Defiance of the Fall

Of course , that didn’t mean these people were weak . They might be lacking in life-and-death experiences compared to someone like himself , but the same could be said to be true for Iz Tayn .

That might be the case , and you’re surely not the only one who was tempering themselves in this realm when the mission was released , - the leader said , a small frown forming when faced with Zac’s stubbornness . - You may be an innocent bystander in all this . But the Heavens are never fair . The others will not be as generous as I am . I’m certain the coffin on your back is your main weapon . Why risk losing your companion for a treasure that doesn’t seem aligned with your path? -

Zac hadn’t been too bothered by the situation before . These people were powerful , but he was confident in forcing his way out . It was the not-so-subtle threat to Alea that ignited a fire in his chest , and his plans started to shift . These people were asking for a beating , high-echelon or not .

The young lord is giving you an opportunity here , - the Mentalist said , adding gas to the fire . - Don’t lose everything because of your greed . -

You talk about greed while eyeing my stuff? While you threaten my coffin? - Zac said with a steely voice as roiling waves of killing intent poured out of his body .

The lingering mental imprint in the walls was doused and overwhelmed by Zac’s murderous air , and the whole mountain started shaking as Zac no longer restrained his aura . It rose and rose , a storm to match the one raging outside . Even the Mana-empowered domain exuded by the leader was pushed back , and his smiling visage finally changed to one of concentration .

What gives you the confidence? - Zac growled as the rattling of chains started reverberating through the cave . - Your backing? Your Mana? This is what I think of your offer . -

Zac didn’t move to attack . The box in his hands floated into the air , allowing Zac to open it while still holding his axe . Powerful waves of spirituality blended with his killing intent , and Zac pushed down the scenes of carnage that had appeared as he grabbed the lily .

What are you—STOP! - the leader roared , but Zac ignored the man .

The Mentalist had even fewer misgivings , launching an invisible arrow of empowered Mental Energy at Zac . It moved with incredible speed , but Zac didn’t even spare it a glance as he stuffed the flower into his mouth and swallowed . The arrow moved fast , but the chains had formed a nigh-impenetrable web around him . Two Dao-empowered chains lashed the mental attack , each drastically weakening it before it entered his Soul Aperture .

Zac didn’t even need to rely on Indomitable] for protection . The two huge soul spirals were like millstones , pulverizing the attack long before it could cause any damage . Zac barely registered the attack , too swept up in his own world . It was like time had ground to a halt , similar to when he absorbed a new Remnant .

The real reason was because his mind had kicked into overdrive , with hundreds of thoughts firing off in a fraction of a second . In comparison , reality felt extremely slow . The source was the mysterious lily and the almost unfathomable amount of energy it unloaded .

No longer was his Soul Aperture a vast space with two opposing galaxies slowly spinning . His Soul Cores were still there , but they were drowned by millions of different images—nightmares clamoring for attention and Mental Energy . Zac could understand the shock on the Earth cultivator’s face seeing the chaos he’d invited into himself . Almost any cultivator would quickly lose their mind from the onslaught unless their souls were overloaded and collapsed from all the energy first .

However , Zac was no ordinary cultivator . Even in an unstable post-breakthrough state , his soul could match that of elite Peak E-grade Mentalists . Add to that his Heart Cultivation and experience with the Remnants , and he could hold onto his sanity without much effort , even if he temporarily couldn’t stop the odd distortions of reality around him .

His three Dao Avatars lit up , and the galaxies in his mind spun faster . The dreams that got too close were swallowed up and refined into a soothing mist that nurtured his harried cores and aperture . Scars were closing rapidly while the exhausted Spiritual Void] was replenished . Even his vision started to return to normal .

But the Soulhaze Lily] was no common object . It was clearly a D-grade treasure , even if it had lost a good chunk of its spirituality when it came crashing down from the Calamity Mountain . Not even Zac’s appetite was a match to what was offered . Spiritual Void] absorbed all it could , and Void Heart] soon joined in on the feast .

Even then , Zac was forced to continuously release more than 80% of the lily’s stockpiled energies through his pores , creating a shimmering shroud around him . Only then did his overdrawn mind settle somewhat . Zac felt like someone had pressed play on reality again as his perception of time returned to normal .

Seize him! He might really have the core , but he’s out of his mind! He can’t be allowed to destroy that thing as well! - the leader swore , and four powerful auras spread out .

Zac only snorted as one domain after another was activated . The shimmering haze of mind-bending madness was joined by the Miasmic mist of Fields of Despair] and the corrosive darkness of Deathmark] . And even that wasn’t the end . The whole cave shook as a deathly river lined its walls and transformed their surroundings , as though they’d been dragged into the underworld .

A pillar radiating despair and finality rose from the ground , and thousands of anguished faces voicelessly screamed with desolation . Space itself bent and expanded to accommodate the hundred meter tall pillar . A wave of hollowness swept through his mind as the last embers of Oblivion Energy were used for kindling the beacon of Oblivion atop Pillar of Desolation] .

It didn’t matter . After using almost all of it in his breakthrough , he had far too little remaining to create an Annihilation Sphere . Using what was left to activate his most powerful skill was a worthy investment . The orb of ultimate darkness ignited . Its size hadn’t increased since Zac managed to push the skill to Late Mastery , but it had gained a halo of despair .

The halo spread millions of invisible tendrils through the cage , annihilating all clashing energies it encountered . Zac himself faded , his presence erased within the cloak of destruction rippling out from the tower . And as soon as the pillar formed , one chain after another shot out while expressions of hunger appeared on the pillar’s statues .

A battle was inevitable , and Zac had opted for shock and awe . However , these people weren’t some random grunts . Not one showed any fear , though their lazy and confident expressions were long since wiped away . One by one , their auras erupted , creating a counterweight to Zac’s interlaced domains .

Interestingly , each aura had an earthy tone that matched the leader’s . Even the Mentalist had an Earth-based Dao Branch . Zac expected to see complementing elements from the Peak of Grand Materia , but they were a specialized squad . It became increasingly apparent why these people wanted the Mountain Heart , even if it was attuned to Life and Death .

The leader of the four had the greatest aura , and Zac wasn’t surprised to sense it was a match to Uona’s in raw force alone . Bolstered by his seventh-echelon Mana , a zone bereft of Life and Death had formed within ten meters . The fundamental laws had subtly shifted in his vicinity . Only the Daos sanctioned by his path would function properly ; everything else would be suppressed .

It was like a weaker version of his Void Zone] , but that wasn’t enough to make Zac back down . So what if the enemies had some advantages in that regard? He wasn’t the same person who fought Uona all those years ago , and the vast amounts of Pure Death in the Calamity gave him a home-field advantage .

Even now , large amounts of Death-attuned Energy were entering the cave to join Pillar of Desolation]’s deathly river . Some Life entered as well , but the cave acted as a filter .

Azra formation! - the leader shouted as four axe-wielding wraiths were crushed by his aura alone .

A huge mountain appeared above his head , its height a match to Pillar of Desolation] . It fused with the Mana domain , creating a safe haven from Zac’s overlapping skills . Simultaneously , he felt an incredible pressure on his cage . The floating mountain had created a resonance with the mountain they stood inside , and the cave suddenly felt like a maw that tried to close and crush his skill .

Thankfully , the effect wasn’t strong enough to overpower his skill . It had contained powerful creatures like the Qriz’Ul Goblin King , and Zac had elevated the skill to Late Proficiency since . It would take well over a minute before the pressure exhausted and destabilized Pillar of Desolation] , and he could afford the energy expenditure .

That wasn’t the extent of the mountain’s effect , though . The four chains aimed to bind and drag Zac’s enemies into Oblivion were stopped by an ancient aura of permanence . Out of better options , they slammed into the mountain itself like poisonous needles delivering a deadly payload of nothingness . The old chains of Profane Seal] could drain victims of their energy , and the chains of Pillar of Desolation] had inherited that feature . With the skill reaching Late Proficiency , it simultaneously destroyed the energy it couldn’t siphon off , using the halo of Oblivion .

Apart from profaning the mountain avatar with its aura of Oblivion , the statues started to pull . Zac felt an incredible resistance , but the huge mountain shuddered , dragged a few meters closer . Nothing could resist the pull of Death—it was akin to fighting fate . But the scene only lasted for a second .

The Mentalist sat next to the leader and formed a mudra with his hands . A pillar of deep brown energy rose from him and poured into the mountain peak . He had become a conduit and amplifier . The mountain was no longer just an avatar but a representation of the will of the whole island they stood on . Like a primordial consciousness was slowly stirring . The destroyed energy of the mountain was rapidly being replenished , undoing the work of Pillar of Desolation] .

Zac could tell dealing with the mountain was key to winning the battle . The leader appeared to be pouring all he had into it , and the others were supporting him in hastening its awakening . While it couldn’t compare to the supreme power of Pillar of Desolation] , its aura was still rising .

He needed to make his move , but a pang of danger forced him to phase to move out of the way . A storm of stone shards had appeared where he stood and ripped space apart . Zac didn’t even have time to readjust before he felt his mind slow down , this time not because of the Soulhaze Lily] .

It was as though a mountain weighed down on his soul , slowing his thoughts to a crawl . The sensation only lasted a fraction of a second before it was ripped apart by Indomitable] and his spinning Soul Cores , and Zac heard a groan from the Mentalist . Zac didn’t get the chance to capitalize on the backlash as his danger sense warned him of imminent peril .

The sword-wielder appeared right next to him , her aura fully obscured . Zac had no time to worry about how they could spot him through the obscuration of Pillar of Desolation] , and he frankly didn’t care . One of his enemies had dared leave the protective umbrella of the floating mountain , making this an excellent opportunity .

A small copy of the spirit mountain floated above her head , and Zac saw how energy streams entered her swords as she swung them in a cruel cross aimed at Zac’s head . This strike was not something that could be blocked with his chains , so Zac swung Black Death] to intercept . Meanwhile , the rattling chains of Love’s Bond] began their constrictive dance .

A tremendous shockwave erupted as weapons clashed . The warrior was forced back almost ten meters , while the now-exposed form of Zac only took one step back . The warrior looked at Zac with shock , unable to compute that she’d lost in a clash of pure Strength . Zac’s face was impassive as he advanced , but there was some surprise in his heart .

He’d only narrowly overpowered the enemy in a direct collision , even when using Conviction of Eoz] . Judging by the woman’s aura , it wasn’t because of her own accomplishments but rather the small mountain above her head . It could be considered a War Array that allowed her to borrow the strength of a mountain and the leader .

But the real surprise was something else . Zac failed to catch the swordmaster with his chains , even when using the Inexorable Stance . Alea’s chains had aimed to seal her movements , while Pillar of Desolation] sent out another chain . However , they’d all flown toward the huge mountain . It was similar to his old taunting ability , yet slightly different .

Zac’s senses told him that the sword mistress was the mountain and that attacking her and the mountain was the same thing . The culprit was most likely the miniature mountain hovering above her head , though knowing that didn’t provide an immediate solution . It was like reality had been subverted .

A thunderous crash followed in the wake of the opening exchange , and Zac blanched when his connection with Pillar of Desolation] shuddered . Dozens of earth spears had split off from the mountain and slammed into the underworld river just as Zac was attacked . The leader had made his move , aimed at the cage rather than Zac or the pillar .

Huge cracks spread through the river of the underworld , where one salvo had damaged the seal of his Supreme Pathbound skill by over 15% . The damage would soon be dispersed through the whole river , but it was proof he couldn’t underestimate the geniuses of the Perennial Vastness . Sensing the damage and the still-building energy in the mountain proved the fight wouldn’t last long .

A swirling halo of darkness appeared behind Zac as he grew three meters in a burst . The thick chain of Arbiter of the Abyss] barely had time to wound itself around Zac’s left arm before he reached out and clenched his hand . A tremendous pull kicked the whole area into a frenzy , and even the huge mountain still resisting his pillar was wrenched over a dozen meters closer .

It was like Zac had become a black hole , and the sword mistress was absolutely incapable of resisting the pull . She disappeared in a burst of instantaneous movement , but the Peak-mastery taunting skill wasn’t so easily avoided . In fact , the sword mistress was playing right into Zac’s hands .

She appeared just four meters away with a bewildered expression . A veteran warrior , she gained her bearings quickly and started channeling a skill as her swords pointed toward Zac’s heart . Before she could launch her attack , the surroundings dimmed . Confusion and fear replaced her bewilderment , and fear turned into horror .

Zac had already made his move , and the arbiter’s chain shot forth like a snake striking its victim .

Galvo! - the leader roared from beneath the mountain , and the mountain slightly dimmed as a huge earthen blade sprung up between Zac and the sword mistress .

The blade contained incredible force . Void Zone] was deactivated , but Zac suspected it would still have managed to force its way through . The blade severed one chain of Love’s Bond] and the conjured fetter of Arbiter of the Abyss] , forming an impregnable wall separating Zac and his target . If Zac hadn’t retracted his arm in time , he would probably have also lost it .

The quick reaction allowed the warrior to scramble out of the way , but it was too late . Void Zone] had interrupted the miniature mountain and its redirection ability . She’d then been tapped by the arbiter’s chain , which meant her fate was Zac’s to judge . Five whistling sounds cut through the roar of the deathly river .

No! - the Mentalist screamed .

The sword mistress managed to block four out of five executions of Blighted Cut] with her swords and defensive talismans , but the final one struck true . Zac emerged around the earthen divider just in time to see the woman’s corpse fall apart from left shoulder to right hip . Zac only spared her a glance before his abyssal eyes turned to the remaining cultivators .

The fear and confusion on the sword mistress’s face during her final moments were now mirrored on the others . They clearly didn’t understand what just happened , why their mountain War Array had failed . Furthermore , less than five seconds had passed since the fight started , yet one of their companions had already fallen .

They’d considered Zac a powerful opponent from the moment he unleashed his Pillar of Desolation] , but the severity of the situation had only dawned on them at this moment . They wanted to sound Zac out while they dealt with his cage , but that wishy-washy strategy had completely backfired on them .

This wasn’t a family trial where their background meant something . This was the lawless wild , and they’d targeted someone they shouldn’t have .

One down , three to go . -

31

LIGHT OF AZRA

What do we do? WHAT DO WE DO?’ Kalva’s frantic voice rattled in Uthar’s mind . - This guy is too dangerous . ’

Uthar’s face was calm , but his heart drummed as he looked on as the severed link of the insane Draugr’s coffin floated into the man’s hand . Uthar knew far too little about these undead creatures and their means . Only that the Draugr was one of the leaders of the distant Undead Empire . And so what? They were the scions of an equally powerful faction , with both numbers and Mana on their side .

To think they’d sent an Eonic Seed to the Perennial Vastness . Didn’t they have any core inheritances of their own?

Was there a way out of this mess? Losing Galvo was a hit to his prestige , but it didn’t matter much . Uthar was already approaching his limits before the Mana Poison would prove too much , so his retainers weren’t of much use anymore . This was supposed to be a final outing . If he managed to seize the Calamity Core] , he’d enter the eighth echelon and could turn his attention to Core Formation . There was no irredeemable grudge between the two .

Uthar tried to glean anything from the man , but he got a sinking feeling as he saw the Draugr’s attention shift from the severed chain he held to their location . His face was hidden within a hood since he transformed into that ominous form , yet Uthar could feel them . Those two abyssal orbs were trained at them , filled with monstrous killing intent .

What was with this lunatic? His demeanor had completely shifted when his coffin was mentioned , and now it looked like he was ready to fight to the death . Was that guy actually carrying around a beloved corpse inside it or something? In either case , diplomacy was out the window . Some treasures to smooth things over wouldn’t work .

I’ve tried ; I can’t do anything to him , ’ Pa’Sur sighed . - His soul might even be more powerful than mine . No wonder he could withstand the Soulhaze Lily]’s dreams . ’

Don’t waste your energy on him , then . Focus on awakening Azra’s spirit while providing support . It’s already reached a point where we can’t back down even if we want to . We’re trapped , so we’ll have to fight our way out , ’ Uthrar intoned through Stonewhisper] as he destroyed the wave of wraiths that had appeared again .

Even then , two more marks had been added to the mountain , and the corrosive blight spread deeper into the veins . He’d have to waste even more energy to push it out , or the avatar would collapse . These things were a constant bother , preventing him from properly dealing with the river of Death .

How was this just one man with one set of skills? It felt like they were fighting an army .

Uthar didn’t have a lot of options , and could no longer play it safe . Just breaking the river wasn’t enough , even if he found the opportunity while calling down Azra’s spirit to this plane . A deadly storm raged outside , one too powerful to overcome with Mana and far more in tune with their opponent than them .

The Draugr had clearly been able to traverse the island alone without accruing any damage , while they had been forced to hide beneath the ground while waiting for targets and treasures . Here , they were at least inside a mountain , evening the playing field . And if they fled , they’d have to give up on their half-summoned Deity , putting them in an even more dangerous situation .

This man was lethal to the extreme , and any half-measures would only end with more of his followers down for the count . Even worse , he could get crippled to the point his breakthrough failed . Uthar gritted his teeth and took out the Dawn Sierra] , waves of hatred burning in his heart as he looked at the dense engravings covering the stone chest .

He’d saved it to purify his Mountain Core after passing the first threshold , but their strength alone wasn’t enough . He needed assistance . Kalva breathed in relief upon seeing the legacy treasure they’d brought with them from back home . A true splinter of Azra imbued with its ancient will . Kalva clearly didn’t care that this meant his Mountain Core would reach Middle-quality at most .

Then again , neither did Uthar at this moment .

We need to delay him for twenty seconds . That’s it . After that , we’ll show him the might of Azra , ’ Uthar growled . - Ridgebane Seeds!’

The two nodded , and thousands of pebbles spilled out of Kalva’s sleeves . As they flew toward the malignant star , they started to grow under the light of Azra . Uthar felt the drain of Faith Power from the avatar , but it rapidly recovered and was even bolstered as he pushed the Dawn Sierra] into the mountain .

Powerful mental fluctuations were simultaneously released by Pa’Sur , indicating he was imparting the stone soldiers with temporary life . Thousands of golems filled the cave in no time , empowered by Azra and their Dao . Kalva’s eyes were closed in concentration—controlling this many elite stonemen was taxing , even when imbued with Divine Will and a spark of sapience from the Mentalist .

One spectral wraith after another appeared to meet the challenge , and a vast web of chains shot out from that ghastly pillar . That was exactly what Uthar wanted to see . That monstrous Draugr was ultimately just one man , and he’d already used up a huge amount of Miasma to maintain his advantage .

It also gave Uthar a breather , allowing him to redirect some of Azra’s force . Huge spears filled with force assaulted the raging river , purifying it with the breath of the earth . But Uthar was eventually forced to stop and refocus on Azra . Though a few of his projectiles had managed to pierce the river , it healed itself far too quickly for Uthar to dare attempt an escape . Just how durable was this cursed thing?

They’re ready , ’ Kalva intoned as two shimmering stones appeared from his sleeves .

Uthar bit his finger and left three drops of blood on each stone before they flew out , Anointing them with the lineage of the Sentinel Dawn . The stones grew into two , ten-meter constructs , each radiating force equivalent to Early Hegemony .

By that point , the Draugr was on the move . He’d finished mending the broken link , which had retreated into the coffin on his back . Now , he’d turned into a storm of carnage , unleashing his anger on the Ridgebane soldiers . A huge , jagged edge swept through the constructs as he paved a path toward their position . He was no longer waiting around for them to emerge from their protective umbrella .

Stone shavings were flowing everywhere as hundreds of sacrificial soldiers collapsed , but that was part of the plan . The broken stonemen turned into a swirling storm , trapping the Draugr and forming the Ridgebane Array . The two anointed stonemen stepped inside , acting as foundations for the trapping formation . The sounds of metal cutting stone abated , and Uthar breathed in relief and turned to the mountain .

The accrued faith from months of prayer poured into the divine avatar , bringing their summoning closer to fruition . But only five seconds passed before a huge form shot out of the formation and crashed into the mountain with enough force to create cracks across its surface . The whole Ridgebane Array exploded the next second , and Uthar blanched upon seeing the Draugr holding the head of the second anointed construct .

The head was crushed , and the construct collapsed . The lauded Ridgbane Array hadn’t even managed to buy them ten seconds!

Worse , a storm of Death was dragged toward the Draugr as thousands of pitch-black tendrils stretched for twenty meters from his back like skeletal wings . The tendrils hummed with a soul-wrenching buzz , agitating the Death-attuned energies in the area . It came storming into the Draugr’s body , ripping apart the lingering effect of the Ridgebane Array .

With his five-meter frame shrouded in darkness and swirling halo , the Draugr looked like a fallen God . His ominous aura towered as the wings swallowed a seemingly inexhaustible amount of energy until two crackling orbs formed at the wingtips . A palpable sense of imminent doom was unleashed as he gazed upon a swirling grey haze rapidly forming around the axe .

The haze swallowed the two crackling orbs of destruction , and Uthar knew he couldn’t wait any longer .

Gaia! - he roared , sacrificing all his remaining Faith Energy to summon a dome of impregnable stone .

Kalva had already summoned his eight guardians , forming an inner barrier pointed at the cardinal directions . Pa’Sur activated his defensive domain , which would weaken any foreign Dao . But even with their layers of defense and Azra’s protective umbrella , Uthar didn’t feel safe . What was that man doing?

Futile , - a grating voice echoed from outside .

The world froze before reality came crashing down upon them . The impregnable wall of Gaia’s Sanctuary] shattered , split in two by an unstoppable edge . The cardinal statues crumbled , and Pa’Sur’s domain was ripped to shreds . A groan escaped from the Mentalist’s mouth , but Uthar had no time to worry about that useless bastard .

He pushed his Mana domain to its limits as he tilted the divine avatar . The deadly blade ground against his path , but Azra’s protection allowed him to finally exhaust the attack . Just as he thought himself safe , his danger sense warned of mortal peril . The protective domain of Azra had become frayed when blocking the ultimate strike , and a chain reeking of destruction slipped inside their sanctuary .

And it was coming for him .

Ruthlessness shone in Uthar’s eyes . A mental command activated the command token hidden beneath his robes . Pa’Sur’s eyes glazed over just as he recovered from the spiritual backlash , long enough for Uthar to push the Mentalist in front of him . The chain latched onto the man , and by the time he woke up , he’d been yanked out of the protective dome .

Uthar took a shuddering breath , knowing he’d just escaped a terrible fate . He’d seen what happened to Galvo after getting touched by one of that madman’s chains . He refused to have his body bisected in this forgotten corner of space , and the Mentalist had proven useless against the Draugr’s mental defenses .

Besides , it was mostly his fault they found themselves in this desperate situation . Offering himself as a substitute sacrifice was the least he could do . As the Mentalist was ripped out to meet his fate , Gaia’s Sanctuary] mended and sealed them inside . The connection to Stonewhisper] vanished , and it didn’t even take a second before their sanctuary began shaking from an unrelenting onslaught .

One corrosive mark after another was added to the domain—the Draugr himself must be hammering the barrier . It was only a matter of time . However , the lunatic was finally out of lethal attacks it seemed .

It’s payback time , - Uthar growled a few seconds later , ignoring the unspoken reproach in Kalva’s eyes .

The two floated into the mountain above . A soothing warmth spread through Uthar’s body as Azra’s spirit embraced him , and the stress and fear accumulated from this ill-fated encounter melted away . He’d become the Apostle of the Dawn Mountain , and he’d stand tall , long after this Draugr and his descendants turned to dust . He ordered Gaia’s Sanctuary] to self-destruct as they emerged like a butterfly from its cocoon .

Only to be met by an orb of utter nothingness .

The enormous stone face only managed to resist for a moment before the Oblivion Beacon disintegrated its defenses and pushed into the eye on its forehead .

SACRILEGE!’ a grand voice boomed in Zac’s mind , and a terrifying pressure bore down on both his body and soul .

Zac felt like an angry god had turned its attention to him , in a far more palpable sense than when he conjured Heaven’s wrath . Faith Energy . These two had summoned a wisp of a god and hid inside its avatar . Thank God he’d acted fast enough , opting to use the same strategy as when he fought the Eidolon inside the Twilight Ascent .

Encountering a Mountain God was unexpected , but it wasn’t a surprise they were cooking up something dangerous . Why else would they sit around while the aura of the floating mountain kept rising? Pillar of Desolation] was about to collapse in either case . Truthfully , he’d been lucky they’d given up when they had . A few more good hits and the rivers would have collapsed , destabilizing the whole skill .

He’d hoped the Peak-quality Desperation’s End] would be enough to split the mountain in two before they reached this point , but the defenses of Earth cultivators were simply too sturdy . At least it provided the opportunity to take out the Mentalist .

Zac had been prepared and timed everything perfectly with the pillar , yet it felt like he was about to be crushed under the unrelenting pressure . New tears replaced those which the Soulhaze Lily] had just mended , and muscles tore under the unbearable physical pressure . The presence demanded him to give in and kneel in obeisance , but that triggered an unprecedented ferocity from his body .

His three Draugr Nodes rippled with power , filling him with the gift of the Abyss , muting the roar of the false god . Adamance , Conviction , and Immutability . How could a descendant of Eoz bow to some crappy mountain? His aura surged , and he drew upon all his strength to push the Pillar of Desolation] farther into the crumbling head .

The Mana domain had already crumbled , forcibly ripped apart by Oblivion . Between that and the god’s defenses , the beacon had shrunk by two-thirds , with only the kernel of Annihilation remaining . But that was enough . It came into contact with something ancient , unyielding , something that not even Oblivion could erase . The feeling only lasted a moment before it was gone , forced out of this realm by Zac’s advance .

Left was a broken face bereft of any divinity . What remained of the Oblivion Beacon erupted and blew it apart . A bloody shape fell out from the crumbling form , and his heart was pierced before he could recover from the backlash . More Kill Energy poured into Zac’s body , but he didn’t spare the fallen mage a second glance . He scoured the collapsing face for clues until he spotted a second body tumbling toward the ground .

His Miasma was running low , but he had ample stores of Void Energy . He disappeared in a puff and appeared next to the leader . Black Death] was already falling toward his head , its gleaming edge filled with Death and Conflict . Like deadly spears , the remaining chains of Love’s Bond] converged on the leader , and Zac could feel Alea’s killing intent as she was out for vengeance .

Axe and chains hit true , but Zac swore when the corpse crumbled into stone . A burst of energy erupted from within an inconspicuous stone just as Zac struck . Zac looked over with surprise . He’d scanned that stone with his soul , Draugr vision , and Cosmic Gaze] . All three had said nothing was there , yet there clearly was . Unfortunately , nothing remained by the time Zac reached the source except some glimmering sand .

The leader had gotten away .

Was that you guys? - Zac asked , glancing down at the translucent bracelet on his wrist .

Nope , that was all him . Pretty impressive escape method , for it to work inside a Calamity Storm , - Null commented . - I can’t imagine he’s in good shape , though . Such a forceful method always has drawbacks , like damaged foundations . He might have lost his opportunity to break through here . -

So one slipped through the cracks , after all , - Zac sighed .

Well , him running for his life toward the exit should help with the next part , - Null commented .

Not as much as his corpse would have , - Zac countered , turning to the unmoving bodies of the three fallen warriors .

Normally , the Mentalist wouldn’t have left a corpse after being captured by Pillar of Desolation] . However , Zac opted to decapitate him before he was turned into another statue , leaving him with a body almost a match to Vilari’s . Perhaps this one could become a disciple of hers after being awakened .

The trio joined the growing collection in his Corpse Sack while their rings entered one of his pockets . There was no time to go through his windfall right now . Anyone within miles would have been able to sense their battle , and Zac didn’t want to stick around in case a third party arrived to fish in muddy waters .

He briefly scanned his body as he ate a Pseudo D-grade Soldier Pill . He was actually in a pretty good state . His opponents this time were simply too unlucky . Their turtle strategy might have worked against most . Zac guessed less than fifty people in the Perennial Vastness would be able to break open that formation before they could finish their preparations .

But when faced with someone like Zac , they’d become sitting ducks locked on a path toward their doom . His body only suffered some fractures from fighting against the false god’s pressure . His soul was actually better off from when the fight began , as the Soulhaze Lily]’s energies still hadn’t been exhausted .

Zac gave the cave a quick look before flashing away , appearing at the exit . The storm still raged , which wasn’t a surprise considering less than three minutes had passed since he entered the cave . After scanning the surroundings with his soul and other senses , he stepped into the madness , continuing his journey toward the island’s edge .

He’d fought off the first wave of profiteers , but this tribulation was far from over . Even discounting the parties waiting on the other shores , there was one more enemy he had to deal with .

The Calamity itself and the vast chasm between him and the exit .

32

FINAL GAUNTLET

The air screamed , and a series of explosions ripped open a set of new wounds before Zac’s blood calmed the storm in his immediate vicinity . He was almost dragged to the sky , but he took out his bar of Nightblight Alloy] to anchor himself to the ground . The huge block was twisted and bent , with most of its spirituality gone . It had become scrap , but it was still heavy enough to serve its purpose .

It should last him until he left this place . And if not , he had more heavy materials prepared in his Spatial Ring .

As Zac expected , he didn’t need to travel far before reaching the island’s edge . Visibility was so bad he couldn’t even see a few meters ahead . He would probably have run right off the edge if not for his spiritual domain . The storm was more ferocious at the shores , where the downdraft agitated the immense amounts of energy around him . Unsurprisingly , neither beasts nor cultivators were waiting for him , like when he first jumped islands .

Just scanning the immediate vicinity was difficult , so spotting the starter island far in the distance was downright impossible . The chaotic storm drowned out all sounds and energy . There could be an all-out war raging on the other shores for all he knew .

Zac found a crevasse partly protected from the storm , and his ichor helped it become a temporary harbor against the madness . The idea was to use the shrouding effect of the storm to his advantage as he made his way to the teleporter . He was confident in being able to elude most people in this environment . And even if he were spotted , he could probably outrun them when utilizing the calming effect of his blood .

It was disallowed to stay in the immediate vicinity of the teleportation pillar for more than ten minutes . So long as he made it within a few hundred meters , he’d be safe . As far as he was concerned , the biggest hurdle was the vast gulf between himself and the next island . The problem was the same as what he’d encountered in the Twilight Chasm .

Jumping between the mountains had been a dangerous venture , where he risked being dragged into the depths by the powerful and erratic currents . Here , he faced a similar issue , and he didn’t have a bunch of throwaway flying treasures that could take the brunt of the impact . He had three gliders—the main one and two spares—but he didn’t expect them to last more than a few seconds before being ripped apart by the winds .

That didn’t mean the crossing was impossible . He’d considered this problem since the storm descended . This time , he hadn’t been dragged into the air like when he entered , and he’d already come up with multiple solutions . Still , Zac didn’t move , opting to observe the storm for a bit longer .

The more Zac looked , the more he felt there was an order to the madness of the Calamity . Perhaps order was the wrong term , but there were rules to the lack of rules in the endless war between Life and Death . Zac couldn’t pinpoint any patterns , it was more an instinctual thing . He didn’t know if it was intuition awarded by his path or lingering comprehension from the times he’d held true Chaos in his body . Either case , he felt a weak connection to the everchanging vista , a connection which grew stronger as time passed .

Nothing special happened for the next ten minutes . Zac saw no one cross the chasm , and no cultivators had passed by his hideout . Neither was there any news forthcoming from the Earth cultivator who managed to escape . If he hadn’t gotten any Kill Energy by this point , he had most likely survived . He hadn’t opted to send out a message like the leader of that other coalition he’d butted heads with . Which was a shame . Zac was a tad disappointed . A global message saying a lone Draugr was carrying the Calamity Core] would have been a good misdirect .

Suddenly , Zac’s eyes widened and he shot forward , the Void Energy in his body instantly transforming him into an abyssal wraith . It was intangible and the reasons were unclear , but this was his window of opportunity . Even the fierce winds slowed as the Calamity was reduced to a dour monochrome hue . His intangible form moved with speed and precision , weaving an intricate web between the greater accumulations of energy as he followed the guiding beacon of the teleportation pillar .

One thing was different since he’d taken the leap of faith between the mountains of the Twilight Chasm , apart from his strength being far greater . He’d since gained his Draugr Hidden Nodes , of which Adamance of Eoz] was incredibly useful in this situation . The gales and unstable energies tried to destabilize his skill and rip him apart , but he refused to give in .

The Hidden Node made him an immovable stone in a surging river . The effect had even grown more pronounced after he’d improved his Heart Cultivation . Zac had long since realized that the Draugr Nodes resonated with emotion . The more purpose that pushed you forward , the more the Abyss would provide .

It allowed Zac to resist having his vulnerable spectral form destroyed as he moved across the gulf . Even then , he had to endure an agonizing baptism for every meter he advanced . Eventually , he couldn’t hold on any longer , even if he hadn’t moved more than half the distance . At that very moment , the surroundings darkened , and a bloodied Zac appeared in the air , grinning upon seeing a huge piece of rock falling toward his location .

The boulder was hundreds of meters across , its sheer mass subduing the storm around it as it fell toward him . Whatever kept the mountains and islands afloat was still acting upon the massive boulder , and it descended with less than half the expected speed . This was exactly what he thought he’d sensed in the storm and why he shot out from his hiding place . His instincts proved him right , even if his position was slightly off .

He gritted his teeth and repositioned himself with another burst of spectral movement . He was now right out of the falling mountain’s way , and a command to his Specialty Core prompted a surge of vibrant Life to spread through his body . The ichor painting his body black was joined by a coating of red . Zac had started falling already , but a patch of grass appeared beneath his feet . He stood upon the boulder a moment later and began running across its surface .

Five golden pillars were erected in his wake , right in the middle of the rock , while a golden wreath appeared on Zac’s head . The five pillars were perfectly straight , with ancient steles fastened to them . Yet they seemed like the fingers of an empyrean God digging out from the ground to protect him . The golden radiance of Empyrean Aegis] joined the gold and black of the surroundings , and the Life-attuned half of the storm was curtailed just like the Death was .

Order and tranquility were imposed on the area , forming a sanctuary in a world gone mad . Zac didn’t stay on the falling boulder after confirming the situation . He jumped off the edge , each step taking him hundreds of meters with Earthstrider] . The environment severely suppressed his movement skill the last time he was caught in the madness . With the help of the defensive domain awarded by Empyrean Aegis] , he could move almost half the distance of the skill’s original capability .

The boulder and the pillars grew increasingly distant as they continued their descent into the depths , but it didn’t matter . Reaching Peak-mastery of the defensive skill had fundamentally changed how it worked . It was no longer a defensive domain centered around the area close to the pillars . It was now two domains connected through the laurel on Zac’s head , transmitting the energy of the pillars to his direct surroundings . Any damage was diverted and transmitted back to the pillars .

If he’d stayed close to the pillars , the two domains would have superimposed , increasing the suppression and defense by almost half . The skill would also have worked even without the mountain piece acting as a foundation . However , the falling boulder created a small wind tunnel in its wake , protecting the pillars from taking too much damage from the ambient atmosphere . Thus , they could tank more damage for Zac .

The distance the skill worked was incredible . During his experiments back on Earth , Zac managed to keep the skill active with the pillars on one side of his island while he stood on the other . With the speed the boulder fell , he would long since have landed on the other shores before the pillars were dragged out of reach . Of course , he couldn’t expect the skill to work as well in this chaotic environment .

Zac soon closed in on the limit of air steps permissible by Earthstrider] . By that point , two pillars had already crumbled from forcing his way through the storm . Yet three remained , so Zac took out his glider , using the lull the empyrean domain awarded him . Zac used every method in the book to force his way through the storm . Two broken pillars turned to four , and crackling sounds echoed out from his golden crown as the storm furiously tried to rip apart the empyrean domain .

Eventually , the final pillar crumbled , which unleashed a massive golden wave . The storm was pushed back for over a hundred meters , and Zac used the breather to take out a patch of soil to reset Earthstrider] . Still , no land was in sight . He steeled his heart as he plunged into the madness , using only his body to brave the explosions . Ancestral Woods] would have managed to move him a good distance , but it was a landlocked skill .

The shallow cuts across his body were soon replaced with massive tears that released copious amounts of blood . Without his powerful constitution , he would have been rendered unconscious from such a loss . Instead , it turned into a weapon that allowed him to fly a little bit farther . But the wounds accumulated too fast , and Zac couldn’t keep up any longer . He could only pray he’d made it far enough as he took out another heavy metal block and fell toward the ground .

Zac’s prayers were soon answered as solid rock rapidly came up on him . A groan escaped his lips as he slammed down , worsening his wounds . The crossing had been deadlier than the fight with the Earth cultivators , and the teleportation array was still over an hour’s travel away—a journey well beyond what he could endure in his current condition .

His body creaked in protest , but he scrambled to his feet and started running . He moved while scanning the surroundings , continuously using the trapped Kill Energy to run Surging Vitality] . He needed to be a bit bloodied to stave off the storm , but the last stretch had pushed him far beyond what was needed or safe . After five minutes , Zac sensed a small crack in the mountain , leading to a hidden cave ten meters deeper in the foundations .

Death made a reluctant return and he snuck inside using Abyssal Phase] . Zac spent the better part of the next hour recuperating and recovering his Miasma . The moment he felt strong enough , he moved out again , opting to stay undead . All skills but Pillar of Desolation] could be used again , meaning he wasn’t a sitting duck . Besides , his human form had probably been spotted entering the Calamity days ago , which meant people might be looking for him .

Zac hid his presence with every tool he possessed as he continued his trek toward the exit . He sensed a few discordant auras ahead , most likely arrays erected to brave the storm . Zac gave them a wide berth , but a frown appeared on his face after half an hour . The storm was abating .

His protective cover was about to disappear , and his senses could already reach twice as far as before . It helped him navigate the dangerous terrain , but the risk of discovery increased by the second . Zac shredded all pretenses as he started running as fast as his legs could carry him , opting for speed over stealth .

An increasingly bad feeling settled within him as the minutes passed until he sensed a minute ripple .

A tracking array . Zac stopped in his tracks , and three corpses appeared on the ground . Each was pierced by a chain , soon forming a macabre entourage floating behind Zac as he closed in on the teleporter . He only managed to proceed another five hundred meters before the expected blockade appeared .

That’s far enough , Draugr . - A booming laugh echoed as a glittering barrier sprung up around him .

It shuddered when faced with the abating gales but held in the face of the storm .

Six beastmen , led by a white-and-gold furred lionman approached . A large sapphire was fastened on his forehead , and hundreds of smaller gemstones were connected by intricate golden links in his mane . He exuded a powerful aura that partly harmonized with the environment : Life and Nature .

I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me when I saw the son of Azra desperately flee toward the teleporter , looking like he’d been chewed and spit out by a Hellmaw , - the lion said . - I guess it was true . Looks like you’re even more dangerous than we thought . But you’ve already fought one battle , and you’re all alone . Hand over the Calamity Core] , and you can be on your way . -

Zac inwardly swore . He’d hoped his gruesome display would have at least given anyone second thoughts about targeting him . Unfortunately , it wasn’t enough to subdue this beastkin , and Zac wasn’t surprised . The lion gave off an even greater pressure than the Earth cultivators , even if he was only a fifth-echelon guest . Either a new arrival or someone who intentionally kept his Mana low to enjoy the opportunities of the Perennial Vastness a bit longer .

It looked like another battle couldn’t be avoided . Zac wasn’t confident in finishing the job with his undead form alone . He would probably have to find a chance to swap races and fight on as a human . It would expose his second identity ahead of schedule , but getting out of the Calamity with the Calamity Core] was more important than scamming people like he did before the previous mission release .

But the barrier exploded just as Zac prepared to activate his skills .

Who said he’s alone? - a stern voice cut through the winds as the area was filled with a storm of blood .

Death was no longer Death , and Life was no longer Life . It was fused into blood , the grand heritage of the Eternal Clan . In the heart of the storm , the two vampires walked , accompanied by three Revenants , two Corpselords , and what appeared to be a Death-cultivating human . The two vampires were the very same ones he’d seen at a distance in Vastness City , who he later learned were called Ysaya and Solomis Noz’Serasta . It was Solomis who’d spoken just now , and his face was a cold mask of murderous intent .

He’d also seen a Zoris Noz’Visku in the Vastness City , but he wasn’t present today . It didn’t matter . Ysaya and Solomis were the stronger of the three , each having an aura that matched the lion’s . Furthermore , they were barely restrained by the unstable environment , just like how Uona had thrived in the Twilight Ocean . The individual auras of their followers weren’t at the level of the beastkin , but by adding Zac , undead outnumbered beastkin nine to six .

Your dream must have muddied your senses , - Ysaya added with a smile , though killing intent veritably poured out of her body .

One by one , an array of sanguine icicles formed around her . Each contained enough energy to annihilate most Peak E-grade cultivators , yet the vampire seemed to have no problem forming over thirty .

Maybe it’s time for you all to wake up . -

The lionman frowned at the not-so-veiled threat , hesitantly glancing at Zac , who mutely stared back . His eyes briefly shifted to the three bodies hanging from the chains before he shook his head with a sigh .

Whatever . Guess luck’s on your side , - the lionman said as he motioned the others to back down .

Who’s to say who the lucky one is today? - Zac countered as he walked over to the two vampires , stowing the corpses before the environment damaged them too much .

The woman looked at Zac curiously before shrugging , and the group turned toward the teleporter . Zac was technically among kin , but his vigilance only increased as the minutes passed .

So , are you here to search me as well? - Zac asked after they were well out of earshot . - I doubt you came running out of the goodness of your hearts . -

It was certainly true that while the Undead Empire had internal friction , they stood united against outside pressure . However , his experiences in the Twilight Ocean already proved unity collapsed in the face of opportunity . That was doubly true in secluded places like Mystic Realms , and the Eternal Clan was the most mercurial of the Divine Races . For them to stick out their necks for him was highly unlikely , even if they wouldn’t necessarily go out of their way to rob him .

Something was wrong with the situation . Two sets of sanguine eyes turned toward Zac , giving him an appalling sense of déjà vu of his desperate battle with Uona .

True , - Ysaya grinned . - You’ve given us some prestige in the short window since you arrived , but that’s not enough for us to come running to your aid . We do have ulterior motives . -

33

A FAVOR OWED

Zac calmly looked at the smiling vampire , but his Dao was already coursing through his Thousand Lights Avatar] . He’d unleash Void Zone] at the slightest energy fluctuations and kill as many as he could before they had the chance to react to having their energy and Dao nullified .

Relax , - Ysaya said with a helpless shake of her head . - Why does it feel like I just had a brush with the eternal slumber? We’re not here to take what you’ve found , even if we’re curious about it . We’re here because of them . -

Ysaya pointed at the followers standing to the side , and Zac glanced over with a raised brow .

Them? -

It was only one word , but it conveyed his skepticism . Since when could some Revenants or Corpselords move two Eternal Clan members? Especially when the two vampires were the more powerful party . There were a few Revenant and Corpselord factions with great power and influence in the Undead Empire , but not even the scions of those clans and sects would be able to dictate the actions of Ysaya and Solomis .

Mistress An’Azol sends her regards , Master Umbri’Zi , - the sole living cultivator said with a bow .

Tavza sent you? - Zac said , his eyes turning into narrow slits .

The mistress regrets the misunderstanding that transpired on the outside and had us come here to clarify some points , - a Revenant explained as he handed over a box . - She also asked us to assist you in any way we could . Upon seeing the global task and making some inquiries , we realized it was most likely you who triggered it . Thus , we approached the young masters of the Noz’Serasta to render assistance . -

Assistance in exchange for a favor owed , - Solomis said .

No wonder . A favor from one of the two leading clans of the Draugr race was incredibly useful . Their family would richly reward these two after coming home with such a boon . Even better , it didn’t cost Zac a dime .

Well , convey my thanks to Tavza if you get the chance , - Zac nodded at the Revenant as he accepted the box .

I’ve always heard the Azol princess is beyond haughty , not even sparing her fellow Draugr a glance , - Ysaya smiled as she leaned closer . - Yet she’s showing you such deference . Makes one wonder what’s so special about you . -

Nothing really , we’re just good friends , - Zac said .

Uh , huh , - Ysaya said , clearly not buying it .

I heard of an Umbri’Zi scion a few years ago , - Solomis interjected . - An Arcaz Umbri’Zi . -

That’s me , - Zac sighed , not bothering to hide it .

He wore his standard Arcaz face and was already called Master Umbri’Zi . There was not much point hiding it—it seemed more pertinent to prepare for the fallout .

As I thought , - Solomis nodded , and Zac was surprised to see his cold visage warm up a bit .

What’s that? What’s going on? - Ysaya said curiously .

Noz’Valadir , - Solomis reminded .

Ah! That was you? - Ysaya exclaimed , her four pupils fusing to one as she stopped and looked straight at Zac .

A tense silence stretched out , and the other undead warriors either moved away or reluctantly prepared for battle .

Good job! -

Huh? - Zac said .

Why look so surprised? - Ysaya grinned . - Not like she was part of our branch . Those upstarts have acted all high and mighty lately because of some good luck . They even pressured our clan for a few of our ancestral ponds . Who knows what would have happened if they got a third Autarch in such short order? Their disastrous excursion to the frontier knocked them down a notch . And there’s suddenly a slot to visit the Eternal Halls ripe for the taking . -

Uh , well . Glad I could be of service , - Zac coughed .

You’re cultivating Pure Death , - Solomis commented as his sanguine eyes looked Zac over . - No wonder you’re already running around after breaking the commandments in such an overt way . -

Yeah , well , - Zac shrugged , not wanting to stay on that subject for too long . - You didn’t bring Catheya? -

That Draugr girl? She wanted to come , but the Grand Firmament Coalition got in the way , - Ysaya explained . - She’d only draw attention if she entered the Calamity , so she’s acting as a decoy in Vastness City instead . Thanks to her , only nine entered the Calamity instead of the planned thirteen . -

Those people again? - Zac frowned .

Yes , so it’s time to harvest . -

Zac gave Ysaya a questioning look .

The favor was good , but there’s no reason to return so soon . We’ve already paid the entrance fee , right? More importantly . This is a rare opportunity to collect some high-quality blood and bodies . But the moment you step through the teleporter , the bait is gone , - Ysaya said , the bloodthirsty look in her eyes returning .

Only question is , can you still fight after dealing with those people you had dangling from your chains? -

Just lead the way , - Zac snorted .

An hour later , an exhausted Zac stood in front of the teleportation pillar , still in his undead form . He and the Noz’Serasta scions had come to an agreement where they’d targeted the Grand Firmament Coalition in an ambush . After a furious battle , two of theirs had fallen while one of their lieutenants had almost been crippled . Whether he’d be able to recover or not was unclear , but they’d failed to prevent him from fleeing back to his mansion .

The vampires had siphoned off some blood of another four , which was the same as stealing a part of their foundations . In exchange , two of their undead followers had racked up some nasty wounds , but they’d recover in a month or two . The clash wasn’t that deadly , but that was the norm . There was no point in fighting to the death for the weaker party , and they’d fled the moment they realized they were outmatched .

Besides , the Grand Firmament Coalition leader , Nerven Serku , wasn’t even there . He’d arrived in the Calamity but opted to take a strike team and head farther into the Calamity in hopes of finding the core . Those who remained were just a backup squad responsible for gathering intelligence and ambushing solo travelers .

The two vampires wanted to target more people after witnessing Zac’s might , such as the loose coalition of solo adventurers . After some deliberation , Zac passed on joining . Ultimately , he didn’t want to kill random people to advance his goal . If the aim had only been some light robbery and snatching Mana , then fine , but the vampires wanted blood and bodies . Even if he hadn’t personally killed anyone in such a scenario , he would still have tipped the battle in their favor .

The spatial gate opened as he touched the alabaster pillar , and he stepped through after glancing up at the sky . They were waiting for him up there . There was no way he could have missed that familiar sensation . A set of Remnants , just like he’d expected .

He’d known it since upgrading his soul . Cracking open his cage had created a brief resonance , confirming their existence and rough location . They were somewhere in the upper layers of the Calamity . He’d considered going to fetch them instead of returning but rejected the idea . Ultimately , he couldn’t rely on the Remnants to get him out of every jam .

Returning to Vastness City without their aid could be seen as a test . Besides , he had just broken through with body and soul . His soul , especially , was in a fragile state—it wasn’t the time to mess with those things . He could always fetch the Remnants before forming his core , adding a fourth set to his tally . From there , he only needed one more for - Atavism , ’ whatever that meant .

The moment Zac fully stepped through the spatial gate , a mysterious swirl gathered around him . He suddenly felt more attuned to the world . Or perhaps it was more apt to say the world was more in tune with him . The change no doubt came from a sudden influx of Mana from completing the quest , and he curiously opened his screen .

Mana : 14 , 703]

He’d gained 4 , 900 Mana since emerging from Sinner’s Lament . In reality , he’d earned another 1 , 000 from five kills inside a Red Zone—the base 100 per kill plus an automatic 100 bounty , whether you discovered a blueprint weakness or not . That had all gone into paying for his four-day stay inside the Calamity , though . That environment was just too expensive . He would have to find a quest to cover the cost the next time he visited . Another 100 Mana had gone into running the simulation array back in his mansion .

So that undead newcomer got it , - one of the onlookers muttered upon seeing the air swirl around Zac .

Zac glanced at the gathered crowd , confirming no one had any plans to target him . The mission was over , and the rules of Vastness City were in place . There wasn’t much point in attacking now , especially not since it was common knowledge he’d won all those duels , with most not even being able to land a single blow . Zac walked away , moving through a series of random streets and alleys until he was mostly certain no one was following .

No one except a presence in the shadows .

We’ll keep our heads down and just get our cores . ’ That was you , you know . Some sales pitch , - a voice dripping with sarcasm said in his ear , prompting an embarrassed smile to spread across Zac’s face .

Yeah , well , - Zac laughed as a hooded Ogras stepped out from the shadows . - Things happen . And it’s not like you believed me anyway . -

I guess that’s true , - Ogras sighed . - You got the thing? -

I got it , - Zac nodded .

Was it because of that book of yours or your aggravatingly high Luck? -

The latter , - Zac said , a smile playing on his lips . - The treasure kind of appeared right on top of my head after I broke through . -

Of course it did , - the demon groaned .

Is Catheya alright? I hear she had another run-in with the Grand Firmament Coalition , - Zac asked .

She’s fine . I opted to stay close to her just in case rather than join the fun . That place seemed like a bad fit for me in either case , - Ogras said . - Those people backed down after she retreated into that tavern . It’s one thing to harass an individual . But targeting that establishment is to anger every single undead in the Perennial Vastness . -

She’s still there? - Zac asked .

Should be . What’s your next move? -

Plan B , - Zac said after some thought . - In one day or so . -

Want company? -

Sure , - Zac readily agreed . - I’m probably skipping the mission release , though . -

That’s fine ; I think it’s better for me to research that book than throwing myself into another netherblasted zone like Sinner’s Lament . It should be my best bet of reaching the upper echelons in time without delaying your work . I might pick up some quick missions in a few Green Zones while studying the patterns , - Ogras said .

You understand them? - Zac said with surprise .

Well , not really . But I have a decently capable helper . -

The demon was obviously referring to K’Rav , the goblin warlock , and Zac felt Ogras was probably on the right track . His strength was in the middle of the pack among the guests , which meant the most lucrative Red Zones were incredibly dangerous unless he found one perfectly suited to his path and skillset . He could still join Zac on missions , but the more taxing the task , the bigger the contribution skew would get . At some point , he’d be taking greater risks for lesser rewards .

Using Ventus’s strategy to supplement his Mana seemed like the best plan . After all , Ventus wasn’t all that powerful , yet he’d reached the ninth echelon , surpassing 99% of all guests . Certainly , he’d been in the Perennial Vastness for over two decades , but a big part of that had been spent studying the patterns to set up his strategy .

The only other alternative for Ogras was to rely heavily on his Shadewar Flag] to force his way through Red Zones . However , that thing was a lot like Zac’s Remnants . It contained grade-breaking power , but it wasn’t Ogras’s . Furthermore , Zac could tell there were some costs to using it , even if Ogras had never explained exactly what they were . Using it a bit was fine , but it couldn’t be fully relied on .

I’ll check in with Catheya before going back to rest , - Zac said . - I’m heading straight to that place in twenty-two hours . -

See you there , - Ogras said , and he was gone the next moment .

Zac went straight to the tavern after getting an update , and a Revenant inside gestured toward one of the private rooms as he walked inside . Zac nodded in thanks and opened the door .

Imagine my surprise . I had barely recovered from your mad crusade against the mounds when my vacation gets interrupted . Of all places , a Supreme treasure has appeared in the Calamity , no doubt turning that chaotic place into a veritable powder keg . And who do I know that was planning on heading to that very zone? -

Well , that would be me , - Zac smiled as he closed the door behind him and sat down in front of Catheya .

So I rush out of the East Qi Springs , with barely enough time to dress myself⁠— -

Now that’s a scene . -

Catheya rolled her eyes . - I come here , only to run into those firmament bastards . Like glue , those people . I essentially find myself under house arrest , acting as bait until you’re done wreaking havoc . -

I’m sorry you got implicated , - Zac said as he took out a purple Death-attuned flower he’d found on his way to the storm chamber . - A souvenir from the Calamity Mountain that fell from the sky . -

I’ll forgive you this time , - Catheya said as she accepted the flower with a small smile . - Just bring me along next time if you plan on doing something exciting . -

I only planned on evolving my soul before returning . Trouble tends to keep finding me , - Zac said helplessly .

Well , I’m glad you’re fine , - Catheya said as she enclosed the flower in a case of clear ice .

How are you feeling? - Zac asked . - You’re looking better than when I last saw you , at least . -

That’s a pretty low bar , - Catheya laughed . - I’ve never been so tired in my life . It’s terrifying trying to keep up with you . I slept a day straight before heading to the East Qi Springs . -

I can’t believe you spent Mana on a spa , - Zac said with a shake of his head .

It’s not just a spa , - Catheya said . - It’s a comprehensive treatment with acupuncture , medications concocted based on your Daos , healing , and recuperating arrays . One day in there was like resting for two weeks outside . Without it , I’d carry exhaustion and sequelae for the next mission . It just so happens to be a very nice spa as well . Why . . . don’t you wish to join me for a day trip next month? -

Actually , that sounds pretty nice . -

Really? - Catheya said , looking up from the flower with delight .

Sure , - Zac nodded . - My next destination shouldn’t be too dangerous . But knowing my luck , some lost continent or ancient beast will probably fall from the sky . -

Now that’s the truth , - Catheya smiled as she took out a bottle of wine .

I could probably use a break afterward , - Zac said . - By the way , I met two followers of Tavza . -

Zac took out the box they handed him before , finding only a Recording Crystal inside .

Catheya sighed after it finished playing . - It looks like I was led by the nose back then . -

True , but that doesn’t mean Tavza can be trusted . It just means there was another culprit this time , - Zac shrugged . - Maybe your escape will help keep them on their toes . -

Zac spent another hour catching up with Catheya while letting the tavern’s gathering arrays recover his depleted Miasma . Catheya had gained some insights during her stay in Sinner’s Lament , and she needed to seclude herself for a few weeks to ascertain whether it was something she should integrate into her core . Thus , she would also miss the mission release in the next few days . That meant the next outing would only be him and Ogras .

A few people were loitering in the streets when Zac exited , but he paid them no mind as he returned to his storefront . Giving it some thought , Zac infused his will into the shop . A fist-sized crystal appeared right next to the entrance . Anyone who infused their will into it would see a set of materials for sale . They were all things he’d picked up inside the Calamity . Some of the materials seemed useful for his Core Formation , but others weren’t useful to him .

Raw materials generally had very little value to his people back home . Even if the things he found were good , he had no people to extract their true value . Meanwhile , some guests here had incredibly deep pockets , and it was better to trade for Nexus Coins or crystals than bring them back to Zecia . The rates for materials were even higher here than in Twilight Harbor , though there was almost only demand for rare treasures found inside the Perennial Vastness or items that could help guests hunt for treasures .

Zac appeared in his mountaintop mansion , and coruscating waves of Buddha’s love greeted him . It wasn’t too bad . The pressure wasn’t as intrusive between his evolved soul and reaching the second echelon . The Core array was still trying to brute-force his blueprint by any means necessary , but Zac smiled upon seeing it hadn’t produced any real results after almost a week of running .

It had generated some scenarios where the core would turn a bit turbid or become weakened , but that was to be expected . Nothing was impervious to all Daos and elements . Seeing as the array at least produced some interesting data , Zac let it keep running while he began meditating .

A day later , Zac was almost in a perfect state . Eating the Soulhaze Lily] saved him a month of recovery while strengthening his soul by around 5% . Only a few lingering cracks from channeling so much Remnant energies remained , though Zac noted his body healed that kind of damage significantly faster thanks to his Body Tempering breakthrough . It was a shame he hadn’t managed to retain more than 15% of the lily’s energy , but Zac wasn’t too broken up about it .

The lily still provided a lot of benefits , and there were no guarantees he would have been able to harness that much more of its efficacy if he brought it back . Besides , the Perennial Vastness was full of good things like the lily .

Where to? - Null asked as Zac walked over to the teleporter .

The Quarry , - Zac said , and a gate opened up .

It was time to find out what kind of opportunity Lord Engo believed waited for him .

34

THE QUARRY

Zac checked everything was in order before stepping through the teleporter . He had returned to his human appearance for this excursion . He wasn’t worried about being attacked—the Quarry was a Green Zone , after all . But Arcaz Umbri’Zi had created too many enmities in the short-run since he’d arrived .

If someone spotted him walking around in the Quarry , there was a real risk of people annoying and distracting him while he sought treasure . And he didn’t want any strangers around if he found whatever item that made even an Autarch take note . It wasn’t without some excitement Zac stepped through , and the soothing sound of a babbling brook and wind rustling in trees replaced the hymns of the Akaniṣṭha .

Zac had once visited a quarry on a field trip when he was young . It was that kind of environment he’d envisioned ; a large hole dug out of the bedrock , perhaps with tunnels deeper into the ground . The picturesque image of a stream cutting through a hilly forest under a warm sunset was a bit jarring , even if he’d already read the reports . Of course , the information he’d gathered on the Quarry was more on function than form .

The Quarry was , just like the Keys of Ascension , a special Green Zone and one of the unique resources of the Perennial Vastness . It wasn’t spiritual stones or metals you excavated from this place , but rather something called Fate Kernels . Fate Kernels were a special Natural Treasure useful for Core Formation and nothing else . They acted as an amplifier of natural affinities , improving your connection to the Dao while speeding up the formation of your core . A Low-quality kernel improved the formation rate by roughly 5% , with each additional grade adding another five .

Saving a bit of time usually wasn’t that big of a deal for cultivators who counted their lifespan in millennia , but it was different when it came to breakthroughs . Even a talented cultivator would need months to form a core . Every single mistake during that process would worsen the result . A big mishap would ruin the whole process and likely kill you . The Fate Kernels would decrease the odds of this happening .

There were a few caveats , though . The most important was that they didn’t last long . They’d dissipate a few minutes after being excavated unless you absorbed or returned them to the ground . Therefore , you had to find your kernel yourself—there would never be any Fate Kernels appearing in the Vastness City . There had been a few occasions where cultivators managed to sell suitable kernels to nearby guests , but the odds of that happening regularly were incredibly low .

Secondly , you’d have to find a Fate Kernel matching your path . If the kernel’s affinities were even partly off , they’d do more harm than good . Third , there was no way to easily find them . At least there were no publicly known methods . They were hidden by natural formations , and stumbling upon them was a matter of luck and fate—hence the name . They even moved around , so encountering a good but unusable kernel was useless . You couldn’t sell the location to a cultivator . Most cultivators would spend a couple weeks in the Quarry to try their luck . If they hadn’t found anything by that point , they simply weren’t fated .

As for Zac , he likely wouldn’t have bothered with more than using the free week in the Quarry if not for Engo’s comment . Learning about the function of the Fate Kernels had only increased Zac’s confusion rather than explained Autarch’s suggestion . After all , Fate Kernels wouldn’t work on him .

The kernels improved your Core Formation process by amplifying your affinities , but what good did that do him? It was useless even if he lucked out and somehow found a Life-Death-Conflict Peak-quality Fate Kernel . A 20% boost on zero was still zero , something which Null had confirmed . A normal mortal might have some use of the kernels , though cultivators with high affinities had the most to gain .

There were no other treasures in the Quarry except the Fate Kernels either . The environment was essentially F-grade , with just enough spirituality to not cause discomfort . It was a far cry from the Calamity , which was so overloaded by energies and Dao that it was almost hard to breathe . Even then , Zac was full of anticipation as he set out . Perhaps there were secrets to this place beyond the publicly known information in Vastness City . Lord Engo shouldn’t be so bored as to throw out red herrings to random low-grade cultivators .

Zac looked around the forest and spotted a small marking on a tree . He began walking in the opposite direction , following a series of guiding markers until he arrived at a stout tree almost twice as big as the others .

You’re here , - Ogras grinned as he stepped out from its shadows . - How’s the missus? -

She’s fine , - Zac said . - Odd that items useful for core formations would appear in this kind of world . -

Definitely , - Ogras agreed . - This place reminds me of some of the rootless worlds I visited in the Million Gates Territory . It’s almost unnerving there’s not even beasts to keep you on your toes . -

So , we should just pick some random direction and start looking? - Zac asked .

We might want to head to the riverbeds , - Ogras said as he took out a large map depicting the region . - From the looks of it , the riverbeds have been producing a good number of Medium-quality Fate Kernels . A few have even walked away with High-quality kernels from there . -

What’s so special about the rivers? - Zac asked curiously .

Not sure , - Ogras said . - Might be energy patterns or something . One theory is that the - best’ region changes over time , or perhaps between Cosmic Galleries . My map has six other observed hotspots , but the riverbeds are the closest . Of course , with your Luck , we can probably go anywhere as long as we avoid the starting region or the dried up veins . -

This place isn’t that big , - Zac said . - The riverbeds are just over one day’s travel away . We can check it out first and then try another hotspot before returning if we don’t find anything within a few days . -

Sure . - Ogras stowed the map and they took off at a run . - Let’s rush straight for the hotspot . I hear it’s almost impossible to find anything this close to the⁠— -

There’s one , - Zac interjected .

They stopped , and Ogras followed Zac’s eyes to a nondescript stone a few meters away .

What? That thing? - Ogras said skeptically . - How could you possibly know that? I hear you need to release your Daos in waves to create resonance . And if that fails , break open things to see if anything’s inside . Are you making things up , hoping to prove me wrong? -

Just a hunch . - Zac smiled as he walked over . - Proving you wrong would just be a fun bonus . -

Whatever , - Ogras said with a roll of his eyes . - No one will be happier than me if you can actually sniff out Fate Kernels like a bloodhound . We might not be allowed to bring those things out of this place , but we could make some Mana selling your talents . -

Guess we’ll find out , - Zac laughed .

He touched the stone and felt a cool sensation , and his heartbeat sped up as his hand entered the surface as though it was liquid . He reached around a second before dragging out what looked like a metal walnut . A smile spread across his face as he felt the weak fluctuations from within . The kernel was clearly Low-quality , and it contained a Dao Zac didn’t quite recognize . He guessed it was something related to the Peak of Impetus , but its aura was too weak to confirm .

What the . . . - Ogras muttered . - It doesn’t even seem slightly related to you . There’s no way you’d resonate with this thing . What did you do? -

Honestly? Not sure , - Zac said , frowning as he tried to gain some sense of the small ball . - I just felt it somehow . -

Zac wasn’t making things up . How did he know it was there? Even now , Zac wasn’t quite sure . As Ogras said , the Fate Kernel didn’t resonate with his Daos or path . Neither was it his newfound spiritual domain , which apparently was called Soul Sense , according to Catheya . It had told him it was just any normal rock . Yet he’d felt a minute pull from the stone .

The situation was a bit reminiscent of the trial Three Virtues had set up for him inside the Orom Word , where he had to use his heart to discern true from false . Yet , Zac could tell it wasn’t his heart either . If that were the case , the knowledge would have spread far and wide . After all , while Heart Cultivation was quite rare , it wasn’t unheard of . There were even cultivators having the heart at the center of their path , and there were others who had incredibly tempered hearts due to various reasons .

Perhaps my Luck? - Zac ventured , even if it didn’t feel like it .

Well , whatever it is , keep it up , - Ogras grinned . - Find me a good one , yeah? Shadows and Illusions . I’m not greedy , needing a Peak or Supreme-quality stone . Even a High-grade will do . -

Is that all? - Zac said as he threw away the kernel . - First of all , let’s see if it was a lucky hunch or not . -

The guides wouldn’t confirm or deny the matter , but there were some rumors that it was best to return any kernel you found . If you let them dissipate , you’d weaken your Fate with the Quarry , lessening the odds of finding something useful . The grass rippled like water as the stone sunk into the ground . A moment later , it was gone , likely relocated to some other corner of the zone . During the process , Zac didn’t sense anything , and he had no better answer as to why he’d known the kernel was there .

They kept moving until Zac stopped again . This time he wasn’t looking at a rock but rather up at a small bird’s nest in a tree . He climbed up and observed the nest with all his senses and took out one of the eggs . He cracked the egg , and instead of yolk , a small amber broach depicting a beetle appeared . Before that point , it had looked and felt exactly like the other eggs .

They come in all shapes and sizes , huh , - Ogras commented after Zac jumped down .

Zac curiously looked at the broach . - Earth and sun? Interesting combination . -

More importantly , it really looks like your treasure sense is tuned to these things , - Ogras said , his eyes gleaming .

Zac nodded , focused on the pieces of broken shell . It was just like with the previous kernel . The moment the broach was extracted , he’d lost any connection to either egg or broach . Was it the formation he felt connected to rather than the kernels? Or was it something else? In either case , Zac believed it was related to why Lord Engo sent him here .

Zac and Ogras continued toward the riverbeds , spending the better part of the day trying to understand Zac’s ability . After ten hours and over fifty kernels , they’d unearthed some rules to Zac’s uncanny ability . By the looks of it , he could sense any broach within twenty meters . However , the faster they moved , the smaller that sphere would get . If they ran at top speed , he would almost have to step on the kernel to notice it .

The range wasn’t too impressive , but it was still an amazing ability . Most cultivators would be lucky if they found one or two kernels a day in the starting region when turning over every stone and inspecting every tree . One thing they hadn’t managed to confirm was whether he could tell the kernels’ grades before they were extracted from their formations . Every single one they’d found was Low-quality . Part of it was because they were so close to the teleportation array , but it hinted at how rare the higher-quality kernels were .

No wonder most people wouldn’t spend too much time in the Quarry . The odds of finding a suitable kernel were quite low , and it would most likely only provide a 5% boost . At some point , it became more efficient to just farm Mana and improve your Core Formation process .

A sudden energy surge made Zac and Ogras stop and look over . It wasn’t some beast or another kernel , but three cultivators who appeared between the forests . They’d moved fast using movement skills but had stopped upon noticing Zac and Ogras . The three were of the same race , an alien-looking four-armed biped that could only narrowly be considered humanoid .

There was no hint of aggression or killing intent on them , so Zac and Ogras walked over to chat . There were usually a few dozen people in the Quarry , though the numbers would most likely thin out as the mission release approached .

Any luck? - Ogras grinned .

Got one , - one of the three nodded . - You heading to the riverbeds? -

Why , something wrong? - Ogras asked .

A few really loud people there right now , - the alien shrugged . - Might want to check out another hotspot if you’re planning to form resonance . -

Loud? - Zac asked .

Some Gravity cultivator is creating earthquakes , makes it hard to sense anything , - one of the others explained . - Another one is using sound waves to pulverize the rocks on the riverbeds . It’s quite loud . -

If calmly meditating and sending out your Dao into the area in hopes of resonance was one method , then destruction was the other . By blowing up everything nearby , you had a chance to unearth kernels . It wasn’t a surefire method , though . Most pointed toward the kernels being able to flee when attacked , which could empty a whole region . Neither option had proven better than the other in finding suitable kernels . One was simply a targeted search , while the other cast a wider net in hopes of striking it rich . It ultimately depended on where your talents lay .

We’re already halfway there . It would be a shame not to check it out . Besides , those kinds of people can’t go on forever , - Zac said .

You three look a bit annoyed . Are you here to exchange pointers to release some stress? - Ogras grinned .

No , thank you , - the alien laughed , confirming he’d already maxed out his duels for the month . - Rather , we’d want to exchange some information . -

Oh? - Zac asked curiously .

An eighth hotspot has been discovered . It’ll probably be general knowledge in a few weeks , but who knows? Going before the others might improve your odds of finding something good . -

What do you want in return? - Ogras asked .

Nothing important . We just want some details on what happened with the global mission . We were camped out here when the mission appeared . -

Oh , sure , - Ogras said , his smile widening . - You met the right people . We didn’t enter ourselves , but we were outside the teleporter that day . That crazy Draugr got his hands on it . -

The one from the message? - the first alien exclaimed .

That’s right , - Ogras nodded . - Real lunatic , that one . Came stumbling out of the teleportation gate covered in blood . Heard he created a mess inside . Broke a Calamity Mountain and then killed his way back . Stay clear ; that guy is nothing but trouble . -

Zac inwardly rolled his eyes but kept his face impassive .

Did he announce if he’s planning on selling the item? - the third humanoid asked , speaking up for the first time .

The third was clearly stronger than his companions and most likely the leader . Zac had already realized it cultivated a mixed-meaning Dao where one half was Life . Zac guessed it hoped the Calamity Core] was a Life-attuned item and thus useless for a Draugr .

No idea , - Ogras shrugged after seeing Zac wasn’t about to speak up .

Thank you , - the leader said , handing over an Information Crystal . - Best of luck on your hunt . -

Have a good one , - Ogras waved , and both groups went their own way .

They didn’t meet any more cultivators and didn’t bother looking for more kernels . Between Ogras using his teleportations and Zac using Earthstrider] , they reached the riverbeds in half a day . They stopped at a crest , looking down at a vast expanse of dry soil . The riverbeds lived up to its name . There had to be thousands of them , stretching as far as the eye could see . A few were only a dozen meters across , while others were so wide , they might as well have been great lakes .

There was almost no water running . The smaller rivers were completely dried out , while the larger ones had a few trickles that any F-grade cultivator could jump across . The land between the rivers had some trees and shrubbery , but the plants were withered and on their last legs .

It’s time for us to work , - Ogras said as he jumped into the dried out river . - And by us , I mean you . -

Zac snorted and jumped down from the ledge . He was just about to respond , but the moment his feet touched the riverbed , he felt his consciousness being wrenched away . Zac thought some Mentalist had ambushed him , but furiously struggling was to no avail . The world darkened , and Ogras’ voice grew distant .

Then , there was only a constellation .

35

A MARK ON THE TAPESTRY

Innumerable broken fragments floated in the air , locked in orbit by the immense energy fluctuations and inherent gravity of the vast ancestral platform . Below , the fractures of broken space swirled , forming a vortex as vast as reality itself . The two were locked in an ancient dance akin to a predator and its faltering prey . After a drawn-out struggle , the platform was like a dying man with one foot through the door to the beyond , desperately resisting fate .

The remnants of a whole civilization sat atop the ancient stones . Hundreds of millions of bodies , the smallest reaching thousands of meters into the air . Yet there was no movement , no sound . They had all given everything in hopes some would see the sun on the other side . They were failing .

The Aether no longer answered their calls , their continents had been reclaimed to be reforged . The testaments to their spirit and ingenuity were gone , their creations swallowed and consumed . All that remained was the platform .

The poison spread .

The innermost circle of the marooned was made up of six giants , each one the size of a continent . The grand ancestors who had held up the vault of the Heavens were broken and bent , shrunken from having their Aether siphoned to nurture the platform . And to protect their heritage .

The six ancestors held up a sphere shimmering with still-pristine Aether . Inside , a solitary building floated . In front of the ancestors , it was no more than a mustard seed . Yet it held their everything . Their history , their hopes , and their conviction .

Standing on the steps of the library , the caretaker endured , looking up at the enormous and distant faces . There was no anger , regret , or reluctance on their faces—only sorrow and release . Tens of thousands of years had passed since the last of the ancestors had fallen after enduring an eternity of loneliness . Now , only their lingering will maintained the platform and their heritage .

It was this accumulated will that had given birth to him , the corpse of the First People . Not living , not dead . He was locked in his prison of knowledge with no power to subvert the river of Fate . A shudder rippled through the platform , and another set of cracks appeared .

We’re too late , - the corpse sighed , its hollow eyes peering beyond the layers of the storm . Beyond reality itself . - Or rather , too early . No fate , no fate . -

Only silence answered . To be the first was both a blessing and a curse . Now , they were out of phase . He could tell . It wouldn’t have helped even if the ancestral will managed to hold on beyond the curtain call . The poison was anathema to their being , yet the cosmos was to be remade in its image .

If that is our fate , so be it , - the corpse sighed , turning to the library behind him . - But we shall leave our mark on the tapestry . -

A light lit up within the innermost sanctum of the Kaltorum Halls , and the whole platform started to rumble . The outer bodies , now no more than withered husks void of Aether , collapsed into stardust . They formed the first layer of the storm that consumed one layer after another .

Outer Supplicants , Explorers , Star Treaders , Cosmic Pathfinders . One by one , they joined the storm . Even the platform shrunk . The energy that was once used to resist the vortex now went into empowering the stardust . Into empowering the final ritual of their kin . Soon , even gargantuan ancestors crumbled , the Aether locked in their bodies igniting the stardust with their spirit . Endless energy poured out of the library , joining the storm outside the protective sphere .

The ancestral platform was gone , turned into a blazing galaxy that shielded the sphere as it fell toward the vortex . Even the poison was forced away , unable to eradicate the final ritual . The library shook , cracks spreading across the pillars that had stood for countless years . The corpse looked at the familiar halls one last time before he closed his eyes and joined the others .

The library exploded , erasing the last vestige of their civilization . But from within the destruction , 229 lights emerged . Each dragged enormous amounts of stardust to their side until all of it was consumed . Together , they formed a complex constellation that forced its truth on reality itself .

The constellation wasn’t static . Each of the lights held a supreme truth , and they took turns becoming the eye of the constellation . As such , one constellation was 229 . Even its revolutions contained a supreme truth , one that barely managed to stave off the maelstrom’s hunger until the constellation flickered and disappeared . Left was a vortex no longer locked down and impeded , which rapidly consumed what little remained .

Inheritor , we are the First People , - a booming voice echoed through the cosmos . - Born from the Aether , returned to the Aether . For so long , we searched the starry sky for answers , for others . We found none . We ask nothing in return for this gift . We only ask to be remembered . -

The scene shattered and was replaced by a dried out trough under an amber sky . Gone were the immense ripples of mysterious power . Instead , there was only poison .

Aether . . . Void . . . - Zac muttered , his mind still awash with the scenes he’d just witnessed .

I knew it . -

Zac’s glazed-over eyes focused , and he turned around . Ogras was standing just next to him with a victorious smile on his face . Zac’s thoughts were still a jumble . He slowly looked around , trying to compute what just happened . Just what was that vision?

It took a few minutes before Zac felt himself back to normal , able to process what he’d been shown . In a sense , it felt a lot like when he first came in contact with Ultom . That time , the vision had been triggered by the Cosmic Vessel passing through the inner barrier of the Void Star . This time , it seemed to have been triggered by him stepping onto the soil of the riverbeds .

Both had spoken of conviction and defeat . One had shown the broken-down castle wall of what Zac assumed was the Left Imperial Palace . The other vision depicted an ancient civilization’s ark supposed to give them a chance at survival . Yet there were also some differences .

Zac still shuddered upon remembering the vision of Ultom . The power engraved into the castle walls . The small courtyard which seemed to supersede the Dao itself . Just grazing the concepts of Ultom almost killed him .

Conversely , he was absolutely fine right now . The scene of those towering beings in this new vision looked incredibly imposing . The Orom would have been able to fit between the teeth of those six ancestors . And even if dead , they exuded nigh-incomprehensible power . At the least , they had to have been the equivalent of Late-stage Autarchs , but Zac suspected they were Supremacies .

Yet , neither they nor the ancient library gave off that unfathomable meaning . The whole vision was more distant , like he had been watching something on television rather than experiencing it . That didn’t mean these First People were weak . As far as Zac could tell , they were an incredibly powerful faction , but one that didn’t quite have the strength to leave an Eternal Heritage .

But when did this happen? Zac doubted they were from the previous era . Then they wouldn’t have called themselves first . Did their civilization actually spring up sometime during the Cataclysm between Eras , when the Dao was ripped apart and the Heavens gone? It would explain how they could cultivate the Void , or Aether as they called it . And the poison they mentioned was the Dao .

Zac had never considered it before , but it was possible that the Cataclysm and the Heavens’ reformation took billions of years . If Zac had to guess , there had been a lull sometime at the tail-end of the Cataclysm , one long enough for a Void-attuned species to appear . Then the final process kicked in as the Heavens began reforming , and these First People died out .

The ancestral platform was supposed to have shielded the best and brightest until the Cataclysm finished , but they had underestimated the process . Instead , the corpse had split their inheritance into 229 parcels and forced it through the vortex . It was like a faux Eternal Heritage , one that only had to survive the formation of a Heaven , not the destruction of one .

Faux or not , Zac’s heart beat with excitement . There was something amazing waiting for him here . Now , he just had to unravel the clues and unearth the truth .

Hello? -

Ah? What? - Zac said as he turned back to the demon . - Knew what? -

That you were up to something , - Ogras said . - What is it? An inheritance? A lingering will of a supreme cultivator? A corner of the Heavens whispering your name? -

I saw a vision . I haven’t confirmed it , but I think there’s an inheritance here , - Zac whispered . - A big one . -

Old-monsters-popping-out-of-the-woodworks-big? - Ogras said .

Kind of , - Zac said , warily looking at the sky .

Do you take us for bandits? - Null scoffed . - The boss has collected innumerable inheritances over the years . If it’s been placed here , then it’s up for grabs for whoever’s fated . -

My guide says it’s fine , - Ogras said .

Mine as well . -

Your girl doesn’t know you well enough yet . She should have known better than to go into secluded cultivation with you on the move . - Ogras grinned . - Well , then , what are we waiting for? What now? Where to? -

Zac gazed across the huge , dried riverbed before looking down at the ground beneath his feet . Nothing here seemed connected to that ancient platform or the First People . Did the riverbed perhaps make up a formation mirroring one of those constellations? It was too early to tell .

It was all pretty cryptic . Let’s just look around for now , - Zac said after some thought . - Can you fly up and get a better look at the patterns of the rivers? I saw a bunch of constellations in the vision . -

Of course . But remember , the soldiers get soup while the generals eat meat , - Ogras said before turning into a stream of shadows that shot straight into the air .

The demon never asked for details , and Zac wasn’t sure if he should tell . The Void and his bloodline were essentially his last secrets , and this inheritance was clearly related to his hidden affinity . It wasn’t that Zac didn’t trust Ogras , but he had a weird feeling that if people knew about it , they’d be worse off . Swept up and harmed by his fate . It was one thing for Iz to find out . She had Supremacies in her family who could protect her fate from being harmed .

But there were some things he could do . Zac took out sets of wooden plaques and began to carve the constellations one after another in case the vision faded . By the time the demon returned , he’d carved all 229 of them . Thankfully , they weren’t very complicated . With his experience in engraving , each only took a few seconds .

Looks familiar? - Ogras asked as he threw over a Recording Crystal .

Zac looked at the lines formed by the rivers , trying to match them up with the many transformations of the constellation . Nothing . He’d hoped for something to jump out at him , a clear direction , but the land barely managed to spark something vague .

I don’t think so , - Zac said with a shake of his head . - Do you see anything? -

The demon looked at the engraved plaques , a frown appearing on his face . - Odd . These patterns don’t seem like anything special . -

It’s hard to explain or draw out like this , - Zac said . - These are all one while being distinct . -

Well , should we keep walking toward the center of the riverbeds? There’s a small , dried out lake there . Might be something at the bottom . Should we rush it? -

We’re not in that much of a hurry , - Zac said . - And there are no guarantees the answer is at the lake . I think the inheritance is related to the kernels somehow , so let’s keep a pace where I can sense them . I need to digest the vision anyway . -

It didn’t take more than a few minutes before they stumbled upon the first kernel . After seeing—or rather sensing—the natural formation , Zac’s inkling grew stronger . He’d already had a strong suspicion the reason for his connection to the kernels was his bloodline . The kernels contained Dao but were surrounded by Void , which completely canceled their energy fluctuations .

There were still some pieces missing , though . For instance , he couldn’t sense anything akin to his Void Energy from the kernels or formations . That ancient aura was completely missing , though that specific feeling might be related to his bloodline rather than the Void itself . Knowing the Fate Kernels were related to the Void didn’t help him much . It didn’t provide him any method to scan larger regions using his Void Energy or any clues to the location of the inheritance .

The two continued on their way , and it soon became apparent why the riverbeds were called a hotspot . They couldn’t walk more than a few minutes before Zac sensed a kernel nearby . Not much later , Zac confirmed he could tell the difference between Low-quality and better kernels . An inconspicuous patch of dried clay caught their eye , and Zac extracted a silver hairpin shuddering with power .

Damn , close , - Ogras muttered as he looked at the kernel with interest . - Middle-quality Dao of the Spear . Let me have a look at it . -

Zac threw the hairpin over to Ogras , who played with the kernel . Just 200 meters away , Zac found another Low-quality kernel , but he didn’t even bother extracting it . It was proof of how many kernels were hidden in the river and how bad the efficiency of the conventional methods was . Most cultivators could spend a day turning a whole riverbed upside down only to find a dozen kernels .

Interestingly enough , they’d found that Ogras couldn’t extract most of the Fate Kernels Zac found . The moment the demon touched the hidden formation , it disappeared . He managed to take out three kernels , though , so it wasn’t an absolute rule . They tried figuring out if it had any bearing on the vision of the First People and their heritage but came up empty-handed .

Suddenly , the surroundings exploded with color , and a frantic series of images passed Zac’s eyes . The images were abstract and incredibly complex , and Zac almost felt his head swell from having them crammed into his head . A moment later , they were gone , just leaving a headache behind .

Zac grunted and shook his head . - Ow . -

You okay? - Ogras asked .

Saw something , - Zac muttered before trying to explain what he’d seen .

Weird , - Ogras said . - Might be a clue? -

Let’s look around , - Zac agreed .

After three hours of scouring the area , the two were forced to give up and keep going . There was nothing special about that region except for an elevated concentration of Fate Kernels . They even mapped out where they found the kernels , hoping they were part of a bigger whole , but that didn’t lead anywhere either . Then came another flash of images .

A whole day passed this way , between searching for clues while Zac was beset by increasingly powerful bursts of visions . Zac’s head was a throbbing mess . Like his thoughts were overwhelmed by a lingering white noise as images of the constellations forced their way back to the surface . It got so bad Zac was forced to speak , or better yet scribble down , his thoughts not to lose them .

And then , it clicked .

Two sides of a mirror . Dao and Void , - Zac muttered , his eyes gleaming as he spread out his stack of plaques on the ground . - Counterbalance . . . -

Ogras stood to the side with a frown , gaze turning between the plaques and Zac .

What do you want to do? - the demon asked . - The lake is just an hour away . Better yet , why don’t we head back to Vastness City for a break? You’re looking a bit . . . unraveled . -

No need , - Zac said as he gathered his notes . - I have it . -

Consumed by the search for truth . I know the feeling , - a snicker echoed out as K’Rav appeared from Ogras’ sleeve .

The goblin curiously looked at the constellations before turning to Zac .

You remind me of myself when I found the direction for my research . Ah , those were the days . -

Like you? Well , that’s not good , - Ogras said . - Help me talk some sense into him . -

Why would I? - the goblin laughed . - Follow the madness , kid . Sometimes you need to plunge into the depths to see the light . -

36

INVERSION

You hear that? This lunatic is cheering you on , - Ogras sighed , referring to the goblin Tool Spirit . - You have to understand that’s not a good sign . -

As I’ve said , I’m not going crazy . It’s just those visions overloading my brain , - Zac said . - Let’s go . I want to deal with this before my head explodes . Of course , if you feel this is a waste of time , you can always head back . -

Truthfully , Zac wasn’t sure Ogras had much to gain from a Void-related inheritance . Of course , there was a chance there was more to the gift of the First People . Perhaps there were other treasures apart from Void items and skills . Or techniques that could work with Cosmic Energy . After all , the corpse seemed to have realized which direction the universe was heading . Would they have bothered if he thought the inheritance was useless for such a world?

There was also the matter of the kernels . A huge Void Formation spread across the riverbeds , possibly the whole Quarry . Most likely , it was related to their formation as well . Where would the best kernels be if not by the inheritance?

Maybe it’s me who’s going mad , - Ogras muttered , but he still followed Zac as he sped away .

Zac didn’t run toward the lake that was the source of all the rivers—it wasn’t the true core . He finally realized what was going on . The rivers didn’t look like a pattern at first glance , but that was because it wasn’t the whole picture . The riverbeds were the Dao , and the Void of Dao hid beneath , like two sides of a coin .

Superimpose the environment with the right constellation , and they formed a whole . The theory was shockingly similar to the blueprint with his Cosmic Core , to the point Zac was almost a bit annoyed . Would he have saved himself all that effort in secluded cultivation if he’d come here a few years earlier?

No , it wasn’t as simple as that . Seeing something and understanding something was different . If he just came here and stumbled upon these arrays , he’d just be copying someone else’s homework . His method had cost him a few years , but he far-better understood his path as a result . Besides , there were no guarantees he’d ever realize what was going on if not for his research .

Zac had no idea what the enormous pattern meant , but he could tell where the center lay . The lake was one of two main eyes . The second eye hid on the other side of the riverbeds . Right between the two was the widest river , and Zac knew the answer was there .

It only took two hours to reach their destination since they’d ceased searching for answers or kernels . They encountered two groups of cultivators on their way , including the cultivator searching with earthquakes . They only exchanged some information before moving on , continuing until they reached their destination .

Zac walked around , trying to feel something , anything , from the river . Ogras closed his eyes and kept them that way for over a minute until he opened them again .

Nothing underground , even a hundred meters down , - the demon said . - Almost pure bedrock . You sure this is the place? -

Zac barely heard him over the white noise filling his mind , but he nodded affirmatively . - This is it . It’s the heart of one of the revolutions . I can feel it . -

Whatever you say , - Ogras said , though Zac noted the demon’s skepticism and concern even in his muddled state .

Zac didn’t bother . The best way to prove he wasn’t going mad and getting the demon back on board was to find the inheritance .

There , - Zac said and turned to an empty spot that hid a natural formation .

It was the same as the others , yet it wasn’t . It was the opposite . The Fate Kernels were Dao hidden by Void . This isolated spot was rather Void hidden by Dao . It didn’t sound like a big deal , but Zac knew it was . This was Void brought to the Main Dimension , kept stable in defiance of the Heavens . It should have been consumed and nullified by the ambient Dao and Cosmic Energy , yet it somehow formed a perfect camouflage .

Perfect against anyone not attuned to the Void .

He stretched out his hand , but it passed right through . Zac frowned for a second before releasing some Void Energy around his hand and trying again . This time it worked , and space rippled similarly to when he picked Fate Kernels .

What is it? A clue? A pathway? - Ogras eagerly asked . - Is it—wait , is that what I think it is? -

Zac had already found what he was looking for and pulled out his hand . It was a small glowing orb resembling stardust . It emitted a weak fluctuation of the Dao of Stars . And nothing else .

A Low-quality kernel? - Ogras said , his eyes slowly turning to Zac . - Dao of Stars? That’s it? -

Zac didn’t immediately answer . His eyes were glued to the Fate Kernel , or rather what masqueraded as one . It emitted the same energy as a normal kernel , but it was just an outer layer hiding the truth . Its core was made up of Aether—Void Energy . An ancient seed full of possibility .

But it was too small and too weak . It wasn’t enough to carry the weight of that constellation or the gift of the First People . There had to be more . Zac muttered to himself for a minute , ignoring Ogras’ stare as he tried to understand what he needed to do .

Only after a while did he realize that the pressure in his head was gone , and he could hear himself think . With his faculties finally returned to him , Zac realized something . Why the Dao of Stars? Why this specific hotspot? If there was a Void Kernel here , why not in the others?

Those dry veins , how many are there? - Zac asked .

Ah? The dry veins? - Ogras said , his brows furrowing . - There’s seven marked on the map I bought , but there may be more . Why? -

Thrones and seals , balance and counterbalance , - Zac whispered .

Buddy , you need to calm down and get some perspective . Your eyes have been looking a bit like the fifth elder back home . He had a deviation and suddenly became obsessed with a mountain on our planet , a mountain on a competing clan’s lands . He believed his Dao hid inside . One day , he snuck out and murdered a whole village on the mountain slopes , convinced they hid the key to his breakthrough .

Of course , there was no key , and his antics created a huge incident until he was eventually executed . -

I’m fine . The disturbances stopped the moment I extracted this thing , - Zac said , his eyes not leaving the Void Kernel . - I now know what keeps these things hidden and why I can sense them . I also know this one is different , masquerading as something it’s not . It’s a key , a part of the puzzle . -

Time was running out . The outer layer of Dao wouldn’t be able to protect the inner layer for much longer . It would crack , and the Void would be washed away by the Dao in the environment . At the same time , it was just one of many . There had to be more nuclei waiting for him in the other hotspots and dried veins . It was the only thing that made sense .

There was only one thing he could do .

Just wait! - Ogras urged as Zac moved the shimmering ball toward his chest , looking at the kernel like it was poison . - Think this through! -

I have , - Zac said . - This is it . This is the solution . -

If the answer is to imbue that shitty kernel , then the question is wrong! - Ogras shouted . - That thing will absolutely obstruct your Core Formation . -

You might be right , but it’s the only way , - Zac said as he pushed the orb into his body , where it would find sanctuary .

The Dao of Stars melted away when it entered his body , leaving a small illusory rune . It flickered precariously , then stabilized when Zac extracted some Void Energy from his cells . The rune immediately became a glutton , forcibly extracting over 10% of Zac’s Void Energy stores . And as it consumed , so did it grow . It unfurled like a flower , displaying thousands of unfamiliar patterns that together formed a complex seal no larger than a button .

Zac expectantly looked on , waiting for some sort of impartment to take place . A burst of information , new visions , or perhaps even the appearance of a teleportation device . But his excited smile turned crooked as the rune made a quick circuit through his pathways before settling in his left leg . It shuddered , and Zac found his soul suppressed and his Cosmic Energy sluggish . Altogether , his strength had been restrained by almost 10% .

Uh . . . -

Ai , - Ogras said , clearly sensing the changes to Zac’s aura . - You’re in it now . -

Zac waited for the rune to settle , trying to understand its meaning . But it was like an eldritch onion , layers and layers of incomprehensible patterns . His Primal Polyglot] was utterly incapable of making heads or tails of the unfamiliar scripts or the proto-fractals that made up its inner workings . His work on his blueprint didn’t help him any , either . The script only sparked a vague recollection connecting it with the vision , but that was it .

Let’s continue , - Zac said .

Continue what? Crippling yourself? - Ogras grumbled .

Nine by eight , - Zac said . - Seventeen keys will open the inheritance . -

You’re going to absorb seventeen garbage kernels? - Ogras said , looking at Zac like he was a lunatic . - Let alone seventeen , just two is dangerous . Haven’t you heard what happens when you absorb two Fate Kernels? They’ll clash , ruining both while damaging your foundations . -

Except it wasn’t a Fate Kernel , - Zac said .

Sure looked like one , - Ogras countered , prompting Zac to give the demon an even stare . - Alright , alright . You’re not deranged—you just acted like you were . I guess it’s fine . With your weird body , so what if you eat a couple of kernels? I bet you’ll digest them and walk away with a Dao Epiphany . -

That’s the spirit , - Zac smiled as he took a deep breath . - Let’s finish this off quickly ; it’s not a great feeling carrying this thing in my body . -

Who could have known? -

It didn’t take long to plot a path between the hotspots and dry veins . There didn’t seem to be a particular order that needed to be followed , so they’d move in a large circle around the teleportation pillar . And with eight hotspots and seven dry veins already marked on the map , it wasn’t too difficult to infer the final spots with the help of the constellations . Altogether , it would take around ten days to visit the sixteen locations , depending on how difficult it was to figure out the locations of the Void Kernels .

They headed west toward a sweltering swamp . It wasn’t a hotspot but rather one of the dry veins . Zac was greeted by a series of confusing flashes when he set foot on the region . The pain returned , but Zac was invigorated by it . The vision confirmed his theory was likely correct , and the two spent a few hours mapping out the area . Zac soon found which constellation the patches of land of the swamp matched .

Two hours later , he emerged from the murky waters , covered in grime but smiling . In his hand , there was a small pebble . It was another Void Kernel masquerading as a normal one , this one covered in a sheen of Dao of Water . The noise in his mind had grown deafening once more , so he wasted no time as he absorbed the kernel into his body .

The process repeated itself , and a second seal soon stabilized in his left arm . The two seals formed a mysterious resonance that Zac couldn’t quite understand . It was like they were strengthening each other . In addition , his strength had been further sealed . By this point , he probably wouldn’t have won the battle against the Earth cultivators without risking everything .

You’re alive? - Ogras said after Zac opened his eyes .

Why do you look so surprised? - Zac snorted .

Well , you can’t blame me . You’ve been playing it fast and loose . -

So you’ll stop your bellyaching and just help now? -

Sure , - the demon grinned . - If the only price I have to pay for access to an inheritance is you getting weaker , then I’m game . -

The days passed , and they picked up one Void Kernel after another . In return , Zac’s aura weakened as the seals amassed in his body . By the time Zac absorbed five , his aura was on the weaker side of the guests . By the time they’d gathered ten , Zac looked like someone that had just recently entered the E-grade . His movement speed was so slow that Ogras had to carry him around , and the two started to keep watch for guests .

His energy-hiding bracelet and robe hid his weakened state , but no disguise was perfect , and they didn’t need the hassle . This was a Green Zone , and Zac could sacrifice some Mana to surrender , but it was better if they dealt with this inheritance before that . Luckily , they didn’t spot too many people , partly because of the mission release and partly because they spent half their time in dry veins .

Eventually , they approached the final piece of the puzzle . Zac’s energy was all-but-gone , and he felt almost as weak as after winning that lucky roll all those years ago . However , his body was still that of a powerful Peak E-grade cultivator . His cells screamed for sustenance , but the Void Kernels had everything on lockdown . Unless something changed , he’d likely die from energy starvation in a few weeks .

Ogras realized the issue and kept a frantic pace toward the final location . Ogras was already familiar with the process , and Zac had a detailed sketch of the area and energy flows before he’d even taken out all the plaques . And then they found it . The last region was a dry vein somewhat close to the exit , where a complex series of mountains and crags made up the formation . The final Void Sphere hid within a withered tree in a secluded valley just ahead , but Zac didn’t immediately get it .

Wait , go get Catheya , - Zac said in a weak voice .

Are you crazy? A gust will knock you over! - Ogras said . - It’d take me almost two days to head to Vastness City and return with her . -

Still , - Zac said . - If this is the final key to an ancient inheritance , then she should be here . -

Fine! Fine , dammit , - Ogras swore . - But if you start seeing a white light at the end of the tunnel , ignore us and get that final piece . -

Sure , - Zac smiled .

Ogras dug out a hidden cave , grumbling while setting up a series of defensive and illusion arrays before bolstering them with his Daos .

Dou have something that can kill an interloper? - Ogras asked .

I got Vivi , Alea , and a whole pile of bombs , - Zac said .

In addition , he had his Void Energy . Most of it was siphoned off by the seals , but he had enough to launch a few furious attacks that should be able to kill most people in the Perennial Vastness .

Try to sit tight , - Ogras said . - Though knowing you , I’m fully expecting a calamity when I return . -

Go , go , - Zac waved before closing his eyes .

The demon disappeared in a puff of shadows , allowing Zac to focus on withstanding the seals . It was hard to find center when his whole body was constantly screaming for sustenance , and his soul was pressured to the point the two spirals had essentially been forced to a halt . There was nothing to do but wait . He’d tried everything over the past week , but nothing worked . The only thing that helped was absorbing Void Cores and Void Stones , which replenished the small but constant drain on his Void Energy .

He tried to make time pass faster by studying the sixteen seals and committing them to memory . He wasn’t making any headway at all , but that was fine . Down the road , the memories might jog something loose and spark an epiphany . Eventually , exhaustion overcame him to the point his concentration failed him . His empowered soul and solidified heart were utterly unable to deal with the mysterious resonance of the seals , and Zac was essentially reduced to just trying to stay awake .

Zac? A-Are you okay? - a worried shout dragged Zac’s thoughts to the surface , and he opened two tired eyes to see Catheya standing in front of him .

You made it . - Zac smiled , his voice but a weak whisper .

You! - Catheya glared at Ogras . - You said some of his strength was restrained! How did you let him get like this? What’s wrong with you? -

You try to stop him when he gets an idea in his head , - Ogras said with a helpless wave .

Useless! - Catheya spat before turning back to Zac . - What do we do? His aura is almost completely⁠— -

I’m fine , - Zac said , barely managing to stand up .

The two days had passed in a flash , but the passage of time had weakened him even further . A pang of hesitation filled his heart , but he pushed it away . There was no turning back now . He was right at the finish line .

Sorry about interrupting your cultivation . I asked Ogras to call you here in case an opportunity appeared . -

Opportunity? You look like you’re about to embrace the eternal slumber . We need you to get back to one of the healing environments . -

No point . He’s already swallowed sixteen kernels , - Ogras interjected , getting another nasty look .

He’s right , - Zac said as he took a couple of stumbling steps toward the exit of his hastily made cave . - More importantly , get ready . -

Ready for what? - Catheya asked .

Not sure , but I think I will either summon something or open a path when I take on the seventeenth piece , - Zac said . - Be careful . Whatever happens , it might be teeming with dangerous energies . Just stay back if you don’t feel confident . -

Now you know how to be careful? - Catheya sighed as she led Zac out of the hidden cave . - Fine . We’ll do what we can to assist you . -

They approached the withered tree , and Zac extracted the final Void Kernel . It was a pitch-black gemstone filled with the power of Gravity , representing the final Dao Peak . Zac took a steadying breath as he pushed the gem into his body , beginning the process one final time . Zac’s vision swam from having the last vestiges of his strength siphoned from his body , and his consciousness slipped .

A thunderous crash shocked Zac wide awake , and his gaze turned to the sky with shock . The warm glow of the Quarry’s perpetual sunset was ripped apart , replaced by a swirling darkness that stretched beyond the horizon . Zac felt like he was looking at an ancient sky . A sky from before Earth , before the System . Before the Dao . The vortex drowned out everything , its movement releasing a deep hum that Zac could feel to the depths of his soul .

One by one , thin pillars of light shot up toward the sky . At first , there were just a few , but in seconds there were millions . They rose from every corner of the Quarry , seemingly supporting the Heavens . All the while , the resonance within Zac’s body surged toward a crescendo Zac both anticipated and feared .

Ogras looked at the spectacle with a crooked smile . - That’s the Deviant Asura for you . -

37

THE GIFT OF THE FIRST PEOPLE

You’re playing a dangerous game , - Lova commented as they looked down at the children .

He’d just absorbed the last of the keys , which would trigger the summoning . A powerful force was building within his body , but it wasn’t enough to obscure the raging storm of Fate around the child . It was shielded using some unconventional means , but the obfuscation wouldn’t work properly , what with their master being the Heavens in this realm .

So what? - Engo grinned , his gaze turning to the sky . - Inserting myself into the tapestry didn’t harm the child . He’ll still get his opportunity . Isn’t this why we’ve stayed in this world for so long , overseeing generation after generation? To find inspiration in the paths of the little animals , to benefit from their winds of fate? -

Those winds might become a storm powerful enough to swallow you whole . -

That’s fine . I’ve lived long enough , - Engo said without a care . - We both know I won’t go any further unless something changes , and I’m tired of searching one forsaken corner of the Multiverse after another . I’m just trying a few things out . Besides , aren’t you the same? I’m guessing you’re here because of that old thief . -

Esmeralda is interested , - Lova admitted . - I wasn’t sure whether he was suitable for this inheritance , so I thought I’d come and make sure he didn’t get himself killed . Since he survived the inverse keys , I’ll be on my way . -

Aren’t you curious? -

Of the First People? - Lova smiled . - Not particularly . I’ve already read their primer . -

Don’t you want to know what this trove’s holding? Not even master knows which tier this parcel is . -

Even if it’s one of the Ancestral Precepts , so what? Their path is not something we can emulate . Well , not you and I , at least . As for him , who knows? Theirs was a path of purity , while he chose to embrace the Dao . -

You’re too pessimistic . Great things have emerged from the most unexpected places through the ages . Who’s to say what can and can’t crystallize from the teachings of the First People? If we can make the heritages of the previous Heavens work in our favor , why not a heritage of the Void Heaven? For all we know , some might already have succeeded . -

Even then . . . - Lova smiled as a gate appeared next to her . - That’s a path for someone else to trod . -

Boring , - Engo scoffed as he pushed down his cane .

A ripple spread beneath his feet like they were standing upon a lake rather than far up in the sky . A second avatar of the old Kan’Zek Troll rose from within , and it didn’t emit a speck of energy . Instead , it was completely detached from the environment , as though its body lived in its own dimension .

A Blank Phase Avatar? You’ve come prepared , - Lova said .

I’ll follow these threads of Karma to see what’s what , - Engo said as he wove a weave of arrays around the avatar . - Don’t worry , I won’t disturb your little candidate . -

Well , have fun , - Lova said as she stepped through the gate . - Though I must say , those threads look an awful lot like a noose . -

The mountains rumbled and the ground shook as the ancient sky grew more potent . Seeing the innumerable pillars light up the Quarry , Zac suspected it came at the cost of most , if not all , the Fate Kernels . The First People were calling the Aether back home , which would break the containment .

Zac had no time to worry about him ruining yet another environment because of the transformation taking place in his own body . Torrential amounts of Void Energy were dragged out of the depths of his cells , fueling the seventeen seals . They were finally satiated when only 10% of his stores remained . Together , they formed a full circuit , creating a simplified copy of something he’d seen in his vision .

It was the fifteenth iteration of the lone constellation . Zac didn’t know if that was good , bad , or if it mattered at all . All the stars had looked the same in the vision , none clearly better or worse than the others . He was more curious about what the seals would do than what the constellation meant .

He didn’t have to wait long for answers . The seventeen seals hummed with increasing vigor , releasing an ancient aura that spread through every corner of his body . Then they simply disappeared in a flash , and Zac gasped in relief as he felt his strength come surging back . His parched cells were flushed with Vigor after two weeks of steadily withering . Part of him wanted to destroy a mountain with Arcadia’s Judgement] just to completely rid himself of the uncomfortable sensation of vulnerability since he started collecting the Void Kernels , but he pushed down the sentiment .

The seals didn’t completely disappear after leaving his body . They’d appeared right above his head in the form of stars , miniature versions of the ones he’d seen in the vision . They pulsated , following a mysterious pattern , and a rain of light answered the call . The light pillars across the horizon had already winked out , drained by the vortex above . Now it all came back , pouring into the seals .

Zac’s vision flickered , and he realized there were no longer seventeen stars illuminating the valley . There were twenty-four , then thirty-three , and new ones kept appearing out of nowhere . In seconds , the valley was covered by a true replica of the fifteenth constellation , a full 229 stars . The constellation hung hundreds of meters in the air , though Zac felt far closer to it than when he’d carried the seals around .

The powerful resonance lingered in his body , forming a mysterious connection with the stars . And the stars , in turn , linked him with the Heavens themselves . An instinctual understanding filled his mind as his vantage expanded to the size of a world . A smile spread across his lips .

How long do you think this . . . thing will last? - Ogras whispered . - People are undoubtedly already running here as fast as their legs can carry them . -

He was right . Zac could see it . There were twenty-two other cultivators spread throughout the Quarry . Two were trying to gain some benefits from the scene in the sky or investigate the spots where the pillars appeared . The others were all running toward their location using every means in their repertoire , including teleportation talismans , treasures , and all kinds of movement skills .

They won’t get here in time , - Zac said . - And it won’t matter . -

More importantly , are you okay? - Catheya asked . - It almost felt like you died there for a moment . -

I’m fine now , - Zac said and released his aura to show he was no longer toiling under the restraints of the seventeen seals .

What do we do? - Ogras asked . - Where’s this inheritance? -

It’s wherever I want it to be , - Zac said and pointed ahead .

The constellation answered his call , and its light rapidly increased with intensity . For a moment , he felt like a powerful Autarch , wielding the power of the cosmos . The sky roiled , and a rumble originating from the beginnings of the era shook the world . And then it appeared—a finger whose size was beyond comprehension .

It barely fit through the vortex , covering the whole land beneath .

Holy . . . - Ogras whispered as he hunched down , unable to fully withstand the mental pressure of seeing something that big descend toward him .

Zac also gazed at the unfathomable finger but didn’t feel the pressure . He felt a longing call coming from the depths of the river of time—the call of the First People , searching for something beyond themselves .

I’m here , - Zac whispered , stretching his hands to welcome the probing search .

A blinding flash of starlight answered , drowning the whole world in unbearable light . Even Zac was forced to close his eyes and block his sight with energy . There was a light touch on his forehead that subtly changed the resonance from the seals . The light soon receded , and the finger was gone when Zac opened his eyes .

In its place was a pillar of starlight falling toward them . It looked minuscule compared to the finger , but it was over five hundred meters across . It had emerged from the vortex’s center and passed through the constellation still glimmering above . With a flash , the mountain lining the valley was gone .

In its place stood an ancient stone building . It shared a lot of features with the ancient library he’d seen in his vision , but its design was completely different . It was circular , almost resembling a cauldron , lined with hundreds of engraved pillars . Between each pillar was a burning brazier , except the fires looked like thousands of blue fireflies dancing around .

There was one entrance pointed right at them , but Zac couldn’t see anything through the open gates . The only clue of what went on inside was a huge star floating in the middle of the building , with roughly a third of it peeking above the outer wall . The star wasn’t a ball of fire but looked like a condensed ball of the mysterious light in the braziers .

There were two more items of note , each placed in front of the entrance . To the left of the gate was a larger version of the braziers . To the right was a stone tablet reaching over ten meters . Both were covered in the script of the First People . Even if Zac couldn’t understand them , he felt his mind shudder as he looked at the pattern . Dao or not , those things contained incredible truths .

A shimmering bubble surrounded the whole structure , and Zac could tell it was a lot like the arrays surrounding the Fate Kernels . Only infinitely more powerful .

What was that? - Catheya asked as she fearfully looked around . - What’s going on? -

Zac wasn’t surprised by their hesitant reaction . He could tell that the bubble was not just a shield to protect the building from the Dao and Energy outside . It was more accurate to say that it had created a completely separate dimension superimposed on the mountain range . Catheya was looking upon the same mountains as before rather than the inheritance building .

Here , let me show you , - Zac said as he placed his hand on Ogras and Catheya’s shoulders .

The mysterious vibrations in his body spread into Ogras and Catheya , and they gasped simultaneously .

What the . . . ! - Ogras exclaimed . - Is it an illusion? -

No , - Zac said with a shake of his head . - It’s not quite in phase with our reality , and the seventeen seals created a resonance that has temporarily attuned me to the library . I’m sorry , but I don’t think I’ll be able to take you inside . The energy will annihilate you . -

Figures , - Ogras muttered , but he didn’t look overly surprised . But the demon’s eyes suddenly widened as he looked at the large brazier by the entrance . - Wait , is that . - ?

Zac followed Ogras’ gaze , and he realized there was something different about it from the others . In its center were a dozen shimmering spheres , each the size of an ostrich egg .

They resemble Fate Kernels , but at the same time , they don’t , - Ogras hesitated . - I can’t sense any Dao from within them . Are they broken? -

I think they’re just empty , - Zac said , his eyes lighting up . It looked like his companions wouldn’t walk away completely empty-handed . - Stay here . I shouldn’t be long . -

Be careful! - Catheya urged as Zac moved forward .

Zac nodded , but he wasn’t too worried . He already felt connected to the building , and each step he took imparted new information . Zac passed through the barrier without issue and found himself standing on the temple’s steps . Everything felt normal . The stones were stones , and the air was air . He couldn’t feel the Dao at all , but that didn’t mean there weren’t truths swirling across the temple .

The star radiated . . . Something . Something incredible , something alien . Was it a Void of Dao , such as the Void of Stars? Zac wasn’t certain . He shook his head and turned to the brazier . There’d be time to figure out the mysteries within soon enough . Zac wanted to fish out two Fate Kernels for the others , and a burst of information filled his head when he touched the brazier .

A wry smile spread across Zac’s face as he hefted two handles . - Oh well . -

The First People were more generous than Zac , and a message had asked him to take the brazier and pillar for all fated to enjoy . Zac would personally have opted to keep them for himself or ransom them out to anyone who arrived , but he chose to follow the message . It wasn’t a command , but who knew if some lingering spirit was watching his actions .

Zac first carried the brazier out from the barrier and then the tablet . Both were covered in shimmering light , though Zac could tell they’d only last a day before disintegrating .

You took them out? - Ogras said with surprise .

I got a message asking me to . - Zac shrugged as he stuck his hand into the fire and fished out two eggs . - Here . Don’t touch the pillar , or you’ll lose a hand , but you could try getting something from it . This fire is also pretty dangerous for normal people , so don’t play around with it . -

What should we do with these? - Catheya asked .

Infuse them with all your Daos according to your path . -

They quickly got to work . The spheres rapidly transformed under the influence of the Dao . Catheya’s egg turned into a crystalline necklace , while Ogras’ turned into a weird three-eyed puppet the size of a fist . Each emitted an aura completely in sync with them , and the energy they contained was amazing .

Peak? No , this is even— - Ogras breathed .

Zac could tell these Fate Kernels couldn’t be categorized as Peak or even Supreme-quality . They were something unique , and their effect might not be as simple as just boosting the efficacy by a certain percentage .

These are amazing , - Catheya whispered . - What about you? -

I’m taking one just in case , - Zac said , though he wasn’t sure if even these things were useful to him .

What about the others? Should we try to sell them? - Ogras asked .

The one who left the inheritance asked these to be provided to whoever was fated . And they won’t last long outside the protective fire , - Zac said , not without reluctance . - Uh , but they didn’t say anything about selling information . -

Got it , - Ogras grinned . - I’ll deal with it . -

What about you? - Catheya asked .

I’m heading inside , - Zac said . - These things will disappear in a day or so . No need to wait for me if I’m not out by then . I have no idea how long this will take . -

We’ll stay in the area in case you need our help later , - Catheya said before grabbing Zac’s hand . - Thank you , and be careful . -

Don’t listen to her . Take some risks and find something good for me in there , - Ogras said , narrowly avoiding an icicle shooting in his direction . - What? Just look at him . The worst that can happen is him tripping and falling into a hidden treasure room . -

Zac laughed as he walked back toward the temple . - Remember , if some lunatic arrives , call for me , and I’ll try to come . -

A moment later , he was back on the steps and eagerly entered the gates . Zac’s vision shuddered as he passed the threshold , and the floating star was now in full view . It hovered five meters above the ground . Surrounding it were seventeen floating disks , each with a distinct rune pointing toward the sun’s center . They looked different , but they reminded Zac of the Dao Spikes he’d seen in the center of the Technocrat Research Base .

As far as Zac could tell , they were there to empower rather than restrain the sun , which seemed to be wholly self-contained . Apart from the sun , there was not much else inside the massive structure . There was a second set of pillars and braziers mirroring those outside , along with a simple table right beneath the sun .

Zac hesitated a bit before approaching . The sun drew closer , but no heat emanated from it . Zac breathed in relief at not having to withstand the searing heat of an ancient sun . This close , he got a better look at the fireflies flying about and crashing into each other . It looked chaotic , but it seemed like there was order to the madness .

There was a mystery within , but Zac’s attention soon shifted to the table . Only three things were lying atop it : a crystal , a tome , and in the middle , a tool with a small hammerhead on one side and a pick on the other . Curious , Zac’s eyes turned to the hammer . He’d encountered all kinds of tomes and crystals over the years , but this was the first time he’d seen a simple tool given such a prominent placement .

Zac reached out and touched the pick , and the whole sun shuddered as an immense presence descended . Zac heard a distant scream , but it was immediately drowned out by a booming voice reverberating through his body . Each word was like a clap of Heavenly thunder , containing immense will . Each syllable was a hammer hitting an anvil , steady and powerful .

Master the myriad transformations! Subdue the elements and bend them to your will! Make the Cosmos your forge! -

38

COSMIC FORGE

The firefly sun turned into a storm that engulfed the whole building , even dragging the flames out of the braziers by the walls . Zac stood in its center , pick hammer in hand as he looked around with wonder . The billions of fireflies created dazzling patterns that kept changing in incredibly complex ways . Just like he’d sensed before , there were truths hidden in their movements .

An impartment .

As the fireflies danced , a seal started to appear inside his Soul Aperture . It formed a hidden chamber much like the Remnant prison , likely invisible to any outsider . And as the seal appeared , Zac felt his vision split in two . He was looking at the dance around him , yet he was also witnessing a completely different scene—a different life , even .

He stood in an unfamiliar , yet familiar room with piles of materials on the floor . Zac took up a piece of glowing rock , and a swirl of fireflies began dancing around his hand . One by one , small seals appeared on the stone , written in the script of the First People . The stone cracked , and he sighed in despondency . A warm consciousness buffeted him , and the crude scripts detached themselves from the rock and flowed into the air .

They formed a simple dance above Zac’s hand in the alternate reality , mirroring the vastly more complex patterns around him . They showed him the true path and the mistakes he’d made . Zac retrieved a second stone and began anew .

One scene after another appeared in Zac’s mind’s eye . Years of practice crystallizing into an experienced hand’s intuition . It truly felt like it was him experiencing all these experiments . His attempts were based on his understanding and his failures because of his shortcomings . So every time that gentle consciousness showed the way , he gained true skill and comprehension .

Zac lost all concept of time . He was fully committed and entranced by the magical technique . All the while , the firefly sun shrunk , and the seal grew . The motes of light weren’t expended , though , but rather absorbed by the small stone pick .

Eventually , only a few thousand motes remained , at which point Zac had lived through decades of apprenticeship under a master artisan . Thousands of trials and errors had given him an instinctive understanding of materials and energy . It was a form of information impartment he hadn’t encountered before , akin to flowers naturally blooming rather than having things forcibly crammed into his brain . Of course , it couldn’t compare to real , hands-on experience . However , he had likely saved years on his journey , and the vision ensured he wouldn’t set off on the wrong path .

The remaining starlight formed a small swirl in front of him that turned into a bust of a face of a member of the First People . They looked like a mix of an herbivore dinosaur and a humanoid , with two large black eyes but no nose or ears . Instead of hair , they had back-facing horn-like formations that resembled flower petals . Over twenty of them formed a flower at the back of his head .

The bust was decidedly alien , but Zac got a warm feeling . He’d never seen this man in the visions , but he could tell it was this man who had guided him through his spiritual apprenticeship .

I am Dasorm , a Cosmic Pathfinder of the First People , - the bust said . - Fate brought you to my forge , and I gift you my creation with no expectation beyond remembering my name . I was not the most powerful of my kin nor the brightest . Neither did I ever cross that final threshold and join the six ancestors . -

Zac’s heart shuddered when he heard the voice . It was the same as the booming voice that spoke when he touched the stone pick , but it was gentler this time . Like the voice of a patient teacher who’d guided him for a large part of his life . His emotions swelled , but he focused to avoid missing anything the long gone craftsman had to say . Zac could tell this was a recording rather than a lingering spiritual will , and this was likely the first and last time Zac would see his benefactor .

There were a few things he could deduce from that short introduction . First , this wasn’t one of the peak inheritances left by one of the six gargantuan beings Zac suspected were Supremacies . However , it was still not far-off . Dasorm was only one step below those six , which meant he had to have been one of the top beings in the innermost circles .

Then again , that was probably the case with all the 229 inheritances . There had been millions and millions of cultivators on that platform , but only a few of their creations could become a star heritage .

Dasorm continued . - I was , however , the only Cosmic Pathfinder to ever forge an Ancestral Instrument . -

As expected , Zac was amazed but not surprised . Even if he’d only experienced the basic techniques of this master artisan , he could tell Dasorm’s methods were unique . Almost Heaven-defying . Since the highest-grade cultivators were called ancestors , it was a safe bet that an Ancestral Instrument was something at a similar level .

He took a ragged breath in anticipation , his heart rapidly beating . Zac had been so swept up in that vision that he hadn’t fully grasped what he’d been given . A Void-based crafting method , possibly the greatest one of the First People .

Wasn’t this perfect? If it had been a cultivation-based heritage , it would probably have been useless except as a reference source . Even if it turned out he could cultivate the Void , he still had his own path to follow . But this? This was amazing . As for the fact it was created in a time without the Dao , Zac wasn’t worried . Most people would probably have to refit the technique , but Zac strongly suspected he was an exception .

He’d long since realized there was something special with his relationship to the Void , and the vision of the First People had essentially confirmed it . They’d called the Dao poison , and just touching it was like matter and anti-matter colliding . That wasn’t Zac’s experience at all . He found no issues activating skills with Void Energy , even if they were based on the Dao .

Zac could even imbue the skills with his Dao Branches , which should be downright impossible . His bloodline made the impossible possible , acting as a bridge between the Void and Dao . This was the true marvel of his bloodline , rather than instant skill activation or having an extra energy reserve .

My creation is called Cosmic Forge] . No matter your path , no matter the material . Everything can be refined by the Cosmos! At the highest level , the Cosmos itself can be refined . I wish you luck , inheritor! -

With those parting words , the final motes of light entered the pick . The floating seals had disappeared at some time and turned into small sigils that lined the handle .

Zac felt a tremendous pull of Void Energy when the final mote of starlight was gone . Luckily , he’d been fully replenished by the unique environment while undergoing the impartment , and he let the pick eat its fill . The pick was like a black hole , and Zac was eventually forced to stop it when he only had 20% of his Void Energy remaining .

At least it was enough to form a preliminary connection to the tool , though Zac wasn’t sure if the hammer could be considered a Spirit Tool . He could tell it followed a completely different path . Zac did sense a connection to the tool like he did with Verun and Alea . His lips twitched—it had only absorbed less than a tenth of a percent of what it required .

Holding the hammer up , he knew what to do . The hammer had to first be filled with Void Energy to recover . The whole inheritance had almost been drained for eons , and it would have been unable to withstand the Heavens for much longer . After the hammer was replenished , Zac would have to infuse Daos from all seventeen peaks into the tool . By that point , it would be fully stabilized .

Until then , it would be damaged when exposed to the environment . It would be a lot of work , but Zac was confident he’d be able to repair the hammer before leaving the Perennial Vastness . He could even do it while earning Mana in the various Red Zones . Seventeen Missions , seventeen months . That would take him through environments based on all the Dao Peaks . It would provide him the treasures he needed and valuable experience dealing with Daos uncommon in Zecia .

The impartment building felt hollow and empty with the sun gone and the braziers extinguished . Zac sent a command , and the hammer turned into light that entered his Soul Aperture and then the new hidden compartment that had opened . There , it reformed into a miniature version of the firefly sun and began orbiting the new brand that appeared .

Zac spent the next thirty minutes scanning the sigil , even if the vast majority of the technique was still sealed . The section he could access by infusing his will only covered the concepts displayed in the visions . It was the first chapter , which Dasorm Called Cosmic Infusion] . It wasn’t a method to craft gear , though .

Cosmic Infusion] contained two techniques . The first was to extract Truth and Aether from a base material . The second technique was to infuse the unique energy into a piece of gear .

For example , he could take a Life-attuned Natural Treasure and extract its essence before infusing it into a normal dagger . With enough essence , the dagger would turn into a Life-attuned weapon . Not only that , but by accepting more energy , its quality would slightly improve .

According to the method , there didn’t seem to be a limit to how much essence you could infuse into an item . Of course , the worse the base item , the more demanding the process . Stacking infusions also increased the difficulty . Still , this seemingly simple solution would probably drive most blacksmiths mad with envy .

Even an apprentice blacksmith could craft a decent weapon if they only focused on tempering and shaping . The real difficulty came when you wanted to infuse Dao . Even unattuned weapons relied on the Dao , from the blacksmith’s comprehension to his technique . These things would impact the product . It was doubly true for attuned weapons , which were far more popular . And attunement was something you had to infuse during the forging process . If you wanted to add an affinity later , your options were limited , and none were optimal .

The first alternative was to reforge the item to add attuned materials , which often was more difficult than crafting a new one . You didn’t only have to retain the old weapon’s spirituality , arrays , and pathways , but also infuse new ones that wouldn’t clash with the old . There was a high risk of damaging the internal wiring , so to speak . Even if you succeeded , there was a high risk of degrading its quality and potential for growth .

The other alternative was only possible with Spirit Tools , and it was to feed the weapons attuned materials as they grew . This was the path Zac had taken with his Spirit Tools , albeit mostly by accident and necessity . However , there were detriments to this path . Every new item swallowed made the internal workings more complex . The risk of mismatching increased , and gear suffered from impurities just like cultivators .

Love’s Bond] was still fine thanks to the System overseeing the evolutions through the Divine Investiture Array] , though evolving to D-grade would finally exhaust the array he got from the Tower of Eternity . Verun’s Bite] was a lot worse off in that regard . It had swallowed all kinds of weird things over the years . Unidentified treasures , bones , dragon blood , and pure Dao of Life . Zac would sooner or later have to slow down its progress and focus on harmonizing and purifying the weapon .

With Cosmic Infusion] , you sidestepped most of the downsides of both method . You only extracted the essence of the raw materials , so there were no impurities to speak of . And the infusion process could almost be likened to a rebirth of the material . As long as you succeeded with the infusion , whether it was the first or the fiftieth , it would result in a homogenous item with little to no internal conflicts . In other words , a Spirit Tool as perfect as one created by the System itself .

The biggest downside was that Cosmic Infusion] could only create single-affinity items on its own . Luckily , the inheritance hinted that wouldn’t always be the case . The first chapter was completely unlocked , and it also provided a preview of the next one . It was a companion technique to the first called Cosmic Extraction] .

The details were vague , but it sounded like Zac would be able to extract clashing or unsuitable elements from equipment . For example , if Ogras found an amazing spear attuned with Shadows and Death , then Zac could remove the Dao of Death while keeping the rest intact . Beyond that , Zac had no idea what kind of techniques Cosmic Forge] held . However , things like fusion and alteration were likely candidates .

Interestingly , there was not a single mention of actually forging equipment in the available information . It all referred to improving existing items . In a sense , it was more accurate to call it a refinement technique than a crafting technique . Of course , judging by Dasorm’s introduction , actual crafting techniques would no doubt appear in the later chapters .

It was probably a matter of learning to walk before you could run , where the first chapters set up a solid foundation . It reminded Zac of a documentary he’d seen , explaining how it could take years for a sushi chef apprentice before they were allowed to even touch a sushi knife . First , master how to manipulate - Aether and Truth . - Then you could use that knowledge to forge new creations .

Gaining access to the later chapters wasn’t gated by his cultivation level or finding more inheritances . It was rather dependent on his progress with the method itself . To unlock Cosmic Extraction] , he needed to imbue a piece of equipment with two Cosmic Cycles . Zac had a decent idea of what that meant going by context clues , and the sudden appearance of a blue screen confirmed his suspicion .

Cosmic Forge (Unique , Inheritance) : Infuse a non-mortal item with two Cosmic Cycles . Reward : Cosmic Extraction] . (0/34)

Zac looked at the quest with annoyance . It really wasn’t comfortable having the System all up in his business this way . Still , there wasn’t much to do about it , and he could only focus on the quest . As expected , one Cosmic Cycle was seventeen infusions , one for each Dao Peak .

Neither his visions nor the inheritance fully explained what level an item would reach by being infused seventeen times . But it seemed as though each Cosmic Cycle would upgrade an item by one quality tier . In other words , two cycles would upgrade a Low-quality item to a High-quality one while simultaneously adding an attunement .

That was almost Heaven-defying . Verun’s Bite] appeared in his hand , and he thought back to all the encounters and opportunities that had fed his axe to this point . All that , and the axe still hadn’t quite reached Peak-quality . It wasn’t easy to make an exact estimate , but it was most likely in the upper tiers of a High-quality Tool Spirit . And that was for now .

There were no guarantees it’d retain its quality after evolving to D-grade . If anything , it was expected for a Tool Spirit to be downgraded a level or two when breaking through to a new grade . Like cultivators , Tool Spirits had limits to their potential , and breaking past those barriers required fortuitous encounters . Sometimes , it simply wasn’t possible .

Or so Zac had thought .

Apparently , Cosmic Forge] could subvert fate and continuously upgrade equipment . Certainly , it required skill , raw materials , and there was an element of risk to the process , but there were no such things as an item’s bottleneck . As long as he reached a certain level of proficiency , he would be able to turn almost any item into a Peak-quality treasure . Perhaps he would be able to push them to even greater heights .

Zac could see a new path open up before him as he looked down at his companion . Infuse his Daos to elevate the axe to Peak-quality . Extract the clashing elements from all the random things he’d fed Verun . Fuse the essence of his path into the axe , replacing what was removed . Help Verun shatter the chains of its unimpressive origins . Who knew , Cosmic Forge] might even be the key to helping Alea resurrect .

He took a calming breath , steadying his mental state and heart before his thoughts ran amok . The ability was amazing , but he had to remember it was something created in an era before the Dao by a species that considered Dao poison . There were no guarantees it would work as advertised , even with his unique bloodline .

He definitely wouldn’t dare use the techniques on Verun’s Bite] or Love’s Bond] until he had ample experience under his belt . He would prefer to unlock a few more chapters of Cosmic Forge] to see his options . Still , the gift was almost incomprehensible , and the inheritance was just one of three items left on the table .

There were still two more to go .

39

BEING REMEMBERED

Anticipation radiated through Zac as he picked up the inlaid tome . Unsurprisingly , its pages were filled with the unfamiliar scripts of the First People . Of course , they were no longer unfamiliar , thanks to the seal in his mind .

Solevur opened her eyes and gazed upon an endless void . She was the first of the first , the originator of all . ’

Zac read the first couple of pages . Its contents had nothing to do with Dasorm or his creation . Neither was it a skill or technique . The book was a primer on the First People . Their biology , culture , history , and way of life . Their origin , their feats , and most likely their fall . Zac felt a pang of sorrow and futility upon holding the book . Such a powerful civilization , all but erased by the river of time .

The pain of seeing millions of years of progress get wiped out was palpable . The desperate desire to leave at least a small mark on the cosmos . How many others like them were there? How many cataclysms had there been that erased all but the inheritance of the rarified few who managed to reach beyond the Dao and brush Eternity?

Zac sighed and put the tome away . He’d read it at a later time . Mostly because he was truly interested after seeing the vision and encountering this great fortune , but also because it might provide some contextual information to his newfound wealth of knowledge . Finally , Zac turned to the crystal . It was a bit of a letdown that the tome didn’t contain anything related to cultivation or the Void , but he could tell the crystal wasn’t simple .

Picking it up , dozens of tendrils burrowed into his hand . It was Void Energy , steadily replenishing what he’d lost to nurture the pick hammer . It wasn’t a huge amount though , not even at the level of using a Void Beast Core . However , Zac noted with interest the energy within the crystal didn’t decrease at all .

Zac tried to scan it a few times but couldn’t understand the incredibly complex crystal patterns within . He couldn’t even determine whether it was a Natural Treasure or something crafted . However , he did figure out that it really wasn’t losing energy to provide him with a steady stream of the Void . It was just like the Remnants .

The crystal was either generating Void Energy out of nowhere or absorbing it from another dimension . Zac thoughtfully looked at the thing for a few seconds before releasing some of his Branch of the Kalpataru . The air crackled from exposure to the - poison’ of the new era , but the crystal had a far more interesting reaction .

It shimmered and gained a golden hue that formed a small bubble around it , and the tendrils of Void Energy gained a different flavor . They’d become attuned , but not with Dao . Zac couldn’t be certain , but after practicing the Void Vajra Sublimation] for years , he was quite confident the Void Energy was imbued with the Void of Life .

Releasing the Branch of the Pale Seal produced a similar effect . The crystal acted like a mirror , taking in and inverting the Dao Zac showed . The outside environment wouldn’t even harm it since it continuously exuded Void Energy and Void of Dao that nullified anything that touched it .

Was the thing perhaps a contingency by the First People? They knew the poison would soon cover the cosmos , so they invented a way for the inheritors to connect to the Void . Thanks to his bloodline , Zac didn’t need it for Cosmic Forge] , but it was still an amazing find . He could use it to drastically strengthen the Void of Life and Death in his Cosmic Core . With this as a foundational item , he would increase the speed with which he’d form the core and improve the result . It might even allow his Cosmic Core to generate Void Energy naturally .

Initially , Zac planned on using a mix of the Stone of Celestial Void] and various Void-related items as a base for his core , but this crystal was far superior . It was like a generator that produced both Void and Void of Dao . Conversely , the Stone of Celestial Void] only contained terrifying amounts of Void Energy and Vigor , making it much more suitable for bloodline improvements .

There was no description or name for the crystal , so Zac named it the Void Engine] . The Dao inversion was magical , and it made Zac think of something . He thoughtfully took out the spherical egg he’d picked up from the brazier outside . The egg-like item hummed ominously as he put it closer to the Void Engine] . Zac expected as much and quickly moved it away .

The Fate Kernels were created using simplified theories of the Void Engine] , and it looked like using the two together would unravel the kernel . In other words , he wouldn’t be able to use the empty Fate Kernel for himself . Still , Zac fully believed what he’d gained was far superior .

Cosmic Forge] was an amazing gift that would solve many of his problems while increasing his self-sufficiency . However , it would take a long time before its true value showed itself in a way that could either bring in money or improve his combat strength . Conversely , the Void Engine] would provide almost immediate benefits for his Core Formation .

He was another step closer to his goal . The Hollow Core] from the Orom World to hold the nascent nucleus of the Cosmic Core . The Calamity Core] to instill it with the first breath of Pure Life and Death . And now he had the Void Engine] to provide Void Energy and the Void of Dao . The only thing missing was a foundational treasure for Conflict and a boatload of Mana before he was all set .

Zac looked around the empty courtyard . There was nothing else . The base materials in the structure were incredibly mundane now that the star was gone and not worth bothering over . Zac even suspected the building itself wasn’t something left behind by the First People . Rather , it had been formed from the energy in the sun , using any random nearby material . It would have been another matter if it had been some sort of interesting Void Material .

Then again , could those materials even be stored in a conventional Spatial Ring?

Since Zac was done with everything , he returned to the exit and went through the gates . Not that he had much of a choice . The inheritance space had steadily deteriorated since the firefly sun disappeared . It probably wouldn’t last more than another ten minutes , and Zac didn’t want to stay behind when it popped . The dark swirl in the sky was long gone , and the warm sunset drenched the mountain valley in amber luster . The world had returned to normal , but it was still a very different scene that met him compared to when he entered the inheritance .

There was over fifty people in the valley now . Zac anticipated a few to arrive , using various teleportation treasures . But not this many . There had only been twenty-two outsiders in the realm when he entered , and some were days away from this location . Others lacked the means to cover vast distances so quickly and were forced to use their legs to approach Zac’s location .

Furthermore , Zac only recognized six of these people—the others hadn’t been here when he activated the inheritance . It was only then he realized the impartment had taken just over three days . More than enough time for the news to spread to a select few . Now , most of them were using various means to scan the surroundings or form a resonance , unwilling to give up in case there was more to the huge events that had rocked the Quarry .

Catheya wasn’t there , but he spotted a hooded man standing in a corner with shadows flickering around him . A smile spread across Zac’s face upon seeing Ogras . No doubt the demon had already made some money on this crowd . Now , it was time to bring it home .

Zac took out a transparent glass container and put the empty Fate Kernel inside . From there , he took out one of his artisanal axes and carved a set of scripts on the glass . It wasn’t an array but rather a copy of the runes of the First People that had covered the large brazier that disappeared a few days ago . Finally , he filled the container with Void Energy before attaching an isolation array .

It wasn’t a perfect solution , but the kernel would hold for at least an hour as long as he kept the container close to his body . After the bait was completed , Zac turned into his Draugr form . There was no need to burn his human identity , and what was some additional notoriety to Arcaz Umbri’Zi? With all preparations complete , Zac donned a bashful smile as he emerged from the shielding bubble with the transparent glass canister floating next to him through telekinesis .

A person appearing out of nowhere at an inheritance site obviously drew attention , and Zac instantly had fifty sets of eyes trained on him .

It’s him! The Draugr from the Calamity! - a shocked exclamation echoed out .

Zac recognized the man . It was the very same person who’d seen him emerge from the Calamity . Had he been hanging by the teleporters all this time , waiting for an opportunity to present itself?

Zac slowly swept his gaze across the crowd as though it was the first time he’d seen them . When he reached Ogras , the demon made a small sign indicating everything was okay . Zac inwardly breathed out in relief . Since Catheya was fine , he had no more misgivings about carrying out his plan .

I see a lot of people came to congratulate me on my fortuitous encounter , - Zac smiled . - Thank you , everyone , thank you! -

Who’s here to congratulate you? - a buff orc with some human heritage swore . - What kind of gut-wrenching luck do you have? First the Calamity , and now this? -

Is that a Fate Kernel? - another person asked before Zac could answer , pointing at the glass case floating to Zac’s side .

It looks just like the ones in the recording , - a golemoid confirmed .

Good observation! - Zac said . - As you probably know , there were ten of these , but I can see they’re all gone now . Luckily , I just so happened to find two inside the true inheritance . I’ve used one already , so now I have a spare . -

Name your price , - a cold-looking woman wearing an emerald crown said , clearly confident in her wealth .

Where’s the fun in that? - Zac smiled . - The Perennial Vastness is a rare opportunity to meet other talents from across the Multiverse and broaden our horizons . How about this? Challenge me if you weren’t lucky enough to take one out of the brazier . I’ll give it to anyone who can defeat me . -

Like we don’t know about your winning streak last month , - the golemoid scoffed , and a few others nodded in agreement .

Then how about this . If no one has defeated me by the time I’ve dueled you all , I’ll sell the thing to the highest bidder , - Zac countered . - I can tell you right now , the inheritance is picked clean and gone . This is the last piece up for grabs . -

Ten people sighed and left , most of them through the mountains where Zac came from . Ten more , including Ogras , were neither confident in defeating him nor winning the auction , but they stepped to the side to spectate . That left thirty candidates who were ready to offer up some Mana .

Zac didn’t think he was invincible , but he’d already scanned everyone in the crowd . There were four at the level of the lionman or the Earth cultivator he encountered in the Calamity . Another ten or so weren’t quite at that level but still impressive , while the rest were no threat at all . Since this was a Green Zone and Zac could pick martial duels , he had some confidence in taking them all out . At worst , he’d lose one or two battles and have to give away the kernel for free .

Greedy bastard , - the buff man from before laughed as he stepped forward . - I like it! Skills or martial? -

Martial , - Zac said as Love’s Bond] appeared on his back . One of the chains snapped up the floating glass case and wound itself around it until it formed a ball of fetters . - Oh , if anyone tries to steal the Fate Kernel , I’ll destroy it . I’ll also hunt you down , so you better not appear in Orange or Red Zones in the future . -

We’ll make sure your . . . rules . . . are followed , - the cold woman said .

Well , then , let’s do it! - Zac grinned .

Thirty minutes later , Zac stood by himself , panting and covered in surface wounds .

Whew , alright . Who’s next? - Zac said , trying to look exhausted and vulnerable .

He’d like to call it an act , but he really was tired . Some of these people were surprisingly powerful , and were incredibly motivated . Defeating them all before the Fate Kernel expired took its toll . That cold woman in particular had almost won a martial duel , even if she was a mage . Still , Zac had already gained 2 , 806 Mana in half an hour , and all of the powerhouses of the crowd were dealt with . It should have been more , but one after another had given up as the minutes passed . Two had left while the rest joined the spectators .

Well? - Zac said after no one had stepped forward after half a minute .

It seems you are out of challengers , - the barbarian grinned as he looked at the chain ball hungrily . - Time to honor your agreement . -

Not yet , - Zac said with a shake of his head .

You’re going back on your promise? - the cold woman frowned . - You said you’d sell it after you had run out of challenges . -

That’s not what I said , - Zac grunted as he stood up , his abyssal gaze turning to the spectators . - I said I’ll put it to auction after I’ve dueled everyone present . There are still 15 people present who I haven’t dueled . So how can I start the auction now? -

Are you serious? - the woman frowned .

Like a heart attack , - Zac said . - And do remember , there is not a single Fate Kernel left in the Quarry . This is the last chance . -

We’ll be on our way , then , - one of the weaker spectators muttered as he backed off , but a hulking figure soundlessly appeared right behind him .

You wanted to watch us get our ass beat and then slink away? - the barbarian grinned as he grabbed the man’s shoulder .

This is a Green Zone! - the man frowned .

That’s true , but we can keep you here until you come to your senses . Nothing illegal about that . -

Zac inwardly smiled . What the barbarian said was absolutely true , and it was another reason few solo cultivators wanted to mess with coalitions . They could cause trouble even in Green Zones , though they weren’t allowed to kill or rob . They could keep people locked down for months by rotating wardens if motivated . And Zac just so happened to have twenty-two highly motivated guards who had already made their move .

An immense emerald array had already sealed off the whole valley . It was the mage who almost defeated him . The powerful array she activated utilized Cosmic Crystals . A proper D-grade array . The mage had to be incredibly powerful and talented to use something like that freely . If not , it would destabilize and blow up in her face . It was almost as difficult and draining as using War Regalia in the E-grade .

No more nonsense , - the woman said as the others formed a perimeter around the spectators . - You came here knowing the risks . You had many chances to leave , but you did not . Now , pay the price of Mana or pay a greater one . -

I’ll remember anyone who drags their feet , - the barbarian added with a growl .

Zac wasn’t surprised by their impatience . Three days had already passed , and Zac guessed there would soon be far more people coming this way . They didn’t know Zac could only maintain the Fate Kernel for one hour , so they feared he would drag things out until they’d have to contend with hundreds for a chance to snatch it up . Honestly , Zac would have preferred to do things that way . It was a shame the inheritance space had started to destabilize .

Wait! - one of the spectators said , ignoring the glaring looks as he turned to Zac . - You only told those who haven’t gotten a Fate Kernel to challenge you . This guy and I already got them . -

The man the ratkin pointed to was unsurprisingly Ogras .

Zac looked at the two , seemingly in thought . - Can you prove this? -

I can! - the man said as a projection appeared . - Everyone knows this shadow guy ; he’s been selling the information packets and recordings . He also recorded me absorbing my Fate Kernel . -

A smile tugged at Zac’s lips as he looked back and forth between Ogras and the ratman . Should he extort some Mana from the demon? No , he’d never hear the end of it .

Fine . My word is my bond , - Zac agreed . - But the rest of you better step right up . -

And with that , the second harvest began .

40

A RISING TIDE

MANA : 18 , 953]

Zac looked at the line appreciatively . Less than two months had passed since arriving , yet he was already approaching the third echelon . He was more than a year ahead of schedule , giving him far more leeway . Better yet , the Mana was only a cherry on top of his real gain— Cosmic Forge] . And now , a final windfall waited for him .

Alright , buddy , you’ve squeezed Mana out of all of us . Time to get this show on the road , - the barbarian hollered , not even trying to hide his jealousy over Zac’s good fortune .

Why look so glum? - Zac smiled . - Didn’t most of you discover new directions to improve your blueprints? -

Sublime energy comprehension , - the cold-eyed mage said while looking at Zac speculatively . - I am quite curious how you’ve reached that point as an E-grade cultivator . Especially when you do not follow a path utilizing that knowledge . -

If you want , we can postpone the auction while I regale you about my experiences? - Zac smiled , but he didn’t get so much as a scoff in response .

Guess not . Well , place your bids . Coins are fine , but I am also looking for Supreme Perennial Treasures . -

Perennial Treasures weren’t a true categorization but a local name for treasures found in the Perennial Vastness and useful in Core Formation . He was hoping to find something either for himself or his companions . If that failed , he’d take cash since he suspected he could get a tidy sum for the kernel . A few of the people in the crowd looked quite wealthy .

100 D-grade Nexus Coins , - a beastkin offered , but he didn’t even have time to finish the sentence before being outbid .

300 . -

450 . -

A series of rapid-fire offers pushed the price tag upward , but Zac wasn’t overly enthused . The item had crossed 1 , 000 D-grade Nexus Coins in seconds . It was a fair offer for what was essentially a Pseudo D-grade treasure , but not what Zac hoped to hear when faced with a bunch of scions from the inner regions of the Multiverse .

I have a set of Sundew Drops] found in the Red Zone Umber Steppes . -

I have an unnamed fruit I found in the Blackstar Ruins . It holds immense resentment . -

Pah , what good are those things? Neither are Supreme treasures . Fifty thousand , - the barbarian said , which made Zac look over in surprise .

It wasn’t just that he added a zero to the price in one go . Zac was surprised the man had so much money to throw around . He’d guessed the barbarian was a bit like himself regarding his background . The warrior’s raw power was possibly the highest in the group , but his combat style had some glaring flaws . Furthermore , his blueprint had been so rough that Zac gained 40 Mana from the bounty .

In other words , the barbarian seemed like a talented warrior who’d gotten his hands on the Perennial Vastness Token through a fortuitous encounter rather than his family . Roughly a third of the guests arrived that way , and they generally had weaker backgrounds and smaller purses .

Then again , while many of the scions arrived in the Perennial Vastness with massive fortunes , that money wasn’t for them . It was provided by their families to purchase materials they were lacking or things that could be traded for profit . If they burned that capital on cultivation resources for themselves , they’d get punished upon returning .

50 , 000 D-grade Nexus Coins was a massive price tag for a single item , eclipsing most of his Cosmic Vessels . But it wasn’t enough to make more than half of the guests back down . The price continued to climb toward 100 , 000 until an impatient snort echoed through the valley .

1 C-grade Nexus Coin , - the emerald mage said with not so much as a ripple in her eyes .

A silence spread across the crowd , and all eyes were trained on the human mage . A few looked at her like she was a fool , while most had ruminating or downright jealous expressions .

One point five , - the barbarian said with grit teeth . - Come on , darling? I’ll owe you one . -

Five , - the mage countered without missing a beat , completely ignoring the barbarian . - But on one condition . -

Zac didn’t answer immediately . He turned to the others , but everyone indicated they were out . Zac was disappointed , though he understood their thoughts . Fate Kernels ultimately had limited usefulness . Those who had the qualifications to arrive here were either extremely talented or connected . Forming a Cosmic Core was almost a given . A Fate Kernel could slightly improve the result , but the Perennial Vastness was already doing most of the heavy lifting with its Mana .

The kernel would save a few decades of cultivation in the D-grade at most . Paying multiple C-grade Nexus Coins for that simply wasn’t worth it for most . Furthermore , few scions would carry that wealth for their cultivation . For example , Catheya only had a few hundred D-grade Nexus Coins until her experiences in the Twilight Ascent elevated her status . This young woman was no doubt a real big shot .

Five C-grade Nexus Coins was a massive windfall even for Zac with all his ventures . He’d hoped for 1 C-grade Nexus Coin if a heated bidding war erupted , but this woman threw out money like it was worth nothing . A smile tugged at Zac’s lips upon seeing Ogras turn a shade greener on the sidelines . Perhaps he was even regretting absorbing his kernel instead of pawning it off .

What condition? - Zac asked when it was clear no one planned to outbid her .

I want to know the origin and nature of the opportunity you encountered , - the mage said .

I can divulge the origins but not what I got my hands on , - Zac said after some thought .

That’s fine , - the mage said as she walked over .

Meanwhile , the emerald barrier around the valley dissipated , and Zac was surprised to see eight people standing outside . The barrier had looked transparent , but it had been manipulated not to show Zac that more people had arrived . He wryly smiled , not too broken up about it . The windfall was already better than he’d expected from his impromptu scheme .

Should’ve asked Grandma for more money , - the barbarian muttered as he strolled away . - Hey , dead guy . I’m Kruta . If you’re planning to head to one of the war zones , bring me along , yeah? I could use your luck . -

Sure . - Zac smiled . - But we’d be in contention for the treasures . -

You bring the chaos , and I’ll fish in the muddy waters , - the barbarian laughed before he jumped away .

One by one , the rest left as well . The opportunities were gone , but everyone knew this place would get more volatile as time passed . They’d already been scammed out of some Mana and weren’t interested in bringing more trouble down on their shoulders . A handful stayed on , refusing to give up based on just Zac’s words .

The mage erected a barrier around them , which far surpassed any of the isolation arrays Zac possessed . He couldn’t sense a thing from the outside , like the array had formed a separate dimension .

I’m Arcaz Umbri’Zi , by the way . -

I’ve heard of you , - the mage nodded . - Asta Ar . -

Do you sell these arrays? - Zac asked curiously .

This one has proprietary solutions , but I sell slightly depreciated versions . They only lack 8% strength and lack the defense against a few types of advanced spying methods , - the mage said . - However , they do not run on Miasma . -

That’s fine , - Zac shrugged as the canister floated over . - Give me a couple and deduct the price from your purchase . -

I studied the pillar for two hours before it dissipated , - Asta commented . - This glass case is fake . -

Sure , but the kernel is real , - Zac said , not too surprised an array master could figure out his scheme .

How did you prevent it from dissipating? -

Just filled the canister with the weird energy inside the inheritance . I figured I’d notice if it started to break apart . -

I see , - Asta said , clearly not buying Zac’s explanation . - And the origins? -

The First People , - Zac said and recorded a translated version of the primer’s first chapter .

The First People , how extraordinary , - the woman sighed , her face softening quite a bit . For a moment , she reminded Zac of Vai , brimming with academic curiosity . - Where did you get this text from? -

I found a book with historical accounts rather than skills or Cultivation Manuals . -

It’s really one of the 229 , - Asta muttered , prompting Zac’s eyes to widen .

You knew of this place? -

I didn’t know it was a precept of the First People , but I have read about their heritages . A few of their remnants have appeared over the years , including one in a neighboring empire . It had collapsed , and the inheritance was lost , but the explorers found a book . As it often does , some of the contents were leaked and spread . Are you amenable to selling the book or making a copy? -

You can come and get a translated version after I’ve read the book in full , - Zac said after some thought . - I want to ensure there are no hidden impartments within before handing it over . -

The First People’s greatest desire was to be remembered , so Zac felt he could just as well spread the primer . It was just a small act of reciprocity in the face of the massive gift they’d given him . But he’d keep the original for himself , just in case .

That’s acceptable , - Asta said . - I’m a member of the Tranquil Moon Pavilion . Please let me know if you find any other items or writings of historical significance during your stay . We are always searching for lost and ancient knowledge . -

Sure , - Zac waved .

He had no idea what the Tranquil Moon Pavilion was , but he guessed it was a powerful sect from the Heartlands . It wasn’t often Zac met sect disciples . Most regions were dominated by clans rather than sects , which wasn’t surprising . A family had an easier time maintaining cohesion against outside threats , and they had a cultivation advantage regarding bloodlines . Besides , the Limitless Empire was governed this way , which created echoes across the Multiverse through the System .

Still , many regions were fully controlled by sects , who maintained their dominion by ensuring no families grew too powerful . They held rigorous testing across their lands , making sure to bring talented children into the fold long before they could grow up and become pillars of a family .

Asta left , and Zac followed suit after confirming Ogras was already gone . He ran through winding paths for a few minutes before activating Abyssal Phase] . The mountain range turned into a blur as Zac pushed the skill to its limits , crossing vast swathes in minutes . When he couldn’t maintain the skill any longer , he reformed and kept running for another twenty minutes .

Zac stopped before a seemingly normal wall , but he passed right through it after scanning the region as best as he could . A series of tunnels would lead to the other side of the mountain , but Zac simply took out a chair and sat down . It was a meet-up location he and Ogras had prepared before heading toward the final seal .

Twenty minutes later , Ogras stepped through the illusion array , grinning as he saw Zac sitting in meditation . - Everything went well? -

No complaints . -

No complaints , - Ogras said with a roll of his eyes . - Heaven-touched bastard . I thought I made off like a bandit , selling information packages and recordings for 18 , 000 D-grade Nexus Coins . Clearly , my ambitions are too low . -

Well , that’s not too bad a haul for some information , - Zac said . - Where’s Catheya? -

She’s not too far from here , - Ogras said . - She opted to move closer to the teleportation pillar after the first group of people arrived . She could send a warning in case there were some big movements that way , and I guess being a solo undead in this kind of situation is asking for trouble . -

They set out through the mountain , soon emerging on the other side . Ogras’ appearance had returned to how he’d looked while the two toured the Quarry , while Zac was in his human form . They suddenly looked like the two random cultivators who had entered the Quarry in search of Fate Kernels 11 days ago .

So , what did you get in there? - the demon eventually asked .

I’m surprised you lasted a whole 20 minutes before asking , - Zac laughed .

Well? - Ogras said , not looking even slightly shamefaced .

Well , nothing that would help either you or me in the short-run , - Zac said . - But come see me when you get a piece of War Regalia on your hands . -

What’s going on? - Ogras asked with interest .

I got a pretty interesting craftsman inheritance , - Zac said . - Only part of it is unlocked , but I think it has amazing potential . -

Of course you did , - Ogras sighed . - Now you’re just lacking your sister’s unnaturally precise Dao Control . Then , you can finally make everyone burn with envy . -

Don’t be like that , - Zac laughed . - A rising tide raises all ships . -

Luckily Ogras didn’t know about Jeeves and how Zac was meant to have exactly the ability he described . He’d never stop complaining .

I guess that’s true , - Ogras said . - Now what? I need to know which realm you’ll turn on its head if I want to visit it beforehand . -

I need to go over my plans before making a decision . This encounter changed some things . It looks like I have to enter the Red Zones of all the Dao Peaks to advance my craft , - Zac said .

Might want to reach the third echelon first , - Ogras said . - That way , you’ll at least have a weak Mana domain to help you withstand the environments . Some of those environments are no joke , even for someone like you . -

We’ll see how it goes , - Zac nodded .

Not even two months , and you’ve already caused so much chaos , - Ogras sighed as he looked up at the sky . - I wonder , can the Perennial Vastness even survive ten years of your presence? -

One hour later , they stopped and turned to look up at a mountain peak . Catheya stood there , lit up by the evening sun . Zac forgot to breathe for a second but was woken up by a snicker to the side .

You’re okay . I started to get worried . More and more people are coming , - Catheya’s voice echoed out , and Zac spotted an ice crystal floating nearby .

Thank you for keeping watch , - Zac said .

How can that compare to your gift? - Catheya’s voice echoed through the crystal . - Why not visit my place tomorrow? I didn’t get a chance to properly thank you before , so let me act as host . -

A smile spread on his face . - I’ll see you there . -

Catheya winked and was gone the next second , leaving a shimmering cloud of ice in her wake .

A proper thank you , huh? Lucky duck . - Ogras grinned . - Don’t come expecting that kind of gratitude from me , buddy . My spear doesn’t stab that way . -

Thank the gods for that , - Zac said with a roll of his eyes .

I guess I should follow your lead , - the demon muttered , scratching his chin . - There are quite a few women here who’d cause mayhem if they walked down the streets back home . Noble ladies finally out of the overbearing watch of their ancestors . -

Have fun . Just don’t get yourself killed , - Zac snorted . - I’ll be going on ahead . -

Go , go . Get your reward . I’ll see if I can sell my information packets to a few more people , - Ogras waved . - And Zac? Thank you . -

You’re welcome , - Zac smiled as he disappeared .

A day later , Zac stood in his manor , infusing his will into the teleportation array .

Catheya Sharvai’Zi , - Zac said .

Twenty seconds passed where nothing happened until a teleportation gate opened . A cold wave blasted him the moment he stepped through , though there was a current of warmth burrowing into his pores . Death . Even then , it wasn’t enough to sustain his Draugr form , and he had to constantly circulate his Miasma and Dao to stave off the creeping frost of Catheya’s mansion .

The building itself was a series of quaint connected pagodas made of ice and black stone that stood on a hill overlooking a vast landscape that was essentially flat . It was a blistering tundra under a cold-blue moon , where swirls of ice gave the environment a mysterious sheen . The ground was pocked with pitch-black circles—ponds with deathly waters .

Just looking at them made Zac’s mind shudder . For most , they were likely a death trap , but Zac suspected their depths were cultivation havens . That was doubly so for the small pond right before the pagodas . It didn’t look much different from the other black spots on the horizon , but it emitted an intense chill . Furthermore , small ripples appeared on its surface , even with no wind . It was Dao .

You’re here , - Catheya waved as she walked over .

She wasn’t bothered by the cold , wearing a beautiful blue dress Zac hadn’t seen before . With the ethereal backdrop , she looked like an ice goddess who’d walked out of a painting .

You look nice , - Zac croaked after realizing he’d been staring a bit too long .

A smile played on Catheya’s lips as she grabbed his hand . - Come . Let me show you my place . -

41

TEARS OF BELSIM

The cold no longer felt as invasive as Catheya led Zac toward one of the outermost pagodas .

This region is called Tears of Belsim , - Catheya said . - According to legend⁠— -

What legend? - Zac said with confusion . - Was this a part of the Empire before? -

How could it be? You know , there is a lot of information in the libraries . Maybe if you stopped swinging your axe for a moment . . . - Catheya smiled .

I’ve been planning to get around to those scrolls , - Zac coughed .

Anyway . According to legend , Belsim was a spirit born from a Supreme Natural Treasure . The day it awoke , the whole world froze over . The civilizations which lived on the planet were extinguished , and not even the ancestors could avoid their demise .

Belsim didn’t know any of this . It was innocent to the ways of the world . It didn’t understand its birth had come at the cost of billions of lives . But as it grew older , the spirit started to wish for more . It left its birthplace , traveling across the world of Ice and Death . Wherever it went , it felt echoes of itself .

First , Belsim didn’t think there was anything odd about that . It was one with the land , so it was natural for it to sense its Dao in the ground and air . But then , it found the civilizations . Whole cities of small beings frozen in place , their citizens filled with death and resentment . Places that weren’t meant to have Belsim’s mark .