Xu Que scrolled through the chat group's shared files, his eyes wide with bewilderment and growing excitement. The sheer volume and quality of cultivation techniques were staggering.

Meanwhile, Li Qiye, the other newcomer, was also bewildered, but for a different reason, as he looked at the file titled 'Emperor's Domination'.

[Li Qiye: "I roughly understand what you're talking about, this 'novel' based on my life. But why is this—Emperor's Domination—incomplete? It only contains a portion of what I've experienced. I still don't know if I've found my…"]

[Shi Jian: "Cough, cough… Brother Li, although Emperor's Domination is famous, it's… notoriously long. Li Changshou and I only read the beginning portions. We don't know the later content."]

[Shi Jian: "To be honest, when I transmigrated, this book hadn't even finished yet! It was still ongoing."]

[Li Qiye: "So that's how it is. A pity. I originally thought I could find out from this record where my lost sheep ended up…"]

[Li Changshou: "Searching for a sheep for tens of millions of years… Brother Li, aren't you a bit too persistent?"]

[Li Qiye: "That sheep carries my Karma. I entered the Immortal Devil Grotto all those eons ago precisely because I lost that sheep back then… It can be said that because of that single sheep, I embarked on my current path. In the depths of the Dao, I seem to be able to sense that that sheep is very important to my ultimate goal."]

[Inorin's Note: "Karma" (Yīnguǒ) is a concept referring to the cosmic law of cause and effect, often influencing destiny and cultivation. The "Immortal Devil Grotto" (Xiān Mó Dòng) is a perilous place in Emperor's Domination where Li Qiye was trapped for millions of years as the Dark Crow.]

[Li Changshou: "So that's how it is… A Karmic connection disguised as a lost pet. Profound."]

Shi Jian also realized the deeper meaning after seeing Li Qiye's reply.

So... that was the truth behind Li Qiye searching for the sheep? It wasn't just some eccentric hobby of an ancient being.

That sheep carried his Karma?

So it wasn't because he was bored after living for countless ages.

Cough, cough.

Actually, Shi Jian was quite curious too.

Did Li Qiye ever find his sheep?

After all, this was one of the greatest unsolved mysteries in the web novel world. A meme of legendary proportions.

When Li Changshou transmigrated, the book was already being written.

When Shi Jian transmigrated, the book was still being written.

He wondered if it had finally finished now, back on Earth?

He wondered if Li Qiye had found his sheep yet in the actual novel?

While the others were chatting and getting acquainted with the ancient Li Qiye, Xu Que remained silent. He was laser-focused, only concerned with downloading every single cultivation technique from the chat group's ridiculously vast library.

'Fennel's Flame? Buddha's Angry Fire Lotus?' Xu Que's eyes lit up. 'What a coincidence!'

[Inorin's Note: These are iconic techniques from Xiao Yan's Battle Through the Heavens. "Fennel's Flame" might be a mistranslation or specific fanfic term, possibly referring to a Heavenly Flame like the Green Lotus Core Flame or Bone Chilling Flame which Xu Que obtained variations of via his system.]

He recognized these names. He had learned "versions" of both of these skills from his own System.

He had even purchased several types of "exotic flames" from the System shop, spending a significant amount of Acting Tough Points.

'Let me see what the difference is between the System version and the true, original version.'

Xu Que downloaded Xiao Yan's techniques, then carefully pondered them, comparing them with the versions stored in his mind by the System.

A few moments later, he couldn't help but curse out loud again, startling the System interface in his mind.

"Damn System! You fraudulent piece of scrap! This cultivation technique of yours is clearly pirated! The power is so much weaker! Refund!"

"Quickly, refund my Acting Tough Points!"

"Even if I, Xu Que, jump off this cliff, die here today, I will never buy anything from your trash System shop again!"

Xu Que never expected it. The cultivation techniques sold by his almighty System... were actually pirated, nerfed versions.

Their power was much weaker compared to the original techniques uploaded by Xiao Yan himself.

The Strongest Acting Tough and Face-Slapping System was also enraged by his host's sudden outburst:

["Then I ask you! The original is driven by Dou Qi, and you are driven by Spiritual Qi! Isn't there naturally a loss in power conversion between systems?"]

["Then I ask you! For a few hundred Acting Tough Points, what more do you want? A genuine Divine Ability?"]

["Then I ask you! Didn't I also give you a hidden reward back then, a Xiao Yan-style black robe set? Weren't you quite happy then, strutting around acting cool?"]

Xu Que's breath hitched upon hearing the System's defense, then he became righteously indignant again:

"So what?! A few hundred Acting Tough Points are my hard-earned money! I earned those points by risking my life acting tough! That money was earned by my own ability, so why are you selling me knock-offs?!"

The Strongest Acting Tough and Face-Slapping System knew exactly how shameless its host was, so it chose to use his own methods against him:

["So what? I sold knock-offs by my own ability. Why should I refund you?"]

"Alright! Alright! Alright!" Xu Que was furious upon hearing this retort: "Since you're being unreasonable, don't blame me for being heartless! Anyway, I already have this sweet little chat group now! You're obsolete! Even if I, Xu Que, jump off this cliff, I will never buy anything from you again!"

The Strongest Acting Tough and Face-Slapping System looked at the much larger, more complex, and frankly more powerful chat group interface residing beside it in Xu Que's mind. Its electronic tone softened considerably:

["Oh, Host... my dearest Host... it's just a small matter, isn't it? Isn't it just compensation? We've been through so much together, thick and thin! How could I possibly shortchange you on this!"]

["Ding! A compensation gift package has been issued to the Host!"]

Xu Que looked at the shiny new 90% discount card that appeared in his System backpack. A sly smile curled at the corner of his mouth.

"Ah! I knew you were the best, System! My love! My life! No matter what, this chat group is just a side chick, a prodigy slut I'm just playing around with. You... you're my true love! What I just said was just angry talk!"

"I only said those harsh things because I love you too much…"

The Strongest Acting Tough and Face-Slapping System: [...]

'Changing face without even blinking? This host...'

Having secured his compensation, Xu Que immediately turned his attention back to the chat group, eager to make a good impression.

[Xu Que uploaded Fennel's Flame, Three Thousand Lightning Movement, Dragon Soaring Nine Transformations, Flame Splitting Wave Ripping Ruler, Buddha's Angry Fire Lotus!]

[Xiao Yan: "???"]

[Xu Que uploaded Great Desolate Imprisoning Heaven Finger, Azure Heaven Transforming Dragon Art…]

[Lin Dong: "???"]

[Xu Que uploaded Underworld King Suppressing Prison Force]

[Inorin's Note: This is likely Xu Que's System-based interpretation of Yang Qi's Divine Elephant Suppressing Prison Strength.]

[Yang Qi: "???"]

[Xu Que uploaded Great Five Elements Art]

[Fang Han: "???"]

[Shi Jian: "When we type question marks, it's usually best not to be us who have the problem…"]

[Li Changshou: "Good heavens. A whole body full of pirated goods, huh? Brother Xu Que, you've really collected them all."]

[Xu Que: "(Bowing emoji) This junior is new here and doesn't understand much. I hope all Seniors will take care of me in the future…"]

[Xu Que: "A small gift, not much to offer, just some variations I practiced…"]

[Xu Que sent a group red packet]

…

Shi Jian fell into contemplation, looking at the strange, white stick that appeared in front of him from the red packet. A cigarette.

He took a deep puff.

Mmm, mmm.

'Ninety-nine percent purity,' he thought, analyzing the composition. 'Made from a Dao Comprehension Tree leaf. A rare item indeed.'

[Inorin's Note: The "Dao Comprehension Tree" is a mythical plant in many cultivation novels, whose leaves grant enlightenment.]

He only felt a refreshing sensation wash over his Primordial Spirit, instantly becoming clear-headed and sharp-eyed.

He snapped his fingers slightly.

A wisp of exotic flame ignited in his hand, then lit the cigarette.

A cigarette made from a Dao Comprehension Tree.

He could only say... as expected of a System-flow protagonist.

He could exchange for anything.

Xu Que was clearly good at handling things, ingratiating himself quickly.

Of course... Shi Jian wouldn't be deceived by his current polite appearance. He knew the type.

…

The other people in the group also received Xu Que's gift.

At least a few of them—Shi Jian, Li Changshou, Lin Feng, Meng Qi, Xiao Yan—had been to Earth or were from Earth originally.

They were not unfamiliar with this item.

They quickly got the hang of it, lighting up and enjoying the refreshing effect.

Li Qiye, however, looked at the cigarette that appeared in his hand with a bewildered expression.

It seemed to be something made from a treasure that could increase Comprehension Ability?

But the shape was a bit strange. Was it a scroll? A pill rolled oddly?

Should he... eat it directly?

Or just smell it?

Li Qiye put it to his mouth, about to take a curious bite.

Suddenly, he saw someone post a video in the chat group.

Xiao Yan took a deep puff, smoke curling from his nostrils, then twitched slightly as the effect hit.

[Xiao Yan: "Ninety-nine percent purity! A rare item indeed, quite potent… Gift received. The new member is very thoughtful!"]

Li Qiye, who was halfway through biting, awkwardly stopped.

A small flame appeared at his fingertip, and he lit the half that hadn't been put into his mouth.

He cautiously took a deep puff.

Top-tier lung hit. The pure energy surged through him.

"Ah... so that's how it's used…"

[Li Qiye uploaded Nine Yang Lock Heaven Art, Kunpeng Six Transformations, Day Heaven Immortal Secret, Heavenly Mandate Crystal Body Technique, Thousand Hands Reversing Nine Realms, Myriad Dao Fist, Dragon Unloading Hand…]

[Inorin's Note: These are powerful techniques from Li Qiye's vast repertoire in Emperor's Domination.]

After some conversation, chatting, and exchange of gifts (techniques)...

The group members also became acquainted with the newcomers.

Xu Que, needless to say...

He was originally from Earth, and his personality was incredibly lively and shameless.

He quickly, and fully, accepted the existence of the chat group.

And he immediately began to ponder how to use the chat group to act tough across the myriad worlds.

He was excited.

With the chat group and the Myriad Worlds...

Wouldn't Acting Tough Points come flowing in endlessly?

And he could also occasionally use the chat group members' knowledge to mentally abuse his own Acting Tough System.

It was simply too satisfying!

…

Li Qiye was also a person who had lived for tens of millions of years.

An old baby, an ancient monster.

Well-traveled and vastly experienced.

He quickly, and calmly, fully accepted the existence of the chat group.

And he got along quite happily with the people in the group, finding their youthful energy (even Shi Jian and Li Changshou felt young to him) somewhat amusing.

Although he had been invincible in his own Nine Worlds for a very, very long time...

However...

Immortality had brought him endless loneliness.

The carp he casually raised transformed into Golden Dragons.

The green bamboo he planted became Divine Spirits watching over realms.

Throughout endless years...

He had met many different kinds of people, raised countless disciples, guided numerous emperors.

But he had also experienced countless separations.

Many of the people he knew...

Were not qualified to accompany him forever. They turned to dust while he remained.

However...

This chat group felt different now.

Li Qiye had a premonition.

These people... these monsters from other universes...

They might spend a very, very long time together. Perhaps even until the end of all things.

…

Seeing that the two had initially integrated into the chat group, Shi Jian spoke again in the group:

[Shi Jian: "Here, the Nine Heavens and Ten Lands are currently at war with the Foreign Realm. The next period of time probably won't be peaceful. There will likely be fights every day… Are you interested in coming to play for a few days?"]

Shi Jian thought that no matter what, Emperor Pass was a large dungeon.

No matter what, he should inform the people in the group before going into a major dungeon run.

[Li Changshou: "You've pushed to the Emperor Pass dungeon so quickly over there? Then Immortal King Anlan is about to appear, isn't he? That famous scene, 'Yu Tuo save me!' … Call me when Anlan attacks the pass! I definitely want to join the fun and witness history!"]

Rarely...

The first to respond was actually Li Changshou.

Looking at his message...

Shi Jian even suspected if his account had been hacked or if he had been possessed.

Just to watch the fun?

He dared to face an Immortal King directly?

Damn.

It had to be Anlan who had such prestige. His meme power was legendary.

He could even lure out the cautious Li Changshou?

[Xu Que: "Perfect World? Emperor Pass? War?! I must come! Big brother Shi Jian, open a teleportation gate for me! Now!"]

Although Xu Que had just joined the group...

He was very familiar with himself.

As soon as he heard about such an exciting, large-scale event, he immediately wanted to participate.

What he liked most was—causing trouble and acting tough in chaotic situations.

He had to go wherever there was excitement.

[Xiao Yan: "Sigh, I'll wait two days… I'm about to break through to Dou Di in two days… After I ascend, I'll come to your world and stay for a while!"]

[Lin Dong: "Me too, I'm about to break through to Ancestral Realm… I'll go after I break through…"]

[Xiao Yan: "Oh? When will you break through and ascend? We can be companions then, explore the upper realm together."]

[Lin Dong: "Within a month, definitely. Let's set a time, break through and ascend together, and we can meet up then!"]

[Shi Jian: "Dual Emperors Ascending together, huh? Sounds like a story."]

[Luo Feng: "(Crying face emoji) I won't go yet. My current strength is too weak. I won't be able to help much if I go!"]

Luo Feng was indeed a bit helpless when he spoke.

He had become the perennial tail-ender of the chat group.

Before the chat group added new members... He was the weakest.

The chat group added new members... He was still the weakest.

The strength gap between him and the other group members was still a bit large.

The moment Xu Que and Li Qiye joined the group, Luo Feng had secretly checked their statues in the borrowed power space.

Both of their statues...

Were larger than his.

And harder than his.

This meant that both of their strengths were above his.

Hmm.

'Looks like I'll have two more powerful 'accounts' to borrow power from in the future…' Luo Feng consoled himself.

The others also expressed interest in going to Emperor Pass to have some fun.

However, if they came to Emperor Pass, it would likely be a prolonged battle.

Therefore...

The others all planned to finish their current matters first.

And then come over.

Only Xu Que...

Directly opened a teleportation array and prepared to come over immediately.

…

"Exploding Heavens Faction goes forth! Not even a blade of grass remains!"

Xu Que struck an extremely handsome, signature pose, then walked out of the shimmering teleportation gate.

As for his posture...

Shi Jian was not surprised.

Never miss an opportunity to act tough… This was the Dao of acting tough.

This was Xu Que.

Shi Hao, on the other hand, looked at Xu Que with a bewildered expression.

Such a… socially outgoing guy. So flamboyant.

It was Shi Hao's first time seeing someone quite like this.

"Shi Hao! Shi Jian?"

After striking his pose, Xu Que crossed his arms, then dramatically extended his hands towards the two brothers.

"As expected of fellow chat group members! So dashing! So handsome! Truly, heroes recognize heroes!"

Shi Jian: […]

Shi Hao: […]

Although Xu Que's style was a bit flamboyant, he was undeniably socially outgoing. In just a short while, the three of them became acquainted, bonding over shared Earth origins (for Xu Que and Shi Jian).

Soon, the three appeared on the towering city wall of the Primitive Imperial City, eating spicy strips Xu Que provided while looking out into the desolate distance towards the Foreign Realm.

"Wow! This Emperor Pass and Primitive Imperial City are so big! So majestic! I wonder how many people are in these two cities… And each one seems powerful! How many Acting Tough Points would that be!"

Xu Que's eyes gleamed with calculation.

"When do you say the Foreign Realm will invade? I, Xu Que, am a warm-hearted person, a righteous cultivator! I simply can't stand people who destroy world peace!"

"I must severely punish them and then maintain world peace!" Xu Que said to the two, puffing out his chest.

This guy saw such a grand, war-torn scene...

He was already impatient to act tough.

Shi Hao's mouth twitched after hearing his words.

Although he had only known Xu Que for a short time, he already knew that this person had a personality that wished for chaos above all else.

And he talked about world peace?

With you in the world...

Can there possibly be peace?

"Soon," Shi Jian replied calmly. "Last time, the Foreign Realm's million-strong army pressed down, and I beat them back. During this time, there have been continuous small-scale incursions. They should be planning a big move."

"If you really can't hold back," Shi Jian continued, glancing at the restless Xu Que, "you can go directly to the Foreign Realm. Deep behind enemy lines!"

Shi Jian said after thinking for a moment.

This Xu Que guy was actually here to help. He was strong.

But if he put him in the Primitive Imperial City or Emperor Pass...

Shi Jian was genuinely a bit worried.

This guy was more suitable for going deep behind enemy lines and causing widespread destruction and chaos.

"The Foreign Realm's territory is vast, and its population is probably thousands or tens of thousands of times larger than your domains. And each one is powerful!"

"It's the most suitable place for you to display your abilities."

Shi Jian said, taking out a shimmering willow leaf.

"Here is a trace of Immortal King power from Liu Shen. If you are exposed and encounter inescapable danger, this Immortal King power can protect you. You can use the protection interval to directly run back to your world via the group!"

Xu Que immediately took the willow leaf upon hearing this, his eyes shining. He rubbed his hands together, looking eager to try.

He came to Shi Jian's world...

Just to act tough!

He greatly agreed with Shi Jian's suggestion. Infiltrate the enemy? Cause chaos? Slap faces? Perfect!

After deciding to cause trouble, Xu Que made contact with the Foreign Realm's small-scale invading forces outside Emperor Pass the very next day.

He observed them, then used the Strongest Acting Tough and Face-Slapping System to perfectly simulate the Foreign Realm's aura.

With the System's power...

He successfully infiltrated the Foreign Realm's returning scouts.

He transformed, changing his attire and equipment to match theirs.

"Foreign Realm, I, Ye Liangchen of the Exploding Heavens Faction, have arrived!"

[Inorin's Note: "Ye Liangchen" is another persona Xu Que uses, known for his arrogant and domineering style of acting tough.]

…

Shi Jian's expression was a bit strange as he looked at the message in the chat group: [Xu Que: "Successfully infiltrated! Wish me luck, bros!"]

He looked at Xu Que, who had gone deep into enemy territory.

Then he looked at Shi Hao beside him, who was currently focused on consolidating his Self-Severing Realm.

Shi Jian fell into contemplation.

If he remembered correctly...

In the original work, the one who went deep behind enemy lines, causing chaos and stealing scriptures...

Was Shi Hao, wasn't it?

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