"Commander of the Royal City Guard, Cheng Tianyou, greets the Grand Shennong," the golden-armored general saluted with a stern expression. "I was unaware of your arrival, Grand Shennong. Please forgive my negligence."
Zhao Xing remained silent.
Cheng Tianyou, feeling increasingly uneasy, bowed again. "Cheng Tianyou humbly invites the Grand Shennong to enter the city."
Zhao Xing finally spoke, his tone cold, "You are not qualified to invite me into the city. Go and report my arrival immediately!"
The title "Commander of the Royal City Guard" in the Kingdom of Beichen was equivalent to the position of "Grand Commandant" in the Great Zhou Dynasty. However, the Kingdom of Beichen lacked the authority to establish such a high-ranking position, as it was a subordinate state with a territory no larger than a single province.
The title held by Cheng Tianyou was an honorific created by the Kingdom of Beichen to elevate the status of its military leaders. His actual rank was no more than that of a County Commandant, equivalent to a third-rank official. By comparison, Zhao Xing, as the Grand Shennong, outranked him significantly. Cheng Tianyou's position was insufficient to formally invite Zhao Xing into the city.
Realizing Zhao Xing's displeasure and sensing potential trouble, Cheng Tianyou dared not argue further. He clasped his hands respectfully, left some personal guards in the sky to accompany Zhao Xing, and hurried back into the city.
Once inside the royal city, Cheng Tianyou made his way directly to the royal palace to inform Prime Minister Shentu Ming.
King Qin Feng of the Kingdom of Beichen was not currently in the royal city; he was undertaking important tasks in a separate Cave-Heaven realm. In his absence, all domestic affairs were managed by the Prime Minister, Shentu Ming.
The role of Prime Minister in a vassal state was typically held by a first-rank official skilled in governance. However, Shentu Ming was a notable exception—he was a military man through and through. His appointment was not due to merit alone but also to familial connections: Shentu Ming was King Qin Feng's brother-in-law, as his sister, Shentu Lan, was Queen of Beichen.
Shentu Lan held great favor within the royal court. She had borne four sons, the eldest of whom was named heir apparent at birth, while the other three were ennobled as marquises. Her five daughters were married into prestigious families, including dukes and kings. In the northern territories, the Shentu family was an immensely influential and powerful clan.
Shentu Lan doted on her younger brother, granting him unrestricted access to the palace. Eventually, Shentu Ming even took up residence there. With King Qin Feng often stationed in the Cave-Heaven realms, the day-to-day governance of the kingdom fell to the Shentu siblings.
"The door reflects her graceful form, yet she hesitates to enter, stepping forward with a smile as if to welcome."
"Her enchanting face, adorned with dewdrops like blossoms, glimmers under the radiance of the jade trees, illuminating the inner courtyard."
Inside the Jin Hua Palace, Shentu Ming presided over a lavish banquet, accompanied by his trusted ministers, indulging in music and dance.
Each minister had four personal attendants, handpicked for their distinct charms and beauty. Two attendants stood on either side, holding trays of delicacies. Periodically, the attendants would rotate positions, ensuring a variety of dishes for the guests. Shentu Ming had abolished the use of traditional serving tables, opting instead to have the attendants act as living trays, adding an element of novelty and opulence.
Two other attendants remained seated by each minister's side, tasked with pouring wine and offering morsels of food. Their attire was minimal, with wide collars and sleeves, allowing the ministers to casually reach out for intimate interaction.
At the center of the grand hall stood three sculpted jade trees, their surfaces shimmering with an otherworldly light. Graceful dancers, adorned with ribbons, twirled and soared around the trees in an elaborate performance. This was the famed "Jade Tree Dance" of the Kingdom of Beichen, characterized by its provocative movements and scant costumes.
Shentu Ming recited poetry in high spirits, his words vivid and evocative. The radiant light of the jade trees highlighted the delicate forms of the dancers, leaving little to the imagination. The ministers, enraptured by the spectacle, raised their cups in admiration, their appetites for both food and drink further whetted by the enticing display.
"An excellent verse, Lord Shentu!" a minister exclaimed, lifting his goblet in a toast.
"The prosperity and splendor that the Kingdom of Beichen enjoys today is entirely thanks to the contributions of Lord Shentu!"
"Lord Shentu is truly a man of unparalleled talent, both in governance and military strategy!"
The flattery flowed like a tidal wave, surrounding Shentu Ming. As a prime minister who rose through the ranks as a military officer, he was completely swept away by the adulation.
"Hahaha! Gentlemen, your praise is too excessive. Come, drink this cup with me!" Shentu Ming laughed heartily, his eyes slightly glazed as he reveled in the moment.
This, he thought, was the life people should lead. Unlike his brother-in-law, King Qin Feng, who spent his days cultivating and fighting wars—what was the joy in that? However, the festivities were abruptly interrupted when an attendant entered the grand hall in a hurry, leaning in to whisper by Shentu Ming's side.
"Hmm? The Grand Shennong, Zhao Xing? He has arrived at the royal city?" Shentu Ming's drunken haze lifted slightly.
"Yes, Prime Minister. The commander of the royal city guard, Cheng Tianyou, just reported his arrival."
"Zhao Xing... What is he doing here?" Shentu Ming muttered. "Why would a Grand Shennong come all the way to the northern frontier? Could it be official business?"
"Lord Prime Minister, have you forgotten that our Kingdom of Beichen hasn't paid the Golden Fragrance Medicine Tax for fifty years?" the attendant reminded him.
"Surely not?" Shentu Ming said in surprise. "Would he personally come here just for a mere tax collection?"
"How many people did he bring? Did he state his purpose clearly?"
"No, Prime Minister. The Grand Shennong is hovering above the royal city and refuses to come down. Commander Cheng Tianyou said he lacked the authority to invite him."
"Hmph! Such a grand display." Shentu Ming grumbled. "He's just been appointed, and already he's acting so high and mighty. Cheng Tianyou is a first-rank official; how could he fail to invite him?"
The attendant wanted to point out that the first-rank title of a royal city guard commander in a vassal state was purely honorary and not recognized by the Great Zhou Dynasty. But knowing that Shentu Ming was oblivious to such nuances, he refrained from explaining.
"Forget it. Summon Shentu Li to prepare the ceremonial regalia. Also, prepare my prime minister's regalia—I'll go and personally invite him down," Shentu Ming finally decided. Though reluctant to leave the lively banquet, he knew better than to offend the Grand Shennong.
He ordered the musicians in the side hall to stop playing. "Gentlemen, an urgent matter has arisen. Forgive me for cutting today's festivities short. I will host you all again another day."
"What? Lord Shentu, why so sudden?"
"What could be so urgent in the Kingdom of Beichen that requires the Prime Minister's personal attention?"
"I've barely begun enjoying myself with the beauties. Leaving now will surely displease them!"
Shentu Ming glanced at two military officers who were already indulging in inappropriate activities with the attendants. With a sneer, he remarked, "With the two of you, even an extra hour wouldn't be enough to satisfy the ladies."
"Hahahaha!" The hall erupted in laughter.
"Enough, disperse." Shentu Ming stood and waved dismissively, sending the attendants and dancers away. Seeing him rise, the rest of the guests reluctantly followed suit, leaving the hall one after another.
Once the hall was cleared, Shentu Ming instructed his men to prepare the ceremonial regalia. As he was about to step out of the palace, an unsettling premonition struck him.
"Why does this trip feel so ominous?" he muttered to himself. A sense of unease crept into his heart.
Although Shentu Ming held a first-rank title and had reached the Destiny Palace realm, his advancement was purely a result of the kingdom's fortune bolstering him. Before receiving this appointment, he had only been at the Yuan Soul realm of the third rank.
As a weak first-rank official, Shentu Ming lacked both the insight to comprehend rule domains and mastery over advanced martial arts. Of the three high-level techniques he knew, he had barely reached the entry level of the third transformation for each. However, the instinctive sensitivity to fate that came with the Destiny Palace realm remained intact.
"It seems this Grand Shennong is not someone to be trifled with," he thought. "I should inform my sister first."
He quickly sent a messenger to the royal harem to notify his sister, Queen Shentu Lan, before leaving to meet Zhao Xing.
By the time Shentu Ming finally arrived to greet Zhao Xing, half an hour had passed.
"This kind of person dares to make me wait an entire hour?" Zhao Xing said with a cold laugh when he saw Shentu Ming. The sight of a weak first-rank official, who owed his position entirely to the kingdom's fortune, keeping him waiting was enough to amuse and irritate him in equal measure.
Adding to Zhao Xing's ire was the ostentatious display Shentu Ming put on, arriving with the full regalia of a prime minister, complete with ceremonial procession. The spectacle made Zhao Xing laugh bitterly at the absurdity of it all.
"Prime Minister of Beichen, Shentu Ming, greets the Grand Shennong," Shentu Ming said, bowing slightly—a gesture that was barely a half-salute. He clearly believed that as a subordinate first-rank official, the difference between him and Zhao Xing, a proper first-rank official, was insignificant.
Such insolence left Zhao Xing uninterested in wasting words. He didn't even feel the need to reprimand him.
"Transform!"
Without warning, Zhao Xing activated his Sichen Huang Er Transformation.
"What? Ah!" Shentu Ming, caught off guard, stumbled backward and fell onto his ceremonial carriage, his headpiece scattering to the ground.
"What are you doing?!" Shentu Ming cried out in confusion, utterly baffled by Zhao Xing's sudden action.
Zhao Xing, however, found nothing strange about it. Over the past two years since he became the Grand Shennong, he had gained access to resources befitting his station. Among them were rare artifacts from the Heavenly Timing School: the Twenty-Four Seasonal Qi Commands, a peerless treasure-class artifact; the Seventy-Two Phenomena Seals, also peerless; and the Lingxi Star Disk, a treasure-class artifact.
From the Earthly Techniques School, he had the Kun Yuan Divine Hoe, an extraordinary treasure, and the Earth Emperor Crown, another treasure-class artifact.
With divine artifacts to aid his cultivation and abundant resources at his disposal, Zhao Xing might not have made substantial progress in the Dao realm, but his mastery of techniques had advanced rapidly. He had already perfected the spell Primordial Seal to the ultimate fifth transformation.
Although Morning Crow Yellow-Ear Transformation was only one of the four foundational spells of Primordial Seal, it was a supreme secret art in its perfected form. For someone like Shentu Ming, there was no chance of resisting such an advanced technique.
Using his Heavenly Sight of the Soul, Zhao Xing finally understood what had happened.
"So, that's the reason."
Shentu Ming's body was surrounded by a strong golden protective aura, lingering within his internal energy. This was a residual power left behind by King Qin Feng, an advanced rule-based protection.
As a true supreme cultivator of the first rank, King Qin Feng's power persisted even in his absence. This explained why Zhao Xing's initial casual spell with Yellow-Ear Transformation had failed.
"Grand Shennong Zhao, what crime has the Prime Minister committed that warrants such sudden aggression?" Cheng Tianyou was astonished by Zhao Xing's abrupt action and questioned him.
"Do I need to explain my actions to you?" Zhao Xing's gaze swept over Cheng Tianyou, releasing an overwhelming spiritual pressure that caused cold sweat to run down the latter's back.
Even though Cheng Tianyou was a mid-stage Destiny Palace cultivator, in Zhao Xing's presence, he couldn't muster the will to resist.
Zhao Xing turned his attention back to Shentu Ming, determined to investigate thoroughly. The simplest way was to subdue and interrogate him directly.
Just one look was enough for Zhao Xing to see the rot within Beichen Kingdom.
What kind of prime minister would allow the kingdom's defenses to become so lax?
What kind of prime minister would let fifty years pass without paying taxes?
And above all, what kind of prime minister would leave the Grand Shennong waiting in the sky for over an hour?
"Transform!"
This time, Zhao Xing used more force in his spell.
His technique circumvented the protective aura left by King Qin Feng, successfully transforming Shentu Ming into a plump yellow dog.
King Qin Feng's rule-based power was not an absolute defense, especially not against someone as strong as Zhao Xing.
It was clear that within Beichen Kingdom, no supreme cultivator would dare to target the brother-in-law of their king. After all, this was still territory under the Great Zhou Dynasty. Who would act so recklessly here?
"Woof! Woof!"
Shentu Ming was terrified. He bolted, his tail tucked between his legs.
Remarkably, King Qin Feng's residual power still aided him. As a yellow dog, Shentu Ming was enveloped in golden light, allowing him to dash towards the royal palace in a flash.
Zhao Xing had no intention of stopping him. Instead, he observed to see whom Shentu Ming would seek for help.
The gathered officials and military officers were stunned, their minds blank.
Once they regained their senses, they were just as clueless about what to do next.
Zhao Xing, however, shifted his gaze to the gathered officials and spoke sternly.
"Who is the Shennong Supervisor of Beichen Kingdom, Lou Zhenyun?"
An official reluctantly stepped forward from the back of the group. His expression was filled with shame as he bowed deeply before Zhao Xing.
"Your servant, Lou Zhenyun, greets the Grand Shennong."
Zhao Xing held the status of a royal, so Lou Zhenyun addressing himself as a servant was entirely appropriate.
"Lou Zhenyun, you have truly disappointed me," Zhao Xing said coldly.
Lou Zhenyun had been appointed during Liu Tianning's tenure as the Grand Shennong. He had been selected for his impressive track record and his reputation as a diligent and honest official from a humble background.
But the fact that Beichen Kingdom hadn't paid the Golden Fragrance Medicine Tax for fifty years was a glaring failure. It was only after Chen Yu noticed anomalies in the tax records that the matter had been reported.
This level of negligence made it clear that Lou Zhenyun had failed severely in his duties.
"I have failed the Grand Shennong's trust and am willing to accept any punishment," Lou Zhenyun said, his head hung low in shame.
"You were transferred here in the 20th year of the Yuanshou calendar. In just one cycle, you've allowed yourself to become so corrupt," Zhao Xing said, his gaze sharp.
With his Heavenly Sight, Zhao Xing quickly uncovered Lou Zhenyun's many sins: embezzlement, indulgence in luxury, and womanizing.
In over sixty years, Lou Zhenyun's cultivation had stagnated. When he was transferred to Beichen, he was a mid-stage Heavenly Luck cultivator, and he remained at the same level today.
"I am guilty! I have shamed the Grand Shennong!" Lou Zhenyun removed his official hat and knelt in mid-air, weeping bitterly.
"Stand up. Board the ship and make a full confession," Zhao Xing ordered calmly.
"Yes, sir." Lou Zhenyun trembled as he flew to the Five Grains Tower Ship.
The other officials present turned pale. Zhao Xing paid them no mind, flying directly toward the royal palace.
He could sense that Shentu Ming had already arrived at his destination.
"Whoosh!"
Zhao Xing disappeared, leaving behind the radiant Five Grains Tower Ship.
The remaining officials, each lost in their thoughts, hurried to follow him.
Cheng Tianyou finally exhaled deeply. "The pressure was overwhelming. I'm a mid-stage Destiny Palace cultivator, but just one glance from him froze my blood. I couldn't move at all."
"General, Zhao Xing is heading for the royal palace. What should we do?" a deputy asked nervously, unsure of the next step.
"What else can we do? You, head to Yuyang Tian to alert the prince. I'll head to the royal palace," Cheng Tianyou said grimly. "We are responsible for guarding the palace. We can't just stand by and let it be destroyed."
"Yes, sir." A golden-armored guard immediately flew out of the royal city.
Meanwhile, within the royal palace, in a place called Lanhua Palace—
"Woof! Woof! Woof!"
Shentu Ming, now a yellow dog, dashed into Lanhua Palace with his tail tucked.
Inside Lanhua Hall, a beautiful woman was seated before a mirror, leisurely applying her makeup. Her exposed shoulders glistened, her hair adorned with shimmering pins, and vibrant ribbons framed her exquisite features.
Shentu Lan, in the middle of preparing for a garden stroll, was startled when a fat yellow dog suddenly barged in.
The palace attendants were equally shocked.
"Where did this dog come from?"
"Quickly, catch it!"
"Ah, it's so strong!"
"Wait, is it… writing something?"
"Huh? It's so ugly."
"Woof!" Shentu Ming snarled at the maid who insulted him, baring his teeth.
Shentu Lan found the situation amusing at first. But when she saw the words the yellow dog was writing, her expression changed drastically.
"Brother? How… How did you become like this?"
"Woof… Woof… Woof…"
"Help me, sister," Shentu Ming wrote desperately before diving under Shentu Lan's skirt, trembling.
Recognizing her brother's familiar sly expression even in dog form, Shentu Lan quickly sent all the attendants away.
"Everyone, leave us!" she commanded sharply.
Once alone, she knelt down, scooped up the trembling dog, and began questioning Shentu Ming about what had happened.
At that moment, Zhao Xing arrived at the gates of Lanhua Palace.
"Who dares to trespass in the royal palace?!"
"Seize him!"
Zhao Xing's calm yet commanding presence loomed over the royal guards as chaos ensued inside Lanhua Palace.
As Zhao Xing moved through the palace grounds, his every step brought chaos. Chickens and dogs seemed to appear out of nowhere, scattering in every direction amidst frantic cries. Palace guards and maids, rushing to intervene, were struck by Zhao Xing's oppressive aura.
In the blink of an eye, these individuals transformed—those leaping forward in human form landed as animals. Their panicked clucks and barks filled the once-solemn Lanhua Palace, leaving it a far cry from its former grandeur.
"Grand Shennong Zhao Xing!" Cheng Tianyou, a courageous officer, stepped forward with a resolute expression. "Please halt your advance! This is the inner palace of Beichen Kingdom. Even if the prime minister has offended you, this intrusion is against royal protocol!"
Zhao Xing glanced at Cheng Tianyou, a flicker of acknowledgment in his gaze. This man was loyal, daring to confront him even in the face of overwhelming odds.
"Loyalty is commendable," Zhao Xing said, his tone indifferent. "But your thinking is outdated. Step aside and reflect on your inadequacy."
Before Cheng Tianyou could react, the stone slab beneath his feet split open with a sharp crack. The fissure expanded rapidly, transforming into a chasm that swallowed him whole.
Cheng Tianyou summoned all his strength, his spear glowing with golden light as a formidable golden bear manifested behind him—a projection of his indomitable will.
"Roar!" The bear let out a mighty cry as Cheng Tianyou prepared to resist.
But Zhao Xing was unfazed. With a mere gesture, water cascaded from above, dousing the golden glow around Cheng Tianyou.
"Hiss—" The golden light extinguished with a hiss, like fire meeting a torrential downpour.
Cheng Tianyou's body sank under the surging waters, which carried an oppressive weight. He was sealed three thousand meters underground by the combined power of the Xuan Shui Earth Palace and the Vast Sea Earth Palace.
The ground above him reformed seamlessly, leaving no trace of his presence. It was as if he had never stood there.
The surrounding palace guards froze, their resolve shaken.
"Leave," Zhao Xing commanded calmly, his words imbued with an undeniable power.
Like a spell, his command drove the guards to retreat beyond the palace gates.
At that moment, a commanding figure emerged before Lanhua Hall. Her presence was captivating yet brimming with fury.
"Zhao Xing!" Shentu Lan's voice rang out sharply. "What audacity you have to storm the Beichen royal palace and harm its people! What crime have my brother and the palace servants committed to warrant such a rampage?"
Zhao Xing turned to face her, his expression unreadable. "Your question is timely."
With a wave of his hand, a document materialized in the air. It was the written confession of Shentu Ming, detailing his transgressions. The document flew across the space and landed firmly in Zhao Xing's grasp.
"Shentu Lan, the evidence is clear," Zhao Xing began, his tone cold and measured. "Your brother, Shentu Ming, has abused his authority as prime minister—embezzlement, bribery, and the arbitrary dismissal of court officials. These are but a fraction of his offenses."
Shentu Lan's face darkened as she interrupted. "Grand Shennong Zhao Xing, while my brother may have made errors in governance, such matters fall under the jurisdiction of the Heavenly Bureaucracy. Shouldn't you consult my husband before taking action?"
Zhao Xing's lips curved into a sardonic smile. "Your husband? The illustrious Beichen King, Qin Feng, is fortunate to have such an outspoken wife. Yet, with such chaos under his roof, one must wonder if his judgment is as sound as his choice of companions."
Shentu Lan's expression stiffened at the veiled insult, but she held her ground.
"A hen crowing at dawn disrupts the order of the court," Zhao Xing declared, his voice sharp. "Since you insist on meddling, I will grant you your wish!"
With a flick of his finger, golden light shot toward Shentu Lan. Though she was protected by the residual power of Beichen King Qin Feng, the force Zhao Xing unleashed pierced through the protective barrier effortlessly.
Her ornate robes fell to the floor, and from beneath them, a vividly colored pheasant emerged, flapping its wings in panic.
"Woof, woof!" Shentu Ming, already in canine form, whimpered as he scrambled under a bed for safety.
Seeing his sister transformed, Shentu Ming's fear mounted. The pheasant that was Shentu Lan flapped its wings furiously, eventually retreating to join her brother under the bed.
Zhao Xing observed their pitiful state with cold detachment. However, as he stepped closer to apprehend them, a golden barrier flared to life around the bed, encasing the siblings within its protective glow.
"Hm?" Zhao Xing narrowed his eyes, sensing the intricate power of the formation.
The golden circle appeared to be drawn with the life essence of the Beichen King himself. Its power was formidable, clearly designed to shield the siblings from even the strongest of foes.
Shentu Lan and Shentu Ming, now within the circle, let out sighs of relief. They recalled King Qin Feng's words:
"If danger ever befalls you, retreat into this circle. The protective light I've left behind will shield you from even the strongest of enemies."
Zhao Xing studied the barrier. "As expected of Qin Feng's handiwork," he muttered, his tone laced with a hint of admiration.
From within the golden light, a projection of King Qin Feng appeared. His regal bearing was unmistakable as he addressed Zhao Xing directly.
"Grand Shennong Zhao Xing."
"Beichen King Qin Feng," Zhao Xing replied, his expression unreadable.
King Qin Feng turned his attention to the figures of the chicken and dog within the golden light. With a heavy sigh, he cupped his hands and said, "Grand Shennong Zhao, I humbly ask you to show leniency and spare my family. I will personally plead guilty to the court at a later time."
Zhao Xing's expression hardened. "King Qin Feng, if you truly wish to atone, how can you stand by and allow your brother-in-law to act recklessly?"
Through his earlier investigation, Zhao Xing had pieced together the truth. King Qin Feng had seldom returned home over the past decades. While he had not committed any direct wrongs, his negligence in managing his household had led to his relatives committing numerous offenses. Though such matters might not amount to much for a highly influential prince who had surpassed the Rule Realm, it was still unacceptable behavior.
As long as King Qin Feng did not betray the nation, the court would overlook most issues. But Zhao Xing was not here to ignore such transgressions. His very purpose for this visit was to deliver a stern warning.
To simply release Shentu Lan and Shentu Ming without consequence would go against the principles laid down by Emperor Wu, undermining the standards Zhao Xing upheld. Additionally, as the Grand Shennong, Zhao Xing's authority was directly tied to enforcing order. Allowing this incident to pass unaddressed would set a poor precedent, making his future duties all the more difficult.
On both a public and personal level, Zhao Xing could not yield. However, King Qin Feng was equally reluctant to allow his brother-in-law and wife to be taken away.
Such an act would carry too much humiliation. The esteemed King Qin Feng, having his harem breached and his family forcibly removed, would become a laughingstock. The old King Qin Feng, during Emperor Jing's reign, might have handled this situation with more caution, knowing better than to defy Zhao Xing. But Emperor Wu was not Emperor Jing, and King Qin Feng was no longer the subordinate he once was.
"Grand Shennong Zhao," King Qin Feng said firmly, "I am on my way back and will apologize in person. Please permit me to resolve this matter face-to-face."
Though his words seemed soft, his tone carried an undeniable firmness, clearly indicating his refusal to allow Zhao Xing to take Shentu Lan and Shentu Ming. "If you insist on removing them, it will do you no favors."
Zhao Xing's gaze sharpened. "King Qin Feng, I will ask you one last time—are you truly set on this course?"
King Qin Feng remained silent, his expression unwavering.
Seeing this, Zhao Xing said no more. Rising into the air, he declared coldly, "If you wish to keep them, then as you desire."
Zhao Xing began to cast his techniques. Streams of golden light shot out, piercing the sky above the palace and the ground below. Within moments, thousands of golden beams spread across the royal palace's airspace and the surrounding grounds. Soon after, ethereal figures began to manifest around Zhao Xing, some diving into the earth, others ascending into the sky.
In a matter of moments, golden points of light appeared throughout the palace, both above and below ground. Beneath the surface, intricate networks of earth veins formed complex mazes, twisting and locking together like chains. Zhao Xing then retrieved a stack of pre-made divine talismans from his sleeve, scattering them with a wave of his hand.
The talismans followed the golden light, affixing themselves to predetermined positions with precision.
Once his preparations were complete, Zhao Xing descended back to the palace gates, stepping into the hall once more. King Qin Feng watched his return, a flicker of surprise crossing his face.
Inside the hall, mountains of rice and flour, formed from Yuan Rice, had materialized. Beside them stood an ethereal lantern, its flame illuminating a lock of the same ghostly nature. The peculiar sight left King Qin Feng puzzled.
"Grand Shennong Zhao, what is the meaning of this?" he asked.
Zhao Xing snorted, tossing the evidence scroll into the hall. Without another word, he turned and left.
King Qin Feng, left to his thoughts, struggled to discern Zhao Xing's intentions. After all, the projection he had left behind carried only residual consciousness, not his full awareness. Seeing Zhao Xing leave, he chose not to pursue the matter further, instead focusing on the issue at hand.
Calling Shentu Lan and Shentu Ming forward, King Qin Feng prepared to use his rules-based power to dispel their transformed states. However, as he struck them with successive waves of golden light, he found, to his dismay, that the transformations were impervious to his efforts.
"Cluck, cluck, cluck?!" Shentu Lan's eyes flashed with a trace of panic, while Shentu Ming frantically wagged his tail, tears welling in his eyes as he looked pitifully at King Qin Feng.
"Stop that noise!" King Qin Feng snapped irritably, "Look at the mess you've caused!"
He sensed that the transformations inflicted upon the siblings were somehow connected to the mystical setup Zhao Xing had left in place. Determined to resolve the matter, he turned his attention to the piles of Yuan Rice and flour that had materialized.
With a soft exhale, he blew at the mountain-like formations.
"Whoosh~"
For a brief moment, the rice and flour dissipated, but in the next instant—
"Buzz~"
The ground trembled lightly, and new piles of Yuan Rice and flour emerged from the earth, as if untouched by his effort.
"What… What kind of sorcery is this?" King Qin Feng was momentarily stunned.
He attempted to lead Shentu Lan and Shentu Ming out of the hall. Yet, the siblings found themselves unable to step past the threshold of the grand door.
King Qin Feng froze.
The life-saving protection he had granted them now felt like a gilded cage, compounded by the numerous layers of locks Zhao Xing had imposed. It was as though they had been completely and irreversibly confined within this hall.
Meanwhile, high above the royal city, Zhao Xing's grain tower ship hovered, ready to depart. Aboard were several officials, all associated with the Shennong Division.
The court system of Great Zhou functioned as a hybrid of feudal and bureaucratic governance. While local governance was entrusted to appointed noble families, key administrative roles, particularly in the Six Ministries, were filled by officials dispatched by the central court. Zhao Xing had now rounded up individuals such as Lou Zhenyun, those directly under his jurisdiction, to face justice in Fengjing.
These individuals had all been dispatched during the tenure of the former Prime Minister, Liu, and now, with their crimes laid bare, Zhao Xing saw no alternative but to bring them to justice. As for the remaining officials within Beichen Kingdom, their cases would fall under the purview of other departments.
This approach wasn't just about law enforcement; it was a calculated move to compel King Qin Feng to acknowledge his own failures. Zhao Xing hadn't even touched the tax revenue from the fragrant herb trade, leaving that to the king's discretion.
The message was clear: King Qin Feng needed to present himself before the court to admit his mistakes. Zhao Xing had no intention of belittling himself by collecting such minor dues personally.
"You can either maintain your dignity, or I will force it upon you," Zhao Xing declared coldly, "The only way to break my ultimate Five-Seal Primordial Seal is for you to kill Shentu Lan and Shentu Ming."
The principle was simple—similar to the peculiar artifact spirits Zhao Xing had once encountered in the Yuanfeng Vault. His Five-Seal Primordial Seal wasn't unbreakable; with King Qin Feng's strength, he could certainly force it apart. However, the moment the lock was shattered, the siblings would also perish.
Currently, Shentu Lan and Shentu Ming were too fragile to withstand the aftermath of such an act, let alone a direct attack. Even the residual force from a confrontation between Zhao Xing and King Qin Feng would spell their doom.
It was the quintessential dilemma: saving the hostages meant destroying them.
"King Qin Feng, I'll await your plea in Fengjing!" Zhao Xing's voice resonated across the skies of the royal city as his ship departed.
Hearing this, King Qin Feng furrowed his brow as his golden projection faded.
Simultaneously, far away in the Yu Yang Cave-Heaven, the atmosphere at the realm's border was anything but calm.
Violent gales churned the Yuan Qi into a frenzied tempest. A warship hovered at the edge of the storm, accompanied by a vast army stationed in the distance. Within the warship's cabin, King Qin Feng's true form stirred, his eyes snapping open.
"Brother Qin, what's the matter?" Cai Jin asked in puzzlement.
Cai Jin, a Duke and one of the ruling figures of the Military Realm, held a significant position within Lingyuan Prefecture. The Cai family was a prominent northern clan, deeply entrenched in the region's politics and power structures.
The resurgence of Yuan Qi tides had brought unprecedented opportunities for cultivators at the Destiny Palace Stage. However, within Zhongtu Divine Land, the intensity of the tides was still insufficient to reliably push through to the Rule Stage. Historically, only the emperor—bolstered by the nation's fortune—could naturally attain the Rule Stage, bypassing the barriers of advancement entirely. For other cultivators, the path was fraught with uncertainty, their road ahead shrouded in obscurity.
King Qin Feng, having successfully broken through this barrier, now enjoyed unparalleled prestige. Since the thirtieth year of the Yuan Shou era, many had sought to ally themselves with him.
Among those who had forged close ties with Qin Feng, Cai Jin stood out. A consummate Minggong-stage physician, he was renowned across the northern regions for his skills and influence.
"Brother Cai, there's been trouble at home. I must ask for your help," King Qin Feng said gravely.
Cai Jin was taken aback. Though he had known Qin Feng for years, this was the first time the latter had asked him for a favor. Recognizing the rare opportunity, Cai Jin replied eagerly, "Of course, Brother Qin! Just say the word, and I will do everything in my power!"
"I need your expertise in dispelling the Transformation Law," Qin Feng explained.
"Dispelling the Transformation Law? Consider it done!" Cai Jin responded confidently. "I specialize in the art of Yin-Yang Six Qi Transposition, which is highly effective for such cases."
Physicians viewed the Transformation Law as a form of ailment, a disorder of the Yin-Yang and Six Qi within the body.
For instance, ordinary individuals experiencing seasonal transitions might develop rashes, sores, or even bone pain. These conditions mirrored the essence of the Transformation Law: physical symptoms caused by internal imbalances.
In the northern regions, where the boundaries between the Cave-Heavens and external forces were frequently tested, practitioners like Cai Jin often encountered such phenomena. Many external calamities were accompanied by Transformation effects, and Cai Jin had earned a reputation as a miracle-working physician in such cases.
"I'm in your debt, Brother Cai," Qin Feng said, visibly relieved.
"It's nothing," Cai Jin replied humbly. "I only hope to be of assistance."
Back in Fengjing, Zhao Xing had already returned with the Shennong officials who had violated the law. Normally, such individuals wouldn't warrant Zhao Xing's personal intervention.
Yet this time, Zhao Xing chose to handle the matter himself.
"Lou Zhenyun, as the chief Shennong official appointed to the Beichen Kingdom, you bear the greatest responsibility. You are hereby sentenced to death," Zhao Xing declared.
"As for the others, all titles, ranks, and fortunes will be stripped, and they will be imprisoned until death."
Opposite Zhao Xing sat Tong Wenzhuo, the Grand Administrator of the Heavenly Ministry, and Wu She, the Autumn Magistrate of Punishment.
Tong Wenzhuo, an experienced and prudent official, asked cautiously, "Grand Shennong Zhao, these individuals were apprehended in the Beichen Kingdom, and their crimes are irrefutable. However, should we consult King Qin Feng before proceeding? After all, granting him the opportunity to use the King's Pardon could help save face."
It was no wonder Emperor Wu sought to humble King Qin Feng. Even Tong Wenzhuo saw merit in offering him a chance to exercise his authority.
Zhao Xing immediately flared up upon hearing this. He stood abruptly, his tone sharp, and declared, "There's no need to consult the King of Beichen about this matter. Lord Tong, simply remove these names from the Soul Register in the Heavenly Bureau!"
"The chaos in Beichen is not entirely of his making, but it is undoubtedly the result of his indulgence!"
"Even the King of Beichen must come to the capital to plead guilty! He cannot escape punishment himself, so how can he talk about pardoning others?" With that, Zhao Xing stormed out in anger.
Once he stepped out the door, however, his demeanor returned to calm.
The show of anger was merely to establish his position, making it clear to Tong Wenzhuo and Wu She that his stance was non-negotiable. In the workplace, especially in official circles, anger often isn't genuine—it's just a way to make one's attitude clear.
Inside the room, Tong Wenzhuo frowned deeply. "Imprisoning people and sentencing them is easy, but as the Right Chancellor, I still need to send someone to govern Beichen. Ah, what a headache."
Wu She, on the other hand, remained silent. He cupped his hands in salute and left quietly.
As planned before entering the room, Wu She would listen, execute, and refrain from voicing any opinions.
Caught in the conflict between a superior Grand Shennong and a supremely-ranked enfeoffed King, Wu She knew better than to meddle. Whoever ended up in the Division of Punishment, he'd simply wield the axe.
"Brother, how are you so sure that the King of Beichen will come to the capital to plead guilty?" Ji Che asked curiously within the palace.
Zhao Xing replied, "I turned his queen into a chicken and his brother-in-law into a dog, sealing them within the royal palace."
"If he wants to undo the Primordial Seal technique, there's only one way: forcefully breaking it. But if he does, both of them will die."
Zhao Xing detailed his observations and actions in Beichen.
"You turned grain into a mountain of rice and flour into another mountain, and then lit a fire to burn the lock. What's the purpose of that?" Ji Che asked.
"Aside from the mountains of rice and flour, the chicken and dog cannot eat anything else," Zhao Xing explained. "I can't let them starve to death; otherwise, there's no point in forcing the King of Beichen to plead guilty."
"The King of Beichen remains loyal to the Great Zhou. In these times, achieving Rule Domain and becoming one of the eight supreme experts of the Great Zhou is no small feat."
"Since he hasn't betrayed the empire, there's no need to kill him. As His Majesty instructed earlier, just a reprimand will suffice."
"Based on this, I've acted with restraint and left room for compromise."
"The Primordial Seal technique I placed also has a time limit, allowing for natural resolution."
"Oh?" Ji Che asked. "What are the conditions for it to be undone?"
"When the chicken finishes pecking all the rice, the dog licks all the flour, and the fire burns through the lock, the spell will naturally dissipate," Zhao Xing explained.
"How long will that take?" Ji Che questioned further.
Zhao Xing smiled. "The rice and flour mountains are perpetually replenished through thirty-six underground pathways. No matter how they are blown away, as long as they remain within the range of the Primordial Seal technique, they will automatically return."
"If within the range of the Primordial Seal technique, not a grain of rice or a pinch of flour remains, it would constitute a forceful break, and those two will die."
"The lamp is lit by moonlight and cannot be extinguished, while the lock is condensed from sunlight."
"As long as the sun and moon continue to shine and the cycles of yin and yang remain unbroken, the setup will persist indefinitely. A forceful break would mean the death of those two."
Ji Che pondered for a moment before breaking into a vibrant expression. "Doesn't that mean it will never be undone?"
Zhao Xing humbly replied, "Not exactly. If the Kingdom of Beichen continues to exist, the technique could last for tens of thousands of years."
"Tens of thousands of years? Hahahaha!" Ji Che burst into laughter. "You've certainly left plenty of room for negotiation—so much room that it's nearly endless!"
Zhao Xing responded, "While this is how I act, I won't make absolute statements. I don't wish to repeat the mistakes of Zhuang Gong in ancient times, building a Yellow Springs Palace."
Ji Che chuckled knowingly.
He naturally understood the reference Zhao Xing made. Zhuang Gong, an ancient monarch, had a mother, Lady Jiang, who bore him and his younger brother, Gongshu Duan. Lady Jiang always favored her younger son, even scheming to make him the ruler after Zhuang Gong had already ascended to the throne.
In anger, Zhuang Gong banished his mother and swore publicly by the Luo River, "Not until we meet in the Yellow Springs shall we see each other again!"
In his later years, Zhuang Gong regretted his words. After all, she was still his mother. Lady Jiang also came to feel remorse for her favoritism, longing to see her eldest son. Yet, their vow was absolute, leaving no room for reconciliation.
A clever minister constructed a Yellow Springs Palace, allowing the two to reunite. The lesson was clear: one could take decisive action, but words should leave room for maneuvering.
Zhao Xing's current actions aimed to give the King of Beichen space to acknowledge his faults.
"The King of Beichen fails to recognize his own position, nor does he understand my capabilities."
"This time, let him see clearly!"
"Let His Majesty also observe who dares to intervene in this matter and come to the King of Beichen's aid."
Ji Che nodded. This situation was reminiscent of past events, such as a controversial marriage proposal, where a single incident revealed the inclinations of many ministers.
The investigation into Beichen officials quickly caused a stir.
The claim that Zhao Xing would compel the King of Beichen to come to the capital and plead for forgiveness spread rapidly. A confrontation between the Grand Shennong and a supremely-ranked enfeoffed King was a major scandal.
As soon as the morning court ended, the officials buzzed with discussions.
"Isn't the Grand Shennong being too impulsive, barging into the royal palace and capturing the King of Beichen's queen and brother-in-law? Isn't that outright disrespecting the King of Beichen?"
"What nonsense are you spouting? You're worried about the King of Beichen's dignity? What about the Grand Shennong's dignity? What about His Majesty's dignity?"
"Exactly. The Grand Shennong arrived in the kingdom, beat the drum twice, and yet no one came to greet him. How rotten must the Beichen officials be?"
"Do you know who the Grand Shennong is? When he was still only at the third-rank cultivation stage, he dared to annihilate external Spirit Bridge cultivators in the Dragon Court! He even orchestrated the downfall of the White Bone Sect, the Snake Nation, and the Four Great Royal Courts, bankrupting the White Bone Sect and costing them eighteen treasures!"
"During the previous emperor's reign, the Grand Shennong had the audacity to accompany His Majesty in a controversial marriage proposal, which succeeded in the end!"
"He is the youngest and most revered Grand Shennong in history. When he went to Beichen to conduct a tax audit and was ignored after two drumbeats, how dare they disrespect him?"
"Wasn't the King of Beichen absent from the kingdom?"
"Absurd! Are you a dog official bought off by the King of Beichen? How dare you defend him repeatedly!"
"Hey, Brother Kun, calm down. Don't fight—"
Ji Youtang and Xiao Zhe quickly separated Meng Kun and another ceremonial officer, kicking the latter twice in the process.
Seeing the officer beaten and bruised, Meng Kun finally relented, snorting coldly as he left.
Seven days later, Beichen Kingdom, within the royal palace.
The King of Beichen had returned to the royal city.
Surveying the palace, now littered with chicken feathers, he was left speechless.
Cai Jin's expression turned somber as he observed the spell enveloping the royal palace. He quickly realized it was no simple enchantment.
"This method is extraordinarily intricate," Cai Jin commented. "A slight misstep could lead to the death and dissipation of both the queen and the prime minister."
"That's precisely why I invited you, Brother Cai," the King of Beichen sighed. "Though they've committed offenses, we cannot let them lose their lives. Afterward, I can plead for their pardon from His Majesty, but for now, I ask for your assistance."
"I'll try, but I can't guarantee success." Now that Cai Jin had seen the spell firsthand, his earlier confidence had wavered.
He stepped into the palace and immediately saw the mountains of rice and flour, as well as the locked lamp. Since the siblings Shentu Ming and Shentu Lan had been transformed into an ordinary chicken and dog, their hunger had set in quickly. For the past few days, they had survived by pecking at the rice and licking the flour.
The Shentu siblings, accustomed to a life of luxury and delicacies, now found themselves forced to eat coarse rice and flour for survival—a taste that was hard to swallow. Shentu Ming, in particular, ate with tears in his eyes, occasionally sneezing pitifully.
When the King of Beichen and Cai Jin entered, Shentu Ming and Shentu Lan ran over immediately.
"Cluck, cluck!"
"Woof, woof!"
The golden pheasant flapped its wings frantically, while the yellow dog wagged its tail and whimpered. Cai Jin didn't need to guess to know they were complaining about their plight.
But Cai Jin, familiar with the Shentu siblings' character, felt no pity for them. Instead, he admired the ingenuity of Zhao Xing's spell.
"You've lived a life of indulgence and extravagance, enjoying the finest delicacies. Now it's your turn to experience what the common folk eat—rough rice and coarse flour!" he thought. Despite these musings, he knew he still had a job to do.
"King of Beichen, forgive me for the offense toward your queen and prime minister."
Qin Feng, the King of Beichen, shook his head. "What offense? Just perform your spell, Brother."
Cai Jin immediately grabbed Shentu Ming by the neck and lifted him. As he examined him, Shentu Ming's bones began to crack audibly.
"Yip! Yip! Yip!"
The pain was unbearable, and Shentu Ming started howling like a dog.
After a moment of contemplation, Cai Jin cut off a small piece of Shentu Ming's skin and flesh, holding it up for closer inspection. After a brief observation, he drew out a divine needle and began inserting it into Shentu Ming's body.
To be cautious, Cai Jin even summoned a medical scripture and invoked its sacred energies. Threads of life force flowed from the scripture into the divine needle, entering Shentu Ming's body.
"Buzz—buzz—"
Suddenly, a strange resonance emerged from within Shentu Ming's body.
A phantom of a millstone appeared above Cai Jin's head and rolled over Shentu Ming's form.
"Woof! Woof!"
Shentu Ming convulsed, his eyes rolling back. Half an hour later, Cai Jin stood up, his face filled with shock.
"How is it?" the King of Beichen asked.
"Your Majesty, I am powerless," Cai Jin admitted, visibly shaken. "This spell is far too advanced. Not only is it intricately linked to the surrounding space, but the method itself is beyond my capability to break. The complexity of this transformation technique rivals even the legendary Pig Transformation Method of Wu Cheng, the Grand Shennong from the founding days of the empire."
"I never imagined that the current Grand Shennong, Zhao Xing, had reached such heights. Your Majesty, I must take my leave." Cai Jin cupped his hands in salute and, without another word, turned and left.
When Zhao Xing ascended to his position by defeating Liu Tianning, many still believed that Liu Tianning had gone easy on him, leaving them unimpressed by Zhao Xing's strength. Cai Jin had initially come to curry favor with the King of Beichen, using the guise of a healer to maintain neutrality. But after experiencing Zhao Xing's spell firsthand, he dared not involve himself any further.
Even his address shifted from "Brother Qin" to "Your Majesty."
As Cai Jin hurriedly departed, the King of Beichen's expression darkened.
Seven days passed, and the incident had escalated, attracting dozens of experts to Beichen. Some came to offer assistance, while others simply wanted to witness the Grand Shennong's new spell.
"I've heard that the Primordial Seal Method was originally developed by Li Boqian, the Grand Shennong two generations ago."
"But his version wasn't like this—it wasn't as expansive or complex."
"The times are changing. You're talking about a Grand Shennong from two generations ago. Of course, it's evolved under Zhao Xing."
"Tsk, tsk. An ultimate spell combining geomantic law, transformation techniques, talisman arts, and mechanisms. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness this. It wasn't a wasted trip traveling thousands of miles to see it."
"Look, the ninth-ranked Shennong Officer of the Northern Territory, the fourth-ranked Mechanist, and the third-ranked Talisman Master are all here."
"With the King of Beichen's connections, why can't he invite the first-ranked expert?"
"Hmph, look at who cast the spell. Zhao Xing's reputation overshadows even the King of Beichen. Who would dare meddle lightly?"
"Even the first-ranked expert won't come. They can only invite those ranked below."
"Supposedly, even this arrangement was pre-approved by the Grand Shennong, who wanted the King of Beichen to concede defeat willingly. Look, has Wu Hua succeeded?"
Following the remark, everyone turned to observe.
Wu Hua, the ninth-ranked Shennong Officer in the Northern Territory, was proficient in both celestial timing and geomantic law. At nearly 700 years old, he had reached the late stage of the Destiny Palace Realm. Although he had retired to the mountains, someone had managed to convince him to come out of seclusion.
Not wanting to cause trouble for his descendants but also unable to ignore the favor owed, Wu Hua sought the Grand Shennong's approval through mutual acquaintances. Zhao Xing, magnanimous as always, had given permission for Wu Hua to assist in examining the spell.
"If I want to win, I don't need to rely on pressure," Zhao Xing had told Wang Tianzhi at the time. "Anyone—be it Shennong Officers, Mechanists, or Talisman Masters—can come and try."
Even so, only three dared to attempt: Shennong Officer Wu Hua, Mechanist Wang Zhen, and Talisman Master Nangong Qing. At this moment, Wu Hua made a move, and a watery figure appeared beside him.
The King of Beichen's eyes narrowed. Everyone turned their gaze toward the commotion.
Could it be that Zhao Xing's spell was about to be broken by Wu Hua?
"Is that Shentu Ming?"
"It doesn't seem right. Isn't the dog still over there?"
"Shentu Ming is short and stout, but this figure is tall and imposing, clad in golden armor and holding a long spear. It's clearly not him."
"Then who is this?"
The crowd was perplexed, unable to comprehend what had just transpired.
"Cheng Tianyou, you're actually here?" King Beichen exclaimed in surprise.
He had thought Cheng Tianyou had perished while defending the royal palace, especially since Cheng Tianyou had rushed to block Zhao Xing. Given Zhao Xing's temperament, it wouldn't have been surprising if he had killed Cheng Tianyou on the spot.
Unexpectedly, Cheng Tianyou had been buried underground all this time.
"Your… Your Highness," Cheng Tianyou stammered, his voice weak as he appeared swollen, his body nearly twice its usual size. Just as he was about to speak further, he vomited a mouthful of water.
"Whoa, how much water did you drink?" Nangong Qing observed with interest, scanning him up and down. She hadn't expected someone to emerge from the ground like this. Cheng Tianyou continued to vomit profusely. Just how much had he consumed?
He couldn't even remember anymore. The combined powers of the Xuan Water Palace and the Vast Sea Palace had created a relentless influx of water. Zhao Xing had seemingly forgotten about him back then, leaving Cheng Tianyou trapped underground.
As a martial artist without any advanced escape techniques, Cheng Tianyou had to hold his breath. This had gone on for more than half a month!
Eventually, when he couldn't bear it any longer, he was forced to drink the water and extract the air within it to survive. Heaven knew how much he had swallowed!
Luckily, his cultivation had included several layers of the Devouring Method, which expanded the capacity of his stomach, enabling him to endure.
But even so, he had reached his limit. Had Wu Hua not found him, he might have truly become an unfortunate casualty in this chaotic dispute.
"Unbelievable, truly incredible!"
Wu Hua, upon learning that Cheng Tianyou had survived underground for more than half a month, let out a long sigh.
"The techniques of the Grand Shennong are beyond the understanding of this old man."
"I've been here for three days, and only now have I uncovered a single casual spell hidden beneath the Primordial Seal. To witness such mastery in my lifetime—it's worth dying without regrets!"
"Ha ha ha! The Grand Shennong is indeed the unrivaled leader of all Shennongs under Heaven!" Wu Hua laughed heartily before departing on a cloud.
He had done his utmost; the karma owed to King Beichen was repaid. Whether the problem could be resolved or not was no longer his concern.
King Beichen's expression grew darker as he shifted his gaze toward Mechanist Wang Zhen and Talisman Master Nangong Qing, who were both busy inspecting the area.
Nangong Qing extended a hand, conjuring faint traces of divine talismans that flickered around her. She shook her head and said, "King Beichen, these divine talismans are interconnected. Even if they could be broken, dismantling the talisman pathways alone won't suffice."
"They're fused with the Dao of Heavenly Timing and Earthly Advantage, forming a nexus that connects Heaven and Earth. This is as much as I can discern."
After finishing, Nangong Qing cupped her hands in salute and flew away.
She didn't explicitly say that the formation couldn't be broken, as that would harm the reputation of the Dao of Talisman Masters. Yet her implication was clear: attempting to break it would cost lives.
King Beichen's expression grew even grimmer. His last hope now lay with Mechanist Wang Zhen.
The longevity of this spell was due to Zhao Xing's use of formations. Without them, the spell would have naturally weakened over time.
Otherwise, Zhao Xing would be in the Rule Domain—a realm where formations and techniques remained active even in his absence. However, Zhao Xing clearly wasn't in the Rule Domain. If he were, King Beichen would have submitted long ago.
After all, submitting to a Grand Shennong of the same rank wouldn't have been shameful. But with Zhao Xing merely in the Destiny Palace Stage, it was hard for King Beichen to accept. Pride was a difficult thing to let go of, especially for someone who had been in power for so long.
Wang Zhen moved in and out of the palace, carefully examining the bronze locks and floating flames.
"The Lock of the Sun and the Flame of the Moon—one Yang and one Yin—generate the Six Harmonies, which correspond to the Thirty-Six Earthly Meridians."
"How can the force of the Earth Veins be severed? Severing it would immediately transform their contingency into a deadly calamity. At that point, they wouldn't simply turn into chickens or dogs."
"Who knows what monstrosities would emerge—or perhaps they'd just become a puddle of flesh."
The more Wang Zhen studied it, the more he marveled at its intricacy.
He approached Shentu Ming and brought the dog closer to the flames near the bronze lock.
Shentu Ming had already given up resisting.
His fur had been mostly singed off, leaving patches of bruises and burns all over his body.
For days, King Beichen had invited numerous experts to examine the formation, all of whom had started by experimenting on Shentu Ming. After all, Shentu Lan was the queen. Even if she had turned into a chicken, it wouldn't have been appropriate to test spells on her carelessly.
Shentu Ming, as a mere minister and in-law, didn't carry the same weight. Unlike Shentu Lan, he wasn't deemed important. As a result, he had borne the brunt of the trials.
He'd been pierced with needles, burned with flames, sliced into, and had even had his tongue and other… less mentionable areas inspected.
Remembering a poem he once read, "Jade trees shine light on the rear courtyard." Shentu Ming sighed bitterly, thinking, "Karma, truly…"
Exhausted, Shentu Ming began to lose the will to live.
Whenever he reached his breaking point, a physician would come to heal him. Treating the injuries of a mere yellow dog was child's play for them.
But as time passed, the experiments became increasingly invasive.
After being roasted by Wang Zhen, Shentu Ming suddenly threw himself toward a nearby pillar in an attempt to end it all. It was evident he no longer wished to live.
"Minister Shen, please calm down. Don't lose hope."
The physician gently stopped Shentu Ming and treated his wounds once more. Shentu Ming could only smile bitterly, unable to find the words to respond.
After several days of study, Wang Zhen finally shook his head in defeat.
"King Beichen, forgive my inadequacy. I cannot break this formation."
Nonetheless, he offered his professional opinion.
"Your Majesty, the royal palace is not so much sealed by a formation as it is by Heaven and Earth itself."
"The contingency spell acts as Heaven, while the Thirty-Six Earthly Meridians represent Earth."
"The power of the Sun is the lock, and the power of the Moon is the flame."
"The Yellow-Eared Rooster stands at the center of the lock."
"This method is virtually flawless. At least, I cannot think of any way to dismantle it."
King Beichen's voice dropped. "Is it that you cannot think of a solution, or that you dare not attempt it?"
Wang Zhen shook his head solemnly. "It's truly that I cannot think of one."
"King Beichen, we've known each other for many years, though it has been a long time since we last met. If I may speak plainly, the Grand Shennong has shown you mercy."
"The Rice Mountain and Flour Mountain are deliberate weak points left by the Grand Shennong to ensure your relatives don't starve to death."
"Other food sources that enter will have their vitality drained, rendering them useless for sustenance."
"Besides, does it matter whether one dares or cannot? What's the difference?"
With these parting words, Wang Zhen cupped his hands, took his leave, and flew away.
King Beichen stood in deep thought for a long time before finally lifting his gaze toward the surrounding crowd. Many had been invited by him, while others had come on their own accord.
Some gazes were cold and calculating, their true intentions unclear.
When King Beichen looked their way, a few didn't avert their eyes. Some even clutched letters tightly, as if they were weapons.
After taking in the scene, King Beichen turned his eyes toward the hall's entrance, where the chicken and dog—his relatives—remained, oblivious to their predicament.
Finally, he sighed and lowered his head, speaking to his bodyguard, "Ling'er, prepare the prison carriage. Escort me to the capital to personally apologize to the Grand Shennong."