five bridges, which she gave to You Yitian, Du Qing, Peng Yuan, and two doctors.
The first time she performed the hand seals and cast the spell, everyone could only contact her.
After the second hand seal and spell, the five people mentioned above formed a two-way Spirit Bridge.
In other words, even if Fan Yu was unable to concentrate on something, or to put it simply, she died.
The others can still seek help from You Yitian, the two scholars, and the two doctors.
"Fan Yu's Spirit Bridge power is still a bit weak. If it were a higher-ranking Minor Divine Ability like the Hall of Minds, then we wouldn't need to go through all this trouble."
After Fan Yu finished casting the spell, the group split up into small teams of two or three people to search for opportunities.
Instead of taking immediate action, You Yitian asked Zhao Xing if he was interested in joining him.
Being with someone at the Grand Mystic Power Realm will definitely lead to finding better items and greater safety.
However, Zhao Xing declined, saying, "I have already benefited greatly and dare not trouble Brother You any further."
Seeing You Yitian, You Yitian didn't insist. "If you encounter any danger, brother, let us know immediately, and we will definitely come to your rescue."
Thank you.
In Shi Xin year 1204, the original body arrived at the Upper Luo Daoist Academy in search of opportunities, and the first phase of the mission on the Huru Continent had also been completed that year.
Zhao Xing sent his clone to collect the reward from Hu Rui, then reported the situation to Lei Yunde, a subordinate of King Tianji, before continuing with the second phase of the 100-year garrison mission. He thus legitimately remained in the South Luo 21 Star Continent Cluster.
It was in this year that the Giant Yang Clone finally left the Starry Sky Formation of the Yueluo Cemetery with the members of Starfire.
"Everyone, we have landed on the Yanshan Star Land. I hereby declare the Starfire mission a complete success," Aries said with a smile. "Thank you all for your assistance on this journey."
Chen Xuan, Yue Nv, Yu Tianqing, Jing Yan, Lan Hai, and Red Peach Fairy —everyone breathed a sigh of relief.
Especially Zhao Xing, who carries a valuable treasure on his persona. He hadn't dared to say he was safe while he was in the cemetery until now, when he could finally breathe a sigh of relief.
"We've finally arrived." Jing Yan exclaimed, "It took us decades to get back. The core area is really not easy to get to."
"It's been a long and winding road, it wasn't easy," Zhao Xing remarked.
They came from the area north of Yueluo Cemetery, now the Yanshan Star Land, which belongs to the Tianyou Ancient Kingdom.
Someone will be there to meet us. Starfire will return to the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom from here. It will be quick from here on; he will be back on the Hutou Star Continent in less than a month.
After landing safely, Baiyang, Chen Xuan, Yue Nv each began to talk to their respective "informants".
This is the stage of rewarding merit.
Jing Yan, Yu Tianqing, and Zhao Xing were together. After landing, Aries found a secret room and summoned the three of them to talk.
"Yu Tianqing," Aries said, "You will be granted citizenship of the Red Star Empire, which allows you to bring five family members with you."
"If Starfire receives any more missions in the future, and you make a few more contributions, you have a very good chance of success."
"Thank you, Captain Aries." Yu Tianqing nodded. He felt he hadn't done much on this trip, so he was quite pleased to receive such treatment.
He also awakened Major Divine Ability, and he was quite satisfied with what he had gained this time.
Although the matter of settling the Pang Ze Dynasty was not settled in one go, at least there is hope!
"Zhao Xing, the entire Great Zhou Dynasty from your hometown can now move there and settle down," Aries said. "The higher-ups have already agreed, but it will take some time to prepare the specific plans."
"Thank you, Captain." Zhao Xing smiled. All that remained was site selection, verifying the number of people, and finalizing the details after settlement.
Yu Tianqing felt a pang of envy. Zhao Xing and he had made the same request, but he still had to help Starfire with a few more missions.
"Captain, what about my situation?" Jing Yan asked.
"The report has been submitted," Aries said. "But I think it's pretty risky. Even if you use the royal family's quota, it's still a bit uncertain."
Jing Yan's face immediately fell.
Zhao Xing knew what Jing Yan wanted. Starfire had a [Great Derivation Divine Weapon] at the headquarters of the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom. It was Source Origin Divine Weapon of the mechanical type, which could be used to deduce the Mechanism Great Dao!
It's a complete Magic Array version of a "supercomputer". Jing Yan's request is to go inside and take a look, and get a chance to use it to improve his [Myriad Laws Dao Soldier].
Myriad Laws Dao Soldier possesses growth potential, and as a Dao Soldier Stream himself, research into Magic Array is essential.
If he could use the [Great Derivation Divine Weapon] to perform a divination, it would undoubtedly be of great benefit to him.
However, not everyone has the opportunity to use this thing. Even if Jing Yan gets the chance, he still has to wait in line.
In terms of merit this time, it is undoubtedly difficult to be approved.
"I think you should change your request, for example, ask me to help you break through to the Third Realm," Aries asked.
"Breaking through the mere Third Realm is as easy as blinking an eye for me; I don't need Starfire's help," Jing Yan sighed. "Without breaking through the Wandering Deity Path and without the growth of the Myriad Laws Dao Soldier, my combat power won't change much even if I enter the Third Realm."
"Then there's nothing we can do," Aries said. "Rules are rules."
"Alright, let me change my request," Jing Yan said. "I want to buy a copy of the ' Heavenly Net Seven-Orbit World Formation Diagram ' from the Origin Heavenly Palace. Considering my contributions this time and my royal family quota, what's the minimum amount I'll need to pay?"
Aries considered it for a moment, then said, "You'll be fine if you pay another 150 million Red Star Coin."
Jing Yan's face immediately turned green. "You want so much?"
Even if you dismantle Jing Yan, he still wouldn't have that much money.
"I'll lend it to you," Zhao Xing said. "I still have some money."
"That's not appropriate." Jing Yan shook his head.
"What do you mean by 'appropriate' or 'inappropriate'? It's settled then," Zhao Xing said.
"You're so rich?" Aries was a little surprised.
He had no idea that Zhao Xing had previously amassed a fortune comparable to that of the Five Elements Dao Domain Realm expert.
"I am the Five Mausoleums Marquis of the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom," Zhao Xing said with a smile.
"I see," Aries said, suddenly understanding.
Only those with the strength of the Dao Domain Realm can usually obtain the merit of a Marquis.
Zhao Xing unearthed a marquisate by digging up graves, so of course he's rich!
However, the money is almost gone now. Originally 2.8 billion Red Star Coin, it is now nearly depleted.
"Okay, it's settled then." Aries nodded.
In Shi Xin year 1207, three years later, Zhao Xing, Jing Yan, Yu Tianqing returned to the Hutou Star Continent and parted ways with Starfire.
Zhao Xing's Giant Yang Clone finally returned to the Five Mausoleums Marquis Residence and met with the people of Great Zhou.
"Che, how is Ji Si's cultivation going?" Zhao Xing's Giant Yang Clone entered the Profound Yellow World Ark where the Great Zhou resided.
"Ji Si has already reached the peak of the Minor Mystic Power Realm," Ji Che introduced. "Of the 500 million Red Star Coin, half was spent on hiring scholars to spread the Dao, and another 100 million Red Star Coin were used to purchase resources, including spiritual substances and secret techniques. Now he has seven Minor Divine Ability, four Historian Divine Powers, and three Fate Officials Powers."
Currently practicing the eighth technique.
"Oh? That's quite fast." Zhao Xing remarked with some surprise.
He gave Ji Si 500 million Red Star Coin without considering the cost-effectiveness; he only wanted to quickly promote Ji Si.
However, Ji Si's cultivation results surprised him. He had expected that Ji Si could only master two supernatural abilities, but now she had mastered seven and even reached the perfection of the Minor Mystic Power Realm.
The key point is that there is still 150 million left.
With the same amount of money, Ji Si's results far surpassed those of others, which is quite remarkable.
"I'll go take a look."
"He is in the Sky Tomb Mansion in Abundance Capital."
"I see."
With a thought, Zhao Xing transformed into light and headed towards the Heavenly Curtain Palace.
The Realm Boat that the Great Zhou now resides in is naturally not the dilapidated thing it used to be, which could only accommodate the land of three continents.
The current Realm Boat's internal layout is a complete replica of the Nineteen Provinces of the Profound Yellow World, and even the Four Seas have been copied.
"Whoosh~"
Zhao Xing appeared by a Spirit Lake, where Ji Si was sitting on a rock facing the water, cultivating.
"Greetings to the Grand Minister of Agriculture."
Ji Si stood up and clasped her hands in greeting.
"You seem a little surprised," Zhao Xing asked.
"Yes," Ji Si replied, "I never expected to meet the Grand Minister of Agriculture today."
Zhao Xing was only at the Minor Mystic Power Realm, and only at the late stage. Ji Si already had seven divine powers, and could see the past and future. She should have been able to predict the future of cultivators with lower levels than herself, but she couldn't see that Zhao Xing would come today.
"Hahaha, if you could have predicted that, I would have died out there long ago." Zhao Xing couldn't help but burst into laughter.
Especially the Giant Yang Clone, who now possesses a page of the Mysterious Spirit History. If Ji Si could foresee this, she would probably be completely doomed.
"Ji Si, the Great Zhou is expected to migrate in a hundred years, but you must stay and help me," Zhao Xing said.
"I'm ready," Ji Si nodded.
"Aren't you going to ask what it is?"
"Even if it gets really bad, it's still just death," Ji Si said calmly. "I'm prepared for that."
"Not at all," Zhao Xing waved his hand and said, "On the contrary, you must do everything you can to protect yourself, because I will entrust my life and death to you."
Ji Si was taken aback; he hadn't expected Zhao Xing to entrust him with such a heavy responsibility.
Is the life and death of the Grand Minister of Agriculture in his own hands?
"Keep this Qiankun Ring safe." Zhao Xing took out a ring. "Don't worry about it normally, and you can't open it anyway."
"You'll know when to use it, of course—I hope you never will."
"Yes." Ji Si solemnly put it away.
Zhao Xing did not let Ji know about the Time Page right now.
The condition for opening this Qiankun Ring is the moment its original owner dies.
He would regularly send his map coordinates to Ji Si.
Once death occurs, the ring will activate, and Ji Si will try her best to rush over and use the Time Page to rewind to the corresponding coordinate area.
"Alright, you can continue your cultivation," Zhao Xing said. "You don't need to worry about the affairs of the Great Zhou for now, and you don't need to worry about your cultivation resources."
I will fully support you.
"Yes."
After giving his instructions, Zhao Xing's Giant Yang Clone stayed on the Hutou Star Continent to rest.
Upper Luo Daoist Academy, behind the mountain.
Amidst the vast, undulating mountain range, a figure appeared amidst the clouds and mist.
"After three years of avoiding all the dangers along the way, we've finally found our place," Zhao Xing said, looking ahead.
There is a barrier ahead, constructed from rich spiritual energy.
It is light blue and is a cube. It looks like the Water Cube, nestled among the mountains.
"No one should be coming here anymore." Zhao Xing glanced around. "Whether it's the Book Puppet or the exploration teams, there have been quite a few 'opportunities' blocking our way along the way."
Zhao Xing slowly approached the Water Cube Spirit World.
As it approached within ten thousand miles, the Water Spirit World suddenly rippled, with waves spreading from the inside of the cube and then into the void.
The light traveled outwards through the void, and Zhao Xing's vision blurred.
When he looked again, he found himself back in his original position, 30 million miles away from the Water Cube.
"What a powerful illusion! I fell for it without even realizing it."
Zhao Xing discovered that he had gone there on clouds and was returning on clouds.
There are two very obvious traces of Cloud Method.
"Again."
Zhao Xing continued to advance on the clouds. His main body was not as fast as the Giant Yang Clone, only about eight times the speed of light. This was mainly because the Cloud Method was merely Void Law, while the Giant Yang Clone exceeded sixteen times the speed of light.
Thirty million miles was not a long distance for Zhao Xing, but after approaching within ten thousand miles, Zhao Xing was about to enter the area in the next second.
Yet, he couldn't help but use Cloud Method to retreat.
After failing twice in a row, Zhao Xing did not force the issue, but instead stood in the air, thirty million miles away, and pondered.
"No matter how fast I go, it's useless. As soon as I get close, I get hit and then I can't help but fly backward."
"This is a Mind Illusion Art!"
"It's very simple; it influences my thinking, makes the thought of 'retreating' occupy my entire mind, and then I can't help but do it."
"This move is simple and brutal, there's nothing fancy about it, it's purely about intimidating people with rank."
Many illusions are quite elaborate, such as creating a false world that makes people fall into it, or digging into the people and things that the opponent fears and materializing them.
All of these can be called the Soul Illusion Stream.
Mind Illusion Art, on the other hand, act directly on the mind, much like the Qi Sect in martial arts—simple and brutal.
Those who are infected are even conscious, knowing they have been infected, but they simply cannot withstand it.
The Illusionist style is similar to the Sword Sect Master in martial arts, emphasizing technique and even utilizing talismans, illusions, and Magic Array to support the illusion.
Those who fall victim to the illusion are unaware that they have entered a hallucination.
"Let's try using the power of willpower."
Zhao Xing decided to take the hit head-on. He hadn't used his willpower earlier mainly because he wasn't sure if he would face a stronger counterattack.
But after two consecutive attempts without suffering any harm, he decided to try using his willpower.
This time, Zhao Xing relatively slowly.
When the ripples on the Water Cube reappeared, Zhao Xing immediately unleashed his willpower, the Slaughter Thought Blade.
"The blade severs the flesh, the heart severs the soul; the Slaughter Thought Blade, devoid of self and other."
Zhao Xing's eyes turned cold and filled with murderous intent.
The mind is like a bloodthirsty sword, eager to slay all enemies in the world.
The pain of body and soul, the fear of death, will all be suppressed by this overwhelming killing intent, and all other thoughts will be eliminated.
This supernatural power is not a traditional method of spiritual cultivation, but rather a somewhat unorthodox approach.
There is a small drawback to using this kind of willpower: if you fight an enemy, it will be difficult to hold back, and you will definitely go all out to kill the enemy.
"Metaphor"
The water rippled and spread once again.
Zhao Xing's mind wavered. Besides the thought of killing, he still had the idea of backing down.
The urge to kill had taken over, and his body continued to fly forward.
They flew to an area nearly 10,000 miles away again.
The ripples in the Water Cube vibrated more violently, and the Slaughter Thought Blade collapsed after holding on for ten breaths.
Zhao Xing was once again unable to resist and flew back to a place thirty million miles away.
But this time it wasn't without effect.
A line of text from the Yue Luo Ancient Kingdom appeared on the Water Cube:
Do not try again; this is not your time.
Upon seeing this, Zhao Xing immediately bowed towards the Water Cube: "Senior Qianhuan, it was Senior Divine Fire Turtle who sent me here."
He guessed that the Thousand Illusion Tree was conveying a message, otherwise it wouldn't be using such colloquial language.
The Water Cube indeed shook, and a green shadow appeared on the walls.
What proof do you have?
Zhao Xing thought for a moment and said, "Senior Divine Fire Turtle said that you are his friend and that they haven't seen each other for a long time."
"Senior Divine Fire Turtle wants me to help you escape your predicament and meet him."
The Divine Fire Turtle was unable to leave the Heavy Water River due to some kind of rule, so Zhao Xing guessed that the Thousand Illusion Tree was the same.
Zhao Xing sensed a longing for freedom in the old tortoise's words.
The tomb's occupants have been dead for who knows how long; who would want to spend their remaining years here in solitude?
The Water Cube remained silent for a long time before finally displaying a line of text. "Your cultivation is too weak to help me."
Zhao Xing thought for a moment, then asked, "What conditions are needed to help you escape this predicament, senior?"
The Water Spirit World and I are one; I am the core of this formation. To save me, the Water Spirit World must first be destroyed.
If the Water Spirit World is destroyed, I must move immediately, otherwise I will die soon, and your Source Origin Space simply cannot contain me.
Zhao Xing summarized that two conditions must be met in order to take away the Thousand Illusion Tree.
One is to destroy the Water Spirit World.
Secondly, one's own Source Origin Space is large enough to transfer it immediately.
"The second condition is easy to meet, but the first one is a bit difficult," Zhao Xing thought to himself.
The Origin Sea World he cultivated had three layers in total. Its only notable feature was its sheer size.
After all, this method was developed by spending money and resources. In which area were these resources invested? In expanding the scope of application.
Even Huangfu Yun, the Agricultural Official who specializes in following the Way of the True Self, said that Zhao Xing's Source Origin Space gave him a sense of "magnificence".
As for the rudiments of the Five Elements Great Dao within, that is, the other characteristics, they are rather conventional.
"The difficulty lies in breaking through the Water Spirit World, but escaping isn't something I can do alone. Let's see if the Thousand Illusion Tree can solve some problems on its own." Zhao Xing immediately used his Origin Projection to expand it to its maximum. "Senior Thousand Illusion Tree, please take a look."
"My Source Origin Space has a stable spiritual energy index of 215, Five Elements Great Dao are relatively balanced, but the space is quite large."
"Is it possible for you to stay here?"
The Thousand Illusion Tree quickly replied, "It's possible, but it won't be very useful. You're only at the Source Origin Realm; it'll be difficult for you to destroy the Water Spirit World."
"Senior, although I am weak, I have considerable wealth and connections. If you have a solution to get out of this predicament, I might be able to think of a way."
Zhao Xing deliberately let the Cloud-Soaring Vine show off its strength. The Third Realm Cloud-Soaring Vine spread out, covering the sky and almost completely enveloping the Water Cube.
The Thousand Illusion Tree is not Void Seed. Although the Cloud-Soaring Vine is of a lower quality than the Thousand Illusion Tree, in terms of the essence of life, the Void Origin of the Cloud-Soaring Vine is something that even the Thousand Illusion Tree can only envy.
In addition, this also proves Zhao Xing's ability: I am indeed just a minor Source Origin Realm, but I can afford to use the Cloud-Soaring Vine!
Seeing that Thousand Illusion Tree had not answered for a long time, Zhao Xing did not try to persuade him further. "It seems that I am not destined to help you, senior. I apologize for disturbing you."
After saying that, Zhao Xing turned and left, his departure resolute.
"Wait a minute."
This time, the Thousand Illusion Tree spoke.
There's nothing we can do; the Thousand Illusion Tree has been here for a very, very long time.
It was from the same era as the old tortoise, and they were about the same age. However, in terms of lifespan, it was also nearing its end.
When plant life develops thought and will, the will to survive becomes an instinct.
The Thousand Illusion Tree did not want to wither and die here.
Having waited a long time to meet such a person, Thousand Illusion Tree did not want to lose this opportunity.
Unfortunately, Zhao Xing was too weak and not a suitable candidate.
The Thousand Illusion Tree originally planned to wait for the next wave of people to arrive. Now that a challenger has come, more people should be able to enter the Daoist Canon.
But... what if only Zhao Xing comes in this time?
How much longer can he wait?
"Please give your orders, senior." Zhao Xing turned back again, not worried that the Thousand Illusion Tree wouldn't take the bait.
A drowning person will grasp at even the smallest straw, let alone someone who is, at least, a rope.
The Magic Array in the Water Spirit World originates from the "Heaven and Earth Transformation Array." I was planted here long ago, and it provided me with ample nourishment and spiritual energy. However, after I reached my peak, the array reversed its function.
[They continuously extract my essence, transport it elsewhere, and craft it into treasures.]
The reason I cannot escape is that the stronger I am, the stronger the binding force of this Magic Array becomes.
Zhao Xing nodded repeatedly, indicating that he understood.
He had never heard of the Heaven and Earth Transformation Magic Array, but as long as the Thousand Illusion Tree explained its effects, he understood the underlying principles.
Once he understood the principle, he would know a great deal about similar Magic Array.
"In other words, the senior can never escape on his own strength, because this Magic Array is based on the senior's essence as its core."
[Yes.]
The power of this Magic Array always increases in real time along with the growth of the Thousand Illusion Tree's strength.
Even if the Thousand Illusion Tree reaches the Life and Death Dao Domain Realm, it still cannot break the shackles of the Water Spirit World.
It's as if an ordinary person couldn't lift themselves up by stepping on their right foot with their left.
An external force must intervene.
"May I ask what level of cultivation you have, senior?"
[Life and Death Dao Domain Realm]
"So, it means that external forces at the Dao Domain Realm are required?"
[I don't need to reach the power of the Life and Death Dao Domain Realm. When I was struggling against the Magic Array, I only needed the power of the Yin Yang Dao Domain Realm to break it.]
"It could even be lower," Zhao Xing thought to himself.
He was very familiar with this type of Magic Array. Some non- Agricultural Official professions also liked to plant trees, but they couldn't subdue them, so they were often bound by similar Magic Array.
Of course, the Agricultural Official might not be able to subdue him, depending on the difference in strength between the two sides.
Zhao Xing needs to be prepared before he agrees to rescue the Thousand Illusion Tree.
Otherwise, if the Thousand Illusion Tree were to harm him, it could easily burst the Source Origin Space.
He is also skilled in Mind Illusion Art, and if things go wrong, he might Inverted Heavenly Dipper, and instead of the Thousand Illusion Tree becoming his soldiers, he might become the Thousand Illusion Tree's slave.
Plant life growing in the wild usually develops self-awareness when it reaches maturity or its peak, out of a need.
In a relatively safe environment where survival is not a concern, self-awareness develops later and is more docile once it is developed.
"The Thousand Illusion Tree has existed for so long, it must be wild and untamed, and it is also skilled in Mind Illusion Art. My willpower is far from sufficient to subdue and control it. To rescue it, I must also consider my own safety."
Zhao Xing quickly came up with an idea and replied, "Senior, please wait patiently, I will go and think of a way to save you."
Zhao Xing ran Upper Luo Daoist Academy, and the moment he unleashed the Divine Turtle Transformation, he was expelled, and his figure reappeared in the cold pool.
The Nameless Star Land had changed its appearance again, with increasingly higher levels of defense, but the number of explorers had not increased much.
"Zhao Xing, you're out. Did you gain anything?" Scholar Du Wen was still in the center of the nine gates of light, teaching the others about Food Supplement Art.
"Not much to gain," Zhao Xing shook his head. He only obtained a Yue Luo Pill to nourish his soul when he asked the question in the Second Stage, which was worth a little over ten million Red Star Coin, hardly a gain at all.
"Haha, you don't need to look so gloomy," Du Wen laughed. "The Lord of the Prefecture has been out for two years. Even if you haven't gained anything, the Lord of the Prefecture still has 10%."
"The Lord of the Manor has already come out?" Zhao Xing was also overjoyed.
Du Yun's share of the profits is the real money! He's really worried about not having enough cash!
"Yes, the lord said that upon seeing you, he wants you to come and see him," Du Wen said with a smile. "He wants you to go and share the money."
"Thank you for informing me, sir!"
Zhao Xing flew towards the base in a flash.
"Zhao Xing, you've arrived." Du Yun was talking to several guest retainers when he saw Zhao Xing coming over. He waved his hand, signaling the guest retainers to step back.
When the guest advisors saw Zhao Xing, their eyes were filled with a hint of envy.
Clearly, Du Yun gained a lot this time.
Even if Zhao Xing gets 10%, that would be an enormous benefit!
"Greetings, Lord of the Manor."
"Haha, don't be so Guest Qi." Du Yun laughed and waved to stop Zhao Xing from bowing. "You've brought me so much benefit, why are you still being so Guest Qi? Don't bow to me anymore."
"Don't call me Lord, just call me by my name."
It seems Du Yun had a good haul, otherwise he wouldn't be in such a good mood.
"Alright, I called you here today to share the money." Du Yun gestured for Zhao Xing to sit down.
"Can you guess how valuable this Daoist text is?"
Du Yun and Zhao Xing kept each other in suspense.
"It should exceed 1 trillion Red Star Coin?" Zhao Xing estimated.
"Haha, guess again! Be bolder!" Du Yun laughed.
"Ten trillion?"
"That's right, I had someone appraise it, and this Daoist scriptures are worth about 15 trillion!" Du Yun said.
"So many?" Zhao Xing was immediately shocked.
"In the twenty-odd years I've been inside, I've acquired a Source Origin Divine Weapon," Du Yun said with a slight smile. "Thanks to you, this is the third Source Origin Divine Weapon I've ever obtained!"
"Therefore I say that the total estimated value of this Daoist canon is 15 trillion Red Star Coin."
"No wonder—" Zhao Xing muttered to himself.
Above the World Star Dao Soldiers are the Taiyin Dao Soldiers, the Solar Dao Soldier, and the Source Origin Divine Weapon.
Those at the Grand Mystic Power Realm / Five Elements Dao Domain Realm usually use Taiyin Dao Soldiers as weapons, which allows them to fully unleash their power.
Solar Dao Soldier, corresponding to the Yin Yang Dao Domain Realm.
The Source Origin Divine Weapon corresponds to the Life and Death Dao Domain Realm.
Above that are the Reincarnation Dao Soldier, who, in addition to their immense power, are indispensable for active reincarnation.
If someone in the Reincarnation Realm doesn't possess a Reincarnation Dao Soldier and chooses to reincarnate voluntarily, it's tantamount to suicide, with an extremely slim chance of success.
Reincarnation Dao Soldier are extremely rare. In the Xuanling Star Domain, out of the 100,000 ancient kingdoms, each kingdom has only a handful of the Reincarnation Realm. In the weaker ones, only the Lord of the Kingdom is at the Reincarnation Realm. Super powers have a few more.
The higher the level of weaponry, the rarer the materials become.
To reach the level of Source Origin Divine Weapon, many of the materials used to forge it are 'non-renewable'.
Even the lowest-ranking Taiyin Dao Soldiers generally cost over 100 million Red Star Coin.
Solar Dao Soldier, even low-grade ones, generally cost over 10 billion Red Star Coin.
Even the lowest grade of the Source Origin Divine Weapon starts at trillions.
Back then, Du Yun asked someone to say that he needed five trillion Red Star Coin to get someone to speak to him at the Reincarnation Temple, and he wanted a slightly better Source Origin Divine Weapon as a gift.
The other party also looked down on them and was unwilling to get involved in this mess.
Du Yun originally only had two Source Origin Divine Weapon, but now he has obtained a third one, and it's not even the worst kind, so he is naturally happy.
He explored the first wave and eventually obtained the entire Daoist Canon, which was valued at 15 trillion Red Star Coin. How could Du Yun not be happy?
"Zhao Xing, according to our previous agreement, you will receive 10%, which is 1.5 trillion. Of course, this will be given in stages, since it is only an estimate and we haven't received it yet."
"But I have already obtained a Source Origin Divine Weapon, and you can immediately receive 100 billion Red Star Coin."
"Tell me, do you want money or treasure?" Du Yun asked.
Zhao Xing finally understood: if he wanted money, Du Yun would give him money, but Zhao Xing didn't have the means to buy many good things.
So Du Yun thoughtfully acted as a "personal shopper," since Zhao Xing lacked the channels, but he had plenty.
Du Yun's share of the profits came at just the right time; he was just wondering how to subdue the Thousand Illusion Tree.
"Lord, I need some treasures." Zhao Xing cupped his hands and said, "Please purchase them for me, Lord."
"Go ahead," Du Yun said confidently.
Below the level of Source Origin Divine Weapon, they can be purchased with common currencies. At the level of Source Origin Divine Weapon and Reincarnation Dao Soldier, it's a matter of bartering, using items like Five Emperors Coins or Profound Spirit Ancient Coin. Moreover, it takes a long time to complete a single transaction because the items the seller needs are not easily obtained.
"I want a magic charm," Zhao Xing made his first request.
"A magic talisman?" Du Yun nodded. "No problem. What level and type do you need?"
A magic charm is a very simple type of talisman.
When a practitioner of magic reaches the Dao Domain Realm, their spiritual power and magic combine to transform into 'magical power'.
Within the Five Elements Dao Domain Realm, magical power also possesses various fundamental attributes. This magical power inherently carries power; when stored within a talisman, it can unleash attacks at the Dao Domain Realm level. It is a very simple and unadorned type of talisman.
"Fire element, Yin Yang Dao Domain Realm level," Zhao Xing said.
Fire overcomes wood, and Thousand Illusion Tree said that the Five Elements Dao Domain Realm was sufficient, but Old Master Zhao wouldn't listen to Thousand Illusion Tree's words entirely.
It's best to be well-prepared and have some insurance. Of course, there's no need for a magic talisman at the Life and Death Dao Domain Realm, unless he wants to kill the Thousand Illusion Tree and sell it as material.
"That's not difficult, a billion Red Star Coin is the maximum," Du Yun said casually.
Mana talismans, those at the Yin Yang Dao Domain Realm, can be repeatedly created and continuously regenerated, so they won't be too expensive. After all, they are disposable items; if they were too expensive, no one could afford them.
The Purple God Talisman that Du Yun gave to Zhao Xing is a kind of magic talisman. The Purple God Talisman is slightly more powerful and sells for more than a few hundred million.
"Is there anything else?"
"I also need a set of ' Water Origin Life Contract,' preferably produced by a master from the Origin Heavenly Palace," Zhao Xing said.
A legal contract is a type of treasure related to contracts.
Ordinary constraints, cause and effect, Fate Soul, can be resolved with a vow.
But a legal contract is a contract with a physical form.
The Water Origin Life Contract is a physical contract item specifically designed for 'aquatic species' in plant life.
It's like putting a collar on the Thousand Illusion Tree, giving it control over its life and death.
"Water Origin Life Contract? What is that? It sounds like a contract item," Du Yun thought to himself.
As the saying goes, "every profession has its own secrets," and he didn't really understand what Zhao Xing was talking about either.
But it's okay if he doesn't understand, as long as we have this thing.
Zhao Xing said that "it would be best if it were made by a master craftsman from the Origin Heavenly Palace," so it must exist.
"Okay, that's fine too," Du Yun nodded. "If you don't have any other requests, I'll give you the rest in cash?"
Zhao Xing thought for a moment and said, "I have another favor to ask."
"You say."
"Brother Du, just transfer 5 billion Red Star Coin to me. I'd like to keep the rest with you for now."
Du Yun was taken aback by his words: "What are you doing? Are you afraid I'll kill you and then deny everything?"
"No, how could I possibly look down on Brother Du like that? This is exactly what it means," Zhao Xing quickly said.
"If I take so much money at once, I'm afraid I'll attract unwanted attention. It's safer to keep it with Brother Du than with me."
He, a mere Five Mausoleums Marquis, suddenly possessed trillions of Red Star Coin.
How can someone at the Minor Mystic Power Realm possess so much money?
Even someone who has just reached the Life and Death Dao Domain Realm might not have trillions in liquid assets. Without a powerful background, they're practically a piece of easy prey!
Back then, the sorcerer Jiu easily breached the defense system of the Hutou Star Continent, and He Yin Marquis effortlessly tracked down his whereabouts— Zhao Xing had absolutely no trust that the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom could protect him, the Five Mausoleums Marquis. It was barely able to protect itself!
Du Yun's protection? We can't just add this trouble for nothing.
"If I keep my money, a bunch of people will dare to rob me. But if Brother Du holds it for me, no one will dare to rob me," Zhao Xing said.
Everyone knows that Du Yun possesses two great Source Origin Divine Weapon, the Twilight Cloud Sword and the Sunset Armor, yet no one has tried to take them from Du Yun over the years.
"That's true, it was my oversight." Du Yun nodded.
Sending gifts or doing personal shopping is relatively discreet. But transferring money is a different story.
It wasn't particularly conspicuous for Zhao Xing to have 5 billion Red Star Coin in his account. After all, there were many examples of people getting rich overnight in the Illusory God Star System. If there were more, it would be eye-catching.
"Okay, let's do it your way." Du Yun readily agreed.
Zhao Xing is his lucky star now, so naturally he has no reason to refuse.
In Shi Xin year 1214, Zhao Xing obtained two treasures: the "Water Origin Life Contract" and the "Fire Element Mana Talisman (Yin Yang Grade)," in addition to 5 billion Red Star Coin.
Du Yun was efficient, and Zhao Xing didn't delay either, immediately going back into the Daoist canon.
After overcoming numerous obstacles, they soon arrived at the Water Spirit World.
"Senior Qianhuan, I'm back."
"I'm all ready. I've obtained a magic talisman."
Zhao Xing shouted.
Within the Water Spirit World, a towering tree stands tall, with a vertical eye on its trunk.
The leaves are also covered with golden veins, like eyes.
The tree trunk's eyes, which had been closed, suddenly opened, revealing a human-shaped phantom.
"They've finally arrived." A hint of suppressed madness flickered in Thousand Illusion Tree's eyes.
"May I have your name."
"Senior, my name is Zhao Xing."
"Okay, Zhao Xing, I will repay you properly after we get out of here."
"I dare not ask for anything in return. I only ask that you promise to save me once in the future."
"Good.
The Water Spirit World began to tremble, and this tremor was clearly different from the past.
The entire exterior of the Water Cube features eyes that are interwoven with gold and blue.
"Mwah mwah mwah~"
After the eyes appeared, Destruction like bubbles.
At the same time, the volume of the Water Cube is also expanding rapidly.
Zhao Xing had already run far away to wait.
It took the Thousand Illusion Tree ten years to prepare, until the year 1224 of the Shi Xin.
Zhao Xing also sensed that the Water Cube seemed to have expanded to a critical value, with even sharp branches extending out.
But it just can't be broken.
"As expected, without external intervention, the Thousand Illusion Tree will never be able to break free of its cage on its own."
Zhao Xing looked at the expanding Water Cube, his eyes growing colder and colder.
He didn't believe that after the Thousand Illusion Tree came out, it would really repay him as he said, or even make a vow or pretend to do so.
"Both I and the Water Spirit World have reached our limits," the Thousand Illusion Tree spoke. "You can make your move now."
"Senior, please wait a moment." Zhao Xing took out a magic talisman. "My strength is weak, and it will take me a while to unleash its power."
"Why didn't you say so earlier?" Thousand Illusion Tree was a little annoyed, but fortunately he hadn't really reached his limit and had mentioned it beforehand.
Ten years later, the talisman in Zhao Xing's hand remained dormant.
"Are you done yet?" Thousand Illusion Tree, sounding a little anxious.
Zhao Xing stared intently at the shadow of the Thousand Illusion Tree, observing it through the control panel.
"Senior, just hang in there a little longer, it'll be over soon!"
Another ten years have passed.
The Thousand Illusion Tree has reached its absolute limit.
However, Zhao Xing still did not issue the talisman.
"Are you even capable? I can't hold on much longer!"
"Senior, right away!"
Zhao Xing pretended to be covered in sweat.
The Thousand Illusion Tree was becoming somewhat agitated.
Is this human really able to save me?
However, he had already consumed so much of his essence, and he was unwilling to give up like this.
Ten years after ten years, Zhao Xing waited until the year 1315 of the Shi Xin Era. By then, the Thousand Illusion Tree had endured a hundred years of extreme hardship!
Just when the Thousand Illusion Tree was about to collapse.
"Now!"
Zhao Xing threw out the Fire Elemental Talisman.
"Boom!!"
The Yin-Yang level fire talisman instantly blasted the Water Cube to pieces.
The Water Spirit World shattered into fragments and exploded, disappearing without a trace.
A large tree that had been bent over suddenly straightened up.
"Sieve, sieve, sieve~"
Countless leaves trembled, stretching out their bodies freely. It was as if countless eyes were laughing.
Debris flew everywhere, and Zhao Xing was also thrown back by the terrifying shockwave.
The Thousand Illusion Tree continued to grow, seemingly about to break through the soil.
"The Thousand Illusion Tree seems to be laughing."
Zhao Xing's gaze grew increasingly cold.
The Thousand Illusion Tree never mentioned transferring to its own Source Origin Space.
It moved its body on its own, causing the entire earth to shake; it could easily have broken through the air and gone on its own!
"Senior, your second request was indeed a lie." Zhao Xing chuckled.
"Sieve, sieve, sieve~ It really is a lie." A figure walked out of Thousand Illusion Tree's eyes. He was dressed in a scholar's robe and seemed to have transformed into the appearance of the tomb owner.
"What does Senior intend to do for me?" Zhao Xing asked with amusement.
Thousand Illusion Tree smiled slightly, "In the first era after I was imprisoned, I decided to do everything in my power to repay the person who rescued me."
"One hundred epochs later, I decided to imprison the person who saved me in the Water Spirit World."
"Now, I've decided to kill the person who saved me."
"Are you satisfied with this way of repaying me?"
Zhao Xing said with a look of horror, "Senior, how... how could you do this?"
"Are you not even going to give face to Senior Divine Fire Turtle? Or is Senior Divine Fire Turtle lying to me too?"
Thousand Illusion Tree shook his head and said, "No, the old tortoise didn't lie to you. He and I are indeed friends, and I believe he meant well."
"To repay him, I will kill it and absorb its tortoise essence."
The phantom of the Thousand Illusion Tree walked over step by step. "I wish to Reincarnation and break free from the cage. The old tortoise has become nourishment for my Great Dao, which is its blessing."
"I see." Zhao Xing nodded.
"Is there anything else you'd like to say?" Thousand Illusion Tree asked.
"No, that's all." Zhao Xing shook his head. "I've seen plenty of soldiers with such a terrible personality as you, so I'm not surprised."
Upon hearing this, Thousand Illusion Tree frowned.
Then its expression changed.
"Snap!" Zhao Xing snapped his fingers.
The illusory humanoid figure of the Thousand Illusion Tree was immediately sent flying back and disappeared into the eye on the tree trunk.
"What... what did you do to me?!"
The Thousand Illusion Tree roared angrily.
"I'm coming clean, I'm not pretending anymore," Zhao Xing said with a smile. "Within the magic talisman that flew towards the Water Spirit World, there is a Water Origin Life Contract."
"Oh, you old-fashioned fellow probably wouldn't understand."
"It is a life contract."
Strange patterns appeared on Zhao Xing's palm, gradually forming the shape of the Thousand Illusion Tree.
Finally, a golden vertical eye appeared in Zhao Xing's palm.
"Look, doesn't it resemble your life structure?"
"You bastard!!"
The Thousand Illusion Tree roared furiously.
"Shut up!"
Zhao Xing clenched his fist and roared.
The Thousand Illusion Tree indeed shut up, and although it was still shaking, the amplitude immediately decreased.
"Shrink!"
Buzz~
The Thousand Illusion Tree immediately shrank in size, eventually becoming only 100,000 miles tall.
"Fly in by yourself."
Zhao Xing unfolded the Origin Projection.
The Thousand Illusion Tree was completely unable to resist and obediently moved into the primordial soil.
"Hmph, trying to mess with me?"
Zhao Xing laboriously put away the Origin Projection.
"I've recruited more soldiers than you have leaves on your body!"