Kunyuan Academy's main campus was divided into two sections.
One section was located in the Kunyuan Commandery of Daoyuan Continent. A full third of the commandery's land belonged to Kunyuan Academy, while the remaining two-thirds were comprised of the academy's subordinate institutions, government-managed lands, and private estates.
Within the academy itself, there were one cave-heaven, two blessed lands, three spiritual mountains, and sixteen spiritual lakes.
The Kunyuan Cave-Heaven had only one entrance, located at the academy's headquarters.
The two blessed lands were Lingxu Blessed Land and Chongguang Blessed Land.
The three spiritual mountains ranked among the top ten across the nineteen provinces, while the spiritual lakes were all within the top hundred.
According to Meng Kun's explanation:
"There are only two blessed lands, three spiritual mountains, and sixteen spiritual lakes because the Kunyuan Commandery is only so large. It's not that we couldn't cultivate more; we simply ran out of space."
The Earth School's naming conventions were simple and straightforward. For instance, the number one spiritual mountain in the Great Zhou was simply named Ling Mountain, while the second was named Qing Mountain, and the fourth-ranked spiritual lake was called Green Water Lake. It wasn't until Emperor Wu's reign that these names were changed, as Emperor Wu enjoyed renaming mountains—Ling Mountain became Wuling Mountain under his decree.
At Kunyuan Academy's main campus, even a basic Canon Studies Professor position required a minimum rank of Fourth Grade.
But rules were made by people, and Meng Kun, as the Vice Dean, assigned Zhao Xing to the position of Transmission Master while also appointing him as the Supervisor of the Earth Repository Branch—effectively making him Meng Kun's assistant.
These two positions Zhao Xing now held did not require Fourth Grade official ranks according to the Great Zhou's regulations. However, as Meng Kun's assistant Supervisor, Zhao Xing received treatment equivalent to that of a Canon Studies Professor.
This arrangement allowed him to enjoy privileges such as access to top-tier techniques and entry into treasure zones for cultivation and enlightenment.
"The five major branches of Kunyuan Academy are: the Earth Repository Branch, Spirit Mountain Branch, Mysterious Earth Branch, Earth Palace Branch, and Kunyuan Branch," Meng Kun explained. "I, as Vice Dean, oversee the Earth Repository Branch and hold a position in Lingxu Blessed Land. Changqing is stationed at the Earth Palace Branch as a Five-Class Canon Studies Professor and also oversees a blessed land."
Zhao Xing listened attentively. Five-Class Canon Studies Professors were highly ranked among Canon Studies Professors. Gu Changqing's position at the Earth Palace Branch signified his high status, while Meng Kun, who controlled the Earth Repository Branch, was equally authoritative.
This meant Zhao Xing would face no obstacles in learning top-tier Earth Palace Techniques or Earth Repository Techniques, as these two individuals were the authorities in those domains.
"Both Changqing and I are quite busy," Meng Kun continued. "There's a great deal of work to be done in Lingxu Blessed Land. Your studies will primarily rely on your own efforts. At most, we can spare two or three days a month to guide you."
"My sincerest thanks to both of you. Chen'an is deeply grateful," Zhao Xing said, bowing respectfully.
The Earth School's work ethic was apparent—even those in high positions were constantly busy. During the reigns of Emperor Jing and Emperor Wu, the Earth School took on even greater responsibilities.
War demanded more than just conquest. Transforming newly acquired territories into fertile, sustainable lands required the expertise of the Earth School's Shennong. The Earth School's close ties with the Mechanist School also meant their Shennong often spearheaded the deployment of agricultural formations and mechanisms. Together, they shouldered nearly eighty percent of the workload.
The Military Shennong were particularly inclined toward war, and many, like Chen Shijie, were staunch supporters of the Earth School.
When Meng Kun and Gu Changqing claimed to be busy, it wasn't an excuse—they genuinely were swamped.
But Zhao Xing didn't mind. Learning Earth Palace Techniques and Earth Repository Techniques wasn't particularly dependent on having a teacher.
The nature of these techniques, being "sustained-type spells," made self-study feasible.
Take Earth Palace Techniques as an example. Once cast, they lingered for extended periods without dissipating.
The Seventy-Two Earth Palaces in the Ten Sun Cave-Heaven had always existed. Zhao Xing had been able to study them directly and dismantle their structures at his leisure.
Similarly, Gu Changqing's Earth-Origin Palace, set up within the Canghai Cave-Heaven, lasted for two months without dissipating, even when its creator wasn't present.
This was in stark contrast to Heavenly Timing Techniques, which completed in the blink of an eye, leaving little opportunity for observation or study.
Earth Repository and Earth Palace Techniques had extended durations, but Spirit Mountain Techniques lasted even longer.
The process of casting Spirit Mountain Techniques took the most time, as transforming a mountain into a spiritual mountain couldn't be achieved in mere days.
For instance, cultivating a Seventh-Rank Spiritual Mountain took a minimum of eight years to complete!
The process for higher-ranked mountains had no upper limit. The number one-ranked Ling Mountain in Kunyuan Academy, for instance, had been under cultivation for more than 37,000 years, yet it had still not surpassed the Ninth Rank.
Spirit Mountain Techniques bore some resemblance to the Self School's tree cultivation practices: passed down through generations, with the mountains enduring long after their caretakers passed.
On the other hand, techniques like Land-Splitting shared traits with Heavenly Timing Techniques. They were swift and destructive.
As for Mysterious Earth Techniques, their enigmatic nature made them the hardest to master. While renowned for their escape techniques, Mysterious Earth Techniques encompassed traits of the other four schools.
Many believed Mysterious Earth Techniques to be the culmination of the other four techniques, as several spells were derived from them. Combining these other techniques back into Mysterious Earth Techniques resulted in more powerful spells.
However, Mysterious Earth Techniques lacked an ultimate method, leaving their potential unproven.
"You'll be residing on Kun Mountain from now on. It's a mountain I've been cultivating," Meng Kun said as he led Zhao Xing to a thousand-meter-tall mountain. "It's currently 925 meters high."
Kun Mountain was dotted with palaces and courtyards built along its slopes. As they flew closer, Zhao Xing noticed the mountain exuding a faint, rhythmic glow, as though it were breathing.
"My teacher cultivated Kun Mountain for over 200 years before passing it on to me. At that time, it was 850 meters tall. Over the past fifty years, I've been nurturing it with mountain techniques and Earth Vein power. Yet, it still hasn't surpassed a thousand meters," Meng Kun said.
Zhao Xing was intrigued. This statement revealed several key points:
First, it confirmed that Meng Kun had reached the Second Rank Heavenly Luck Stage fifty years ago. Although his official position was Third Rank, his cultivation had already advanced beyond that. Only those at the Second Rank would dedicate effort to nurturing mountains.
Second, Meng Kun's proficiency with mountain techniques was evidently lacking. In fifty years, he had only increased Kun Mountain's height by 75 meters—a slow pace for a mountain of this size and level.
"Doesn't the Earth Repository Technique include spells for enhancing spiritual mountains? Why is the progress so slow?" Zhao Xing wondered.
He chose not to voice his thoughts, assuming Meng Kun might simply be unsuited to mountain cultivation.
Arriving at Kun Mountain, Zhao Xing chose a residence called Stone Screen Courtyard as his dwelling.
"Kunyuan Academy has a Secret Arts Tower, but if you're studying Earth Palace and Earth Repository Techniques, it's best to visit the Dao Field," Meng Kun advised.
In this context, the Dao Field referred to a place for enlightenment, not the Martial Realm's Dao Field.
"The Kunyuan Dao Field houses numerous Earth Palaces, though only fifty-two are top-tier Earth Palace Techniques."
"Earth Repository Techniques are primarily studied in the Spirit Mountain Region, as mountain and treasury techniques are closely linked."
Meng Kun handed Zhao Xing two rectangular black tokens. "Take my Dean Token if you're going to the Kunyuan Dao Field to study Earth Palace Techniques. For the Spirit Mountain Region and Earth Repository Techniques, use Gu Changqing's Five-Class Canon Studies Token."
"Keep a low profile when you're there. If there's a queue, wait your turn. Don't let others discover your background."
"Understood," Zhao Xing replied respectfully as he accepted the tokens. "I'll study Earth Palace Techniques at the Kunyuan Dao Field and Earth Repository Techniques in the Spirit Mountain Region. How long can I stay each time?"
Meng Kun smiled. "The Kunyuan Dao Field has no time limit, as you're using my Dean Token. In the Spirit Mountain Region, there's no restriction unless you're visiting one of the three main mountains. For those, you'll need to wait for an allocation. Typically, you'll get seven days a month for the three main mountains."
"Thank you, Dean," Zhao Xing said, understanding that these were the resources Kunyuan Academy had promised him.
As his avatar was the one present, consuming rare treasures would be wasteful. Naturally, the value was converted into access time for these cultivation sites.
Access to treasure zones for enlightenment was a resource in itself and even more precious than treasures. Many Fourth Grade officials desired this privilege, as it played a crucial role in promotions from mid-tier to high-tier ranks.
With the same merits and qualifications, an official who had mastered top-tier techniques would always be prioritized for advancement.
"Truly, the Earth School offers generous benefits," Zhao Xing remarked with heartfelt gratitude.
Meng Kun nodded with satisfaction. This was precisely the impression he wanted Zhao Xing to have. If Zhao Xing's main body eventually chose to focus on the Earth School's sacred lands, it would solidify their efforts.
"Our Earth School has plenty more to offer. This is just an appetizer," Meng Kun declared proudly. "You'll understand more in time."
Zhao Xing bowed with a smile. "Thank you, Dean Meng, for your guidance. Chen'an will never forget this kindness."
Meng Kun departed, leaving Zhao Xing to begin his task without delay. He immediately started reviewing and selecting the top-tier techniques.
"Among the top-tier Earth Palace Techniques, there are Hell Palace, Nether Flame Palace, Verdant Wood Palace, Shadow Spirit Palace, and Golden Sun Palace," Zhao Xing murmured. "However, only four of them lead to the ultimate level."
"These are Boundless Sea Palace, Mysterious Water Palace, Vast Void Palace, and Abyssal Void Palace."
"These four ultimate techniques all originate from the foundational Return to the Abyss Palace."
"My priority will be Boundless Sea Palace and Mysterious Water Palace," Zhao Xing decided as he delved into his memory palace in the dreamscape.
His reasoning was clear: "With Prince Liang's rebellion, the resulting chaos in Pinghai Province, the Eastern Sea, and the Southern Barbarians' counterattack will inevitably trigger massive disasters—chief among them, floods."
The rebellion of Prince Liang was an opportunity Zhao Xing could not afford to miss.
Beyond the obvious benefit of career advancement, there was the hidden boon of reputation.
"What better way to build fame than by achieving merit during the rebellion of Prince Liang?" he mused.
This was no ordinary event—it was a calamity that would shake not just the nineteen provinces but the Four Seas and Eight Desolations.
The fame earned from contributions during such a monumental crisis would be enduring, universal, and far-reaching.
"Take someone like Mi Fu as an example. Despite his many achievements, his reputation is limited to only a few commanderies in Guangling Province," Zhao Xing noted. "His 'prestige value' is tied to time and place. If Mi Fu were to come to Pinghai Province, hardly anyone would recognize him."
"I need to lay the groundwork for my future as the Grand Shennong. Achieving notable merit during Prince Liang's rebellion will become an ironclad part of my résumé."
"This rebellion won't just earn me renown in the military but also among the imperial court."
"In essence, it's an all-encompassing, universally applicable, and permanent credential."
Reputation, though intangible, often played a decisive role in critical moments.
In the context of Kunyuan Academy, if Zhao Xing and other candidates entered the Earth School's purview simultaneously—sharing similar titles, ranks, strengths, and backgrounds—the candidate with greater renown would inevitably stand out.
And Zhao Xing, aspiring to lead three schools, would face even more rigorous criteria.
"The Southern Barbarians aiding Prince Liang's rebellion, coupled with someone like Ji Mingxian leading the way, will surely target the Canglan River basin. A catastrophic flood is all but certain."
"If both the Eastern Sea forces and the Southern Barbarians act in concert..."
"Not even Li Boqian, the Grand Shennong of the Heaven School, could stabilize the situation immediately. While adept at managing other disasters, he lacks the strength to regulate water veins effectively."
"Only the assistance of Earth School experts could save the people from fire and flood."
"The ultimate techniques derived from the Return to the Abyss Palace, namely Boundless Sea Palace and Mysterious Water Palace, are among the best top-tier techniques for combating floods, especially in rivers and oceans."
"Even the water vein techniques of the Mysterious Earth School are no match for their sheer force and simplicity," Zhao Xing concluded.
Zhao Xing already knew an advanced and perfected Mysterious Earth technique, Mysterious Water Concealment, which fell under the water vein regulation category.
However, it was a methodical, gradual approach to adjusting water veins, designed for long-term moderation.
By contrast, Earth Palace Techniques gathered and stored water en masse.
The ultimate Earth Palace Technique, Return to the Abyss, was inspired by ancient myths.
Legends spoke of all the waters of the Four Seas flowing into a bottomless abyss known as the Return to the Abyss.
The ultimate move of the Return to the Abyss Palace Technique, Four Seas Return to the Abyss, was said to drain the waters of the Four Seas, transforming vast oceans into barren land.
Of course, this was just a legend. Even in the era of spiritual energy, the Return to the Abyss Palace could not literally drain the Four Seas.
Nonetheless, it was powerful enough to align perfectly with Zhao Xing's future plans.
"For top-tier Earth Repository Techniques, I'll choose Kunyuan Technique and Earth Spirit Repository Technique."
"To cultivate the ultimate Earth Repository Technique, Xuanhuang Earth-Sealing Technique, these are indispensable."
The Kunyuan Technique possessed extraordinary power to reshape and recreate the land, revitalizing barren soil and restoring damaged landscapes.
The Earth Spirit Repository Technique, on the other hand, harnessed the spirits of the earth veins to form protective barriers over specific areas. It also bore some connection to the ancient technique of sacrificial rituals.
The Earth Spirit Hidden Treasury could, under certain conditions, synchronize with the ancestral methods of the Earth God Path, significantly amplifying its power.
Of course, this synchronization didn't require consuming one's lifespan. The Earth God Path manifested during major catastrophes across the nineteen provinces, regardless of rituals.
If the earth veins were severely disrupted, even a rudimentary activation of this technique would summon the Earth God Path's manifestation.
This blessing stemmed from the cumulative sacrifices made to the Earth Gods by countless generations of fortunate dynasties.
"After disasters, the focus shifts to rebuilding. The Kunyuan Technique's abilities, such as Kunyuan Reconstruction and Everlasting Mountains and Rivers, are invaluable for restoring disaster-stricken regions."
"The Earth Spirit Repository Technique, meanwhile, is a large-scale defensive technique."
"In places like Pinghai Province and Luliang Province, where high-ranking cultivators frequently wreak havoc, reducing destruction through the Earth Spirit Hidden Treasury would make a significant difference."
"If I could obtain any one of the Four Earth Treasures, even at the Fourth Rank, I could easily protect an entire prefecture. Unfortunately, three of these treasures have been lost. The Great Zhou retains only the Earth Mirror of the Four Earth Treasures," Zhao Xing speculated.
"I'm certain the ancient Dragon Court ruins of this era hold one such treasure. As for the other two, it's unclear whether they remain in their original locations."
If Zhao Xing could recover the other three Earth School treasures, even Meng Kun would willingly lower himself.
Meng Kun might even act as a step stool for Zhao Xing to disembark from a flying boat, enthusiastically supporting him as the leader of the Earth School.
"Time, however, may be a pressing constraint," Zhao Xing mused.
Top-tier techniques of the Heaven School, such as the Xuantian Thunder Technique: Thunder Prison Chapter and Cloud Gate, required practice. Zhao Xing also wished to learn Li Boqian's three ultimate moves.
And now, there were four top-tier Earth School techniques demanding his focus.
The more he divided his attention, the slower his progress.
"Best case, I'll master them before the 33rd year of the Jingxin Era. Simply achieving proficiency will suffice—I won't aim for perfection," Zhao Xing resolved.
This lifetime's mid-tier great battles had been moved up by three years. Following this trend, Prince Liang would likely rebel in the 33rd year.
"That old scoundrel better wait an extra two years. If he could hold off until the 35th year, that'd be ideal. Should I push Old Liu to expedite matters? No, better not. It could backfire," Zhao Xing shook his head.
If Prince Liang were forced to rebel prematurely, Zhao Xing's current strength would be insufficient to make any meaningful impact.
Without mastering top-tier techniques, Zhao Xing dared not participate in such major events. His best course would be to steer clear entirely.
By mastering these techniques and combining them with his Myriad Law Manifestation and Derivation of the Divine Spirit, Zhao Xing would at least have the means to protect himself, minimizing risk.
"Seal!" Zhao Xing mentally locked away his plans in the memory palace, then opened his eyes.
In his daily routine, Zhao Xing would not actively recall future plans. Only when key moments or specific information triggered his memory would he consciously access his full blueprint. Otherwise, he relied on his dreamscape for long-term planning.
"First, let's start with Earth Palace Techniques!"
Wasting no time, Zhao Xing flew out of Stone Screen Courtyard and headed toward the Kunyuan Dao Field to begin studying Boundless Sea Palace and Mysterious Water Palace.
"Whichever one I can learn faster, I'll prioritize. Mastery comes first; improvement can wait."
In the 31st year of the Jingxin Era, on the 21st day of the second month, Zhao Xing began his study of the two Earth Palace techniques at the Kunyuan Dao Field.
At the same time, at the Tianyuan branch of the Xuantian Academy, he continued his study of the Heavenly Thunder Finger within the Xuantian Thunder Techniques.
Meanwhile, under the relentless guidance of King Tianyan, his main body focused on cultivating the Derivation of the Divine Spirit.
Zhao Xing was multitasking, juggling three different paths of cultivation, each distinct in nature and immensely challenging.
Due to this, the progress in comprehending the techniques of Heaven and Earth School slowed noticeably. Yet, his cultivation of the Derivation of the Divine Spirit advanced with incredible momentum.
This prioritization wasn't without reason. "The Fate Soul is the foundation of everything in cultivation," Zhao Xing muttered to himself. He would rather delay his progress in the arts of Heaven and Earth School than fail to devote sufficient energy to the Derivation of the Divine Spirit.
"If I don't master the Derivation of the Divine Spirit, I'll be in big trouble later!" Zhao Xing mused. Techniques could always be learned later, but this foundational method was irreplaceable.
By the 15th of May, Zhao Xing successfully cultivated his fifth Fate Star!
A thunderous boom resonated within his abdomen as the fifth Fate Star took form.
The light of his five stars shone brilliantly, illuminating the Sea of Consciousness, where his Fate Soul resided. Suddenly, Zhao Xing's Fate Soul split into five distinct entities.
Each fragment became smaller in size, but the presence of the Fate Stars ensured stability. None of the fragments exhibited discomfort or signs of weakening.
"This is extraordinary," Zhao Xing thought as he marveled at the sensation of division. "Five Fate Souls, capable of merging or separating, with their soul power still growing."
Zhao Xing continued to progress faster than any other, though he was unaware of this fact.
Taking advantage of his breakthrough, Zhao Xing requested leave from King Tianyan. This time, however, it wasn't for visiting family but for consuming his second Primordial Spirit Fruit.
Zhao Xing had obtained three Primordial Spirit Fruits during his time at the Grand Dream Academy.
One was given to Liu Tianning as an offering, while another was consumed intermittently over the past year, pushing his Fate Soul to the late stage of the Fourth Rank.
Through the cultivation of the Derivation of the Divine Spirit, he had perfected his Fate Soul while at the four-star stage, achieving a Fourth-Rank Perfection Fate Soul.
However, after breaking through to five stars and splitting his Fate Soul, each of the five fragments had dropped back to the mid-stage of the Fourth Rank.
The cultivation of the Derivation of the Divine Spirit allowed these five fragments to merge and separate at will. When merged, they collectively formed a Fourth-Rank Perfection Fate Soul. When split, they existed as five mid-stage Fourth Rank Fate Souls.
With the fifth Fate Star now established, Zhao Xing's consumption rate of the Primordial Spirit Fruit accelerated significantly.
By July 10th of the same year, Zhao Xing had completely absorbed the third Primordial Spirit Fruit.
"This ninth-rank Primordial Spirit Fruit has boosted three of my Fate Souls to the level of Fourth-Rank Perfection," Zhao Xing observed with satisfaction. "The remaining two are now at the late stage of the Fourth Rank."
"This fruit is truly remarkable!" he thought, marveling at its potency.
The effect was further amplified by the cultivation of the Derivation of the Divine Spirit, minimizing any waste.
Had he consumed the third fruit earlier, while still in the four-star stage, it would have merely increased the overall soul power of his Fourth-Rank Fate Soul. It might have strengthened his resilience and resistance to soul-based attacks but would not have allowed a breakthrough to the Third Rank.
At best, his Fourth-Rank Fate Soul would have become slightly superior to an average one.
But now, with the Derivation of the Divine Spirit, every ounce of the fruit's power was utilized without waste.
"Five Fate Souls… it's equivalent to having five lives," Zhao Xing mused, a glimmer of confidence in his eyes. "Even if I encounter soul-based attacks or secret techniques, one of my Fate Souls can act as a substitute for death. As long as one Fate Soul remains, I will never truly perish."
"My Fate Soul's core lies in the five Fate Stars. With recovery treasures like the Primordial Soul Liquid or the Primordial Spirit Fruit, I can resurrect myself!"
"This is the strength of ultimate soul techniques!"
On July 12th, Zhao Xing consumed ten bottles of Primordial Soul Liquid out of the thirty-six given to him by King Tianyan.
With this, the remaining two Fate Souls also reached the level of Fourth-Rank Perfection.
"Five stars have been achieved," Zhao Xing declared with pride.
From a distance, King Tianyan observed Zhao Xing's progress.
"His speed is still extraordinary. Compared to Liu Tianning, he has halved the time. He's ten days ahead of the historical record as well," King Tianyan remarked.
However, King Tianyan considered that this record couldn't be measured so rigidly. After all, Zhao Xing had been granted a half-month break. Forcing Zhao Xing to train without rest might have led to rebellion or a loss of motivation.
"Proper relaxation is necessary," King Tianyan consoled himself. "As long as he maintains his pace during the sixth and seventh stars, his overall time will remain ahead of the record."
The time spans for cultivating the sixth and seventh stars were longer than the previous stages.
For instance, Liu Tianning had spent six months advancing from the fourth to the fifth star, but a full year and five months to progress from the fifth to the sixth star.
Advancing from the sixth to the seventh star took him two years, one month, and four days.
In total, Liu Tianning spent five years mastering the first layer.
At Zhao Xing's current pace, he was progressing at over double the speed of Liu Tianning.
"It all depends on whether he can sustain this momentum. The sixth and seventh stars are the most difficult stages. To break the historical record for the first layer, he must complete it within two and a half years."
The historical record stood at two years, five months, and ten days. Thus far, Zhao Xing had consistently surpassed this benchmark.
With his Fate Soul achieving perfection across all five fragments, Zhao Xing's comprehension speed for techniques surged once more.
"The Cloud Gate Technique directly points to the ultimate. Your foundation in Cloud Devouring Techniques aligns perfectly with the path of ultimate cloud methods."
"Cloud methods are infinitely versatile. Cloud Devouring Techniques can manifest into weapon clouds, blood clouds, poison clouds, and thunder clouds… The ultimate method, Cloud Sky Dao, seeks to replace the very Way of Heaven with the Way of Clouds!" explained Simayi Yunhai, Zhao Xing's instructor.
Simayi Yunhai had taken over Zhao Xing's instruction, as Geng Shouchang's expertise lay in the relatively simpler Blood Weapon Cloud technique. Geng Shouchang had only cultivated it to the third transformation, rendering him incapable of teaching Zhao Xing the higher stages of the Cloud Gate Technique.
As a result, the responsibility fell to Simayi Yunhai.
"Teacher Simayi, could you slow down a bit? I didn't catch that," Zhao Xing requested, seated on a mass of clouds while observing the formation of a golden auspicious cloud ahead.
The golden Cloud Gate, radiating divine brilliance, seemed to contain the mysteries of all the Great Ways, drawing Zhao Xing's focus.
Simayi Yunhai chuckled and replied, "Of course. Let's go over it again."
"Thank you," Zhao Xing said, concentrating intently.
Simayi Yunhai patiently re-formed the golden Cloud Gate, ensuring each detail was crystal clear. The gate shimmered with an ethereal glow, as if it contained the mysteries of the heavens themselves, captivating Zhao Xing.
"Do you understand it now?" Simayi Yunhai asked with a gentle tone, his demeanor showing genuine interest.
"I'll give it a try," Zhao Xing replied as he stood up from the cloud surface.
"Good. Give it your best shot. Don't worry about failure; take your time," Simayi Yunhai encouraged, his expression warm and fatherly.
Time flowed steadily, and before anyone realized it, the calendar turned to the end of August in the 31st year of the Jingxin Era.
By this time, Zhao Xing had finally mastered the Cloud Gate Technique, a feat accomplished first by his original body.
When September arrived, more good news came. His original body had elevated the Xuantian Prison Thunder Technique to the Third Transformation. Even his avatars could now perform the Heavenly Thunder Finger, albeit with difficulty.
"Such extraordinary talent," Geng Shouchang remarked, watching Zhao Xing's avatar execute the technique. The admiration in his tone was evident.
The difference between an avatar casting a technique and the original body doing so was vast. It was a well-known fact that the Myriad Law Manifestation Technique theoretically allowed for an unlimited number of avatars. Zhao Xing, at his current stage, could create a hundred avatars.
For one of these avatars to wield the Heavenly Thunder Finger, even if it was the strongest among them and could only manage a single strike, was remarkable.
"Now, the only challenge is refining the Myriad Law Manifestation Technique further. If the limitations of essence, qi capacity, and materials can be addressed, it will eventually be possible for all one hundred avatars to cast the Heavenly Thunder Finger simultaneously," Geng Shouchang said, astonished by the implications.
Such a concept was staggering: a top-tier technique, which was the standard for Third-Rank cultivators, being wielded by a hundred avatars. Who could withstand the combined might of one hundred simultaneous Heavenly Thunder Fingers?
"No wonder Pang Xiangyun lost to him," Geng Shouchang murmured as he pondered the situation. "And lost so thoroughly, even abandoning his beliefs afterward."
With Zhao Xing's unparalleled progress, one could only imagine how terrifying Liu Tianning, who had long since refined his ultimate dharma body, must be now.
By December of the same year, Zhao Xing had cultivated the Cloud Gate Technique to the Third Transformation. His specially crafted avatar in the Tianyuan Branch could now also perform the technique.
However, Zhao Xing deliberately refrained from showcasing this achievement. He had discerned Simayi Yunhai's intentions—if he demonstrated mastery, Simayi's passionate teaching would likely diminish, replaced by endless attempts to indoctrinate him into the Heavenly Timing Division.
Thus, Zhao Xing continued to ask for advice and training while letting Simayi Yunhai's words of persuasion flow in one ear and out the other.
Simayi Yunhai, for his part, wasn't in a rush. Cloud techniques, after all, were inherently more complex than thunder techniques.
In Simayi's eyes, Zhao Xing's progress in just over a year was already extraordinary. If he hadn't succeeded yet, it was merely expected. Anything else would have been abnormal.
Meanwhile, good news also arrived from Zhao Xing's avatar in Kunyuan Academy.
On December 15th, within the Original Dao Field, Zhao Xing's avatar achieved a major breakthrough.
"The Boundless Sea Earth Palace... this is the Boundless Sea Earth Palace," Zhao Xing murmured, a faint smile spreading across his face.
From April to December, after months of concentrated effort, he had finally comprehended this top-tier technique.
His original body had cultivated it to the Third Transformation, while his avatar had reached the First Transformation.
"Time to test it out!"
Zhao Xing's avatar traveled ten miles away from Kun Mountain, arriving at an artificial lake.
"Boundless Sea Earth Palace!" he declared, extending his hand.
A deep hum resonated in the air.
Beneath the artificial lake, a brilliant azure Earth Palace began to manifest. Within three breaths, all the water in the lake had vanished, drawn deep underground into the Earth Palace.
"This artificial lake spans a thousand square kilometers with a depth of two hundred meters. Its capacity is already immense, yet it's nothing before a top-tier technique. The Boundless Sea Earth Palace could accommodate at least a hundred times this volume," Zhao Xing analyzed, observing the now-dry lakebed.
He began assessing the potential applications of the technique.
"If faced with flooding, there are two main approaches. The first is to leave the Earth Palace stationary, containing the floodwaters until the disaster is resolved, then gradually releasing the stored water for redistribution."
"The second is an emergency response. If the flooding is too severe, the Earth Palace can be sunk into the deeper earth veins, redirecting the water into the fire veins below."
Zhao Xing paused, pondering the consequences. "However, the second approach would disrupt the local soil composition, rendering it cold and damp. During winter, large areas of permafrost would likely form, as the balance of the Five Elements would be broken. It would require significant time to restore equilibrium."
He summarized his thoughts aloud: "The choice depends on the situation. Human lives take precedence. If civilians are at risk and the flooding is overwhelming, sacrificing the environment is unavoidable. But if it's a manageable flood with adequate personnel, the water can be redirected to suitable storage locations."
Satisfied with his conclusions, Zhao Xing decided to test the technique's restorative capabilities.
"Release!" he commanded, raising both hands.
In an instant, water surged back into the artificial lake, filling it to its original level.
"Not a drop more, not a drop less," Zhao Xing noted, sensing the stability of the earth veins. "And no damage to the underlying structure."
Mastery of the Boundless Sea Earth Palace granted Zhao Xing unparalleled control over water disasters. For him, ordinary floods were now trivial matters.
"If all one hundred avatars were deployed and used the emergency response method, sinking the Earth Palace into the deeper layers... no flood could breach the defenses of the city behind me," he thought confidently.
This realization marked a new chapter in Zhao Xing's mastery of both technique and strategy, positioning him as a formidable force against natural disasters and enemies alike.
On December 29th, Meng Kun returned to Kun Mountain to inquire about Zhao Xing's cultivation progress.
"Dean, I've already mastered the Boundless Sea Earth Palace Technique," Zhao Xing replied truthfully.
"Hm? Was it your avatar that mastered it, or your original body?" Meng Kun asked expectantly.
"My original body has achieved the Third Transformation, while my avatar has reached the First Transformation," Zhao Xing explained.
"So quickly?" Meng Kun was visibly astonished. Zhao Xing hadn't been practicing this technique for very long. From the time Zhao Xing entered Kunyuan Academy until now, it had been only ten months at most.
Mastering a top-tier technique within ten months, and even advancing to the Third Transformation? This was unprecedented.
Seeing Meng Kun's shocked expression, Zhao Xing understood that his speed must have been remarkable. In truth, his rapid progress was largely due to the fact that at the beginning of December, his Divine Derivation Technique had reached the Six-Star Level. With the enhancement of his life soul, his avatars naturally experienced accelerated comprehension of the technique.
"Don't tell anyone about this, lest you attract envy," Meng Kun advised seriously.
Being excessively talented could sometimes be more of a burden than a blessing. Meng Kun didn't want to see Zhao Xing drawing unnecessary attention or hostility too early. After all, Zhao Xing officially only held a Fifth-Rank title. Mastering a top-tier technique and reaching the Third Transformation would undoubtedly cause a sensation if the news spread.
"Thank you for the reminder, Dean. I'll keep it in mind," Zhao Xing said with a nod.
He understood that mastering a top-tier technique in less than a year was far too astonishing. Keeping this low-key would save him unnecessary trouble.
Despite Zhao Xing's efforts to avoid trouble, trouble still found its way to him.
On February 20th of the 32nd year of the Jingxin Era, Zhao Xing was intercepted outside the Secret Technique Tower of the Tianyuan Academy branch.
"You're the Ritual Studies Doctor, Zhao Xing, aren't you?" a man dressed in a Phoenix Feather Robe, wearing a High Sun Crown, and holding a book asked sharply. His tone was anything but friendly.
Zhao Xing didn't recognize this man, but from his attire and presence, he could tell that the man was a Fourth-Rank official. Without responding, Zhao Xing pretended not to hear and continued walking away.
"Stop right there!" The flamboyantly dressed man materialized in front of Zhao Xing on a cloud. "My name is Zhou Yun, also a Ritual Studies Doctor. I'm curious—whose backdoor did you sneak through to receive such privileges?"
Zhou Yun's words dripped with sarcasm. "You only have to give one lecture a month, yet you enjoy five full days of access to the Secret Technique Tower?"
Zhao Xing ignored him entirely, quickening his pace and leaving without a word.
Zhou Yun, frustrated at being ignored, shouted after him, "You can run for now, but you won't be able to avoid this forever!"
As expected, rumors began spreading within days. The whispers gained momentum and soon became widespread.
The focus of the rumors was Zhao Xing's appointment as a Ritual Studies Doctor. Critics pointed out that he was:
Merely a Fifth-Rank official.
Lacking notable achievements in technique or theory.
Without substantial contributions to the Tianyuan Academy branch.
Furthermore, his teaching responsibilities were light, yet he monopolized five days of access to the Secret Technique Tower every month.
With Zhou Yun's protests fueling the fire, the matter escalated quickly.
By the seventh day, the rumors reached a boiling point:
Zhao Xing was revealed to be a disciple of Liu Tianning and a practitioner of the Myriad Law Manifestation Technique.
It was uncovered that his original body served as the Temple Manager of a Shrine of Community Gods in Chongming Prefecture, while the one attending the academy was merely an avatar.
These revelations sent shockwaves through the academy.
From Eighth-Rank officials to Fourth-Rank officials, a mob of people gathered, enraged, outside Zhao Xing's Mirror Lake Courtyard, demanding answers.
"Zhao Xing! Come out, you traitor!" someone shouted.
"Shameless! A follower of the Self School studying our Heaven School techniques?"
"How infuriating! He's clearly here to pad his résumé. Who would approve such a ridiculous request?"
"How dare he deceive everyone and hold the title of Ritual Studies Doctor for an entire year? It's an insult to the title!"
"If an avatar can hold this position, what value does the title have left?"
"Come out! Get out here now!"
"I challenge you to a Dao Debate!"
"You heretic, traitor! Get out here!"
The mob was practically foaming at the mouth, a mix of Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth-Rank officials, along with a horde of lower-ranked ones, surrounding the Mirror Lake Courtyard as though ready to tear Zhao Xing apart.
But Zhao Xing wasn't even there.
Anticipating trouble, Zhao Xing had already sought refuge with Geng Shouchang and Simayi Yunhai.
Geng Shouchang said, "Originally, we planned to transfer you to the Main Academy at the beginning of the year. Unfortunately, plans have changed, and…"
Geng Shouchang trailed off, leaving Zhao Xing to fill in the blanks.
Zhao Xing understood immediately. The delay was likely connected to his growing notoriety.
Geng Shouchang continued, "Your appointment as Ritual Studies Doctor was backed by the three of us, and Lu Chunhua approved the resources allocated to you. However, the agreement at the time was for only two to four months."
"It's now been over a year. Although we've been discreet in managing this, it was only a matter of time before someone noticed," Geng Shouchang explained.
Zhao Xing nodded. Adding someone unexpectedly to an already competitive environment, especially someone who appeared undeserving, was bound to cause friction. Frankly, it was a testament to the trio's skill that this backlash had been delayed until now.
Simayi Yunhai interjected, "There's a simple solution to all of this: Zhao Xing, declare publicly that you've accepted me as your sole master. If you do that, all these rumors will disappear."
This had clearly been Simayi's goal all along—he had been eager to officially claim Zhao Xing as his disciple. However, Zhao Xing remained silent, looking instead to Geng Shouchang.
"The issue is manageable," Geng Shouchang said. "Since your appointment was officially approved, we can simply have Lu Chunhua release the details of the nomination process."
While the process was aboveboard, it was inevitable that people would grumble behind their backs.
Moreover, while official procedures were sound, public opinion was another matter. The crux of the controversy lay in Zhao Xing using an avatar to serve as a Ritual Studies Doctor, a matter deeply entwined with sect rivalry.
Even if the formalities held up, there would still be many who would make trouble, pressuring Zhao Xing to leave.
"People will continue to hound you, insult you, and challenge you to Dao Debates until you're forced to leave of your own accord," Simayi Yunhai said. "Zhao Xing, you should just take my advice…"
"Professors, if I simply ignore all of this and let the storm blow over, will the issue gradually subside?" Zhao Xing asked.
"Unlikely. You'd have to endure constant pressure while trying to cultivate," Simayi Yunhai replied with a shake of his head.
"What if I transfer to the Main Academy?" Geng Shouchang suggested.
"If Tianyuan Academy is like this, then what about the Main Academy?" Simayi Yunhai scoffed. "There, not only would you face even fiercer backlash, but even we would be drawn into Dao Clashes."
"I can withstand the pressure," Zhao Xing said calmly. "I don't mind enduring ridicule for a couple of years."
"Are you sure you can keep your composure?" Geng Shouchang asked. Given Zhao Xing's current capabilities—even his avatars could now perform top-tier techniques—it was hard to believe he wouldn't retaliate.
"I can," Zhao Xing affirmed. Fighting would only escalate the situation, making him an even larger target. No amount of victories would change the fundamental opposition.
At that moment, a cloud of mist billowed at the entrance. From it emerged two figures.
Recognizing them, Geng Shouchang and Simayi Yunhai immediately stood. "Greetings, Grand Shennong!"
"Greetings, Grand Shennong!"
Zhao Xing rose as well to pay his respects.
The visitors were Li Boqian and Lu Chunhua.
Li Boqian glanced at Simayi Yunhai with a faint smirk. "Some people understand what's at stake better than you do."
Turning to Lu Chunhua, Li Boqian continued, "Spring has been too noisy recently, disrupting my games of chess. What do you suggest we do about this?"
"Leave it to me, teacher," Lu Chunhua replied respectfully. "I'll handle it."
"Good. Take these two nominators with you to the Mirror Lake Courtyard," Li Boqian instructed.
Lu Chunhua nodded and departed with Geng Shouchang and Simayi Yunhai.
Li Boqian smiled at Zhao Xing. "So, how are you holding up?" he asked casually, though his tone carried a weight that demanded a thoughtful response.
Zhao Xing understood the real question. How was he dealing with the insults, unreasonable accusations, and the barrage of challenges like the Dao Debates?
"Breaking a thief in the mountains is easy; breaking the thief in the heart is hard," Zhao Xing replied calmly. "Even if I defeat one challenger, countless others will take their place. Their deeply rooted beliefs won't be swayed by mere force."
"Well said," Li Boqian praised, his approval evident in his eyes. "Unifying the three sects is destined to be a challenging path. It won't be something easily achieved."
"The trouble you're facing now is only a small fraction of what lies ahead. At this level, Geng Shouchang and Lu Chunhua can effortlessly resolve these issues without my intervention. But in the future, the resistance you'll encounter will be far more formidable."
"If people of Geng and Lu's rank oppose you one day, even I may find it difficult to mediate."
Li Boqian's expression turned serious as he continued, "In the days ahead, you'll face more opposition, insults, and attacks. These are inevitable challenges along your chosen path. When the time comes that you feel overwhelmed, I hope you'll remember what you said today."
"No matter if it's the Heaven School, Earth School or the Self School, their techniques should never be used for internal strife. Their purpose lies in benefiting the people and serving the nation."
"I will remember," Zhao Xing said, bowing slightly.
At Tianyuan Academy, Lu Chunhua promptly stepped in to quell the unrest.
However, as predicted earlier, the issue was not about official procedures but rather the ongoing factional disputes.
While the combined efforts of Lu Chunhua, Geng Shouchang, and Simayi Yunhai ensured that Zhao Xing's position as a Ritual Studies Doctor adhered to regulations, they couldn't entirely resolve the factional rifts.
Even after the announcement, Zhao Xing continued to face scorn daily. Some threw stones into the Mirror Lake Courtyard, while others sought him out to initiate Dao Debates.
By January of the 32nd year of the Jingxin Era, over two thousand challengers—mostly fourth-rank officials, with some traveling from other branch academies—had come looking for him.
In February, the numbers declined slightly due to the Spring Festival, but still, four to five hundred individuals persisted in pestering Zhao Xing daily.
In March, the numbers climbed back to a thousand. By April, they had reached fifteen hundred.
By May, the numbers began to dwindle as Zhao Xing ignored every challenge and did not engage. Those who hurled insults grew tired, and those who blocked his path also eventually gave up.
Only a small number remained persistent.
These individuals were vested interests whose benefits Zhao Xing had directly impacted.
Zhao Xing paid them no mind but silently made mental notes of the troublemakers.
"Zhou Cheng, Yang Bai, Zhong Haiming, Wu Chen, Cui You…"
In his Memory Palace, Zhao Xing jotted down the names of more than a dozen individuals.
"Hmph, these loudest agitators include several loyalists to King Liang. When the time comes for them to rebel, I'll be the first to crush them!"
Zhao Xing, the same man who held power in Pinghai Prefecture, was not without his own network. A simple investigation revealed the true affiliations of these individuals, some of whom were destined to become future rebels.
"Let them be for now. Once I master my skills, I'll deal with them all at once!"
Coincidentally, Zhao Xing encountered similar resistance in the Ling Mountain Area of Kunyuan Academy, though the hostility was less intense.
The Earth School's animosity towards the Self School wasn't as severe, and with Meng Kun and Gu Changqing providing resources from their personal reserves, there was no direct conflict of interest.
Without the element of personal gain at stake, the situation was much more manageable.
Even so, as Li Boqian had warned, if Zhao Xing were to rise to a more prominent position in the future, the challenges he would face would likely escalate.
On the fourth day of October, the 32nd year of the Jingxin Era, Zhao Xing successfully mastered the Earth Spirit Repository Technique. His main body achieved the third transformation, while his avatar reached the first transformation.
Rebuilding was more challenging than destruction, and the Earth Spirit Repository Technique became the most time-intensive Earth School technique Zhao Xing had ever studied.
This marked the completion of his mastery over four top-tier techniques, which included:
Thunder Prison Chapter of the Xuantian Thunder Method: Heavenly Thunder Finger
Cloud Gate Technique of the Cloud-Heaven Dao
Boundless Sea Palace Method of the Return to the Abyss Palace
Earth Spirit Repository Method of the Xuanhuang Earth-Breaking School
"All four techniques, each pointing directly toward ultimate mastery, have been learned to the third transformation level. My avatars, however, are only at the first transformation."
Although the techniques were learned sequentially, their mastery levels were uniform, largely due to Zhao Xing's methodical allocation of energy.
Advancing from the third transformation to the fourth transformation in any top-tier technique required an immense investment of time and effort. Zhao Xing knew that achieving such a breakthrough in the short term was impossible. Thus, he paused his insights at the third transformation to focus on learning additional techniques.
After mastering the fourth, Zhao Xing allowed two of his avatars to go offline, halting their daily studies. His attention now shifted to his Derivation of the Divine Spirit, which had reached its critical juncture.
On the fifth day of October, Zhao Xing began his breakthrough toward the seventh star of the Derivation of the Divine Spirit.
"Boom—"
In the Star Platform, Zhao Xing stood with his hands behind his back as the Heavenly stars before him magnified and spun faster. The intricate star rings danced in his vision, and within his Sea of Consciousness, six stars gleamed brightly.
The spiritual pressure they exerted on his Sea of Consciousness was immense, yet by this stage, Zhao Xing was unaffected.
"Come on, the seventh star!"
Zhao Xing's gaze fixed on the Heavenly bodies.
In previous breakthroughs, the stars would diminish in number as he progressed. However, upon reaching this final stage, the seventh star reemerged, representing the culmination of his challenge.
Condensing the seventh star required enduring pressure tens of times greater than the combined challenges of the previous stars.
"Boom—"
"Boom! Boom! Boom!"
The seven Heavenly stars assaulted Zhao Xing's soul body relentlessly. Each collision was a clash of spiritual forces, testing the very limits of his soul's resilience.
Splitting the life soul was a defiance of natural order, a pursuit of an unattainable pinnacle. Such a journey necessitated enduring the trials of the soul path.
The Heavenly assaults embodied the essence of universal laws, striking at Zhao Xing's life soul repeatedly.
Those who endured and assimilated the first star would begin their ascent on the ultimate path of the soul.
"Boom! Boom! Boom—"
Under the intense bombardment, Zhao Xing's six-star life soul began to crack. Yet, through each collision, Zhao Xing adjusted, gradually accommodating the starry runes.
Every setback brought a correction. Every rupture in his life soul forced adjustments to his spiritual form, realigning the intricate starry patterns.
"Two years of cultivation have brought me to this critical threshold. Now is the time for validation," Zhao Xing thought, entirely focused.
Each time his soul collapsed, he rebuilt it.
Time flew by. From the fifth of October, the process stretched into the tenth of October.
Zhao Xing had no choice but to consume Soul-Origin Liquid to replenish his exhausted spiritual reserves.
By October 19th, the climax arrived.
With the Derivation of the Divine Spirit's first layer nearly complete, the seven Heavenly stars before Zhao Xing halted their relentless motion, radiating dazzling brilliance.
"Did he succeed?" Lord Tianyan, who had been observing, grew visibly excited.
The Heavenly stars only ceased for three reasons:
The cultivator manually deactivated the process.
The cultivator lost consciousness, causing the stars to stop naturally.
The cultivator succeeded.
Since Zhao Xing remained standing and hadn't deactivated the process, there was only one possibility—success.
"Truly remarkable!" Lord Tianyan exclaimed as he sensed an overwhelming spiritual force emanating from Zhao Xing.
Plucking at his beard in excitement, Lord Tianyan muttered, "October 23rd of the 30th Jingxin Year—Zhao Xing began cultivating the Soul Refinement Chapter of the Derivation of the Divine Spirit. By October 19th of the 32nd Jingxin Year, he has completed the first layer."
"Two years, nearly to the day. Astonishing! The most gifted practitioner of the Derivation of the Divine Spirit in history has emerged!"
"This boy may one day comprehend the secrets of the Derivation Monument itself!"
As the dust settled, Zhao Xing consumed the remaining five bottles of Soul-Origin Liquid to restore his strength.
When Lord Tianyan appeared, Zhao Xing descended from the Star Platform and saluted.
"Greetings, Lord Tianyan."
"Zhao Xing, you broke through?"
"Yes, I have. Fortunately, I did not let you down," Zhao Xing replied. "I hope I've lived up to your expectations."
"Hahaha!" Lord Tianyan laughed heartily. "Do you know how fast your cultivation speed ranks?"
"How fast?"
"You've broken the record for the fastest first-layer breakthrough in our dynasty, surpassing even your mentor Liu Tianning's five-year record."
"Furthermore, you've set a new milestone in the Derivation of the Divine Spirit's 30,000-year history, completing the layer in under two years!"
Hearing this, Zhao Xing was stunned.
"I broke the record?"
If so, why had Lord Tianyan been so insistent, almost as if he was rushing me? Was this all just a game?
Zhao Xing was speechless. For the past two years, he had assumed he was falling behind, wondering if this era's geniuses were incomparably strong.
Now it seemed Lord Tianyan had merely pressured him for sport, capitalizing on the opportunity to witness history.
"No wonder Lord Luohouhou lost every wager with you," Zhao Xing thought with an internal sigh.
Lord Tianyan, noting Zhao Xing's bemusement, chuckled. "Don't hold it against me. Your first breakthrough already broke records, and witnessing such moments is a rare privilege. How could I let it pass?"
"Your concerns are deeply appreciated," Zhao Xing replied dryly.
"But tell me, with this breakthrough, how many life souls have you divided?"
Lord Tianyan's expression grew serious. "I sense something different about your cultivation compared to Liu Tianning."
"My path diverges from my mentor's," Zhao Xing explained. "While he divided his life soul into over 10,000 fragments, I have only split six."
"Only six?" Lord Tianyan was taken aback.