240: The spread of civilization, the sowing of seeds of diverse ideas

Green Vine Forest, the simple workshop area near the Glazed Pit.

The air was filled with the scent of freshly turned earth, a faint fragrance of Order, and the indistinct, cool stellar fluctuations unique to Astral Crystal energy. Several crude but structurally sound stone-and-wood sheds had been erected. The largest among them was the location of the [Resource Conversion Altar]. At this moment, a rhythmic humming sound emanated from within—the altar was operating steadily, converting a new batch of mined Astral Crystal Ore into a second [astral crystal (green)] resource card.

Outside the altar, eighteen semi-transformed Parasitic Beast slave laborers were divided into three teams. Under the supervision of several Dwarf Warriors and the simple hand signals of a Mechanical Goblin engineer (projection), they used crude pickaxes and carts to transport screened Ore in and move waste slag out. Although their movements remained somewhat stiff and clumsy, they showed more of a sense of "process" compared to their bewildered state a few days ago. By completing a fixed daily labor quota, they received allocated food (mainly shelf-stable dry rations transferred from the Divine Realm and edible fungi newly grown within the territory) and clean drinking water. At night, they rested in simple sheds that provided shelter from wind and rain. This simple, clear, and regular life brought a distorted sense of "stability" to these beings of low intelligence who possessed only survival and obedience instincts. Under Gongsun Li's strict management via Legalist Edicts and the continuous influence of the weak Order radiation emitted by the law stele, the violation rate of these slave laborers had dropped to a very low level, and work efficiency had stabilized above basic expectations.

Not far away, near a newly discovered small clean water source (a spring), the twenty-three native Water Sprites were living a different kind of life.

They had not been assigned to heavy mining labor. On one hand, it was because their numbers were small and their physiques were not known for strength (average strength attribute around 12-15); on the other hand, it was Lin Zhou's intentional choice. These Water Sprites were original inhabitants of this forest (though only a fringe group). Their Souls were relatively pure; they had been slightly eroded during the Broodmother's pollution period but were not fully transformed, retaining basic intelligence and natural affinity. They were excellent samples for observing the effects of spreading civilizational thought among "primitive intelligent races."

Lin Zhou stood at the edge of the Glazed Pit, hands behind his back, his gaze calm as he watched the busy yet orderly scene below, while also paying attention to the daily lives of the Water Sprites near the water source. His Divine Power had recovered to approximately 4,000/10,000 points, the dull pain in his Godhead had basically vanished, and his condition had mostly recovered. Gongsun Li stood half a step behind him, the Law ruler at his waist glinting with a cold, hard luster in the morning light as he softly reported the various data of the territory's management over the past few days.

"...The slave mining teams' average daily Ore extraction has stabilized at 28-32 units. The conversion altar's current daily conversion efficiency limit is about 40 units of Ore per card. After deducting losses, it can stably produce one [astral crystal (green)] card (20 units of energy). Following your instructions, the two cards already produced have not been fused yet and are stored in the runic safe attached to the altar."

"The Water Sprite group's emotions are basically stable. They have expressed gratitude for the provided food, clean water, and the environment that is no longer threatened by pollution. They have organized themselves spontaneously, using their weak natural magic to try and purify the polluted soil around the water source and cultivate some fast-growing edible vines and berries to supplement their food sources. No violations have been found so far."

"Two patrol watchtowers have been established. The early warning arrays (basic version) were completed by Xuan Zhenzi. Wang Meng's and Zhao Hao's subjects are patrolling in shifts, and no residual threats or external intrusions have been found within the astral realm. The overall territory Order level has increased from 65% to 68%."

Gongsun Li's report was organized and backed by solid data, perfectly reflecting his pragmatic and rigorous Legalist style.

"Very good. The Law has just been established, and being able to stabilize the situation is already an achievement," Lin Zhou nodded slightly. "Resource extraction can proceed as planned. For now, another matter can be put on the agenda."

His gaze turned toward the Water Sprites once more.

Gongsun Li understood immediately: "Does my Lord mean... the education and assimilation of these natives?"

"Education... or rather, Civilization · Enlightenment," Lin Zhou corrected, his eyes flashing with thoughtful light. "Conquest by force and the plundering of resources can yield temporary benefits, but it is difficult to forge a long-lasting foundation. Legalist Edicts can set Order and deter the lawless, but they struggle to truly stimulate the inner potential and identification of intelligent beings. If I want this place to become a fertile land for the extension of my civilization, rather than a mere mining district, I must sow the seeds of thought, allowing them to understand, identify with, and even voluntarily integrate into my path."

He paused and continued: "These Water Sprites were born of nature and have relatively pure Heart-Natures; they are malleable materials. They are perfect as the 'first experimental field' to test the spread and adaptability of my Hundred Schools of Thought among intelligent beings of different races and cultural backgrounds. If successful, it will not only accelerate their assimilation but also provide valuable experience for facing more diverse and complex alien civilizations in the future."

Gongsun Li showed a look of admiration: "My Lord is far-sighted. Enlightenment through thought is indeed the root of long-term peace and stability. The techniques of the Legalists can set rules for them, clarify rewards and punishments, and lay the foundation for accepting education. However, regarding the specific content and methods of spreading thought..."

"That is exactly what needs to be tested and observed," Lin Zhou said. "I intend to select some content from the basic Hundred Schools of Thought that is relatively universal, easy to understand, and can resonate with their current living conditions for limited dissemination. We will not force or indoctrinate them; instead, we will focus on guiding, demonstrating, and allowing them to realize things for themselves. You, Xuan Zhenzi, and... I will have one or two Wenxin Elf Priests participate. You will respectively represent the Legalists, the Taoists, and the Elf Priests who possess Confucian foundations."

"I understand," Gongsun Li nodded. "The Legalist principles of 'The Law Does Not Favor the Noble' and 'No Exemption from Punishment' can help them understand the justice and inevitability of the territory's Laws. 'Holding Names Responsible for Reality' and 'Clear Rewards and Punishments' can help them establish a clear understanding of labor and returns. These are directly related to their current managed situation and should be easy to accept."

"Yes. The Taoist concepts of 'Tao Follows Nature,' 'Quietude and Non-Action,' and 'Harmony Between Heaven and Man' may resonate with their identities as natural beings and their current state of mind—having just escaped pollution and longing to return to harmony. This can help them calm their emotions and understand that the new Order is not in opposition to nature," Lin Zhou added. "Meanwhile, the Confucian ideals of 'The Benevolent Love Others,' 'Education for All Without Discrimination,' and 'In the Application of Rites, Harmony is Most Precious' can convey a gentler view of Order and morality, cultivating their sense of belonging and a heart inclined toward goodness."

"Then what about the School of Military, the School of Agriculture, and the Mohists...?" Gongsun Li asked.

"Observe for now. Mohist logic and mechanical arts might be too advanced for them; the School of Military's way of conquest is not the priority during a period of peaceful construction; the techniques of the School of Agriculture could perhaps introduce some planting knowledge, but we must proceed step by step," Lin Zhou said. "We'll start with these three schools as a foundation and see the reaction."

With the plan decided, action was taken quickly.

Early the next morning, on a relatively open, lush green space near the water source, a special "morning meeting" began.

The twenty-three Water Sprites were gathered. They were elegant in appearance, with pale blue skin marked by flow-like patterns, long pointed ears, and eyes like clear spring water. They wore simple clothing woven from clean leaves and vines, their expressions filled with curiosity and a trace of undetectable nervousness. Standing before them were three people.

In the center was Gongsun Li. He had changed into a relatively plain dark robe, though the Law ruler at his waist remained conspicuous. His face was cold and his gaze sharp, carrying a natural legal majesty. To the left was Xuan Zhenzi; the old Taoist held a whisk, his Taoist robe was clean, and he possessed the air of a transcendent immortal. He wore a gentle smile, and his eyes were as clear as a mirror, bringing peace to those who looked upon him. To the right was a Wenxin Elf Priest specially selected by Lin Zhou—Elia. She was one of the first Forest Elves to follow Lin Zhou and had undergone civilizational enlightenment. Now a Level 28 Wenxin Elf Priest, her temperament was gentle and wise, and she radiated a faint, approachable light of Order and wisdom.

"Residents of the Water," Gongsun Li spoke first, his voice steady and powerful, using a variant of the Common Tongue understandable to Water Sprites through Divine Power-assisted translation. "I have gathered you today not for labor, nor for punishment. Lord Lin Zhou, seeing that your intelligence has not faded and your hearts turn toward nature, intends to bestow upon you further wisdom and guidance. This is to help you find a more peaceful, orderly, and hopeful way of survival in this land of Rebirth."

The Water Sprites looked at each other, the curiosity in their eyes deepening. They could feel that although the auras emitted by these three "Lords" were different, they were all far more comfortable than the previous pollution and chaos, and they shared the same source as the "Flame Lord" (their vague name for Lin Zhou) who had purified the land and brought Order.

"I govern the Laws of this land." Gongsun Li pointed toward the law stele standing in the distance. "The essence of the Law lies in 'Fairness' and 'Inevitability.' That is: before the rules, there is no distinction between high and low; those who violate the rules must be punished; those who follow the rules must be protected. For example, if you complete your labor quota, you receive food and lodging. If you are lazy or deceitful, your quota will increase, or you will even be punished. This is not mistreatment, but for the sake of Order—so that everyone knows their actions will have consequences, allowing each to be content in their role and do their best."

He was concise and to the point. Combining what the Water Sprites had seen with their own eyes regarding the management of slave laborers and the treatment they themselves received (they were not forced into labor, but their proactive behavior in purifying the environment was recognized and rewarded with small amounts of extra food), he quickly enabled the Water Sprites to understand the basic concept of "Law"—a clear, predictable rule that guaranteed the operation of the collective. They spoke in low voices, and many sprites nodded, showing looks of realization and agreement. For those accustomed to group living and the need for coordinated action, this was not difficult to accept.

Then, Xuan Zhenzi stepped forward, his horsetail whisk sweeping lightly, bringing a breeze that calmed the mind. "The Great Dao is formless, birthing Heaven and Earth; the Great Dao is nameless, nurturing all things." His voice was soft, like a clear mountain spring. "This place is newly born, its filth washed away; it is precisely the time to return to natural harmony. As Water Sprites, you should know the virtue of water—it benefits all things without contention and dwells in places others loathe. This, too, is the Dao. The Lord purified this land and established Order, not to destroy nature, but to sweep away filth, restore peace to Heaven and Earth, and allow all things to grow according to their true nature. By purifying the water and soil and nurturing the flora, you are following this Dao and acting in accord with nature."

The old Taoist's words were filled with natural philosophy and soothing power. Water Sprites, naturally close to nature, felt deeply moved by concepts like "harmony," "peace," and "following one's nature." The painful memories of the Broodmother's pollution were still fresh; hearing such an explanation, they felt the knots in their hearts dissolve. Their resistance to the current environment and the new Order decreased further, replaced by a budding sense of belonging, a feeling that "this is how it should be." Their gazes toward Xuan Zhenzi were filled with warmth and trust.

Finally, it was Elia's turn. She took two steps forward, a soft and sincere smile on her face. In her hands, she held a roll of thin silk emitting a faint white light—it was woven from Spirit Silkworm Silk, a specialty of the Divine Domain, and inscribed in both Elven script and the Common Tongue were selected passages from the analects.

"I bring wisdom regarding 'Benevolence' and 'Learning'," Elia's voice was clear and melodious, like a song. "'The benevolent person loves others.' True strength and wisdom lie in caring for companions and respecting life. The Lord's purification of this place to grant you peace is an embodiment of 'Benevolence.' And 'To learn and at due times to practice what one has learned, is that not a pleasure?' Learning new knowledge, understanding new rules, and practicing them in life is itself a source of joy and growth."

She unfurled the silk and began to recite and explain several of the simplest passages: "'What you do not wish for yourself, do not do to others.' What you do not wish to suffer—such as pollution, chaos, or oppression—do not inflict upon others. This is the foundation of our coexistence." "'Is it not a joy to have friends come from afar?' Now that we are gathered here to build a new home together, it is also a cause for celebration." "'To know what you know and know what you do not know, that is true knowledge.' Honestly facing what you know and what you do not is the beginning of true wisdom..."

Elia's explanation did not directly relate to the Law like Gongsun Li's, nor did it expound on the Great Dao like Xuan Zhenzi's. Instead, she started from more basic morals, emotions, and attitudes toward learning, speaking gently like a kind older sister sharing life experiences. Being an elf herself gave her a racial affinity with the Water Sprites, and combined with the refined, jade-like temperament unique to Literary Heart Elves from studying Confucian classics, her message was incredibly infectious.

The Water Sprites listened with exceptional focus. Elia's words touched their emotional and cognitive levels as sentient beings. "Benevolence," "Respect," "Learning," "Honesty," "Joy"... though these concepts were simple, they struck the heart. In particular, "What you do not wish for yourself, do not do to others," combined with their experiences of being persecuted by pollution, triggered a strong resonance. The idea of "Learning and practicing" also reduced their rejection of accepting new rules and knowledge.

The morning meeting lasted about an hour. After it ended, the three spreaders did not force the Water Sprites to immediately state their positions or memorize anything. They simply informed them that these silk scrolls would remain in a newly built simple "Book Pavilion" by the water source, where anyone interested could browse them at any time, and if they had questions, they could ask during daily patrols.

The effects gradually became apparent over the following days.

First, adherence to the Legalist Edicts became more conscious. The Water Sprites not only strictly followed the basic territory regulations themselves (no private fighting, no stealing resources, etc.), but even began to spontaneously assist the Dwarf Warrior patrols, keeping an eye out for anomalies in the territory (such as small pockets of residual pollution) and reporting them proactively. Their behavior shifted from "passive obedience" toward "active maintenance."

Second was the practice of Taoist natural concepts. While purifying the environment and nurturing plants, they began to consciously sense the difference between "following" and "guiding," trying to communicate with natural energy in a gentler way. Surprisingly, their efficiency saw a subtle improvement. When Xuan Zhenzi occasionally gave pointers, they treated them like precious treasures.

However, the most significant change appeared in the study of Confucian thought.

About seven or eight relatively young and curious Water Sprites began to frequently visit the simple Book Pavilion in their spare time. They sat around the silk scrolls left by Elia (who would set aside time to stay there for a while every day), laboriously but seriously identifying the characters, listening to Elia's explanations, and discussing among themselves.

"‘Reviewing the old to know the new, one can be a teacher.’ Lady Elia, does this mean that by reviewing old knowledge, one can gain new insights and thus be able to teach others?" a Water Sprite girl with particularly bright eyes asked.

"Yes, Sophia," Elia nodded with a smile. "Learning is a process of constant accumulation and reflection."

"‘A gentleman wishes to be slow in speech and quick in action.’ Does it mean a virtuous person is cautious in speaking but swift in acting?" another Water Sprite boy pondered.

"A very good understanding, Kelan," Elia encouraged. "This reminds us that actual action is more important than empty talk."

These discussions were naive at first, but the Water Sprites' enthusiasm was high. Through the perception of the territory mark, Lin Zhou could clearly "see" that these few Water Sprites who frequently contacted the selected passages of the analects were beginning to show faint flickers of light—similar to the Literary Heart Elves' light of Order and wisdom—within their Soul halos. Although it was far from reaching the level of generating faith, it meant their thoughts were being influenced and their spirituality was growing.

What surprised Lin Zhou even more was when he specifically pulled up the rough attribute changes of these Water Sprites (through daily scans of the territory mark):

Sophia (Water Sprite Girl):

Original Attribute Tendency: High Spirit (Wisdom/Natural Affinity).

Observed changes after five days of contact with the analects: Estimated Wisdom attribute growth of 0.3 points (from approximately 14.5 → 14.8), with a slight improvement in the ability to understand rules and abstract concepts. Natural magic casting stability +1%.

Kelan (Water Sprite Boy):

Original Attribute Tendency: Balanced.

Changes: Estimated Wisdom attribute growth of 0.2 points, estimated Willpower (Spirit) attribute growth of 0.1 points. Slight increase in focus during purification labor.

The growth was extremely small, almost negligible, but it was indeed a positive growth in attributes! And this was without leveling up, without any special encounters, and solely through studying philosophical classics! This verified one of Lin Zhou's hypotheses: high-dimensional civilized thought itself possesses the potential power to enlighten wisdom and enhance spirituality! Especially in a relatively "blank" or "simple" intelligent race, the effect might be even more pronounced!

"As expected... the spread of civilization is not just assimilation, but the enlightenment of the people and the enhancement of overall potential!" Lin Zhou felt invigorated. This was far more significant than simply gaining faith and resources.

Of course, not every attempt was smooth sailing.

When Li Mo learned that Lin Zhou was conducting thought-spreading experiments, he also excitedly sent a Mechanical Goblin engineer (projection) with some of the simplest lever and pulley principle models and basic logic puzzles, attempting to show the Water Sprites the "ingenuity" and "logic" of the Mohists.

The result... was disastrous.

Most Water Sprites had zero interest in that pile of strange models made of wood and metal, and were completely bewildered by logic puzzles like "If A then B, if not B then not A," their faces full of confusion. Only a very few Water Sprites who previously had the highest acceptance of Confucian thought (like Sophia) made a half-hearted attempt, but progress was slow and interest was lacking.

Clearly, for Water Sprites currently in the "primitive natural magic civilization" stage, whose thinking leaned more toward the emotional, intuitive, and holistic, the highly rational, logical, and technical thinking of the Mohists presented a massive "civilization gap" and cognitive barrier. Forcing it upon them would only be counterproductive.

Li Mo grumbled dejectedly through the link: "It seems Mohist thought has requirements for the audience's 'basic rational thinking' and 'desire for hands-on exploration'... these Water Sprites don't possess that yet. Perhaps in the future, introducing some more intuitive 'Mechanical Creations' that can immediately improve their lives (like water-drawing devices) and combining them with use before slowly infiltrating the principles would be better."

Lin Zhou was not surprised by this result; instead, he felt he had gained much. This small-scale civilization spreading experiment preliminary verified that:

Legalist thought (Order and Rules) has a direct and efficient effect on stabilizing the situation and regulating behavior in the Early Stages of establishing rule, and is easily accepted by the subjects of management.

Taoist thought (Nature and Harmony) has a natural affinity with races close to nature, effectively soothing emotions and promoting identification with the new environment.

Confucian thought (Benevolence, Learning, Morality) has a gentle and lasting influence on enlightening wisdom and fostering a sense of belonging and moral concepts, even directly promoting a slight growth in spirituality (attributes).

Different schools of thought have huge differences in adaptability to different races and different stages of civilization; it is necessary to teach according to the "race" and progress step by step.

He stood at the edge of the Glazed Pit, looking down at the orderly mining workshop, at those Water Sprites sitting around the Book Pavilion by the water source discussing seriously, and at the lush forest further away beginning to regain its vitality, his heart filled with anticipation for the future.

The spark of civilization had been lit here. Though weak, it already showed the potential to start a prairie fire. And how to make this flame adapt to different soils and burn with different brilliance was the eternal subject he needed to constantly explore and practice on this path of civilization.

The first experimental field had shown initial results. And his gaze had already begun to turn toward the broader sea of stars.