Chapter 375

"Therefore, under these circumstances, the Luofu Xianzhou needs to take the initiative to make some 'movement' so that the Marshal can legitimately express his attitude," Jing Yuan picked up the conversation and then said, "However, the problem now is that I am worried that the outcome of this matter has exceeded the Marshal's expectations."

As Jing Yuan spoke, he glanced at Ai Yue again. To be honest, he initially thought that Ai Yue could help Luo Fu overcome the current calamity with minimal losses, but he did not expect that the other party's strength was unfathomable and was now almost on par with Lord of the Empyrean Bow Siming.

If the three pieces of news—eliminating the Mara-struck, breaking the Moon Frenzy, and resolving the issue of propagation—are released all at once, will the Marshal be able to withstand it?

However, if it really comes to that, then there seems to be no need to consider this issue anymore. After all, if the Marshal can resolve these matters during her term, her prestige will definitely surpass that of everyone in the past, and Ai Yue will gain the support of the entire Xianzhou Alliance.

"Don't worry, at least for now, it's all good news." Yao Guang seemed nonchalant. "In short, just go ahead and do it with confidence. If the sky falls, the marshal will hold it up. Anyway, we've already produced a pretty good result, and even if problems arise later, we can make up for them."

"In that case, I'm relieved." Although such a verbal guarantee meant little, Jing Yuan breathed a sigh of relief. "So, who were you referring to as an ally earlier?"

"I reckon you'll find out soon enough," Yao Guang said, a hint of schadenfreude in his voice. "You've all probably heard of Ruan Mei from Genius Club #81, right? According to Yu Que's observations, she should have already arrived at the Luofu Xianzhou."

"As for how to receive this distinguished guest... well, that's none of my business. You guys better do your best!"

After saying this, Yao Guang abruptly ended the communication, leaving the three Generals looking at each other, still pondering the last message he had mentioned.

"Damn it, I just ordered the Star-chasing Sea to be sealed off today!" Jing Yuan realized and immediately began sending messages to the Divination Department. "However, the arrival of a member of the Genius Club in Luofu at this time is indeed a hot potato."

The members of the Genius Club are all highly skilled individuals. While their individual strength may be limited, their extraordinary intelligence gives them the right to stand on equal footing with major powers. For example, Black Tower, and Ruan Mei. Regardless of who they are, the knowledge they possess deserves to be treated with caution by the Xianzhou Alliance.

More importantly, the members of the Genius Club are notoriously difficult to deal with. Not only do they possess extraordinary skills, but they also generally have eccentric personalities and unpredictable tempers. No one can guarantee that they can get along with the other, let alone the fact that this is such an important matter as an alliance.

And now, at a crucial moment for the Luofu Xianzhou, Ruan Mei's arrival undoubtedly brings Jing Yuan and the others even more work.

"Actually, it's alright. I heard Sister Yukong say that her Miss Tingyun was rescued by the other party, wasn't she?" Feixiao stroked his chin, then realized something and looked at Ai Yue, "Wait, so Mr. Ai Yue should know Miss Ruan Mei, right?"

"Didn't I say that before?" Ai Yue finally looked up at Jing Yuan. "I've already messaged Ruan Mei, and she said she agreed."

"You agreed?" Jing Yuan was taken aback, somewhat confused by Ai Yue's words. "Agreed to what?"

"Didn't you say you were going to form an alliance?" Ai Yue blinked. "Is there anything else besides that?"

The three Generals looked at each other in bewilderment for a moment before finally coming to their senses. "Huh?"

After some time, another beautiful and elegant figure appeared in the Divinity Manor.

"Uh, Miss Ruan Mei, it's an honor to meet you. On behalf of the Xianzhou Alliance, I welcome you."

Jing Yuan first greeted the other party politely, and then asked tentatively, "I just heard Mr. Ai Yue say that you have agreed to the alliance?"

Logically speaking, as the host, Jing Yuan shouldn't have gotten so straight to the point. He should have at least said some polite words and exchanged pleasantries with the other party.

However, the news that Ai Yue gave was so shocking that he found it difficult to remain calm and had to first verify its authenticity.

"Yes, I have agreed." Ruan Mei's gaze lingered on Ai Yue for a moment, she nodded to him, and then looked at Jing Yuan, "Where is the covenant? Do I need to put my fingerprint or sign it?"

"Uh, sorry, things were a bit rushed, so we're not ready yet," Jing Yuan said with a subtle expression. "Why don't we sit down and discuss the conditions for the alliance?"

"Alright, then I'll speak first." Ruan Mei nodded, her cool face expressionless. "All my achievements can be shared with the Xianzhou Alliance. As for your conditions, just let me know after you've discussed them."

Isn't this a bit too much enthusiasm? Aren't the members of the Genius Club supposed to be eccentric and difficult to deal with? Who exactly is this generous woman?

After confirming that it was all real and not a dream, Jing Yuan gradually calmed down and then realized that it was all because of Ai Yue.

It was precisely because Ai Yue was here and stood with the Xianzhou Alliance that Ruan Mei so readily agreed to the alliance, without even making any demands.

Seeing that Ruan Mei had already started chatting with Ai Yue, Jing Yuan turned around and exchanged glances with the other two generals, all of whom couldn't help but show the same smile.

We must find a way to firmly tie ourselves to this powerful figure!

Chapter Sixty-Seven: Hehehe, I'm going to make the Genius Club change its name!

Yao Guang was naturally unaware of what had happened in the Divinity Manor; otherwise, she wouldn't have gloated over this hot potato, but would have tried every means to get a share of the spoils.

After all, none of her calculations had the desired effect on Ai Yue, so she had no way of knowing that Ai Yue and Ruan Mei had such a relationship.

In short, this bizarre alliance meeting came to a very quick end, taking less than a minute from start to finish, so much so that after the alliance was finalized, neither side could even produce a written contract.

However, Ruan Mei did not seem to mind. "I happen to be planning to stay in Luofu for a while longer, and all you need to do during this time is to draft an alliance treaty."

"Thank you for your understanding, Miss Ruan Mei." Jing Yuan breathed a sigh of relief. "To express our welcome, all your expenses on the Luofu Xianzhou will be covered by the Divinity Manor, so please don't have any concerns."

"Okay." Ruan Mei nodded, then walked to Ai Yue's side. "Mr. Ai Yue, it seems you're preparing a big project on the Luofu Xianzhou? Is there anything I can do to help?"

"Who told you that, Black Tower?" Ai Yue paused, trying to recall if he had let something slip. "I don't remember saying anything..."

"I guessed," Ruan Mei calmly gave her answer. "After all, the Stellar Train doesn't stay in one place for too long. You've already stayed on the Luofu Xianzhou longer than the necessary time limit, so it's clear you weren't simply attracted by the scenery of Luofu, right?"

"It seems the details weren't handled well enough. Perhaps I should let Himeko and the others go first?" Ai Yue paused for a moment, then looked at Jing Yuan, "Can we talk about this?"

"Miss Ruan Mei is already an ally of the Xianzhou Alliance, so this is an opportunity for us to express our sincerity." Jing Yuan didn't hesitate for long before deciding, "I believe that with Miss Ruan Mei's involvement, the plan will definitely proceed more smoothly."

"Alright, in that case, we'll be going." Ai Yue nodded, then snapped his fingers and disappeared with Ruan Mei, leaving only the words, "As originally planned, it will proceed as scheduled at 10:00 AM tomorrow."

Gazing at the spot where Ai Yue had disappeared, the three Generals fell silent in unison. Finally, Fei Xiao exclaimed, "To be honest, if it weren't for Miss Ruan Mei's appearance, I probably wouldn't have realized just how powerful Mr. Ai Yue truly was."

"It's not your fault, after all, Mr. Ai Yue is just too easygoing." Huai Yan couldn't help but stroke his beard as well. "Ordinary people, after gaining a certain amount of power, are prone to losing their true selves, but he clearly possesses such incredible power, yet he can still maintain this composure. It can only be described as unbelievable."

"Thinking about it carefully, the Luofu Xianzhou has received such a heavy favor from the other party, yet it has nothing to repay them with. It is truly shameful," Jing Yuan shook his head slightly. "If the Stellar Train could stay a little longer, it would be better. Once the matter of the Jianmu Rebirth has gained traction, the Xianzhou Alliance will surely be able to give Mr. Ai Yue the courtesy he deserves."

"But he clearly doesn't care about such things," Fei Xiao shrugged, then revealed a somewhat subtle expression. "Oh, by the way, I remember Mr. Ai Yue said that he wanted to see the power of the Lord of the Empyrean Bow after the matter was settled? Let Yaoging Xianzhou handle this reward. After all, I originally came here just to demand an explanation, but I've received so many benefits. I'd feel bad if I didn't give something in return."

"The Yaoging Xianzhou is engaged in numerous battles, so let's use its power for more crucial moments," Huai Yan shook his head from the side. "The Zhuming Xianzhou, on the other hand, is currently in a period of rest and recuperation, with few battles. Making a contribution here will also prevent others from saying that this old man is embezzling the credit of the younger generation, haha."

"Gentlemen, stop arguing. In terms of benefits, who can compare to the Luofu Xianzhou?" Jing Yuan shook his head, a subtle expression on his face. "Besides, using this power without authorization will lead to retribution later. I'm already burdened with debts, so how can I drag you two into this?"

Guiding the power of the Emperor Bow can be said to be the strongest move of the Xianzhou Alliance in its external wars, but it is also a forbidden method that will hurt the enemy a thousand while hurting oneself eight hundred. Therefore, it should not be used unless absolutely necessary. Thus, Jing Yuan was also very clear that Fei Xiao and Huai Yan were sharing the pressure for him.

But the more this is the case, the less he can back down. After all, what kind of logic is it to enjoy the benefits while making others bear the consequences?

However, even so, Jing Yuan couldn't help but fantasize about a way to satisfy Ai Yue's demands without having to break the rules.

Unfortunately, such a thing is probably unlikely.

Meanwhile, Ai Yue, who had overheard Jing Yuan and the others' conversation, introduced his grand project to Ruan Mei and also introduced her to Mobius.

"To modify the Jianmu tree so that it can reverse the curse of abundance within the immortal boat's body..." Ruan Mei greeted Mobius briefly before becoming completely absorbed in the grand blueprint drawn up by Ai Yue. "This is truly... what an ingenious idea!"

As an expert in the field of life sciences, Ruan Mei had naturally heard about the situation of the Immortal Boat people. The Mara-struck might have even been a subject she had worked on, so she was well aware of just how incredibly difficult it was.

A blessing from a deity is not so easily broken; to obtain its benefits while avoiding the accompanying side effects is like a fantasy.

It can be said that being able to gain great power while being constrained by weaknesses is an inherent part of the "balance" of this universe. Otherwise, powerful beings would not be restrained and would only gradually suppress the living space of the weak.

This is why the obstacles that ordinary people face in trying to overcome the side effects probably do not simply come from the power of the Star God of Abundance, but Ai Yue is different.

His existence may have already disrupted the balance of the universe, and that unique and magical Power of Light means that Ai Yue can rightfully break through the constraints of existing rules and accomplish things that are unimaginable to ordinary people.

The blueprint before her eyes undoubtedly demonstrated this to Nguyen Mai once again.

Meanwhile, Mobius was also scrutinizing Ai Yue with a subtle gaze.

"Although I knew this day would come eventually, isn't it a bit too soon?" Only after Ai Yue felt uneasy under his gaze did Mobius slowly speak, "Another genius bowing down before you, hmm?"

"This one is different; she's a genuine genius." Ai Yue shrugged. "And it's not fair to say she's completely swayed by him; it's not that dramatic."

"Is that so? I don't think so." Mobius glanced at Nguyen May again, then curled his lip. "After all, they are quite similar in some ways."

"Like what?" Ai Yue didn't understand what Mobius meant for a moment, and bluntly pointed out the mistake in her words, "Objectively speaking, Mobius, her talent is probably several streets ahead of yours."

"I know this stuff even without you telling me! Earth has internet now, I've heard of the Genius Club!" Mobius kicked Ai Yue in the shin angrily, then turned his head away. "I mean, that look is very similar."

It was just like the fervent look in her eyes when she first met Ai Yue, a look that seemed to want to devour him completely.

As for what happened later, it's safe to say no one expected it... no, perhaps they had some idea from the very beginning?

"Why are you blushing?" Ai Yue didn't try to pry into Mobius's thoughts, so he naturally didn't know that the other was recalling the whole process of how he fell for her and was still curiously probing. "Speaking of which, don't be too sad. It's just a Genius Club. You're the only assistant I acknowledge. Isn't that much better than all that other nonsense?"

"Did I say I was sad? No, why should I care about your so-called assistant title?" Mobius subconsciously replied, then realized his mistake and glared at Ai Yue again.

But then something occurred to her, and a subtle expression appeared on her face. "Speaking of which, you probably don't know yet? That guy, Vill-V, was glanced at by the Boshizun."

"Huh? Didn't the machine head crash? How come they still have time to poach my employees?" Ai Yue was taken aback, not surprised that Vill-V had such qualifications. "When did this happen?"

"It was quite a while ago, but I only found out recently because she let it slip." Mobius smiled. "But she refused, saying something like 'There can't be two suns in the sky, and in my heart there is only one sun, Ai Yue,' and she wouldn't let me tell you, probably because she was afraid you'd think she had ulterior motives."

"What's the big deal? Who cares about that kind of thing!" Ai Yue slapped his thigh in frustration. "Oh, what a pity! I was hoping someone could help me get into the Genius Club and scout out some good prospects for me!"

"Your focus is still so messy. What's the point of having so many geniuses? They can't compare to you anyway." Mobius shook his head slightly, clearly exasperated by Ai Yue's childish thought process. "In short, just pretend you don't know anything, so that Vill-V won't accuse me of snitching and trying to get a share of my funding."

"Why are you still fighting over funding? Didn't I specifically set aside funds for you?" Ai Yue was even more speechless. "After I leave, will Earth revert to its original state?"

"No, it's not that. It's mainly because... cough, Mei said we're spending money without restraint and it's a complete waste, so she's centralized the management of the money," Mobius said, a little embarrassed. "She said if we spend the money on those shady things again, she'll cut off our funding."

"Oh, that makes sense." Ai Yue immediately felt relieved, then looked at Mobius curiously, "So, what kind of mess did you guys make that Mebius couldn't stand? I remember she was quite... kind after she gave birth to Adam, she didn't even care about Vill-V's meteor launcher."

Unfortunately, Mobius remained adamant about the issue, refusing to divulge a single word no matter how much Ai Yue pressed him. Fortunately, at this moment, Ruan Mei finally finished reading through all the details about the Jianmu renovation, which diverted Ai Yue's attention.

"Mr. Ai Yue's ingenious ideas are truly breathtaking. I feel that even if I could only understand one-tenth of them, it would be enough to benefit me greatly," Ruan Mei's gaze towards Ai Yue had completely changed at this moment. "I regret to say that with my abilities, I am afraid I am not capable of providing you with even the slightest assistance."

"It's alright, you can just observe from the sidelines, we can all improve together." Ai Yue didn't seem to mind at all. "I'll ask Jing Yuan later, and if he agrees, I'll pack a copy for you to study at your leisure."

Ai Yue valued Ruan Mei quite a bit, because he knew very well that such emotionally detached research fanatics often devoted all their energy to research because they had no ties, which could easily lead them astray without realizing it. Therefore, since he had the ability, he should give her a hand to prevent her from seeing Ruan Mei's picture on some wanted poster one day.

He wasn't exaggerating; after all, there were plenty of people like that in the Genius Club. Calling them half antisocial would be an understatement. Ai Yue had, after all, received the "Anti-Life Equation" from Ruan Mei, so there was some connection between them.

"Oh, speaking of which, this is for you." Remembering the Anti-Life Equation, Ai Yue realized something, then pulled something from his pocket and handed it to Ruan Mei. "I probably won't have much time lately, so could you please pass this on to Screwllum for me?"

What he handed over was, of course, the metal skull containing the Anti-Life Equation that he had previously obtained from Ruan Mei. However, it had undergone tremendous changes, to the point that Ruan Mei did not recognize it at first glance.

Compared to the bare metal head of the past, what Ai Yue holds now looks more like a human head. It has a male face, with all the facial features and hair, and all of them have a metallic sheen, making it look like a work of art made of metal to imitate a human being.

However, upon closer inspection, one can sense a strange "life force" within it. Although the head is entirely made of metal, it gives the impression that it is breathing and may open its eyes at any moment.

"This, this is..." As a member of the Genius Club, Ruan Mei naturally understood its extraordinary nature better than most. She simply took it from Ai Yue's hands, then revealed a look of astonishment, "You've cracked the Anti-Life Equation?"

"Well, I call this thing the 'Anti-Life Equation Universal Decoder'," Ai Yue shrugged. "Simply put, the information it contains can neutralize the effects of the Anti-Life Equation, but retains the ability to enhance inorganic life forms and even various Artificial Intelligence. I believe Screwllum will make good use of it."

Ruan Mei looked down at the metal head in her hand, then looked up at Ai Yue, who stood calmly before her. She blinked and suddenly asked, "Mr. Ai Yue, do you... still accept students?"

Upon hearing this, Mobius sighed and glanced at Nguyen Mai with a slightly pitying look.

This is the second step in the fall.

Chapter Sixty-Eight: The Star God of the Hunt Sends a Congratulatory Message

Time flew by and it was already morning of the second day. Before the appointed time arrived, the streets of Luofu Xianzhou were already bustling with activity.

Jing Yuan was indeed a very capable and authoritative general. Even though it had only been a short time since the disaster of the Phantylia Invasion, he had already gained the trust of the vast majority of the Luofu people, making them believe that Luofu had found a way to eliminate the Mara-struck, and that they would start from Jianmu.

It's important to understand that not long has passed since the calamity of Jianmu's rebirth. Although a Martial Arts Ceremony has taken place in between, it won't be easy to get the people of the Immortal Ship to let go of their resistance to Jianmu.

Jing Yuan's ability to make the public's expectations outweigh their fears, to the point that they were willing to take to the streets at this moment, truly exceeded Ai Yue's expectations.

"It's all thanks to Mr. Ai Yue; I only did a tiny, insignificant thing." Jing Yuan spoke of this matter with great composure. "If I hadn't witnessed the undeniable facts firsthand, I'm afraid no matter how many methods I used, it would have been in vain."

This is clearly not a humble statement, but rather something Jing Yuan personally experienced during this process.

In fact, during the implementation of this plan, Jing Yuan encountered many stubborn Immortal Ship people who refused to believe in the matter. However, as long as they witnessed the process of soldiers corrupted by the Mara-struck returning to human form, even the most obstinate people would fall silent and begin to waver in their beliefs.

"General, time is almost up."

As the two were talking, a petite pink figure interrupted them. Fu Xuan, expressionless, gave a brief reminder, then nodded to Ai Yue: "Mr. Ai Yue, I'm entrusting everything to you."

"Don't worry," Ai Yue smiled at her, "I guarantee there won't be any problems. After all, I've already tried it."

"You tried it?" Jing Yuan looked surprised upon hearing this. "When?"

"Then you don't need to worry about it." Ai Yue gave a mysterious smile, then turned into light and disappeared in front of Jing Yuan. "Alright, it's about time, I should get back to work."

Jing Yuan paused for a moment, then shook his head and refocused his attention on the arrangements for the Cloud Cavalry.

At this moment, the bustling scene in Luofu was only slightly less chaotic than during the Martial Arts Ceremony. If order could not be maintained, it was hard to guarantee what kind of accident might happen later.

More importantly, as Luo Fu's general, he would have to preside over this special ceremony later.

To be honest, Jing Yuan was also a little uneasy. After all, he had not truly confirmed the feasibility of Ai Yue's plan. All his trust was based on his recognition of Ai Yue's strength. If the other party had not really demonstrated the ability to eliminate the Mara-struck, he probably wouldn't have dared to bet the future of an entire immortal ship on Ai Yue, no matter how bold he was.

But this is probably the closest the Xianzhou Alliance has ever had to get rid of the Mara-struck. If they fail to seize it, Jing Yuan will likely never forget it for the rest of his life.

"General." At that moment, Yanqing walked in again. "It's time. Everyone is waiting for you."

"I'm coming right now."

Jing Yuan took a few deep breaths, regained his usual composure, and then left the Divinity Manor.

As the greatest asset of the Luofu Xianzhou, he could not afford to show weakness in front of the people.

Ai Yue was unaware of Jing Yuan's subsequent arrangements. At this moment, he had returned to the Jianmu seal and begun the final adjustments.

At this moment, the seal on the Jianmu's Mystic Root has been completely released, and the Power of Abundance had been suppressed for so long roared out, transforming into an invisible ocean of energy that surged within the Scale-Abyss Realm. Wherever it went, all living beings grew wildly, quickly turning this originally quiet place into a bustling place.

In stark contrast, the Jianmu's Mystic Root is gradually shrinking. It should have expanded along with the Power of Abundance it was releasing, dominating the entire Scale-Abyss Realm, but under the influence of another powerful force, it is beginning to transform back into its most primitive form.

This is the first step in reshaping the Jianmu tree—first, to stimulate the Power of Abundance hidden within the Jianmu tree as much as possible, and then to use the Power of Light to replace it, thereby changing the characteristics of the Jianmu tree itself.

Faced with something created by a star god, Ai Yue was on high alert. Although he had already completed the entire process through some special means, it did not mean that Jianmu was something that could be easily modified. On the contrary, it was precisely because he had experienced it once that he knew exactly how much effort it would take to deal with it.