Chapter 277: At the End of the 34th Year of the Jingxin Calendar, Re-entering the Great Dream Academy

"Is Yang An dead?"

Zhao Xing was stunned. "Who told you this news? Has it been confirmed? Yin You Mountain is already deep in the Southern Wilderness; perhaps he just lost contact."

"The Marquis's name has appeared on the Ministry of War's latest casualty list. Five thousand Divine Might Army soldiers, including the Marquis, never returned from Yin You Mountain..." Long Xiao said, his eyes red.

Zhao Xing fell silent. If it was officially confirmed on the Ministry of War's casualty list and announced, then Yang An was most likely truly dead. He hadn't expected that in this life, Yang An would still die in the Pacification War against the Barbarians. Zhao Xing couldn't help but feel a pang of emotion.

"You just said the Marquis was forced to his death. Who told you that?" Zhao Xing didn't even need to ask who was behind it; it was undoubtedly King Liang. He just needed to know who leaked the news. The source of the information would indicate whether King Liang was desperate to rebel—whether he was about to act or still preparing.

"The strategist," Long Xiao sobbed, tears streaming down his face. "The strategist said the Marquis and the five thousand Divine Might Army soldiers couldn't even have their souls recovered, boohoo..."

It wasn't from other channels or widely known, only from the strategist Jia Pu. This suggested that King Liang's methods were still concealed, Zhao Xing thought to himself. Seeing Long Xiao crying like a child, he found it difficult to press further.

Zhao Xing comforted him, "Perhaps there's still a chance. Historically, there have been cases of people confirmed dead by the military but who later returned alive. For now, stay with the Azure Dragon Army. Don't act rashly. We'll talk when we meet."

Long Xiao was trained by Yang An; even his swordsmanship was taught by him. One could say Yang An was both a mentor and a father figure to Long Xiao.

"I'll find someone to inquire about this thoroughly," Zhao Xing said. "Think of your wife and children. Don't do anything irrational." Long Xiao was a man of strong emotions; Zhao Xing truly feared he would leave the Azure Dragon Army now and return to the Nine Heavens Responding to Origin Prefecture to seek revenge on King Liang.

After hanging up the communication, Zhao Xing began verifying the information from multiple sources. First, he found the official announcement. The Ministry of War's report contained only a few simple lines: "General Yang An, leading five thousand Divine Might Army soldiers, fought fiercely at Yin You Mountain for over a month. Their breakout attempt failed, resulting in the unfortunate annihilation of the entire army."

"Nothing much to see," Zhao Xing closed the announcement and then contacted Liu Tianning. Others might be in seclusion or busy with official duties, but Liu Tianning always answered immediately.

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

"Teacher," Zhao Xing went straight to the point, "I heard Yang An died and his soul couldn't even be recovered. Is that true?"

"Yes," Liu Tianning nodded.

"Teacher, do you know the details?"

Although Yang An's official military rank was still Grade Four, his actual strength had reached Grade Three. In the 30th year of the Jingxin era, Yang An attained the Grade Three realm. Both the power of the Divine Might Army and his personal development had advanced by leaps and bounds. A Grade Three sword cultivator and a general who had fought his way through countless battles—such a person was extremely difficult to kill. As a commanding general, Yang An would certainly be skilled in high-level Qi and Blood battle formations. Long Xiao's swordsmanship was taught by Yang An, and Long Xiao himself believed his talent was inferior to Yang An's. For a figure like him, if he was determined to escape, even a Grade One enemy might not be able to kill him. However, his own people could. If Zhao Xing were in King Liang's position, he would have a myriad of ways to orchestrate Yang An's death. He now wanted to know if King Liang's methods were so secretive that even Liu Tianning, as a military inspector, couldn't uncover them.

"This is classified; I cannot tell you the specifics," Liu Tianning said gravely. "I can only say, it is as you suspect."

Zhao Xing nodded. "Teacher, please be careful with everything."

Liu Tianning, in the 29th year of the Jingxin era, specifically during his trip to the East Sea, had reached the Grade Three Primordial Soul realm shortly after consuming the Primordial Spirit Fruit. In early 33rd year, his official rank was also promoted. He became the Transport Commissioner of the Pinghai Prefecture Water and Land Military Department, a Deputy Grade Three position, and the Chief Inspector of the Five Heavens Sect, Southern Barbarian Western War Zone, also Deputy Grade Three. All were positions of real power; even ordinary full Grade Three officials didn't have as much authority as Liu Tianning. But precisely because of this, Liu Tianning was now in a dangerous position.

"You don't need to worry about me," Liu Tianning said, pausing, then added, "But I will be very busy in the coming period, so busy that I won't have time to receive your messages."

Zhao Xing's heart sank. Old Liu possessed top-tier Ten Thousand Dharma Avatars. Was he truly this busy?

"Therefore, it will be difficult for me to pay attention to the East Sea region going forward," Liu Tianning said. "Even if you hadn't sought me out, I would have sought you."

"Please instruct me, Teacher."

"I will find a way to transfer you out of Pinghai Prefecture at the same rank; this will be completed before the 34th year of the Jingxin era," Liu Tianning said. "You'll likely be assigned to Daoyuan Prefecture."

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

Liu Tianning frowned. "You don't understand the danger involved. I can't say much, but the level of danger is beyond your imagination."

Zhao Xing shook his head. "Teacher, I won't leave. A transfer of my official post is fine. I'd like to ask you to transfer me directly to the Pinghai Prefecture Transport Department, also serving as the War Zone Inspector."

"Why?"

"Teacher, I've met King Tianyan in the East Sea. For the past two years, I've been studying under King Tianyan."

Liu Tianning suddenly realized, "You've cultivated the Derivation God Technique?"

"Yes," Zhao Xing nodded. Liu Tianning didn't know this secret, mainly because the confidentiality level of his files hadn't been downgraded yet. On the contrary, after his cultivation was complete and he made significant discoveries, King Tianyan elevated it to the highest classified level.

"Teacher, by following King Tianyan, I've learned many things," Zhao Xing said. In reality, King Tianyan hadn't told him anything, but Liu Tianning was unaware of this. King Tianyan was a Fate Official, and a significant portion of the information Liu Tianning knew also came from Fate Official institutions.

"My cultivation progress is also faster than you imagine. I've already mastered top-tier techniques," Zhao Xing said. "And more than one kind."

"The future holds both danger and opportunity, and I don't want to miss it. Furthermore, your every move in your current position attracts attention. Transferring me now might draw criticism." Zhao Xing had been preparing for over a decade; there was no way he would run away at this point.

When Zhao Xing said this, Liu Tianning fell into deep thought. After a long while, he nodded and said, "Alright, I'll arrange it immediately."

"Thank you, Teacher."

Other positions weren't so easy to transfer, but the roles of Transport Commissioner and Inspector were relatively simple. Moreover, this was a lateral transfer, not involving the Qi Luck baptism of a promotion, so the process would be quick.

"Be careful yourself," Liu Tianning said. "If anything unexpected happens, run to the Princess's Manor." Princess Youruo's manor was naturally very safe.

"Yes," Zhao Xing nodded. If he truly had to flee, Princess Youruo's manor wouldn't be his first choice; Xuantian Academy would be.

After hanging up the communication, Zhao Xing closed his eyes and fell into contemplation. "Old Liu likely saw future turmoil in Pinghai Prefecture through the predictions of Fate Officials. The possibility of such a future was uncertain, but at this moment, the likelihood of King Liang rebelling had certainly increased, which is why Liu Tianning was busy, and King Tianyan had suddenly gone into seclusion and lost contact."

The imperial court, of course, knew about future turmoil; Fate Officials weren't useless. However, as long as something hadn't happened, it was impossible to punish people in the present for future events. Even if King Liang rebelled at 7:30 AM, he was still King Liang at 7:15 AM.

"If King Liang rebels in the 35th year, the end of the 34th year will be the last chance to leave Pinghai Prefecture. Once he splits the imperial destiny, it will be impossible to leave then. Liu Tianning planned my departure based on this consideration," Zhao Xing thought to himself.

Luck and destiny are complementary. When the imperial destiny splits, Pinghai Prefecture will experience immense karmic entanglement. The destinies of the two factions will be opposing. At that time, there would only be two choices: rebel or suppress the rebellion. There would be no middle ground, or else one would suffer backlash. Success would bring destiny's reward; failure would mean death and the annihilation of one's path.

"This is the time to seize the opportunity and rise," Zhao Xing mused. "Not just Pinghai Prefecture, but Luliang Prefecture as well. However, Pinghai Prefecture is the largest battleground for the struggle over destiny."

Zhao Xing opened his eyes, walked out of the Shrine of the Earth God, and flew into the sky. "At this moment, the fluctuations in Pinghai Prefecture's destiny are not yet obvious. Apart from Fate Officials and a very few others who could sense subtle anomalies, no one else knew." Zhao Xing observed for a while. On the shield of destiny, there was already the shape of a golden dragon.

"The moment the Golden Dragon of Destiny ascends to the heavens, the system of the Destiny Dynasty in Pinghai Prefecture will split into countless streams of dragon qi, each representing an individual. Heroes will rise, dragons will ascend, devouring each other." Zhao Xing looked south again. At this moment, he had not yet observed King Liang's black dragon. "However, if he rebels next year, he's probably already secretly devouring destiny this year, but I can't see it yet," Zhao Xing thought to himself. A unified dynasty would not have the situation where 'individual destinies are like dragons, merging with the destiny of heaven and earth, like dragons soaring through the nine heavens.'

A "buzz" sound. The mist dispersed, and Zhao Xing reappeared in the Shrine of the Earth God.

"Zhao Xing, did you receive the news?" Chen Shijie suddenly rushed out, anxious.

"Old Chen, my condolences."

Chen Shijie's eyes were slightly red, and his voice was hoarse: "I heard from Long Xiao that the Marquis was murdered, and his soul couldn't even be retrieved. Is this true?"

Zhao Xing sighed inwardly and nodded, "Most likely. We'll wait for the official announcement to confirm it."

"I've also asked around. Except for the strategist who suspects a conspiracy, everyone else believes the Marquis unfortunately died in battle."

"Were the transfer orders normal?" Chen Shijie asked.

"Normal."

"Was there any rescue?"

"Too late to rescue."

"Were there any intelligence errors?"

"Yes, but some people have already been beheaded by King Liang for this, three Grade Four officials." He didn't need to hide anything from Chen Shijie, as the latter wouldn't lose his composure.

"Why?" Chen Shijie looked distraught. "Why wouldn't he let the Marquis go, not even giving him a chance for his soul to return home?"

Zhao Xing shook his head and said, "It's said that six months ago, King Liang summoned the Marquis for a discussion, but it wasn't a public military meeting, so the Marquis declined, citing an excuse. Connecting it to this is a stretch... The transfer order wasn't even issued by King Liang himself, but by another reigning vassal king."

Chen Shijie laughed bitterly, "So, the deaths of three Grade Four officials were exchanged for the lives of the Marquis and five thousand Divine Might Army soldiers?"

Zhao Xing remained silent. A higher rank can crush a subordinate, especially on a complex battlefield. It's too easy for a commander to eliminate someone who isn't completely loyal. If Zhao Xing were in King Liang's position, he would also have a myriad of ways to have Yang An killed. If he intended to rebel, he would also need to reduce unstable factors. A talented sword-cultivating general like Yang An, who wasn't loyal to him, would be a definite target for elimination. Sending him to be killed by the Southern Barbarians could also serve as a token of allegiance.

"Old Chen..."

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

"Where are you going?"

"To handle official business." Chen Shijie's back looked utterly powerless. King Liang was a First-Rank Prince; now, burdened with the national destiny to conquer the barbarians and holding immense power, he could be considered beyond First-Rank. What could Chen Shijie do against such an enemy? With his soul unrecoverable, Chen Shijie didn't even know where to burn paper money for him! Chen Shijie and Long Xiao couldn't talk anymore. They were now grieving and furious.

Zhao Xing could only find Xia Jing to drink with.

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

Zhao Xing sighed, "He couldn't break out. In the Battle of Yin You Mountain, four Grade Two Heavenly Shamans from the Southern Barbarians had set up an ambush in that area early on. First, they drained the elemental energy of heaven and earth, then set up a top-tier Soul-Bewitching Ten-Killing Formation. During the subsequent month-long siege, the military granary officials in the city were unable to provide any supplies to the army. As soon as he attempted to break out, fifty Grade Three martial artists, sorcerers, and shamans would obstruct him. With such continuous attrition, one Grade Three still died in the end before they finally annihilated Yang An and the Divine Might Army, who had run out of ammunition and supplies. It was a death trap," Zhao Xing said.

"Marquis Divine Might, what a pity," Xia Jing raised a glass of wine. "My father said that among the new generation of generals who cultivate the Azure Dragon Dharmakaya, Yang An had the most hope of touching the ultimate path. Now, even his soul cannot be retrieved."

The Great Zhou's Soul-Turning Spirit technique uses the Heavenly Soul (Reincarnation Soul) to recall dispersed Fate Souls. If the Fate Soul is revived, the Karma Soul is also revived. There were many reasons why it couldn't be retrieved. Firstly, Yin You Mountain was now in the hands of the Southern Barbarians. Secondly, Yang An's soul was repeatedly annihilated, transforming from a ghost to a *zhi*, and then from a *zhi* to a *xi*. Theoretically, the Great Zhou's Reincarnation True Monarch could recall dispersed Fate Souls at the *xi* level through the Heavenly Soul. However, if the *xi* level were to be annihilated again, turning into *yi*, then there would be no way, because *yi* was complete nothingness. Of course, reaching this level was quite difficult. The Southern Barbarians would also have to expend great effort to completely annihilate Yang An's soul. Because Yang An's value was high enough, such a counter-attack would have a great deterrent effect.

"Zhao Xing, I will use my full power to unleash the Azure Dragon Sword Qi. How much you can withstand is up to you!"

"Cherish your passionate blood; even if it spills, it can transform into azure waves."

"Marquis Yuanrang, we'll meet again."

Zhao Xing recalled Yang An's farewell poem and sword qi, feeling a sense of wistfulness. "Aside from what's preserved within my two avatars, there's no more of Yang An's Azure Dragon Sword Qi left in the world."

Xia Jing slammed his hand, shattering the wine glass: "King Liang is a national traitor, truly deserving of death! I think he'll rebel sooner or later!"

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

"Brother Xia, prepare early. The Southern Barbarian campaign is going poorly, and King Liang has rebellious intentions. I fear it won't be long before Pinghai Prefecture and Luliang Prefecture undergo drastic changes."

"You mean, he'll really rebel?" Xia Jing had just been saying that out of anger. Subconsciously, he still didn't believe King Liang would rebel. What would be the point? He was already a First-Rank Prince. Was he coveting the supreme imperial throne? That hope was too slim!

"Regardless, be prepared," Zhao Xing said. "You and I are both from Pinghai Prefecture. If that day truly comes, neither of us can remain untouched."

While Zhao Xing and Xia Jing were talking, in the Hong Clan territory of the East Sea, in an underwater palace complex.

*Splash!*

A deep-sea fish boat swam past, entering an underwater mountain through a swift waterway. Inside the mountain was a luxurious golden palace surrounded by green seaweed.

"Who goes there!" When the fish boat appeared, aquatic guards immediately gathered around it. Their bodies were covered in scales up to their necks, with only their faces having human-like skin and gills behind their ears.

"Present this token to your master." From within the fish boat, a streak of light floated out. The token had the character 'Hong' on the front, 'Mi' on the back, and several unique patterns around its edges.

"A top-level secret order?" The guards immediately showed no disrespect, respectfully made way, and escorted the fish boat into the palace. The fish boat, escorted by the guards, flew directly into the golden palace. Inside the palace was a throne, shimmering with golden light, with a figure faintly visible.

"All of you, withdraw," the golden figure commanded.

"Yes." The guards immediately left. The golden light receded, and Hong Yuanshou stood up from the throne. His figure was tall and mighty, like a moving mountain, his solid muscles faintly visible under the dim blue water light, exuding endless power. His armor, crafted from mysterious deep-sea mithril, gleamed with a cold light. Each scale was meticulously carved with water patterns, as if merging with the surrounding currents. His face appeared sculpted by ocean waves, with distinct contours and rugged lines. His deep-set eyes were like cold abysses at the bottom of the sea, icy and sharp, seemingly able to pierce through all illusion with a glance. On his head, he wore a battle helmet inlaid with coral and pearls, its spiky crest resembling a sea urchin's spines, both majestic and chilling. Behind him, a massive blue cape fluttered, embroidered with the aquatic tribe's ancient totem.

One clan, two kings: Hong Yuanba was a prince, and Hong Yuanshou was also a prince. However, Hong Yuanshou held no real power and merely managed the ancestral lands. Hong Yuanba, on the other hand, was the commander of the East Sea.

The fish boat stopped, and from its cabin emerged a young man in splendid attire—Ji Chen. In the 29th year of the Jingxin era, he was confirmed as the Crown Prince by King Liang.

"Your student pays respects to Teacher," Ji Chen bowed respectfully. If an outsider had heard Ji Chen's address, they would likely be shocked: King Liang's Crown Prince had secretly apprenticed himself to Hong Yuanshou?

"Chen'er, rise," Hong Yuanshou smiled. "This is your first visit since becoming the Crown Prince."

"It's all thanks to Teacher's guidance," Ji Chen said respectfully.

"Hahaha, come, come!" Hong Yuanshou was delighted to see Ji Chen: "Let your teacher see if you've made any progress over the years."

"Please enlighten me, Teacher," Ji Chen immediately transformed into a streak of light and rushed out.

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

"Chen'er, you've made great progress. You actually possess Grade Three strength now," Hong Yuanshou praised. "Have you undergone a destiny baptism?"

"Yes," Ji Chen nodded.

"Now your title of Crown Prince is truly deserved," Hong Yuanshou said. "You've come here suddenly; besides visiting me, is there something else?"

"Teacher, my father has a message for you."

"Oh?" Hong Yuanshou said solemnly, "What instructions does King Liang have?"

Ji Chen lowered his head, his face contorting. When he looked up again, his facial features had changed. His face, including his demeanor and gaze, had become identical to King Liang, Ji Mingxian.

"Your Highness!" A flicker of horror flashed in Hong Yuanshou's eyes, and he immediately stood up. Not only because of this transformation, but also because he recognized the technique—Blood Soul Parasitism! This technique was extremely eerie, capable of soul storage and transfer between blood relatives. Because it was ethically unacceptable, it had long been designated as an evil technique! The Great Zhou's Prince, King Liang Ji Mingxian, actually cultivated such a secret technique? It was simply astounding. Hong Yuanshou seemed to have realized something; after his horror, a flash of keen light burst in his eyes, carrying a hint of anticipation.

"Yuanshou, do you wish to see the scenery beyond Grade One?" King Liang Ji Mingxian said indifferently.

"Your Highness, no, Your Majesty, I am willing!" Hong Yuanshou was also a perceptive man and immediately knelt down. King Liang was like this; if not rebelling, what else could he be doing? Hong Yuanshou, with his limited talent, had reached his limit at Grade Three through self-cultivation. Later, he obtained the title of a Grade Two Prince, entering the Grade Two Heavenly Luck realm. But it was almost impossible for him to reach Grade One. His elder brother, Hong Yuanba, still had hope. However, it was widely known that Grade One was not the limit. For example, King Liang was a transcendent Grade One existence because he carried enough imperial destiny and possessed a divine artifact, granting him strength beyond Grade One.

Furthermore, Hong Yuanshou greatly admired King Liang personally. When King Liang was ordered to eliminate his clansmen, he demonstrated immense martial power. In addition, King Liang had repeatedly settled disputes among the aquatic tribes. In Hong Yuanshou's eyes, only Ji Mingxian fit his impression of an emperor. Emperor Jing? What did he do? Gaining control of the East Sea by sleeping with women—what kind of skill was that? So King Liang only asked one question, and he immediately complied. If King Liang could ascend the throne, he would be the Crown Prince's teacher. Since he was younger than King Liang, when Ji Chen eventually ascended, he would become the Grand Tutor. Wouldn't that be wonderful?

Ji Mingxian said faintly, "Yuanshou, I need the full strength of your Hong clan to obey my command." Hong Yuanshou? Just a brute! A bit clever, but lacking great wisdom or strategic vision. What King Liang truly wanted was Hong Yuanba, because Hong Yuanba could lead armies and was an excellent legion commander.

Hong Yuanshou's eyes darted, and he immediately said, "Your Majesty, I am confident I can persuade my brother."

"Very good, Chen'er is entrusted to you." After saying this, Ji Mingxian's voice disappeared.

Ji Chen lowered his head again, his face contorting. When he looked up again, it was Ji Chen himself.

"Teacher, how was the conversation?" Ji Chen asked cautiously. Although Hong Yuanshou had been thoroughly understood by them over the years, when it came to rebellion, no one could be sure if someone would actually go through with it. If Hong Yuanshou and his father hadn't reached an agreement, he would have had to die there.

"Hahaha, with His Majesty's command, how dare I disobey?" Hong Yuanshou chuckled. Ji Chen was startled at first, then realized that the "His Majesty" Hong Yuanshou referred to was his father, and immediately breathed a sigh of relief.

"Teacher, how do you plan to persuade your elder brother?" Ji Chen immediately fell into character.

"Simple," Hong Yuanshou said. "Among the four East Sea clans, I'll randomly choose a direct descendant of one clan and slaughter them. Then my brother will have no way out."

Ji Chen was taken aback. He hadn't expected that his teacher was also a staunch rebel. He hadn't said anything yet, and Hong Yuanshou had already planned it out. However, this saved Ji Chen the trouble of persuasion.

"Which clan does Teacher plan to target first?"

"The Bai clan should be the first choice. What do you think, Crown Prince?" Hong Yuanshou asked.

"Teacher, please still call me Crown Prince," Ji Chen always felt this teacher was moving too fast, even though he secretly thought the same way.

"It's good, but the target needs careful selection, as does the timing... Bai Yunwu has four sons: Bai Mingchuan, Bai Mingsong, Bai Zhengyang, and Bai Zhenghe. The significant ones are Bai Mingchuan and Bai Zhengyang. Bai Mingsong and Bai Zhenghe are both cultivation of etiquette, not worth mentioning," Hong Yuanshou said disdainfully. "Once at sea, their strength is as weak as a sea worm."

"How to choose between Bai Mingchuan and Bai Zhengyang?" Ji Chen wasn't very familiar with the strength of the various generals in the East Sea.

"Bai Mingchuan's strength is good; he has already cultivated the Seventh Layer Dragon Blood True Body, so he might be a bit difficult to kill," Hong Yuanshou said. "This matter cannot be delayed; it must be swift, precise, and ruthless."

"Let's choose Bai Zhengyang then."

In Chongming Prefecture, at the Princess's Manor, Zhao Xing's Qilin flying boat landed. He was about to be transferred and leave, so of course he had to inform Princess Youruo. Furthermore, his family also needed to be properly settled. Fleeing to Xuantian Academy would be too strange. Staying in the Princess's Manor would suffice.

"Senior Brother," Ji Zixuan had been waiting for a long time on the observation deck. Zhao Xing looked down. He hadn't seen Ji Zixuan in a long time, and her changes were indeed significant. Since the 20th year of Jingxin, Ji Zixuan had traveled extensively. Now, fourteen years later, she had visited almost all the grotto-heavens and blessed lands across the nineteen prefectures. Firstly, for experience; secondly, to inspect Princess Youruo's various properties. She had excelled at both. Now, she possessed the strength of a perfected Pure Essence Realm cultivator and held a respectable ranking in the dojo. Princess Youruo had also granted Ji Zixuan significant authority, clearly grooming her as the successor to Steward Liu Wanliang. One shouldn't underestimate the position of Princess's Manor Steward; the Steward managed the entire manor, controlled all its properties, and even oversaw the education of princes and princesses.

"The Phantom Assassin is already taking shape," Zhao Xing thought to himself.

"Senior Brother," Ji Zixuan waved her hand. Zhao Xing, however, didn't go towards her, but flew directly to a pavilion behind a rock garden.

"Junior Sister, your Talisman Phantasm has become increasingly skilled."

"Senior Brother is truly amazing. My talisman technique, which I thought was flawless, was seen through by you at a glance, and you even found my true body," Ji Zixuan's eyes sparkled.

"Comparing yourself to me? You still need a lot more practice," Zhao Xing said. "Your Talisman Dharmakaya might seem flawless to you, but in the eyes of experts, it's full of flaws. Don't rely too much on it for combat right now. If you take risks with it, you might truly die."

"Yes," Ji Zixuan obediently listened.

"Take me to see Mother-in-law."

"You're going to the Transport Department, and also serving as an Inspector?" Princess Youruo looked at Zhao Xing in surprise. "Your transfers these past few times have certainly covered a wide range." First, transferred from the Gemini Dragon-Horse Bureau to the Shrine of the Earth God. Now suddenly transferred under Liu Tianning's command, to be a Transport Commissioner and Inspector. Transport Commissioner was indeed a natural fit for a Chief Minister of Agriculture, but Inspector was like a dog catching mice – entirely meddlesome.

"Do you know something?" Princess Youruo looked at Zhao Xing. "No, how could your teacher say such things... and he wouldn't possibly agree to this transfer. He previously told me he wanted you to leave Pinghai Prefecture. Little Chen An, what are you two, master and disciple, hiding from me?"

Zhao Xing cupped his hands and said, "Mother-in-law, due to confidentiality regulations, I cannot say. But Mother-in-law is exceptionally intelligent and perceptive, so you must already know."

Princess Youruo truly didn't know, but the flattery made her very comfortable. "I couldn't care less about you men's thoughts. Whether it's achieving great deeds or traveling to distant lands, as long as you know what you're doing. Tell me, what else do you need me for?"

"I'm about to be transferred, and I'd like to bring my family to stay briefly at the Princess's Manor. Please look after them, Mother-in-law," Zhao Xing said. "I wouldn't trust anyone else."

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

"Thank you, Mother-in-law," Zhao Xing bowed.

Shortly after the Spring She Day in the 34th year of Jingxin, Zhao Xing moved his family into the Princess's Manor. The Princess's Manor in Bixian Commandery was even safer than Chongming Prefecture City. Afterward, Zhao Xing also instructed Zhao Zheng to return to the Princess's Manor normally, leaving the estate completely unused.

In March, Xia Jing bid farewell to Zhao Xing. He had fully recovered, and due to misfortune, had gained the confidence to cultivate his spirit.

"Brother Zhao, I'm leaving," Xia Jing said. "When I return this time, I will go into seclusion to cultivate my spirit. But my Earth Mirror communication will always be open for you."

"Don't be so mushy," Zhao Xing chuckled. "Focus on your seclusion. When something happens, I'll call you."

"Hahaha, then I'll wait," Xia Jing said. "Thank you for the Eight Heavenly Maidens you sent me. If you get such goods again in the future, be sure to save some for your brother!"

Upon hearing this, Zhao Xing immediately asked a soul-piercing question: "Do you want a mermaid mechanical puppet?"

"You..."

"Hahaha."

At the end of March, the Southern Barbarian battlefield ignited a large-scale high-grade war! Yang An's death seemed to be a trigger. King Liang commanded the seven powerful armies: Tongyou, Jiuxiao, Huangquan, Xuanming, Tiancang, Taixu, and Wuyuan, all deployed. On March 20th, they broke through Yin You Mountain, slaying four Grade Two Heavenly Shamans, one Grade One Heavenly Shaman, and over five thousand Grade Three cultivators! Yin You Mountain was a symbol, because from Yin You Mountain, one could already see the silhouette of the Southern Barbarian Sacred Mountain, which pierced through heaven and earth. This was an unprecedented glory! At this time, King Liang's prestige also reached its peak.

On April 5th, Long Xiao, Chen Shijie, and Zhao Xing had a brief meeting. After an all-night heart-to-heart, the three separated the next day. Long Xiao returned to the Azure Dragon Army. Chen Shijie submitted his resignation, stepping down from his position as Chief Steward of the Shrine of the Earth God. He and his wife moved into a courtyard within the Princess's Manor. Given Old Chen's current cultivation, following Zhao Xing would be too risky. Suppressing the rebellion, Old Chen was not in a good position to take such a risk. Waiting for the aftermath of the rebellion to manage affairs was best.

Zhao Xing, on the other hand, once again entered the military realm, but he still couldn't find King Tianyan. He could, however, enter the Star Palace. Zhao Xing then continued cultivating "Soul-Annihilating Bell," a soul-type secret technique appended to the Derivation God Technique. His avatar in Xuantian Academy (Tian Yuan Prefecture) continued lecturing as usual, cultivating Heavenly Thunder Finger and Cloud Gate. However, "Near-Far Heaven's End" could not be learned by the avatar, because Li Boqian's technique involved physical transformation, any secret technique of that nature was currently difficult for the Ten Thousand Dharma Avatars to perform.

By the end of April, his avatar in the Kunyuan Underworld Palace had completed the cultivation of "Vast Sea Underworld Palace" and "Profound Water Underworld Palace." Zhao Xing began attempting to comprehend the Profound Earth Technique and the Earth-Shattering Technique, but progress was extremely slow.

On May 7th, Zhao Xing sent an avatar to purchase supplies in the Nine Rivers Grotto-Heaven. "I already have items to obscure heavenly secrets. I'm mainly purchasing treasures specifically against priests." Zhao Xing browsed the armory in the Nine Rivers Grotto-Heaven. "If I can defend against the priest's divine office, I can at least escape when facing other Grade Three opponents." The priest profession had too many methods. They could fly, burrow underground, fight at range, engage in close combat, and even sing and dance. For martial artists, if Zhao Xing burrowed underground with an avatar distracting them, it would be easy to escape. Against a priest, the opponent could continuously soul-lock, which was very troublesome.

"This hundred million liquid funds, all spent on disposable items, specifically treasures against priests," Zhao Xing thought to himself. Of course, when buying, he wouldn't say they were specifically to counter priests, but rather shamans, external demons, or evil magic.

On June 5th, the high-grade war on the Southern Barbarian battlefield intensified. After crossing Yin You Mountain, all four royal courts began to retreat and defend, starting to block the Great Zhou army's advance towards the Sacred Mountain. On June 10th, the Divine Thunder Army, Tiger-Dragon Army, and Black Armored Army, commanded by Marquis Tianwu, Marquis Mingwei, and Marquis Mingwu respectively, suffered heavy casualties, and all three martial marquises died in battle. On June 15th, King Lingshuang, Pei Dingshan, died in battle at 'Hundred Water River'. The first vassal king to die in battle appeared. The Great Zhou's offensive was stalled. The Southern Barbarians' most mysterious Nine Underworlds Legion appeared in the Great Zhou's sight for the first time.

"Xiang Kui also died," Zhao Xing shook his head secretly, looking at the military intelligence report. This person was the main general of the Black Armored Army. "The main general of the Tiger-Dragon Army also died, replaced by Ding Long. Since the high-grade war erupted, sixty-seven martial marquises have died. Now even King Lingshuang is dead. As many main generals died, their replacements gradually became people secretly cultivated by King Liang," Zhao Xing thought to himself. "This isn't warfare; it's clearly using the Southern Barbarians' hands to eliminate dissidents." It seemed like fierce fighting and rapid advancement, with the Southern Barbarian Sacred Mountain already visible, but the Great Zhou's casualties were continuously mounting.

"I wonder if Pei Yuanchang participated in the battle," Zhao Xing thought to himself. Pei Yuanchang was King Lingshuang's direct grandson, whom he had met while fishing in the Sea of Eternal Night. "His vassal king grandfather died in this battle. His future days will probably be difficult."

Zhao Xing sifted through the intelligence, constantly summarizing useful information. "Before long, King Liang will attribute the war's failures to shortages in military supplies, continuously demanding various high-grade strategic materials from the imperial court. The Transport Department will be the first to bear the brunt. However, once my transfer is complete, I'll only be serving at the East Sea Transport Department in Pinghai Prefecture, so it shouldn't be a big problem." Zhao Xing put away the intelligence and continued cultivating.

On July 16th, Zhao Xing completed his job transfer, but Liu Tianning gave him six months of rest. That is, the transfer order would only officially take effect six months later. Before then, Zhao Xing still had a choice: leave, or stay in Pinghai Prefecture.

"Old Liu truly is afraid I'll die," Zhao Xing put away the two transfer orders, deep in thought. "It seems January of the 35th year of Jingxin is the final demarcation point. If I don't leave by then, I won't be able to."

Zhao Xing left the prefectural city and came to Wangcang Mountain, the highest peak in Chongming Prefecture. At the same time, his avatar at Xuantian Academy's Tianyuan Prefecture also arrived at the highest point of a spiritual mountain. Additionally, an avatar in the Star Palace was examining military realm archives. He needed to observe and calculate the Great Zhou Heavenly Circulation in Pinghai Prefecture!

"The military realm is composed of various Grotto-Heaven small worlds, like beads strung together by the Great Zhou's military realm passages, revolving around the Xuanhuang World. The cycles have strong and weak phases, and the passages also have strong and weak points. When at their weakest, the corresponding military realm passages become extremely small, making large-scale troop deployment impossible. At this time, only seven military realm entrances into Pinghai Prefecture remain. King Liang only needs to seize these seven entrances to completely blockade Pinghai Prefecture, both internally and externally. He must grasp this timing precisely for the highest chance of a successful rebellion, to have time to deal with those who oppose him within Pinghai Prefecture. Otherwise, he would only become a bandit, and once his poison spreads throughout the world, he would completely lose the legitimacy of his rebellion, and the Yin Gods would no longer help him."

Zhao Xing knew which seven entrances they were, but this life was different from his previous one, so they might have changed. Additionally, knowing the exact time would be of great help to him. "Determining the time and location means King Liang's main legions can only go to these few places, and I can avoid large-scale high-grade legions," Zhao Xing continuously calculated. He wanted to gain merits, not court death, so if he wasn't confident, he'd rather not go.

He continued calculating like this until September 26th. Combining his knowledge from his previous life, Zhao Xing finally arrived at a precise result. "On February 2nd of the 35th year of Jingxin, the seven major Grotto-Heaven entrances will become the seven critical channels for rapid troop deployment," Zhao Xing repeatedly verified. "I just don't know if the Fate Officials' calculations match mine. Why hasn't King Tianyan, that old geezer, replied to my messages? What exactly is he doing?" Exactly at this crucial moment, King Tianyan was nowhere to be found. If he could get more useful information from King Tianyan, that would be even better. If Zhao Xing couldn't get a full map view, he could at least get a half-map view. "King Liang used to be the head of the Fate Officials, and he also controlled the Creation Plate. King Tianyan isn't checking for secret passages, is he? That would take quite a long time."

After completing his calculations, Zhao Xing returned to the Nine Rivers Grotto-Heaven in Chongming Prefecture. This time, he entered the dojo, not for fighting or cultivating, but to check the rankings. "The last record of the dojo rankings," Zhao Xing thought to himself. "The rankings on the dojo can provide information on many experts. By then, the Earth Mirror would be unreliable, and it wouldn't be as quick to check for useful information." Not just the Earth Mirror, but the quick access passages of the major Daoist academies would also lose their effectiveness, either destroyed or controlled by King Liang.

Spending an entire month, Zhao Xing recorded enough intelligence in the military realm and returned to Chongming Prefecture. By this time, it was October 10th of the 34th year of Jingxin.

"Almost," Zhao Xing once again arrived at the secret estate in Dongyang County. "Less than four months remain until the calculated event. I should go find the silly bird. Otherwise, even if it gets some benefits, I won't have time to digest them. I hope it can make another trip."

The Heavenly Mandate Profound Bird had said last time that its recovery would take at least a year and a half, or as long as three to five years. If calculated on the shorter side, he could violate the rules and act once more before the 35th year of Jingxin. If calculated on the longer side of five years, it would be the end of the 37th year of Jingxin. By then, the war would almost be over, and what would be the point?

"I need to pressure the silly bird; I can't let it be lazy." Zhao Xing closed his eyes, muttering to himself.

Inside Grand Dream Academy, in the Pavilion of Heavenly Secrets, Zhao Xing's ethereal image slowly appeared.

"Caw caw, you're here!" The Heavenly Mandate Profound Bird's voice rang in his ears.

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