**********
—One year later—
Eternal Divine Continent,
A full year had passed since the war between the Gods and Lev.
The destruction caused by the battle had long since been repaired, and the Eternal Divine Continent had not only returned to its former state but had become even more prosperous and beautiful than before.
Under Lev's rule, the continent continued to undergo drastic changes as he gradually implemented the plans he had prepared.
One of the most noticeable changes was the reconstruction of the Eternal Divine Palace.
Unlike its previous appearance, the newly rebuilt palace was far grander, more magnificent, and considerably sturdier. It no longer resembled a simple palace but had become the centerpiece of an entire city, with numerous buildings and infrastructures constructed around it.
With the combined efforts of countless craftsmen and workers, the massive project was finally completed after an entire year of construction.
But the changes did not stop there.
Spirit Academies could now be found throughout the Eternal Divine Continent, providing countless young Spirit Masters with opportunities to cultivate and develop their abilities.
Perhaps the most exciting announcement, however, was the revival of the long-forgotten Annual Continental Spirit Competition.
The competition would be held in Eternal Divine City, and the news immediately caused the entire continent to erupt with excitement.
What made the announcement even more anticipated was the reward promised by Lev himself.
No one knew exactly what the reward would be, but everyone understood one thing—
If it came from their Emperor, it would definitely be extraordinary.
Meanwhile, Lev himself had not been idle during the past year.
Aside from overseeing the development of the continent, he had continued helping his lovers improve their cultivation.
Zhu Zhuqing, Dugu Yan, and Xiao Wu had successfully reached the Titled Douluo realm.
Bibi Dong, meanwhile, had reached the realm of an Extreme Douluo and had remained there ever since.
Lev had deliberately prevented her from advancing further.
He had already decided that Bibi Dong deserved one of the best God Positions available in the God Realm, and he did not want her to inherit an ordinary position before they reached there.
Gu Yuena, on the other hand, remained at the First-Class God level.
For some reason, she had been unable to advance any further despite her continuous cultivation.
Lev had tried to understand the reason behind it, but for now, even he could not determine what was preventing her from progressing.
Among Lev's summons, the one who had undergone the greatest improvement was undoubtedly Megatron.
His battle awareness, intelligence, and experience had grown tremendously over the past year.
Although his body was still constructed from metal, his combat ability was now completely different from when he had first been summoned.
Megatron had also spent the year searching for ways to improve his mechanical body, attempting to enhance his components and discover better materials.
Unfortunately, he eventually reached a bottleneck and could no longer make meaningful progress.
Still, Lev considered his improvement remarkable.
The tailed beasts had also reached the limits imposed by the world.
Their strength had risen to the equivalent of Extreme Douluos, placing them among the strongest existences on the continent.
The five elemental spirits and the goblins had similarly reached that level.
Even the slimes, which Lev had initially considered one of his most useless summons, had begun catching up.
Their growth had been particularly surprising.
Over the past year, they had become close companions with the Decepticons, often spending their time together despite the enormous difference in their appearances.
The once-weak summons were no longer the same creatures Lev had summoned a year ago.
Everything was steadily becoming stronger.
And with the Eternal Divine Continent continuing to develop under Lev's rule, the entire world was slowly entering an entirely new era.
*****
Eternal Divine Palace Hall,
Meanwhile, Lev could be found sitting alone on his throne inside the palace hall.
His expression was unusually serious, making it impossible for anyone looking at him to know what was going through his mind.
'System, there's something that's been bothering me for a while. Can my lovers here return with me to Earth?'
It was an important question.
After everything that had happened with the God Realm, Lev had started thinking more seriously about his eventual return to his original world. The thought of leaving the women he had come to love behind was something he simply could not accept.
[Yes, they can return with the Host with the help of the World Ticket.
[Everyone that has been branded by the system's mark is permitted to accompany the Host to Earth.]
[However, their strength will be greatly reduced. The laws of Earth cannot support individuals of such extraordinary power, with the exception of the Host.]
'That's convenient.'
Lev silently sighed in relief.
He had been thinking about this possibility for quite some time, and hearing the system's answer finally put his mind at ease.
After spending so much time with them and experiencing everything together, he could no longer imagine simply parting ways with them.
'At least I don't have to worry about leaving them behind.'
With that concern settled, Lev continued conversing with the system about the privileges and restrictions associated with something known as the Main World: Earth.
He did not want to remain ignorant about something that could potentially affect his future.
However, before he could continue asking questions, the doors of the palace hall suddenly opened.
Lev immediately stopped his conversation with the system and looked toward the entrance.
"Master, here's your tea."
A beautiful woman wearing an elegant maid outfit walked into the hall while carrying a tea set.
Anyone unfamiliar with the situation would probably find it unbelievable to see such a woman serving tea.
After all, she was none other than Bo Saixi.
Following the end of the war, Lev had visited her at Seagod Island and brought her to the Eternal Divine Continent to serve as his personal maid.
There had been some resistance at first.
However, as time passed, Bo Saixi gradually adapted to her new identity.
Now, serving Lev had become part of her daily routine, and she carried out her responsibilities with calmness and efficiency.
"Thank you, Bo Saixi."
Lev nodded as he accepted the tea.
Before he could take a sip, the doors opened once again.
"Lev, let's go shopping in the city!"
Xiao Wu''s cheerful voice immediately echoed throughout the hall.
She and the others quickly entered the room and approached Lev with excited expressions.
"We haven't gone shopping together in a while."
"That's right!"
"Let's go!"
Xiao Wu, Zhu Zhuqing, and Dugu Yan were clearly enthusiastic about the idea.
Aside from cultivation and training, shopping and wandering around the city were among the activities they enjoyed the most.
Despite their extraordinary strength and status, they still enjoyed doing ordinary things like visiting stores, trying different foods, and buying things they liked.
The women all looked toward Lev expectantly.
Bibi Dong, Gu Yuena, and Tsunade, however, were not particularly interested in shopping.
They were willing to go outside, but they had completely different reasons for wanting to leave the palace.
Lev looked at everyone before letting out a helpless sigh.
Seeing their expectant expressions, he could only give in.
Besides, he realized that he had also spent too much time inside the palace recently.
A little time outside might be good for him.
"Fine."
Lev stood up from his throne.
"Let's go visit the city."
"Yay!"
Zhu Zhuqing and the others immediately smiled brightly.
They hurried outside, with Lev following behind them.
Outside the palace, their various companions were already waiting.
The tailed beasts, the five elemental spirits, and several other summons had gathered nearby.
However, the five goblins and slimes were nowhere to be seen.
'Those five are probably with Megatron again.'
Lev shook his head with amusement.
He then turned toward the other Decepticons stationed around the palace.
"We'll be out for a while. Protect the palace for me."
"Yes, Master."
Starscream and the other Decepticons immediately responded respectfully.
They had been assigned as the guardians of the palace and had taken their responsibilities seriously.
With everything settled, Lev and his lovers boarded a luxurious carriage and headed toward the city.
*****
Eternal Divine City,
The moment Lev and the others entered the city, they immediately attracted attention.
The citizens quickly recognized their Emperor and Empresses.
People respectfully bowed and greeted them wherever they went.
"Greetings, Your Majesty!"
"Greetings, Your Highnesses!"
"Long live the Emperor!"
Lev initially smiled and returned their greetings.
However, after a while, he began to feel slightly overwhelmed by all the attention.
"There's no need to be so formal."
Lev smiled helplessly.
"Today, we're just here to enjoy ourselves. Treat us like ordinary people."
The citizens were initially stunned by his words.
But after realizing that Lev was being sincere, they gradually relaxed.
Soon, the atmosphere became much more casual.
Some citizens approached them to talk, while others recommended their favorite stores and restaurants.
The women happily interacted with them, and even the normally dignified Bibi Dong and Gu Yuena found themselves smiling as they enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere.
The citizens were deeply moved.
They had always viewed their Emperor and Empresses as distant and untouchable figures.
Yet here they were, walking among them and speaking to them as though they were ordinary citizens.
It made the people feel closer to their rulers than ever before.
As the day passed, Lev and his lovers visited one place after another.
They shopped, ate together, explored the city, and simply enjoyed their time without worrying about cultivation, war, or the God Realm.
For once, there were no enemies.
No battles.
No looming threats.
Only a peaceful day together.
Eventually, the sun began to set.
The group returned to the Eternal Divine Palace before darkness completely covered the sky.
Everyone was tired but satisfied.
Lev looked at his lovers and smiled.
It had been a simple day.
But perhaps because of everything they had experienced, simple days like this had become especially precious.
**********
—Night—
Eternal Divine Palace,
Inside the luxurious and spacious living room, Lev and the others could be found resting together after spending most of the day wandering from one store to another in the city. Despite their strength, they were surprisingly exhausted, as though they had just finished an intense sparring session.
The peaceful atmosphere lasted for a while until Xiao Wu suddenly broke the silence.
"Lev, do you think the Gods will attack us again?" she asked curiously.
Although a year had already passed since the previous battle and there had been no sign of another descent from the God Realm, the thought still lingered in her mind. She couldn't completely shake off the possibility that the Gods might return.
Xiao Wu's question immediately caught everyone's attention. The others stopped whatever they were doing and turned toward Lev, waiting for his answer.
"Hmmm..." Lev pondered for a moment before shaking his head. "I don't think so. I already made it clear to them last time that they should wait for me in the God Realm."
A faint smile appeared on his face.
"And even if they decide to descend again, I can easily deal with them and kill them once more."
His words were filled with absolute confidence. After experiencing the previous battle and witnessing the true extent of his newly acquired power, Lev no longer regarded the ordinary Gods as a threat.
"T-Then, when will you head to the God Realm?" Zhu Zhuqing asked.
She and the others knew the complete truth about Lev's mission. Although he had defeated the Gods who descended to the continent, the mission itself was not yet completely finished. Sooner or later, Lev would have to enter the God Realm and confront the Gods there.
"I don't know. Maybe a year from now... or perhaps even later." Lev leaned back comfortably. "There's no reason for me to rush. I still want to enjoy my time here before heading to the God Realm."
He had already achieved Godhood, but thanks to the Universe Identity Token, the world's will could no longer forcefully expel him from the continent. As long as he wanted, he could remain here and continue enjoying his peaceful life.
After all, there was no need to rush toward another war when he could simply enjoy the peaceful days he had fought so hard to obtain.
Hearing his answer, Xiao Wu and the others relaxed.
They then continued their conversation, discussing various things that had happened during their outing earlier that day. The atmosphere gradually became lively once again as they joked and teased one another.
Not long afterward, dinner was served.
Lev and his lovers gathered together and enjoyed their meal while continuing their conversations. Once they finished, they eventually returned to their rooms to rest.
For now, the Eternal Divine Continent remained peaceful.
But deep within Lev's heart, he knew that this peace would not last forever.
Sooner or later, he would step into the God Realm.
And when that day came, the final battle would begin.
**********
—Six months later—
Eternal Divine Continent,
Another six months had passed, and the entire continent was gradually developing according to the plans Lev had laid out.
Modern ways of living had begun taking root as he introduced various technologies, knowledge, and ideas from Earth. Although some of them were still in their early stages, the changes were already enough to bring noticeable improvements to everyday life.
The first major change was the introduction of new cooking methods and recipes. Lev had even written a cookbook containing various recipes from Earth, which quickly became popular among chefs and ordinary households alike.
Second, bicycles have become a new and increasingly popular means of transportation. They were affordable, convenient, and easy to use, making them especially popular among ordinary people.
Third, various sports had been introduced throughout the continent. Among them, basketball and soccer quickly became the most popular. To ensure fairness, however, the sports were divided into two categories: one for ordinary people and another for Spirit Masters.
Fourth, new styles of clothing had begun appearing throughout the markets. Thanks to Lev's ideas, tailors and designers had started experimenting with different designs, gradually creating a new fashion trend across the continent.
Lastly, professions such as novelists, manga artists, and illustrators had suddenly become highly sought-after occupations after Lev introduced novels and manga from Earth. Many people were fascinated by these new forms of entertainment, creating an entirely new industry.
These changes might have seemed insignificant individually, but together, they had completely transformed the continent.
A new era had begun.
*****
Eternal Divine Imperial Arena,
Meanwhile, Lev and the others could be found standing atop the highest platform of the arena, overlooking the intense battle taking place below.
Today was the championship of the First Annual Continental Spirit Competition held under Lev's reign.
The atmosphere was incredibly lively, with cheers and shouts erupting from the massive audience as the participants fought desperately for victory.
Lev calmly observed the battle below.
This particular match belonged to the Spirit Emperor category, and among the participants were Tang San and his teammates.
Lev had deliberately designed the competition to be more appealing while ensuring that every participant had a fair chance to compete. Instead of allowing Spirit Masters of vastly different cultivation levels to fight against one another, the competition had been divided according to Spirit Rank.
Every major Spirit Rank had its own category, ranging from the lower ranks all the way to the higher levels.
However, the Spirit Emperor category was considered the main event.
Not long afterward, the battle reached its climax.
The audience erupted into deafening cheers as Tang San and his teammates were gradually pushed back by Qian Renxue and her team. Despite their disadvantage, Tang San's team continued fighting desperately and refused to surrender until they had reached their absolute limits.
Eventually, they could no longer continue.
"We surrender!"
With those words, the match came to an end.
The audience immediately erupted into cheers.
Lev nodded in satisfaction.
It had been a wonderful battle.
Although Tang San and his companions were considerably weaker than they had been in the original timeline, they had still managed to reach this level of strength.
This could only mean that the world's invisible influence was still helping them to some degree.
After all, they had originally been the protagonists of this world.
Following the conclusion of the match, Lev summoned all the participating teams onto the stage.
He personally rewarded every team that had participated in the competition, even those who had failed to reach the final rounds. Their courage, determination, and willingness to challenge themselves were worth recognizing.
Finally, it was time to reward the champion.
Lev personally handed the rewards to each member of the winning team.
Each champion received a precious Spirit Bone along with a set of books whose contents were still unknown to them.
The audience immediately erupted into an uproar upon seeing the rewards.
Spirit Bones were incredibly valuable, and receiving one was already considered an enormous blessing for any Spirit Master.
However, Lev's attention eventually settled on the captain of the champion team.
Qian Renxue.
Over the years, Qian Renxue had matured considerably.
Lev wasn't surprised that her Spirit Power had only reached the level of a Spirit Emperor. In fact, that was exactly what he had wanted.
He had intentionally advised her not to focus solely on increasing her Spirit Power. Instead, he had told her to spend more time refining her foundation, mastering her abilities, and improving her combat experience.
A strong foundation was far more important than simply possessing a high cultivation level.
"Y-Your Majesty."
Qian Renxue politely greeted him.
However, despite her formal demeanor, a faint blush could be seen spreading across her beautiful face.
Over the years, Lev had occasionally visited her in private. Their relationship had gradually developed during that time, and they had eventually begun dating secretly.
Qian Renxue already knew everything about Lev and the unusual circumstances surrounding his relationships. Although it had taken her some time to accept everything, she had eventually come to terms with it.
"Renxue, congratulations to you and your team for winning the First Annual Continental Spirit Competition."
Lev smiled warmly.
"I hope all of you will continue working hard and use your strength for the betterment of the continent. Don't become complacent just because you've won."
"Thank you, Your Majesty."
Qian Renxue smiled brightly before bowing slightly.
She and her teammates then returned to their designated area, excitement clearly visible on their faces.
The Spirit Bones and other rewards were certainly something worth celebrating.
However, for them, being personally congratulated by the Emperor was perhaps an even greater honor.
Afterward, Lev turned his attention toward the countless Spirit Masters gathered inside the arena.
"Before I officially end this competition, I have one more announcement."
The entire arena gradually fell silent.
Lev smiled as he continued.
"I am planning to establish an elite academy."
The moment those words fell, the entire arena erupted into an uproar.
"All participants who competed in today's competition will be qualified to apply for admission."
The cheers became even louder.
Lev waited for the excitement to settle before continuing.
"This academy will be established for one purpose—to help Spirit Masters reach greater heights."
His voice carried throughout the entire arena.
"But that's not all."
Lev paused briefly.
"The academy will also serve as a platform to select the best among the best."
Everyone listened attentively.
"Those who distinguish themselves through their strength, talent, loyalty, and achievements will have the opportunity to become members of the Eternal Divine Royal Guards."
The moment the title was announced, the audience exploded with excitement.
The Eternal Divine Royal Guards.
Even the participants who had already been exhausted from the competition couldn't hide their excitement.
To become one of the Emperor's personal elite forces was an honor beyond anything they had imagined.
Lev continued announcing additional details regarding the academy, its selection process, and the opportunities that awaited those who managed to distinguish themselves.
Each announcement caused another wave of excitement throughout the arena.
Many Spirit Masters immediately began imagining themselves becoming part of this legendary organization.
Finally, after ensuring that everything had been announced, Lev raised his voice.
"And now..."
He paused dramatically as he looked across the enormous arena.
"I officially announce the end of the First Annual Continental Spirit Competition!"
His voice echoed throughout the arena.
"Thank you all for participating!"
The entire arena erupted into thunderous cheers.
Lev couldn't help but smile.
This was the first major public event he had personally overseen in his entire life.
And surprisingly, he found himself enjoying it far more than he had expected.
**********
—Six months later—
Eternal Divine Continent,
Another six months had passed, and the construction of the academy had long since been completed. It was now fully operational and had quickly become one of the most important institutions on the entire continent.
The academy was located not far from the previous Eternal Divine Palace. Lev had carefully considered the advantages and disadvantages of its location before deciding on the final site. With countless talented Spirit Masters from all over the continent gathering there, protecting the future generation was not only necessary—it was also his responsibility as Emperor.
Almost all of the participants from the previous Continental Spirit Competition had joined the academy, although some had chosen not to.
Among those who declined was Tang San's group. They had decided to remain at Shrek Academy and continue their studies there, with the exception of Ning Rongrong and Oscar, who chose to enroll in the new academy instead.
Meanwhile, the champion team from the previous competition, led by Qian Renxue, had all decided to join. They were immediately regarded as some of the best students the academy had ever produced, alongside the champions from the other Spirit Rank categories.
One of the greatest advantages of joining the academy was something that only Lev could provide.
He would occasionally visit the academy himself and personally teach classes to the students.
Bibi Dong also took an active role in the academy and became its headmaster. Zhu Zhuqing and the others occasionally participated as instructors as well, teaching the students whenever they had the time.
However, the people who became the biggest idols among the students were none other than the tailed beasts, the five elemental spirits, and, most especially, Megatron and his Decepticon crew.
Whenever they visited the academy, the students would gather around them with excitement, viewing them as the legendary guardians of the institution.
Some students even dreamed of becoming powerful enough to fight alongside them someday.
With that, the Eternal Divine Elite Academy successfully took root.
Its mission was simple: nurture talented Spirit Masters, help them reach greater heights, and eventually turn them into the pillars that would support the future of the continent.
*****
Eternal Divine Palace,
Meanwhile, Lev and his lovers could be found inside the palace hall together with the various clan heads and influential figures who supported the empire.
Lev had ordered them to gather once every month to report on the developments within the territories and sectors under their supervision.
Although Lev possessed overwhelming strength, he couldn't possibly monitor the entire continent by himself.
There were simply too many matters that required his attention.
For that reason, he was grateful to have loyal followers—and, in some cases, carefully controlled puppets—who could assist him in overseeing the various regions of the continent.
The monthly meeting lasted for an entire day.
They discussed various problems that had arisen throughout the continent, possible solutions, ongoing projects, and the direction in which the empire should continue developing.
Nothing was overlooked.
Every matter, whether large or small, was carefully considered before a decision was made.
After everything had finally been settled, Lev dismissed everyone and officially ended the monthly meeting.
"Let's have better results next month."
With those final words, everyone left the hall.
**********
Lev's Room,
After an entire day of discussions, Lev finally had the opportunity to rest.
He and his lovers were now lying together on the spacious bed, their bodies exhausted from the long day.
One by one, they had already fallen asleep.
Lev also thought that everyone was asleep until he suddenly felt someone gently poking his waist.
He lowered his gaze and saw Gu Yuena lying beside him, looking at him with a faint blush covering her beautiful face.
"Lev..." she softly called.
"Hmm?"
"I have something I need to do back in the Star Dou Great Forest. Would you like to come with me?"
Her voice was calm, but the blush on her face made her true intentions rather obvious.
Among all the women around Lev, Gu Yuena was the only one who had yet to formally take that final step with him.
Although she had dropped countless hints over time, Lev had always found some excuse to postpone the matter.
Hearing her words now, Lev stared at her for a moment.
He understood perfectly well what she was really trying to say.
He wasn't opposed to finally taking that step with her. The only reason he had repeatedly postponed it was because he wasn't entirely certain about how dragons reproduced or how long Gu Yuena's instincts might affect her afterward.
There were simply too many unknowns.
But now, with almost everything finally proceeding smoothly, Lev felt that perhaps it was time to settle the matter once and for all.
"Hmmm..." Lev thought for a moment before smiling. "Sure. It's been quite some time since I last visited the Star Dou Great Forest anyway."
Hearing his answer, Gu Yuena's expression immediately brightened.
"Really?"
"Of course."
A gentle smile appeared on Lev's face.
The two then quietly continued talking, both wearing smiles as they discussed their upcoming trip.
Eventually, however, the exhaustion from the day's events caught up with them.
Their voices gradually became quieter before they finally stopped talking altogether.
Not long afterward, Lev and Gu Yuena also fell asleep.
The entire room became peaceful once again as everyone rested together on the spacious bed.
For now, there was nothing left to worry about.
The continent was developing.
The academy was flourishing.
And the empire was steadily moving toward the future Lev had envisioned.