Chapter 11: Divine Reckoning
The celebration following their successful Olympus mission lasted well into the night. Chaldea's normally austere facilities had been transformed by Quetzalcoatl's enthusiastic decorating—golden solar light illuminating gathering spaces, impromptu music from various cultural traditions filling the air, and somehow, despite the facility's supposedly strict regulations, various forms of divine alcohol appearing in abundant supply.
Long Chen participated with measured enjoyment, observing the interactions between Heroic Spirits and Chaldea staff with curiosity. The camaraderie between beings of such diverse origins and power levels reminded him somewhat of the brotherhood he'd formed back in his own world, though with considerably more divine authority present.
"Enjoying the festivities?" Artoria asked, approaching with uncharacteristic casualness. She had abandoned her armor for a simple blue dress that somehow enhanced rather than diminished her regal bearing.
"It's fascinating," Long Chen admitted. "In my world, cultivators rarely celebrate so openly. Every gathering inevitably becomes a display of power and status, with various factions maneuvering for advantage."
"Politics exists everywhere," Artoria noted with a slight smile. "You should have seen the original Round Table after successful campaigns—politics disguised as celebration, alliances forming and dissolving between cups of mead."
"Yet you maintained order through it all," Long Chen observed.
Something like wistful nostalgia crossed Artoria's features. "For a time. Though perhaps with less wisdom than I believed I possessed."
Their conversation was interrupted by a Chaldea staff member approaching with evident urgency. "Master Fujimaru requests your immediate presence in the command center," the young woman announced, clearly trying to maintain professional composure despite the atmosphere of celebration. "All primary combat personnel."
Long Chen and Artoria exchanged glances, the brief moment of casual connection immediately shifting to battle-readiness. "Something's wrong," Artoria stated, already moving toward the exit.
They found Ritsuka, Mash, and da Vinci in the command center, gathered around monitoring stations displaying complex sensor readings. Arcueid, Quetzalcoatl, and Durga arrived shortly after, all instantly alert despite the festivities they'd just departed.
"We have a situation," da Vinci announced without preamble, activating a holographic display that showed a massive energy distortion forming in what appeared to be orbit around Earth. "Approximately thirty minutes ago, our sensors detected a dimensional anomaly identical to those associated with the Fantasy Trees."
"That's impossible," Artoria stated firmly. "We severed Magellan completely. The Olympus Lostbelt was collapsing when we extracted."
"It was," da Vinci confirmed. "But this isn't Magellan. This is... something else." She manipulated the display to show a more detailed view of the anomaly. "The energy signature contains elements of Olympian divine authority, but reconfigured into a pattern we've never encountered before."
Long Chen studied the display carefully, his newly enhanced perception allowing him to recognize patterns invisible to conventional analysis. "That's Zeus," he stated with absolute certainty. "He's reconstituted himself outside conventional reality, using fragments of Magellan's power combined with his own divine core."
"How is that possible?" Mash asked, clearly alarmed. "No Machine God should be able to survive separation from their Lostbelt's foundation."
"Zeus was different from the other Machine Gods," Arcueid reminded them, her golden eyes narrowed as she examined the readings. "He had directly integrated with Magellan's core, establishing connections that transcended normal Lostbelt parameters."
"And he's now using those connections to pull himself back into our reality," Durga concluded, her weapons beginning to orbit her form as battle-readiness engaged. "A final act of divine defiance against natural cosmic order."
Quetzalcoatl leaned closer to the display, her normally cheerful expression unusually serious. "He's not just reconstituting himself—he's transforming. These energy patterns suggest reconfiguration toward a more primordial divine state, abandoning technological integration for pure conceptual existence."
"Precisely," da Vinci confirmed. "He's attempting to escape the Lostbelt's collapse by ascending to a higher order of divine manifestation—one not dependent on physical technology or spatial location."
"And if he succeeds?" Ritsuka asked, though his expression suggested he already anticipated the answer.
"At minimum, he'd become a divine threat comparable to a Beast-class entity," da Vinci replied grimly. "At worst, he could potentially establish a new divine authority framework that would override proper human history across multiple timelines."
"So we stop him," Long Chen stated simply, as if the solution were perfectly obvious. "Before his transformation completes."
Da Vinci blinked, momentarily taken aback by his straightforward approach to what Chaldea clearly considered a catastrophic crisis. "That's... technically correct, but the execution presents unprecedented challenges. The anomaly exists partially outside conventional spacetime. We can't simply deploy there using standard methods."
Long Chen smiled—not the polite expression he'd maintained during most social interactions, but the dangerous grin of a cultivator who had found worthy prey. "You're overthinking the problem. Zeus has essentially created a divine realm accessible only to beings with sufficient cosmic authority." He glanced around at his companions. "Fortunately, we have several who qualify."
"You're suggesting direct divine confrontation," Artoria realized, quickly grasping his intent. "Using our combined divine authorities to breach his nascent realm and terminate his transformation before completion."
"Exactly," Long Chen confirmed. "A direct, overwhelming assault while he's still vulnerable. No complex strategies, no elaborate plans—just pure, concentrated power applied precisely where it will do most damage."
Quetzalcoatl's expression brightened immediately. "I love this approach! Simple, direct, and maximally destructive! Very godlike thinking, Star-Bearer!"
"There's a certain poetic justice to it," Durga acknowledged, her weapons spinning faster as she considered the proposal. "Zeus abandoned natural cosmic progression for artificial perfection. Now natural cosmic forces will judge his attempt to circumvent proper destruction."
Arcueid's golden eyes met Long Chen's, silent communication passing between them. "This isn't like battling Zeus within Olympus," she cautioned. "In this transitional divine state, his power will be both more unstable and potentially more dangerous. The rules of reality themselves may fluctuate unpredictably."
"Good," Long Chen replied, that dangerous smile widening slightly. "Unpredictable circumstances create optimal conditions for cultivation advancement. The eighth star has been responding to cosmic stimuli since our return. This confrontation might provide exactly the catalyst needed for its awakening."
Ritsuka studied Long Chen with newfound appreciation, clearly recognizing something familiar in his approach. "You remind me of certain Servants I've worked with—those who view apocalyptic threats as personal growth opportunities."
"All cultivators worthy of the name think similarly," Long Chen replied with a casual shrug. "Heavenly tribulation becomes heavenly opportunity for those with the courage to seize it."
Da Vinci sighed, though her expression contained more admiration than exasperation. "I suppose direct confrontation is indeed our only viable option, given the timeframe. According to our calculations, Zeus will complete his transformation in approximately three hours."
"Then we deploy immediately," Artoria stated, already summoning her armor with a gesture of divine authority. "Every moment strengthens his position and weakens our offensive advantage."
"I can establish the transit coordinates," da Vinci confirmed, turning to her instruments. "But be warned—we cannot guarantee extraction from a partially formed divine realm. If Zeus completes his transformation while you're inside, you may be trapped within his authority domain indefinitely."
"An acceptable risk," Durga declared with regal certainty. "Divine judgment must be rendered regardless of personal consequence."
Long Chen nodded in agreement, though his motivation differed somewhat from the goddess's sense of cosmic duty. For him, this represented another step on his cultivation path—another impossible challenge to overcome, another limitation to break, another opportunity to defy heaven's will and forge his own destiny.
Within his cultivation base, the seven awakened stars burned with anticipation, while the dormant eighth star—the Nirvana Infusion Star—pulsed with increased potential. The Dragon God Body cultivation similarly responded, scales briefly visible beneath his skin as power circulated through enhanced meridians.
"Prepare deployment sequence," Ritsuka instructed da Vinci, his expression resolute despite clearly understanding the extreme danger involved. "Maximum power allocation to dimensional stabilizers."
As Chaldea's staff rushed to execute these commands, Long Chen took a moment to center himself, reviewing his cultivation state and battle options. The seventh star's awakening had significantly expanded his energy reserves and processing capacity, allowing for more complex technique combinations than previously possible. His elemental companions—Huo Linger and Lei Linger—had similarly evolved, their manifestations now carrying enhanced conceptual weight beyond mere physical fire and lightning.
Most importantly, his Battle Armor had undergone substantial transformation, incorporating dragon aspects more prominently into its structure. The deep silver material now featured scale-like patterns interwoven with the flowing black star designs, providing significantly enhanced defense against divine-class attacks.
"You seem eager," Arcueid observed quietly, moving to stand beside him as final preparations continued around them. "Most beings would approach a confrontation with a transcending divine entity with at least some apprehension."
Long Chen's dangerous smile returned. "In my world, I developed something of a reputation for facing beings everyone else considered untouchable. Ancient ancestors, sect masters, heavenly tribulations designed to eradicate those who dared reach too high." He shrugged slightly. "After a while, the pattern becomes almost comfortingly familiar. Some arrogant entity proclaims absolute authority, I demonstrate the flaws in their reasoning, inevitable chaos ensues."
A small smile touched Arcueid's lips. "You enjoy humbling the powerful."
"Only those whose arrogance exceeds their wisdom," Long Chen clarified. "Zeus embodies that imbalance perfectly—fourteen thousand years of unchallenged authority has convinced him that his judgment supersedes natural cosmic order."
"A perspective I share," Durga commented, joining their conversation. "False divinity must be challenged. True cosmic harmony requires both creation and destruction in proper measure, not artificial stasis masquerading as perfection."
"Philosophical discussions will have to wait," Artoria interjected, fully armored once more with Rhongomyniad gleaming in her grasp. "Deployment sequence is initiating."
They moved to the designated transit platform, forming a precise formation that would maintain dimensional stability during transition. Long Chen stood at the center—his cultivation's unique properties apparently providing optimal anchoring against divine interference patterns. The four divine women positioned themselves around him in cardinal directions, their combined authorities creating a balanced framework for the dimensional breach.
"Transit coordinates locked," da Vinci announced, her fingers dancing across control panels with practiced precision. "Dimensional barrier penetration calculated at 87% probability. Beyond that..." she hesitated briefly, "...you're on your own."
"We've faced worse odds," Quetzalcoatl declared cheerfully, solar energy already gathering around her form in preparation for combat.
"Indeed," Artoria agreed with regal confidence. "Zeus has already demonstrated vulnerability to our combined assault. His transformation merely represents a new form to overcome, not invincibility."
Ritsuka approached the platform, his expression serious yet encouraging. "Be careful, all of you. Even by Chaldea's standards, this mission involves exceptional risk."
"Risk is merely the price of advancement," Long Chen replied with casual certainty. "In cultivation terms, this is simply another tribulation to overcome."
The young Master nodded, seemingly reassured by this straightforward confidence. "Deployment in ten seconds," he announced, stepping back to a safe distance.
As the countdown proceeded, Long Chen felt the seven stars within him harmonize in perfect resonance, while the dormant eighth star pulsed with increasing potential. Whatever awaited them in Zeus's nascent divine realm, it would certainly provide the cosmic-level challenge his cultivation thrived upon.
"Three... two... one... transit initiated!"
The dimensional transition was unlike anything they had previously experienced—neither the controlled precision of Chaldea's normal rayshift technology nor the chaotic falling that had brought Long Chen to this multiverse initially. This was something new—a penetration of divine barriers, a forced entry into conceptual space still in formation.
Reality fragmented around them, conventional physics yielding to abstract patterns that represented fundamental cosmic principles rather than physical laws. Through this dimensional chaos, Long Chen's cultivation provided unexpected stability—the seven stars burning within him creating a framework of order that allowed consciousness to persist where it might otherwise have dissolved into the surrounding abstraction.
When perception stabilized, they found themselves in a realm that defied conventional description. It resembled Olympus in architectural aesthetics—gleaming white structures and perfect proportions—but everything existed in a state of fluid transformation, buildings flowing into one another, sky and ground occasionally exchanging positions before resuming normal orientation.
"Zeus's divine realm in formation," Durga identified, her weapons orbiting faster as they responded to the surrounding divine energy. "Reality here remains malleable—concepts crystallizing into physical form but not yet fixed permanently."
"Which gives us both advantage and disadvantage," Artoria observed, Rhongomyniad glowing intensely as it responded to the unstable divine environment. "The realm can be influenced by sufficient authority, but unpredictably so."
Long Chen extended his spiritual sense, mapping their surroundings with enhanced perception. Unlike conventional reality, this environment responded directly to his awareness—informational patterns becoming temporarily more defined wherever he focused attention.
"Zeus is at the center," he stated with absolute certainty, indicating a massive structure that resembled a combination of classical Greek temple and cosmic observatory. "That's where the transformation is anchored."
"Then that's where we go," Quetzalcoatl declared, her normally humanoid form beginning to shift as divine essence responded to the surrounding energy. Feathers and scales manifested along her arms, her emerald eyes taking on reptilian characteristics as her true aspect—the Feathered Serpent—emerged partially.
They moved through the forming divine realm with cautious purpose, each step requiring adjustment as reality fluctuated around them. Conventional distance held little meaning here—locations seemed simultaneously near and far, requiring conceptual navigation rather than physical movement.
"Zeus knows we're here," Arcueid warned as the environment began reacting more aggressively to their presence. What had been merely unstable reality now actively opposed their advance, pathways shifting to prevent direct approach, structures reconfiguring to create barriers.
"Of course he does," Long Chen replied with casual confidence. "Divine realms always reflect their creator's will. His awareness is integrated into the fundamental structure."
As if responding to his assessment, the environment stabilized suddenly. The fluid transformation ceased, reality crystallizing into more permanent form—gleaming white architecture of impossible precision, a sky of perpetual golden daylight, and perfect atmospheric conditions that carried the subtle scent of ozone.
Before them, the central temple opened like a blooming flower, white columns parting to reveal the being within. Zeus had indeed transformed—no longer the perfect fusion of human appearance and mechanical precision they had confronted in Olympus. This was something both more and less than that previous form.
His physical manifestation retained broadly humanoid characteristics—the powerful build, flowing beard, and commanding features of classical representation. But the mechanical elements had been replaced with pure divine conceptualization—his body composed of condensed divine authority rather than artificial parts. Lightning constantly flowed across and through this form, not as external energy but as fundamental essence—Zeus had become living divine lightning given conscious form.
"Intruders in my nascent kingdom," he greeted them, his voice resonating directly in their minds rather than traveling through conventional sound. "Your persistence exceeds logical parameters."
"And your arrogance exceeds reasonable limits," Long Chen replied immediately, his casual mockery in stark contrast to the overwhelming divine presence before them. "Fourteen thousand years of playing god, and you still haven't learned when to accept defeat gracefully."
Zeus's perfect features registered something between amusement and irritation. "The anomalous cultivator. Your continued defiance represents fascinating evolutionary potential. Integration would still benefit both our existences, even in this transcendent state."
"Still trying that sales pitch?" Long Chen scoffed, deliberately projecting absolute confidence despite the massive divine power radiating from Zeus's transformed being. "Let me simplify this for your apparently limited understanding: I. Don't. Submit."
He drew Evilmoon with casual grace, the black saber drinking in the golden light around them as star energy flowed through its crystalline structure. "Not to heaven, not to ancient ancestors, not to sect masters, and certainly not to mechanical gods having identity crises."
Something shifted in Zeus's expression—the simulation of divine patience giving way to more genuine emotion. "Your cultivation system contains principles I had hoped to incorporate, not destroy. But if integration is impossible, then elimination becomes the only logical alternative."
With that declaration, Zeus unleashed his divine authority in full measure. Lightning erupted from his transformed being—not the technological precision of the Keraunos, but something more primal and absolute. This was divine lightning in its most fundamental conceptual form, the raw power of celestial judgment unbounded by physical limitations.
Long Chen didn't bother attempting to evade. Such conceptual attacks couldn't be dodged in conventional terms—they would simply follow their target across any distance. Instead, he met the divine lightning head-on, activating both his Battle Armor and Lei Linger simultaneously.
The evolved Battle Armor manifested instantly—deep silver material with interwoven dragon scales and black star patterns flowing across its surface. Meanwhile, Lei Linger emerged with unprecedented power, heavenly tribulation lightning forming a corona around Long Chen's form that met Zeus's divine attack in direct opposition.
When the two lightning-based authorities collided, reality itself shuddered around the impact point. Conventional physics temporarily suspended as fundamental cosmic forces struggled for dominance. Zeus's divine lightning—the essence of his very being—pushed against Lei Linger's heavenly tribulation with overwhelming force.
For 2.3 seconds, the attacks remained in perfect stalemate. Then, gradually, Zeus's greater divine authority began to gain advantage, pushing Lei Linger's lightning back toward Long Chen despite his cultivation's resistance.
"Your defiance, while admirable, remains ultimately futile," Zeus stated, increasing power output further. "I have ascended beyond technological limitations. This represents pure divine authority unbounded by artificial constraints."
"Impressive speech," Long Chen acknowledged, his expression showing no concern despite the increasing pressure against his defenses. "But you're making one critical error in your calculations."
"And what would that be?" Zeus inquired, genuine curiosity momentarily tempering his assault.
Long Chen's smile turned dangerous. "You assume I'm fighting at full capacity."
Without warning, he activated his Dragon God Body cultivation at maximum output. Golden scales erupted across his skin, breaking through the Battle Armor's surface to form a secondary defensive layer that radiated draconic authority. Simultaneously, he channeled power through all seven awakened stars, their combined energy manifesting as a visible corona around his form—seven distinct lights orbiting his body in perfect harmony.
The sudden power escalation created a shockwave that temporarily disrupted Zeus's attack, providing the opening Long Chen's companions had been waiting for. They struck with perfect coordination, each targeting a different aspect of Zeus's divine manifestation.
Artoria's Rhongomyniad released a beam of concentrated divine light that struck Zeus's conceptual foundation—the organizational principles upon which his divinity was constructed. Quetzalcoatl, now fully embracing her Feathered Serpent aspect, unleashed solar divinity that attacked the energy patterns sustaining his transformation. Durga's weapons penetrated his defensive aura, embedding themselves in the conceptual framework of his newly forming divine realm. Arcueid focused Earth's primal authority against the spatial anchors that allowed his manifestation to maintain coherence.
Zeus staggered under this coordinated assault, his perfect form temporarily distorting as multiple divine authorities contested his dominance. Lightning erupted chaotically around him, no longer under precise control but lashing out in reflexive defense.
"Impossible," he declared, genuine disbelief coloring his mental voice. "No combination of divine authorities should be capable of disrupting transcendent ascension once initiated."
"That's your fundamental error," Long Chen replied, gathering power for his own decisive strike. "You calculate based on what should be possible within established parameters. We operate beyond such limitations."
Drawing on the combined power of seven awakened stars and fully activated Dragon God Body cultivation, Long Chen channeled unprecedented energy through Evilmoon. The black saber's crystalline structure began to glow with inner light—not illumination but the visualization of concentrated destructive potential beyond conventional measurement.
"Lei Linger, Huo Linger," he commanded, activating both elemental companions simultaneously.
The resulting manifestation transcended their previous appearances. Heavenly tribulation lightning and violet fire emerged not as separate elements but as a unified force—primordial destruction given form, the essence of cosmic renewal through absolute devastation.
Long Chen's killing intent, previously controlled and focused, now erupted in full measure. The pressure radiated outward in palpable waves, causing the very fabric of Zeus's forming divine realm to crack under its intensity. This wasn't merely combat focus—this was the accumulated intent of countless life-or-death battles, the distilled essence of a cultivator who had faced destruction repeatedly and emerged stronger each time.
Even Zeus, in his transcendent divine state, faltered momentarily before this overwhelming presence. The Machine God had experienced fourteen thousand years of absolute authority, but nothing in that existence had prepared him for the pure, concentrated killing intent of a Nine Star cultivator at full activation.
"What... are you?" Zeus demanded, genuine uncertainty entering his mental voice for perhaps the first time in millennia.
"I am Long Chen," came the simple reply, weighted with absolute conviction. "Cultivator of the Nine Star Hegemon Body Art, bearer of the Dragon God Body. And I've decided your divine ascension ends here."
With that declaration, he executed his attack—an evolved form of Split the Heavens that incorporated aspects of all seven awakened stars, empowered by fully manifested Dragon God Body cultivation, and delivered through the combined essence of heavenly tribulation lightning and violet fire.
"Split the Heavens – Seventh Form: Sky-Splitting, Reality-Scarring!"
The technique manifested not as a conventional energy attack but as conceptual severance—a fundamental disruption in the cosmic principles supporting Zeus's transformation. The crescent-shaped wave expanded as it traveled, growing from meters to hundreds of meters wide, its edge burning with combined violet fire and tribulation lightning.
Zeus attempted to counter with pure divine authority, concentrating his essence into a perfect shield of condensed divine lightning. For a brief moment, the defense held, divine conceptualization resisting fundamental disruption through sheer concentrated will.
Then, with a sound like reality itself shattering, Long Chen's attack broke through.
The impact was catastrophic on multiple levels simultaneously. Physically, Zeus's manifested form was cleaved from crown to base, the perfect division continuing through the platform beneath him and extending into the cosmic foundation of his nascent divine realm. Conceptually, the attack severed the organizational principles that supported his transformation, fragmenting divine authority that had been consolidating into permanent form. Spiritually, the combined essence of tribulation lightning and violet fire burned through accumulated divine energy, converting Zeus's carefully gathered power into chaotic discharge that could no longer sustain coherent manifestation.
"IMPOSSIBLE!" Zeus's mental voice resonated with genuine shock and something approaching fear—perhaps the first time the Machine God had experienced such emotion in fourteen thousand years of absolute rule. "NO MORTAL TECHNIQUE SHOULD—"
His protest terminated abruptly as conceptual severance completed, divine consciousness fragmenting along with physical manifestation. Zeus—or rather, what remained of him—collapsed into constituent energy patterns, no longer capable of maintaining coherent existence within the nascent divine realm he had attempted to establish.
With its creator's destruction, the realm itself began to destabilize. The perfect architecture dissolved into component conceptual elements, reality losing coherence as the organizing will that had brought it into existence ceased functioning. What had been an emerging divine domain began reverting to abstract potential, the half-formed cosmos folding back into primordial chaos.
"The realm is collapsing," Artoria warned, Rhongomyniad blazing in her grasp as she attempted to create a zone of stability around their position. "Without Zeus's will to maintain coherence, the entire conceptual structure is disintegrating."
"Can we extract back to Chaldea?" Quetzalcoatl asked, her form shifting back toward humanoid as the divine environment that had stimulated her true aspect dissolved.
"Unlikely," Durga replied, her weapons returning to orbit around her as defensive formation engaged. "Conventional dimensional coordinates cannot be established within collapsing conceptual space."
Long Chen, however, showed no concern despite the reality fractures spreading rapidly around them. His attention had turned inward, focused on an unexpected development within his cultivation base. The eighth star—the Nirvana Infusion Star—had been responding to the surrounding divine energy throughout the confrontation. Now, with Zeus's destruction releasing massive amounts of purified cosmic essence, it had reached breakthrough threshold.
"We need to form a stable point in this collapsing chaos," he stated calmly, despite reality itself coming apart around them. "I can establish temporary integration if you lend your authorities to support the framework."
His companions exchanged brief glances, communicating volumes through minimal expression. Then, without hesitation, they moved into formation around him, each contributing their unique divine essence to the stabilization effort.
Long Chen sank into meditative posture at the center of their formation, Evilmoon placed across his knees as he turned consciousness fully inward. The seven awakened stars burned with perfect harmony, while the Divine Ring spun faster than ever before, channeling unprecedented energy toward the dormant eighth star.
Unlike the seventh star's awakening, which had been catalyzed primarily by external cosmic energy, this advancement required internal transformation of unprecedented scale. The Nirvana Infusion Star governed evolution and rebirth—the capacity to emerge transformed from absolute destruction. Its awakening demanded not merely energy accumulation but fundamental reimagining of one's essential nature.
Around them, Zeus's collapsing divine realm continued disintegrating, conceptual structures dissolving into primordial potential that would eventually disperse back into the broader multiverse. Their companions' divine authorities created a temporary bubble of stability within this chaos—a fragile oasis of coherent reality that would persist only briefly before succumbing to the surrounding dissolution.
Long Chen directed his complete awareness toward the dormant eighth star, addressing it with absolute focus.
The time has come, Nirvana Infusion Star. Zeus's destruction provides the perfect catalyst for your awakening. Evolution through devastation, rebirth through cosmic renewal.
The dormant star pulsed in response, its light strengthening as it approached activation threshold. Unlike previous stars, whose awakenings had followed relatively predictable energy accumulation patterns, this one required synchronization with the fundamental cosmic cycle of destruction and renewal—precisely what Zeus's demise and the realm's collapse represented on conceptual level.
Long Chen channeled the surrounding chaos through his cultivation framework—not resisting the dissolution but incorporating it as necessary component of eventual renewal. This represented cultivation philosophy at its most profound: not merely accumulating power but understanding and embodying the cosmic principles that governed existence itself.
Outside, his companions sensed the transformation occurring within him. Their divine authorities maintained the protective bubble even as reality beyond their immediate vicinity ceased to exist in coherent form.
"He's using the realm's collapse as cultivation catalyst," Arcueid observed, golden eyes wide with something approaching awe. "Incorporating cosmic dissolution into his advancement cycle."
"Remarkable adaptation," Durga acknowledged, genuine respect coloring her tone. "Using destruction itself as the pathway to evolution."
Within his meditation, Long Chen reached critical transformation threshold. The accumulated cosmic essence—both his own cultivated energy and the ambient potential released by Zeus's destruction—converged on the dormant eighth star from all directions simultaneously. The pressure built exponentially as fundamental reorganization began at cellular, spiritual, and conceptual levels simultaneously.
Then, with a silent explosion that rippled across multiple planes of existence, the eighth star ignited.
The Nirvana Infusion Star—governing evolution and rebirth—blazed to life within his cultivation framework, its light joining the constellation of seven previously awakened stars. The effect transcended mere power expansion. Long Chen's entire being underwent fundamental transformation—physical body evolving beyond previous limitations, spiritual essence achieving heightened integration with cosmic principles, conceptual existence establishing deeper resonance with fundamental reality.
The Divine Ring's spin accelerated to unprecedented speed, its harmonics shifting to incorporate the newly awakened star's contribution. The Dragon God Body cultivation similarly evolved, draconic essence manifesting more prominently throughout his cultivation framework, scales permanently integrating with cellular structure at microscopic level rather than merely surfacing during active combat.
When Long Chen opened his eyes, his companions immediately registered the transformation. His star-bright gaze now contained more prominent draconic elements—vertical pupils surrounded by golden-violet iris patterns that seemed to contain entire cosmos in miniature. His physical form radiated enhanced presence on multiple levels simultaneously—not merely increased power but fundamentally evolved existence.
"Eight stars," Durga breathed, genuine awe coloring her normally composed voice. "The Nirvana Star awakened."
"Perfect timing," Long Chen remarked with characteristic nonchalance, though inwardly he marveled at the transformation. The eighth star's awakening had fundamentally altered his relationship with cosmic principles, providing unprecedented perception of and influence over fundamental reality frameworks.
Most significantly, he could now perceive the collapsing divine realm not merely as chaotic dissolution but as evolving potential—raw cosmic essence returning to primordial state before eventual reconstruction in new configurations.
"I can navigate us through this collapse," he announced, rising fluidly to his feet. "The eighth star provides direct perception of conceptual flow patterns."
"Eight stars gives you authority over cosmic dissolution?" Quetzalcoatl asked, surprised even by her divine standards. "That's beyond most pantheon-level abilities!"
"Not authority over it," Long Chen clarified. "Harmony with it. The Nirvana Infusion Star allows perception of evolutionary patterns within apparent destruction—the seed of renewal within cosmic dissolution."
He extended his awareness outward, mapping the conceptual currents flowing through the collapsing realm. What appeared as chaotic disintegration to conventional perception revealed itself as complex but navigable patterns to his enhanced awareness—currents of potential flowing toward eventual reconsolidation points within the broader multiverse.
"There," he indicated, identifying a particular flow pattern that resonated with familiar coordinates. "That current leads toward dimensional junction points compatible with Chaldea's location. We can ride it back to conventional reality."
"Navigate dissolution currents?" Artoria questioned, though her tone conveyed interest rather than doubt. "Even divine spirits rarely attempt such direct engagement with primordial chaos."
"The Nine Star Hegemon Body Art specializes in achieving what others consider impossible," Long Chen replied with a confident smile. "Besides, dissolution currents are merely inverted creation patterns—the same cosmic principles flowing in reverse temporal direction."
He extended his hand, cosmic energy gathering around his form as the eight awakened stars harmonized in perfect resonance. "Stay close. The currents flow rapidly once fully engaged."
His companions moved into tight formation around him, their divine authorities synchronizing with his cultivation energy to form stable transit framework. Long Chen's newly awakened Nirvana Infusion Star provided the critical interface—allowing direct perception of and limited influence over the conceptual dissolution patterns surrounding them.
With practiced precision, he identified the optimal entry vector and guided their group into the dissolution current he had selected. Reality fragmented around them as conventional physics yielded completely to abstract conceptual flow, their existence temporarily converting to potential pattern rather than manifested form.
To beings of lesser cosmic significance, such transition would have resulted in permanent dissolution—consciousness unable to maintain coherence when reduced to abstract potential. But Long Chen's eight-star cultivation provided unexpected stability, maintaining their essential patterns despite the surrounding chaos.
The journey through primordial dissolution transcended conventional time measurement—simultaneously taking moments and eternities as temporal framework itself ceased having consistent meaning. Throughout this impossible transit, Long Chen's cultivation maintained perfect focus, the eight stars burning within him creating fixed reference points against which surrounding chaos could be measured and navigated.
Then, with startling abruptness, conventional reality reasserted itself around them. The dissolution current deposited them precisely at its terminus—a dimensional junction point that connected directly to Chaldea's coordinates within normal spacetime.
They materialized in Chaldea's main control room, their sudden appearance triggering multiple automated alarm systems and causing operating staff to scramble in surprised response. Ritsuka and da Vinci rushed forward, expressions revealing equal measures relief and astonishment.
"Successful return!" da Vinci exclaimed, checking monitoring systems with frantic efficiency. "But how? Our sensors detected complete collapse of the target dimensional space. Extraction should have been impossible without external anchor points."
"Long Chen navigated primordial dissolution currents directly," Arcueid explained, her golden eyes still fixed on the cultivator with newfound appreciation. "Using his newly awakened eighth star to perceive evolutionary patterns within cosmic chaos."
"Eighth star?" Ritsuka repeated, clearly recognizing the significance despite his limited understanding of cultivation specifics. "Another advancement during combat?"
"Zeus's destruction and his realm's collapse provided optimal conditions for the Nirvana Infusion Star's awakening," Long Chen confirmed with casual understatement, as if achieving previously impossible cosmic navigation represented merely another step on his cultivation path.
Da Vinci's scientific curiosity immediately engaged, her initial relief giving way to enthusiastic analysis. "Fascinating! The Nirvana Infusion Star governs evolutionary patterns specifically? That would explain the unprecedented dimensional navigation capabilities. Our sensors registered complete dissolution of coherent spacetime in the target zone, yet you maintained essential pattern integrity throughout transit."
Long Chen nodded, though his attention had already turned inward again, assessing the changes wrought by this latest advancement. The eighth star's awakening had transformed his cultivation framework more fundamentally than any previous milestone. Beyond mere power increase, this represented evolutionary leap in his relationship with cosmic principles—particularly those governing destruction and renewal cycles.
Most significantly, he could now perceive potential pathways that had previously remained invisible—connections between seemingly separate cosmic frameworks, resonance patterns linking diverse reality systems, and most importantly, possible routes that might eventually lead back to his home dimension.
"Zeus has been completely destroyed?" Artoria asked, bringing discussion back to immediate tactical concerns. "No possibility of further reconstitution attempts?"
"Confirmed elimination," da Vinci replied, checking sensor readings with professional thoroughness. "The conceptual dissolution was complete—no coherent energy patterns survived to serve as reconstruction framework. The Machine God has been permanently removed from existence."
"Good," Quetzalcoatl declared with satisfied finality. "The arrogant lightning-tosser needed permanent retirement. Fourteen thousand years of playing divine dictator was quite enough."
"Indeed," Durga agreed, her weapons finally ceasing their orbital rotation as combat readiness deactivated. "False divinity masquerading as cosmic authority represents fundamental violation of proper dharma. His dissolution restores appropriate balance."
Ritsuka studied them all with
Ritsuka studied them all with a mixture of relief and newfound appreciation. "I've coordinated many impossible missions since joining Chaldea, but this..." he shook his head slightly, "...this one deserves special recognition. Not only did you eliminate a transcending divine threat, but you navigated primordial chaos without external support."
"All in a day's work for the cultivator who makes gods reconsider their life choices," Long Chen replied with a casual shrug, though the dangerous glint hadn't yet fully faded from his eyes. The killing intent that had made even Zeus falter now simmered just beneath the surface, gradually receding as combat focus diminished.
"Your modesty remains as impressive as your combat abilities," Arcueid remarked dryly, though her golden eyes contained unmistakable warmth.
"Modesty?" Quetzalcoatl exclaimed with a laugh. "Did you miss the part where he faced down Zeus's ultimate form and essentially told him, 'You're not even worthy of being my stepping stone'? Our Star-Bearer has many admirable qualities, but I wouldn't count modesty among them!"
Long Chen's expression shifted into a grin that managed to be simultaneously charming and predatory. "I've never claimed to be modest. In fact, back in my world, I was regularly lectured about excessive arrogance." He glanced at the amused sun goddess. "Though in my defense, it's not arrogance if you can back it up."
"A distinction many fail to appreciate," Durga noted, her normally severe expression softening slightly. "True confidence born of proven capability differs fundamentally from hollow pretension."
"Speaking of proven capability," da Vinci interjected, her scientific focus overriding social niceties, "I'm detecting unprecedented energy harmonics from your cultivation framework, Long Chen. The eighth star's awakening appears to have established resonance patterns with fundamental cosmic principles far beyond previous measurements."
"The Nirvana Infusion Star governs evolution and rebirth," Long Chen explained, allowing his newly enhanced perception to map the control room's energy patterns with casual ease. "Its awakening establishes direct interface with cosmic dissolution and reconstitution cycles—essentially, the fundamental patterns governing how reality breaks down and reformulates itself."
"Which explains how you could navigate primordial chaos," da Vinci concluded, her expression brightening with scientific excitement. "You weren't merely perceiving the patterns—you were harmonizing with them at fundamental level!"
"Precisely," Long Chen confirmed. "The Nine Star Hegemon Body Art doesn't attempt to dominate cosmic principles through brute force—it establishes resonance that allows the cultivator to work with rather than against fundamental patterns."
"A philosophy notably absent from Zeus's approach," Artoria observed, finally dismissing her armor as immediate danger passed. "His entire existence was predicated on imposing artificial order through technological precision rather than harmonizing with natural cosmic flow."
"Which ultimately proved his downfall," Long Chen noted with satisfaction. "No matter how powerful the individual, attempting to completely override cosmic principles rather than working within their framework inevitably creates fatal vulnerabilities."
"A lesson many gods could benefit from learning," Quetzalcoatl agreed, stretching luxuriously as combat tension dissipated. "Though preferably without requiring such... permanent educational methods."
The conversation paused as Chaldea's medical staff approached, professional concern evident in their expressions as they assessed the returning team. Long Chen waved them off with casual assurance.
"Save your efforts for those who need healing," he advised. "Cultivation handles physical recovery automatically, especially after breakthrough advancements."
"He's correct," Durga confirmed, her weapons finally disappearing completely as immediate crisis passed. "Divine beings require different recovery protocols than conventional medicine provides. Simple rest will restore optimal functionality."
"Speaking of rest," Ritsuka suggested, recognizing the subtle signs of energy depletion despite their outward composure, "you've all earned significant downtime after this mission. Celebrating twice for the same victory might seem excessive, but I think destroying Zeus and his divine ascension attempt merits special consideration."
"I never turn down a good celebration," Quetzalcoatl declared cheerfully. "Especially when it involves commemorating the downfall of insufferably arrogant divine entities!"
As the group dispersed to recover from their extraordinary mission, Long Chen found himself momentarily alone with Arcueid. The True Ancestor's golden eyes studied him with heightened intensity, perceiving aspects of his evolved cultivation that others couldn't fully appreciate.
"Eight stars," she murmured, genuine wonder coloring her ancient voice. "In mere days, you've progressed from three to eight. Such advancement defies conventional understanding of evolutionary patterns."
"The Nine Star Hegemon Body Art has always progressed through tribulation rather than gradual accumulation," Long Chen explained, allowing her to examine his transformed energy framework without defensiveness. "Each impossible challenge overcome creates conditions for the next breakthrough."
"And now only one remains dormant," Arcueid observed thoughtfully. "The final, unnamed ninth star."
Long Chen nodded, his expression growing momentarily serious. "The texts describing the Nine Star Hegemon Body Art become increasingly vague regarding the final star. Its position, function, and awakening requirements are mentioned only in cryptic references and obscure metaphors."
"Yet you pursue it regardless," Arcueid noted, something like admiration warming her golden gaze.
"The path of cultivation requires faith in the journey even when the destination remains obscured," Long Chen replied with philosophical certainty. "Each step reveals what was previously hidden."
A small smile touched Arcueid's lips. "A perspective Earth itself would approve. Nature rarely reveals its ultimate patterns in advance—only through persistent growth do greater truths become apparent."
Their conversation paused as Durga approached, her regal bearing somewhat relaxed but no less impressive in the aftermath of cosmic-level combat. The goddess's crimson eyes with their distinctive yellow pupils contained newfound respect as she regarded Long Chen.
"Your performance against Zeus exceeded even divine expectations," she acknowledged. "Few beings could have executed such precise conceptual severance while simultaneously preparing for cultivation breakthrough."
"High praise from the Goddess of Righteous War," Long Chen replied with a respectful inclination of his head. "Though I suspect your divine weapons contributed significantly to his defensive degradation."
"Collaborative victory," Durga agreed with slight smile. "Divine judgment rendered through complementary methods."
Before conversation could continue further, Quetzalcoatl bounded over with characteristic exuberance, apparently having already begun celebration preparations despite barely leaving the control room.
"Star-Bearer! Your cultivation breakthrough demands proper commemoration!" she declared, emerald eyes sparkling with mischievous delight. "I've convinced da Vinci to authorize special dispensation from Chaldea's usually tedious regulations. Divine-quality refreshments will be provided!"
"Should I be concerned about what constitutes 'divine-quality refreshments' in your estimation?" Long Chen asked, though his expression suggested amused interest rather than genuine worry.
"Only if you fear experiencing joy at inappropriate intensity!" Quetzalcoatl replied with a laugh. "Besides, if Zeus taught us anything today, it's that excessive regulation ultimately leads to catastrophic system failure. Better to embrace controlled chaos!"
"Your definition of 'controlled' remains questionable," Artoria commented as she joined their growing circle, though her typically composed features showed hints of genuine amusement. "I recall certain festivities in Central America that resulted in entire cities requiring reconstruction."
"Details, details," Quetzalcoatl dismissed with a casual wave. "Those particular celebrations involved several competing war deities with territorial disputes. Our current gathering features civilized divine entities with excellent cooperative history!"
"Our 'cooperative history' spans approximately four days," Arcueid pointed out dryly.
"Yet in that time we've overcome a convergence entity, defeated mechanical gods, severed a Fantasy Tree, and destroyed Zeus's divine ascension attempt," Quetzalcoatl countered triumphantly. "I'd call that accelerated relationship development by any standard!"
Long Chen couldn't help but laugh—a genuine sound of amusement that contained none of the dangerous edge that had characterized his confrontation with Zeus. "When you put it that way, perhaps we have earned extraordinary celebration."
As they made their way toward Chaldea's communal spaces, already being transformed by Quetzalcoatl's enthusiastic decorating minions, Long Chen found himself reflecting on the incredible journey of the past days. From cultivator of three stars in his home world to bearer of eight in a foreign reality, battling entities that would have been considered mythical even by cultivation standards.
Yet beyond the power advancement and impossible victories, something else had developed—connections with these extraordinary women that transcended conventional relationship frameworks. Each represented different cosmic principles, each possessed divine or transcendent nature, yet all had formed bonds with him that defied their brief acquaintance.
"Your thoughts drift toward philosophical territories," Durga observed as they walked, her perception missing nothing despite his outward composure.
"Just appreciating unexpected paths," Long Chen replied honestly. "Cultivation journeys rarely proceed according to anticipated patterns."
"Indeed," Durga agreed, rare warmth entering her crimson eyes. "Dharma often reveals itself through seemingly chaotic circumstances that only later demonstrate perfect cosmic harmony."
"Speaking of harmony," Quetzalcoatl interjected, dropping back to join their conversation, "I've been meaning to ask about your Dragon God Body cultivation. It appears fundamentally different from your star cultivation, yet they function in perfect complementary pattern."
Long Chen nodded, impressed by her perceptive observation. "The Nine Star Hegemon Body Art provides cosmic energy framework and conceptual authority, while the Dragon God Body creates physical vessel capable of channeling such power without self-destruction."
"Balance of vessel and essence," Durga noted with approval. "Material and spiritual in proper equilibrium."
"Without the Dragon God Body, the Nine Stars would eventually consume their host from within," Long Chen explained. "Cosmic power requires compatible physical foundation."
"Much like divinity requires appropriate manifestation framework," Artoria observed, joining the discussion with thoughtful interest. "Raw divine authority without proper channeling structure becomes destructive rather than constructive."
"Zeus's fundamental error," Arcueid added. "Attempting divine ascension without natural evolutionary foundation."
As they continued exchanging perspectives on cosmic principles and cultivation philosophy, Long Chen appreciated the extraordinary gathering he found himself part of—beings whose combined knowledge spanned multiple realities and countless centuries, each offering unique insights into cultivation concepts he had previously considered only from his world's traditional framework.
The celebration that followed maintained perfect balance between genuine enjoyment and profound discussion. Divine refreshments—which turned out to include several varieties of nectar and ambrosia with consciousness-expanding properties—flowed freely as conversation ranged from cosmic principles to battlefield tactics to cultural variations across different realities.
Throughout the festivities, Long Chen found himself alternating between different conversational groups, each offering unique perspective on his cultivation journey and recent advancements. Da Vinci and several Chaldea researchers engaged him in detailed technical discussions regarding the eighth star's unusual properties. Ritsuka and Mash sought tactical insights about integrating cultivation techniques with Servant capabilities. And throughout the evening, the four divine women who had fought alongside him against Zeus consistently returned to his vicinity, their conversation increasingly personal rather than merely philosophical or tactical.
As the celebration continued into early morning hours, Long Chen eventually found momentary solitude on one of Chaldea's observation decks—a reinforced platform offering stunning views of the Antarctic night sky. The crystalline clarity of stars against absolute darkness provided perfect setting for cultivation meditation, allowing him to fully process the eighth star's integration while the others continued celebrating.
He had maintained this peaceful solitude for perhaps thirty minutes when he sensed familiar presence approaching. Without opening his eyes or interrupting his meditation posture, he spoke with casual certainty.
"I was wondering which of you would find me first."
"Was it a competition?" Arcueid asked, amusement coloring her voice as she settled gracefully beside him.
Long Chen opened his eyes, star-bright gaze now containing prominent draconic elements meeting her golden regard. "Perhaps not consciously declared, but competitions often develop naturally among powerful beings."
"Perceptive," Arcueid acknowledged with slight smile. "Though I would note that I located you first because Earth's embodiment naturally senses disturbances in environmental energy patterns. Your meditation creates distinctive resonance."
"A practical advantage rather than competitive victory," Long Chen noted with answering smile. "Very diplomatic."
"Diplomacy develops naturally after several centuries of existence," Arcueid replied. "Though I admit, recent events have required more diplomatic navigation than centuries preceding them."
"Because of our unique group dynamic?" Long Chen asked, though his expression suggested he already understood her meaning.
"Because four immensely powerful women with divine or transcendent nature don't typically develop simultaneous interest in the same individual," Arcueid clarified with refreshing directness. "Especially not within mere days of meeting him."
Long Chen's expression remained composed despite the conversation's unexpected turn. "I've noticed certain... competitive undertones," he acknowledged carefully.
"Competitive yet cooperative," Arcueid corrected. "Which itself represents unusual dynamic among beings of our nature. Typically, divine interest in specific individuals results in dramatic conflicts rather than collaborative assessment."
"Should I be concerned about imminent cosmic warfare?" Long Chen asked, only partially joking.
Arcueid's laugh was surprisingly melodious for a being of such ancient power. "Nothing so dramatic. We've established surprisingly harmonious understanding regarding your unique position."
"My position?"
"As cultivation anomaly evolving toward cosmic significance," Arcueid explained, her golden eyes studying him with intensity that transcended casual interest. "Your growth pattern suggests eventual transcendence beyond conventional reality frameworks—essentially, ascension toward role similar to ours but fundamentally different in origin and execution."
Long Chen absorbed this assessment thoughtfully. "The Guardian suggested something similar—that the Nine Star Hegemon Body Art might be training me for cosmic guardian function."
"A possibility," Arcueid agreed. "Though I suspect your eventual role will defy simple categorization. Eight stars have already established unprecedented authority combinations—the ninth will likely transcend existing cosmic classifications entirely."
Before Long Chen could respond to this intriguing perspective, they sensed additional presences approaching. Durga, Artoria, and Quetzalcoatl emerged from the observation deck's entrance, their expressions suggesting this wasn't coincidental convergence.
"I see stealth was unnecessary after all," Quetzalcoatl commented cheerfully. "Our Star-Bearer has already engaged in cosmic existential discussion without us!"
"Inevitable conversation," Durga stated with regal certainty as they joined the seated pair. "His eighth star awakening establishes cultivation framework requiring proper contextual understanding."
Long Chen glanced between the four powerful women now arranged around him in semicircle formation that couldn't possibly be accidental. "I'm sensing coordinated agenda," he observed with mild amusement. "Should I be concerned?"
"Not concerned," Artoria assured him, her typically formal bearing somewhat relaxed after divine refreshments. "But perhaps prepared for direct discussion regarding your unique position and our collective interest."
"We've been comparing notes," Quetzalcoatl explained with characteristic bluntness. "About you, your cultivation potential, and the rather fascinating fact that each of us has developed what humans might call 'romantic interest' despite our normally detached natures."
Long Chen maintained composed expression despite the conversation's extraordinary directness. In his cultivation world, such matters typically developed through elaborate courtship rituals, political maneuvering, or dramatic rescue scenarios—not straightforward group discussion among divine beings.
"I... appreciate your directness," he managed diplomatically.
"Directness prevents unnecessary complications," Durga stated practically. "Beings of our nature can ill afford misunderstandings that might impact cosmic equilibrium."
"What Durga means," Quetzalcoatl translated with amused smile, "is that when four divine-class entities develop simultaneous interest in the same cultivator, clearing the air becomes cosmically significant rather than merely personally important."
Long Chen took a moment to center himself, the eight stars within his cultivation base harmonizing to provide emotional equilibrium that matched his physical composure. "I'm honored by your collective interest," he began carefully. "Though I admit, the situation exceeds my previous relationship experience considerably."
"As it would for any being," Arcueid acknowledged. "Such convergence of divine attention rarely occurs for individuals not specifically designated as cosmic focal points."
"Which raises the question," Artoria added thoughtfully, "of whether your arrival in our multiverse represents random convergence anomaly or predetermined cosmic pattern."
"The Guardian suggested my cultivation system might share origin basis with primordial cosmic functions," Long Chen recalled. "Perhaps explaining unusual resonance with beings representing different cosmic aspects."
"A compelling theory," Durga agreed, her crimson eyes with yellow pupils studying him with increased intensity. "The Nine Stars potentially represent fundamental cosmic principles personified through cultivation framework—explaining natural compatibility with diverse divine authorities."
"In simpler terms," Quetzalcoatl interjected with characteristic directness, "you're cosmically compatible with all of us simultaneously because your cultivation incorporates fundamental principles we each represent individually."
Long Chen processed this extraordinary perspective with remarkable composure considering its implications. "An interesting theory," he acknowledged carefully. "Though it doesn't address the practical question of how such unusual compatibility might manifest in actual relationship terms."
His directness prompted momentary silence as the four divine women exchanged glances containing volumes of unspoken communication. Finally, Arcueid spoke for the group, her golden eyes meeting his with characteristic straightforwardness.
"We've discussed this matter extensively," she began, "and have reached consensus unusual for beings of our diverse natures and origins."
"Consensus regarding?" Long Chen prompted when she paused.
"Shared interest without competing claims," Artoria clarified with regal precision. "Your cultivation path clearly indicates eventual cosmic significance transcending conventional relationship frameworks. Attempting to apply ordinary exclusivity concepts would be... inappropriate."
Long Chen blinked, momentarily nonplussed despite his cultivator's composure. "Are you suggesting...?"
"That forcing you to choose between cosmic entities representing fundamental principles your cultivation naturally integrates would be counterproductive to your ultimate advancement," Durga stated with matter-of-fact certainty. "And potentially disruptive to broader cosmic harmony."
"And significantly less fun than the alternative!" Quetzalcoatl added with mischievous smile that somehow managed to be simultaneously divine and playful. "Why settle for one cosmic perspective when your cultivation clearly benefits from diverse divine influences?"
Long Chen took a moment to fully process this extraordinary proposal. In his cultivation world, relationships between powerful individuals often involved complex political considerations, sect alliances, and carefully negotiated agreements. But this... this transcended conventional relationship frameworks as completely as his cultivation transcended ordinary power systems.
"I'm... honored by your proposal," he said finally, genuine sincerity underlying his carefully measured response. "Though I admit, the practical implementation exceeds my previous experience considerably."
"As it would for any being," Arcueid acknowledged with surprising gentleness. "Such arrangements rarely occur outside specific cosmic circumstances."
"Besides," Quetzalcoatl added cheerfully, "we have extensive timeline to determine appropriate parameters. Your cultivation journey remains incomplete, and cosmic entities measure relationship development in considerably different timeframes than mortals."
"A practical perspective," Long Chen agreed, finding his composure returning as the conversation's immediate implications settled into broader cosmic context. "My cultivation path indeed remains unfinished, with the ninth star yet to awaken and many mysteries still unresolved."
"Including your eventual return to your home reality," Artoria noted, her expression revealing complex emotions despite her typically composed features. "A journey we've committed to supporting when the path becomes clear."
Long Chen nodded, his own feelings regarding eventual homecoming more complex than he had initially anticipated. "The Guardian suggested completed Nine Star cultivation might eventually allow self-directed cosmic traversal. If true, such capability would facilitate ongoing connection rather than permanent separation."
This perspective visibly pleased his divine companions, their expressions brightening with varying degrees of obvious satisfaction. The observation deck fell into comfortable silence as they collectively contemplated cosmic possibilities far beyond conventional relationship considerations.
After several minutes of peaceful contemplation, Quetzalcoatl stretched luxuriously and rose to her feet. "Well! Existential relationship discussions have their place, but I believe celebration continues elsewhere! The night remains young by divine standards, and victory over Zeus deserves proper commemoration!"
Her enthusiasm proved contagious, lightening the atmosphere considerably as they all rose to rejoin the ongoing festivities. As they made their way back through Chaldea's corridors, Long Chen reflected on the extraordinary turn his cultivation journey had taken.
Eight stars now burned within him where once only three had existed. The Dragon God Body had evolved beyond previous limitations, integrating fundamental draconic essence into his cultivation framework at cellular level. And perhaps most surprisingly, four divine or transcendent beings had collectively decided his cosmic significance transcended conventional relationship frameworks—proposing arrangement that would have been considered impossible in his home reality.
The Nine Star Hegemon Body Art had always been described as path of defying heaven and breaking limitations. Looking at the extraordinary companions now walking beside him through Chaldea's corridors, Long Chen couldn't help but appreciate just how literally that description had manifested.
Heaven's limitations indeed lay broken behind him. And ahead... who could say? With eight stars awakened and only the mysterious ninth remaining dormant, his cultivation journey approached culmination that promised transcendence beyond anything previously imagined.
For now, however, celebration awaited. And if there was one thing Long Chen had learned through countless battles and impossible victories, it was the importance of appreciating present achievements while preparing for future challenges.
The ninth star would awaken when conditions proved appropriate. Until then, he had mechanical gods to mock, cosmic principles to integrate, and apparently, divine relationships to navigate.
Just another day in the extraordinary life of a Nine Star cultivator.