Chapter 1: The Bookstore’s Secret
The rain drizzled softly against the gray pavement, a steady patter that mirrored the monotony of Zhang Wei’s life. Another dreary day, another walk home from the office, his mind a blur of spreadsheets and deadlines. The world around him seemed to share his weariness, the city streets dim under the cloudy sky, as if everything had been drained of color.
Zhang Wei sighed, adjusting the umbrella in his hand as he cut through a narrow alleyway. The quicker he could get home, the sooner he could sink into the comfort of his old couch, the one place where all the problems of the world seemed to fade away, leaving him in peace. He passed by a series of old shops, their windows fogged from the damp air, but one caught his eye. It was a small, nondescript bookstore he had never noticed before even though he normally walked this path every other day or so often.
It wasn’t the kind of place that would usually draw him in. The sign above the door was faded, the letters barely legible: “Tome of Ages.” The display window was cluttered with old, dusty books and peculiar trinkets. Zhang Wei hesitated, curiosity tugging at the corners of his tired mind. He had no particular interest in books, but something about the place called to him, a faint whisper that nudged him toward the door.
With a shrug, he folded his umbrella and pushed open the creaky door. A small bell chimed, announcing his entrance, though no one appeared to greet him. The interior was dimly lit, the air thick with the scent of aged paper, dust, and incense. Shelves crammed with books towered above him, casting long shadows that seemed to move with a life of their own.
“Hello?” Zhang Wei called out, his voice echoing slightly in the cramped space.
No answer. The store seemed deserted, but Zhang Wei was drawn further inside. He wandered through the narrow aisles, his fingers brushing the spines of the old books. Most of the titles were in languages he didn’t recognize, their covers worn and somewhat faded.
As he turned a corner, his eyes fell on a small, ornate staircase at the back of the store, partially hidden behind a shelf. The steps were old and worn, leading up into darkness. A normal person might have turned back, chalked this up to a momentary curiosity and left the store. But Zhang Wei, tired of the routine and boredom that seemed to define his existence, felt an inexplicable urge to climb those stairs.
He hesitated only for a moment before he began his ascent, the old wood creaking underfoot. The air grew cooler the higher he climbed, and he could feel a slight draft coming from above. The top of the staircase opened into a small attic, dimly lit by a single flickering bulb. The room was filled with boxes and old forgotten trinkets, a time capsule of sorts.
Zhang Wei’s eyes were drawn to an old chest in the corner, partially obscured by a moth-eaten blanket. The chest was intricately carved with symbols that seemed to pulse faintly, though he wasn’t sure if it was a trick of the light. Intrigued, he knelt down and carefully lifted the lid.
Inside, nestled among layers of dusty cloth, was a strange artifact. It was a small, jade pendant, shaped like a teardrop and inscribed with unfamiliar symbols. As Zhang Wei reached out to touch it, the pendant began to glow softly, the symbols lighting up in a brilliant emerald hue.
Before he could think to pull his hand away, the light enveloped him entirely. The world around him seemed to collapse inward, a swirling vortex of colors and light that blinded him. Zhang Wei felt his body being pulled, twisted, as if he were being sucked into the pendant itself. Panic surged through him, but there was nothing he could do to stop it.
And then, just as suddenly as it had begun, the light vanished. Zhang Wei found himself standing in a place that was very much not the dusty attic of an old bookstore. The air was warm, fragrant with the scent of blooming flowers and fresh earth. He stood in the middle of a lush, vibrant garden, the likes of which he had never seen. Trees with golden leaves towered above him, their branches swaying gently in an unseen breeze. The ground was covered in soft, emerald grass, dotted with flowers that glowed faintly in the dim light of twilight. Above in the sky two moon hung in the sky.
His heart pounded in his chest as he turned in a slow circle, trying to make sense of what had just happened. He was no longer in the city, no longer in the world he knew. Instead, he had been transported to some kind of mystical realm, a place that seemed to pulse with life and energy.
But as the initial shock began to wear off, a new realization struck him—he was utterly, terrifyingly alone. No signs of civilization, no people, just the eerie silence of the garden surrounding him.
Before panic could take hold, a soft, melodic voice broke the silence. “You’re finally here.”
Zhang Wei spun around, eyes wide, to see a figure standing at the edge of the garden. A woman, impossibly beautiful, with long, flowing black hair and eyes that sparkled with intelligence and a hint of mischief. She wore a traditional qipao, simple yet elegant, and her lips curved into a knowing smile.
“Who are you?” Zhang Wei managed to stammer, his mind struggling to keep up with the rapid succession of events.
The woman inclined her head slightly, the smile never leaving her face. “I am Xiao Yue, the Spirit Doll of this Divine Space. And you, it seems, are my new master.”
Zhang Wei blinked, trying to process her words. “Divine Space? Master? What are you talking about?”
Xiao Yue’s smile widened, a glint of amusement in her eyes. “All in good time, Master. For now, I suppose you should come inside. You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”
Before Zhang Wei could protest, Xiao Yue turned and began walking toward a small house nestled among the trees, its presence so natural within the landscape that he hadn’t even noticed it until now. The house was modest but elegant, with wooden beams and paper windows that glowed softly from the light within.
Numbly, Zhang Wei followed her, his mind a storm of confusion and questions. As he crossed the threshold of the house, he felt a strange sense of calm wash over him, as if the house itself were a sanctuary, a place where the worries of the world could not reach him.
Xiao Yue gestured for him to sit at a low table, and Zhang Wei did so, still feeling as though he were in a dream. She moved with practiced grace, pouring tea from a delicate porcelain pot into two small cups.
“So,” she said, setting the cup in front of him and sitting down across from him, “how much do you remember about the last few moments before you arrived here?”
Zhang Wei took a deep breath, trying to recall. “I… I found this pendant, and then there was this light, and… and then I was here. That’s all.”
Xiao Yue nodded, taking a sip of her tea. “The pendant was a key of sorts, linked to this Divine Space. It’s an ancient artifact, one that has been waiting for someone to activate it. Congratulations, Master, you’ve found yourself in a place beyond your wildest imagination. Though, from the looks of it,” she eyed him with a smirk, “you’re not quite ready to enjoy it just yet.”
Zhang Wei’s head spun. “This… this is too much. How do I get back? I need to return home.”
“Return?” Xiao Yue chuckled, the sound soft but laced with a hint of mockery. “I’m afraid that’s not possible, at least not for now. The Divine Space is cut off from your world, and only very specific circumstances will allow it to be accessed from the outside.”
The reality of his situation began to sink in, and Zhang Wei felt a wave of helplessness wash over him. “So… I’m stuck here?”
“For the time being,” Xiao Yue said, her tone gentler now. “But don’t despair, Master. This place holds many wonders, though it may take some time for you to fully appreciate them.”
Zhang Wei sighed, running a hand through his hair. “What am I supposed to do now?”
Xiao Yue leaned back, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Well, you could start by exploring your new home. There’s much to see, and who knows, you might even find a way to entertain yourself. I’ll be here to assist you, of course.”
Zhang Wei looked at her, unsure whether to be comforted or concerned by her words. But as he sipped the tea, its warmth spreading through him, he couldn’t help but feel a small glimmer of hope. Perhaps, just perhaps, this strange new world had something to offer him after all.
The rain drizzled softly against the gray pavement, a steady patter that mirrored the monotony of Zhang Wei’s life. Another dreary day, another walk home from the office, his mind a blur of spreadsheets and deadlines. The world around him seemed to share his weariness, the city streets dim under the cloudy sky, as if everything had been drained of color.
Zhang Wei sighed, adjusting the umbrella in his hand as he cut through a narrow alleyway. The quicker he could get home, the sooner he could sink into the comfort of his old couch, the one place where all the problems of the world seemed to fade away, leaving him in peace. He passed by a series of old shops, their windows fogged from the damp air, but one caught his eye. It was a small, nondescript bookstore he had never noticed before even though he normally walked this path every other day or so often.
It wasn’t the kind of place that would usually draw him in. The sign above the door was faded, the letters barely legible: “Tome of Ages.” The display window was cluttered with old, dusty books and peculiar trinkets. Zhang Wei hesitated, curiosity tugging at the corners of his tired mind. He had no particular interest in books, but something about the place called to him, a faint whisper that nudged him toward the door.
With a shrug, he folded his umbrella and pushed open the creaky door. A small bell chimed, announcing his entrance, though no one appeared to greet him. The interior was dimly lit, the air thick with the scent of aged paper, dust, and incense. Shelves crammed with books towered above him, casting long shadows that seemed to move with a life of their own.
“Hello?” Zhang Wei called out, his voice echoing slightly in the cramped space.
No answer. The store seemed deserted, but Zhang Wei was drawn further inside. He wandered through the narrow aisles, his fingers brushing the spines of the old books. Most of the titles were in languages he didn’t recognize, their covers worn and somewhat faded.
As he turned a corner, his eyes fell on a small, ornate staircase at the back of the store, partially hidden behind a shelf. The steps were old and worn, leading up into darkness. A normal person might have turned back, chalked this up to a momentary curiosity and left the store. But Zhang Wei, tired of the routine and boredom that seemed to define his existence, felt an inexplicable urge to climb those stairs.
He hesitated only for a moment before he began his ascent, the old wood creaking underfoot. The air grew cooler the higher he climbed, and he could feel a slight draft coming from above. The top of the staircase opened into a small attic, dimly lit by a single flickering bulb. The room was filled with boxes and old forgotten trinkets, a time capsule of sorts.
Zhang Wei’s eyes were drawn to an old chest in the corner, partially obscured by a moth-eaten blanket. The chest was intricately carved with symbols that seemed to pulse faintly, though he wasn’t sure if it was a trick of the light. Intrigued, he knelt down and carefully lifted the lid.
Inside, nestled among layers of dusty cloth, was a strange artifact. It was a small, jade pendant, shaped like a teardrop and inscribed with unfamiliar symbols. As Zhang Wei reached out to touch it, the pendant began to glow softly, the symbols lighting up in a brilliant emerald hue.
Before he could think to pull his hand away, the light enveloped him entirely. The world around him seemed to collapse inward, a swirling vortex of colors and light that blinded him. Zhang Wei felt his body being pulled, twisted, as if he were being sucked into the pendant itself. Panic surged through him, but there was nothing he could do to stop it.
And then, just as suddenly as it had begun, the light vanished. Zhang Wei found himself standing in a place that was very much not the dusty attic of an old bookstore. The air was warm, fragrant with the scent of blooming flowers and fresh earth. He stood in the middle of a lush, vibrant garden, the likes of which he had never seen. Trees with golden leaves towered above him, their branches swaying gently in an unseen breeze. The ground was covered in soft, emerald grass, dotted with flowers that glowed faintly in the dim light of twilight. Above in the sky two moon hung in the sky.
His heart pounded in his chest as he turned in a slow circle, trying to make sense of what had just happened. He was no longer in the city, no longer in the world he knew. Instead, he had been transported to some kind of mystical realm, a place that seemed to pulse with life and energy.
But as the initial shock began to wear off, a new realization struck him—he was utterly, terrifyingly alone. No signs of civilization, no people, just the eerie silence of the garden surrounding him.
Before panic could take hold, a soft, melodic voice broke the silence. “You’re finally here.”
Zhang Wei spun around, eyes wide, to see a figure standing at the edge of the garden. A woman, impossibly beautiful, with long, flowing black hair and eyes that sparkled with intelligence and a hint of mischief. She wore a traditional qipao, simple yet elegant, and her lips curved into a knowing smile.
“Who are you?” Zhang Wei managed to stammer, his mind struggling to keep up with the rapid succession of events.
The woman inclined her head slightly, the smile never leaving her face. “I am Xiao Yue, the Spirit Doll of this Divine Space. And you, it seems, are my new master.”
Zhang Wei blinked, trying to process her words. “Divine Space? Master? What are you talking about?”
Xiao Yue’s smile widened, a glint of amusement in her eyes. “All in good time, Master. For now, I suppose you should come inside. You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”
Before Zhang Wei could protest, Xiao Yue turned and began walking toward a small house nestled among the trees, its presence so natural within the landscape that he hadn’t even noticed it until now. The house was modest but elegant, with wooden beams and paper windows that glowed softly from the light within.
Numbly, Zhang Wei followed her, his mind a storm of confusion and questions. As he crossed the threshold of the house, he felt a strange sense of calm wash over him, as if the house itself were a sanctuary, a place where the worries of the world could not reach him.
Xiao Yue gestured for him to sit at a low table, and Zhang Wei did so, still feeling as though he were in a dream. She moved with practiced grace, pouring tea from a delicate porcelain pot into two small cups.
“So,” she said, setting the cup in front of him and sitting down across from him, “how much do you remember about the last few moments before you arrived here?”
Zhang Wei took a deep breath, trying to recall. “I… I found this pendant, and then there was this light, and… and then I was here. That’s all.”
Xiao Yue nodded, taking a sip of her tea. “The pendant was a key of sorts, linked to this Divine Space. It’s an ancient artifact, one that has been waiting for someone to activate it. Congratulations, Master, you’ve found yourself in a place beyond your wildest imagination. Though, from the looks of it,” she eyed him with a smirk, “you’re not quite ready to enjoy it just yet.”
Zhang Wei’s head spun. “This… this is too much. How do I get back? I need to return home.”
“Return?” Xiao Yue chuckled, the sound soft but laced with a hint of mockery. “I’m afraid that’s not possible, at least not for now. The Divine Space is cut off from your world, and only very specific circumstances will allow it to be accessed from the outside.”
The reality of his situation began to sink in, and Zhang Wei felt a wave of helplessness wash over him. “So… I’m stuck here?”
“For the time being,” Xiao Yue said, her tone gentler now. “But don’t despair, Master. This place holds many wonders, though it may take some time for you to fully appreciate them.”
Zhang Wei sighed, running a hand through his hair. “What am I supposed to do now?”
Xiao Yue leaned back, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Well, you could start by exploring your new home. There’s much to see, and who knows, you might even find a way to entertain yourself. I’ll be here to assist you, of course.”
Zhang Wei looked at her, unsure whether to be comforted or concerned by her words. But as he sipped the tea, its warmth spreading through him, he couldn’t help but feel a small glimmer of hope. Perhaps, just perhaps, this strange new world had something to offer him after all.
Chapter 2: The House of Mysteries
Xiao Yue finished her tea with a delicate sip, setting her cup down with an air of finality. Zhang Wei, still dazed by the surreal events of the last few moments, followed suit, carefully placing his cup on the low table. The warm liquid had done little to calm his racing thoughts, but at least it offered some comfort in this strange, otherworldly situation.
Xiao Yue stood gracefully, her movements as fluid as water, and beckoned for Zhang Wei to follow her. "Come, Master," she said with a soft smile. "Let me show you around your new home."
Zhang Wei rose from his seat, still feeling as though he were walking through a dream. He trailed behind Xiao Yue as she led him through the house, each step revealing new wonders that seemed impossible given the house's modest exterior.
First, she guided him to the kitchen. It was spacious and well-lit, with counters made of smooth jade and cabinets crafted from richly polished wood. The shelves were stocked with an array of cooking utensils, many of which Zhang Wei didn’t recognize. Large windows overlooked the lush garden outside, letting in the soft glow of twilight.
"This is the kitchen," Xiao Yue said, her tone matter-of-fact. "Everything you need to prepare meals is here, though I’m more than capable of handling that for you, of course."
Zhang Wei nodded absently, taking in the details. The kitchen alone seemed far too large to fit within the small house he had seen from the outside. But before he could dwell on it, Xiao Yue was already moving on.
Next, they entered the bedroom. It was a serene space, with a large, inviting bed draped in silken sheets. The walls were decorated with calming paintings of nature scenes, and a faint, pleasant scent of lavender filled the air. A small wardrobe stood to one side, already stocked with clothes in Zhang Wei’s size.
"This will be where you sleep," Xiao Yue said, opening the wardrobe to reveal a selection of comfortable robes and simple attire. "I took the liberty of preparing these for you. They’re made from the finest materials this realm has to offer."
Zhang Wei blinked in surprise. "How did you know my size?"
Xiao Yue merely smiled. "I have my ways, Master."
They continued their tour, moving through several more rooms. There was a reading room, lined with shelves of ancient tomes and scrolls that Zhang Wei guessed contained knowledge beyond his comprehension. A soft chair and a reading table occupied the center, illuminated by a gentle, warm light from a hanging lantern.
"This is the reading room," Xiao Yue explained. "You’ll find many texts here that might interest you. Some are historical records, others are instructional manuals, and a few are… more esoteric in nature. I suggest you read those when alone."
Finally, they reached a forge. The room was filled with an array of tools, an anvil, and a large furnace that radiated a comforting warmth. The walls were lined with racks of weapons in various stages of completion, from simple swords to intricately designed artifacts.
"The forge," Xiao Yue said, her voice carrying a note of pride. "A place where you can craft weapons, tools, and even artifacts, should you ever wish to try your hand at such things. The materials and tools here are of the highest quality, naturally."
Zhang Wei stared around the room in amazement. The sheer variety of items and the apparent functionality of the forge were overwhelming. "But how can all of this fit in such a small house?" he finally asked, his curiosity getting the better of him.
Xiao Yue turned to face him, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Ah, I wondered when you would ask that. You see, this house is no ordinary dwelling. It is a mystical artifact, capable of assuming any form the master desires. Its exterior may appear small and unassuming, but within, it can hold countless rooms, each designed to suit your needs. What you see now is its standard form, but you can add or modify rooms as you wish."
Zhang Wei took a moment to absorb this information, marveling at the possibilities. "So, I could create new rooms if I needed them?"
"Precisely," Xiao Yue confirmed. "As the master of this space, you have full control over its configuration."
Still reeling from the implications, Zhang Wei followed her as she led him back outside. The air was cool and fresh, the garden around the house bathed in the soft glow of the two moons. Xiao Yue guided him along a stone path that wound through the lush greenery, leading him to two distinct gardens and a serene pond.
The first garden was a sight to behold, filled with luxurious fruits and vegetables that glowed softly, their colors vibrant and rich. The plants seemed to pulse with life, as if they were brimming with some hidden power. The second garden, while beautiful in its own right, was more familiar to Zhang Wei’s eyes, filled with ordinary, non-glowing vegetables.
"This is your personal garden," Xiao Yue said, gesturing to the glowing plants. "These fruits and vegetables are spiritual in nature, infused with spiritual energy. They are yours to do with as you please. The other garden contains regular produce, should you prefer something more… mundane."
Zhang Wei stared at the glowing fruits and vegetables, his mind racing. "Spiritual fruits and grass… like in cultivation novels?"
Xiao Yue arched an eyebrow at his response, a hint of curiosity in her expression. "Do such things not exist where you’re from?"
Zhang Wei shook his head. "No… at least, not in the world I know."
Without warning, Xiao Yue stepped closer and gently took his hand, her touch surprisingly warm. She closed her eyes for a moment, a slight frown creasing her brow. "Hmm… there is no spiritual qi within your body."
Zhang Wei’s heart skipped a beat. "Is that… is that a problem?"
Xiao Yue released his hand, her expression turning serious. "Without spiritual qi, if you were to eat any of the spiritual fruits or grass, your body would not be able to handle the energy contained within them. The result would be… explosive. Quite literally, I’m afraid."
Zhang Wei’s eyes widened in alarm. "Explode? Like… kaboom?"
"Precisely," Xiao Yue said with a deadpan expression, though her eyes sparkled with a hint of amusement. "Your mortal body lacks the necessary cultivation to absorb the energy safely. Until you acquire spiritual qi, I would strongly advise against consuming anything from this garden."
Zhang Wei swallowed hard, his excitement dampened by the revelation. "So, what can I do?"
Xiao Yue smiled, this time more gently. "For now, focus on exploring this space and familiarizing yourself with it. There are other ways you might benefit from these resources, even without consuming them directly. And who knows? You may yet find a way to cultivate spiritual qi of your own."
Zhang Wei nodded slowly, a feeling of apprehension settled in his chest. This place, this mystical realm, was filled with both wonders and dangers. But as strange and intimidating as it was, he couldn’t help but feel a spark of curiosity—perhaps even excitement—about what lay past this house.
As they continued to walk through the garden, the soft glow of the spiritual plants casting a serene light over the path, Zhang Wei realized that his life had just taken a turn far beyond anything he could have imagined.
Xiao Yue finished her tea with a delicate sip, setting her cup down with an air of finality. Zhang Wei, still dazed by the surreal events of the last few moments, followed suit, carefully placing his cup on the low table. The warm liquid had done little to calm his racing thoughts, but at least it offered some comfort in this strange, otherworldly situation.
Xiao Yue stood gracefully, her movements as fluid as water, and beckoned for Zhang Wei to follow her. "Come, Master," she said with a soft smile. "Let me show you around your new home."
Zhang Wei rose from his seat, still feeling as though he were walking through a dream. He trailed behind Xiao Yue as she led him through the house, each step revealing new wonders that seemed impossible given the house's modest exterior.
First, she guided him to the kitchen. It was spacious and well-lit, with counters made of smooth jade and cabinets crafted from richly polished wood. The shelves were stocked with an array of cooking utensils, many of which Zhang Wei didn’t recognize. Large windows overlooked the lush garden outside, letting in the soft glow of twilight.
"This is the kitchen," Xiao Yue said, her tone matter-of-fact. "Everything you need to prepare meals is here, though I’m more than capable of handling that for you, of course."
Zhang Wei nodded absently, taking in the details. The kitchen alone seemed far too large to fit within the small house he had seen from the outside. But before he could dwell on it, Xiao Yue was already moving on.
Next, they entered the bedroom. It was a serene space, with a large, inviting bed draped in silken sheets. The walls were decorated with calming paintings of nature scenes, and a faint, pleasant scent of lavender filled the air. A small wardrobe stood to one side, already stocked with clothes in Zhang Wei’s size.
"This will be where you sleep," Xiao Yue said, opening the wardrobe to reveal a selection of comfortable robes and simple attire. "I took the liberty of preparing these for you. They’re made from the finest materials this realm has to offer."
Zhang Wei blinked in surprise. "How did you know my size?"
Xiao Yue merely smiled. "I have my ways, Master."
They continued their tour, moving through several more rooms. There was a reading room, lined with shelves of ancient tomes and scrolls that Zhang Wei guessed contained knowledge beyond his comprehension. A soft chair and a reading table occupied the center, illuminated by a gentle, warm light from a hanging lantern.
"This is the reading room," Xiao Yue explained. "You’ll find many texts here that might interest you. Some are historical records, others are instructional manuals, and a few are… more esoteric in nature. I suggest you read those when alone."
Finally, they reached a forge. The room was filled with an array of tools, an anvil, and a large furnace that radiated a comforting warmth. The walls were lined with racks of weapons in various stages of completion, from simple swords to intricately designed artifacts.
"The forge," Xiao Yue said, her voice carrying a note of pride. "A place where you can craft weapons, tools, and even artifacts, should you ever wish to try your hand at such things. The materials and tools here are of the highest quality, naturally."
Zhang Wei stared around the room in amazement. The sheer variety of items and the apparent functionality of the forge were overwhelming. "But how can all of this fit in such a small house?" he finally asked, his curiosity getting the better of him.
Xiao Yue turned to face him, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Ah, I wondered when you would ask that. You see, this house is no ordinary dwelling. It is a mystical artifact, capable of assuming any form the master desires. Its exterior may appear small and unassuming, but within, it can hold countless rooms, each designed to suit your needs. What you see now is its standard form, but you can add or modify rooms as you wish."
Zhang Wei took a moment to absorb this information, marveling at the possibilities. "So, I could create new rooms if I needed them?"
"Precisely," Xiao Yue confirmed. "As the master of this space, you have full control over its configuration."
Still reeling from the implications, Zhang Wei followed her as she led him back outside. The air was cool and fresh, the garden around the house bathed in the soft glow of the two moons. Xiao Yue guided him along a stone path that wound through the lush greenery, leading him to two distinct gardens and a serene pond.
The first garden was a sight to behold, filled with luxurious fruits and vegetables that glowed softly, their colors vibrant and rich. The plants seemed to pulse with life, as if they were brimming with some hidden power. The second garden, while beautiful in its own right, was more familiar to Zhang Wei’s eyes, filled with ordinary, non-glowing vegetables.
"This is your personal garden," Xiao Yue said, gesturing to the glowing plants. "These fruits and vegetables are spiritual in nature, infused with spiritual energy. They are yours to do with as you please. The other garden contains regular produce, should you prefer something more… mundane."
Zhang Wei stared at the glowing fruits and vegetables, his mind racing. "Spiritual fruits and grass… like in cultivation novels?"
Xiao Yue arched an eyebrow at his response, a hint of curiosity in her expression. "Do such things not exist where you’re from?"
Zhang Wei shook his head. "No… at least, not in the world I know."
Without warning, Xiao Yue stepped closer and gently took his hand, her touch surprisingly warm. She closed her eyes for a moment, a slight frown creasing her brow. "Hmm… there is no spiritual qi within your body."
Zhang Wei’s heart skipped a beat. "Is that… is that a problem?"
Xiao Yue released his hand, her expression turning serious. "Without spiritual qi, if you were to eat any of the spiritual fruits or grass, your body would not be able to handle the energy contained within them. The result would be… explosive. Quite literally, I’m afraid."
Zhang Wei’s eyes widened in alarm. "Explode? Like… kaboom?"
"Precisely," Xiao Yue said with a deadpan expression, though her eyes sparkled with a hint of amusement. "Your mortal body lacks the necessary cultivation to absorb the energy safely. Until you acquire spiritual qi, I would strongly advise against consuming anything from this garden."
Zhang Wei swallowed hard, his excitement dampened by the revelation. "So, what can I do?"
Xiao Yue smiled, this time more gently. "For now, focus on exploring this space and familiarizing yourself with it. There are other ways you might benefit from these resources, even without consuming them directly. And who knows? You may yet find a way to cultivate spiritual qi of your own."
Zhang Wei nodded slowly, a feeling of apprehension settled in his chest. This place, this mystical realm, was filled with both wonders and dangers. But as strange and intimidating as it was, he couldn’t help but feel a spark of curiosity—perhaps even excitement—about what lay past this house.
As they continued to walk through the garden, the soft glow of the spiritual plants casting a serene light over the path, Zhang Wei realized that his life had just taken a turn far beyond anything he could have imagined.
Chapter 3: A Year in the Divine Space
A year had passed since Zhang Wei first became the owner of the mysterious realm known as the Divine Space. The initial shock and confusion had long since faded, replaced by a quiet acceptance of his new reality. Life in this strange world had settled into a routine, albeit an unusual one.
Zhang Wei sat by the edge of the pond, a fishing rod in hand, the line drifting lazily in the water. The pond was serene, its surface reflecting the vibrant colors of the garden that surrounded it. The water shimmered with a faint ethereal glow, the koi fish beneath the surface moving with a grace that was almost hypnotic.
As he felt a slight tug on the line, Zhang Wei gently reeled it in, careful not to startle his catch. A large koi fish emerged from the water, its scales shimmering in a rainbow of colors. It flopped slightly as it hung from the line, but there was no fear in its movements—just a gentle resignation.
Zhang Wei smiled softly at the creature, admiring its beauty for a moment before carefully removing the hook from its mouth. “You’re a big one today,” he murmured, before lowering the koi back into the pond. The fish darted away, disappearing into the depths with a flick of its tail.
He sighed contentedly, leaning back on his hands as he gazed out over the pond. The past year had been a strange, almost dreamlike experience. He had spent his days exploring the many rooms of the house, each filled with wonders and tools beyond his comprehension, and his evenings fishing, gardening, or simply enjoying the peace of the Divine Space. Xiao Yue had been his constant companion, her sharp wit and occasional mischief making the isolation bearable.
A loud bang echoed through the serene air, shattering the tranquility of the moment. Zhang Wei sat up abruptly, his heart racing as he looked around for the source of the noise. The sound had come from somewhere beyond the house.
As if on cue, the door to the house swung open, and Xiao Yue stepped out. The once small, traditional house had transformed over the past year into a modern, two-story building, complete with large windows and a sleek design that seemed to blend effortlessly with the natural surroundings. Zhang Wei had made the changes himself, slowly molding the house to resemble something more familiar from his previous life.
Xiao Yue approached him with a calm, measured pace, though there was a spark of interest in her eyes. “Master,” she called, her voice carrying effortlessly across the garden, “It seems another artifact has fallen into the Divine Space. The disturbance you heard this time was quite loud. Either it's large or very powerful.”
Zhang Wei stood up, dusting off his pants. “Another one? That’s the third this month.” He had become accustomed to these occurrences, though they still piqued his curiosity. The Divine Space, as Xiao Yue had explained to him, occasionally brushed against other dimensions, resulting in objects or artifacts from those realms falling through.
Xiao Yue nodded, a faint smile playing on her lips. “Indeed. The Divine Space is unpredictable in that regard. I’ll go retrieve it. I’d advise you to remain within the barrier, as always.”
Zhang Wei waved her off with a casual flick of his hand. “Yeah, yeah, I know the drill. Stay within the fence and don’t touch anything that glows without your say-so.”
Xiao Yue’s smile widened, a hint of amusement in her eyes. “Good to see you’re paying attention, Master.” With that, she turned and began walking toward the edge of the barrier, where the landscape began to blur and distort slightly—a clear sign of where the safe area ended and the danger zone began.
Zhang Wei watched her go, her form slowly fading into the distance. Once she disappeared from sight, he let out a long yawn, suddenly bored with fishing. The past year had been peaceful, but also monotonous at times. Fishing was relaxing, but even that could grow tiresome after a while.
He stretched, rolling his shoulders as he headed toward the regular garden. The garden was neatly divided into two sections: one filled with vibrant, glowing spiritual fruits and grass, and the other with ordinary produce. Zhang Wei opted for the non-glowing variety, recalling Xiao Yue’s warning about what might happen if he tried to consume anything too potent for his mortal body to handle. Due to this, he hadn’t even touched the spiritual one even once in all this time.
He crouched down and pulled out a few fresh vegetables, enjoying the earthy scent as he placed them into a basket. The mundane task brought a sense of normalcy to his day, something he had come to appreciate in this otherwise extraordinary place.
Basket in hand, Zhang Wei made his way back to the house. Dropping off the vegetables before heading to the room that had become his favorite over the past few months—the woodcarving room. It was a new addition, one he had added after one of Xiao Yue’s artifact retrievals had left him with a massive tree.
The memory of how that room came to be made him chuckle. He had mentioned offhandedly that he might like to try his hand at woodcarving, perhaps as a way to pass the time. Xiao Yue, ever eager to entertain, had left the barrier to retrieve another artifact. However, she also returned with an entire tree, roots and all. The sheer scale of her ‘gift’ had left him speechless, but he had quickly come to understand that Xiao Yue loved to mess with him whenever she could.
Rather than rise to the bait, Zhang Wei had taken it in stride. After cutting off the branches and leaving four sturdy stumps, he had imagined a woodcarving room and, as expected, the house had complied. A new door appeared, leading to a room lined with tools, benches, and ample space for his new project. The tree now sat proudly in the center of the room, waiting to be transformed by his hands.
As Zhang Wei entered the woodcarving room, the familiar scent of fresh wood greeted him, a smell that had become oddly comforting. The room was bathed in a warm, golden light that filtered through the large windows, casting soft shadows across the floor. The tools on the wall gleamed in the light, each one meticulously maintained, thanks to Xiao Yue’s efforts.
He approached the tree, his fingers brushing over the rough bark. It was a massive specimen, easily twice his height, with four thick stumps where the branches had been. Over the past few months, he had slowly begun carving small sections of the tree, testing his skills and learning as he went. It was a way to kill time, one that required patience and precision—two things he had plenty of in this isolated realm.
Today, though, he was distracted. The loud bang from earlier still echoed in his mind, and he couldn’t help but wonder what kind of artifact had fallen this time. Xiao Yue always retrieved them herself, claiming it was too dangerous for him to venture beyond the barrier. Part of him wanted to assert his own autonomy and explore, but he also trusted Xiao Yue’s judgment. She had kept him safe and entertained for an entire year, after all.
With a sigh, Zhang Wei picked up a chisel and set to work on one of the stumps. The steady rhythm of his carving soon quieted his restless thoughts, the sound of the tool against the wood a soothing balm to his mind. Each cut was deliberate, each stroke precise. As the minutes passed, he lost himself in the work, the outside world fading away.
A year had passed since Zhang Wei first became the owner of the mysterious realm known as the Divine Space. The initial shock and confusion had long since faded, replaced by a quiet acceptance of his new reality. Life in this strange world had settled into a routine, albeit an unusual one.
Zhang Wei sat by the edge of the pond, a fishing rod in hand, the line drifting lazily in the water. The pond was serene, its surface reflecting the vibrant colors of the garden that surrounded it. The water shimmered with a faint ethereal glow, the koi fish beneath the surface moving with a grace that was almost hypnotic.
As he felt a slight tug on the line, Zhang Wei gently reeled it in, careful not to startle his catch. A large koi fish emerged from the water, its scales shimmering in a rainbow of colors. It flopped slightly as it hung from the line, but there was no fear in its movements—just a gentle resignation.
Zhang Wei smiled softly at the creature, admiring its beauty for a moment before carefully removing the hook from its mouth. “You’re a big one today,” he murmured, before lowering the koi back into the pond. The fish darted away, disappearing into the depths with a flick of its tail.
He sighed contentedly, leaning back on his hands as he gazed out over the pond. The past year had been a strange, almost dreamlike experience. He had spent his days exploring the many rooms of the house, each filled with wonders and tools beyond his comprehension, and his evenings fishing, gardening, or simply enjoying the peace of the Divine Space. Xiao Yue had been his constant companion, her sharp wit and occasional mischief making the isolation bearable.
A loud bang echoed through the serene air, shattering the tranquility of the moment. Zhang Wei sat up abruptly, his heart racing as he looked around for the source of the noise. The sound had come from somewhere beyond the house.
As if on cue, the door to the house swung open, and Xiao Yue stepped out. The once small, traditional house had transformed over the past year into a modern, two-story building, complete with large windows and a sleek design that seemed to blend effortlessly with the natural surroundings. Zhang Wei had made the changes himself, slowly molding the house to resemble something more familiar from his previous life.
Xiao Yue approached him with a calm, measured pace, though there was a spark of interest in her eyes. “Master,” she called, her voice carrying effortlessly across the garden, “It seems another artifact has fallen into the Divine Space. The disturbance you heard this time was quite loud. Either it's large or very powerful.”
Zhang Wei stood up, dusting off his pants. “Another one? That’s the third this month.” He had become accustomed to these occurrences, though they still piqued his curiosity. The Divine Space, as Xiao Yue had explained to him, occasionally brushed against other dimensions, resulting in objects or artifacts from those realms falling through.
Xiao Yue nodded, a faint smile playing on her lips. “Indeed. The Divine Space is unpredictable in that regard. I’ll go retrieve it. I’d advise you to remain within the barrier, as always.”
Zhang Wei waved her off with a casual flick of his hand. “Yeah, yeah, I know the drill. Stay within the fence and don’t touch anything that glows without your say-so.”
Xiao Yue’s smile widened, a hint of amusement in her eyes. “Good to see you’re paying attention, Master.” With that, she turned and began walking toward the edge of the barrier, where the landscape began to blur and distort slightly—a clear sign of where the safe area ended and the danger zone began.
Zhang Wei watched her go, her form slowly fading into the distance. Once she disappeared from sight, he let out a long yawn, suddenly bored with fishing. The past year had been peaceful, but also monotonous at times. Fishing was relaxing, but even that could grow tiresome after a while.
He stretched, rolling his shoulders as he headed toward the regular garden. The garden was neatly divided into two sections: one filled with vibrant, glowing spiritual fruits and grass, and the other with ordinary produce. Zhang Wei opted for the non-glowing variety, recalling Xiao Yue’s warning about what might happen if he tried to consume anything too potent for his mortal body to handle. Due to this, he hadn’t even touched the spiritual one even once in all this time.
He crouched down and pulled out a few fresh vegetables, enjoying the earthy scent as he placed them into a basket. The mundane task brought a sense of normalcy to his day, something he had come to appreciate in this otherwise extraordinary place.
Basket in hand, Zhang Wei made his way back to the house. Dropping off the vegetables before heading to the room that had become his favorite over the past few months—the woodcarving room. It was a new addition, one he had added after one of Xiao Yue’s artifact retrievals had left him with a massive tree.
The memory of how that room came to be made him chuckle. He had mentioned offhandedly that he might like to try his hand at woodcarving, perhaps as a way to pass the time. Xiao Yue, ever eager to entertain, had left the barrier to retrieve another artifact. However, she also returned with an entire tree, roots and all. The sheer scale of her ‘gift’ had left him speechless, but he had quickly come to understand that Xiao Yue loved to mess with him whenever she could.
Rather than rise to the bait, Zhang Wei had taken it in stride. After cutting off the branches and leaving four sturdy stumps, he had imagined a woodcarving room and, as expected, the house had complied. A new door appeared, leading to a room lined with tools, benches, and ample space for his new project. The tree now sat proudly in the center of the room, waiting to be transformed by his hands.
As Zhang Wei entered the woodcarving room, the familiar scent of fresh wood greeted him, a smell that had become oddly comforting. The room was bathed in a warm, golden light that filtered through the large windows, casting soft shadows across the floor. The tools on the wall gleamed in the light, each one meticulously maintained, thanks to Xiao Yue’s efforts.
He approached the tree, his fingers brushing over the rough bark. It was a massive specimen, easily twice his height, with four thick stumps where the branches had been. Over the past few months, he had slowly begun carving small sections of the tree, testing his skills and learning as he went. It was a way to kill time, one that required patience and precision—two things he had plenty of in this isolated realm.
Today, though, he was distracted. The loud bang from earlier still echoed in his mind, and he couldn’t help but wonder what kind of artifact had fallen this time. Xiao Yue always retrieved them herself, claiming it was too dangerous for him to venture beyond the barrier. Part of him wanted to assert his own autonomy and explore, but he also trusted Xiao Yue’s judgment. She had kept him safe and entertained for an entire year, after all.
With a sigh, Zhang Wei picked up a chisel and set to work on one of the stumps. The steady rhythm of his carving soon quieted his restless thoughts, the sound of the tool against the wood a soothing balm to his mind. Each cut was deliberate, each stroke precise. As the minutes passed, he lost himself in the work, the outside world fading away.
Chapter 4 The Change
But even as he worked, a part of him couldn’t shake the feeling that things were different—that the time intervals between artifacts appearing in the Divine Space were shorting. The thought gnawed at him, a persistent whisper at the back of his mind. He had grown accustomed to the quiet routine of his days, but there was something about the loud bang which was louder than ever, and Xiao Yue’s reaction that set him on edge. It wasn’t just another artifact falling into the Divine Space; it felt more significant, more… dangerous.
Zhang Wei paused mid-stroke, the chisel hovering over the wood as he stared off into the distance, his thoughts drifting. What if this time, it wasn’t just an inanimate object? What if something—or someone—else had fallen through?
The idea was both thrilling and terrifying. On the one hand, the thought of encountering another being, even a dangerous one, was exciting after so much time spent alone with only Xiao Yue for company. On the other hand, the potential for danger was very real. He had no cultivation, no spiritual qi to protect himself. Without Xiao Yue, he was defenseless.
He shook his head, trying to dispel the unease. "I’m overthinking this," he muttered to himself, returning his focus to the stump. But the feeling lingered, a quiet anxiety that made it hard to concentrate.
The sound of the door opening pulled him from his thoughts. Zhang Wei looked up to see Xiao Yue entering the room, her expression carefully neutral, though he could sense a hint of tension in the way she carried herself.
"Master," she said, her tone calm but with an undercurrent of urgency. "I’ve retrieved the artifact. It’s… different from the others."
Zhang Wei set down his tools and straightened up, his heart rate quickening. "Different how?"
Xiao Yue hesitated for just a moment, her eyes flicking toward the door before meeting his gaze. "It’s a sealed object. The aura it emits is strong, but… it feels contained, as if whatever is inside is being held back by the seal. I brought it back to the house, but I advise caution. We don’t know what could happen if the seal is broken."
Zhang Wei’s curiosity spiked, but so did his caution. "Where is it now?"
"In the artifact storage room," Xiao Yue replied. "I’ve placed it under a containment barrier for now. I thought it best to inform you before proceeding any further."
Zhang Wei nodded, feeling a mixture of excitement and apprehension. The artifact storage room was another addition to the house he had made early on, a secure place to store the various items that had fallen into the Divine Space. Most of the artifacts were harmless or inactive, but this one sounded like it might be different.
"Show me," he said, making up his mind.
Xiao Yue gave a slight nod and led the way out of the woodcarving room. Zhang Wei followed her through the house, his thoughts racing. This was the first time she had ever shown hesitation about an artifact. Usually, she treated them with casual interest, often teasing him about his curiosity. But this time, she seemed genuinely concerned.
They reached the artifact storage room, and Xiao Yue pushed open the door. The room was filled with shelves lined with various objects—glowing crystals, ancient weapons, strange devices, and other items Zhang Wei had no name for. At the far end of the room, on a pedestal surrounded by a shimmering barrier, sat the new artifact.
It was a small, ornate box, about the size of a shoebox, covered in intricate carvings that glowed faintly with a soft, blue light. The air around it seemed to hum with energy, and Zhang Wei could feel a faint pressure against his chest, as if the box was exerting some kind of force even from a distance.
"That’s it?" Zhang Wei asked, moving closer but stopping just outside the barrier.
"Yes," Xiao Yue confirmed. "The carvings on the box are runes—ancient ones, meant to seal whatever is inside. The barrier I’ve placed around it should hold, but I recommend not disturbing it for now."
Zhang Wei stared at the box, his mind racing with possibilities. "What do you think is inside?"
"I can’t say for certain," Xiao Yue replied. "It could be anything—a powerful weapon, a dangerous creature, or even something benign that was sealed away for reasons unknown. The Divine Space brings in objects from countless dimensions, so the origins of this artifact could be from anywhere."
Zhang Wei felt a pang of disappointment, though he knew Xiao Yue was right to be cautious. Still, the unknown had always fascinated him, and this box—this sealed mystery—was no exception.
"We can’t just leave it here forever," Zhang Wei said after a moment. "At some point, we’ll need to open it, right?"
"Perhaps," Xiao Yue conceded. "But not without proper preparation. I can research the runes further, see if there’s a safe way to break the seal without triggering any unwanted effects. For now, though, it’s safest to leave it undisturbed."
Zhang Wei nodded, though he couldn’t tear his eyes away from the box. There was something about it—something that called to him, urging him to open it, to uncover its secrets. But he forced himself to step back, knowing that Xiao Yue’s caution was well-founded.
"Alright," he said, finally turning away from the pedestal. "We’ll wait and see what you can find out. But don’t leave me in the dark on this, okay? I want to know as soon as you have any information."
"Of course, Master," Xiao Yue said with a slight bow. "I’ll begin my research immediately."
Zhang Wei left the artifact storage room, his mind still buzzing with thoughts of the mysterious box. Whatever was inside, it felt important—more important than anything else that had fallen into the Divine Space so far.
He returned to the woodcarving room, though his earlier calm had been replaced by a restless energy. Picking up his chisel, he tried to focus on the work, but his thoughts kept drifting back to the artifact. He could almost feel its presence, a subtle pressure in the back of his mind, as if it were whispering to him from within its sealed confines.
This time, the waiting felt harder than ever. Zhang Wei had grown used to the quiet, the routine of his life in the Divine Space, but now that routine had been disrupted. And as much as he tried to return to his normal activities, the lure of the unknown was too strong to ignore.
Whatever that artifact was, it was only a matter of time before its secrets would be revealed. And when that time came, Zhang Wei knew that his peaceful life in the Divine Space might never be the same again. However, thinking of that proved useless so he returned to working on his woodcarving.
But even as he worked, a part of him couldn’t shake the feeling that things were different—that the time intervals between artifacts appearing in the Divine Space were shorting. The thought gnawed at him, a persistent whisper at the back of his mind. He had grown accustomed to the quiet routine of his days, but there was something about the loud bang which was louder than ever, and Xiao Yue’s reaction that set him on edge. It wasn’t just another artifact falling into the Divine Space; it felt more significant, more… dangerous.
Zhang Wei paused mid-stroke, the chisel hovering over the wood as he stared off into the distance, his thoughts drifting. What if this time, it wasn’t just an inanimate object? What if something—or someone—else had fallen through?
The idea was both thrilling and terrifying. On the one hand, the thought of encountering another being, even a dangerous one, was exciting after so much time spent alone with only Xiao Yue for company. On the other hand, the potential for danger was very real. He had no cultivation, no spiritual qi to protect himself. Without Xiao Yue, he was defenseless.
He shook his head, trying to dispel the unease. "I’m overthinking this," he muttered to himself, returning his focus to the stump. But the feeling lingered, a quiet anxiety that made it hard to concentrate.
The sound of the door opening pulled him from his thoughts. Zhang Wei looked up to see Xiao Yue entering the room, her expression carefully neutral, though he could sense a hint of tension in the way she carried herself.
"Master," she said, her tone calm but with an undercurrent of urgency. "I’ve retrieved the artifact. It’s… different from the others."
Zhang Wei set down his tools and straightened up, his heart rate quickening. "Different how?"
Xiao Yue hesitated for just a moment, her eyes flicking toward the door before meeting his gaze. "It’s a sealed object. The aura it emits is strong, but… it feels contained, as if whatever is inside is being held back by the seal. I brought it back to the house, but I advise caution. We don’t know what could happen if the seal is broken."
Zhang Wei’s curiosity spiked, but so did his caution. "Where is it now?"
"In the artifact storage room," Xiao Yue replied. "I’ve placed it under a containment barrier for now. I thought it best to inform you before proceeding any further."
Zhang Wei nodded, feeling a mixture of excitement and apprehension. The artifact storage room was another addition to the house he had made early on, a secure place to store the various items that had fallen into the Divine Space. Most of the artifacts were harmless or inactive, but this one sounded like it might be different.
"Show me," he said, making up his mind.
Xiao Yue gave a slight nod and led the way out of the woodcarving room. Zhang Wei followed her through the house, his thoughts racing. This was the first time she had ever shown hesitation about an artifact. Usually, she treated them with casual interest, often teasing him about his curiosity. But this time, she seemed genuinely concerned.
They reached the artifact storage room, and Xiao Yue pushed open the door. The room was filled with shelves lined with various objects—glowing crystals, ancient weapons, strange devices, and other items Zhang Wei had no name for. At the far end of the room, on a pedestal surrounded by a shimmering barrier, sat the new artifact.
It was a small, ornate box, about the size of a shoebox, covered in intricate carvings that glowed faintly with a soft, blue light. The air around it seemed to hum with energy, and Zhang Wei could feel a faint pressure against his chest, as if the box was exerting some kind of force even from a distance.
"That’s it?" Zhang Wei asked, moving closer but stopping just outside the barrier.
"Yes," Xiao Yue confirmed. "The carvings on the box are runes—ancient ones, meant to seal whatever is inside. The barrier I’ve placed around it should hold, but I recommend not disturbing it for now."
Zhang Wei stared at the box, his mind racing with possibilities. "What do you think is inside?"
"I can’t say for certain," Xiao Yue replied. "It could be anything—a powerful weapon, a dangerous creature, or even something benign that was sealed away for reasons unknown. The Divine Space brings in objects from countless dimensions, so the origins of this artifact could be from anywhere."
Zhang Wei felt a pang of disappointment, though he knew Xiao Yue was right to be cautious. Still, the unknown had always fascinated him, and this box—this sealed mystery—was no exception.
"We can’t just leave it here forever," Zhang Wei said after a moment. "At some point, we’ll need to open it, right?"
"Perhaps," Xiao Yue conceded. "But not without proper preparation. I can research the runes further, see if there’s a safe way to break the seal without triggering any unwanted effects. For now, though, it’s safest to leave it undisturbed."
Zhang Wei nodded, though he couldn’t tear his eyes away from the box. There was something about it—something that called to him, urging him to open it, to uncover its secrets. But he forced himself to step back, knowing that Xiao Yue’s caution was well-founded.
"Alright," he said, finally turning away from the pedestal. "We’ll wait and see what you can find out. But don’t leave me in the dark on this, okay? I want to know as soon as you have any information."
"Of course, Master," Xiao Yue said with a slight bow. "I’ll begin my research immediately."
Zhang Wei left the artifact storage room, his mind still buzzing with thoughts of the mysterious box. Whatever was inside, it felt important—more important than anything else that had fallen into the Divine Space so far.
He returned to the woodcarving room, though his earlier calm had been replaced by a restless energy. Picking up his chisel, he tried to focus on the work, but his thoughts kept drifting back to the artifact. He could almost feel its presence, a subtle pressure in the back of his mind, as if it were whispering to him from within its sealed confines.
This time, the waiting felt harder than ever. Zhang Wei had grown used to the quiet, the routine of his life in the Divine Space, but now that routine had been disrupted. And as much as he tried to return to his normal activities, the lure of the unknown was too strong to ignore.
Whatever that artifact was, it was only a matter of time before its secrets would be revealed. And when that time came, Zhang Wei knew that his peaceful life in the Divine Space might never be the same again. However, thinking of that proved useless so he returned to working on his woodcarving.
Chapter 5 A Dream and a Revelation
Zhang Wei stepped back from the woodcarving, admiring his handiwork. The phoenix he had been meticulously crafting over the past few hours was finally complete. Its wings spread wide as if ready to take flight, each feather carved with delicate precision. The creature seemed almost alive, as though it might burst into flames and rise into the sky at any moment.
He sighed in satisfaction, running a hand over the smooth wood. Carving had become a therapeutic escape for him, a way to channel his restlessness into something tangible. But now, with the phoenix finished, a wave of exhaustion washed over him, the kind that only came after a task well done.
Setting down his tools, Zhang Wei stretched, feeling the weariness settle into his bones. It was late, and the quiet stillness of the Divine Space seemed to lull him towards sleep. He turned off the lights in the woodcarving room and made his way upstairs to his bedroom.
The room was a sanctuary of comfort, with a large bed draped in soft linens and pillows that seemed to invite him to sink into their embrace. Zhang Wei didn’t hesitate; he slipped under the covers, the cool sheets a welcome relief against his tired body. As soon as his head hit the pillow, sleep overtook him, pulling him into its gentle embrace.
The dream came to him as it always did, a recurring vision that had haunted his nights for as long as he could remember. He was sitting on the front porch of a house, though not the one in the Divine Space. It was different, older, with an air of familiarity that he couldn’t quite place.
Zhang Wei found himself lying with his head resting on the lap of a woman whose face was obscured by a soft, radiant glow. Her presence exuded an ethereal grace, drawing his gaze each time they met in this dream world. The rest of the world faded into the background whenever she appeared, as if nothing else mattered.
Her attire was simple yet profoundly elegant—a robe of pure, unblemished white that fell in soft, flowing folds around her. The fabric shimmered with a subtle iridescence, catching the light in a way that suggested an otherworldly quality. There were no intricate patterns or embellishments on the robe, yet its simplicity only served to enhance its quiet sophistication. The cinched waist hinted at a graceful figure without revealing too much, maintaining an air of modesty that made her all the more mysterious.
Her hair was what captured his attention the most. It cascaded like a river of night, dark as the midnight sky, flowing freely down her back. Each strand rippled with a sheen that echoed the tranquil, star-filled heavens, shimmering subtly like the distant twinkle of stars against the deep, velvety darkness of the night.
Zhang Wei couldn’t see her face clearly—only her lips, curved into a gentle, reassuring smile as she caressed his hair with a tenderness that filled his heart with an inexplicable warmth. He had never felt so at peace, so utterly content, as he did in these dreams. And yet, there was an undercurrent of melancholy, as if some vital part of him knew that this dream could never last.
She never spoke in these dreams, only smiled down at him, her touch as soft as a breeze. Zhang Wei wanted to ask her who she was, where they were, and why she felt so achingly familiar, but the words never came. Instead, he simply lay there, basking in the serenity of her presence, the world around them blurring into a hazy, golden glow.
He had no concept of time in these dreams. They could last minutes or hours—he couldn’t tell. But eventually, as always, the vision began to fade, the woman’s image growing more distant, the warmth of her touch slipping away like sand through his fingers. He reached out, trying to hold on, but she was already gone, leaving him alone on the porch.
Zhang Wei stirred in his sleep, murmuring softly, his brow furrowing as the dream slipped away.
While Zhang Wei dreamed, unaware of the world around him, an energy being made of crackling purple lightning floated above him, its form shifting and pulsing with raw power. The being hovered near the ceiling of Zhang Wei’s bedroom, its eyes—if they could be called that—glowing with an intense, otherworldly light.
The being turned its gaze towards the door, where Xiao Yue stood quietly, her hands folded in front of her. Despite her usual playful demeanor, she was subdued in the presence of the energy being, her expression one of respect.
"Did the item arrive safely?" the being asked, its voice a deep, resonant hum that seemed to vibrate through the walls.
Xiao Yue nodded, bowing her head slightly. "Yes, Madam. The item has been secured in the artifact storage room."
"Good." The being’s gaze returned to Zhang Wei, who remained lost in his dream. "Is the master having a good dream?" Xiao Yue inquired, her voice soft, almost tentative.
"It’s a pleasant dream," the being replied, a note of wistfulness in its voice. "I crafted it to calm his mind. He must remain peaceful for the seal to hold."
Xiao Yue’s eyes flickered with understanding. "I see… Is there anything else I should be aware of, Madam?"
The being shifted slightly, its form crackling with energy. "I’ve altered the Divine Space so that no artifact will create a commotion when it arrives. All items should now safely drop in the storage room. Check there daily."
Xiao Yue nodded again, her expression unreadable. "I understand, Madam."
There was a brief silence before Xiao Yue spoke again, her tone cautious. "Madam, may I ask… why did you not simply kill the master? Why seal him here and create me to protect him, when he is stronger than I am?"
The being’s eyes, glowing with an intense violet light, seemed to dim slightly, as if in contemplation. "He is too strong for any world. His power, if left unchecked, could lead to the destruction of not just himself, but of all dimensions. It’s taking most of my power to seal him here, but he must stay within the Divine Space for another hundred years before the seal can succeed."
Xiao Yue lowered her gaze, her thoughts racing. "And my role is to keep him entertained, so nothing goes wrong?"
"Precisely," the being confirmed. "He must remain unaware of his true nature and the danger he poses. If he becomes too restless, it could jeopardize everything. Your duty is to ensure he remains content and occupied."
Xiao Yue hesitated, then spoke with a touch of concern. "But, Madam, the master is starting to grow bored. He’s becoming restless. I fear that the tranquility of the Divine Space may no longer be enough to keep him entertained."
The being paused, considering her words. "Then let him play outside the barrier," it said finally. "That’s why I gathered so many mythical beasts here—to keep him occupied. Just ensure that he never feels truly endangered. He must believe that he’s in control, that his actions have meaning."
Xiao Yue bowed deeply. "I understand, Madam. I will do as you command."
The being’s form began to dissipate, the purple lightning fading into nothingness. "Remember, Xiao Yue, this is for the good of everyone himself included. He must never know the truth."
As the being vanished completely, Xiao Yue straightened, her expression conflicted. She looked down at Zhang Wei, who was still deep in his dream, his brow furrowed slightly as if troubled by something just beyond his reach.
"Sleep well, Master," she whispered softly. "For now, at least, your dreams are your own."
With a final glance, she turned and quietly left the room, her mind already racing with plans to keep Zhang Wei entertained in the days to come.
Zhang Wei stepped back from the woodcarving, admiring his handiwork. The phoenix he had been meticulously crafting over the past few hours was finally complete. Its wings spread wide as if ready to take flight, each feather carved with delicate precision. The creature seemed almost alive, as though it might burst into flames and rise into the sky at any moment.
He sighed in satisfaction, running a hand over the smooth wood. Carving had become a therapeutic escape for him, a way to channel his restlessness into something tangible. But now, with the phoenix finished, a wave of exhaustion washed over him, the kind that only came after a task well done.
Setting down his tools, Zhang Wei stretched, feeling the weariness settle into his bones. It was late, and the quiet stillness of the Divine Space seemed to lull him towards sleep. He turned off the lights in the woodcarving room and made his way upstairs to his bedroom.
The room was a sanctuary of comfort, with a large bed draped in soft linens and pillows that seemed to invite him to sink into their embrace. Zhang Wei didn’t hesitate; he slipped under the covers, the cool sheets a welcome relief against his tired body. As soon as his head hit the pillow, sleep overtook him, pulling him into its gentle embrace.
The dream came to him as it always did, a recurring vision that had haunted his nights for as long as he could remember. He was sitting on the front porch of a house, though not the one in the Divine Space. It was different, older, with an air of familiarity that he couldn’t quite place.
Zhang Wei found himself lying with his head resting on the lap of a woman whose face was obscured by a soft, radiant glow. Her presence exuded an ethereal grace, drawing his gaze each time they met in this dream world. The rest of the world faded into the background whenever she appeared, as if nothing else mattered.
Her attire was simple yet profoundly elegant—a robe of pure, unblemished white that fell in soft, flowing folds around her. The fabric shimmered with a subtle iridescence, catching the light in a way that suggested an otherworldly quality. There were no intricate patterns or embellishments on the robe, yet its simplicity only served to enhance its quiet sophistication. The cinched waist hinted at a graceful figure without revealing too much, maintaining an air of modesty that made her all the more mysterious.
Her hair was what captured his attention the most. It cascaded like a river of night, dark as the midnight sky, flowing freely down her back. Each strand rippled with a sheen that echoed the tranquil, star-filled heavens, shimmering subtly like the distant twinkle of stars against the deep, velvety darkness of the night.
Zhang Wei couldn’t see her face clearly—only her lips, curved into a gentle, reassuring smile as she caressed his hair with a tenderness that filled his heart with an inexplicable warmth. He had never felt so at peace, so utterly content, as he did in these dreams. And yet, there was an undercurrent of melancholy, as if some vital part of him knew that this dream could never last.
She never spoke in these dreams, only smiled down at him, her touch as soft as a breeze. Zhang Wei wanted to ask her who she was, where they were, and why she felt so achingly familiar, but the words never came. Instead, he simply lay there, basking in the serenity of her presence, the world around them blurring into a hazy, golden glow.
He had no concept of time in these dreams. They could last minutes or hours—he couldn’t tell. But eventually, as always, the vision began to fade, the woman’s image growing more distant, the warmth of her touch slipping away like sand through his fingers. He reached out, trying to hold on, but she was already gone, leaving him alone on the porch.
Zhang Wei stirred in his sleep, murmuring softly, his brow furrowing as the dream slipped away.
While Zhang Wei dreamed, unaware of the world around him, an energy being made of crackling purple lightning floated above him, its form shifting and pulsing with raw power. The being hovered near the ceiling of Zhang Wei’s bedroom, its eyes—if they could be called that—glowing with an intense, otherworldly light.
The being turned its gaze towards the door, where Xiao Yue stood quietly, her hands folded in front of her. Despite her usual playful demeanor, she was subdued in the presence of the energy being, her expression one of respect.
"Did the item arrive safely?" the being asked, its voice a deep, resonant hum that seemed to vibrate through the walls.
Xiao Yue nodded, bowing her head slightly. "Yes, Madam. The item has been secured in the artifact storage room."
"Good." The being’s gaze returned to Zhang Wei, who remained lost in his dream. "Is the master having a good dream?" Xiao Yue inquired, her voice soft, almost tentative.
"It’s a pleasant dream," the being replied, a note of wistfulness in its voice. "I crafted it to calm his mind. He must remain peaceful for the seal to hold."
Xiao Yue’s eyes flickered with understanding. "I see… Is there anything else I should be aware of, Madam?"
The being shifted slightly, its form crackling with energy. "I’ve altered the Divine Space so that no artifact will create a commotion when it arrives. All items should now safely drop in the storage room. Check there daily."
Xiao Yue nodded again, her expression unreadable. "I understand, Madam."
There was a brief silence before Xiao Yue spoke again, her tone cautious. "Madam, may I ask… why did you not simply kill the master? Why seal him here and create me to protect him, when he is stronger than I am?"
The being’s eyes, glowing with an intense violet light, seemed to dim slightly, as if in contemplation. "He is too strong for any world. His power, if left unchecked, could lead to the destruction of not just himself, but of all dimensions. It’s taking most of my power to seal him here, but he must stay within the Divine Space for another hundred years before the seal can succeed."
Xiao Yue lowered her gaze, her thoughts racing. "And my role is to keep him entertained, so nothing goes wrong?"
"Precisely," the being confirmed. "He must remain unaware of his true nature and the danger he poses. If he becomes too restless, it could jeopardize everything. Your duty is to ensure he remains content and occupied."
Xiao Yue hesitated, then spoke with a touch of concern. "But, Madam, the master is starting to grow bored. He’s becoming restless. I fear that the tranquility of the Divine Space may no longer be enough to keep him entertained."
The being paused, considering her words. "Then let him play outside the barrier," it said finally. "That’s why I gathered so many mythical beasts here—to keep him occupied. Just ensure that he never feels truly endangered. He must believe that he’s in control, that his actions have meaning."
Xiao Yue bowed deeply. "I understand, Madam. I will do as you command."
The being’s form began to dissipate, the purple lightning fading into nothingness. "Remember, Xiao Yue, this is for the good of everyone himself included. He must never know the truth."
As the being vanished completely, Xiao Yue straightened, her expression conflicted. She looked down at Zhang Wei, who was still deep in his dream, his brow furrowed slightly as if troubled by something just beyond his reach.
"Sleep well, Master," she whispered softly. "For now, at least, your dreams are your own."
With a final glance, she turned and quietly left the room, her mind already racing with plans to keep Zhang Wei entertained in the days to come.
