Accepting Surrender

----More than a month later, Office of the Duke of Qin Phoenix Cry Prefecture Mountain North Circuit

The Sect Leader Kang Da had just broken through to the Middle Stage of Golden Core, had removed his military uniform and was now dressed in the court robes of a marquis. Among the distinguished guests attending the ceremony, he was ranked only after a few True Person.

At this moment, his face no longer bore the fierce expression he had during the fierce battle, but instead became peaceful.

As the melodious chimes echoed through the hall once more, he and Fei Nanying, standing beside him, adopted solemn expressions and bowed respectfully.

Welcome, angel.

The Emperor said, "No need for formalities!"

Grand Eunuch Wei, whom Kang Dabao had seen before, was bathed in a warm halo of sunlight. Supported by Su Chen, a minor eunuch, he slowly landed on the grand welcoming platform that the Office of the Duke of Qin had painstakingly built.

His narrow eyes seemed to conceal daggers; the moment they swept across the crowd below the stage, heads began to disappear one by one.

Headmaster Kang never liked to show off at this time. After glancing at Jiang Qing behind him and confirming that he could rest assured, he hurriedly followed Boyue Fei Nanying and bowed deeply again.

Ignoring the thoughts of the cultivators below, Grand Eunuch Wei lingered his gaze on Kuang Liuting and Bai Canhong, who were sitting side by side, before holding the imperial edict and slowly standing beside the steps of the temporary government office.

He lightly brushed the wolf's head before the steps with his robe sleeve, and the spirit pearl held in the wolf's beak began to glow faintly.

Grand Eunuch Wei, gently stroked the imperial edict in his hand, removed the seal, and then spoke.

The head of the eunuchs of the Great Wei Immortal Dynasty, a great figure who was secretly known as the "Inner Minister," spoke with a booming and majestic voice, which was completely different from the eunuchs in the minds of the cultivators.

But then, Grand Eunuch Wei first announced the words "under the gate," so that everyone below the steps would hold their breath and listen attentively before the imperial edict was read aloud.

The imperial edict stated:

"Disciples: Great Wei Immortal Dynasty governs the four seas, inheriting the foundation laid by the founding emperor to unify the six directions; the southwestern territory stretches for thousands of miles, having endured countless battles to secure the nine borders."

The Star-Picking Pavilion was established in the previous dynasty and has guarded the ruins of three roads through three dynasties, blocking the evil influence outside the barrier of Cold Crow Mountain. The border people once built a shrine to express their gratitude for its virtue. In recent years, due to concerns, it has temporarily left the royal court, but its people have not disturbed the neighbors, and its ruler has not forgotten his duty as a subject.

Now Bai Canhong, having assessed the changing times, took the lead in advocating the cessation of hostilities. He sent an envoy with a memorial to express his sincerity, stating his wish to "abandon weapons and return to the Celestial Dynasty to jointly protect the peace and well-being of the people in the southwest." I was moved upon reading the memorial and commended his understanding of the times and his loyalty. Therefore, I hereby issue this edict to reassure his people and comfort their hearts.

Bai Canhong, who has long been in charge of the affairs of the capital, is well-versed in the border situation. In the past, he held the reins of Star-Picking and was able to ward off evil forces on the frontier. Now, having received the sincere mandate to serve, he should offer his loyalty to the emperor.

I hereby bestow upon him the Duke of Ji and Vice Commissioner of the Privy Council of the Northern Bureau, with the Principal Second Rank, under the jurisdiction of the Privy Council.

He was bestowed with a purple robe, a gold belt, and a gold fish-shaped tally, granted a fief of three prefectures, and a Fourth Tier sacred mountain in the Capital Circuit. He was permitted not to hasten his arrival at court or to pay homage by name, so as to honor his rank, preserve his dignity, and not betray his sincerity in following righteousness.

The Star-Picking Pavilion has 120 disciples, all of whom are skilled in spiritual arts and have a basic understanding of classical texts. In the past, they followed their master to guard the border, patrol the spiritual ruins, or apprehend Evil Cultivator, each having performed various duties.

Now that I have returned to the Celestial Empire, I should be blessed with the favor of being selected and recognized.

The seventeen Golden Core cultivators were all granted titles and ranks, and each was bestowed with a purple silk official robe. They entered the Department of State Affairs to await the Emperor's favor.

Those below the Foundation Establishment were all granted the rank of Principal Sixth Rank and below, and were assigned to various prefectures and counties in the capital region, the Two Rivers, and the Liangxi region.

Those in charge of the county and prefectural schools, responsible for instructing students in spiritual arts, are required to compile a "Essentials of Spirit Techniques" to teach their students, and are prohibited from teaching any strange or unorthodox arts.

Those who enter local temples and perform rituals at the spirit market must follow the prescribed rites of the "Great Wei Sacrificial Canon" and must not confuse or disturb their neighbors.

The Zuoxiang County Government Office is responsible for pacifying and registering households, assisting in promoting agriculture and sericulture, apprehending and arresting Evil Cultivator who disturb the people, and prohibiting the unauthorized use of Technique Method to bully the weak.

Each was granted a weapon, a hundred acres of spiritual land, and ten thousand Spirit Stone.

You should all carefully observe the proper etiquette of subjects, and not fail to repay the Emperor's grace, so as to repay the Emperor's tolerant virtue, jointly protect the foundation of the Great Wei, so that the southwest may be free from the turmoil of war, and the people may live in Anle, so that you may leave your name in the annals of history and avoid destruction from disaster.

The master administers.

"By His Majesty's decree, the edict has been read aloud. You may rise and stand again to hear the further instructions."

After reading the imperial edict, Su Chen carried the bright yellow edict down from the imperial platform. Only then did Bai Canhong slowly bend his knees, but unlike the others, he did not bow down to the ground. He only lightly touched the stone steps with his knees and his forehead lightly touched the ground before lifting them up.

His movements were compliant, yet they seemed somewhat perfunctory. Although the disciples of the Star-Picking Pavilion behind him were all prostrate, he glanced at them out of the corner of his eye, and his brows furrowed almost imperceptibly.

"Your subject Bai Canhong, receives Your Majesty's imperial edict."

The Master of the Star-Picking Pavilion's voice was flat at this moment, without the slightest warmth of gratitude. When he mentioned "Your Majesty does not hold my past misunderstandings accountable," he paused, as if he was suppressing something.

"Having been granted this post, I will naturally follow your instructions to discuss border strategies in order to repay the country's kindness." The last sentence is spoken lightly, without any of the earnestness of "I would rather die than repay it."

Everyone present knew that Bai Canhong still harbored resentment, but they also didn't know what great benefits Emperor of Wei and Kuang Liuting had offered to the Master of the Star-Picking Pavilion to persuade him to accept the offer of amnesty.

Great Wei Immortal Dynasty, the Vice Privy Councilor and Assistant Administrator of the Northern Bureau, Duke of Ji, held a prestigious title and a highly important post.

However, this position has always been limited to discussing military affairs and advising on border strategies. When it comes to reports from border towns and proposals on the defense of Lingxu, they are allowed to sit in the ranks and give their speeches, but they do not have the authority to deploy troops or participate in the reconnaissance of the Imperial Guards.

These seemingly trivial tasks might appear glamorous to an ordinary Nascent Soul or a Rogue Person, but compared to a Dao Lord like the Master of the Star-Picking Pavilion, who is a powerful but nameless figure, they are far inferior.

Not to mention, the cultivation resources available to both are far inferior. In addition, the disciples accumulated by the Star-Picking Pavilion still need to be scattered in various places to serve the Kuang Household clan.

The more Sect Leader Kang Da pondered, the deeper his doubts became.

You should know that, according to the old bird of the Fei Household, the little things that Bai Canhong has obtained so far were only acquired by giving up the great treasure promised by Supreme Unity Temple and adding the head of the Demon Lieutenant beside Grand Eunuch Wei.

"How pitiful Fengwen Demon Lieutenant is, having met such a bad man!"

Kang Dabao carefully examined the pair of bright wolf eyes. He had heard that this creature could be used to refine pills that aided in the advancement of the Golden Core stage, and he would be happy to have a look at it.

Suppressing his distracting thoughts, he turned his gaze back to Kuang Liuting. He had heard from Ancestor Tianqin that the Star-Picking Pavilion's eventual restoration was largely due to the efforts of this Duke of Qin.

This deal might seem unprofitable to those who don't know how to do business, but Sect Leader Kang Da can discern some other tricks in it.

In his view, the Kuang Household clan had a bad reputation and was hard to win people's hearts in the past, which was because they had been accustomed to being domineering since the time of Emperor Taizu.

If the current emperor could rule the world like the founding emperor, and all of Great Wei would submit to him, then there would be no fear of unrest among the people.

However, the situation is now very different from before. It is obvious to all that Bai Canhong and Supreme Unity Temple have instigated the rebellion. But in the past, the big shots of various families never thought that the Master of the Star-Picking Pavilion would be given preferential treatment and be granted a title.

Although Emperor of Wei's actions in accordance with Kuang Liuting had its drawbacks, the rare instance of making an example of someone to deter others was one of them.

However, this also leaves a way out for those who are caught between two extremes. Regardless of the drawbacks of being recruited by the Kuang Household, at least when faced with a desperate situation, they will no longer have the thought of mutual destruction, and they will always have a choice.

For the various families still navigating between Supreme Unity Temple and the Kuang Household clan, this is generally a good thing. If they see Bai Canhong rise to a higher position after entering the court as an official, their minds will likely become much more at peace.

Sect Leader Kang Da had no doubt about this; Bai Canhong, who had offered up a piece of land, would undoubtedly receive a life of honor from the Immortal Dynasty. The Master of the Star-Picking Pavilion was inscribed in gold by Emperor of Wei to announce this to the world; how could he bear to see it tarnished even slightly?

It should be known that the Kuang Household's reputation for cruelty and brutality is already deeply ingrained in people's minds. In Kang Dabao's opinion, if this matter can slightly reverse the situation, it would be worthwhile.

From this perspective, it seems that the outside world's long-held belief that Bai Canhong's initial idea of "murdering and arson to be recruited by the government" has been fulfilled.

Duke of Qin pacified the Three Southwest Circuits, and also acquired the leaderless Ancient Mysterious Circuit Joyful Sight Mountain. He even introduced True Person Master of the Star-Picking Pavilion to the imperial court, thus making a fortune.

From this perspective, the current outcome truly seems like a happy ending for everyone. However, whenever he thinks about the lives lost on both sides during this period, Sect Leader Kang Da feels that it is somewhat absurd.

In the end, this vast and boundless Great Wei Immortal Dynasty is nothing more than a game of chess played by those high-ranking cultivators; the billions of living beings on it are truly of little concern to anyone.

Kang Dabao suppressed his thoughts of "Purify the Turbid World" and put on a respectful expression. He watched as the Grand Eunuch Wei slowly descended the steps so that he could have a serious conversation with Bai Canhong, the newly appointed Duke of Ji.

However, this leisurely time did not last long before it was time to perform the rites again.

In recent years, the visits of the Three Southwest Circuits have become quite frequent, which has honed the skills of the Office of the Duke of Qin in welcoming them. Even after Grand Eunuch Wei finishes reading the imperial edict, he still has to solemnly complete the rituals in accordance with the "Imperial Guard Rites Canon".

Kang Dabao patiently followed Fei Nanying through the entire formality, and only breathed a sigh of relief after the ceremony was over.

Afterwards, no important figures remained in the same place. Such a gathering of people of the same rank was a rare treat for them. When Kuang Liuting discussed matters with the True Person, he always only summoned Fei Tianqin, this old bird, to listen in.

This time, Sect Leader Kang Da originally thought that he had made great contributions and had some ambitions, but in the end he still failed to achieve his wish. However, he has always been good at making decisions and was happy to relax after not getting involved in the affairs of those important figures.

There was no banquet for this ceremony, Sect Leader Kang Da found rather uninteresting, and he was about to pull Jiang Qing away with him.

After all, Chu Yanran, who had also made meritorious contributions, was also coming to the Duke's mansion to report her achievements, and Kang Dabao's eldest son, Kang Changyi, whom he hadn't seen for a long time, was fortunate enough to come along.

While he rarely gets involved in matters of state and military affairs, he cannot afford to miss this long-lost father-son bond.

Unexpectedly, just as he turned around, Kuai En, who was also standing at the front of the line, came looking for him again.

This prince consort of the imperial family performed exceptionally well in the most crucial battle.

They killed several Golden Core cultivators and demon officers in succession, including Zeng Zhang, a demon officer under Feng Wen who had previously escaped from Kuang Liuting's clutches. This added considerable glory to the face of the Southern King Kuang Shenzhi, who was not present.

In this light, even though he met a renowned master when he was nearly fifty, his Primordial Chaos Mysterious Pivot Physique is indeed extraordinary, and Kuai En is a disciple of the Prince of the South in this life, so his future is still very bright.

"Uncle, please wait a moment," the Earl of Fengen said modestly when facing Kang Dabao, but after Kang Dabao caught up and bowed, he then spoke:

"I wonder if you and Fellow Daoist Jiang have the time? I have found a piece of Azure-Feathered Sparrow liver here. After being cooked by the chef of the Prince's Palace, it has the effect of brightening the eyes and calming the mind. I know that you are skilled in pupil magic, which would be perfect for you. I wonder if you could spare some time to talk to me?"

Sect Leader Kang Da did not hesitate upon hearing this. After all, he rarely refused a free meal, and he had never intended to sever ties with Kuai En.

Kuai En went to great lengths to host this dinner. Not only were Kang Changyi and Chu Yanran invited early on, but even Luan Gongfeng, who was usually in seclusion refining Attendant Luan, was invited as well.

Seeing Attendant Luan's overjoyed expression, Kang Dabao felt somewhat relieved. Back then, he had indeed invoked Kuai En's reputation as a disciple of the Prince of the South to save Pei Yi's life.

Even now that he has achieved the Golden Core, and his relationship with Attendant Luan has become much closer, there is still some suspicion of deception in his actions back then.

Kuai En's courteous treatment of Attendant Luan Gongfeng, a guest of an Aristocratic Clan, helped Sect Leader Kang Da save face and ease his mind.

Kang Changyi had rendered meritorious service on the front lines, and only after the Sect Leader Kang Da examined his injuries and State of Mind cultivation was he satisfied.

His four sons and one daughter, who were able to cultivate themselves, were not by his side at the moment. Even though they exchanged letters, he could never be at ease. Only after seeing that Kang Changyi was truly alright could he finally relax.

"It is through trials of life and death that one grows into such a resolute and iron-willed man." Kuai En uttered a kind remark, walked to Kang Dabao's side, and hurriedly pulled the father and son to their seats.

The eight-immortal table in the side hall was already neatly arranged, with celadon plates and cups adorned with spiritual chopsticks. The steam carrying the fragrance of spiritual energy permeated the room, creating an elegant and refined atmosphere.

The most eye-catching dish is the "Azure-Feathered Sparrow Liver" in the center—a three-inch-long sparrow liver lies in a porcelain bowl, its entire body amber in color, drizzled with a layer of honey-soaked spirit flower sauce, the sauce is translucent, and it is also adorned with a few pieces of refreshing grass that look like crushed ice crystals.

Kuai En smiled and explained, "This sparrow liver was obtained by me while it was still alive on the battlefield. I soaked it in the snow water of Ling Mountain for half an hour to remove the blood, and then soaked it for a long time in the 'Truffle Spirit Spring' made by the Prince's Palace before it was considered ready."

Kang Dabao scooped up a piece with a silver spoon. It was delicate and smooth in his mouth. The refreshing taste of the spring water mixed with the rich flavor of the sparrow liver spread on his tongue. Sure enough, a warm feeling slowly spread to his eyes, and he couldn't help but nod.

He was somewhat surprised. "My Delusion-Breaking Golden Eyes have already reached perfection, and things that can make my eyes clear are becoming increasingly rare. I never thought that the Azure-Feathered Sparrow Liver could be one of them."

Sect Leader Kang Da quickly finished the delicacies on his plate, and then thought about when he should go and find a Third Tier spirit bird to aid his cultivation.

"I just don't know if Shilun's skills are up to par!"

As everyone ate and chatted, the dishes on the table gradually dwindled, leaving hardly any soup. Kang Dabao patted his stomach and laughed, "This meal from the Earl of Fengen is not only delicious but also nourishing for our cultivation. It's much more substantial than those banquets that only care about appearances."

Upon hearing this, Kuai En smiled and said, "I'm glad you like it, Uncle. If you have any good ingredients in the future, please come over for another small gathering."

"Oh?"

"I have received the imperial decree, and for the next hundred years, I must serve in the Mountain South. I will likely need your assistance, Uncle, in all matters."

Sect Leader Kang Da was slightly surprised. What exactly was the key location in Mountain South? Emperor of Wei was not satisfied with just giving up Kuang Liuting and wanted to transfer Kuai En to serve as well.

"Was the Earl of Fengen to command the Imperial Guards in Shannan Circuit?"

"A peaceful and tranquil place brings lasting stability." Kuai En shook his head and smiled before explaining his duties, "I am deeply grateful for His Majesty's favor. He has appointed me as the Chief Administrator of Shannan Circuit. If I encounter any troublesome matters in the future, I may need to seek your assistance, Uncle."

"Earl of Fengen, you flatter me. It was merely what I was supposed to do." Sect Leader Kang Da's expression changed slightly upon hearing this. He had originally hoped to return to Cloud Horn Prefecture after this battle to manage things, but if Kuai En took control of Mountain South, would it be more convenient? That was not necessarily the case.

"So this kid's feast is for paying respects to his superiors," Kang Dabao muttered to himself, though he was already full, he still ate a few more bites.

After receiving a bag of "local products" and a beast core from Kuai En, he bid farewell to Kuai En with his junior brother, eldest son, and old friends, and headed towards the Chongming Sect.

On the way, they naturally had to first thank Chu Yanran and her husband. As usual, Sect Leader Kang Da treated them with the courtesy due to a junior, which Chu Yanran also dared not accept. It was only after the former insisted that she reluctantly accepted.

Chu Yanran had saved Kang Dabao and Chongming Sect from danger several times. Regardless of whether her original intention was to befriend the Daoist Black Shoes, in the eyes of the Sect Leader Kang Da, this friendship was genuine. Therefore, he earnestly said:

"I have benefited greatly from your guidance in the past, and my son has now been fortunate enough to receive your painstaking instruction and achieve a bright future. I am deeply grateful and will never forget your kindness."

He then took out the bottle of Three Treasures Wondrous Gathering Pill that he had obtained from the Joyful Sight Mountain storehouse and offered it up, saying, "I wish to use this pill to express my humble sentiments."

Chu Yanran was quite knowledgeable; her gaze lingered on the Danwen (a type of magical artifact), and she was immediately captivated. Taking such a thing out might cost Golden Core their life.

However, Sect Leader Kang Da simply gave it away casually.

This clearly shows that the young sect leader, who was only a hundred years old back then, had already grown into a great figure whom she had to look up to.

Chu Yanran had already anticipated this change. This beautiful woman was quite magnanimous; she didn't refuse but readily accepted the blame. "Then this concubine thanks Sect Leader Kang; it would be impolite to decline."

"Senior, please don't be so polite." Kang Dabao breathed a sigh of relief after seeing Chu Yanran accept the pill. The burden of favors was immense; repaying even a little made him feel better.

After presenting the pills, Sect Leader Kang Da pointed to Kang Changxi and said softly, "My son has been away from home for quite some time, and his aunts are very worried about him. I would like to ask for leave from you for a while, senior. Please grant me your permission."

"Your son is my fine student," the beautiful woman praised with a smile, which made Kang Changyi blush slightly.

Chu Yanran had no reason not to comply. She extended her delicate hand and summoned Kang Changyi to her side, giving him some instructions before letting him return to Kang Dabao's side.

Just as Sect Leader Kang Da was about to take his leave, Chu Yanran's beautiful eyes flickered, and she called out to him, "Sect Leader Kang, please wait!"

"Does the senior have any further instructions?"

"I have a son who was found to have Spirit Root before the New Year. I wonder if he can join your esteemed sect and begin his cultivation?"

Kang Dabao was slightly surprised, but quickly replied, "Our sect is more than happy to have gained the trust of our senior."

Chu Yanran arched her eyebrows slightly, nodded her head gently, and said in a cheerful voice, "Thank you, Sect Leader Kang. My husband and I will bring our son to pay our respects in a month."

"Then our sect will await the celestial music."

After Sect Leader Kang Da and his entourage had gone far away, Master Qi had remained silent until now, finally spoke. But when he sighed, a look of bewilderment returned to the departing dignitary.

"Who would have thought that the disciple I hastily took in back then, just to get a few Spirit Stone and sell wine, would actually be able to provide assistance to Madam and secure a future for Brother Lang?"

Chu Yanran's expression was similar to her husband's, but she was much stronger in State of Mind and soon suppressed her feelings.

However, as she pulled Master Qi back, the beautiful woman had another thought, "This young Kang might actually become a great figure no less impressive than Black Shoes in the future."

(Sorry, I suddenly realized that the Master of the Star-Picking Pavilion this post retweeted yesterday's post. I've revised it, which is why it's so late.)