Chapter 272: At the End of Jingxin Year 34, Re-entering the Great Dream Academy!

Yang An is dead?

Zhao Xing froze.

"Who told you this news?"

"Has it been verified? Yinyou Mountain is deep in the Southern Wilderness—perhaps they've just lost contact."

"Lord Yang's name has already appeared on the Ministry of War's latest list of the fallen—five thousand Divine Might troops, including Lord Yang himself, never returned from Yinyou Mountain…" Long Xiao said, eyes red.

Zhao Xing fell silent—if Yang An's name truly appeared on the Ministry of War's official list and had been publicly announced,

then Yang An was almost certainly dead.

He hadn't expected that in this life, Yang An would still die in the Pacification of the Man Rebellion.

Zhao Xing couldn't help but feel a pang of sorrow.

"You just said Lord Yang was forced to die—who told you that?"

Zhao Xing didn't need to ask who had forced Yang An's death—he didn't even have to think: it had to be Liang Wang.

The only question was who had leaked the news.

From the source of the rumor, one could judge how urgently Liang Wang intended to rebel.

Was he about to strike now, or still preparing?

"The Military Strategist," Long Xiao wept. "The, the Military Strategist said Lord Yang and the five thousand Divine Might troops… not even their souls could be recovered… waaah…"

Not from other channels, not widely known—only Military Strategist Jia Pu. That proved Liang Wang's methods were still concealed… Zhao Xing thought.

Seeing Long Xiao weep like a child, he couldn't press further.

Zhao Xing comforted him: "There may still be a twist—history has known cases where soldiers declared dead by the War Realm later returned alive… Stay put in the Azure Dragon Army. Don't act rashly. Wait until we meet again."

Long Xiao was trained by Yang An—his sword techniques were all taught by Yang An.

In every sense, Yang An was both teacher and father to Long Xiao.

"I'll send people to investigate carefully," Zhao Xing said. "Think of your wife and children—don't do anything irrational."

Long Xiao was a man of genuine emotion; Zhao Xing truly feared he might leave the Azure Dragon Army now and rush to the Nine Heavens' Yuan Mansion to seek revenge on Liang Wang.

…

After ending the communication, Zhao Xing began verifying the news from multiple sources.

First, he sought the official announcement.

He found only a few brief lines in the Ministry of War's notice:

General Yang An, leading five thousand Divine Might troops, fought for over a month at Yinyou Mountain, failed to break out, and perished with his entire force.

"Nothing useful here," Zhao Xing closed the notice, then contacted Liu Tianning.

Others might be in seclusion or busy with duties, but Liu Tianning always answered the moment he was called.

"Chen An," Liu Tianning's spectral image appeared before him.

"Teacher," Zhao Xing cut straight to the point. "I heard Yang An is dead, and even his soul can't be summoned—is this true?"

"Yes," Liu Tianning nodded.

"Do you know the details?"

Though Yang An still held the official rank of Fourth Rank military officer, his actual cultivation was Third Rank.

In Jingxin Year 30, Yang An entered the Third Rank realm.

Both the power of the Divine Might Army and his personal growth had surged dramatically.

A Third Rank sword cultivator, one forged in mountains of corpses and seas of blood—a man like this was nearly impossible to kill.

As commander, Yang An would have commanded a high-tier Blood Battle Array.

Long Xiao's sword techniques were all taught by Yang An; Long Xiao himself believed his talent fell short of Yang An's.

If a man like that chose to flee, even a First Rank enemy might not kill him!

But one of his own could.

If Zhao Xing were in Liang Wang's position, he'd have a million ways to destroy Yang An.

Now he wanted to know: had Liang Wang's methods been so concealed that even Liu Tianning, the War Realm's Inspector, couldn't uncover them?

"This is classified—I cannot tell you specifics," Liu Tianning said gravely. "I can only say: it's exactly as you think."

Zhao Xing nodded: "Teacher, be extremely careful."

Liu Tianning, in Jingxin Year 29—the same year he came to Donghai—had reached Third Rank Primordial Spirit after consuming the Primordial Spirit Fruit.

In early Year 33, his official rank was also elevated.

Appointments: Transport Commissioner of the Haizhou Land-Sea Military Bureau, Junior Third Rank.

Grand Inspector of the Southern Man Western Theater, War Realm Five Caves, Junior Third Rank.

Both were positions of real power—most full Third Ranks held less authority than Liu Tianning.

But precisely because of this, Liu Tianning now occupied a perilous position.

"Don't worry about me," Liu Tianning said. After a pause, he added: "But in the coming time, I'll be extremely busy—so busy I won't have time to answer your messages."

Zhao Xing's heart sank.

Liu Tianning possessed a top-tier Ten-Thousand Methods Split-Spirit—how could he be this overwhelmed?

"So, I'll be unable to monitor Donghai closely," Liu Tianning said. "Even if you don't contact me, I'll be reaching out to you."

"Please instruct me, Teacher."

"I'll arrange for your transfer out of Haizhou before the end of Jingxin Year 34," Liu Tianning said. "You'll likely be assigned to Daoyuanzhou."

"Wait," Zhao Xing said. "Teacher, I don't want to leave."

Liu Tianning frowned: "You don't understand the danger—I can't say more, but the threat exceeds your imagination."

Zhao Xing shook his head: "Teacher, I won't leave. I can accept a transfer—but I ask you to directly assign me to the Haizhou Transport Bureau as Theater Inspector."

"Why?"

"Master, I saw King Tianyan in the Eastern Sea. For the past two years, I have been following King Tianyan to learn."

Liu Tianning realized: "You cultivated the Tianyan Divine Art?"

"Yes." Zhao Xing nodded. This secret was unknown to Liu Tianning, mainly because the confidentiality level of his file had not yet been downgraded.

Conversely, after mastering it, coupled with a major discovery, King Tianyan had elevated it to the highest confidentiality level.

"Master, by following King Tianyan, I have already learned many things," Zhao Xing said.

In fact, King Tianyan had told him absolutely nothing, but Liu Tianning did not know that.

King Tianyan is a Fate Official; the information Liu Tianning possesses also largely comes from the Fate Official agency.

"My cultivation progress is also faster than you imagine; I have mastered top-tier techniques," Zhao Xing said. "And not just one."

"The future holds danger, but also opportunity; I do not wish to miss it."

"Moreover, every move you make in this position will attract attention. Transferring me away at this time might invite criticism."

Zhao Xing had been preparing for over ten years; how could he possibly run away at this moment?

Upon hearing Zhao Xing speak thus, Liu Tianning fell into deep thought.

After a long while, he nodded and said, "Very well, I will arrange it immediately."

"Thank you, Master."

Transferring other positions is not that easy, but the posts of Transport Commissioner and Patrol Commissioner are relatively easy to move.

Furthermore, since this is a lateral transfer involving no promotion and its accompanying luck baptism, the procedure will be very fast.

"Be careful yourself," Liu Tianning said. "If anything unexpected happens, run to the Princess's residence."

Princess Youruo's residence is naturally very safe.

"Yes." Zhao Xing nodded. If he truly had to flee, Princess Youruo's residence would not even be the first choice; the Profound Heaven Academy would be.

…………

After hanging up the communication device, Zhao Xing closed his eyes and fell into deep thought.

"Old Liu probably saw the future turmoil in Pinghaizhou through the Fate Officials' predictions of the future."

"This future possibility is uncertain, but at this moment, the possibility of Liang Wang rebelling has definitely increased, which is why he is busy, and King Tianyan has suddenly entered seclusion and lost contact."

The imperial court naturally knows about the future turmoil; the Fate Officials are not just eating dry rice for nothing.

However, as long as the event has not occurred, it is impossible to execute people now based on future events.

Even if Liang Wang rebels at the second quarter of the Chen hour, at the first quarter of the Chen hour, he is still Liang Wang.

"If Liang Wang rebels in the thirty-fifth year, the end of the thirty-fourth year is the last opportunity to leave Pinghaizhou."

"Once he splits the national dynasty's luck, he will be unable to leave even if he wants to at that time. Liu Tianning is planning to arrange my departure based on this consideration," Zhao Xing thought to himself.

Luck and Fate complement each other.

If the national dynasty's luck splits, Pinghaizhou will generate immense karmic entanglement.

The luck of the two camps is opposed.

At that time, there will only be two choices: rebel or suppress the rebellion.

There is no middle option; otherwise, one will suffer a backlash.

Success brings a reward of luck; failure means death and the extinction of the Dao.

"This is the moment to rise with the momentum."

"Not just Pinghaizhou; Lüliangzhou is the same. However, Pinghaizhou is the greatest place for the struggle of luck."

Zhao Xing opened his eyes, walked out of the She Shen Temple, and flew into the sky above.

"At this moment, the fluctuations of luck in Pinghaizhou are not yet obvious."

"Except for the Fate Officials and a very few others who can sense the subtle anomalies, everyone else is completely unaware."

Zhao Xing observed for a while; on the luck shield at this moment, the shape of a golden dragon had already appeared.

"The moment the luck golden dragon ascends to the heavens, the system of the luck dynasty will split into countless dragon qi representing individuals in this region of Pinghaizhou."

"Heroes rise together, dragons ascend to the heavens, devouring one another." Zhao Xing looked south again.

At this moment, he had not yet observed the black dragon of Liang Wang.

"However, if he rebels next year, he has probably already begun secretly devouring luck this year; I just cannot see it yet," Zhao Xing thought to himself.

A unified dynasty would not produce the situation of 'individual luck like a dragon, combining with the luck of heaven and earth, like a dragon swimming through the nine heavens'.

"Voom~"

The clouds and mist dispersed, and Zhao Xing reappeared at the She Shen Temple.

"Zhao Xing, have you received the news?" Chen Shijie suddenly rushed out in a panic.

"Old Chen, accept your grief."

Chen Shijie's eyes were slightly red, and his voice was somewhat hoarse: "I heard from Long Xiao that the Marquis was killed by someone, and not even his soul could be summoned back. Is this true?"

Zhao Xing sighed in his heart and nodded: "Nine times out of ten, yes. Wait for the official announcement to finalize the nature of the incident."

"I also asked around everywhere. Except for the Strategist who thinks it's a conspiracy theory, everyone else believes the Marquis died unluckily in battle."

"Was the transfer order normal?" Chen Shijie asked.

"Normal."

"Was there any rescue?"

"Rescue was too late."

"Was there any error in the intelligence?"

"Yes, but someone has already been beheaded by Liang Wang for this matter: three officials of the fourth rank, positive."

There was no need to hide anything from Chen Shijie, because he would not lose his reason.

"Why?" Chen Shijie looked utterly disheartened. "Why would he not let the Marquis go, not even granting him the chance to return his soul to his homeland?"

Zhao Xing shook his head and said, "It is said that half a year ago, Liang Wang summoned the Marquis to discuss affairs, but since this was not a public military meeting, the Marquis made an excuse to decline."

"Connecting this is a stretch... That transfer order was not even issued by Liang Wang personally, but by another ruling prince."

Chen Shijie let out a bitter laugh. "So, the deaths of three Fourth Rank officials were exchanged for the lives of the Marquis and five thousand of the Divine Might Army?"

Zhao Xing remained silent.

A higher rank crushes a lower one to death; moreover, on a complex battlefield, it is too simple for a commander to destroy someone below who does not share his heart and is utterly black-hearted!

If Zhao Xing were in Liang Wang's position, he would have ten thousand ways to make Yang An die.

If he were to rebel, he would need to reduce unstable factors; Yang An, a sword cultivator general of extraordinary talent who did not share his heart, was destined to be killed.

Sending him to the Southern Barbarians to kill would even serve as a token of loyalty.

"Old Chen..."

"You don't need to comfort me." Chen Shijie waved his hand and said, "I won't be impulsive..."

"Where are you going?"

"To handle state affairs."

Chen Shijie's back looked extremely powerless.

Liang Wang is a First Rank Prince; now, bearing the nation's fate to campaign against the barbarians and holding great power, he can be considered above First Rank.

Against such an enemy, what could he, Chen Shijie, do?

He couldn't even retrieve the soul; he didn't even know where to burn paper money!

Chen Shijie and Long Xiao could not talk anymore.

They were now grieving in their grief and raging in their rage.

Zhao Xing could only find Xia Jing to drink.

"How exactly did Yang An die?" Xia Jing asked. "Why didn't he break through the siege?"

Zhao Xing sighed. "He couldn't. In the Battle of Yin You Mountain, the Southern Barbarians' four Second Rank Heavenly Witches had long set an ambush in that area."

"They first drained the Qi of Heaven and Earth, then set up a top-tier Soul-Confusing Ten-Killing Formation."

"During the subsequent month-long siege, the Military Agriculture Commissioner in the city could not bring any supplies to the army."

"Any attempt to break through would be stopped by fifty Third Rank martial artists, spellcasters, and witches."

"Through such continuous attrition, until finally, even one Third Rank died, they slaughtered Yang An and the Divine Might Army to the last man."

"This was a death trap." Zhao Xing said.

"Marquis of Divine Might, truly a pity." Xia Jing raised a cup of wine. "My father once said that among the new generation of generals cultivating the Azure Dragon Dharma Image, Yang An was the most likely to touch the Ultimate Dao."

"Now, his soul cannot even be summoned back."

The Great Zhou's Soul-Returning Divine Spirit uses the Heavenly Soul (Rebirth Soul) to recall the scattered Life Soul.

When the Life Soul revives, the Causal Soul revives with it.

There are many reasons why it cannot be recalled.

First, Yin You Mountain is now in the hands of the Southern Barbarians; second, Yang An's soul was repeatedly annihilated, transforming from a ghost into a Zhan, then the Zhan died again, becoming Xi.

The Great Zhou's Rebirth True Lord can theoretically, at the Xi level, use the Heavenly Soul to recall the scattered Life Soul.

But if the Xi level is annihilated again, becoming Yi, then there is no way.

Because Yi is complete nothingness.

Of course, achieving this degree is also quite difficult.

The Southern Barbarians would also have to expend great effort to completely annihilate Yang An's soul.

Because Yang An's value was high enough, such a counterattack would bring a huge deterrent effect.

"Zhao Xing, this Marquis will exert ten percent of his full power to unleash the Azure Dragon Sword Qi; how much you can withstand depends on yourself!"

"A heart full of hot blood, cherish it well; spilled, it can still turn into green waves."

"Marquis Yuanrang, we shall meet again."

Zhao Xing recalled the farewell poem and sword Qi Yang An had once sent, and could not help but feel a sigh of emotion.

"Except for the two copies stored within my two doppelgänger bodies, there is no more of Yang An's Azure Dragon Sword Qi in the world."

Xia Jing slapped the wine cup, shattering it. "Liang Wang is a traitor to the nation; he truly deserves to die! I think he will rebel sooner or later!"

"Zhao Xing, you were right to curse him back then!"

Zhao Xing said, "Brother Xia, prepare early. The Southern Barbarians' campaign is going poorly, and Liang Wang has rebellious intentions; I fear it won't be long before Ping Haizhou and Lüliang State face drastic changes."

"Are you saying he will truly rebel?" Xia Jing had just been speaking in anger for fun.

Subconsciously, he still did not believe Liang Wang would rebel.

What would be the point?

He is already a First Rank Prince; does he aim for that Supreme Emperor's throne?

That hope is too slim!

"In any case, make preparations." Zhao Xing said. "You and I are both from Ping Haizhou; if that day truly comes, neither of us can remain unscathed."

While Zhao Xing and Xia Jing were talking.

East Sea, Hong Clan's ancestral land.

In a cluster of underwater palaces.

"Splash~"

A deep-sea fish ship swam by, passing through a rapid water channel and entering a mountain beneath the sea.

Inside the mountain stood a golden, luxurious palace surrounded by green seaweed.

"Who goes there!" As soon as this fish boat appeared, aquatic guards immediately swarmed around it.

Their bodies were wrapped in scales all the way to their necks; only their faces had human-like skin, with gill slits behind their ears.

"Present this token to your master for inspection." A streak of flowing light floated out from inside the fish boat.

The front of the token bore the character 'Hong', the back bore the character 'Mi', and several unique patterns adorned its edges.

"A top-level secret order?" The guards instantly dared not be negligent, respectfully stepping aside to escort the fish boat into the palace.

Under the guards' escort, the fish boat flew directly into the golden palace.

Inside the palace stood a throne, shimmering with Jin Guang, with a shadowy figure faintly visible upon it.

"All of you, withdraw." The golden shadow issued the command.

"Yes."

The guards immediately departed.

The Jin Guang faded, and Hong Hong Yuanba rose from the throne.

His figure was tall and imposing, like a moving mountain; his solid muscles were faintly visible beneath the dim blue water light, radiating boundless power.

His armor was forged from strange deep-sea secret silver, shimmering with a cold, dim glow; every scale was meticulously carved with water-pattern motifs, as if merging with the surrounding currents.

His face seemed carved by ocean waves, with distinct contours and hard lines. His deep eyes were like a cold pool at the bottom of the sea, icy and sharp; when his gaze swept across, it seemed capable of piercing through all illusions.

Upon his head sat a war helmet inlaid with coral and pearls, its top spikes resembling the spines of a sea urchin, majestic and terrifying.

Behind him, a massive blue cape billowed in the wind, embroidered with the primal totems of the aquatic race.

A clan with two kings: Hong Hong Yuanba held the title of Wang Jue, and Hong Hong Yuanba also held the title of Wang Jue.

However, Hong Hong Yuanba held no actual power and had always managed the ancestral lands.

Hong Hong Yuanba, on the other hand, was the commander of the Eastern Sea.

The fish boat stopped, and a young man in magnificent robes stepped out of the cabin; it was Ji Chen.

In the twenty-ninth year of the Jingxin Era, he was confirmed as the heir apparent by Liang Wang.

"Student greets his teacher." Ji Chen respectfully clasped his hands and bowed.

If an outsider heard Ji Chen's address, they would likely be shocked; the heir apparent of Liang Wang had secretly taken Hong Hong Yuanba as his master?

"Chen'er, rise." Hong Hong Yuanba said with a smile, "Since you became heir apparent, this is the first time you have come to my place."

"Thanks to the teacher's cultivation." Ji Chen said respectfully.

"Hahaha, come, come!" Hong Hong Yuanba, seeing Ji Chen, was extremely delighted: "Let your teacher see if you have made any progress these years."

"Please, teacher, bestow your instruction." Ji Chen instantly transformed into a streak of flowing light and charged out.

Half an hour later, the master and disciple finished their sparring and returned to their seats.

"Chen'er, you have improved greatly; you have already reached Third Rank strength." Hong Hong Yuanba praised, "Have you undergone the baptism of fortune?"

"Yes." Ji Chen nodded.

"Now your status as heir apparent is truly deserved." Hong Hong Yuanba said. "You came here suddenly; besides seeing me, is there anything else?"

"Teacher, Father King has a message for you."

"Oh?" Hong Hong Yuanba said solemnly, "I wonder what orders Liang Wang has."

Ji Chen lowered his head, his face contorting.

When he raised his head again, his facial structure had changed.

His face, including his temperament and gaze, had become completely identical to Liang Wang Ji Mingxian.

"Your Highness!" A flash of horror passed through Hong Hong Yuanba's eyes, and he immediately stood up.

It was not only because of this transformation, but also because he recognized the technique—Blood Soul Parasitism!

This method was extremely bizarre, capable of lodging and transferring souls between blood relatives.

Because it violated ethics, it was designated as an evil technique very long ago!

A prince of Great Zhou, Liang Wang Ji Mingxian, had actually cultivated this secret method?

It was simply shocking; after the initial horror, a flash of keen light exploded in Hong Hong Yuanba's eyes, carrying a hint of expectation.

"Yuanba, do you wish to see the scenery beyond First Rank?" Liang Wang Ji Mingxian said indifferently.

"Your Highness, no—Your Majesty, I am willing!" Hong Hong Yuanba was also an interesting man; he immediately knelt down.

If Liang Wang had gone this far, what else could it be but rebellion?

He, Hong Hong Yuanba, had limited talent; cultivating to Third Rank was his limit.

Afterwards, he obtained the Second Rank Wang Jue position and entered the Second Rank Heavenly Fortune Realm.

But ascending to First Rank was almost impossible.

His brother, Hong Hong Yuanba, still had hope.

However, everyone knew that First Rank was not the limit.

Like Liang Wang, he was an existence beyond First Rank; because he bore sufficient national fortune and possessed a divine artifact, he possessed strength surpassing First Rank.

Furthermore, Hong Hong Yuanba personally admired Liang Wang greatly.

Years ago, when Liang Wang was ordered to eliminate his own clan brothers, he displayed immense and powerful martial might.

Additionally, Liang Wang had repeatedly settled disputes among the aquatic race.

In Hong Hong Yuanba's eyes, only Ji Mingxian fit his impression of an emperor.

Emperor Jing? What would he do? Relying on sleeping with women to gain the Eastern Sea lands—what skill is that?

So when Liang Wang asked just one question, he immediately agreed.

If Liang Wang could ascend the throne, he would be the Crown Prince's teacher; he is younger than Liang Wang, and when Ji Chen succeeds, he will be Grand Preceptor—wouldn't that be wonderful?

Ji Mingxian said indifferently: "Yuanba, I need the full strength of your Hong clan to obey my commands."

Hong Pang Yuan Shou? Just a brute! A bit of small cleverness, but no great wisdom, and no strategic vision.

What Liang Wang truly wants is Hong Yuanba.

Because Hong Yuanba can lead troops in battle and is an outstanding army commander.

Hong Pang Yuan Shou's eyes rolled, and he immediately said, "Your Majesty, I am confident I can persuade my elder brother."

"Very well, I entrust Chen'er to you." With that sentence spoken, Ji Mingxian's voice vanished.

Ji Chen lowered his head again, his face twisting.

When he raised his head again, it was already Ji Chen himself.

"Teacher, how did the conversation go?" Ji Chen asked cautiously.

Although over these years, Hong Pang Yuan Shou had long been thoroughly understood by them.

But when it comes to rebellion, no one can be sure whether he will do it or not.

If Hong Pang Yuan Shou and his father have not reached an agreement, he will only die here.

"Hahaha, how dare I disobey Your Majesty's order?" Hong Pang Yuan Shou laughed.

Ji Chen was startled first, then realized that the "Your Majesty" Hong Pang Yuan Shou mentioned referred to his father, and immediately breathed a sigh of relief.

"Teacher, I wonder how to persuade your elder brother?" Ji Chen immediately got into character.

"Simple," Hong Pang Yuan Shou said. "Of the Four Families of the Eastern Sea, I can arbitrarily choose one family's legitimate heir to slaughter, and my elder brother will never be able to turn back."

Ji Chen was stunned; he had not expected that his own teacher was also a thorough rebel.

He had not said anything yet, and the teacher had already thought it through.

However, this way, it also saved Ji Chen the trouble of persuasion.

"I wonder which family the teacher intends to target?"

"The Bai family should be the first choice; what does the Crown Prince think?" Hong Pang Yuan Shou asked.

"Teacher, please still call me Heir Apparent," Ji Chen said; he always felt this teacher was moving too fast, although he thought the same in his heart.

"Good, very good, but the candidate still needs careful selection, and the timing..."

"Bai Yunwu has four sons: Bai Mingchuan, Bai Mingsong, Bai Zhengyang, and Bai Zhenghe."

"Those with weight are Bai Mingchuan and Bai Zhengyang."

"Bai Mingsong and Bai Zhenghe are both ritual cultivators, not worth mentioning," Hong Pang Yuan Shou said disdainfully. "Once they reach the sea, their strength is as weak as a sea worm."

"How to choose between Bai Mingchuan and Bai Zhengyang?" Ji Chen was not very familiar with the strength of the various generals of the Eastern Sea.

"Bai Mingchuan's strength is not bad; he has already cultivated the Seven-Layered Dragon Blood True Body, so killing him might be somewhat difficult," Hong Pang Yuan Shou said. "This matter cannot be delayed; it must be fast, accurate, and ruthless."

"Then let us choose Bai Zhengyang."

…………

Chongming Prefecture, Princess's Manor.

Zhao Xing's Qilin Flying Boat landed inside the Princess's Manor.

He was about to be transferred and leave, so of course he had to tell Princess Youruo.

Additionally, his family also needed to be properly arranged.

Running to the Profound Heaven Academy would be too strange; staying at the Princess's Manor would suffice.

"Senior Brother~"

Ji Zixuan had been waiting on the observation platform for a long time.

Zhao Xing looked down.

He had not seen Ji Zixuan for a long time.

And the other party's changes were indeed very great.

Since the twentieth year of the Jingxin Era, Ji Zixuan had traveled to many places; now, fourteen years have passed, and Ji Zixuan has visited almost all the cave-heavens and blessed lands of the Nineteen Provinces.

One was for cultivation trials, and the other was to inspect the Princess Youruo's assets in various regions.

She did both things very excellently.

Now, her strength has reached the peak of the Pure Origin Realm, and her ranking in the Dao Hall is not low.

Princess Youruo has also granted Ji Zixuan great authority, completely treating her as the successor to Steward Liu Wanliang.

Do not underestimate the position of Steward of the Princess's Manor; the Steward can manage the entire Princess's Manor, control all assets, and even includes the training of Princes and Princesses.

"The Phantom Shadow Assassin has already taken initial shape," Zhao Xing thought silently.

"Senior Brother~" Ji Zixuan waved her hand.

Zhao Xing did not go toward her, but flew directly to a pavilion behind a rockery.

"Junior Sister, your talisman illusion body is used with increasing skill."

"Senior Brother is truly formidable; I considered my talisman technique flawless, yet Senior Brother saw through it at a glance and even found my true body," Ji Zixuan said, her eyes sparkling.

"Compare with me? Then you still need to practice more," Zhao Xing said. "That talisman illusory body of yours, in your view has no flaws, but in the eyes of experts, it is full of loopholes; do not rely on it too heavily for combat now."

"Once you take a risky move, you might truly die."

"Yes," Ji Zixuan obediently listened.

"Take me to see Senior Sister-in-law."

…………

"You are going to the Transportation Office and also becoming the Inspector?" Princess Youruo looked at Zhao Xing in surprise. "Your recent transfers have a truly huge span."

First, transferred from the Twin Dragon Horse Stable to the She Shen Temple.

Suddenly, you are to be transferred under Liu Tianning's command to serve as Transportation Commissioner and Inspector.

The Transportation Commissioner is indeed the Agriculture Office's main duty, but the Inspector is completely like a dog catching a rat, meddling in affairs that do not concern it.

"Do you know something?" Princess Youruo looked at Zhao Xing. "No, how could your teacher say such things... let alone agree to this transfer of yours."

"He told me before that he wanted you to leave Pinghaizhou."

"Xiao Chen'an, what are you and your master hiding from me?"

Zhao Xing bowed and said, "Madam, the confidentiality rules prevent me from speaking. But Madam, wise and perceptive as you are, surely you already know."

Princess Youruo truly did not know.

But the flattery pleased her greatly.

"I couldn't care less about your men's thoughts."

"Whether you seek glory or leave for distant lands, just know your own mind."

Princess Youruo said, "Speak—what else did you come to see me about?"

"I am about to be reassigned, and I wish to bring my family to stay briefly at the Princess's residence. Please, Madam, look after them," Zhao Xing said. "If it were anyone else, I would not trust them."

"A trivial matter," Princess Youruo waved her sleeve. "Go find Liu Wanliang and choose a residence."

"Thank you, Madam," Zhao Xing bowed.

…………

Shortly after the Spring She Festival of the 34th year of the Jingxin Calendar, Zhao Xing moved his family into the Princess's residence.

The Princess's residence in Bixian Commandery was safer than Fucheng of Chongming.

Afterwards, Zhao Xing instructed Zhao Zheng to return to the Princess's residence even when visiting home, leaving the estate completely idle.

In March, Xia Jing took his leave from Zhao Xing.

He had fully recovered, and thanks to his misfortune, now had the confidence to cultivate his soul.

"Brother Zhao, I'm leaving," Xia Jing said. "When I return, I will enter seclusion to cultivate my soul."

"But my Earth Mirror communication will remain open for you."

"Don't talk so sappy," Zhao Xing laughed. "Focus on your seclusion. If anything happens, I'll call you."

"Hahaha, then I'll be waiting," Xia Jing said. "Thanks for the Eight Heavenly Maidens. If you ever get more like these, save some for your brother!"

Zhao Xing, hearing this, launched a soul-deep question: "Do you want the Mermaid Mechanical Puppet?"

"You…"

"Hahaha."

…………

At the end of March, the Southern Barbarian front erupted into a large-scale high-rank battle!

Yang An's death seemed to have become a trigger.

The Liang Wang ordered seven elite armies—Tongyou, Jiuxiao, Huang Quan, Xuanming, Tiancang, Taixu, and Wu Yao—to deploy fully.

On the twentieth of March, they breached Yinyou Mountain, slaying four Second Rank Heavenly Shamans, one First Rank Heavenly Shaman, and over five thousand Third Rank troops!

Yinyou Mountain was a symbol.

For from atop Yinyou Mountain, one could now see the shadow of the Southern Barbarian Sacred Mountain, which pierced heaven and earth.

This was an unprecedented honor!

At this moment, the Liang Wang's prestige reached its peak.

April fifth.

Long Xiao, Chen Shijie, and Zhao Xing met briefly.

After a night of deep conversation, the three parted the next day.

Long Xiao returned to the Azure Dragon Army.

Chen Shijie submitted his resignation, stepping down from his post as Director of the She Shrine.

He moved into a courtyard within the Princess's residence with his Lady.

Old Chen's current cultivation level made it too risky to accompany Zhao Xing on operations.

For suppressing rebellion, Old Chen could no longer risk himself.

He should wait for the optimal moment to manage the aftermath of rebellion.

Zhao Xing re-entered the Military Realm once more.

But he still had not found the King Tianyan's men.

The Star Palace could now be entered.

Zhao Xing continued practicing the soul-based secret technique from the Tianyan Scripture: "Soul-Extinguishing Bell."

The Xuantian Academy's avatar within Tianyuan Prefecture continued teaching, practicing Thunder Finger and Yunmen.

But the "A Step Away, Yet Worlds Apart" technique could not be learned.

Because Li Baqian's method involved physical transformation, and all such secret arts were currently beyond the reach of the Ten Thousand Methods Avatar.

By the end of April, the avatar in Kunyuan Earth Palace had completed training in "Vast Sea Earth Palace" and "Mystic Water Earth Palace."

Zhao Xing began attempting to comprehend the Earth Techniques: "Mystic Earth" and "Earth Splitting."

But progress was extremely slow.

…………

On the seventh of May, Zhao Xing sent an avatar into Jiujiang Cave Heaven to procure items.

"I already have something to conceal heavenly signs."

"Mainly purchase artifacts targeting Shamans."

Zhao Xing browsed the armory in Jiujiang Cave Heaven.

"If I can defend against Shamans, I'll at least be able to escape any other Third Rank."

Shamans have too many methods.

They can fly through the sky, tunnel underground, fight at range or close quarters—even sing and dance.

Like a martial artist, if Zhao Xing burrows underground and uses a clone to distract their line of sight, escaping would be very easy.

Facing a priest, the opponent can maintain soul-locking continuously, which is extremely troublesome.

"This hundred million in liquid capital will all be spent on one-time consumables, treasures specifically targeting priests," Zhao Xing thought silently.

Of course, when he buys them, he won't say they specifically counter priests; instead, he will claim they are for witches, or outsiders, or evil magic.

…………

On the fifth day of the sixth month, the high-grade battles on the Southern Barbarian battlefield grew increasingly fierce.

After crossing the Yin You Mountains, all four Wang Ting began to retreat and defend, starting to block the Great Zhou army's advance toward the Holy Mountain.

On the tenth day of the sixth month, the Divine Thunder Army, the Tiger and Jiao Army, and the Black Armor Army led by Tian Wu Hou, Ming Wei Hou, and Ming Wu Hou suffered heavy casualties; three Wu Hou died in battle.

On the fifteenth day of the sixth month, Ling Shuang Wang Pei Ding Shan died in battle at the 'Hundred Waters River'.

The first sealed Wang to die in battle appeared.

The Great Zhou's offensive was halted.

The Nine Nether Armies, the most mysterious of the Southern Barbarians, appeared in the Great Zhou's sight for the first time.

…………

"Xiang Kui is also dead," Zhao Xing said, looking at the military intelligence report, shaking his head silently; this man was the main general of the Black Armor Army.

"The main general of the Tiger and Jiao Army is also dead, replaced by Ding Long."

"Since the high-grade battles broke out, the number of Wu Hou who have died has reached sixty-seven."

"Now even Ling Shuang Wang is dead."

"With so many main generals dead, the replacements are gradually being swapped out for people secretly cultivated by Liang Wang," Zhao Xing thought silently. "This isn't war; it is clearly using the Southern Barbarians' hands to eliminate opponents."

It looked like the fighting was intense, the advance speed was fast, and the Southern Barbarian Holy Mountain was already visible, but on the Great Zhou side, casualties were continuously increasing.

"I wonder if Pei Pei Yuanchang has participated in the battle," Zhao Xing thought silently.

Pei Pei Yuanchang was the direct grandson of Ling Shuang Wang, whom he had met while fishing in the Extreme Night Sea.

"His sealed Wang grandfather died in this battle; his days ahead will likely be difficult."

Zhao Xing sorted through the intelligence, constantly summarizing useful information.

"Before long, Liang Wang will attribute the war's failure to a shortage of military supplies, constantly demanding various high-level strategic materials from the imperial court, with the Transportation Bureau being the first to suffer."

"However, after my transfer is complete, I will only be serving at the Donghai Transportation Bureau in Pinghaizhou, so the problem is not great."

Zhao Xing put away the intelligence and continued his cultivation.

…………

On the sixteenth day of the seventh month, Zhao Xing completed his official transfer.

But Liu Tianning gave him half a year of rest.

That is to say, this transfer order would not officially take effect until six months later.

Before this, Zhao Xing still had the choice: leave, or stay in Pinghaizhou.

"Old Liu is really afraid I'll die," Zhao Xing said, putting away the two transfer orders, lost in thought.

"It seems January of the thirty-fifth year of the Jingxin Era will be the final dividing line."

"If I don't leave by then, I won't be able to leave."

Zhao Xing left Fucheng and arrived at the highest mountain in Chongming Prefecture—Wang Cang Mountain.

At the same time, the clone of the Xuan Tian Academy's Tian Yuan Prefecture also arrived at the highest point of a spiritual mountain.

Additionally, within the Star Palace, another clone was examining the Juan Sect archives of the Soldier Realm.

He wanted to observe and calculate the Great Zhou Heaven's operation in Pinghaizhou!

"The Soldier Realm is composed of individual cave heaven small worlds, like beads, connected into a string by the Great Zhou's Soldier Realm channel lines, orbiting around the Xuan Huang Realm."

"Some cycles are strong, some weak; some channels are strong, some weak. When the weakest point arrives, the corresponding Soldier Realm channel becomes extremely small, unable to move troops on a large scale. At this time, the Soldier Realm entrances allowing entry into Pinghaizhou will be reduced to only seven places."

"Liang Wang only needs to seize these seven entrances to completely complete the blockade inside and outside Pinghaizhou."

"He must grasp this time node; only then is the possibility of a successful rebellion greatest, and only then will he have time to deal with those opposing him within Pinghaizhou. Otherwise, he will only become a bandit. Once he spreads poison across the world, he will completely lose the legitimacy of rebellion, and the Yin Spirit will no longer help him."

Zhao Xing knew which seven entrances they were, but this life was different from the previous one, so perhaps they had changed. Besides, knowing the specific time would be of great help to him.

"Once the time and location are confirmed, Liang Wang's main army groups can only go to these few places; I can avoid large-scale high-grade army groups," Zhao Xing calculated continuously.

He wanted to gain merit, not seek death, so if he wasn't sure, he would rather not go.

He continued calculating like this until the twenty-sixth day of the ninth month.

Combining the knowledge from his previous life, Zhao Xing finally arrived at a precise result.

"In the thirty-fifth year of the Jingxin Era, on the second day of the second month, the seven great cave heaven entrances will become the seven key channels for rapid troop movement," Zhao Xing verified repeatedly.

"I just don't know if the calculation by the Fate Officials matches mine. Why hasn't King Tianyan replied to my message yet? What exactly has he gone to do?"

Just at this time, King Tianyan disappeared.

If he could get more useful information from King Tianyan, that would be even better.

Zhao Xing wouldn't ask for a full map view; at the very least, he could get a half-map view.

"Liang Wang was previously the biggest head of the Fate Officials, and he also held the Creation Plate. Could King Tianyan have gone to check for secret doors? That would indeed take quite some time."

After finishing the calculation, Zhao Xing returned to the Jiujiang Cave Heaven of Chongming Prefecture.

This time, he entered the 【Dojo】.

It was not for fighting or cultivation, but to check the rankings.

"The last record of the Dojo rankings," Zhao Xing thought silently. "The rankings on the Dojo can reveal information about many experts."

"By then, the Earth Mirror will be intermittently functional, making it impossible to quickly check for useful information."

Not just the Earth Mirror; the rapid passage channels of all major academies would lose their effectiveness, either destroyed by Liang Wang or controlled by Liang Wang.

…………

It took a full month for Zhao Xing to record enough intelligence in the Soldier Realm before returning to Chongming Prefecture.

By then, it was already the tenth day of the tenth month of the thirty-fourth year of the Jingxin Era.

"That's about enough."

Zhao Xing arrived once more at the secret manor in Dongyang County.

"Less than four months remain until the calculated event."

"I should go find that stupid bird."

"Otherwise, even if it obtains some benefit, I won't have time to digest it."

"I hope it can make another trip."

The Mandate of Heaven Black Bird had said last time that if it were to recover, it would take at least a year and a half, or at most three to five years.

If calculated by the shorter time, he could violate the rules and act once more before the thirty-fifth year of the Jingxin Era.

If calculated by the longer five years, it would be by the end of the thirty-seventh year of the Jingxin Era; by then, the war would be almost over, so what was the point?

"I must pressure that stupid bird; I can't let it slack off." Zhao Xing closed his eyes and began to mutter words.

Buzz~

Inside the Great Dream Academy, the Pavilion of Heavenly Secrets.

Zhao Xing's phantom slowly appeared.

"Quack~ You're here!"

The voice of the Mandate of Heaven Black Bird sounded in his ear.

"Senior." Zhao Xing cupped his hands and said, "I'm here again. How is your recovery?"