Translator: Fate Translation Checker: Silavin Gu Changge no longer had his eyes on the Prosperous Dao True World as he started to contemplate the numerous plans ahead. The entire Boundless Expanse was now his primary goal, as it would provide him with greater possibilities and a higher chance of victory. He noticed that the Will of Heaven had once left a cut on all creatures in the Boundless Expanse, causing many to forget the true reason for the Great War Against Heaven. This led Gu Changge to speculate whether the other two beings from the Source Realm were also plotting something. Being ambitious, Gu Changge knew that the other two might not peacefully coexist with him and would want to find a way to deal with him. However, considering the past and future, the Source True Ancestors only paid attention to those on the same level as themselves. The three Source True Ancestors were the ultimate source of all things, the only ones that could exist in the realm of concepts. They served as checks and balances to one another. Even for the Boundless Expanse and the mysterious Source Realm, among the three Supreme Ancestors, only one would appear in each era, and only one would be responsible for upholding the laws of the respective Forces. Gu Changge understood that he should not underestimate them in any way. Every step he took had to be precisely calculated, leaving no room for mistakes or oversights. As equals, he understood the incomprehensible and immeasurable nature of those who had attained this realm. It surpassed all imagination and thinking in the world. “Young Master Gu, our ancient warship is nearing the border of the Civilisation you mentioned. Shall we get closer? I suspect the other party has noticed us and is trying to contact the Civilisation supporting them.” A voice suddenly pulled Gu Changge out of his thoughts. He refocused his attention and allowed the person to enter. The Spirit Empress looked gorgeous in her floor-length gown, and was emitting a captivating fragrance. She came in with graceful steps and immediately made her report to Gu Changge. The Spirit Ruin Royal Family had been tracking the ancient warship based on the coordinates provided by Gu Changge. The army had been assembled and was awaiting Gu Changge’s command to capture the unknown Civilisation on the other side. Wan Yanxiu and the others were anxious and apprehensive, unsure of what level of Civilisation they were about to face. Yet, they were also filled with anticipation. Gu Changge had never revealed the true nature of the Immortal Spirit Civilisation to them. Similarly, he had never investigated its strength. The Spirit Ruin Royal Family pursued the Civilisation simply because they did not perceive it as a threat worthy of Gu Changge’s attention. “We’re already that close?” Gu Changge had been closely monitoring the affairs of The Prosperous Dao True World and had neglected the Immortal Spirit Civilisation. The Spirit Empress nodded and said. “The Ancestors have sensed a strange power in the surrounding universe that seems to be permeating every corner of space. The creatures of this Civilisation may have a unique way of existing. They are not like ordinary beings that rely on physical bodies to survive.” As Dao Realm experts, they were as good as dead if they could not even discern such things. There were countless Civilisations in the Boundless Expanse. Some of these Civilisations had peculiar characteristics, vastly different from creatures that primarily rely on physical bodies. The Spirit Empress was aware of this, so this discovery was not a surprise for her. However, a deeper understanding was necessary in order to deal with such a unique Civilisation. Rushing into battle without proper knowledge could result in significant losses. Therefore, the Ancestors suggested that they investigate thoroughly first before deciding on a course of action, in order to avoid unnecessary sacrifices. However, they dared not express these thoughts to Gu Changge directly, so they had to rely on Spirit Empress to convey their message. The Spirit Empress cautiously asked, “Young Master Gu, shall we thoroughly investigate this Civilisation before discussing our attack strategy? Otherwise, I fear that we may suffer great losses and end up wasting precious time and energy.” “I understand. This matter should not be rushed, but I have been planning for a long time. Just follow my orders.” Gu Changge nodded nonchalantly. The Immortal Spirit Civilisation’s way of living was indeed somewhat unique. By combining certain aspects of the Immortal Dao Civilisation and using them as a foundation, the Immortal Spirit Civilisation developed its own distinct characteristics. Those from this Civilisation focused on cultivating their Soul and had forsaken their physical bodies, considering them as useless vessels. They believed that the Soul was supreme and was motivated to continue delving deeper into its secrets. They channelled their Spiritual Energy into various substances, whether living or inanimate, such as clouds, flames, ribbons, dust particles, flowers, and grass… As long as their Spiritual Energy existed, they would never perish and become truly Immortal. This concept bore a resemblance to the Primordial Spirit Technique of the Immortal Dao Civilisation, and could be perceived as an alternative form of body possession. In a world where the Dao reigned supreme, diverse paths could lead to the same ultimate goal, resulting in inevitable similarities. If one were to treat the beings of the Immortal Spirit Civilisation like the Primordial Spirits from the Immortal Dao Civilisation, they would undoubtedly suffer significant losses. Of course, with sufficient strength, one could effortlessly annihilate both groups with a mere thought, rendering such concerns inconsequential. After the Spirit Empress left, she gathered numerous Immortals as instructed by Gu Changge. Among those waiting respectfully outside the grand hall, many were Immortal King. A message was then promptly dispatched to inform Chu Lian of his upcoming trial mission, urging him to prepare himself and the other younger generations accordingly. As an ‘honorary guest’ specially recruited by Gu Changge in the Luminary Assemblage, Chu Lian had certain tasks to fulfil for him. Being ever cautious, Chu Lian harboured concerns about the potential consequences of the Spirit Ruin Royal Family’s recruitment of an army. To safeguard himself, Chu Lian arrived at the frontlines ahead of schedule and integrated himself with a group of young individuals of noble backgrounds. This strategic move allowed him to seek refuge with the formidable frontline experts in times of crisis. As Chu Lian pondered the purpose of Young Master Gu’s mission that warranted a messenger specifically dispatched by the Spirit Empress to deliver the news to him, he overheard the conversation of his nearby companions. Unable to resist his curiosity, he strained his ears to listen intently. “Have you all heard the news? It seems that something major is about to happen… The Elders of my Family even went out of their way to summon me.” A young woman started the conversation curiously. “Yes, same for me. It appears to be a matter of great importance. My Family has warned me to be cautious.” “Even my Grandfather suddenly told me that the Spirit Ruin Royal Family has entrusted us with an important mission that apparently only the younger generation, like us, who are not highly skilled in cultivation, can handle.” “We will be able to gain immense benefits after accomplishing this mission. Even our Grandfathers will be generously rewarded. That’s why my Grandfather gave me several precious artifacts.” The conversation continued, with the voices deliberately kept low within Chu Lian’s hearing range. “An important mission that only the younger generation can handle?” Chu Lian was stunned. He had come to the front lines not only to save his life but also to seek opportunities to enhance his strength steadily. The thought of risking his life for such perilous missions, especially those ordered by the Spirit Ruin Royal Family, was something he vehemently opposed. However, Chu Lian could not ignore the fact that he had also received a mission from ‘Young Master Gu’ that was exactly identical to the one being discussed by these youngsters. Moreover, it was personally delivered by the Spirit Empress herself, whom he had not seen in a long while. The expression on his face immediately soured. “So I have to venture into that unknown Civilisation to investigate it with several Immortals…? Engaging in such an endeavour requires utmost caution, as a single misstep could lead to my demise…” “Do you think that my current strength is capable of investigating a Civilisation that is as powerful as the Spirit Ruin Royal Family? You have arranged such a perilous task for me, a mission that could be described as a certain death. I should have known that Young Master Gu wouldn’t provide me with such abundant resources without an ulterior motive. So, this is the reason…” Chu Lian’s face instantly darkened as his mood turned very gloomy. “Young Master Gu is aware of the dangers involved in this journey, which is why he has prepared a few protective Artifacts for you. Of course, you can also bring up any specific requests you may have in mind. Young Master Gu has assured us that he will do his best to meet your requirements.” Spirit Empress smiled, motioning for her maid to present several Artifacts radiating with ethereal light and veiled in mist. Chu Lian stared at the Spirit Empress, whom he had not seen in a long time, but all his nostalgic thoughts immediately faded away. He knew that he had no choice but to accept the mission now. After signing the so-called contract with Gu Changge, he was obligated to the terms outlined within it. After all, the rewards and cultivation resources he received were not easily obtained, and this particular mission did not compromise on his personal morality. After handing over the few Artifacts, the Spirit Empress departed. Anger and resentment built up in Chu Lian’s heart, but he had no outlet for his emotions. Bang!!! He slammed his fist down onto the stone table before him. The impact caused it to shatter into countless pieces with a resounding crack. The fragments dispersed into the air, turning into fine dust that scattered across the sky. “I can’t believe he’s actually sending me to my death even though I have never offended him…” Chu Lian could not help but curse under his breath, venting his frustration. At this point in time, he had no choice but to accept this mission despite his unwillingness. [This is definitely a difficult mission for you, but these Artifacts are truly remarkable. They’re capable of withstanding attacks from even Immortal Kings. Young Master Gu probably only wants to test you instead of sending you to your death. Besides, I am here to guide you. Although this mission is troublesome and dangerous, it’s not enough to kill you. Why are you acting so useless and unreliable?] Witnessing this scene with its own eyes, the Sphere of Ambition could not help but ponder in secret. It could understand Chu Lian’s emotions to some extent. After all, with its assistance, Chu Lian would be able to steadily improve his strength without taking any risks. Now that he was suddenly being thrust into a life-or-death situation, with the possibility of death looming over him, it was understandable that Chu Lian would struggle to accept it. Chu Lian had only attained his current strength by relying heavily on the Sphere of Ambition, but he had forgotten that the sphere could only play a supporting role. In critical moments, he still had to rely on himself. [Truly powerful experts are forged through a series of life-and-death trials, where their strength is tested and honed… After his status of being a Variable faded away, his performance pales in comparison to that of my previous hosts…] The Artifact Spirit residing within the Sphere of Ambtion possessed its own consciousness and emotions, surpassing the wisdom of ordinary average cultivators. It been closely observing Chu Lian’s progress thus far. Initially, it held lofty expectations for Chu Lian, believing that he had met a benefactor that would bless him with immense Fortuity and help him achieve the fame that transcended the Spirit Ruin Civilisation. Unfortunately, the current circumstances prove to be disheartening. [Compared to true Variables, he indeed has many flaws. This host lacks the trials and tribulations that should have shaped him, and his path has been too smooth and effortless. Could it be that his previous status as a Variable was merely a fleeting illusion?] The Artifact Spirit within the Sphere of Ambition could not help but contemplate this possibility, unable to find peace within itself. It saw Chu Lian as its last ray of hope, but it was uncertain whether or not Chu Lian could repair the Sphere of Ambition in the future. However, at the very least, Chu Lian must grow into a resilient individual in his own right. Yet, observing the current situation, Chu Lian appeared to be fearful of confronting even the slightest crisis or adversity. If he stopped growing, the future of the Sphere of Ambition would be doomed as their fates were intertwined. After venting his frustration, Chu Lian regained his composure and understood that he had no choice but to accept his circumstances. The most important thing now was to survive this mission. Completing the mission was not his priority as nothing was more important than preserving his own life. The Boundless Expanse held countless Civilisations, and in turn, lives. There were naturally also numerous adventures and perils. Beyond the Spacetime territory of the Immortal Spirit Civilisation lay a natural protective barrier, resembling a thick fog that spanned in all directions. Upon closer inspection, one would notice magnificent nebula-like substances within the barrier, containing remnants of universes that exuded a deathly aura capable of corroding all life. Meanwhile, the ancient warship of the Immortal Spirit Civilisation rapidly approached this Spacetime territory after escaping from the Prosperous Dao True World. Unlike the arduous search for ‘prey’ in the Boundless Expanse, returning to their own Civilisation proved to be a swift journey. Once the coordinates had been established, a special method could be employed to open the fastest Spacetime passageway, allowing for a speedy return. Inside the ancient warship, Zhou You was still trembling with fear. Along with several of her other Clansmen with strength parallel to the Dao Realm. They closely monitored the crystal wall before them. They had already communicated news of their devastating defeat to their fellow Clansmen in the Immortal Spirit Civilisation. All they needed to do now was to make it through this deadly barrier and return to their territory. There, they would soon be greeted by their comrades. Beside Zhou You, another Clan member, whose eyes were still filled with shock and fear, remarked, “It seems like that the unfathomable and terrifying man had stopped pursuing us. We are finally safe now…”