Ziluo Heavenly Venerable watched in shock as Zhao Xing communicated with the Earth Puppet. "He can converse with the Earth Puppet? Is that even possible?"
Chen Song, Peng Bo, and Zhang Liang exchanged bewildered glances. This was something they couldn't replicate—communication in the language of Jixi Dao was far beyond their comprehension.
When Zhao Xing returned and began discussing plans with King Shenluo and the others, Ziluo Heavenly Venerable sensed trouble brewing. Zhao Xing and his group occasionally cast meaningful glances in his direction, as if plotting something.
"We're retreating immediately!"
Ziluo Heavenly Venerable decisively ordered his disciple Shuiyun True Lord to lead their group of several dozen people away from the Earth Puppet's domain.
Ziluo Heavenly Venerable was too deeply scarred by previous encounters. This man, Zhao Xing, was adept at exploiting loopholes in rules and manipulating privileges. Back in Guting Royal City, they had suffered miserably under his schemes.
Memories of Zigu Heavenly Venerable's tragic defeat resurfaced, prompting Ziluo Heavenly Venerable to exercise extreme caution. Without hesitation, he led his people toward the exit.
"Fellow Daoist, please stay!"
A voice called out from behind. Ziluo Heavenly Venerable froze momentarily before quickening his pace.
However, four of his disciples lagged behind and remained in the plaza.
"Protector Shi San, why are you stopping? Hurry up and leave!" Shuiyun True Lord called out sharply. "Move now!"
The four disciples appeared confused. It wasn't that they didn't want to leave—it was that a strange mark had appeared before them, barring their exit from the plaza.
"Elder, Master, we can't leave!"
"What's happening?" Ziluo Heavenly Venerable turned to see the strange marks on the four disciples and was immediately alarmed.
"We heard a voice. It said if we leave the plaza, we'll die."
"That's not it. We've been challenged," said Shi San, the strongest of the four, as he carefully listened to the Dao's resonance. He quickly grasped the situation.
"Challenged? What does that mean?" Ziluo Heavenly Venerable, standing just outside the plaza, asked urgently.
Shi San's face was full of shock. "It means… we've now been designated as disciples of Jixi Dao. Those from Great Zhou have initiated a 'True Legacy Challenge' against the four of us."
"True Legacy Challenge?"
Chen Song, Peng Bo, and Zhang Liang were equally puzzled and instinctively stepped back. Ziluo Heavenly Venerable's expression turned grim. He sensed this was about to take a very bad turn.
Before he could gather more information, King Shenluo, Ye Yukong, Cui Chengzhi, and Ji Yun made their moves.
"Boom!"
The four unleashed their full might, each targeting one of the marked individuals and commencing the True Legacy Challenge. Shi San and the others were completely dumbfounded.
Even if it was a challenge, shouldn't there be some sense of fairness?
Among the four of them, Shi San was the strongest, but he had only just entered the early stages of the Heavenly Luck Realm.
In contrast, the Great Zhou challengers were either at the peak of the Destiny Palace Realm, with domains fully developed, or experts in mysterious techniques and combat arts.
How were they supposed to fight?
"This isn't right! I don't want to enter the True Legacy Hall…" Shi San shouted at the Earth Puppet, finally understanding the meaning of the Dao's resonance.
An over-tier challenge was required to prove oneself, but he had no desire to take on such a challenge!
"I concede! I concede!" Shi San shouted at the approaching King Shenluo. "Don't come any closer! I don't want to fight!"
Unfortunately, his words fell on deaf ears. The Earth Puppet remained unmoved.
King Shenluo's expression was somewhat peculiar. Did Shi San think it was King Shenluo being tested in the over-tier challenge? From another perspective, that interpretation made sense—someone had to be in the over-tier position.
With a flick of his arm, King Shenluo activated his [Sleeve Cannon], a fiery red aurora blasting toward Shi San.
To everyone's surprise, Shi San's survival instinct kicked in at that moment, allowing him to evade a fatal blow. However, he lost half his shoulder, narrowly avoiding death.
"King Shenluo, finish it quickly," Zhao Xing said in a low voice. "The sleeve cannon is only meant for clearing minor enemies. Against someone in the Heavenly Luck Realm, at least use the Five Visceral Cannon."
King Shenluo felt a pang of shame. Letting such a small fry embarrass him in front of the Grand Shennong was unacceptable!
"Clack-clack-clack!"
Light radiated from King Shenluo's chest and waist as compass-like beams rotated above Shi San's head.
"Five Absolutes Shenluo Array!"
Five divine projections of Shenluo descended over Shi San, trapping him within a glowing cage.
"Buzz!"
The cage snapped shut instantly, slicing Shi San into fragments.
On another front, Ye Yukong faced off against a Third-Rank opponent. He didn't even draw his sword. A casual wave of sword energy obliterated his challenger in seconds.
Ji Yun, a master of curses, used an incantation similar to the [Blood Curse Killing Technique] once employed by the Blood Spirit Sovereign against Zhao Xing. However, Ji Yun's curse carried golden characters. With a mere change of color, it became a distinguished spell exclusive to Great Zhou!
Cui Chengzhi's method was nothing short of a spectacle. He flung a small willow-leaf blade that moved with lightning speed. The challenger ran frantically across the plaza, but the blade struck faster than they could react.
Cui Chengzhi's precision was almost artistic. The willow-leaf blade danced up and down, slicing through the opponent's flesh until a skeleton emerged from within.
Blood and bone separated under the blade's cut, leaving behind a soul-like shadow that resembled an afterimage. The scene revealed the flesh, the skeleton, and the soul—three distinct layers of existence.
"A master from the Soldier Realm, even killing is an art form," Zhao Xing muttered internally. "What a twisted genius."
With that, all four challengers completed their tasks to gain entry to the True Legacy Hall.
The Earth Puppet turned toward them and spoke.
"What's it saying?" someone asked.
Zhao Xing translated calmly. "The Earth Puppet is congratulating you on completing the over-tier challenges, proving yourselves worthy of becoming True Legacy Disciples of Jixi Dao."
The four challengers felt no joy or sense of accomplishment—only absurdity.
If the participants found it ridiculous, the Corpse Puppet Sect and the Four Extremes Sect found it even more baffling. "Over-tier challenges… What kind of nonsensical rule is this?"
"This is insane. Could it be that killing someone weaker than yourself grants access to the hall?"
"Senior Brother, the only ones weaker than us here are the disciples from the Corpse Puppet Sect," Peng Bo remarked, eyeing the heads of the Corpse Puppet Sect disciples.
Chen Song's gaze narrowed as well.
Once Zhao Xing's group entered, the enraged Ziluo Heavenly Venerable realized Chen Song and the others were now looking at his side with a dangerous intent.
Even Shuiyun True Lord, his own disciple, seemed tempted. Compared to a breakthrough, what was killing a few disciples?
Zhao Xing, unable to complete an over-tier challenge himself, stayed outside. However, King Shenluo carried a secondary communication ring, enabling contact with those inside.
As soon as King Shenluo's group entered the dilapidated palace to seize the Heavenly Luck, a new conflict broke out outside. It was the Four Extremes Sect attacking the Corpse Puppet Sect.
"Chen Song! What are you doing?"
"Peng Bo! How dare you launch a sneak attack!"
"Ah—!"
Zhao Xing observed coldly as the groups slaughtered one another.
Meanwhile, in the distant south atop an ancient holy mountain, within a sacred temple, a young man dressed in pristine white robes stood on the peak, gazing north.
Despite his baby-faced appearance, his eyes were profoundly deep, reflecting the heavens and earth within them.
The white-robed youth exuded a unique aura. Tian Gui, who stood beside him, felt as though he were witnessing the entire world through the youth's silhouette.
He was the Moon God of the Southern Wilderness, the supreme ruler whose status surpassed even that of revered figures like the Ke God, the Purple Dragon God, and the Nine Nether God.
This was the third time Tian Gui had entered the Moon God Temple. Since he could remember, the Moon God always appeared in this form. Even though Tian Gui was now over 800 years old, the Moon God still retained their youthful appearance.
Among beings like Tian Gui, there were nine others, making a total of ten Great Heavenly Shamans, all nurtured by the Moon God. Tian Gui was simply the youngest and weakest among them.
"The heretical path led by Jixi Dao is about to be erased," the Moon God's ethereal voice declared. Tian Gui heard the Moon God's first divine decree. "I will take action myself. Inform the others that they are not to interfere."
"Yes, I shall obey your will," Tian Gui replied respectfully.
After waiting for a moment, the space in front of the Moon God suddenly began to twist. Above, a sword faintly emerged, and at the same time, the shadow of a figure dressed in the garb of a Fate Officer threw a letter with great effort.
Witnessing this, Tian Gui couldn't help but feel a chill in his heart. "Is that the Human Emperor Sword? And… Ji Si, the Grand Fate Officer?"
The thought of Ji Si appearing in such a confrontation shocked Tian Gui to his core.
But before he could process it further, the illusions abruptly vanished, as if they had never been.
The Moon God's second decree followed: "The reason for your repeated failures, for deviating from destiny's signs, lies in one individual."
Tian Gui looked up and saw a shadow of a young man appear before the Moon God.
The young man held a bead in his left hand and a hoe slung over his right shoulder, his lips curled in a faint smile.
Tian Gui's pupils contracted. "That's Zhao Xing!"
What did the Moon God mean by this?
Yet, no further explanation came.
"To kill him and set everything back on the right path, there are only five opportunities left within the next thousand years."
As the Moon God spoke, the surrounding space began to warp once more. The Human Emperor Sword reappeared, this time more vividly. Ji Si's book glowed brightly, and next to him, additional figures emerged, including a woman glaring angrily.
"The next three opportunities will occur within the next hundred years, at Four Pillars Mountain and the Abyssal Ruins."
"Go now. Prepare everything and relay my words to the Ke God, the Purple Dragon God, and the Nine Nether God."
After the Moon God finished speaking, the surrounding space gradually returned to calm.
When Tian Gui looked up again, he found himself halfway up a mountainside.
He gazed upward, but the temple was already shrouded in clouds and soon vanished entirely.
In the Southern Wilderness's Gourd Heaven and the Northern Delta, where Zhao Xing's true body resided, King Shenluo had successfully obtained a rare Heaven and Earth Essence perched atop a roof. He needed only a short time to absorb it.
Just as Zhao Xing was reflecting on this development, his brow suddenly furrowed. Moments later, he stepped outside. Less than ten minutes passed before a figure swiftly approached.
"Ji Si? He's not in Fengjing studying star paths. What is he doing here?" Zhao Xing was puzzled. The journey to Lingyuan Continent alone would take Ji Si three days.
"Grand Shennong." Ji Si landed gracefully.
Zhao Xing frowned, sensing subtle but undeniable changes in Ji Si, though he couldn't pinpoint what they were.
"Master Ji, are you here for me?"
"Yes, there is an urgent order from His Majesty. The Grand Shennong must leave Gourd Heaven immediately."
Zhao Xing's expression turned serious. "What's happened?"
In a grave tone, Ji Si replied, "If the Grand Shennong remains in Gourd Heaven, it may lead to danger."
Zhao Xing's brows twitched. Danger?
Currently, there were few in the Xuanyang Realm capable of threatening him—he could count them on one hand.
"What exactly is going on?"
"I cannot say," Ji Si sighed. "My strength is insufficient. Only by returning to the imperial palace can you uncover the full truth."
Zhao Xing was increasingly surprised. Could this involve the Moon God?
Among the four deities of the Southern Wilderness, only the Moon God could impose such constraints on Ji Si, preventing him from freely revealing certain aspects of the future.
If the Moon God had indeed used a destiny-based spell, Ji Si wouldn't be able to withstand the backlash. "Understood," Zhao Xing nodded. "Give me three days."
Ji Si opened his mouth to protest, but Zhao Xing cut him off: "I must ensure a safe retreat for my people. Returning from Jixi Dao in Northern Gourd Heaven alone requires at least three days."
His true body and avatars couldn't bypass the interdimensional barriers separating worlds, let alone the two layers of realm walls—the one between Gourd Heaven and the Xuanyang Great World, and the one between Jixi Dao and Gourd Heaven. "I brought them here. Naturally, I must ensure their safe return."
"Rest assured. Even if the Moon God has reached the Dao Establishment Realm, killing me is no simple task."
Ji Si reluctantly nodded, making no move to leave. Instead, he stayed by Zhao Xing's side. Zhao Xing, too, exercised caution, for Ji Si carried a rectangular box wrapped in yellow cloth on his back—undoubtedly the Human Emperor Sword.
To prepare for any unforeseen events, Zhao Xing dispersed his avatars to key entry points, enabling him to make long-distance escapes if necessary.
Three days later, King Shenluo completed his breakthrough, officially stepping into the Rule Stage!
Originally, Cui Chengzhi, Ye Yukong, and Ji Yun had planned to continue seeking opportunities, but Zhao Xing ordered a retreat.
"Jixi Dao has become extremely perilous."
"The eight hurricanes have suddenly accelerated. We can no longer remain here."
Zhao Xing explained, "Even with my guidance, the mortality rate will rise to 90%. There's no need to take such risks."
Ye Yukong, Cui Chengzhi, and Ji Yun were stunned. A 90% mortality rate?
That wasn't worth the gamble.
Each of them knew they had a strong chance of breakthroughs when the vital energy tides reached the Central Divine Province. They could accept danger but not meaningless death.
"Retreat!"
Zhao Xing's avatars led the four back, beginning the withdrawal.
By the time the group arrived at the entrance to Jixi Dao, a full day had passed.
"Roar!"
At that moment, a thunderous roar shook the heavens, resonating as if from ancient times. A white figure appeared amidst the eight hurricanes.
"The Heavenly Puppet has appeared." Ji Yun's expression changed sharply. "A new name has been added to the Fortune Rankings, but it disappeared in an instant."
"Let's go!" Zhao Xing shouted, not even looking back. He felt a tremor deep in his heart—so, the Moon God had intervened after all!
Only another being at the Dao Establishment Realm could interfere with the Remnant Dao Field in this way.
Three days later, Zhao Xing's avatars guided the four of them back to Southern Hulu Heaven.
Meanwhile, in Northern Hulu Heaven, King Beichen, Qin Feng, was shocked to discover that Jixi Dao had vanished entirely!
"What happened? Why did Jixi Dao suddenly disappear?"
As a being at the peak of the First Rank, Qin Feng naturally sensed the monumental shift.
Following a sudden burst of astonishing energy, Jixi Dao had been utterly erased from existence.
In the words of Cui Chengzhi, it was as though the festering sore of Hulu Heaven had been removed completely.
"It was the Moon God of the Southern Barbarians who acted," Zhao Xing informed King Beichen. Though Ji Si couldn't reveal much, Zhao Xing was not bound by the same restrictions, as he was not a Fate Officer. "General Qin, do not send troops to investigate the events in Northern Hulu Heaven. The passageways connecting Northern and Southern Hulu Heaven are about to close, and the two realms will be permanently severed."
"What?" Qin Feng's shock was palpable. The severing of an entire Cave-Heaven—what kind of power could achieve such a feat?
Two days later, Zhao Xing's words were confirmed.
Hulu Heaven quaked violently. The earth churned, and the skies roared.
Qin Feng stood witness as the northern section of the land abruptly vanished. A black fissure appeared in its place, which was quickly filled with a gray, misty haze.
Southern and Northern Hulu Heaven had been completely severed!
"This…this…" Qin Feng was rendered speechless by the sheer magnitude of what he had seen.
He had once believed that beings at the Rule Stage were, if not invincible, at least second to none in the world.
But having now witnessed the methods of a Dao Establishment Realm, he realized how insignificant the Rule Stage truly was.
"A Rule Stage cultivator may control a portion of Heaven and Earth, but they fundamentally borrow its power. The Moon God, however, can cut apart Heaven and Earth itself, splitting a Cave-Heaven in two."
"His Majesty must have already entered the Dao Establishment Realm. Zhao Xing was able to predict this event in advance. If I had dared to harbor even a hint of resentment back then, killing me would have been as easy as flipping a hand."
Qin Feng felt a wave of self-ridicule. How arrogant he had been to think the Rule Stage granted him qualifications to act recklessly. Now, he was thoroughly humbled.
Zhao Xing and Ji Si left Hulu Heaven in haste, accompanied by Ye Yukong and the others. Simultaneously, Ji Si relayed orders for the seven remaining teams conducting missions abroad to return as well. Zhao Xing's grand plans for seizing opportunities in the Vital Energy Tides had been abruptly curtailed.
Back in Fengjing, Emperor Jing was visibly irritated. "The Moon God is clearly targeting me!" he exclaimed. "I sent troops abroad to seize opportunities in the Vital Energy Tides, and in retaliation, the Moon God struck at Hulu Heaven, delivering a devastating Dao-level attack."
Though the teams had retreated quickly, three out of the four had still suffered casualties.
"This was meant to prevent my people from venturing abroad. I cannot afford to let my subjects die in vain and must avoid further confrontation for now."
Zhao Xing tried to console him. "Your Majesty, you are far younger than the Moon God. He merely has an advantage in age. In time, you will undoubtedly surpass him."
At present, Emperor Jing had not yet entered the Dao Establishment Realm. To achieve parity with the Moon God and protect his people abroad from interference, he would first need to ascend himself.
For the time being, the Moon God seemed determined to thwart the development of Great Zhou's overseas endeavors.
Eight teams had been sent out, but three of the Destiny Palace Realm cultivators had perished. This was the Moon God's clear message.
"In truth, this is no fault of Your Majesty's," Zhao Xing said. "It was my plan, and the blame rests with me."
Emperor Jing waved his hand dismissively. "Elder Brother, there's no need to distinguish between you and me."
"I approved your plan to send teams abroad. Ultimately, it was my oversight." He paused, his tone heavy with regret. "Even my Human Emperor Sword cannot yet break his Dao."
Zhao Xing froze in surprise. "Fifth Brother, have you fought the Moon God?"
Emperor Jing nodded solemnly. "That's why I urgently summoned you back." He lowered his voice. "I sensed that the Moon God is meticulously plotting against you."
However, he admitted, "Even I do not know the full extent of his plans."
Despite his efforts to support Ji Si and employ the Star Fortune Strategy, Emperor Jing had been unable to discern the Moon God's true intentions. All he knew was that the deity aimed to harm Zhao Xing.
Zhao Xing pondered this revelation. "Whatever the Moon God intends, he would need to kill my true body to achieve it."
"Within Great Zhou, he has no chance of succeeding."
Though the Moon God was powerful, the Dao Field established by the dynasty's founder, Emperor Xu, was no trivial matter.
The principle of "no entry without permission" was an immutable rule in established territories. The stronger the intruder, the greater the restrictions. Foreign enemies, in particular, were subject to even harsher limits. With Emperor Jing holding the advantage of home ground, there was no chance the Moon God could execute a divine descent.
"Weak emperors might be vulnerable, but not under Emperor Jing's rule." Zhao Xing continued. "If he can't harm me here, he'll have to target me abroad."
Emperor Jing frowned. "Elder Brother, are there any circumstances where your true body must leave the country?"
Zhao Xing's expression darkened. "There are."
He elaborated, "In the future, during the Four Pillars Mountain Tribulation involving the Xuanyang Realm, I will be required to attend in person. If I don't, I won't be able to complete my tribulation and ascend to the Dao Establishment Realm."
"Additionally, I must journey to the Abyssal Ruins. Not only will my true body be required, but I'll also need to bring someone else with me."
"Finally, there's the matter of the Dragon Court. That's another instance where my true body will be indispensable. However, during that trip, the Moon God will find it difficult to harm me."
"The Ancient Land of the Dragon Court, while resembling a small-scale cave-heaven world, holds a status so elevated that even the power of the Moon Deity struggles to infiltrate," Zhao Xing remarked calmly.
"He cannot leave the Holy Mountain to enter the Dragon Court just to kill me, so this is not an assassination opportunity," he reasoned.
Ji Che pondered aloud, "Then there are two unavoidable opportunities."
"Exactly," Zhao Xing affirmed with a nod.
Two unavoidable opportunities!
"Before I establish my Dao, whether venturing into the Ruins of the Void or the journey to the Four Pillar Mountains, you must remain in the country. If there is any cave-heaven connected to the outside world, elder brother, you must refrain from entering," Ji Che stated with solemnity. "If you die, I will regret it for the rest of my life."
Zhao Xing looked into Ji Che's earnest eyes and nodded seriously. "Alright, I won't go. I'll wait for you, Fifth Brother, to establish your Dao."
Few knew of the Moon Deity's attack on Hulu Heaven. Yet, among the eight teams sent abroad, three powerful experts perished within a short period, casting a psychological shadow over Zhao Xing and Ji Che.
"A First-Rank expert cannot be sent to seize opportunities, nor is there a need to send others of lower rank. Instead, the focus must shift to internal development to enhance the nation's Fortune," Zhao Xing mused inwardly.
The establishment of Yunmeng Academy marked a significant milestone, one that would expedite Ji Che's Dao establishment. But what else could be done?
"One is the Dragon Court. During its third opening, I was receiving an inheritance in the Western Extreme Continent and missed the opportunity to enter. The next opening will occur during the Yuanshuo period," Zhao Xing calculated.
Ji Che's two previous era titles were Yuan Shou (元狩), Beginning of Renewal and Yuan Shuo (元朔), Beginning of the Hunt.
"Yuanshou spanned 120 years, with the Shijin Era occurring after Yuanshuo's 40th year."
"There are still decades to go. During this period, only innovation in spells and the unification of the three sects to strengthen national power can boost Fortune," Zhao Xing reflected.
Although unifying the three sects was part of the plan, the Moon Deity's actions had forced an earlier timeline, leaving Zhao Xing feeling stifled.
"Daring to obstruct my grand plan for longevity, Moon Deity, you are courting death. You are forcing me to become a killing machine," Zhao Xing muttered coldly.
In the national treasury's storage room, Zhao Xing's true body was restricted from leaving, but his avatars were unrestricted.
Thanks to the existence of the Three Divinities Destiny Palace, he had no fear that the Moon Deity could trace his avatars to strike his true body within the homeland.
"If I cannot seize opportunities, then no one else shall!" Zhao Xing decided, devoting himself to creating countless avatars imbued with myriad techniques.
Previously, his six major avatars, crafted with rare treasures, numbered only around a hundred. Now, Zhao Xing aimed to forge ten thousand!
"Ten thousand avatars armed with myriad techniques, sent abroad to disrupt and delay the birth of Rule Domains among the Outside World Alliance," he planned.
"Moreover, I can rope in those lunatics from the Heavenly Realm to join in the chaos," Zhao Xing thought, recalling the unfinished business of uniting with the Heavenly Realm.
In the 84th year of Yuanshou, during the Start of Winter, ten thousand avatars of Zhao Xing departed from various corners of the Great Zhou to venture abroad. Simultaneously, he began the integration of the three sects.
By the 85th year of Yuanshou, Early Spring, in Fengjing, Dao Research Institute—
Pop!
A wisp of spiritual energy fell into a box and expanded into a massive surge of primal energy.
Mi Fu, with his three heads, gazed at the transparent box nonchalantly and switched it out with another. "Hey, someone clean up this room and bring me a few more dragon crystal boxes!"
"Right away, Lord Mi," a subordinate responded.
Zhao Xing entered the research room carrying three dragon crystal boxes. With a casual wave of his hand, he cleared the scattered debris.
A soft breeze swept through, leaving everything neat and orderly.
However, Mi Fu exploded in anger. "Who let you use spells? The arrangement of this research room is meticulously planned! Are you new here?"
Just as he was about to continue scolding, Mi Fu turned and spotted Zhao Xing. "Ah…"
Zhao Xing grinned mischievously. "Mi Brother, don't get so worked up. It's my first day working in your research room."
"My apologies, Sir, I overstepped. Greetings, Grand Shennong," Mi Fu quickly retracted his three-headed form and saluted Zhao Xing.
Seeing Mi Fu bowing, Zhao Xing felt a surge of emotion. Mi Fu had matured greatly.
"Mi Brother, I'm here to collaborate, not to flaunt my rank. Treat me as the Zhao Xing from Xingxu City—we won't bother with formalities," Zhao Xing said warmly.
Zhao Xing had always held a special fondness for Mi Fu, the civilian ancestor of the Self School.
"Understood," Mi Fu replied with a smile.
"How is the reverse-engineering research on the Xuanhuang Essence Breaking Technique progressing?" Zhao Xing inquired.
"It's tough," Mi Fu sighed. "Almost a full sixty years, and still no breakthrough."
"Sixty years?" Zhao Xing was puzzled. He recalled that he became Grand Shennong in the 81st year of Yuanshou. Including the current year, Mi Fu had been at the Dao Research Institute for only four years.
How could it be sixty years?
Noticing Zhao Xing's confusion, Mi Fu explained, "Back when you took me, Chen Shijie, Hu Yang, and Zhang Tianxing to the Western Extreme Continent, we discussed the Xuanhuang Essence Breaking Technique."
"At the time, I didn't take it seriously. However, after the great battle in the Western Extreme Continent, I was demoted—around the 20th year of Yuanshou. Since then, I've been studying the technique."
"Thanks to you, even though I was demoted by His Majesty, no one dared to trouble me."
"When I returned to Xingxu City, my circumstances were vastly different."
"Dean Liu, Dean Wang, and Dean Meng all allocated substantial resources to me…"
Everyone recognized Mi Fu's exceptional talent. Even during Liu Tianning's tenure as Grand Shennong, Zhao Xing frequently mentioned Mi Fu.
As a result, Wang Tianzhi, Meng Kun, and Liu Tianning funneled considerable resources into establishing a high-level research institute for Mi Fu in Xingxu City.
There, isolated from worldly distractions, Mi Fu devoted himself entirely to research, offending no one further.
With abundant resources, Mi Fu produced numerous breakthroughs.
Mi Fu's achievements were remarkable, even earlier than anticipated. Originally, it was only in Mi Fu's later years that he would compile the Pure Yuan Derivative Seeds. However, the work had already commenced ahead of schedule.
The compilation listed over 300 species of plant-based soldier types that could be cultivated in Pure Essence Soil!
These soldier types were developed through hybrid derivation, with an extremely low cost.
To put it simply, Mi Fu had created a series of affordable yet combat-effective plant-based soldier alternatives.
Additionally, he began drafting the Military Techniques for Plant-Based Soldier Corps, which complemented the Pure Essence Derivative Seeds. Together, they became known as the "Civilian Doctrine."
With ample resources, Mi Fu also resumed his studies on the Xuanhuang Essence Breaking Technique. Initially, Mi Fu's approach was rudimentary—what he termed the 1.0 version.
Later, Zhao Xing had refined the technique for decades within the Dragon Court, producing a 2.0 version. He then passed it on to Mi Fu, who further advanced it to the current 3.0 version.
Now, Mi Fu was venturing into a new phase—reverse-engineering to condense primal energy into spiritual energy.
The combination of Xuanhuang Essence Breaking Technique, Pure Yuan Derivative Seeds, and Military Techniques for Plant-Based Soldier Corps formed the foundation for Mi Fu's title as the "Civilian Patriarch."
In the era of spiritual energy revival, these three innovations shone brightly. During certain periods, the Self School's Shennong faction even surpassed the other two schools!
It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that Mi Fu had single-handedly elevated the Self School's Shennong division to become the leading faction.
"Right now, I've hit a wall with the Xuanhuang Essence Breaking Technique. Reverse condensation of spiritual energy seems impossible," Mi Fu admitted with frustration. "Grand Shennong—Zhao Xing—I don't mean to doubt you, but is this research even feasible?"
"It definitely is," Zhao Xing assured him confidently. After reviewing Mi Fu's latest findings, Zhao Xing pulled out a stack of documents from his robe. "Take a look at these. These are my research notes."
"You and I both cultivated the Yin-Yang Self Sutra and started from the same concept of 'Five Element Particles,' so we share a common foundation."
Mi Fu eagerly grabbed the documents and scrutinized them.
When he noticed the detailed diagrams within, he paused in surprise. "You used tools in your research?"
Zhao Xing nodded. "Exactly. The main difference between your approach and mine is that I rely on tools—high-quality tools."
"This time, I've brought a customized version of the Shangheng Detection Device. It can monitor spiritual energy indices with unparalleled precision. There's also the Eight-Directional Hunyuan Box, which can completely block interference, and the Spirit Liquid Transfer Apparatus, capable of liquefying spiritual energy into a stable form…"
In the legacy of Qing Yuzi, there were several methods for utilizing spiritual energy, including how to harvest it in the cosmic void.
Zhao Xing could also mobilize the elite craftsmen from the Ministry of Works to create some top-tier, cost-intensive tools.
Mi Fu, upon seeing these creations, exclaimed in amazement, "Such extravagance!"
"Treasure-grade mid-tier, high-tier, supreme-tier... these creations have no precedent, and yet you dare to use such rare materials for crafting!" Mi Fu's eyes widened in disbelief.
These experiments had no guaranteed success. To produce a single functioning piece, Zhao Xing might waste not just one but thousands of treasure-grade materials before achieving a final product.
Zhao Xing smiled faintly and said, "I'm confident because I have Qing Yuzi's knowledge as my foundation."
Mi Fu was left speechless. Everything seemed to come back to Qing Yuzi. How could one person know so much? But since Zhao Xing had already proven the feasibility of these projects, Mi Fu stopped arguing.
Without wasting further words, the two plunged into their research. Once they began, Mi Fu completely disregarded Zhao Xing's title as Grand Shennong.
In various aspects, Mi Fu was quick to point out errors and suggest ingenious improvements. Naturally, there were times when he was scolded by Zhao Xing as well. Both of them shed their external identities.
At this moment, they were simply like-minded friends striving to reverse-engineer the transformation of spiritual energy.
"Mi Fu truly is a genius," Zhao Xing often marveled.
"And Zhao Xing is a visionary," Mi Fu would frequently admit, impressed by his insights.
This difference was apparent: Zhao Xing had a broader perspective and a clear sense of direction, while Mi Fu excelled in the finer details but wasn't always sure which path to take.
With Zhao Xing's involvement, the Dao Research Institute was often filled with laughter and the occasional scolding. Time flew by as they delved deeper into their studies.
Before they knew it, the Xuanyang Calendar had reached the year Yuanshou 120.
The Realm of Slumber, headquarters of the Sect Alliance, was another high-tier cave-heaven with an elevated status.
"Swish—"
A small drilling wind passed through a mountain, and moments later, a soul in panic fled from within.
"Lord Zhao, spare my life! The Blackwind Sect is willing to pledge loyalty to the Great Zhou!"
Zhao Xing removed his veiled bamboo hat, revealing a face as withered as old wood. "How did you know it was me?"
The Blackwind Sect Master forced a bitter smile. "Your reputation over the past forty years has spread across the sect world. Who doesn't know that only Lord Zhao's clones possess such overwhelming power?"
"Hmph, so you didn't take me seriously, is that it?"
Suddenly, a figure emerged from a nearby tree.
The girl, lifted by rolling flower petals beneath her feet, rose gracefully into the air.
"Lady Hundred Blossoms, you—of course, you're incredible too," stammered the Blackwind Sect Master, his smile uglier than a cry.
This was none other than the Flower Fairy of the Heavenly Realm, known as Lady Hundred Blossoms in the sect world.
Since Zhao Xing decided in Yuanshou 85 to go abroad and wreak havoc, he had been in contact with the people of the Heavenly Realm.
The two sides had reached a preliminary agreement: Zhao Xing would provide the locations of opportunities, and the Heavenly Realm would act under his command—be it killing or causing destruction, they would follow through without question.
To repay an old favor Zhao Xing had granted to the Wind and Rain Immortals, Qitian sent many powerful individuals.
Over the past forty years, the sect world had been engulfed in chaos. The Blackwind Sect, once hailed as a demonic sect, was nothing compared to Zhao Xing and his allies.
"Incredible, huh?" Lady Hundred Blossoms said coldly. "It seems your sincerity is lacking."
"No, no, no! I'm absolutely sincere! Lady Hundred Blossoms, you are unparalleled in strength, truly unparalleled!"
"How unparalleled exactly?" Zhao Xing teased. "More so than me?"
As the Blackwind Sect Master found himself caught in an impossible bind, a sudden pulling force appeared above his head.
When he looked up, he saw the Soul Banner hovering over him.
"No—this is the Twelve Evil Soul Banner! How could it be in your possession? No—"
The Blackwind Sect Master struggled desperately, but his soul couldn't escape. In the end, he was transformed into a cute emblem imprinted on the banner.
"Big Brother, it's done!"
A shadow emerged from within the mountain. This was Soul Immortal, sent by Qitian to work with Zhao Xing.
After forty years of experience, Soul Immortal had grown adept at capturing souls, turning it into second nature.
However, his Soul Banner was different from others; every soul trapped within became a cartoonish version of its original form.
The Wind Immortal, who exited from another cave, glanced at the Soul Banner in disdain. "What kind of technique are you practicing? There's no majesty in your banner—it looks ridiculous!"
Zhao Xing understood Wind Immortal's sentiment perfectly. Soul Immortal's banner resembled a cartoon flag held by schoolchildren on a field trip.
Everyone else came to kill with a terrifying aura, and yet here was Soul Immortal, wielding a banner adorned with images of cartoon pigs.
"Well, you can't entirely blame me," Soul Immortal muttered. "Lord Zhao specializes in boar-like transformation techniques, and every soul he captures ends up resembling a pig anyway."
"Enough with the details," Zhao Xing said, pulling out a small notebook. "Let's move to the next location—Harmony Sect. That place has potential."
"Let's go, let's go! Let's turn them all into chickens and catch their souls for the banner!" Soul Immortal said excitedly.
Zhao Xing: "..."
After Yuan Shou (元狩), Beginning of Renewal 120, Emperor Wu changed the reign title to Yuan Shuo (元朔), Beginning of the Hunt.
In Yuan Shuo (元朔), Beginning of the Hunt Year 1, Grand Shennong Zhao Xing announced plans to host a Dao Debate Assembly at Shangluo Academy in Daoyuan Continent.
The event was heavily promoted in advance.
During the campaign, Zhao Xing revealed for the first time that all Shennongs could cultivate Pure Essence Soil as early as the Essence Gathering Stage's 30th step, equivalent to the Seventh Rank Earth Fiend Realm.
This announcement sent shockwaves across the nineteen provinces and quickly spread to external territories.
By Grain Rain in Yuanshuo Year 1, on the eve of the Dao Debate Assembly, the entire Xuanhuang World turned its gaze toward Daoyuan Continent.
Shennongs of the Great Zhou eagerly traveled to Daoyuan to witness the event firsthand.
Meanwhile, Shennong forces from outside the Great Zhou, though skeptical, also sought to attend. Requests for diplomatic missions flooded Fengjing like snowflakes.
Regardless of whether they believed the claim, the upcoming Dao Debate Assembly in autumn of Yuanshuo Year 1 saw unprecedented registrations.
"Unifying the three schools will start with this event," Zhao Xing said, adjusting a small, intricate crystal hourglass on his belt.
The hourglass, narrow at the top and wide at the bottom, rotated occasionally.
When tilted downward, a wisp of Wood Elemental Spirit Qi dispersed, transforming into Primal Qi. When reversed, the Spirit Qi coalesced again.
"The Great Zhou has mastered the method to condense Spirit Qi. The benefits of Primal Qi Tides will now be magnified to the utmost."
"With Emperor Wu about to establish his Dao, I will use this Dao Debate Assembly to attract the world's talents to the Great Zhou and lend him a hand."