Chapter 279: Using Two People as Shields, Zhao Master Strikes Back with Heavy Fists

The moment the earth trembled and destiny fractured, all the treasures Zhao Xing carried glowed. The spells he practiced also underwent a subtle transformation.

"The effects are here," Zhao Xing realized, and he immediately returned to his room to check. Simultaneously, a series of records appeared on his panel.

Name: Zhao XingRank: Senior Fifth Grade (Abnormal)Realm: Primordial Soul Realm ConsummationOccupation: Minister of AgricultureDestiny: Derive Six (Abnormal Fluctuation)Gathering Yuan: 69th TierLife Soul: Early Third GradeRemaining Lifespan: 499 years (Abnormal)

"In the 29th year of the Jingxin Calendar, my remaining lifespan was 500 years. It is now the 35th year of the Jingxin Calendar, but due to the promotions and blessings brought by the lynx, the pale cat, and the spirit illusion goat, I gained five years of lifespan. Thus, I still have 499 years left."

"My official rank, destiny, and lifespan are now showing abnormal fluctuations. This is because the Great Zhou's destiny dynasty system has fractured in Pinghai and Liuliang Provinces, and I am located within this region."

In his residence within the Hundred Paths Transfer Office in Tianhe Prefecture, Zhao Xing glanced at his panel.

*Jingxin Calendar Year 35, February 2nd: The Destiny Dynasty of Zhou experienced abnormal turmoil.**Affected by the divine artifact Weishenluo, your destiny fluctuated (Affected regions: Pinghai Province, Liuliang Province).**Affected by the Underworld Fate Palace, your lifespan fluctuated. The lifespan increase granted by the destiny dynasty will experience abnormal fluctuations; other aspects remain unaffected. (Affected regions: Pinghai Province, Liuliang Province)**Affected by the Rebel-Suppression Edict, your official rank became abnormal. If you comply with the edict, you will lose your current position but might gain a higher one.*

"These three influences are part of Prince Liang's confidence in rebelling," Zhao Xing mused. "Rebelling with him might grant stronger destiny, higher official positions, and a longer lifespan."

As for his spells, abnormalities also appeared. However, only three spells were affected: Five Fingers of Heaven's Mandate, Turtle Coin Divination Method, and Divination for Marquis. These three spells were similarly affected. A "Heaven's Mandate's Destination" marker appeared next to their names.

"Here comes the trickery." Zhao Xing looked at the marker and shook his head. "Due to the influence of 'Heaven's Mandate's Destination,' any divination using these three spells at this time will be affected, specifically in Prince Liang's favor."

"Prince Liang was formerly the greatest fate official. If I were to calculate 'Will Prince Liang succeed?' now, nine out of ten times, the feedback would be 'yes.' In reality, this is an effect caused by Prince Liang's fate-altering spells."

In his previous life, Zhao Xing was deceived by this deceitful buff. Not just him, many high-level players were thoroughly fooled. Believing Prince Liang was truly favored by Heaven, they eagerly joined the rebel faction. Consequently, many were wiped out, losing levels, treasures, destiny, and their official ranks were reset to zero. Many immature players, when interpreting this "Heaven's Mandate's Destination" buff, applied it to themselves. They then raised their own flags in rebellion and declared themselves kings, only to die even faster.

"That deceitful Prince Liang," Zhao Xing cursed.

The other spells on the panel remained unchanged. Currently, Zhao Xing possesses four top-tier Heavenly Timing Arts:

1. **Heavenly Timing Transformation Method - Kunpeng Transformation: Three Revolutions.** This is an internal cultivation transformation method. It allows one to transform into a Kunpeng and unleash one of the Kunpeng's innate secret techniques. The Kunpeng has many innate secret techniques. Zhao Xing, having just entered the art (Revolutions 1-3), comprehended Kun Swallows Heaven and Earth. * **Kun Swallows Heaven and Earth:** Possesses powerful devouring abilities. It can open a colossal mouth to absorb vast amounts of heaven and earth qi, clouds, mist, and even water currents and spiritual energy, transforming them into its own power. * If he breaks through to the Minor Accomplishment realm (Four Revolutions), he can also cultivate innate secret techniques in the Roc form.

2. **Heavenly Timing Thunder Art: Three Revolutions**, mastering the secret technique Heavenly Thunder Finger.

3. **Heavenly Timing Cloud Art: Three Revolutions, Cloud Gate.** Cloud Arts are divine crowd-control techniques, and top-tier ones are no exception. Furthermore, the top-tier Cloud Art "Cloud Gate" can significantly enhance other methods, especially rain arts. Cloud Gate is part of an ultimate art. Its ultimate goal is to replace the Heavenly Dao, and even at the top-tier stage, it has begun to evolve the Five Element transformations.

4. The fourth top-tier Heavenly Timing Art is still a Cloud Art, namely Li Boqian's unique skill, "Crying Ruler of the Horizon."

There are also four top-tier Ground Arts:

1. Vast Sea Earth Palace: Three Revolutions2. Profound Water Earth Palace: Three Revolutions3. Earth Spirit Divine Treasure Art: Three Revolutions, mastering the secret technique "Earth Spirit Barrier," a large-scale defensive barrier.4. Kunyuan Art: Three Revolutions, mastering Kunyuan Recreation, primarily for soil restoration.

"In total, there are eight top-tier arts—Heavenly Timing and Ground Arts—all at the Three Revolutions realm for my main body. Among them, apart from Kunpeng Transformation, the other seven can be cast by my avatars at the One Revolution level." Zhao Xing looked at these eight secret arts, which were the fruits of his five years of cultivation.

As for the Id School spells, they remained unaffected. The high-level Jungle Leap art has reached high-level consummation, allowing for evasion using forest environments, adaptable to various combat situations. As for Every Bush an Enemy, there simply hasn't been time to practice it, so it remains at the Seven Revolutions realm. However, Every Bush an Enemy relies heavily on the capabilities of plant soldiers, and currently, I don't possess any Sixth-tier plant soldiers within my body, only some medicinal herbs and avatar materials stored as reserves. Currently, the Id School's combat power is not fully formed. It's sufficient for minor engagements, but high-level battles will require more time.

Fate-type spells include Great Divination Qi-Gazing Art, Five Fingers of Heaven's Mandate, Divination for Marquis, and Turtle Coin Divination Method. Three of these are in an abnormal state, but Great Divination Qi-Gazing Art is unaffected. This is because Great Divination Qi-Gazing Art can only observe, not divine.

Life Soul-type spells were also unaffected. Among them, Heavenly Eye Art and Sleep Bug Art increase in power with the strength of the Life Soul. My Life Soul has reached a high-grade level, so these two spells have also reached the power of top-tier arts. Dream Storage Art creates memory palaces, and Dream Travel Art allows for killing within dreams. However, like Id School arts, Dream Travel Art hasn't had time for cultivation, so it can only handle minor opponents and isn't suitable for high-grade combat. For dealing with high-grade opponents in terms of soul, the Divine Soul Art secret method, "Soul-Extinguishing Bell," and the Eighth-tier Soul Armor are still necessary.

**Myriad Arts Dao Body:** A pure Yuan body condensed from the Dao of Five Elements, Wind, and Thunder. With the bonus from the Fourth-level pure Yuan soil, its total Yuan Qi is a hundred times that of a regular Fourth-Grade Consummation cultivator. Even an average Third-Grade cultivator probably couldn't last as long as I can.

**Treasures:*** Heavenly Mechanism Robe (Seventh-tier, top-grade, abnormal)* Averting Misfortune Almanac (Seventh-tier, high-grade, abnormal)* Mo Shou Jade Pendant (Seventh-tier, top-grade, can form a mobile small barrier upon activation (defends against all means except soul-based attacks))* Soul-Suppressing Bell (Seventh-tier, low-grade, soul illusion defense, warns against qi deviation)* Soul Armor (Eighth-tier, top-grade)* Primal Yin Sacred Scripture (Ninth-tier, low-grade, total sixteen pages)* Solar Term Order (Great Li): Beginning of Spring, Beginning of Summer, Beginning of Autumn, Beginning of Winter. Can enhance the realm of the secret scripture "Solar Term Order."

"The treasures King Tianyan gave me, the Heavenly Mechanism Robe and the Averting Misfortune Almanac, showed abnormalities. Perhaps King Tianyan didn't anticipate today's situation at the time. Fortunately, the Mo Shou Jade Pendant and the Soul-Suppressing Bell remained unaffected."

"As for the 'Solar Term Order,' because the four Great Li Dynasty Solar Term Orders—Beginning of Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter—have all reached Consummation realm. The others are at Six Revolutions."

There were also some single-use consumables purchased from the Military Realm, which did not appear on the panel. Zhao Xing checked thoroughly and found that he hadn't been significantly affected.

"It seems only fate-type spells and items have been affected, which is consistent with what I knew in my previous life. However, this influence is pretty much the same for both allies and enemies. If I can't use them, neither can the enemy, so we're still on an even playing field."

Prince Liang wanted to complete a blockade, not just of territory but also of people's hearts. The "Heaven's Mandate's Destination" effect was intended to sway officials to his side. "I remember Prince Liang also possesses a divine artifact called the Heavenly Fortune Hidden Dragon List, which records geniuses and those with abundant destiny from the nineteen provinces."

"This is the Profound Heaven Sect's foundational treasure, capable of helping Prince Liang win over or assassinate talented individuals." Zhao Xing looked up at the sky. "In my previous life as a player, I could see this list on my panel. I wonder how it will be presented in this life."

Just as Zhao Xing was familiarizing himself with these changes, a chilling wind suddenly blew into the Hundred Paths Transfer Office residence. A shadowy figure appeared inside. Faint golden light emanated from it, and a golden dragon coiled above its head. However, below its waist, a black dragon was entwined.

"Yin God Dai Zong's soul clone." Zhao Xing frowned at the sudden appearance of the shadow. "Destiny has also fractured within the Yin God's body, but it seems the black dragon is currently gaining the upper hand."

The Underworld Fate Palace, which controls a portion of the Yin God's authority, has now begun to influence the Yin Gods below. Zhao Xing could feel Dai Zong's helplessness, as half of his face was expressionless, and the other half showed struggle.

"Zhao Xing, receive the edict!" Dai Zong spoke coldly.

Zhao Xing stared coldly back at him. Ignoring Zhao Xing's reaction, Dai Zong took out a Black Dragon Edict and began to read it.

"Marquis Yuan Zhao Xing, your peerage is elevated by two ranks to Marquis Xinyang (a Five Virtues title: sternness, bravery, martial prowess, wisdom, trustworthiness), commanding the Tianhe Xinyang Army. Your official rank is promoted by three levels, your lifespan increased by fifty years, you are appointed as the Nine Paths Transfer Envoy of Tianhe Prefecture, and additionally granted the title of Grand Master of Ceremonies. Effective immediately!"

"Zhao Xing, why do you not kneel and receive the edict?" Dai Zong demanded.

Zhao Xing listened to the nonsensical edict and sneered, "Whose edict are you delivering?"

"It is Prince Liang's edict," Dai Zong replied. (Edicts issued by the Emperor are called Imperial Decrees, by the Empress Dowager are called Empress Dowager's Edicts. Edicts from princes, imperial consorts, and princesses are collectively referred to as Edicts.)

"Absurd!" Zhao Xing flicked his sleeve and righteously declared, "I am not his vassal, so how can I accept an edict from him, a mere prince? Dai Zong, are you going to rebel with him?!"

With each word, Zhao Xing took a step forward, his voice like thunder, continuously booming around Dai Zong's soul clone. The black dragon destiny on Dai Zong's body immediately fell into a disadvantage during its struggle with the golden dragon destiny.

Dai Zong instantly sobered up. He said with some fear, "Marquis Yuan, this deity is also helpless—this edict was specifically sent for you. You absolutely must not accept it! You must quickly leave Tianhe Prefecture, no, quickly leave Ping—"

Before Dai Zong could finish speaking, the aura emanating from the black dragon once again washed over his body. "Zhao Xing, are you defying the edict?!" Dai Zong stared coldly at Zhao Xing.

A bell sound echoed from within Zhao Xing's body. The Soul-Extinguishing Bell immediately activated, once again helping Dai Zong suppress the black qi.

"Dai Zong, your divine soul is unclear right now. I can only destroy this soul clone of yours." Zhao Xing looked at the clear-headed Dai Zong. "Don't blame me."

Dai Zong stiffly clasped his hands and bowed, "Thank, thank you, Marquis Yuan."

Zhao Xing activated the Soul-Extinguishing Bell again. An invisible soul force diffused around him, and Dai Zong's soul clone instantly turned into dust.

The golden flying dragon soared into the sky, returning to the heavens. But the black dragon, carrying the edict in its mouth, lunged fiercely at Zhao Xing. When persuasion failed, force was used. This was an attempt to forcefully grant Zhao Xing a title and make him Prince Liang's vassal. Once successful, he would be on Prince Liang's war chariot, and it would be difficult to disembark later. Even if he got off, there would be a blemish on his record. He could forget about becoming a Grand Minister of Agriculture; even a Third-Grade official position would be uncertain.

Immediately, the Soul-Suppressing Bell on Zhao Xing's body chimed. The edict held by the black dragon was as if stuck in quicksand, unable to approach Zhao Xing.

"Hmph, a mere soul clone's power dares to grant me a title? Break!" Without Dai Zong's reliance, the Black Dragon Edict was merely a common soul attack. Its purpose was just to tempt Zhao Xing to accept the rewards and obey Prince Liang. Zhao Xing casually waved his hand and easily broke it.

The edict, having lost its power, fell to the ground, its luster gone. The black dragon immediately soared towards the sky, returning to its massive black dragon body.

"Without destiny-type spells, I cannot cut this small destiny black dragon." This is where Prince Liang's blockade of fate-type spells benefits him. Apart from those in the Second-Grade Heavenly Fortune realm, no one can sever the decreed destiny black dragons he dispatches. Of course, one could absorb it. But that's exactly what Prince Liang wanted. "If you absorb it, it means you've accepted the reward and become my vassal, joining my faction." Zhao Xing watched the destiny black dragon fly away and thought, "I wonder how many people couldn't resist the temptation and deception, and were pulled into the rebel faction by Prince Liang's preemptive move."

Official rank promoted by three levels, peerage by two ranks, plus an honorary title. And a fifty-year increase in lifespan! How great a temptation was this? Under normal promotions, one might not even ascend from Fifth Grade to Fourth Grade after a hundred years. Like Sun Shizhao, who partnered with him on Twin Islands, he is still Senior Fifth Grade, toiling to gain seniority. Of course, Zhao Xing's treatment was better. For a Fifth-Grade official like Sun Shizhao, peerage would be out of the question, and his lifespan wouldn't increase by so much.

However, strength dictates treatment. Zhao Xing disdained this small benefit, but for other officials, it was an immense attraction!

"Since returning from the Myriad Beasts Arena, I have never displayed my full strength. At the two Grand Academies, I merely wrote a treatise on transformation. Entering the Star Palace to cultivate the Divine Soul Art was also done in secret. Thus, my apparent strength is merely that of a Senior Fifth-Grade official, skilled in high-level Myriad Arts avatars—a genius, but not at the level of a peerless genius. To grant me a three-level rank promotion, elevation to Second-Class Martial Marquis, and real authority—Prince Liang already thinks highly of me. However, he doesn't know that I've already mastered numerous top-tier arts and cultivated the first layer of the Divine Soul Art. In this life, why would I get on his dilapidated chariot?"

Dai Zong's divine rank was not high, and his soul clone only possessed the strength of a Sixth-Grade Yin Soul. A Sixth-Grade Yin Soul could only use simple soul-based spells and low-to-mid level spell-martial arts. However, if it were a high-grade Yin God, invoking a deity for possession would be different. Dai Zong's main body was merely a Third-Grade Yin God. He had always been a messenger, so it wasn't difficult for Zhao Xing to destroy his soul clone.

"The weak are forcibly granted titles, while the strong are intimidated and tempted."

"The rebellion will likely begin soon. The Tianhe Prefecture Xinyang Army? Marquis Xinyang is probably dead." Prince Liang appointed him as a Second-Class Martial Marquis. A Martial Marquis must wield real power and serve until death. If he retired, the associated real power position would be gone, though he would still enjoy the stipend and land of a Second-Class Marquis. Now, Prince Liang appointing him "Marquis Xinyang" to command Tianhe Prefecture's Xinyang Army meant that this position had become vacant. Thus, the original Marquis Xinyang either died or was honorably retired.

"The process of honorable retirement is quite troublesome; it involves carefully stripping away destiny's protection without harming the individual, ensuring they have enough lifespan to enjoy their twilight years. Prince Liang would not have such patience. If they don't obey, they surely die."

"There are a total of eleven standing armies stationed in Tianhe Prefecture. I wonder how many have rebelled, how many have died, and how many are resisting." Prince Liang is originally the Provincial Governor of Pinghai, a First-Rank Prince, the Barbarian-Suppressing Commander, and he controls multiple divine artifacts. He must control military power. "However, at this time, the local armies are only sending minor soldiers and generals to seize power. His main energy is still focused on those seven strong armies." When Emperor Jing initiated the mid-to-high grade war, he handed over the seven powerful armies of the Seven Great Cave Heavens—Tongyou, Jiuxiao, Huangquan, Xuanming, Tiancang, Taixu, and Wuyao—to Prince Liang to command. However, these seven strong armies would absolutely not easily follow Prince Liang in rebellion, even if Prince Liang is currently using the pretext of "clearing the emperor's side and executing Liu Si." Despite sufficient groundwork, many clear-headed individuals would still not join him.

Zhao Xing soon stopped thinking about matters related to the Nine Heavens Responsive Yuan Prefecture because his Earth Mirror was buzzing madly.

*Zhao Xing, quickly come to the Tianhe Prefecture Transfer Office to receive orders! —Zhang Ping**Zhao Xing, immediately proceed to 'Lishui Path' within the Hundred Water Paths to maintain stability. —Zhou Huai**All Ministers of Agriculture of Fifth Grade and above, both within the prefectural city and its surrounding four counties, are ordered to immediately proceed to the prefectural city and act with the Patrol and Inspection Office to guard the prefectural city. —He Zhengchen**Agricultural Affairs Bureau Emergency Order*

Over a dozen orders appeared in the Earth Mirror, all from superior departments and officials in Tianhe Prefecture. Some orders contradicted each other. For instance, within the prefectural city's Transfer Office, his direct superior, Zhang Ping, ordered him to report there. Yet the Deputy Director immediately told him to guard Lishui Path. He also received a mass mobilization order from Ye Zijian, the Grand Minister of Agriculture of the Tianhe Prefecture Agricultural Affairs Bureau, as well as an order from Prefect He Zhengchen. There were even mobilization orders from the three garrison armies of the prefectural city, because the Transfer Office is a dual military and administrative agency! In other words, these were all superior departments! Only in his capacity as an Inspector directly under Liu Tianning, did the Tianhe Prefecture's Inspection Platform, Offices, and Paths not send any orders.

"Every order seems reasonable, but at this time, the commands are chaotic. I don't know if they're from friend or foe. However, the Earth Mirror is somewhat usable now," Zhao Xing thought. "First, I'll inquire about the situation with Long Xiao and the Princess's Residence."

"What? Bai Zhengyang is still dead?" Zhao Xing was startled.

"I warned Seventh Uncle," Long Xiao sighed. "But he didn't believe the Hong clan would rebel and come to kill him, even laughing at my timidity."

"Don't blame yourself," Zhao Xing said calmly. "Everyone has their own destiny. Since he didn't believe it, then that was his fate. He was a general; you're just a commander of the Vanguard Dragon Guard. You couldn't order him. In the face of great turmoil, all you and I can do is protect those around us."

Master Zhao felt nothing about Bai Zhengyang's death. He was warned but didn't believe. Who could he blame for his death? Was Long Xiao supposed to kneel and beg him not to go to his death? Ever since Zhao Xing took on Old Chen's fate during the Ten Suns Cave Heaven incident, he knew that changing destiny came at too great a cost. For someone like Bai Zhengyang, one could only respect their destiny.

"What about your father-in-law?" Zhao Xing asked. "Bai Mingchuan is safe, isn't he?"

"He's fine," Long Xiao replied. "However, Hong Yuanba and Hong Yuanshou, those two brothers, have already answered Prince Liang's call, leading a million-strong aquatic army and marching towards Chongming Prefecture."

"Has the Bai family's army been mobilized?" Zhao Xing asked.

"Chaos has erupted within the Azure Dragon Army. Ling'er's grandfather is currently suppressing internal rebellion, and only a 200,000-strong army has been dispatched to monitor the Hong brothers' forces. It will take at least two more days for troop mobilization to be complete before they can pursue."

Zhao Xing nodded. This was the difference between initiating and reacting. The Hong clan members already had a weak sense of belonging to the imperial court and had long been prepared. Obeying Prince Liang's order made them stronger. With ample preparations and such benefits, they naturally moved quickly. In contrast, the Bai family's movements were much slower.

"How are the Ao and Tang aquatic chieftains?" Zhao Xing asked.

"I don't know," Long Xiao scratched his head. "You know, my political sense isn't keen, and I don't know what those two families are thinking."

"Just tell me if they've taken military action, and who that action is directed at," Zhao Xing asked.

"Yes, both King Tang Yinglong and King Ao Tian immediately dispatched armies to pursue the Hong brothers' forces. The numbers are smaller, totaling only 150,000 troops combined."

"It can't be helped," Zhao Xing said. "Hong Yuanba is the Commander of the Eastern Sea. During his tenure, it's naturally easier for him to deploy troops."

"How are you and Old Chen now, and what should I do?" Long Xiao asked.

"Old Chen is fine; he's staying in the Princess's Residence," Zhao Xing said. "I'm in Tianhe Prefecture. The chaos isn't obvious yet, but it will likely erupt soon. Just follow the original plan: first, pursue and suppress the Hong brothers' army, and at the same time, secure your Bai family's coastal defense area."

"But you must not go ashore. Pursue them only to the coastline. I don't think the Hong brothers will land so quickly."

"Alright." Long Xiao clenched his fist. "I heard Prince Liang's Crown Prince is also in the Eastern Sea Army. I will definitely kill him this time!"

"Don't force it," Zhao Xing cautioned. "There will be plenty of opportunities for revenge." Zhao Xing estimated that the Earth Mirror's effectiveness would decline afterward, so he added, "Remember this: even if your Bai family does nothing, as long as you prevent the armies under your command from rebelling and defend against those foreign aquatic forces, you will receive no merit but also no punishment."

"As for the Hong brothers, although the four aquatic chieftains have a duty to monitor each other, this is merely a minor offense. Before the imperial court orders you to suppress the rebellion, sending this small number of people is sufficient. Remember, remember, do not go ashore without an imperial edict."

"Okay, I remember," Long Xiao repeated. "Without an imperial edict, I will absolutely not pursue them ashore."

"Take care."

"You too."

After completing his communication with Long Xiao, Zhao Xing heard several voices emerge above the prefectural city.

"In the use of ritual, harmony is to be valued!""Heaven's mandate is only for martial prowess. Stop war with war. It is acceptable to kill!""Yu Tianhai, Wang Chengsi, are you rebelling?""Obeying the king's command, following the Heavenly Dao, how is this rebellion? He Zhengchen, you were appointed by Prime Minister Liu Si, a national traitor! Why do you not quickly resign and return your fortune to the court?""You are rebels, rebels!!"

The voices above the sky were like thunder, influencing Zhao Xing's mind. For a moment, he wanted to rampage and kill everywhere; for another, he wanted to stay quietly at home without moving. The Ritual Cultivators have already started fighting. He Zhengchen is the Prefect, and the other two are Deputy Prefects. This is an open break. Zhao Xing's Seven-Star Life Soul subtly vibrated, repelling the Ritual Cultivators' spells.

The next moment, more changes appeared.

"Land with a master, do not enter without invitation!""In my name, with my loyal heart, I summon the Earth Emperor's Scroll!""People of Tianhe, quickly return home!"

A golden, shimmering yellow scroll suddenly appeared in the sky, floating above the prefectural city. Simultaneously, all markets and residential houses lit up with a ray of light. People began to head home one after another.

"Wang Zijun, are you out of your mind? Stop!""Earth Official Minister Wang, you are truly ruthless, willing to die to protect these ignorant people?""Hmph, you stubborn fools, it serves you right to die!""It's just buying two days' time! Daring to resist the king's command, this is the consequence!"

Zhao Xing listened to these voices. With his Heavenly Eye Art, he could now hear and see, witnessing all of the Ritual Cultivators' magical duels. Thunder began to rumble in the sky, and the clouds started to change violently. The clear sky, stretching for thousands of miles, suddenly became overcast with dark clouds. Nine great suns rose. Gale-force winds continuously impacted the prefectural city's defensive formation.

"Solar Term Orders, Cloud Arts—the Agricultural Affairs Bureau has also begun to act."

Zhao Xing did not immediately make a move because his Earth Mirror rang again. This time, without Zhao Xing's consent, the Earth Mirror automatically activated, projecting a figure. Seeing this, Zhao Xing immediately saluted: "This humble official greets King Luo."

King Luo was the highest official of the Military Realm Supervision Department; Old Liu was merely King Luo's subordinate. His authority level was supreme, allowing him to directly activate and locate Zhao Xing through the Earth Mirror.

"Zhao Xing, have you accepted Prince Liang's false edict?" King Luo's gaze was stern. He was fully armored at this moment, carrying a divine bow, the Jidu Luoshun Prison Arrow, and clad in the Ninth-tier, top-grade Sunset Heavenly King Armor. As the Governing King of the Military Realm, King Luo's equipment was all exclusive and uniquely crafted.

"No," Zhao Xing said with a firm tone. "Prince Liang is a rebel. How could I become his vassal? I swear by my three souls, if I have the ability, I will certainly kill him!"

King Luo inwardly sighed in relief. He was, of course, concerned about Zhao Xing's situation, fearing he might go astray. Now that he had cultivated the first layer of the Divine Soul Art, swearing by his three souls was absolutely impossible to fake. However, to strengthen Zhao Xing's Dao heart, King Luo added a few more words:

"You must maintain your resolve. This King might as well tell you, His Majesty already has deployments in place. This King, along with three other feudal kings, immediately took control of Jiuxiao, Huangquan, and Tongyou, three of the top ten strong armies!" King Luo said coldly. "There are seven military towns in northern Pinghai Province. The original feudal king commanders of the ten great armies have already led nearly ten thousand high-grade cultivators to the border monuments, awaiting orders. Ji Mingxian won't be able to stir up any trouble!"

"Yes," Zhao Xing clasped his hands.

Not all of the Great Zhou's ten legions, nor all seven previously dispatched to this area, had been deployed. Only 70% were handed over to Prince Liang, and the original commanders of the ten great legions did not follow. Therefore, as long as the original high-ranking military officials could enter Pinghai Province, Prince Liang would be unable to fully utilize these seven strong armies.

"This humble official is currently in Tianhe Prefecture. How should I proceed? If I encounter powerful individuals from inspection, supervision, or various military departments, whom should I trust?" Zhao Xing asked.

King Luo drew the golden sword from his waist and held a jade seal: "Zhao Xing, heed my command!"

"Your servant is here." Seeing this, Zhao Xing immediately knelt, for King Luo held an Imperial Decree Sword and Emperor Jing's personal seal.

"By His Majesty's order, this King temporarily appoints you as the Third-Tier Inspector of the Eastern Five Prefectures of Pinghai Province, overseeing all civil and military officials below Third Grade in the Eastern Five Prefectures of Pinghai Province. Should anyone harbor ill intentions, you may execute them first and report later! Furthermore, I grant you Heaven Rank One authority for your Earth Mirror."

"I obey," Zhao Xing kowtowed.

This time, his faction was clearly determined, because he had passed the first test by not accepting Prince Liang's conferment. Therefore, this inspector position and authority were higher than before.

"I will give you a list. High-grade inspectors, overseers, military commanders, imperial guard generals, civil officials—those on this list will absolutely not rebel. Your Earth Mirror authority has been modified by me, so this list will not be leaked. You don't necessarily have to obey their orders, but should you encounter danger, you will know who your allies are," King Luo said. "As for whether to first fulfill your duties as Transfer Envoy or first execute your military inspection duties, you may handle it at your discretion."

"Yes, this subordinate understands," Zhao Xing nodded.

King Luo came quickly and left just as fast. Immediately after he disappeared, Zhao Xing's Earth Mirror quieted down. Only three messages remained:

*Your Earth Mirror authority has been temporarily upgraded to Heaven Rank One. Higher authority requires replacing the Earth Mirror.**You have been temporarily appointed by King Luo as the Third-Tier Inspector of the Eastern Five Prefectures of Pinghai Province.**You have received a confidential list.*

Simultaneously, Zhao Xing's panel changed again. His official rank was temporarily elevated to Junior Fourth Grade, and the word "abnormal" was no longer beside it. His lifespan no longer fluctuated. The panel records showed that he was influenced by the "Heavenly Emperor Decree Sword" and the "Underworld Fate Palace."

"King Luo bestowed this position upon me through the Earth Mirror. It's only a temporary Junior Fourth Grade position now. He probably doesn't know my full strength, nor did he authorize me to oversee Third-Grade civil and military officials," Zhao Xing mused. "He also doesn't have the authority to confer Third-Grade ranks, not even temporary ones, unless there's another arrangement. Controlling five out of twelve prefectures in the east is already significant enough."

"I must act quickly and not let Tianhe Prefecture descend into chaos. Otherwise, forget controlling five prefectures, I won't even be able to hold onto my current base." Zhao Xing immediately slung his box over his back and flew out of the residence.

"Four hours have passed, and Marquis Xinyang has even been killed. My preparations, both in personal martial strength and official procedures, are now completely in order. Next, it's time to slaughter everyone. Anyone who has accepted the black dragon's destiny or obeyed Prince Liang's conferment is a rebel, no questions asked, just kill them! Before Prince Liang rebelled, I was submissive. After he rebelled, I will strike with full force!"

As for how to distinguish them? A glance with Great Divination Qi-Gazing Art will tell.

Within Tianhe Prefectural City, the streets were deserted, and every household's doors and windows were tightly shut. Noon should have been a bustling time, but now it was silent, all markets had closed. The city was so quiet there wasn't even a breeze, but above the city, gale-force winds raged, and dark clouds gathered, spreading towards the surrounding four counties.

"Some are stabilizing the celestial phenomena, others are disrupting them. Two mountain peaks outside the prefectural city are shifting. Has someone actually left the city to use a Volcano Art? The Grand Ancestor's grand vow of establishing the Dao, 'Do not enter without invitation,' has taken effect. The prefectural-level yellow scroll has now strengthened this rule. Earth Official Minister Wang of the prefectural city sacrificed his remaining lifespan. But it won't last long. The direction of the temple is also surrounded by chilling winds; both sides are clashing."

Zhao Xing could feel several terrifying Yin Gods clashing within the prefectural city's temple. The surrounding Five Element energies were affected by this power, all transforming into Yin Five Elements! At this point, even a Fourth-Grade cultivator entering that area would have their soul weakened by the chaotic chilling winds. Zhao Xing activated his Heavenly Eye Art for a glance and discovered an opening had torn there. He also saw a white-haired figure, who slipped into this black rift.

"A priest's primordial soul has left their body and entered the Underworld. Are they planning to enter the Underworld to report to the Yin Gods and call for reinforcements? I wonder if they can come out alive." Zhao Xing shook his head. The Underworld was probably also in chaos at this moment, with major and minor Yin Gods unsure whom to obey.

Zhao Xing instantly appeared outside the prefectural city's Transfer Office. At this moment, a group of soldiers had surrounded the place, with at least seven factions in a standoff. There were seventy to eighty bodies on the ground, mostly dressed in Daoist robes or strange attire.

"Outsider demonic Daoists lurking in the prefectural city." Zhao Xing immediately knew that the dead were extreme fanatics, no different from fools. At this moment, true chaos hadn't erupted yet. Regardless of whether they were from Prince Liang's faction or the imperial court faction, they would first kill outsider demonic Daoists. This was because officials who obeyed Prince Liang's orders hadn't fallen so quickly yet; they would still consider themselves people of the Great Zhou and view outsider demonic Daoists as enemies. Now, outsider demonic individuals appearing in the prefectural city was pure suicide. At most, they could only cause minor chaos in county towns. Only when Pinghai Province's internal situation had deteriorated to a certain extent could they be effective. Appearing now, they were actually holding Prince Liang back. It's possible the fighting would stop, and they'd deal with the outsider demonic Daoists first.

"Stop, who goes there!" A Fourth-Grade martial artist, holding a tiger-head broadsword, saw Zhao Xing appear and immediately shouted.

"Zhao Xing, Transfer Envoy of Hundred Paths, here to report as per Master Zhang's order," Zhao Xing said.

"Master Zhou Huai ordered you to Lishui, yet you came to the prefectural office! You're a rebel! Seize him!" The Fourth-Grade martial artist immediately made his move.

"Zeng Wu, how dare you!" Another Fourth-Grade martial artist, holding a white-feathered spear, immediately transformed into a streak of light and blocked the attack.

One wanted to capture Zhao Xing, the other to protect him. The other two groups of martial artist formations didn't know what to do at all, merely guarding the entrance to the Transfer Office's Yamen, because they couldn't determine others' positions; they lacked Qi-Gazing Arts and couldn't figure out who had received Prince Liang's conferment, and the orders from above were very chaotic. They had all come under the pretext of protecting the Transfer Office, as outsider demonic individuals had appeared there.

Meanwhile, inside the Transfer Office, the various mid-grade officials were gathered. Before them, three bolts of lightning were intertwined. The chief official Zhang Ping, and deputy officials Zhou Huai and Lei Guangming—three Ministers of Agriculture—were in a duel! In a place they couldn't see, the three's primordial souls had left their bodies, engaging in a decisive battle on a