The two walked into Heber's palace and arrived at a huge circular hall. Five floating thrones each occupied a place. Heber sat on one of the thrones, while two of the other four thrones were already occupied by Sisko and Austin.
"Hehe, we meet again so soon after all," Austin greeted with a smile.
"That old geezer..." Han Xiao muttered to himself, glancing at Sisko on the other side.
Sisko, who almost never attends Tyrant's Gathering, was quite surprised to be invited.
'Hmm, maybe it's because the Evolution Cube is gone, and he doesn't have to stay home anymore, so Sisko isn't staying home as much?'
Han Xiao muttered to himself.
"Black Star." Sisko nodded, his face calm, his seven eyes revealing no emotion, as if Han Xiao were not the enemy who had stolen his treasure.
Han Xiao was unsure of Sisko's intentions, so he didn't speak, but simply nodded in response.
Although everyone has conflicts of interest and grudges, they are all Beyond Grade A beings in the Shattered Star Ring star field. They will run into each other all the time, so in this situation, they are unlikely to start fighting as soon as they meet.
Ames floated up and sat in the empty seat, and all four of them focused their attention on Han Xiao, waiting for him.
Han Xiao smiled, leaped up, and landed in the last empty seat, which was also the newly added fifth throne.
At this moment, I officially entered this small circle.
The five people sat facing each other, marking the new order of power among the peak combatants of the Shattered Star Ring.
"Everyone's here, let's have a proper talk." Heber spoke in a deep voice, turning to look at Han Xiao. "First, there's the issue between you and me. We only have two choices: continue our confrontation, or temporarily reconcile."
"Hmm, go ahead, I'm listening." Han Xiao remained noncommittal.
"Now that you've joined the Crimson Dynasty, we have no choice but to become allies and stand on the same side. This is the Empire's will, and it's also my will," Heber said slowly. "During the ten years of the Secret War, you killed many of my men, and many of your soldiers died at the hands of my men. The grudges between us run deep, and you certainly aren't willing to back down, nor am I. Let's set aside our differences for now and settle our past grievances later."
"You mean, we'll settle this score after we've finished exploring the Shattered World?" Han Xiao raised an eyebrow.
The two sides are deeply entrenched in hatred, having lost too many comrades at each other's hands over the past decade. Reconciliation is not something that can be achieved so easily. For both sides, this matter no longer depends solely on the wishes of their leaders. If an alliance is forcibly formed, their subordinates will find it difficult to accept, which would be detrimental to the cohesion of their respective camps.
Heber nodded, then shook his head. "We don't need to join forces. The Shattered World is vast. We can cease hostilities, coexist peacefully, each explore our own paths, and neither interfere with the other. This way, we can fulfill the Crimson Dynasty's demands without forcing each other."
Han Xiao stroked his chin; this suggestion did seem plausible.
Instead of forming an alliance, the two sides explored the Shattered World separately. As far as the Crimson Dynasty was concerned, as long as neither side hindered the other, they could accept it. Even the Empire could not force a Beyond Grade A to abandon old grudges and shake hands with an enemy.
His eyes darted around, and he roughly understood what the Tyrant meant. Exploring the Shattered World was a very important matter for the Crimson Dynasty, and as a new star field that had not been fully explored, the Shattered World had too many areas to explore.
The findings of these allies not only form the foundation for the future development of their own forces, but the Crimson Dynasty also issues additional rewards for their explorations.
In other words, although the two sides are allies, they are actually in competition, competing in their ability to explore the Shattered World.
'No, the competition isn't limited to the War Realm. The Crimson Dynasty will mobilize allies from various star systems to explore together, which will create even more forces vying for resources.'
Han Xiao's heart stirred; he was not surprised but rather pleased.
Because his advantage in this area is so great!
For all explorers, the Shattered World is a strange and uncharted territory that requires a gamble to explore. However, in his eyes, the map of the Shattered World is almost crystal clear. He knows the resources contained in each area like the back of his hand, and no other competitor can compare to him!
"Alright, I agree to this plan. We can settle our scores later. Let's call a truce for now and keep to ourselves. When we explore the Shattered World, let's each rely on our own abilities and not hold each other back." Han Xiao nodded.
Shattered World is the greatest interest. At this juncture, there's no need to sabotage each other. The Tyrant thought so too, and the other party's suggestion was exactly what he wanted.
After the Crimson Dynasty completed its initial exploration, seized a large amount of resources, and consolidated its dominance over the star system, it opened the Shattered World to the entire Galaxy. Only then did the major non-alliance forces move into the new star system, and a reshuffling of power occurred amidst the turmoil, with each side vying for territory and resources, thus forming the power structure of the Shattered World.
It was during this period that players from all over the Galaxy flocked to the Shattered World in large numbers.
In retrospect, the period between version 3.0 and 4.0 in the previous life was the early exploration phase of the Crimson Dynasty. Now, due to its own actions, most players of the Shattered Star Ring can access the Shattered World ahead of time, which is a significant advantage.
As a world-class server in the eyes of players, Shattered World saw many guilds occupying desolate planets and building their own guild strongholds. In that version, guild wars were very frequent, and players were more active and lively. Players from Shattered Star Ring were the first to seize territory and had more time to manage their strongholds.
However, current players are unaware that Shattered World will eventually become a global server.
"Okay," Heber responded slowly.
Since Han Xiao had become an ally of the empire, he abandoned the idea of using Han Xiao to establish his authority. Knowing that the matter was not going to work, he changed his attitude towards Han Xiao and treated him as an equal.
Having finalized the ceasefire agreement, Han Xiao nodded secretly, having achieved his main objective in attending the Tyrant's Gathering.
While a true reconciliation is impossible, it's enough for now.
At this moment, Sisko slowly spoke.
"Now it's our turn to talk."
Han Xiao looked in the direction of the voice, stared at Sisko, and slowly said, "The Evolution Cube is in my hands. If you don't intend to give it up, then do you want to continue being my enemy?"
"The Crimson Dynasty has its eye on the Evolution Cube and is willing to back you up. I know you're not going to give it back to me; the only way is to snatch it back from you."
Sisko didn't hide his ambition for the Evolution Cube, saying calmly, "But can the Crimson Dynasty protect you every moment? Even if they can, can they protect your Black Star Army... Don't glare at me like that. I'm not threatening you, just stating a fact: even if I'm willing to give up, the Arcane Church won't, and even the Federation of Light will take action."
Han Xiao raised an eyebrow. "You don't need to exaggerate. The Evolution Cube is a relic of a near-cosmic civilization from the Exploration Era War. It is indeed a valuable item, but you've kept it safe for so long, and it hasn't been stolen yet, has it?"
"My situation is different from yours." Sisko glanced at Heber, then suddenly said, "You'd better be careful of the Crimson Dynasty's allies."
"Hmm?" Han Xiao frowned.
"The forces that went to develop the Shattered World are all allies of the Crimson Dynasty in various star systems. The Empire can protect you from external pressure, but internal hostility... huh." Sisko narrowed his eyes. "The Crimson Dynasty values Evolution Cube itself, but the owner isn't necessarily important. The Evolution Cube is of paramount importance to a faction. Someone might take the risk and attack you. Once you're dead... guess what the Crimson Dynasty will choose?"
"I understand what you mean. Let's save ourselves from this pointless provocation." Han Xiao shook his head.
Sisko meant that the Crimson Dynasty's allies were not of one mind. Perhaps some Beyond Grade A from other star systems would covet the Evolution Cube and seek an opportunity to kill and plunder it. As long as they acted first and reported later, the Empire would not stand up for a dead man, but would grit its teeth and accept such behavior in order to minimize its losses... However, Han Xiao had been involved with the Crimson Dynasty for many years and was quite familiar with the Empire's nature. The chances of this happening were very small.
The Federation of Light might be capable of such a thing, but the Crimson Dynasty would never do it.
The Empire will only use this as an excuse to take the Evolution Cube into its own hands. Even if it is Beyond Grade A ally, as long as important rules are broken, it will still be attacked. The Crimson Tide incident shows that the Empire's style is very tough and domineering.
Sisko remained expressionless upon hearing this. He hadn't intended to intimidate Han Xiao with this today; it was just casual conversation. He said calmly, "Don't forget, there's also Sorokin plotting to Evolution Cube. If he comes after you, you'd better pray you run fast enough."
Sorokin...?
Han Xiao thought of the Sorokin's number in his blacklist of contacts, and his expression became somewhat strange.
"I'll take care of the Evolution Cube myself, no need to trouble you."
Han Xiao sized up Sisko. "I'm rather curious, what exactly did you come here for today? Was it just to scare me?"
"Who said I came for you?" Sisko shook his head.
He hadn't attended the Tyrant's Gathering in a long time, and it wasn't really for Han Xiao's sake. In the past, he had to stay at home to guard the Evolution Cube, so he rarely left the Star Pupil Protoss's territory. Moreover, with the Evolution Cube in his possession and the continuous support from the Arcane Church, he had a transcendent status and didn't need to attend such a high-level gathering.
But now that the Evolution Cube has been taken away, he feels as if he has been freed from a shackle and is ready to become more active in the star field. This is not only because he is restless and eager to move around, but also because without the Evolution Cube, the Arcane Church's level of attention will inevitably decline. He plans to go out and make some moves, attend the Tyrant's Gathering, cultivate his network, and strive to develop into a star cluster-level civilization.
After saying that, Sisko closed his eyes, not wanting to talk to Han Xiao anymore.
Then, Han Xiao turned to look at Austin, and seeing the old man staring intently at him, he immediately said in an annoyed tone, "Don't you have something to say to me too?"
Austin extended her delicate finger, pointed to the Evolution Cube hanging around Han Xiao's neck, and chuckled, "Let's make a deal. Let me use it once, and I'll grant you one request."
"Heh." Han Xiao showed no sign of a smile.
He didn't help when I was in trouble, but now that the storm has passed, he's jumping out to make a deal. I think that with his personality, there will be plenty of opportunities in the future to get the right to use the Evolution Cube.
You old geezer, your predictions are fucking accurate...
Han Xiao looked helpless. He had brought the Evolution Cube to use for favors, and exchanging it for a promise of a neutral Beyond Grade A was a worthwhile deal, so there was no reason for him to refuse.
"Any request is acceptable?" Han Xiao snorted, pointing at Sisko. "Then you'll team up with us now and kill this guy."
Sisko remained unmoved, keeping his eyes closed and resting.
"Stop joking, you know perfectly well I can't agree to that." Austin shook his head with a wry smile, his tone seductive, like a goldfish swindler coaxing a little girl. "How about something else? How about you borrow my Palace of Hidden Spells for a few months?"
"Lend it to me? You'd be more like giving it to me."
"Hey, we're acquaintances, don't be too greedy."
"This won't work, that won't work, so what can you do to help me?"
Austin thought for a moment, then simply shrugged, "I don't know, but you definitely won't lose out."
Han Xiao's forehead veins bulged. "Nonsense, it costs me nothing to use Evolution Cube on you, of course I'm not losing out, but you're making a killing!"
He suddenly had a brilliant idea.
"Why don't you help me deal with the Sorokin?"
"... Let's talk about killing Sisko."
Sisko's eyelids twitched involuntarily.
After arguing for a long time, even Ames started yawning, before Han Xiao and Austin finally reached an agreement.
Beyond Grade A mages travel across multiple dimensions and often obtain extremely rare materials. Austin provides him with genetic items from high-level void creatures every year for free.
Secondly, the Secret Church of the Red Robe and the Black Star Army are semi-allyed. Every year, the Secret Church of the Red Robe sends high-ranking mages to the Legion to train some mages and impart some rare spellbooks.
Finally, Austin needed to do something for him that was within his power and did not violate his principles... and the final interpretation of "principles" belonged to Austin.
Han Xiao couldn't do anything about him. The two had a good relationship, and Austin had even helped him a few times before. Naturally, he didn't want to fall out with Austin because of the Evolution Cube.
"Oh, right." Han Xiao suddenly remembered something and gave Austin an Observation Mark.
"What are you doing?" Austin asked, bewildered. He casually crushed the Observation Mark. As a Beyond Grade A mage, cracking the application of this void energy was a piece of cake. Even if Han Xiao was Beyond Grade A mage, it would be the same, since he was a magic specialist who controlled multi-dimensional energy.
Han Xiao persisted, throwing another Observation Mark, which Austin crushed with a glare.
The two stared at each other, repeating this process more than ten times. Finally, Austin, looking helpless, gave up resisting and let the Observation Mark remain on his head.
Han Xiao nodded in satisfaction, feeling much happier.
Today, I'm going to poke a huge eye into your head right in front of you!
Heber suddenly felt a headache coming on and regretted bringing the two of them together.
The atmosphere was so somber, how did it suddenly become so relaxed!
Seeing that Han Xiao had reached a deal with Austin, Heber was suddenly stunned and realized what was happening.
Of the five people present, it seems I'm the only one who hasn't had a chance to use the Evolution Cube?
Heber glanced at the Evolution Cube, then at Han Xiao's face, his eyes twitching slightly. He didn't even need to guess; Black Star definitely wouldn't agree to lend him the Evolution Cube.
Suppressing his inner desires, Heber composed himself and slowly said, "Black Star and I will stay behind alone. The three of you, you may leave now."
"It seems your talks went smoothly, Black Star. I'll head out now." Ames stood up and stretched.
She didn't seem to care much about what was being discussed here, and appeared to be just passing by, but as Han Xiao Han Xiao's ally, her presence here meant she was there to support him.
Of the five people present, only she and Han Xiao were staunch allies. Although the other three did not mention this, they all knew it. In terms of strength, Han Xiao and Ames were on the same side, completely overwhelming the other three.
After Ames and the other two left, the hall door closed again, leaving only Han Xiao and Heber in the room.
At that moment, the side door opened, and Suy walked out with a smile on her face.
"I'm glad you two have reached an agreement."
"Special envoy." The two nodded slightly in greeting.
A Krent representative was also following behind Suy. Now that everyone in the room was nominally one of their own, the fact that they were talking behind closed doors meant they were about to discuss serious business.
As Han Xiao expected, Suy tapped her wrist with her finger, and a three-dimensional star map projection appeared in mid-air, marking a new luminous area on the vast cosmic map, marked with the name "Shattered World".
Suy said, "Taking this opportunity, I'd like to introduce the current situation of the Shattered World, so you can get a general idea of the exploration process. You can prepare your own exploration plans accordingly, as we will be assigning tasks once the official development begins."
It seems this is a matter of exchanging information first, giving us time to consider our respective exploration areas...
Han Xiao's eyes lit up.