Chapter 368: Recognizing Ancestry and Upgrading the Panel

Sleet, also known as 'stars'.

Spiritual energy scatters like stars, thinly spread on the ground, resembling rice grains.

Xing Xian Pass is named after the characteristics of its spiritual energy source, which also indicates that the spiritual energy here is not abundant.

While waiting for the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord to arrive, the ten individuals — Zhao Xing, Zigu, Yun Tiandao, Lu Ying, Liu Tianning, Dong Ze, Rahu King, Qiu Yuanshan, Xia Jing, and Ye Yukong — took the opportunity to extensively absorb knowledge about the universe.

The others were studying divine weapons and cultivation secret techniques.

However, Zhao Xing was focused on local customs and the history of the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom.

The Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom has been established for 553 epochs, which is considered a high-level duration within the Xuanling Starfield. One requirement for an ancient kingdom is to have existed for over 10 epochs. A long lifespan signifies a nation's strong wisdom for survival. Powerful individuals, secret techniques, resources, and cohesion are all historical foundations. There are over 100,000 ancient kingdoms and ancient powers in the Xuanling Starfield, but only a few ancient kingdoms have been established for more than 100 epochs.

"With 553 epochs of such a long history, it could even rank among the top hundred. Why had I never heard of it in my previous life?" Zhao Xing pondered this question on the flying boat.

There are too many ancient kingdoms, and many things are kept hidden. Judging a nation's strength merely by what's publicly disclosed, like the number of powerful individuals it possesses, is inaccurate. After all, which nation would fully reveal its true strength? Therefore, lifespan is a very important indicator. Zhao Xing clearly remembered the top hundred ancient kingdoms from his previous life, and he had no impression of the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom.

"Compared to my previous life, I entered the universe version approximately 2,500 years earlier. A span of 2,500 years is not significant in the universe. Even if the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom had perished in a war or disintegrated within these 2,500 years, I should still have an impression of it." Zhao Xing frowned. "How could this be? A nation that perished 2,500 years ago is no different from one that perished recently. Having no impression at all is too strange."

"'Zero, open the star map of the Xuanling Starfield.'" Zhao Xing walked up to the water mirror. "'Yes, Big Brother.'" Zero was a spirit artifact left behind by Puta, now belonging to Zigu. Since Zigu had initially referred to Zhao Xing as 'Big Brother,' Zero also addressed him as such.

To be safe, none of the ten had disembarked from the boundary boat; they only studied the information Zero had searched for while onboard. Suddenly, brilliant starlight appeared around Zhao Xing. Zero displayed both a 3D and a 2D map of the Xuanling Starfield for him. The vast Xuanling Starfield appeared as a spiral on the 2D map, and like a contracting jellyfish on the 3D map.

"'Display the Shenluo Barren Region where the Xuanhuang Realm is located.'"

"'Yes, Big Brother.'"

The cosmic map immediately zoomed in, with both the 2D and 3D views scaling.

"'Mark all ancient kingdoms, dynasties, and ancient powers surrounding the Shenluo Barren Region.'" Zero complied.

Zhao Xing glanced at it and found it was still too vast. There were too many densely packed nations; after all, the Shenluo Barren Region itself was immense.

"'Mark the relative positions of the Great Ye Dynasty, Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom, and the Shenluo Barren Region. Remove all dynastic powers, keeping only ancient kingdoms and ancient powers.'" This immediately reduced the number by ninety percent, allowing Zhao Xing to see more clearly.

"Hmm?" After comparing, Zhao Xing immediately noticed some issues. "'Zero, remember this star map; I'll use it as a reference frame.'"

"'Yes.'"

Then, Zhao Xing began drawing and marking on the star map, his finger moving through the air. He enlarged the maps of some ancient kingdoms, shrank others, directly crossed out some, and merged certain regions. After a long time, Zhao Xing roughly outlined the Xuanling Starfield map from his memory. After Zhao Xing's adjustments, the map of the Xuanling Starfield had changed significantly and now matched his memories.

"'Big Brother, I don't understand.' Zero's voice held a hint of confusion. 'Are you deducing the future territorial changes of the Xuanling Starfield?'" This was far too detailed; Zhao Xing wasn't just idly sketching, but inputting precise coordinates for correction.

"'It's all from Master Qingyuzi,' Zhao Xing replied casually."

"'Zero, now, remove all other star systems in the Xuanling Starfield except for the ancient kingdom territories I've marked.'"

Buzz!

The remaining starlight on the map dimmed.

"'Reduce the scale to 1:1000.'" This was Zhao Xing's accustomed viewing scale for star maps in his previous life.

"'Yes.'"

"'Overlay the reference map with the current star map.'"

"'Yes, overlay complete.'"

Zero's processing speed was extremely fast, with sub-second responses. Zhao Xing looked at the Shenluo Barren Region, then at the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom.

"'Big Brother, what have you discovered?'"

"'Nothing.' Zhao Xing said calmly, 'Delete the star map I drew from your database.'"

"'Big Brother, I'm sorry, you do not have that permission.' Zero's voice replied. 'However, I will encrypt the previous conversation and the star map.'"

"'Alright then.' Zhao Xing waved his hand. It wasn't that important anyway, as it was just a rough sketch, but he was accustomed to being cautious. After that, Zhao Xing didn't summon Zero again. He simply stood alone in front of the viewport, gazing blankly at the cosmic sky.

"After the comparison, the Shenluo Barren Region had expanded by about one-fiftieth, meaning its scope would significantly increase in 2,500 years. One-fiftieth is an alarming rate of expansion. While it might not seem obvious on the scale of the Xuanling Starfield, it's an astonishing rate of diffusion when scaled down to the galactic level. The expansion of the Barren Region caused it to cover the territory of the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom. Could this be the reason for Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom's demise?" Zhao Xing pondered.

"It can't be fully explained. Barren Region expansion has always occurred. Whether the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom relocated or waged war, it should have left its name in history. It seems a major, terrifying event I don't know about has happened." Zhao Xing decided not to delve deeper. He was too weak; if he truly knew something, it might not be a good thing.

"With only two thousand years of development time, or even less, the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom was clearly not a place to stay long." Zhao Xing looked at the excited Great Zhou powerhouses on the ship, who were studying and discussing. "Once I've met the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord and established a solid foundation in the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom, I'll find an opportunity to leave." As for how long exactly, Zhao Xing would have to assess the situation. The collapse of a nation cannot be without warning. Based on the information Zero has gathered so far, the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom, including its surroundings, appears quite peaceful.

"I'll make a decision after meeting Qingyuzi's master."

The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord was expected in five days. Naland and his nephew, knowing that a great figure from Purple God Prefecture would arrive at Xing Xian Pass, became even more diligent. They came to pay respects three times a day, each time bringing his nephew Nalan Hao. He never came empty-handed; this time, he had prepared for several days, urgently collecting some treasures, showing true dedication.

"'Senior, this contains a small token of my junior's sincerity. Please accept it with a smile.' Naland respectfully handed over a small Qiankun bag."

Zhao Xing had also sent down a clone today, still disguised as Qingyuzi. Since Qingyuzi was a typical 'Heavenly Time' school Sinuong, it was reasonable for his straw-man clone to be only at the Ascension Realm. Naland had no suspicions. Qingyuzi had just contacted his elders, so he likely had much to say and many matters to sort out. For him to send a clone to meet him amidst his busy schedule was already a great honor.

"'Naland, what are you doing?' Zhao Xing didn't take it. 'I came down from the ship out of respect for your sincere inquiries. Do you think I'm greedy for your offerings?'"

"Look! This is the demeanor of a true master!"

"'No, no, no, Senior, you've misunderstood.' Naland became even more respectful. 'This junior simply felt that Senior has been away for too long. Now that you've returned gloriously, it's only natural to have some things to bestow upon the younger generation. What this junior has prepared, though not valuable, are all curious and ingenious trinkets.'"

Zhao Xing wanted to refuse again, but Nalan Hao, standing nearby, chimed in, assisting, "'Yes, Senior, my uncle worked very hard to collect one hundred unique, high-grade Stellar Dao Weapons. Please accept them.'"

What?! One hundred pieces! On the flying boat, Zigu's jaw nearly dropped when he heard the conversation. "My goodness, this is called a 'small gift'?"

"'Holy moly, Brother Zhao has struck it rich!' Xia Jing's breathing quickened."

"'One hundred high-grade Stellar Dao Weapons? Naland is truly generous!' Ye Yukong's eyes widened. 'Our Great Zhou doesn't even have a hundred high-grade Stellar items in total.'"

"'The Grand Sinuong truly lives up to his title. Not only did he avoid danger at the pass, but he also received treasures.'"

"Awesome!"

"'Big Brother, take it, quickly!' Zigu muttered to himself. 'Don't pretend this time, it's one hundred high-grade Stellar Dao Weapons!'"

Zhao Xing had originally intended to refuse, but hearing that number, he was tempted. No choice, he was poor right now! However, he still didn't agree readily, merely saying with a half-smile, "'So, I should just accept the treasures your uncle painstakingly collected?'"

Naland glared at his nephew immediately upon hearing this. "'Mind your own business! Get back!'" Nalan Hao apologized sheepishly and retreated.

"'Senior, it's no trouble, no trouble at all. It's my good fortune that Senior would even consider them.' Naland grew anxious as Zhao Xing still didn't agree. Naland felt that a great figure like Qingyuzi surely wouldn't care for his wealth, but the Senior hadn't returned for an entire epoch. In an epoch of generational change, there must be some things Qingyuzi hadn't seen, right? Offering a wave of gifts now could be considered local specialties. This was the chance; he absolutely couldn't let his nephew ruin it."

"'Fine, I'll accept them.' Zhao Xing lightly waved his hand, putting the Qiankun bag into his possession. 'As an uncle, you've certainly put a lot of thought into this.'"

"'Senior's keen eyes miss nothing,' Naland said, chuckling along."

"'Your nephew is indeed a promising talent.' Zhao Xing casually selected an item with Qingyuzi's personal flair from his possessions. 'I'll leave you a token. In ten years, have him take this treasure to Purple God Prefecture and find someone named Zhao Xing.'"

"'Thank you, Senior, thank you so much!' Naland received the token with boundless gratitude."

"Worth it, absolutely worth it!" His heart blossomed with joy. His efforts these past few days to raise funds for this 'small gift' were not in vain.

"'You may go,' Zhao Xing waved his hand."

"'Yes, this junior takes his leave.' Naland happily went to find his nephew."

Zhao Xing also returned to the ship.

As soon as he boarded the ship, he received a hero's welcome, with a group of people crowding around him. "'Big Brother, you're truly divine!' Zigu looked at Zhao Xing with admiration. 'You didn't do anything, and Naland willingly came to curry favor with you and gave so many treasures!'"

"'Awesome!' Ye Yukong exclaimed. 'We've only visited one place, and that's already a hundred items. If we visit a hundred places, wouldn't that be ten thousand?'"

"'Hilarious! By your logic, we'd just wander around all day and do nothing else!'"

Xia Jing said, "'If you accept things, you have to do things. If you don't, your reputation will be ruined. Who does things your way?'"

"'That's true; even Purple God Prefecture wouldn't allow it,' Liu Tianning said. 'Zhao Xing, if this person comes with the token later and discovers Qingyuzi is dead, how will you handle it?'"

"'How else could I handle it?' Zhao Xing chuckled. 'Even if Qingyuzi is dead, I am still an unattainable existence for them. Being associated with me is still a tremendous benefit.'"

Yun Tiandao's expression was a little strange. "'You're quite skilled at extorting benefits.'" In Great Zhou, Zhao Xing appeared almost like a saint. But in the cosmic version, he seemed like a treacherous villain, his demeanor completely changed. He always felt that this was Zhao Xing's true face!

"'Hey, Brother Yun, what are you saying? I haven't said a word or even hinted at anything like that.' Zhao Xing was displeased. 'How can you baseless slander someone?'"

"'Alright, everyone quiet down,' Zigu said. 'Zero just reported that the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord has arrived at Megali Star in the Great Ye Dynasty, only half a day away from here.'"

"'So fast?' Liu Tianning pondered. 'It seems the three, Qingyuzi, were highly regarded by their master in Purple God Prefecture.'" According to known information, the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord was a Dao Domain Realm expert! And had reached it very early on. As a Dao Domain Realm expert, the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord had many disciples under his command. His personal arrival already signified his high regard for Qingyuzi. They said five days, but he arrived a day early, in just four days. This must have involved using connections and influence for an emergency teleportation. For example, the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord might have used military channels, the kind not open during peacetime. Under normal circumstances, even if they spent a lot of money on travel, it would still take them one or two months to reach the star system where Purple God Prefecture was located.

"'Everyone, stop what you're doing and prepare to meet the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord,' Zhao Xing said. Bringing the Great Zhou powerhouses was precisely for the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord. With three important disciples dead, the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord would undoubtedly inquire in detail. How detailed? By asking more people. So he had selected some Great Zhou high officials to corroborate, allowing the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord to get a clear picture all at once. Facing a Dao Domain Realm expert, he dared not conceal anything.

"'Zigu, remember not to hide anything, and don't be afraid. Just honestly recount what happened and describe it objectively.'"

"'Understood, Big Brother.'"

Xing Xian Pass, Fifth Star Continent. On the evening of the fourth day after Zhao Xing entered the pass. In the vast cosmic sky, a powerful beam of light suddenly projected onto the formation array of the star continent.

"Warning!"

Ayina, the spirit artifact, detecting the intrusion of a powerful being, immediately materialized. After all, this was an expensive creation by a third-tier artificer. Upon the anomaly's appearance, she immediately detected it.

"Crossing the Void River, the Void River docile beneath his feet like a lamb.""Xing Xian Pass's Solar and Lunar stars are completely under control.""The telluric veins of the ring-shaped star continent are suppressed, and the formation arrays are instantly disabled. Overall assessment: Dao Domain..."

Ayina sent her assessment results to the third-tier general guarding Xing Xian Pass. This third-tier general was greatly astonished. "'A Dao Domain Realm expert has descended upon the Fifth Star Continent!'"

"'Ayina has been forcefully shut down.'" The third-tier artificer guarding the pass couldn't help but be startled. "It seems this Dao Domain Realm expert doesn't want to be disturbed, nor does he want anyone to eavesdrop. Fortunately, he didn't interfere with the other ring continents besides the Fifth Star Continent." The third-tier artificer immediately pretended not to see anything, staying obediently in his residence and turning a deaf ear. The Great Ye Dynasty's significant pass defenses, such a military stronghold, were breached by a Dao Domain Realm expert at will. However, this third-tier general could only pretend ignorance, because the Great Ye Dynasty's strongest combat power was also merely at the third-tier.

The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord descended, stepping on a cloud of light, with two other figures also on the cloud. Upon his arrival, everyone on the Fifth Star Continent, including Naland, fell into a deep slumber. All formation arrays and mechanisms instantly ceased to function. Zhao Xing's boundary boat was directly lifted, and the next moment, its hatch automatically opened. They appeared under the starry sky.

Seeing this, Zhao Xing immediately led Zigu out. They knelt in reverence towards the three figures on the light cloud in the starry sky.

"'This junior, Zhao Xing.'""'This junior, Zigu.'""'We greet the three Seniors.'"

"'Rise, and look up to answer.'"

"'Yes.'"

Zhao Xing and Zigu immediately stood up and looked up. As they looked, their gaze was immediately drawn to the majestic figure on the cloud of light. Behind the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord, a profound purple moon hung high, and his posture exuded an innate, extraordinary aura. He wore a long dark robe, its edges embroidered with intricate silver star patterns, as if he had draped the vast night sky around himself. The light emitted by the Solar and Lunar stars of Xing Xian Pass seemed to be entirely drawn to this person. The spiritual energy, originally as thin as rice grains, now flowed like a river of stars, surrounding the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord. Every texture on his long robe contained the essence of Dao. His wide sleeves billowed without wind, rustling like surging dark clouds. A sapphire jade belt, smooth and seemingly naturally formed, was fastened around his waist. Embedded within it was a clear spirit crystal, from which lightning occasionally flickered, as if sealing ancient divine thunder. He was encircled by faint golden runic halos, each rune ancient and mysterious, shimmering with brilliant light, as if surrounded by all the stars in the heavens. His boots emitted a faint purple-gold glow, and upon closer inspection, they seemed dotted with stars, as if he had stepped on boundary stars themselves!

As the saying goes, 'Fine clothes make the man, a good saddle makes the horse.' The sheer oppressive aura emanating from the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord's attire alone was enough to terrify anyone to death. Zigu's entire body trembled, and Zhao Xing's breathing became labored.

However, this lasted only for an instant. Upon seeing that Zhao Xing and Zigu were merely at the Ascension Realm, the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord immediately dispelled the various phenomena, and even the Dao weapons on his person dulled their luster.

"'How did Qingyuzi, Puta, and Su Wan die?' The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord looked at Zhao Xing."

"'Senior, this is Senior Qingyuzi's remains, along with his possessions.' Zhao Xing took out a Qiankun bag and respectfully handed it over. He then took out an ice coffin from his Pure Origin Space, which contained Qingyuzi's frozen remains. 'It also contains his personally recorded last words.'"

The Qiankun bag and ice coffin were immediately taken. The moment he saw his disciple's remains, the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord couldn't help but be overwhelmed with sorrow: "'Yu'er, my Yu'er...'" Even Dao Domain Realm experts are human, possessing strong personal emotions. At this moment, the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord appeared less like a supreme master and more like a helpless old man. Zigu and Zhao Xing immediately lowered their gaze, not daring to witness this powerful figure's vulnerable side. It might sound cruel, but the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord's high regard for Qingyuzi was a tremendous boon for them.

"'Master, this disciple is ashamed, unable to fulfill his filial duties before you...'" Qingyuzi's figure reappeared through the Time Jade Slip. He knelt on the ground, kowtowing in a certain direction. "'Please do not be overly sad. This disciple died of old age, which can be considered a natural death. Back then, my junior brother Puta, junior sister Su Wan, and I left seclusion to investigate the Barren Region phenomenon. Approximately 120,000 years ago, we arrived at a place called... Unexpectedly, while passing through the... star system of the Shenluo Barren Region, we encountered an ambush. My ambushers were two Divine Abilities Realm experts, members of the Dongyan Ancient Clan!'"

Dongyan Ancient Clan? Zhao Xing and Zigu learned for the first time about the enemies of Qingyuzi and his two companions. It seemed to be an ancient power. Ancient Clans are a general term for major powers within ancient kingdoms, having existed for a long time. They control many territories and possess many powerful individuals.

"'The three of us used up the treasures bestowed by our masters and managed to save our lives, but the boundary boat was damaged. Unfortunately, during our escape and recuperation, we landed in a strange minor world. At that time, Junior Sister Wan'er fell into a coma, and Junior Brother Puta was severely injured. We could only maintain the Ascension Realm level within that minor world...'" What Qingyuzi narrated next was identical to what Zhao Xing already knew. This unfortunate experience was truly disheartening to hear, bringing tears to one's eyes.

"'Xuanhuang Realm, the damned Xuanhuang Realm, give me back my disciple!' The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord was heartbroken. His disciple's lifespan should not have ended so soon." Having escaped the pursuit of their enemies, they had at least saved their lives. But they landed in this minor world called Xuanhuang Realm and were actually trapped to death! Puta had the worst fate, gone within a thousand years. Qingyuzi and Su Wan both endured for hundreds of thousands of years.

"'After that, this disciple set up a legacy trial in the Xuanhuang Realm, waiting for someone to bring his possessions back to Purple God Prefecture. The Time Jade Slip's activation proves that Master initiated it. This disciple is very happy to return to his roots. Please bury me on Qingyuzi Boundary Star.'"

Qingyuzi bowed forward and said, "'This disciple's last wish, besides asking Master to take care, is one more request: please treat well the one who brought me home. If they are a disciple I took, please teach them on my behalf. If they are merely a fellow cultivator, please try to fulfill their wishes as much as possible. Oh, right.' Qingyuzi rubbed his head, muttering, 'I almost forgot, I don't know how long it will be until this message reaches you. If Master has already cultivated to the Samsara Realm, then wouldn't you be able to revive me? Master, this disciple has one more last wish: I ask for resurrection. If not, then never mind. Just pretend I didn't say it, hahahaha.'"

The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord seemed to be infected by his disciple's open-minded attitude, his expression becoming much calmer, even revealing a slight smile. He carefully put away his disciple's remains, gazed at the starry sky for a while, and then looked back at Zhao Xing.

"'What is your name?'"

"'To answer Senior, this junior is called Zhao Xing.'"

"'It seems you passed my disciple's legacy trial.' The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord stared at Zhao Xing."

"'Yes, thanks to Senior Qingyuzi's legacy, this disciple safely arrived here.'"

The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord frowned. "'Since you accepted his legacy, you should honor him as your master. Are you unwilling?'"

Zhao Xing quickly said, "'This junior has long regarded Senior Qingyuzi as a master in his heart. However, Master comes from a renowned major sect, while I come from humble origins, my life as insignificant as grass. I dare not presume to attach myself. To have received Master's guidance and arrived in the vast cosmic starry sky, I am already content. I dare not ask for anything more extravagant.'"

Seeing Zhao Xing's sincerity and trepidation, the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord immediately understood. For a native to ascend and arrive in the Barren Region is already extraordinarily difficult. To pass through the gates, one must repeatedly disguise oneself and be extremely cautious. Without cultivating such a meticulous and cautious personality, one probably wouldn't have survived until now. It's also normal not to dare to mention Qingyuzi as his master. Not wanting to cling on, perhaps it's his character, or perhaps caution, fearing a lack of recognition.

Thinking of this, the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord's tone softened considerably. "'You don't need to be afraid; you are completely safe now. Since you passed Yu'er's trial and became his disciple, you are my grand-disciple and a part of my Purple God Prefecture. From now on, no one will dare to bully you.'"

"'Yes, Grandmaster.' Zhao Xing bowed respectfully. In truth, he didn't mean what the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord thought. It was simply that he had been prejudiced from the start, believing the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord to be an unfeeling powerhouse. Heavenly Time school Sinuongs often seemed aloof, a conclusion Zhao Xing had drawn from his experiences in the universe. Thus, Zhao Xing adopted a very humble posture, first demonstrating that he was not a greedy person. If the other party was as he expected, then such a posture was the best approach. The second reason was that he actually didn't particularly want to stay in Purple God Prefecture. Of course, now it seemed this Purple Moon Prefecture Lord was a very sentimental person, so staying for a while wouldn't be a bad idea.

"'You are Puta's successor, walking the Path of White Bones, which is rather rare.' The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord then looked at Zigu."

"'Yes, Senior.' Zigu said, 'This junior was also fortunate to pass the trial.'"

"'You should call me Martial Great-Uncle,' the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord corrected."

"'Yes, greetings, Martial Great-Uncle.' Zigu bowed respectfully."

"'And Wan'er's inheritor? Why are there only two of you?' the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord asked."

"'Grandmaster,' Zhao Xing spoke up. 'This grand-disciple also passed the soul legacy trial.'"

"'Oh?' The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord re-examined Zhao Xing. He had been too sorrowful to look closely before, but now, upon careful sensing, his eyes immediately lit up: 'You actually cultivated the Three Divine Life Palaces!'" Unable to sense karma, it was undeniable that only by cultivating the Three Divine Life Palaces could one achieve this.

"'Yes, this disciple was fortunate.'" It was indeed fortunate; in the final stage of the soul legacy, Zhao Xing did nothing but directly step onto the stairs.

"'Fortunate?' The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord chuckled. 'Fortune alone cannot achieve this. Before minor divine abilities, there are Source Laws and Void Laws. Source Laws are fine, with little difference from Heavenly Laws, but Void Laws are a prerequisite for casting minor divine abilities.'" In the universe's spell cultivation system, 'Ultimate Law' was a term used by natives; it was actually called 'Heavenly Law,' which further distinguished between Heavenly Origin Law and Heavenly Spirit Law. Source Laws are easy to understand: they involve studying the origin of spiritual energy, and the power of spells grows with a deeper mastery of this origin. There wasn't a particularly clear distinction in superiority between Heavenly Laws and Source Laws yet. After all, in some minor worlds, the 'heaven' is grander. Establishing a Dao and ascending by breaking the heavens' restraints with spells — that's Heavenly Law. However, Void Laws had a clear hierarchical distinction from Source Laws and Heavenly Laws.

"'This grand-disciple's Three Divine Life Palaces, besides their inherent amplification, only allow spells to be cast in stable void,' Zhao Xing explained." This was also because soul laws weren't strongly linked to the origin of spiritual energy. For example, Zhao Xing couldn't currently cast the Eight Purple Radiance Records. His mind had learned it, but his body didn't yet possess the conditions to cast it. Back in Qingyuzi's dojo, he had only learned it, never actually cast it.

"'Even so, your talent is very good.' The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord looked at Zhao Xing, a hint of emotion in his voice. 'I never thought Yu'er would bring me such a pleasant surprise. He truly has a successor.'" Being able to learn in specific trials actually meant that the legacy setter was observing the future potential of the trial taker. When Zhao Xing stepped into the Origin Realm in the future, his progress would certainly be much faster than ordinary cultivators. And this was indeed the case. After entering the Xuanling Starfield, as the spiritual energy index rose, Zhao Xing felt his cultivation speed greatly increase, and his comprehension became much clearer. Compared to his feelings in the Xuanhuang Realm, it was like a blur, as if he were wearing presbyopic glasses. Even without having obtained the methods for cultivating the origin, he was already advancing towards the Origin Realm. This was purely due to his innate talent.

"'Since the Xuanhuang Realm has such strange rules, there must be more than just you two ascenders. Where are the others?' the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord asked."

Zhao Xing waved his hand, and Yun Tiandao, Liu Tianning, Xia Jing, Ye Yukong, and others immediately emerged from the flying boat. "'Greetings, Senior.' The eight bowed towards the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord."

"'Grandmaster, these are important officials of my Great Zhou Dynasty and also my close friends and family,' Zhao Xing introduced. 'The others are hiding outside the pass. This grand-disciple requests Grandmaster to bring them in.'"

The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord immediately turned to a black-robed figure beside him and said, "'Suqin, awaken the general guarding this place and have him pick up the people.'"

"'Yes, Martial Uncle.' The black-robed figure named Suqin immediately took action."

Before long, Naland slowly woke up and then saw a third-tier powerhouse instructing him to do something. "'Yes, yes. I'll go now.' Naland dared not ask more, simply followed the instructions, and immediately piloted the boundary boat to pick up people outside the pass."

Meanwhile, the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord continued to chat with Zhao Xing and Zigu about their experiences.

"'Zigu, this is Puta's junior brother, 'Muluo.' By seniority, you should call him Martial Uncle.'"

"'Martial Uncle Muluo.' Zigu obediently addressed him."

Muluo, however, seemed rather cold, merely grunting in acknowledgment. Next, the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord asked about the other individuals from the Xuanhuang Realm, including Yun Tiandao and Liu Tianning. Both of them were Sinuongs, and both had served as Grand Sinuongs. The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord had originally asked casually, but unexpectedly, when it came to Yun Tiandao, he was somewhat surprised: "'Time seems to have frozen traces on you. Have you used some special Dao weapon, or consumed some treasure?'"

"'To answer Senior, my homeland has a treasure left by the ancient sages, called the House of Epochs,' Yun Tiandao explained its function."

"'I see.' The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord nodded."

"'Grandmaster, this friend of mine has created four minor divine abilities. I wonder if Purple God Prefecture can take him in?' Zhao Xing asked."

"'Hmm?' The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord's eyebrow rose. 'You created divine abilities?'"

"'This junior is not sure if they count, but the spells this junior created far exceed the Ultimate Law (Heavenly Law) level.' After learning more these past few days, Yun Tiandao was unsure if his spells had reached the minor divine ability level. After all, the rumor in Xuanhuang Realm was that above Ultimate was Divine Ability. But there were too few people at this realm, with no one to communicate with."

"'Show them to me.' The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord immediately waved his hand. 'The Fifth Star Continent now counts as a standard stable void.'"

"'Yes.' Yun Tiandao immediately demonstrated his self-created divine ability spells: first, 'Star-Dipper Cloud,' and second, 'Sky-Rift.'"

The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord's discernment was incredibly sharp. After watching, he immediately judged that both of Yun Tiandao's techniques had entered the minor divine ability level. He then inquired in detail about Yun Tiandao's experiences and concluded that Yun Tiandao had skipped the Void Law stage and comprehended his own minor divine abilities. However, he also couldn't cast them in unstable void, which was because he hadn't yet reached the Origin Realm. Zhao Xing also understood why he could never learn Star-Dipper Cloud and Sky-Rift; it turned out Old Yun hadn't created the Void Law stage methods at all. He knew them himself and understood them, but others couldn't learn them. Just like Li Boqian's Primordial Seal back then, there were no low-level stages; it immediately started with four top-tier techniques, all beginning at seven transformations. If you could learn them, you could; otherwise, there was no way.

At this moment, the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord's gaze towards Yun Tiandao already showed some delight. "'Yun Tiandao, are you willing to join my Purple God Prefecture?' the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord extended an invitation."

"'This disciple is willing.' Yun Tiandao nodded. This had been agreed upon long ago; Purple God Prefecture was currently the best choice."

"'Good, good, good.' The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord's sorrow seemed to have been diluted by joy." To be able to create minor divine ability techniques at the Ascension Realm was rare even in ancient kingdoms! Of course, Yun Tiandao had spent a very long time, approximately four to five hundred thousand years. However, he created them himself at the Ascension Realm. Even if it took a little longer, it didn't diminish their value! At this moment, in the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord's eyes, Yun Tiandao's talent was far superior to Zhao Xing's!

As for Liu Tianning, Rahu King, Lu Ying, Qiu Yuanshan, Xia Jing, and Ye Yukong, the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord also individually assessed their aptitudes.

"'You're quite good.' The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord looked at Liu Tianning. 'You can become an outer disciple of Purple God Prefecture.'"

"'Thank you, Prefecture Lord.' Liu Tianning bowed."

As for the others, in the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord's eyes, there was nothing particularly noteworthy. After all, he had seen countless geniuses, and few could truly catch his attention.

"'A small Xuanhuang Realm actually has four geniuses.' The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord mused. 'And there's even the great divine ability, 'Sever Heaven and Earth Communication.' I seem to have heard of it somewhere....'" But the Purple Moon Prefecture Lord couldn't recall it for a moment, as if it was too ancient, merely a casual mention by a passerby on a street corner, the memory already blurred.

Naland's efficiency was remarkable; it only took him half a month to complete the round-trip relocation. However, he was thoroughly a 'tool-person.' The Purple Moon Prefecture Lord never met Naland face-to-face; everything was handled by Suqin. Even Suqin, Naland couldn't clearly see, as if her face was veiled. He'd forget her upon sight, couldn't deduce her karma, nor sense anything, as if she had never appeared.

"'Purple God Prefecture is truly unfathomable. I didn't sense Qingyuzi's karma, nor did I sense this third-tier expert named Su-something. Hmm, what was her name again?' Naland found that he couldn't even clearly remember her name. 'Fortunately, I remember Qingyuzi's name.' Naland shook his head. 'I can't forget that one; I spent money on it!'"

Departing from the Fifth Star Continent, the Xuanhuang Boundary Boat had been completely upgraded, directly replaced with a true boundary boat! The boundary boat was named 'Muluo,' crafted by the artificer named Muluo. Along the way, Zhao Xing and the others continuously teleported, traversing star systems by stealthily moving through the void rivers. Suqin was primarily handling the negotiations. Zhao Xing vaguely perceived that Suqin had also cultivated the Three Divine Life Palaces and was free from karma. Thus, all negotiations for passing through or borrowing paths along the way were handled by Suqin. Their arrival was urgent, but on the return to Purple Moon Star System, there was no need to use connections to borrow paths. So, it took them a full month to travel.

"'The further we go, the higher the spiritual energy index becomes. We can now frequently see people flying in the flesh outside planets.' Zhao Xing gazed out of the viewport." In the spiritual energy starfield, the universe is not entirely void; it contains abundant spiritual energy, thus lacking a strong sense of oppression. Imagine certain regions of the universe are not vacuum, but filled with air, except this 'air' in the Yuanhai Ancient Kingdom is spiritual energy. Various planets, star continents, and even asteroids were lush with greenery and teeming with life! In such regions, even Ascension Realm cultivators could fly between satellites and their parent planets. Although a bit slow, it wasn't strictly necessary to use tools.

Zhao Xing watched outside: some flew on auspicious clouds, some rode swords, and some simply flew with nothing but their physical bodies. Freely traversing the stars!

"'A place rich in spiritual energy!' Zhao Xing pressed the external circulation button on the cabin wall, and a dense spiritual energy washed over him, making him feel as if he was floating."

"'The legends of the Xuanhuang Realm described an Immortal Realm, which probably means some predecessors reached star systems with a spiritual energy index over 100,' Zhao Xing mused."

He took a deep breath. Soon after, a translucent interface suddenly appeared before his eyes. "'Hmm?' Zhao Xing's eyes flickered. 'Why did the panel pop up on its own?'" He focused his mind and saw two records on the panel.

"Spiritual Energy Index exceeds 50. You have entered a spiritual energy domain in the universe.""Universe version activated. Panel functions will upgrade with version updates."

"'The panel has upgraded!' Zhao Xing was delighted. 'I can finally use more functions! Ha! Cheats, come forth!'"