The Research Faction's connections spread like a finely woven spiderweb, quietly expanding. Regular visits to Duke Workshop's outpost for exchanges had become a fixed part of Neji's schedule. He discussed energy structures with those researchers, analyzed ancient runes, and occasionally tossed out insights derived from cultivation theory but carefully disguised. They always sparked lively discussions and earned him quite a few practical technical notes and peripheral scraps of knowledge in return. He had also participated several times in the analysis of that dark-purple crystal. With the Divine Eye and Chaos True Essence's unique perception of laws, he had indeed provided some fresh ideas, greatly satisfying Duke Workshop and further solidifying their relationship.
Meanwhile, Amaterasu Palace's daily affairs were managed flawlessly by Mo Yu and Aoba. From Azuremist Star, Senjumaru regularly sent over mined Windwhisper Crystals and Void Silver Sand. Neji invested most of them into the formations within his underground cave abode, slowly improving the energy environment of that small domain, while using a small portion to exchange for specific resources on the Mother Star.
On the surface, the newly promoted Earl Lord Isshiki Otsutsuki lived a disciplined life, diligent in cultivation and scholarship, low-key and practical.
Yet the undercurrents on the Mother Star had never ceased. Although Prince Longshi had not brought up the marriage alliance again, Neji could sense that the subtle pressure and surveillance from the Radical Faction had not eased. Huangyu's faction had not truly given up either. From time to time, seemingly casual messages or invitations reached him through certain channels, testing his attitude.
Amid this delicate balance, news that shook the upper ranks of the entire Ōtsutsuki Clan's Main House exploded like a thunderclap.
The once-in-a-century "Divine Tree Ancestral Land Secret Realm" was about to open!
The news did not come as an announcement.