Tongtian's Arrangements, Jiang Ziya's Training in Chaoge

Jinao Island.

Inside Biyou Palace.

Sect Master Tongtian sat high upon the Cloud Bed of the Nine Heavens, looking down at Jiang Ziya, who stood respectfully below, and fell into a brief period of contemplation.

Ever since returning from Buzhou Mountain, he had kept Fellow Daoist Zhou Ming's advice firmly in mind and begun cultivating Jiang Ziya.

In the blink of an eye, more than a decade had passed.

During this time, he had acted as advised, having Duobao teach Jiang Ziya the basic cultivation methods of the Interception Sect.

At the same time, he had selected several disciples under his command who had once served as officials in human dynasties and had them specifically teach Jiang Ziya military strategy, political tactics, and methods of governing a state.

Now, it was time to test the results.

Sect Master Tongtian gathered his thoughts, looked at Jiang Ziya sitting stiffly below with a trace of unease in his expression, and slowly spoke.

"Ziya."

"This disciple is here!"

At the sound of his voice, Jiang Ziya's body trembled. He quickly bowed and answered.

"Ziya, you have been my disciple for more than a decade. How is your cultivation progressing now?"

Sect Master Tongtian's voice was even, revealing neither joy nor anger.

When he finished speaking, Jiang Ziya's body trembled almost imperceptibly. He lowered his head further as a deep sense of shame surged in his heart.

He had originally been nothing more than an ordinary mortal. It was his master who had led him out of suffering, granted him an immortal destiny, and accepted him as a personal disciple. What immense kindness that was.

But he...

He truly was too disappointing.

He was silent for a moment before answering in a voice as faint as a mosquito's buzz.

"Reporting to Master... this disciple...