Order Palace

In the void, there were no stars, no light—only boundless depths.

Within those depths, countless tiny points of light could vaguely be seen drifting and circulating.

Those points of light were not stars, but fragments of laws he had refined over countless ages.

With every blink, new fragments of laws were refined; with every gaze, old fragments of laws merged into his domain.

"I am Gu Yuan, the Grand Elder of the Star Sea Chamber of Commerce's Council of Elders."

He paused, then continued, "By order of the Council of Elders, I have come to invite you to the Chamber's headquarters for a discussion. As for Elder Mo, I will explain things to him myself." When he said "explain," his tone was light, as though it were some utterly trivial matter.

Chu Ming looked at him without speaking.

His gaze was as calm as a pool of deep water.

Gu Yuan met his eyes, the gentle smile still on his face.

Yet there was now a hint of scrutiny in that smile.

He was observing Chu Ming.

Observing every detail about him.

Observing the Order Armor on him, the circulating runes, the cloak behind him, and the faint, elusive aura winding around his body.

After a moment, he withdrew his gaze and nodded slightly.

"You truly live up to your reputation, young friend."

Chu Ming spoke indifferently. "An invitation? Or a seizure?"

Gu Yuan smiled.

There was appreciation in that smile, as well as a trace of indescribable complexity.

"You misunderstand, young friend."

He shook his head, his tone sincere.

"The Chamber has no intention of taking your things by force. We merely wish to ask you for a favor."

He paused, then continued, "A layer of power is sealed within the Order Armor.

"That power is recorded in the