Wu Emperor's Overwhelming Rewards?!

After arriving in Abundance Capital, Zhao Xing secretly entered the inner palace.

At this moment, Ji Che sat on the throne in the Heaven's Heart Palace, surrounded by many divine artifacts.

Such as [Heavenly Luck Golden List], [Prophecy Weishen Luo], [Creation Disc], [Human Emperor Sword], [Heavenly Emperor Battle Armor], [Five Emperors War Chariot]... But Ji Che cannot move; he needs to sit on the throne for three months before he can begin to Repeat Movement.

When Zhao Xing arrived at the Heaven's Heart Palace, only Princess Youruo Ji Anlan and the Fate Officials Ji Si were inside; no one else was there. "Your subject Zhao Xing greets Your Majesty."

"Elder brother, please sit." Ji Che's voice was deep as he sat motionless on the throne. "Thank you, Your Majesty." Zhao Xing sat down next to Princess Youruo.

Silence fell over the hall. Only Ji Che on the throne remained, his aura and vitality constantly shifting amidst strange phenomena. The changes were both frantic and subtle. Even without consciously sensing it, Zhao Xing could detect Ji Che's aura rapidly rising. In just three days, Ji Che's aura had already reached the peak of the Fate Palace Realm.

People arrived one after another after that.

♥︎♥︎♥︎♥︎♥︎♥︎

Liu Tianning, King Luo Hou, Duke Yang, Ji Mengjun, the Grand Six-Row Grand Dance Master, Qin Guang, the Deputy Commander of the Luan Ritual Guards, Zhong Ziheng, the Deputy Commander of the Divine Abode Guards, Ji Bochang, the Heaven-Reaching Priest... all silently accompanied Ji Che for three months. Three months later, the Golden Light surrounding Ji Che gradually faded, and he stood up from his throne.

"Thank you all for protecting my path."

Everyone in the hall stood up and silently bowed to Ji Che. It wasn't appropriate to offer any words of congratulations at this moment, so a bow sufficed; no words were needed. Ji Che looked at the Acting Prime Minister, Tong Wensheng, and the Minister of Rites, Ji Wenchang.

"The late Emperor has passed away prematurely. I request that Chancellor Tong and the Grand Ritualist draft the posthumous title for the late Emperor and announce it to the world. The funeral ceremony will be held one month from now." "Yes, Your Majesty."

Tong Wensheng and Ji Wenchang immediately went out.

"Da Xing Emperor" refers to the period when an emperor has died but whose posthumous title has not yet been determined.

Having absorbed the initial power of the Human Emperor's Path, Ji Che's first act upon Repeat Movement was to announce to the world that he would arrange Emperor Jing's funeral. Only after the funeral ceremony would the enthronement ceremony take place.

The entire process lasted about six months, originally it should have taken three years, but Wen Emperor was frugal and took the initiative to shorten the process. Emperor Jing did the same when he ascended the throne, and so it became an ancestral system.

A month later, Emperor Jing's posthumous title and achievements were determined.

"Eliminating treacherous officials, abolishing licentious worship, bestowing titles upon various gods, eradicating heretical sects, promoting all laws, conquering the Southern Wilderness, opening up the East Sea, and stabilizing the Western Extremity." These are the eight great achievements of Filial Jing Emperor of the Great Zhou Dynasty during his lifetime.

Filial Jing Emperor was the posthumous title of Ji Mingjing.

Suppressing cults, abolishing licentious worship, bestowing titles upon various gods, and promoting all kinds of laws—these four things are all old tricks that almost every emperor would do, and they would all appear in his posthumous name.

Eliminating treacherous officials was the top priority, truly because Emperor Jing had killed too many ministers to count. Of course, all those killed had to be "treacherous and sycophantic officials."

The conquest of the Southern Wilderness ranks second because the Southern Barbarians barbarian cities conquered during the two Xin periods, though now the Nine Heavens Responding Origin Prefecture's territory has shrunk considerably, still exist. This is considered Emperor Jing's achievement, something neither Grand Ancestor Wen Emperor accomplished. The opening of the East Sea is due to Emperor Jing's extensive opening of the East Sea trade routes, transforming Pinghai Province from a barren new continent into the largest continent in the world.

He seduced Princess Youruo's mother, increasing the number of high-ranking Dragon Court positions from one thousand to one thousand five hundred.

During Emperor Jing's reign, Zhao Xing achieved great success in Dragon Court, which was naturally considered one of Emperor Jing's great achievements.

Western Extremity refers to the various vassal states and tribes near the Western Extremity Glacier border of the Great Zhou, with over 380 new states and tribes submitting to its rule. During the reign of Ji Mingjing, the vassal states of the Western Extremity Glacier were ruled for over 900 years. Although wars occurred in the later years, reducing the number of those submitting, this does not diminish Emperor Jing's overall achievements.

Since when an emperor dies, there is no physical body left; he simply dissolves into the universe. Therefore, when Emperor Jing was buried, only Cenotaph.

Three months later, Ji Mingjing's clothes and belongings were placed in Anling, which marked his burial. Anling is located next to Wen Emperor's Western Emperor Mausoleum.

Because the emperor's empress and concubines would always pass away before the emperor, there was no such thing as Di Yi dowager in the Great Zhou. As soon as Emperor Wu ascended the throne, he seized all power. In the 112th year of the Profound Yellow Calendar, 4417th era, Wu Emperor held his enthronement ceremony and designated the era name as "Yuan Hunting Era".

The announcement of this reign title caused an uproar in both the court and the public.

Many ministers submitted memorials offering their advice, arguing that the reign title was inappropriate. They cited various classical allusions, the most classic being, "Even three years after the death of a father, a son should not change his mind." Di Yi initially continued his father's policies, avoiding war and maintaining peace for hundreds of years before implementing new policies.

Why are you bringing up Yuan Hunting Era? This definitely sounds like you're about to start a war!

The conservative ministers were getting restless, and memorials poured into Abundance Capital from all over the country like snowflakes. However, Wu Emperor declared: My rules are the rules.

The reign title was finally set as "Yuan Hunting Era". The imperial palace's rear garden, Huaqing Pond.

"Elder brother, take a look." Ji Che smiled and beckoned over a pile of memorials. "I only changed the reign title, and many people are already getting restless." Zhao Xing said, "His Majesty's apparent bias is also a kind of attitude, so of course they are anxious."

Ji Che scolded, "Elder brother, how many times have I told you, when we meet in private, you should address me as before. I don't have many relatives left... Do you want me to be all alone?" Zhao Xing was slightly taken aback, then smiled and said, "Fifth brother."

"That's more like it." Ji Che laughed. "Brother, tell me why they're so opposed?"

Zhao Xing pondered, "To put it simply, it's because the late emperor fought for many years, and they didn't gain any benefits; instead, their population dwindled. Of course, they don't want to fight anymore." Ji Che shook his head and said, "I can't satisfy everyone's interests. The current military merit system is already generous enough. Besides, is it the right way to drive people with profit?"

"Brother, what other way do you think we can tie everyone to my chariot?"

Zhao Xing said, "Survival is more important than profit. If we don't conquer other countries, it will lead to the decline of the Great Zhou. This will unite the vast majority of people." Ji Che seemed thoughtful, gazing at Huaqing Pond for a moment before turning to Zhao Xing: "Brother, have you ever heard of the legend of ascension?"

"I've heard a little about it," Zhao Xing said. "Legend has it that the ancient Dynasty of Fate possessed the power to seize the creation of heaven and earth, breaking the shackles of the Profound Yellow World and Attaining Dao to immortality, which later generations called the Divine Court. However, this is ultimately just a legend." Ji Che said, "What if I told you that the Divine Court is not just a legend?"

Zhao Xing remained expressionless. "I would like to hear the details."

Ji Che laughed, "I admire this about you, elder brother. Even the biggest problems seem trivial to you. Hearing such words doesn't surprise you at all." Ji Che paused, then continued, "Elder brother, I'm telling you seriously, the rumors about the Divine Court are not just hearsay!"

"It truly exists, but only the emperor of the dynasty that unified Zhongzhou will obtain this secret," Zhao Xing said. "Che, why are you telling me this?"

"Because I was planning to reveal this secret anyway."

Ji Che waved his sleeve, and a black stone tablet appeared in the air. "This is the Book of Destiny. In the 35,000 years of the Myriad Kingdoms Era, it has never appeared in the world before. But after the Grand Ancestor emperor unified the Central Plains, this object flew from beyond the heavens and came into his hands."

"The secrets of a dynasty's ascension are recorded above."

"Throughout history, after achieving ascension, the emperors would select civil and military officials to break through the void and leave the Profound Yellow World."

"It is precisely because of the ascension of one divine dynasty after another that historical gaps have been created. The historians of the Great Zhou could only compile history up to 540,000 years ago." "Of course, there are many more examples of failure, which were punished by heaven and vanished into the River of History."

Zhao Xing listened quietly.

"After obtaining the Book of Destiny, I often wondered if those failed dynasties failed because of their inability to properly select their officials, both civil and military?" "Could the true essence of a divine dynasty's ascension be to take all its subjects with it?"

Zhao Xing was somewhat overwhelmed with emotion; Wu Emperor had truly grasped the essence of ascension. In the previous life's Ascension Version, it wasn't a matter of one person being able to ascend alone!

Ji Che looked at the Book of Destiny above Huaqing Pond, a resolute look in his eyes. "These are the insights I gained from studying the Book of Destiny."

"Brother, is the reason for everyone to ascend to immortality strong enough? After ascension, they will live forever, free from illness and disaster. Can this goal unite everyone?" Ascension doesn't grant immortality, it only grants the possibility... Zhao Xing thought to himself. But he didn't correct him, only nodded and said, "It can be half successful."

"Half?" Ji Che looked at Zhao Xing in surprise.

"Che, have you ever considered that this is ultimately an ethereal concept? Before truly seeing any hope, lower-level officials only live for a hundred or two hundred years, so they can't see any hope at all." "That's why I say it can only be half successful."

Ji Che nodded. "Then if we can't ascend, will the Great Zhou experience an unprecedented natural disaster hundreds of years later?" Zhao Xing recalled the disaster that Heaven Derivation King had mentioned before his death, "Perhaps we can increase the hope by another 20%."

Ji Che nodded. "I've only obtained three useful pieces of information so far."

"The first is the 'True Meaning of Ascension,' which is my own understanding. It cannot be just the royal family making efforts; all subjects of the world must work together to increase the hope of ascension."

"The second event is the full bloom of primordial energy. This is a disaster, but also a once-in-a-millennium opportunity. Legend has it that spiritual energy, which is even higher than primordial energy, will appear on a large scale, breaking the upper limit of heaven and earth. The fate and realm of all living beings, as well as the number of strong individuals, will all increase dramatically. Whoever seizes the opportunity will be able to control their destiny."

"The third is the Southern Barbarian Holy Mountain, one of the conditions for ascension. My father and I share the same understanding on this point. Only by climbing this highest Gao Shan in the Profound Yellow World can we know what to do next." "I understand."

Ji Che looked at Zhao Xing with some anticipation. "Elder brother, before Father passed away, he said that only you could understand me and my aspirations... Can you really understand me?" Emperor Jing actually said that?

Zhao Xing nodded seriously. "I believe you! I saw some strange phenomena in the Dragon Court, which may be related to the ' Vitality Tide '."

"Furthermore, in my previously written ' The Great Circuit Treatise,' the calculations in the chapter on the art of Grotto-Heaven also revealed some anomalies regarding the Grotto-Heaven World." "Perhaps this is precisely why the late emperor held me in such high regard."

"However, this matter should not be rushed; it requires careful consideration."

Ji Che said, "Of course, very few people know these secrets. You, elder brother, know the most." Zhao Xing breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing this.

He was also afraid that Ji Che would start taking drastic measures now.

If it's just a repeat of the same mistakes, then Wu Emperor Wu's fate will be no different from his previous life.

Even in the Spiritual Energy Era, fighting the Southern Barbarians was the last resort, not the first.

However, it is the most important step, which is why emperors throughout history, when comprehending the Book of Destiny, first saw the Southern Barbarian Holy Mountain. The reign of Wu Emperor was merely Vitality Tide, not a true Spiritual Energy Revival.

Without his intervention, Wu Emperor could not have accomplished this.

Of course, Zhao Xing couldn't say this directly. He also had to consider all aspects. Just as he advised Wu Emperor, he couldn't be too hasty. There might be a time when he would finally reveal his true colors, but that would only be if he was absolutely invincible and could not be killed by the emperor.

Otherwise, if he were to tell Wu Emperor everything, what if Wu Emperor got anxious? Zhao Xing couldn't reveal everything unless he was absolutely certain.

Ji Che is still young and ambitious, but as he approaches the end of his lifespan, and even knows he has no hope of ascending to immortality, no one knows what the emperor might do. At this stage, it's best to go with the flow; it's not time to defy fate.

For months, Zhao Xing stayed in the palace, engaging in long talks with Wu Emperor, not only about his ascension to immortality, but also about the state of the realm and his views on current affairs. This intimate and special treatment gradually aroused the dissatisfaction of the officials in charge of rites.

"The way Your Majesty addresses the Divine Might Marquis is highly inappropriate."

You are no longer a young man; how can you still address Divine Might Marquis as "elder brother"? This is contrary to propriety.

"Your Majesty and Divine Might Marquis Shenwei have been meeting too intimately, even neglecting state affairs. Now it is time to appoint the heads of each department, otherwise the subsequent elections will not be able to proceed..." Ji Che said with a smile as he looked at the Right Chancellor Fan Ailin's nagging and the advice of the official in charge of rites Ji Wenchang.

"Fan Qing is right. He is only a Marquis. It would indeed be improper for me to address him as 'brother'."

Seeing that Ji Che listened to advice, Fan Ailin was about to say that His Majesty was wise, but Ji Che First-Turn.

"In that case, I shall bestow upon him the title of Junior Minister of Agriculture of the Second Rank, and elevate him to the Nobility Title Prince. He shall command the third of the Ten Great Guardian Grotto-Heaven of the Military Realm, becoming the ninth ruling prince of the Military Realm. Furthermore, in accordance with the late emperor's edict, I shall choose a princess to marry him." "In this way, it will be perfectly legitimate for me to call him my elder brother."

"What?!" Fan Ailin was stunned. A title of king? A ruling king? This was a huge joke!

"Your Majesty, you mustn't!" Fan Ailin knelt down with a thud. "It's acceptable to be a second-rank official in charge of agriculture, but a princely title... can only be conferred upon those who have rendered meritorious service in battle! Let alone a regent prince!" Grand Minister of Rites Ji Wenchang couldn't hold back any longer and knelt down as well, saying, "Your Majesty, when the late emperor was alive, he tried every means to weaken the power of the vassal states. You cannot destroy the policies of the late emperor as soon as you ascend the throne."

"Moreover, Divine Might Marquis is under your command. Being promoted is already an honor. He has not made any contributions. How can he be made a king? Even if you make Divine Might Marquis a regent king now, what else will you be able to make a king in the future?" How could Ji Che not know this principle?

He said that on purpose.

When Ji Che was eight years old, he learned a simple lesson from Zhao Xing: If you want someone to open a window, it's best to first say you'll tear the roof off.

Seeing that the two were so shocked, he said calmly, "Then how about just granting him the title of Prince, Second Rank Lesser Agriculture Decree, in charge of the two great Grotto-Heaven, and a marriage to a princess?" The Grand Ritualist shook his head. "No, one cannot be granted the title of Prince without military merit. This is a rule set by our ancestors."

Fan Ailin also said, "Two great Grotto-Heaven? Shouldn't we first see how Divine Might Marquis is doing in other places? The Eldest Princess is not yet married, how can we marry off other princesses first?" Ji Che said in a low voice, "Then let's promote him to the rank of Second Rank Lesser Agriculture Decree, and then to First-Class Duke..."

Before Ji Che could finish speaking, Fan Ailin interrupted with a bitter face, "Your Majesty, even a first-class duke is unacceptable..." Ji Che's voice carried a hint of anger. "If this is unacceptable and that is unacceptable, why don't you become the emperor yourself?"

"Your Majesty, I dare not. Please calm your anger." Upon hearing this, Fan Ailin could only kowtow heavily to the ground without uttering a word.

Grand Minister Ji Wenchang kowtowed and said, "Your Majesty, I suggest that Marquis Shenwei be granted the title of Third-Class Lord, Duke of Yiguo, and be granted a fiefdom of one prefecture. This would not only show Your Majesty's favor, but also prevent the world from criticizing Marquis Shenwei as a favored minister. We can then choose another place and reward him after he has rendered meritorious service."

Seeing that Ji Wenchang had finally hit the nail on the head and the time was right, Ji Che snorted, "Fine, I'm not a foolish ruler who won't listen to advice. Let's do as the Minister of Grand Ritualist says." "Your Majesty is wise!"

The two bowed again.

What is the meaning of "Lord of Righteousness)? This was entirely Ji Wenchang's impromptu response, derived from the "Six Virtues" (六顺) in the Book of Rites: righteousness of the ruler, conduct of the subject, kindness of the father, filial piety of the son, love of the elder brother, and respect of the younger brother. "Junyi" refers to the moral principles of the ruler.

Ji Che insisted on addressing Zhao Xing as "Brother," Ji Wenchang could only find a classical allusion to satisfy his wish. A third-rank duke—this reward wasn't excessive—as for the title itself...

Wow, with this move, Ji Che can not only call him brother in private, but also in public!

After Ji Che left, Fan and Ji exchanged a glance and shook their heads with wry smiles.

The two men not only failed to offer any advice, but also solidified the title they were given. "Prime Minister Fan, you..." The Grand Ritualist opened his mouth, "Never mind." What was the point of saying anything more? They both knew the emperor wasn't truly angry. "Your Majesty has quite the bearing of the late emperor," Fan Ailin remarked.

Towards the end of Emperor Jing, many positions were vacant, with only temporary roles and no formal Official Rank. Now that Wu Emperor has ascended the throne, he has begun to formally bestow titles and rewards.

In the first year of Yuan Hunting Era's reign, a large number of officials and titles were bestowed upon them.

Without any new political achievements or merits, Wu Emperor promoted his ministers exceptionally, granting them higher ranks, titles, and honors, and even demoting them from their original positions. This was imperial favor, and it was a matter of cause and effect. Autumn of the first year of the Yuan Hunting Era.

Liu Tianning was appointed as the Grand Minister of Agriculture.

Wang Tianzhi was reappointed as a Second Rank Lesser Agriculture Decree, Ling Tianchen, who was already a Second Rank Lesser Agriculture Decree Farmer, was granted the title of Duke of Ling, Qiu Yuanshan was promoted to Second Rank Lesser Agriculture Decree, and Meng Kun and Ji Youtang were promoted to Second Rank Lesser Agriculture Decree. The Priest was taken over by Wei Hong, who was Wei Xuancheng's elder brother.

Ji Bochang retained his position Heaven-Reaching Priest, but his Nobility Title was promoted by one rank, his minor rank by one rank, and his merit by three ranks. The Military Works Department Grand Craftsman Official was taken over by Lu Ying, the former head of the Ruler Palace, while Chen Ju became the Junior Director of Works.

Tong Wensheng Left Prime Minister, Fan Ailin was appointed Right Prime Minister.

Ji Mengjun was promoted to Grand Dancer Master, and the Deputy Hall Master of the War Dance Hall was promoted to Hall Master.

Luo King's official rank and title had reached their peak, but that was alright; there were still honorary titles and honors to be bestowed. King Luo Hou also had a family, and there was still a long way to go to accumulate all the honorary titles. If all else failed, Wu Emperor was most fond of inventing new terms. When it came to Zhao Xing's turn for bestowing honors at the court assembly, it surprised everyone.

"Marquis Zhao Xing of Divine Might Marquis is promoted two ranks and appointed Agriculture Minister of Agricultural Supervisorate, Second Rank -rank official." Agriculture Minister? When did the title of Agriculture Minister appear in the Second Rank?

Everyone was puzzled.

But then we saw a detailed explanation of the Agriculture Minister from the system of the Agricultural Supervisorate.

The Second Rank Agriculture Minister, the Minister of Agriculture, was ranked after Liu Tianning, the Grand Minister of Agriculture, and before Wang Tianzhi. The text further explains that the Second Rank Agriculture Minister was the first subordinate official under the Grand Minister of Agriculture.

In effect, Wu Emperor created a superior position for the originally equal Junior Minister of Agriculture, elevating the Agriculture Minister's position by half a rank.

Although somewhat unexpected, it didn't cause much of a stir, because Zhao Xing held a very high position and prestige in the Agricultural Official. Even if he were placed before Ling Tianchen, Wang Tianzhi, and Qiu Yuanshan, no one would have any objections. Next came his promotion to "Lord of Righteousness".

"And who exactly is this Lord of Righteousness?"

The courtiers were once again dumbfounded.

The Right Chancellor, Fan Ailin, who was reading the aloud, had no choice but to elaborate further, explaining the concept derived from the Six Obediences in the Book of Rites. The assembled officials listened with subtle expressions, their gazes towards Yue Xing becoming somewhat strange.

Even Zhao Xing himself was somewhat surprised.

Unexpectedly, Wu Emperor actually bestowed upon himself the title of "Lord of Righteousness". And that's not all.

Right Chancellor Fan Ailin read again, "Promote him to the rank of ' Heavenly Fortune Grandee ' and grant him the title of First Rank Longevity." The hall remained silent.

But Zhao Xing clearly heard the uproar in everyone's hearts.

Envious glances shone like sunlight on his back. Zhao Xing felt a surge of emotion; good days had arrived.

Compared to Emperor Jing's stinginess, Wu Emperor was completely different; he often extended the lifespan of ministers he valued.

He was originally Third Grade Spirit Mountain Envoy, but now he has directly become a Second Rank Agriculture Minister, and Wu Emperor even granted him a first-rank lifespan based on the first-rank system. He was originally a first-class marquis, but now he is a duke.

Old Master Zhao was somewhat flattered. "Your Majesty, I thank you for your grace!" "May Your Majesty live forever!"

Zhao Xing's shout this time was sincere. He genuinely wished for Wu Emperor's long life.

Among the remaining treasures Fan Ailin read aloud were three precious items, including a warship, a robe, and shoes. After all the rewards were read, a golden pillar of light descended upon the hall.

"Boom!" The National Dynasty Luck Cleansing.

Zhao Xing's lifespan was directly extended to the theoretical limit of the first rank.

The remaining fortune was not yet over, further consolidating his destiny of the eighth generation. After receiving his reward, Zhao Xing returned to the court.

The bestowal of titles and rewards upon the officials lasted for seven days before it ended.

Ji Che then hosted a banquet for all the officials in the palace, eating and drinking for half a month before the entire conferment ceremony came to an end.

On the day of Beginning of Winter in the first year of Yuan Hunting Era, in Abundance Capital, at the Agricultural Supervisorate.

Liu Tianning sat in the main seat of the Grand Minister of Agriculture, Zhao Xing sat in the first seat on the lower left, and the other nine Junior Minister of Agriculture were arranged in order.

According to the situation during Emperor Jing's reign, the Grand Minister of Agriculture had more than thirty direct subordinates. However, at that time, there was war, and there were many other matters to attend to.

We are currently in a period of peace, and including Zhao Xing, there are only ten. Of course, these ten were all directly appointed by Wu Emperor.

As the Grand Minister of Agriculture, Liu Tianning can recommend candidates as appropriate and expand the size of his subordinate officials according to needs.

"There are so many Agricultural Official, but those who can become Junior Minister of Agriculture, including me, number ten." Zhao Xing looked around. "The most powerful Agriculture Official are all sitting here."

Without real power, even a mid -Agricultural Official in the Fate Palace Realm can't do much. But Junior Minister of Agriculture can mobilize the Agriculture Official of the Nineteen Provinces. A single order can affect the fates of countless people! It could lead to the rise of many families, or it could lead to the decline of many others. "Gentlemen," Liu Tianning spoke first, "With the new emperor on the throne, the Agricultural Supervisorate should prioritize maintaining stability."

"The most urgent task is to promote talented people and appoint the virtuous and capable."

Liu Tianning's first order was to immediately begin the selection process within the Agricultural Official system. Since the 90th year of the Eternal Governance Era, the selection process in the Great Zhou had been stagnant.

While the promotion of lower-ranking officials is relatively normal, the stagnation of mid- to high-ranking officials is abnormal, so Liu Tianning, upon assuming office, must quickly restore order to the system. Only when the Agricultural Official is functioning properly can the other departments operate effectively.

"I intend to recommend three to nine more Lesser Agriculture Decree to His Majesty," Liu Tianning said. "Half should be civil officials and half military officials. If any of you have suitable candidates, please submit them to me." Ling Tianchen spoke first, "May I ask the Grand Minister of Agriculture, are there any factional requirements for this selection?"

Swish swish swish~

The others immediately turned their attention to them.

Liu Tianning said, "We don't distinguish between factions; we only consider talent."

This sets the tone: regardless of Timing, Earthly Advantage, True Self's own abilities, anyone with talent can rise to the top. Ling Tianchen nodded and remained silent.

Because he won't make recommendations randomly, you need to consider them carefully.

"The second matter is that you may select virtuous and talented individuals and recommend Agriculture Official of the Third Grade in charge of agriculture." The second matter is still about personnel.

Without people, no work can be carried out.

The first meeting focused on selecting capable individuals.

After the meeting ended, Zhao Xing quickly submitted the memorial.

He recommended Mi Fu, Chen Shijie, Hu Yang, and Zhang Tianxing to be officials of the Third Grade, as his deputies.

Liu Tianning glanced at him: "I know Chen Shijie; he's qualified to be Third Grade official. Hu Yang and Zhang Tianxing are already Third Grade officials, so their promotion from subordinate to full-rank shouldn't be a problem." "Who is this Mi Fu? Why would you recommend him so strongly?"

In Zhao Xing's official documents, Mi Fu was listed first!

Mi Fu is still only a Fifth Grade official.

It's funny when you think about it.

Because of his meritorious service in cultivating land in the Returning Ruins Realm, Mi Fu had already been promoted to the Upper Fourth Rank in the early Eternal Governance Era period. At that time, he met Ji Che, who was traveling.

At that time, Ji Che recommended Mi Fu to Emperor Jing, and Mi Fu was granted the rank of the Third Grade. In the twentieth year of Eternal Governance Era, his own cultivation level also broke through to the Third Grade.

As a result, in the sixtieth year of the Eternal Governance Era, this fellow relapsed and beat up his superior.

When the matter reached the prefectural level, Mi Fu was stripped of his rank and Official Rank, but at least he preserved his integrity.

However, he returned to the Fifth Grade official, and was directly demoted to the Fifth Grade. He was then exiled back to the Returning Ruins Realm to lead the criminals in farming.

"This person..." Zhao Xing held Miti's resume, thinking for a long time but couldn't come up with a brief introduction to Mi Fu. In the end Attaining Dao, "He is a genius."

Upon hearing this, Liu Tianning read through Mi Fu's entire resume and finally said with a strange expression, "He is indeed a prodigy."

Mi Fu was a practitioner of all three schools of thought!

He was proficient in every school of thought.

Not only that, he has also worked as a Dancer Master, musician, and Talisman Master.

But he had one flaw: he was arrogant towards superiors and respectful towards inferiors.

This flaw would be fatal in officialdom.

Mi Fu, who came from an ordinary background with no family connections or influence, was always ready to fight his superiors. Who could stand that?

No matter how capable he is, he is still disliked and despised in officialdom.

"Mi Fu is the type of person who achieves great things later in life," Liu Tianning said with a smile.

"Not bad." Zhao Xing smiled as well.

Old Liu saw things clearly: Mi Fu was a man who only became more restrained as he grew older, realizing that he couldn't rely solely on his personal preferences to succeed in officialdom.

Normally, Mi Fu's talents would have only blossomed in the latter half of his life.

He even rose to the position of Grand Minister of Agriculture, though only briefly, which was enough to prove his amazing abilities and talent.

Mi Dai rose from humble beginnings to become the Grand Minister of Agriculture, partly due to the presence of an enlightened ruler like Wu Emperor, but more importantly because he was exceptionally capable.

"I'll be his superior. With me backing him up, even if he causes any problems, they'll be minor," Zhao Xing said. "This man has immense potential and is also very knowledgeable about the Way of the True Self."

Liu Tianning nodded; he had seen many people with this kind of personality.

He himself was like this when he was young.

Killing officials? Liu Tianning did that back then too.

He even overthrew half of the younger generation of the Dao Academy.

The only difference is that Mi Fu had no background and no one to protect him or uphold his principles.

The fact that Mi Fu didn't die at the hands of powerful and influential Noble Families is purely due to the excellent effect of Emperor Jing's efforts to cultivate such Noble Families over the years.

In other times, even if Old Man Mi and Marquis San Hou Bian Method, there wouldn't be enough people to kill.

"Okay, you can take him to the Western Extreme Province," Liu Tianning said, shaking his head. "Let's calm him down." "Okay," Zhao Xing nodded.

His full title Agriculture Minister should be Agriculture Minister of the Seven Grotto-Heaven and Two Blessed Lands of the Western Extremity. This is because the vassal states of the Western Extreme Province are currently engaged in fierce fighting in the west.

Wu Emperor sent Zhao Xing purely to gain merit. Otherwise, it wouldn't be appropriate to bestow rewards upon him.

Leaving aside the rewards, as the Agriculture Minister and Lord of Righteousness, Zhao Xing naturally needs to achieve merit as soon as possible to be worthy of these rewards. Looking across the borders of the Great Zhou, only the Western Extremity region offers decent opportunities for merit.

The major Grotto-Heaven of Pinghai Province originally belonged to Wang Tianzhi's jurisdiction, so it wouldn't be appropriate to transfer them to Zhao Xing.

He hadn't achieved any significant merit elsewhere, so Wu Emperor thoughtfully arranged for his elder brother to go to the Western Extreme Province. "Do you want to take some more people with you?" Liu Tianning asked. "Would four be enough?"

"That's enough," Zhao Xing said. "The seven Grotto-Heaven and two blessed lands of the Western Extreme Province already have many talented people. Four deputy ministers of Agricultural Official are sufficient."

Liu Tianning nodded. Zhao Xing had mastered the Ultimate Law, comprehended the Celestial Timing Domain, and Ten Thousand Laws Clone; his safety was not a concern at all. "The envoys from the Morse Country will return next spring. Once your deputy is in place, you can set off with them."

"Prince Jinke?"

"Yes," Liu Tianning said.

After leaving the Agricultural Supervisorate, Zhao Xing went to meet with Prince Jinke to find out what was going on. However, when he saw Prince Jinke again, he had already lost an arm.

Of the original five powerful warriors under his command, only three remain: Ice Chart King, Kro King, Suo Suo.

Among them, Ice Chart King is already a first-grade, while Kro King and Suo Suo are still Second Rank perfect.

"Prince Jinke, what happened to you?" Zhao Xing asked, frowning. He suspected his younger brother was deliberately trying to gain sympathy. Losing an arm wasn't a big deal; the Bone-Breaking Ginseng from Guangling Grotto-Heaven could easily reattach it.

"Divine Might Marquis... no, Duke Junyi, I'm not trying to play the victim," Prince Jinke said with a bitter smile. "Then why..."

"There's a reason for that," Prince Jinke said, recounting the past.

"Two years ago, our Morse Country suffered a defeat in battle against the West Si Country. My younger brother, Jin Le, was killed by a powerful enemy while covering my retreat, and I also lost an arm." Prince Jinke said with red eyes, "In order not to forget this humiliation, I have kept my arm severed."

"We will never restore order until we avenge this humiliation."

Upon hearing this, Zhao Xing looked at Prince Jinke with a touch more sympathy.

It is truly a disgrace to have your own brother killed in front of you.

Prince Jinke came to the Great Zhou with a missing arm, which cannot be called playing the victim, because he was genuinely in a miserable state.

"As far as I know, isn't the West Si Country's national strength comparable to yours?" Zhao Xing had read the intelligence; the two countries were originally one, only to later split. Logically, their strength should be equal, so how come he was utterly defeated?

"That was a long time ago," said Prince Jinke. "The West Si Country has developed rapidly in the last eighty years, with a large number of powerful individuals emerging. Moreover, they have continuously annexed other tribes, obtained a large amount of resources, and their fortunes have become increasingly strong." Zhao Xing carefully examined the intelligence and found that Emperor Jing provided very little support to the Morse Country during the Eternal Governance Era era. At most, he provided some supplies and sent a few teams of envoys to issue warnings.

During the Eternal Governance Era era, Emperor Jing did indeed consolidate his power, aiming only for a stable transition of imperial authority; everything else could take a backseat. A major war would ensue, causing turmoil within the nation and slowing down Ji Che's progress.

On the other hand, perhaps Emperor Jing also wanted to leave the credit for pacifying the Western Extreme Province to the new ruler. "Your Highness, rest assured, the Morse Country is a vassal state of the Great Zhou Dynasty, and our dynasty will never sit idly by while foreign powers invade you."

"Your Highness, please return and prepare! I will accompany you on your journey back to the country next spring." Prince Jinke said gratefully, "Thank you Duke Junyi!"

December of the first year of the Yuan Hunting Era.

Mi Fu, Chen Shijie, Zhang Tianxing, and Hu Yang arrived in Abundance Capital one after another. "This humble official greets Lord Zhao." x4

Zhao Xing waved his hand, and a gentle breeze helped the four men to their feet. "No need for such formalities, we're all old acquaintances." Chen Shijie, Hu Yang, and Zhang Tianxing bowed again, saying, "Thank you, sir."

Only Mi Fu stared blankly at Zhao Xing: "Zhao Xing, I didn't expect you to be so capable. You actually became a Duke and the top official under the Grand Minister of Agriculture." In recent years, he had been staying in that godforsaken place, Returning Ruins Grotto-Heaven.

Even when Emperor Jing died and a new emperor ascended the throne, no one informed Returning Ruins Grotto-Heaven. It wasn't until the autumn of the first year of Yuan Hunting Era that Mi Fu learned that the world had changed. He also had no way of connecting Zhao Xing with the Zhao Xing of the past.

"Brother Mi, you are truly talented." Zhao Xing didn't mind Mi Dai calling him by his name directly and smiled, "I asked you to come and do this without your permission, so I hope you won't take offense." Mi Dai shook his head and said, "Not at all, you are definitely better than those old guys who hold positions without doing any work."

Hu Yang was somewhat displeased.

What a fool! Zhao Xing has already said all this, why don't you take the opportunity to pay your respects to your superior? The Holy Son is just Guest Qi Guest Qi to you, and you actually took it seriously?

"This Lord Mi must possess extraordinary abilities to earn Lord Zhao's high regard."

Zhang Tianxing chimed in, "That must be it. Now that Lord Mi is our colleague, we should get to know each other better. I wonder what kind of top-level technique Lord Mi cultivates, what kind of true meaning he has grasped, and what true scripture he has comprehended?" Mi Fu just didn't want to use his brain, but that didn't mean he couldn't tell good from bad. How could he not hear the two of them putting him down?

He immediately replied, "I am not talented, but Hou Bian Method is at the top level of the fifth level, and there are Sixth-Turn each for clouds, rain, thunder, and wind."

"My Earthly Advantage Method is slightly weak, but I have already grasped the basics of the Earth Palace, Earth Treasury, Mystic Earth, and Earth Split. However, I have no chance to learn the Spiritual Mountain Law."

"The Pure Origin Soil is only level six, and it only nurtured one Seventh Order soldier. The three thousand level six soldiers are just cheap stuff and not worth mentioning." Hu Yang and Zhang Tianxing were stunned when they heard this.

Where did this expert come from?

This is the old version of Zhao Xing!

They had originally planned to mention themselves, but after comparing them, it seemed their own magic was no match for Mi Dai's. So Attaining Dao, "Human Fruit powerful, comparable to Lord Zhao a hundred years ago."

A hundred years ago? Mi Fu was also stunned.

He was a man of few words: "Zhao Xing, what realm are you at now?" Zhao Xing smiled and said, "To be honest, Brother Mi, I have been fortunate enough to reach the Perfection of Heavenly Fortune."

He didn't want to show off in front of Mi Fu, but Hu Yang and Zhang Tianxing started bragging.

"Lord Zhao, of the Four Seasonal Arts, two are at their highest level of perfection, one Cloud Method has reached its ultimate state, and he has created the Hou Bian Method, which he has cultivated to the highest level of the Nine Turns!"

"The Earthly Advantage Method is at the top level in all four aspects, reaching the Nine Turns, and he even retrieved the Earthly Advantage Faction weapon, the Kun Yuan Hoe. Brother Mi, how come you don't even know this?" "The Way of the True Self goes without saying; Lord Zhao is currently the Vice Dean of the Shangluo Academy!"

As Mi Fu listened, his mouth gradually opened wider.

He truly knew nothing of Zhao Xing's past; he was even unaware of the new emperor's ascension to the throne until much later. One could only imagine what else he knew. Seeing that the two had finished their boasting and had already impressed Mi Fu, Zhao Xing immediately interrupted:

"Alright, I invited you all here not for idle chatter."

"I am now heading to Western Extreme Province to take up my post. The four of you will be my deputies. Your specific positions will be confirmed once I arrive in West Pole." As usual, I will first be appointed as Third Grade official awaiting transfer, and then the specific arrangements will be made after I arrive in Western Extreme Province and assess the situation.

"Yes, sir." The four men, including Mi Fu, bowed in unison. In the second year of Yuan Hunting Era, the Spring She Day had just passed.

Zhao Xing then bid farewell to his family and traveled from his hometown in Pinghai Province to Abundance Capital.

"After the second year of Yuan Hunting Era, I have also completed my Burning Heaven Locking Origin Grand Formation." On the warship, Zhao Xing reviewed what he had learned. "The Morning Crow Yellow Ear Transformation has reached the top level of the Nine Turns, and the Thirty-Six Paths of Earthly Advantage Institute has also reached the top level of the Nine Turns."

"Five New Divine Talismans, top-tier Seventh-Turn; Burning Heaven Locking Origin Grand Formation, top-tier Seventh-Turn."

"I have learned all four basic secret techniques. Once I have cultivated them to the highest level of perfection, I can try to use the Yuan Seal technique." Yuan Seal is the Ultimate Law. The four basic secret techniques are just the foundation. There is still a long way to go before I can successfully use it.

But at least four basic skills have been mastered, and the rest is just a matter of gradual progress, unlike the previous hurdle of starting from scratch and taking as long.

"Now that I've mastered the basics, I realize Old Li wasn't exaggerating." Zhao Xing had only made a preliminary attempt to combine the four methods to cast the Yuan Seal. Although it was a hybrid, completely unrelated to the true Yuan Seal, he discovered its terrifying potential. "Could there really be some ancient heritage beneath the Western Extremity Glacier? Even the Ultimate Law are just screening gates... This is too terrifying. In my previous life, until the Spiritual Energy Revival and the West Pole Sea thawed, I had never heard of such a place." Zhao Xing pondered.