Chapter 990: Trying to Steal a Chicken but Losing the Rice

Chapter 990: A Self-Defeating Gambit

Having reached an accord regarding the Modo civilization, the two continued to discuss official matters concerning the exploration of the Shining World for a while, before their conversation gradually drifted into casual banter.

"Lately, the Imperial Academy of Sciences has been studying spacetime shearing technology. A few old friends of mine there informed me that it will open a new frontier in spacetime theory, capable of yielding formidable applied technologies. It will grant us a fresh trump card in the realm of spacetime, and I owe that to you."

Tarlovkov took a sip of tea and remarked casually.

"A fine development, though even without my involvement, the Empire would have undoubtedly captured this technology." Han Xiao lowered his gaze, his fingers idly tracing the rim of his cup. As he watched the vessel pass through the translucent hand of the remote projection, he cast a helpless glance at Old Tower, who was sipping his drink.

Sensing Han Xiao's look, Tarlovkov set down his teacup, cleared his throat, and said:

"The Radiant Federation possesses strategic-grade advancements in spacetime, such as the High-Dimensional Apocalypse Teleporter, whereas our Empire's research in this domain has lagged behind. The spacetime shearing technology we have acquired, given time, may well become another hallmark achievement of the Empire... Hence, strict adherence to confidentiality protocols is unavoidable."

"I understand. This technology will not leak from my end." Han Xiao gave a soft hum of acknowledgment.

In his past life, the Empire had held a monopoly on spacetime shearing technology. Now that he had pilfered it and mastered it himself, the Empire could no longer maintain its exclusive grip. They could only swallow their pride and accept the reality, merely insisting that Han Xiao keep the secrets under wraps.

During this period, Han Xiao's rank and attributes had not surged dramatically, yet he had acquired numerous potent abilities and specializations. Should the Mechanist Nation stage a comeback and attempt to breach his database as they had before, he would no longer fear it. He would not repeat past mistakes, allowing them to plunder a trove of intelligence once more.

Tarlovkov suddenly recalled something and chuckled. "Come to think of it, spacetime shearing technology is actually the greatest treasure of the Kundu, this indigenous civilization. The Modo civilization was ahead of us, yet in their attempt to use others as pawns, they missed out on the technology entirely. To this day, they remain in the dark, utterly unaware of what they have forfeited."

"If the Modo civilization realized their scheme not only backfired on themselves but also gifted the Empire a colossal fortune, they would likely be filled with profound regret."

Amused by the Modo civilization's self-defeating maneuver, both men shared a laugh, their spirits lightened.

After a moment of mirth, Tarlovkov shifted the subject, his tone suddenly turning serious. "Given my position, broaching the following topic with you may seem improper, yet I still wish to ask... have you made any arrangements regarding marriage?"

Han Xiao's expression suddenly grew peculiar.

What, are you trying to play matchmaker?

Given our respective standings, it hardly seems appropriate for you to ask me such a personal question so directly.

Tarlovkov's face also showed a hint of awkwardness, but he pressed on. "The Empire values the alliance with you and pays close attention to your personal life as well. You may not be aware, but you are quite popular among the circles of high-ranking imperial families. Many daughters of the elite are eager to make your acquaintance."

Observing his resigned demeanor, Han Xiao's mind quickly pieced things together, and understanding dawned upon him.

Cosmic-tier civilizations typically refrain from interfering in the private lives of Super-A rank beings. However, the Black Star Legion and the Crimson Empire were currently in a honeymoon phase of cooperation. The potential Black Star had displayed had already sparked immense expectations among countless elites. Coupled with Han Xiao's status as a perennial bachelor, notions of political marriage had begun to circulate, though coercion was out of the question.

The Empire lacked a royal system, yet marriage alliances remained a timeless instrument of political consolidation. Certain high-ranking nobles harbored such ideas, while others welcomed the prospect. A marital bond could fundamentally transform the ties between Black Star and the Empire, thereby easing the handling of the Evolution Cube. Should Black Star continue to safeguard the Cube after such a union, even the more oppositional elites would find it easier to accept.

On another front, cosmic-tier civilizations have always placed great importance on Super-A rank lineages, the very cradle of transcendent beings. The Empire also hoped Han Xiao would soon sire offspring and establish his own Super-A clan...

In simple terms, it was nothing but pressure to settle down.

This notion of marriage was likely not Ulranriel's direct decree. More probably, numerous high-ranking nobles had approached Old Tower, asking him to convey their message, hoping to offer their daughters to him... Han Xiao muttered to himself.

Seeing Han Xiao's silence, Tarlovkov braced himself and continued, "If your schedule permits, you might consider attending more banquets hosted by the imperial elite. Many children of high officials are eager to meet you."

Just eager to meet me?

They probably just want to sleep with me!

Hmph, a young man must guard himself when venturing out into the world. I certainly will not give you such an opportunity.

"Let's discuss such matters another time." Han Xiao deflected with a light laugh, steering the conversation elsewhere. "Are there any other recent developments within the Empire?"

"Let me think..." Tarlovkov pondered for a moment. "Ah, yes. One of the Super-A rank members of the Void Spirit Sect has not made a public appearance for quite some time. It is rather unusual."

"Who is it?" Han Xiao had not been following matters in that sphere recently.

"Niga. You remember him, do you not? He was among those who assaulted Lighthouse Star. He was the sole survivor who managed to flee back with the Scepter of Ten Thousand Gods."

"Oh, him." Han Xiao's memory stirred. That entire group of Super-A rank beings had been largely sealed within amber, with Niga being the only one to escape unscathed.

"Over these years, Niga has never appeared in public. The Void Spirit Sect claims he has been recuperating, yet as time drags on, the situation grows increasingly suspicious. Even if he were resting, there is no justification for a decade-long absence. There is likely a hidden truth behind this..."

"The Void Spirit Sect is lying?" Han Xiao raised an eyebrow.

"Indeed. I suspect Niga has likely gone missing, or perhaps even perished. From this perspective, I believe he may not have returned to the Void Spirit Sect with the Scepter of Ten Thousand Gods. Someone likely ambushed and killed him." Old Tower's tone grew grave.

"You mean... the Scepter of Ten Thousand Gods is not actually in the possession of the Void Spirit Sect, but they are putting on a facade, pretending they still hold it?"

Han Xiao stroked his chin. "That makes sense. Over these years, I have gradually unsealed those Super-A rank members of the Void Spirit Sect, yet they have repeatedly delayed applying to unseal the Scepter of Ten Thousand Gods. They claim to believe the Empire would never consent, but upon closer reflection, that excuse is highly suspicious."

"Precisely." Tarlovkov shook his head. "However, it matters little who holds the Scepter of Ten Thousand Gods. Without your assistance, no one can wield it, and thus it poses no threat to us."

"Hmm..." Han Xiao's eyes flickered with thought as he mused, "In that case, the Empire would stand as the sole capable wielder. Perhaps there is a chance to trade for the Scepter of Ten Thousand Gods from whoever holds it. That way, one of the Void Spirit Sect's trump cards would become our own weapon."

"It will not be that simple. It ultimately depends on the will of the high command." Old Tower remained pessimistic.

After conversing for a while, Tarlovkov mentioned he had a regular meeting to attend, so Han Xiao did not keep him further.

Dissolving the remote projection, his vision returned to his own quarters. Reflecting on their recent conversation, Han Xiao murmured to himself:

"Retaliation against the Modo civilization will have to wait until the fourth phase of exploration. Before the 4.0 era commences, I should make as many preparations as possible."

With that, Han Xiao accessed Philip's database to review the current scale of the Black Star Legion's influence.

Through years of development, the Black Star Legion had firmly secured its position as the dominant force in the Shattered Star Ring. Though it had faced certain challenges, as long as he remained, its standing would not be easily shaken. Meanwhile, in the Shining World, the Legion had established a territorial foundation, promising vast room for future expansion.

In other star domains, the Black Star Legion had established branches to varying degrees, yet their scale could not compare with that of the Shattered Star Ring and the Shining World. Its primary power remained entrenched within these two regions.

Now that the second phase of exploration had returned to normal, and the third phase, despite an influx of new personnel, lacked obstacles like the Kundu race, the entire cosmos would enjoy over a decade of stable development. It would not be until the opening of the fourth phase that things would stir once more.

"During this interval, the Legion will have ample time to undertake construction in the Shining World, gradually perfecting every aspect of its territories. The mechanical civilization and the Black Spirit race will also experience substantial growth, and the same applies to the transformation of the Kundu race."

Han Xiao pondered silently. These were all crucial assets for the Legion's advancement into the next stage.

He naturally began to catalog the sources of external pressure he currently faced.

The Mechanist Nation required no explanation; their conflicting interests were irreconcilable. The Infinite Consortium continued to aggressively vie for market share and showed no signs of relenting. Regarding the Evolution Totem, the Empire bore the brunt of the pressure, yet his own situation was far from easy, with potential variables still lurking. The World Tree coordinates remained a ticking time bomb, capable of upending the entire cosmos at any moment.

"Now with the Modo civilization added to the list, there are truly a great many matters to address."

Han Xiao shook his head and exhaled slowly.

The enemies were numerous and immensely powerful. To contend with them, both factional strength and personal prowess were indispensable.

"Once the players return, my combat prowess will surge rapidly once more, allowing me to handle these issues with greater certainty." Han Xiao nodded inwardly. Although his current rate of experience accumulation was not low, it could not compare to the terrifying speed of reaping from the players.

He had no intention of merely waiting idly. With his rank stalled, he planned to use this time to further explore the manufacturing methods of cosmic treasures. An Artificer always found ways to enhance their strength.

For an ordinary Super-A rank being, possessing a single cosmic treasure was already exceptional. Han Xiao held two. The more, the merrier; he would not mind acquiring a third.

"Speaking of the 4.0 version, the next generation of Super-A rank newcomers will also gradually emerge... Heh, before I know it, I've become a veteran."

Han Xiao shook his head with a smile. At this thought, his mind naturally drifted to Hela, who was currently in secluded cultivation.

It had been some time since they last met, and he felt a touch of longing. Ever since leaving that small place known as Ocean Blue Star, their time together had always been scarce.

"By the time the 4.0 version arrives, she should be able to step into the Super-A rank, allowing the Goddess of Death to reappear in the cosmos."

Han Xiao placed great hopes on Hela. Among the current cadre, she was the only one with a genuine chance of reaching the Super-A rank.

Individuals like Hadaway, Rotael, Fodin, and Raki also possessed potential, yet they remained far too distant from the Super-A threshold.

"Perhaps I can devise some means to strengthen the Legion's cadre."

Han Xiao pondered for a moment, then summoned a dossier. It was a legacy of the Otherworldly Deities, containing information regarding Chaotic Arcane Energy.

According to the records, Chaotic Arcane Energy would emerge precisely during the 4.0 version. Although he could not utilize this peculiar ability himself, it did not prevent him from capturing it and gradually seeking a suitable host.

Such opportunities were exceedingly rare, and he had no intention of letting this one slip by.

...

Within the territories of the Crimson Empire, at a transit hub station along the Constellation Corridor.

The strip club was a riot of noise and chaos, the music deafening, yet in a secluded booth in the corner, the atmosphere was entirely the opposite.

Two figures sat across from each other, one cloaked in a hooded trench coat that obscured their features, while the other was an intelligent being covered in warts, resembling an upright toad and wearing a pair of glasses.

"Here is what you wanted," the toad-man said, producing a tiny storage chip and sliding it across the table, his voice low. "The data is all inside. Find a compatible machine to view it yourself."

"Mm," the hooded figure grunted, taking the chip and making a motion to leave.

Just then, the toad-man could not help but call out to him, asking in a deep voice, "I don't understand. I went clean and quit the business years ago, and I severed ties with the intelligence network long ago. There are very few who know my identity. How did you track me down? Who on earth are you?"

The hooded figure's voice was raspy, replying indifferently:

"Don't you think it's redundant to ask for the identity of someone who has concealed their face?"

With that, he strode away from the site of the transaction, weaving through the hub station before quietly boarding an interstellar flight to put distance between them.

Inside the ship's cabin, he pulled back his hood to reveal a pale face, which belonged to none other than Gaude.

He brought out a device, disconnected it from the network, and inserted the storage chip purchased from that unusual individual; before long, a dossier flickered onto the screen.

After a brief glance, a curve formed at the corner of Gaude's mouth.

"This is it, the intelligence on the Chaos Secret Energy..."

—

ps: Happy Qixi Festival. I originally wanted to take the day off for a date, but then I suddenly remembered I don't have a girlfriend, so I'd better just stay put and type away.