As Fusu laid eyes on Yi Tianxing seated at the top, an overwhelming pressure instantly bore down on him. Even Lü Buwei couldn't help but feel a deep reverence, not daring to show the slightest irreverence or disobedience. It felt as if they were gazing upon a supreme emperor, a peerless Immortal Sovereign. The majesty he exuded was in no way inferior to the First Emperor himself—undoubtedly sacred and inviolable.
"Envoys of Great Qin, Fusu and Lü Buwei… pay respects to the Sacred King of Great Yi. May the Sacred King's holy reign be eternal."
Fusu, Lü Buwei, and the rest of the Qin envoy group bowed in unison.They dared not show the slightest neglect in etiquette.After all, they represented the dignity of the Great Qin Imperial Dynasty. Any shame brought here would reflect directly upon the First Emperor, Ying Zheng himself.
"Envoys, rise and dispense with formality."
Yi Tianxing nodded slightly in acknowledgment.
"Many thanks, Sacred King Yi."
The group rose and gave thanks respectfully.
"The name of the First Emperor of Great Qin has long been known to this Sacred King—like thunder striking the ear. I have admired him for quite some time. However, due to the vast separation between our realms and uncertain coordinates, it has been difficult to cross the boundaries. Now that someone from Great Qin has arrived in Great Yi, this Sacred King is naturally pleased. The noble name of Crown Prince Fusu has also reached my ears. Seeing you today, you indeed live up to your reputation—a heroic figure of this generation."
Yi Tianxing nodded with a faint smile.
"Sacred King flatters me. Fusu is unworthy of such praise."
Fusu's heart rippled with emotion. After all, the one speaking was none other than the Sacred King of Great Yi—the leader of the current strongest human Destiny Dynasty in the Eternal World. Even Great Qin could not compare in overall strength. This was a fact they had to acknowledge. To be praised by such a figure, it would be impossible not to feel some pride.
"I wonder, Crown Prince Fusu, Prime Minister Lü, what brings you to Great Yi?"
Yi Tianxing smiled mildly and asked.
"We've heard that the Sacred Court of Great Yi is the foremost Destiny Dynasty among the human race. In these trying times—when myriad races stand as equals and the human race is but one among them—countless civilians suffer, displaced and destitute. As fellow Destiny Dynasties of the human race, we ought to join forces in alliance to resist external threats, strengthen our dynasties, shelter more human people, and enhance our racial destiny. Should an alliance be formed, whenever one side encounters a great enemy, the other will dispatch a powerful army in support. We will grow and strengthen together."
Lü Buwei stepped forward and spoke respectfully.
This alliance was one of the core purposes of the Qin delegation's visit. Presently, Great Qin and Great Yi were not enemies. As long as there were no direct conflicts of interest, forming an alliance was the most beneficial course. Such a pact would allow both sides to rely on one another and offer mutual aid when needed. It would also promote the exchange of resources and knowledge—key to the growth of any civilization.
"An alliance is no issue. Great Qin is indeed a cornerstone of our human race."
Yi Tianxing nodded with a smile, readily agreeing.An alliance with Great Qin was certainly a good thing—it would invisibly enhance their strategic foundation and offer more confidence when facing the myriad races.
"We've also heard that the Sacred King has a Crown Prince of Great Yi who has come of age, possessing extraordinary talent and dazzling all realms. Our Great Qin Emperor was delighted to learn this. His daughter, Princess Huayang—Ying Yuanman—is gentle in temperament, refined in appearance, virtuous, and well-mannered. She would make a worthy match. Might the Sacred King be open to forging a marriage alliance?"
Lü Buwei smiled, openly expressing Great Qin's intent to form a bond through marriage.No matter the era, political marriages had always served as a powerful tool for uniting forces. Though they may seem like playful politics, such alliances offered a profound sense of security.
"A marriage alliance?"
Yi Tianxing raised an eyebrow, then smiled.
"This Sacred King has no objection to a marriage alliance with Great Qin. However, I've always let my children make such decisions themselves. If Ziyang is willing, then I will happily support it. But if he refuses, I won't force him. This is his life, his choice, and he must walk his own path. I can't decide for him. So in principle, I agree—but whether it truly comes to pass depends on them."
Yi Tianxing's attitude was clear and open-minded.Great Yi had a strict principle: no ceding land, no indemnities, and no political marriages involving princesses. However, this particular marriage did not violate those principles. It didn't involve sending off Great Yi's princesses, and if Yi Ziyang chose willingly, it was acceptable.
Yi Tianxing respected his children's autonomy. Of course, they would also have to face the consequences of their own choices.
"Very well. When your envoy returns to Great Qin, I will have Ziyang accompany you, so that he may meet Emperor Qin and Princess Huayang in person. If fate is on their side, then let the union happen. If not, it will still be an opportunity to deepen the alliance between our nations."
Yi Tianxing concluded after a moment's thought.
"Excellent. Should the marriage alliance succeed, it will surely be a celebrated tale among the human race."
Lü Buwei was visibly delighted.He had his own plans—once Yi Ziyang arrived in Great Qin, even if he didn't take to Princess Huayang, the empire had no shortage of eligible noblewomen. As long as Ziyang set his sights on someone, the marriage was practically guaranteed. Great Qin had plenty of time and patience for this.
"Very well. Let it be decided then."
Yi Tianxing nodded, finalizing the matter.
"Sacred King Yi, I, Fusu, have a request—perhaps an impudent one. I hope the Sacred King will consider it."
Fusu suddenly spoke.
"Please, Crown Prince Fusu, speak your mind."
Yi Tianxing turned his gaze toward him.
"I've heard that the Immortal Academy of Great Yi gathers all schools of thought and countless sages, and is one of the most prestigious centers of learning among the human race. I would like to request permission to study there for a time."
Fusu took a deep breath and spoke with sincerity.It was clear that his yearning to enter the academy was genuine. The Immortal Academy represented the intellectual vanguard of Great Yi—a site of immense cultural inheritance.
"Of course. The Immortal Academy is open to all of the human race. As long as you meet the qualifications, you may enter. You will be assisted by the Ministry of Rites shortly."
Yi Tianxing smiled and nodded.
After all, the academy had been founded for the sake of preserving and spreading human civilization.
Soon, the Great Qin delegation took its leave, and the grand court assembly came to an end.
At the same time, announcements were quickly issued across the immortal cities of Great Yi. Public notices were posted to calm the people and explain the recent situation regarding the Blood Heaven Dao Venerable. The warning of a hundred years without rainfall was addressed directly, assuring everyone that there was no cause for fear.
Following the court, the Four Gods of Wind, Rain, Thunder, and Lightning appeared in the skies above Great Yi, each controlling their divine diagrams. Where they passed, dark clouds gathered and thunder roared. Torrential rain poured down upon realm after realm. With this, much of the stifling tension across Great Yi was instantly lifted.
Even if Heaven withheld its rain, the gods of Great Yi would ensure favorable weather.