Chapter 231: Your Majesty, that damned abacus of yours—I've heard it even in the Xiongnu Kingdom!

Da Xia Capital.

Inside the imperial palace.

Within the Grand Ancestral Hall.

Gu Jin Nian manipulates the Li Yang Cauldron.

The cauldron expands, suffused with terrifying flames that engulf the entire massive cauldron.

Gu Jin Nian tosses piece after piece of celestial meteorite gold into it.

Soon, Gu Jin Nian understands why his uncle no longer has confidence in him.

Because the refining process is indeed grueling; even as a saint, he cannot easily melt this celestial meteorite gold into liquid gold.

It requires time.

"One must cultivate the immortal Dao to the Seventh Realm to refine at will."

Gu Jin Nian thought to himself.

He estimated that, using his current realm strength, forging a Sky Dome Warplane would take at least three days, and that is only because he has become a saint.

Had he not become a saint, following his uncle's method would likely not finish even in three years.

"Fortunately, the Li Yang Cauldron's greatest ability is to temper all things; strengthening is the key."

"The immortal Dao realm merely determines the tempering time."

"If I reach the Sixth Realm, I can forge one per day; at the Seventh Realm, I could forge ten in a day."

"But a normally forged warplane equals the peak strength of the Fifth Realm, so who knows how powerful it becomes after tempering."

"Now, the Great World Conflict has arisen, with various great sects vying for treasures; for example, the Great Profound Immortal Sect, using the treasures of Pu Yuan Mountain, can produce at least a hundred Sixth Realm strongmen within ten years."

"That assessment assumes current conditions; if in the future Divine Mountains yield more treasures and the heavenly materials and earthly gems improve, the outcome may differ."

Gu Jin Nian thought to himself.

Now, with Heaven's Mandate descending and the Great World revealing itself, astonishing changes loom, and the dynasty must also advance.

Warplanes, treasure ships, and land‑war killing devices—these three must be produced.

The tempering process is long and tedious.

Gu Jin Nian focuses on three tasks simultaneously.

Tempering celestial meteorite gold.

In addition, attaining clear insight into the Saint Path.

At the same time, there is one matter Gu Jin Nian has not forgotten.

Namely, after Confucius first guided him to sainthood, he must meet Confucius again.

Thinking of this,

Gu Jin Nian delved inward with concentration.

Immediately, in his mind, beneath the Tree of All Beings, a Confucius Seal encircled the tree.

At this moment,

When Gu Jin Nian entered the Tree of All Beings,

In an instant, the surging saint's power merged into the seal.

As the saint's power infused, the Confucius Seal burst forth with light.

The next moment,

Within the Tree of All Beings, brilliance shone.

Soon, Confucius's figure reappeared before Gu Jin Nian.

Unlike before, this time Confucius emitted no radiant treasure light nor any strange phenomena, but appeared exceedingly calm.

He sat cross‑legged beneath the Tree of All Beings, his eyes clear, observing his surroundings.

"Junior Gu Jin Nian, I pay my respects to Confucius."

Gu Jin Nian bowed to Confucius, his words exceedingly respectful.

"You have become a saint; how long did it take?"

Seeing Gu Jin Nian again, Confucius's face was gentle, and the Tree of All Beings trembled, shedding countless peach blossom petals that looked especially ethereal.

"Senior, roughly a year and a half."

Gu Jin Nian calculated the duration and gave this answer.

"One and a half years."

"Has Heaven's Mandate already descended?"

Confucius continued to ask.

"It has already descended."

Gu Jin Nian nodded, and without further words, he shared part of his memory with Confucius.

Soon, after Confucius comprehended Gu Jin Nian's experiences, he involuntarily nodded.

"Very good."

"You treat adversity as a grindstone; that's commendable. Through this you grasp the Saint Path, understand the true meaning of good and evil, and even articulate New Learning—well done."

"If you can master such New Learning to its utmost, you will be able to enter the realm of Heaven's Mandate."

Confucius, having comprehended Gu Jin Nian's Saint Path, could not help but praise his extraordinary qualities.

"The saint's words carry weight; without the guidance of predecessors, a disciple could not reach this point."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, appearing very humble.

"Everyone has their own Dao; once reached, it is reached."

Confucius spoke lightly, then his expression grew solemn as he looked at Gu Jin Nian and spoke.

"Heaven's Mandate has already manifested."

"The greatest turmoil is about to arrive."

"You must make all preparations."

At this moment, Confucius spoke, informing Gu Jin Nian of this matter.

"Turmoil?"

"May I ask, sage, what turmoil?"

Gu Jin Nian had made preparations, but what he did not expect was that Confucius's expression would be so solemn, for he is a Heaven's Mandate Saint.

He is only a saint, at the Seventh Realm of Confucian Dao; honestly, that already allows him to suppress this great world, and if he could become a Heaven's Mandate Saint, he could easily resolve all calamities.

This is the thought of ordinary people, whether oneself or others.

What he did not anticipate was that Confucius, as a Heaven's Mandate Saint and the first Heaven's Mandate Saint, would have such a reaction.

"Ancient Darkness."

Confucius spoke, revealing the truth.

As he spoke, the surrounding scenery transformed; soon the ambient Qi surged, waterfalls and long rivers, sacred mountains and treasure lands, resembling a mortal fairyland.

Looking up, a giant bird swept across the sky, looking especially terrifying.

The aura of the Sixth Realm rushed toward him.

Any ancient bird is already of the Sixth Realm; that is frightening.

But Gu Jin Nian knew this was the Ancient Era.

"This is the Ancient Era."

"It is also called the Golden Age."

"In this era, Qi is a hundred times denser than in your era; any living being easily lives five hundred years, and those who attain the Dao become immortal for ten thousand years—such cases are common."

"When I attained the Dao, this era reached its zenith."

"But after I passed away, the Ancient Era faded, almost all life perished; after a long span of years, Heaven and Earth gradually recovered, giving rise to new beings."

"Do you know why?"

Confucius spoke, revealing the extraordinariness of the Ancient Era.

Gu Jin Nian watched quietly, also shocked by the differences of the Ancient Era; Qi determines everything.

Any place in the Ancient Era surpasses the present by a hundredfold.

If it were some celestial caves or blessed lands, it would be even beyond words.

Radiant and ultimate, flourishing and extraordinary—regarding the Ancient Era, Gu Jin Nian had some understanding, having found related information in books he previously read.

But the decline of the Ancient Era remains unknown; although there are many conjectures, they are all later fabrications and speculations.

No one can produce real evidence explaining why the Ancient Era vanished.

Most importantly, no one knows how many years separate the Ancient Era from the Middle Ages.

Now that Confucius answered, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but be curious.

"Immortal Ascension Calamity."

Confucius opened his mouth, stating the truth.

"Becoming immortal?"

Gu Jin Nian slightly frowned; he was a bit confused and looked at Confucius.

"In the Ancient Era, immortal, Buddha, demon, and sword arts endured; I founded Confucian Dao and established the Seventh System."

"But before I proved the Dao of Heaven's Mandate, the two paths of Immortal and Buddha were the strongest beings."

"The Immortal and Buddha of ten thousand years' lifespan, their inheritance terrifying, ruling the world; a Seventh Realm cultivator can slash the heavens with one sword, wielding boundless magical power."

"They have already reached the extreme; Heaven's will cannot be defied, but the Immortal Dao can."

"In strength, they are not weaker than me; in that era, many forces all sought the path to becoming immortal."

"They believe that above this world there is another realm; in that realm, even with transcendent talent and invincible constitution, one still cannot truly cross into the path of becoming immortal."

"Humans inevitably die; demons and even Immortals and Buddhas have a limit of ten thousand years, and even at the limit it is only thirteen thousand five hundred years; beyond that no one can surpass the restriction."

"Therefore, cultivators of the Ancient Era began to study the Way of Eternal Life."

"But as research continued, eventually a peerless individual proposed a new idea, believing that fortune is limited."

"To become immortal, one must obtain the Heaven-and-Earth fortune; only by obtaining it can one ascend to immortality, crossing into the supreme realm."

"Heaven and Earth decay, but I am immortal."

"The sun and moon perish, but I do not perish."

"I endure forever with the world."

"And to obtain Heaven-and-Earth fortune, besides one's own talent and cultivation, one must eradicate others."

"Imbuing the Heaven-and-Earth fortune upon a clan allows one to become immortal."

"This is the Eternal Life Calamity."

Confucius spoke, revealing the ancient truth.

Upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but frown and say.

"If we take this meaning, then in the Ancient Era there must have been a clan that completed the plunder; did they become immortal?"

Gu Jin Nian roughly understood the situation.

Moreover, Gu Jin Nian still accepted this logic.

After all, looking back, history rolls on; whether Confucian Dao or Immortal Dao, each system has produced astonishingly extraordinary individuals, seemingly indeed controlled.

It is like the bright moon in the sky: when the moon appears, the stars diminish; when the moon disappears, the stars glitter.

This metaphor may not be especially apt, but it can illustrate the corresponding issue.

No.

The calamity of eternal life, I suppressed it for a long time, but in the end I obeyed Heaven's Mandate, perished in ancient times, and before I died I saw the future.

The calamity of eternal life erupted, ten thousand races fought for Heaven and Earth's qi, and thus slaughtered each other.

The most terrifying part is that through the slaughter, their peoples indeed gave birth to many inconceivable individuals.

Within the Dao of Immortals, some legendary cultivation constitutions were born; within the martial path, some mythic constitutions also emerged.

Precisely because of this, the races clashed until Heaven and Earth trembled, for the victor could be only one race—or even a single individual.

In the end, this horrific slaughter provoked Heaven's Punishment, and under that punishment, more people profited.

Ultimately this conflict lasted ten thousand years, pierced the sun and moon mountains and rivers, shattered all dragon veins, causing a great transformation of Heaven and Earth; the gathered qi would not descend, forcibly halting the slaughter, evolving into the ancient era.

That is the era you inhabit.

Confucius spoke, offering an explanation.

Is there not a single victor?

If that were so, there would be no great trouble.

I have become a saint; though Heaven's Mandate may be unverifiable, at least with me present, Heaven and Earth can remain unchanged for a thousand years.

Gu Jin Nian was shocked; after ten thousand years of conflict, there was not a single victor, which truly was astonishing.

Similarly, Gu Jin Nian voiced his thoughts: if there is no victor, then in this era I could stabilize the situation.

At least I am still young, able to suppress many and rule with a dynasty.

However, Confucius shook his head and said.

"No."

"Although there is no victor, it does not mean everyone perished."

"At that time, Heaven and Earth sealed the qi, forcibly halting this ten‑thousand‑year slaughter."

"Five great races remained; they survived using unparalleled secret arts, awaiting the revival of Heaven and Earth."

"They know Heaven and Earth cannot be sealed forever; one day it will return."

"Thus, after the ancient era ended, every five hundred years a Heaven's Mandate descends; in fact, this Heaven's Mandate is merely the qi released because it cannot be sealed."

"But this qi can only improve things slightly; whoever obtains it can step into the Seventh Realm, and that is all."

"Until now, Heaven's Mandate can no longer be sealed; the ancient grandeur reappears, and the world calls it the Golden Great Era."

"In other words, with the arrival of the Golden Great Era, these five races will reappear for the final decision."

Confucius spoke, informing Gu Jin Nian about the ancient five races.

"Five races?"

Gu Jin Nian seemed to understand what Confucius warned him to be wary of.

The ancient existence has not been eradicated; it lives in the present, awaiting the revival of Heaven's Mandate to continue the contest.

"Yes, in ancient times myriad races stood, ten‑thousands of years of fierce battles, and ultimately five great races survived."

"Ancient Sea Clan, Ancient Demon Clan, Ancient Human Clan, Ancient Devil Clan, and Ancient Divine Clan."

Confucius spoke, naming the five great races.

"Ancient Divine Clan?"

Gu Jin Nian was somewhat surprised; there is a faction that calls itself the Divine Clan.

"Yes, the ancient Divine Clan is few in number, but each possesses extraordinary innate talent, formed by Heaven and Earth naturally, born with Fifth Realm cultivation, and each Divine Clan member holds inherited divine abilities."

"However, their numbers are few—only fifty thousand Divine Clan members; after the great war, perhaps less than one in ten survived."

Confucius opened his mouth, conveying information about the Divine Clan.

"Are there such beings?"

"Born already with Fifth Realm cultivation?"

Gu Jin Nian was astonished.

However, Gu Jin Nian quickly calmed down; in the ancient slaughter among the five great races, the Divine Clan did not achieve final victory, meaning the Divine Clan is not invincible.

Now fewer than one in ten remain, which is not terribly frightening.

"If the ancient Human Clan exists, then even if they revive, should our human race have someone to protect us?"

Gu Jin Nian continued, raising his own question.

The five great ancient races.

Sea Clan, Demon Clan, Devil Clan, Divine Clan, Human Clan.

Not all are enemies.

But Confucius shook his head.

"No, the final five races will not protect you; their goal is the qi."

"Moreover, if all five races revive, they will first create great chaos and slaughter later generations."

"This time Heaven's Mandate appears, with countless treasures; those who obtain the treasures become their targets, no one is their friend, and even within their ranks they will kill each other."

"The path to becoming an immortal can be won by only one race; even within these five great races there are more terrifying beings who wish to annihilate all under heaven, monopolize the qi, and ascend alone."

Confucius gave an answer, dispelling Gu Jin Nian's notion.

Upon careful thought, Confucius was right; they have fought for ten thousand years, truly caring not for the world's living beings. The ancient Human Clan may well strike at the contemporary human race, and even more ruthlessly.

"Do they have any who have reached the Eighth Realm?"

Gu Jin Nian asked the crucial question: whether the Eighth Realm exists.

If it does, that would indeed be troublesome.

"There once were."

"Now they should be extinct."

"Heaven's Mandate is sealed; the Eight Realms' strong ones have long been wiped out, and even if they lived into the Middle Ages, they have already been weakened, so no Eight Realms exist."

"That is certain."

Confucius gave a definitive answer: there will be no Eight Realms.

Upon receiving this answer, Gu Jin Nian let out a long sigh; if the Eight Realms existed, it would indeed be a trouble for him.

"If there are no Eight Realms, the student is confident and can suppress everything."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, expressing his thoughts.

Without Eight Realms cultivators, Gu Jin Nian fears nothing.

This is his confidence, and also his own radiance.

Hearing this, Confucius was immensely satisfied and showed a pleased smile.

"You have such confidence; I am very pleased."

"Moreover, you have touched the Saint King Way; that is quite good."

"This is my Saint King Seal, also considered as my final act for heaven, earth, and all living beings."

Confucius was very satisfied.

While speaking, he condensed a seal; this is Confucius's Saint King Seal, the Way of Inner Sage, Outer King.

Confucius has already walked this path to its extreme; granting it to Gu Jin Nian today also counts as helping Gu Jin Nian.

"Thank you, Confucius."

Gu Jin Nian bowed at once; being a saint, he now seeks the saint's great path and naturally wants to walk this road to its utmost.

However, with the Great Era's arrival, what Gu Jin Nian lacks most is not rare treasures, but experience.

Or rather, it is time.

Confucius is a Heaven's Mandate saint; his Saint King Seal can save Gu Jin Nian from walking a hundred years of winding roads.

This is not inheritance, but borrowing.

Using Confucius's Saint King Seal to observe one's own martial path.

"Jin Nian."

"The later generations are now entrusted to you."

"The five ancient clans, though possessing boundless power, have only just revealed Heaven's Mandate; the Great Era has not fully revived, and their strength is suppressed. The stronger the being, the greater the suppression."

"In a sense, you stand on the same starting line as them, even being recognized by heaven and earth; as long as you seize the opportunity, forge ahead, and fear no difficulty."

"You are not weaker than them."

"They are the ancient sparks, and you are the present brilliance."

"Remember, you must not trust them, nor plunge into darkness."

"Especially the divine race; among them exists a kind of being with honeyed words and seductive looks, possessing a beguiling nature that even saints find hard to resist, being subtly incited without awareness."

"You must be vigilant."

Confucius spoke.

He warned Gu Jin Nian.

"Please, sir, rest assured."

Gu Jin Nian solemnly nodded.

Then Confucius vanished, turning into peach blossom petals, and finally everything returned to calm.

After Confucius disappeared.

Gu Jin Nian fell silent for a moment.

He did not expect that the future great turmoil would be linked to the five ancient clans; this was unforeseen.

But it did not cause much of a response for Gu Jin Nian.

He knows that with the Great Era's arrival, calamities are inevitable; it is merely a different, unexpected manner of arrival.

Under the Tree of All Beings.

Gu Jin Nian gazed at the ancient tree.

After becoming a saint himself.

The ancient tree no longer showed any anomalies nor bore any fruit, which made Gu Jin Nian somewhat curious.

Previously the ancient tree had some function, but now its usefulness is minimal.

Thinking of this, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help extending his hand to touch the ancient tree.

He wanted to see if he could discover any clue, or perhaps examine the differences of the Tree of All Beings.

As the power of the Saint's Way merged into the ancient tree.

In an instant.

The ancient tree instantly burst into myriad rays of rosy light; soon the Tree of All Beings kept shrinking until it vanished.

This transformation made Gu Jin Nian click his tongue in amazement.

Only.

The next moment.

At his heart, Gu Jin Nian sensed the Tree of All Beings appearing inside his own heart, then taking root and sprouting; its branches turned into his veins, a tremendous vitality enhancing his body.

With each heartbeat, Gu Jin Nian experienced an indescribable change, as if constantly swallowing a divine elixir.

"Does the Tree of All Beings merge with me?"

Gu Jin Nian was surprised in his heart; he sensed that after entering the saint realm, the Tree of All Beings was merging with him.

At that moment.

Gu Jin Nian no longer babbled; he comprehended the Tree of All Beings, also grasped the Saint's Way, and simultaneously understood Confucius's Saint King Way.

One heart, four uses.

Artifact refining.

Clearly comprehend the Holy Way.

Absorb the Holy King's imprint.

Achieve complete fusion with the myriad beings tree.

And at the same time.

The outside world.

In the blink of an eye.

Three days have already passed.

During these three days, the entire Eastern Wilderness has been watching the Da Xia Dynasty and the Xiongnu State.

The Da Xia Dynasty is adjusting its barracks; this matter cannot be hidden from the world.

It's quite obvious that war is coming.

After this signal was released, the entire Da Xia Dynasty can be said to be celebrating nationwide; since the emergence of the dragon rice from the river's middle, not saying everyone has enough to eat, but at least a large amount of the food crisis has been resolved.

The common people at least have food to eat; plus Gu Jin Nian becoming a sage, this greatly boosted national confidence.

Now, for the entire populace of the Da Xia Dynasty, there is one matter that is the sole thorn in their hearts.

This matter is the affair of the twelve border cities.

As long as one is a Da Xia commoner, it's impossible to forget this matter.

Currently, the Da Xia Dynasty's national strength is flourishing, the treasury is full, the emperor intends to launch war; for the nation's people, this is a good thing.

But for the Xiongnu State.

This is not a good thing at all.

Over the past six months, the Da Xia Dynasty has produced two sages in succession, and after resisting the Da Xia heavenly calamity, the entire Da Xia Dynasty has entered a period of prosperity, with daily developments being earth-shaking.

Previously, the Xiongnu State could not defeat the Da Xia Dynasty.

However, due to the restrictions of the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty, the Da Xia Dynasty had the will but no way to act.

But now it's different.

Top-tier combat strength, the Da Xia Dynasty has two sages.

Non-top-tier combat strength, the Da Xia Dynasty's grain is abundant, it can fully launch war; even if the Fuyu Dynasty and Great Jin Dynasty join forces, they cannot stop it.

At least given the Da Xia Dynasty's current situation, it can completely dispatch two large armies to resist the Fuyu Dynasty and Great Jin Dynasty; whether they fight or not doesn't matter, as long as they hold them off.

Therefore, for the current Xiongnu State, the Da Xia Dynasty is like a great mountain.

And the Alliance is also about to be launched soon.

Previously, the major dynastic powers had already signed the Alliance's charter internally, but had not yet held the corresponding assembly.

At this very moment.

Xiongnu royal court.

The Xiongnu king's face is full of anticipation for something.

On the throne, there is some unease.

Soon, a figure walked in, speaking with a joyful expression.

"Your Majesty."

"The Tai Xuan Immortal Sect has replied."

A figure walked over; it was the Minister of Rites.

He came before the Xiongnu king, speaking very excitedly.

"What does the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect mean?"

The Xiongnu king was excited beyond measure, his face full of anticipation.

"Replying to Your Majesty."

"The Tai Xuan Immortal Sect says, if this time Da Xia marches into the Xiongnu State, and if it wages normal warfare, the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect will not intervene."

"But if the Da Xia Dynasty acts with supernatural divine power, the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect will absolutely not stand by."

The latter spoke, appearing unusually excited.

Upon hearing these words, the Xiongnu king let out a long breath.

The Da Xia Dynasty's mobilization made him anxious, not because he fears he cannot defeat the Da Xia Dynasty, but because he fears Gu Jin Nian will summon meteorites again, and also worries about the two sages taking action.

In the face of absolute power, even a million-strong army looks ridiculous.

But if the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect can resolve this matter, then many things would become much simpler and more convenient.

In conventional warfare, the Xiongnu State can buy some time, and moreover the Fuyu Dynasty and Great Jin Dynasty will certainly join in to assist the Xiongnu State in warfare.

Even if the Da Xia Dynasty sends a million troops, they definitely cannot defeat the Da Xia Dynasty, but they can definitely hold back the Da Xia Dynasty.

The great world's conflict has descended; the Da Xia Dynasty cannot possibly do nothing, perhaps launch a strong attack on the Xiongnu State? Simply put, the Xiongnu king has prepared for defeat; defeat comes in two types: one is annihilation of the state, the other is merely losing the war, at worst paying some compensation.

As long as the state is not destroyed, with the great world's descent, perhaps the Xiongnu State could also receive Heaven's Mandate's blessing.

Therefore, the promise of the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect is of great significance to them.

"Your Majesty, since the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect is willing to protect our Xiongnu State, if Da Xia wishes to declare war this time, what do we have to fear?"

The Minister of War spoke; upon learning that the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect is willing to aid the Xiongnu State, he naturally felt happy, and also conceived the notion of war.

"No."

"Although the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect promised to protect us, the Da Xia Dynasty now has abundant national strength, there is no need to fight them."

"The Xiongnu State cannot win; even if it wins, it would be a pyrrhic victory." "In the past, this would not have been a big problem, but now the great world's conflict has begun, the Xiongnu State has not yet gained any benefits, Mount Tianqi is about to revive, and Daoist Longhu has already promised our Xiongnu State many benefits."

"Now, staying put is better than anything; if we move and then suffer defeat, the Da Xia Dynasty would very likely seize this opportunity to demand Mount Tianqi."

If we give in, our Xiongnu Kingdom will never have a day to rise again.

If we don't give in, the Da Xia Dynasty might really dare to come all the way slaughtering; would the Upper Purity Daoist, for the Xiongnu Kingdom, completely break with Gu Jin Nian? That's an unknown.

Moreover, Gu Jin Nian did not lose to the Upper Purity Daoist then, and the Da Xia Dynasty actually has two sages.

This battle must absolutely not be fought.

However, we can station a large army, issue strict orders to the three armies, and definitely must not act rashly.

The Xiongnu King spoke.

He instantly grasped the situation; although he had the support of the Supreme Mystery Immortal Sect, they cannot fight no matter what.

They can't be beaten, can't be won against, and certainly cannot be fought.

Hearing this, the officials fell silent, but also understood the Xiongnu King's words were correct.

Then we can only feel wronged?

The Minister of War said, somewhat unwillingly.

Feeling wronged is better than missing an opportunity.

In the great world struggle, seizing just once can wipe away past shame.

Alright, just follow my will.

Right, also have the Ministry of Rites write a letter to inform the world of the Eastern Wilderness that the Xiongnu Kingdom has no intention of offending; under the great world, hope the Da Xia Dynasty will consider the common people.

The Xiongnu King spoke, but didn't want to say more.

For a moment, the officials were silent.

Meanwhile.

Within the Da Xia Dynasty.

They had already been arguing to the point of being unable to stop.

At the court.

The military officers, for the matter of going on campaign, had already been arguing for three full days and nights.

Everyone wanted to lead troops into battle; for this, some military officers even started fighting in private.

Your Majesty, you know this old subject; my greatest dream in life is to wage war against the Xiongnu; as long as Your Majesty lets me go on campaign, I am willing to issue a military pledge, not returning unless the royal court is broken.

A duke spoke out, voice excited, demanding Emperor Yongsheng let him go to war.

Your Majesty, the Duke of Qi is already old; at this age he shouldn't go to war; I am three years younger than the Duke of Qi.

This campaign against the Xiongnu should let me come.

Another duke spoke up, demanding to go to war.

I can go to hell, do you still have any shame? You're this old bones, what are you going to do? embarrass yourself?

Several dukes vied with each other; at the court, there was not the slightest restraint, after all everyone knows that now the Da Xia Dynasty has manpower, money, and grain.

Under these circumstances, whoever can go to battle can establish immortal merit, leaving fame for a hundred generations.

Who wouldn't want to go?

To grab it is to profit.

Watching the officials like this.

Emperor Yongsheng's expression was calm, as if watching a group of clowns argue.

Want to lead troops into battle? Go eat shit.

Just then, a booming voice sounded, making the main hall completely quiet.

Your Majesty, the Prince Who Guards the State has arrived.

As that voice sounded, everyone furrowed their brows.

One by one, they couldn't help but look toward Emperor Yongsheng; the person they least wanted to see had arrived.

The Prince Who Guards the State.

If the Prince Who Guards the State has arrived, this campaign against the Xiongnu really is hard to say.

Looking again at Emperor Yongsheng, everyone suddenly understood; Emperor Yongsheng has already chosen the person, right?

Just trying to make everyone happy, right? 'Proclaim.'

Hearing that the Prince Who Guards the State had arrived, Emperor Yongsheng instantly rejoiced.

His savior had finally arrived.

Meanwhile.

Outside the Imperial Palace.

Prince Who Guards the State Gu Yuan, Grandfather Gu was beaming.

He originally garrisoned at Jiangzhong Commandery, but now, by an imperial edict, he was secretly summoned to the palace.

At this critical juncture, secretly summoned to the palace.

What does this mean?

What does it mean? It means Emperor Yongsheng wants me to go to war against the Xiongnu Kingdom.

Let me serve as General and trample the royal court.

Besides that, any other meaning?

Thinking of this, Grandfather Gu's smile grew wider, his smile impossible to hide.

Summon the Prince Who Guards the State into the hall.

Just then, as the proclamation sounded.

The Prince Who Guards the State strode with utmost confidence and arrogance toward the main hall.

His steps were firm, like a dragon's stride and a tiger's step, and he had already prepared his words.

When Emperor Yongsheng speaks later, I will appoint myself as the General of the Expedition against the Xiongnu, and I must say something that moves the heart.

Whatever death may come, whatever oath to not return until the Xiongnu are broken— in short, I must make the emperor understand my heart.

"What is the situation inside the hall?"

Thinking of this, Lord Zhen Guo couldn't help but look at the eunuch beside him and ask casually.

"Lord Zhen Guo, the hall is in a uproar; all the dignitaries are scrambling for the expedition appointment."

The eunuch spoke, and he was straightforward.

"Hmph."

"A bunch of worthless scum, daring to seek the expedition appointment?"

"Can't they see what sort of trash they are?"

Lord Zhen Guo opened his mouth, exuding unparalleled arrogance.

But the eunuch beside him lowered his head.

Lord Zhen Guo said it was fine, yet he dared not voice agreement.

"Do you know why His Majesty keeps delaying the selection of a Grand General?"

"Because His Majesty knows these people are useless; only I, the old man, am qualified."

Lord Zhen Guo spoke, and his words were nothing but arrogance, pure arrogance.

The eunuch bowed his head in silence.

Thus.

Lord Zhen Guo also arrived beneath the great hall.

He shook his robe and walked toward the hall.

Quickly.

A voice rang out.

"I, Gu Yuan, your servant, pay my respects to His Majesty."

"May my emperor live ten thousand years, ten thousand years, a hundred million years."

Inside the great hall, Lord Zhen Guo spoke.

He bowed once to Emperor Yongsheng.

"Lord Zhen Guo speaks weightily."

"You may be seated."

Seeing Lord Zhen Guo arrive, Emperor Yongsheng was overjoyed and immediately ordered a seat for him.

"No need."

However, Lord Zhen Guo waved his hand and flatly refused.

That was truly brazen.

The civil officials remained silent; this was a struggle among the military generals, hardly their concern—just watch the drama.

"Since Lord Zhen Guo has also entered the court."

"Then I will speak plainly about certain matters, my dear ministers."

"Since the founding of the Da Xia Dynasty, we have endured countless hardships."

"Moreover, the Border Twelve Cities are the Da Xia's everlasting wound."

"The citizens of the Twelve Cities suffered slaughter, rivers of blood, mountains of corpses."

"The evil of the Xiongnu State is beyond description; as emperor, I cannot forget it."

"Now the Da Xia Dynasty boasts strong troops, fine horses, abundant provisions; I indeed intend to declare war on the Xiongnu State."

"These days I have been pondering who should assume the supreme commander role, lead a million‑strong army, carry ten million shi of grain, and march against the Xiongnu."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, first outlining the background before getting to the main point.

But as soon as he said that, the crowd's voices rose in succession.

"It can be counted as you fighting while I snatch."

"Esteemed ministers, please remain calm."

"Let me finish speaking."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, pacifying the ministers for a moment before continuing.

"This expedition against the Xiongnu State."

"It must not be taken lightly; even the Grand General must not act recklessly."

"Therefore I set three conditions."

"First, the candidate must have experience fighting the Xiongnu State."

"Second, he must possess prestige capable of intimidating the ministers."

"Third, his age must not be below seventy."

"If these three are met, I will appoint him as General of the Expedition against the Xiongnu."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, his gaze also falling upon Lord Zhen Guo.

Upon hearing this, Lord Zhen Guo was overjoyed.

"Did you see that?"

"Did you see that?"

"Look at that."

"Look at that."

"What is a ruler? This is what a ruler is. These three requirements perfectly match me, don't they?"

Hahaha.

The Duke of Guarding the Nation felt great joy in his heart and, at once, half‑kneeling in the main hall, looked toward Emperor Yongsheng.

"Your Majesty, I, the old minister, wish to volunteer for the command."

The Duke of Guarding the Nation suppressed his inner joy and proactively volunteered.

At that moment, the main hall was utterly silent.

Because the Duke of Guarding the Nation was indeed the unrivaled choice; although they fought each other, they could not contest him.

First, the Duke's battle merits were illustrious; second, the Gu Family had produced a saint.

Who could surpass that? "Very well."

"Since the Duke of Guarding the Nation has volunteered, I shall entrust the position of General of the Xiongnu Campaign to him."

Emperor Yongsheng nodded.

But before the Duke could assume the post, Emperor Yongsheng's voice sounded again.

"This time, I do so to raise the morale of the three armies."

"I will lead the expedition personally, as Supreme Commander of the Three Armies, to command the troops."

"The Duke shall remain stationed in the Da Xia Dynasty, join the Ministry of War, to stabilize logistics for the Xiongnu campaign army."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, voicing his thoughts.

Indeed.

Granting the Duke the General of the Xiongnu Campaign title would let him stay peacefully in Da Xia Capital, stabilizing the court, while I reluctantly take the Supreme Commander of the Three Armies role and lead the expedition myself.

Upon saying this,

the main hall fell instantly silent.

The Duke's smile on his face stiffened instantly.

Everyone stared blankly at Emperor Yongsheng.

It felt as if they had heard incorrectly.

What nonsense? Supreme Commander of the Three Armies? Leading the expedition personally?

Well, that's something.

"Your Majesty, are you just waiting here for us? I heard your calculations all the way in the Xiongnu lands."

All this fuss, all the trouble, turns out you wanted to campaign, huh?

Feeling the officials' gazes, Emperor Yongsheng became somewhat uneasy.

Damn it.

Looking at me, what? Do I have a flower on my face?

What does that mean? Can't I lead the expedition personally? Yet Emperor Yongsheng said nothing, instead looking at the Duke with a gentle smile.

"How do you, Duke, feel about this?"

Emperor Yongsheng asked.

He devised all this just to secure the Duke's support.

He even specially granted the Duke the General of the Xiongnu Campaign title, giving him all the face; now it depends on how the Duke replies.

And at this very moment,

the Duke was stunned in place, not knowing what to say for a moment.

Well, that's something.

Damn it, giving himself the title of General of the Xiongnu Campaign while he is to guard Da Xia Capital?

What kind of General of the Xiongnu Campaign is this? Isn't it just a logistics officer? "Your Majesty."

"I, the old minister, disagree."

"You are a body of priceless value; how could you lead the expedition personally?"

"This dirty, exhausting work, let the old minister handle it."

In an instant, the Duke stood up and outright refused, though he remained somewhat courteous.

But upon hearing this, Emperor Yongsheng waved his hand and said,

"No."

"Gu Jinian has become a saint, moving me; Gu Jinian has done so much for the Da Xia Dynasty. As emperor, if I cannot go to fight for the Da Xia people, I would betray my ancestors."

"This matter, my mind is already set; I also know that you, my dear ministers, worry for me."

"But I will certainly not disappoint the Da Xia people."

"In this campaign, I will surely ride my horse into the royal court, planting the Da Xia banner upon the Xiongnu lands."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke magnanimously.

And his attitude was resolute.

Seeing this scene,

everyone fully understood that Emperor Yongsheng's whole scheme had long been set, merely awaiting today's capture.

"Impossible."

"Please, Your Majesty, think it over three times."

"Leading the expedition personally is far too dangerous."

The Duke continued.

He still did not agree.

At the same time, he turned his gaze toward the civil officials.

Feeling the Duke's stare, the officials also realized something, and one by one stepped forward to speak.

"Your Majesty, you must not personally lead the campaign."

"Please, Your Majesty, withdraw the decree."

"Indeed, I hope Your Majesty will retract the decree."

In an instant, the officials all spoke up, urging Emperor Yong Sheng against this dangerous idea.

Seeing this scene.

Emperor Yong Sheng couldn't help but frown.

"Duke Zhen Guo."

"Did I not appoint you as the General leading the campaign against the Xiongnu? Why do you refuse my personal expedition?"

Emperor Yong Sheng asked with a slight frown.

If you don't mention the Xiongnu‑campaign general, Duke Zhen Guo is fine; once mentioned, he immediately speaks up, clearly irritated.

"Your Majesty, my body, worth ten thousand gold, must not lead the campaign personally."

"The war against the Xiongnu can be handled by this old minister."

Duke Zhen Guo, suppressing his anger, said.

Damn it, make me handle logistics? I'd rather die than do that.

Hearing this, Emperor Yong Sheng also became somewhat displeased.

Damn it, I assigned you as the General of the Xiongnu campaign, and that's not enough? So greedy? Fine.

Fine.

I must have been blind, misjudged you; I didn't expect Duke Zhen Guo to be so vain.

"What if I refuse?"

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke up, a little angry.

At those words, Duke Zhen Guo instantly lost his temper.

"Then let's not fight at all."

"In any case, even if I die, I will never consent to Your Majesty's personal campaign."

Duke Zhen Guo's temper flared as well.

If I cannot go to war, then let none go; after all, not fighting is a good thing—the nation can recuperate, and the people can live peacefully.

"Hiss."

"Duke Zhen Guo, you are bold."

"I did not expect that, at your advanced age, you are still so vain. This campaign against the Xiongnu is for revenge; what do you make of it? Do you see it as a chance to make a name for yourself?"

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke, his chest heaving with anger.

Good fellow, you all say let's not fight? Who talks to the emperor like that? Planning rebellion? "In any case, this old minister does not intervene."

"If I cannot fight, then none should even think of fighting."

Who is Grandfather Gu? He is the chief of the generals.

Da Xia's famous ** son, Gundaorou, after speaking, sat down on the ground without caring about anything.

No one fights.

Give up.

Sigh, I just give up.

"Hiss! Well done, Duke Zhen Guo."

"You have greatly disappointed me."

"Look at my nephew, then look at you; the Gu Family, aside from my nephew, is all like this?"

"I still insist on leading personally; what can you do to stop me?"

"You could never still dare to restrain me?"

Emperor Yong Sheng's temper flared again.

If we must fight, we will fight— I'll drive you mad, drive you mad.

Upon hearing this, Duke Zhen Guo stood up.

"Your Majesty, I cannot defy the sovereign."

"If Your Majesty truly wishes to fight, I cannot stop you, but I will immediately fetch my grandson Jin Nian and have him write an essay advocating a cease‑fire."

"Do not forget, Your Majesty, my grandson is a saint."

"Who is Duke Zhen Guo? It's Lao Gundaorou, playing rogue with him? Duke Zhen Guo really isn't afraid."

You go ahead and fight.

If you dare to fight, step forward; he forces you with death, making Gu Jin Nian write an essay advocating a cease‑fire, to see whether you seek fame or war.

Sure enough, at those words, Emperor Yong Sheng almost fainted with anger.

Damn it, you Lao Bi Deng, pulling a dirty trick? Yet I must say, that trick really works.

"I truly was mistaken."

"You don't think I'm going out just to show off, do you?"

"My purpose in going out is painstaking; do you understand?"

Emperor Yong Sheng inhaled deeply, pointed at Duke Zhen Guo's nose and cursed.

"My grandson is a saint."

Duke Zhen Guo ignored him, saying only a single sentence.

"Anyway, Your Majesty, you handle it as you see fit."

Hearing this, Emperor Yong Sheng's brain seemed about to burst with anger.

"Do you know how hard I am? I manage myriad affairs daily, reviewing three thousand memorials each day."

"I just want to go to war and wash away Da Xia's disgrace—does that not work either?"

"You truly have a petty heart."

Emperor Yongsheng continued speaking.

"My grandson is a saint."

Lord Zhen Guo was too lazy to listen to more; he said just one sentence.

"Anyway, handle it yourself."

"My nephew is a saint, and your grandson is a saint, my nephew is also a saint."

Emperor Yongsheng, furious and speechless, gave up and also repeated that sentence.

"My grandson is a saint."

Lord Zhen Guo kept repeating that sentence.

"My nephew is also a saint."

Emperor Yongsheng, too lazy for idle talk, went straight to learning.

"My grandson is a saint."

"My nephew is also a saint."

"My grandson is a saint."

"My nephew is also a saint."

In the court.

One ruler and one minister, like mischievous children quarreling, each retorting to the other, leaving the crowd silent.

Want to interject, but fear catching fire.

Better not interject.

These two have some issues.

Very awkward.

In the end, it went on until dusk.

The two argued heatedly; honestly, if their ruler‑minister roles weren't so sensitive, everyone could see that Lord Zhen Guo really wanted to do something.

And Emperor Yongsheng also wanted to do something.

Fortunately, in the end the Empress Dowager intervened, stopped the farce, the civil and military officials escorted Lord Zhen Guo away, and the Empress Dowager and Empress escorted Emperor Yongsheng away, finally quelling the farce.

But everyone knew.

This matter would certainly never end; without a good solution, arguing for months was possible.

However.

Then, late tonight.

In ten locations, divine light suddenly erupted.

One was in the Da Xia Dynasty.

One was in the Xiongnu Nation.

One was in the Great Jin Dynasty.

Three were in the Zhongzhou Dynasty.

In the Southern Barbarians and the Western Desert, each had two sacred mountains radiating light.

Like the previously seen Puyuan Mountain.

Heaven's Mandate condensed.

Meanwhile.

Zhongzhou.

Within an ancient mountain range.

A group of people slowly emerged.

They were members of the Great Dao Office.

Leading them was Gui Gu.

Behind him followed dozens, with Chang Yuntian at the front—recommended a book.

"Cultivation: I Can Reincarnate in the Heavens," author Hei Xin Shizun—recommended a book "Cultivation: I Can Reincarnate in the Heavens."

Having crossed over, after hard‑won hardships finally becoming an official, he was unexpectedly framed by his superior and thrown into prison.

Unexpectedly, after the bridal chamber, the Kunlun Mirror awakened, leading to reincarnation cultivation.

One can solidify destiny with a Dao Fruit, a proof everlasting.

Using a copy world as a disaster‑avoidance method, the real world avoids calamity and extends blessings….

First life: became a disciple of the Heaven and Earth Society, with overthrowing the Qing as a primary mission, solidifying the Red Destiny 【Righteous Thief】: 【To perform righteous deeds, like a mantis raising its arms, gaining great luck; when confronting court threats, there is a chance to seek auspiciousness and avoid misfortune.】

Apprenticed to a Daoist master of the Dragon Gate Sect, learning the method of corpse‑to‑immortal transformation, forming the Imperial Purple Destiny 【Underground Master】: 【Third‑rank Netherworld wandering ghost, the beginning of corpse‑to‑immortal…】

Second life: temporarily undecided…

(End of chapter)