"Yang An... has died?"
Zhao Xing froze for a moment.
"Who gave you this information?"
"Can it be confirmed? Yinyou Mountain is deep within the Southern Barbarian territories—perhaps he just lost contact?"
"The Marquis's name has already appeared on the Ministry of War's recently published casualty list. Along with him, all five thousand of the Shenwei Army didn't make it back from Yinyou Mountain…" Long Xiao's eyes were red, his voice hoarse with grief.
Zhao Xing remained silent. If Yang An's name was officially listed in the Ministry of War's casualty report and publicly announced, then it was highly likely that he truly had died.
"I didn't expect this," Zhao Xing thought. "Even in this lifetime, Yang An still perished during the pacification campaign against the Southern Barbarians."
A wave of melancholy swept over Zhao Xing as he pondered.
"You said just now that the Marquis was driven to his death. Who told you that?"
Zhao Xing didn't need to guess who might have orchestrated Yang An's death. Without a doubt, it had to be King Liang. The only question was who had leaked the news.
By analyzing the source of the information, Zhao Xing could gauge whether King Liang's rebellion was imminent or still in preparation.
"Was it the strategist?" Zhao Xing pressed further.
Long Xiao, crying like a child, nodded tearfully. "The strategist, Jia Pu, said that the Marquis and the five thousand Shenwei Army soldiers—none of their souls could even be recovered... sob…"
If the news came solely from Jia Pu and hadn't been widely spread, then King Liang's actions were still shrouded in some secrecy. Zhao Xing made note of this as he tried to console the grieving Long Xiao.
"It's still possible there are variables," Zhao Xing reassured him. "There have been historical cases of soldiers reported dead in the Military Realm who later returned alive. Stay calm within the Azure Dragon Army, and don't act rashly. We'll discuss this when we meet."
Long Xiao, who was trained and mentored directly by Yang An, saw him as both a teacher and a father figure. Even Long Xiao's swordsmanship bore Yang An's distinct influence.
"I'll look into this further," Zhao Xing promised. "Think of your wife and children. Don't do anything irrational."
Long Xiao, being a man of true feelings, worried Zhao Xing. He feared Long Xiao might abandon his post in the Azure Dragon Army to charge back into the Nine Heavens Yingyuan Prefecture for revenge against King Liang.
After cutting off the communication, Zhao Xing began verifying the information from multiple sources.
His first step was to find the official announcement.
The Ministry of War's bulletin contained only a brief, simple statement:
"General Yang An of the Shenwei Army, leading five thousand troops, engaged in a prolonged battle at Yinyou Mountain. Following an unsuccessful breakout, the entire force was tragically wiped out."
"Nothing worth scrutinizing," Zhao Xing muttered as he closed the report and initiated contact with Liu Tianning.
No matter the time or circumstances, Liu Tianning could always be reached with a single attempt.
"Chen'an," Liu Tianning's projected image appeared before him.
"Teacher," Zhao Xing greeted, diving straight to the point. "I heard Yang An has died, and even his soul couldn't be retrieved. Is that true?"
"It is," Liu Tianning confirmed with a solemn nod.
"Do you know the details?"
Yang An, though holding a Fourth-Rank military position, had already reached the Third-Rank in strength. He had entered the Third-Rank cultivation realm in the 30th year of the Jingxin Era.
Both the growth of the Shenwei Army and Yang An's individual prowess had been meteoric.
A Third-Rank sword cultivator, forged in the crucible of countless battles, was not someone easily killed.
As the commander, Yang An would certainly have employed a high-level Qi and Blood Battle Formation. Even if confronted by First-Rank enemies, his sheer will to survive would make him nearly impossible to kill.
However, his own people could do it.
"If I were in King Liang's position," Zhao Xing thought grimly, "there would be ten thousand ways to eliminate Yang An."
What he wanted to know now was whether King Liang's methods were so discreet that even Liu Tianning, a Military Realm Inspector, couldn't uncover the truth.
"This is classified information. I can't disclose the specifics," Liu Tianning replied gravely. "I can only tell you this: it's exactly as you suspect."
Zhao Xing nodded, understanding. "Teacher, you must be careful."
Liu Tianning, who had reached the Third-Rank True Soul Realm after consuming the Primordial Soul Fruit in the 29th year of the Jingxin Era, had seen his official position elevated by the beginning of the 33rd year.
His roles included:
Logistics Overseer of Pinghai Prefecture's Water and Land Forces, Third-Rank.
Chief Military Inspector of the Southern Barbarian Western Front, Third-Rank.
Both positions wielded significant power. In fact, Liu Tianning's authority surpassed that of most officials in the same rank.
However, this also made him a target.
"Don't worry about me," Liu Tianning reassured him. After a pause, he added, "But in the coming days, I'll be extremely busy—so busy I won't even have time to respond to your messages."
Zhao Xing's heart skipped a beat.
For Liu Tianning, who possessed top-tier clones capable of multitasking across countless responsibilities, to claim he'd be too busy was alarming.
"So, in the near future, I won't be able to keep an eye on the Eastern Sea," Liu Tianning continued. "In fact, I was planning to contact you about this."
"Please, teacher, share your guidance," Zhao Xing replied.
"I intend to arrange for your transfer out of Pinghai Prefecture before the end of Jingxin Era Year 34," Liu Tianning said. "You'll likely be assigned to Dao Yuan Continent."
"Wait," Zhao Xing interjected. "Teacher, I don't want to leave."
Liu Tianning frowned. "You don't understand the dangers involved. I can't say too much, but the risk here is beyond your imagination."
"I still don't wish to leave," Zhao Xing insisted. "I'd rather request a direct transfer within Pinghai Prefecture—to the position of Logistics Overseer and Regional Inspector."
"Why?"
"Teacher, I've been learning under Lord Tianyan during my time in the Eastern Sea," Zhao Xing revealed.
Liu Tianning was surprised. "You've practiced the Derivation of the Divine Spirit?"
"Yes," Zhao Xing confirmed. This information had previously been classified beyond Liu Tianning's access due to the sensitive nature of Zhao Xing's training records.
In reality, Zhao Xing's interactions with Lord Tianyan were limited, but Liu Tianning didn't know that.
"I've learned much from Lord Tianyan and have progressed in my cultivation faster than you might expect," Zhao Xing continued. "I've mastered top-tier techniques—and not just one."
"While the future holds risks, it also offers opportunities. I don't want to miss them."
"Moreover, your actions in your current position are being closely watched. Transferring me now might raise suspicions and provoke criticism."
Zhao Xing had prepared for this moment for over a decade—there was no way he would retreat now.
After a long silence, Liu Tianning relented. "Very well. I'll make the arrangements immediately."
"Thank you, teacher."
While many positions were difficult to adjust, the roles of Logistics Overseer and Regional Inspector were relatively simple to transfer, especially since this was a lateral move that didn't involve any promotion-related rituals or Fortune blessings.
"Be careful," Liu Tianning advised. "If you encounter an emergency, head to the Princess's residence."
Princess You Ruo's residence was indeed a secure refuge.
"Understood," Zhao Xing replied. Though, if he truly needed to flee, the Princess's residence wouldn't be his first choice—Xuantian Academy would.
Zhao Xing closed his eyes and fell into deep thought after ending the communication.
"Liu Tianning probably foresaw chaos in Pinghai Prefecture through his work as a Fate Officer."
"Such futures are uncertain, but right now, King Liang's chances of rebellion must be rising. That explains why Liu Tianning is so busy and why Lord Tianyan has suddenly gone into secluded meditation, cutting off all communication."
The court was undoubtedly aware of the impending unrest. After all, the Fate Officers weren't idle observers.
However, the imperial court wouldn't take action against anyone based on mere predictions.
Even if King Liang rebelled at precisely the second quarter of the Hour of Chen, he would still officially remain a prince in good standing until the rebellion began.
"If King Liang is planning to rebel in the 35th year of the Jingxin Era, then the end of the 34th year would be the last opportunity to leave Pinghai Prefecture safely."
"Once the Fortune of the dynasty begins to fracture, even those who want to leave won't be able to." Zhao Xing reflected inwardly. "Liu Tianning's decision to arrange my transfer was likely driven by this consideration."
Fortune and Fate are deeply intertwined.
When a dynasty's Fortune splits, regions like Pinghai Prefecture become entangled in massive karmic consequences.
The opposing Fortunes of the two camps would clash violently.
At that point, there would only be two options: rebellion or pacification.
There would be no middle ground. Choosing neutrality would invite karmic backlash.
Victory would bring rewards of Fortune; failure would mean death and the dissipation of one's Dao.
"This is the time to rise with the tide," Zhao Xing mused.
"Not only Pinghai Prefecture, but Lüliang Prefecture will experience the same. However, Pinghai Prefecture will be the central battlefield for Fortune contention."
Opening his eyes, Zhao Xing stepped out of the Temple of the Earth God and ascended into the sky.
"At this moment, the fluctuation in Pinghai Prefecture's Fortune isn't very noticeable."
"Only Fate Officers and a few select individuals can sense the subtle anomalies; everyone else remains unaware."
Observing for a while, Zhao Xing noticed that the Fortune barrier above Pinghai Prefecture already bore the shape of a golden dragon.
"The moment the Fortune Golden Dragon ascends to the heavens, the Fortune structure of the dynasty in Pinghai Prefecture will shatter, splitting into countless individual strands of dragon energy."
"When heroes rise and dragons ascend, they will devour one another." Zhao Xing turned his gaze southward.
For now, he could not yet detect the black dragon of King Liang.
"However, if King Liang is to rebel next year, he's likely already begun covertly devouring Fortune this year. I just can't perceive it yet," Zhao Xing thought.
A unified dynasty would never exhibit the phenomenon of "individual Fortune manifesting as dragons, blending with the heavens and earth, soaring through the Nine Heavens."
The sound of a sharp hum echoed through the air as the clouds parted, and Zhao Xing returned to the Temple of the Earth God.
"Zhao Xing, have you received the news?" Chen Shijie hurried out, visibly anxious.
"Old Chen, my condolences."
Chen Shijie's eyes were red, and his voice hoarse. "I heard from Long Xiao that the Marquis was murdered and that even his soul couldn't be retrieved. Is this true?"
Zhao Xing sighed inwardly and nodded. "It's highly likely. Let's wait for the official announcement to confirm."
"I've asked around too. Apart from the strategist's conspiracy theories, everyone else believes the Marquis simply died in battle."
"Was the transfer order issued properly?" Chen Shijie asked.
"Yes, it was normal."
"Was there any attempt to rescue him?"
"No, it was too late."
"Were there errors in the intelligence?"
"There were, but three Fourth-Rank officials have already been executed by King Liang because of it."
Zhao Xing didn't bother hiding the details from Chen Shijie since he knew the man wouldn't lose his composure.
"Why?" Chen Shijie asked, his voice trembling with grief. "Why wouldn't he even let the Marquis's soul return home?"
Zhao Xing shook his head. "It's said that half a year ago, King Liang summoned the Marquis for a discussion. However, it wasn't a public military meeting, so the Marquis declined with an excuse."
"It's a stretch to connect the two events. The transfer order wasn't even issued directly by King Liang but by another ruling prince."
Chen Shijie let out a bitter laugh. "So, the lives of the Marquis and his five thousand Shenwei Army soldiers were exchanged for the deaths of three Fourth-Rank officials?"
Zhao Xing remained silent.
In the military realm, rank was power. On a chaotic battlefield, it was easy for a commander to eliminate subordinates who weren't aligned with them.
If Zhao Xing were in King Liang's position, he could think of a thousand ways to orchestrate Yang An's death.
If rebellion were on the horizon, eliminating a talented and independent sword cultivator like Yang An, who didn't share his vision, was a priority.
Sending Yang An to die at the hands of the Southern Barbarians could even serve as a token of allegiance.
"Old Chen…"
"No need to comfort me," Chen Shijie interrupted, waving his hand. "I won't act impulsively."
"Where are you headed?"
"To handle administrative matters."
Chen Shijie's departing figure looked frail and powerless.
King Liang, a First-Rank Prince, wielded the immense power of the Nation's Fortune. His authority was comparable to a Supreme Emperor.
What could Chen Shijie do against such a foe?
He couldn't even retrieve Yang An's soul, let alone know where to burn offerings for him.
Zhao Xing couldn't bear to speak further with either Chen Shijie or Long Xiao.
Both were consumed by grief and anger—one mourning deeply, the other seething with rage.
With no other option, Zhao Xing sought out Xia Jing for a drink.
"How exactly did Yang An die?" Xia Jing asked, pouring wine. "Why didn't he break through the encirclement?"
Zhao Xing let out a heavy sigh. "There was no way to break through. The battle of Yinyou Mountain was a deathtrap. Four Second-Rank shamans from the Southern Barbarians had laid an ambush in advance."
"They drained the area of its elemental energy and set up a top-tier Tenfold Bewitching Death Array."
"Over a month of siege followed. Even the Military Shennong within the city couldn't provide the army with supplies."
"Whenever he tried to break out, fifty Third-Rank warriors, spellcasters, and shamans blocked his path."
"In this cycle of relentless attrition, even the Southern Barbarians lost a Third-Rank powerhouse before finally wiping out the exhausted Yang An and the Shenwei Army."
"It was a hopeless situation," Zhao Xing concluded.
"The Marquis of Shenwei… what a pity." Xia Jing raised his cup in solemn respect. "My father once said that among the new generation of generals practicing the Azure Dragon Aspect, Yang An had the greatest potential to touch upon the ultimate Dao."
"And now, even his soul cannot be called back."
Da Zhou's Soul Summoning relied on the Heavenly Soul to recall scattered Life Souls.
If the Life Soul could be revived, the Causal Soul would also return.
However, many factors could prevent this.
First, Yinyou Mountain was currently controlled by the Southern Barbarians. Second, Yang An's soul had been repeatedly obliterated—reduced from a ghost to a malevolent spirit, then to nothingness.
In theory, Da Zhou's True Lords of Rebirth could retrieve Life Souls even from such a state.
But if the soul was further annihilated into pure void, there would be no hope.
This level of destruction required enormous effort from the Southern Barbarians, but the deterrent effect was significant.
"Zhao Xing," Xia Jing growled, slamming his cup against the table until it shattered. "King Liang is a traitor to the nation! He deserves to die! He'll rebel sooner or later!"
"Xia Jing," Zhao Xing said, his tone serious. "Prepare yourself. The Southern Barbarians are faltering in their attacks, and King Liang shows signs of rebellion. It won't be long before major upheaval engulfs Pinghai Prefecture and Lüliang Prefecture."
"You think he'll really rebel?" Xia Jing, despite his earlier outburst, found the idea far-fetched.
"What's the point?" he muttered.
"As a First-Rank Prince, does he truly covet the throne? The odds are slim to none."
"Regardless, we must be ready," Zhao Xing emphasized. "Both you and I are from Pinghai Prefecture. If that day comes, we won't escape unscathed."
While Zhao Xing and Xia Jing conversed, elsewhere in the Eastern Sea, within the ancestral grounds of the Hong clan...
A luxurious palace lay submerged beneath the sea, surrounded by underwater mountains and encircled by vibrant green seaweed.
A sleek deep-sea vessel navigated a rapid underwater channel, eventually entering the heart of the mountain range.
"Who dares trespass?" Guards adorned with scales covering their bodies—leaving only their human-like faces exposed—surrounded the vessel. Gills were visible behind their ears, a clear mark of their aquatic heritage.
A stream of light floated out from the vessel, carrying a command token.
The token bore the character "Hong" on one side and "Secret" on the other, its edges marked by unique engravings.
"A top-level secret token?" The guards immediately grew respectful, stepping aside to escort the vessel into the palace.
The vessel stopped within the golden palace.
A majestic figure rose from the throne at the center. Flooded with golden light, his physique resembled an immovable mountain. This was Hong Yuanshou.
The golden throne in the palace radiated a dazzling light, casting a faint silhouette that seemed to flicker in and out of existence.
"Everyone, leave," ordered the figure in golden light.
"Yes, sir."
The guards promptly retreated without hesitation.
As the golden light dimmed, Hong Yuanshou stood up from the throne.
His towering figure exuded a sense of overwhelming power, his well-defined muscles shimmering faintly in the blue light of the surrounding waters. The armor he wore was forged from rare Deep Sea Mithril, its cold gleam blending seamlessly with the flowing patterns of the surrounding water. Every scale-like plate of the armor bore intricate engravings of aquatic motifs, making him appear one with the sea itself.
His face was rugged and chiseled, as if carved by the relentless tides, his features sharp and firm. His deep-set eyes glowed like icy pools in the depths of the ocean, cold and penetrating, as though capable of seeing through any deception.
On his head rested a war helm adorned with coral and pearl inlays, its crest spiked like the spines of a sea urchin, exuding both majesty and menace. Behind him, a massive blue cape embroidered with the ancestral totems of the aquatic clans billowed gently.
Within the Hong Clan, there were two kings: Hong Yuanba and Hong Yuanshou. Though both held royal titles, their roles were starkly different. Hong Yuanba, as the commander of the Eastern Sea forces, wielded substantial power. Meanwhile, Hong Yuanshou remained the guardian of their ancestral lands, holding no real authority.
The vessel halted, and from its cabin stepped a young man in splendid attire—Ji Chen.
In the 29th year of the Jingxin Era, King Liang had formally declared Ji Chen his heir apparent.
"Student Ji Chen greets my teacher," Ji Chen said, bowing deeply in respect.
If anyone outside had heard Ji Chen's address, they would have been shocked beyond belief. The heir of King Liang, secretly apprenticed to Hong Yuanshou? The implications were astounding.
"Chen'er, rise," Hong Yuanshou said with a gentle smile. "Since becoming the heir, this is the first time you've come to visit me."
"It is all thanks to your guidance, Teacher," Ji Chen replied respectfully.
"Hahaha, come, come!" Hong Yuanshou exclaimed, delighted to see his student. "Let me see how much you've improved over the years."
"Please instruct me, Teacher," Ji Chen said, turning into a streak of light as he charged forward.
Half an hour later, master and student concluded their sparring session and returned to their seats.
"Chen'er, you've made remarkable progress. You've already reached the strength of the Third Rank," Hong Yuanshou praised. "Have you undergone a Fortune Baptism?"
"Yes," Ji Chen nodded.
"With this, your position as heir is well-deserved," Hong Yuanshou remarked. "But aside from visiting me, is there another purpose to your visit?"
"Teacher, my father has a message for you," Ji Chen said.
"Oh?" Hong Yuanshou straightened, his expression turning serious. "What instructions does King Liang have for me?"
Lowering his head, Ji Chen's face twisted briefly before lifting it again, now bearing an uncanny resemblance to King Liang, Ji Mingxian. From his demeanor to his gaze, everything matched perfectly.
"Your Highness!" Hong Yuanshou exclaimed, startled as he immediately stood. His shock wasn't just from the transformation but from recognizing the technique—Blood Soul Parasitic Technique!
This sinister method allowed a soul to inhabit and control a blood relative's body, effectively transferring its essence. Due to its ethical ramifications, it had long been classified as forbidden sorcery.
A prince of Da Zhou, King Liang himself, practicing such a forbidden technique? It was unthinkable!
Yet as the implications of the situation sank in, Hong Yuanshou's initial shock gave way to an intense gleam in his eyes, tinged with expectation.
"Yuanshou, do you wish to see the realm beyond First Rank?" King Liang, now speaking through Ji Chen's body, asked calmly.
"Your Highness—no, Your Majesty—I am willing!" Hong Yuanshou immediately knelt.
For King Liang to take such actions, what else could it mean but a bid for the throne?
Hong Yuanshou knew his own limits. Though he had cultivated to the Third Rank and achieved a Second Rank position as a titled noble, further progress was nearly impossible for him. His elder brother, Hong Yuanba, might still have a chance, but for Hong Yuanshou, the barrier was insurmountable.
And yet, it was common knowledge that even the First Rank was not the pinnacle. A figure like King Liang, who bore immense dynastic Fortune and wielded sacred artifacts, already surpassed the First Rank in strength. To ally with such a person was to grasp at a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Moreover, Hong Yuanshou deeply admired King Liang. Years ago, the prince had been tasked with eliminating rival kinsmen, showcasing unparalleled might. Later, he repeatedly quelled disputes among the aquatic clans, solidifying his reputation in Hong Yuanshou's eyes.
What did Emperor Jing have to show for himself? Gaining the Eastern Sea through marriages and court intrigue? Pathetic.
Thus, when King Liang asked, Hong Yuanshou did not hesitate.
If King Liang ascended the throne, Hong Yuanshou would be the teacher of the Crown Prince. Younger than King Liang, he could still ascend to the role of Grand Mentor when Ji Chen inherited the throne. What could be more ideal?
"Yuanshou, I need the full support of the Hong Clan," King Liang said plainly.
Hong Yuanshou, for all his physical might, was no strategist. While he possessed some cunning, his strategic foresight was limited. King Liang's real target was his elder brother, Hong Yuanba, the seasoned general and military commander.
Rolling his eyes in thought, Hong Yuanshou quickly replied, "Your Majesty, I am confident I can convince my brother."
"Excellent. Chen'er is in your hands," King Liang said. With those words, his presence vanished, leaving Ji Chen's body to collapse momentarily.
When Ji Chen lifted his head again, it was his own face that reemerged.
"Teacher, how did it go?" Ji Chen asked cautiously.
Though the Hong Clan's disposition had been thoroughly studied over the years, rebellion was no trivial matter. What if Hong Yuanshou disagreed? Ji Chen would be silenced then and there.
"Hahaha, how could I refuse the Emperor's command?" Hong Yuanshou laughed.
Ji Chen's heart skipped a beat before realizing that by "Emperor," Hong Yuanshou referred to his father. He let out a sigh of relief.
"Teacher, do you have a plan to convince your elder brother?" Ji Chen asked, quickly shifting back into character.
"Simple," Hong Yuanshou said with a sly grin. "I'll select the heir of one of the Eastern Sea's four clans and eliminate them. Once that's done, my brother will have no choice but to side with us."
Ji Chen was momentarily taken aback. He hadn't expected his teacher to be such a thorough conspirator. Before Ji Chen could even suggest anything, Hong Yuanshou had already devised the next steps.
"Which clan do you plan to target, Teacher?" Ji Chen asked.
"The Bai Clan is the obvious choice. What does the Crown Prince think?" Hong Yuanshou inquired.
"Teacher, please address me as the heir," Ji Chen said, feeling that his teacher was moving a bit too fast despite sharing the same intentions.
"Very well. The Bai Clan has four heirs: Bai Mingchuan, Bai Mingsong, Bai Zhengyang, and Bai Zhenghe," Hong Yuanshou elaborated. "The only ones worth targeting are Bai Mingchuan and Bai Zhengyang."
"The other two?" Ji Chen prompted.
"Bai Mingsong and Bai Zhenghe are mere scholars, not worth mentioning," Hong Yuanshou dismissed. "On the sea, their strength is no better than that of sea worms."
"And between Bai Mingchuan and Bai Zhengyang?" Ji Chen pressed.
"Bai Mingchuan has already cultivated the Seventh Layer of the True Dragon Bloodline. Killing him will be difficult," Hong Yuanshou said. "This must be a swift, precise operation."
"Then Bai Zhengyang it is," Hong Yuanshou concluded with a decisive nod.
At the same time, in Chongming Prefecture, within the Princess's residence...
Zhao Xing's Kirin Airship descended into the courtyard of the Princess's estate.
Since he was about to be transferred, he had to bid farewell to Princess Youruo.
Additionally, arrangements needed to be made for his family.
Taking them to Xuantian Academy would draw too much attention. Leaving them under the Princess's care would be ideal.
"Senior Brother!"
Ji Zixuan had been waiting for Zhao Xing atop the viewing platform for some time now.
Zhao Xing glanced down at her from above.
It had been quite a while since he had last seen Ji Zixuan, and the changes in her were striking.
Since the 20th year of the Jingxin Era, Ji Zixuan had traveled extensively. Now, fourteen years later, she had traversed nearly all of the blessed lands and cave-heavens of the nineteen prefectures.
Her travels served two purposes: one, to gain experience, and two, to inspect the industries and properties under Princess Youruo's name.
She excelled in both endeavors.
Now, Ji Zixuan had reached the pinnacle of the Pure Essence Realm, with a commendable standing within her dao field.
Princess Youruo had entrusted her with significant responsibilities, grooming her to succeed Liu Wanliang as the administrator of the Princess's estate.
Do not underestimate the role of the Princess's estate administrator. It entailed managing all the properties under the Princess's name and even overseeing the upbringing of royal heirs.
"She's truly shaping up into a shadowy assassin," Zhao Xing thought to himself.
"Senior Brother!" Ji Zixuan waved enthusiastically.
However, Zhao Xing did not head in her direction. Instead, he flew directly to a pavilion behind a fake mountain.
"Junior Sister, you've grown more adept at using your talisman body technique."
"Senior Brother is even more remarkable. I thought my talisman technique was flawless, yet you saw through it instantly and pinpointed my true form," Ji Zixuan said, her eyes sparkling with admiration.
"You still have much to learn if you want to match me," Zhao Xing replied. "Your talisman body may seem flawless to you, but to an expert, it's riddled with vulnerabilities. Don't rely too heavily on it in combat."
"If you do, you might truly meet your end one day."
"Yes, Senior Brother," Ji Zixuan responded obediently.
"Take me to see our teacher's wife," Zhao Xing said.
"You're taking on the position of a Transport Commissioner and an Inspector?" Princess Youruo looked at Zhao Xing with astonishment. "Your recent transfers have been quite dramatic."
"First, you were transferred from the Twin-Dragon Horse Establishment to the Shrine of Earth and Agriculture."
"Now, you're suddenly being sent under Liu Tianning to take on roles as a Transport Commissioner and an Inspector. Being a Transport Commissioner aligns with the duties of a Shennong, but taking on the Inspector role feels like meddling in unnecessary affairs."
"Are you privy to some insider information?" Princess Youruo narrowed her eyes at Zhao Xing. "No, wait. How would your teacher allow this? It seems even more unlikely that he would approve such a transfer."
"He was just telling me the other day about his plan to send you away from Pinghai Prefecture."
"Chen'an, what are you and your teacher hiding from me?"
Zhao Xing bowed respectfully and said, "Teacher's wife, there are confidentiality rules I must follow, so I cannot reveal anything. However, someone as astute and perceptive as you likely already understands the situation."
Princess Youruo truly had no clue, but Zhao Xing's flattering words pleased her greatly.
"I couldn't care less about the schemes of you men," she said dismissively. "Whether you're seeking achievements or choosing to leave everything behind, as long as you know what you're doing, I won't interfere."
"What else do you need from me?"
"I'll soon be relocating and wish to temporarily move my family into the Princess's estate. I entrust them to your care," Zhao Xing said earnestly. "There's no one else I trust more."
"A trivial matter." Princess Youruo waved her hand dismissively. "Go to Liu Wanliang and have him select a residence for you."
"Thank you, Teacher's wife," Zhao Xing said, bowing deeply.
Shortly after the Spring Festival in the 34th year of the Jingxin Era, Zhao Xing brought his family to stay at the Princess's estate.
Compared to the prefecture city of Chongming, the Princess's estate in Bixian County was significantly safer.
Zhao Xing also arranged for Zhao Zheng to return home to the estate regularly, leaving their old manor entirely unoccupied.
In March, Xia Jing came to bid Zhao Xing farewell.
He had fully recovered and even turned his misfortune into a blessing, gaining the confidence to enter the Soul Tempering Stage.
"Brother Zhao, I'm leaving now," Xia Jing said. "Once I return, I'll begin my seclusion for Soul Tempering."
"My ground mirror communicator will remain open for you," he added.
"Don't be so sentimental," Zhao Xing teased. "Focus on your training. If I need anything, I'll let you know."
"Hahaha, then I'll be waiting," Xia Jing laughed. "By the way, thanks for the Eight Goddesses you gave me. If you ever come across similar treasures, remember to save some for your brother!"
Zhao Xing smirked and gave him a piercing look. "How about a mechanical mermaid puppet?"
"You…"
"Just kidding." Zhao Xing burst out laughing.
At the end of March, large-scale high-tier battles erupted on the Southern Barbarian battlefield.
Yang An's death seemed to ignite the conflict.
Under King Liang's command, the seven elite armies—Tongyou, Jiuxiao, Huangquan, Xuanming, Tiancang, Taixu, and Wuyao—launched a full-scale assault.
On March 20th, they breached Yin You Mountain, slaying four Second-Rank Shamans, one First-Rank Shaman, and over 5,000 Third-Rank warriors.
Yin You Mountain held symbolic significance.
Standing atop its summit, one could glimpse the shadow of the sacred mountain of the Southern Barbarians, a feat never achieved before.
At this moment, King Liang's prestige reached its peak.
On April 5th, Long Xiao, Chen Shijie, and Zhao Xing held a brief meeting.
After an entire night of discussion, the three parted ways the following morning.
Long Xiao returned to the Azure Dragon Army.
Chen Shijie resigned from his post as the Shrine of Earth and Agriculture's overseer and moved with his wife to a courtyard within the Princess's estate.
Given Chen Shijie's current cultivation level, accompanying Zhao Xing in future missions would be too dangerous.
Chen Shijie's role would be more suitable for managing post-conflict governance.
Meanwhile, Zhao Xing re-entered the Military Realm.
However, the elusive King Tianyan remained out of sight.
Zhao Xing was able to access the Star Palace, where he continued cultivating the soul-focused secret technique, the Soul-Crushing Bell, an auxiliary skill from the Derivation of the Divine Spirit.
At Xuantian Academy's Tianyuan Hall, Zhao Xing's avatar continued lecturing while training in techniques like the Heavenly Thunder Finger and Cloud Gate.
However, he struggled with learning A Step to Infinity due to its body transformation requirements, which his avatars couldn't handle.
By late April, Zhao Xing's avatar at the Kunyuan Earth Palace completed training in the Boundless Ocean Earth Palace and Mysterious Water Earth Palace.
He began delving into the Mysterious Earth Law and Earth Splitting Law, though progress was painfully slow.
By May 7th, Zhao Xing sent one of his avatars to Jiujiang Cave-Heaven for procurement.
"I've already acquired the tools to obscure heavenly omens."
"The main focus now is purchasing items specifically tailored to counteract shamans."
Browsing through the armory within Jiujiang Cave-Heaven, Zhao Xing muttered to himself, "If I can guard against shamans and their divine techniques, I'll be able to escape from any other Third-Rank threat."
Shamans were an especially troublesome profession.
They could fly, burrow, engage in both ranged and melee combat, and even perform ritualistic chanting and dancing.
For martial artists, Zhao Xing could easily escape by burrowing underground with his avatar creating visual distractions.
However, facing shamans was a different story—they could continually lock onto his soul, making escape much harder.
"One billion in liquid funds will be spent entirely on single-use items specifically designed to counteract shamans," Zhao Xing resolved internally.
Of course, during the purchase, he described his targets as "external sorcerers, heretical practitioners, or outlandish beings" rather than directly mentioning shamans.
By June 5th, high-tier battles on the Southern Barbarian front had grown even more intense.
After breaking through Yin You Mountain, all four royal courts of the Southern Barbarians began retreating and fortifying their defenses to block Great Zhou's advance toward their sacred mountain.
On June 10th, the Shenlei Army, Hujiao Army, and Xuanjia Army—commanded by Marquis Shenwei, Marquis Mingwei, and Marquis Mingwu—suffered severe losses, with all three marquises killed in action.
By June 15th, King Lingshuang, Pei Dingshan, perished in battle at "Hundred Water River."
The first royal to fall in the conflict had appeared.
The momentum of Great Zhou's assault was halted.
For the first time, the mysterious Southern Barbarian Nine Nether Corps made its presence known to Great Zhou's forces.
"Xiang Kui has fallen as well," Zhao Xing murmured while scanning a military report. Xiang Kui had been the chief commander of the Xuanjia Army.
"The Hujiao Army's commander has also fallen, with Ding Long taking over."
"Since the outbreak of high-tier battles, a total of sixty-seven marquises have perished."
"And now, even King Lingshuang has fallen."
"The deaths of so many main commanders are steadily replacing them with individuals secretly cultivated by King Liang," Zhao Xing mused. "This isn't just warfare—it's a systematic purge under the guise of battle."
On the surface, the war seemed fierce, with rapid progress toward the Southern Barbarians' sacred mountain. However, the casualties for Great Zhou continued to mount disproportionately.
"I wonder if Pei Yuanchang has joined the fray yet," Zhao Xing pondered.
Pei Yuanchang, the grandson of King Lingshuang, had been a fishing companion Zhao Xing once met at Extreme Night Sea.
"With his grandfather now dead, his future looks bleak."
Sorting through intelligence reports, Zhao Xing compiled useful information while planning his next steps.
"It won't be long before King Liang blames logistical shortages for the war's failures, using it as a pretext to demand more strategic resources from the court. The Transport Commission will undoubtedly be his first target."
"However, once my transfer is complete, I'll merely be stationed in the Eastern Sea Transport Division within Pinghai Prefecture. The risks should remain manageable."
Having organized the reports, Zhao Xing returned to his cultivation practices.
On July 16th, Zhao Xing officially completed his transfer process.
However, Liu Tianning granted him a six-month leave.
This meant his transfer wouldn't formally take effect until six months later.
Until then, Zhao Xing still had the option to either leave or remain in Pinghai Prefecture.
"Old Liu really seems afraid of my untimely demise," Zhao Xing remarked, putting away two transfer orders.
"It seems January in the 35th year of the Jingxin Era will mark the final turning point."
"If I don't leave by then, I won't have another chance."
Leaving the prefecture capital, Zhao Xing made his way to the highest mountain in Chongming Prefecture—Wangcang Mountain.
At the same time, his avatar at Tianyuan Hall climbed to the summit of a sacred mountain in Ling Mountain.
Additionally, another avatar within the Star Palace sifted through Military Realm records.
He aimed to monitor and calculate the movements of Great Zhou's planetary cycles over Pinghai Prefecture.
"The Military Realm consists of numerous small cave-heaven worlds, like pearls strung together by Great Zhou's military pathways, orbiting the Xuanzhen World."
"Their cycles vary in strength, and so do the pathways. When the cycles weaken, the pathways shrink, restricting large-scale troop movements. At that point, only seven entry points into Pinghai Prefecture's Military Realm will remain."
"If King Liang secures these seven points, he can completely blockade Pinghai Prefecture."
"He must act during this critical time frame. A successful rebellion depends on this precision—giving him time to eliminate opposition within the prefecture. Otherwise, he'll devolve into a mere bandit leader, losing all legitimacy and support from Yin Spirits."
Zhao Xing knew which seven points were key, though he considered the possibility of variations in this timeline. Moreover, pinpointing exact timings would be a significant advantage.
"Once the timing and locations are confirmed, King Liang's main forces will be concentrated in these areas, allowing me to avoid direct confrontations with large-scale elite armies."
Zhao Xing continued his calculations, refining his understanding of the situation. For days, he worked tirelessly, piecing together knowledge from his previous life and his current observations. By September 26th, his conclusions crystallized.
"Jingxin Era, Year 35, the second day of the second month—seven key entrances to the Military Realm's cave-heavens will become the crucial pathways for large-scale troop movements," Zhao Xing murmured, meticulously verifying his computations.
"Now, whether the officials have reached the same conclusion remains to be seen. And where is that old man, Lord Tianyan? He hasn't responded to my messages. What on earth is he doing?"
Zhao Xing's frustration mounted. Lord Tianyan's absence at such a pivotal moment was a significant inconvenience.
"If I could get more details from him, it would save me a lot of trouble. At the very least, I'd gain access to a partial 'omniscient view.'"
Zhao Xing speculated, "King Liang, as the former head of fate officials, once held the Creation Disc. Could Lord Tianyan be investigating whether secret backdoors exist in King Liang's systems? That kind of inquiry would certainly take time."
With his calculations completed, Zhao Xing shifted his focus. On October 10th, he returned to Chongming Prefecture to finalize his preparations.
First, he ventured into Jiujiang Cave-Heaven, not for combat or cultivation but to examine the rankings within the Dao Field.
"The last recorded rankings in the Dao Field..." Zhao Xing muttered. "Analyzing these rankings could yield valuable insights into powerful individuals."
"When the Heavenly Mirror becomes unreliable, and major communication pathways are compromised—either destroyed by King Liang or seized under his control—information like this could be a vital asset."
Zhao Xing spent an entire month gathering intelligence from the Military Realm and other sources before returning to Chongming Prefecture.
By mid-October, Zhao Xing had set his sights on Eastern Yang County and its secluded manor.
"Only four months remain before the critical date," he calculated.
"It's time to visit that silly bird again."
"If I don't act now, even if it manages to secure something valuable, I won't have enough time to utilize it."
His decision made, Zhao Xing reached out to the Heavenly Fate Blackbird, preparing to coax it into action once more.
The bird had previously stated that its recovery would take at least a year and a half, possibly as long as five years.
If the shorter estimate held, it could intervene once more before Jingxin Era Year 35. If not, and it required the full five years, then it would be Jingxin Era Year 37—long after the rebellion had either succeeded or failed.
"If I wait until then, any help it offers would be pointless," Zhao Xing thought.
"Looks like I'll have to push this lazy bird into action," he muttered, closing his eyes and reciting an incantation under his breath.
In the depths of the Grand Dream Academy's Heavenly Secrets Pavilion, Zhao Xing's projection manifested.
"Squawk! You're here again!" The sharp voice of the Heavenly Fate Blackbird echoed.
"Senior," Zhao Xing greeted, clasping his hands respectfully.