Absolute Destiny Game.

Chapter 602 The Mandate of Heaven
"A disciple of an immortal...sigh."

Long Xingtianxia sat in front of his computer, looking at the event introduction on the official website. After a long while, he let out a long, complex sigh. In this sigh, there was a longing for immortal destiny, a sense of helplessness towards reality, and even more so, a hint of melancholy for someone in a high position who could not reach a higher level.

A steady, slightly dragging sound came from behind, accompanied by an aged yet gentle question: "Why does the guild leader sigh?" Without turning around, Long Xingtianxia knew this voice belonged to none other than Hong Fuqi. This once young core member, due to repeatedly using life-sustaining secret techniques at crucial moments, had aged, his appearance resembling that of a man in his fifties or sixties, and his voice carrying the hoarseness of age.

"I'm just lamenting that this destiny with immortals... came a little too late." Long Xing Tianxia didn't turn around; his gaze remained fixed on the gleaming words "Disciple of Immortals" on the screen.

With the Dragon Soaring Kingdom's current power, having conquered three states and enjoying its zenith, along with its vast guild resources and elite legions, if Dragon Soaring Across the World were to personally intervene, it would be an almost effortless task for him to break into the top ten of the [Salvation Merit] list. No one can match the merit bonus he receives from commanding national wars and allocating resources.

It's not impossible for them to even take first place.

Unfortunately, he is now over level 40 and has successfully advanced to the unique hidden class – [Heavenly King]. This class was unlocked by the system after he, as the ruler of the Dragon Soaring Kingdom, conquered the three states of Beiming, Fengyin, and Longhua. He possesses powerful ruling skills such as [Illustrious Royal Decree] (significantly boosting the morale and attributes of his NPC armies) and [Eternal Territory] (accelerating resource production and popular support in occupied territories). His core talent, [Heavenly Mandate], is legendary – protected by a divine mandate, it greatly weakens curses, misfortunes, and instant-death effects, and even draws upon a sliver of national fortune in dire situations, making it one of the strongest survival and leadership talents in the current version.

However powerful this "Heavenly King" may be, he still pales in comparison to the legendary immortals who roam freely across the world, enjoy longevity, and wield the power of laws. It's a difference in the level of life and the essence of power.

More importantly, in the view of Long Xing Tianxia and his think tank, the door to the path of immortality is practically closed to him. This conclusion stems from the in-depth research conducted by the Longxiang Guild's professional analysis team on the only known immortal—"Yinyue Suifeng."

As the first and currently only player in the game to explicitly display an immortal-like demeanor, Xiao Jie's game journey has been thoroughly dissected by Longxiang's professional team. They meticulously analyzed Xiao Jie's class advancement at each stage: level 10 Beast Tamer, level 20 Ancient Qi Refiner, level 30 Demon Refiner... This clear class roadmap makes it easy to draw conclusions.

So, at level 40, you'll naturally become a celestial being—the Myriad Transformations Immortal.

The analysis report stated: "Clearly, to achieve immortality, one not only needs fortuitous opportunities but also must pass through a series of specific and rare prerequisite profession advancements. Among these, 'Beast Tamer' may not be an absolutely necessary prerequisite, but 'Ancient Qi Refiner' and 'Demon Refiner' are clearly closely related to the Taoist tradition of cultivating Qi and controlling spiritual beings."

Therefore, the expert team reached a key conclusion: the lower the level, the greater the possibility of changing to the Immortal path. Players need to retain at least two opportunities for class advancement in order to have a chance to reach the Immortal realm on the third advancement.

Given that the current level cap in the game is 50, players above level 40, having missed the crucial third advancement opportunity, are absolutely unable to become immortals. The optimal window of opportunity is actually below level 30.

Hong Fuqitian walked to Long Xingtianxia's side, looking at the content on the screen, a calm smile on his face as if he had seen through the ways of the world: "Why sigh, Guild Master? As the saying goes, what is lost on one front is gained on another. Guild Master has obtained this unique [Heavenly Mandate Monarch] profession, with the protection of Heaven, ruling over three states, and in the future, even having the potential to unify the nine states and achieve the hegemony of the human king. This is already the pinnacle that all players in the game yearn for. One should not be too greedy." He paused, his tone carrying an "elderly" demeanor consistent with his appearance, "Young man, listen to my advice, as the saying goes, 'The moon wanes when it is full, and water overflows when it is full.' Only those who are content can be truly happy."

Long Xingtianxia was amused by his old-fashioned words, thinking to himself, "You're only in your twenties, why are you pretending to be an old man in front of me?" However, when he turned around and saw Hong Fuqitian's face, which was covered with fine wrinkles but whose eyes were full of wisdom and vicissitudes, the teasing words that were on the tip of his tongue suddenly stopped.

He clearly remembered that in that decisive national war, the Dragon Soaring Kingdom was able to overwhelmingly suppress its arch-rival, the Sun Heaven Kingdom, ultimately forcing the Supreme Emperor to surrender. Hong Fu Qi Tian played a crucial role in this victory. Several key battles, when the tide had turned and the outcome was uncertain, were won thanks to Hong Fu Qi Tian's willingness to sacrifice his life to unleash powerful divine abilities. His current aged appearance was a testament to his illustrious achievements.

Long Xing Tianxia took a deep breath, suppressing the complex emotions in his heart, and solemnly said, "Afu, this time, our Longxiang Guild will do everything in our power to help you secure a spot as a disciple of the immortals!"

Hong Fuqitian seemed unsurprised by the decision, nodding slightly. Perhaps due to premature aging, although his actual age hadn't increased, his mindset already possessed the composure and steadiness of an old man. "In that case, thank you very much, Chairman. However, with the current strength and resources of my Dragon Soaring Kingdom, it would be a waste to only protect one person. In my opinion, we should occupy two or three seats in the top ten to demonstrate the grandeur of Dragon Soaring and to reserve more high-end combat power for the future."

"Then who do you think would be suitable besides you?" Long Xingtianxia asked, knowing that Hong Fuqitian had extremely strong analytical abilities.

“The selection of candidates must be done carefully,” Hong Fuqitian pondered. “The primary consideration is their potential to become immortals in the future. Therefore, members above level 40 will not be considered, as their class system is already fixed and their potential is limited. Secondly, it is best if they come from a magic-based class. Based on the analysis of the ‘Hidden Moon Follows the Wind’ path, the path of immortality seems to lean more towards Qi cultivation and magic control. Physical classes, even if they are lucky enough to receive guidance from an immortal, will probably find it difficult to reach the true core of the path of immortality; at most, they will only enhance their combat power.”

“That’s true.” Long Xing Tian Xia nodded slightly, Hong Fu Qi Tian’s analysis coincided with the team’s conclusion. “In that case, the candidates can only be chosen from the few level 20 or 30 ‘True Person’ and ‘Celestial Master’ professions in the guild. To be on the safe side, it’s more appropriate to concentrate resources on promoting three people. If there are more, the resources will be scattered, and we might not be able to protect any of them.”

Large guilds already have a mature and efficient operating model for efficiently "farming" personal merits during large-scale events. Although [Salvation Merit] is nominally calculated on an individual basis, a behemoth like Dragon Soar naturally has ways to transform it into a collective action.

Since killing powerful elite monsters, especially boss-level monsters, can grant a lot of merit points, it's very simple—the guild organizes an elite team to reduce the powerful target to low health, and then the top candidate delivers the final blow, so the merit points naturally go to the target.

Similarly, in the mission to reclaim lost territory, players who complete the final "flag planting" ceremony will also receive a huge amount of merit points, and this spot can also be allocated to specific individuals. As long as the guild's resources are mobilized and allocated accordingly, cultivating several top-ranking individuals on the merit list is not difficult.

And Long Xiang's family is clearly not the only one with similar ideas, intending to get a share of this grand feast of immortal destiny.

------

"Boss, are you really going to personally go and compete for this immortal disciple?" Feng Lin Huo Shan looked at the Supreme Emperor, who was rubbing his hands together in surprise.

"Of course!" The Supreme Emperor raised his chin, his face filled with his usual confidence and arrogance. "Who said that you can't participate if you're a higher level? With my powerful strength that allows me to transform into a divine dragon, reaping merits on the battlefield is a piece of cake for me. How many claws can those little monsters and elites withstand from me?"

"But...didn't the guild's analysis say that it's impossible to become an immortal above level 40? Even if you become an immortal's disciple, I'm afraid..." Fenglinhuoshan reminded him.

"Hmph, so what if we don't become immortals?" The Supreme Emperor waved his hand dismissively. "Being a disciple of an immortal means you'll learn powerful skills and improve your strength. Besides, how do we know it won't work if we don't try? What if some special opportunity comes our way? Don't forget, we're currently 'guest generals' in Dragon Soaring. Although our status seems high, we're ultimately at a disadvantage in terms of core resource allocation. When it comes to opportunities that determine a leap in personal strength, we naturally prioritize our own interests."

I think Feng Lin, you could also give it a shot! You're a 'Great Five Elements Sorcerer,' a purebred magic-based class with immense potential. Maybe you can use this opportunity to advance another level and even touch the edge of immortality!

------

Jiuding Mountain - Falling Star Cliff:

The twelve core members (or their projections) of the mysterious organization "Pantheon" once again gathered on that enigmatic jade disc.

"Everyone, the opportunity for immortality has appeared, right before our eyes! In my opinion, we must concentrate all our resources this time and work together to help one or two people break into the top ten. Only in this way can we ensure that our Pantheon can occupy a place at the starting point of the immortal path!" A projection with a loud voice spoke first.

"Hmph, what high-sounding words you make!" someone immediately mocked. "You wouldn't be trying to recommend yourself or your cronies to be the lucky one who gets all the resources to be nurtured, would you?"

"If you ask me, everyone should rely on their own abilities. I, for one, have no interest in helping others become immortals..."

"Damn, even at a time like this, you're still so selfish? Don't you have any team spirit?"

"Hahahaha, that's hilarious. When has our Pantheon ever had any team spirit? Last time we went to Man Yue Prefecture to farm Teng Snakes, who was it that took the loot and ran away?"

A cacophony of arguments erupted on the jade plate. Some advocated allocating opportunities based on contribution, others proposed internal competitions, and still others believed priority should be given to cultivating members with special talents or those possessing key items. Representatives from various factions argued vehemently, citing classical texts and attacking each other, creating a chaotic scene. Everyone wanted to seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity; after all, the allure of immortality was too great, and no one was willing to give up easily. After a heated but fruitless argument, the Divine Calculator Heavenly Demon, observing these self-serving and unyielding "comrades," couldn't help but shake his head inwardly. 'How difficult it is to conspire with such short-sighted individuals who only know how to fight for power!' he sighed inwardly. It seemed that this time, the organization was unreliable; he could only rely on himself and his direct subordinates to take a gamble.

"The opportunity for immortality has appeared, and the struggle for the Great Dao has begun! It's time to unleash our full power and hold nothing back." A resolute glint flashed in the eyes of the Divine Calculator Demon.

--------

In the real world, inside Xiao Jie's apartment.

"Are you sure you don't want to participate in this event?" Xiao Jie stood in front of the game pod and asked Gu Feiyu one last time.

Gu Feiyu nodded, his eyes clear and firm: "That's right, I'm absolutely certain. Becoming a 'disciple of an immortal' may seem tempting, but based on my research and deductions over this period of time, it may not be a true 'destiny for immortality'."

He picked up a diary filled with notes from the table and explained, "Becoming a disciple of an immortal certainly grants powerful skills and guidance from the immortal, greatly helping to rapidly improve combat strength. However, it may not be very helpful for the ultimate goal of 'becoming an immortal,' and could even be a hindrance. It's more like a pre-planned path to becoming a 'powerful follower,' rather than a path to becoming an 'immortal.'"

A confident smile spread across his face: "In comparison, my own 'Immortal Seeking Plan' has made a breakthrough. By consulting numerous ancient texts in the game and cross-referencing legendary locations within the game, I have successfully identified seven hidden maps with a very high probability of containing genuine ancient immortal relics or legacies. Right now, almost all players are drawn to Canglin Prefecture by the event; those places are sparsely populated, making it the perfect opportunity for me to explore them alone and seek a unique immortal destiny!"

Gu Feiyu was clearly very confident in his deduction, his tone filled with excitement and anticipation for exploring the new map.

Seeing his serious expression, Xiao Jie knew that persuasion was useless, so he could only nod and say, "Alright, since you've made up your mind, then—I wish you success in finding your own destiny in the immortal realm."

He felt a little regretful. With his immortal power, it would have been incredibly easy for Gu Feiyu to take over an immortal disciple if he wanted to.

However, everyone has their own aspirations, so there's no need to force it.

Moreover, what Gu Feiyu said was not without reason. The three immortals selected those who returned home with the intention of cultivating powerful warriors, not to teach them the way to immortality. To become an immortal, one can only rely on one's own opportunities. Hao Mie, Xia Yi Wushuang, Wen Tian Wuji and the other nine people are reincarnated people, so they have four opportunities to advance. Moreover, they have their own influence and can be taught some immortal inheritances, so they still have a certain possibility of becoming immortals.

Most players would need to be at least level 30 to achieve a ranking. As a nominal disciple, even with guidance from an immortal, one could at most acquire some powerful skills and advance to a legendary class. The chance of becoming an immortal seemed rather slim.

"Thanks, Brother Jie! Wait for my good news!" Gu Feiyu said, turning around and going into his room.

Xiao Jie watched him leave, then turned around and lay down in the game pod.

"The great battle is coming." As the hatch closed, he murmured to himself, his consciousness quickly sinking into that magnificent world of immortals and heroes.

……

Outside Ginkgo Village in the game.

The autumn air was crisp and clear, and the game's weather system seemed to sense the difference today. The sky was a clear blue, the sun was shining warmly, and a gentle breeze rustled through the bamboo forest, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere that contrasted sharply with the impending bloody battle.

Xiao Jie arrived at the familiar bamboo grove clearing outside the village, where the three immortals, Lin Xuance, Wu Qingyue, and Su Zhiqing, were already waiting. The nine "Returning Home" disciples—Hao Mie, Wentian Wuji, Jiu Jianxian, Deidara, and others—were also fully armed, spirited, and ready for battle.

Although the nine of them had already been accepted as disciples by the immortal and were considered pre-selected, they naturally couldn't miss such a large-scale event affecting the entire server. Firstly, they could apply what they had learned in the past few days of intensive training to real combat, verifying their knowledge in battle, learning on the spot, and receiving guidance from the immortal master at any time; secondly, this was also an excellent opportunity to fight monsters, level up, and acquire valuable equipment and materials, which could quickly improve their strength.

"Fellow Daoist Suifeng, please come this way." Lin Xuance smiled and pointed to the center of the open space.

On the once flat open ground, a deep and tranquil pool, about three zhang square, had appeared out of nowhere. The water was as black as ink, bottomless, and its surface was as smooth as a mirror, without the slightest ripple.

"What is this?" Xiao Jie asked, somewhat curious.

Miaofa Yuanjun Su Zhiqing explained softly, "This is the 'Mysterious Light Reflecting Pool,' a viewing medium I created using the Water Mirror Technique combined with spatial supernatural powers. In this decisive battle, we should not act rashly. Those seven demonic masters are, in the end, nothing more than the henchmen and pawns of the Demon Star Tower Master. The true enemy is only the 'Demon Star' itself, hidden in the deepest part."

Therefore, we must preserve our strength and observe the situation. The ordinary demon armies will be dealt with by the Nine Provinces Allied Forces; as for the demon masters, numerous returning cultivators and True Immortals from various provinces will handle them. We will remain here, observing the overall situation, waiting for the moment when the master of the Demon Star Tower is forced to reveal himself, or when another decisive opportunity arises.”

Having said that, Su Zhiqing, the Myriad Dharma Sovereign, gently waved her slender hand. The dark surface of the Xuan Guang Ying Ying Pool rippled like a lake tossed with a pebble, clearly reflecting the advancing image of a massive army. It was none other than the Dragon Soaring Three Provinces Allied Army, personally led by Long Xing Tianxia!

The scene was filled with fluttering banners and gleaming armor. The vast army stretched out like an unstoppable torrent of steel, numbering over 200,000! This included not only the original army of the Dragon Soaring Kingdom, numbering over 100,000, but also nearly 10,000 troops that had been reorganized after the surrender of the former Sun Heaven Kingdom.

As the camera zooms in, Long Xing Tian Xia is clearly seen clad in golden dragon-patterned armor, riding his dragon-blooded steed, galloping confidently through the center of the army. Surrounding him are renowned civil and military officials and valiant generals, most of whom are composed and sharp-eyed NPC commanders. There are also many high-level players, and more notably, several real-life figures, including Qing Feng, Ming Yue, and Long Hua, are also accompanying the army, clearly high-level combatants invited by Long Xing Tian Xia to provide assistance.

As Long Xing led this mighty army across the land, wherever his banners pointed and his troops advanced, he truly possessed the aura of a king who could swallow mountains and rivers and was destined by heaven.

Judging from the map, we should have already reached the border of Canglin Prefecture.

Xiao Jie looked at the image, nodded, and then asked, "However, this pool only contains an image of the main force of the allied forces. How can we observe the vast number of returnees scattered throughout Canglin Prefecture and identify who is more qualified and suitable to be taken under our wing?"

"That's easy." Miaofa Yuanjun smiled and waved her hand again. The image displaying the Allied Forces' main screen in the center of the pool rapidly shrank, eventually stabilizing in the central area, which occupied about a quarter of the pool's surface. Immediately afterward, dozens of smaller ripples appeared on the water's surface around the main screen, like stars scattered across the sky! Each ripple quickly stabilized, transforming into a smaller "screen," displaying real-time images of key battlefields, important strongholds, transportation routes, and even the actions of certain renowned players or teams throughout Canglin Prefecture!
"In this way, even if we sit here peacefully, we can have a panoramic view of the whole situation, and see every detail clearly." Miaofa Yuanjun's tone carried a hint of confidence.

Looking at the celestial artifacts that resembled a large screen in a modern military command center, Xiao Jie couldn't help but admire them: "The Primordial Lord's celestial arts are truly wondrous and meticulous. I admire you greatly!" The preparations were indeed extremely thorough.

“Hehe, Fellow Daoist Suifeng, there’s no need for such flattery,” Lin Xuance interjected. “Let us observe closely and see which outstanding and promising returnees will catch our eye and be accepted into our ranks in this crucial battle that will determine the fate of Canglin Prefecture and the future cause of saving the world.”

The four then sat around the Xuan Guang Ying Ying Pool, their gazes sweeping over the dozens of images of varying sizes reflected in the water. An epic battle that would affect all players on the server was about to unfold before them. And the ten future "Immortal Disciples" would gradually emerge and come into their view during the ensuing bloody battle.

(End of this chapter)