Year 35 of the Jingxin Era: Prince Liang Rebels!

"I haven't fully recovered yet," the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird said blankly. "However, I can give you the fortune I promised. Do you remember what I said? As long as you break through to the Fourth Grade within ten years—huh? I seem to remember saying that last time, but you didn't want it?"

Not fully recovered? Zhao Xing looked at the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird and found that its feathers had already grown back.

But what's wrong with its mental state? It seems a bit dazed.

"Senior, haven't your hair all grown back?"

Zhao Xing suspected that it had recovered but was just pretending to be stupid because it didn't want to put in the effort.

"Caw caw~" The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird suddenly laughed, its laughter tinged with madness. "My realm is profound and mysterious—how could a mere mortal possibly comprehend it?"

Zhao Xing nodded. "Then, besides good fortune, could you perhaps bestow upon me a few treasures, senior?"

The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird said, "I can find one for you, but you can choose one."

Just one? That's far too few!

Zhao Xing sensed that the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird was holding back.

"Senior, over the years, I have always kept in mind the vow I made with you, and I have never slacked off in my cultivation."

"I've been training day and night, hoping to release my senior as soon as possible."

The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird opened its beak. "Caw caw, so two items?"

Zhao Xing chuckled inwardly, thinking, "Just as I expected!"

It seems there's still a lot of room for further exploitation.

The contract we signed stipulated that we would go all out, so how could you hold back?

"Now, my dynasty is about to undergo a great upheaval. If I don't have any treasures to protect me, I'm afraid I'll die a violent death."

Zhao Xing said with a sigh, "It doesn't matter if I die, but if I cannot fulfill the senior's long-cherished wish, I will die with regrets."

A conflicted look appeared in the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird's eyes. "Caw caw caw, then three items it is."

Zhao Xing cupped his hands and said, "I have been cultivating for thirty-six years and have entered the Fourth-Rank Yuan Soul. I have also mastered the first level of the Derivation God Formula. With the many treasures bestowed upon me by the senior, I am sure I will be able to release the senior soon."

The origins of the Derivation God Formula predate the records of the Great Zhou. Zhao Xing guessed that the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird must have heard of it.

He is now implying to the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird: Look, you may never find another cultivation genius like me, so why don't you find me a few more treasures?

"The Derivation God Formula? No wonder I sensed your Fate Soul had become much stronger—"

"However, I can only find you three at most, but you can tell me your requirements first, and see if the treasures are in the same place."

"If the time is right, I will take it out for you."

When Zhao Xing heard the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird say this, he knew that it must have reached its limit.

We can't kill the goose that lays the golden eggs.

"Senior's magical power is immense; this junior naturally believes that you can defeat him with ease."

"But please don't push yourself. Your safety is the most important thing. Even if you can't find all these treasures, I will remember your kindness."

The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird was quite pleased with Zhao Xing's flattery.

But upon hearing the next sentence, he instantly exploded. "Who are you calling incompetent?! You brat, how dare you look down on me?!"

"No, I'm just worried about you, senior."

"Hmph, that's more like it. Just tell me, whatever's in here, I'll get it for you."

Zhao Xing was prepared and immediately said, "Senior, the first thing I need to do is guard against the Priest's treasures."

"Secondly, I want a high-level Soul Armor, the higher the level, the better."

"The third thing, senior, please give me whatever you think is appropriate. As long as it can save my life, I will use whatever you give me."

Zhao Xing's purpose was very clear.

Because he was most likely to encounter a powerful Priest.

Priest are skilled in many methods, especially those targeting souls.

The Ten Thousand Laws Clone is not afraid of other methods, but the Priest has many ways to lock onto his main soul.

With all seven main souls destroyed, all matters cease, and all the divided Soul Body dissipate.

In addition, high-ranking Priest can imprison the Fate Soul or obliterate it to the level of Yi.

In other words, a high-ranking Priest has the ability to completely erase a person.

Even the Star Lord of Rebirth of the Great Zhou could not summon back the soul.

Just like Yang An.

Death is not scary.

For Zhao Xing, even if his physical body dies, if he can transform into Yin God Body, he will still have a chance to return to the mortal world in the future.

Other professions would find it difficult to reduce a person to nothingness, but Priest can.

If you are killed by a high-ranking Priest, then it's truly over.

Therefore, the first two treasures he wanted were to guard against the Priest and to protect his Fate Soul.

As for the third item, Zhao Xing made no request.

If the requirements are set too rigidly, what if the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird doesn't take the good ones and instead gets itself a substandard one?

It's hard to say for sure how many years it has lived alone.

"I understand. You wait here."

The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird suddenly grew larger, its feathers shimmering. It opened its beak, and with each breath, countless rainbow lights descended and surrounded it.

As its wings unfolded, Zhao Xing felt that every feather was imbued with the mark of the Dao, and the mysterious patterns were so captivating that one could not look away.

"Don't look!" the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird scolded. "Didn't I say before, this realm is extremely profound and mysterious; how could you possibly comprehend it?"

"Yes, yes, yes." Zhao Xing quickly closed his eyes. The last time the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird grew larger and displayed its divine power, his cultivation level was still relatively low, so he couldn't see anything special about it.

Like an ant, unable to feel the oppression of an elephant.

Now that Body Tempering has completed the Soul Refining and mastered the first level of the Derivation God Formula, he can feel the terrifying power of the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird.

"Throat!"

The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird was surrounded by a seven-colored rainbow light as it rushed out of the Heavenly Mystery Pavilion.

As soon as it went out, the seven-colored rainbow light suddenly collapsed, as if an invisible force was suppressing its movement.

"My fate is in my own hands, not in the hands of heaven!"

The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird let out a strange cry, bursting forth with rainbow light, erecting a defensive shield, and instantly disappeared outside the door.

"Phew~"

Zhao Xing sat cross-legged inside the Heavenly Mystery Pavilion, waiting.

"I wonder if this silly bird can handle it."

"Hopefully, there are still some treasures here that are meant for Priest," Zhao Xing thought to himself.

Although he bought a lot of consumable treasures in the Military Realm.

But it's not a sure thing; if he can buy it, others might be able to.

His main defense is against high-ranking Priest!

Such a powerful person must also possess many treasures.

Therefore, he placed high hopes on the Great Dream Academy.

"Higher-tier Soul Armor definitely exists."

"Other things are hard to say."

Zhao Xing waited silently.

This time, the wait was much longer than the last.

Zhao Xing was getting worried as the silly bird didn't return for a long time. Could something have happened to it?

Last time, the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird returned very quickly.

But this time, Zhao Xing waited for a long time, but did not see it fly back.

" Within the Great Dream Academy, there is another guardian even stronger than it. Could there be a problem?"

Waiting is agonizing.

Zhao Xing stood at the door for a long time, looking around, and finally shouted!

A voice came from within the clouds!

"I'm back!"

Zhao Xing was overjoyed.

However, his brow twitched immediately afterward, and he involuntarily took two steps back.

Because the originally pure white clouds suddenly turned pitch black, with countless bolts of lightning flashing within them.

The terrifying divine might descended, and even though Zhao Xing was inside the Heavenly Mystery Pavilion, he felt terrified.

"What powerful divine might! It seems it's really going to cause me a big stir this time!" Zhao Xing was both excited and nervous.

He heard the voice of the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird, but it was no longer as powerful as before.

The continuous cries came from the clouds, as if they were trapped by some kind of rule, or as if they were fighting with some being.

With trepidation, Zhao Xing stared intently at the door.

Finally, an hour later.

The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird, shimmering with seven-colored rainbow light, flew towards the Heavenly Mystery Pavilion.

It successfully escaped the clouds!

Whoosh!

The light grew weaker and weaker, but it eventually flew into the Heavenly Mystery Pavilion.

As soon as it entered, all the strange phenomena outside vanished instantly, as if they had never existed.

"Senior, senior, how are you?"

Zhao Xing ran over. At this moment, the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird was still standing on the cabinet, as if this inconspicuous cabinet was its nest.

But he couldn't see anything, because the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird was still shimmering with seven-colored light.

Through the glow of the sunset, he could only see a faint, bird-shaped silhouette.

"I'm fine."

The voice of the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird had become somewhat hoarse.

fine?

Zhao Xing was suspicious.

Since the other party had said that, he couldn't ask any more questions.

"I've found the two things you wanted."

Zhao Xing felt that something was wrong with its voice, but he couldn't quite put his finger on what was wrong, and he thought it was injured.

However, upon hearing about the treasure, Zhao Xing put the matter aside and looked on with great anticipation.

"Bang"

The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird exhaled a breath of seven-colored energy.

Then a golden book flew out and floated in front of Zhao Xing.

"This is the Great Li's [Yuan Yin Sacred Codex]"

"It's Ninth Order treasure!"

"However, this is no longer the era of Great Li, and how much effect it can still have is unknown."

"But since your current dynasty has experienced a major upheaval, it is unlikely that it will be suppressed too severely in this region."

"That should be enough for you."

The Primordial Yuan Yin Sacred Codex, Ninth Order treasure?

Zhao Xing was overjoyed. He cautiously asked, "Senior, how much power can I wield with this treasure?"

Ninth Order treasures are generally of the first rank to fully unleash their power.

Of course, disposable items are an exception.

Since it's a disposable item, it doesn't matter what level you're at; from the very beginning of its creation, it doesn't require the user to have any strength.

Some powerful treasures can be used even if Unranked.

"Judging from your Divine Soul, it is close to the Third-Rank Yuan Soul Realm, but it has not yet been fully condensed. If we only consider your own abilities, you can probably unleash 30% to 50% of its power."

The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird said calmly, "This item can also be used as a one-time consumable. If you want to unleash its full power..."

You can tear off a page from it.

It is also a dual-purpose treasure, which can be used regularly or as a consumable treasure.

Under normal use, it can only exert about 30% to 50% of its power.

This situation usually occurs when one's cultivation level is lower than the grade corresponding to the treasure.

Fortunately, it can be used as a disposable item, allowing it to exert its full power.

What is the full power of a Ninth Order treasure?

Even high-ranking Priest would run away if they encountered me!

"The Yuan Yin Sacred Codex has four types of effects."

"First, there's the sealing type, called the [Yin Yang Boundary], which can seal off the connection between the Yin Realm and Yang realms within a certain area. Second, there's the offensive type, the [Deicide Talisman], which can inflict immense damage on Yin Spirit, even annihilating them to nothingness."

"Thirdly, there is the defensive type, [Yuan Yin Guardian], which can split into multiple variants to protect multiple individuals from having their Fate Soul obliterated."

"Fourth, Invoking the Gods deities, [Establish Dao Dharma Body], one can Establish Dao Dharma Body left behind by legendary deities."

"However, the fourth effect is also limited by the contemporary system of Dynasty of Fate."

"Each dynasty has its own rules. Inviting the gods to Establish Dao Dharma Body is not guaranteed to be effective. Even if it is, a price must be paid, whether it be lifespan, vital energy, or incense offerings—it should be noted that the price must be paid in advance, regardless of whether the request to Establish Dao Dharma Body is successful or not."

"And it happened twice, once as an invitation and once as a gift."

"Of course, if you tear out a page, the cost will be borne by the holy book itself, because the holy book itself..."

It is an extremely expensive material used in incense burning.

"Yes, I understand." Zhao Xing remembered it Chu Chu, then respectfully put away the treasure. "Senior, what about the second one?"

The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird paused, its seven-colored light flashing, then asked with a hint of doubt, "The second item? What second item? How come I've already given you a treasure?"

Zhao Xing Xingyi, what's wrong with the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird?

"It seems I've been seriously injured this time. Never mind, let's not talk about that now. Since you've already obtained the [Yuan Yin Sacred Codex], the second item is the Soul Armor."

"An eighth-tier, top-grade Fate Soul Armor."

"The minimum requirement for wearing this is Third Grade. Since you've mastered the first level of the Derivation God Formula, your Fate Soul should be able to barely wear it."

Having said that, the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird opened its beak and spat out its breath once more.

A suit of blue armor appeared before Zhao Xing.

He was currently in Soul Body, and after Zhao Xing touched it, the Fate Soul Armor was directly put on his body.

When he left, the armor retained the state of his Fate Soul being worn.

"I will retrieve your Sixth Level Soul Armor from that location and return it to the Treasure Vault," said the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird. "This will somewhat weaken the power of the Heavenly Punishment."

"I will do as you command, senior." Zhao Xing didn't care. He was already at the eighth level, why would he need a sixth level?

That set of soul Grade A contains the secrets of the Great Dream Spring and Autumn, so he couldn't possibly sell or give it away.

"The eighth-tier top-grade Soul Armor has the same effects as before, so I won't go into too much detail. You're already familiar with it," said the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird.

Zhao Xing nodded.

Soul Armor is pure soul defense; an eighth-tier top-grade item can even defend against the soul techniques of Second Rank expert.

Of course, in the battles of offense and defense under heaven, and in the struggles of contradictions, the spear ultimately prevails.

If Zhao Xing were to encounter a Second Rank Priest or Extraterritorial Demonic Person being skilled in soul manipulation, he would be better off running away.

Even a top-grade eighth-tier Soul Armor cannot provide absolute defense against Second Rank expert.

Even if 90% of the power is isolated, the remaining 10% of its power, if transmitted to the Fate Soul, could very likely kill him.

As I said before, others may still have opportunities and may also possess eighth-tier soul attack treasures.

If you encounter Second Rank soul-type powerhouse, whether it's Priest, a witch, or some kind of Evil God from a sect, just run away.

If it's just about running, Zhao Xing has the Soul Armor, so his chances are still pretty good.

"Senior, is there a third item?"

Zhao Xing asked.

He suspected that the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird might not be able to find the third item, given how long the other party had been delayed.

Being able to choose any two items is already quite good.

Since they were specially chosen, the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird will likely have to travel to two different places to obtain these two treasures.

The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird promised to do its best, but did not say it was absolutely certain.

But it still gave Zhao Xing a pleasant surprise.

"Yes, there are five in total, not just the third one."

"What?"

Zhao Xing was taken aback.

Five items?

In other words, besides the [Yuan Yin Sacred Codex] and the [Soul Armor], there are three other treasures?

Happiness came too suddenly; the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird of Destiny gave him a huge surprise.

"Metaphor"

Three orbs of light, yellow, red, and blue, appeared in front of Zhao Xing.

Three orbs of light, with tokens floating inside, appeared. As they drew near, Zhao Xing sensed three distinctly different states of mind.

One is scorching hot, the other is freezing cold, and the other is desolate.

He was familiar with these three tokens.

"Three Spirit Court Solar Terms Decree: Start of Summer, Start of Autumn, and Beginning of Winter!"

Zhao Xing's eyes burned with fervor.

The four Solar Terms Decree were a complete set, Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird; they actually managed to collect a whole set for him!

He had previously obtained the top-grade eighth-tier "Start of Spring" Solar Terms Decree.

Now that I have the remaining three, I can finally complete the ' Four Seasons Set '.

Among the Twenty-Four Solar Terms, the four-season set and the Eight Festivals Set are the best combinations.

Even if you collect four or eight other items, none of them are as good as the Four Seasons and Eight Festivals set.

"Modeled after the Ancient Divine Court ' Xia Dynasty,' each piece possesses the quality of an eighth-tier top-grade item. If you can fully utilize its power, a four-piece set can rival the power of Ninth Order low-grade item."

"Of course, the Four Seasons Set is more powerful and comprehensive."

The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird explained in detail, "I've gathered these items for you. If you can fully master them, the Solar Terms Decree..."

These four solar terms can lead to the perfect attainment of a state of meditative concentration.

Zhao Xing was overjoyed. He knew that the three realms of the Solar Terms Decree were knowledge, determination, and modification. The higher one went, the more difficult it was to cultivate. If the Third Realm was perfected, that would be the level of the Grand Minister of Agriculture.

The Time Law Solar Terms Decree.

In other words, the power of the top-level techniques he has learned will be greatly enhanced if they are aligned with the Solar Terms Decree!

"Furthermore, this is a legacy passed down from the Great Li."

The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird breathed out its Golden Light once more, illuminating Zhao Xing.

However, Zhao Xing didn't feel anything unusual.

Luck is an intangible and formless thing, and its influence is latent.

However, since the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird has spoken, it certainly won't lie.

"Go on, and when you come in next time, I hope you'll be at the Third Grade rank."

"Yes.""

Zhao Xing's figure and the treasure slowly disappeared together.

Inside the Heavenly Mystery Pavilion, the light of the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird gradually faded.

This time it really fought desperately, and all its fur fell out.

To save face, they kept the rainbow glow intact.

"Gah!" The Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird looked at its bare body and couldn't help but feel a deep sadness.

It seems it won't be able to roam freely for quite some time.

In the real world, at the secret manor in Dongyang County, Zhao Xing Xingyou wakes up.

"That's right, brother! Five treasures!"

"That silly bird is really awesome, this trip was worthwhile!"

When Zhao Xing saw the five treasures, he couldn't stop smiling.

The Great Dream Academy was a treasure trove that far exceeded his expectations.

I never expected there to be so many good things.

And then they encountered that traitorous bird who guarded the Great Dreamland, disregarding the rules and desperately trying to give away Great Li's treasures in exchange for freedom.

"With the Primordial Yuan Yin Sacred Codex in hand, I have the ability to seal, defend, attack, and summon. Even if I encounter a high-ranking Priest, I will have the ability to save my life. If I am willing to sacrifice this treasure, I can completely annihilate even a high-ranking Priest!" Zhao Xing thought to himself.

The Yuan Yin Sacred Codex is powerful because it can be used for regular spellcasting as well as as a one-time consumable.

Currently, there are no Ninth Order treasures for sale in the Military Realm of the Great Zhou.

Even if it existed, Zhao Xing wouldn't be able to buy it or afford it.

The second phase of rewards that Liu Tianning promised has not yet arrived in his account. Even if it does, it will be used for a specific purpose and will not be used to buy such luxurious treasures.

Since this isn't Old Liu's money, he just approved it for a specific purpose, so it can only be used for cultivation, or to train Plant Soldier, or to research spells and learn the spells of the True Self Faction.

"With the Yuan Yin Sacred Codex in hand, my chances of survival have greatly increased. Against high-ranking opponents, as long as it's not a large army ganging up on me or a first-rank expert, I still have a good chance of escaping."

As for the Third Grade?

Even without the Yuan Yin Sacred Codex, Old Master Zhao's own strength was enough to make him fearless against ordinary Third Grade, except for Priest.

With the Primordial Yuan Yin Sacred Codex, he was confident he could kill even an ordinary Third Grade Priest.

Geniuses are not within the scope of this discussion, as the upper limit for geniuses is too high. Someone like Old Liu, who Third Grade, cannot be judged based on average data.

"There's also an eighth-tier top-grade Soul Armor, and three newly acquired Solar Terms Decree."

"When I was Fifth Grade, the power of this Solar Terms Decree could only be exerted at one percent."

"Right now, I should be able to perform at about 30% to 50% of my potential."

After sensing for a moment, Zhao Xing came up with a rough estimate, which was about the same as what the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird had said.

Of course, to reach 50% of its power, you'll need to familiarize yourself with it for a while over the next period of time.

After all, that wasn't his own level of mastery; it required a process of getting used to it and becoming proficient.

After seeing the treasure, Zhao Xing entered the dream as usual and began to review the events.

He sensed that the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird was not in a good state.

I've always been wary of this silly bird having any other intentions.

"Last time we made the contract, we swore an oath based on cause and effect, promising to do our utmost. But this silly bird actually left room for maneuver. It didn't agree at first, so either the contract is in its favor and there's room for it to maneuver, or it can break it."

"That's true. It can even break the rules of the Great Dream Academy. I'll have to be more careful in the future," Zhao Xing thought to himself.

In retrospect, the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird had no reason to harm him.

Of course, we must also be wary that Old Master Zhao is not used to entrusting his life and death to others.

"Hmm? Its behavior of going out and then coming back is a bit off." Zhao Xing reviewed the situation and suddenly noticed something unusual.

"When it gave me the treasure, it would sometimes address me as 'this sage,' and sometimes as 'me,' and even its voice and demeanor subtly changed."

"Is it schizophrenia? Is it a side effect of taking too many treasures and breaking the rules?"

"Or is it its original form?" Zhao Xing pondered.

The transformation of Mechanical Puppet from a battle spirit to intelligence represents a fundamental breakthrough.

He didn't understand the intricacies of the situation, after all, he wasn't Mechanism Master, but he always felt that the silly bird held a big secret.

"Whatever their intentions, as long as I become stronger, I will be able to crush all conspiracies and schemes. Once I reach the first rank and master the divine artifact, the Great Dream Academy, I will naturally understand."

"There's no point in thinking about it now."

Zhao Xing ended the dream replay and opened his eyes.

"There are less than four months left, so hurry up and familiarize yourself with these three treasures."

The 3rd day of the 11th month of the 34th year of the Jingxin Calendar.

Li Fire Dao Academy, Dayuan Prefecture Branch.

Dean Ji Qingshan was standing quietly at the Li Fire Divine Altar.

This member of the royal family stared blankly at the burning flames before him.

This is the military version of the Li Fire Divine Altar, which has been in use since the start of the Pacifying Barbarians War to Pacify the Barbarians.

Ji Qingshan is the grandson of the Liyang King and the grand-nephew of Emperor Jing. He is very young, only two hundred and twenty years old, and has already entered the late stage of the Third-Rank Realm.

Originally, he only needed to teach and educate people, but in recent years, he has frequently participated in military operations and has begun to come into contact with all kinds of conflicts.

Many high-ranking officials died in the Pacifying Barbarians War, including many talented people from the Dao Academy. Some were his friends, some were his Senior Brother, and some were elders of the clan.

"I wonder when it will be my turn," Ji Qingshan sighed.

He was the most outstanding among the grandsons of the Liyang King, but he was weary of war and power.

He did not become the Heir Apparent, nor did he seek power; he only wanted to teach.

But he still couldn't escape the responsibilities and fate that came with being a member of the royal family.

He took charge of military transportation.

"Pfft~"

The flames flickered, and a figure emerged from them.

The newcomer had white hair that fluttered in the wind, eyes like stars and as deep as Abyss, and wore a black and gold royal robe. He was none other than Prince Liang Ji Mingxian.

"Your subject greets Your Highness, Liang King."

Ji Qingshan was here on orders to await the arrival of the King of Liang King.

"No need for formalities."

"Thank you, Your Highness."

"Just call me Uncle," Ji Mingxian said with a smile. "Green Mountain, do you still remember your ambitions from your youth?"

"Uncle, I remember," Ji Qingshan said. "I want to teach and educate people, write books and biographies, and spread the way of the sage king to the world."

"Back then, your father and grandfather both intended for you to succeed to the throne, forcing you to abandon your studies and join the army. Do you still remember who gave you the opportunity to take over the Dayuan Prefecture branch?"

"It was you, Uncle, who gave me the choice and persuaded my father and grandfather." Ji Qingshan bowed respectfully. "Green Mountain will always remember this."

Have your original aspirations changed?

"Nothing has changed," Ji Qingshan said. "I still only want to be a teacher, and I only want to read books."

"Do you wish to resign from your position as dean and leave Pinghai Province?"

A thoughtful look flashed in Ji Qingshan's eyes. "I'd like to, but Green Mountain bear the responsibilities of the royal family and am willing to continue serving here."

Ji Mingxian nodded. "It's time. You should leave, stay away from Pinghai Province, and stay away from all this strife."

Ji Qingshan was slightly taken aback. "Uncle, may I leave?"

Ji Mingxian smiled and said, "Your uncle gave you a choice back then, and it's the same today. You can do what you like."

"You will hand over the authority to become the Dean and the Li Fire Divine Altar to my son, Ji Ye, who will temporarily assume your position. I will handle the other matters for you; you don't need to worry about the Ministry of Rites and the Ministry of War causing you trouble."

Upon hearing this, Ji Qingshan immediately bowed and said, "Thank you, Uncle. I will take care of it right away."

He immediately left the underground altar and handed over the Li Fire Token, which controlled the altar and Fire Pond fire pit for teleportation, to Ji Ye.

Such a transfer would not normally have been completed so quickly, but because he trusted the Liang King, Ji Qingshan handed over everything.

He then left Pinghai Province.

November 26th, 34th year of the Jingxin Calendar.

Chongming Prefecture, Dongyang County.

In the underground chamber, Zhao Xing, who was pondering the matter, suddenly frowned.

He felt an extremely high level of fire elemental power dissipate from his body.

It was as if something had drifted away from him.

After a moment of thought, Zhao Xing finally understood what this feeling meant.

"It is the Blazing Fire Academy."

"My license to use the Li Fire Divine Altar has been frozen."

Zhao Xing quickly pulled out the Li Fire Token, which he had obtained after passing the [Glory Teaching Dharma Master] exam at the Li Fire Dao Academy years ago.

The obtained token.

With this token, he can travel to any branch of the Li Fire Dao Academy by using the fire altar.

But now, it's frozen.

"Metaphor"

A message quickly spread from the land.

"By order of the Ministry of War of War of the Imperial Court, the Li Fire Divine Altar will prioritize the supply of military generals and the transportation of military supplies. The existing Li Fire Token Orders will be temporarily frozen, and a separate notice will be issued on the day they are unfrozen. — Ji Qingshan, Dean of the Dayuan Prefecture Li Fire Dao Academy, has had his order frozen." Zhao Xing looked at this announcement. "It seems to make no mistake. Everything is based on military needs. But it seems that what can be used and what cannot is up to Liang King."

"But how come Ji Qingshan has also secretly sided with the Liang King?"

The announcement was issued by Ji Qingshan, the dean of Dayuan Prefecture. Zhao Xing had investigated this person, but he did not remember that this person had rebelled with the Liang King.

Little did he know that Ji Qingshan was simply being used by the Liang King.

Ji Qingshan trusted that the Liang King would handle everything, and given the choice, he actually did as he was told.

In reality, the current dean is Ji Ye, but he is still issuing orders in Ji Ye's name.

"The Li Fire Divine Altar cannot be used, which means we have lost a channel for rapid turnover."

"The Azure Water Daoist Academy still exists, but the price is higher than that of the Li Fire Divine Altar," Zhao Xing thought to himself. "It seems I need to find a more stable channel."

Excluding the Military Realm, there are only five Dao Academy that possess such rapid teleportation capabilities.

They are Dragon Abyss Martial Prefecture, Azure Water Daoist Academy, Li Fire Dao Academy, Star Martial Prefecture, and Purple Yang Academy.

Among them, the one closest to the Li Fire Dao Academy is the fastest, furthest, least costly, and has the largest range.

The rest have various restrictions and costs, making them far inferior to the Li Fire Dao Academy.

"I don't have the authority to take the exam for the Azure Water Daoist Academy, but I don't need to now."

"I don't even need to go through Princess Youruo, I can just go directly to Qin Hongying."

Zhao Xing thought to himself.

He immediately set off, leaving Dongyang County and arriving at Bixian County.

Azure Water Daoist Academy, Beast Taming Division.

Qin Hongying met with Zhao Xing.

"Dean Qin, does the agreement from back then still stand?" Zhao Xing asked bluntly.

"Zhao Xing, you want to become an official at the Daoist Dao Academy?" Qin Hongying showed a hint of joy. "Of course! I wonder which branch you would like to join."

"Either is fine, but I need a pass to the Azure Roaming Azure Sea," Zhao Xing said, "So that I can come and go freely in Pinghai Province."

Qin Hongying nodded. "Yes, Azure Roaming Azure Sea is a high-level Shuidao that connects to various parts of Pinghai Province through underground waterways. However, it is not as convenient as Li Fire Dao Academy, and after passing through it, there will be a feeling of drowning that cannot be completely eliminated; everyone experiences the same thing."

"I must tell you the pros and cons. If you're only here for this, then the Li Fire Divine Altar is the most suitable."

Qin Hongying was very kind and explained everything Chu Chu.

Zhao Xing nodded. "I understand. Please, Dean Qin, process this for me."

Having something useful is better than having nothing at all.

"Okay, come with me."

December 10th, 34th year of the Jingxin Calendar.

Zhao Xing remained at his secret manor in Dongyang County to cultivate.

The main focus is on cultivating the Kunpeng Transformation and becoming familiar with and mastering Divine Soldier.

The clones occasionally enter the Star Palace of the Military Realm.

Let's see if the Heaven Derivation King has appeared yet.

But Heaven Derivation King seemed to have vanished into thin air, disappearing without a trace.

"What on earth is he doing? He doesn't even care about making a name for himself in history. I wonder what major event has happened to him," Zhao Xing thought to himself.

At the same time, a voice appeared in his mind.

"Chen'an ~"

"Zhao Chen'an ~"

"Hmm? It's the commotion from the clone's side."

Zhao Xing immediately activated the clone from the Kunyuan Academy.

Meng Kun and Gu Changqing stood on Kun Mountain, calling out to Zhao Xing incessantly.

"Chen'an ~~"

"Zhao Chen'an ~~,

The sound echoed in Kun Mountain, and Meng Kun and Gu Changqing's voices reverberated in the sky and on the ground.

"That's strange, we can't find him anywhere."

"This kid practices many different spells, so many that I really can't figure them out."

Meng Kun and Gu Changqing also found it quite amazing.

Metaphor

Zhao Xing emerged silently from a lake in Kun Mountain.

It then flew quickly toward the Mountain Palace.

"My lords, what brings you to me?" Zhao Xing asked.

"I heard you wrote a treatise called ' The Great Circuit Treatise of the Three Yangs, Three Yins, and Six Qi' at the Mystic Heaven Academy?" Meng Kun asked, holding a file. "Is that true?"

"Yes." Zhao Xing nodded. "Has the news even reached Daoyuan Province now?"

"You brat, such a great piece of good news, and you didn't even tell me?" Meng Kun glared at him. "What, have I, Meng Kun, wronged you?"

"I dare not say so. You have treated me well, sir. However, this theory needed to be verified at the time, and I do not know if there were any errors in it."

"So it wasn't publicized," Zhao Xing said.

"Your Changes of Seasons Treatise has been preliminarily confirmed; Lu Chunhua just announced it at the Profound Heaven General Academy," Gu Changqing said. "Chen'an, you can't show favoritism."

"You've spent so much effort on the Time Faction, don't you think my Earthly Advantage Faction is worth studying?"

Zhao Xing was taken aback. So that's what they came for?

"My lords, such Theory of Law cannot be written in a day or two. I—"

"I don't care," Meng Kun said, grabbing Zhao Xing's hand. "If you don't give me an explanation, you're disrespecting me."

Zhao Xing was both amused and exasperated, and could only reply, "My lords, if I gain any insight into the Earthly Advantage Method, I will inform you immediately."

"I want to be the first recommender!" Gu Changqing immediately reserved his spot.

"Old Gu, you dare to steal from me?" Meng Kun's eyes widened immediately. This Old Gu actually stole from my house?

"Lord Meng, there's no question of fighting or robbing in this matter. You are the dean, busy with official duties, while I am a Doctor of the Five Classics."

"Isn't this something I should be doing?"

"You're talking nonsense!" Meng Kun cursed. "Do you think only you, Gu Changqing, have the ability to review these proposals? I'm the dean, my rank is higher than yours, you can't compete with me for the top recommendation! Otherwise, I'll send you to dig the ground!"

The saying "a higher-ranking official can crush you" was something Gu Changqing deeply understood.

In the end, he had no choice but to succumb to Meng Kun's tyranny and retreat to the position of second recommender.

However, Zhao Xing had no time to deal with this matter and could only offer some assurances to get by.

Time marches on, and in the blink of an eye, we have crossed the year line of the thirty-fourth year of the Jingxin Calendar.

On January 5th, Zhao Xing's true form arrived at Tianhe Prefecture to report on his duties.

Tianhe Prefecture is one of the four major prefectures under the Pinghai Province Transportation Department.

They managed the transshipment of supplies east of Pinghai Province.

When Zhao Xing came to report on his duties, his Official Rank was changed to: Tianhe Prefecture, which governs the 37th Circuit Transportation Department of the East Sea and the Hundred Circuit Water Transport Commissioner.

Their specific responsibility was to ensure the safety of the Shuidao along the transport route, not to escort military supplies on the ships, but to ensure the stability of the Shuidao and cloud tunnels.

To put it simply, when the transport Tower Ship passes by, there can be no thunder, rain, or storms in the sky along the way.

The Shuidao along this route must not be flooded or overflow their course.

"Lord Zhao, the stability of these thirty-seven shipping routes is entrusted to you," Zhang Ping, Third Grade Transportation Envoy of Tianhe Prefecture, instructed.

His expression was serious. "Right now, the Tianhe Prefecture Transportation Department is under great pressure. The Southern Barbarians battlefield Transportation Envoy envoys. If you make any mistakes, even if your master is Lord Liu, I will punish you without hesitation!"

"Rest assured, Lord Zhang," Zhao Xing said, cupping his hands in greeting. "This humble official guarantees to fulfill my duties."

Fifth Grade can oversee thirty-seven circuits; this is the limit for a Fifth Grade official, but it is not Zhao Xing's limit.

He wanted more power, but Zhang Ping was a fair and just man; otherwise, he wouldn't have Liu School to Li Town.

The Liang King Faction kept smearing the state government's transportation agencies, blaming the war's defeat on the untimely delivery of certain military supplies.

This put a lot of pressure on Liu Tianning and a group of officials, Zhao Xing is here to share the burden.

"You shall take up your post immediately; I have already prepared a deputy envoy for you," Zhang Ping said.

"Yes." Zhao Xing immediately left the government office and returned to the Hundred Waterways Celestial Transport Office.

When he entered the government office and saw the adjutant who was there to greet him, he was momentarily stunned.

"Lord Lu? Is that you?"

"Lord Zhao?" Lu Tingzhi was also taken aback. "It's you?"

Zhao Xing couldn't help but smile, "I didn't expect to run into an old acquaintance here."

Lu Tingzhi was his superior in the Transportation Department in his previous life, and also one of the backers behind his corruption.

This life's interactions took place at Fire Dragon Pass.

At that time, he also exchanged his calligraphy and paintings for the future master craftsman Yue Lingzhi, and sent him to the Hundred Weapons Daoist Academy.

However, the two lost contact after he left Ten Yang Grotto-Heaven.

No one expected that they would meet again here.

"Great! I never expected that Lord Zhao would be the head of our department!" Lu Tingzhi very happy. He felt that he and Zhao Xing had a previous relationship and shared interests, so he was sure to rise to a high position.

"I also think it's great that Lord Lu is my adjutant." Zhao Xing also very happy, and kept looking at Lu Tingzhi's head.

"Please, Lord Zhao, come in quickly."

"Haha, don't be so Guest Qi."

At the same time, Zhao Xing's other identity, the Inspector of the Five Prefectures of the East Sea Pinghai Province, was also confirmed.

This transfer was inconspicuous in the vast Pinghai Province and did not cause the slightest ripple.

After taking office, Zhao Xing did nothing but observe from the shadows.

Time flies, and in the blink of an eye, it is the second day of the second month of the thirty-fifth year of the Jingxin Calendar.

At Yin Hour, Zhao Xing suddenly felt a pang of heart palpitation.

He couldn't help but step outside and look up at the night sky.

The night was as peaceful as usual.

Zhao Xing watched silently.

Wait until the fourth quarter of the Yin Hour.

Just when he thought the date had changed, suddenly "Yu~"

Night turned to dawn in an instant.

At the same time, the entire earth began to shake.

Countless pillars of fortune soared into the sky.

The vast majority of them stop before they can even reach the sky.

But there are also many purple pillars that reach straight to the sky, transforming into dragon shapes and constantly soaring.

Above the sky, an enormous golden Luck Golden Dragon appeared and began to roam wildly, attempting to devour the suddenly emerging 'dragon energy'.

But just then, an even stronger feeling of palpitation came over me.

Zhao Xing turned his head and looked south.

His pupils immediately contracted.

A black dragon flew swiftly from afar, heading straight for the golden dragon.

After catching up, it took a bite out of the middle of the belly.

"Coax!"

The earth and sky shook even more violently.

The golden dragon was split in two, and the black dragon devoured its corpse, instantly growing stronger.

The remaining half of the golden dragon was restored to its full size in the blink of an eye, only its body was smaller.

"What happened?"

"Why was there an earthquake?"

"Why is it already light out? And why is it raining golden rain?"

"Agricultural Supervisorate and find out what happened!"

"Hahahaha, I am Qiu Feisheng, the successor of the Divine Sect! All disciples, heed my command!"

"Kill! Kill! Kill! Take the city!"

"Oh my god, go and report this immediately—"

Countless sounds appeared in Zhao Xing's ears; sounds from all over Tianhe Prefecture entered his ears.

This includes both illusions of the future and things that have already happened.

Along with this, a golden beam of light enveloped Zhao Xing.

Those whose fortune fluctuates wildly, and who possess great fortune that aligns with the destiny of heaven and earth, can rise to a higher level.

Zhao Xing glanced at his panel.

The fortune originally bestowed by the Heavenly Mandate Dark Bird of Destiny has now transformed into the Evolution Six.

At this moment, it suddenly started to move again.

It constantly changes back and forth between "Derivation Four", "Evolution Five", "Evolution Six", and "Derivative Seven".

"It's finally here." Zhao Xing couldn't help but close his eyes.

In the thirty-fifth year of the Jingxin Calendar, on the first day of the second month in spring.

That night, the vanguard of Liang King's army withdrew north of the Canglan River.

On February 2nd, the Liang King issued Bandit Suppression Edict, directly targeting the current prime minister, Liu Si, and calling on all the princes and nobles in the land to respond.

At the same time, he used the divine artifact "Weishenluo" to forcibly tear apart most of the fortune of Pinghai Prefecture of the Great Zhou Dynasty.

In Lüliang Province, a small portion of its fortune was split and devoured.

On the same day, Bai Zhengyang of the East Sea was beheaded, and Hong Yuanba and Hong Yuanshou responded to the order of the Liang King and led an army of five million to land at Chongming Prefecture in the East Sea.

In Pinghai Province Prefecture, three first-rank Yin Spirit, obeying the orders of Liang King, instantly took control of all the temples and placed them under lockdown.

Throughout Pinghai Province, the celestial phenomena were extremely chaotic, the earth shook incessantly, and the Black Dragon Boundary Wall rose into the sky from the Boundary Marker, forming a double blockade of the ground and the sky.

This sudden change shocked the entire world!

The officials in Pinghai Province were in utter chaos.

Because the blessings they possessed became very obvious, yet also caused division.

At this point, even if one is not Fate Officials, one can see one's own fortune and know how to absorb the fortune of Pinghai Province.

By the afternoon, the Military Realm Grotto-Heaven had reached a weak cycle, and most of the passageways were unable to complete the Military Realm teleportation.

The Liang King deployed troops to guard various locations, completing a large-scale blockade, leaving only seven passages leading to Pinghai Province.

The momentous event of "Liang King Rebellion," which Zhao Xing had been anticipating for over a decade, has finally arrived.