Zhao Xing arrived in Fengjing and secretly entered the inner palace.
At this moment, Ji Che was seated on the throne in the Heavenly Heart Hall, surrounded by many divine artifacts.
Artifacts like the Golden Fortune Rankings, Divine Threads of Knowledge, Creation Disk, Human Emperor Sword, Heavenly Emperor Battle Armor, and the Five Sovereign War Chariots—all surrounded him in a magnificent display.
However, Ji Che could not move. He needed to remain seated on the throne for three full months before he could regain basic mobility.
When Zhao Xing reached the Heavenly Heart Hall, only Princess Ji Anlan and Fate Officer Ji Si were present in the hall.
"Minister Zhao Xing greets Your Majesty," Zhao Xing said as he bowed.
"Big Brother, take a seat," Ji Che's deep voice resonated. He sat unmoving on the throne, his tone calm yet commanding.
"Thank you, Your Majesty." Zhao Xing took a seat beside Princess Ji Anlan.
Silence filled the hall. Ji Che remained on the throne, surrounded by countless phenomena, as fortune and vitality swirled and shifted around him.
The changes were both wild and restrained. Even without deliberately sensing, Zhao Xing could feel Ji Che's aura surging at an astonishing pace.
In just three days, Ji Che's aura had already reached the peak of the Destiny Palace Realm.
Others began to arrive shortly after.
Liu Tianning, Lord Luo, Duke Yang, Grand Dance Master Ji Mengjun of the Sixth House, Deputy Commander Qin Guang of the Luan Guard, Deputy Commander Zhong Ziheng of the Divine Guard, and High Priest Ji Bochang—all entered the hall one after another. They silently accompanied Ji Che for three months.
Three months later, the golden light surrounding Ji Che gradually receded. Finally, he stood up from the throne.
"Thank you all for guarding my path," Ji Che said, his voice filled with solemn gratitude.
The gathered officials rose silently and saluted him. At this moment, there was no need for celebratory words—only silent respect.
Ji Che's gaze fell on Acting Chancellor Tong Wensheng and Ritual Overseer Ji Wenchang.
"The late emperor has departed, leaving his earthly years unfinished. Chancellor Tong and Overseer Ji, draft a posthumous title for the late emperor and proclaim it to the world. The state funeral will be held in one month."
"As you command," Tong Wensheng and Ji Wenchang promptly bowed and left.
The term "departed emperor" referred to an emperor who had passed away but whose posthumous title had not yet been determined.
Having absorbed the initial power of the Human Emperor's Dao, Ji Che's first action upon regaining mobility was to announce Emperor Jing's passing and arrange the funeral.
Only after the state funeral would the coronation ceremony take place.
This entire process would take around six months. Originally, the transition process took three years, but Emperor Wen, known for his frugality, had shortened it to just six months. Emperor Jing had followed this precedent during his reign, making it a tradition.
One month later, the posthumous title and achievements of Emperor Jing were finalized.
"Expelling traitors, abolishing illicit rites, enshrining gods, promoting myriad laws, pacifying the Southern Wilderness, opening the Eastern Sea, stabilizing the Western Extremes, and uniting vassal states."
These were the eight great achievements of Emperor Jing during his reign as Emperor Xiaojing.
Among them, abolishing illicit rites, enshrining gods, and promoting myriad laws were standard achievements—every emperor would accomplish these tasks, and they invariably appeared in posthumous records.
The first achievement, "Expelling traitors," was given special emphasis. This was no exaggeration—Emperor Jing had purged countless corrupt officials and traitorous ministers. Of course, all those executed had to be deemed "traitors" and "disloyal ministers" to justify their removal.
The second, "Pacifying the Southern Wilderness," reflected the conquest of new territories during Emperor Jing's reign. The current Nine Heavens Yingyuan Prefecture was a testament to this victory. Although its boundaries had since shrunk, its existence was an achievement unmatched by Emperor Wen or even the Great Ancestor.
"Opening the Eastern Sea" recognized the establishment of Eastern Sea trade routes, transforming Pinghai Province from a barren new territory into the wealthiest region under heaven.
Additionally, Emperor Jing's alliance with the mother of Princess Ji Anlan expanded the quota of high-ranking seats in the Dragon Court from one thousand to one thousand five hundred.
Zhao Xing had reaped immense benefits in the Dragon Court during Emperor Jing's reign, further solidifying this as one of the emperor's most significant accomplishments.
Lastly, "Stabilizing the Western Extremes" referred to Emperor Jing's ability to secure the allegiance of over 380 vassal states and tribes near the Western Extreme Glaciers, bringing their total under Great Zhou's rule to over 900 during his reign. Although conflicts in later years reduced the number of loyal vassals, this did not diminish the overall significance of his achievement.
Due to the unique nature of an emperor's passing—where even the physical body dissolved into the heavens and earth—Emperor Jing's burial involved only a symbolic clothing and crown ceremony.
Three months later, Emperor Jing's symbolic remains were interred in the An Mausoleum, located next to Emperor Wen's Western Imperial Tomb.
Since the emperor's consorts traditionally preceded him in passing, Great Zhou had no tradition of empress dowagers. With Emperor Jing's death, Ji Che ascended to the throne, wielding complete authority.
In the 112th year of the Xuanyang Calendar and the 98th year of Eternal Governance, Emperor Wu held his grand coronation ceremony and announced his new reign title: Yuanshou.
The announcement caused an uproar in the court and beyond.
Many ministers immediately submitted memorials, citing historical texts and customs to argue that the chosen reign title was inappropriate. The most famous argument was: "When a father passes, the son should not change his course for three years."
Previous emperors, such as Emperor Jing, had initially followed their predecessors' policies, maintaining peace and stability for decades before introducing reforms.
But now, Ji Che had chosen "Yuanshou" as his reign title from the outset, which clearly signaled a shift toward militaristic ambitions. The implications were unmistakable.
Conservative ministers, unable to remain silent, bombarded the court with memorials. Letters flooded in from all corners of Fengjing like snowflakes.
However, Emperor Wu dismissed their concerns with a single response: "My rules are the rules."
The reign title was officially established as Yuanshou.
In the imperial garden behind the palace, at the renowned Huaqing Pool, Emperor Wu and Zhao Xing sat together in conversation.
"Big brother, take a look at this." Ji Che smiled as he summoned a stack of memorials with a flick of his hand. "All I did was change the reign title, and so many people lost their composure."
Zhao Xing glanced at the documents and replied, "Your Majesty's choice of title demonstrates a clear stance. It's natural for them to feel anxious."
Ji Che frowned slightly, his tone taking on a hint of reproach. "How many times must I remind you, big brother? When we're in private, just call me as you used to. I don't have many close family members left—don't make me a lonely ruler as well."
Zhao Xing paused for a moment, then smiled faintly. "Alright, fifth brother."
"That's more like it." Ji Che chuckled. "Now, big brother, tell me—why do you think they're so opposed to this?"
Zhao Xing considered his words carefully before responding. "At its core, it comes down to past grievances. Emperor Jing waged war for many years, yet they reaped no benefits. Instead, they witnessed heavy losses in manpower and resources. Naturally, they're reluctant to support more military campaigns."
Ji Che shook his head, gazing at the tranquil waters of the Huaqing Pool. "I can't satisfy everyone's interests. The current military merit system is already exceedingly generous. Besides, using mere benefits as motivation—is that the righteous path?"
He turned to Zhao Xing, his eyes sharp. "Big brother, how do you think I can bind everyone to my war chariot?"
Zhao Xing met his gaze evenly. "Survival is a more compelling reason than profit. If we don't expand through conquest, Great Zhou will decline. That inevitability will unify the majority under your banner."
Ji Che fell silent, his fingers lightly tapping the edge of the stone table beside him. After a while, he spoke, his tone contemplative. "Big brother, have you ever heard the legends of ascension?"
"Only in passing," Zhao Xing replied calmly. "It's said that in ancient times, a Fortune Dynasty achieved mastery over the heavens and earth, shattering the boundaries of the Xuanhuang Realm to ascend. Later generations referred to it as the Divine Court. But ultimately, it's just a legend."
Ji Che leaned forward slightly, his expression serious. "What if I told you that the Divine Court is no mere myth?"
Zhao Xing's expression remained unchanged. "I would be eager to hear more."
Ji Che smiled faintly, a glimmer of satisfaction in his eyes. "That's what I appreciate about you, big brother. No matter how astonishing the matter, you never lose your composure."
After a brief pause, Ji Che's smile faded, and his tone grew solemn. "I'm telling you the truth, big brother. The Divine Court is real. It's not a rumor."
"It truly exists, but only the emperors of a unified Central Zhou are privy to its secrets."
Zhao Xing said, "Che, why are you telling me this?"
Ji Che replied, "Because I've always planned to make this secret public."
With a wave of his sleeve, a black stone tablet appeared mid-air. "This is the Book of Destiny. For 35,000 years during the Era of Myriad Nations, it has never appeared in the world."
"But ever since the Great Ancestor unified Central Zhou, this artifact descended from the heavens and landed in his hands."
"It contains the secrets of a dynasty's ascension."
"Throughout history, divine dynasties, after achieving ascension, would select civil and military officials to shatter the void and leave the Xuanhuang Realm."
"And it is precisely because of generations of divine dynasties ascending that historical records are fragmented. Even Great Zhou's historians can only trace back as far as 540,000 years ago."
"Of course, there are more examples of failure—dynasties struck by divine punishment, turned to dust, and erased from the river of history."
Zhao Xing listened silently.
"I often pondered after obtaining the Book of Destiny—did those failed dynasties stumble over the point of 'selecting civil and military officials'?"
"Could it be that the true essence of a dynasty's ascension lies in bringing all of its citizens along?"
Zhao Xing felt a surge of excitement. The Emperor Wu had truly grasped the profound meaning of ascension.
In his previous life, ascension was never something that could be achieved by one person alone!
Ji Che looked at the Book of Destiny hovering above the Huqing Pool, his eyes resolute. "This is the understanding I gained from studying the Book of Destiny."
"Elder Brother, is this reason—allowing everyone to ascend—compelling enough? Ascension leads to eternal life, freedom from sickness and calamity. Can such a goal unite everyone?"
Ascension doesn't guarantee eternal life, only the possibility of it—Zhao Xing mused. But he didn't correct Ji Che, merely nodding. "It can achieve half of that."
"Half?" Ji Che looked at Zhao Xing in surprise.
"Che, have you considered that this is ultimately an elusive dream? Before people truly see hope, the lower-ranking officials, whose lifespans barely reach a hundred or two hundred years, won't see any tangible progress."
"That's why I say it can only achieve half."
Ji Che nodded in acknowledgment. "Then, if ascension isn't achievable, Great Zhou will face an unprecedented catastrophe in a few hundred years. What about that?"
Zhao Xing recalled the calamity foretold by the late King Tianyan. "Perhaps that could increase the chance by another twenty percent."
Ji Che nodded. "Right now, I've gathered three pieces of crucial information."
"First, the 'essence of ascension.' This is my own understanding. It's not just the royal family striving for it—every citizen in the world must contribute to increase the odds of ascension."
"Second, the Qi Tide. It's both a disaster and a once-in-ten-thousand-years opportunity. It's said that spiritual energy, a more advanced form of qi, will appear in abundance. The upper limits of heaven and earth will be shattered, drastically increasing the lifespan, cultivation levels, and number of powerful individuals across all life forms. Whoever seizes the initiative will dominate fate."
"Third, the Southern Barbarian Sacred Mountain. This is one of the prerequisites for ascension. On this point, my understanding aligns with Father's. Only by reaching the summit of the Xuanhuang Realm's tallest peak can we determine the next step."
"I understand," Zhao Xing said.
Ji Che gazed at Zhao Xing expectantly. "Elder Brother, before Father passed, he said you were the only one who could understand me, who could comprehend my ambitions—can you really understand?"
The late Emperor Jing said such a thing?
Zhao Xing nodded earnestly. "I believe so. In the Dragon Court, I noticed some peculiar phenomena, possibly related to the Qi Tide."
"Additionally, in my earlier writings, the Theory of Three Yin, Three Yang, and Six Qi Grand Zhou Celestial Cycle, the calculations in the chapter on cave-heaven techniques also revealed anomalies concerning cave-heaven worlds."
"Perhaps that's why the late emperor valued me so highly."
"However, this matter cannot be rushed. We need to plan carefully."
Ji Che agreed. "Of course, these are secrets known to very few. Elder Brother, you're among those who know the most."
Hearing this, Zhao Xing let out a breath of relief.
He had feared that Ji Che might impulsively take drastic actions.
If the past mistakes were repeated, the Emperor Wu and this life would face the same outcomes as before.
Even during the spiritual energy revival era, attacking the Southern Barbarians was the final step, not the first.
Yet, it remained the most critical step. This was why generations of emperors studying the Book of Destiny always focused on the Southern Barbarian Sacred Mountain.
In the Emperor Wu's time, it was only a Qi Tide, not a true spiritual energy revival.
This matter couldn't succeed without his involvement. The Emperor Wu alone wouldn't be able to accomplish it.
Of course, Zhao Xing couldn't state this outright. He had to consider many factors. Just as he advised the Emperor Wu to act cautiously, he couldn't afford to be hasty either.
There might come a time when he would reveal his hand, but only when he was absolutely invincible, beyond the emperor's power to kill.
Otherwise, if he disclosed everything and the emperor panicked, what then? Without absolute certainty, Zhao Xing couldn't reveal everything.
For now, Ji Che's ambition burned bright, his youth on his side. But as his lifespan neared its end and he realized ascension was hopeless, no one could predict what actions the emperor might take.
At this stage, Zhao Xing knew he had to go with the flow—it wasn't time to defy fate just yet.
For months, Zhao Xing stayed in the imperial palace, engaging in long discussions with the Emperor Wu—not only about ascension but also about the state of the world and governance.
Such close and exceptional treatment gradually aroused dissatisfaction among the court officials.
"The way His Majesty addresses the Marquis of Shenwei is highly improper."
"You are now the emperor, no longer in your youth. How can you still call the Marquis of Shenwei 'Elder Brother'? It breaches propriety."
"The frequent private meetings between His Majesty and the Marquis of Shenwei are excessive. Even court affairs have been neglected. At this point, the principal officials of each department should be appointed; otherwise, lower-level bureaucratic assignments cannot proceed—"
Ji Che listened to the nagging of the Right Chancellor, Fan Ailin, and the admonitions of the court official Ji Wenchang with amusement.
"Chancellor Fan, you're absolutely right. He's merely a marquis. It is indeed against protocol for me to continue addressing him as 'Elder Brother.'"
Fan Ailin, seeing Ji Che accept the advice, was about to praise the emperor's wisdom, only for Ji Che to suddenly shift his tone.
"In that case, I shall promote him to the position of Second Rank Junior Chief of Shennong, elevate him to the title of Prince, place three of the Ten Heavenly Guard Cave-Heavens under his command as the ninth governor of the Martial Realm, and follow the late emperor's decree to arrange a marriage with a princess."
"This way, calling him 'Prince Brother' would be entirely appropriate."
"What?!" Fan Ailin was stunned.
A prince? And a governor of the Martial Realm? This was outrageous!
"Your Majesty, this must not happen!" Fan Ailin immediately knelt. "The position of Second Rank Junior Chief of Shennong is acceptable, but the title of prince—without merit in battle, it cannot be granted! Much less making him a governor of the Martial Realm!"
The Grand Ritual Official Ji Wenchang couldn't hold back either and knelt as well. "Your Majesty, during the late emperor's reign, every effort was made to weaken the feudal lords. You mustn't undermine the late emperor's policies just after ascending to the throne."
"Moreover, granting the Marquis of Shenwei a promotion is already a great favor. He hasn't achieved any noteworthy merits—how can he be made a prince?"
"Even if we take a step back, should you now grant the Marquis of Shenwei the title of governor, what more could be given in the future?"
Ji Che was well aware of these arguments.
He had said so deliberately.
At the age of eight, Ji Che had learned a simple truth from Zhao Xing.
If you want someone to open a window, it's best to suggest tearing off the roof first.
Seeing both officials so alarmed, Ji Che said calmly, "Then let's reduce it to Duke of a Commandery, Second Rank Junior Chief of Shennong, with authority over two cave-heavens, and a marriage to a princess. How does that sound?"
The Grand Ritual Official shook his head firmly. "Impossible. Without military achievements, a royal title cannot be granted. This is a rule established by our ancestors."
Fan Ailin added, "Two cave-heavens? Shouldn't we first evaluate how the Marquis of Shenwei has performed elsewhere? Even the Eldest Princess is yet unmarried, so how can another princess be married off first?"
Ji Che's voice turned cold. "Then, Second Rank Junior Chief of Shennong, promoted to First-Class Duke—"
Before Ji Che could finish, Fan Ailin interrupted with a pained expression, "Your Majesty, even a First-Class Duke is inappropriate—"
Ji Che's voice carried a hint of anger. "This isn't allowed, that isn't allowed. Why don't you take over as emperor?"
"I wouldn't dare, Your Majesty. Please calm your anger," Fan Ailin quickly kowtowed, his forehead touching the ground. He didn't dare utter another word.
The Grand Ritual Official, Ji Wenchang, also knelt in submission. "Your Majesty, I suggest appointing the Marquis of Shenwei as a Third-Class Duke of Integrity. Grant him a fiefdom for a single county. This way, it shows Your Majesty's goodwill without making it seem like the Marquis is a beneficiary of favoritism. Later, when the Marquis has achieved military merits, further titles and rewards can be granted."
Seeing that Ji Wenchang had finally hit the right note, and the timing was just right, Ji Che snorted. "Fine, I am not an emperor who cannot accept advice. Let it be as the Grand Ritual Official suggests."
"Your Majesty is wise!" The two officials kowtowed again in unison.
What was a Duke of Integrity? This title was entirely Ji Wenchang's invention, drawn from the ancient text on the Six Virtues: "Integrity of the Ruler, Conduct of the Minister, Compassion of the Father, Filial Piety of the Son, Love of the Elder Brother, Respect of the Younger Brother."
The so-called "Integrity of the Ruler" referred to the ruler's moral duty. Since Ji Che was insistent on addressing Zhao Xing as "Elder Brother," Ji Wenchang had to pull from classical texts to make it work.
As a Third-Class Duke with a modest fiefdom, this reward didn't appear overly extravagant. As for the title itself—well, this clever maneuver ensured that Ji Che could publicly call Zhao Xing "Elder Brother" with complete legitimacy.
Once Ji Che had left, Fan Ailin and Ji Wenchang exchanged a glance and couldn't help but shake their heads with a wry smile.
Not only had their objections fallen on deaf ears, but they had also cemented the very thing they had opposed.
"Chancellor Fan, you—" Ji Wenchang opened his mouth, hesitated, then sighed. "Never mind."
What more could be said? Both of them knew the emperor wasn't truly angry.
"His Majesty bears a striking resemblance to the late Emperor Jing," Fan Ailin remarked wistfully.
In the late Emperor Jing's era, many official positions were left vacant, filled only temporarily without formal appointments. Now that Emperor Wu had ascended the throne, he was starting to make formal appointments and grant titles.
In the first year of Yuanshou, a large batch of titles and official ranks were bestowed.
Without new political achievements or military merits, Emperor Wu broke precedent by promoting officials, granting noble titles, and elevating honorary ranks and distinctions. This was imperial favor and the karmic result of loyalty.
During the first year of Yuanshou, autumn:
Liu Tianning was appointed as Grand Shennong.
Wang Tianzhi was reinstated as Second Rank Junior Chief of Shennong. Ling Tianchen, already holding the same position, was elevated to Duke Ling, while Ji Yuanshan received a promotion to Second Rank Junior Chief of Shennong. Meng Kun and Ji Youtang were granted the title of Subordinate Second Rank Junior Chief of Shennong.
The role of Grand Ritual Official was taken up by Wei Hong, elder brother to Wei Xuancheng.
Ji Bochang retained his post as Heavenly Ritual Priest, with a simultaneous elevation in title, honorary rank, and merit grade, rising by three levels in total.
The Grand Engineer post was handed to Lu Ying, the former overseer of the Juzigong, while Chen Ju was appointed as Junior Chief of Engineers.
Tong Wen was promoted to Left Chancellor, with Fan Ailin as Right Chancellor.
Ji Mengjun, previously deputy head of the War Dance Hall, was promoted to its chief, and also elevated to the rank of First-Class Grand War Master of the Eight Stolen Dances.
As for Duke Luo, already at the pinnacle of his rank and title, the focus shifted to honorary and merit-based accolades. Even his family members benefited from this tide of promotions, with plenty of room for future awards. If all else failed, Emperor Wu was known to enjoy inventing new terms for distinctions.
When the time came for Zhao Xing's reward, the court was left stunned.
"Zhao Xing, Marquis of Shenwei, is hereby promoted two ranks to Second Rank Chief of Shennong."
"Second Rank Chief of Shennong? Since when did such a position exist?" the assembly murmured in confusion.
But soon, an explanation of the position was included in the framework of the Shennong Directorate.
Second Rank Chief of Shennong was described as the primary subordinate to the Grand Shennong, ranked just below Liu Tianning and above Wang Tianzhi.
Essentially, Emperor Wu had created an entirely new position to elevate Zhao Xing, placing him at the forefront of the Junior Chiefs of Shennong. This effectively elevated the role by half a rank.
Although this was unexpected, it caused little controversy. Zhao Xing's reputation and influence within the Shennong Directorate were unparalleled. Even if he were placed ahead of Ling Tianchen, Wang Tianzhi, and Ji Yuanshan, few would raise objections.
Then came the announcement of his noble title.
"Promoted to Duke of Integrity."
"What is this Duke of Integrity?" the assembly wondered.
Once again, the reading fell to Fan Ailin, who provided a detailed explanation of the concept, drawn from the Six Virtues outlined in the classic text.
After the explanation, the officials' expressions became nuanced as they glanced at Zhao Xing, their gazes turning increasingly peculiar.
Even Zhao Xing himself was caught off guard.
He hadn't expected Emperor Wu to invent a title like "Duke of Integrity" just for him.
But that wasn't all.
Fan Ailin continued to read. "Appointed as Grand Counselor of Heavenly Luck and granted the lifespan of a First Rank."
The hall fell silent.
Zhao Xing, however, could clearly sense the astonished and envious stares burning into his back like sunlight.
He couldn't help but feel emotional. These were truly good times.
Compared to the stingy Emperor Jing, Emperor Wu was entirely different. For those he valued, he was unreserved in his generosity, even directly extending their lifespans.
Previously a Third Rank Spiritual Mountain Envoy, Zhao Xing now stood as a Second Rank Chief of Shennong. To top it off, Emperor Wu had gifted him the theoretical maximum lifespan for his new First Rank honorary position.
From a mere marquis, he had now ascended to the rank of duke.
Lord Zhao couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by such favor.
"Your servant humbly thanks Your Majesty for this grace!"
"May Your Majesty's reign be eternal!" Zhao Xing's declaration was heartfelt this time.
He genuinely wished for Emperor Wu's long life.
Among the rest of the rewards read aloud, three stood out as extraordinary treasures: a warship, ceremonial robes, and a pair of boots.
Once all the rewards had been announced, a golden pillar of light descended upon the hall.
Boom!
The imperial court's Fortune baptized Zhao Xing.
His lifespan was extended to the theoretical limit of a First Rank position, while his Eighth Derivation Fortune was further solidified.
Once the awards ceremony concluded, Zhao Xing stepped back into the ranks of the court.
The process of distributing rewards to all officials lasted seven full days.
Following the grand ceremony, Ji Che hosted a banquet for the officials within the palace, an event that stretched on for half a month, filled with feasting and merriment. Only after this did the celebrations draw to a close.
First Year of Yuanshou, Start of Winter, Fengjing, Shennong Directorate
Liu Tianning presided at the center seat as the Grand Shennong, with Zhao Xing seated in the prominent left-hand position, the first among the remaining nine Junior Chiefs of Shennong.
During the reign of Emperor Jing, the direct subordinates of the Grand Shennong numbered over thirty due to the demands of war and the sheer volume of administrative affairs. But in this era of peace, the group was trimmed significantly, leaving only ten members, including Zhao Xing.
Of course, all ten positions were personally appointed by Emperor Wu.
Liu Tianning, as the Grand Shennong, had the discretion to recommend personnel and expand the scope of subordinate officials based on needs.
"There are quite a few First and Second Rank Shennong officials, but those who can become Junior Chief of Shennong, including myself, number only ten." Zhao Xing glanced around. "The most powerful Shennong officials are all gathered here."
Without authority, even a Shennong at the Ming Palace stage would accomplish little. But as a Junior Chief of Shennong, they could mobilize Shennong officials across the nineteen provinces. A single command could affect countless lives, enabling the rise or fall of many families.
"Gentlemen," Liu Tianning began, breaking the silence. "With the new emperor's ascension, the Shennong Directorate's primary focus must be on maintaining stability."
"The most urgent task is to select talents and appoint capable individuals."
Liu Tianning's first directive was to immediately begin the selection process for Shennong system officials.
Since the 90th year of the Eternal Governance Era, the selection of officials in Great Zhou had come to a standstill.
While the promotions of low-ranking officials were relatively normal, middle- and high-ranking officials had seen little movement for a long time. This was an abnormal situation. Therefore, upon Liu Tianning's assumption of office, he was determined to restore normalcy swiftly.
With the Shennong system operating normally, other departments could also function more effectively.
"I plan to recommend three to nine Junior Chief of Shennong officials to His Majesty," Liu Tianning stated. "Half from civil positions and half from the military. If anyone has suitable candidates, please submit them to me."
Ling Tianchen was the first to speak. "May I ask, Grand Shennong, are there any factional restrictions on these candidates?"
Immediately, everyone's attention focused on Liu Tianning.
"No factional limitations—only talent matters," Liu Tianning replied.
This set the tone: regardless of whether one belonged to the factions of Heavenly Timing, Earthly Advantage, or Self School, as long as they were capable, they could be promoted.
Ling Tianchen nodded but refrained from further remarks. He wouldn't make recommendations casually and needed to consider carefully.
"The second matter," Liu Tianning continued, "is for all of you to recommend capable talents for the Third Rank Shennong positions."
Again, the focus was on personnel.
Without the right people, no work could proceed effectively.
This initial meeting revolved entirely around selecting capable individuals.
After the meeting, Zhao Xing quickly submitted a memorial to the emperor.
He recommended Mi Fu, Chen Shijie, Hu Yang, and Zhang Tianxing for the positions of Third Rank officials, as his deputies.
Liu Tianning reviewed the list. "I'm familiar with Chen Shijie. He is well-qualified for a Third Rank position. Hu Yang and Zhang Tianxing are already Third Rank officials; converting them from acting to official status isn't an issue."
"But who is this Mi Fu? Why is he at the top of your list?"
In Zhao Xing's submission, Mi Fu was listed first!
However, Mi Fu was currently only a Fifth Rank official.
This situation was almost comical.
Due to his meritorious service in land cultivation in the Guixu Realm, Mi Fu had been promoted to Fourth Rank during the early years of the Eternal Governance Era.
He had encountered Ji Che while the latter was traveling, and Ji Che had recommended him to Emperor Jing. Consequently, Mi Fu had been awarded an honorary Third Rank title. By the 20th year of Eternal Governance, his cultivation realm had also advanced to the Third Rank.
But by the 60th year of Eternal Governance, Mi Fu had "relapsed." He physically assaulted his superior officer.
The incident escalated to the provincial level, resulting in the revocation of Mi Fu's honorary title and official rank. Fortunately, he retained his cultivation realm.
He was demoted to a Fifth Rank official and reassigned to the Guixu Realm to oversee penal laborers in Shennong.
"This person…"
Zhao Xing held Mi Fu's records for a long moment, struggling to succinctly summarize the man. Finally, he said, "A genius."
Upon hearing this, Liu Tianning read through Mi Fu's entire record. His expression grew strange. "He is indeed a maverick."
Mi Fu was a tri-faction practitioner!
He excelled in every school of thought.
Moreover, he had dabbled in various unrelated disciplines—dancer, musician, talisman craftsman—and mastered them all.
But he had one fatal flaw: defiance of superiors and excessive indulgence of subordinates.
In the bureaucracy, this was a critical shortcoming.
Hailing from a humble background, Mi Fu had neither family influence nor powerful connections. His tendency to assault superiors was intolerable.
No matter how talented he was, he was widely disliked in the bureaucratic circles.
"Mi Fu is a late bloomer," Liu Tianning said with a wry smile.
"Exactly," Zhao Xing agreed, laughing.
Old Liu saw through the situation clearly. Mi Fu was someone who would mellow with age, eventually realizing that personal preferences couldn't dictate a bureaucratic career.
In the normal course of events, Mi Fu's potential would likely manifest in the latter half of his life.
He would even ascend to the position of Grand Shennong, albeit briefly, which was enough to demonstrate his astonishing capabilities and talent.
For someone from a humble background to rise to the Grand Shennong position required a ruler like Emperor Wu. Yet much of it was also due to Mi Fu's inherent brilliance.
"If I serve as his superior, I can shield him from trouble. Even if he stirs up minor issues, they won't be significant," Zhao Xing remarked. "This man has boundless potential and a profound understanding of the Self School."
Liu Tianning nodded. He had encountered many individuals with similar temperaments.
In fact, he had been such a person in his youth.
Killing officials? Liu Tianning had once done the same.
He had even toppled half the younger generation of a Dao Academy.
The only difference was that Mi Fu had no background and no one to protect him or his path.
Mi Fu had survived the machinations of aristocratic families solely because Emperor Jing had effectively restrained the nobility over the years.
In another era, Mi Fu wouldn't have lasted three reforms under a different monarch.
"Very well, take him to Xiji State," Liu Tianning said, shaking his head. "Let him burn off some of his excess fire."
"Understood," Zhao Xing nodded.
His full title should be Shennong Magistrate of the Seven Cave-Heavens and Two Blessed Lands of Xiji State.
The vassal states in Xiji State were embroiled in fierce conflict in the west.
Emperor Wu dispatched Zhao Xing purely to secure merits.
Otherwise, it would be difficult to justify rewards.
As for the rewards themselves, Zhao Xing, as the Shennong Magistrate and Duke of Junyi, had to achieve merits quickly to earn them.
Surveying the borders of Great Zhou, Xiji was the only region where significant accomplishments could be made.
The major Cave-Heavens in Pinghai Prefecture had been under the jurisdiction of Wang Tianzhi and were not easily transferred to Zhao Xing.
Other regions offered little in terms of merit, so Emperor Wu thoughtfully arranged for his elder brother to head to Xiji State.
"Do you need additional personnel?" Liu Tianning asked. "Are four deputies sufficient?"
"They're enough," Zhao Xing replied. "Xiji State's Seven Cave-Heavens and Two Blessed Lands already have plenty of talents. Four deputies are sufficient."
Liu Tianning nodded in agreement. With Zhao Xing mastering the Ultimate Technique, comprehending the Heavenly Timing Domain, and possessing the Myriad Law Puppet Technique, safety was no concern.
"The emissaries from the Moss Kingdom will return in the spring next year. Once your deputies are in place, depart with them," Liu Tianning instructed.
"Prince Jinke?"
"Yes," Liu Tianning confirmed.
After leaving the Shennong Directorate, Zhao Xing went to meet Prince Jinke and gather information.
Unexpectedly, when he saw the prince again, the man had already lost an arm.
Of the five elite warriors originally under the prince, only three remained: King Bingtuwang, King Keluo, and King Suosuo.
Among the remaining, King Bingtuwang had reached First Rank, while King Keluo and King Suosuo were at Second Rank Perfection.
"Prince Jinke, how did this happen to you?" Zhao Xing furrowed his brows, skeptical that the young prince was deliberately exaggerating his misfortune.
Losing an arm wasn't necessarily a big deal. With the Bone Mending Ginseng from Guangling Cave-Heaven, it could be easily reattached.
"Lord Shenwei—no, Duke of Integrity, I assure you, this isn't an act of pity," Prince Jinke said with a bitter smile.
"Then why—"
"There's a reason," Prince Jinke began recounting the past.
"Two years ago, during a battle where our Moss Kingdom faced significant losses against the Sith Kingdom, my younger brother, Jinle, covered my retreat and was killed by a powerful enemy. In the same battle, I lost an arm."
Prince Jinke's eyes reddened. "I've kept this wound as a reminder of that humiliation. Until I avenge him, I refuse to have it healed."
Hearing this, Zhao Xing looked at the prince with a tinge of sympathy.
Witnessing a blood brother being killed right in front of you was indeed a disgrace.
Prince Jinke carrying his injury to the Great Zhou wasn't an attempt to win sympathy—he truly had suffered greatly.
"From what I understand, isn't the Sith Kingdom's national strength on par with yours?" Zhao Xing had reviewed the reports. The two nations were once a single entity, splitting apart later. By that logic, their powers should have been comparable. Why were they overwhelmed?
"That was a long time ago," Prince Jinke explained. "Over the past eighty years, the Sith Kingdom has developed rapidly, producing a large number of strong practitioners. They've also annexed other tribes, amassing substantial resources and enhancing their fortune."
Zhao Xing studied the intelligence further and noticed that during Emperor Jing's Eternal Governance reign, the Moss Kingdom had received minimal support from the Zhou court.
At most, they were provided with resources and a few envoys issuing warnings.
Emperor Jing's policy during the Eternal Governance period was indeed one of retrenchment. He aimed for a stable transition of imperial power, prioritizing royal authority over all else.
Engaging in large-scale wars would have shaken the nation's fortune, slowing Ji Che's progress.
On the other hand, Zhao Xing speculated, Emperor Jing might have intentionally left the task of pacifying the vassal states in Xiji to the new emperor to earn merit.
"Rest assured, Prince. As the Moss Kingdom is a vassal state of the Great Zhou, our court will never sit idly by while foreign nations invade your lands."
"Prepare yourself for the journey back, Prince. Come spring next year, I'll accompany you to your homeland."
Prince Jinke, deeply moved, bowed. "Thank you, Duke of Integrity!"
In the twelfth month of Yuan Shou Year One, Mi Fu, Chen Shijie, Zhang Tianxing, and Hu Yang arrived in Fengjing one after another.
"Subordinate pays respects to Lord Zhao," the four of them greeted in unison.
Zhao Xing waved his hand, a gentle breeze lifting them to their feet. "There's no need for formalities. We're all old acquaintances."
Chen Shijie, Hu Yang, and Zhang Tianxing remained respectful. "Thank you, my lord."
However, Mi Fu stood there, staring at Zhao Xing in stunned disbelief. "Zhao Xing, I didn't expect you to rise so high, becoming a duke and the first subordinate of the Grand Shennong."
Mi Fu had spent the past several years in the desolate Guixu Cave-Heaven, isolated from the world.
He hadn't even been informed of Emperor Jing's death or the new emperor's ascension. It wasn't until the autumn of Yuan Shou Year One that Mi Fu realized the world outside had already changed.
He struggled to reconcile the image of Zhao Xing in front of him with the Zhao Xing he once knew.
"Mi Fu, your talents are exceptional," Zhao Xing said with a smile, unbothered by Mi Fu addressing him by name. "I summoned you here to take on a task without seeking your prior consent. I hope you won't mind."
Mi Fu shook his head. "Not at all. You're certainly better than those idle old fools."
Hu Yang's expression turned sour.
Who was this blunt fool? Zhao Xing had spoken so cordially, and yet he didn't know enough to show proper respect?
The Holy Son had shown you courtesy, and you take it seriously?
"This Mi Fu must be extraordinarily capable to earn Lord Zhao's high regard," Hu Yang said.
Zhang Tianxing added, "Absolutely. Now that we're colleagues, we should get to know each other better. Mi Fu, may I ask which top-tier techniques you practice and which truths you've mastered?"
Mi Fu, while appearing lazy, wasn't oblivious. He easily detected the veiled sarcasm in their words.
Smirking, he replied, "I'm not much, but I've mastered the Hou Transformation Technique to its top-tier Fifth Transformations. For Cloud, Rain, Thunder, and Wind techniques, each has reached the Sixth Transformations."
"As for Earth Techniques, I'm slightly lacking. My proficiency in Earth Palace, Earth Repository, Mysterious Earth, and Earth Splitting is only at the entry level, and I've yet to study Spirit Mountain."
"My Pure Essence Soil, well, it's barely at the sixth grade, supporting just a single seventh-rank troop and three thousand sixth-rank ones. They're just cheap goods, hardly worth mentioning."
Hu Yang and Zhang Tianxing froze upon hearing this.
Where did this expert come from?
Wasn't this the old version of Zhao Xing himself?
Originally, they intended to boast a little about their own accomplishments, but in comparison, their skills seemed lacking.
All they could do was offer forced praise. "Mi Fu is truly impressive, already comparable to Lord Zhao's capabilities a hundred years ago."
"A hundred years ago?" Mi Fu was dumbfounded.
He spoke bluntly. "Zhao Xing, what's your current realm?"
Zhao Xing smiled. "To be honest, Mi Fu, I've been fortunate enough to reach Heavenly Luck Perfection."
He didn't intend to show off, but Hu Yang and Zhang Tianxing couldn't resist embellishing.
"Lord Zhao's mastery over the Four Laws of Heavenly Timing includes two top-tier completions. His Cloud Technique has reached the Ultimate Stage, and he even created the Hou Transformation Technique, the Ancestral Dragon Transformation, which he perfected to the Ninth Transformations!"
"For Earth Techniques, all four paths are top-tier Ninth Transformations. He even retrieved the Earth School's sacred artifact, the Kunyuan Divine Hoe. Mi Fu, how could you not know this?"
"And as for the Self School, Lord Zhao now serves as the Vice Dean of Shangluo Academy!"
Listening to this, Mi Fu's mouth gradually fell open.
He truly had no idea about Zhao Xing's achievements. Being unaware of the new emperor's ascension was one thing, but missing all of this?
Zhao Xing noticed that Mi Fu was sufficiently awestruck and interrupted the others.
"That's enough. I didn't summon you here for idle chatter."
"I'm heading to Xiji Prefecture to assume my duties. The four of you will serve as my deputies. Your specific roles will be decided once we arrive."
As per protocol, they would first hold Third Rank acting positions, with adjustments based on the situation in Xiji Prefecture.
"Yes, my lord," the four replied in unison, including Mi Fu.
Spring of Yuan Shou Year Two came swiftly after the She Festival.
Bidding farewell to his family, Zhao Xing departed from his hometown in Pinghai Prefecture, heading toward Fengjing.
"By the start of Yuan Shou Year Two, I've finally mastered the Heaven-Burning Yuan-Sealing Array," Zhao Xing reflected while aboard his warship.
"My Morning Crow Yellow-Ear Transformation has reached top-tier Ninth Transformations, along with the Thirty-Six Earth Paths at the same level."
"The Five God Symbols are at top-tier Seventh Transformations, as is the Heaven-Burning Yuan-Sealing Array."
"The Four Foundational Secret Techniques are fully learned. Once I push them all to their top-tier perfected levels, I'll be able to attempt the 'Primordial Sealing Technique.'"
The Primordial Sealing Technique was an Ultimate Technique, with the Four Secret Techniques serving as its foundation. Mastering it would still take time.
But with the foundations in place, the remaining work was sequential and straightforward, unlike the struggle of creating something from nothing before.
"Now that I've learned the basics, I realize Old Li wasn't exaggerating," Zhao Xing mused. Even his initial attempts to combine the four techniques into the Primordial Sealing Technique, despite their crude form, revealed the terrifying potential of the method.
"Could there truly be some ancient inheritance buried beneath the Xiji Glaciers? If Ultimate Techniques are merely entry thresholds, that would be too horrifying. In my past life, even after the revival of spiritual energy and the thawing of the Xiji Sea, I never heard of such a place," Zhao Xing thought, deep in contemplation.