12. A new journey
After spending some time inquiring and having the system thoroughly explain the benefits of having these two treaties...
Noah sat in the back garden, gazing at two paths.
One was elegant, with grass, trees, and flowers lining the way. It led to a solemn archway, behind which lay a vibrant and colorful expanse.
The other path was rough, paved with somber stone blocks, quiet and still. At the end stood a stone gate, beyond which was a chaotic scene of floating fragments, scattered irregularly with uneven lighting.
'I've traveled to another world. No, I've awakened in the cycle of reincarnation within another world to prepare for an exciting adventure.'
'Suddenly, I realized that I share my home with the Heavenly Dao, and not just any Heavenly Dao, but the one from the Void Realm. No... It should be that the Heavenly Dao of the Void Realm resides in my home, and I am the head of this household. What is this strange, noble feeling? What is this sensation...?'
Tilting his head back, he let out a long sigh.
"Uhm . ..."
'It seems I'm not starting as that struggling young man who builds his fortune from nothing or goes through some annulment drama. My story begins with me cohabiting with the top leaders. My starting line is extremely close to the finish line.'
'This is truly unexpected and refreshing… This is the feeling. Like an extraordinary adventure story.'
'Satisfaction, nobility—this feeling of success that everyone seeks—is this it? Uhm…'
'Excitement, sheer excitement. Mom, Dad, your son is already so close to the finish line. Soon, I'll come back and bring you here to enjoy a life of luxury… Haha…'
"A new chapter has begun. At this moment, I am no longer who I was. I need a new mark. Something that symbolizes this step forward."
"A one-time-use token to rename my manor. This manor needs a new name that exudes grandeur… It can't remain as something crude like 'Three Tiger Manor.' Ridiculous."
"What should I name it…? This is tough... Wait, don't I still have a bodhi tree?"
"Enlightenment Tree, Bodhi Tree… Help me come up with a majestic name. The dignity of this entire manor depends on you."
---
Meanwhile, outside, after much deliberation, the five great empires each decided to send five princes and princesses along with royal guards, bearing their flags, toward Strong Bull Mountain.
A 50-member delegation was set to depart at noon. Arthur Sterling, the third son of the city lord of Wolfspire City, was entrusted with the responsibility of leading the group.
He stepped forward to greet the group, scanning the exceptional, dignified faces of these young elites. These were the finest talents from the five great empires, the very best of Eastern Continent… He swallowed nervously.
"Everyone, I will be leading this team. I hope you will follow my guidance along the way."
"Does anyone have any objections?"
A stunning princess with exquisite features, her dress flowing like clouds and her every movement graceful, stepped forward and offered a gentle smile that was as mesmerizing as a blooming flower.
"We ask for Young Master Sterling's guidance during this mission. Rest assured, none of us will forget the risks you took last night to ensure our safety."
Her voice was melodic… This was Lalatina Celeste, the princess of the Domain of Chromatica and the team leader. It was said that she was extraordinarily talented, stunningly beautiful, and one of the ten great beauties of the world. Her suitors spanned from the east to the west of the continent. Meeting her today, she truly lived up to her reputation. But wasn't she about to get married? I mustn't let my thoughts wander...
Arthur bowed respectfully and replied, "I will do my best. Please rest assured, Princess."
At that moment, Luna Victor, the eldest son of the Moonlight Empire and another team leader, stepped forward, draped his arm around Arthur, and said,
"Princess, don't bully our young Sterling. He's shy."
As soon as he said this, everyone burst into laughter. The atmosphere instantly became much more relaxed.
Arthur Sterling felt elated beyond words.
"I didn't expect this! My time has come! To be able to laugh and chat with a group of royal heirs—this is something I can boast about for a lifetime."
However, the conversation didn't last long, as General Brightblade approached and announced:
"Everything is ready. You may depart now."