The rise of Tang State was not unnoticed. The surrounding kingdoms, wary of the sudden surge in Tang's strength, could not ignore the growing power. After the fall of Chen, Tang's might had reached unprecedented heights, casting a shadow over the neighboring lands. Fear and curiosity spread like wildfire as spies infiltrated Tang, desperate to uncover the cause of its newfound dominance.
"Have you found anything?" a high-ranking official asked, his eyes sharp with concern. "How did Tang manage to annihilate Chen so swiftly?"
"Indeed, I've uncovered the truth," a spy answered, his voice filled with gravity. "It is said that an ancient god, one who emerged from the forbidden lands of the divine, struck down Chen in a single blow."
"Preposterous!" The official scoffed, his disbelief evident. "Ancient gods are mere myths, stories told by the ignorant. Where did you hear such nonsense?"
The spy stood firm, his expression unwavering. "What I speak is the truth. It is said that Chen's cities were struck by divine punishment, entire metropolises frozen in an instant, causing the death of millions."
"Yes, it is true," another spy chimed in, confirming the tale. "To survive the drought and famine, the rulers of Tang made sacrifices to the ancient gods. As a result, divine rice—each grain as large as a rock—rained down from the heavens."
The room fell silent as the spies exchanged knowing glances. The reports, though unbelievable, were consistent, each confirming the same miraculous events. The rice that fell from the sky, the divine intervention—it was all too surreal to ignore. Some of the spies had even been present, witnessing the miracle with their own eyes. In their hearts, fear and awe warred, for they had witnessed a force beyond mortal comprehension.
"If this is true..." the official murmured, his face pale with dread, "Does it mean that Tang now enjoys the protection of the ancient gods?"
The room fell still. Tang, a kingdom now under the favor of a god—this revelation struck fear into the hearts of the spies. What mortal army could stand against the power of a god? The power of an ancient deity, one who could call forth divine rain and freeze entire cities, was beyond anything the world had ever known.
"If such power is real," a spy whispered, "Then Tang is untouchable. We must tread carefully, or we will suffer the same fate as Chen."
The discussion grew heated. The ancient gods were not merely legends—they were real, and they had chosen Tang as their protector. The spies spoke of the god's eyes, which shone like the sun, moon, and stars, and of the immense power that could crush a kingdom with but a thought. In comparison, even the greatest treasures of the world seemed insignificant.
"We must relay this information to our rulers," one spy finally said, his voice grave. "What they choose to do next is beyond our control. We are mere messengers."
With those words, the spies departed, their minds heavy with the knowledge of the forces now aligned with Tang. As their report spread to the neighboring kingdoms, the name of Tang became synonymous with divine favor, and the once-mighty nations trembled in fear.
Meanwhile, in Xuanhuangxing...
Xia Chuan sat in the quiet confines of his Rose District city, pondering his next steps. The miniature world had been set in motion, and his influence had spread far. Now, the question of his own cultivation weighed heavily on his mind. What path would lead him to true power?
"How should I proceed with my cultivation?" Xia Chuan asked, his voice calm but filled with determination.
The Book of Wisdom, a sentient artifact that guided Xia Chuan, responded promptly. "Master, after analyzing the energies of the world you inhabit, I have found that the cultivation methods from your world are similar to those of my realm. You may directly adopt them, with little modification required."
Xia Chuan's eyes gleamed with hope. "So, the path of cultivation here is similar to that in your realm? This is good fortune indeed. But which method should I practice?"
The Book of Wisdom was swift in its response. "Master, after reviewing the numerous texts offered by your followers, I have found one that best suits your physique. It is called Hun Dong Tu Na Gong."
Xia Chuan's curiosity piqued. "What makes this method the best choice?"
"This technique," the Book of Wisdom explained, "is one of the most profound. It can unlock the deepest potential of your body, allowing you to transcend mortal limitations. However, its difficulty is immense. But with my assistance, you will master it."
Xia Chuan nodded, a smile creeping onto his lips. "If it can truly unlock my potential, then I will dedicate myself to mastering it. But... is this place suitable for such advanced practice?"
The Book of Wisdom paused, then replied, "No, the spiritual energy here is insufficient for such a technique. You will need to seek out a place of higher spiritual density."
Xia Chuan's mind raced. "Then where should I go to cultivate?"
"Master," the Book of Wisdom advised, "Seek out renowned mountains and rivers. Places where the spiritual energy gathers naturally, where human presence is scarce. These locations are ideal for cultivating such a profound technique."
Without hesitation, Xia Chuan made his decision. "I will go to Bailong Mountain. It is nearby and known for its spiritual density. It is the perfect place to begin."