The Great Selection had seemingly settled, at least in the eyes of Earth’s people. Yet the undercurrents of the past month had left the involved families exhausted.
On the surface, the Great Selection appeared to be a power struggle between the Senate and the Emperor, but in reality, it was far more complex. Within the Emperor’s own faction, noble families affiliated with the Ten Sword Sects were secretly engaged in fierce behind-the-scenes maneuvering.
Each Star System Governorship brought immeasurable benefits and immense political prestige. Nobles whose lives revolved around politics could never afford to miss such a grand occasion.
Therefore, for the selection of governors across the thousand core star systems, countless influential families were secretly pulling strings and making deals, hoping their candidates’ names would appear on the final lists.
Especially after the Senate’s list was released and the Ten Sword Sects’ noble families had divided the spoils, the competition within the Imperial faction intensified. The Privy Council, the Interior and Exterior Affairs systems, the Imperial Guards, and even the established political figures on various colonial planets all got involved.
Among them, the most talked-about were surprisingly the Lan family of Kanling. Originally part of the Interior and Exterior Affairs system, the Lans had long held a respectable position in court and society. However, ever since they gained a prospective son-in-law named Yang Hao, people were unsure how to categorize them anymore. Rumors also spread that Princess Xianlan held a grudge against the Lians, leading many to believe that the Lians would likely end up at a disadvantage in the Great Selection.
Previously, the Lan family had held at least three governorships across various star systems. But this year, Kanling’s father had grown somewhat disheartened and had stopped making the usual rounds of lobbying. He had already resigned himself to the possibility of losing all positions. After all, the family had produced a rebellious daughter, and it seemed only natural that their influence would wane.
However, when the final lists of the Great Selection were announced, those who had whispered behind their backs were genuinely shocked. On multiple lists submitted by various factions, the Lians were surprisingly present on every single one.
The Interior and Exterior Affairs system had, as usual, nominated three members of the Lan family. While this was consistent with previous years, considering the recent criticisms against the Lians, Interior Minister and Foreign Minister had clearly gone out of their way to support them.
Yang Hao had personally nominated four members of the Lan family, which left Kanling’s father both amused and perplexed. He had not officially accepted Yang Hao as a son-in-law, yet Yang was clearly directing all the benefits toward the Lians. It was at this moment that Kanling’s father finally realized that his daughter had not brought trouble into their lives, but rather a truly powerful figure in the Empire. The number of candidates Yang Hao could recommend even surpassed that of the Chief Ministers.
What astonished the Lians even more was that the Privy Council had also nominated a young member of the Lan family. This was unimaginable in past years. Although the Lians had produced martial experts, they had mainly been a family of bureaucrats with little connection to the Privy Council. For the Privy Council Minister to make space for a Lan family member on such a fiercely contested list was clearly a gesture of respect for Yang Hao.
However, what truly made all the nobles in the Empire realize that the Lians were no longer the same family as before, and had indeed latched onto a towering power, was the revelation that three members of the Lan family had also appeared on the Emperor’s long list.
This was an extraordinary honor—true and unprecedented.
In previous selections, the Emperor’s list had only included members of the Imperial family and their descendants. Even the closest attendants of the Emperor were rarely included. This was, in fact, the only time in the last twenty years across four Great Selections that non-Imperial members had appeared on the list.
And now, there were three—three members of the Lan family.
Everyone understood that the Lians themselves had not grown stronger. The reason the Empire’s top figures were doing this was simply to curry favor with Yang Hao.
After all, Yang Hao was now the Western Grand Governor, commanding a quarter of the universe, with over a dozen Sword Master Corps under his command, as well as the Dan Ding Sword Sect—undoubtedly one of the most powerful forces in the Empire.
With such a figure as a son-in-law, the Lians no longer needed to go out of their way to build connections. Connections naturally came to them.
Now, instead of worrying about his daughter’s marriage, Kanling’s father was troubled by how many more descendants the Lan family still had available to be sent to various star systems.
Eleven members of the family being appointed was a glory unmatched in the entire Milky Way Empire.
Unexpectedly yet logically, the Lians had become the biggest winners of this Great Selection.
Even during the final ceremony of the Great Selection—”The Launch of a Hundred Ships”—the Lians remained the center of attention, drawing the eyes of everyone alongside another group of people.
“The Launch of a Hundred Ships” was a unique ceremony of the Great Selection, said to have been passed down for over a century. In the past, such grand spectacles were common and did not cause much excitement.
The ceremony involved launching over a hundred spacecraft at once from Earth’s largest spaceship launch field. These ships would carry the newly selected governors to one hundred spatial acceleration stations before they proceeded to their respective star systems to assume office.
With the advancement of space travel technology, most launches now occurred at space stations, making such a massive land-based launch a rare spectacle.
Thus, every few years, “The Launch of a Hundred Ships” always attracted large crowds.
This event also served as a moment for families benefiting from the Great Selection to show off their prestige and status. Every household spared no effort, bringing relatives and friends to see the governors off, organizing ceremonies and displays to showcase their family’s grandeur.
The Lians were naturally the focus of everyone’s attention. Whether people knew them or not, they all asked where the Lians’ viewing area was. Their interest was not so much in the newly appointed governors as it was in whether Yang Hao, the “Undying War God” and the Lians’ prospective son-in-law, would appear, and how Kanling’s father would react.
Yang Hao had certainly done his part to honor his future father-in-law. The Emperor had granted Yang Hao one hundred and fifty recommendation slots, yet Yang had only recommended a few members of the Lan family before returning the remaining slots to the Emperor.
This act had stirred quite a stir not long ago, with people speculating that Yang Hao might have felt his power had grown too great, fearing that his achievements might overshadow the Emperor, hence his decision to act modestly.
If those people could have foreseen what was about to happen next, they would have swallowed their tongues in disbelief.
Lan Yingbo, Kanling’s father, was dressed in full regalia today. His dark purple imperial bureaucratic attire, combined with his short white hair, made him stand out in the crowd.
Lan Yingbo looked with satisfaction at the eleven young members of the Lan family standing before him. These were the most outstanding talents of the younger generation of the Lians. As the head of the Lan clan, he had always believed that it would take many more years of nurturing and effort for his descendants to rise and expand their influence. Yet, unexpectedly, the day of glory had arrived so quickly.
“Uncle, when will it begin?” one of the younger Lians asked.
Before boarding the ships, it was customary for established families to hold ceremonies—either to pay respects to their ancestors or to thank their mentors and superiors.
“Just wait a bit longer,” Lan Yingbo replied with a frown, scanning the crowd.
Though he did not say it aloud, he was secretly hoping for Yang Hao’s arrival. His view of Yang Hao had changed completely since the Great Selection. Yang Hao had fully demonstrated the power of a new generation of influential officials. Though he had not personally recommended many names, the way various factions had paid homage to him behind the scenes had been impressive enough.
If Yang Hao and Kanling could arrive today, the Lians’ momentum would grow even stronger. It would also mark the Lians’ official alliance with Yang Hao, a towering figure in the Empire.
Lan Yingbo did not see Yang Hao, but he did spot another group, which only deepened his frown.
As that thousand-strong group entered the launch field, murmurs spread among the crowd. Today’s stars, aside from the Lians, were undoubtedly them.
That nearly thousand-strong group consisted of the noble families affiliated with the Ten Sword Sects and their accompanying well-wishers. Whether to show off their strength or for other reasons, today, the heads of the remaining six major sword sects of the Ten Sword Sects had brought their sect’s top experts to see the departing officials off.
The surrounding nobles, usually filled with awe toward the Ten Sword Sects, now whispered with disdain.
“At a time like this, they still put on such a show.”
“A bunch of beaten dogs, relying on their numbers?”
“If they hadn’t taken half the spots, I might have gotten one this year,” a young noble complained bitterly.
Someone nearby tried to console him, “Don’t be upset. Wait and see how the Ten Sword Sects make fools of themselves.”
“Make fools of themselves?”
The Grand Selection has finally concluded, at least for the people on Earth. The undercurrents of the past month have left the involved families utterly exhausted.
On the surface, the Grand Selection appeared to be a power struggle between the Senate and the Emperor, but in reality, it was far more complex. Within the Emperor’s faction, the noble families affiliated with the Ten Sword Schools were secretly clashing and maneuvering.
The position of governor in each star system brought immeasurable benefits and dazzling political prestige. For nobles whose lives depended on politics, such a feast was impossible to pass up.
Thus, behind the scenes, countless influential figures were pulling strings and making deals to secure more spots on the list of candidates for the governorships of a thousand core star systems.
Especially after the Senate’s list was released and the noble factions under the Ten Sword Schools had divided their spoils, the competition on the imperial side grew even fiercer. The Privy Council, the internal and external affairs systems, the Imperial Guard, and even the colonial governors all jumped into the fray.
Amidst this, the most surprising focus was on the Blue Family, led by Kan Ling. Originally part of the internal and external affairs systems, they held considerable influence in both court and public circles. However, ever since Yang Hao became their prospective son-in-law, people weren’t sure how to categorize them. Rumors also spread that Princess Xianlan held a grudge against the Blue Family, making them the likely losers in this Grand Selection.
In previous years, the Blue Family had secured at least three governorships. But this time, Kan Ling’s father, disheartened, had barely made any moves, expecting total failure. After all, with a rebellious daughter, the family’s decline seemed inevitable.
Yet, when the final list was announced, those who had mocked them were stunned. On the lists endorsed by multiple factions, the Blue Family’s name appeared repeatedly.
The internal and external affairs systems had nominated three Blue Family members as usual—a gesture of goodwill, considering the family’s current controversies.
Yang Hao, shockingly, nominated four Blue descendants, leaving Kan Ling’s father both amused and exasperated. He hadn’t acknowledged Yang Hao as his son-in-law, yet Yang Hao was showering the family with benefits. It was then that Kan Ling’s father realized his daughter hadn’t brought trouble—she had aligned them with one of the empire’s most powerful figures, someone who could nominate more candidates than even the highest-ranking ministers.
Even more astonishing, the Privy Council nominated a junior member of the Blue Family—something unimaginable in previous years. Though the Blue Family had produced martial experts, they were primarily a civil lineage with little connection to the Privy Council. The fact that the Privy Council yielded a precious spot to them was undoubtedly a favor to Yang Hao.
But what truly signaled the Blue Family’s meteoric rise was the inclusion of three of their members on the Emperor’s own list—an unprecedented honor.
For decades, the Emperor’s list had only included imperial family members and descendants. Even close confidants like Qin Feng had never made the cut. This was the first time in twenty years that non-imperial names appeared—and three of them were Blues.
Everyone knew the truth: the Blue Family hadn’t grown stronger. The empire’s elites were simply currying favor with Yang Hao.
Now the Western Overlord, Yang Hao commanded a quarter of the universe, over a dozen Swordmaster Legions, and the Alchemy Sword Sect—one of the empire’s most formidable forces.
With such a son-in-law, the Blue Family no longer needed to lobby for influence—it came to them.
Kan Ling’s father no longer fretted over his daughter’s marriage but over how many Blue descendants they could spare to govern distant star systems.
Eleven governors from a single family—a glory unmatched in the Galactic Empire.
Against all odds, the Blue Family emerged as the biggest winners of the Grand Selection.
Even during the grand finale, the “Hundred Ships Launch,” all eyes were on the Blue Family and one other group.
The Hundred Ships Launch was a centuries-old tradition, where a hundred ships, carrying the newly appointed governors, would depart from Earth’s largest spaceport to their respective star systems.
With modern space travel, such mass launches from the surface were rare, making the event a spectacle.
For the benefiting families, it was a moment of pride and display. Each clan pulled out all stops to showcase their grandeur, inviting friends and relatives for lavish farewell ceremonies.
The Blue Family, of course, was the center of attention. Everyone wanted to know where their ships were docked—not to see the departing governors, but to catch a glimpse of Yang Hao, the “Undying War God,” and observe how Kan Ling’s father would treat him.
Yang Hao had already given his father-in-law immense face. The Emperor had granted him 150 nomination slots, yet after selecting a few Blues, Yang Hao returned the rest—a move some interpreted as humility to avoid overshadowing the throne.
Had they known what was coming, those critics would have swallowed their tongues.
Kan Ling’s father, Lan Yingbo, stood resplendent in his formal black-and-purple imperial robes, his white hair making him stand out in the crowd.
He surveyed the eleven Blue descendants before him—the finest of their generation. As the family head, he had once thought it would take decades to groom successors and expand their influence. Yet glory had arrived far sooner than expected.
“Uncle, when do we begin?” one of the young Blues asked.
Before boarding, noble families traditionally held ceremonies—honoring ancestors or thanking mentors.
“Wait a little longer,” Lan Yingbo replied, scanning the crowd.
Though he didn’t say it, he hoped Yang Hao would appear. His opinion of Yang Hao had shifted dramatically. This Grand Selection had showcased Yang Hao’s power as a rising heavyweight. Though he hadn’t named many candidates, the deference shown to him by various factions spoke volumes.
If Yang Hao and Kan Ling arrived today, the Blue Family’s prestige would soar even higher, solidifying their bond with this towering figure.
Instead of Yang Hao, Lan Yingbo spotted another group—one that made him frown.
As the thousand-strong procession entered the spaceport, whispers spread. Today’s stars weren’t just the Blues—this group was equally significant.
They were the nobles and entourage of the Ten Sword Schools. Whether to flaunt strength or bolster morale, the six remaining Sword School masters had brought their elites to see off their appointees.
The surrounding nobles, however, showed none of their usual reverence. Mockery filled the air.
“Still putting on a show at this point?”
“A pack of drowning dogs, relying on numbers?”
“If they hadn’t taken half the slots, maybe I’d have gotten one,” grumbled a young noble.
“Just wait,” an older voice chuckled. “Watch them embarrass themselves.”
“How?”
“Every time the Ten Sword Schools send their people, they first display their sacred swords and bow to the Supreme’s portrait—pledging loyalty to the Senate before departure.”
“So?”
“Idiot!” another voice sneered. “Where are their sacred swords now? Yang Hao took them all. Let’s see what they worship today. If they fake it with replicas, we’re in for a show.”
The whispers spread like wildfire among the tens of thousands of spectators, all eager to see the Ten Sword Schools humiliated.
The Ten Sword Schools formed six orderly groups, preparing for their ritual—the worship of sacred swords and the Supreme’s image.
Under mocking gazes, the six masters presented their sect’s sacred swords, placed them on altars, and led their followers in bowing.
“Homage to the Sacred Swords!” the masters chanted in unison, kneeling.
The crowd gaped. “Are those real?”
A skeptic scoffed, “Are you blind? Yang Hao took the real ones. We saw it!”
“Then—”
“They must be fakes!” Excitement rippled through the crowd. “The Ten Sword Schools are so desperate they’re using replicas. They’re finished.”
“Yet they still grabbed five hundred governorships. The heavens aren’t fair…”
As if hearing the taunts, the leaders of the Ten Sword Schools—Hai Wanggong and Qi Lian Xiushi—looked displeased.
Still kneeling, they raised their heads and shouted, “Unsheathe!”
Six metallic rings echoed as the sacred swords were drawn. The divine glow and overwhelming energy radiating from them stunned the onlookers into silence.
These were the real swords. But how could the nobles know of Yang Hao’s secret dealings with the Ten Sword Schools? Terrified, they assumed Yang Hao had been defeated and the swords reclaimed.
Then, the man of the hour arrived.
Yang Hao and Kan Ling strolled in leisurely, as if on a spring outing. Kan Ling, delicate in a long dress and scarf, clung to Yang Hao’s arm. He, dressed in his formal overlord uniform, cut a dashing figure.
Their entrance drew every eye in the spaceport. Kan Ling ignored the stares, leading Yang Hao to Lan Yingbo.
“Uncle Lan!” Yang Hao bowed respectfully.
Lan Yingbo hesitated—protocol demanded he bow first. But seeing his daughter’s closeness to Yang Hao bolstered his confidence. He nodded in acknowledgment.
“Lord Overlord!” The eleven Blue descendants knelt in unison, performing the empire’s highest salute.
Yang Hao smiled slightly, gesturing for them to rise. “You carry His Majesty’s trust. Serve diligently, without negligence.”
“Yes!”
“The empire’s politics are complex, but irrelevant to you. Remember—your appointments come from His Majesty. Loyalty belongs to him alone.”
“Yes!”
With that, the brief loyalty ceremony concluded.
To onlookers, it was astonishing. Yang Hao wasn’t even officially the son-in-law, yet the Blue Family’s heirs were pledging allegiance—proof that another noble house had joined his faction.
Other factions watched with concealed envy. At such a young age, Yang Hao had amassed staggering influence. Given time, there’d be no room left for anyone else.
Lan Yingbo couldn’t be happier with his prospective son-in-law. Beaming, he said, “Shall we proceed with the boarding?”
Yang Hao raised a brow. “One more thing.”
“Another?” Lan Yingbo was puzzled. Yang Hao had only nominated a few Blues and returned the rest to the Emperor. Who else here owed him allegiance?
But Yang Hao was already walking toward the Ten Sword Schools’ formation.
At that moment, the Ten Sword Schools did something even more shocking.
Before the crowd, the six masters unveiled a portrait—but it wasn’t the Supreme’s.
Gasps erupted. The nobles couldn’t believe their eyes. The Ten Sword Schools, who had always revered the Supreme, had brought the wrong image.
But the politically astute sensed something deeper. Combined with the reappearance of the sacred swords and Yang Hao’s approach, they braced for an earth-shattering revelation.
“So what?”
“You’re so slow!” someone clearly delighted in their misfortune sneered. “The Ten Sword Sects don’t have their sacred swords anymore, right? Those swords were taken by Yang Hao long ago. Just wait and see what they bow to. If they pretend and pull out some fake swords, we’ll really have a show.”
Though whispered, these words spread quickly. The crowd of tens of thousands of nobles gathered here had come precisely to witness the Ten Sword Sects’ embarrassment.
The Grand Selection has finally concluded, at least for the people on Earth. The undercurrents of the past month have left the involved families utterly exhausted.
On the surface, the Grand Selection appeared to be a power struggle between the Senate and the Emperor, but in reality, it was far more complex. Within the Emperor’s faction, the noble families affiliated with the Ten Sword Schools were secretly clashing and maneuvering.
Each Star System Governor brought immeasurable benefits and dazzling political prestige. For nobles whose lives depended on politics, such a feast was impossible to ignore.
Thus, behind the scenes of selecting governors for a thousand core star systems, countless influential figures engaged in covert lobbying and bribery, all hoping to see more of their own names on the list.
Especially after the Senate’s list was released and the Ten Sword Schools’ subordinate nobles had divided their spoils, the competition within the Imperial faction intensified. The Privy Council, the Internal and External Affairs systems, the Imperial Guard, and even the colonial governors all jumped into the fray.
Amidst this, the most surprising focus was the Blue Family of Kan Ling. Originally part of the Internal and External Affairs systems and holding considerable influence in court, they became an anomaly after Kan Ling’s engagement to Yang Hao. Rumors spread that Princess Xian Lan held a grudge against the Blue Family, making them the likely losers in this Grand Selection.
Previously, the Blue Family had secured at least three governor positions. But this year, Kan Ling’s father, disheartened, refused to lobby, expecting total failure. After all, with a rebellious daughter, the family’s decline seemed inevitable.
Yet when the final lists were announced, skeptics were stunned—the Blue Family appeared on every list backed by multiple factions.
The Internal and External Affairs systems nominated three Blue Family members as usual, a gesture seen as generous given the family’s current controversies.
Yang Hao went further, nominating four Blue descendants, leaving Kan Ling’s father both amused and exasperated. Though he hadn’t acknowledged Yang Hao as his son-in-law, the latter showered the family with benefits. It was then that Kan Ling’s father realized his daughter hadn’t brought trouble but a true powerhouse—someone whose influence surpassed even the highest ministers.
The most shocking was the Privy Council’s nomination of a Blue junior—unthinkable in previous years. Though the Blue Family had produced martial experts, they were primarily civil officials with little connection to the Privy Council. The council’s concession of a coveted spot was undoubtedly a favor to Yang Hao.
But what truly signaled the Blue Family’s meteoric rise was the inclusion of three Blue members in the Emperor’s personal list—an unprecedented honor.
For decades, the Emperor’s list had been reserved for royal family members and descendants, never outsiders. Yet this time, three non-royal Blue names appeared, marking a historic shift.
The message was clear: the Blue Family hadn’t grown stronger, but the empire’s elites were courting Yang Hao’s favor.
As the Western Overlord commanding a quarter of the galaxy, with a dozen Swordmaster Legions and the Alchemy Sword Sect under him, Yang Hao was now a titan.
With such a son-in-law, the Blue Family no longer needed to lobby—favors came to them.
Now, Kan Ling’s father wasn’t worrying about his daughter’s marriage but about how many Blue descendants could be dispatched to govern star systems.
Eleven appointments—a glory unmatched in the Galactic Empire.
Against all odds, the Blue Family emerged as the Grand Selection’s biggest winner.
Even during the finale, the “Hundred Ships Launch,” the Blue Family remained the center of attention, alongside another group.
The Hundred Ships Launch was a century-old tradition, where a hundred ships carrying newly appointed governors would depart from Earth’s largest spaceport to their respective star systems.
With space travel now centered on orbital stations, such a massive ground launch was a rare spectacle, drawing crowds every few years.
For beneficiary families, it was a moment of pride—a chance to flaunt their status with elaborate ceremonies and grand farewells.
The Blue Family, as the focal point, drew curiosity not for their governors but for whether Yang Hao, the “Undying War God,” would appear and how Kan Ling’s father would receive him.
Yang Hao had already given his father-in-law face. Granted 150 nominations by the Emperor, he used only a few for the Blue Family and returned the rest—a move some interpreted as humility to avoid overshadowing the throne.
Had they foreseen what was coming, those critics would have swallowed their tongues.
Lan Yingbo, Kan Ling’s father, stood resplendent in his black-and-purple imperial robes, his white hair gleaming among the crowd.
Proudly surveying the eleven Blue descendants before him—the family’s brightest—he marveled at how quickly fortune had turned.
“Uncle, when do we begin?” one asked.
Before boarding, noble families typically held rituals to honor ancestors or thank patrons.
“Wait a little longer,” Lan Yingbo replied, scanning the crowd.
Though unspoken, he hoped for Yang Hao’s arrival. His opinion of Yang Hao had transformed. This Grand Selection had showcased the young lord’s clout—subtle yet undeniable.
Yang Hao’s presence today would cement the Blue Family’s ascent, formally tying them to his towering influence.
Instead of Yang Hao, however, another group entered, drawing murmurs and frowns.
A thousand-strong procession—the Ten Sword Schools’ nobles and their entourage—marched in, led by the six remaining Sword School masters and their elites.
Onlookers, once reverent, now sneered.
“Still putting on airs at this point?”
“Packing numbers to hide their decline?”
“If they hadn’t hogged half the slots, I might’ve gotten one,” a young noble grumbled.
“Just wait,” others consoled. “Watch them embarrass themselves.”
“How?”
“Tradition demands they display their sacred swords and pledge loyalty to the Senate before departure,” an elder explained.
“But their swords were taken by Yang Hao! What’ll they use—fakes?”
The crowd buzzed with anticipation.
As predicted, the six masters presented their swords and knelt.
“Homage to the Sacred Blades!” they intoned.
Gasps erupted.
“Are those real?”
“Impossible! Yang Hao has them!”
“They must be fakes!”
Yet the blades’ radiance and energy were unmistakable. The nobles fell silent, bewildered.
Then Yang Hao appeared with Kan Ling, strolling leisurely as if on a spring outing. Kan Ling, demure in a long dress and scarf, contrasted Yang Hao’s dashing military regalia.
All eyes turned to them.
Kan Ling led Yang Hao to Lan Yingbo.
“Uncle Lan,” Yang Hao greeted respectfully.
Lan Yingbo, flustered (protocol demanded he bow first), nodded stiffly.
The eleven Blue descendants knelt in unison—the highest imperial salute.
Yang Hao smiled, gesturing them up.
“Your appointments carry His Majesty’s trust. Serve diligently.”
“Yes!”
“Politics is tangled, but remember: your loyalty is to the Emperor alone.”
“Yes!”
The brief oath complete, onlookers marveled. For Blue heirs to pledge fealty to an unofficial son-in-law signaled Yang Hao’s expanding dominion.
Other factions watched enviously. At his age, such influence was unheard of. Given time, he might eclipse them all.
Lan Yingbo, beaming, suggested, “Shall they board now?”
Yang Hao raised a brow. “One more thing.”
Before Lan Yingbo could react, Yang Hao strode toward the Ten Sword Schools’ assembly.
Then, the unthinkable happened.
The Sword Masters unveiled a portrait—not of the Supreme Ruler, as tradition dictated, but of someone else.
The crowd erupted as if witnessing the apocalypse. The Ten Sword Schools, once the Supreme Ruler’s staunchest allies, had forsaken his image.
Sharper minds, however, sensed the seismic shift. Combined with the swords’ reappearance and Yang Hao’s approach, they braced for an earth-shattering revelation.
Under the watchful and expectant eyes of the crowd, the six sect leaders each brought forth their sect’s sacred sword, placed them on the altar, and led their disciples in bowing.
“Pay respects to the sacred swords!” the six sect leaders shouted in unison, kneeling down.
The surrounding crowd was stunned: “Are those real?”
A more skeptical person scoffed, “You’re crazy! The real sacred swords are with Yang Hao. We all saw Yang Hao take them with our own eyes.”
“Then…?”
“They must be fake,” an excited voice spread. “The Ten Sword Sects have even resorted to fake swords. They’re really finished.”
“They still occupy five hundred governorships. It’s just that the heavens are blind…”
Seemingly hearing the surrounding whispers, Haiwang Gong and Qilian Xiu Shi wore expressions of displeasure.
Still kneeling, they raised their heads and shouted, “Unsheath the swords!”
Clang! With six resounding sounds, the six sacred swords were drawn together. The divine glow and immense energy stored within the artifacts spread out, leaving the surrounding crowd in stunned disbelief.
These six swords were naturally real, but how could the nobles know about the secret deal between Yang Hao and the Ten Sword Sects? They were so frightened that they dared not speak another word, mistakenly believing that Yang Hao had been defeated again and that the swords had been reclaimed.
Just then, the key figure himself, Yang Hao, appeared.
The experts from the Dan Ding Sect had not come together with him. Yang Hao and Kanling arrived leisurely, as if strolling through spring. Today, Kanling looked particularly charming, wearing a long dress and a silk scarf around her neck, while Yang Hao was dressed in full regalia as an imperial lord, his neat military uniform making him look even more heroic.
As soon as they appeared, they drew the attention of tens of thousands of people, like the biggest stars on the scene. Kanling didn’t care about others’ opinions. She took Yang Hao’s hand and walked toward Lan Yingbo.
“Uncle Lan!” Yang Hao greeted respectfully.
Lan Yingbo felt a bit awkward. Officially, it should have been he who paid respects. But seeing his daughter clinging to Yang Hao like that gave him a little courage. He simply nodded in acknowledgment.
“Lord Governor!” the eleven young members of the Lan family all knelt halfway and performed the highest imperial salute.
Yang Hao had a faint smile on his lips and waved for them to rise. “This time, you bear the Emperor’s great trust. You must personally attend to every matter and not allow the slightest negligence.”
“Yes!”
“The imperial court is complex, but that’s not your concern. Just remember, today’s favor comes from the Emperor. Your loyalty must be to him alone.”
“Yes!”
Yang Hao nodded. Thus, the loyalty ceremony was briefly completed.
Though it was just a formality, the surrounding crowd watched in amazement. After all, Yang Hao wasn’t even officially a son-in-law yet, and the Lan family’s younger generation had already begun showing him loyalty. This could only mean that Yang Hao had gained another family’s support.
Representatives from other factions dared not speak openly, but they felt a bitter jealousy inside. For someone so young to amass such a vast power base was already astonishing enough. If given more time, there might not even be room left for others in the Empire.
Lan Yingbo was extremely satisfied with Yang Hao’s performance. He now truly liked this future son-in-law. With a beaming smile, he said to Yang Hao, “Well then, let them board the ships.”
Yang Hao raised an eyebrow. “I still have something else to do.”
“Something else?” Lan Yingbo was taken aback. He had thought Yang Hao had only recommended a few members of the Lan family and returned the rest of the slots to the Emperor. Although many people were boarding and performing loyalty ceremonies, he couldn’t imagine there were still people loyal to Yang Hao among them.
But Yang Hao had already begun walking toward the Ten Sword Sects’ formation.
Just then, the Ten Sword Sects did something shocking.
Before the eyes of the entire crowd, the sect leaders brought out the same portrait.
The Grand Selection has finally concluded, at least for the people of Earth. The undercurrents of the past month have left the involved families utterly exhausted.
On the surface, the Grand Selection appeared to be a power struggle between the Senate and the Emperor, but in reality, it was far more complex. Within the Emperor’s faction, the noble families affiliated with the Ten Sword Schools were secretly maneuvering and clashing behind the scenes.
Each governorship of a star system brought immeasurable benefits and dazzling political prestige. For nobles whose lives depended on politics, such a feast was impossible to pass up.
Thus, for the selection of governors across a thousand core star systems, countless high-ranking officials and nobles engaged in covert lobbying and bribery, all hoping to see more of their own names on the final lists.
Especially after the Senate’s list was released and the subordinate nobles of the Ten Sword Schools had divided their spoils, the competition within the Imperial faction grew even fiercer. The Privy Council, the internal and external affairs systems, the Imperial Guard, and even the colonial governors all jumped into the fray.
Amidst this, the most surprising focus was on the Blue Family of Kan Ling. Originally part of the internal and external affairs systems, they held considerable influence in both court and public circles. But ever since they gained a prospective son-in-law, Yang Hao, people no longer knew how to categorize them. Rumors even circulated that Princess Xianlan held a deep grudge against the Blue Family, making them the likely biggest losers in this Grand Selection.
The Blue Family had previously secured at least three governorships across various star systems. But this year, Kan Ling’s father seemed disheartened, unwilling to make any moves, already resigned to total failure. After all, the Blue Family had produced a rebellious daughter, and their decline seemed inevitable.
Yet when the final lists were announced, those who had mocked them were left utterly stunned. On the lists endorsed by multiple factions, the Blue Family appeared on every single one.
The internal and external affairs systems, as usual, nominated three members of the Blue Family—unchanged from previous years. But given the current controversies surrounding the family, this was already a significant show of face from the ministers.
Yang Hao, in one stroke, nominated four Blue Family descendants, leaving Kan Ling’s father both amused and exasperated. He had never acknowledged Yang Hao as his son-in-law, yet Yang Hao was showering the family with benefits. It was then that Kan Ling’s father finally realized—his daughter hadn’t brought trouble upon them, but had instead tied them to one of the Empire’s most powerful figures. The number of nominations Yang Hao could make even surpassed those of the highest-ranking ministers.
What truly shocked the Blue Family was that even the Privy Council nominated one of their younger members—something unimaginable in previous years. Though the Blue Family had produced martial experts, they were primarily a civil lineage with little interaction with the Privy Council. For the Privy Council to spare a precious nomination for the unrelated Blue Family was undoubtedly a gesture of goodwill toward Yang Hao.
But what made the entire aristocracy realize that the Blue Family had truly risen to unprecedented heights was the fact that three of their members appeared on the Emperor’s own lengthy nomination list.
This was an extraordinary honor—a genuine, unparalleled distinction.
In past years, the Emperor’s list had only included members of the Imperial family or their descendants. Even close confidants like Qin Feng were excluded. This was the first time in twenty years and four Grand Selections that non-Imperial members had made the list.
And three at once—all from the Blue Family.
Everyone knew the truth: the Blue Family remained the same, their intrinsic power unchanged. The Empire’s elites were simply currying favor with Yang Hao.
Now, as the Western Overlord, Yang Hao commanded a quarter of the universe, led over a dozen Swordmaster Legions, and wielded the Dan Ding Sword Sect—one of the Empire’s most formidable forces.
With such a figure as their son-in-law, the Blue Family no longer needed to scramble for connections. Favors came pouring in on their own.
Now, Kan Ling’s father wasn’t fretting over his daughter’s marriage but rather agonizing over how many Blue Family descendants they could still send to govern various star systems.
Eleven members from a single family—this was an honor unmatched across the entire Galactic Empire.
Against all odds yet fittingly, the Blue Family emerged as the biggest winners of this Grand Selection.
Even during the grand finale—the “Hundred Ships Launch”—the Blue Family remained the center of attention, with all eyes on them and one other group.
The Hundred Ships Launch was a unique tradition of the Grand Selection, said to have been passed down for over a century. Though such grand spectacles were common in the past, they no longer caused much of a stir.
The so-called Hundred Ships Launch involved the simultaneous takeoff of over a hundred starships from Earth’s largest launch site. These ships would carry the newly appointed governors to a hundred space acceleration stations before they departed for their respective star systems.
With advancements in spaceflight technology, most launches and operations now took place in space stations. Rarely did so many ships launch from the surface at once.
Thus, the biennial Hundred Ships Launch always drew massive crowds.
For the families benefiting from the Grand Selection, this was a moment of immense pride and a chance to flaunt their status. Every household pulled out all the stops, bringing friends and relatives to witness the event, holding ceremonies, and putting on displays to showcase their family’s grandeur.
The Blue Family, of course, was the focal point. Whether acquainted or not, everyone was eager to locate their designated launch area. The interest wasn’t in the departing governors but in whether Yang Hao, the “Undying War God” and prospective son-in-law, would appear—and how Kan Ling’s father would receive him.
Yang Hao had already given his father-in-law ample face. The Emperor had granted him 150 nomination slots, yet after selecting a few Blue Family members, Yang Hao returned the remaining slots to the Emperor.
This move had recently sparked heated discussions, with many speculating that Yang Hao, aware of his overwhelming influence, was deliberately downplaying his power to avoid overshadowing the Emperor.
Had they foreseen what was to come, these gossips would have swallowed their tongues in shock.
Lan Yingbo, Kan Ling’s father, stood out in the crowd today in his formal attire—a black-and-purple Imperial civil official’s uniform, paired with his short white hair.
He surveyed the eleven Blue Family descendants before him with satisfaction. They were the finest of the younger generation. As the family’s patriarch, Lan Yingbo had once believed it would take decades to groom successors and expand their influence. Yet glory had arrived far sooner than expected.
“Uncle, when do we begin?” one of the younger Blues asked.
Before boarding, established families typically held ceremonies—paying respects to ancestors or thanking their mentors.
“Wait a little longer,” Lan Yingbo replied, frowning as he scanned the surroundings.
Though unspoken, he was secretly hoping for Yang Hao’s arrival. His opinion of Yang Hao had drastically changed. This Grand Selection had fully demonstrated the young overlord’s power. Though Yang Hao had nominated few, the way various factions privately deferred to him spoke volumes.
If Yang Hao and Kan Ling appeared today, the Blue Family’s prestige would soar even higher, officially cementing their alliance with this towering figure.
Lan Yingbo didn’t spot Yang Hao but noticed another group—one that made his frown deepen.
As the thousand-strong procession entered the launch site, murmurs spread through the crowd. Today’s stars weren’t just the Blue Family but also these newcomers.
The group consisted of the dispatched nobles and their entourages from the Ten Sword Schools. Whether to flaunt their strength or intimidate, the remaining six Sword School patriarchs had arrived with their elite disciples in full force.
The surrounding nobles, far from their usual reverence, whispered disdainfully.
“What era is this, and they’re still putting on such a show?”
“A pack of drowning dogs, relying on numbers?”
“If they hadn’t taken half the slots, maybe I’d have gotten one this year,” a young noble grumbled.
Others consoled him, “Don’t fret. Just watch how the Ten Sword Schools humiliate themselves later.”
“Humiliate?”
“Exactly,” a few knowledgeable elders chimed in. “Every time the Ten Sword Schools send their people, they first display their sacred swords and pay homage to the Supreme Statue, pledging eternal loyalty to the Senate before departing.”
“So what?”
“Fool!” another voice sneered. “The Ten Sword Schools don’t even have their sacred swords anymore—Yang Hao took them all. Let’s see what they worship today. If they pull out some fake swords, we’re in for a show.”
Though whispered, these words spread like wildfire. The tens of thousands of spectators were already relishing the prospect of the Ten Sword Schools’ embarrassment.
The Ten Sword Schools’ members had arranged themselves into six formations, clearly preparing for their ritual—the worship of sacred swords and the Supreme Statue.
Under mocking gazes, the six patriarchs each presented their sect’s sacred sword, placing them on incense altars before leading their disciples in prostration.
“Homage to the Sacred Swords!” the six leaders chanted in unison, kneeling.
The onlookers were stunned. “Are those real?”
A skeptical voice scoffed, “Are you blind? The real swords are with Yang Hao. We saw him take them ourselves.”
“Then…”
“They must be fakes,” excited whispers circulated. “The Ten Sword Schools are so desperate they’re using counterfeit swords. They’re truly finished.”
“Yet they still grabbed five hundred governorships. The heavens are blind…”
As if hearing the taunts, Hai Wanggong and Qi Lian Xiushi’s expressions darkened.
Still kneeling, they raised their heads and shouted, “Draw swords!”
*Clang!* Six blades unsheathed in unison, their divine radiance and immense energy radiating outward, leaving the crowd dumbfounded.
These were undoubtedly genuine sacred swords. But how could the nobles know of Yang Hao’s secret dealings with the Ten Sword Schools? Terrified into silence, many assumed Yang Hao had been defeated and the swords reclaimed.
At that moment, the key figure himself—Yang Hao—appeared.
The Dan Ding Sword Sect’s elites weren’t with him. Only Yang Hao and Kan Ling strolled in leisurely, as if on a spring outing. Kan Ling, looking delicate in a long dress and silk scarf, clung to Yang Hao’s arm. Yang Hao, dressed in his formal Overlord attire, cut a dashing figure in his military uniform.
Their entrance instantly drew the attention of the entire crowd, as if they were the event’s biggest stars. Unconcerned with others’ stares, Kan Ling led Yang Hao to Lan Yingbo.
“Uncle Lan!” Yang Hao greeted respectfully.
Lan Yingbo felt awkward—protocol dictated he should bow first. But seeing his daughter’s closeness with Yang Hao bolstered his confidence. He nodded in acknowledgment.
“Overlord!” The eleven Blue descendants dropped to one knee in the Empire’s highest salute.
Yang Hao smiled faintly, gesturing for them to rise. “Your appointments carry His Majesty’s trust. Serve diligently, without negligence.”
“Yes!” they chorused.
“Imperial politics are complex, but that’s not your concern. Remember—today’s honors come from His Majesty. Your loyalty is to him alone.”
“Yes!”
With a nod, Yang Hao concluded the brief loyalty ceremony.
Though perfunctory, the spectacle left onlookers astonished. Yang Hao wasn’t even officially the son-in-law, yet the Blue Family was already pledging allegiance to him. It signaled the addition of another noble house to Yang Hao’s faction.
Other factions, though silent, seethed with envy. At such a young age, Yang Hao had amassed staggering influence. Given time, others in the Empire would have no room left to stand.
Lan Yingbo was thoroughly pleased with Yang Hao’s performance. His fondness for this son-in-law had grown immensely. Beaming, he said, “Since all is settled, let them board.”
Yang Hao raised a brow. “There’s one more thing.”
“Another?” Lan Yingbo was puzzled. Yang Hao had only nominated a few Blues, returning the rest to the Emperor. With so many boarding, surely no more owed allegiance to Yang Hao.
But Yang Hao was already walking toward the Ten Sword Schools’ formation.
Just then, the Ten Sword Schools did something even more shocking.
Under the watchful eyes of thousands, the six patriarchs unveiled the same portrait.
This was part of their standard ritual—after worshipping the sacred swords, they paid homage to the Supreme Statue.
Except the portrait wasn’t of the Supreme One.
The realization sent shockwaves through the crowd. The Ten Sword Schools, who had always revered the Supreme One, had seemingly made an unfathomable mistake.
But the politically astute among them sensed something deeper. Combined with the reappearance of the sacred swords and Yang Hao’s approach, they braced for an earth-shattering revelation.
The grand selection has finally come to an end, at least for the people on Earth. The undercurrents of the past month have left the involved families utterly exhausted.
On the surface, the grand selection appeared to be a power struggle between the Senate and the Emperor, but in reality, it was far more complex. Within the Emperor’s faction, the noble families affiliated with the Ten Sword Schools were secretly clashing and competing.
Each star system’s governorship brought immeasurable benefits and dazzling political prestige. For nobles whose lives depended on politics, such a feast was impossible to pass up.
Thus, behind the scenes, countless influential figures were pulling strings and making deals to secure more names on the list for the thousand core star systems’ governorships.
Especially after the Senate’s list was released and the Ten Sword Schools’ affiliated nobles had divided their spoils, the competition within the imperial faction intensified. The Privy Council, the internal and external affairs systems, the Imperial Guard, and even the colonial governors all jumped into the fray.
Amidst this, the most surprising focus was the Lan family, led by Kan Ling. Originally part of the internal and external affairs systems, they held considerable influence in court. However, ever since they gained a prospective son-in-law, Yang Hao, people no longer knew how to categorize them. Rumors even spread that Princess Xianlan harbored deep resentment toward the Lan family, making them the likely losers in this grand selection.
Previously, the Lan family had secured at least three governorships across various star systems. But this year, Kan Ling’s father, disheartened, refused to engage in political maneuvering, expecting total failure. After all, the Lan family had produced a rebellious daughter, and their decline seemed inevitable.
Yet when the final list was announced, those who had mocked them were stunned. On the multiple lists endorsed by various factions, the Lan family appeared repeatedly.
The internal and external affairs systems, as usual, nominated three Lan family members—unchanged from previous years. But given the current scrutiny on the Lan family, this was already a significant show of face from the ministers.
Yang Hao, in one bold move, nominated four Lan descendants, leaving Kan Ling’s father both amused and exasperated. Though he hadn’t acknowledged Yang Hao as his son-in-law, Yang Hao was already showering the Lan family with benefits. It was then that Kan Ling’s father realized—his daughter hadn’t brought trouble upon them but had instead tied them to a true powerhouse of the empire. The number of nominations Yang Hao could make even surpassed those of the chief ministers.
What truly shocked the Lan family was that even the Privy Council nominated one of their younger members—something unimaginable in previous years. Though the Lan family had produced martial experts, they were primarily a civil official clan with little connection to the Privy Council. For the Privy Council minister to yield a precious nomination spot to the unrelated Lan family was undoubtedly a gesture toward Yang Hao.
However, what made the entire imperial nobility realize that the Lan family had truly risen to new heights was the Emperor’s own lengthy nomination list—which included three Lan family members.
This was an unparalleled honor, a true distinction.
In past years, the Emperor’s list had only included imperial family members and descendants. Even close confidants like Qin Feng were excluded. This was the first time in twenty years and four grand selections that non-imperial names appeared—and three of them belonged to the Lan family.
Everyone knew the truth: the Lan family remained unchanged in strength. The empire’s elites were simply currying favor with Yang Hao.
Now, Yang Hao was the Western Overlord, commanding a quarter of the universe, over a dozen Swordmaster legions, and the Alchemy Sword Sect—one of the empire’s most formidable forces.
With such a son-in-law, the Lan family no longer needed to lobby for influence—it came to them.
Now, Kan Ling’s father wasn’t worrying about his daughter’s marriage but rather how many Lan descendants they could spare to govern the star systems.
Eleven nominations—an unprecedented glory in the Galactic Empire.
Against all odds yet fittingly, the Lan family emerged as the grand selection’s biggest winners.
Even during the grand finale, the “Hundred Ships Launch,” the Lan family remained the center of attention, with all eyes on them and another group.
The Hundred Ships Launch was a unique ceremony of the grand selection, a tradition spanning over a century. Though such grand spectacles were common in the past, they no longer caused a stir.
The event involved launching a hundred ships simultaneously from Earth’s largest spaceport, transporting the newly appointed governors to space acceleration stations before they departed for their respective star systems.
With advancements in space travel, most launches now occurred from space stations, making a planetary mass launch a rare sight. Thus, the Hundred Ships Launch, held every few years, always drew massive crowds.
For the families benefiting from the grand selection, this was a moment of pride and display. Each clan went all out, bringing relatives and friends to witness the event, holding ceremonies to flaunt their grandeur.
The Lan family, of course, was the focal point. Whether people knew them or not, everyone was asking where their designated launch area was. Their interest wasn’t in the departing governors but in whether Yang Hao, the “Undying War God,” would appear—and how Kan Ling’s father would treat him.
Yang Hao had already given his father-in-law ample face. The Emperor had granted him 150 nomination slots, but after selecting a few Lan family members, Yang Hao returned the rest.
This move had recently caused an uproar, with many speculating that Yang Hao, fearing his growing power might overshadow the Emperor, was deliberately toning down his influence.
Had they known what was coming, those critics would have swallowed their tongues.
Lan Yingbo, Kan Ling’s father, stood out in the crowd today in his formal black-and-purple imperial civil official robes, his short white hair gleaming.
He surveyed the eleven Lan descendants before him—the finest of their younger generation. As the Lan family’s patriarch, he had once thought it would take decades to groom successors and expand their influence. Yet their moment of glory had arrived far sooner than expected.
“Uncle, when does it begin?” one of the Lan descendants asked.
Before boarding, established families typically held ceremonies—honoring ancestors or thanking mentors.
“Wait a little longer,” Lan Yingbo replied, frowning as he scanned the surroundings.
Though he didn’t say it aloud, he was hoping Yang Hao would appear. His opinion of Yang Hao had drastically changed. This grand selection had showcased Yang Hao’s power as a rising heavyweight. Though he hadn’t nominated many, the way factions privately deferred to him spoke volumes.
If Yang Hao and Kan Ling showed up today, the Lan family’s prestige would soar even higher, officially tying them to Yang Hao’s towering influence.
Lan Yingbo didn’t spot Yang Hao but noticed another group—one that made his frown deepen.
As the thousand-strong procession entered the launch site, murmurs spread. Today’s stars weren’t just the Lan family—this group was equally significant.
They were the dispatched nobles and their entourage from the Ten Sword Schools. Whether to flaunt their strength or bolster morale, the remaining six Sword School patriarchs had brought their top experts to see them off.
The surrounding nobles, however, showed none of their usual reverence for the Ten Sword Schools, instead whispering mockingly.
“What era is this, still putting on such a show?”
“A pack of drowning dogs, relying on numbers?”
“If they hadn’t taken half the slots, maybe I’d have gotten one this year,” a young noble grumbled.
Others consoled him, “Don’t fret. Just wait and see how the Ten Sword Schools embarrass themselves.”
“Embarrass themselves?”
“Of course,” a knowledgeable elder chimed in. “Every time the Ten Sword Schools send people off, they first display their sacred swords, then pay homage to the Supreme Idol, pledging eternal loyalty to the Senate. Only after the ceremony do they depart.”
“So what?”
“Fool!” another voice gloated. “The Ten Sword Schools don’t even have their sacred swords anymore—Yang Hao took them all. Let’s see what they worship now. If they pull out fake swords, we’re in for a show.”
Though whispered, these words spread quickly. The tens of thousands of nobles present were all eager to see the Ten Sword Schools humiliated.
The Ten Sword Schools’ members had already formed six orderly groups, clearly preparing for their ceremony—worshipping the sacred swords and the idol.
Under countless mocking gazes, the six Sword School patriarchs each presented their sect’s sacred sword, placing them on the altar before leading their followers in worship.
“Kneel to the Sacred Swords!” the six leaders chanted in unison, dropping to their knees.
The onlookers were stunned. “Are those real?”
A wary observer scoffed, “Are you stupid? The real swords are with Yang Hao—we saw him take them!”
“Then…”
“They must be fakes,” an excited voice spread. “The Ten Sword Schools are really resorting to fake swords—they’re finished.”
“Yet they still took five hundred governorships. The heavens are blind…”
As if hearing the whispers, Hai Wanggong and Qi Lian Xiushi frowned.
Still kneeling, they raised their heads and shouted, “Draw swords!”
*Clang!* Six blades unsheathed in unison, their divine radiance and immense energy radiating outward, leaving the crowd in stunned disbelief.
These swords were genuine—but how could the nobles know about Yang Hao’s secret dealings with the Ten Sword Schools? Terrified into silence, they could only assume Yang Hao had been defeated and the swords reclaimed.
At that moment, the key figure himself appeared.
Yang Hao and Kan Ling strolled in leisurely, as if on a spring outing. Kan Ling, looking delicate in a long dress and silk scarf, clung to Yang Hao, who wore his formal imperial overlord military attire, appearing even more dashing.
Their entrance instantly drew the attention of the tens of thousands present, as if they were the event’s biggest stars. Unconcerned with others’ gazes, Kan Ling led Yang Hao to Lan Yingbo.
“Uncle Lan!” Yang Hao bowed respectfully.
Lan Yingbo felt awkward—protocol dictated he should bow first. But seeing his daughter beside Yang Hao bolstered his confidence, and he nodded in acknowledgment.
“Overlord!” The eleven Lan descendants knelt in unison, performing the empire’s highest salute.
Yang Hao smiled slightly, gesturing for them to rise. “Your appointments carry His Majesty’s trust. Serve diligently, without negligence.”
“Yes!”
“The empire’s politics are complex, but that’s not your concern. Remember—today’s honors come from His Majesty. Loyalty to him is all that matters.”
“Yes!”
With that, the brief loyalty ceremony concluded.
Though merely a formality, the onlookers were amazed. Yang Hao wasn’t even officially a son-in-law, yet the Lan descendants were pledging allegiance—proof that another noble house had joined his faction.
Other factions, though silent, seethed with envy. At such a young age, Yang Hao had amassed staggering influence. Given time, others in the empire would have no room left.
Lan Yingbo was thoroughly pleased with Yang Hao, now utterly fond of this son-in-law. Smiling, he said, “Then let them board.”
Yang Hao raised a brow. “There’s one more thing.”
“More?” Lan Yingbo was puzzled. Yang Hao had only nominated Lan family members, returning the rest to the Emperor. There couldn’t possibly be more loyalists boarding today.
But Yang Hao was already walking toward the Ten Sword Schools’ formation.
At that moment, the Ten Sword Schools did something even more shocking.
Before the crowd, the patriarchs unveiled a single portrait—one that wasn’t of the Supreme.
Gasps erupted. The nobles couldn’t believe their eyes. The Ten Sword Schools, who once swore by the Supreme, had brought the wrong idol.
But the politically astute sensed something deeper. Combined with the reclaimed sacred swords and Yang Hao’s approach, they braced for an earth-shattering revelation.
The Great Selection has finally come to an end, at least for the people on Earth. The undercurrents of the past month have left the involved families utterly exhausted.
On the surface, the Great Selection appeared to be a power struggle between the Senate and the Emperor, but in reality, it was far more complex. Within the Emperor’s faction, the noble families affiliated with the Ten Sword Schools were secretly clashing and maneuvering.
The position of governor for each star system brought immeasurable benefits and dazzling political prestige. For nobles whose lives depended on politics, such a feast was impossible to pass up.
Thus, for the selection of governors across a thousand core star systems, countless influential figures engaged in covert lobbying and bribery, all hoping to see more of their own names on the list.
Especially after the Senate’s list was released and the subordinate nobles of the Ten Sword Schools had divided the spoils, the competition within the imperial faction intensified. The Privy Council, the internal and external affairs systems, the Imperial Guard, and even the colonial governors all jumped into the fray.
Amidst this, the most surprising focus was on the Blue Family of Kan Ling. Originally part of the internal and external affairs systems, they held considerable influence in both court and public circles. However, ever since Kan Ling became engaged to Yang Hao, people no longer knew how to categorize them. Rumors also spread that Princess Xian Lan held a deep grudge against the Blue Family, making them the likely biggest losers in this Great Selection.
In previous years, the Blue Family had secured at least three governor positions. But this year, Kan Ling’s father seemed disheartened and unwilling to lobby, already resigned to complete failure. After all, the Blue Family had produced a rebellious daughter, and their decline seemed inevitable.
Yet when the final list was announced, those who had mocked them were stunned. On the lists endorsed by multiple factions, the Blue Family appeared repeatedly.
The internal and external affairs systems, as usual, nominated three members of the Blue Family—unchanged from previous years. But given the current criticism against the family, this was already a significant gesture of goodwill from the ministers.
Yang Hao, in a bold move, nominated four Blue Family descendants, leaving Kan Ling’s father both amused and exasperated. He had never acknowledged Yang Hao as his son-in-law, yet Yang Hao was showering the family with benefits. It was then that Kan Ling’s father finally realized—his daughter hadn’t brought trouble upon them, but had instead aligned them with one of the empire’s most powerful figures. The number of nominations Yang Hao controlled even surpassed those of the chief ministers.
Even more astonishing, the Privy Council nominated a junior member of the Blue Family—something unimaginable in previous years. While the Blue Family had produced martial arts experts, they were primarily a civil official clan with little connection to the Privy Council. For the council to spare a coveted spot for them was undoubtedly a favor to Yang Hao.
However, what truly made the empire’s nobility realize that the Blue Family had risen to unprecedented heights was the inclusion of three Blue Family members on the Emperor’s own lengthy list.
This was an extraordinary honor—a genuine distinction.
In past years, the Emperor’s list had only included imperial family members and descendants. Even close confidants like Qin Feng were excluded. This was the first time in twenty years and four Great Selections that non-imperial names appeared.
And three at once—all from the Blue Family.
Everyone knew the truth: the Blue Family hadn’t grown stronger on its own. The empire’s elites were simply currying favor with Yang Hao.
Now, Yang Hao was the Western Overlord, commanding a quarter of the universe, over a dozen Swordmaster Legions, and the Dan Ding Sword Sect—one of the empire’s most formidable forces.
With such a son-in-law, the Blue Family no longer needed to lobby for influence. Favors came pouring in on their own.
Now, Kan Ling’s father wasn’t worrying about his daughter’s marriage but rather how many Blue Family descendants they could spare to govern the star systems.
Eleven appointments—an unparalleled glory in the entire Galactic Empire.
Against all odds, yet fittingly, the Blue Family emerged as the biggest winners of this Great Selection.
Even during the grand finale, the “Hundred Ships Launch,” the Blue Family remained the center of attention, with all eyes on them and another group.
The Hundred Ships Launch was a unique tradition of the Great Selection, said to have been practiced for over a century. Though such grand spectacles were common in the past, they no longer caused much of a stir.
The ceremony involved launching a hundred ships simultaneously from Earth’s largest spaceport. These ships would carry the newly appointed governors to a hundred space acceleration stations before they departed for their respective star systems.
With advancements in space travel, ship launches and operations were typically handled at space stations. Rarely were so many vessels launched from the surface at once. Thus, the Hundred Ships Launch, held every few years, always drew massive crowds.
For the families benefiting from the Great Selection, this was a moment of pride and display. Each household pulled out all the stops, bringing friends and relatives to witness the event, holding ceremonies, and flaunting their grandeur.
The Blue Family, of course, was the focal point. Whether acquainted or not, everyone sought out their designated area. The interest wasn’t in the departing governors but in whether Yang Hao, the “Undying War God” and Kan Ling’s fiancé, would appear—and how Kan Ling’s father would treat him.
Yang Hao had already given his father-in-law ample face. The Emperor had granted him 150 nomination slots, but after selecting a few Blue Family members, Yang Hao returned the rest.
This move had sparked widespread discussion. Many speculated that Yang Hao, aware of his overwhelming influence, was deliberately downplaying his power to avoid overshadowing the Emperor.
Had they known what was to come, those critics would have swallowed their tongues.
Lan Yingbo, Kan Ling’s father, stood out in the crowd today, dressed in the formal black-and-purple robes of an imperial civil official, his short white hair gleaming.
He surveyed the eleven Blue Family descendants before him—the finest of their younger generation. As the family’s patriarch, Lan Yingbo had once believed it would take decades to groom successors and expand their influence. Yet glory had arrived far sooner than expected.
“Uncle, when do we begin?” one of the descendants asked.
Before boarding, established families typically held ceremonies—honoring ancestors or thanking mentors.
“Wait a little longer,” Lan Yingbo replied, frowning as he scanned the surroundings.
Though unspoken, he hoped Yang Hao would appear. His opinion of Yang Hao had drastically changed. This Great Selection had showcased Yang Hao’s power as a rising authority. Though he hadn’t named many candidates, the deference shown to him by various factions spoke volumes.
If Yang Hao and Kan Ling attended today, the Blue Family’s prestige would soar, solidifying their alliance with this towering figure.
Lan Yingbo didn’t spot Yang Hao but noticed another group—one that made him frown deeper.
As the thousand-strong procession entered the launch site, murmurs spread. Today’s stars weren’t just the Blue Family but also them.
These were the dispatched nobles and their entourage from the Ten Sword Schools. Whether to flaunt their might or bolster morale, the remaining six Sword School patriarchs had arrived with their elite disciples in full force.
The surrounding nobles, however, showed none of their usual reverence. Instead, they whispered mockingly.
“What era is this, still putting on such a show?”
“A pack of drowning dogs, relying on numbers?”
“If they hadn’t taken half the slots, maybe I’d have gotten one this year,” a young noble grumbled.
Others consoled him, “Don’t fret. Just watch how they embarrass themselves.”
“Embarrass themselves?”
“Of course,” a knowledgeable elder chimed in. “Every time the Ten Sword Schools send their people, they first display their sacred swords and pay homage to the Supreme Idol, pledging eternal loyalty to the Senate. Only after the ritual do they depart.”
“So what?”
“Fool!” another voice gloated. “The Ten Sword Schools don’t even have their sacred swords anymore—Yang Hao took them. Let’s see what they worship now. If they pull out fake swords, we’re in for a show.”
Though whispered, the gossip spread quickly. The crowd of tens of thousands was eager to witness the Ten Sword Schools’ humiliation.
The Ten Sword Schools’ members lined up by their six sects, preparing for the ritual—worshiping the sacred swords and the idol.
Under skeptical gazes, the six patriarchs each presented their sect’s sacred sword, placing them on the altar before leading their disciples in worship.
“Kneel to the Sacred Swords!” the six leaders chanted in unison, dropping to their knees.
The onlookers gaped. “Are those real?”
A wary observer scoffed, “Are you stupid? The real swords are with Yang Hao. We saw him take them.”
“Then…”
“They must be fakes,” an excited voice spread. “The Ten Sword Schools are resorting to counterfeit swords. They’re truly finished.”
“Yet they still grabbed five hundred governor slots. The heavens are blind…”
As if hearing the taunts, Hai Wanggong and Qi Lian Xiushi’s expressions darkened.
Still kneeling, they raised their heads and shouted, “Unsheath the swords!”
Clang! Six blades slid free, their divine radiance and immense energy radiating outward, stunning the crowd into silence.
These were genuine sacred swords. But how could the nobles know of Yang Hao’s secret dealings with the Ten Sword Schools? Terrified, they fell silent, wondering if Yang Hao had been defeated and the swords reclaimed.
At that moment, the key figure himself appeared.
Yang Hao arrived without the Dan Ding Sect’s elites, just him and Kan Ling, strolling leisurely as if on a spring outing. Kan Ling, looking delicate in a long dress and silk scarf, clung to Yang Hao, who wore the formal military attire of an imperial lord, his handsome figure accentuated by the uniform.
Their entrance drew the gaze of tens of thousands, as if they were the event’s biggest stars. Ignoring the stares, Kan Ling led Yang Hao to Lan Yingbo.
“Uncle Lan!” Yang Hao greeted respectfully.
Lan Yingbo hesitated—protocol dictated he should bow first. But seeing his daughter’s closeness to Yang Hao, he simply nodded.
“Lord Overlord!” The eleven Blue Family descendants dropped to one knee in the empire’s highest salute.
Yang Hao smiled slightly, gesturing for them to rise. “Your appointments carry His Majesty’s trust. Serve diligently, without negligence.”
“Yes!”
“The empire’s politics are complex, but that’s not your concern. Remember—today’s honors come from His Majesty. Loyalty belongs to him alone.”
“Yes!”
With that, the brief loyalty ceremony concluded.
Though perfunctory, the onlookers marveled. Yang Hao wasn’t yet officially the son-in-law, yet the Blue Family was already pledging allegiance. It signaled another powerful house aligning with Yang Hao.
Other factions dared not speak aloud, but envy simmered. At such a young age, Yang Hao commanded vast influence. Given time, others might find no room left in the empire.
Lan Yingbo was thoroughly pleased with Yang Hao. Beaming, he said, “Then let them board.”
Yang Hao raised a brow. “One more thing.”
“Another?” Lan Yingbo was puzzled. Yang Hao had only selected a few Blue Family members, returning the rest to the Emperor. Who else here would pledge loyalty to him?
But Yang Hao was already walking toward the Ten Sword Schools’ formation.
Then, the Ten Sword Schools did something earth-shattering.
Before the crowd, the patriarchs unveiled a single portrait—not of the Supreme, as tradition dictated, but of someone else.
The nobles erupted as if witnessing the apocalypse. The Ten Sword Schools, who once swore by the Supreme, had “mistakenly” brought the wrong idol.
But the politically astute sensed something deeper. Combined with the reclaimed sacred swords and Yang Hao’s approach, they braced for a seismic shift.
However, some sharp-minded individuals with keen political instincts already sensed something unusual. Coupled with the miraculous reappearance of the six sacred swords and Yang Hao slowly walking toward them, they realized that something earth-shattering was about to happen.
Indeed, a round of prayers from the Ten Sword Sect caused the entire world to tremble slightly.
“Kneel before the Holy Sage of the Three Pure Alchemical Sect, Sage Hunyuanzi! Bless us with strength, bless us with swords, and protect our sword sect!”
Observers, even those about to board spaceships for their new posts, gathered around. After hearing the prayers the first time, they couldn’t believe their ears. After the second recitation, they began doubting their sanity. By the third repetition, these people questioned whether this world was real at all.
Sage Hunyuanzi? Who was this supposed deity?
Wasn’t there only one god in the world—the Supreme Sovereign? Where did this Hunyuanzi come from?
This was the question lingering in most people’s minds. However, for the leaders of various factions, what caught their attention were two other words: “Alchemical Sect!”
Wasn’t that the title of Yang Hao’s sect?
Once Yang Hao was brought into the picture, the connections began to make sense. Yet, regardless of how things seemed to link up, this matter was simply too incredible. Even if there were hints of a connection, these people dared not hastily draw conclusions.
Therefore, when Yang Hao truly appeared before the ranks of the Ten Sword Sect, tens of thousands collectively held their breath.
No one dared imagine what would happen next. A great battle? Mutual slaughter?
Or perhaps mockery and ridicule?
If that were all, this day probably wouldn’t have been recorded in the annals of the empire as a pivotal turning point celebrated through generations.
When Yang Hao stood upright like a spear before the six sword sect leaders, the six sect heads led over a thousand disciples of the Ten Sword Sect to kneel once more, proclaiming in unison: “Lord Regent!”
The hearts of the spectators felt as if struck by bullets, shattered beyond repair.
Even some voices, trembling with fear, whispered: “It’s an oath of allegiance… an oath of allegiance!”
Senior officials on-site, especially the Chief of the Privy Council, the Interior and Foreign Ministers, and Lan Yingbo, wore the most solemn expressions, even tinged with cold dread.
“You shoulder the Emperor’s trust in this assignment. You must personally oversee every detail and tolerate no negligence,” Yang Hao declared.
“Yes!” the Ten Sword Sect members responded in unison.
“It’s complicated within the Empire, but that’s none of your concern. Just remember, the grace you’ve received today comes from the Emperor. Your loyalty belongs to him alone.”
“Yes!”
This exchange mirrored exactly what had occurred earlier with the Lan family. Yet, the implications were worlds apart.
The Lan family and Yang Hao were long considered inseparable allies. Whether Lan Yingbo admitted it or not, people in the Empire had already regarded the Lan family as part of Yang Hao’s power structure.
But how could the Ten Sword Sect be the same? It was a super-loyal force directly established by the Supreme Sovereign a hundred years ago, entrusted with the Ten Divine Swords.
In essence, the Ten Sword Sect was the Senate’s extension deep into the Empire, a powerful tool for the elders to control all planetary resources and oppose the royal family.
Yet now, the Ten Sword Sect pledged allegiance to Yang Hao?
Even the most forgetful person would remember that not long ago, Yang Hao had wiped out the Starlight Circus. Earlier still, the Divine Retribution Sword Sect and the Beast-Heart Sword Sect had fallen to Yang Hao.
The Alchemical Sect and the Ten Sword Sect were the Empire’s most notorious enemies, sworn to mutual destruction.
Yet, under everyone’s watchful eyes, the Ten Sword Sect was indeed kneeling before Yang Hao, even declaring loyalty to the royal family.
“Change the banners!” Yang Hao commanded coldly.
In a flash, the prepared disciples of the Ten Sword Sect swiftly removed the Senate’s flag flying high and replaced it with the Alchemical Sect’s emblem.
From this moment on, there was no longer a Ten Sword Sect loyal to the Senate within the Empire. Instead, there were six sword sects now under the Alchemical Sect, loyal to it alone.
The onlookers and the Empire’s elite finally grasped what had transpired, but the revelation was too shocking, too unbelievable.
In the eyes of others, Yang Hao was indeed an extraordinary genius, possessing unfathomable power. Yet, no matter how imaginative one might be, no one could have predicted that Yang Hao would manage to assimilate the Ten Sword Sect.
“Oh!!” the Chief of the Privy Council suddenly gasped, quicker than others to realize the implications of this day’s events.
With the Senate losing the Ten Sword Sect, they lost their grip on imperial power and resources. In essence, the Senate’s strength had been reduced to its lowest ebb.
Yang Hao gaining the Ten Sword Sect’s allegiance was akin to gaining the loyalty of five hundred new governors. His influence within the Empire wasn’t just growing incrementally—it was skyrocketing, perhaps even surpassing that of the Emperor himself.
The Chief of the Privy Council gazed complexly at the towering figure of Yang Hao.
This young man, outwardly handsome and youthful, had already amassed terrifying power. Tomorrow’s Empire would no longer be the one people once imagined.
It would be Yang Hao’s Empire, the Empire of Yang Hao’s future.
Over a hundred spaceships launched simultaneously, their exhaust flames blinding to behold. Yet even as people watched the ships carrying governors into the far reaches of the cosmos, unease lingered.
It seemed as though they had already seen the approach of an unprecedented bloodbath.
In the following days, an unusual atmosphere pervaded the Empire. Even traveling merchants seemed distracted, closing shop in droves under the pretense of restocking supplies and fleeing the galaxy. The more perceptive nobles, of course, needed no prompting. Within days, hundreds of thousands of noble families left Earth under the guise of tourism, heading for the Western Territories. The population of Earth dwindled significantly.
Everyone feared the outbreak of a massive war, yet the more they feared it, the more it delayed.
The Senate remained silent—an ominous, terrifying silence.
After the Ten Sword Sect defected, people had assumed the Senate would at least react, asserting its authority. Otherwise, how could it maintain its standing in the Empire?
Thus, Yang Hao swiftly arranged for key figures within the Ten Sword Sect to escape to the Western Territories, anticipating the Senate’s retaliation.
But unexpectedly, days passed, and the Senate seemed indifferent. Apart from the four guardian sword sects at the foot of the Senate Mountain being personally occupied by Senate elders, nothing else changed.
Meanwhile, Yang Hao’s consolidation of the Ten Sword Sect made him the most powerful figure in the Empire. His audacity even drew the ire of the Emperor himself, who summoned Yang Hao for a stern reprimand, grumbling about how Yang Hao hadn’t shared any of his good fortune. But the matter fizzled out.
Thus, with Yang Hao firmly established as the Empire’s top power, replacing the Senate, the capital—and Earth itself—fell into an unexpected calm. Although the air remained thick with unease, nothing happened under the sun.
Yet the nights were far from peaceful.
Since ascending as the Holy Sage of the Three Pure Alchemical Sect, Hunyuanzi had become even more dedicated to his secluded cultivation. His hope was to achieve self-sufficiency, perhaps even live long enough to meet Yang Hao’s son and enjoy the bliss of family life.
Within the Alchemical Sword Sect, Yang Hao lounged comfortably on his large bed, thoroughly at ease.
With no master to trouble him and two beauties by his side, Yang Hao naturally enjoyed a life of leisure.
However, recently, he seemed to lack such tranquility. His expression, nestled between the two women, was serious. To the uninformed, it might have appeared as though the two women were quarreling over his affection.
Yang Hao’s troubles had never stemmed from women. Though he stood at the pinnacle of imperial power, he sensed a more chilling wind blowing from outside.
“What is the Senate planning?” Yang Hao pondered carefully. “Losing a thousand core planets is a fatal blow to them. Yet they haven’t pursued any Ten Sword Sect members, nor have they come after me.”
“The Senate seems cornered,” Ling Zi naturally hadn’t heard of the conversation between the Emperor and the Intelligent Brain King, yet she hit the nail on the head. Since losing their claws and extensions, and with their core planets gone, even basic medicinal supplies were hard to come by. They had reached a dead end.
“This silence is unnatural,” Yang Hao frowned. “If they did something, I could respond accordingly. But this silence makes things difficult.”
“You think they’re silent?” Ling Ziyun scoffed. “From what I know of the Senate elders, the Senate Mountain is probably in chaos right now.”
“Chaos? How?” Yang Hao turned, embracing Ling Ziyun. Nowadays, Ling Ziyun had become Yang Hao’s best strategist. With her help, Yang Hao’s career had soared.
“The Senate elders won’t swallow this humiliation. Think about it. An institution that has dominated imperial power for centuries—how could they accept defeat at your hands? And such a crushing defeat. The legacy left by the Supreme Sovereign over a hundred years was swept away by you in a single year. The Senate retreated step by step until they had no ground left.”
“They brought it upon themselves. They’ve done plenty to undermine their own support,” Yang Hao chuckled.
“The Senate’s inaction doesn’t mean they’ve accepted defeat. It means they’re planning something big,” Ling Ziyun gently patted her belly, deep in thought. “Some of the executors have quite fiery tempers.”
“What will they do?” Yang Hao asked urgently.
“You guess!” Ling Ziyun tilted her head, smiling mischievously.
Yang Hao’s expression turned serious. He already had a rough idea, but this was too important to discuss lightly.
Ling Ziyun knew Yang Hao had figured it out and nodded meaningfully.
“What are you two talking about?” Lan Gang pouted. She didn’t have such intricate thoughts.
“The Senate has fallen so far that even the three hundred elders couldn’t gain any advantage. Their options are limited,” Yang Hao stroked Kan Ling’s hair. “The Senate still relies on their martial might, but that alone isn’t enough to turn the tide. So they must do one thing—one decisive act that can completely reverse their fortunes.”
Kan Ling gasped in shock: “They want to kill you?”
Yang Hao and Ling Ziyun laughed together. Ling Ziyun finally took Kan Ling’s hand, teasing: “You’re too concerned. Do you think our husband is still an ordinary person? The Alchemical Sect has more than ten sword regiments stationed long-term, thousands of people. It’s even harder to breach than the palace. Even if the Senate wanted to kill him, they wouldn’t choose such a difficult target.”
“Then…?”
Yang Hao finally revealed the truth: “The Senate elders plan to assassinate Emperor Yinglie!”
“Ahh!” Kan Ling was genuinely shocked. Although the Senate and Emperor Yinglie had always been at odds, they had never gone so far as to attempt an assassination. Would things really come to this?
“Regardless of anything, Emperor Yinglie remains the Emperor of the Empire. The Senate elders cannot deny this, nor can others. Thus, in the anti-Senate forces, Emperor Yinglie is the leader, the symbol,” Yang Hao spoke seriously. “If the Senate kills Emperor Yinglie, the anti-Senate forces will lose their head. Although I hold great power, my experience is shallow, insufficient to control the court. Once the Crown Prince ascends, the Senate will naturally find ways to manipulate that weak heir.”
Kan Ling inhaled sharply: “So according to you, if Emperor Yinglie dies, the Senate might completely reverse their fortunes?”
“At least there’s that possibility,” Yang Hao sighed. “I’m afraid the Senate elders are already preparing for this major move.”
“What should we do?” Kan Ling jumped up. She hadn’t forgotten her role as the head of the Imperial Guard. “What should we do?”
“Cool it,” Ling Ziyun shrugged. “The Emperor is old. Old people should die. What’s there to regret?”
“Nonsense!” Kan Ling glared, her usually gentle demeanor turning fierce. “The Emperor must not die! Protecting the Emperor is our duty as the Imperial Guard.”
“You… you… why are you so fierce?” Ling Ziyun pouted, her voice trembling as if she might cry. “I even shared my man with you. Why are you rushing to save others now?”
“I must save the Emperor!” Kan Ling stubbornly insisted, ready to don her armor and rush out immediately.
“Ahh… ahh…” Ling Ziyun clutched her belly, crying out in pain. “You’re going to kill me with anger! You’re going to hurt my baby!”
“Oh no!” Kan Ling immediately panicked, fearing this trick most of all. As expected, she quickly gave in, soothing Ling Ziyun with gentle words.
Ling Ziyun suddenly burst into laughter, hugging Kan Ling joyfully.
“You’re laughing again,” Kan Ling pouted, clearly unhappy. “The Emperor is in danger, and you’re laughing.”
“Relax!” Ling Ziyun playfully pinched her nose. “Our husband is a soft-hearted person. Of course, he won’t let the Emperor come to harm. He probably already has a plan.”
“Really?” Kan Ling looked at Yang Hao with pleasant surprise.
Yang Hao smiled, gently patting Ling Ziyun’s head: “You clever little thing. How did you know?”
“Of course!” Ling Ziyun scoffed. “You sent the Ten Sword Sect’s experts on a round trip through outer space, then secretly brought them back to the capital. You’ve been desperately mobilizing experts from the Western Territories. You’ve stationed sword regiments around the Alchemical Sword Sect. You even secretly issued the Dragon-Hiding Order. If you didn’t have a plan, how could that be possible?”
“Qianlong Jin!” Kan Ling was stunned for a moment, then inhaled deeply.
Perhaps from this one point alone, one could truly see just how resolute Yang Hao’s determination was.
The Qianlong Order was the highest secret command within the Qianlong Pavilion. This ancient, hidden organization had always maintained a group of covert agents secretly stationed in every corner of the universe. These individuals never revealed their identities—even if they had already reached the Saint Domain, becoming rare and formidable experts, they still lived like ordinary people, enduring hardships that regular folks never faced.
They weren’t destined to remain forever in darkness, but there was one oath within the Qianlong Pavilion:
“Unless summoned, we shall never meet.”
Only when receiving the Qianlong Order would these individuals emerge from hiding places across the world, cast off their civilian disguises, and resume their identities as mighty Saint Domain experts.
Issuing the Qianlong Order was both the leader’s authority and duty. Once an organization had survived for a thousand years, every time its power was mobilized, one had to carefully consider whether it might sever the legacy itself.
Situ Hui would rather die than deploy a true Qianlong agent, for he dared not recklessly exercise such authority.
Yang Hao fully understood this, yet this time, he still chose to activate the Qianlong Order, summoning every hidden Qianlong throughout the universe. This was not for Yang Hao’s personal gain, nor merely for avenging the Dan Cauldron Sect.
It was for the very purpose of the Qianlong Pavilion itself—a mighty force composed of those who had once failed. What they had always pursued and upheld was a brand new order, one free from oppression and slavery.
This was the ideal of the Qianlong.
Yang Hao felt the time had come. Soon would arrive the day when a new order would be born. At the same time, it would also be the day to overthrow the old order and completely eradicate the Senate, which had ruled the universe for hundreds of years.
Sighing deeply, Yang Hao nodded toward the two women: “That day has truly arrived.”
Yes, that day of bloodshed, fierce battle, and oceans of blood was indeed drawing near.
Tai Sui Yellow Amulet Paper FuLu Taoist Love Talisman Traditional Chinese Spiritual Charm Attracting Love Protecting Marriage