A New Era

A New Era . . .

Not far from the illustrious Emperor Star Academy, an enchanting spectacle unfolded. The atmosphere was charged with intense spatial energy, hinting at the presence of something extraordinary. Within a sealed, ethereal realm, two figures took center stage.

Among them, an elderly man, adorned in opulent robes, stood with an air of indifference, seemingly aloof from the proceedings unfolding within the Emperor Star Academy. His thoughts revolved around a solitary figure—the maiden at his side.

Beside him stood a young woman of exceptional beauty, elegantly attired in modest garb. She watched the unfolding events with a quiet demeanor, her gaze unwavering. The emotions playing across her face revealed a subtle yet profound inner turmoil.

"Grand Xia has finally been reunited. Your wish has come true, my Princess. Shouldn't it be time for you to return?" The elderly man's voice, though calm, was imbued with a deep sense of concern. This maiden, none other than Qing'er, had long been sequestered away from the world.

Qing'er seemed unaffected by his words, her gaze slowly turning to meet the old man's eyes. Hers were as cold as the frost of a winter's morn. "I've known seclusion since my youth. What need is there to fetch me back now?"

"During the time of the Great Emperor's ascendancy, there was a genuine concern for your safety amidst the tumultuous battles. He couldn't bear to see you embroiled in the chaos. The Great Emperor's wisdom is evident in his actions. Engaging in the struggle for the throne of an immortal kingdom is perilous indeed. The arduous conflict spanned two decades before his ultimate triumph. Now that he's secured his reign, it's only right that he wishes to spare you further suffering," the old man replied with the utmost respect.

However, Qing'er remained as frigid as the coldest of winters. "I am not suffering here."

"Princess, the Royal Sacred Region is but a distant speck in the vast cosmos. Your exile here was merely to ensure your safety, hidden from the prying eyes of the Great Emperor's adversaries. In this realm, most inhabitants possess limited cultivation levels, and your potential will eventually be capped," the old man continued, his tone persuasive. "Moreover, Princess, you've previously promised this old servant. The Great Emperor went to great lengths and even incited a storm to secure the Great Nirvana Immortal Art for you. By refusing to return, how can I justify this to the Great Emperor?"

Qing'er's eyes remained as icy as ever. Her gaze shifted toward the Emperor Star Academy, her voice barely above a murmur. "Perhaps in a few more days."

With a sigh, the old man relented, his smile tinged with bitterness. He opened his eyes, observing the scene unfolding within the Emperor Star Academy. The Medicine Sovereign on the grand stage furrowed his brows momentarily, as if sensing an unusual presence in the vicinity. However, he quickly shifted his attention back to the ceremony, resuming his warm smile as he beheld the couple holding hands.

As Qin Wentian and Mo Qingcheng approached the assembly of elders, they rose to their feet in unison.

"Seeing the two of you like this brings back memories of my youth," the Medicine Sovereign remarked, his smile revealing the wisdom and age he had accumulated. Rumors suggested that he had lived even longer than the Sacred Emperor of the Royal Sacred Sect.

Ye Qingyun, a renowned figure in the Royal Sacred Region and the Human Emperor of an ancient kingdom, raised an eyebrow at the Medicine Sovereign's reference to him as "little Ye." Despite his own stature and authority, Ye Qingyun chose to smile and nod in deference. The Medicine Sovereign's enigmatic prowess in pill concoction and his cultivation, which had peaked in the Celestial Phenomenon Realm countless years ago, placed him in a league of his own.

Uncle Black, standing beside Qin Wentian, reached out to straighten his attire with a gentle pat on the shoulder. A warm smile graced his face as he spoke, "Today marks the beginning of your journey as a family man. You've grown immensely, and your parents and I will continue to watch over you as you forge ahead, growing stronger with each step." His words conveyed the depth of his pride and affection for Qin Wentian.

"I will do my best," Qin Wentian affirmed, his determination evident in his resolute nod. He extended his arms and drew Uncle Black into a heartfelt embrace. "Thank you, Uncle Black. In my heart, you've always been like a true father."

Uncle Black, embraced tightly by Qin Wentian, couldn't help but tremble with emotion. Tears welled up in his eyes, reminding everyone that even men could shed tears. Over the past decade, he had invested all his hopes in Qin Wentian. Just as Qin Wentian saw him as a father figure, Uncle Black considered him as the son of his beloved master.

"Master, Madame, Wentian has truly grown into an exceptional individual. He won't let you down, and he'll make them regret their actions," Uncle Black whispered to himself, gazing skyward with unwavering determination.

The father and son-like pair eventually separated, and Qin Wentian turned to Qin Chuan, addressing him with a warm smile. "Foster Father."

With a smile that was both proud and melancholic, Qin Chuan embraced Qin Wentian. He patted Qin Wentian's shoulder, his eyes glistening with affection. His only regret was that Qin Wentian wasn't his biological son. Nonetheless, the bond he shared with his foster son rivaled the love he held for his own daughter, Qin Yao. In the future, Qin Yao might find a home and start a family, but she would never stray too far from her father's side.

As for Wentian, he was destined for greatness, embarking on a path of becoming an extraordinary expert, venturing further and further away.

"Teacher," Qin Wentian turned to Mustang, and they shared a warm smile and a heartfelt embrace. The kindness Mustang had shown him was immeasurable. If it weren't for Mustang's leadership and courage in saving him during their time in Sky Harmony City, Qin Wentian would have met an untimely end.

After embracing his dearest family and friends, Qin Wentian and Mo Qingcheng descended from the stage, marking the beginning of the grand banquet. The Emperor Star Academy buzzed with life and enthusiasm as everyone celebrated, yet there was an underlying sense of melancholy. They knew that they might never again witness such an illustrious couple. As long as Qin Wentian and Mo Qingcheng stood on that stage, they wished this moment could last forever. These two were living legends, and they were still so young.

The elders who had gathered were legendary figures, and their realm was beyond the reach of ordinary people.

Meanwhile, the Royal Capital of Chu remained in a state of excitement. The entire capital was abuzz with chatter about this extraordinary wedding. Today, Qin Wentian's name had become synonymous with Chu itself. Although he held no official title or status in Chu, he now commanded the entire Grand Xia. It was a remarkable feat, given that the Nine Mystical Palace once had dominion over only a small part of Grand Xia. Yet, Qin Wentian had ascended to rule the entire realm.

Rumors circulated that Qin Wentian's strength had transcended the boundaries of Grand Xia and reached invincible heights in the vast Royal Sacred Region. However, for the people of Chu, the Royal Sacred Region remained an enigmatic place beyond their reach.

Even after the festivities had concluded, the people of Chu continued to be fervent. For a period, their conversations revolved around Qin Wentian and Mo Qingcheng's wedding. The shockwaves of this wedding had left a profound impact, opening the eyes of Chu's inhabitants to the vastness of the world beyond their borders. Many young people were inspired to venture beyond Chu, yearning to carve out their own destinies in the wider world. They now aspired to follow in the footsteps of Qin Wentian and hoped to make their names known across the globe.

...

Three days later, the dust had settled, and the grand wedding had concluded. Qin Wentian and Mo Qingcheng bid farewell to their friends and family. They also instructed Fairy Qingmei and the others to return to Grand Xia.

Amidst the serenity of Grand Xia, Qin Wentian and Mo Qingcheng strolled leisurely, accompanied by their ever-playful companion, Little Rascal. For these three days, Qin Wentian didn't bother with cultivation; instead, they relished the simple pleasures of life. They wandered through lush landscapes, strolled along picturesque beaches, and embarked on tranquil boat rides to soak in the beauty of their surroundings. Though a mere three days, the footsteps of Qin Wentian and Mo Qingcheng had graced many of Grand Xia's renowned landmarks.

In the ancient kingdom of Ginkou, life pulsed with newfound vitality.

The news of Qin Wentian's reunification of Grand Xia had swept across the empire like wildfire, igniting hope in the hearts of its people. The reconstruction of the ancient kingdom marked the dawn of a new era. Speculations ran rampant that Qin Wentian might even rename the empire "Grand Qin" after his own surname. The anticipation was palpable, and many believed it was only a matter of time.

Today, the ancient kingdom stood as a beacon of vibrancy. Ascendants from across Grand Xia gathered, bringing their sects and clans to pay homage to the rising power.

On a magnificent platform adorned with intricate dragon and phoenix engravings, two youthful figures commanded the attention of countless observers. They may have been young, but their presence compelled reverence from those below. They had all witnessed Qin Wentian's strength and resolve, leaving no room for defiance.

Fairy Qingmei, Old Xing, and the experts provided by Ye Qingyun to assist Qin Wentian occupied the platform, their presence adding to its grandeur.

The ascendants from the Jiang Clan and Thousand-Jue Alliance couldn't conceal their excitement. Their gamble had paid off.

Qin Wentian scanned the assembly, a profound calmness in his eyes. His reunification of Grand Xia fulfilled the legacy of Emperor Xia and the Azure Emperor, making them proud.

"Today, I have gathered you all here for a special announcement. The name of this empire shall forever remain 'Grand Xia,' unchanging," Qin Wentian declared, upholding his promise made within the Royal Tomb of Grand Xia. He had no intention of letting Grand Xia be seen as a desolate land.

Authority? Such a trivial matter. Qin Wentian had grander ambitions that transcended ruling a single empire.

"From this day forward, Fairy Qingmei will hold the esteemed position of Supreme Elder of Grand Xia's ancient kingdom, overseeing all affairs within Grand Xia. Old Xing will assume control of the Punishment Faction. The Venerate Heavens Sect shall oversee the entire cultivation academies of Grand Xia. Mystic Moon Hall, Azure Emperor Palace, Jiang Clan, and Thousand-Jue Alliance, these four branches shall wholeheartedly support Fairy Qingmei and collaborate in the reconstruction of Grand Xia."

With the conclusion of his speech, Qin Wentian conceded his governance to those better suited for it.

"Your Majesty, your orders are our command!" Below the platform, voices echoed in unison, and countless figures knelt in respect. "Your Majesty, your orders are our command!"

Qin Wentian gazed at the loyal experts of Grand Xia, his hand firmly holding Mo Qingcheng's. Together, they turned and ventured into the heart of the ancient kingdom.