The Dao Discourse Assembly began in the autumn of Yuan Shou Year One and continued until mid-summer of Yuan Shou Year Two. Grand Shennong Zhao Xing's lecture series was concentrated in the autumn of Yuan Shou Year One, while his appearances during the following winter and spring of Yuan Shou Year Two were sporadic.
Following this, the primary lecturers became Liu Tianning, Mi Dai, Wang Tianzhi, Ling Tianchen, Qiu Yuanshan, Meng Kun, and Ji Youtang, who took turns delivering teachings.
The prolonged duration of the assembly revealed an interesting truth to the participants: not only Zhao Xing, Liu Tianning, and Mi Dai cultivated advanced straw puppet techniques, but even the deans and vice deans of Xuantian Academy and Kunyuan Academy were practitioners of these high-level techniques.
This shift occurred because Zhao Xing, as Grand Shennong, often emphasized the integration of the Three Schools—Heaven, Earth, and Self School. His policies and philosophies resonated deeply with the Shennong community, prompting more and more practitioners to transcend sectarian divides and explore techniques from other schools.
"As the superiors favor, so the inferiors emulate!"
"Zhao Xing not only influences the Shennong with his philosophical works but also leads by example with his practical actions."
"When he shared his bold vision with me in the Transmission Tower back in the day, I never imagined it would come to fruition like this. Truly remarkable," Li Boqian sighed deeply before taking another puff of his incense.
"Yes," Xuan Qingtian nodded in agreement. "This Dao Discourse Assembly has unified the ideologies of high-ranking Shennongs. At least from the perspective of doctrine, the Three Schools are now considered equal."
"Moreover, he used the opportunity of delivering lectures at Yunmeng Academy to initiate reforms in recruitment systems for even members, Dao members, and the selection process for military Shennongs."
"He has made the cultivation of techniques from Heaven, Earth, and Self School mandatory for all Shennongs."
"With Great Zhou's fortune rising and the spread of the Xuanhuang Qi Breaking Technique, the foundation for realizing these ideals is now firmly established."
The dissemination of knowledge from Yunmeng Academy drastically improved the efficiency of cultivation and Dao comprehension among Great Zhou's officials and citizens.
As the nation's fortune soared, the vital energy index across its nineteen provinces also increased, accelerating the condensation of essence.
With the reduced difficulty of essence condensation, the concept of cultivating techniques from all Three Schools was no longer mere rhetoric. In the past, the curriculum and teachings in certain Dao academies, institutes, and Shennong offices heavily depended on the affiliations of the instructors from the Three Schools.
But now, the situation was different. The imperial court mandated equal availability of teaching resources for Heaven, Earth, and Self School, while standardizing the curriculum for magical techniques.
This reform extended to civil service examinations, where mastery of techniques from a single school would no longer suffice to pass.
These changes would permeate every level, starting from basic education at Dao academies and institutes, all the way up to the civil and official domains.
"The shortcomings of the straw puppet techniques have also been addressed. From now on, even temples will feature Self School Shennong deities. Liu Tianning will be the first Self School Shennong deity," Li Boqian added.
"'Three Schools divided under Liu Tianning, unified under Zhao Chen'an.'" Li Boqian inhaled deeply on his incense stick, a contemplative expression on his face.
"Just wait and see. The changes won't stop at the Shennongs. With Yunmeng Academy's emergence and Zhao Xing's actions, warriors, mechanists, and others will undoubtedly undergo transformations as well," Xuan Qingtian remarked wistfully. "Truly, this is an era of grand upheaval."
As the Dao Discourse Assembly drew to a close, Zhao Xing shifted his focus from lecturing to meeting with influential figures from foreign nations.
Among these visitors were prominent Shennongs such as Bo Hongde from Xiangliu Nation, Pan Chang from Fu Nation, and Gao Shanyang from Dong Sang Nation. In total, he engaged with representatives from 365 small countries (or tribes) and 42 medium-sized nations.
These interactions were not limited to discussions; they also involved tangible exchanges. For instance, Bo Hongde, the Shennong of Xiangliu Nation, requested Zhao Xing to dispatch a group of officials to Great Zhou for training. In return, Xiangliu Nation offered their unique treasures as tuition fees.
Zhao Xing gladly accepted. This arrangement had been pre-discussed with Ji Che.
While Great Zhou possessed vast resources across its nineteen provinces, many valuable items could still be found in foreign lands. Exchanging technology for resources not only brought mutual benefits but also extended Great Zhou's influence, laying the groundwork for the ascension plan.
Apart from engaging with nations, Zhao Xing also interacted with sects.
In the early spring of Yuan Shou Year Two, Zhao Xing held a private meeting at Yunyuan Hall within Xuantian Academy with Mist Walker and Daoist Moon Shadow.
"Mist Walker of the Cloud Peak, 580th generation guardian elder of Xuantian Divine Sect, pays respects to the Divine Sovereign," Mist Walker greeted Zhao Xing respectfully. Despite serving as acting sect master, he humbly addressed himself as an elder before Zhao Xing.
However, the person accompanying Mist Walker left Zhao Xing surprised.
"Moon Shadow Daoist, 223rd-generation supreme elder of the Cloud Peak of Xuantian Divine Sect, pays respects to the Divine Sovereign," announced the figure beside Mist Walker, bowing deeply.
"223rd generation?" Zhao Xing was astonished.
Xuantian Divine Sect measured its generations in millennia. This meant Moon Shadow Daoist hailed from over 30,000 years ago!
No wonder Qingyuzi had attempted to steal the sect's ice-sealing technique—it could preserve beings for tens of thousands of years and still allow them to awaken!
Sensing Zhao Xing's curiosity, Mist Walker explained, "Divine Sovereign, my martial uncle is indeed a historical figure from the sect. In his prime, he achieved perfection in the Rule Stage."
Zhao Xing cupped his hands respectfully. "Greetings, senior."
"In matters of the Dao of Shennong, Divine Sovereign, you are the true senior," Moon Shadow Daoist responded with humility.
Sectarian traditions valued Dao attainment over age or worldly ethics. Disciples who matched or exceeded their masters' cultivation often abandoned traditional hierarchical titles, addressing each other as equals. In some cases, a disciple who surpassed their master might even earn the title of Dao master from their former teacher.
Such practices extended to all aspects of sectarian life. Stories of disciples marrying their masters, or even grandmasters, were not uncommon.
Initially, Zhao Xing had assumed the person accompanying Mist Walker was a junior assistant. He had not expected the opposite to be true.
"Does this mean there are others like you awakening within the sect?" Zhao Xing asked.
"In my realm, there are currently fifteen individuals, three each representing wind, rain, thunder, and clouds," Moon Shadow Daoist replied. "We are the fortunate ones of that era, lucky enough to awaken."
Indeed, it was pure fortune. Qingyuzi had gifted Zhao Xing with a grand frost-sealing spirit coffin, explaining its capabilities: within ten to one hundred thousand years, the awakening rate was nearly 100% with minimal side effects. Beyond one hundred thousand years, the likelihood of revival decreased significantly, and complications grew more severe.
The individuals like Moon Shadow Daoist had been sealed for at least 200,000 years, with some surpassing 400,000 years. Their awakening was nothing short of miraculous—a feat akin to winning the lottery.
"I was fortunate to awaken in this world. Xuantian must have granted me a mission, but for decades after I first awoke, I had no idea what I was supposed to do," Daoist Yueying said slowly, her tone filled with melancholy. "The people I knew—those I was close to, and even those I hated—they're all gone."
"Now that I've met the Divine Sovereign, I finally understand my mission."
"And what is this mission, Elder?"
"To follow the Divine Sovereign's command, complete the feat of ascension, and escape the shackles of this Xuanzhuang Realm," Daoist Yueying declared.
Zhao Xing smiled and nodded, though he felt something peculiar within. It seemed as if he carried an inherent "kingly aura" that compelled the strong to submit and bow before him.
For someone like Daoist Yueying, who had already reached the Rule Domain stage, to willingly recognize him as her leader and take orders was both unexpected and strange.
"Very well. Then I shall assume the position of sect master," Zhao Xing declared with a firm nod. "Wu Xingzhe, Elder Yueying, after you return, unite as many people as possible and secretly spread the plans for our dynasty's ascension project.
"However, proceed with extreme caution. Be careful not to attract the attention of the Wuyue Deity, who is in the Dao-Binding stage."
"Rest assured, Sect Master," Wu Xingzhe said with a confident puff of his chest. "We will accomplish this!"
In the third year of Yuanshuo, the Dao Discourse Conference concluded, but its influence continued to deepen and spread.
At this time, Zhao Xing had ceased his confrontations within the sectarian world.
"Cluck, cluck, cluck!"
A cluster of chicken souls was retrieved from the Soul Banner, shrinking continuously until they disappeared into the hands of the Soul Immortal.
"Heh heh, heh heh ~"
The Soul Immortal kept laughing to herself, as if she had thought of something particularly amusing.
"Can you stop laughing so creepily? Ever since we fought Hehuan Sect, you've become more and more shameless," Wind Immortal complained. "I'm worried you'll eventually sacrifice yourself to the banner."
"Come in and have a look—inside, it's full of premium furnaces," the Soul Immortal said, raising the banner with a mischievous grin.
"Alright, fine, buddy."
Zhao Xing had long grown accustomed to the peculiar behaviors of these heavenly realm beings. He adjusted the brim of his hat and turned toward Flower Immortal.
"Fairy, our cooperation is temporarily concluded. Please notify the Palace Master that our next collaboration will take place at the Four Pillars Mountain. By then, I will deliver what he desires."
Flower Immortal nodded. "Alright, I will notify the Palace Master."
"Many thanks." Zhao Xing removed his hat and saluted, then turned into a mist and disappeared from sight.
Whether it was Yunmeng Academy or the Xuanhuang Qi Breaking Technique, both required time and effort to show results.
With the overarching strategy already established, Zhao Xing no longer had to worry about every minor detail. His energy was now divided into two areas of focus:
First, deepening his comprehension of the Dao and refining his techniques. While Ji Che was on the verge of establishing his Dao, Zhao Xing's own strength needed to be solid and unshakable. Only then could he counter potential assassination attempts by the Wuyue Deity.
Second, preparing for the journey to the Dragon Court Ancient Land.
"Che, the Dragon Court Ancient Land has already reached the conditions for unification. Once the next Heaven and Earth Dragon Gate appears, I will enter and push forward this matter," Zhao Xing said.
"I will use the Kingdom of Guting as a foundation to conquer the remaining nine nations. My main objectives are twofold:
"First, to gather the remaining parts of the Dragon Emperor Codex.
"Second, to break the rules of the Dragon Court Ancient Land and release the dragon race, bringing them into the fold of the Great Zhou Dynasty.
"Once the Dragon Court Ancient Land becomes part of Great Zhou, the last obstacle to your Dao establishment will vanish entirely," Zhao Xing explained.
The Dao Discourse Conference and Yunmeng Academy's influence alone were not enough to accelerate Ji Che's Dao establishment.
Ultimately, the key was the sequence of the Yuan Qi Tide. The tide's arrival at Great Zhou was simply too slow.
According to the trajectory of Zhao Xing's past life, Ji Che would only establish his Dao in the next era, the Taichu era, two hundred years later, achieving the realm of ascension.
If Ji Che was to establish his Dao earlier, Great Zhou would need another boost in fortune. Without a doubt, the Dragon Court Ancient Land could provide that boost.
If Zhao Xing were to unify the Dragon Court and gather the parts of the Dragon Emperor Codex, he would become the new Dragon Emperor of the Dragon Court.
By doing so, he could break the Dragon Court's bindings and allow the entire dragon race to emerge.
This would be an immense force and could reverse Great Zhou's disadvantages during the early stages of the Yuan Qi Tide.
Ji Che's expression was filled with concern. "Big brother, my powers cannot infiltrate the Dragon Court Ancient Land. While the Wuyue Deity also cannot invade, the Southern Barbarians still have the Ke Deity, the Purple Dragon Deity, and the Nine Nether Deity. We know nothing of their realms. Since they are totemic gods, they won't be weak. You must be cautious."
"I will proceed with care," Zhao Xing nodded. "There are still over thirty years before the next opening of the Dragon Court. I will make thorough preparations."
Counting from Zhao Xing's first entry into the Dragon Court, the third opening occurred in the sixty-second year of Yuanshou. However, Zhao Xing had no time to enter it then.
Since Yuanshou lasted a total of 120 years, the next opportunity would be in the forty-second year of Yuanshuo—the fourth opening of the Dragon Court.
Zhao Xing planned to unify the Dragon Court Ancient Land and gather the Dragon Emperor Codex during this opportunity.
First, this would allow Ji Che to establish his Dao earlier. Once the Emperor Wu established his Dao, Zhao Xing could leverage that momentum to advance to the Rule Domain stage.
Second, it would perfect the ultimate transformation of the Ancestral Dragon technique, further refining it. Meanwhile, Zhao Xing could empty the Dragon Court of its treasures and spiritual energy, filling the gaps in the Four Seasons Divine Splendor Dao Field, particularly the two remaining plant species.
"Once I've unified the Dragon Court, I can begin collecting spiritual energy across the world to prepare for the manual revival of spiritual energy. There are still thirty-nine years remaining, so time is on my side."
Ji Che nodded in acknowledgment and gazed at Zhao Xing. "Big brother, before you enter the Dragon Court, have you considered getting married?"
Zhao Xing was slightly taken aback. "Che, has there been some court discussion about this? Is it causing you concern?"
Ji Che shook his head. "No, this is just a personal concern of mine. Big brother, you've worked so hard, but you haven't had any time to enjoy life."
"You're so diligent that I sometimes fear the historians will accuse me of being an overly harsh emperor, treating my ministers as though they were ten men in one."
Zhao Xing chuckled. "I have mastered the art of creating clones. Only ten men? Who's looking down on me? Bring that historian here—I want to have a word with him about why he wrote so little."
Ji Che laughed despite himself.
After a moment of silence, Ji Che added, "Big brother, are you really not considering my sister, Princess Yingluo? Among my sisters, aside from my eldest sister, she is undoubtedly the most outstanding."
For the Emperor Wu to propose a marriage, anyone else would have no room to refuse. However, this was Zhao Xing. Ji Che felt compelled to probe his intentions first.
"I can't consider marriage while the Southern Barbarians remain undefeated," Zhao Xing said, shaking his head. "All my focus is on this task, Ji Che. Please don't bring up marriage again."
"Alright," Ji Che relented with a sigh. "But at least make some time for yourself to enjoy life a little. Returning to your home in Pinghai Province occasionally wouldn't hurt."
Zhao Xing's family currently lived in two places. One was their ancestral home in Nanyang County of Dayuan Prefecture, and the other was in Bixian County of Chongming Prefecture. Ever since Zhao Xing was enfeoffed as King Zhao, the entire Dayuan Prefecture had become his fiefdom. As a result, Zhao Ruide and Madam Cai spent more time living at the old family estate.
Ji Che's generosity toward Zhao Xing's family was immense. He frequently bestowed blessings of extended longevity upon them. Now that Zhao Xing no longer had to worry about others siphoning his fortune, Madam Cai and Zhao Ruide's honorary positions had been elevated to the second rank.
These were honorary titles without real power, meant solely for prestige.
Among the Zhao family, only Zhao Zheng held actual authority, having been stationed at the border regions, where he rose to the position of a third-rank military general.
As for Zhao Xing's younger sisters, Zhao Yuhuan remained unmarried and was now a professor of canon law at Bishui Dao Academy, with a solid fourth-rank cultivation. Zhao Yuling, on the other hand, had married into the noble Wei family during the mid-Yuan period, becoming the wife of Duke Wei Wuji.
His fourth brother, Zhao Chuanzong, after splitting from the main family, had seen his lineage expand significantly. Although he lacked extraordinary talent, he excelled in business. After leaving the main family, he built a comfortable life for himself.
When Zhao Xing was enfeoffed, the rewards from Emperor Wu didn't extend to Zhao Chuanzong, as he had already separated from the family. However, Chuanzong's financial success led him to become a charitable official in the Ciyang Division, focused on public welfare. With access to resources, he had managed to push his cultivation to the late sixth rank purely through accumulation.
Still, he lacked the endurance for rigorous training. His progress through the Earth Fiend and Heavenly Gang stages took decades of slow refinement.
"Zhao Chuanzong's talent is abysmal," Zhao Xing thought. "Even with all the resources, he's only reached the late sixth rank. Compared to the rest of the siblings, he's clearly the weakest. It will be nearly impossible for him to live long enough to ascend. At this rate, he might not even survive for a few more decades."
Among the family, Zhao Chuanzong appeared the oldest, already showing signs of gray hair. During family gatherings, his branch of the family was also the largest.
Zhao Xing didn't recognize many of the younger generation, and he wasn't particularly close to Zhao Chuanzong. Even among his siblings, he was only somewhat familiar with Zhao Yuhuan, while his relationship with Zhao Yuling was only slightly better than with Chuanzong. Still, Zhao Yuling had made something of herself, marrying into a ducal family.
"One person attains the Dao, and even their chickens and dogs ascend to heaven," Zhao Xing mused. "Let alone my siblings. Even if I forbid others from opening doors of convenience for them, with the resources they have, even pigs could live for hundreds of years. But a large family inevitably produces its share of rotten apples."
Scanning the hall, Zhao Xing quickly noticed a few younger Zhao family members at the banquet in the main hall. Among them, several had dark red murderous auras swirling above their heads, a clear sign of wrongdoing.
Just as he observed this, Madam Cai approached with a young man in tow. "Quick, Chen'er, greet your great-uncle."
"Great-Uncle," the young man stammered nervously, bowing deeply.
Madam Cai beamed with pride. "Xing'er, this is the most outstanding grandson of your fourth brother. He has great talent and currently holds an official post in the Jin Prefecture."
Zhao Xing glanced at the young man. He had a simple and honest appearance, and his demeanor seemed pleasant. However, when the young man met Zhao Xing's eyes, he instinctively averted his gaze.
"Let's eat," Zhao Xing said indifferently.
"Xing'er—" Madam Cai began, wanting to say more, but Zhao Zheng quickly intervened, sensing something was amiss. "Mother, let's have our meal first. Zhao Chen, you may leave."
"Yes, yes." Zhao Chen hurriedly exited the private hall, his steps unsteady.
Zhao Chuanzong's expression turned sour. He couldn't understand why his elder brother showed no interest, refusing to even acknowledge his grandson.
"Why did you raise your voice like that?" Madam Cai asked, feeling aggrieved. "I only wanted Xing'er to see a promising member of the family."
"He looks simple on the surface, but he's full of schemes," Zhao Xing said coldly. "To secure a fifth-rank official position, he secretly hired an assassin to eliminate his competitor."
"What?" Zhao Chuanzong was horrified, his face paling. Madam Cai was equally shocked. "How could this be?"
"Zheng'er isn't home. The third sister is at the academy, and the fourth sister is married off. As for the fourth brother, he's only a sixth-rank cultivator. With no one watching over the younger generation, how could you tell who is human and who is a demon?" Zhao Xing said, his tone stern.
"Chuanzong," Zhao Xing addressed his brother.
"Y-Yes," Zhao Chuanzong stammered, trembling.
"You've split from the family, so how you develop is your own business. But every year, you show filial piety to our parents and spend time with them. On matters of finances, has the family ever treated you unfairly?"
"No, I owe everything I have today to the family's generosity," Chuanzong admitted hurriedly.
"Then, as your elder brother, can I still manage your affairs?" Zhao Xing's eyes bore into him.
"Of course! I have always respected you, Brother!" Chuanzong said sincerely.
"Good." Zhao Xing turned to Zhao Zheng. "From today onward, take some time to root out the rotten apples within the clan."
"Yes," Zhao Zheng responded firmly.
Zhao Xing's gaze shifted back to Zhao Chuanzong. "I know you want to live a long life, but you lack the discipline for proper cultivation. I forbid you from using official privileges to open the path beyond the sixth rank, so you turned to raising descendants instead. I won't fault you for that, but the methods you've used have led to serious problems. Many of your offspring have become troublemakers."
Zhao Xing now understood why Ji Che had suggested he visit home. It was likely someone had submitted a memorial to impeach Zhao Chuanzong's branch of the family.
"Long ago, the family gave you a choice—either wealth for enjoyment or cultivation for longevity. Now, you're being given another chance to choose. Make your decision."
Conflict flashed across Zhao Chuanzong's face as he hesitated. Madam Cai, feeling uneasy, wanted to interject, but Zhao Ruide gently pulled her aside. "If you can't bear to watch, don't interfere. Let them handle it as siblings."
Finally, Zhao Chuanzong gritted his teeth and made his choice. "I choose cultivation and longevity."
"Don't be so quick to agree," Zhao Xing said, raising a hand to stop him. He turned to Zhao Zheng. "Tomorrow, gather all the wealth Chuanzong has accumulated over the years and donate it to the government. For those within his branch who've committed crimes, deal with them severely. For the innocent, split them off from the main family, provide them with resources, and settle them properly. However, from the third generation onward, none of them may attend family banquets again."
Zhao Xing's words were resolute and final, leaving no room for negotiation.
"And as for Chuanzong," he continued, "send him to the Shenwei Army's harsh labor camp. He will take on a new identity, and no one will be allowed to know who he really is."
Zhao Xing's piercing gaze swept over Zhao Yuhuan, Zhao Yuling, and Zhao Zheng. "No one is to provide him with additional assistance until he can cultivate to the fifth rank on his own."
Zhao Xing turned his gaze to Zhao Chuanzong. "Zheng'er went through the same ordeal. If you choose this path, you must be prepared to die without blaming your elder brother."
"If you still wish to live a peaceful life, I can use my authority as a titled King to pardon all but the most heinous of offenders among the younger generation. I can ensure you live out the next few decades in peace and happiness. But after that, you will have no connection to the Zhao family."
"It is my lack of discipline that has brought shame to the family. I choose to atone in the Bitter Soldier Camp." Zhao Chuanzong's voice carried a hint of steel. Growing up under the shadow of his elder brothers' heroic deeds, he had developed a core of resolve. In this moment, he made his decision.
Zhao Xing waved his hand, and a gust of wind enveloped Zhao Chuanzong and the other guilty family members outside. In an instant, they were transported to their respective destinations.
After settling this matter, Zhao Xing looked at Zhao Zheng, Zhao Yuhuan, and Zhao Yuling. "Go and bring our parents back to continue the meal."
"Yes," they answered in unison.
Zhao Xing had no interest in cultivating a sprawling family drama. To him, only Zhao Ruide, Madam Cai, and Zhao Zheng truly mattered.
These people were bound to him not by blood but by genuine emotional ties. His connections to Zhao Yuhuan, Zhao Yuling, and Zhao Chuanzong were superficial at best. His assistance to them was merely a repayment of the kindness bestowed by their family.
With the turmoil surrounding Zhao Chuanzong's lineage resolved, Zhao Xing left behind a clone to remain at home while his true body traveled to the Tianyuan Prefecture branch of Xuantian Academy to train.
The headmaster of Xuantian Academy's Tianyuan branch remained Lu Chunhua, a disciple of Li Boqian, which technically made him Zhao Xing's senior brother. However, such hierarchies meant little in Great Zhou, and Zhao Xing treated him as just another branch head. With a brief greeting, he ascended to the topmost level of the Inheritance Tower to prepare for the Dragon Court's trial set to open in thirty-nine years.
Spring, Year 42 of Yuan Shuo. At the top level of the Inheritance Tower, Zhao Xing opened his eyes.
"My domain has reached the seventh tier across the board."
"The Taiyin Purple Wind Domain and the Three-Lights Divine Water Domain have both advanced to the eighth tier."
"With the breakthroughs in other domains, even my True Self Domain has reached the seventh tier."
"My Three Divinities Destiny Palace cultivation has not fallen behind either, and my soul has advanced to the mid-stage of the Domain Realm."
"The ultimate wind technique, Wind of Destruction, has reached the seventh transformations. The ultimate cloud technique, Cloud Heaven Dao, stands at the sixth transformations. The ultimate rain technique, Heaven's Eclipse, is at the seventh transformations, while the ultimate sealing technique, Primordial Seal, has reached the sixth transformations."
"As for the ultimate metamorphosis technique, Ancestral Dragon Transformation, it's still at the third transformations. Zhu Luo Transformation is at the fourth transformations, the Morning Crow Yellow-Ear Transformation at the fourth transformations, and Sky Roar Transformation at the third."
"Among the ultimate techniques related to Heavenly Timing, Ancestral Dragon Transformation is the weakest," Zhao Xing noted to himself. The metamorphosis techniques were indeed the most challenging to cultivate, as they involved fundamental changes to the structure of one's physical body. Zhao Xing's physique was still at the Destiny Palace stage, so for a significant breakthrough in metamorphosis techniques, he would need to fully step into the Rule Realm.
"However, my soul-related ultimate technique, Soul-Devouring Spear, is progressing rapidly and has already reached the sixth transformations."
"At the same time, over these thirty-nine years, I've begun cultivating the ultimate Earth Palace technique, Abyssal Earth Palace, and have brought it to the fourth transformations."
"The ultimate Earth Repository technique, Xuanhuang Earth-Cleaving, has reached the third transformations."
"The mountain techniques and Xuan Earth techniques remain at top-tier perfection. I haven't managed to create new ultimate techniques in these areas," Zhao Xing reflected.
"Although I have the inheritance of Qing Yuzi, who followed the Heavenly Timing path, creating ultimate techniques in the Earthly Advantages and Self paths is still extraordinarily difficult. Especially the Self path—aside from Reverse Essence Technique, which barely counts as a supportive ultimate technique, the other four techniques (Essence Analysis, Foundation Strengthening, Condensation, and Deflection) took me an extremely long time to cultivate to top-tier perfection. They are the most time-consuming of all techniques."
The techniques of the Self path were all about transforming plant life, making them even harder than metamorphosis techniques.
Metamorphosis techniques were internal and dealt with changes to one's own life structure. In contrast, the four core techniques of the Self path required raising the life levels of plants.
The complex and varied structures of plant life made it almost impossible to achieve mastery that applied universally.
"The second layer of Divine Soldier's Art has reached perfection. I can now fully project plants of the Rule Realm."
"In terms of effectiveness, Heaven and Earth Seed Soldier Codex and Divine Soldier's Art each have their strengths."
"My Divine Soldier's Art includes the Rule Jump move, while Old Liu's Heaven and Earth Seed Soldier Codex features the Reverse Heavenly Gang move, allowing Pure Essence projections to briefly operate in the sky."
Zhao Xing carefully reviewed all he had learned over the past thirty-nine years. With a single step, he vanished from the Inheritance Tower.
Deep within the Eastern Sea, golden light stretched for miles, waves churned endlessly, and the Heaven and Earth Dragon Gate reappeared after a century.
This time, the opening of the Dragon Court was markedly different.
First, the number of powerful individuals had increased significantly. In the past, the strongest forces sent by various factions were only comparable to the Rule Realm.
But now, there were more than thirty genuine Rule Realm experts present.
The Great Zhou Dynasty was compelled to dispatch multiple Rule Realm powerhouses, including Lord Luohou, Dong Ze, the commander of the Divine Abode Army; King Beichen, Qin Feng; Lord Shenluo, Luo Tian; the commander of the Wuyou Army, Li Hao; Grand Engineer Lu Ying; and Grand Ritual Official Wei Hong.
Palaces, warships, and national treasures from the Palace of the Matrix, the Sun and Moon Palace, the Divine Abode Warship, the Earth-Cleaving Divine Vessel, and Ten-Thousand Layers Mountain were deployed in full force.
The burgeoning energy tides had accelerated the birth of Rule Realm experts in the Outland Alliance, and despite Zhao Xing's efforts to disrupt them, he could not completely halt their emergence. Yet, Lord Luohou remained unperturbed, even steering the warships and palaces into the center of the confrontation, brazenly flaunting their strength.
General Dong Ze and King Beichen were visibly uneasy. The disparity in strength was apparent—why was Lord Luohou so composed?
And Zhao Xing—he was smiling too!
"The Outland Alliance has sent a total of twenty-eight Rule Realm experts," one muttered. "We only have seven. That's four times the difference! Is this what it means to have the composure of the Grand Shennong?"
When comparing the numbers, it was true that the Outland Alliance had four times the forces of the Great Zhou. However, half of those forces were double agents.
"That includes Zigu Heavenly Venerable, the eldest of the Corpse Ghost Sect, the Mist Walker of Xuantian Sect, and Daoist Yueying," Zhao Xing explained with a faint smile. "If the Outland Alliance dares to attack, with just one order from me, half of their forces would turn against them on the spot. Even the heavy weapons crafted by Zigu Heavenly Venerable would immediately be turned on them."
Lord Luohou, one of the only two officials aware of this intelligence, remained utterly calm. With Zhao Xing present, a full-scale confrontation would only benefit Great Zhou.
"Where does the Great Zhou get this confidence?" Tuo Bagong, the commander of the Outland Alliance, frowned. "They only have seven Rule Realm experts. Could it be that Lord Luohou has already advanced to the fabled Dao-Establishing Ascension Realm?"
"Impossible," he muttered, shaking his head. "The Witch Moon God once said that aside from Ji Che, no one in the Great Zhou could reach the Dao-Establishing Realm in the current era."
"Could there be some hidden trump card?"
Tuo Bagong, lost in thought, ordered the allied forces to retreat to a safer distance, maintaining Great Zhou's advantageous position closest to the Dragon Gate.
"Whether Great Zhou is bluffing with an empty city strategy or not, our main goal this time is to eliminate Zhao Xing," Tuo Bagong thought coldly. "This opening of the Dragon Court is unprecedented. If Zhao Xing dies here, we will rid ourselves of a great threat…"
His confidence remained unshaken.
"The era of Zhao Xing flaunting his dominance in the Dragon Court's ancient grounds is about to end. A divine being will descend upon the Dragon Court!" he thought. "Let them bask in their arrogance for a moment. When news of Zhao Xing's death spreads, there will be no end to their weeping!"
His gaze shifted to a chamber door behind him. On either side of the door, two purple coiled dragons shimmered faintly with light.
Inside the Matrix Palace, Ji Si stood with constellations spinning above her head. Fragmented glimpses of the future flickered in the starry light.
Three stable and brilliant auspicious stars hovered above her, while chaotic, ominous stars streaked past in erratic patterns. These stars, like meteors, flared briefly and then vanished, their unpredictability making the future as fleeting as shooting stars.
When Ji Si finished her divination, she saw Lord Luohou and Zhao Xing standing before her.
"How is it?" Lord Luohou asked with a concerned tone. "Any issues?"
"There is," Ji Si nodded, removing the three stars above her head. They transformed into three glowing characters: "Zi Long Shen" (Purple Dragon God).
"Purple Dragon God?" Lord Luohou frowned deeply. "What does that mean?"
"The Purple Dragon God is a deity worshiped by the Purple Dragon Court," Ji Si explained. "I suspect they have a strong connection to the Dragon Court. That's why the Southern Barbarians never seem to run out of warriors within the Dragon Court. Their numbers are always replenished, likely due to some hidden support."
"No need for speculation; it's certain," Zhao Xing said, observing the three glowing characters. He used a technique to project fragments of the future depicted by the stars.
Thanks to Ji Si's Supreme Star Destiny Talisman, an artifact comparable to a World Weapon, even non-Fate Officers could see glimpses of the future.
Zhao Xing captured an image from the vision. While others might not understand its significance, he did.
It depicted a massive cavern illuminated by dragon-shaped beams of light. Three enormous dragon eggs rested within the cave, surrounded by intricate, mysterious runes.
The eggs on the left and right had already hatched, but the one in the center still floated in mid-air.
The central egg had been taken by Zhao Xing long ago. It now rested within the Pure Essence Soil inside his body.
"You said it was the Purple Dragon God, and now I understand." Zhao Xing replicated the vision using his techniques. "The dragon egg on the left belonged to the Dragon Emperor Xie, while the one on the right must have hatched into the escaped Purple Dragon God."
"What?" Both Ji Si and Lord Luohou were stunned.
"That must have been a long time ago!" Ji Si exclaimed.
"Although the Dragon Court flourished in ancient times, the Dragon Emperor Xie was the final Dragon Emperor, which places the timeline relatively closer to the present. It should correspond to the late ancient era," Zhao Xing explained.
"The Xuantian Sect has techniques to slumber for hundreds of thousands of years. Given the dragons' inherently long lifespans, it's not impossible for them to hibernate for just as long."
"So…" Lord Luohou considered. "The Purple Dragon God's awakening is tied to the elemental tides of vitality?"
"Most likely," Zhao Xing nodded. "This time, the opening of the Dragon Court differs from previous instances. If the Dragon Court is unified, there will be a chance to completely free the dragon clan from the ancient grounds. In previous eras, unifying the Dragon Court would have had little effect."
"After this event, the gates of the Dragon Court will no longer close after twenty years but will remain open indefinitely."
"Whoever gains the allegiance of the dragon clan will experience an immense surge in fortune and power. The Purple Dragon God likely isn't here to kill me but to compete for the Dragon Emperor Codex," Zhao Xing concluded.
Ji Che and Ji Si had previously battled the Witch Moon God and acquired critical information. The greatest assassination opportunities lay elsewhere. The chances of success within the Dragon Court were the smallest. So why would their enemies persist in such futile attempts?
As Zhao Xing elaborated, Ji Si came to a sudden realization. Their true goal wasn't to kill Zhao Xing but to seize the authority of the Dragon Court's ruler.
Ji Si's mind raced, and starlight swirled above her head as she instinctively began another calculation. Zhao Xing, however, stopped her.
"Ji Daren, don't waste your lifespan. Your life is precious; use it sparingly."
With a calm yet confident tone, Zhao Xing reassured her, "Don't worry. He won't win against me."