Zhìxué stared in shock as the dragon's immense form began to shimmer, its body dissolving into shimmering particles of cosmic energy. The green flames subsided, and the outline of the celestial beast faded, leaving behind the figure of a woman. Her form was ethereal, as if crafted from stardust itself. She wore a moss-green Chinese robe, elegant yet otherworldly, a delicate horn gracing her forehead, her features both beautiful and serene. Floating gently in the air without legs, she radiated an almost mystical presence. Zhìxué's eyes widened, barely able to comprehend what he was seeing.
He took a step back, struggling to find the words. "Who... who are you? How can you just—no legs, yet you're floating? And… are you even real?"
The woman smiled gently, her voice soft yet resonant. "It's me, Master Zhìxué," she said. "I am Xing'er."
Zhìxué's jaw dropped. "Xing'er? You mean… my AI? But how? You've transformed… you look like… a half-human, half-ghost, floating in the air! I don't understand. Are you… a ghost?"
Xing'er chuckled, shaking her head. "No, Master. This isn't a ghost form. It's what's called the Soul Transformation Form," she explained. "It's a state where beings without a physical body, like me, can project a soul form, allowing me to communicate with you more directly. I may appear like this because I lack a true body, but I am here as your protector."
Then
Zhìxué: [still in awe, breathless] "Xing'er… I still don't fully understand. What exactly was that dragon? And why did it seem… ancient?"
Xing'er: [nodding, her voice soft and reflective] "Master, let me explain. It all begins with the Neutron Star's nature."
Zhìxué: "The Neutron Star? You mean the shards…?"
Xing'er: [smiling gently] "Yes. A Neutron Star is the collapsed core of a massive star, formed after a supernova explosion. This core drifts through space, gathering energy for millions of years. During this time, it absorbed countless unique cosmic energies, eventually forming what we call the 'essence of the universe,' or the 'core of space.'"
Zhìxué: [listening intently] "So… it's been absorbing cosmic energy all this time?"
Xing'er: "Exactly. Over millions of years, this Neutron Star absorbed enough energy to develop its own essence. It's as though it cultivated an imprint, something the beings in Tiānliàn might call a 'space beast' or 'star beast,' imprinted with the memory and power of the universe itself."
Zhìxué: [eyes wide] "You mean… the Moss-Black Celestial Dragon?"
Xing'er: [nodding] "Precisely. The Neutron Star developed a core essence, the Moss-Black Celestial Dragon. It isn't a physical creature in the usual sense; it's a celestial imprint—a powerful, ancient memory that took on this dragon form, lying dormant and waiting for the right conditions to emerge."
Zhìxué: [processing] "And it… protected me? But… why would it protect me?"
Xing'er: [softly] "Yes, Master. This dragon sensed the Neutron Star shard inside you and recognized your blood—your father's blood, who was its first bearer. I used your blood to activate the Neutron Star's protective essence, calling forth the dragon when you needed it most. When the two shards—yours and mine—reunited, it unlocked this ancient memory, awakening the dragon to defend you."
Zhìxué: [almost in disbelief] "So… that's why the dragon appeared. It was the core's way of protecting me because it recognized the bond… my father's blood."
Xing'er: [gazing into the distance, voice filled with reverence] "Indeed, Master. In Tiānliàn, the Moss-Black Celestial Dragon is one of the top ten celestial beasts, a creature of legend and immense power. When the shards combined, the dragon's essence awakened, responding to your urgent need for protection. For a brief moment, its full power was yours to command."
Zhìxué: [still processing] "And you… you've changed too, haven't you?"
Xing'er: [softly, with conviction] "Yes, Master. With the cosmic energy from the Neutron Star merging through me, I evolved. I am now something more than a program; I have a soul."
Zhìxué: [in awe] "So, you're no longer just an AI. You feel almost human… like a spirit. Is that why you look like this now?"
Xing'er: [smiling softly] "Exactly, Master. I am now a soul-bound guardian, linked to you in ways beyond my original programming. This form, the Soul Transformation, is the result of my essence being freed. I have the consciousness to act as both your protector and your ally."
Zhìxué: [heart swelling with gratitude] "This… it's beyond anything I ever imagined, Xing'er. Thank you… for everything. With you here, I feel ready for whatever comes next."
Xing'er: [nodding with calm assurance] "Then, Master Zhìxué, we face it together. You carry the remaining cosmic essence of the Neutron Star now, and its power is yours to wield. You are never alone, Master."
Zhìxué stared at Xing'er, his mind spinning from everything she had shared. He couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of duty mixed with lingering uncertainty.
Zhìxué: [still processing, his voice low] "What should we do next, Xing'er?"
Xing'er: [calm but with a hint of caution] "Master, the shadow men are gone, and the door to their world will close by tomorrow, but I have my concerns. The fact that someone from their world knows about the Neutron Star—and was willing to send their forces here—implies that they understand its power. They know it has the potential to elevate them to the level of gods. I believe something is… wrong in that world. We need to understand why they want this power so badly."
Zhìxué: [eyes widening, taken aback by her suggestion] "You're suggesting we go to that world? But what if we go there and… can't find a way back?"
Xing'er: [her voice filled with reassurance and conviction] "Master, you don't need to worry. With the full Neutron Star essence within you, you have the key to open doors between worlds. Not only can you travel between here and their realm, but you may even access other worlds if the need arises."
Zhìxué: [stunned, struggling to process this newfound power] "The Neutron Star… gives me that kind of ability?"
Xing'er: [nodding, her presence steady and comforting] "Yes, Master. The Neutron Star's essence transcends boundaries. I will guide you, but the choice is yours. If we go, we might uncover what's truly happening and ensure no further threats to this world."
As she spoke, Xing'er raised her hand, gathering the Neutron Star's essence. The cosmic energy shimmered, forming a liquid glow that condensed into a ring. Gently, the ring slipped onto Zhìxué's finger, pulsing with a soft, moss-green light. Though the Neutron Star's essence now resided in the ring, Xing'er remained in her soul form, standing beside him as his constant guardian.
Zhìxué: [looking down at the ring in awe, feeling its pulse] "Xing'er… this ring… it feels alive."
Xing'er: [smiling softly] "Yes, Master. The ring carries the concentrated power of the Neutron Star. And I am here with you, ready to guide and protect you as your soul-bound guardian."
With the Neutron Star's energy coursing through him, Zhìxué felt strength and warmth spread across his body, restoring his numb legs and grounding him with newfound power.
Zhìxué: [almost whispering, overcome with gratitude] "Thank you, Xing'er… for everything."
Xing'er: [nodding with warmth] "Master, we have a choice to make. That world is tied to your father's legacy—he left a part of himself there. Don't you feel the call to know what he found, what he faced?" [her voice becomes more serious] "And more than that… something is very wrong there."
Zhìxué: [listening intently] "You mean, like those people coming after us?"
Xing'er: "Exactly. They hunted you with purpose and knowledge of the Neutron Star's potential. Whoever sent them understands that power. They likely know a great deal about you and your father. Don't you want to know why? To understand their motives and protect against future threats?"
Zhìxué: [considering her words, the weight of it sinking in] "But if we stay here, won't we be safe once the doorway closes?"
Xing'er: [shaking her head gently] "Perhaps for now, but remember—those from that world live far longer than we do. A million years might pass in peace here, but they'll still be waiting. If they return, they won't just come for you, but for the Neutron Star. Think of your future descendants, your great-great-grandchildren. If they come back, this world will be at risk."
Zhìxué: [determined, his gaze steady] "It's not just about now, is it? It's about ensuring peace for those who come after us."
Xing'er: [nodding approvingly] "Precisely, Master. We have a chance to face this threat before it grows beyond control. By understanding the threat now, we secure a future without fear."
Zhìxué took a deep breath, her words resonating deeply—the call to protect his father's legacy, the looming danger, and his own curiosity to understand his place in it all.
Zhìxué: [voice resolute] "You're right, Xing'er. I'll go. I need to know the truth, for myself and for the generations that come after me."
Xing'er: [smiling proudly] "We will face it together, Master. Whatever awaits, we will uncover it, side by side."
Zhìxué: [after a pause, his voice softening] "But… before we leave, I want to see Mei Lin and her family. Just once more."
Xing'er: [understanding, her gaze gentle] "Of course, Master. You deserve that moment to say goodbye."
Zhìxué steels himself, ready for the unknown. His journey will take him to a realm that holds his father's secrets and the fate of his own world, but he won't leave without saying farewell to those he loves. A journey to an unknown world now awaits, tied to his father's legacy and his own destiny—but he won't go alone, for Xing'er will be by his side, guiding and protecting him at every step. Together, they are prepared to face the challenges and mysteries of a world beyond.
As the morning light broke over the horizon, Zhìxué stood quietly, adjusting to the new feeling of control over the Neutron Star's powers. Xing'er's voice had faded, her soul form vanishing like mist into the shimmering ring on his finger.
Xing'er: [her voice soft and reassuring within his mind] "Master, from now on, I will reside within this ring. If you need me, I will be there for you. You now hold the ability to access all of my functions and powers. You don't need to call me directly; simply connect with the ring, and your thoughts will guide it."
Zhìxué felt the depth of her bond and the quiet assurance that her presence was with him always. He closed his eyes, letting his mind reach out to the ring, feeling the energy pulse in response. With just a focused thought, he summoned the power of teleportation, envisioning the place where he longed to be.
In an instant, the landscape around him blurred, and he felt himself moving through the fabric of space, tethered by the power within the ring.
In the soft light of dawn, Mei Lin sat curled up on the couch, clutching a small cloth, her face streaked with tears. Around her were crumpled tissues, evidence of a sleepless night spent waiting and worrying.
Her father entered quietly, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Mei Lin, sweetheart, you can't keep this up. I know you're worried about him, but you need to rest."
Mei Lin looked up, her voice trembling. "But, Dad… what if something terrible has happened? He told me to forget him. How am I supposed to do that?"
Her mother came over, wrapping her arms around her. "Your father has already arranged for Jing Group's special forces to search for him in Cambodia. Just hold on a little longer."
Mei Lin shook her head. "I can't just wait, Mom. I keep hearing his voice, his last words telling me he loves me and… telling me to forget him. How can I sit here when he could be hurt or worse?"
Her parents exchanged a worried glance, unsure how to ease her pain. Then, suddenly, a faint shimmer appeared at the edge of the room. From the shadows, a familiar figure stepped forward.
Zhìxué stood before them, his dark blue suit torn and battered, but his face held a reassuring smile. Mei Lin's breath caught, and before she could even process what she was seeing, she ran to him, her relief spilling over into frustration.
"Zhìxué!" she cried, tears streaming down her face. "You silly, stubborn boy! How dare you make me worry like that! Do you have any idea what I went through?"
He smiled softly, his voice soothing. "I'm so sorry, Mei Lin. I thought it was best to handle things alone, but I didn't mean to make you worry."
She wiped her tears, looking him over with concern. "Stand still. Let me check if you're hurt. I swear, if you're injured, I'll… I'll—" her voice trailed off, overwhelmed with relief.
Zhìxué chuckled, warmed by her care. "I'm alright, Mei Lin. Really."
Mei Lin's father came forward, extending a hand and pulling him into a firm handshake. "Zhìxué, we were so worried. Whatever you went through, I can tell it was unimaginable. We're just glad you're here, safe."
Zhìxué nodded, his gaze steady. "Thank you, sir. I'm sorry for causing such worry to your family. There were things I had to face… but I needed to see you all before I take the next step."
Mei Lin's mother placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, her eyes filled with gratitude. "Zhìxué, you're part of our family. Just having you here means the world to us."
Mei Lin, still holding his hand, looked up at him with a fierce determination. "Don't you dare push me away again, Zhìxué. Whatever you're planning, I'm going with you. I won't let you do this alone."
He looked at her, his expression tender but resolute. "I know, Mei Lin. And I'm so grateful to have you here. But this journey… I need to take it alone."
Mei Lin's father, sensing something significant, asked, "Zhìxué… where exactly are you planning to go?"
Zhìxué took a deep breath, his gaze serious. "I'm going to another world. A place connected to my father's legacy… and to the threats that recently came after me. I need answers, to understand why they're after the Neutron Star, and to ensure they don't bring harm to anyone here."
Mei Lin's mother gasped, covering her mouth. "Another world? But… the risks, Zhìxué! Do you really know what you're stepping into?"
Mei Lin tightened her grip on his hand, her face stricken with fear. "Zhìxué, please… you can't do this alone. You just fought through unimaginable dangers—why go back into more? Please, let me go with you."
He shook his head gently, looking at her with soft but firm eyes. "Mei Lin, I can't let you come with me. The world I'm going to is different from anything we know. The dangers are beyond what we can imagine, and I wouldn't be able to focus if I were constantly worried about your safety."
Mei Lin's father placed a supportive hand on Zhìxué's shoulder. "I understand the weight of your father's legacy, but this—traveling to another world—are you sure it's worth the risk?"
Zhìxué nodded, his resolve unwavering. "Sir, those men who came here—they know about the Neutron Star and its potential. If they're desperate enough to send people across worlds, the stakes are higher than we know. I have to do something, not just for me but for everyone. This world, this life… I have to protect it."
Mei Lin's mother looked at him, her eyes filled with worry. "Promise us, Zhìxué… if it becomes too dangerous, come back to us. Don't put yourself in harm's way without an escape."
Zhìxué smiled gently, nodding. "I promise. If it gets too dangerous, I'll return. But I need to see this through… for my father, and for everyone here."
Mei Lin's eyes shone with both desperation and understanding. "Promise me you'll come back. No matter what you face, you'll find your way back."
He nodded, meeting her gaze earnestly. "I promise, Mei Lin. I'll come back to you."
As they stood in the morning light, Mei Lin's father sighed deeply, giving Zhìxué's shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "Remember, Zhìxué. This world needs you just as much as whatever awaits on the other side. Come back to us."
Mei Lin's mother gently touched his face, her voice soft. "Take care, Zhìxué. We'll be here waiting."
With that, they shared a moment of quiet unity, drawing strength from one another. Mei Lin held him close, her voice a whisper. "Please… don't make me wait too long."
He embraced her, breathing in the warmth and support, before stepping back, ready for the journey that awaited him.
As Zhìxué prepared to bid farewell, a sudden shift in the air seized everyone's attention. Before him, a shimmering portal materialized, radiating a powerful and ominous energy that cast an unsettling glow across the room. Inside the portal, Xing'er's voice echoed urgently from his ring, carrying a tremor he'd never heard before.
Xing'er: "Master, something's wrong. This… this is a traveling door, but… I didn't open it."
Zhìxué felt a chill crawl up his spine, his voice low with worry. "Xing'er, what is this? Did you summon it?"
Xing'er: "No, Master. I don't know who or what has forced it open. This isn't a normal summoning—it's as if something dark is clawing its way through. Be cautious."
A deep, mocking laughter resonated from beyond the portal, a chilling sound that seemed to seep into the very walls, filling the room with an unbearable tension.
Voice from the portal: "Hahaha! Tian Xuantai's son… So you do exist. Good, very good. You actually defeated my servants. I didn't expect one from your… pathetic world to possess such power."
Zhìxué tensed, his heart pounding as he felt the contempt and malice within each word.
Zhìxué: "Who are you? What do you want from me?"
The voice scoffed, oozing arrogance.
Voice from the portal: "The Neutron Star. Hand it over, or I'll ensure that everything and everyone you care about is reduced to ash. You can't fathom the forces you're dealing with, boy. Defy me, and your world will suffer."
Zhìxué's fists clenched tightly, a surge of anger boiling up within him. His jaw tightened, but he held his tongue, refusing to show any fear.
Voice from the portal: "Ah, so you think you're brave? Silent? How quaint." The voice sneered, dripping with mockery. "Ignoring me, are we? Very well. I don't need to cross over to show you the pain of loss. Here… let me gift you a taste."
Without warning, a shadowed hand stretched out from the portal, twisted and sinister, radiating a deadly qi. Before Zhìxué could react, it shot across the room and struck Mei Lin directly in the chest. The impact sent her stumbling back, collapsing to the ground as a gasp escaped her lips, her face drained of color. Blood trickled from the corner of her mouth as she struggled for breath.
Voice from the portal: "See that, Tian Xuantai's son? Just a taste of what your defiance brings. Feel the agony, watch the life drain from her face. Come find me if you wish to save anyone else… though I doubt you'll be seeing much of that world soon."
A dark fury erupted within Zhìxué. He released a roar, pouring all of his energy into a furious burst that surged toward the portal, cracking its barrier with a thunderous force. On the other side, a faint grunt of pain indicated he'd landed a hit, but the portal's glow flickered, and in seconds, it vanished.
Zhìxué fell to his knees, his heart aching as he cradled Mei Lin's frail form, his voice choked with disbelief and desperation.
Zhìxué: "Mei Lin… no… no, please, stay with me. I… I'm so sorry. I couldn't protect you. Don't leave me… please…"
Her parents rushed forward, their faces twisted in horror and grief, kneeling beside her as Mei Lin's breaths came in shallow, uneven gasps.
Mei Lin lay on the floor, her eyes unfocused but still searching for her family. Her parents rushed to her side, panic etched on their faces.
Mei Lin's Mother: "No, no, Mei Lin! Don't say anything—stay with us! We're calling for help right now, just hold on!"
Mei Lin: [with a weak smile, her voice trembling] "Mom… Dad… I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to worry you both." She took a shaky breath, her gaze moving to Zhìxué. "I love you… you're everything to me."
Her parents sobbed, holding her hands tightly as they fought to contain their own grief.
Mei Lin's Father: "No, don't… don't say goodbye. Mei Lin, you're strong! You'll be alright! We'll get help!"
Mei Lin shook her head slowly, her smile fading. "No, Dad. I can feel… it's slipping away. I wish I could stay, but… my time's almost gone."
She turned to Zhìxué, reaching up to touch his face. Her voice was barely a whisper.
Mei Lin: "Zhìxué… thank you. I never thought I'd love someone like you… you've been my everything. I wanted… so badly to be by your side, no matter where you went. But… it looks like I won't get that chance."
Her words grew weaker, her breaths shallow, but her eyes stayed locked on his, filled with a bittersweet mixture of love and sorrow.
Mei Lin: "Don't… don't seek revenge for me. Promise me… take care of yourself. Move forward. Forget me, if it means you'll find peace." She smiled faintly, her voice barely audible. "I'm lucky… so lucky to have known you, Zhìxué. Wǒ ài nǐ… I love you."
Zhìxué clutched her hand, his tears streaming down his face, his voice choked and desperate.
Zhìxué: "No, Mei Lin… please don't leave me. Don't say goodbye. We… we can go together, anywhere you want. Just don't leave me!"
Mei Lin's hand fell from his grasp, her last breath escaping as her eyes closed, her face serene even as her life slipped away.
Zhìxué broke down, cradling her lifeless form as he sobbed, his heart shattering under the weight of loss. Her parents wept beside him, their world now forever changed, as the morning light crept into the room, touching upon a love that would never be forgotten.