In a place so sacred, her steps grew unsteady.
Miaoshan glanced back and smiled. "Don't be afraid. There are no fixed rules in the temple—simply follow me."
Along the way, she'd already inquired about the desires and future ideals of several goddesses.
The first was Garlott. She'd chosen the Demon Spirit series.
The Demon Spirit hall stood near the northern entrance, its gateway marked by huge fox and snake sculptures—animated art, brimming with charm. Even adorable, really. No wonder even Miaoshan liked to visit this place.
"Remember, the gods will summon all goddesses in three days. Be sure to come back here."
"Yeah, thanks, Sister Miaoshan!" Garlott beamed, nodding enthusiastically before vanishing through the temple gate.
Then Robin, who'd selected the library.
Located west of the Demon Spirit Palace, the library resembled a towering tree. Resting goddesses sat by its entrance. They stood at once on seeing Empress Miao, smiling and greeting her respectfully.
Miaoshan inclined her head slightly in return. "These are Sisters Piaoxu and Xueji, Mingyue, Xuejian..."
Many were visiting the library today, drawn by the chance to absorb vast information about the world and linger here for long study. They could also watch countless battles across infinite worlds—gaining experience, learning new fighting methods. After all, even gods needed to practice on their own.
Guangyueri and Nami left with Miaoshan. Guangyueri whispered, "I feel every goddess here is so beautiful and diligent. No slackers—everyone works hard."
"Haha, you'll get used to it. After all, no one wants to be dragged down, right?" Miaoshan replied with a knowing smile.
Being a salted fish once in a while? Fine.
But a girl who puts in real effort? That's who the gods love.
The few goddesses who had joined only days ago were already commended by three gods for their diligence. Now, everyone was ready to recommend them to higher authorities and request that they be moved to new assignments.
Even salted fish have their moment to rise.
It depends on whether they grasp it correctly. Take Robin, who governed the Law of Flowers. Serve the gods with just a bit more dedication...
She could easily leap past most others in one sweep. After all, her abilities were incredibly special.
In the end, Guangyue Rihe chose the Light System.
And Nami joined the Dark God System, owing to her unique power.
Baguio and Wanwan turned to the new girl.
Baguio slapped his chest confidently. "Sis, your figure looks solid—c'mere, my good sis! I'll help you get stronger! You'll be spoiled in front of the gods soon!"
Nami looked at the two of them and smirked.
Suddenly, a bad feeling washed over him.
Looks like he'd fallen into a den of thieves.
------------
In the Wanjie chat group.
The ascension of the dragon's world had been anticipated by all.
After all, the enemies had been eradicated, and the technological level of the world had advanced greatly.
For Peace posted: "Today, I've finally fulfilled a long-cherished dream. My world is at peace. I'm immersed in the Divine Realm. Even if I die, I'd be happy!"
Ninja Scientist: "Pfft. Disgraceful. By the way, invite me over—I want to compete with you. Let's see who's stronger."
Tanjirou: "Same here. Wanna decide a time?"
Li Er: "Heh, how could I forget something like this, brother."
Contests.
The thing men loved most.
Even Fahai liked challenging others.
Just as everyone was buzzing about it…
Liu Che, silent for so long, suddenly felt whimsical.
Maybe it would be a good idea to let them fight each other—just use some artifacts as prizes.
God of Eternity announced: "Since you're so fond of fighting, there'll be a martial arts tournament in the Divine Domain in three days. The top three receive rewards."
Tosaka University: "Woo… us goddesses can't join, right?"
Junior Brother Dazhufeng: "I really wanna join too, God! Is there any way for us to go?!"
Pursuing Sentient Beings: "This is good. Lao Na hasn't sparred with everyone for a long time. Since the meeting's hosted by the gods themselves, I must perform well."
Courageously: "I really wanna participate…"
The response looked promising.
Liu Che gave a faint smile.
The rules were announced.
God of Eternity: "Don't worry, believers. Everyone can join. Even those without a sacrifice body can participate through meditation. At that time, I'll use my divine power to create one for you.
The format will be a round-robin elimination.
No penalty for losing—one defeat, and you're out. Winner advances.
So goddesses can participate too.
The champion gets a wish, plus an extra Eight-Star Artifact.
Second place receives a month of cultivation in the Source and a Seven-Star Artifact.
Third place gains a Law Comprehension insight and a Six-Star Artifact."
Spirit of the Demon Sword: "Whoaa… the rewards are so generous!!!"
Pursuing Sentient Beings: "A wish... mine... and an Eight-Star Artifact!"
Ordinary Ye Laohei: "Worship the gods, my mother... A wish would be incredible. If I could just achieve god-level strength instantly... but that's just wishful thinking."
He was originally a college student.
Had zero combat experience at all.
Hearing this news now, his heart pounded with excitement.
But honestly? Just participating would be enough.
In contrast, the other priests brimmed with eagerness—especially the 1.5, who lived for battle.
Li Er: "Can't wait to fight you. Don't disappoint me."
General Yuwen: "Hey… don't disappoint me either. My favorite thing? Fighting! This time, I won't rely on curses."
That yin-dual style? So boring.
Pirates of the Caribbean: "Uh… I feel at a disadvantage fighting you. My moves are all about commanding the Undead Fleet—pure offense."
Blond Boy Sam: "Then I'll still control the moon. Rely on my powers—no one can beat me like that!"
They'd both fought because of more people.
Now, it was natural to feel awkward fighting with one arm.
Yet, truth be told, there was no avoiding it.
Everyone had their differences.
Take a goddess like Rin Tosaka.
She spent every day with the gods, with countless goddesses around as sparring partners.
Her progress in strength could only be described as terrifying.
Such privileges weren't available to other priests.
Junior Brother Dazhufeng: "Hey, I don't care about the top three anymore. Just meeting everyone is enough."
Chu Dashan: "Then brother will do his part. Fighting—naturally, I'll win."
Kaoru: "I don't want to fight... but I do want to fight Rin Tosaka!"
Rin Tosaka laughed when she heard it.
Only this kid, still thinking about becoming a demon?
She immediately sent a message in the group.
Tosaka University: "Fine... I'll appeal to the gods—let me fight you in the first round. I need to educate you on what 'inferiority' truly means!"
Spirit of the Demon Sword: "What a coincidence. I've been meaning to fight Ye Laohei."
Pursuing Sentient Beings: "…Thankfully, Lao Na hasn't offended anyone."
Wow. The tournament hasn't even started,
and the battles are already assigned.
Where was the actual competition?
Clearly, this was all to settle existing scores.
But the first-round fight? Honestly, it wasn't important.
You could assign it to anyone.
It was just a warm-up match, after all.
Yet suddenly, the chat room boiled with excitement.
Just as Fahai was about to chat with others, Bai Suzhen descended from the sky with Ao Li and Ao Qian.
"Fahai, come out quickly!"
"My lord... what's the matter?"
"The gods just announced a contest. As a goddess of our world, I naturally want to help temper your skills!"
"Yes, Goddess!!!" Fahai beamed with joy.