Chapter 286: Disaster Prevention Herbal Medicine and the Original Self’s Theory of Heavenly Things, The Shocked Pang Yuanzhen

The simultaneous arrival of Sima Yunhai and Pang Yuanzhen indeed made the situation challenging. Nevertheless, a solution had to be found. Zhao Xing promptly emerged to greet them.

"Teacher Sima," Zhao Xing began, cupping his hands towards Sima Yunhai. He then bowed to Pang Yuanzhen, saying, "Dr. Pang."

His choice of address was deliberate. Sima Yunhai had taught him Cloud Arts at the Tianyuan Prefecture Branch, so calling him "teacher" was appropriate. As long as Zhao Xing hadn't formally apprenticed or invited guests to witness such a ceremony, it didn't imply a deeper commitment. A formal apprenticeship involving three bows, nine kowtows, and invited witnesses would signify a deep bond within the exclusive circle of the Daoist Academy's elders. Although Pang Yuanzhen claimed Liu Tianning as his master, Liu Tianning had never acknowledged him. Zhao Xing would not accept being called "junior brother." Even if Master Liu truly took him as a disciple, Zhao Xing should be called "senior brother," not "junior brother." Addressing him as "Dr. Pang" was perfectly appropriate and would avoid further irritating Sima Yunhai.

Upon seeing him, Pang Yuanzhen's eyes lit up, and he immediately ceased his argument with Sima Yunhai. He brushed off his robes, seemingly intent on making a good impression on Zhao Xing.

Hearing the address "Teacher," Sima Yunhai's expression grew complex. He had originally intended to retaliate against Liu Tianning, viewing Zhao Xing merely as a pawn in his scheme. However, as he diligently taught Zhao Xing Cloud Arts at Xuantian Academy, he unknowingly developed an attachment. Even later, when he realized Zhao Xing had no intention of becoming his disciple, thwarting his plans, he couldn't bring himself to dislike the young man. This was because Zhao Xing was truly the most intelligent and gifted student he had ever encountered. What fault could he possibly have? While he disliked Liu Tianning and detested Pang Yuanzhen, he found himself unable to dislike Zhao Xing. In fact, he felt a degree of admiration. Zhao Xing was a genius capable of authoring "The Grand Cycle Theory of Three Yin, Three Yang, and Six Qi," a work that significantly contributed to the theoretical framework of the Celestial Time School.

However, a single remark from Pang Yuanzhen reignited Sima Yunhai's fury: "Junior Brother Zhao is indeed exceptionally gifted and possesses an extraordinary demeanor. I wonder if you have some time to chat? I would be delighted to sit and discuss the Dao with you, Junior Brother."

Zhao Xing subtly frowned, interjecting before Sima Yunhai could erupt. "Dr. Pang," he stated, "please do not address me as 'junior brother.' I am here in Bright Moon Prefecture on official duty, and I will not entertain any private matters. If you, Dr. Pang, are also here for administrative purposes, you should present your views at the Bright Moon Prefect's military and political council to ensure efficient communication."

Observing Zhao Xing's unapproachable demeanor, Pang Yuanzhen showed no annoyance. He simply smiled, cupped his hands, and said, "Marquis Yuan is correct. Let us discuss the Dao another day. I shall take my leave for now." Without even a glance at Sima Yunhai, he swiftly flew away.

"Teacher Sima, I was unaware of your arrival. Please come inside the manor; allow me to prepare a modest banquet to welcome you."

Sima Yunhai's anger had significantly lessened. He also wanted to inquire about Zhao Xing's Grand Cycle Theory, but with Ye Yukong still present, he couldn't so quickly change his demeanor and accept Zhao Xing's invitation. Sima Yunhai flicked his sleeves and huffed, "My anger has already sated me; what's there to eat?" He then shot Ye Yukong a meaningful glance, remarking, "Since you are here on official duty, attend to your tasks diligently. Do not make a mess of things and become an annoyance!"

Ye Yukong was speechless. He couldn't shake the feeling that Sima Yunhai was scolding him. *But what did I do wrong?* Ye Yukong was utterly bewildered at this moment.

"Prefect Ye," a voice interrupted, "I have a request."

The voice pulled Ye Yukong back to reality. "Oh, do tell," he said, looking at Zhao Xing with growing curiosity. What unique ability did Zhao Xing possess to make two third-rank Agricultural Supervisors cease their quarrel?

"Prefect, when holding your discussions, please do not have these two individuals together."

Ye Yukong nodded. He now understood that gathering these two would not only fail to be synergistic but would likely cause problems. Yet, he remained conflicted: "For disaster prevention, relief, and regional governance, there must be someone in charge. Who should lead?"

Zhao Xing felt a little speechless. The situation was so obvious; could he not see who should be put in charge? To save time, he had no choice but to volunteer: "If the Prefect doesn't object, your humble subordinate is willing to mediate." Having Zhang Ping lead Sima Yunhai and Pang Yuanzhen was out of the question. Even within the third rank, there were disparities, and Zhang Ping was inferior to both of them in terms of both law and theory.

"It appears this is the only way," Ye Yukong sighed.

Zhao Xing was quite exasperated. "What do you mean, 'this is the only way'?" Zhao Xing thought. "Even if I'm a subordinate official, shouldn't you at least offer a few words of encouragement?" He suspected Ye Yukong had swords instead of a brain beneath his scalp.

"Prefect, please issue a gag order. Prevent anyone from discussing the affairs of these two esteemed individuals, lest it create further complications."

"Very well, I understand," Ye Yukong nodded. Though he wasn't clear on the specifics, he knew that a gag order would resolve it. He couldn't be bothered to delve into such messy affairs. He simply wished to complete his mission swiftly and await the imperial court's appointment of a successor to the prefectural post. Court administration was entirely unsuited for him; he preferred engaging in battles.

Once everyone had left, Zhao Xing finally breathed a sigh of relief. However, he soon felt a pang of frustration. If Ye Yukong had invited only Sima Yunhai or Pang Yuanzhen, the upcoming tasks would have been straightforward, regardless of who it was. Yet, he had invited both!

"Sometimes, having more people doesn't necessarily make things easier," Zhao Xing mused as he returned to the hall.

At that moment, True Lord Tianyang reanimated. He sat on the platform, legs crossed, idly tossing a fruit back and forth. "Heh heh, grand-disciple, now you understand. Being a Grand Agricultural Supervisor isn't so simple. What you're facing now is merely a conflict between two individuals. A Grand Agricultural Supervisor, however, must oversee three factions, nineteen prefectures, and numerous blessed lands. Imagine the countless conflicts that arise among so many people! Reconciling them is by no means an easy task. Do you need your grand-master to offer some pointers? The prefect appointed by the imperial court won't arrive for at least three to five months. If you rely on Ye Yukong, this interim prefect, to mediate, your three factions in Bright Moon Prefecture won't be able to commence work for that entire period."

Zhao Xing, however, shook his head. "No need to trouble you, Grand-master," he said. "Your grand-disciple is confident."

"Good, that's the spirit!" True Lord Tianyang caught the falling fruit, uncrossed his legs, and chuckled. "If you can command these two and resolve the issues in Bright Moon Prefecture, your grand-master will give you a gift."

Zhao Xing smiled slightly. "Then please, Grand-master," he said, "just wait and see!"

The following morning, Ye Yukong convened a military and political meeting to discuss tasks related to disaster prevention and relief. Following Zhao Xing's advice, he prepared two separate meeting halls. Sima Yunhai led his core officials in one, while Pang Yuanzhen led his officials in the other. Zhao Xing's main body was present in Sima Yunhai's hall, while his clone attended the meeting in Pang Yuanzhen's hall. Ye Yukong had initially intended to attend both sessions and speak with both men, but he was persuaded against it. He was indeed a responsible person, yet the harder he tried, the more apprehension he instilled in his subordinates. Inviting experts without conducting prior background checks... perhaps it was best if he simply remained silent. Thus, Ye Yukong attended in a peculiar manner: a "ground mirror" was placed on the main seat in both halls, displaying his image. He merely had to nod to convey his assent.

From its very inception, the military and political meeting was fraught with disagreement.

"Disasters must be managed according to the methods of my Celestial Time School," Sima Yunhai declared. "