"System, what is the Golden Words of Tao Rhyme?"
[The Golden Words of Tao Rhyme is a great treasure that helps you understand the Dao.]
A blood vessel burst on Bao Chen's forehead. Such a superficial answer—I wanted to know more.
[The host needs to find out for himself.]
After hearing that, Bao Chen nearly fainted. "God damn it, never mind—let's move on to another question."
"Why is there [Cooking Talent: White] (3/10) when I already have one and at a higher level?"
[When the host starts the simulation, the talents for the rewards begin at zero.]
"System, what's up with [One of the Sons of Destiny of the Tianyuan Realm]? Wasn't I supposed to get a talent?"
[Host, you need time to gain talents. You died too quickly to develop any on your own, and you obtained that talent because of your [Tao Rhyme]. You benefited heaven and earth, and thus acquired [One of the Sons of Destiny].]
"Why does [One of the Sons of Destiny of the Tianyuan Realm] cost so little?"
[I'll explain as simply as possible. Suppose you have a magic weapon given to you by a senior—that weapon costs 100 points. However, if you craft the magic weapon yourself and gather all the materials, it would only cost 10 points. The more karma it have with you, the less it will cost.]
"But the Golden Words of Tao Rhyme costs 1 million points and by the Law of Equivalent Exchange. Shouldn't it be free? I'm confident the Son of Destiny doesn't cost more than a million."
Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.
[The host is right, but the system doesn't follow the Law of Equivalent Exchange. If something affects the future, it will cost points.]
Bao Chen noticed a flaw in the system's logic. "But you've given me talents that affect the future—and they are free!"
[For lower-level talents, no points are needed. But for higher-level abilities, you require system points.]
Bao Chen sighed in defeat. Life is hard, and this system that simulates the future might be even harsher than life itself.
"System, equip my [Legendary Achievement: Robbed by Heaven and Earth]."
[equipped]
He took a deep breath, as if his mind had been cleared and his body had shed its shackles—but nothing had changed. He examined himself; everything remained the same. Intriguing.
"Well, it's time to choose my rewards. It's actually quite simple."
"However, I need to ask something: does it affect me if I choose 'One of the Sons of Destiny of the Tianyuan Realm'? What will happen, specifically?"
[It will control you slightly—much like entering a cave and discovering a legendary sword. Enemies may find it easier to find you, and even some jade beauties might fall into your arms. Additionally, you'll gain a measure of immunity to destiny because of your legendary achievement and time traveler buff.]
"If that's the case, give me 'One of the Sons of Destiny of the Tianyuan Realm.'"
Bao Chen looked around but saw nothing. "Oh no—is it one of those things like the Golden Words of Tao Rhyme? Maybe if I go outside, I'll see something."
Bao Chen stepped outside and looked up at the sky. He saw a pure white river, and as he gazed upon it, his mind trembled at the sight of it
In his mind had appealed an immense river current spanning the entire world. In comparison, Bao Chen was as insignificant as an ant beside Mount Tai. Sadly, the river seemed poised to crash into his mind.
_________
Imperial City
In the Imperial City, an old man with a kindly face sat on a golden throne, surveying the officials.
Do not underestimate him—he is the current emperor, Emperor Zhaoyun. He has ruled the dynasty for 150 years and is known by many names, including the Iron-handed Tyrant and Bloody Slaughterer.
Glancing to his left at the river, Emperor Zhaoyun smiled slightly—a smile that sent shivers down the spines of every official.
"Bring down my orders," he commanded.
________
Unknown Land of Ice and Frost
In the Unknown Land of Ice and Frost, a young boy—not yet 15 years old—was drenched in blood. He was surrounded by numerous corpses; many had their heads, hands, and feet severed, and some were barely clinging to life.
With a knife lodged in his shoulder, the boy scanned the enemies around him and sighed in relief.
"Grandfather... I... I finally avenged.. you," he murmured before collapsing.
Then, an unknown river appeared in the sky. A small strand of water fell, and just as it neared the young boy, it shook and halted before returning to the river. As the river vanished, a black scale in the boy's pocket spoke with majesty, "Finally, it has left."