101: Chapter 101 The Race to Secure the Defense Line, Heavenly Court's First Merit

The battle at Black Wind Gorge ended at dusk.

The setting sun was like blood, illuminating the mountains of Yao Beast corpses and the ruins scattered across the gorge.

The smell of smoke and blood mixed together, permeating the evening breeze.

The defensive fortifications were riddled with holes; three sets of Formations had exhausted their energy, the Formation Flags were broken, and the Formation Plate Materials were dim and lusterless.

However, the barrier had not collapsed, and the Heavenly Court's flag still fluttered at the highest point of the defensive line.

The surviving warriors sat paralyzed in pools of blood, exhausted.

Many were injured, their armor damaged, and their weapons chipped, but the embers of victory still flickered in their eyes.

Medical personnel shuttled through the crowd, casting healing Spells and distributing Medicinal Pills.

The logistics team began clearing the battlefield, recovering usable arrows and stripping valuable Yao Beast Materials.

Lin Ye stood at the highest point of the barrier, looking down at all of this.

His Void Realm battle armor was damaged in many places, and there was a deep wound on his left shoulder that reached the bone—it was left by the final strike of the Dark Feather Thunder Eagle.

The green light of healing from the Chaos Wood flowed over the wound, and the flesh grew and healed at a speed visible to the naked eye, but the damage to his internal Meridians would require a longer time to recover.

Even more serious was the exhaustion.

Having consecutively unleashed three major Divine Abilities—Chaos Domain, Chaos Soul Suppressing Seal, and Chaos Heaven Opening—and then driving the myriad things mother qi cauldron embryo to withstand the attacks of the leader-level Yao Beasts, his Chaos Divine Power was almost exhausted, and three strands of his chaos origin source had also been consumed.

That sense of weakness surging from the depths of his Soul was even harder to endure than physical fatigue.

But at this moment, Lin Ye could not care about these things.

His gaze crossed the battlefield, looking towards the Primal Ancient Mine.

The sky there was still shrouded in gray Chaos mist, and red light flickered faintly deep within the mist, as if the eyes of a giant beast had opened in the darkness.

Even from a hundred miles away, one could feel that heart-palpitating pressure—it was not something that a group of Yao Beasts could emit, but rather the awakening of a more ancient and terrifying existence.

Leader, the casualty statistics are out.

Qin Ruoxue's voice came from behind, carrying fatigue and gravity.

Lin Ye turned around: Speak.

Three hundred and twenty-seven people died, including one hundred and forty-two from the Azure Dragon Army, fifty-eight from the White Tiger Army, seventy-three from the Vermilion Bird Army, and fifty-four from the Xuanwu Army.

Over five hundred people are seriously injured, and almost everyone has minor injuries.

Qin Ruoxue handed over a Jade Slip, This is the detailed list.

Three hundred and twenty-seven people...

Lin Ye took the Jade Slip and his Divine Sense swept across it.

Behind every name was marked their Rank, occupation, and affiliated legion.

Some of them were old members who had followed the Heavenly Court since the Yan State, and others were newcomers who had just joined.

At this moment, they had all turned into cold numbers.

What about the resurrection arrangements?

The emergency resurrection procedure has already been initiated,

Qin Ruoxue said, The fallen members will respawn at the resurrection points in the major cities of the Yan State, but their Ranks will drop by 1-3 levels, and their equipment durability will be reset to zero.

Zhao Wuji has already allocated funds to pay for resurrection costs and equipment repairs.

It is estimated that it will take two days for everyone to be resurrected, with a total cost of about 250,000 Spirit Stones.

250,000 Spirit Stones, which is almost sixty percent of the Heavenly Court's monthly income.

But Lin Ye did not hesitate: Approved.

The pension for the fallen members should be issued according to the highest standard, and the medical expenses for the seriously injured should be fully reimbursed.

In this battle, the Heavenly Court cannot chill the hearts of our brothers.

Yes.

What about the loot count?

Qin Ruoxue handed over another Jade Slip: We killed over four thousand two hundred Yao Beasts and obtained over seven thousand pieces of various Materials.

Among them, the higher value ones include: the Epic-level Material 'Dark Feather Wings' dropped by the Dark Feather Thunder Eagle, the Rare-level Material 'Thunder Eagle Eye'; fifteen pieces of Excellent-level core Materials dropped by five leader-level Yao Beasts; over three hundred pieces of Excellent-level Materials dropped by Elite Yao Beasts; and countless common Yao Beast Materials, with an estimated total value of around 400,000 Spirit Stones.

In addition, the System rewards have been issued.

She paused, Because we successfully defended the Black Wind Gorge defensive line and prevented the Yao Beast horde from spreading, we received the 'Defensive Line Defender' title, granting all team members +5% to all attributes for seven days.

Each member participating in the defense received between 500-2000 Contribution Points, and core members received an additional 5000 points.

400,000 Spirit Stones in loot, plus the title and Contribution Point rewards—the gains from this battle were indeed not small.

But the cost was equally heavy—more than three hundred people dead, more than five hundred seriously injured, the defensive line almost completely destroyed, and the Formation Materials exhausted.

More importantly, everyone knew that this was just the beginning.

Pavilion Master Qin, what about news from the other Forbidden Lands?

Lin Ye asked.

Qin Ruoxue's expression became even more grave: The situation in the six major Forbidden Lands is not optimistic.

The Yao Beast horde in the Ancient Desolate Forbidden Land has already broken through the outer defensive line and poured into three player major cities, causing heavy casualties.

The flames of the Undying Mountain spread, burning down a hundred miles of forest, and several small and medium-sized factions were wiped out.

The Puppet army of the God Ruins is assembling, and their target seems to be the direction of Zhongzhou.

The influence range of the Immortal Mausoleum's immortal music has expanded, and over ten thousand players have been bewitched and gone missing after walking into the Forbidden Land.

The tsunami of the Sea of Reincarnation has submerged seven coastal towns...

She took a deep breath: According to the intelligence gathered by the Heavenly Secret Pavilion, the entire Eastern Wasteland has fallen into Chaos.

Player factions are fighting on their own, and NPC Sects have also begun to shrink their defenses.

The most troublesome thing is that the mutations in the six major Forbidden Lands are still intensifying, and the intensity of the energy fluctuations is increasing every hour.

As if to verify her words, the System announcement sounded again, not a server-wide broadcast this time, but a regional announcement:

[Yan State Regional Announcement: The energy fluctuations of the Primal Ancient Mine are detected to be continuously strengthening. The second wave of the Yao Beast tide will erupt in 72 hours! All factions are requested to establish a permanent defensive line as soon as possible!]

[Yan State Defensive Line Construction Mission Released: Three permanent defensive lines must be established across the Yan State—North Section (Primal Ancient Mine - Black Forest line), Middle Section (Black Forest - Yan Mountain line), and South Section (Yan Mountain - Chu State line).]

[Mission Requirements: Each section of the defensive line must reach 'Sturdy' level or higher (Defense Rating ≥ 50,000) to effectively resist the Yao Beast tide.]

[Mission Rewards: The faction that completes the construction of a defensive line section first will receive the 'First Defensive Line Completion Certificate', 50,000 Contribution Points, and unlock the 'Ten Thousand Races Covenant' preparatory qualification.]

[Current Progress: North Section 0%, Middle Section 0%, South Section 0%.]

[Countdown: 71 hours 59 minutes...]

The announcement played three times in a row.

Within the Yan State region, all online players received this message.

After a brief silence, there was an even greater uproar.

The second wave of the Yao Beast tide? In three days?

A permanent defensive line? And it has to reach the Sturdy level? Are you kidding me!

What is the concept of a Defense Rating of 50,000? The temporary defensive fortifications built by our guild only have a rating of 8,000!

There are extra rewards for finishing first! 50,000 Contribution Points! Ten Thousand Races Covenant preparatory qualification!

Quick! Grab the mission! Whoever builds it first will make a huge profit!

The entire Yan State was boiling.

Major factions immediately took action, starting to compete for the construction rights of the three defensive line sections.

Lin Ye looked at the System announcement, a sharp glint flashing in his eyes.

The opportunity had come.

Pavilion Master Qin, immediately gather all core members and return to Chaos Valley for a meeting,

he ordered. Also, notify Chen Hao and have him draw one hundred elites from the Chu State branch and return to the Yan State immediately to provide support.

Yes!

Half an hour later, inside the Chaos Valley faction main hall.

The circular stone table was full of people.

In addition to Lin Ye, Su Qingyue, Zhao Wuji, and other high-level officials who stayed behind, there were also Wang Iron Pillar, Shadow Blade, Fire Dance, and Iron Wall, who had just withdrawn from Black Wind Gorge, as well as Chen Hao, Shi Potian, and Lu Ming, who were attending remotely via the communication Formation.

Everyone looked grave, but Battle Intent burned in their eyes.

Everyone knows the situation,

Lin Ye said straightforwardly. The second wave of the Yao Beast tide is in three days, and its intensity will be greater than the first.

The Yan State needs to build three permanent defensive lines, and we must seize one of them.

He brought up the Yan State map and projected it into the air: Of the three defensive lines, the North Section is the most difficult because it faces the Primal Ancient Mine directly and will bear the greatest impact.

The Middle Section is second, and the South Section is relatively safe.

My target is—the North Section.

The North Section?

Zhao Wuji frowned. Boss, the North Section does indeed have the most rewards, but it's also the most difficult.

We are currently short-handed and our supplies are severely depleted; it's almost impossible to build a Sturdy-level permanent defensive line in three days.

It's not impossible,

Lu Ming spoke up. Although he was exhausted from Black Wind Gorge, his eyes shone with excitement. If there are enough Materials and we cooperate with the terrain of Black Wind Gorge, I am confident that I can build a super defensive line with a Defense Rating of over 60,000 within three days!

What Materials are needed?

Lin Ye asked.

Lu Ming quickly reported a list: Core Materials: earth vein stone heart × 3 (Rare), Blazing Sun Crystal Core × 3 (Rare), Profound Ice Essence × 3 (Rare), Adamantine Jade × 100 (Excellent), star iron × 500 (Excellent).

Auxiliary Materials: Three hundred Formation Flags, twelve Formation Plates, fifty catties of Runic Spirit Ink, and 100,000 Spirit Stones.

This list made everyone gasp.

earth vein stone heart, Blazing Sun Crystal Core, and Profound Ice Essence—these three Rare-level Materials cannot be bought on the market at all,

Zhao Wuji said with a bitter smile.

Adamantine Jade and star iron can be bought, but 500 catties of star iron alone would cost 150,000 Spirit Stones.

Adding the other Materials, the total cost is at least 400,000 Spirit Stones, not counting labor and time costs.

And we only have three days,

Wang Iron Pillar added. Even if we have the Materials, it would take at least two thousand people working day and night to build a Sturdy defensive line within three days.

We can only mobilize 1,500 people at full capacity, and we still have to set aside some to defend Chaos Valley.

Difficulties came one after another.

But Lin Ye's expression did not waver in the slightest.

I will solve the material problem,

he looked at Zhao Wuji. Old Zhao, how much liquid capital do you have left?

Excluding the pensions and resurrection fees for the fallen members, there is about 1.2 million left.

But this is the operating capital of the Merchant Guild, we can't use it all...

Use 800,000,

Lin Ye interrupted. Use it to purchase the Materials on the list at all costs.

For what we can't buy on the market, use the resources we have to trade for it.

He took three items out of his Storage Pouch: Dark Feather Wings (Epic), Thunder Eagle Eye (Rare), and Scorpion King Stinger (Epic).

These can be split up for trading.

Especially the Epic-level Materials; they are enough to exchange for the Rare-level cores we need.

Zhao Wuji's eyes lit up: Right! Epic-level Materials are priceless and hard to find; many major factions are willing to trade Rare Materials for them.

I'll go contact them right now!

For the manpower issue,

Lin Ye looked at Wang Iron Pillar, Draw 1,200 people from the four major legions and put them all into the construction of the defensive line.

The defense of Chaos Valley will temporarily lower its standards and will be handled by reserve members and NPC guards.

But if we do this, Chaos Valley will be empty...

Wang Iron Pillar worried.

We can't worry about that now,

Lin Ye said decisively. If the defensive line isn't built, the Yao Beast tide will drown Chaos Valley in three days, and it won't matter whether we defend it or not.

Now we must go all in.

He looked at Chen Hao who was attending remotely: Chen Hao, how many people can you pull back from your side?

Chen Hao's phantom flickered in the communication Formation: The North Chu City branch has initially stabilized, and the Chu Alliance has no unusual movements for the time being.

I can pull 150 people back, all of whom are elites above level 45, and they can arrive tomorrow.

Good, then that makes 1,350 people,

Lin Ye calculated. Adding the logistics, craftsmen, and Formation Masters, the total number can reach 1,800 people.

Three days, three shifts, it should be enough.

Finally, he looked at Lu Ming: Hall Master Lu, I'll leave the design of the defensive line to you.

I don't want a Sturdy defensive line, I want an 'Iron Wall'.

The rating cannot be lower than 60,000, and the higher, the better.

Lu Ming nodded heavily: Leader, don't worry, I already have a complete plan.

Based on Black Wind Gorge, I will set up a 'Five Elements Chain Formation', combined with a 'Nine Palaces Defense System', and add 'Thirty-Six Heavenly Stars and Earthly Fiends Formation Eyes'.

If the Materials are complete, I am confident that I can push the Defense Rating to over 80,000!

80,000!

This number cheered everyone up.

The standard for the Sturdy level is 50,000, and 80,000 has already reached the 'Iron' level, enough to withstand a Yao Beast tide twice the size of the first wave.

Then it's settled,

Lin Ye finalized. Everyone, take action immediately.

Zhao Wuji is responsible for purchasing Materials, Wang Iron Pillar is responsible for personnel deployment, Lu Ming is responsible for design and construction, Qin Ruoxue is responsible for intelligence monitoring, and Su Qingyue will coordinate the overall situation.

I will go to Black Wind Gorge to sit in command personally.

Yes!

The Heavenly Court, this war machine, was once again running at full speed.

Zhao Wuji used all commercial channels and began to purchase frantically.

He not only contacted major Merchant Guilds in the Yan State but also sought to purchase from Qi, Han, Zhao, and other countries through the channels of the Chu State branch.

The temptation of Epic-level Materials was huge, and soon three major factions expressed their willingness to trade.

earth vein stone heart? Exchange it with a feather from the Dark Feather Wings!

Blazing Sun Crystal Core? Exchange it with one Thunder Eagle Eye!

Profound Ice Essence? Exchange it with a piece of the Scorpion King Stinger!

Zhao Wuji displayed amazing negotiation skills and managed to exchange three Epic and Rare-level Materials for nine Rare-level core Materials, plus a large batch of Excellent-level auxiliary Materials.

The total cost was controlled at 600,000 Spirit Stones, saving 200,000 from expectations.

The material problem was solved.

In terms of manpower, Wang Iron Pillar drew 1,200 of the most elite members from the four major legions, all of whom were veterans above level 45 with rich combat and construction experience.

The 150 people Chen Hao transferred back from the Chu State also arrived on time, and the addition of this fresh force greatly eased the pressure on manpower.

Lu Ming's design plan was also out.

It was an extremely complex defensive System:

Centered on the narrowest point of Black Wind Gorge, it extends three hundred zhang forward and backward.

The core is the "Five Elements Interlinked Formation"; the five elemental Formations of Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth are interlocked, creating an endless cycle.

The outer perimeter is the "Nine Palaces Defense System"; the nine defensive nodes echo each other, so if one point is attacked, the other eight provide support.

The outermost layer consists of the "Thirty-Six Heavenly Constellation and Earthly Fiend Formation Eyes"; these Formation eyes serve as both defensive points and offensive points, capable of releasing Spells to attack invading enemies.

The entire defensive line is divided into three layers: the first layer is the trap zone, filled with ground spikes, pits, and explosive runes; the second layer is the defensive zone, featuring three-zhang-high rock barriers, energy shields, and arrow tower batteries; the third layer is the counterattack zone, equipped with large ballistae, catapults, and Spell batteries.

This is no longer a simple defensive line, but a war fortress.

Construction begins.

Eighteen hundred people are divided into three shifts, working day and night without stopping.

The first shift is led by Wang Iron Pillar, responsible for basic construction: quarrying stone, transporting Materials, and building the framework.

The second shift is led by Iron Wall, responsible for defensive works: masonry for barriers, installing equipment, and setting traps.

The third shift is led personally by Lu Ming, responsible for Formation deployment: carving runes, burying Formation eyes, and connecting the Formations.

Lin Ye sits in the command center, coordinating all parties.

Su Qingyue sits in Chaos Valley, ensuring logistical supplies.

Qin Ruoxue's Heavenly Secret Pavilion monitors the entire Yan State, especially the movements of other factions.

Time passes second by second.

The first day ends, and the basic framework is 30% complete.

By noon on the second day, the defensive works are 50% complete.

By dawn on the third day, the Formation deployment is 70% complete.

During this time, other factions in Yan State are also building frantically.

The middle section of the defensive line is contracted by the "Yanshan Alliance," a coalition of the three major local factions in Yan State, with strong strength.

They mobilized three thousand people, working day and night, and are progressing rapidly.

The southern section of the defensive line is contracted by the Yan State branch of the "Six Kingdoms Alliance"; although the main force of the Six Kingdoms Alliance is at the outskirts of the Ancient Mine, their remaining forces should not be underestimated.

All three parties are racing against time.

On the World Channel, the progress of each defensive section is constantly refreshing:

"North Section (Contracted by Heavenly Court): Progress 75%, Estimated Defense Score: ???"

"Middle Section (Contracted by Yanshan Alliance): Progress 68%, Estimated Defense Score: 45,000"

"South Section (Contracted by Six Kingdoms Alliance): Progress 72%, Estimated Defense Score: 48,000"

"Breaking news! The second wave of the Yao Beast tide from the Ancient Desolate Forbidden Land has erupted early! There are twelve hours left until the originally scheduled time!"

"What? It's early? Then what about our Yan State?"

"The energy fluctuations in the Primal Ancient Mine are abnormal; the second wave of the Yao Beast tide might also arrive early!"

Bad news follows one after another.

The pressure is mounting.

On the afternoon of the third day, there are six hours left until the originally scheduled time.

Black Wind Gorge defensive line, command center.

Lu Ming's eyes are bloodshot; he hasn't closed his eyes for three days.

On the Formation Plate in his hand, dense rune lines are flickering; that is the energy flow map of the entire defensive line.

"Leader, the last Formation eye—the Heavenly Kui Star position—still needs three rune connections," Lu Ming says in a hoarse voice. "But we don't have enough Materials; we are short ten jin of 'stardust sand'."

stardust sand is a key material for carving starry sky-type runes; the amount required is small, but it is indispensable.

"Is there any left in the warehouse?" Lin Ye asks.

"It's all used up," Zhao Wuji says with a bitter smile. "All Materials are used up, even the backups. To purchase more now, it will take at least two hours..."

Two hours; it's too late.

Just then, Qin Ruoxue's message arrives: "Leader, just received news, the Yan State branch of the Six Kingdoms Alliance has completed the construction of the southern defensive line and is applying for System acceptance! If it passes, they will receive the first completion reward!"

"What?" Everyone is shocked.

The Six Kingdoms Alliance actually got ahead?

"What is their defense score?" Lin Ye asks in a deep voice.

"According to reports from the Heavenly Secret Pavilion scouts, it's about 51,000, just reaching the Solid Rank," Qin Ruoxue says. "But they have submitted an acceptance application; if the System passes it, the reward will be theirs."

We cannot let them get ahead!

"stardust sand..." Lin Ye suddenly thinks of something and takes an object out of his Storage Pouch.

It is a fist-sized crystal with starlight flowing inside—it is exactly the Earth Spirit Crystal Soul obtained from the Ancient Mine.

"Can this replace the stardust sand?" Lin Ye asks Lu Ming.

Lu Ming's eyes light up: "The Earth Spirit Crystal Soul is of higher quality! If we use it to replace the stardust sand, not only will it be enough, but it will also increase the power of the Heavenly Kui Star position's Formation by 30%!"

"Use it."

Lu Ming takes the Earth Spirit Crystal Soul and immediately begins the final rune connection.

Time passes second by second.

The atmosphere in the command center is extremely tense.

Everyone can hear their own heartbeat.

Finally, with three hours left until the originally scheduled time—

"Done!" Lu Ming roars, finishing the last rune.

The entire Black Wind Gorge defensive line, all 108 Formation eyes light up simultaneously!

Gold, green, blue, red, and yellow lights shoot into the sky, interweaving into a huge Five Elements halo in the air.

The halo rotates slowly, emitting a heart-palpitating energy fluctuation.

On the ground, the nine Nine Palaces defense nodes activate simultaneously, and nine beams of light connect heaven and earth.

On the outer perimeter, the thirty-six Heavenly Constellation and Earthly Fiend Formation eyes flicker like stars, forming a tight, impenetrable defensive network.

The defensive line is built!

【System Prompt: The construction of the Yan State northern defensive line is complete!】

【Evaluating defensive line strength...】

【Evaluation complete: Defense Score—82,500!】

【Rating: Steel Rank (far exceeding Solid)!】

【Congratulations to the 'Heavenly Court' faction for being the first to complete the construction of the Yan State northern defensive line! Received 'First Defensive Line Completion Certificate'!】

【Rewards distributed: Contribution +50,000, Faction Reputation +20,000, all members who participated in construction receive the 'Defensive Line Builder' title (All Attributes +8%, duration 15 days).】

【Special Reward: Because the defensive score exceeds 80,000, additionally received the 'Steel Barrier' title (Faction defensive building effects +15%), Rare-grade Resource Chest x3.】

【Ten Thousand Races Covenant qualification unlocked: Heavenly Court has obtained 'Ten Thousand Races Covenant' preparatory member qualification and can dispatch representatives to attend the next covenant meeting.】

Server-wide announcement!

Three times in a row!

The entire World Channel explodes.

"82,500 points? Steel Rank? How did Heavenly Court do it?"

"Three days! Only three days! What kind of construction speed is this?"

"The first completion reward was taken by Heavenly Court! 50,000 contribution points! Ten Thousand Races Covenant qualification!"

"The Six Kingdoms Alliance only had 51,000; they were crushed!"

"Heavenly Court is on the rise!"

Chaos Valley is boiling with excitement.

All members who participated in the construction cheer, and the exhaustion of three days and three nights without sleep seems to be swept away.

Those who sacrificed and were injured all feel it was worth it at this moment.

Lin Ye stands at the highest point of the Black Wind Gorge defensive line, looking at the magnificent war fortress before him, pride surging in his heart.

This is the strength of Heavenly Court!

This is the faction he wants to build in his second life!

"Leader, the Six Kingdoms Alliance sent their 'congratulations'." Qin Ruoxue walks over, a sarcastic smile on her lips. "The tone is not very friendly, implying that we stole their thunder."

"Ignore them," Lin Ye says calmly. "Now, it's time to check our harvest."

He opens the System rewards.

First is a golden token, with the four characters "First Defensive Line" engraved on the front, and a miniature pattern of the defensive line on the back.

【Item: First Defensive Line Completion Certificate (Special)】

【Type: Achievement Certificate/Faction Treasure】

【Description: Proof of being the first in the server to complete the construction of a defensive line above Solid Rank, containing special Power of Honor.】

【Attributes: Faction Reputation acquisition speed +20%, member loyalty growth speed +15%】

【Special Effects: 1. Faction representatives wearing this certificate receive an 'Authority' bonus when negotiating with other factions (Persuasion +30%); 2. Can consume the Power of Honor within the certificate to temporarily increase faction building defense by 100% for one hour; 3. Serves as an entry ticket to certain high-level meetings.】

【Durability: Permanent (Indestructible)】

【Bound to: Heavenly Court (Lin Ye)】

Good stuff! It not only increases reputation and loyalty but also has practical special effects.

Then there are three Rare-grade resource chests.

Lin Ye opens the first one:

【Received: earth vein stone heart x2 (Rare), Flaming Sun Crystal Core x2 (Rare), Profound Ice Essence x2 (Rare)】

The second:

【Received: Adamantite Jade x50 (Fine), star iron x200 (Fine), Rune Spirit Ink x20 jin (Fine)】

The third:

【Received: Advanced Formation Blueprint 'Bagua Demon Locking Formation' (Rare), Advanced Forging Blueprint 'Armor-Piercing Ballista' (Rare), Advanced Alchemy Recipe 'Marching Pill' (Rare)】

These resources just make up for the consumption of building the defensive line, and there is even a surplus.

And the three Advanced blueprints and recipes are of immeasurable value.

Most importantly, the contribution ranking has been updated.

Lin Ye opens the server-wide contribution ranking:

1. Yaoguang Holy Land (NPC Faction): Contribution 187,500

2. Eternal Star Domain (Tech Player Alliance): Contribution 152,000

3. Six Kingdoms Alliance (Player Alliance): Contribution 128,000

4. Primordial Royal Court (Archaic Race Players): Contribution 115,000

5. Yanhuang Alliance (Huaxia Player Alliance): Contribution 98,000

6. Sacred Holy See (Western Player Alliance): Contribution 87,000

7. Heavenly Court (Lin Ye): Contribution 85,000

8. Yanshan Alliance: Contribution 72,000

9. Chu Alliance: Contribution 68,000

10. Rogue Alliance General Association: Contribution 65,000

Seventh place!

Heavenly Court, as a single player faction, has squeezed into the top ten in server-wide contribution! Those ahead are mostly Alliances or NPC factions!

This is a milestone achievement.

"Ten Thousand Races Covenant preparatory qualification..." Lin Ye looks at the System prompt. "This means we are qualified to attend that meeting which will decide the future of the Eastern Wasteland, and even the entire Big Dipper Star Field."

"Leader, just received the invitation for the Ten Thousand Races Covenant." Qin Ruoxue hands over a Jade Slip. "Seven days later, the first preparatory meeting will be held in 'Tianshu City' of the Central Province to discuss the response plan for the mutations in the six forbidden areas. Each preparatory member faction can send one to three representatives."

Lin Ye takes the Jade Slip and probes it with his Divine Sense.

The content of the invitation is very formal, signed by the "Ten Thousand Races Covenant Provisional Council," and the signatories include the six major factions such as Yaoguang Holy Land, Eternal Star Domain, and the Six Kingdoms Alliance.

The meeting agenda includes: intelligence sharing, resource distribution, defensive line coordination, crisis response, etc.

"This is an opportunity," Lin Ye puts away the Jade Slip. "An opportunity for Heavenly Court to officially step onto the stage of the Eastern Wasteland and even the entire server."

He looks at everyone: "Seven days later, I will go to Tianshu City personally. Su Qingyue and Qin Ruoxue will accompany me. The rest will stay behind to continue strengthening the defensive line and guard against the second wave of the Yao Beast tide."

"But Leader," Wang Iron Pillar says worriedly, "Tianshu City in the Central Province is far away, and the road might not be safe. Plus, the meeting will surely be filled with experts, and if..."

"It is precisely because of this that I must go," Lin Ye's gaze is firm. "If Heavenly Court wants to develop, it cannot hide in Yan State forever. The Ten Thousand Races Covenant gathers the top factions of the entire server; there is the information, resources, and allies we need, as well as the opponents and challenges we must face."

He pauses: "And, I always feel that this simultaneous mutation of the six forbidden areas has a bigger secret behind it. Perhaps at the Ten Thousand Races Covenant meeting, we can find some clues."

Everyone stops objecting.

Just then, a harsh alarm sounds from the outer perimeter of the Black Wind Gorge defensive line!

"What's going on?" Lin Ye frowns.

A White Tiger Army scout rushes into the command center, his face pale: "Leader! The Ancient Mine direction... abnormal! A large number of the Stone Race are gathering, and... something much larger has come out from the depths of the mine!"

Lin Ye rushes to the observation deck and picks up the binoculars to look towards the Ancient Mine.

He sees that on the outskirts of the Ancient Mine, dozens of young Stone Race are gathering, their chest crystals flickering with light, as if they are holding some kind of ritual.

And behind them, at the entrance of the Ancient Mine, a huge shadow is slowly rising...

The shadow is ten zhang tall, dark gold all over, and its form is more ancient and majestic than the Stone Race.

Its chest has no crystal, but instead a rotating vortex, and within the vortex, one can vaguely see the scene of stars being born and dying.

【Warning: High-level Archaic Race unit detected!】

【Name: Stone Race Warrior (Elite)】

【Level: ??? (Estimated: 70+)】

【Type: Archaic Creature/Elemental Lifeform (Adult)】

【Status: Awakening...】

A Stone Race adult over level 70!

And not just one!

Lin Ye sees that behind that huge shadow, more similar silhouettes are crawling out from the depths of the mine.

The second wave of the Yao Beast tide hasn't arrived yet, but a greater threat has already appeared.

"Pass the order down," Lin Ye puts down the binoculars, his voice terrifyingly calm. "The defensive line enters the highest combat readiness state. Notify all members—the real test starts now."

He looks towards the Ancient Mine, his eyes flashing with seriousness, but more with determination.

No matter what is coming, Heavenly Court will hold this defensive line.

Because this is the home they must protect in this world.