Li Fire Dao Academy's Assessment

One of Zhao Xing's Ten Thousand Laws Clone helped Zong Shichang board the ship, and then he scanned the Patrol Office.

Before he arrived, he had also reviewed the case file and discovered that Zong Shichang had been arrested for "dereliction of duty".

But who is Old Master Zhao? He could tell at a glance that there was something wrong here.

When he arrived, he activated his Heaven's Eye Art and saw the minor official outside the prison cell banging on the door with an iron bar, disturbing Zong Shichang's rest.

He immediately flew into a rage.

Wang Shiyang, who came along, also noticed something was wrong and glared at He Xian fiercely.

According to custom, officials could only arrest people after obtaining their own approval or the approval of the prefectural magistrate, He Xian, for dereliction of duty.

He had never approved such a clause, so it was obviously He Xian Xianqian's.

In fact, Wang Shiyang didn't even need to think about it, because Song Ji was recommended by He Xian.

He Xian sensed something was wrong and immediately wanted to say something.

Unexpectedly, Zhao Xing lost his temper on the spot after seeing Zong Shichang off.

"Lord Wang, may I ask you a few questions?" Zhao Xing asked Wang Shiyang.

"Marquis Yuan Rang, please speak freely," said Wang Shiyang. "The rest of you, please leave."

As soon as Wang Shiyang spoke, the other officials involuntarily withdrew from the Patrol Office, leaving only the Patrol Office's own officials, Prefect He Xian, and himself.

Zhao Xing was angry, so Wang Shiyang naturally had to let him vent.

Otherwise, he shouldn't even think about building this relationship.

"Where is Song Ji, the Patrol Office Director?!"

Standing to the side, Song Ji's face was rather unpleasant. Zhao Xing's direct address of him by his name and his challenge in front of so many officials and clerks in the Patrol Office clearly showed that he had no intention of giving him any face.

But Wang Shiyang wouldn't help him, and seeing He Xian shake his head slightly, he had no choice but to bite the bullet and walk out.

"What are your orders, Marquis Yuan Rang?"

"I am Official Sixth Rank, Upper official, while you are Lower Sub-Sixth Rank official. Why do you not bow to your superior?"

Song Ji was somewhat annoyed and had intended to give a perfunctory bow.

Unexpectedly, Zhao Xing suddenly unleashed his power, and a violent pressure swept over Song Ji, making him feel as if he were facing a tsunami, as if the sky had collapsed.

"Plop~" Song Ji couldn't help but kneel down.

What does it mean to bully others by abusing one's power? This is what it means to bully others by abusing one's power!

Song Ji was of a lower rank than Zhao Xing, so he should have paid his respects, but kneeling was optional.

But Old Master Zhao was angry at this moment and made Song Ji kneel down to answer!

Song Ji struggled for a while, only to find that he had no chance to resist and could not get up at all, which made him feel horrified.

Seeing that Wang Shiyang didn't say anything to stop him, he couldn't help but feel fear. Zhao Xing's background was far more powerful than he had heard at the banquet.

Wang Shiyang, who was standing next to him, was also somewhat surprised.

This Marquis Yuan Rang is indeed quite domineering.

He seemed so amicable at the banquet earlier; you'd never guess he was so menacing.

However, when he thought of the other party's military achievements, Wang Shiyang felt relieved.

Zhao Xing was indeed very angry. He originally thought that Zong Shichang had made a mistake in managing the floods, and therefore committed dereliction of duty and was detained.

Given Young Master Zong's nature, Zhao Xing didn't suspect anything at first.

It was only after Wang Shiyang's clerk told him that he realized it wasn't true at all.

That damned Song Ji actually convicted Zong Shichang of dereliction of duty for drinking at work, and even locked him up for seven whole days. He was given food and drink, but no sleep. It was clearly retaliation!

Who is Zong Shichang? He is the good brother whom Zhao Xing entrusted to his family. Zhao Zheng, Zhao Ruide, and Madam Cai's family were all well taken care of by Zong Shichang. He even sent Zhao Zheng to the county school.

How could we tolerate such bullying of Zong Shichang?

Looking at Song Ji kneeling on the ground, Zhao Xing became angrier and angrier.

He originally wanted to question Song Ji about the regulations, but seeing that Song Ji didn't retaliate after kneeling down, Old Master Zhao simply took action.

"You son of a bitch!"

Zhao Xing kicked Song Ji in the face.

"Click~"

Song Ji's nose was kicked and twisted out of shape.

"Bang bang bang bang bang bang bang!"

Zhao Xing, like a local thug, jumped next to Song Ji and started kicking him wildly.

Every kick avoided vital points, so as not to seriously injure Song Ji, but every kick was excruciatingly painful!

"Ah, ah! Ah!"

Song Ji was Sixth Rank Martial Man, so he shouldn't have cried out in pain even if he lost a piece of flesh or suffered a broken bone.

But now he really can't hold back.

The clerks and officials of the Patrol Office were horrified by what they saw.

Especially Liu Silang, the patrolman who was ordered to disturb Zong Shichang's sleep, was almost scared to death.

Because he couldn't see the trick, he thought Zhao Xing was going to beat him to death.

If even the superior is like this, what about a lowly clerk like him?

After being kicked over a hundred times, Song Ji's face was swollen beyond recognition. Only then did Old Master Zhao raise his head and calm down.

He looked at Song Ji calmly and said, "If you are not satisfied, you can go to the prefectural city and sue me."

"Ugh, I dare not..." Song Ji was beaten until his head was swollen, but he still managed to get up and kneel down.

What's there to sue? It's just a minor injury; at most, they'll have to pay compensation.

Just by looking at Wang Shiyang's attitude, you can tell that it's completely useless.

Zhao Xing glanced at the clerk in the Patrol Office, but he didn't make things difficult for Liu Silang.

He simply straightened his clothes and said to Wang Shiyang, "I was momentarily out of control, please punish me, sir."

Wang Shiyang asked in surprise, "What misbehavior? Did you see what Marquis Yuan Rang did?"

The officials replied, "No, no."

He Xian then added, "Marquis Yuan Rang only came to inspect the Patrol Office and examine the prison 'Magic Array."

Wang Shiyang's attitude once again refreshed Long Xiao's understanding of Civil Official.

If this were in the army, and someone dared to beat up his brother, he'd have to take up a knife.

But here, Wang Shiyang just watched, and even let Zhao Xing do this.

Why? Because Song Ji was not one of Wang Shiyang's men.

In addition, Wang Shiyang also reviewed the case file.

The clerk had already explained the whole story to him.

Why did Song Ji close Zong Shichang?

The reason given was that he drank alcohol while on official business, and he was arrested on charges of dereliction of duty to vent his anger.

What anger was he venting? When Zong Shichang was managing the floods in South Willow County, he did not choose to flood the people downstream, but instead damaged the Song Family's farmland.

But he was the prefect, Zong Shichang's actions were in Wang Shiyang's interest.

The Song Family, being a large clan, has a strong ability to withstand natural disasters. After the flood, they only lost some money.

But ordinary people were flooded, homeless, starving, and dying of disease... and he was promoted to a lowly official position?

Wang Shiyang was ambitious and driven by self-interest, but he might not have been a bad official. If he had to choose, he would have supported Zong Shichang in doing so.

In addition, Wang Shiyang also disliked Song Ji at this time.

The banquet was ruined by Song Ji, a piece of trash, leaving a bad impression on Zhao Xing. Forget about speaking up for him, Wang Shiyang wanted to kill him.

"Zhao Xing, shall we go for a walk somewhere else?" Wang Shiyang asked.

"Yes, sir." Zhao Xing left the Patrol Office with Wang Shiyang.

He Xian was following behind, sighed inwardly, feeling that this matter was not over yet.

This is just venting my anger now; who knows how things will turn out later?

The matter is indeed not over. Zhao Xing has vented his anger, but he needs to ask Zong Shichang for his opinion on how to end it.

I accompanied Wang Shiyang on his inspection tour of various government agencies and listened to Wang Shiyang talk about his ambitions and ideals.

The clone was on the flying boat, accompanying Zong Shichang.

"Shichang, the one who came with me is Cloud Soaring Marquis, Long Xiao. You've met him before, but you may not be familiar with him."

"As for Lord Chen, you already know him, so I won't go into details. Lord Chen is now Marquis Yuan Zhen, Official Sixth Rank, Upper."

"What? That guy from West Mountain got a marquisate too?"

Zong Shichang had just finished washing up and was still a little dazed, completely unaware that Chen Shijie and Long Xiao had already walked in.

"Cough cough..." Zhao Xing quickly reminded him.

"Ah, student, pays respects to Lord Chen." Zong Shichang hurriedly bowed.

"Am I not a man from West Mountain?" Chen Shijie looked at Zong Shichang with a half-smile. "Don't lie to yourself, Young Master Zong."

Zong Shichang just wanted to disappear into a crack in the ground.

"Kid, that guy named Song something got beaten up like a pig's head by Zhao Xing," Long Xiao said. "Do you feel better now? If not, I'll go beat him up again for you tomorrow."

"I'm still not satisfied!" Zong Shichang said angrily. "That bastard locked me up for seven days, didn't let me sleep for seven days, how can I not get a beating?"

"However, there's no need for Brother Long to take action. My family has people who can beat him up. It's just a matter of paying some medical expenses; I can afford that!"

"No way," Long Xiao said. "Call me in for this kind of good thing. I'm a sword cultivator. I guarantee I can cut him a hundred times and he'll still only get a minor injury."

"Huh?" Zong Shichang was stunned.

"If you're still not satisfied, let Brother Long go," Zhao Xing said. "Your family members are definitely not as good at fighting as him, and they might overstep their bounds."

You can vent your anger, but you still can't kill someone.

There are many ways to manipulate the Song Family.

"Oh, okay, sure," Zong Shichang replied, but then realized something was off.

Suddenly, he slapped his forehead. "Oh my god, I remember now! How did you get ennobled? And you're Sixth Rank official! And it's only been a few years?"

"And you said you beat him until his head was a pig's head? I remember the prefect and the assistant prefect were both there, right? You beat him in front of them? Didn't they say anything?"

Zong Shichang was full of questions, but he finally realized what was wrong.

Zhao Xing and the other two were Sixth Rank, but Song Ji was also Sixth Rank. Why did Wang Shiyang give him such face?

"We'll talk about it in detail when we get back. Haven't you been sleeping for days and nights? Rest for a while, and you'll know when you wake up," Zhao Xing said with a smile.

"Okay." Zong Shichang was indeed tired, so he lay down and fell asleep immediately, soon drifting off to sleep.

Nanyang County, Song Family.

Song Chengde, the head of the Song Family, was leisurely enjoying the cool shade under the grapevines, while two maids were massaging his legs and shoulders around him.

Song Chengde's ancestors included Fourth Grade official, but after two dynasties, the family gradually declined, further compounded by the constant division of the family property.

By his generation, only two relatives who Fifth Grade officials remained, and they were serving as officials in other places.

The local officialdom was only supported by Song Ji, a Sixth Rank Patrol Office.

In recent years, there have been years of severe flooding, making summers both humid and stifling. To make matters worse, they've run into an incompetent and ignorant Zong Shichang, who is always going against the Song Family.

He would come to the Song Residence to hurl insults whenever he had nothing to do, and he would even wander around the Song Family's ancestral land.

Now that Zong Shichang is imprisoned, he can finally have a few days of peace and quiet.

"Master, the Zong Residence has sent people again." At this moment, a steward came to report.

"I won't see him!" Song Chengde snorted. "This brat from the Zong Family needs to be taught a lesson. He's not even fully grown yet, and he dares to lecture me and try to teach me manners."

"I won't see you, no matter how many gifts you give!"

"No, sir, Zong Shichang has already been released," the butler said urgently. "Second Master Song was beaten into a pulp, and now the Zong Residence has come to demand an explanation."

"Zong Shichang has been released, yet my brother was beaten? And the Zong Residence is here to interrogate me?" Song Chengde was taken aback at first, then angrily retorted, "Nonsense! What nonsense are you spouting in broad daylight! You've only drunk a few ounces of horse piss, and you're already this drunk!"

The butler had no choice but to explain again and again.

After it was emphasized several times, Song Chengde finally believed it.

"Zong Shichang had a close friend from school who spent four years in the army and actually rose to the rank of Sixth Rank official, and was even granted a marquisate?"

"The Prefectural City's Tower Ship Office even sent the Rosy Cloud Ship to escort him back. Even Wang Shiyang has to curry favor with them. Wow, what kind of background does that person have?" Song Chengde couldn't help but gasp.

He immediately realized what was happening. "Quick, quick, get the car ready!"

Ordinary people don't have Earth Mirror or the means to send messages by Yin Spirit; they rely entirely on carriages and horses to deliver messages.

Song Chengde was in South Willow County. By the time he learned of the news, inquired about Marquis Yuan Rang's situation from all sides, and rushed to the county seat to deal with it, it was already the seventh day after the incident.

Song Ji, the Sixth Rank Patrol Office Director, was beaten for a full six days.

With nothing to do, Long Xiao would wake up every day and take Mountain Cat and Zong Shichang to intercept Song Ji.

Moreover, they specifically targeted Song Ji on his way to work.

After the beating, Song Ji, with a bruised and swollen face, still had to go to work.

Long Xiao also refused to allow Song Ji to ask for leave.

If you dare to ask for leave, you'll get a beating twice as badly.

On this day, Heavenly Dragon Xiao appeared again on the road passing through the Patrol Office.

They caught Song Ji and started hacking at him indiscriminately.

An hour later, Song Ji was covered in tattered clothes and looked terrible.

"Cloud Soaring Marquis, I'm on my way home from work, why are you calling me?" Song Ji asked.

Long Xiao snorted, "You took the day off yesterday, so you have to call even after work."

Song Ji was on the verge of tears. "I... I had a normal day off yesterday..."

Long Xiao glanced at Zong Shichang beside him. "Was yesterday a day off as stipulated by your prefectural government?"

Zong Shichang clapped his hands and said, "Yes, I saw you were in high spirits, so I didn't mention it earlier."

"Fine, we've already done it." Long Xiao shrugged. "Anyway, I have nothing else to do."

Song Ji: "..."

At this moment, Song Ji only wanted his brother to come to the city as soon as possible to settle things. He had been in unbearable pain these past few days, more painful than death itself.

On the eighth day, Song Chengde, the head of the Song Family, came to the mansion to pay his respects to Zhao Xing.

"This humble subject, Song Chengde, pays his respects to Marquis Yuan Rang, Marquis Yuan Zhen, and Cloud Soaring Marquis."

Song Chengde obediently knelt down and kowtowed.

Even though he held a nominal official position, this was not the time to discuss such matters.

"Why are you bowing to me?" Zhao Xing pointed to Zong Shichang beside him. "You haven't offended me."

Song Chengde looked at Zong Shichang Zong Shichang kowtowed to him again. "Nephew..."

"You old dog! Who's your nephew?!" Zong Shichang roared. "Stop trying to get close to me!"

Helpless, Song Chengde bowed again. "Lord Zong, I have offended you greatly before. Please tell me how I should apologize so that you can forgive me."

Zong Shichang clapped his hands and said, "It's simple. You just need to promise me three things, and this matter will be settled."

Song Chengde knelt on the ground. "Please, Lord Zong, give me your instructions."

"First, you must write off all the high-interest loans that the villagers of South Willow County have taken out for your family over the years. You old dog, when the floods came, instead of showing any compassion for the people, you took the opportunity to make money and raise interest rates. Now you'd better give it all back!"

"Secondly, you bought someone else's land at a low price, so now you should act like a good Samaritan and return it to them for free. Use the Yellow Register from three years ago as the standard, return it to the family that originally owned it, no more and no less. I'm doing this to accumulate good karma for you."

"Third, from now on, when I work in South Willow County, whether it's repairing dikes or building fortifications, your family will provide manpower or money if needed."

"As the Tranquil Flood Magistrate, I can build whatever I want. Even if that canal is going to pass through your side room, you have to obediently tear it down, understand?"

After Zong Shichang finished speaking, he glanced sideways at Song Chengde and asked, "Could you agree to these three things?"

Song Chengde was already kneeling on the ground, so what was there that he couldn't agree to?

Although it hurt his wallet, he immediately agreed, "I can do it, I can do it."

He felt a bit contemptuous. Zong Shichang didn't want any money or benefits for himself, yet he distributed them all to those commoners. He must have been out of his mind.

Zhao Xing originally didn't want to interrupt, but his Bright Eyes Art accurately grasped Song Chengde's psychological state.

He immediately said, "Let your brother resign from his position in the Patrol Office, and that will settle the matter."

"What?!" Song Chengde's expression changed instantly. "Marquis Yuan Rang, no way... You want money or treasures? My family can agree to anything..."

Zhao Xing interrupted, "You've inquired around these past few days, so you must know who I am. I'll just ask you one question."

"Can your Song Family withstand an investigation by the prefectural city's Supervisory Department?"

Song Chengde's breath hitched.

The Prefectural Supervisory Department is investigating the Song Family? That means even the slightest flaw could ruin the family.

Moreover, the Song Family has more than one problem. They wouldn't dare to commit murder or arson, but they've done plenty of bullying and domineering things.

Zhao Xing didn't want to meddle in other people's business, because this trivial matter would lead to the complete uprooting of the Song Family.

There's no need. As long as Song Ji's position is removed, the Song Family will naturally decline slowly, and then plenty of people will come to devour them.

Old Master Zhao values his reputation and doesn't want him to do this himself.

Of course, Song Chengde should be sensible.

If they don't know their place, then he wouldn't mind writing a letter to the Prefectural Supervisory Department and bringing down the Song Family right now.

"If there is no news by tomorrow, it means you do not accept the respect that I have given to the Song Family."

"If you are not dignified yourself, I will make you dignified."

"That's all I have to say. You may leave."

Zhao Xing waved his hand, and a gust of wind blew Song Chengde outside the mansion gate.

Song Chengde, standing outside the door, was pale-faced.

He didn't even dare to harbor resentment; he simply left silently to tell his younger brother Song Ji, the final outcome.

If they accept it, the Song Family will have several decades to catch their breath and train more clansmen to become officials.

If we don't accept it, we risk immediate destruction.

The following day at dawn, Song Ji arrived at the prefectural government office to submit his resignation, voluntarily resigning from his Official Rank.

Because he did not retire naturally, his merits and honors were low, and without his Official Rank, his cultivation level declined all the way down to the Eighth Grade.

But resigning voluntarily is better than being dismissed from office, which is certainly a crime.

When the cultivation and lifespan bestowed by the dynasty's fortune are extracted, it becomes impossible to still reach the Eighth Grade.

The Song Family accepted the respect offered by Old Master Zhao, and subsequently relinquished many interests in the prefectural city, retreating entirely to their ancestral home, South Willow County. They went from being a prominent family in the prefecture to a family in the county.

"Within a hundred years, the Song Family has no hope of rising again. People have luck, and so do families."

Zhao Xing stood on the city wall and looked south. To the south, there was a pillar of light with auspicious energy that was rapidly shrinking.

He quickly calculated that the Song Family would find it difficult to achieve anything significant within the next hundred years.

"With a single word from me, I can decide the fate of an entire family."

"Who can decide my fate?"

Zhao Xing looked up at the sky, put his thoughts aside, and set off with the master of ceremonies and the honor guard.

He stayed in the county town for seven days, not entirely because of Zong Shichang's matter, but also because of the established procedure.

From the county seat to the Gucheng, it's much closer.

In less than two hours, Zhao Xing's honor guard, consisting of more than twenty flying boats, arrived at Gucheng.

The magistrate of Gucheng County was originally Li Wenzheng, but he was transferred to another place three years ago for his meritorious service in arresting Profound Heaven Sect believers.

The new county magistrate is named Xu Donghui, and he is Official Eighth Rank.

Xu Donghui led his men to meet them five miles outside the city.

When Zhao Xing came down, he took the lead in bowing and cupping his hands.

"Greetings to Marquis Yuan Rang Marquis Yuan Rang! Congratulations on your triumphant return!"

"Congratulations on the Marquis Yuan Rang!"

Zhao Xing quickly disembarked from the flying boat and helped Xu Donghui up.

"Lord Xu, please rise. There's no need for such formalities."

Although he was talking to Xu Dong, Zhao Xing's gaze swept across the ranks of officials.

Xu Dong knew exactly what Zhao Xing was looking for, and immediately stepped aside, saying, "Lord Xue, please come forward."

"No need." Zhao Xing quickly pushed through the crowd and came to Xue Wenzhong.

At this time, Xue Wenzhong was still Ninth Grade Upper Rank, a rank he was promoted to after becoming the head of the Agricultural Supervisorate.

Four years had passed since they last met, and Xue Wenzhong had aged considerably, because Sub-Ninth Rank to the Ninth-Rank hadn't added much to his lifespan.

Moreover, the Old Sima Nong had already lived twice longer.

Even if you go through the Ninth Grade repeatedly, you only get a little bit of luck boost.

"Congratulations, Marquis Yuan Rang." Xue Wenzhong smiled and was about to bow to Zhao Xing. Although his hair was white and he had wrinkles and age spots, his speech was clear and he could still be heard.

"Teacher." Zhao Xing quickly took Xue Wenzhong's hands, "Your student has returned to see you."

He did not kneel before Xue Wenzhong. His current rank was too high; to kneel before Xue Wenzhong, Ninth Grade official, would shorten his lifespan.

"Good, good." Xue Wenzhong patted Zhao Xing's hand, grinning from ear to ear, "It's good that you're back."

"Oh? Lord Chen has arrived too."

"Yes, he's back too." Zhao Xing smiled and stepped aside.

"Old Sima Nong." Chen Shijie quickly came over and grasped Xue Wenzhong's hand, preventing him from bowing. "It's been a long time. How have you been?"

"Good, very good."

"Thanks to you, the position of the chief officer was vacated after you left, so this old man of mine can get a promotion and live a few more years."

Xue Wenzhong joked, "You're back this time not because you've been demoted again, and you're here to steal my position, are you? Huh?"

"Hahahaha." Chen Shijie couldn't help but laugh, and a burst of laughter came from the surroundings. "Don't worry, Old Sima Nong, I'm not here in Gucheng to be the Agriculture Official, much less to take your position. You can rest assured."

"Okay, okay." Xue Wenzhong a smile, clearly pleased to see outstanding students and old acquaintances.

"Marquis Yuan Rang, Marquis Yuan Zhen, Cloud Soaring Marquis, and the Old Sima Nong," Xu Donghui said, cupping his hands. "How about we return to the city and talk some more? I have prepared a small banquet to welcome you all."

"Alright, teacher, let's go into the city." Zhao Xing pulled Xue Wenzhong along, and a large group of officials followed behind, heading towards Gucheng.

The welcoming party outside the city was not to bring family members; this was a rule because, strictly speaking, Zhao Xing's return to his hometown was also considered official business.

Historically, no female relatives or family members have ever come out of the city to greet them.

If there are elderly people in the family who are too old to walk, would they really go three miles out of town to greet their grandchildren? That doesn't make sense.

However, upon entering the city to attend the banquet, he immediately encountered Zhao Ruide, Madam Cai, and Zhao Zheng.

"Godfather." Zhao Xing knelt down and kowtowed before Zhao Ruide. "Your son has returned."

Standing on the steps, Zhao Ruide asked loudly, "How valiantly did my son perform on the battlefield?"

"Five million merits!"

"A million battle merits, enough to make one a hero! Excellent!" The master of ceremonies beside him held a red tray with a row of wines on it. Zhao Ruide picked up one of the cups and drank it all in one gulp.

After finishing his drink, Zhao Ruide asked again.

"My son has rendered outstanding service; what rank does he currently hold?"

"Official Sixth Rank, Upper!"

"Great!" Zhao Ruide drank another cup.

"My son has returned in glory; has His Majesty bestowed any rewards upon him?"

"He is granted the Nobility Title, with the honorific name 'Yuanrang'!"

"He was granted 165,000 mu of land and a fief of 1,650 households."

"Awarded with a 'Guardian' scepter, two Azure-Eyed Dragon Lion and Qilin Flying Boat, a pair of Jade Ruyi... Merit up to the tenth rank!"

The surroundings were quiet, except for the sound of Zhao Xing reporting to Laozi.

This scene filled everyone with envy.

This is probably the greatest honor of being a father.

After several rounds of drinking, veins bulged on Zhao Ruide's forehead. He picked up the last large bowl and invited the onlookers from all directions.

"My son is mighty! Rhett, please drink this cup to the brim with me!"

"Congratulations to Marquis Yuan Rang!" Congratulations poured in from all around.

With this, the triumphant return ceremony can be considered to have come to an end.

Next came the banquet.

Xu Donghui not only held a banquet inside the County Office, but also set up many tables along the streets outside.

He arranged a private room for Zhao Xing's family and friends.

"Madam Cai, this is the list of valuables and gifts I brought back from my return home." Zhao Xing handed a thick stack of valuables and gifts to Madam Cai.

Madam Cai wiped her hands and carefully took it.

"So much..."

"We don't need that much at home."

After four years apart, when they met again, Zhao Xing had soared to great heights, which made Madam Cai somewhat uneasy.

She gave Zhao Xing a lot of attitude back then, who knows if he will hold a grudge?

Now that she had received the gift list from Zhao Xing, Madam Cai felt a little more at ease.

With so much wealth, it doesn't matter if Zhao Xing scolds us a few times later.

Madam Cai quickly took Zhao Zheng's hand, saying, "Zheng'er, why don't you pay your respects to your elder brother?"

The biggest change in Zhao Xing's family was not with Zhao Ruide and Madam Cai, but with Zhao Zheng.

At this time, Zhao Zheng was already thirteen years old.

Thanks to Zong Shichang's good care, he had good food and drink, and after four years of martial arts training, he is now over 1.75 meters tall.

He also became stronger and was no longer the little kid who couldn't even shovel snow.

Having not seen each other for several years, he seemed a little reserved and somewhat unfamiliar with Zhao Xing.

"Greetings, elder brother!"

Looking at Zhao Xing Zhao Zheng, who was bowing formally, Zhao Xing couldn't help but sigh. This was no longer the kid who used to blow up people's latrines with Firecracker Bamboo.

"Get up quickly." Zhao Xing helped Zhao Zheng up by the shoulder and patted him. "No need to be so Guest Qi among family."

"Speaking of which, aren't you practicing martial arts? How come your skin is getting whiter and more delicate the more you practice?"

Zhao Zheng wiped his face and said, "Mother, see? I told you my brother was good at talking, didn't I? Why did you have to put this powder on me?"

"Hey, don't wipe it." Madam Cai slapped Zhao Zheng's hand and took out a handkerchief. "You silly child, if you wipe your face all messed up, how will you face the guests later?"

But it was too late. Zhao Zheng wiped his face, and the lip gloss mixed with the foundation on his face, instantly turning him into a messy cat face.

"Hahahaha." Zhao Ruide and his son Zhao Xing immediately began to laugh mercilessly.

"Mom! What do we do now!" The teenager, who was at a stage where he was very proud, immediately became anxious.

"Don't panic, let your older brother fix you up."

With First-Turn of his finger, Zhao Xing sent a stream of water sweeping over Zhao Zheng's body.

Like a brush, give his neck and face a thorough wash.

Then a breeze came and, in the blink of an eye, washed away the watermarks.

They also styled Zhao Zheng's hair.

Zhao Xing extended his right hand, and a water mirror appeared in his palm. He placed it in front of Zhao Zheng.

"Look, aren't you much more handsome now?"

"That's true." Zhao Zheng subconsciously touched his face.

"Hahahaha." This narcissistic act drew another round of laughter.

"I'm not playing with you guys anymore! I'm going out to eat!" Zhao Zheng, unable to save face, ran to the next private room to pet the cat.

Gucheng, Anping Ward, Zhao Xing's home.

"There is an island in the North Sea. On the day of the Beginning of Beginning of Winter, the water begins to freeze. Five days later, the sea begins to freeze. Five days later, a giant whale breaks through the ice and transforms into Mystic Bird, while Azure Bird enters the water and becomes Purple Snake. Five days after that, sea fire erupts from the seabed."

Zhao Xing was in his study, reading the Nine Provinces Geographical Records.

It is now the Summer Solstice of the twentieth year of the Jingxin Calendar, and he has been back for a month.

This past month has been filled with social interactions and networking.

Only today has Zhao Xing had the chance to relax and read a book.

"I've been sent to the East Sea, but I don't know exactly where in the East Sea or what my Official Rank is," Zhao Xing thought to himself.

His official appointment has not yet been issued; he is currently in the "awaiting transfer" category.

They held official ranks, but had no specific powers or responsibilities.

"The East Sea is too big, much bigger than Pinghai Province. The best place to go is near Princess Youruo's territory," Zhao Xing thought to himself.

He was still thinking about the Ten Thousand Year Mysterious Turtle that the old witch was going to give him.

After reading for a while, Zhao Xing went to the Chen Residence.

Swish~

Zhao Xing arrived at the Chen Residence, where Chen Shijie and a woman were harvesting Heaven Yuan Pear in the pear orchard.

At this Chen Shijie was dressed simply, picking pears with Gui Niang, just like an ordinary fruit farmer.

"Lord Zhao." Gui Niang wiped her sweat and prepared to bow when she saw Zhao Xing arrive.

"No need for such formalities, sister-in-law," Zhao Xing said with a smile. "This isn't my first time here. I just wanted to chat with Old Chen."

"Oh, then I'll go make you some tea." Gui Niang put down the fruit basket and turned to leave.

"What, can't sit still?" Chen Shijie didn't even turn his head, focusing on picking pears.

He clearly possessed magic, but he didn't use it. Instead, he took a pair of long-nosed scissors and stood on tiptoe to cut the branches.

"Whoosh~" Zhao Xing used a gust of wind to blow the pear that he couldn't reach down.

"Why are you meddling in my business?" Chen Shijie tossed a pear over. "Don't I know how to use magic?"

"I have OCD," Zhao Xing laughed. "It makes me uncomfortable to watch you stand on tiptoe and try to reach it for ages."

"Your mental state isn't right," Chen Shijie said. "I haven't cast a spell in a month."

"Since it's a holiday, why don't you take a proper rest?"

"That's true." Zhao Xing then sealed his own vital energy and joined Chen Shijie in picking pears.

"Where did Long Xiao go?"

"He went off to fool around with Zong Shichang," Chen Shijie said. "Those two get along quite well."

"Most likely, Long Xiao hasn't seen much of the world before," Zhao Xing said. "Now that he's met Zong Shichang, who's really into the world, it's like he's opened the door to a whole new world."

"You talk as if you've ever seen one," Chen Shijie sneered. "You've never even touched a woman's hand."

"..."

Zhao Xing hadn't even held hands with Zong Shichang, yet he was getting married.

In the twentieth year of the Jingxin Calendar, on the Summer Solstice, Zong Shichang and Liu Muqing got engaged.

After pursuing it for several years, it finally came to fruition.

Mid-July.

Zhao Xing went to East Lake and used his Heavenly Eye to scan the area, but he didn't find the wandering ghosts who had given him the Fourth Level East Lake Pearl.

In late July, I went to the Xue Residence to present the Old Sima Nong with a longevity charm.

He couldn't change Xue Wenzhong's Official Rank, but the Old Sima Nong hadn't taken many longevity-promoting treasures.

Zhao Xing fed Xue Wenzhong longevity-enhancing treasures in batches.

Old Sima Nong's complexion visibly improved, and he looked younger.

By doing this, Xue Wenzhong could only live for another fifty years at most. There was no other way; Ninth Grade official could only live for a maximum of one hundred and fifty years.

If one truly wishes to prolong their life, they must also seek promotion in their Official Rank.

As a result, Zhao Xing visited officials at all levels, including prefectures, counties, and districts, more frequently.

Let's see if there's a chance in the future to help Old Master Xue get a Official Rank.

In early August, Zong Shichang and Liu Muqing got married, and their best friend Lu Qian was also present.

However, Zhao Xing had almost forgotten about her, and only when they met again did he remember that this girl used to like him.

Everyone has their own ambitions; we only met briefly at the banquet, exchanged a few words, and then parted ways.

At the end of August, Zhao Xing discussed moving with his family.

"The land bestowed upon me by the imperial court is in the eastern part of Pinghai Province, covering hundreds of thousands of acres, and I also have a fief. Every year, I can collect several hundred taels of tax revenue. Of course, we don't need to rely on tax revenue for our livelihood." I had to say this.

Zhao Xing still had to go to the Li Fire Dao Academy, and his vacation was only two months long.

"Move to such a far place?" Zhao Ruide hesitated.

It's common for officials to bring their families when they take office, but Zhao Ruide wasn't very willing.

"Yes," Zhao Xing replied.

If the Liang King were to rebel, the south would be the first to suffer.

Nanyang County seems to be far from the battlefield, with a straight-line distance of only forty to fifty thousand li.

For a high-level war, this is not far off; it will only take a few hours for military warships to arrive and launch an attack.

Madam Cai didn't care, but she was worried about Zhao Zheng's school admission. "He will be entering Nanyang Academy next year. What will happen to his spot after we go?"

Zhao Xing said, "Don't worry, once we get there, I can arrange for him to enter the Azure Water Daoist Academy, which would be even better than this."

How good is it?

"..."

Zhao Xing was puzzled. Did Madam Cai not understand the word "better"?

Seeing this, Zhao Ruide said, "Why are you asking such specific questions? Even if Xing'er explained it to you, you wouldn't understand."

Madam Cai chuckled awkwardly, "Then I'll go cook. You two can decide."

"Do I really have to go?" Zhao Ruide was still somewhat reluctant.

"It would be best if we went together," Zhao Xing said. Although the city's great formation was not so easy to break and Nanyang County was not a strategic location, he would still feel more at ease taking them with him.

After all, neither Zhao Ruide nor Madam Cai had much ability to protect themselves, nor were they officials.

As for others such as Xue Wenzhong and Zong Shichang, he will make other arrangements for them.

"Let me think about it some more," Zhao Ruide said.

"Good."

The twentieth year of the Jingxin Calendar, the ninth month.

Zhao Xing's affairs in Gucheng have been basically arranged.

On September 10th, Zhao Ruide finally agreed to move.

On this very day, Zhao Xing found Chen Shijie and also brought the disoriented Long Xiao to the Chen Residence.

"The three of us should go to the Li Fire Dao Academy to take the authorization test," Zhao Xing said.

Chen Shijie and Long Xiao's new positions are also in the East Sea, and the outcome for all three is the same.

The East Sea is too far away, because Nanyang County is located in the southwest of Pinghai Province. The longest straight-line distance to the East Sea is more than three million li!

If you were to fly by Seventh Order warship, it would take a month or two just to get there.

Without gaining control of the Li Fire Dao Academy, even a simple round trip would be difficult for them.

"I have no problem with it. Anyway, I plan to take Gui Niang with me this time," Chen Shijie said.

"I'm even less of a problem," Long Xiao said. "I have no ties and can leave anytime."

"I don't think so," Chen Shijie said with a sidelong glance. "The girls at Hui Xiang Tower are all on your mind."

"What nonsense are you talking about!" Long Xiao said, his face flushed. "I just went to listen to music! I didn't do anything."

"Yes, yes, yes."

"..."

Zhao Xing laughed and said, "Alright, let's get down to business. Our transfer orders will come down in early October or late September. The military will give us a month to get on the road."

"We need to pass the exam before the beginning of October. If we don't pass, we'll have to take a boat there."

"After the exam, I can stay a little longer."

Chen Shijie asked, "When will we go?"

Zhao Xing said, "It's already September 10th. Let's set off in five days. We'll come back to pick them up after the exam."

Long Xiao scratched his head and said, "What authority were we supposed to be tested on again? I've forgotten."

Zhao Xing explained, "The authority of the Li Fire Dao Academy has five levels: Hundred Arts Dharma Master, Teaching Dharma Master, Classics Scholar, Vice Dean, and Dean."

"Hundred Arts Dharma Master has three free opportunities to travel through the Daoist temple each year. This is for personal matters. If it is a mission assigned by the Dao Academy, there is no need to pay a price."

"Teaching Dharma Master may use the Li Fire Divine Altar free of charge, whether for official or private matters."

"This corresponds to the level of a true disciple or sect Guardian Art in the ancient sect era."

"As for the Classics Scholar, the Vice Dean, and the Dean of the Branch, they are roughly equivalent to elders."

"Not only can I use it myself, but I also have several opportunities each year to allow others to use it without any cost."

Zhao Xing said, "We can just take the exam to become an Honorary Teaching Dharma Master. We can bring family members when we use it. A single-digit number of family members is no problem."

Long Xiao asked, "Is it difficult? I'm most afraid of exams."

Chen Shijie said, "Hundred Arts Dharma Master is not difficult; this position is simply a teacher at the Li Fire Dao Academy."

"It's just rote learning. It only requires a broad knowledge base, but not necessarily expertise."

"However, even those who are awarded the title of Hundred Arts Dharma Master still need to create their own methods, but the difficulty is lower."

"Teaching Dharma Master must have his own unique understanding of the Tao, and at least be able to create his own spell. Moreover, the spell he creates must be of a high level, so that others can also cultivate it to a high level if they try to imitate it."

"That's quite difficult. As the saying goes, those who imitate me will die, and those who learn from me will live. Many people's self-created spells are only most powerful in their own hands. When others follow the process to learn, the spell's power is only half, or even less than half."

Zhao Xing said, "That's right, the requirements for Honorary Teaching Dharma Master are quite demanding. We must leave something of real substance behind at the Dao Academy."

Examining authority is essentially a form of resource exchange.

You can either teach there, or leave behind a powerful spell for future generations to learn.

As for the Classics Scholar and the Vice Dean, they would only be granted honorary titles such as "Honorary Doctor" if they made significant contributions to the Li Fire Dao Academy.

Of course, Zhao Xing and the other two only aimed for the 'honorary mission' level.

Long Xiao nodded. "Okay, I'll get ready."

"Then we shall meet at 7:00 AM five days from now."

"Good."

Five days later, at the hour of Chen (7-9 AM), Zhao Xing, Chen Shijie, Long Xiao boarded a flying boat and headed to Nanyang County.

The Tower Ship Office of Nanyang County transferred to Tower Ship and arrived at Dayuan Prefecture.

In Dayuan Prefecture, there was a branch of the Li Fire Dao Academy.

"The head of this branch of the academy in Dayuan Prefecture is Ji Qingshan, a member of the royal family. He is the Son of Heaven's grand-nephew, 201 years old, and Third-Rank Realm." After arriving in Dayuan Prefecture, the three of them walked and talked.

"What's the relationship between Ji Qingshan and the Liang King?" Long Xiao asked. "Won't he deliberately make things difficult for us?"

Zhao Xing shook his head. "I don't know, probably not."

In my previous life, Liang King Rebellion, I had never heard of Ji Qingshan.

Logically speaking, if Third-Rank Realm joined the Liang King's forces, they would surely become well-known.

However, Zhao Xing knew less about Ji Qingshan than Chen Shijie did, because Yang An knew a Classics Scholar here.

After several visits, I learned a bit about it.

"This isn't about showing favoritism. We'll test based on ability, and there can't be any problems," Zhao Xing said.

"What spells do you plan to leave in the Dao Academy?" Chen Shijie asked.

"Thunder Breaking Illusion Finger," Zhao Xing said.

This lightning technique was created by him and has now developed into a high-level spell, but it is not yet perfect and is only at the Seventh Order.

The subsequent Third-Turn are not yet complete.

"And you?"

Chen Shijie said, "I created a Earth Palace Art, which barely reached the threshold of the High-Level Fourth-Turn."

Long Xiao said proudly, "I can leave behind just one move of the Divine Firmament Sword Art, and that will be enough."

"Who asked you?"

"..."

Upon arriving at the gate of the Li Fire Dao Academy, Zhao Xing and the other two waited.

At this point, the only option was for Chen Shijie to contact the Classics Scholar Yang An knew.

My master Liu Tianning won't work here; it might even have the opposite effect.

Because Old Liu had also challenged the Li Fire Dao Academy back then, and he had taken on nearly half of the seventy-two Dao Academy.

If Zhao Xing were to reveal that he was Liu Tianning's disciple, it might cause some unexpected trouble.

After waiting for about 15 minutes, a Daoist boy dressed in yellow robes floated out.

"May I ask if it was Lords Chen Shijie and Long Xiao in person?"

"Exactly." Chen Shijie nodded.

"The teacher asked me to pick you two up. And this gentleman is...?"

"This is my colleague," Chen Shijie said, without mentioning Zhao Xing's name. "He's also here to take the assessment."

"Please follow me." The young Daoist asked casually, and then led the three of them into the Dao Academy.

The palaces of the Li Fire Dao Academy are very simple and ancient in style, and the buildings are very tall, making them look magnificent and grand.

The pavilions Dao Academy are seven or eight meters high, and the covered walkways are so wide that several horse-drawn carriages can easily run side by side.

"Although it is called the Li Fire Dao Academy, it has just as many spiritual springs and lakes inside."

"The architecture of the mountains and waters is in harmony with the principles of Yin and Yang, using earth and water to balance the fire Fire Pond of the Li Fire Divine Altar and prevent the fire from becoming too intense."

"This is just a branch academy." Zhao Xing looked around and realized that it was quite different from the Li Fire Dao Academy he knew from his previous life.

It is peaceful and serene, with an ethereal, otherworldly quality.

Zhao Xing was familiar with the Li Fire Dao Academy. At that time, Wu Emperor was already in power, and he requisitioned the Li Fire Dao Academy and used it as a war machine.

Even inside the Dao Academy, there was a chilling atmosphere.

The noble spirit of the immortal sects was transformed into the spirit of the military camp by Wu Emperor.

"The Li Fire Dao Academy has a total of forty-nine Fire Spirit Mountain, but by the time of Wu Emperor, thirty-two of them had been ruined," Zhao Xing pondered.

The cost of war is considerable, Li Fire Dao Academy has such a useful transport treasure as the Li Fire Divine Altar, so of course it will be requisitioned.

The young Daoist led the three onto the flying boat in the courtyard, and after a leisurely two quarters of an hour, they stopped in front of a two-hundred-meter-tall tower.

"Honored guest, we have arrived," the young Daoist introduced. "The Dharma Transmission Tower is just ahead."

"The Dharma Transmission Tower has a total of ninety-nine floors."

"It contains countless magical techniques left by our predecessors."

"The first thirty levels are all low to mid-level spells."

"After the thirtieth floor, all spells are high-level."

The young Daoist explained, "If the three of you want to obtain honorary titles, you must leave your own original spells on the ' Law Wall ' after the thirtieth floor."

"Note that it must be a newly created spell."

"If it is not created by oneself, it is impossible to leave a trace."

"Three distinguished guests, you can follow the instructions inside the tower. The many Law Wall inside can also guide you to enlightenment. If you stay for a few more days, you might even be able to create your own new Dharma."

"Thank you for guiding me," Chen Shijie said, bowing to the young Daoist.

"Guest Qi." The young Daoist returned the greeting and then boarded the flying boat and left.

There were many such guiding boys around, carrying the guests on the flying boat to the Dharma Transmission Tower.

Many people want to leave their mark on the Li Fire Dao Academy. Even if they don't get an honorary title, it's still something to brag about if they can leave their name below the thirtieth floor.

Of course, most of them were students from the Dao Academy itself.

One of the graduation requirements for Daoist priests at the Li Fire Dao Academy is that they must leave behind a new method within the thirtieth floor.

"There are so many people, but their cultivation levels are all relatively low." Long Xiao looked around. "Most of them are low-grade, there are very few mid-grade, and I haven't seen a single high-grade one."

"High-level experts aren't like cabbages; you can't just run into one anytime," Zhao Xing said with a smile.

"The more half-baked you are, the more shaky you become," Long Xiao said, pointing at the people coming and going. "With such a low-level cultivation, what powerful Dao techniques can you possibly comprehend?"

Long Xiao's commanding manner immediately attracted a lot of attention.

"Can't you be a little more low-key?" Zhao Xing said in a low voice. "Is this a common problem among all sword cultivators? You all like to act in a high-profile manner."

"Keep your voice down. My identity is a bit problematic, so don't cause me any trouble."

"Oh, then I won't say anything." Long Xiao also lowered his voice, "I'll listen to you, keep a low profile."

"Alright, let's go."

After saying this, the three of them went into the Dharma Transmission Tower.

When I woke up today, my vision was blurry and I couldn't see things clearly. It took me a long time to adjust.

I can only write 12,000 words today. I'll go to the hospital tomorrow.