The Battle for the Throne had now reached its final stage. With the three Emperor seats officially determined, it meant that very soon, the Ancestral Court would likely welcome three new Emperors.0

Holding one of these seats was no simple matter. It signified direct support from the Ancestral Court—help in cultivation, access to resources, and even aid in overcoming the tribulation on the path to ascension. Most importantly, it represented the Ancestral Court's formal recognition. No one could ascend without it. To do so would be to oppose the entire Ancestral Court and all of its Emperors, and the only outcome could be one's demise. The fall of that Human Emperor of old was solid proof.0

This had been one of the most crucial rules since the founding...0