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At Elwe's quaint tavern,
"How does it feel being the Aeon of Joy now?" asked Aha as he popped open a bottle of white wine and poured two glasses.
Taking a sip, Su Jinyan pondered before responding, "How should I put it? There isn't any particularly significant change."
"It seems that this fate path of Elation fits me perfectly; there's no discord whatsoever."
"Yet, inside, I feel a stirring, as if a voice is constantly urging me to seek pleasure."
Since becoming the Aeon of Joy, those latent desires within his heart, once thought but never dared to act upon, have surfaced like floating duckweed one by one.
Su Jinyan instinctively sensed something was not quite right.
However, he found himself enjoying it, unable to resist the thrill these actions brought him.
Aha chuckled softly, "That's your inner longing. Embrace your desires."
Feeling somewhat uncertain, Su Jinyan asked, "What if I were to relinquish all the power of the Elation fate path to someone else?"
Aha grinned delightedly, "It could still be immensely entertaining, wouldn't you agree?"
"You are now the Aeon of Joy, the leader."
"Whatever you choose to do, you needn't seek my approval."
Fully reassured, Su Jinyan snapped his fingers with enthusiasm:
"Then let's make this delightful decision together. We'll join forces and pull off something grand."
"Aha, let's play 'The Gods' Card Game.'"
"Let's see if we can score some valuable items from them," Su Jinyan suggested.
Aha quickly caught on to the plan. "Alright, Prisoner Su, who should we fleece this time?"
Su Jinyan already had his targets in mind. "Lan, The Hunt; Yaoshi, Abundance."
"Fuli, Remembrance; Nanook, Destruction; and Qlipoth, Preservation."
Curious, Aha asked, "How do you intend to convince Them to participate in this card game?"
Su Jinyan's eyes gleamed with madness. "It's simple. I'll wager all my Elation fate paths against Them."
"Whoever wins will absorb my entire Elation fate destiny."
"If I win, They only need to pay a negligible price—granting me one additional fate path from the endless river of destinies."
"Isn't that condition enticing enough?"
Aha trembled with excitement. "Sounds utterly insane!"
"I suspect not just these Aeons but others might also want a piece of the action."
Su Jinyan replied leisurely, "Therefore, I will invite only the specific Aeons on this list."
"Other friends can observe, but let's spare them from joining the game," Aha suggested.
"The venue for the card game should be set at the Skylight Star Wall."
"Otherwise, old pal Qlipoth won't agree to your match."
"That fool only knows how to build with ash and bricks all day, utterly monotonous."
In Su Jinyan's view, having finally seized the opportunity to become the Aeon of Joy, it would be a waste not to make things interesting.
Thus, Su Jinyan planned to invite these few Aeons he knew well for a thrilling game of Three Kingdoms Killer.
Undeniably, this idea was unprecedentedly audacious, even impressing Aha with its madness.
If Su Jinyan lost the card game, he would have to relinquish his entire Elation fate path willingly.
At that point, the universe would undergo a complete upheaval, reshuffling the deck anew.
On the other hand, if he won, he could simultaneously gain one fate path each from The Hunt, Abundance, Remembrance, Destruction, and Preservation.
Fate paths, fate travelers, and emanators represent entirely distinct concepts.
A "fate path" refers to the course governed by an Aeon.
When mortals, either intentionally or inadvertently, step into the river of fate paths governed by the Aeons, they become "fate travelers," embodying and enacting the principles of their chosen path.
If the act of a mortal receiving induction from a Aeon and harnessing fate path power is likened to creating a fleeting splash, then the Aeons' grand exertion to control fate paths resembles driving a tsunami across mountainous peaks.
Within this vast disparity, a select few favored mortals can, under the auspices of a Aeon, draw upon fate path energy to generate colossal waves eroding the coastline. These individuals are known as "Emanators."
However, obtaining even a single fate path directly from a Aeon goes beyond merely becoming an Emanator.
Take Shuhu, the most powerful Emanator of Abundance, for example. He received more abundance fate path energy than any other Emanator. This allowed him effortlessly to wreak havoc on the Xianzhou Luofu.
If Su Jinyan were to acquire a portion of the Abundance fate path, not only could he draw greater energy from it, but he would also sever Shuhu's access to its energy reserves.
In simpler terms, it would be akin to blocking Shuhu's IP address and adding him to the Abundance fate path blacklist, with only an Abundance Yaoshi capable of reversing it.
Had Su Jinyan proposed this wager as an ordinary mortal to the Aeons, none except Aha would likely have agreed to such a ludicrous request. However, now that Su Jinyan holds the title of "Aeon of Joy," everything changes. He has earned the right to engage in equal dialogue with the other Aeons.
A low rumble echoed through the amber sky.
Countless copper ores, pieces of amber, and opals cascaded down before Su Jinyan.
This mineral shower captivated the world's attention. Amidst the steamy eruption, a colossal figure emerged from the mantle, its massive spine stretching upwards. With broad hands tightly gripping a giant hammer, it gazed upon the significantly diminutive figures of Su Jinyan and Aha.
Aha shouted, "Let's play a game, old friend."
"Isn't endlessly sweeping ashes here getting boring? Let's find some amusement..."
Following Aha's cue, Su Jinyan presented the "Delight Party Invitation" to Amber King Qlipoth.
The Amber King scrutinized Su Jinyan, emitting deep, resonant sounds whose meaning remained unclear.
Su Jinyan spoke firmly, "Dear Amber King, even Nanook of Destruction will be attending."
"If He doesn't see you joining this card game, He might well be disappointed."
Qlipoth scratched his head with his broad palm, causing countless amber fragments to scatter across the amber sky.
Then, Qlipoth accepted the invitation and continued building his wall.
Aha flashed a delighted smile. "It seems our old friend has agreed."
"Come, let's invite the other Aeons as well."
"Oh, wait, there's already a grand guest arriving uninvited," Aha said just before his words were echoed.
In the amber sky, a magnificent procession suddenly commenced.
Before Su Jinyan's eyes, there was a cacophony of noise and merriment. Warm currents enveloped his entire being, while thousands upon thousands of gentle gazes focused on him simultaneously, silently extending their invitation.
Xipe tenderly embraced him, soothing Su Jinyan's emotions as they drifted amidst puzzle pieces, the multifaceted faces of modernity, and various ideologies.
A fleeting thought urged him to fully immerse himself in Xipe's embrace. However, this absurd notion lasted only for an instant, quickly dissipating amidst the joy within his heart.
Gently pushing away from Xipe, Su Jinyan spoke with seriousness, "Intimacy between men and women is inappropriate, Lady."
Unable to suppress a chuckle, Aha's tone carried a teasing edge. "Great Mother of All Stars, Xipe, you should respect the newly reborn Elation."
Xipe's gaze softened, and over ten thousand voices spoke in unison, carrying a barely perceptible longing.
"You... intend to host/start a Delight Party?"
"Can we join/participate then?"
"This will be an incredibly intriguing/mad party; you won't refuse us/disappoint us/leave us disheartened, would you?"
Su Jinyan responded courteously, "Of course, O Great Mother of Gods, Xipe."
"However, your role is that of a guest, not a participant in the game."
Su Jinyan could sense Xipe's intense desire to fully obtain Elation's fate path.
Nor did Xipe hide her craving for Elation.
Unfortunately, Su Jinyan had no intention of inviting Xipe into his scheme; he abhorred unpredictable factors.
With a gentle expression, Xipe said, "Naturally, we would be pleased/delighted to observe this feast of delight from the sidelines."
Qlipoth merely nodded towards Xipe before continuing with its wall-building work.
After leaving Xipe's presence, Su Jinyan couldn't help but chuckle.
"From now on, I fear no Aeon will suspect that I am not truly the newly reborn Elation."
"I am merely its proxy Aeon," he murmured to himself.
Aha stretched his arms and laughed softly, "But isn't it quite entertaining?"
"You'll gain their reverence, while I'll have ample amusement."
Su Jinyan, with a serious expression, said, "It seems Xipe has a keen interest in Elation."
Aha spoke confidently, "Oh, my friend, that's hardly surprising. In truth, Xipe and Ena were lovers. However, Xipe's love for Ena was too intense and obsessive, leading Ena to flee from Him. This enraged Xipe, causing His dark transformation, which ultimately resulted in Xipe consuming Ena."
Shaking his head, Su Jinyan scoffed, "Ha, as if I'd believe such a tale."
"By the way, do you think any Aeons might try to renege on our bet?" he asked, referring to those who might stubbornly deny defeat and refuse to honor the wager.
Aha's demeanor suddenly turned solemn, "Indeed, there is one such Aeon."
Su Jinyan frowned, growing cautious upon hearing this. "Who could it be?"
In such a small circle of Aeons, wouldn't lack of integrity lead to ostracism by others?
With pride, Aha replied, "Far yet near, right before your eyes—it's me, Aha myself."
Su Jinyan's furrowed brow instantly smoothed out. "Yes, that makes sense indeed."
This behavior might seem peculiar for other Aeons, but coming from Aha, it was understandable. After all, Aha would go to any lengths for amusement.
Aha leaned close to Su Jinyan, "Boss, who should we visit next?"
The scene before them swiftly transformed, shifting from the boundless starlit sky to a serene small town.
A gentle breeze caressed their faces as warm sunlight bathed them in its glow.
Su Jinyan pushed open the church's grand doors, revealing an awe-inspiring interior. Soaring arches supported the heavens above, while stained glass windows cast vibrant patterns of light, emitting a sacred and mystical aura under the sun's rays.
Upon the massive altar stood resplendent communion vessels, adorned with gold and precious stones. Lizardfolk priests, dressed in solemn ceremonial robes, recited prayers, creating an atmosphere of reverence and dignity.
Marble sculptures, colorful frescoes, and lavish decorations all showcased profound devotion and respect for faith, making one feel as if they had entered a divine heavenly realm.
Aha gazed at the painted mural of Jesus within the church, feeling somewhat puzzled. "Is this your fabricated deity?"
Su Jinyan smiled faintly. "Child, could it be that I am indeed the legendary Shepherd, Jesus?"
This small town truly existed, but Su Jinyan had implanted psychological suggestions into the lizardfolk residents' minds. He created an imaginary church, conjured a non-existent history, and infused these notions directly into the lizardfolks' consciousness.
For the present Su Jinyan, this was virtually effortless.
Before he finished speaking, he felt the gaze of Enigmata's Mythus upon him.
His body refracted colors and light that do not exist in the world, forming a triangular halo around him. Then, transforming into swirling strands of vibrant hues, he spun through the air before vanishing entirely.
He left behind a hidden radiance...
Perhaps intentionally, those shimmering symbols began intertwining with each other.
Leaping and boiling in the vacuum, they coalesced into patterns resembling gray matter, morphing into countless jellyfish tentacles. Through layers of metaphor and illusion, all traces on their path were erased.
[You have gained the favor of the enigmatic celestial deity Mythus, who bestows upon you the ability [History Fictionologist].]
[Mythus hopes that in your future endeavors, you will strive to fabricate, confuse, disrupt, and erase history within the Galaxy as much as possible.]
[Did you know? History Fictionologists are followers of Mythus, capable of concocting, obfuscating, disrupting, and erasing historical narratives across the Galaxy.]
[It may sound unremarkable at first, but is it truly so simple?]
[We suggest that if you find some leisure time in the future, delve deeper into the abilities of "History Fictionologist." It could prove immensely beneficial for you.]
A genuine admiration seemed to flash across Aha's face, but his tone sounded utterly dismissive.
"Capturing this fellow's attention isn't as simple as casually uttering some riddles or haphazardly altering history."
"Wow, boss, impressive! Should we invite Him for a game of cards?"
Su Jinyan feigned a reprimand, "Little Ha, remember our status."
"We have greater matters at hand; we can't be sidetracked by such trivialities."
"Just watch closely what I'm about to do next."
Su Jinyan's eyes were deep and contemplative, clad in an immaculate white robe, he held a bouquet of roses solemnly.
Two lizardfolk priests knelt at his feet, respectfully inviting him to ascend the church's steps.
Unfazed, excitement flickered in Aha's gaze. He knew well that anything warranting Su Jinyan's utmost attention could not be insignificant.
Live stream, right—the live stream...
Little Su forgot about the live stream, let me cover for him.
Aha discreetly activated his ability, initiating a broadcast from within the church and sending notifications to Jing Yuan and others.
[Posting Under Real Name: What's going on? What is Minister Su up to now?]
[Uncle Han Tui: Who cares if my Uncle Su wants to indulge himself?]
[Zhao Xiangji: Why has Little Su gone to such grand lengths? If people didn't know better, they'd think he's proposing here.]
[Today's Dumpster Dive: Maybe he is preparing to propose?]
[Unfeeling Fortune Computing Machine: This venerable one strenuously tried to dissuade him, but this disobedient disciple wouldn't listen, insisting on making it so elaborate...]
[Little Fox's Benefactor: Lady Fu Xuan, have you had too much to drink? Didn't Benefactor already propose to you long ago?]
[According to my humble guess, this proposal must be directed at me.]
[Posting Under Real Name: Why do I have an ominous feeling about this?]
[Playing with Cards on the Line: Miss Tingyun, let's not deceive ourselves at this point...]
[Anonymous User: Is it truly a marriage proposal? Who could possibly warrant such a grand gesture from Xiao Didi?]
[To my knowledge, no one has ever received a proposal quite as extravagant from him before, right?]
[Snowy Overcoat: Let's not talk about it; my friend feels somewhat upset.]
[Cold Crow: Enough said; my sister's friend also feels a bit uneasy.]
[Unfeeling Fortune Computing Machine: +1]
[Punklorde's Silver Wolf: Are the friends you're referring to actually yourselves?]
[Playing with Cards on the Line: Aiya, isn't it just a matter of time? What's there to feel upset about?]
[Shangshang's Sole Account: That's right, I'm not bothered at all.]
[Diting Viewer + Howler: Click me for Diting videos? Cute clips? High quality, low price?]
[Little Gui Guinevere: Truly peculiar—how come Shangshang isn't bothered in the slightest? Is she really that carefree?]
[Invincible Swordsman 123: I know everything, but I won't reveal it.]
[Brightidol Online: If you're not saying anything, neither will this young lady.]
[Little Fox's Benefactor: Apologies, feeling quite unwell; heading off to bed now.]
[Celestial Sparkle: Oh, by the God of Entertainment! Why wasn't this bride-to-be informed about Little Su's proposal?]
[Punklorde's Silver Wolf: Don't fret, Sparkle. Watch as I tag a clown for you @Celestial Sparkle.]
[Celestial Sparkle: ?]
[Numby's Daily Menu: No advance notice even for the wedding? Now I have to rush and prepare a last-minute gift on behalf of the company. Headache-inducing...]
[Fake Dong Merchant: If Su Jinyan gets married, folks, my advice is to skip giving gifts—you'll save yourselves some money.]
[Of course, I'll still contribute my gift—a fake dong.]
[Astral Express Knowledge Bank Administrator: What led you to become like this...]
[Floating World Merchant: Bloody hell, seriously?! Who hacked my account again?]
[Posting Under Real Name: You've turned my gloomy mood into amusement; feeling much lighter now. Thank you, Mr. Luocha.]
Within the church, Mendelssohn's overture from "A Midsummer Night's Dream," Act V, began to play.
The lively and passionate music heightened the girls' unease.
In such a solemn and grand setting, it was clearly meant for a wedding.
However, the intended spouse seemed not to be among those they knew...?
Just who...is she exactly?
The girls yearned to uncover the truth but also feared that their fragile hearts might not withstand the harsh revelation when it unfolded.
Already, many couldn't resist and privately messaged Fu Xuan.
Fu Xuan's response was unequivocal—she had discreetly used the Matrix of Prescience to observe the future.
However, not only did the Matrix fail to reveal anything, it overloaded and crashed entirely.
This outcome only intensified the girls' curiosity.
Given Lady Fu Xuan's current strength combined with the Matrix of Prescience, if even they couldn't discern the identity, how absurdly powerful must this individual be? At the very least, surely an Emanator level?
The girls' guess wasn't far off, but it underestimated the truth significantly.
When the revelation finally unfolded, everyone watching the live stream was left utterly speechless, their jaws agape.
A white-robed lizardfolk priest prostrated himself at the church entrance, welcoming the arrival of that lady.
Her familiar figure, adorned with six limbs, gracefully stretched out in a fluid dance, joints moving harmoniously as if performing a cosmic ballet.
It was none other than the enemy whom the Xianzhou Alliance had sworn to eliminate—the Plagues Author of Longevity.
"Su Jinyan, I rejoice in your ascension."
Yaoshi's expression softened, gently caressing his cheek before millions upon billions of viewers on the live stream.
With reverence, Su Jinyan took Yaoshi's delicate ivory hand and slipped a sparkling diamond ring onto His ring finger.
"Marry me, Yaoshi."
[Tianfeng-kun: ?]
[Yan Ting Monarch: ?]
[Hu Yuan Monarch: ?]
[Kun Gang Monarch: ?]
[Hua: ???]
[Posting Under Real Name: This... Minister Su is actually humiliating the Plagues Author! Yes, that must be it!]
[I heard the legendary Plagues Author is an Aeon who never refuses wishes and cannot bear to witness decay or suffering.]
[He told me earlier that he planned to seize this opportunity to severely humiliate the Plagues Author.]
[Because the Plagues Author would undoubtedly reject him, allowing Jinyan to viciously mock and denounce them afterward.]
[System Notification: Moderator Little Gui (Guinevere) has marked this comment as featured.]
[Crisp Sparkle: Oh, praise the God of Entertainment, this is truly too entertaining.]
[God of Entertainment, step down already—you can't even muster the audacity to propose to Yaoshi. Leave it to our little Su-zi for real entertainment.]
[Heartless Fortune Computing Machine: Finally, my anxious heart can rest.]
[Little Fox's Benefactor: Indeed, with it being the Plagues Author, there's nothing to worry about.]
[Downpour Coat: I too thought A-Yan was finally going to choose someone for lifelong companionship.]
[Did You Scavenge Today?: He made his choice long ago. Just yesterday, he told me he'd love only me forever.]
[Playing with Cards on Life's Edge: Let the adults discuss serious matters; kids, don't join in uninvited.]
Yaoshi slowly closed those beautiful eyes, seemingly deep in thought.