A River of Blood, the Monster Raised by Liu Tianning!
In the medical ward of Divine Wood Institute, the three siblings Wen Weiqi, Xin Bojian, Yu Gongzhi reunited.
Xin Bojian asked in a low voice, "Junior Sister, what was your reason for running away?"
Wen Weiqi touched her belly. "Waiting for delivery."
Xin Bojian gave a thumbs up, then looked at Yu Gongzhi: "Junior brother, what about you?"
Yu Gongzhi also touched his belly. "Bring her here to prepare for childbirth."
Xin Bojian, his face bandaged, said, "Junior brother, you are indeed quick-witted."
Yu Gongzhi shrugged and said, "How can I not be anxious? Liu Tianning's disciples have already cultivated top-level Dharma bodies. Although they are still young and have only just entered the Fourth Grade, they can completely beat me."
"To engage in Great Dao Contention with him? I haven't lived enough yet!"
Wen Weiqi sat down next to Xin Bojian, looked him over, and asked, "Senior Brother, why are you wearing a bandage when your stomach hurts?"
"My arm is broken."
"? You're really putting on an act." Wen Weiqi punched him.
"Don't touch it, it hurts!"
"Hiss, Senior Brother, you really did break a bone?" Yu Gongzhi glanced at it with his Five Elements Observation and couldn't help but exclaim in surprise, "Even a few intestines are broken, does this... do you need to be so serious?"
"This time is different." Xin Bojian slapped his thigh and said with a grimace, "Liu Tianning has already given the final order."
"He will fulfill his oath before the Myriad Dao Tree. This not only concerns him, but also the future of the Shangluo Academy for the next few hundred years. How can it be treated lightly?"
Xin Bojian said, "I don't need to confront him, but his disciple is not someone to be trifled with either."
"If we are chosen by the elders of the academy, should we go or not?"
"It's better not to go in the first place than to make things difficult for the elders and bring shame to the community."
"I'm doing this for the greater good!"
Yu Gongzhi said with emotion, "Senior Brother's efforts are truly admirable; you are a role model for us all. I will follow in your Senior Brother!"
"Thank you for the compliment, junior brother." Xin Bojian bowed with one hand.
Wen Weiqi blushed, looked at the two of them, and couldn't help but sigh, "I'm still not as good as my two Senior Brother."
His skin has been thickened to be thicker than the bark of a thousand-year-old iron tree!
Yu Gongzhi found a handful of grass roots in several medicine boxes.
"Junior Sister, eat quickly."
"Good."
After saying that, Wen Weiqi and She Gongzhi chewed the root of the herb called "Frost Origin-Leaching Grass".
Then their bellies quickly swelled to their maximum size, and then quickly dried up, their vitality dropping to freezing point.
In an instant, both of them showed signs of severe depletion of vital energy, and their faces turned ashen.
"Senior Brother, we can't be called out like this, can we?" Wen Weiqi said, panting heavily.
"That's impossible," Xin Bojian laughed.
"By the way, where are Zhao Xing and Liu Tianning?"
"We can't fight him, but it's always good to meet him. Let's see what kind of demeanor the Divine Might Marquis is, who can make so many geniuses avoid his sharp edge."
"We've already crossed the Luo River."
The Shangluo Academy is located in Shangluo County, Daoyuan Continent.
Within its borders lie the Spirit Mountain, a renowned commercial center, and the Luo River.
This place is also the source of the Luo River.
Like Kunyuan Academy, Shangluo Academy also occupies most of Shangluo County.
At this moment, Zhao Xing was no longer on Liu Tianning's Golden Dragon Warship, but on his own Silver Dragon Flying Vessel.
He stood at the bow of the boat, with the three-flowered Canopy bestowed upon him by the imperial court above his head, and the phantom images of three divine flowers shimmering above his head.
He was dressed in a magnificent robe of the five elements, surrounded by the five elements of metal, wood, water, fire, and earth, which revolved around him.
The front of the garment is embroidered with a picture of Qilin treading on the sea, and the sleeves are decorated with cloud patterns.
Wearing gold-woven Cloud Stepping Boots, with pale golden clouds swirling around them, it was as if half a Solar Yang was hidden within the clouds.
The belt is a crescent-shaped Bright Moon Belt, symbolizing the Lesser Yin.
He also wore Lords' Sword on his belt, with a silver ribbon and a gold seal hanging from it, engraved with the words "Divine Might".
His left hand holds Cloud Rain Pearl on top, while his right hand holds a yellow staff slightly below it.
Zhao Xing stood proudly at the bow of the boat, maintaining this posture for two hours.
There was no other way; he had come to the Shangluo Academy as Liu Tianning's disciple to help his teacher rise to a higher position.
Liu Tianning, the first Dao Follower under the Demonic Realm!
Just like the first merit of a new emperor's ascension to the throne!
We have to put on airs!
We have no choice but to display it!
"I must say, the attire ordered by the imperial court is quite impressive." Luo King looked down at the flying boat that was following ten meters from the ship's side on the warship.
"He was originally just handsome, but now his handsomeness has gained an added air of authority."
The Heaven Derivation King beside him smiled and said, "Hmm, this lad can certainly pull off this outfit."
The Duke of Wei stroked his beard and said, "How spirited he is! Looking at him, I feel as if I am seeing Liu Tianning from back then."
"Yes." Even the usually cold-faced Luo King showed a hint of bewilderment in his eyes.
Upon hearing this, both the Duke of Wei and the Heaven Derivation King nodded in agreement.
As Liu Tianning's supporters, they naturally had to come and show their support this time!
When they return to Taihe County in Return Home in Glory, they can simply send someone, but this time, they will be there in person!
The purpose of the platform is to prevent any unforeseen events, such as political oppression or other forms of pressure.
What if some of the old fogies with first-rank strength in the Shangluo Academy want to use some underhanded means to prevent Liu Tianning from taking the position?
That's perfect! We can bring in the large army from outside Shangluo County and carry out a cleansing operation with a legitimate reason.
Emperor Jing was actually hoping someone would do that!
In short, it boils down to four words: Show your face and kill instantly!
"How old is he now?" Luo King asked.
"41," Heaven Derivation King replied quickly. "The Renovation Era Calendar has 278 years. Zhao Xing was born in March of the 274th year of the Renovation Era Calendar, and he is now 41 years old."
"He's even faster than Liu Tianning," Luo King exclaimed.
"Of course! You wouldn't know."
"What do you know?" Luo King and Duke of Wei quickly looked at Heaven Derivation King.
"You don't know, Liu Tianning is already 146 years old. When he was 41, he wasn't as outstanding as Zhao Xing."
Luo King and Duke of Wei chuckled.
The former guessed what Heaven Derivation King wanted to say, which was probably a secret he didn't know.
The Duke of Wei felt that a very sophisticated silencing technique had taken effect.
The beauty of Ritual Cultivator's magic lies in this: people are not machines, and even machines make mistakes!
Once a gag order is placed, it's impossible for them to divulge the forbidden content, even in their wildest dreams.
"I heard the princess has also come?" Duke of Wei asked, changing the subject.
"Hmm." Heaven Derivation King nodded. "She's going back to Tianyong Province and will stop by to visit, but she won't make a public appearance unless absolutely necessary."
The one who was valued so highly by the three of them was naturally Princess Youruo.
At this moment, Princess Youruo looked down at the Silver Dragon Flying Vessel from the Scenic Outlook Platform on the upper level of the warship.
Morning Dawn County Ji Ziyun, quietly followed beside her.
Both of them were looking at Zhao Xing, but their feelings were completely different.
"It is said that he went to the Dao Academy alone in a boat back then." Princess Youruo had mixed feelings.
She was not involved in Liu Tianning's career back then; she was very young at the time and had not yet received any official title.
I've only heard the story of Liu Tianning overthrowing many Dao Academy for the sake of his beloved.
She initially envied the woman in the story immensely, but later it turned into hatred.
She hates herself for not being the female lead in the story.
"Senior Brother is becoming more and more dazzling." Ji Ziyun's eyes were dreamy.
At first glance, she only analyzed the situation rationally and felt that Zhao Xing was a suitable husband; later, she developed some liking for him, but it couldn't be described as love.
Now, however, I can't suppress the flutter in my heart.
On the Silver Dragon warship, Zhao Xing felt many eyes on him.
He even heard some comments.
"A first-class Divine Might Marquis, barely over forty years old, has already cultivated a top-tier Dharma Body? A genius!"
"Not only that, he is also proficient in the theory of Time Law and has authored the ' Great Circuit Treatise the Three Yin, Three Yang, and Six Qi.' In early May, the court began to promote this Jinglun and listed it as a required examination topic for low-ranking Agriculture Official."
"It not only affects low-ranking officials, but also mid-ranking Agriculture Official can use this theory to adjust the Heavenly Timing. It is said that there is also a Grotto-Heaven Numerology Theory within it."
It played a significant role, but its authenticity is unknown.
"Ahem, that must be confidential, so let's not discuss it."
"I heard that he was skilled in the Earthly Advantage Method. Kunyuan Academy even killed many rebels, including the descendants of the rebel king, because of him."
"Is that so? It must be fake. I've never heard of any ' Earthly Advantage Faction' Jinglun."
"It's probably a rumor, but it's true that he knows the Earth Palace Art."
"He's only forty-one years old. I happen to have a granddaughter. I'll talk to Liu Tianning about it another day."
"Duke Yang, you're still rescheduling? Duke of Wei already asked, but Liu Tianning said that Zhao Xing needs to focus on cultivation right now and is not suitable for marriage." "Oh? Is that so?"
"A lot of the people who came to my door recently were asking about this; they've all lined up!"
1
Zhao Xing stood at the bow of the boat, listening to the surrounding discussions, and couldn't help but feel somewhat helpless.
He felt like a commodity, being picked over and judged by others.
Inside the cabin, Zhao Xing's clone closed his eyes and began entering the memory palace.
"The Great Zhou Profound Yellow Calendar records 530,000 years."
"One hundred and twenty years is a cycle. We are currently in the Profound Yellow Calendar, the 72nd year of the 4416th cycle."
Emperor Jing ascended the throne at the age of 78, and Emperor Jing reign lasted a total of 922 years.
"The period of dual rule lasted for 158 years."
"During the sixty years of Jiazi Great Governance Era, those powerful and aristocratic Noble Families have been slowly being shaped. At this time, I absolutely cannot engage in any marriage alliances with anyone," Zhao Xing thought to himself.
"It's best not to do anything before Wu Emperor ascends the throne."
"After the Jiazi Great Governance Era, the Eternal Governance Era lasted for ninety-eight years, and Wu Emperor was born in the sixty-third year of the Eternal Governance Era."
"But I wonder if this era will be earlier. If it is, will it still be Wu Emperor?" Zhao Xing couldn't help but ponder. "Wu Emperor is ordained by Heaven. The current timeline hasn't changed much, so it should still be from that time."
Zhao Xing's plans are not static and can be adjusted at any time.
"Buzz~"
Just then, the Golden Dragon Warship descended.
The Silver Dragon Flying Vessel also descended in altitude, and the clouds in front of it automatically dispersed.
The ancient palace complex beneath is now visible.
At a height of 100 meters, the fleet passed through a 100-meter-tall gate.
"We've arrived at the Shangluo Academy."
Zhao Xing looked ahead.
Stepping into the grounds of the Shangluo Academy felt like stepping into a new world.
The gate tower stands majestically, carved from ancient sacred wood, covered with strange runes and mysterious patterns, radiating a faint glow.
On either side of the gate stand two lifelike statues of Divine Beast, neither dragons nor tigers, with piercing eyes and incomparable majesty, as if guarding this sacred land.
The gate tower is a hundred meters high, and after passing through it, there is a wide avenue.
The avenue is paved with colorful jade stones, and various tall and magical plants are planted on both sides.
Some plants emit a dazzling light, like stars in the night sky; some plants sway with brilliant colors, as if they were the most beautiful paintings in the works of artists; and some plants emit a charming fragrance that makes people feel refreshed and happy.
"The long-lost Divine Wood Avenue." Zhao Xing sighed.
His main impression of the Shangluo Academy in his previous life began from the Wu Emperor Dynasty.
At that time, the whole world was mobilized for war, and the Shangluo Academy was also filled with a somber atmosphere, completely different from its current style.
The sacred trees planted on both sides were the "Colossus King Tree" that served the war, not the current "Huacang Divine Tree".
Later still, the Shangluo Academy underwent a chaotic thousand-year period of change, experiencing partial destruction and reconstruction.
During its most difficult time, it was almost destroyed. It was only after the Spiritual Energy Revival that Shangluo Academy regained its brilliance and became even more glorious than before.
"Splash!"
The air was filled with the clear chirping of birds and the babbling of flowing water.
After passing through the Divine Wood Avenue, which is surrounded by the Luo River, we entered the academy.
Looking up, one can see that the academy is shaded by green trees, with pavilions and towers scattered throughout in a well-organized manner.
Between the pavilions, a clear stream meanders, and on the water float beautiful lotus flowers, exuding a mysterious aura. In the center of the academy stands a huge Ten Thousand Laws Plaza!
The square was filled with various planting tools and amazing containers.
"Automatic seedling divider, seven-unit row divider, Return to Origin Sect wheel, dividing Magic Array," Zhao Xing looked down. "They'll all be mine in the future."
The airships and warships continued flying, quickly passing the remaining departments.
A group of egoist sans-nons were busily moving about, dressed in simple robes, their faces beaming with focus and joy.
Occasionally, someone would look up and observe the arrival of this group of distinguished guests.
Soon Zhao Xing saw another classic area of the Shangluo Academy: Divine Radiance Farm. Inside the farm, some Agricultural Official were carefully sowing precious seeds.
Some Agricultural Official were carefully watering the sprouting seedlings, while Agricultural Official were meticulously observing the plants' growth and recording every subtle change.
The farm is lush and green, with areas planted with large trees.
Most of them are towering trees with thick trunks, lush branches and leaves, and are covered with strange fruits.
There is a vine-covered area where vines Entanglement the supports and bloom with beautiful flowers.
Some plants have bizarre shapes that are hard to describe, as if they were creatures from another world.
"We've arrived at the Twin Birth Institute."
Zhao Xing looked down and suddenly a seven-colored area appeared below.
A series of mysterious greenhouses. The walls of the greenhouses are made of transparent crystal, allowing a clear view of the precious plants grown inside.
"The largest Warm Bloom Shed complex in the world!" Zhao Xing exclaimed with emotion. "I even brought my ex-girlfriend here to steal vegetables back in the day, but unfortunately, my attempt to show off backfired and I ended up looking bad—"
The airship began to descend further, and in the distance, a continuous stretch of streets and buildings began to appear.
"Shangluo Library." Zhao Xing looked ahead. "These libraries house the most complete botanical encyclopedias, including the * Herbal Classic *."
"The Grand View of Trees," " On the True Self Heavenly Creation Theory," and "Heavenly Bamboo Illustrated Guide"
"The deepest and largest one also contains the original copies of ' The All Things Growth Chart ' and ' The Yin Yang True Self Scripture '."
The fleet of warships and airships finally landed at the Forest Sea Tower Ship Office of the Shangluo Academy, which is also the largest Tower Ship in the Shangluo Academy.
It not only has a wide open space, but also lakeside Tower Ship Office and underground Tower Ship Office.
Because some of the Tower Ship arrived via tunnels or Shuidao.
"There are a lot of people who have come to greet us." Zhao Xing looked at the Fang Zhen in front of him. There were about ten thousand people, both those who came to greet him and those who came to watch the excitement.
"The heads of the seven important branch schools have all arrived."
As Liu Tianning disembarked, Zhao Xing followed suit, stepping off the flying boat and standing beside Liu Tianning.
The first few dozen people in the Fang Zhen included the deans and vice-deans of Divine Splendor Institute, Divine Wood Institute, Restraint Path Institute, Origin Bright Institute, Origin Foundation Institute, Soldier Envoy Institute, and Twin Birth Institute.
Usually, there is one principal and three deputies, but there are many other honorary titles that don't involve actual work, only those with sufficient ability.
At the very front was an elderly man in a green robe with silver hair, sunken eyes, and many wrinkles.
"He must be Xu Xing," Zhao Xing said, looking at the green-robed elder. "His true form is already in the final stages of decline."
Xu Xing came in his true form, and this is what his true form looks like!
When a person is nearing the end of their lifespan, their soul begins to age.
Especially for elderly people like Xu Xing, who are already 783 years old.
Of course, this does not mean that Xu Xing is weak.
He was able to exert formidable fighting power until his death.
However, maintaining his physical body requires a lot of energy, and since his true self doesn't need to go out and fight, Xu Xing is too lazy to waste his energy.
"Greetings, Dean." Liu Tianning bowed respectfully.
"Greetings, Dean." Zhao Xing also bowed, and all the officials of the Benwo faction behind him bowed their heads as well.
Even Luo King, Heaven Derivation King, and others bowed with their hands clasped in respect.
Xu Xing, as the leader of the True Self Faction, was a legendary figure of his generation.
Under his leadership, the Shangluo Academy contributed the "Yuan 18" Yuan Rice to Emperor Jing's reign, added more than 10,000 new medicinal materials (Derived Seed) to the Medicine Division, and provided more than 7,000 new mechanical materials to the Ministry of Works.
Even a first-rank prince would bow to Xu Xing.
"Vice President Liu, distinguished guests, please go to the guest room to rest." Xu Xing returned the greeting.
This is a public occasion, and he is referred to by his title, Liu Tianning.
Of course, once the formalities are completed, there's no need for such formalities on the way to the guesthouse.
Liu Tianning quickly stepped forward. "Teacher, please let me help you."
"Good." Xu Xing smiled and said, "Tian Ning, congratulations on being granted the title of Prince."
"It's all thanks to the teacher's excellent teaching." Liu Tianning bowed slightly, keeping his head down as he spoke, because he was a head taller than Xu Xing.
"Who is he?" Xu Xing, leaning on his staff and looking at Zhao Xing.
Liu Tianning turned his body slightly. "Teacher, he is my disciple Zhao Xing."
"Zhao Xing, come and pay your respects to your grandmaster."
Zhao Xing immediately stepped forward and, in front of the huge crowd of guests, performed a grand bow to greet his grandmaster, "Grandmaster, your disciple greets you."
"Alright, alright." Xu Xing nodded with a smile. "Get up quickly and come to your grandmaster's side."
"Yes." Zhao Xing dispersed the five auras of his fine clothes and ran to Xu Xing's right side to support Xu Xing.
He and Liu Tianning, one on each side, helped Xu Xing walk along the main road.
The three Agricultural Official who had mastered the Straw Man Art to the highest level were standing together at this moment, walking slowly on the main road.
Whether they were guests or members of the Shangluo Academy, they couldn't help but feel a sense of emotion.
"Xu Xing was exactly eighty years old when he mastered the top-level Straw Man Art, which is also the record of all the academy directors in this dynasty. He is a genius among geniuses."
"Liu Tianning reached the top level of his skill at the age of sixty."
"Zhao Xing, on the other hand, mastered the skill at the age of 40."
"They're all full years old." Heaven Derivation King walked slowly behind, filled with emotion.
Is it fate or coincidence?
"Each generation is younger than the last," said Duke of Wei. "The Shangluo Academy might actually produce a Grand Minister of Agriculture."
"Each generation is stronger than the last," said Luo King's Way. "Xu Xing has five Dharma bodies, Liu Tianning now has seven, and Zhao Xing may become even stronger in the future."
"Definitely stronger." Heaven Derivation King smiled. "Luo, shall we bet?"
Luo:
Duke of Wei laughed and said, "Tianyan, stop focusing on tricking Luo King alone. It's happened so many times already."
"Luo, you too, knowing he was Fate Officials, you still gambled with him. I know you believe that human will can overcome fate, but Tianyan knows many secrets."
Luo King's Way, "I'd like to beat him up, but I'm afraid he'll die in front of me."
"Forget it, I won't gamble this time."
Heaven Derivation King smiled smugly.
In the Divine Wood Institute's group, Zhuang Dawen looked at the three people in front of him and couldn't help but shake his head. "It wasn't Liu Tianning and Zhao Xing who went to help him; it was clearly him helping his disciples and grand-disciples."
"Teacher, don't be envious, we'll help you too." Yu Gongzhi, Wen Weiqi, and Xin Bojian immediately came over.
Seeing his three disciples looking half-dead, Zhuang Danian was furious. "You three, get the hell out of here! Don't ever show your faces in front of the Myriad Dao Tree again!"
One had bandages on, one had a large belly, and the other had a pale face.
Anyone who didn't know better would think he was Zhuang Danian's disciple, some old, weak, sick, or disabled person!
That's so embarrassing!
"Yes, ma'am!" This time, the three of them quickly obeyed Zhuang Danian's will and disappeared without a trace.
"Oh well," Zhuang Danian couldn't help but sigh.
Hearing Zhuang Dawen's sigh, Chu Qianqiu of the Soldier Envoy Institute also felt the same way.
He searched around and found that there weren't many people in the Soldier Envoy Institute willing to fight Zhao Xing.
"Qianqiu, do you want to continue?" Jiang Chunyao, the giant being carried by the wind, asked telepathically.
"Yes." Chu Qianqiu's tone was calm, but his gaze was firm. "Someone has to die."
"Martial Uncle, if I die at his hands, then hand over the Heaven Soul Tree."
"Sigh, why are you doing this?" Jiang Yaochun sighed. Chu Qianqiu smiled and said, "Whether the academy has me or not is not important. What's important is what will happen to the academy in Liu Tianning's hands."
The moment Chu Qianqiu saw Liu Tianning, he knew he had no chance of winning.
However, Chu Qianqiu still decided to use his death to warn Liu Tianning not to get too involved with the royal family and ruin the future of the academy.
With Zhao Xing by Xu Xing's side, he received even more attention.
However, his attention was on Xu Xing at this moment.
Without a doubt, Xu Xing is a first-rank expert.
First-Rank Life Palace can already change the rules of a region, going beyond mere distortion or influence.
Just like when I first saw the Fire Spirit, fire rising from water, that was something that completely defied the natural order of things.
Xu Xing's every move contained profound Daoist wisdom.
In terms of combat prowess alone, he could even defeat Li Boqian had not yet succeeded to the position of Grand Minister of Agriculture.
If we don't take into account the boost from official rank and fortune, or the various magical artifacts controlled by the Grand Minister of Agriculture.
In a naked confrontation, even as the leader of the Time Faction, Li Boqian was no match for Xu Xing.
Emperor Jing once considered Xu Xing as the Grand Minister of Agriculture, but while the leaders of the True Self Faction were powerful, they all had one drawback: they were prone to madness.
The stronger they are, the more insane they become.
The Grand Minister of Agriculture is the model for all Agricultural Official in the land, and he can also wield the three divine artifacts of Heaven, Earth, and Grain. If Xu Xing goes mad, then there's no need to fight this Pacifying Barbarians War.
Unfortunately, after careful consideration, Emperor Jing had no choice but to abandon Xu Xing and appoint Li Boqian instead.
Later, Xu Xing indeed went mad, causing many unnecessary casualties.
However, these were all classified information, and he only learned some of them after spending a long time by the side of Heaven Derivation King.
"Grand-disciple, have you seen enough?" Xu Xing suddenly turned his head and smiled at Zhao Xing.
"It was my grand-disciple who was rude." Zhao Xing quickly lowered his head.
"Haha, it's not that you're not allowed to look," Xu Xing laughed. "You're only at the second level of the Yin Yang True Self Scripture, yet you want to figure out my Dao? That's too advanced. You need to take things slowly and steadily."
"When we get to the Myriad Dao Tree, if no one challenges you, you can go up and look around to your heart's content."
"Yes," Zhao Xing replied respectfully.
He knew that if he wanted to get a close look at the Myriad Dao Tree, he had to defeat them until no one dared to challenge him.
"I wonder how many people will come to their deaths." A hint of excitement flashed in Zhao Xing's eyes.
Xu Xing led the group to a key location of the Shangluo Academy— the Wandao Plain.
There is a huge tree there, with the thickest branches exceeding twenty meters in diameter.
The entire Myriad Dao Tree is ten thousand meters tall!
It is also one of the most prized treasures of the Shangluo Academy, belonging to the category of rare and precious items.
The Myriad Dao Tree is over 500,000 years old, making it extremely ancient.
It can store the insights into the Dao gained by the most powerful figures of the Shangluo Academy throughout history.
Each leaf contains the Tao understood by the sages. Its lush branches and leaves represent countless insights into the Tao.
The Dao at the leaf level is all left behind by those of the first rank.
Only those of the Supreme Grade can cause the Myriad Dao Tree to sprout new branches.
"The Myriad Dao Tree." Zhao Xing gazed at the large tree in the center of the plain. One of his avatars on the Silver Dragon Flying Vessel closed his eyes. "Such a large Myriad Dao Tree is not common even in the universe version. It is unique in the Profound Yellow World."
The size of the Myriad Dao Tree represents the foundation of a sacred land because its growth mainly involves absorbing the Dao essence of the strong.
Just watching from afar, Zhao Xing felt a surge of emotions.
What he sees now is only the scene after the barrier and restrictions have sealed it off. The real benefit will come from going inside and climbing the Dao Tree to comprehend it.
Upon reaching the Ten Thousand Dao Plain, the number of onlookers decreased.
Those who came to watch were mostly officials of the Fifth Grade or above, Agricultural Official.
There's no way around it; at the Shangluo Academy, only the Fifth Grade is considered mid-level.
Unlike the other two factions, where the Sixth Rank is considered the middle level.
After arriving, Xu Xing rested for an hour.
This gives Liu Tianning and those who oppose Liu Tianning a final opportunity to communicate.
Because both Liu Tianning and Zhao Xing themselves have arrived.
With my presence, even those of the Second Rank and first ranks would be able to clearly see the situation of Liu Tianning and Zhao Xing.
Chu Qianqiu, for example, knew he couldn't beat Liu Tianning just by looking at him.
The Heavenly Fortune and the Life Palace can both reveal some of the trajectory of future events and provide a sense of the unseen world.
It's not about some kind of mystical power, but rather a feeling based on actual strength.
In the sky, the wind howled, intertwining and surging.
They were clearly having a heated exchange.
"We've withdrawn; Heavenly Bamboo Garden will be under Liu Tianning's command."
"The connection to the Dao is strong; Liu Tianning is stronger than I imagined. I can't defeat him."
"Yes, we shouldn't have hit him."
"How will the training plan for Liu be decided?"
"His entanglements with the Ji Royal House are too deep, which violates ancient precepts."
"I could be the dean, but his plans are unacceptable."
"Let's take another look and see what kind of person his disciple is."
"Throat·-.··
Zhao Xing could occasionally hear snippets of conversation coming from the sky.
But none of that mattered to him; he just needed to focus on fighting.
An hour passed quickly.
He used Xu Xing's staff as a crutch, and with a gentle push, he flew into the sky.
He knew why so many people had come today, and the others at the Shangluo Academy also knew why these distinguished guests had come.
Xu Xing didn't waste any words, pointing to the Myriad Dao Tree behind him. "Today I have three matters to discuss with you all!"
Insect brush brush~
Everyone fell silent; there wasn't even a breeze in the sky. Everyone was watching Xu Xing.
The Myriad Dao Tree swayed slightly, seemingly growing larger.
"The first thing," Xu Xing's voice echoed throughout the heavens and earth, "Is to promote Liu Tianning, the former Twin Birth Institute, to the first vice dean of the Shangluo Academy."
Is there any objection to me acting as dean?
The world was so quiet you could hear a pin drop.
It was as if everyone had been Silence Spell; not a single person uttered a sound.
"Any objections?"
"Any objections?"
Xu Xing asked three times, each time with a ten-breath interval.
Ten breaths had passed since the last inquiry.
Xu Xing shouted, "Where is Liu Tianning?!"
"Exist!"
Liu Tianning flew up into the sky on a cloud and landed next to Xu Xing, about half a meter lower.
"From this day forward, you will be the First Vice Dean of the Shangluo Academy, acting as the Dean!"
After saying that, Xu Xing handed the emerald green, crystal-clear staff in his hand horizontally to Liu Tianning.
"Yes, Tianning will certainly live up to the Dean's and the Academy's high expectations!" Liu Tianning replied respectfully, presenting the Shangluo Jade Scepter, representing the authority of the Shangluo Academy, with both hands.
There were no unusual Heaven and Earth Anomaly, and no one shouted; everything just happened peacefully.
The transfer of power begins at this moment.
Aside from retaining the nominal title, Xu Xing will no longer participate in any affairs or decisions of the Shangluo Academy.
Of course, that empty title is still useful. The imperial court will send a special conferment, and this title will bring some effects such as longevity and good fortune.
The dean of the Shangluo Academy would usually be rewarded and given a high-ranking Official Rank.
But that happened later.
At least within the academy, Liu Tianning will be considered the de facto dean from this moment on.
"Second Vice Dean, Chu Qianqiu, Dean of the Soldier Envoy Institute!"
"The third vice dean, Yu Xia, will lead the Twin Birth Institute!"
"The Fourth Vice Dean, Zhuang Danian, will lead the Divine Wood Institute!"
"Fifth·--"
A total of seven people flew into the sky and stood at the same height as Liu Tianning.
After that came the reassignment of some vice deans, PhDs in the Five Classics, and other positions in various departments.
The number of people was increasing, and more than 500 people had appeared in the sky.
Forty percent of them were at the Second Rank rank!
The profound heritage of the Shangluo Academy was revealed at this time.
Because this is a transition between the old and the new, some of the older leaders will step down from their positions; these are people from the same era as Xu Xing.
But they are not dead; they can still exert strong fighting power, it's just that they don't live very long.
There are also some who are unwilling to take charge of specific affairs, but if the Shangluo Academy gives the order, they will step forward.
Therefore, the people in the sky now are only a part of the foundation of the Shangluo Academy.
Even so, it was enough to amaze the distinguished guests attending the ceremony.
"Zhao Xing!" Xu Xing's voice rang out again.
Then Zhao Xing also soared into the sky.
"You are a Doctor of the Five Classics at the Twin Birth Institute. I hope you can make good use of your talents Twin Birth Institute," Xu Xing said expectantly.
"Yes." Zhao Xing bowed respectfully. The Five Classics Doctor was the highest position among the Classics Scholar, and there were not many people like him in the entire Twin Birth Institute.
Gu Changqing was merely a Doctor of the Five Classics at the Kunyuan Academy.
Zhao Xing's name was also the last name.
After reading it aloud, Xu Xing dismissed everyone.
He then spoke again:
"The second thing!"
"Vice President Liu Tianning proposed the ' Green Seedling Law '."
"This method will determine the future direction of talent cultivation and resource allocation for the Shangluo Academy."
"Any objections?"
Xu Xing only asked the question once before someone stepped forward.
"Dean, I have an objection!"
A Second Rank expert flew out from the direction of Divine Wood Institute.
Liu Tianning's gaze immediately turned icy, and Zhao Xing also flashed with murderous intent.
The proposal put forward by Old Liu has reached this stage after countless discussions.
Those who are now jumping out to oppose it are basically those with irreconcilable conflicts.
Just like the emperor's decree, which had been discussed with many ministers and the inner court many times, the court meeting was merely a formality.
To publicly oppose it now would be a slap in the face!
Xu Xing was silent for a moment, then said, "Kang Zhengxian, do you have any objections?"
"Liu Tianning's method is overdrawing the future of the academy and may not even be effective, so I disagree!" Kang Zhengxian was too lazy to explain in detail why it was wrong.
Because at this point, ultimately, a battle is inevitable.
As the saying goes, those who walk different paths cannot make plans together.
Then there's no need to say anything more; let each of us fight it out according to our own principles!
"I object!"
"I object!"
"I object!"
Soon, three more people stepped forward, including Chu Qianqiu, the dean of the Soldier Envoy Institute, who was the second-ranked candidate.
Xu Xing looked at Liu Tianning, who immediately flew up as well, standing opposite the four of them.
"I have an apprentice named Zhao Xing, who is a beneficiary of the Green Seedling Law."
As Liu Tianning was speaking, Zhao Xing flew to his side.
"Zhao Xing forty-one years old this year. When I took him as my disciple, it was the seventeenth year of the Jingxin Calendar. At that time, he was Seventh Grade cultivator."
"Now, exactly twenty years have passed. He has reached the peak of the Fourth Grade and has cultivated the Soul Devouring Law Body!"
At this point, Liu Tianning's gaze turned cold as he scanned the four people.
"Since you all have objections, then send forth your most outstanding disciples!"
"Contend with my disciple to Great Dao Contention!"
"The strong and the weak will be distinguished through struggle!"
This approach is still a form of mitigation.
Civil war is ultimately a form of internal strife.
Those who had objections at this point could refuse after hearing Liu Tianning's words and leave.
They could not refuse Liu Tianning's Great Dao Contention, because it would determine the direction of the academy for the next few hundred years.
Kang Zhengxian, Chu Qianqiu, Zhong Yuan Jiang Hua, and Zhong Yuan scanned Zhao Xing.
At this moment, Jiang Hua, one of the four, narrowed his eyes slightly, because he sensed that the disciple he was about to send out would have a hard time defeating Liu Tianning's disciple.
At this opportune Xu Xing asked, "Gentlemen, are you satisfied with Dean Liu's explanation?"
Jiang Hua then cupped his hands in greeting and said, "I have no objections. I am willing to implement Dean Liu's plan and follow his instructions."
He took the opportunity to back down.
But the other three remained unmoved.
Instead, he accepted Liu Tianning's suggestion of a "disciple duel".
"Zhong He!"
"Xia Zhu!"
"Lian Tianyu!"
"Huang Jing!"
"Wu Ziteng!"
"Lin Haishan!"
"Zhang Han!"
The three called out the names of their respective disciples.
A total of seven figures appeared in the sky.
"Hmph, these three idiots." From inside a jade tent among the guests watching the ceremony in the distance, Princess Youruo snorted coldly.
Princess Youruo knew very well why they objected: they disliked Liu Tianning for getting too close to the Ji Royal House.
This is too close; Princess Youruo is one of them.
Secondly, Liu Tianning did a lot for Emperor Jing during the Pacifying Barbarians War.
The Green Seedling Law was probably also promoted by Emperor Jing.
"So many people didn't step forward, only these three objected." Princess Youruo's eyes flashed with murderous intent. "They really have a death wish!"
In fact, considering the size of the Shangluo Academy, the fact that only three people objected was already quite small.
When Xu Xing to the throne, he killed more than 300 high-ranking officials! This was mainly because Wen Emperor's policies were relatively benevolent, and the Dao Academy and schools were doing too well.
At that time, Xu Xing had no choice but to kill indiscriminately to make these people realize their mistake.
After hundreds of years of training by Emperor Jing, and with Liu Tianning being truly powerful, everyone behaved much better this time.
There's no way around it; Emperor Jing wasn't Wen Emperor. He was anything but benevolent.
"Chu Qianqiu has chosen to step forward after all." The Duke of Wei watched quietly. "What a pity."
"To be able to Soldier Envoy Institute, Chu Qianqiu must be very capable. The talent he displayed back then was not much less than that of Liu Tianning."
"We've communicated many times over many years," Luo King snorted. "If they're so stubborn, there's nothing to regret."
In the sky, Xu Xing looked at Zhao Xing.
At this moment, the three Second Rank experts had already briefly introduced their disciples.
They are all at the Fourth Grade perfect realm, and are all geniuses selected from among thousands, having experienced many real battles.
Some even participated in the Pacifying Barbarians War barbarians, and two of them were even granted titles of nobility.
"Zhao Xing, whose challenge do you want to accept first?" Xu Xing asked. "You can choose."
"Yes, Dean." Zhao Xing moved closer, his gaze sweeping over the seven people, before he snorted.
"No need to waste everyone's time, all seven of you, come at me together!"
"I accept your seven-way Great Dao Contention!"
"It not only determines who is superior, but also decides life and death!"
Zhao Xing's voice carried on the wind, echoing between heaven and earth.
A smile flashed in Xu Xing's eyes, as if he had already guessed that Zhao Xing would do this.
Liu Tianning remained expressionless; he had absolute confidence in Zhao Xing.
Luo King, Heaven Derivation King, and Princess Youruo were not surprised.
Only the Duke of Wei was taken aback. "Isn't this kid a little too arrogant?"
"He has the right to be arrogant." Luo King glanced at Heaven Derivation King.
Heaven Derivation King laughed and said, "Don't look at me. It wasn't me who hit you, so I can't say anything."
"I can only say that I trust him a lot."
Those who know Zhao Xing think it's perfectly normal for him to say that.
Those who don't understand become extremely angry and confused.
"Arrogant!"
Who do you think you are?!
"How dare you look down on me like that!"
"While the Myriad Laws Avatar may be invincible in external battles, in the internal war of the Self-Mastery Sect's Minister of Agriculture, facing so many different types of troops, Zhao Xing might not be able to handle it."
"Being invincible among his peers is already arrogant enough, but to fight seven at once shows a complete disregard for the disciples of the three great masters."
"Interesting, this trip was worthwhile."
"Could Agricultural Official explain this to me? I don't want to misunderstand it later."
"Hey, you really love joining in the fun."
Chu Qianqiu, Kang Zhengxian, and Zhong Yuan's expressions darkened.
They had expected Liu Tianning's disciple to be arrogant, but they hadn't expected him to be this arrogant.
As for the seven people, some were angry, some were thoughtful, and some were ready to die.
The fame of the Myriad Manifestations is so great that only the Minister of Agriculture of the Primordial Self School can understand its terrifying nature.
"Zhao Xing, are you sure?" Xu Xing asked.
"Confirm."
"Alright!" Xu Xing shouted, and then countless afterimages appeared behind him.
The next second, countless clones appeared between heaven and earth.
"Great Dao Barrier, activate!"
Each of Xu Xing's hands and feet emitted a ray of light, connecting them to one another.
The location of the clones was carefully considered, and some clones even disappeared underground, forming a spherical barrier with a radius of three kilometers.
Three kilometers is a large enough area, but for Agricultural Official, it is still not large.
" In the Great Dao Contention, no Divine Soldier can be used; victory or defeat is determined solely by the Theory of Law."
"Any magic can be used in matters concerning Agricultural Official."
Xu Xing's voice echoed, and he had no other requests.
As for spells, any spells from the Agricultural Official are acceptable.
The Agricultural Official at the Shangluo Academy was also Agricultural Official, and he also studied the laws of Favorable Timing and Location, but there was a distinction between primary and secondary matters, and he did not completely abandon them.
"Whoosh~"
The Boundary Wall of the Great Dao emitted a red light, pressing Zhao Xing and the seven people inside to the ground at both ends of the Boundary Wall.
The suppression disappeared the moment the red light faded.
The Great Dao Contention has begun!
"Pure Yuan Projection!"
In that instant, all seven challengers activated their [Pure Yuan Projection].
The reason is simple: they are the egoist agricultural officials, and their combat power comes from their military units.
Some of them also possessed knowledge of the principles of Heavenly Timing and Earthly Advantage Method.
However, it is absolutely impossible for them to defeat Zhao Xing, who possesses the ability to create Ten Thousand Laws Clone.
Whether using Supporting Cloud or Earth Palace Art to suppress Zhao Xing, it's impossible for them to compete.
If Zhao Xing mastered even one or two top-tier techniques, the combined power of a thousand Zhao Xing would be terrifying.
Therefore, the first choice for Pure Yuan Projection is to summon troops.
Once the Pure Yuan Projection is deployed, within the Great Dao Boundary Wall, no matter how many clones Zhao Xing has, they could still be wiped out by their combined efforts!
"Pure Yuan Projection!"
Zhao Xing's first choice was also Pure Yuan Projection!
Because when he releases his clones, he does so from the Pure Yuan Space.
He did not choose to Supporting Cloud, because Supporting Cloud was not the fastest way!
Metaphor
The eight people inside the barrier all immediately chose the moves of the True Self Faction.
However, the result surprised everyone.
Kang Zhengxian, Chu Qianqiu, and Zhong Yuan, all at the Second Rank realm, were so shocked that they stood up.
"How is that possible!"
"That's impossible!"
"He's only been repairing it for a short time, how could this happen—."
Many masters of the True Self Faction were quite surprised.
Because inside the barrier, there was only shadow!
That was the Pure Yuan Projection unleashed by Zhao Xing from the east!
"Boom!"
The Pure Yuan Projection that spread out from in front of Zhao Xing cast shadows that surged forward like waves.
Of the seven challengers on the other side, four were unable to unleash their [Pure Yuan Projection] immediately, and were completely suppressed.
The other three, Lian Tianyu, Zhang Han, Lin Haishan, only projected a radius of less than fifty meters.
As the shadows of the three of them spread outwards, they collided with the oppressive wave of shadows emanating from Zhao Xing.
It's completely impossible to fully develop!
All seven challengers were stunned!
As True Self Faction, the Agricultural Official spent far more time cultivating the Pure Origin Soil than Zhao Xing did!
After years of cultivating my vital energy, I believe I have reached my limit among the Fourth Grade Agricultural Official!
The Pure Origin Soil ranges of Zhang Han, Lian Tianyu, and Lin Haishan are even very close to the Third Grade.
But now, they are completely suppressed in front of Zhao Xing!
Zhang Han only summoned fifty sixth-tier troop types— the Netherfrost Flower.
He has thousands of plants inside him, but he hasn't even summoned one-tenth of them yet!
Lin Haishan's [War Iron Tree] has only sprouted a crown, with its sharp spikes appearing and disappearing, while the trunk cannot fully solidify out of the shadows because the area is not large enough!
He was so overwhelmed by Zhao Xing's projection that he was unable to fully unleash his troops.
The War Iron Tree seems to be stuck between reality and illusion.
As for Zhong He, Xia Zhu, Huang Jing, and Wu Ziteng, they were not released immediately; in the second second, they merely deployed a projection with a radius of ten meters.
This resulted in Zhong He only having one sixth-tier Materia Medica -type troop in front of him, while Xia Zhu had a purple bamboo in front of him, but this was only a fifth-tier Lightning Bamboo in its growth stage.
Huang Jing was covered in Thorns, while Wu Ziteng was covered by a vine.
But what's the use?
It's still somewhat useful.
They entertained Old Master Zhao.
"Kill!"
In the shadowy territory, thousands of Soul Devouring Law Body appeared!
"Sizzle sizzle sizzle~"
The Heavenly Thunder Finger instantly locked onto the seven people.
"Whoosh whoosh whoosh whoosh whoosh~"
In just a moment, the weakest of them, Zhong He, Xia Zhu, Huang Jing, Wu Ziteng, were killed by the Heavenly Thunder Finger.
"Bang bang bang bang!"
Four crisp sounds rang out, and the four people were instantly blasted apart by the Heavenly Thunder Finger.
Blood vapor filled the sky, transforming into a massive blood mist, with severed limbs flying everywhere, and a large number of Plant Soldier exploding out.
In a battle between masters, even the slightest mistake can lead to death!
In a single encounter, four people were killed!
"Every bush and tree seems like an enemy; the Netherfrost Body Protection!"
In that life-or-death moment, Zhang Han immediately shifted the projection area.
One hundred blooming Netherfrost Flower enveloped him in layers.
"Puff puff puff puff puff puff puff puff~"
The penetrating power of the Heavenly Thunder Finger pierced through layers of petals.
The black Netherworld Flower that had just closed up was instantly covered with a layer of purple, some shattered into pieces, and others withered away.
"Pfft~"
Zhang Han coughed up blood, and a large hole appeared in his shoulder.
But, in the end, they persisted for one round.
They did not die in the first wave of attacks.
He shouldn't have ended up in such a bad situation; his troop deployment was well-balanced in both offense and defense.
However, the projection range was too small, and only the offensive Netherfrost Flower appeared; defensive units had not yet appeared.
Forcibly using the "seeing enemies in every bush" tactic to force the Netherfrost Flower into defense resulted in the death of all its troops, and he himself was also severely injured.
"Golden Pillar!" Zhang Han immediately summoned a second wave of defensive troops in front of him.
The Golden Radiance Pillar, which shimmers with a pale golden light like a cactus, is a defensive Seventh Order plant.
There are seven trees in total, each one enormous, standing twenty or thirty meters tall, with defensive capabilities comparable to Third Grade martial artist.
The acupuncture Magic Array above are generally interconnected, shimmering with secret patterns, surrounding him completely.
The War Iron Tree summoned by Lin Haishan also blocked the vast majority of the attacks.
He even possessed a top-tier, First-Turn Earth Treasury Art, which raised eight earthen walls resembling Turtle Shell.
However, it only barely sustained the first wave.
Only Lian Tianyu reacted quickly, noticing the anomaly immediately and immediately burrowing underground, abandoning the Pure Yuan Projection.
However, such subconscious dodging only delayed the time of death.
"Die!"
Zhao Xing went all out, pushing the internal energy vortex in his dantian to its limit.
The suppressive power of the Pure Yuan Projection was fully revealed.
The shadows were as swift as waves and as heavy as mountains.
At this moment, Zhang Han and Lin Haishan felt utterly hopeless.
Because they discovered that the projection area had shrunk again!
Zhao Xing didn't have much time to cultivate powerful Plant Soldier, but his Pure Origin Soil was nurtured by spiritual energy!
According to Old Master Mi's Profound Yellow Origin-Analysis Technique, the fusion of spiritual energy and Pure Origin Soil creates an absolute suppressive force!
Zhao Xing is no novice; his understanding of the Pure Yuan Projection surpasses that of the seven others!
The second wave of Heavenly Thunder Finger was unleashed, and Zhang Han and Lin Haishan, whose living space had been suppressed, also exploded into a cloud of blood mist!
In just two breaths, of the seven challengers, only Lian Shanyu remained, fleeing underground.
"My God, six people died at once!"
"What on earth happened?!"
"Why is his Pure Yuan Projection so powerful!"
"What a prodigy!"
"A top-tier technique, the Heavenly Thunder Finger, with over a thousand dharma bodies—how did he control it?"
"Fourth Grade, capable of controlling over a thousand top-tier Dharma bodies?"
The powerful figures watching the battle were all shocked.
According to conventional theory, even if one mastered the first level of the Derivation God Art and wielded a top-tier Dharma Body, it shouldn't be this easy.
What's more, Zhao Xing has actually mastered top-tier lightning techniques. Just look at how smoothly he casts spells and makes moves – it's as fluid as a textbook.
Even Liu Tianning didn't have this many clones back then, let alone this smooth operation!
However, what surprised them even more was yet to come.
"Boom~ Boom~"
The earth suddenly cracked open and churned.
Lian Shanyu, who had originally intended to burrow underground to save his life, actually emerged as a corpse.
He had been crushed into a pulp! Only some flesh and blood remained on his bones.
A large amount of blood had been drained, turning into streams flowing through the cracks.
"A top-tier Earth Palace Art?!"
"Hiss! This kid is proficient in all three schools of thought?!"
"Fear--"
Many thoughts collided around him, and the high-ranking Agricultural Official was able to see the details of the battle clearly and instantly analyze the moves and their power.
They originally thought that one against seven would at least allow them to hold out for a while, but Zhao Xing surprised them!
The battle was one-sided; in just two rounds, all seven challengers were dead!
"What kind of monster has Liu Tianning raised?!" Chu Qianqiu, Kang Zhengxian, and Zhong Yuan were shocked, and the same thought immediately appeared in their minds.