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Tanya von DegurechaffThea MarshallZac

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Crossovers & Fandom FusionsStrong Female CharactersPost-ApocalypseLitRPG

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English

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Published:2026-07-30Updated:2026-10-11Words:240,265Chapters:51/?Comments:454Kudos:459Bookmarks:88Hits:18,104

Tanya's Defiance of the Fall

Failninjaninja

Chapter 46

Chapter Text

Big thank you to Massgamer for proofreading!

Chapter 46

"Fuck!" Will exclaimed as he pushed his Dao Seed of Loam to form the earthen wall in front of him and Jared. The flames beat against it, fusing the loose dirt together from the heat.

These lizard-people sure love their fire.

Toby managed to temporarily distract the enemy mage as Will slammed his hammer into the ground, using his ability to maximize the power of the tremors right underneath the feet of their opponent. Their foe stumbled, snarled, and failed to stop Kim's bash with her light-drinking shield. Another flare of heat roared to life as a defensive treasure triggered, which also had an offensive component baked in. Kim was bathed in the flames, but her Dao Field of Chill prevented the worst of the damage, working well enough not to trigger her own shield amulet.

The battle had started strong, but the Church of the Everlasting Dao did not have a bunch of weaklings guarding the entrance to the Mystic Realm. Everyone they were fighting was around Peak F-grade, which meant Tanya and Vhorra were slaughtering them, but the rest of the Salamanders were struggling a bit.

Still getting it done though!

Toby's blade flashed without him having to touch it, cutting deep into his foe as the shapeshifter tried to summon more flames. The distraction was enough for Kim to add in her own blow. Will, meanwhile, couldn't help because a burning sword-wielding enemy was trying to cut him in two. He gave ground as best as he could because the bastard was a lot faster than him.

"I could use some help here!"

Jared ducked in to slash, but their foe neatly parried it and then sent him a decapitating strike that would have taken off his head if his shield amulet hadn't flared and stopped the slash at the final layer. Will's friend jumped backward as Will came in with a heavy swing that also missed. This could have gone sideways fast, but Vhorra had just finished off her latest opponent and then sent out a barrage of tiny but super-heavy rocks, thanks to her Seed of Heaviness, to support them. It was hard for their enemy to dodge so many of the things and the surprising impact knocked their target down. Will didn't go near, instead he added to the attack by using [Seismic Smash].

Pinned by the weight of earth, Vhorra finished off their foe with a spike of rock that ripped through her enemy's chest. Will scanned for new enemies, but saw that Kim and Toby had finished off their own opponent.

"All right people, anyone who used their primary shield amulet stay out here and equip your old secondaries. The rest of us, time to see what this Mystic Realm is all about. Let's throw some corpses in first to see if anything hostile triggers, then I'll step through."

After testing the portal with some corpses, Tanya became the first to step through with one of her [Temporary Enchantment] magical barriers up. She then came back out and said it was clear.

That power is so useful.

Will took a deep breath and stepped through it. He then found himself in a massive forest with a deep purple sky peaking out from the canopy. The canopy itself wasn't anywhere close to the ground, so it didn't quite have a jungle feel. Tanya flew into the air, used a Recording Crystal, and then dropped back down and showed it to the rest of the group.

"Well, it looks like there's some artificial buildings, at least based on the silver reflections I saw far off into the distance. There's also a wall bisecting part of the forest. I'm not necessarily keen on going into any unknown buildings, let the NWG scout things out if they want. Our priority is to ensure everything is safe in the immediate vicinity. First, Dorel and Julia will set up some Defensive Arrays, and then we'll take a spiraling loop around as one unit, dealing with any threats as they come. The NWG already has explored a different entrance, but we've got no clue how big this place really is."

Will knew the NWG would now be moving in to make sure their exit was secured, but for now they needed to make sure the entrance itself didn't have threats that could impact them setting up their own defenses. It wasn't long before some threats manifested themselves, but they were just mindless beasts. Dangerous mindless beasts, but beasts nonetheless. The fighting was short and sharp, and while individually it would have been rough going if he had to fight alone, he never had to.

***

Cosmic Energy gains from killing beasts weren't all that great anymore. The problem was that, on Earth, monstrous beasts were only slowly starting to emerge as Low E-grade. Typically only the 'Alphas', and they would usually just provide one meaningful kill. Within the Mystic Realm we had encountered a few, but we didn't get too far before I felt we had cleared out the immediate vicinity. The NWG then moved in and I took up position on the Earth portion of the gateway.

Vhorra is constantly going on about how wonderful the Origin Dao is, and I'd rather soak that up and catch up on my Enchanting while I do guard duty.

I had a number of projects to complete, including getting Julia properly equipped. Port Atwood had sent word through an intermediary that Atwood would be blitzing some of the last Incursions, not including the Undead Empire since they might still be too strong for him, nor the Church of the Everlasting Dao, because no one knew where their base was.

It was clear with his Dao and strength he was able to do similar things to what I was. Slamming through Defensive Arrays, one way or another, and slaughtering the Incursion Leader was the quickest way to close down their Incursion. Much like Chess, if you took the king it was all over. Fortunately, Enchanting didn't give me poor returns. I had Genesis Crafter, after all, that helped improve my gains from fulfilling my Class role.

I was also rapidly gathering Peak F-grade Cosmic Energy for the weapons that I was selling to the Sino-Indian Alliance for Nexus Crystals and specific parts. If I had gone the path of taking over that Outpost in Chicago, turning it into a Town, and then a City, there would have been other advantages. Finding ingredients and taking advantage of large numbers of people doing certain jobs definitely made things more efficient. Fortunately, I had a marketable skill that would allow me to take advantage of the market and still get the items and resources I needed.

Ah, I do love trade.

Capitalism was, of course, the heart of any proper economy. Unencumbered trade. Voluntary exchange. The great thing about it was that no trade would ever take place unless it was to the advantage, or at least perceived advantage, of both parties. Coercion muddled the purity of the Invisible Hand, it created inefficiencies, and just increased the net scarcity in the world. I would take advantage of these voluntary exchanges between parties as long as I could before being under the thumb of a tyrant.

"Do you feel ready?" I asked Zhou.

He nodded. "I believe so."

With a grin he pulled up the System Menu.

Ladder – Level

1. Enchanter Class Tanya Degurechaff | 79

2. Super Brother-Man | 75

3. Thea Marshall | 64

4. Enigma | 61

5. Thwonkin' Billy| 60

6. Zhongguo Zhou Jie | 60

7. Silverfox | 60

8. Guru Anaad Phakiwar |60

9. Thomas Fischer | 59

10. Francis | 58

The results of the past two months of fighting the Undead on top of our most recent duties had paid off handsomely. Zhou was now the sixth highest Ranker among Humans. Kim was 18th, with Will and Toby also making it into the top 100.

He had numerous defensive treasures, and a dozen offensive talismans of various elements. Most had my Dao Seed of Volition mixed in with them, but I could craft with almost any element, so long as the material I Disenchanted came from the properly attuned monstrous beast.

Another reason a large domain would have been good. Mutated electric eels for lightning was a nice find by the NWG.

He was stocked with medicine pills, poison grenades that were Shella's doing, [Antidote Pills], and plenty of Arrays Dorel had made. If Zhou found himself in a siege situation like I had, he would have plenty of his own toys to use. With him were also a lot of extra goods I wanted him to put up for auction. Alongside that, I gave him a shopping list I wanted to see if he could purchase anything from.

More pills for Node breaking were key, but also the E-grade version of [Constitution Pills]. I could advance my Race to D-rank now that I was E-grade. The process probably wouldn't be easy or quick, but the earlier the better. I also wanted to get something to upgrade [Crimson Siphon] who, unfortunately, was not all that useful when fighting against anything I could be threatened by these days. Right now it was just serving as a Cosmic Energy battery in battle, or at best a distraction.

Which is why I wanted to experiment with allowing Zhou to use [Crimson Siphon]. Normally Spirit Tools were bonded to a person and you really couldn't use them while they were still bonded to someone else. If I was there, I could tell [Crimson Siphon] to behave and let someone else use him, but there were some limitations. I could try breaking our connection, but that created a bit of a backlash that weakened the Spirit Tool. Instead, I wanted to see if I could use my Dao of Delegation to have Zhou act in my place as [Crimson Siphon]'s owner.

Zhou was surprised by my offer.

"But… if I should fall in the Tower of Eternity, you will lose your Spirit Tool."

"Don't fall then. Your odds of victory increase if you have him by your side. Now focus on your own Dao of Delegation while I try this."

I willed [Crimson Siphon] to view Zhou as he would me. I put forth a Dao Field of Delegation and pushed it into my Spirit Tool. Nothing happened. I frowned and tried harder. Still nothing. Fury diluted the purity of the Dao Field and I took a few deep breaths. Braiding Fury wouldn't work. Braiding Volition also was sketchy because I got the sense that [Crimson Siphon] wanted to remain at my side.

Zhou frowned, but remained patient as we sat quietly. I reinforced the Dao Field and once again willed the reality that I wanted onto the universe. Every fiber of my being was pushing for my Dao Seed of Delegation to act this way. Every last bit of me. My thoughts, my body, my…

A disorienting awareness caused nausea to overtake me. I was suddenly experiencing sensations and awareness that went beyond the basic senses. It wasn't sight; it was a feeling and yet at the same time I also retained my own senses. The confusing thing was that this other sense was coming from outside of me, even observing me. Mixed along with it was the craving for blood and the hunger to fight. I felt dizzy and weak, and I 'saw' myself tremble and nearly fall over, Zhou catching me.

I vomited onto the ground and then the strange overlapping senses faded.

"Tanya, what happened?"

I breathed and looked inward toward my Soul Aperture. Two undulating spheres interlocked and spinning, now larger due to being E-grade, were there. The third sphere was slowly merging back into where it belonged.

No, this doesn't make any sense at all.

When cultivators used Imprints or clones, they truly ripped a part of their Soul off to power them. Typically there was no awareness between the parent Soul and the fragments, though there were techniques that would allow you to string a thread of Karma to view through a clone's eyes. It was generally understood that part of your Soul, though, was gone forever. That didn't mean a permanent weakening of your Soul. Just like how your Soul could be damaged by a Mentalist's attacks and heal, so too could you heal from ripping a part of it off.

But this was something completely different. Here, I had taken a third of my Soul, somehow temporarily merged it with [Crimson Siphon], and maintained full awareness. It had discombobulated me something fierce, but I had done it. Doing something like this accidentally was nightmare fuel. What if it had stayed separate forever? My head was spinning from the implications.

"Should I call your father?"

"No," I said hastily, "no need to call him. I'm not physically injured. Just something… very surprising. I'm sorry, but it looks like you won't be able to take [Crimson Siphon] after all. But I will need you to add something to our little shopping list. The information may be hard to find. Lean on some of the acquaintances I made if you have to. Hopefully, they will still be there."

We discussed the plan more and went over what sort of mercenary contracts I might be willing to agree to. I wanted to avoid anything that kept us locked in for more than a year at a time. With the way the Multiverse worked, that was probably a dubious ask, but I'd have Zhou try. Furthermore, tasks that provided our transport and allowed us flexibility in how we accomplished it would be better than something like guard duty. Enchanting allowed for some amazing versatility, and I wanted to play to those strengths.

"As far as how high you climb, that will depend on how many Levels you manage to gain early on. Right now, even with the E-grade weaponry and armor, I think you could only make it past the 3rd Floor. However, if you strengthen yourself, I believe a 4th Floor clear is in the cards. That would give you a percentage increase to your physical attributes, and is a worthy goal to strive for."

He frowned slightly. "No hope then of achieving what you did?"

I shook my head. "I don't think so. Remember, a 3rd Floor clear is considered respectable for people climbing when they have already reached Level 75. Don't bite off more than you can chew. Also… if you can find a way to gamble on Atwood's climb, I think he clears through the 5th Floor without any issues. He obviously has some sort of strength focused build, but watching him move I could tell he has a higher Dexterity than I do. On top of that, he now has surpassed me in my Dao as I am now, let alone when I was in the Tower. If anything, I suspect he will advance further than I did, but I wouldn't put money on it when we have so many other needs."

"Understood. I will not let you down."

***

Thomas Fischer did not have infinite resources, and it was unfortunate that Tanya had little interest in spearheading the exploration of the Mystic Realm.

"The connection to the Dao is weaker in that location. You can even feel it in the air. Vhorra, my Yrd advisor, has explained to me that Mystic Realms often have different environments and in this case, it is particularly bad. While Atwood has closed most of the Incursions, the Undead Empire and the Church of the Everlasting Dao still represent grave threats. Moving so many resources into the Mystic Realm and the Salamanders along with it isn't something I feel comfortable doing."

He gave her a considering look. "Unless the price is right."

She grinned. "Precisely. I'm also somewhat dubious of the uncertainty of what we might find there. You've talked with some of the natives, and deeper within, some distance away from the gateways, is an old Technocrat research lab? That they can't even access? Why would anyone abandon useful research? If they had to leave quickly, why are there still safeguards in place? It seems to me either there are still powerful Technocrats within said lab, or they were able to leave in good order and we'll find nothing of value."

I have information you don't, but this is transactional. In order to secure her services, I just need to provide the right resources. The fact that the bounty for what we find in terms of items and 'loot' isn't a powerful incentive is unfortunate.

Thomas was stuck in a difficult situation. While the war with the Undead and other Incursions had gone splendidly, the reality was that mankind was still not safe. Nor was the NWG positioned to be able to shepherd it. Ultimately, the Dominators would have to be dealt with by the likes of Zac Atwood and Tanya Degurechaff. With Tanya no longer able to act as a bulwark against Atwood, if the man was successful against the Dominators it would lead to his rule.

While preferable to annihilation, it wasn't ideal. There was no love lost between them, not with Julia Lombard and Emma MacHale now residing in Port Atwood and airing all their dirty laundry. He had thought Julia was a professional and a patriot, but instead she had jumped ship completely.

"What will your price be then?"

"Right now? I'm unsure. I may need a vast sum of Nexus Coins, or I may want to continue with my demands for resources such as Dao Treasures, Nexus Crystals, and the other resources I need for my Salamanders to grow stronger. We've helped each other a lot, and I would like you and your best cultivators to help when we finally have our showdown with the Dominators, but I've taken one contract after another back-to-back. I'd like to take some time to focus on improving my people."

Thomas nodded. "That's fair. But I would like one last mission. We'll be meeting with the leader of one group of natives. The NWG has no one at E-grade. Your participation will give them pause in terms of assessing our strength."

"Who are they?"

"They are called the True Sky Faction, and here is what we know so far…"

***

Zhou waited patiently as Atwood gawked at the Tower. It was certainly impressive, but he had come in with very detailed expectations. Ogras was giving Zac some advice and explaining some things that Zhou was shocked the Demon hadn't bothered going into detail about before they arrived.

The Demon doesn't share as much information because if he does, he is no longer as valuable. Instead of just providing it all, he withholds his knowledge until it is needed.

"This way. My requirement is to make the necessary introductions and then leave you to your business. I understand you will be attempting to ascend in a week's time?"

Zac shrugged. "Around that time." He tossed him a communication device, and Zhou looked at it suspiciously. He didn't trust Atwood at all, but it seemed benign. "Since you don't want to go with us, we'll inform you when we do go. And my offer is still open; you can join us for the first few floors."

"No thank you."

He led them to where Pretty Peak resided, hoping she was still there. If she wasn't, he would try to find Leyara Lioress. Members of the Allbright Empire stopped them as they approached the residence. The fact that a nation could have Tower of Eternity-worthy individuals who were literally just serving as guards and attendants for a year before they entered the Tower still amazed Zhou.

Zhou showed the Recording Crystal from Tanya and hoped that Pretty would make time for them. While they waited, Ogras eyed him.

"You know… since you aren't planning on attempting the Tower until you see the apparition that Zac makes, why don't you lend me your spear? It's Middle E-grader, right? It would be very helpful and I'll give you a fraction of the treasure I find within the Tower."

"A fraction of a fraction?"

Ogras grinned. "So I guess Tanya does trust you."

Clever Demon. I'll need to watch my words.

"Fifty million Nexus Coins. Not a bad offer since you almost certainly won't need it in Base Town."

"You also might die and then I'm out my spear. I doubt you will, but I'm not going to take chances."

"One hundred million. Final offer."

"No," Zhou replied.

Ogras shrugged and they waited until Pretty finally arrived. Zhou had been given a description, but it didn't do the young, though most certainly older than him, woman proper justice. She was gorgeous in a way that Sofia couldn't touch. Her purple hair stood out as an oddity, but even that couldn't diminish her features.

"Huh, more progenitors. Tanya caused quite a stir when she arrived, and she was the talk of the town for weeks after her departure. Are you lot as interesting as her?"

"My name is Zhou, and I am not, but I've been asked to make the introductions. This is Zac Atwood, a ruler and someone who has personally closed several Incursions. This is his advisor, a Demon who was once part of an Incursion. I'd like to meet with Yara as soon as possible and let them speak for themselves."

His cadence was formal and a little cold when he spoke of Atwood and Ogras. Pretty obviously picked up on some underlying tension, but sent one of her attendants to escort Zhou to Yara. In the meantime, Zac name-dropped Average and Greatest Peak, and they began talking in earnest.

Zhou asked who those people were once they had left the manor and the guard laughed, "Greatest Peak is a Monarch of the Allbright Empire. That is Lady Daoist Summit Reacher's uncle. Average is Greatest's son."

Since he had nothing better to do while they walked, Zhou lightly probed for more information about the Allbright Empire and the surrounding areas. The guard was clearly proud of the nation that he lived in, as one should be, but it didn't sound like idle boasting either. The Allbright Empire was one of the most powerful factions of the Zecia Sector.

The guard left him with Yara Brightness of the Blue family of the Empire of Light. Yara was very interested in meeting with him and discussing a potential marriage match between Tanya and her family.

"Unfortunately, Lady Brightness, that is not something I can help arrange. Instead, she is looking to travel with potentially upwards of twenty individuals, but likely around fifteen, to your nation. Tanya is looking for work for our mercenary company, the Salamander Group."

"I thought she was from a new world. Isn't she a progenitor?"

"Yes, she is. She has a duty toward humanity to help close the Incursions, which we have been very successful at so far, but afterwards she wishes to leave Earth."

"You misunderstand. Why would we want to hire F-grade warriors? Or I suppose some Early E-grade ones? There are some opportunities if you are as gifted in battle as she somehow is. We could find a lot of use for Peak F-grade warriors on Skirmish World who can clear the 6th Floor, or even the 5th Floor, but I highly doubt that's the case," Yara said this with a laugh, showing Zhou how ridiculous she thought the idea was.

Zhou deflated a bit, but still needed information. "Skirmish World?"

Yara flashed a smile of her too-wide teeth. "Yes. The System strives for conflict, after all. Many of the lesser families and non-heirs use it as a proving ground. There's an agreement with the filthy abominations in this sector, which is enforced by the Hegemons. It, of course, could be violated, but it serves the Undead Empire as well as us to keep it in place."

"I am sorry, I still don't understand."

"Ah, let me explain. Killing beasts can generate Tower of Eternity tokens as well as Quests. But the danger in civilized territory is relatively limited. Sending people like me and other scions out into the less populated parts of the Zecia Sector is dubious. Much time could be wasted, decades or more, not finding any good battle opportunities. Or, some poor group of F-grade warriors, even with a Hegemon Dao Guardian, could run into some wandering threat or spatial anomaly that just kills them outright. It is both very dangerous and potentially dreadfully inefficient."

Zhou thought he knew where this was going as she continued.

"We could fight amongst ourselves in death games. Other forces have done that, but we don't like to. Killing the people who you might be serving next to in a war is bad business, and can create blood feuds and dangerous fractures. So instead we send promising candidates to Skirmish World. The agreement has lasted for two hundred thousand years, and neither side has broken it. The danger is real, but prepared sons and daughters of the Empire of Light can face off against potential talent in the Undead Empire."

"And because the danger is real and it meets the System's desire for struggles of supremacy, the System will reward Tower of Eternity Tokens for doing well."

"Exactly! Naturally, having 'ringers' or those who are great talents at the Peak of F-grade are useful bodyguards for noble sons and daughters. Hiring Peak F-grade warriors who have already been to the Tower of Eternity and proven they are far more capable than regular guards would be one way your services could be valued, but… I can sense a bit of your Dao and your aura; it seems unlikely you would fit the bill."

He didn't think she was being insulting, but it was.

"I am only Level 60."

She shook her head. "You lot are so odd. I know you are in a fight for survival, but using the time dilation to gain levels really is novel. Do you know how few people gain Tower of Eternity tokens compared to the total population? This is a chance of a lifetime, and you should be maximizing yourself before you even come here."

"What I am hearing you say is that the Salamander Group's services aren't something that you would be interested in."

"No, I'm sorry, but not really. But… we are interested in Tanya. A 6th Floor clear is a magnificent feat. It will likely be eclipsed soon by some once-in-a-generation cultivators in Base Town, but still, her sort of talent deserves nurturing. On top of that, she is an Enchanter."

"Arcane Arsenal now," Zhou supplied.

"She's already advanced to E-grade? What in the Multiverse…" she shook her head. "Wait, an Arcane Arsenal? That's an Epic Class! Oh, that's good. I definitely need her to marry into my family!"

Zhou realized negotiations had taken a turn.

"Just as we are frequently shocked at the culture of the Multiverse, I suspect you may find our traditions to be equally confusing. The reason why Tanya would not let me enter into negotiations for her hand in marriage is because that is not done where we are from. At least, not anymore. Instead, people get to know each other and court one another. I cannot promise she will ever marry into your family, but if we were able to negotiate a deal, I'm sure she would be willing to spend time in your family member's company."

Yara again giggled. "We do that too! Hmm, you know, her Class is interesting. Given her current fame, I'm sure we can find a place for her. As for you lot… the resources we will provide to her will be more than enough for your upkeep. I'm afraid I don't have a contract to offer you, but her? I could see that, and your idea of using lesser teleportation tokens to then use the standard method of teleporting to other worlds could have merit."

She paused. "Do you have any of her newer works? I know she's been busy fighting, as an Enchanter of all things… but with more Cosmic Energy available, I am curious as to the quality of her goods."

Zhou felt a pressure ease from his shoulders and he eagerly showcased some of his goods. The triple layered shield amulet, his own equipment, and then the ingredients, useful materials that were imbued with her Dao.

Yara's eyes widened. "What's this? How… How many different Daos does she have access to?"

Zhou had been given the green light to share that information if it might help negotiations. "She had eight Dao Seeds, but now only has six since she forged her first Fragment."

"EIGHT?!"

"Yes, is that considered a lot in the Multiverse?"

"Yes, very much so! That's a ridiculous number! This is going to hurt her as she advances, but… for the time being, an E-grade crafter with so many Dao provides a huge amount of versatility. The Empire of Light is very interested. Especially with the quality of these goods."

"What kind of terms might we expect? I have some ability to negotiate, but final approval will be Tanya's."

"Stars in the sky, how should I know?" Yara gave him an incredulous look. "I don't handle these sorts of things; I just know generalities. I'll send one of my companions up the Tower, have them return to the Empire, talk it over with my family, and then have someone else enter Base Town. It may take a few days in total, but I'll be able to give you some more details and an offer."

Zhou kept the grimace he wanted to express off his face. This would be tricky.

"I should probably let you know about stipulations and desires that Tanya has…"

It was now time for Yara to frown. As they had guessed, the idea of serving only for a year was not at all what would normally be the case. Multiversal empires worked on time scales that still were hard to comprehend. Ultimately, Zhou pressed her on the importance of communicating these desires and for multiple potential offers at varying time scales that her family felt might be appropriate should be provided.

"There are less than a handful of Incursions remaining, though we do still have a very large threat as one of the worlds that was combined had existing cultivators. I'll be putting some of these goods up for auction and then purchasing the needed material to help Tanya progress. She's quite confident in her skills, but an advance…"

Yara gave him an amused smile. "Shameless, utterly shameless. I will see what my family says. We aren't the Gold Family, and putting resources up with no guarantee she'll even survive to make good on her end isn't normally done."

"Tanya does many things that aren't normally done, Lady Brightness. Including her gamble. Speaking of… I'd also like to see if anyone is interested in gambling on Zac Atwood's success within the Tower of Eternity, if the odds are right."

Yara eyed him. "Is he part of the Salamander Group?"

"No, but Tanya respects his strength. I'm looking to get the best possible odds and obtain the most amount of resources. Do you think a 5th Floor bet would be plausible?"

She wrinkled her nose. "Normally, yes. But after what Tanya accomplished, you could probably make an even bet, but that's about it."

"Well, in that case I better hurry up and arrange to put these goods up for auction so I can offer a larger purse."

"You know… getting past the 5th Floor is rare. Even if he's something special, the Tower is quite the challenge. Cultivators make their own Luck, but Tanya doing what she did was an anomaly. Don't lose your britches gambling."

Zhou wasn't worried. Anyone who had even more Dao than Tanya would be fine.

"I trust Tanya's judgement. As should you… in fact, care to make a wager of sorts yourself? Tanya will want to take a short-term contract and get an advance. If Atwood makes it through the 5th Floor, you use your influence with your family to get her those. If not, she'll sign a more standard one."

Ultimately, she very well might refuse. This goes beyond what I've been told I can negotiate, but she was confident. Worse comes to worse, I'll have damaged our reputation slightly and fallen significantly in my own personal reputation. But Tanya still doesn't have to sign anything they offer. This is a calculated gamble.

"I'm not that important. My family thinks I have the potential to be a Hegemon. The potential, as such things aren't guaranteed. As much as I wish I was like Pretty Peak, I'm not. But… the Blue family is led by an Early Monarch. We do have more resources than most of the colors. I think I can get you and Tanya something. And who doesn't love a good wager?"

Zhou smiled wolfishly. Atwood didn't know it yet, but he was going to be giving Tanya far more than he thought he would by letting them know when he was going to climb the Tower.

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Tanya von DegurechaffThea MarshallZac

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Crossovers & Fandom FusionsStrong Female CharactersPost-ApocalypseLitRPG

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Published:2026-07-30Updated:2026-10-11Words:240,265Chapters:51/?Comments:454Kudos:459Bookmarks:88Hits:18,104

Tanya's Defiance of the Fall

Failninjaninja

Chapter 47

Chapter Text

Special thanks to @Massgamer for proofreading!

Chapter 47

Zhou was quite pleased at the estimated amount the auction house thought he could get for the goods Tanya had provided. It seemed excessive to him, but he understood the realities of the marketplace as well as positive word-of-mouth. Tanya had cleared the 6th Floor and had certainly used her own Enchanted items. What better advertisement could there be for other climbers?

He was still waiting for Yara's response, but he had also received an invitation to a social gathering after attending an auction. The event was held in the honor of Reoluv Er Suriav Prehavandar Dravorak, the 15th Prince of the Dravorak Dynasty. He wasn't directly invited, but he was coming as a 'plus one' of Pretty Peak's.

"Levora insisted on being the one to invite Zac, and then the man said he wasn't interested! That he wanted to attend some silly auction instead," Pretty commented as they approached the festive gathering. Prince Reoluv would be beginning his climb of the Tower of Eternity tomorrow and well-wishers across the major factions would be in attendance. He was surprised Atwood was not attending, but then again, he might not be looking to leave Earth considering his clear goal to be its absolute ruler.

Zhou knew exactly what auction was being held, and some of Tanya's defensive treasures were even for sale there. Zhou had steadily worked through the list of items, but many of the requested treasures and items Tanya wanted could also be purchased in bulk from storefronts.

"Probably for the best, the man lacks tact at times. It works in a world where few can best him, but here it would be a different story. I doubt he wishes to make enemies," he replied.

Pretty smiled at him. He wondered about her name, as everyone called her Pretty Peak, but her attendants called her something else.

"You sound as if you hate him."

Zhou raised his eyebrows. He may have been a little cold, but he didn't think he had been that noticeable.

"Sorry, I'm good at reading people. It is part of my Dao, to understand my opponent's moves so I can set up the perfect finishing blow. I'm curious, are you two not allies?"

"Against the likes of the Church of the Everlasting Dao and the Undead Empire? Yes. Tanya led that man's army against the Undead, while he closed other Incursions. But the man also held Tanya's sister hostage and forced her to sign a non-aggression pact. She's unable to go to war with him, no matter what awful deeds he may do in the future."

Tanya couldn't tell Zhou to badmouth Zac Atwood, the System Contract prevented that, but Zhou was under no obligation to not make things a little difficult for the man. There was a strange protective feeling he had for Tanya. It was the oddest thing, and rather silly when he considered that Tanya, on her worst day, could turn him to ash on his best day. The girl was a true genius. Not just in cultivation or in the Dao, but in the old world sense as well. From amassing a fortune for her family as a child playing the market to being able to take on the burden of military command without missing a step or a tactical ploy demonstrated a breadth of intelligence that humbled him.

At least I am not the only one. All the Salamanders view Atwood with utter disdain now.

"How curious. Zac was hoping to find allies to protect Earth from this Great Redeemer fellow, but there are problems with that. Earth's still under a System Shroud, so it would be hard to find, even with a strong Karma link, in a reasonable amount of time. This cultivator also sounds like he walks a crooked path of unorthodoxy, meaning he won't be part of any of the respectable factions, so there's little that can be done to threaten others."

Zhou shrugged. "Tanya's perspective is that there is likely some time still. If the Dominators simply had to lay low in order for their master to arrive, as Atwood thinks, then they would have just done that. By involving themselves in wars with other Zhix, it means something more needs to occur."

Pretty rolled a shoulder. "I'm not a Karma cultivator, so I couldn't say. Either way, his hope of getting help for Earth isn't likely, but we did point him in the direction to where he might look to get something that could cleanse a Karmic tie. It will cost a small fortune from my perspective, so I doubt he'll be able to afford whatever he might find."

They soon arrived at the party, and incredibly fine-tasting food and drink was provided. Zhou mostly observed and tried to get a feel for the etiquette of the gathering. Pretty gathered a crowd and he found himself speaking more often than usual, which gave him an opening to ask about some of the more esoteric items on Tanya's list. As he was talking, the crowd parted and Prince Reoluv was suddenly before him.

"You are from the same world as Tanya Degurechaff?"

Zhou bowed. "Yes, I am. Forgive me, I realize you are royalty, but our world is newly integrated, so I do not know the appropriate title to bestow upon you."

Reoluv's smile turned amused.

"None are needed. This is one of the few places one can get away from such things. I even feel slightly bad that so few people will be speaking about Tanya Degurechaff after I'm done with my climb."

"I wish you good fortune. My employer, Tanya, would wish the same."

The man's smile widened. "I'm quite grateful for her, you know. I was able to advance my Dao due to her apparition, and it pleases me that you will most certainly advance your own when I leave the Tower and put on an even greater showing. How high do you think you will get?"

Zhou shrugged. "I believe I will clear the 3rd Floor, and perhaps I will get past the 4th. I am no Tanya Degurechaff."

"'Tis no shame in understanding your limitations," he said in what Zhou suspected was his attempt at a compliment. Once the prince had examined him and heard his likely 'good' but nothing to speak of goal, he had then quickly grown disinterested with him.

A woman, who could only be Leyara of the Void Monastery, walked forward with a grin on her features.

"You're the one who is looking to bet on how high Zac Atwood will go, aren't you?"

Zhou nodded. "Yes, and I've arranged one already, though those details are private. I am looking for additional ones, however. Our world could use extra Nexus Coins."

"A bet?" Reoluv asked. "I hadn't heard of this. I must say – the little drama with Balos was most entertaining. Is there another ridiculous wager in the cards? I'm curious who will be fleeced next by you progenitors."

"I doubt anyone would give me the odds Tanya won. But if someone would… I'd take the same bet on Atwood clearing the 5th Floor."

Leyara's dress plunged as she laughed. "Not even Balos is that big of a fool. Many here have wealth to waste, but cultivators hate being mocked."

Zhou glanced at the crowd, seeing quite the interest. He suspected it was because he was an unknown element. He sensed an opportunity here. When Tanya had gone over her exploits, she had focused on the idea of 'go big, or go home,' and his commander's list of desired items was long indeed.

He raised his voice. "I wouldn't expect anyone to put up 50-1 odds, but could I get 10-1 odds that the combined Floors cleared by Atwood and myself will be nine? For example, if I cleared the 4th Floor and Atwood cleared the 5th Floor, that would count as my win."

Reoluv shook his head. "What Balos did was designed to cruelly rob someone. Not for coin, but for the pleasure of it. It was petty, a desire of a spiteful brat who was ashamed he could not do better within the Tower. We are a bit more refined here."

That is unfortunate.

"Ah, well, in my world, betting on contests was a frequent and natural occurrence. We are more economically sound than we were before, and I have more to spread. It would give me motivation to make a wager and add to the excitement of the Tower of Eternity." He pretended to look a bit sheepish. "In all truth, I'd love to be able to go back to my world and say that, even if I didn't get as far as my commander, at least I made some Nexus Coins!"

Reoluv's eyes gleamed for a moment. "I'm in the mood for a good deed. I'll give you one billion Nexus Coins, subject to someone agreeing to the bet. Come, someone challenge the man, he needs motivation!"

Leyara clapped her hands. "So exciting, and such a generous spirit."

"Thank you, truly, I… I'm staggered by the gift."

Reoluv waved his hand dismissively. "A thousand E-grade coins is nothing. I spent two hundred times that much a week ago." In a louder voice, "Come now, don't be shy! I know some of you only cleared the 4th Floor, and surely you don't think two progenitors can get past nine floors! If this man is right and he gets through the 4th Floor, that will mean this Atwood fellow will get through the 5th Floor."

A sharply dressed woman nearly the size of Billy approached. "I'll only do 5-1, and only as a favor to you Prince Reoluv."

A sudden surge of adrenaline filled Zhou. "Make it 15-1, and we'll clear ten floors in total."

The crowd roared in delight. Reoluv waved his hand to keep them quiet.

"No, no, let's not be too hasty. I don't want them to get themselves killed trying something beyond their talents," Reoluv said.

"It's his money, Prince Reoluv, you gave it to him, let him spend it as he wishes," the large woman pointed out.

The sudden thunder in his eyes made the large woman quail for a moment, but Leyara smoothly interjected.

"This isn't a desperate man, Reoluv, let them have their fun. You've already seen that he will lose nothing."

"Bah, fine. If this has entertained you Lady Lioress, then I am indeed pleased to have been generous."

With that, the impromptu audience was over. He'd go to the auction house with the gigantic woman after the party ended. Leyara took him to the side for a moment to speak privately.

"You think Zac will clear the 6th Floor, that's why you made the bet?"

Zhou nodded. "Yes, though I was confused by the prince's actions."

"He's throwing his money around. He gains some minor Karma for donating money to a cultivator such as yourself, but it also adds his name to your story if you and Atwood succeed. And even if you don't succeed, if he accomplishes his aim of a 7th Floor clear, they'll be talking about him regardless. It was a lark, but one that hopefully benefits you. The System fees for using the teleportation tokens are steep."

Zhou shook his head. "Does everyone know the details of my private discussion with Yara?"

"Only the people who matter… now enjoy the party, because tomorrow everyone will be tracking Reoluv's climb on the Tower Ladder."

***

I had pushed into Level 80 before the meeting. Supposedly the natives had a whole slew of strong E-grade warriors. If that was true, I doubted I could do much to keep the NWG delegation alive. I could still perhaps give them pause and help Thomas and my Salamanders escape. Still, the growth of my attributes was a heady thing, and I looked over my Status Screen with pleasure.

Name: Tanya Degurechaff

Level: 80

Class: [E-Epic] Arcane Arsenal

Race: [E] Human

Alignment: [Earth] Human

Titles: Defier of Gods, Indecipherable Anomaly, The Eleventh Goddess, Devil of the Rhine, Chosen of the Skies, Flame Savior, Leader of Men, Adventurer, Giantsbane, Full of Class, Rarified Being, Genesis Crafter, Quest Breaker, Ogre Slayer, Invasion Breaker, Unmaker, Disciple of David, Overpowered, Proven in Blood, One Against Many, Scion of the Dao, Butcher, Early Bird, Dao Teacher, Tower of Eternity - 6th Floor, Achievement Hunter, First Step, Monarch Select, Tyrannic Force

Limited Titles: Beacon Breaker

Strength: 226 [Increase 27%. Efficiency: 116%]

Dexterity: 463 [Increase 37%. Efficiency: 116%]

Endurance: 396 [Increase 27%. Efficiency: 122%]

Vitality: 403 [Increase 32%. Efficiency: 116%]

Intelligence: 509 [Increase 32%. Efficiency: 116%]

Wisdom: 822 [Increase 42%. Efficiency: 116%]

Luck: 100 [Increase 25%. Efficiency: 116%]

Constitution: Speed of Thought (First Layer) Dexterity +10, Intelligence +5, Dexterity, +5%.

Fragment of the Forge – Early. All Attributes +10, Endurance +80, Wisdom +60, Intelligence +50, Dexterity +15. Effectiveness of Endurance +5%.

[Dao Seed of Volition – Peak. Dexterity +90, Wisdom +20, Intelligence +5, Vitality +5]

[Dao Seed of Delegation – High. Wisdom +45, Intelligence +10, Vitality +5]

[Dao Seed of Fury – High. Vitality +45, Strength +15]

[Dao Seed of Sanctuary – High. Wisdom +25, Endurance +25, Intelligence +10]

[Dao Seed of Pledge – Middle. Wisdom +25, Intelligence +5]

[Dao Seed of Investment – Early. Intelligence +10, Wisdom +5]

The massive boosts from my node breaking, my two new Titles, upgrading some of my Daos further compounded with my percentage increases. From Peak F-grade at Level 75 to Level 80 had been an astonishing increase in basically everything. In just five Levels, I had increased my total attributes by 75%. Combine that with my increased Cosmic Energy reserves and a stronger Soul, and I felt that I was just about twice as strong as I was prior to advancing into E-grade.

For this meeting, I was taking all the Salamanders with me except for Dad, Julia, and the non-combatants. Interestingly enough, the location we took from the Church of the Everlasting Dao did not end up being the primary passage for the NWG.

"What was the point, then?" I asked Thomas as we rode out on military vehicles with some of his elites.

"To deny the Church an entryway and to be exposed to another section. This place is quite large, but not easily traversable. The Technocrat base makes up almost the entire area, with walls cordoning off large sections. There are ancient doors that we simply could not break through even with munitions and my most powerful attacks, but some of us have gained a level of clearance as well. We are a bit blocked off on our current path unless we make a deal with the True Sky Faction, find a way to break down the walls, or obtain the necessary access."

"So you hoped that the path I opened up would prove easier to traverse?"

"Yes. Unfortunately, the answer was no and we came across a similar situation, though this time there was no bartering. After your team left we explored and were ambushed by werewolves. My top agent was seriously wounded and only barely managed to escape due to multiple defensive treasures. The rest of their squad was wiped out, and many of them had your shield amulets."

That doesn't mean much since those would primarily have been the ones I made thirty or more Levels ago.

We arrived at a massive silvery wall where a small base of NWG soldiers were deployed. One pressed a tablet against the wall at our approach, and a gate slowly rumbled open.

"But the True Sky Faction is willing to talk? What do they want?"

Thomas grimaced. "Safe passage out of here. The spatial tunnel we stabilized and came through is heavily guarded, and we can collapse it from either side… probably. Several of the gates here are also one way and 'access' seems to vary. The gate we just opened will close behind us, for example."

Considering the wall seems endlessly vertical, that isn't comforting at all!

"We suspect the barriers between Earth and the Mystic Realm could be forced open by someone with sufficient spatial talents, but then again, perhaps not. There's a reason these creatures were trapped for millennia and not able to escape."

"And what kind of deal are you hoping to make?"

He took a breath. "I want to obtain the treasure of this Mystic Realm. I believe the Technocrats were researching how to create these sorts of realms. From what we've learned so far, this isn't a proper Mystic Realm. The Technocrats are gone, but some of their automated defenses remain. At the core lies something, a 'Seed' is what some have called it, and with it, we can do great things. Based on what the natives have told us, it can become the heart of a Cosmic Vessel, detach the Mystic Realm completely, or provide incredible insights and be used to recreate the Technocrat defenses."

I waited for him to continue as we dismounted the vehicles and then passed another gate, which led to a clearing with only a few trees.

"I want to establish a deal. They fight for the NWG to obtain the treasure. If we succeed, their people can live on Earth. Either we are successful, and with the power of the treasure we can accomplish marvelous things and not need to worry about the difference in our strengths, or they will die trying."

"Why do they want to leave?" I asked.

He shrugged. "We haven't got that far yet. That they are even willing to talk and communicate already puts them above the werewolves that they call the Lunar Tribe."

We arrived at the meeting location and saw three figures waiting for us. The first was a silver-furred humanoid with clear monkey-like features, including a tail. The two further back, seemingly guards, were not of the same Race as him. One was a woman with red skin and the other was another humanoid-looking person but with a very, very large head compared to their otherwise normally shaped body.

"I am Hekruv Vira, the head of the True Sky Faction Council." The furred figure spoke in a gravelly voice. "You are the leader of the Human tribe? Lord Thomas Fischer?"

"I am," Thomas answered, "and with me is my security attachment led by Tanya Degurechaff. I am pleased to finally meet you. Our two peoples have much to offer each other."

"Hmm, yes. The Seed awakens, and when it does we cannot say what will happen. This place has little Dao and has hampered our ability to advance. We wish to leave, but we do not wish to go to war and risk the delicate tunnel your people have created. What do you want in exchange?"

"The Seed itself, and the treasures that may be found in the inner labs. While we do have some warriors on Earth similar to my associate, Tanya," he gestured toward me, "we are still fresh into our Integration with System-controlled space. I lack strong warriors and knowledge of this realm. Should you help us achieve our goals, we will arrange for lands and safety on Earth."

Not a complete lie, but pushing it a little.

"You do not understand what you ask. The inner labs only open rarely, and forcing your way through the Memorysteel is nearly impossible without powerful spatial artifacts. Even our best Datamancers can only go so far. Not only that, there are substantial risks. Spatial rifts, void creatures, and other dangers."

Thomas stared unblinking at Hekruv.

"Other factions, including our enemies from Earth, are here. They seem to think they will be able to obtain the treasure. If we cannot come to an agreement, then I will have to destroy our entryway and do my best to do the same to the other ones so I can trap my enemies."

Does no one actually try proper diplomacy anymore? Everyone just goes straight to the damn cudgel. Not even a stick, a damn club.

My danger sense flared a bit as both of the guards let slip their auras. They were both either at the end of Early E-grade or had already reached Middle E-grade, which made me a bit wary. With how weak the Dao was here, I suspected I could probably handle one of them. Attributes were important, but your strength in the Dao mattered more in battle. However, trying to deal with two at once would be quite the issue. Their leader didn't seem to do the same and held up one furry hand.

"Let us not be hasty. Your rivals will face the same difficulty. Perhaps the Gemlings will be willing to assist others, but I doubt the Lunar Tribe or the Catarva Clan would do so. They would have to fight factions who are near our own strength and then still face the spatial rifts, Void Beasts, and the defenses of the inner laboratories. This place is a labyrinth, and you have no Datamancers."

Thomas nodded affably. "They may end up facing difficulties, true, but we have gained access. These laboratories have allowed us to use gates you yourselves cannot. I do not know why, perhaps it is because we are not from this place, but we have more freedom of movement than you do. I have no reason not to believe the Church of the Everlasting Dao won't be able to do the same."

One of the guards mumbled something.

"We may not be able to bypass the same gates that you can, but do not think there are no other ways to traverse these lands. Those fanatics being here and showing an interest in the dimensional treasure as well is not good. Very troubling," Hekruv said with clear concern in his voice. Evidently the Church of the Everlasting Dao had left an impression on their ancestors at some point. "We greatly desire to leave this place and be done with the horrors that it holds. We have resided here for generations. Surely there must be some other deal we can come to. We have not wasted our time in the Mystic Realm, even though our cultivation has been harmed. We have turned to research. It is doubtful you will find anywhere else in the Zecia Sector that has done as much scholarship on Bloodlines and how to awaken them. We will gladly trade our hard-won knowledge for a safe haven."

"Not good enough," Thomas replied. "Earth would have very few bloodlines, so this is of little use to us."

I stirred. There was too much to potentially be won here for this to keep going down the track it was.

"Lord Fischer, may I have a word?" I said carefully and gave him a meaningful look.

The head of the NWG's face twitched and he asked for a delay with the parley.

"Thomas, I think we should avoid being hasty here. This is a group of people with the most important treasure of all. Information. I get that you have them over a barrel and want to squeeze, but that doesn't always yield the best long-term results."

"We need their warriors more than we need their information. And do you truly want to let E-grade monsters onto Earth? They will be a threat to Human hegemony."

He was using the classical version of the term and not the Multiversal one. I was annoyed that Thomas was being rather close-minded about non-Humans. Ironically, he seemed very much like Henry Marshall in that regard.

"The numbers likely don't matter, it is their elites you want, right? Let most of their people, say those who are below E-grade, pass through. Perhaps require a System Contract that they won't attack the NWG upon reaching Earth. Leave the potent fighters here and require their assistance. I'm not sure if they will go for that, especially given how morally dubious much of the Multiverse is, but it's worth the attempt. In exchange, I want that Bloodline information and I also want any other knowledge they've collected."

Thomas looked at me, his eyes studied me as he no doubt went through several different scenarios.

"I have my way of doing things, but I'm willing to compromise if you also agree to help us obtain the treasures. You've been reluctant to commit to this operation fully. If you want me to do this your way, then you have to continue helping us."

I so badly needed a break to actually work on my own situation. My attempt at delegating [Crimson Siphon] had revealed something crazy about my own Soul and I wanted to try to do some limited experimentation with it. Unfortunately, with so much in flux, I didn't want to take senseless risks. I still wanted to try Enchanting my organs. I wanted to spend more time Enchanting and fully kitting out my Salamanders. I needed to ensure that Julia managed to collect every possible Title she could so she could also get Achievement Hunter. Continuing with my Body Tempering was also important. There were so many things that could help push me forward if I could just get a moment to breathe.

I sighed. This place really did suck for cultivation and potential Dao insights.

"Within reason. The Incursions and the Dominators have to come first. The Church having interest in this place aligns with the Incursion portion, but the Dominators remain the largest threat. The Undead Empire is laying low for now, but they aren't defeated yet either. I actually have an idea on how to deal with them when Atwood returns from the Tower of Eternity, but it will take some time… which is a damn luxury right now."

Thomas quirked an eyebrow and asked what my plan was.

"He's good at smashing through defenses. I have a Class Quest to make a Peak E-grade bomb. By Disenchanting Life-attuned beast parts, mutated plants, and treasures, I could make a powerful explosive one-use offensive talisman of epic proportions. While I suspect the Incursion Leader may survive, almost everything else in the radius will get blasted to bits from the force of a powerful E-rank Skill that they are uniquely susceptible to." I tilted my head as a thought came to mind. "We may not even need to use Atwood. If they lend us a few of their more powerful E-grade warriors…"

"We can't control them once they are on our side. Nor can we trust them. You would have to be guarantor for any contract and you just arrived at E-grade. It may not hold, especially since we don't know their Levels," Thomas countered.

"It should. And honestly, I doubt they are at the Peak of E-grade, which is what might allow someone to survive breaking the contract. If they were, I think they could just blitz the passageway, but who knows, they may just be playing it safe. We could also try requiring them to reveal their System Status screens."

Thomas was silent for a time, clearly considering things.

"I'll let you take the lead in the negotiations, but will veto anything I think represents too great of a security risk. Let's see what you can convince them of."

I nodded and we rejoined Hekruv. Thomas spoke first.

"Thank you for your patience. My offer still stands. You help me obtain the dimensional treasure and loot the inner laboratories, and you will have safe passage to Earth and a place to call your own." Before they could speak, Thomas continued. "However, my colleague believes another deal could be mutually beneficial. I will allow her to negotiate, but if you cannot come to an agreement with her, then I will insist on my original offer."

Hah! These sorts of assists are useful.

I smiled and the leader of the True Sky Faction's solemn features furrowed a bit. It was time to talk business.

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Chapter 1622 - 48