Chapter 2087: Godhood

Facing countless astonished gazes, Hua Qingying spoke calmly:

“I have no right to interfere in the affairs of your Weaving Dreams God Realm. However, since Yun Che calls me ‘Auntie,’ then whoever dares to lay a hand on him must first consider the Peerless Immortal Sword in my possession!”

Yun Che's single call of ‘Auntie’ had merely left them bewildered, unable to believe their ears. But Hua Qingying's words, each like a soul-piercing sword beam, brutally hammered the unbelievable truth into their very souls.

Hiss... A cacophony of gasps filled the air.

Who was Hua Qingying? She was the foremost figure below the True Gods of the Abyss. If the Six God Realms lacked True God inheritances, then she was truly the paramount figure among them. Had Hua Qingying inherited the power of Heaven-Folding rather than Hua Fuchen, then the first Divine Venerable of the Six God Realms would not have been Dian Luohou, but Hua Qingying herself!

Though not a True God, she was the only one in the entire Abyss whose prestige, despite not being a divine being, rivaled that of a True God. It was widely rumored that she dedicated herself to cultivating the Heartless Sword Dao, detached from all emotions and desires... yet ultimately, she wasn't truly heartless, for she possessed a well-known ‘reverse scale’. That was Hua Caili. Apart from Hua Caili, no thoughts could penetrate her, no things could approach her; even a Divine Venerable's presence wouldn't earn a fleeting glance from her.

Yet now, before everyone, she declared with a cold and resolute tone to those present—and indeed, to the entire Abyss—that Yun Che was under the protection of her sword. This scene, these words, shattered nearly everyone's perception of the Heaven-Folding Sword Immortal. Even if it had been the Heart-Painting Divine Venerable of the Heaven-Folding God Realm who declared this, it wouldn't have shocked them to such an extent.

Looking around, every face displayed varying degrees of shock, a disbelief so profound it lingered, refusing to dissipate. Even Meng Jianze, who had been writhing in pain like a maggot moments ago, ceased his pained screams, as if Hua Qingying's words had shaken his very soul apart.

Meng Jianxi, who had maintained perfect composure despite inner anger, irritation, and humiliation, was now utterly stunned... completely dumbfounded, the shock and bewilderment in his eyes spiraling entirely out of control. Given Hua Qingying's status and prestige in the Heaven-Folding God Realm, her protection was virtually equivalent to the protection of the entire Heaven-Folding God Realm. He had never dreamed that ‘Meng Jianyuan,’ whom he considered insignificant, would possess such a terrifying backer!

Meng Jianxi had long known that Yun Che arrived at the Weaving Dreams God Realm together with Hua Qingying, even causing Meng Kongchan to personally greet them. But he naturally assumed that the Sword Immortal's visit was for an urgent matter to be conveyed personally to Meng Kongchan... In any case, no one, regardless of who it was, would have possibly imagined that Hua Qingying had specifically come to escort Yun Che.

“How... how could this be...” Meng Zangji mumbled, his initial surge of anger largely replaced by shock and a subsequent sense of powerlessness.

At this moment, Meng Jianxi... and countless Weaving Dreams profound practitioners suddenly began to understand why Meng Kongchan had been so eager to establish ‘Meng Jianyuan’ as another Weaving Dreams God Son.

“I’d heard... that Meng Jianyuan was sent by the Heaven-Folding God Realm... So it wasn't just true, but there was such a connection!”

“The protection of others might just be for show, but the Sword Immortal's protection... touch it, and you die...”

“Given the Heaven-Folding Sword Immortal's temperament, for her to let Meng Jianyuan call her ‘Auntie’... Hiss...”

“No wonder Meng Jianyuan was so domineering and ostentatious upon his initial return to the God Realm, showing no fear towards God Son Jianxi. It turns out that wasn't reckless ignorance at all, but because he had such backing!”

“No wonder... no wonder the Divine Venerable treats Meng Jianyuan so specially...”

“Nonsense! How can you and I fathom the Divine Venerable's considerations!”

Panic seized many hearts, but they had no idea that the most shocked person among them was actually the Sleepless Divine Venerable. His expression remained unchanged, as if he already knew everything. In truth, the turmoil in his eyes and heart was nearly earth-shattering. His gaze, subtly flicking towards Yun Che... filled with surprise, excitement, and fervent eagerness... But the most intense emotion was one of... almost reverent admiration!

Back then, he, Meng Kongchan, Dian Luohou, and Pan Yusheng had spared no effort, even engaging in overt and covert struggles, yet not one of them could earn more than a fleeting glance from Hua Qingying. And Yun Che, in just a few short months, had not only captivated Hua Caili, the foremost divine maiden of this era, but had also caused Hua Qingying to personally rush here to support him, even allowing him to call her ‘Auntie’!

“Though I, the Divine Venerable, may not have succeeded, my son... he is truly outstanding!” For a moment, he was nearly moved to tears. For men, the more unattainable something is, the more unsettling it becomes, especially for those of higher standing. And this time... wasn't this a different kind of wish fulfilled?

Meng Xuanjue, who had retreated to the hall entrance, clenched her teeth, her fingernails digging into her tightly fisted palms, her entire being almost completely consumed by the shadow cast by the doorway.

Dian Jiuzhi's gaze shifted from Hua Qingying's location, lingering on Yun Che for a long time, his expression clearly showing a mix of daze and bewilderment.

“Heh heh heh.” Meng Kongchan chuckled faintly, dispelling the widespread uproar and confusion. He smiled and said, “My Weaving Dreams God Realm and the Heaven-Folding God Realm have always maintained a strong friendship. Yuan’er was found by the Heaven-Folding God Realm, and his safe return this time is a great favor from them. That Yuan’er also has this connection with the Heaven-Folding Sword Immortal is a tremendous blessing for the long-standing friendship between our two realms.”

He turned his gaze towards Hua Qingying and, with the demeanor of a Divine Venerable, spoke calmly: “Jianze's emotions spiraled out of control, nearly leading to a grave mistake. It seems I have troubled the Sword Immortal to punish him on my behalf.”

Hua Qingying offered no response.

Meng Kongchan had long been accustomed to this and turned his gaze to Yun Che: “Yuan’er, whether or not An Zhiming should undergo the Dream Fall, your word alone will decide. No one else is to interfere!” His voice suddenly intensified on the last half-sentence, causing many to shiver instantly in fright.

“Father God...” Before Yun Che could speak, a weak voice, tinged with pain, rang out. Meng Jianze propped himself up on one knee, raising his head with difficulty: “These few people were indeed... arranged by me. But none of this has anything to do with His Highness the God Son!”

“Given His Highness the God Son's character and current status... how could he stoop to such methods! It was entirely because I disliked Meng Jianyuan wanting to claim the title of God Son as soon as he returned... His Highness truly had no knowledge of this, I beg Father God for mercy... I beg His Highness the God Son for mercy...” After forcing out his words, he collapsed back onto the ground, his body convulsing in pain.

Meng Xuanjue then spoke softly: “Divine Venerable, Jianxi is our child. You and I know best of his character. Even if he truly intended to target Meng Jianyuan, he would not use such crude and despicable methods. Everything, clearly, was Meng Jianze's doing alone. I implore the Divine Venerable to see clearly.”

“Hmph!” Meng Kongchan let out a faint cold snort, seemingly slightly annoyed: “Whether it is or isn't, the Dream Fall will reveal.”

Meng Jianxi's face gradually paled, and Meng Xuanjue's already bleeding hands clenched even tighter, yet she dared not speak again.

Yun Che looked at Meng Jianxi with a half-smile: “God Son Jianxi, although my Auntie's sword aura doesn't draw blood, it pierces hearts and souls, enough to make one wish for death. Even so, he still forcibly defends you. He has done so much for you; will you not say a few words for him?” Meng Jianxi's lips trembled, but he remained silent for a long time. The unfolding of events, every single step, had deviated from his expectations and control.

Yun Che smiled. In Meng Jianxi's sight, his smile at this moment was more sarcastic and disdainful than ever before. Yun Che turned and said solemnly: “Senior Divine Venerable, these are merely some crude, childish tactics. Who instigated them, and who carried them out, I believe everyone present already has the answer in their hearts. An Zhiming was coerced by others, and facing Senior Divine Venerable alone with his humble status, his courage is commendable, and his heart to protect his kin is moving. To subject him to the Dream Fall and destroy his dignity merely to verify a trivial matter concerning small-time villains would be far too unwarranted.”

“Therefore,” Yun Che's gaze swept past Meng Jianxi and fixed on Meng Kongchan: “Let's forget about the Dream Fall.”

“Mm.” Meng Kongchan nodded slightly, his eyes revealing unconcealed gratification: “I said, this matter is for you to decide. Since you wish it, then the Dream Fall will not proceed.”

Meng Jianze's entire body relaxed, collapsing onto the ground and gasping wildly for air. Meng Xuanji, Meng Jinghai, and others had varied expressions... Among those present, countless gazes directed at Yun Che gradually filled with admiration and awe. Facing the immensely powerful God Son faction alone, he was unafraid, dominating them directly. Yet, when the dignity of the Weaving Dreams God Realm was involved, he, holding absolute sway, decisively retreated. His demeanor, when contrasted with Meng Jianxi at this moment... The Weaving Dreams God Son, once deemed excellent in all aspects and nearly perfect in their eyes, suddenly seemed rather crude and inferior.

Yun Che had never intended to genuinely impose the Dream Fall from the start. Meng Jianxi was, after all, a Weaving Dreams God Son, and his image largely represented the face of the Weaving Dreams God Realm. Some matters were perfectly sufficient when they reached an unspoken understanding among everyone, but when the dignity of the God Realm was at stake, they should absolutely not be brought into the open.

Meng Jianxi, however, felt no relief whatsoever; his insides were tightly clenched, making him so uncomfortable that he almost vomited blood several times. Why... why is it like this... He was clearly a wretch with no past, someone who should have been easily manipulated and crushed... How could it... be like this...

“An Zhiming.” Meng Kongchan spoke calmly: “If the nine of you forget today's events, then all of you may remain safe.” An Zhiming abruptly raised his head, instantly his eyes welled up with tears. Though merely a few words, they came from the Divine Venerable himself. With these words from the Sleepless Divine Venerable, they would gain not just temporary respite, but long-term stability. He heavily knocked his head on the ground, sobbing: “Thank you, Divine Venerable, for your grace! Thank you, God Son Yuan, for your immense kindness! As of today, Zhiming has completely forgotten all events. If I dare utter a single word outside, may I be struck down by heaven and earth!”

“You may withdraw.” Without waiting for the nine to bow and express their gratitude one by one, Meng Kongchan simply pushed his palm, sending them all back to their original positions. He raised his eyes, looking around, his divine voice permeating the air: “Regarding the matter of proclaiming Meng Jianyuan a Weaving Dreams God Son, does anyone still object?”

After a brief silence, Meng Zangji still stepped forward. However, his demeanor had become much more respectful: “Your Excellency's command, we all obey. But the matter of a God Son is of great importance. After all, even if ten more God Sons are appointed, only one will be qualified to inherit Your Excellency's will and become the new Divine Venerable in the future. Therefore, if there are multiple God Sons, their superiority and order should be distinguished.”

As Meng Jianxi's maternal relative, his fate was directly tied to Meng Jianxi's future. Regardless, he had to struggle and fight for this. Meng Kongchan said calmly: “Please speak frankly, Chief Hall Master, on how to distinguish their superiority and order.”

Meng Zangji said: “This old man suggests that Jianxi be designated the First God Son, and Jianyuan the Second God Son.”

“Hm?” Yun Che interjected directly: “These two should originally stand side by side as equals in name. Once you distinguish them as first and second, the difference becomes significant. After all, in the eyes of the world, the second is often merely a foil to the first.”

“If it must be so... everyone knows that Meng Jianyuan was the first God Son of the Weaving Dreams God Realm. By what right should he be relegated to second?”

Meng Zangji's expression darkened, and he sternly said: “Meng Jianyuan, no matter how eloquent or unreasonable you may be, the criteria for judging a God Son's aptitude cannot be questioned or shaken by anyone... and that is divine essence!” Mentioning divine essence, Meng Zangji's expression completely regained its certainty: “Although Jianxi possessed six-tenths of divine essence at birth, he later awakened another three-tenths, now having nine-tenths of divine essence. This is a superior aptitude among the God Sons and Daughters of the Six Realms.”

“And you, Meng Jianyuan, possess eight-tenths of divine essence! This one-tenth difference in divine essence, at the level of God Sons and Daughters, is nothing less than the distinction between superior and inferior! How can you be spoken of in the same breath or stand shoulder to shoulder!”

Meng Kongchan, with eight-tenths of divine essence: “......?”

Regardless of Meng Zangji's true intentions, his words were impeccable and irrefutable. Eight-tenths of divine essence qualified one to bear the True God's divine source and become a God Son or Daughter of a God Realm; nine-tenths of divine essence could be called a superior God Son or Daughter; and a perfect ten-tenths of divine essence might not appear even once across several eras within all Six God Realms combined. In the current era, only Hua Caili, the Heaven-Folding Divine Maiden, was hailed as a divine miracle bestowed upon the Heaven-Folding God Realm. Furthermore, if a God Realm had multiple individuals with sufficient divine essence appearing in the same era, then the degree of divine essence would be the sole criterion for assessing their qualification for divine inheritance. As for the Heaven-Folding God Realm in the previous era, that was purely a special ‘accident’.

“Well said!” Yun Che nodded, surprisingly echoing Meng Zangji's words: “However, Chief Hall Master seems to have overlooked one thing.”

“Meng Jianxi only had six-tenths of divine essence at birth, and only awakened an additional three-tenths later, a century ago. So, how do you know... that Meng Jianyuan, with his innate eight-tenths of divine essence, won't awaken more later?”

Everyone was startled. Meng Zangji snorted coldly: “Those who awaken divine essence later are rare, appearing perhaps once in ten thousand years. Do you think the miracle that occurred with Jianxi is easily replicated!” He paused, then suddenly smiled faintly, adopting a strategy of retreating to advance: “However, since you've made such a suggestion, to demonstrate fairness and impartiality, our Nine Great Dream Halls can certainly re-measure your divine essence on the spot! If, by some chance, you genuinely awaken more divine essence and reach nine-tenths, like Jianxi, then no one under heaven, I believe, would object to you becoming a God Son alongside Jianxi.”

“But if you still only have eight-tenths of divine essence...” He cautiously glanced at Meng Kongchan: “Then you should have the self-awareness to accept the position of a secondary God Son!”

“Hmm...” Yun Che seemed to ponder for a moment, then suddenly squinted slightly and said: “And what if I accidentally awaken two more tenths of divine essence later, achieving what is called perfect divine essence, surpassing Meng Jianxi?”

At his words, Meng Zangji was visibly stunned, seemingly unable to believe someone could utter such an absurd statement. He then burst into unrestrained laughter, completely disregarding his composure: “Hahahaha... Hahahahaha!” As he roared with laughter, waves of laughter also erupted around him, as if everyone had heard something utterly comical.

Meng Kongchan's brow twitched slightly, a doubt forming in his heart. Then, he abruptly turned his head, staring at the confidently smiling Yun Che in disbelief, a violent tremor in his heart threatening to overflow uncontrollably from his eyes. Could it be... Could it possibly be...?

Hua Qingying also subtly lowered her gaze at this moment.

“Excellent, very ambitious, hahahaha!” Meng Zangji appeared to be praising him, yet interspersed his words with mocking laughter: “Meng Jianyuan, if you truly possess perfect divine essence, then even ten Jianxis wouldn't be qualified to compare with you. At that time, never mind honoring you as the First God Son... if you are unwilling, this old man will beg on his knees for you to become the sole God Son of my Weaving Dreams God Realm!”

Yun Che narrowed his eyes and smiled: “Very well, let's begin then.”