Dragon Horse Bureau and Beast Competition

"Wait a minute, how come the Dharma Transmission Tower is so big?" Long Xiao exclaimed as soon as he entered, looking up and asking, "Is this the sky or land?"

"The Dharma Transmission Tower Grotto-Heaven; that's exactly what it says," Chen Shijie said. "It was pieced together from ninety-nine fragments of that Grotto-Heaven."

"From the outside, this building doesn't look very big, but the space on the first floor alone is larger than the entire city of Gucheng."

Long Xiao clicked his tongue in amazement. "No wonder it's the grandeur of the Ancient Divine Sect."

Zhao Xing shook his head and said, "This was established after the Li Fire Sect joined the Great Zhou. It used ninety-nine fragments of the Grotto-Heaven and involved more than 100,000 Mechanism Master. It was overseen by Huang Jian, the Grand Minister of Works during the reign of the Grand Ancestor."

"So it has nothing to do with the Divine Sect. It's purely a national project. It's uncertain whether it could have been built during the time of the Li Fire Divine Sect. Ketu that many people involved."

"Who are you to dare to criticize the Ancient Divine Sect sect?" Just as Zhao Xing finished speaking, a middle-aged man in Yellow Robe who was passing by looked over.

Zhao Xing looked back and found that the man was dressed in a simple and ancient style, holding a whisk in his hand, and looking at him with displeasure.

"Was there something wrong with what he said?" Long Xiao asked curiously.

The man in the Yellow Robe snorted, "Huang Jian, the Grand Minister of Works during the reign of Grand Ancestor, did indeed oversee the transmission of teachings at the Dao Academy, but the materials for the fragments of the Grotto-Heaven were passed down from the Li Fire Sect."

"Of the 187,645 people who participated in the construction, 30,000 were disciples of the Li Fire Sect."

"Before the establishment of the Great Zhou Dynasty, the Li Fire Divine Sect was the state religion of the Southern Tang Dynasty. It trained at least ten million disciples. How can you say that the Divine Sect didn't have that many people?"

"I have learned a lot." Zhao Xing quickly cupped his hands and said, "This junior is ignorant and I hope the senior will not take offense."

This person looks like an old scholar, and a rather rigid "conservative".

Zhao Xing didn't want to argue with anyone about this, lest he cause trouble and have his identity exposed.

The man in the Yellow Robe returned the greeting, then snorted, "From now on, be careful with your words and actions, and don't make any rash comments about the Divine Sect."

"Yes." Zhao Xing appeared humble and receptive to being taught, and then pulled Long Xiao and Chen Shijie away.

"That Daoist priest gave me a strange feeling." Long Xiao glanced in the direction the man had left. "Oh, I remember now, his words and actions were somewhat similar to those Extraterritorial Demonic Person I've seen in the Southern Wilderness. Old Chen, don't you think so?"

"Hmm." Chen Shijie nodded.

Zhao Xing said in a low voice, "The predecessors of the Seventy-Two Dao Academies were sects, so it's normal for you to have this feeling."

"This person is probably a rather traditional conservative."

Long Xiao asked, "What do you mean?"

Zhao Xing used the wind to transmit his voice, ensuring that only three people could hear it.

"The process of the seventy-two sects joining the Great Zhou Dynasty of Fate system was not without its challenges."

"At that time, there was a great upheaval, and three situations emerged among the major sects."

"First, there are those who follow the trend. They quickly accepted reality, integrated into the Great Zhou, became the Dao Academy's headmaster, and abandoned the old laws and regulations."

"Secondly, there are the extremely stubborn ones. This group of power holders are used to being high and mighty, having the power of life and death, and cannot accept the harsh laws of the Great Zhou. So during that special period, some split up, some defected, and they left the territory of the Great Zhou with their disciples and followers."

"Thirdly, there are some elders and Guardian Art. Although they joined the Great Zhou under the orders of the various sect leaders, they did not comply with the orders."

"But their habits and ideas are still the same old ones; they just don't want to leave the Nineteen Provinces."

"They are not that extreme. On the surface, they follow the laws of the Great Zhou and accept the restrictions on cultivation set by the Dynasty of Fate."

"However, deep down, I still follow the ancient sectarian traditions."

Long Xiao transmitted his voice, asking, "What traditions does your sect have?"

Chen Shijie said, "For example, the habit of Ascetic Practice. I once saw a group of the Dao Academy masters in Mount Ming. Every once in a while, they would sit in meditation on the top of the mountain without eating, drinking or sleeping."

"Whether it's a few months or a year, they rely on their own vitality and Rain Water to survive."

"These people starve themselves to the point of near death; there have even been cases where people have died from starvation during Ascetic Practice practices."

Zhao Xing nodded and said, "There's also the custom of passing on techniques. They don't reveal many of their unique skills. If they can't find a disciple willing to follow the ancient methods to become their apprentice, they'd rather take their unique skills to their graves."

"During the reigns of Grand Ancestor and Wen Emperor, there were many incidents of teachers beating students to death in various Dao Academy."

Long Xiao asked in surprise, "Why?"

Zhao Xing explained, "Many students in the Dao Academy learn magic from one teacher, and then go to another teacher to learn the next day."

"Such behavior is considered to be betraying one's master and ancestors. Many elders could not tolerate this, so they took action to cripple their disciples' cultivation."

"This failure, due to a lack of careful control, pierced through the protective aura of fortune bestowed upon the Daoists by the Great Zhou, causing many Daoists to die while falling in cultivation level."

"Even more extreme sectarian cultivators kill people simply because their disciples did not wake up in the morning or evening."

A look of shock appeared on Long Xiao's face:

"Because he didn't come to say good morning and good night to his master, he was beaten to death?"

"This is utterly absurd!"

"It's quite absurd," Chen Shijie said. "It's fortunate that Wen Emperor was merciful and didn't kill these stubborn old men."

"His policy was to send members of the royal family into the Dao Academy, and after they completed their studies, they would gradually replace those old fogies."

"Through a thousand years of changes, the current Seventy-Two Dao Academies now have many key positions such as dean and vice dean held by members of the royal family."

"Not bad." Zhao Xing nodded. Like Princess Youruo's mother, who was originally the sect leader (dean) of the Azure Water Sect, Princess Youruo Princess Youruo was given the title of honorary vice dean.

If nothing unexpected happens, this position will belong to Princess Youruo after her mother's death.

Unfortunately, the old hag later gave up this position and actually accepted Peace Marriage, marrying into the Holy Light Royal Court in the Southern Wilderness. I really don't know what she was thinking.

"Your teacher, Liu Tianning, beat up the people from the Dao Academy, were they these conservatives?" Long Xiao asked.

"It's not beating, it's killing," Zhao Xing said. "The most brutal mode of sparring among the various Dao Academy is called the ' Great Dao Contention '."

"In this mode, not only are superior and inferior determined, but life and death are also decided. Stepping on the path of others to advance further is a common way of sparring in the ancient Sect Realm."

"Grand Ancestor Taizu was warlike and preserved this tradition. It was abolished for a period of time during the reign of Wen Emperor."

"But later on, it returned to normal, and His Majesty the present is particularly fond of this system. He has even personally fought seven ' Great Dao Contention '."

"Oh?" Long Xiao asked, "His Majesty fought in it too?"

"Hmm," Zhao Xing said, "In the first six rounds, he killed thirty-seven vice deans from six Dao Academy. The reason is... well, you know."

"I don't understand," Long Xiao said sincerely.

"Didn't Zhao Xing just say that those old guys are unwilling to pass on the teachings?" Chen Shijie said irritably. "You've really dulled your brain these past few days in Gucheng."

Zhao Xing laughed and said, "Indeed, since those old fellows want to take the secret techniques to their graves, what's the point of keeping them? Your Majesty should personally send them off on their journey so they can get into their graves sooner."

"I see," Long Xiao said. "What about the other seven matches? What happened in the seventh match?"

Zhao Xing shrugged and said, "After the seventh match, the sect leader of the Azure Water Sect entered the harem, and Princess Youruo was born."

"Goodness."

"..."

The three chatted as they strolled through the first floor.

The first level is mostly populated by Ninth Grade Essence Gathering Realm and Eighth Grade Spirit Bridge Realm cultivators.

The Law Wall are distributed in all directions, incredibly tall, and the space is vast enough for people to cause trouble.

Zhao Xing looked at it and saw that the Law Wall had many sections and was also categorized.

For example, by profession, there are martial arts, magic, music, soul skills (here, soul skills refer to specific Priest skills, not the common way of cultivating and attacking the Fate Soul), dance skills, and Magic Array.

For example, they can be classified according to the Five Elements Wind-Thunder.

As an important path of cultivation, the Way of Agricultural Official naturally has its own dedicated section.

"The spells I created based on my understanding of the Solar Terms Decree and the Houtu Return to Origin Canon are all very weak," Chen Shijie commented. "The first level is only good for showing off."

"Yes," Zhao Xing said. "There are no spells related to the True Self Faction here. Very few people of the eighth or ninth rank have comprehended the All Things Growth Chart' and the Yin Yang True Self Scripture '."

"The first ten levels aren't anything special, let's go straight to the eleventh level." Long Xiao curled his lip. "The martial arts techniques there are all very crude."

"Students at the Dao Academy will do anything to graduate."

"It's the same set of sword moves, but one student changed the starting stance and still passed. He's a real talent."

"..."

Zhao Xing, Chen Shijie, Long Xiao communicated with each other telepathically and flew up the cloud ladder.

Between the floors, there are 'cloud ladders' everywhere, with fluffy white clouds moving up and down between the sky and the ground. It's definitely a fantasy version of an 'elevator'.

We took the ladder and went all the way up to the tenth floor.

When you go to the eleventh floor, there is no more ladder; you have to fly on your own.

The Dao Academy uses this method to prevent students of lower cultivation levels from going up, so that they don't lose themselves when they see powerful spells and martial arts.

There are quite a few people here who are severely unbalanced in their studies and get stuck in dead ends, just like Feng Qiu.

If you can't fly, you can only wander around on the tenth floor below.

Starting from the eleventh floor, many mid-level spells and martial arts techniques appear.

Zhao Xing and his two companions stayed a little longer.

Intermediate-level spells are still somewhat interesting to them, and besides, these are all new spells.

Through the new method, one can glimpse the ways others attain enlightenment and also verify what one has learned.

Eight hours later, Zhao Xing and his two companions arrived at the thirtieth floor.

Upon reaching this level, they encountered a test.

There is a guard at the junction of the 30th and 31st floors.

The one guarding them was none other than the Yellow Robe Daoist whom Zhao Xing and his companions had seen on the first floor.

He not only acts as a guardian but also as a disseminator, and many people are listening to his sermons.

"Hey buddy, who is this gentleman?" Long Xiao asked a middle-aged man next to him.

The middle-aged man glanced at Long Xiao and, noticing his imposing presence, bowed slightly and replied:

"This is Dr. Dao Ming, a professor of Classics Scholar at our institute."

"What Mr. Dao Ming is explaining now is the Li Fire True Scripture, and this is also the scripture that Mr. Dao Ming is studying."

Fearing that Long Xiao, an outsider, might not understand the value of this scripture, the man said in a low voice, "There are thousands of scriptures in the world, but the Li Fire True Scripture is enough to rank in the top ten. Those who can cure this scripture are all exceptionally talented individuals."

"Master Dao Ming has just emerged from seclusion and has come here to preach. A hundred years ago, he had already reached the peak of the Yuan Soul Realm and achieved the Great Perfection of the Blazing Fire Academy Body."

Long Xiao was startled. He was already at the Fourth Grade of perfection a hundred years ago? He might have already entered the Third Grade Yuan Soul Realm by now!

He had previously said he wouldn't see any high-ranking members, but unexpectedly, he met one on the first floor.

"Outsiders must first obtain the qualification of Honorary Hundred Arts Dharma Master before they can reach the thirty-first floor." Zhao Xing stood in front of a notice board and looked at it.

"The Honorary Hundred Arts Dharma Master must leave behind a new mid-level Dharma."

Zhao Xing waved his hand and said, "Let's quickly find a Law Wall to complete the test."

"Good."

The three arrived in front of a Law Wall.

"Buzz~"

A pale blue light emanated from the Law Wall, enveloping the surrounding area.

Test takers only need to practice the new method within the area of Law Wall. If they meet the requirements, they can leave their practice process on the Law Wall.

If you want to become Hundred Arts Dharma Master in the Dao Academy, you don't need to create new arts; you just need to know a lot of them.

"To become an Honorary Hundred Arts Dharma Master, one must create a mid-level spell, which must reach the mid-level perfection level."

"Only when the upper limit reaches the intermediate level of perfection can later learn the essence."

"If it's a half-finished product, for example, only at the intermediate Seventh-Turn level, because it's incomplete, others can't understand the founder's Dao and may only reach the fourth or fifth level." Zhao Xing looked at the requirements.

Only when one reaches the intermediate level of perfection does the Dao become relatively complete. Of course, this is from the perspective of the intermediate level.

From the perspective of a strong person, the Dao of intermediate-level techniques is naturally full of errors and omissions.

Even the founder of the highest level of law does not dare to say that his path is perfect.

Only the Ultimate Law dares to say that the Dao has been perfected.

In the Vital Energy Era, no one can add or subtract even the slightest bit from the Ultimate Law, because once one reaches the ' Ultimate Law ' on the path of the Great Dao, there is no further progress.

"Sizzle~"

Bolts of lightning emerged from Zhao Xing's fingertips.

What he is showing now is a mid-level technique that he created a long time ago.

It includes two sets of spells: Thunderbolt Lasso and Thunderclap Palm.

Later, it went a step further and became the high-level technique, Thunder Breaking Illusion Finger.

Zhao Xing planned to use this set of lightning magic to take the exam for honorary mage.

"Boom!"

Once the Thunderbolt Lasso took shape, it lashed violently against the Law Wall.

This is to test the power of the spell.

In terms of power, Yang Lei is undoubtedly superior.

The Thunderbolt Lasso is a form of Yin Thunder.

Of course, both of these are at the intermediate-level perfect level, so you can use either move. Zhao Xing is purely a matter of habit.

"Buzz~"

The Law Wall flashed rapidly ten times.

Each flash represents First-Turn.

After Nine Turns, another flash signifies reaching the mid-stage perfection!

"Buzz~"

A fiery red token was spat out from the Law Wall.

"A mid-level Li Fire Token."

Zhao Xing smiled slightly; this prop was the proof of obtaining the authorization.

Of course, we've only received the certificate now; we still need to register our personal information later.

One person, one order. It cannot be used without authorization or lent out. Once discovered, the person will permanently lose the qualification to take the exam for the Li Fire Dao Academy.

"Whoosh~"

"Boom!"

A flash of sword light, and the earth trembled.

In front of the other two Law Wall, Long Xiao and Chen Shijie also completed the tests of the Hundred Arts Dharma Master.

All three passed on their first try.

This scene attracted a lot of attention.

It should be noted that creating a new method that is perfect at the intermediate level is no easy task.

Most Sixth Rank cannot do that.

Because at the Sixth Rank, one has only just reached the threshold for learning advanced techniques.

Most of them still use mid-level spells.

Learning from others is only at the intermediate level of perfection; the difficulty of creating one's own is even greater.

All three passed the test in a second, which naturally attracted attention.

Who are those three people?

"I don't know, it seems to be from elsewhere."

"Judging from their attire, they must be from the military."

"Huh? That big guy is actually a sword cultivator?!"

"A swordsman's self-created technique?"

"Let's go, let's go take a look!"

There's nothing unusual about having two Agricultural Official, as Agricultural Official are not uncommon.

But sword cultivators are like rare animals.

Many people went to Long Xiao's Law Wall to meditate, and some even went to chat with Long Xiao.

Long Xiao originally wanted to put on an act, because quite a few female Daoist priests were running towards him.

Of all the girls in Hui Xiang Tower, none have the charm of these female Daoist priests.

But when he saw Zhao Xing and Chen Shijie glare at him, Long Xiao immediately backed down.

He took off on his sword and followed the two to the intersection of the floors.

At this moment, Dao Mingzi was giving a sermon.

Upon seeing Long Xiao and the other two approaching, they couldn't help but look up.

Three geniuses who created their own intermediate-level techniques?

"Mr. Dao Ming, we have obtained the qualifications of Hundred Arts Dharma Master. Please allow us to proceed." Chen Shijie stepped forward to negotiate.

Dao Mingzi glanced at the three of them, his gaze lingering on Zhao Xing for a moment before he nodded. "Go on up."

"Thank you." Chen Shijie cupped his hands in thanks, and the three of them flew to the thirty-first floor.

"Why do I feel like this old man is looking at me with hostility, as if he recognizes me?" Zhao Xing's senses were very sharp; his Fate Soul had already reached the late stage of the Fifth Grade!

Even after breaking through in the Eternal Night Sea, the Yin Yang Fish still had an effect. Zhao Xing kept eating it until he couldn't take it anymore, and his Fate Soul reached the late stage of the Fifth Grade.

Normally, Fate Soul is a whole realm higher than the physical body, it indicates an imbalance of yin and yang, which is detrimental to cultivation.

However, Zhao Xing's Straw Man Art and Great Dream Spring and Autumn have the effect of balancing the Fate Soul. When combined with the Dragon Soul Jade and Soul Armor, this is not a bad thing, but a good thing.

Ming Daozi glanced at Zhao Xing again because he sensed that Zhao Xing's Fate Soul was unusually powerful.

"Sixth Rank Agricultural Official already possesses such a powerful Fate Soul, and it seems that there is also an extremely powerful spiritual plant in his right hand."

"A parasitic spiritual plant, is he a disciple of a certain Minister of Agriculture of the Primordial Self School?"

Ming Daozi stopped lecturing and announced that today's sermon was over.

Zhao Xing's appearance reminded him of some unpleasant memories.

Back then, he was also a peculiar Agricultural Official. He was at the Fifth Grade rank, yet he possessed Fourth Grade Fate Soul. He also displayed the extremely rare Ten Thousand Laws Straw Puppet and cultivated many spiritual plants within his body.

One of them was somewhat similar to the one he had just sensed.

"Liu Tianning..." Ming Daozi murmured to himself, "Could he be Liu Tianning's disciple?"

After Zhao Xing entered the thirty-first floor, he used the Five Finger Heavenly Mandate technique, and immediately frowned.

"Old Chen, Long Xiao, hurry up and finish this."

"What's wrong?" Long Xiao drew his sword.

"I have a feeling I'm going to be in trouble," Zhao Xing said. "And it's not a small trouble; I'm afraid my identity has been recognized."

"You mean that Classics Scholar?" Chen Shijie asked.

"Very likely," Zhao Xing said. "Liu Tianning's features are too obvious. As his disciple, my features are also very obvious in the eyes of the strong."

It's impossible for an average person to guess that Zhao Xing is Liu Tianning's disciple at just one glance.

But this Ming Daozi is no ordinary person, and he is also a member of the Dao Academy.

"Okay, let's get it done quickly."

The three of them each went to a Law Wall.

The test of Honorary Teaching Dharma Master is also the creation of new teachings.

There's not much difference between the 30th and 60th floors.

Only after reaching the sixtieth floor do you begin to take the honorary Classics Scholar exams, which involve more detailed examinations.

Of course, there are some subtle differences between the 30th and 60th floors.

For example, there is a test on the sixtieth floor. If you pass the test, the benefits of Honorary Teaching Dharma Master will be greater. Not only can you use the Li Fire Divine Altar, but you can also borrow people and items from the Li Fire Dao Academy.

But Zhao Xing didn't intend to do that at the moment; he just wanted to obtain the authority to access the Li Fire Divine Altar.

So as long as you can get this title, that's fine.

"Boom!"

The fully formed Thunder Breaking Illusion Finger slammed into the Law Wall.

When Thunder Breaking Illusion Finger reached the Fourth-Turn of high-level magic during the Soul Offering Pass, it later crossed the threshold of minor success and reached the Eighth-Turn level of high-level magic through the opportunity of the Grotto Heaven Spiritual Wonder.

At this level, the test was completed very easily.

"Buzz~"

A new fiery red token suddenly appeared on the Law Wall.

High-level Li Fire Token, obtained!

He immediately looked at Long Xiao and Chen Shijie.

Long Xiao also passed the test on his first try.

Chen Shijie took a little longer because he created his own Earth Palace Art.

The verification process for this type of spell is inherently slower.

If one creates one of the four methods of the True Self Faction, such as the Instant Primordial " method, then one must ask relevant people to verify it.

At the level of Teaching Dharma Master, one cannot be careless.

"Buzz~"

The ground in front of the Law Wall trembled slightly, and on the third attempt, Chen Shijie finally succeeded.

"Done!"

"Alright, let's go." Zhao Xing waved his hand.

"Understood," Long Xiao said. "We're here to earn honorary titles, why are we acting like thieves?"

"Stop talking nonsense and get going."

The three of them quickly left the Dharma Transmission Tower and then rushed to the Li Fire Dao Academy department to register their information.

"Name."

"Zhao Xing".

"Household registration".

"A native of Gucheng Nanyang County."

"Official Rank".

"Awaiting promotion to the rank of Sixth Rank official."

"You can register no more than five names in it." A Daoist priest took out a Yellow Register.

The Li Fire Dao Academy also needs to use the Yellow Register of the Great Zhou Dynasty to confirm identities and register them.

Now that Zhao Xing has passed the examination to become a Glory Teaching Dharma Master, he can bring five relatives with him to use the Li Fire Divine Altar.

If a relative comes alone, it cannot be used.

Zhao Xing had already prepared the official documents issued by the Gucheng government and the Nanyang County government, so the process was quite quick.

Three-quarters of an hour later, the Daoist priest in charge of the matter informed him that the matter had been completed.

"Done." Zhao Xing smiled.

He is now the Honorary Teaching Dharma Master of the Li Fire Dao Academy, and not only does he have the right to use the Li Fire Divine Altar, but he also enjoys some benefits within the Li Fire Dao Academy, such as being able to enter the Li Fire Tower to cultivate fire magic three times a year for free.

Even getting a job will become easier.

Of course, with rights come obligations. The honorable Teaching Dharma Master is required to give a lecture at the Dao Academy every three years, depending on the extent of his rights.

After waiting a while, Long Xiao and Chen Shijie also finished their business and came out.

As the three walked out of the registration office, Zhao Xing's heart skipped a beat.

Because at that moment, several hundred people had gathered in the square outside the registration office.

They were all at the Sixth Rank rank.

Judging from this situation, Zhao Xing understood that he probably couldn't escape Old Liu's grudge.

"May I ask which one of you is Zhao Xing, Liu Tianning's personal disciple? Please come out and speak!" As Zhao Xing and the other two came out, a man dressed in a blue Daoist robe stepped forward and scanned Zhao Xing, Long Xiao, and Chen Shijie.

"Who are you?" Long Xiao asked. "What do you want with Zhao Xing?"

"My name is Jin Qi, and my Buddhist name is Qiming," Jin Qi said proudly. "I am Sixth-Rank Heavenly Dipper Gang Realm cultivator at the peak of my cultivation. I am a disciple of Huang Shigong. I believe you should remember this name."

Long Xiao and Chen Shijie looked at Zhao Xing.

"Who do you know, Huang Shigong?"

Zhao Xing shook his head; he truly didn't recognize him.

He hadn't told Liu Tianning about the matter of needing to take the exam for the Li Fire Dao Academy.

The other party didn't mention Old Liu's grudges, and he didn't ask about them either, for fear of touching on Liu Tianning's painful past.

Besides, a hundred years have passed. What great thing did Liu Tianning do to make people remember him for so long?

Seeing that the three of them remained silent, Jin Qi continued, "Zhao Xing, since your teacher is Liu Tianning, you should have known that this battle would come today!"

"I, Jin Qi, challenge you to the [Great Dao Contention]!"

"You are at Sixth Rank Sixth Rank of perfection, and so am I. This isn't bullying you."

"And me, Yu Fei, also challenge you to a [Great Dao Contention]!" Another Daoist jumped out.

"Zhao Xing, if you've got the guts, accept the challenge!"

"Zhao Xing! If you're not afraid to die, then accept the challenge! I, Zhang Xing, also challenge you!"

"Zhao Xing..."

In an instant, dozens of people jumped out, eager to fight Zhao Xing.

Several hundred people gathered around, all of whom were of the Sixth Rank, making quite a scene.

Long Xiao and Chen Shijie were both dumbfounded. The Great Dao Contention was a matter of life and death.

So many people want to challenge Liu Tianning's disciple?

Did Liu Tianning dig up their ancestral graves?

"What if I don't agree?" Zhao Xing asked.

Jin Qi was the first to shout, yelled, "Zhao Xing, if you don't accept the challenge, you may not be able to leave this place today."

Just as Zhao Xing was about to say something, a voice came from the sky.

"You scoundrels! Do you disregard the Great Zhou Law?"

A figure descended from the sky, dressed in a purple Daoist robe and wearing a bright jade crown, exuding an ethereal aura.

When he appeared, the field fell silent.

The person who arrived was Li Shanhe, a vice president of this branch.

"Dean."

"Greetings, Dean."

A group of people bowed in greeting.

Zhao Xing and the other two also cupped their hands in greeting. "Greetings, Dean."

Li Shanhe glanced at Zhao Xing: "Zhao Xing, if you are unwilling to agree, you may leave on your own. No one will touch you."

"Dean, if he's afraid to fight, he should just say it openly: 'My disciple Liu Tianning is scared,' and we will no longer challenge him."

"Yes, if Liu Tianning's disciple is a coward, then let's pretend we were never here."

"Hmph, coward!"

"Liu Tianning is probably no better than a coward who fears death."

"Since you're afraid, why not go and kowtow at my Martial Uncle's grave before you leave?"

"Useless! Liu Tianning is useless, and so is your disciple!"

"..."

The crowd below became agitated again, and a string of vulgarities reached Zhao Xing's ears.

They attempted to provoke Zhao Xing through psychological attacks.

Zhao Xing glanced at Li Shanhe and knew that this was premeditated.

One person plays the good cop, and a group of people play the bad cop. If Li Shanhe really wants him to leave, why doesn't he drive these people away?

He could vaguely sense that there were four or five other high-ranking officials watching from the sidelines.

Zhao Xing said, "Dean Li, I have now obtained the title of Honorary Mage. I wonder if Dean Li has any suggestions?"

"A new Glory Mage has appeared, so it's normal for some people to want to spar with you. You don't have to accept the Great Dao Contention; a regular match is fine too."

Li Shanhe offered a compromise suggestion.

In reality, even if Zhao Xing really intended to accept the challenge, he couldn't just sit idly by.

Dean Ji Qingshan had instructed that if Zhao Xing's superiors agreed, Zhao Xing's safety should be protected.

Liu Tianning is no longer the Fifth Grade he was a hundred years ago. After a hundred years of cultivation, he has now broken through to the Fourth Grade.

If Zhao Xing were killed in a sparring match, and Liu Tianning were to challenge him again, no one could withstand that.

However, there were indeed quite a few people below who wanted their disciple to carry out the revenge.

They couldn't defeat Liu Tianning, but with Zhao Xing arriving, they couldn't let him go easily.

A balance must be struck between the inside and outside, and a sense of proportion must be maintained.

"Alright," Zhao Xing said decisively. "Just as Dean Li said, let's have a regular sparring match."

"However, I'll only play one match!"

Zhao Xing glanced around and said calmly.

"Whatever my teacher did, I, Zhao Xing, accept it today."

"If you're going to come, send your strongest Sixth Rank fighter."

The crowd of onlookers immediately became excited.

"I'll do it!"

"I'll fight him!"

"Zhao Xing, accept my challenge!"

"..."

None of these people were afraid, because they all boasted that they had cultivated for more than ten or even several decades longer than Zhao Xing.

Even though they are both at the Sixth Rank, decades of training will naturally result in different levels of strength.

Liu Tianning is very famous within the Dao Academy circle.

Whoever can defeat his disciple and complete the revenge will also gain fame!

Zhao Xing was thinking that he would need to use this route again in the future, so he naturally couldn't do what Old Liu did and beat someone to death.

If you defeat the strongest one, the others will naturally back down.

"Zhao Xing, you said you want to send the strongest Sixth Rank, but are there any restrictions?" Li Shanhe looked up at the sky, as if discussing with someone, "Is it the strongest martial artist, the strongest sorcerer, or perhaps Agricultural Official should be your opponent?"

Zhao Xing smiled slightly, and his voice rang out. "No demands."

"Whether he is a martial artist or not, it doesn't matter if he has cultivated for decades longer than me."

"Anything that's Sixth Rank will do."

These words immediately fueled the anger of those below.

If Zhao Xing said that, wouldn't he be saying that he's invincible at the Sixth Rank and that you can send anyone you want?

Arrogant! Disrespectful!

"Leaving aside the question of how good Liu Tianning's disciples are, their confidence is exactly the same." Not far away, Ming Daozi watched quietly.

There were several Daoists beside him, all of whom had disciples or junior brothers who had been killed in the "Great Dao Contention" with Liu Tianning.

"Then let him have his way," said an old man with a wine gourd at his waist and faint flame patterns around his body. "Send Bai Ming to fight."

The Li Fire Dojo) is a place where many Daoists and teachers can exchange skills and compete.

His nature is similar to that of the "Nine Sections Dojo" in the Military Realm; both are categories under the "Dojo".

Although Zhao Xing did not agree to the "Great Dao Contention," this challenge still attracted many viewers.

However, most of those qualified to watch this challenge are teachers from the Dao Academy or genius-level Seventh Grade- rank Daoists; those of eighth or ninth rank are not qualified to watch.

"Senior Brother Bai Ming is already ninety-four years old; he will surely be able to defeat Liu Tianning's disciple."

"Bai Ming is proficient in the Five Elements magic, and he has mastered the advanced techniques of each to perfection. He will definitely win against Zhao Xing."

"Tell Bai Ming to go all out and win against Zhao Xing cleanly and decisively. It doesn't matter how badly he's injured, as he can be healed anyway."

"Hmph, Liu Tianning killed so many people back then, but was protected by Rahu King. This time, he's just teaching his disciple a lesson, consider it collecting some interest."

"He's only at the Sixth Rank, so the chances of him cultivating the Ten Thousand Laws Straw Puppet are very slim. Even if he did manage to do it, its power would probably be weak."

"Without reaching the Fifth Grade, it's difficult to unleash the full power of the Ten Thousand Laws Clone."

"..."

Several elderly men who had old grudges against Liu Tianning were staring down from a platform high in the sky.

Over the course of a century, they have amassed a large number of disciples and followers.

Sub-Sixth Rank to compete in the arena, you can easily find a bunch of them.

Among them, Bai Ming is the strongest.

At the Li Fire Dojo, when Bai Ming stood on the arena, the surrounding onlookers erupted in excitement.

"Bai Ming!"

"The invincible Bai Ming!"

"Senior Brother Bai Ming, defeat him!"

The shouts were enthusiastic, but Bai Ming couldn't hear them because the barrier blocked them.

"Look, Zhao Xing is coming out."

"Huh? Why are there nine Zhao Xing?"

"Is that his Straw Man Clone? Or Illusionary Form Straw Puppet?"

"Hiss... Could it be Ten Thousand Laws Clone?"

Many people were surprised and uncertain when they saw Zhao Xing standing on the ring.

Especially for the older generation, seeing this scene brought back memories of what happened years ago.

"It's the Ten Thousand Laws Clone!" Dao Mingzi frowned as he stared down. "And this Ten Thousand Laws Clone is very powerful."

"Bai Ming is no weakling either." The old man with the wine gourd slung over his shoulder stared down below. "He will definitely win."

The challenge was hosted by Li Shanhe.

When he flew into the air and announced the rules of the challenge, he looked at both sides.

"You are all Teaching Dharma Master of the Li Fire Dao Academy. Your main purpose is to spar. The outcome will be determined according to the rules of the academy. Once a winner is determined, you must stop."

"Yes," Bai Ming replied.

Zhao Xing nodded as well.

Li Shanhe glanced at Zhao Xing's clone again.

"Start!"

The challenge ended the moment Li Shanhe shouted "Start!"

Zhao Xing immediately released one of the sword energies from his Ten Thousand Laws Clone.

"Ugh~"

The Azure Dragon Sword Qi pierced directly through Bai Ming's chest.

Before Bai Ming could even set up a magical defense, he collapsed.

Then a light shone on his body, and he was teleported away by magic.

"Thank you for your concession."

After Zhao Xing finished speaking, he flew away from the arena.

silence.

A deathly silence.

The people watching on the stage seemed to have been put on pause; they were all stunned.

In their eyes, Bai Ming, who was invincible at the Sixth Rank, was actually killed instantly!

They didn't even have a chance to make a move!

"How is this possible? How is this possible... Senior Brother Bai Ming, isn't this already the upper limit of the Sixth Rank rank?"

"It's unbelievable! Zhao Xing's clone just pointed at Senior Brother Bai Ming and he fell down. I didn't even see what happened."

"It's a sword aura, and a very powerful one at that, far exceeding the Sixth Rank rank."

"Cheating! This is cheating!"

"The Dharma Protector Straw Figure can store a martial artist's sword energy, which is not considered cheating."

"Sigh, we lost."

Jin Qi, who was the first to clamor for a challenge against Zhao Xing, was now pale-faced.

"If a [Great Dao Contention] were to take place, if I were the one standing on the arena..." Jin Qi shuddered.

He wasn't fearless; he dared to challenge Zhao Xing because he was confident in his own strength.

But he is still a little inferior to Bai Ming. Now even Bai Ming has fallen, and lost so decisively.

"If it were me, I would be instantly killed without any chance to fight back, dying in an instant," Jin Qi thought to himself.

On the high-altitude viewing platform, Ming Daozi and the people around her were also shocked.

"How can his Ten Thousand Laws Clone retain such powerful sword energy?"

"Damn it! The Straw Man Art is a damned method!" The old man with the wine gourd glared and puffed out his beard.

That's too cheating. Either you can't cultivate the Ten Thousand Laws Clone, or if you can, you're practically defying the heavens.

Because the Ten Thousand Laws Straw Puppet is the "Ultimate Law" of the True Self Faction!

"His ability to retain Fourth Grade sword energy is his skill, not cheating," Ming Daozi shook his head. "Although he is weak, his essence is still quite strong."

The sword energy within the Ten Thousand Laws Clone is Yang An's ultimate skill!

Let alone fighting Sixth Rank, even Fifth Grade enemy would be instantly killed by the sword energy within the Ten Thousand Laws Clone.

"He possesses Fifth Grade Fate Soul, and he has also obtained the essence of the Ten Thousand Laws Straw Puppet, enabling him to retain the sword energy of Fourth Grade sword cultivator. He truly deserves to be Liu Tianning's disciple." Ming Daozi thought silently, "Junior brother, don't blame me. In this lifetime, there is no hope for revenge."

Zhao Xing stepped out of the arena and saw the same group of people again.

However, at this moment, none of them dared to be arrogant.

A short while later, Bai Ming was also helped out.

"Dean Li, please convey this message to them," Zhao Xing said to Li Shanhe. "I have no intention of continuing the grudges of the previous generation. My purpose in coming to take the exam for the Li Fire Dao Academy is to demonstrate my stance."

"I also hope that such a thing will not happen again in the future."

"Otherwise, if my master and I join forces in the future, no Dao Academy in the world will be able to end up with dignity."

Li Shanhe was taken aback, then laughed and said, "Hahaha, what a fine Marquis Yuan Rang! I will relay your words truthfully! But you don't need to overthink it. If you really want to leave, no one will stop you."

"Thank you, Dean Li. I'll take my leave now."

Li Shanhe nodded.

Watching Zhao Xing's retreating figure, he couldn't help but sigh, "Liu Tianning truly has a worthy successor."

Zhao Xing's Ten Thousand Laws Clone was able to retain the Azure Dragon Sword Qi, proving that he was already in an invincible position.

Even if Fifth Grade comes to choose, the outcome will be the same.

To be able to kill in the Great Dao Contention, yet choose not to, that is true vision.

Li Shanhe himself did not agree with today's events. Back then, when Rahu King protected Liu Tianning, the matter should have been settled then. Some people should not continue to make a fuss about the past.

Of course, Zhao Xing has vision and attitude.

That last sentence was a warning.

How dare someone at the Sixth Rank issue warnings to those of higher rank?

Li Shanhe admired Zhao Xing's courage.

But what he said was actually true.

One Liu Tianning is already unbearable, what if another Zhao Xing, who can Ten Thousand Laws Clone, comes along?

If these two, master and disciple, were to join forces in the future, no Dao Academy would be able to stop them.

After leaving the Li Fire Dao Academy in Dayuan Prefecture, Zhao Xing, Long Xiao, and Chen Shijie did not immediately return to Gucheng, but waited in the prefectural city for orders from the military.

In early September, the transfer order was issued, and the troops were transferred from Ten Yang Grotto-Heaven to Dayuan Prefecture through military channels.

Because they had already communicated with the government of Dayuan Prefecture, Zhao Xing and his two companions received their specific appointments immediately.

"Where are you?" Chen Shijie asked.

"The Twin Islands Eastern Sea Purple Cloud Archipelago," Zhao Xing said, looking at the appointment document in his hand. "Your Official Rank is Left Director of the Dragon Horse Bureau. And you?"

"On Firefly Island, I am also the Left Director of the Dragon Horse Bureau."

"Well, it seems we've really become horse breeders now," Zhao Xing laughed.

"Raising exotic beasts is also part of the Agricultural Official's job, but I'm the Military Sima Nong," Chen Shijie with some helplessness. "I've never raised any exotic beasts."

While animal husbandry is indeed a branch of agriculture, the Agricultural Official system has evolved to include many sub-sectors and countless divisions of labor.

If he were to raise animals, he should have decided to pursue this path sooner. Human energy is limited, and it's impossible for Agricultural Official to be an expert in every industry.

Just like Mechanism Master, there are those who specialize in building cities, those who specialize in building flying boats, and those who specialize in forging weapons...

This kind of transfer is like starting out in a new field.

It's not that every profession is like a mountain, but for Chen Shijie, it was a huge challenge.

"This is no different from being exiled."

"We're being exiled," Zhao Xing said nonchalantly. "We've offended the Liang King, so we have to act like we're really being exiled."

"If we gave you a suitable, lucrative post, what would you call exile?"

"You have a good attitude. You know how to Transformation of Seasons Art, but I don't," Chen Shijie with some melancholy. "Besides, raising animals is all about food. Am I really going to switch to studying the classics of the True Self Faction?"

Old Chen is a die-hard fan of the Earthly Advantage Faction, unlike Zhao Xing, who has a flexible bottom line regarding factionalism.

Of course, this also stems from different aspirations.

Zhao Xing Xingzhi is appointed Grand Minister of Agriculture!

To become an official, one must have experience in all aspects of life. Even if one doesn't take the position this time, one will have to take it in the future. Such experience is indispensable.

Chen Shijie didn't have such lofty ambitions; he never even dreamed of becoming the Grand Minister of Agriculture.

"What's with you two looking so worried?" Long Xiao came out holding the transfer order. "Quick, help me see what position this is."

Zhao Xing took Long Xiao's transfer order and read, "Right Commander of the Cruising Office of Purple Cloud Island and Red Stone County, this is still a military officer Official Rank, but it can no longer be considered a proper military post."

"What do you mean?" Long Xiao asked.

"That means you've become a local magistrate. You know what Patrol Office is? The Cruising Office is similar in nature, except yours is for handling maritime security disputes."

"Then I'm not in the Navy?" Long Xiao asked.

"No." Zhao Xing shook his head. "If it were the navy, you would be the garrison commander of the Zixiao East Sea Legion, not the patrolman."

"You have no authority to handle major military disputes, such as aquatic invasions. You can only report to the navy."

"Minor disputes, like a conflict between two fishing boats, or if one boat is lost and you have to help find it."

Upon hearing this, Long Xiao angrily slammed down the transfer order, "Damn it, what's the point? Me, a dignified sword cultivator, reduced to a naval errand boy? This is worse than being a Reconnaissance!"

"Don't rush," Zhao Xing said. "The island's security regulations are quite widely applied. Let's go to the island and study them first."

"Besides, you are Sixth Rank Right Assistant Minister, a leader in a big way. You can't fight the aquatic creatures, but you can always deal with pirates."

"You two are both chief officers, but I've become Assistant Official." Long Xiao was extremely frustrated. He was only the Right Division Chief, which meant that he would be under the supervision of a Left Director when he arrived at his post.

"Don't complain," Chen Shijie said. "You still deal with people to some extent, while Zhao Xing and I both have to go and raise horses."

"Yes," Zhao Xing comforted him, "This job is a lucrative one for you. It's not unfair to a sword cultivator like you. Once you get there, you'll definitely receive some gifts."

"Who cares about that little bit of filial piety!" Long Xiao was still thinking about fighting.

But no matter how much they complain, the Official Rank have already been decided.

Moreover, he must take office before October 3rd.

With only one month left, Long Xiao returned to Nanyang County and played as much as he could, not even going back to Gucheng!

He felt that Gucheng's entertainment was no longer interesting, while Juncheng's was more elaborate, with not only music performances but also shows like female sumo wrestling.

Zhao Xing and Chen Shijie, on the other hand, began to move their families.

When they returned, there were twenty-three flying boats. Most of the money was given to family and friends, as well as to officials.

However, there are still three Qilin Flying Boat that need to be taken to the East Sea.

Once on the island, it became less convenient to buy things in the Military Realm. Before returning, Zhao Xing purchased a batch of precious supplies, intending to use them when he took office.

After a busy day until September 20th, the three of them, along with their families, returned to the Li Fire Dao Academy.

Three airships, one for each person, with the cost shared equally.

Even the Glory Teaching Dharma Master can only carry people through for free; they can't carry that many items.

Zhao Xing and his group planned to use the flying boat as a route, and the boat and supplies together weighed at least several dozen tons.

Although he was a glorified Teaching Dharma Master, he Returning the Dao after his passing.

However, the cost is much less than not having permission at all.

"Brother, we're going to the East Sea," Zhao Zheng said. "By borrowing a route, the price will be quite high."

Zhao Zheng had studied at the county school for three years and was already quite familiar with matters of cultivation.

"It's 1.2 million li to Chongming Prefecture in the East Sea. Even if I travel Double Repayment of the Dao, it would take me ten years to pay it back."

"Originally, there was no need to repay it," Zhao Xing said with a smile. "However, with these things, the price is a bit higher. Since I am the holder of the authority, I only need to repay about 100,000 li."

"Oh, oh."

Madam Cai, standing on the flying boat looking ahead, couldn't help but hide behind Zhao Ruide.

Because the Qilin Flying Boat is flying towards a super-sized Fire Pond.

The flames were hundreds of meters high, it was absolutely terrifying!

Madam Cai had never seen anything like this before. She was so frightened that tears welled up in her eyes, and she shrank behind her husband, not daring to raise her head.

"If you're scared, go inside the cabin. Why are you hiding behind me wiping your tears? My clothes are all wet," Zhao Ruide said.

"Oh dear." Madam Cai was about to go in, and before she did, she pulled Zhao Zheng along.

Zhao Zheng explained, "Mother, don't be afraid, everything will be alright."

Her son offered a few words of comfort, which worked; Madam Cai was no longer so afraid. She even moved in front of Zhao Zheng, hoping to shield her son a little longer if the fire were to break out.

Zhao Xing took in all of Madam Cai's subtle movements, then flicked his finger and cast Sleep Bug Art on Madam Cai.

"Zheng'er, help your mother inside to rest."

"Huh? Mother's asleep. Yes, elder brother."

The airship flew into the Fire Pond and traveled through the flames.

The feeling this time was completely different from when I Borrowing Fire to Travel.

Zhao Xing felt the surrounding space constantly flowing, and the incredibly fierce flames propelled the flying boat forward.

"The Li Fire Divine Altar is truly peculiar; it has already touched upon the Dao of Space," Zhao Xing thought to himself.

It only flew for a quarter of an hour in the fiery space.

A white vortex suddenly appeared ahead.

The airship flew out and then saw the sky again.

A flame pierced through the barrier and entered Zhao Xing's body; this was the Dao of the Li Fire True Lord.

"We've arrived at Chongming Prefecture."

The Li Fire Dao Academy has no branches on the island.

So they had to go to Chongming Prefecture on the coast first, and then go to Purple Cloud Island.

Zhao Xing was initially granted land and a fief, which he then exchanged for his residence in Chongming Prefecture.

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

"They are all in Bixian County of Chongming Prefecture. Bixian County is also one of Princess Youruo's territories."

Princess Youruo's fiefdom comprises a total of eighteen prefectures and over 1,500 private islands!

Half of the Purple Firmament Islands belong to her mother!

Among all the princesses of the Great Zhou Dynasty, Princess Youruo's fiefdom was the largest.

This is not the time when Princess Youruo has the largest fiefdom. When Wu Emperor rescued Princess Youruo, Wu Emperor rewarded her with a lot more land to compensate his sister. In terms of fiefdom alone, Princess Youruo's territory is twice as large as it is now.

Of course, she lost the crucial Purple Firmament Islands and the position of Dean of the Azure Water Sect, which she could not regain later.

"Father, I exchanged 165,000 mu of inferior land in Bixian County Chongming Prefecture, for 1,600 mu of superior land and 500 mu of medium land."

"They are all in Dongyang County of Bixian County."

"You don't need to worry about the taxes from the fief; the government will send someone to hand them over to us every year."

"Those fields were exchanged back in the eighteenth year of the Jingxin Calendar. All three manors are managed. The Zhao Residence has a total of more than five hundred servants, and there are also properties in the county town. You and your wife can live wherever you want."

Xia Jing handled this matter back then, and now, more than a year later, it's all running smoothly. Xia Jing has taken care of all the servants and stewards, and they are completely trustworthy.

When Zhao Ruide comes over, he can just act like the master.

"Okay, okay." Zhao Ruide grinned from ear to ear. Madam Cai also cheered up, and the fear and dread she had felt on the way disappeared.

She can manage over five hundred people! How impressive that must be!

However, Madam Cai didn't forget her son. "What about Zheng'er's school enrollment..."

"Don't worry," Zhao Xing said, "I will go to Bixian County to settle things with the princess."

Getting Zhao Zheng into the Azure Water Daoist Academy was just a matter of Princess Youruo's word.

"Good, good, you're the most capable older brother." Madam Cai was even happier.

Chen Shijie took Gui Niang to Dongyang County, where his territory was adjacent to Zhao Xing's.

Long Xiao also went along, and the two of them would take Zhao Ruide and Madam Cai to familiarize themselves with the family property.

While we're at it, let's also keep an eye on Zhao Ruide and Madam Cai. Although it was Xia Jing who organized this, they haven't seen the head of the family for over a year, so it's hard to say that the servants don't have other ideas.

Have Long Xiao and Chen Shijie screen it; any problems will be resolved.

Zhao Xing then took Zhao Zheng to the county town to Princess Youruo.

"Brother, are we really going to the princess's residence?" Zhao Zheng asked. "Will she see us?"

"Definitely," Zhao Xing said. "She's my teacher's wife, after all."

In fact, Zhao Xing had sent a letter to Princess Youruo a few days in advance.

I've made an appointment to come today.

The Earth Mirror is a military treasure. Its holder has a wide range of communication capabilities in cities at the county or prefecture level, and can communicate freely throughout the state.

The county town was slightly less developed, but information could still be transmitted between the prefectural cities.

However, if you want to travel across states, you can only Earth Mirror in the prefectural city.

In addition, outside of cities, the Earth Mirror is also limited, and in some places it cannot be used at all.

"We're almost there." Zhao Xing pointed ahead. "Look, that's one of Princess Youruo's palaces in Bixian County."

"We'll wait here for a while; someone will come to pick us up."

Zhao Xing took out the Earth Mirror and sent a message to Ji Ziyun.

A quarter of an hour later, a flying boat appeared in the sky.

"Senior Brother, I'm sorry to have kept you waiting." Ji Ziyun jumped onto the flying boat.

"Thank you for welcoming me, Junior Sister," Zhao Xing said with a smile. "I didn't have to wait long."

"This must be Zhao Zheng, my Senior Brother's younger brother? He's quite handsome."

"Greetings, Sister Zixuan." Zhao Zheng bowed shyly.

"Good girl." Ji Ziyun handed over a gift box. "It's nice to meet you. I prepared a small gift for you."

"This..." Zhao Zheng looked at his elder brother.

"Since it's a reward for you, then accept it."

"Yes." Zhao Zheng obediently accepted it. "Thank you for the reward, sister."

After the meeting, Ji Ziyun led Zhao Xing's Qilin Flying Boat into the palace area.

Princess Youruo loved excitement and grand occasions.

Her palace was built in a magnificent and opulent manner.

The facilities inside are all complete, including gardens, artificial lakes, hot springs, and rockeries, all crafted by top-notch artisans.

Behind the palace, there was even a horse farm, where Celestial Horse galloped through the clouds, Unicorn drew water from the lake, and colorful phoenixes perched on giant trees.

Luxurious yet tasteful, it exudes royal wealth in every detail.

"Disciple greets Master's Wife!"

After Zhao Xing entered Bixian Palace, he greeted You Ruo as a disciple.

"This humble subject pays respects to the princess," Zhao Zheng said, kneeling respectfully.

"This is your younger brother?" Princess Youruo smiled and glanced at him. "He has good potential; he's a promising martial arts student."

Zhao Xing trained Zhao Zheng to a high standard. From the moment he started earning points from his spoils of war, he would send foundation-laying treasures back to him from time to time.

Zhao Zheng is now at the late stage of the Ninth Grade, having long since reached the upper limit of the rank for students of the county school.

"I have informed Dean Wu of the Azure Water Sect," Princess Youruo said. "He can be sent to school in October. In the meantime, he can stay here. I have found a teacher for him to help him catch up on his studies."

"Thank you, Master's wife." Zhao Xing cupped his hands in thanks.

"Thank you, Princess." Zhao Zheng bowed again.

"Zixuan, take him down first," Princess Youruo said.

"Yes."

Ji Ziyun led Zhao Zheng away.

After everyone left, Princess Youruo suddenly turned hostile and questioned, "Zhao Xing, you have quite the ability to make a name for yourself as an invincible Sixth Rank cultivator at the Li Fire Dao Academy."

"Fine, so you want to emulate your teacher and become invincible throughout the Dao Academy? Are you going to come and trample on my Azure Water Daoist Academy too?"

Zhao Xing said, "Master's wife is right to reprimand me. I admit my mistake."

Old Master Zhao didn't admit his mistake at all. He simply understood Princess Youruo's personality: don't argue, just obediently admit your mistake.

Not everyone can be like Liu Tianning, who can stand up to Princess Youruo and still be loved to death by her.

"Hmph, don't do it again next time."

"The alliance of the Seventy-Two Dao Academies is a force that you, a mere Sixth Rank, cannot afford to offend."

Princess Youruo said, "Even your teacher paid a price back then, let alone you."

"If you want to become a high-ranking official in the future, you can't ignore their existence."

Zhao Xing said sincerely, "Thank you for your guidance, Master's wife."

Upon seeing this, Princess Youruo smiled again, "You are much better than your teacher. You listen to advice. Come, take a seat."

"Thank you for the seat, Madam."

After Zhao Xing took his seat, Princess Youruo asked, "In your letter you mentioned that you were going to take up a post on the Purple Cloud Island archipelago. Which island was it, and what was your post?"

"Twin Islands, Left Director of the Dragon Horse Bureau of Twin County."

In the islands of the East Sea, the county level is automatically upgraded by one level, so these Twin County are actually Commandery-level County.

Princess Youruo then asked, "Do you know what this position entails?"

Zhao Xing replied, "I am responsible for raising, training, and selecting exotic beasts to tame war beasts for the imperial court."

Princess Youruo shook her head and said, "It's not all for providing war beasts for the army. Most of the war beasts needed by the imperial court are on large islands such as Dragon Island and Myriad Beasts Island."

"The Dragon Horse Bureau mainly provides mounts for the imperial family and battle pets for the Daoist priests of various Dao Academy."

"There are tens of thousands of islands in the East Sea, but only a few key departments. You need to work hard to make a name for yourself and try to get into those key departments."

"Yes." Zhao Xing nodded.

Princess Youruo waved her hand and said, "You will take office on the third day of the tenth month, and you can go with my ship on the first day of the tenth month."

Zhao Xing quickly replied, "How could this disciple dare to trouble Master's mother to personally escort me?"

Princess Youruo scoffed, "You're overthinking it. I'm going to oversee the internal selection process for the Dragon Horse Bureau of the Purple Firmament Islands."

"The Beast Competition of the Four Seas will begin in twenty years."

"Preparations for Purple Cloud Island, which I am in charge of, must begin at this time."

"Do you think I'm some kind of princess who only knows how to enjoy life?"

Zhao Xing was taken aback, then cautiously asked, "The Four Seas Beast Competition? Is it for the Dragon Court's Returning Ruins Secret Realm?"

Princess Youruo said in surprise, "You seem to know quite a lot."

"That's right, the Ruins of Returning Ruins is one of them."

"The imperial court and the aquatic creatures of the Four Seas agreed to a grand competition once every hundred years."

"Eighty years have passed since the last competition began."

"Climate changes every hundred years, Millennial Climate Shift, will frequently occur in the Dragon Court Ancient Land."

"The Imperial Court's Dragon Island and Myriad Beasts Island were created for this ancient land."

Princess Youruo said, "Back then, Liang King was able to lead his army to conquer the Nine Heavens Responding Origin Prefecture, and his Black Dragon Army played an indispensable role in that."

"The pure black dragon bloodline was cultivated in the Dragon Court Ancient Land, and Liang King also possesses a true black dragon king."

"However, you will never have the chance to see the real Black Dragon Army."

Zhao Xing has already withdrawn from the battlefield and there is no way he can go back.

Naturally, we won't see any high-level battles.

"However, you don't need to worry about these things now. You're not even Fifth Grade official, so you haven't reached the threshold to participate yet."

Zhao Xing's mind raced with thoughts. He hadn't come to the East Sea to retire.

He had to participate in the Beast Competition.

Because he's going to the Dragon Court Ancient Land, where he can not only get rare mounts, but also rare plants!

Parasitic Seeds like the Floating Vine can only be considered rare treasures of our time.

But in the Dragon Court Ancient Land, there are rare Plant Soldier!

Its growth potential even exceeds that of Duckweed!

However, there are still twenty years to go, so there's no rush. Let's accumulate political achievements first and climb to the Fifth Grade official position.

As Princess Youruo said, he is not even qualified to participate in this matter now.

Because the selection process within the imperial court was very rigorous, all the islands in the East Sea, including the Purple Firmament Islands, had to compete first, and only the strongest could be selected.

Then there is the competition among numerous islands throughout the East Sea.

Finally, there is competition between the Four Seas.

Only by standing out from the crowd through layers of selection can one have the opportunity to participate in the grand event of the Beast Competition and enter the Dragon Court Ancient Land.

"Alright, you may leave now," Princess Youruo said. "I have other matters to attend to."

"Yes, student takes his leave." Zhao Xing got up and left the palace.

"Senior Brother, Senior Brother were truly awe-inspiring in the battle at the Li Fire Dao Academy." Ji Ziyun was obviously aware of Zhao Xing's involvement at the Li Fire Dao Academy.

"It was just something they were forced into, something they had no choice but to do," Zhao Xing said.

Princess Youruo is right. If he wants to become the Grand Minister of Agriculture, he cannot ignore the power of the Dao Academy. If he can gain their support, it will be much easier.

Liu Tianning suffered the same fate in his previous life, which slowed down his progress in becoming the Grand Minister of Agriculture.

Zhao Xing showed leniency to the Li Fire Dao Academy at the time, partly due to this consideration.

The Seventy-Two Dao Academies were not only of great use as Grand Minister of Agriculture, but also played an even greater role after the reign of Wu Emperor.

Old Master Zhao coveted other people's most prized possessions, such as the Li Fire Divine Altar. If he could control such a treasure, his ability to act would be greatly enhanced.

There are also places like the Creation Daoist Academy and the Shangluo Academy, all of which contain epoch-making treasures!

When Spiritual Energy Revival, it will display its true power.

"Senior Brother has become the Dragon Horse Overseer. I hope you will take good care of the students of my Azure Water Daoist Academy in the future." Ji Ziyun became a teacher at the Azure Water Daoist Academy after returning last time.

She is now considered a 'true disciple' of the Azure Water Sect.

The headquarters of the Azure Water Sect is located in Chongming Prefecture.

"Junior Sister Guest Qi, Senior Brother 're too kind. If you need anything, I will do my best to help," Zhao Xing said.

He wants to gain political achievements, so he will inevitably have to deal with the Azure Water Daoist Academy in the future.

Princess Youruo was very busy, and he couldn't possibly consult the old witch about everything. He mainly talked to Ji Ziyun.

On September 27, Zhao Xing reported to the Chongming Prefecture government that the Purple Firmament Islands were nominally under the administrative jurisdiction of Chongming Prefecture.

On September 28th, Zhao Xing, through Princess Youruo's introduction, paid a visit to his superior, Wang Xuanyi, a Third Grade Agricultural Official.

The entire Chongming Prefecture, including the Purple Firmament Islands Dragon Horse Bureau, was under the jurisdiction of this Third Grade -rank official, the Grand Supervisor of the Dragon Horse Bureau.

This shows that Chongming Prefecture was of a higher standard than other prefectures, and also demonstrates the importance of the Dragon Horse Bureau.

Like Tantai Ming, who was also the highest-ranking official in the prefectural city, but as the director of the Directorate of Waterways, he was only a Fourth Grade official, while Wang Xuanyi was Third Grade.

On the first day of the tenth month, at the fourth quarter of the morning, Zhao Xing bid farewell to his family in Bixian County and boarded Princess Youruo You Ruo's Tower Ship. As for Long Xiao and Chen Shijie, they were not qualified to ride on Princess Youruo's Tower Ship.

At the end of the day, we arrived at the "Twin Islands" in the Purple Firmament Islands.

I fell asleep while coding at night because my eyes were too tired from overuse and they always felt like they were sandy.

I felt much better after waking up, so I wrote down what happened yesterday.

Still 16,000 votes, please give me some mid-month votes!

After doing the math, there's absolutely no problem covering the gap this month; in fact, there's a surplus. Everyone can invest with confidence.