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Chapter 1,334.
🕑 Added 2025-02-07 21:21:23 +0000 UTCAnson—no, Janos!—watched as the deranged scholar scurried back to his workshop while the memory domain collapsed around them. Kadel’s mysterious power had somewhat calmed down, but he still left small fractures in the dream behind him. His ability to fuse with the River of Time was amazing, but Time was a Dao fraught with taboos.
It was also this ability that made the experiment possible. Janos knew it was impossible to bring out anyone else. It was only possible with Kadel because he already had one foot outside reality. Still, it was a step in the right direction. Hopefully, Kadel would retain the memory of his experience when he returned to the dream.
Janos shook his head and turned away. The Seat of Truth had been his home for months, yet he felt nothing at seeing its end. It was only a reflection of the academy that was faded. The true academy was still in the dream, having gained a completely new future. His only regret was failing to learn more about the ‘Ancient Arcana’ that Kadel based his theories on.
The Realmkeeper Orb thrummed, using the last of its energy to stabilize Janos’s immediate surroundings. The experiment had drained most of his resources, leaving only a small reserve for the final piece of his plan. Janos rushed to the teleportation room, shocking its controller with his sudden appearance.
Months of mental conditioning allowed his illusion to activate without a hitch, and the Array Master’s expression immediately shifted from wariness to deep respect. “Greetings, Lord Explorer!”
“Hm,” Janos nodded. “The Mercurial Court has summoned me. Send me to the closest node.”
“Of course!” the guard readily agreed and swiftly made the necessary adjustments to the Teleportation Array.
Janos stepped onto the disk and the world twisted. The Realmkeeper Orb ran out of energy, and the backlash directly knocked Janos unconscious. He was pleasantly surprised to wake up in one piece with no immediate threats lurking nearby. He was stuck hallway inside a tree, but some wiggling allowed him to squeeze out. The Mercurial Court’s pillar was much closer than yesterday and two rings had appeared around it. It was just like the other ones who’d suddenly changed over the past weeks.
This jump was much better than the previous, saving Janos more than a month’s travel. It wasn’t enough to fully recoup the time spent in the Seat of Truth, but the delay was more than worth it. His Realmsinger Seal had nearly tripled in strength, which should mean his solution led to an improved future.
The Mercurial Court’s pillar was now less than two months away. If Janos could find another piece of the communal dream, he might be able to jump directly to the court. It was there he’d find out whether his efforts had borne fruit. Even if Kadel failed or ignored his parting comment, he should have advanced the technique. Someone in the Mercurial Court would have picked up the mantle, taking Janos closer to the solution he sought.
Janos gently looked at the drained Realmkeeper Orb. It had been damaged by the jump, but its core remained intact. Its alterations had also followed him out of the dream, and the orb was already drawing on the continent’s Imperial Faith to replenish its reserves.
His goal had never changed. The only difference was that Janos finally saw a glimmer of hope.
“Um’ha, be patient for a little longer. I will bring you out, no matter what.”
-------------------------------
Hundreds of soldiers had gathered in the central square of the 24th Battalion, or the Intrepid Battalion as it was named. Unofficially, the unit was simply known as the Tartys division, sharing the name with the enormous legion to which it belonged. It was where the Tartys Clan had sent the direct descendants of its local branch for the past fifty generations, using it as a test and training ground.
The Tartys Clan was one of the most powerful Founding Families beneath the Imperial Bloodlines with a strong presence on multiple continents. Accordingly, the rich and powerful did everything in their power to have their sons and daughters sent to the 24th Battalion. When else would you have such a good opportunity to get to know a future pillar of the Left Imperial Expanse's military branch?
There were close to a thousand factions represented in the 800-thousand-man-strong battalion. The rest were seasoned veterans and skilled recruits who essentially had turned into bodyguards. That wasn’t to say the noblemen were weak. What they lacked in military experience, they made up for in personal foundations and equipment. In raw power, the Intrepid Battalion could take on a whole regiment.
This time, the gathering wasn’t to hold the Dao Debates which Aywin Tartys seemed to enjoy. Two noblemen, a brother and sister, were made to kneel in the central square. Their uniforms were dirty and ripped—an exceedingly rare scene in the Intrepid Battalion—and the man had taken a serious beating before being brought over. With their Cosmic Energy sealed, they looked like filthy vagrants surrounded by immortals.
“To think something like this would happen in the Intrepid Battalion. And from descendants of Clan Burlai, no less,” Aywin Tartys sighed. “The army law is strict. I cannot promise anything beyond a fair trial. Your best chance of survival is by cooperating with the investigation. How long has this been going on?”
“Lord, I swear it was only for a few months. And my actions were in service of the Tar—of the Empire! I was trying to contribute by exposing the ring leaders. I was going to report my findings the moment I found something tangible.”
Joanna watched the farce play out with a neutral expression, her thoughts drifting elsewhere.
‘The Burlai Tribe is one of the strongest locals in the Tartys faction. They’ve been trying to tie the knot between the little flower and the young Lord,’ Kruta explained, hinting at the beautiful woman kneeling next to the traitor. ‘Well, she’ll be lucky if she can become a concubine after today.’
Joanna nodded in understanding. It would have been impossible for her to untangle the Intrepid Battalion’s complex web of relationships by herself. She neither had the skill nor the patience. Despite the Orc’s best efforts, they still didn’t understand what the memory domain expected of them. As far as Joanna could tell, the disaster had already struck before they arrived.
Mervin Burlai had consorted with a rebel army; that much was clear. Worse, he’d inadvertently exposed the movements of the Cessina Legion that operated in the same region as them. By all accounts, the leak was unintentional. Mervin didn’t understand the implications of the seemingly random information he’d divulged, but the rebel leaders had connected the dots. They used the intelligence to mount a deadly ambush that ruined General Cessina’s plans and left thousands of elite soldiers dead.
By the time she and Kruta arrived, the Intrepid Battalion was dealing with the aftermath. Kruta’s identity as an army inspector made it easy to join the investigation, not that anyone would dare say no to Indra Eyler’s disciple. It only took three days to figure out what had happened and intercept the suspects before they could escape.
Joanna had little patience for Aywin Tartys, with his refined manners and scholarly appearance. Frankly, she felt his presence in the army was doing more harm than good. That didn’t change the fact that the Peak Hegemon was exceptionally competent. He’d swiftly unearthed the plot when word came down that the ambush might be related to an information leak.
Marvin had left behind enough clues to make an ironclad case. Aywin would be the next one facing inquiry if he looked the other way on account of the Burlai Clan’s close relationship with his family. What was Joanna supposed to do? What were they missing? Their presence hadn’t changed the timeline at all.
Marvin couldn’t have exposed any new information after the ambush. He’d been too busy planning his escape. The sister was only brought into the mess after the fact, reluctantly choosing to help to protect her clan’s image. There was no chance in hell the rebels would mount a rescue for an exposed asset. They had their hands full running from the squads Aywin sent to assist the Cessina Legion.
Joanna frowned with annoyance as the interrogation dragged on, once more considering if she should give up on the memory and move on. She’d come to hate convoluted messes like this. Why would the System send her such a trial after she’d claimed her spot through a series of death matches?
The stuffy feeling partly came from the Intrepid Battalion itself. Military discipline had gotten worse with every memory domain she’d visited. Joanna could still remember how bravely the common soldiers fought to fend off the beast tide. They’d displayed courage and valor against an overwhelming threat, all to protect the surviving civilians.
Joanna couldn’t imagine the Intrepid Battalion doing anything of the sort. The camp looked more like a Daoist sect than a military base. Captains were debating valor instead of practicing it. They sought the Dao in silent meditation rather than on the battlefield. There was no camaraderie or shared values. Joanna had even seen some noblemen covertly celebrating the Cessina Legion’s loss, seeing it as a setback for their “competition.”
She’d kept her opinions to herself and tried to reserve judgment. The Intrepid Battalion might be worse than average, but the different forms of management could be the optimal approach for high-grade elite units. It was a cultivator army. The higher one reached, the more one needed to look inward for answers. Military drills could only take you so far on the path to immortality.
Joanna shook her head, reminding herself she was inside an illusion. The only thing she needed to focus on was gathering more Imperial Fate for her empty seal.
‘Wait, what did he say?’ Joanna asked, having tuned Aywin for the past minutes.
‘The leader just announced that the rebels have suffered a catastrophic defeat just minutes ago. He’d anticipated their escape route and sent a unit to block their path. This smooth talker will walk out walk out of this mess looking like a hero,’ Kruta said, his outward appearance perfectly masking the deep disdain in his voice. ‘Quite the coincidence he knew exactly where they’d go, wouldn’t you say? The numbers on the burned note I restored, maybe they were coordinates?’
‘Could it really have been a setup? Would he dare go so far?’ Joanna asked.
Kruta had discovered indications that Aywin knew about Marvin’s unsavory connections for a while. The Tartys scion was keeping tabs on most of the battalion’s important descendants, collecting misdeeds and scandalous secrets for future use. Mervin was a fool, but he was also a direct descendant of Clan Burlai. He would become a valuable tool in the future.
Marvin still believed overhearing the innocuous supply request that exposed the Cessina Legion’s position was an accident. Could there be more to it? What if Marvin’s bumbling incompetence hadn’t cost Aywin a valuable pawn before he could be utilized? Was this a setup designed to make Aywin look like a hero?
‘Try to confirm the details about the rebel army’s defeat. See if you can match the numbers with something tangible now that it’s over,’ Joanna asked.
The Orc nodded before silently blending with the growing crowd. Joanna stayed by Aywin’s side, trying to decide if this young scholar really was audacious enough to pull off such a scheme.
Aywin loved talking about his ideas and visions and how he would update the Imperial War Machine to suit the modern age. He had grand ambitions, but his dreams couldn’t be achieved by a battalion commander. Cultivators were incredibly long-lived, and there were generations of descendants ahead in line for promotion. Jumping ahead needed contribution.
Would knowing change anything? Their only evidence of a potential plot had been incinerated, and Kruta only managed to glean a few numbers by analyzing the echoes of fire. They still had a copy of Aywin’s black book, but that wasn’t enough when the direct descendant of a Founding Family was involved. It had been kept by Aywin’s assistant, and it only touched on Mervin’s association with suspected rebels.
If Aywin was guilty of something more, he’d played his hand almost perfectly. Joanna looked at the scions gathered around the kneeling captives. Did they know? They should at least suspect something, not that they’d let it show on their faces. There was nothing to gain in getting involved for these budding politicians. The risks of making an enemy of the Tartys Clan far outweighed the potential gain.
Tassil Burlai’s defeated expression as she knelt next to her brother had gained a new meaning. Tassil remained silent, perhaps knowing that exposing any dirty laundry at this stage would only backfire. Their only chance of survival was by playing along with their accuser. It was becoming increasingly clear that Aywin was leaving them a way out, practically spoon-feeding Marvin excuses through leading questions.
The two couldn’t avoid being sent to prison or a sinner’s legion, where they could be silently extracted as soon as the world had forgotten about their misdeeds. The expanding Clan Burlai would have to curtail their ambitions after Tartys reinforced their position as the top dog.
Joanna looked at the rugged veterans observing the interrogation from a distance. Their expressions weren’t indecipherable like the noblemen’s. They might not understand exactly what happened, but they’d been assigned to the Intrepid Battalion long enough to know how this story goes. Their resignation was palpable. Who knew? Next time it might be them that were discarded.
Kruta returned shortly after. He’d failed to find the smoking gun they needed. Joanna took a deep breath as she looked up at the falling memory lanterns. Each represented a life that had burned for a common purpose—the glory of the Empire and the betterment of its people. Maybe these lanterns belonged to the veterans gathered here today. Would someone like Aywin Tartys manage to leave a lantern behind?
Was this how it would end? Sixty thousand loyal soldiers had fallen.
“I give up.”
“Miss Thompson?” Aywin said, turning to Joanna with confusion.
“There is ironclad evidence to confirm that Marvin Burlai divulged information that led to the attack on the Ceccina Legion,” Joanna said as she walked toward the kneeling traitor. “Kruta Redleaf, what is the punishment for divulging military secrets to the Empire’s enemies?”
‘Girl, you know I don’t know all those—’ Kruta's complaint was cut short by a murderous stare.
“Uh, death?” Kruta repeated himself with more conviction when no one jumped out to correct him. “Death.”
“Miss, the world is not black and white,” Aywin smoothly interjected. “Brother Burlai’s mistakes are deep and undeniable, but there are still points that need to be thoroughly investigated. For instance, Brother Burlai’s claim that he’s been working undercover to—”
Aywin’s expression grew dark as he watched Marvin topple. A wet gurgle escaped the traitor’s throat from the hole Joanna had opened with her spear. Her stab had been so smooth that even Aywin failed to react in time. There was no Killing Intent to provide a warning, and Joanna hadn’t bothered to even look at Marvin when she executed him. She may as well have been her taking out the garbage.
“What are you doing!” Aywin wheezed, his aura surging. “We are not mad butchers! There are checks and balances in place! Punishments are only meted out when the facts have been established. How am I supposed to face Marquis Burlai? Or General Tartys?”
Joanna had already tuned out Aywin’s complaints. Her focus was on the veterans, elite soldiers much like the ones who’d died because of some nobleman’s selfish scheme. Just like her soldiers back home. They’d bravely fought far from home, never knowing if they’d ever see Earth again. Most of them didn’t. They met their end on some ruined planet at the sector’s edge.
For what? The Atwood Empire had desperately fought, not once backing down against the Kan’Tanu’s relentless advance. They exchanged their blood for time, hoping for a miracle. And Zac actually delivered one. They overcame all odds to slay the Kan’Tanu Pope and release the Eternal Guardians. The goal was left open when they passed the ball to the Zecia Alliance.
They didn’t even try to score.
Weeks of growing irritation boiled over into smoldering fury as Joanna recalled the update she got from the Zecian sealbearer. About Zecia’s great exodus. How the strongest factions didn’t even try to deal with the disorganized Kan’Tanu Cult refugees pouring into the sector.
Joanna couldn’t do anything about the injustices back home, but she refused to back down when seeing the same thing right before her eyes. She had been caught up in the tangle, tainted by the same corruption that plagued the Intrepid Battalion. There was only one remedy to deal with this kind of sickness.
“Tassil Burlai. You failed to report your brother’s treason. Worse, you destroyed evidence to hide his misdeeds, hindering the investigation,” Joanna continued. “What is the punishment?”
Kruta, seeing Joanna had no intention of stopping, no longer held back. “Death!”
The Orc’s roar was imbued with the flames of war. His voice spread through the Intrepid Battalion, shaking the camp awake from its decadent stupor. Thousands of hardened warriors poured out of their secluded cultivation. They rose into the air to find the source of the commotion, and Joanna could almost hear how countless transmissions caught the veterans up to speed.
“Enough!” Aywin yelled. “You are not the law. You’re a visitor acting as judge and executioner. I have already reported your actions to General Tartys. He shall—”
The threat meant nothing to Joanna at this point. Another stab ended Tassil’s life, and there was finally a reaction among the noblemen: fear. Fear of the cold, gleaming truth at the tip of Joanna’s spear, of the unbending conviction it represented. Aywin looked truly aghast, but Joanna could tell he still hadn’t woken up. She could see the calculations behind the façade, the weighing of pros and cons to decide his response.
While some cowered from the bloodshed, others welcomed it. Joanna’s actions clearly resonated with the veterans. The clear lines and swift executions reminded them of the real face of the Limitless Army, of why they were feared across the Cosmos. They’d reached the top by being ruthless against both themselves and their enemies.
“Tassil’s involvement was limited, and she is a fourth-generation descendant of Ebenos Burlai! Clan Burlai has provided the Imperial Army with both financial support and critical intelligence, greatly assisting the cause. Your wanton actions will cool the hearts of those supporting the Empire’s great undertaking.”
Joanna finally turned to directly face the infuriated commander. Why had she worried about some tribunal and evidence? It didn’t even matter if Aywin had set Marvin up. Knowing about a subordinate’s connection to rebels was bad enough. If he’d done his job, those sixty thousand soldiers would still be alive.
“The Empire’s enemies are everywhere, and they’ll exploit any weakness they find. Your leadership has undeniably created results. The Intrepid Battalion’s battle record surpasses that of the past generations,” Joanna conceded before her tone hardened. “However, there are lines that must never be crossed! Military dogma is written with the blood of our predecessors! Our doctrine exists to protect the citizens. It’s there to safeguard the flame of our conviction!”
“We are not politicians. We are not philosophers. We are the Empire’s blades. Our world is black and white!” Joanna boomed, each word gaining power until her voice shook the base like claps of thunder. “Aywin Tarsys, you ignored the reports of Marvin Burlai’s crimes, along with many others. The 24th has become a den of corruption under your watch, and your inaction caused the death of sixty thousand of the Empire’s subjects.”
“Absurd, you’re defaming Clan Tartys with your—"
“24TH BATALLION! WHAT IS THE PUNISHMENT?” Joanna roared as her murderous intent exploded.
It condensed into a massive avatar of slaughter that perfectly represented the Limitless Empire’s judgment. It was almost as if the Emperor’s Spear had descended in person. The apparition embodied the immutable law that was the imperial rule, and the whole world responded. Imperial Faith rushed into the apparition, pouring out of the ground and from the memory domain itself.
Most came from the faithful soldiers who saw clearly after years of blurred lines and hollow glory. The Empire was calling on them, and they would answer. Thousands upon thousands of streams of Killing Intent poured into the avatar as the battalion responded in one voice that shook the Heavens.
“DEATH!”
The fury and indignity of a million soldiers fused into the apparition’s spear, and it descended on Aywin Tarsys for ultimate judgment. When his abilities failed to stop its descent, a powerful barrier sprung up in their stead. It was a protective mark left by General Tarsys himself, and the illusory silhouette of a middle-aged man appeared. Just his summoned form was no weaker than the Kan’Tanu pope, and the real thing was no doubt already making his way over.
The projection briefly looked at the suspended spear before turning to Joanna. She calmly met his gaze. Aywin was smart enough not to say anything in his ancestor’s presence, but his look of superiority said everything. However, his refined appearance crumbled when the projection sighed and shook his head. The world resumed and the law was enforced.
The avatar of slaughter had been empowered by Aywin's own subordinates and ratified by Imperial Faith. Going against it was no different than going against the will of the Empire. The ancestor was clearly cut from the same cloth as Aywin, and he’d swiftly concluded that a single descendant wasn’t worth it.
The memory domain was already collapsing from offering its faith to power the attack. Joanna looked at the horrified scions running for their lives. There was no absolution in her actions. Joanna felt hollow. Her own issues remained, and she hadn’t even solved the root of the memory domain’s problem. She’d only treated the symptoms. At best, her actions would serve as a warning to others following a crooked path.
“I guess that’s one way to deal with things,” Kruta coughed as he walked over. “What’s next?”
Joanna didn’t immediately answer. She watched as the last pieces of the domain condensed into a streak of light that flew into her chest. A voice echoed in her mind as a bloody halo was born around the Indomitable Court’s pillar.
‘Child, come see me. It’s time to see if you’re qualified to wield my spear.’
Comments
Edgar Segura
The Spear of the Empire. Has got to be the name of this entire chapter.
Thomas Bell
She saw the politics and went fuck it.
Emil
Amazing!
Bailey Tucker
I love everything about Joanna's character and arc. She's the Emperor's Spear, playing the part of a different Emperor's Spear, the former about to receive the prior's blessing for the mantle.
Aaron Pennington
Joanna just not giving a fuck about Monarchs and Autarchs and staring them down is peak badass
Aaron Pennington
Joanna: "Cake or Death!" Kruta: "Cake...err uh I mean DEATH!!"
Andreas Fagernes Edelsteen Holm
The ancestor was as calculating and politician-like as his descendant. He cut his losses.
Derek Reilly
"The ancestor was clearly cut from the same cloth as Aywin, and he’d swiftly concluded that a single descendant wasn’t worth it." should this be wasn't?
Jordan
Who would've thought one of the 3-4 best chapters you've ever written was a Joanna chapter. Holy hell. So damn good. 10 minutes later i still have chills.
Adam Davies
Fucking chills man. One of the best you have ever written.
Dan
She started a badass who just wanted to protect the people on the island. She’s now the badass who wants to protect the entire Zecia Sector.
1FantasyFanatic
This is one of my all time favorite chapters. So freaking badass! Also Kruta playing side kick in this is hilarious.
Jay00
Joanna has come a long way one of my favorite characters no talking only action!!
Amani
same
D
Joanna will always be my favorite
Dave Richards
Nice job Joanna. I'd be pretty passed off too if I was her about what happened in Zecia.
Tommy
I was thinking about the future elites of the empire. Like does AE have a manor or a shop at the Tower of Eternity. Are they spoiled rich kids? are they ruthless? With their talent and resources I would think some of the undead could get close to or beat Zac’s climb.
Jeff McCulley
Harvard? He died as a sealbearer. In one of the Karz visions, it’s revealed that the planet he and Laondio came from was one of many that orbited the Continent they were on-/which presumably became the center of the Empire. It wouldn’t surprise me if the Atwood Empire, in whatever form, wound up orbiting the Left Imperial Expanse. We’ve already seen planets over it.
John
I like to think Ilvere gets to Monarchy as well. Maybe once the LIP is over and Zecia/Zurbo turns into Zacia and Earth becomes a higher grade continent that allows residents to passively climb to Monarchy without adventuring off? There was another demon guy who acted as a sergeant in the Atwood forces whose now dead, name started with an F or M maybe? He felt like a tertiary character that would have capped out at D grade. Ilvere is just a bit closer to the inner circle, just important enough to rise higher, albeit slower
Edgar Segura
Such an amazing character
Edgar Segura
She is soo badass
Palmer Evans
Thanks for taking the time to write this all out! I can’t keep track of who is with what court so seeing it outlined here is very helpful. Idk how many of these courts Zac will visit though. Each court could take 35-75 chapters which would amount to the this arc taking a LONG time. I’m here for it and I’m enjoying everything about this arc but I’m just not sure if TFD is willing to have Zac visit more than 3 courts. The Fuxi Gate would actually help quite a bit in this regard
CallMeDanny
Thanks
Jeff McCulley
Chapter 1,204 starts Book 15.
SandreX
When you harness faith it's not just order it's entire religion
CallMeDanny
just finished book 14 on audiobook what chapter should i start from?
Jeff McCulley
What I’m wondering is if Ilvere found a seal on the battlefields there at the end. To be fair, I’m also curious as to whether the remnants of the Peak family joined the Atwood Empire as the Allbright Empire fell into ruin.
Jeff McCulley
Point if fact being, the various factions aren’t the problem. The actual culprits cut and ran, left the Sector. The rest were killed or neutralized , one way or another. So there’s really no one left to purge. Aside from the Sangha, perhaps. And I suspect that surprisingly large chunks of those former factions will be joining the Atwood Empire. Not least, out of fear of those remaining Kan’Tanu Monarchs.
Jeff McCulley
I’ll mention, I’m curious to see Zac take a peek at his character sheet. Mostly to see if his nobility title has upgraded.
Jason Hatter
And the difference between the two in this setting is negligible.
M💬
The ring meaning seal bearers qualified for entry makes sense..
M💬
I thought I was the only one who fought for Ilvere, personally I don’t think he needs a seal he can be a second class elite but still stronger than elite of other factions. I just hoped he gets to at least peak C grade and be a super strong veteran in the empire. ……. I think the martial clan will be like the peak family or maybe an imperial family of the Atwood empire Thea has a special bloodline we never got much about and Billy’ s faction no clue but I expect him to come back.
NiceTryMate
If you truly describe something that is rigid and unquestionable, then the usage is neutral. If used in a debate (especially scientifically adjacent), then it is most often negative. Since “doctrine” is used in the next sentence of the chapter, and the military laws are ironclad, dogma is fine.
Jeff McCulley
Only ones I see are Galau, Ra’Klid and Rhuger, who are all probably second tier. Not sure what’s going on with Thea. Or Billy. And, Emily hasn’t been tutored by a Supremacy…yet. ;) That said, her fate might be closest tied to Zac’s, in some ways more than Ogras.
Jeff McCulley
Likelihood or Ease of Completions *Updating items with the added chapters. They did not change the order. So, in expected order, and of likelihood, down to “hardest” as I see ‘em.: Easy Peasy: 1. Mercurial Court He and Esmerelda are sitting right at the doorway, with his human half three months off. This appears where we’re about to start—and serves as Zac’s training wheels. He should also encounter Janos here—perhaps as well as whomever is his second sealbearer for the Court. *As of Ch.1,333, Janos seems to be doing the Mercurial Court quite well on his own. And when he and Zac meet, his understanding of what the memory realms are will be of huge assistance. 2. Hollow Court Presumably second in line, though we may see some external action prior (Hi Iz!). As the Sangha are at least in part converging on the Daedalian Court, so will Undead forces be converging on the Hollow Court. Including Reavers and disloyal Draugr from the Kavriel Province. Whatever seal Tavza has, I’d expect her to head here as well. Of course, one question is whether the ghosts and vampires got a foot in the door. I’ll be curious as to whether Catheya bails on her own Court as well. Oh, and Zac, Ogras and Ventus may pick up Carl’s wife Lissa as well. 3. Indomitable Court Yeah, about that. With what we’ve just learned, Joanna’s connection to Indra Eyler should open most or all doors. Remember, Joanna wasn’t fiddling around with memory lanterns. She could also have the assistance of Kruta as well, which is not insignificant. My only question would be whether Indra Eyler sends Joanna to collect Zac, because she wants to meet him. *as of Christa. 1,334…yeah, there was a reason this one was third. Go Joanna! 4. Farsee Court In theory, this is the weakest of the opportunities, with Ibtep and Jaol the official Plainswalkers. However, the Janitor has decided to bat cleanup—and he’ll be working in tandem with Iz Tayn. I’ll note that as powerful as Kaltosa Lu apparently is, he only survived Iz because of his ship. Oh, also given what we’ve just learned, it wouldn’t surprise me if Carl and Iz find Ibtep waiting for them at the Court—simply because he offered the right Limitless personage a tasty grub. *Do Ibtep and Jaol actually team up, as Joanna and Kruta managed to? 5. Anima Court Theoretically, this is Zac’s third priority. That said, Vilari is arguably his most powerful follower, and at last look, she’s practically toying with her series of trials. Then there is Thea as a backup. The two may not be officially allied at the moment, but they seem very unlkely to work in opposition. Lastly, there is Inda, the Endemire Sage’s granddaughter. Doubtless informed of the Atwood Empire by her gramps, she’ll more likely be an ally than not. Assuming there’s no serious trouble, I’d expect D-Zac and Esmerelda to run into Vilari on their way to the Anima Court. Or maybe freeing all three is the plot twist? 6. Radiant Court Carl Elrod confidently left this Court in Emily’s hands. Emily is smart, capable and adaptable. And that still doesn’t mean that Zac won’t have to head there sometime after the Hollow Court. Still…I like Emily. *Chapter 1,333 suggests she’s in really good position. Really, really good! Not Easy Territory (3) 7. Starfall Court This is where it at least looks like there start to be some problems…because Rhuger has decided to sit this one out. Which, if it holds true, leaves everything in Ra’Klid’s hands. And despite being smart, clever and very durable, he’s not one of Zac’s powerhouses. This one seems like it would work much better with Rhuger and Ra’Klid working in tandem. The only redeeming factor? We were just told that another one of the Empyrean Order’s reps was headed for the Starfall Court. So…maybe they’ll stop in the memory domain Rhuger is in? Or, someone similar will point him on the way? The only advantage I see is, I suspect it’ll help that the two were already at the Centurion Base. 8. Tethered Court On the surface, this one is so very screwed. Rhubat has been captured by Wrani, the Holy Daughter. And not just because his seeming only backup is Bubbur, who looks like a pure meathead. And yet both are Chainbreakers. It was intriguing to me that the Holy Daughter was so confident about killing the Primordial. It would hardly be a surprise to see her on the belly. Either Rhubat does an immense feat of chain breaking.. or Zac will need to help out here. 9. Daedalian Court This is indubitably the Court that is the *most* screwed, already infested by Sangha seeking their own opportunity—the Bridge of Karma, iirc. Galau is Zac’s main sealbearer here, and we don’t know the second. Catheya, whichever direction she went, is a Threadwinder on the Draugr team. Ventus, as far as we know, is part of the Radiant Temple’s cycle—and is currently with H-Zac. All that kinda guarantees to me that Zac will wind up at the Daedalian Court. Besides, how else would he snag another Bridge?
Jeff McCulley
Zac and Completing the Courts I thought I’d try to sort out how this all fits together. “His human half was closest to the Radiant, Indomitable, and Hollow Courts. Meanwhile, Esmeralda's pursuit had led closer to the Mercurial and Anima courts, of which one was noticeably closer.” If Zac was outside a circle, I assumed that the three his human self could see were in order, with the Indomitabke the closest, and in the middle. That’s how he ran into Joanna—then he veered off to the right, for the Hollow Court. Zac’s Priorities “He was targeting two Outer Courts, three if he had time to head to the Anima Courts after helping Esmeralda.” I’ll also note that various opportunities, including memory lanterns, may have (or did) drop Sealbearers closer than where either of Zac’s personas landed (see the Sangha and the Daedalian Court), so he and Esmerelda may not necessarily have the huge lead that they think. Two more notes…Zac blithely assumes that his weaker Sealbearers will simply find a safe spot and collect some low level opportunities out near their starting point. Yeah, not sure how accurate that’s going to be. Aside from maybe Jaol—who just might find a cave to hide in. However, that’s basically what Rhuger did. Lastly, I’ll note that while H-Zac has mentioned that he could teleport himself and party to D-Zac using the Fuxi Gate (with no return ticket), that also applies in reverse. All he has to do is send the Fuxi Gate through his Quantum Gate to D-Zac, then send whomever he’s collected through in reverse. Thus in theory, D-Zac, Esmerelda, and Vilari, plus whomever, could join H-Zac and Co at a tougher Court. Or…could he just shuttle people back and forth between his two bodies? Then there is this addition, from 1,334: “The Mercurial Court’s pillar was much closer than yesterday and two rings had appeared around it. It was just like the other ones who’d suddenly changed over the past weeks.” The other pillars in view? So, the Anima, and…? And from Joanna: “as a bloody halo was born around the Indomitable Court’s “ Okay. Now we get to guess what the rings mean. Sealbearers who have qualified for entry? Now then, looking at the Individual Courts:
Jeff McCulley
Sure. And that negative connotation is the real problem, because Joanna isn’t remotely being negative on that topic.
Jeff McCulley
Good question! I think that this arc will have a great deal to say about what the Atwood Empire’s power structure will look like. It’s make-or-break for most of his elites right now. I’d also like to find out that Ilvere got a seal, and is here. He needs the boost. Zac’s fate is drawing most of the others along. I’d also add Carl to your list. As Iz noted, he’s in an interesting place right now. My only question would be, in 200 years, who’s still home to run things, and who’s out exploring opportunities?
M💬
I think Ogras will always be number 2 after Zac, in the past I would have said it’s Villari then Emily and Joana but now with Joana’s fast rising she and Villari are tied. Also Emily is the only one to not have a supremacy teach her in any kind of way.. but if I had to make a full list of Ogras Emily Villari Joana Rhubart Janos Carl I think I’m forgetting someone
Jeff McCulley
Cult? No. Templar order? Sure.
John
Since this is a followers POV chapter I think it’s a nice time to ask yall what you think. In 50 years from now, 100, 200 years, what will the power hierarchy look like among Zac’s top generals? I’ve always pegged Ogras, Emily, Joanna and Vilari as the crème. I want to put Emily above the two other ladies with them tying with each other but after her, but I’m not sure now. Vilari has some amazing potential, and Emily is Zac’s direct disciple but Joanna stocks are rising. After those 4, which might be an obvious mix for lots of people who are the next top generals?
John
I like to think that after Rhubat deals with his shit in the LIP his conviction towards the Atwood empire will be at an all time high as well. His scene during the council meeting where he kills Kators subordinate just screams Inquisitor to me. The Zhix and Joanna both are going on a hunt imo
NiceTryMate
One well-known instance of this use of dogma comes from Colonel John Boyd, a U.S. Air Force strategist, who criticized traditional military thinking as being too dogmatic. He argued that many military doctrines had become static "dogma" rather than adaptive strategies, particularly in the context of maneuver warfare. He states that the strategies are ““Doctrine on day one, dogma on day two”. In the chapter, Joanna states that there are lines “which never can be crossed”. That conforms with the definition of dogma. Doctrine is more a set of guidelines.
Evan Therrien
It’s chapter 59 in book 14. Believe it’s the first time we see her faith based spear avatar
SandreX
Who wants to bet, that after Zac's trip to eternal storm and possibly to abyssal shore he will come back to see imperial cult headed by Joana in his own empire. Emperor protects!!!
Borbino the great
What chapter is that? I wanna re read that now
Jeff McCulley
The reference has to do in part with the Monarchs and etc who saw the puppets coming in Zurbor, and paid to be ported to Zecia. And the remnant armies there. What Joanna is saying is that Zecia isn’t even bothering to clean up the easy stuff nearby. I’m assuming that the puppets have cleared out all of the Kan’Tany Chaoter House Warforts, and are working their way down. Which is also creating remnants and “Kan’Tanu refugees” in Zurbor. All of which also would be opportunity for Zecia. What she’s not stopping to think about is that it’s going to prove to be opportunities instead for the Atwood Empire. Remember, they’re gobbling up interested factions now.
Jeff McCulley
I have been rereading, and catching occasional old references that Joanna is the one of Zac’s followers who is focused enough on the Dao to reach great heights. Lol. Maybe that’s kind of changed for some folks, but not for Joanna!
Jeff McCulley
I’m not sure that the old factions in Zecia will still be relevant—or maybe even exist—after the war and the end of the Event. Especially if the LIP rises in the Sector. But then, as occasionally mentioned, maybe this event is simply the first stage. In any case, pretty sure that the Atwood Empire is going to be in a really, really good position.
Jeff McCulley
I am usually pretty good with words, but I was drawing g a blank for the right one here. It certainly isn’t “dogma”, when intended in a positive context. I thought, “a military historian would never use that term”. Then, “Duh”. So I went and asked a military historian and author I’m acquainted with. We’ll see if he gets back to me.
Jeff McCulley
My only real question was whether, once she left that Trial, the System converted that spearpoint into something usable by her—which would be upgradable as she advanced. Given how the POV ended—and the fact that Joanna isn’t the MC, we don’t know for sure. The odds are that you are correct, but TFD lines his little surprised. Perhaps we’ll see when the two talk—assuming we get that POV, and it’s not just offered as a fait accompli.
Iron Knight
From the bottom now we are here! I love the growth
Tserenchimeg Khasgerel
As an dudette, I also had a goosebump! What an amazing character Joanna has turned into!
Palmer Evans
Just reread this chapter and then went back to the chapter when Joanna busts through the barrier on Ensolus to save Zac from Rava in an attempt to sacrifice herself for him to have a chance at escape. Joanna needs so much more screentime and her getting Indra Ayler’s official blessing and teachings will prob result in her being amongst the strongest in the multiverse for her grade. That combined with her being Zac’s right hand should give us more Joanna chapters 🙏🏼🙏🏼
Malcolm Gray
Joanna’s next chapter is gonna be peak
mrthorwahl
Joanna and Emily chapters! What a treat!
Siethrobo
This is probably my favorite chapter of Ultom so far. Love the contrast between Janos, being highly calculating and careful, and Joanna who just said "eff it, kill them".
zukerburg
She thinks its come to nothing but Zac unleashing the foreign gods undoubtedly amassed an absurd amount of war merit I wouldn't be surprised if the system will let him purchase an ancient realm or at the very least a middle c grade continent and allow him to hide it away in the eternal storm or something
SandreX
Empire never forgives
SandreX
Empire never forgets
Borbino the great
100% she’s going to lead the armies in confronting the cowards who didn’t fight for the sector
Borbino the great
I feel like I’m watching the thing and hulk run the fade rn the way two power houses are running this rn😂 love seeing the perspective of you two on this story and others! I appreciate the insight
Lex Luther S
They had a few side by side battles but never in a way like Ogras. Kinda impossible with janos skill set and path being entirely based on illusions. Ogras did mention those like kator always ignored the ones like janos. Thinking they're above any schemes they could pull and it was that very thought that allowed Ogras and janos to replace the bomb with a fake. Zac obviously isn't so dismissive of his followers, but even he's gonna be surprised by janos' capabilities to get so far with his limited strength. That unique mindset of his as well as his impressive illusionary capabilities will add some interesting plays and fights when aiding zac in the coming times.
Lex Luther S
That spear head was broken and tainted with ancient blood from a supremacy. No hegemon could use such a weapon. It may be in her soul apature waiting the day she's strong enough to claim it but even in a passive state, I imagine it'd have great benefits, like tempering her soul and own killing intent as well as in her masters avatar. As for “Fear of the cold, gleaming truth at the tip of Joanna’s spear, of the unbending conviction it represented.” It's symbolic and real. She had just killed 2 noble scions without batting an eye so everyone knew she meant well on her threats towards the nobles worthless play of politics.
Jonas Lemke
I think Zac said that by only waking two puppets they would have enough power to last for 10 years, could be wrong but I hope that they start going after the true black heart cult after Zurbor
Owen Stevens
Actually, yes, it is even close. While it's true that "dogma" is often used when describing religious beliefs, the word itself has nothing to do with religion. It is just as often used for secular beliefs like in politics, for example. When you call someone dogmatic, you aren't necessarily commenting on religion. Rather you are making a comment on the intensity of their conviction. The word does not have a positive connotation, but I personally don't think it's overly offensive. It definitely works in this passage.
Michael Dugan
Oh, she is not known as the Emperors Spear for nothing and with Ogras as the Emperors Shadow they are going a hunting and the traitors of Zecia will scream.
Jeff McCulley
I had a bunch of observations, but I’ll just ask this. “Fear of the cold, gleaming truth at the tip of Joanna’s spear, of the unbending conviction it represented.” Is this the spearhead that she earned at the end of her trial, or was that only symbolic?
Jeff McCulley
Yeah, no, not even close. “Dogma” has to do with religion. I can’t think of a single military person who would (or ever has) referred to military history, values and tradition as dogma. F*** that. It’s actually offensive.
Palmer Evans
Zecia will prob roll over immediately if Zac obtains the Eternal Heritage. Would be nice to see Joanna getting justice for the Atwood Empire though
NiceTryMate
Dogma is best. Doctrine and creed are statements of teachings and beliefs, respectively. Dogma is “absolute truths”, and often authoritative
Jeff McCulley
Suggested Edits “Two noblemen, a brother and sister” >nables exposing the ring leaders >ringleaders “having tuned Aywin for” >tuned out Aywin “This smooth talker will walk out walk out of this mess looking like” >Double “walk out” “Mervin was a fool” >Marvin OR “Marvin had left behind” >Mervin? *Switches back and forth many times “something tangible now” >concrete blending with the >blending in with OR blending into the “achieved by a battalion” >achieved as a OR by a mere battalion “doing!” Aywin wheezed” >gasped, exclaimed, shouted, cried, whined *wheezed is way overused, and not appropriate here. Please. “Military dogma is written” >doctrine OR creed “Joanna felt hollow” >empty *Hollow also overused
Owen Stevens
Joanna really found an interesting path. I bet she's gonna go on a bloody crusade in Zecia after this is all done.
Alexis Cassaigne
POV is for Point Of View
Jamarr
POV stands for Point of View
DrSubterfuge
I was surprised when she didn't pick one at first, but yeah, who needs to don an identity for the Indomitable Court when the she is already the disciple of the Supremacy in charge of it. Sort of at least. Since it sounds like she's going to get tested more.
Borbino the great
It really is the best form of diplomacy
Borbino the great
Yeah she’s always been one of my favorite characters I love seeing her develop and grow into a powerhouse that can lead armies she really will do well as the emperors spear
Hartmann
Point of view
Joshua Little
Thanks for the chapter.
Destro
not familiar with all acronyms yet, what does POV stand for again? and joanna finally meet indra going to be interesting, an actual discipleship with benefits like zac and lord of cycles, cant wait to see what others are going to get
Tom C
Joanna got a heritage or something that makes her Indra Ayler’s disciple - who was / is a big shot spear weilder from endless empire, so cos she is disciple it carries weight in the memories I think…?
Iron Knight
“24TH BATALLION! WHAT IS THE PUNISHMENT?” Holy cow I was so into the chapter I felt that dude and dudettes .
Dev Rez
That's it. She wields Godking Eyler's techniques, so she is recognized as her disciple without an identity.
The Lost Pages
This chapter, Joanna especially, gave me chills reading it. Especially that avatar. Wow.
NiceTryMate
The puppets are going wild in the Zurbor sector indeed. The Kan’Tanu could be considered refugees. They are all using all their funds to amass huge field armies to invade and set a new home in Zecia. If Zecia had held the line for a few month/years more, there would not be a Kan’tanu issue
Omiso
I can't remember the last time Zac an Janos worked together. I mean sure they fought during the integration arc and during the imperial graveyard but did they fight side by side like he has with Ogras, Emily, Joanna and others? It'll be interesting to read.
Omiso
"Disorganized Kan’Tanu Cult refugees" I don't get this line are the puppets still going wild in the Zurbor Sector? Zac though they would run out of juice after destroying everything nearby, also what the hell are the powers of Zecia doing? the war is a System mandated event, whenever Zac got a main quest the System made very clear failing to fulfill it would have dire consequences where do they think they are going? The Ruthless Heavens got that name for a reason. Now I'm a bit worried, hopefully someone will get an update of the state of the Atwood Empire
Omiso
Huzzah for Joanna also why isn't she using an identity? I guess being the disciple of the Spear of the Emperor is more than good enough.
Andrew
Thank you!
Alexander Dupree
That… I’m shaking… fuuuuuuuuuucccckkkkkkk that was amazing
Darryl Williams
Joanna is my favorite of Zacs cadre. After Ogras of course. Always good to see her done some justice
Jeff McCulley
Now THAT’S what I’m talkin’ about!!! Go Jo! ***and Janos actually understands what these memory domains are!
Gaige Bradley
Dude that last part was so sick.
Palmer Evans
Joanna is the most sleeper POV in the series. Her chapters almost always pop off
Chewbacchus
Yep, splosions and death for all enemies of the empire!
Chewbacchus
Yeah, interesting to see him trying to make his illusion he was trapped in real
Marcus Billups
Ending the week with a banger!
Dextora
I’m loving these chapters. Seeing the perspective of Zac’s subordinates is what I’ve been hoping for. Wonder if Kruta will get his own chapter as well, his flames of war seem cool.
Tyler S.
Lovely, almost time for master disciple to meet. With Kruta being along for the ride lol. Hope Janos can catch up, cant wait to see where his path leads
Lizy Flore
I love that we’re going to call it that now
Lizy Flore
If only you could do that in the real world too
Lizy Flore
It’s always a delight to read Joa 😍 Furthermore, I can’t be the only one who thinks that whatever is happening between Godking Inkarr (?) and her is linked to Zac’s role in this whole trial.
Chewbacchus
Edit suggest: 'tuned Aywin 《out》 for the past'
MacMahon Wenzl
Taking out the trash can definitely solve some problems.
Lex Luther S
Holy shit what a chapter. Janos is actually pretty close to the Mercurial Court and I have a feeling he'll be of help to zac and his little teacher lol. Now, Joanna and kruta. Truly an interesting combo. And Joanna learning of their sacrifice coming to almost nothing is truly saddening. Thankfully she helped in this memory domain. The biggest W is her getting a message from her master and I CANT WAIT. I can't wait for Joanna to show her why she is not only qualified to become the next spear of the emperor but also why zac is more than worthy of her loyalty. I truly find these memory domains and their interconnected nature fascinating. She would most certainly have knowledge of what the courts and their nature is as well as why the faith must be rekindled and I imagine learning she has an inheritor is a nice surprise. Even better is that, after proving herself, Joanna will be in for the biggest evolution of fate imaginable. Maybe putting her on the lvl of those like kator. FUCK IT, lets have a full on JOANNA ARC. And kruta can tag along, lol.
Samuel Lévesque
Joanna best character <3
Shup Idot
Very cool POV.
Esch
Man I love Joana so much. Noone - not even Emily - have embraced Atwood Diplomacy like her.
slicktracy
Name changed from Mervin -> Marvin
Tibstrike
A week of banger chapters TFD. Well done
Chewbacchus
Small typo: 'was stuck hal[l]->《f》way inside'
The Lost Pages
First
