Chapter 649: Taibai Little Classroom

Yingxian Dian, as its name suggests, is the hall in the Heavenly Court for welcoming guests. It is located inside Zhongtian Gate.

This hall is primarily used to receive distinguished San Xian from the primordial era who come to seek refuge in the Heavenly Court. Occasionally, it also serves as a place for Heavenly Court deities to formally meet with San Xiu.

The definition of San Xiu varies. In the primordial era, they refer to independent cultivators who practice Qi without the constraints of any sect. In the Heavenly Court, anyone not registered as an immortal is considered a San Xiu.

When Li Changshou needed to use Yingxian Dian, the divine officials in charge became quite nervous. They bustled about, sprinkling water and arranging flowers, ensuring the place looked grand yet tastefully elegant.

Half a Shi Chen later, Huoling Shengmu arrived first and was led to the hall. She glanced around, feeling a bit uneasy.

Huoling Shengmu cultivated the Great Dao of Fire and preferred to wear a red skirt, her figure accentuated by the thin fabric, making her a strikingly beautiful immortal.

The heavenly general politely cupped his hands and said, "Immortal, please wait here. Xingjun Daren will arrive shortly to meet with you."

"Thank you," Huoling Shengmu returned the gesture, without any hesitation, and sat directly in a nearby round chair.

Once the heavenly general went outside to wait, Huoling Shengmu relaxed a little.

This visit to the Heavenly Court gave Huoling Shengmu a sense of inexplicable pressure.

This pressure was especially strong from the moment she stepped through the Tian Gate, instinctively making her think about how to retreat if ambushed.

But her conclusion was that there was no way to retreat.

The dense power of the Heavenly Dao, the openly displayed immortal arrays, and the vast, seemingly endless heavenly might all stirred thoughts of withdrawal in Huoling Shengmu.

Her own strength, when viewed across the three realms of the primordial era, should not be considered weak.

Inside the Tian Gate, patrols of heavenly soldiers were everywhere, moving in perfect order without any chaos. The faces of the soldiers and generals exuded a composed calmness, as if their cultivation realms, mostly at the level of True Immortals, were far beyond that.

They carried an air of authority like tigers and the demeanor of Heavenly Immortals.

How many years had it been?

Huoling Shengmu sighed inwardly, and she thought about the genuine respect and awe in the heavenly general's voice when he mentioned the title "Xingjun."

Suddenly,

"I pay respects to Xingjun Daren!"

"I pay respects to Xingjun Daren!"

"Ah, no need for such formalities. You generals have worked hard; take a rest for now."

From outside the hall came some conversation, and Huoling Shengmu quickly stood up to greet Li Changshou, bowing with a Dao salute.

"Huoling pays respects to Shishu Changgeng!"

"Hmm," Li Changshou smiled and waved his hand. "No need for formalities. Come, let's sit over here and talk."

With that, Li Changshou and Huoling Shengmu sat nearby, without distinguishing between host and guest.

He wore the appearance of an elderly immortal, with a smile at the corners of his mouth, kind eyes, and a hint of inquiry in his gaze, as if to say, "Don't worry."

A harmonious Dao rhythm spread out, with a faint fragrance that soothed the heart.

Huoling Shengmu found her Dao heart easing, and the pressure she had felt in the Heavenly Court quietly faded away.

This...

How long had it been?

How could she no longer see through even Shishu Changgeng's paper Dao person?

Huoling Shengmu had interacted with Li Changshou a few times before. Back then, his usual office was in the rear hall of the Sea God Temple in Anshui City, under a painting by Tongtian Jiaozhu.

At that time, Jin Guang Shengmu had a secret affection for Zhao Gongming and, considering the differences in their status and cultivation within the sect, had hesitated for years to speak up.

Due to the matter with Yunxiao Xianzi, Li Changshou had established an image as an "emotional mentor" in Jie Jiao.

When Jin Guang came for advice, Huoling Shengmu had accompanied her, and Li Changshou had given Huoling Shengmu some clever strategies. In the end, Jin Guang managed to test whether she could become Dao companions with Zhao Gongming.

The result, however, was full of regret.

In the primordial era, emotions were no trivial matter. If two people didn't get along or feel the connection of Dao companions, there was no need to force a life together, so the matter ended there.

Yet, Jin Guang Shengmu's failed romantic experience opened Zhao Gongming's heart, stirring a bit of restlessness in him.

Later, Zhao Gongming developed feelings for Jin Ling Shengmu, and they secretly became Dao companions, though it hadn't been announced publicly yet.

—Jin Ling Shengmu was a core disciple of Jie Jiao, the nominal senior sister, ranked just below Duobao Daoren. She was fierce, spoke little, had a quick temper, and possessed many powerful treasures.

Jin Guang Shengmu was an outer disciple of Jie Jiao, the only female among the Ten Heavenly Lords, ranked around the hundredth position—someone who could attend meetings at Biyou Palace but wasn't required to.

Huoling Shengmu was a disciple of Duobao Daoren and a good friend of Jin Guang, with skills surpassing Jin Guang Shengmu's.

Thus, when Li Changshou chose a topic, he said, "How is Shijie Jin Guang doing lately?"

"She's moved on," Huoling Shengmu pursed her lips. "And as for Gongming Shishu and Jin Ling Shishu... Shijie Jin Guang understands, so she won't dwell on it anymore."

"Personalities not matching is indeed an unsolvable problem."

Li Changshou shook his head with a sigh. Seeing that the atmosphere was set, he directly asked, "Did Shizhi come suddenly because Shixiong Duobao has some important matter to entrust?"

"This isn't exactly..."

Huoling Shengmu felt a bit uneasy and pursed her lips, glancing at the entrance of the hall.

She transmitted her voice: "Shishu, this time, Shizhi came seeking help and to ask for your guidance."

"Oh?" Li Changshou's expression showed a touch of confusion, and he smiled. "Is there some scripture or text you don't understand? I'm afraid I can't offer much advice on that."

"It's not about cultivation matters, um..."

Huoling Shengmu was usually straightforward, but now she hesitated, stammering for a while before clearly stating her purpose.

As Li Changshou had anticipated, it was about matters in Nanzhanbuzhou.

Previously, Huoling Shengmu and Wen Zhong, the leading figures among Jie Jiao's third-generation disciples, had been sent to Nanzhanbuzhou to gather information on the changes in mortal royal power and to establish a foothold there.

This was Jie Jiao's proactive response to the Fengshen calamity.

However, Huoling and Wen Zhong were cultivators accustomed to secluded mountain practice. Even with their sharp minds, they were baffled by the complexities of mortal affairs, such as the three dukes, nine ministers, grand chancellors, and rituals.

Huoling Shengmu said in a low voice,

"At this point, this disciple still doesn't quite understand how the Shang Kingdom employs people or how this great calamity operates.

Shizun has divined that the calamity corresponds to the shift in mortal royal power in Nanzhanbuzhou, meaning a new king rises and the old one falls. But now, the Shang Kingdom is at its peak, with merchants gathering and eight hundred vassal states under its banner!

Who can say for sure which power will replace Shang?

And with the Shang Kingdom so prosperous, where are the signs of decline? What exactly is this royal shift—a dynasty's downfall, an internal power struggle, or a rebellion like that of the four seas' sea clans?

This disciple is truly confused."

"Ha ha ha ha!"

Li Changshou clapped his hands and laughed, while Huoling Shengmu smoothed the hair by her ear, feeling a bit embarrassed, with a slight blush on her face.

"Shishu, please don't tease this disciple..."

"Ahem, it's indeed a bit unfair to ask an ancient cultivator like you, who rarely enters the mortal world, to ponder such things."

Li Changshou smiled and said, "I have some understanding of the Shang Kingdom's system, but it's not something I can explain clearly in a short time.

Let me ask you: Do you want to figure out which vassal state might rise, or how to establish a foothold in the Shang Kingdom?"

Huoling Shengmu smiled and said, "I'd like to understand both. If Shishu could give this disciple some guidance, that would be even better."

"Heavenly secrets cannot be revealed."

Li Changshou said slowly, "If you want information on this, I can discuss it in detail with you.

But before that, you need to clarify the purpose of establishing a foothold in the Shang Kingdom."

"Isn't it similar to how those Zhong Shen Continent immortal sects intervene in Nanzhanbuzhou's mortal affairs?"

Huoling Shengmu said seriously, "This disciple wants to gain some influence in the Shang Kingdom, ideally to influence the human emperor's decisions related to the great calamity in ways that benefit Jie Jiao.

Only by grasping the changes in the situation and understanding the direction of the calamity can we seize that slim chance of survival in the great calamity."

Li Changshou pondered for a moment and smiled.

"Your idea is quite clever.

However, speaking of influencing the current human emperor in the Heavenly Court—if anyone hears this—it could be seen as a grave offense against the Heavenly Court."

"This disciple only wants to help Jie Jiao survive the great calamity, with no intention of manipulating the human emperor!"

Huoling Shengmu quickly added. Li Changshou waved his hand, signaling her not to worry, and then fell silent as he sat there.

He was thinking about how to guide Jie Jiao on this matter and considering the factors driven by the Heavenly Dao.

For him, the proctor, to give answers—Huoling Shengmu was indeed bold in asking.

If he did this, he could also make some arrangements in return.

"Huoling, this matter is quite significant. If I guide you alone, people might say I'm showing favoritism.

Let me make an arrangement.

In three days, I'll descend to the mortal world and give a detailed introduction to two third-generation disciples each from Chan Jiao and Jie Jiao on matters related to the mortal world that can be discussed.

Even in a game of chess, the rules must be set first.

Besides, there should be another major event to announce soon, so I need to confirm it with His Majesty the Jade Emperor."

Huoling Shengmu hesitated slightly and asked softly, "Shishu Changgeng, does this mean you'll include disciples from Chan Jiao as well?"

"Of course," Li Changshou smiled. "Fairness and justice are the Heavenly Court's unwavering pursuits."

Huoling Shengmu wanted to say more but held back, feeling that this trip to the Heavenly Court hadn't gained her any advantages from this Shishu and might have even helped Chan Jiao...

Oh well, at least it would be better than her and Shidi Wen Zhong wandering aimlessly like headless flies.

Starting from the same point as Chan Jiao, what did Jie Jiao have to fear?

Let them compete.

"Huoling thanks Shishu for guiding the way!"

Huoling Shengmu stood up and performed a Dao salute. "Then this disciple will go to the mortal world and wait."

"Very well."

Li Changshou said warmly, "Three days from now, at the hour of Wu Shi, I will appear in the Shang Kingdom's capital. I'll bring a couple of friends and the ancestor of the Shang Kingdom.

But I will only introduce the circumstances of the mortal world, without any hints or pointers."

"Yes, this disciple understands!"

Huoling Shengmu agreed and bid farewell to Li Changshou before leaving.

Li Changshou also reminded her to report this matter to Yuxu Palace, as it concerned the sect's fate and no decision should be made lightly.

Huoling Shengmu responded solemnly, feeling a bit more anticipation in her heart, and hurriedly left Yingxian Dian.

Li Changshou didn't delay and headed straight to Lingxiao Dian to report the matter to His Majesty the Jade Emperor.

The Jade Emperor had no objections.

Allowing Chan Jiao and Jie Jiao to understand the structure of mortal power could help reduce casualties among mortals.

Earlier, the Jade Emperor had gone to Zixiao Palace to pay respects to Daozu and obtained a decree to protect the innocent lives in the great calamity.

That decree from Daozu was now in Tongming Dian, ready to be issued when the time was right.

"Changgeng, do you think the timing is appropriate this time?"

"It wouldn't be wise to make a big fuss; it's essentially giving Chan Jiao and Jie Jiao advance notice," Li Changshou pondered and said, "Issuing the decree just before the killing calamity truly erupts would likely have the best effect."

"Then we'll follow your advice, dear minister Changgeng," His Majesty the Jade Emperor smiled and agreed, then asked in detail about Li Changshou's plans for "descending to give a lecture."

Yuan Shuai Quantuan might be late, but he would never be absent.

Thus, three days later,

Li Changshou's paper Dao person appeared near Nantian Gate, riding a white cloud and carrying several figures as they descended toward the mortal world.

Standing beside him was naturally the Jade Emperor's incarnation, Yuan Shuai Quantuan, with Longji and Youqin Xuanya following behind. The group restrained their auras and slowly descended toward the Shang Kingdom's capital.

Li Changshou deliberately revealed a trace of his aura, and soon received a response. Several streams of light rose from two corners outside the city, transforming into two men and two women.

From Jie Jiao came Huoling and Wen Zhong;

From Chan Jiao came Yang Jian, dressed in casual attire, and a minor female immortal from Yuxu Palace.

The two sides approached from different directions, and upon meeting, they all bowed to Li Changshou and addressed him as Shishu.

Li Changshou smiled in response and formally introduced the "senior expert on primordial order" Yuan Shuai Quantuan beside him, as well as the "ancestor of the Shang Kingdom," Youqin Xuanya.

Quantuan, accustomed to grand scenes, simply nodded with a smile, allowing Li Changshou to jest.

But Youqin Xuanya...

She seemed a bit nervous. After Li Changshou finished introducing her connection to the Shang royal family, she quickly added,

"I entered a Ren Jiao immortal sect for cultivation as a child; the Shang ancestor is just my nephew."

Several pairs of eyes gathered on her, waiting for more.

Youqin Xuanya nodded seriously, stepped back behind Li Changshou, and said no more.

Li Changshou could roughly understand her mindset; what she meant was...

This immortal has never been married before.

"Let's go."

Li Changshou flicked his horsetail whisk. "We'll each transform into mortal appearances and walk around this great city to observe.

I'll explain in detail the structure and offices of mortal dynasties, and you can report everything you hear today to your fellow disciples.

Speaking of the Shang Kingdom's system, we have to start from the rise of the human race in ancient times..."

At the same time, in a secluded tavern in this great city,

"Ah."

In a private room on the top floor, a young swordsman sighed softly, drained his cup of wine, and gazed out the window.

For an immortal to end up in such a state in the mortal world, it was truly pitiful!

Li Jing sighed again, looking at the sword standing by the table and thinking about all his experiences here, feeling a wave of melancholy.

After leaving his immortal sect to wander the world, he first returned to Chentang Pass, where he drove away, sealed, and slew the demon kings on the outskirts, and observed mourning for three years at his parents' graves.

Mindful of Taibai Xingjun's reminder, Li Jing pondered ways to "benefit his hometown through cultivation" and "grow stronger to protect his homeland." He roamed near Chentang Pass, performing acts of chivalry and punishing evildoers.

Originally, he lived quite freely, with his reputation renowned for thousands of Li around Chentang Pass, while he sought the opportunities his sect elders had mentioned before his departure.

Then...

He encountered it.

On a rainy afternoon, Li Jing stood quietly on a treetop in the bamboo grove, hiding his presence and waiting for a band of robbers to appear.

Quite by chance, that female general rode past on horseback at the edge of his vision, exuding a heroic air.

At first, Li Jing didn't pay much attention; he just thought the young woman had a pleasing face.

But afterward, his Dao heart inexplicably began to dwell on her;

By the time Li Jing realized it, he found that his Dao heart had been affected by this.

A deep emotional root had taken hold.

Who was she? A female general guarding the borders, or just someone who liked that attire?

For over half a year, Li Jing had searched the vast sea of people, always seeming to find clues, only for them to mysteriously vanish.

It wasn't until yesterday, when he arrived in the Shang capital—the most prosperous place in the mortal world—that he silently resolved in his heart,

If he couldn't find that beautiful young woman here, he would sever his memories, return to the mountains for a hundred years of cultivation, and then come back to the mortal world.

"Ah, let's search a bit more."

Li Jing looked out the window again, though in reality, he was slowly extending his immortal sense to scan every corner of the great city, not missing any possible figure, desperately seeking his destined one!

"Xingjun Daren?!"

Li Jing jolted awake, the wine clearing from his system in an instant.

A flame of hope ignited in his eyes. He tossed down a few Shang Kingdom coins, transformed into a streak of light, and sped toward the west city gate!

The advice from his Degree Xian Men elders still echoed in his ears. This time, he would show Xingjun Daren the essence he had comprehended from the scriptures left by Xingjun Daren!

"Father!"