Chapter Forty: The Reward for the Devastating Protector's Efforts, the Full Display of the Queen Mother's Authority

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The radiance suddenly dimmed, and a man clad in a yellow robe descended slowly. Five golden dragons were embroidered upon his robe, their five claws gleaming vividly as if alive, ready to soar into the heavens at any moment.

An overwhelmingly powerful aura emanated from him, instilling awe in all who were present. Someone exclaimed in amazement, “Such a formidable presence! This man must have reached the pinnacle of the Cataclysm Realm, no doubt.”

Before anyone could finish speaking, the man appeared with an imperial edict descending from the sky. A majestic voice, resonant like a great bell, thundered across half the city, shaking the very souls of those present.

He slowly unfolded the imperial plaque in his hands and proclaimed the decree: “By the order of the Queen Mother, we bestow the Nine-Dragon Imperial Edict, conferring upon Linglong Holy Maiden ‘Zhao Linger’ the title of Summer Kingdom’s Female War God, ranked first class, commanding the Eight Great Holy Maidens. Accept your mandate.”

The weight and solemnity in his voice were such that the entire world seemed to fall silent in reverence, as if all creation paused to listen to the proclamation.

Merely a casual utterance, yet suddenly an imperial-level figure appeared—name unknown, origin mysterious—bearing an imperial edict of unknown provenance. The grandeur and honor conveyed felt too genuine to be false, leaving the crowd with a sense of having stepped into another realm entirely.

One Holy Maiden, disbelieving, questioned, “Is this… is it my eyes deceiving me? Or am I still half-asleep? Why does this title feel so authentic? Surely this must be a farce?”

Her voice trembled with confusion and incredulity, as if caught between dream and reality.

“Farce? Try me. That is a true imperial-level figure. Look at his posture—he’s even kneeling to Lord Jiang Cheng, carrying an imperial plaque that is clearly a powerful supreme treasure. Its energy must be at least of Heavenly Grade,” another Holy Maiden retorted, her tone filled with certainty and reverence.

What the Holy Maidens spoke of only underscored the lavishness of this reward. Each bore expressions that were difficult to read—some surprised, some envious, some awed, and others struck by an indescribable shock.

This sudden upheaval struck the crowd like a thunderclap, instantly making them realize that Linglong Holy Maiden Zhao Linger had ascended to an unprecedented status.

She had displayed extraordinary prowess in the competition, but beyond that, she had been bestowed with the highest honor and responsibility in this game of power.

The mysterious man in the yellow robe and the Nine-Dragon Imperial Edict became the focal points of discussion. Everyone speculated about the identity of this imperial-level figure and the secrets behind the edict he carried.

Not only the honored recipient but even those present felt a touch of apprehension. Su Ruoxi, who had casually spoken earlier, was dumbfounded—when had she gained such power?

Could it be that the legacy of a past emperor had awakened within her?

As she was lost in thought, the imperial-level figure suddenly rose and approached Linger, saying, “Will you not accept your mandate?”

His tone carried an undeniable authority, urging the Linglong Holy Maiden to complete this final rite.

Before she could respond, a powerful oppressive aura slowly rose like a towering mountain pressing down, forcing all present to bow their heads, unable to meet it directly.

Only Jiang Cheng and Su Ruoxi, seated on the throne, remained unaffected, as if detached from the scene, quietly observing everything unfold.

The Linglong Holy Land also sensed the imposing aura. Only after she knelt to receive the decree did she finally relax and look toward Su Ruoxi, thinking to herself:

“To think that the honorable Linglong Holy Land, which has known many glories, would be gifted such a Heavenly Grade treasure as this imperial plaque. Such generosity is greater than even what our Holy Lord has ever bestowed.”

A faint glimmer of envy flashed in her eyes, deepening her respect for Su Ruoxi.

“Older sister truly has a blessed fate. Her current magic implements probably don’t compare to the value of this imperial plaque. I can’t help but feel a little excited.”

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The Linglong Holy Maiden pondered quietly, her mind swirling with visions of the other treasures Su Ruoxi might possess, and a wave of hope and longing for the future surged within her.

She understood that forging such a deep sisterly bond with Su Ruoxi was a blessing born of misfortune, and that in the land of the Summer Kingdom, she was destined to write her own brilliant chapter.

Just as she glanced toward Jiang Cheng, Su Ruoxi regained her composure. From the initial shock to now hearing the imperial-level figure kneel and say:

“Greetings, Queen Mother. The bestowal is complete. Congratulations on adding a Female War God to the kingdom.”

These words surprised Su Ruoxi and stirred questions in her heart, filling her with eager curiosity about what exactly was happening.

Suddenly, a voice echoed within her mind:

“Madam, what do you think?” Only then did Su Ruoxi realize and turned her head to reply, “This… all of this was done by my husband?” A flicker of disbelief shone in her eyes, and warmth flooded her heart.

Jiang Cheng nodded and smiled gently as he explained:

“Yes. I promised that no woman who becomes mine would suffer insult from others. My honor is your honor, Su Ruoxi. My protectors are your subordinates, Su Ruoxi. How does that sound? Do you approve of these subordinates?”

His voice was tender yet resolute, as if demonstrating his unwavering promise and protection to Su Ruoxi.

Her expression was complex, her mind racing through countless possibilities. She had initially thought it was a relic from her past life as an emperor, but now, feeling a bit embarrassed, she reconsidered.

And yet, this only deepened her reverence for Jiang Cheng.

“I once said I would protect him, but it seems he is stronger than I imagined. A protector at the Cataclysm Realm, willing to serve him, even casually sending him as a bodyguard to others—it’s almost unbelievable. I was unnecessary all along.”

She silently marveled, gaining a new understanding of Jiang Cheng’s strength and methods.

She knew that Jiang Cheng’s actions not only saved her from a predicament but also boldly declared to the world that Su Ruoxi belonged to him, and no one could look down on her.

This domineering care touched Su Ruoxi deeply, filling her with pride. She silently vowed to join hands with Jiang Cheng to create a glorious future together.

As her thoughts drifted, a faint smile appeared on Su Ruoxi’s lips, and she whispered, “It seems my revenge may finally be within reach.” A determined gleam shone in her eyes, as though she glimpsed the dawn of her path to retribution.

Jiang Cheng looked at her puzzled: “Revenge? What revenge, madam? Whoever dares to bully you, I’ll be here. You just focus on being Queen Mother; I’ll handle everything else.” His voice was full of affection and protection, reassuring Su Ruoxi that with him around, she need fear nothing.

Su Ruoxi shook her head and laughed softly: “We haven’t been together long, yet you treat me like a treasure. I used to wonder if you treated your previous loves so coldly, would you do the same to me?” Her words carried a trace of self-mockery and relief, as past doubts dissolved under Jiang Cheng’s gentle care.

Jiang Cheng smirked: “Oh? And now?” He feigned curiosity, his eyes full of fondness.

“Now, I realize you are not the cold person the rumors said you were. It’s them who were blind. In truth, you must be a deeply sentimental man.” Su Ruoxi’s tone was firm; she had seen through Jiang Cheng’s true nature and understood he was not the heartless figure spoken of.

Then she smiled and added, “So now I’ve truly found a treasure.” Her smile blossomed like a flower, her eyes full of love and trust for Jiang Cheng.

Their shared smile created an atmosphere of tacit understanding and warmth. Everyone in the hall showed varying expressions, careful not to disturb this sacred moment, as if before them stood an untouchable divine couple, and any interruption would be trivial and unwelcome.

Suddenly, the Reincarnation Holy Maiden stepped forward with a smile and said, “The competition is not over. Since the Summer Kingdom has set the rewards, and the Linglong Holy Maiden has already been honored, I shall continue the next three battles.”

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Her voice carried confident provocation, as if victory was already in her grasp.

She then looked toward the other Holy Maidens, her gaze sharp as a flame: “I, the Reincarnation Holy Maiden, am willing to battle evenly and win all three matches to join the Summer Kingdom. If any Holy Maiden dares to challenge me, step forward now.”

Her words brimmed with challenge and defiance, invigorating the previously lethargic crowd of Holy Maidens.

Though they had been envious of the Linglong Holy Maiden’s honor, the Reincarnation Holy Maiden’s challenge revealed new opportunities. They eagerly prepared to seize this chance to display their skills.

“You cannot defeat the Linglong Holy Maiden, and yet you, from a minor Holy Land, dare to speak so boldly?” one Holy Maiden sneered, dripping with disdain and provocation.

She believed the Reincarnation Holy Maiden was overestimating herself, seeking attention through empty boasts.

“Indeed, the battle has yet to begin, and the outcome is uncertain. Do you think you’re a celestial descending from the heavens to predict victory and defeat? Foolish words… bah,” another Holy Maiden chimed in, equally displeased with the Reincarnation Holy Maiden’s confidence, deeming it arrogant.

From the Bilu Holy Land, a Holy Maiden who had seen the Reincarnation Holy Maiden struggle stepped forward, unable to contain herself:

“Claiming rewards before battle—isn’t that a bit too presumptuous? I’d like to see what’s so special about the Reincarnation Holy Maiden’s techniques. I, from Bilu Holy Maiden, accept your challenge.”

Her voice was tinged with provocation and curiosity, eager to uncover the Reincarnation Holy Maiden’s true abilities.

Amidst the jeers and taunts, the great Holy Maidens all stepped forward, none willing to yield, each eager to use the Reincarnation Holy Maiden as a stepping stone to showcase their talents, having long forgotten the original purpose of this gathering.

After all, with such valuable treasures at stake, no one was foolish enough to care who issued the award. Such a powerful treasure was rarely seen even at the grand Holy Maiden ceremonies of the nine great Holy Lands—perhaps only the first-place winner at the Holy Lord’s grand ceremony could obtain one.

And now, it could be earned in a single battle here. How could they not be tempted?

“If I can obtain this treasure, even upon returning to my sect, the Holy Lord would have to grant me some measure of respect. No, I cannot let this golden opportunity slip by just because the Reincarnation Holy Maiden is from a minor Holy Land,” a Holy Maiden thought greedily, her eyes flashing with determination.

Just then, the Zichen Holy Maiden stepped forward: “A mere Reincarnation Holy Maiden, there’s no need for you, Bilu Holy Maiden, to act. You were just defeated. I will test her blade first.”

Without waiting, she separated her soul and entered the arena before Bilu Holy Maiden could respond.

Her words carried disdain and confidence, as if she already regarded the Reincarnation Holy Maiden as a sure prize.

The Reincarnation Holy Maiden turned to Jiang Cheng and said, “Your Majesty, I will go handle this. You should think carefully about how to bestow my reward.”

Her words were laden with meaning. Then she glanced at Su Ruoxi, smiled without a word, and soared into the sky.

Her tone was filled with challenge and confidence, as if victory were already hers, causing both Jiang Cheng and Su Ruoxi to look upon her with newfound respect.