When the world trembled and Fortune split, a profound change rippled through the heavens and the earth.
"Buzz~ Buzz~"
The treasures Zhao Xing carried began to emit light, while the techniques he cultivated experienced subtle transformations.
"The impact has begun," Zhao Xing muttered to himself, immediately returning to his room to examine the situation further.
Simultaneously, his panel displayed a series of updates.
[Name: Zhao Xing]
[Official Rank: Fifth-Rank Superior (Anomalous)]
[Realm: Primordial Soul Realm Perfection]
[Occupation: Shennong]
[Fortune: Derivation Six (Anomalous Fluctuation)]
[Essence Gathering: Stage 69]
[Life Soul: Third-Rank Early Stage]
[Remaining Lifespan: 499 Years (Anomalous)]
"Back in the Jingxin Era, Year 29, my remaining lifespan was 500 years. Considering the blessings brought by the promotions of the Mountain Cat, Blue Lion Hound, and Spirit Illusion Goat, I gained an additional five years. That explains why my lifespan is now 499 years," Zhao Xing noted calmly.
"However, the current anomalies in rank, Fortune, and lifespan must be due to the disruption within the Great Zhou's Fortune Dynasty system in Pinghai Prefecture and Luliang Prefecture—regions where I am currently situated."
Inside the official residence of the Hundred Transference Supervisor in Tianhe Prefecture, Zhao Xing's gaze fell on his status panel once more.
[Jingxin Era, Year 35, February 2nd: Anomalous turbulence detected in the Fortune Dynasty of 'Zhou.']
[Impact of the artifact 'False God Net': Your Fortune has fluctuated abnormally. (Scope: Pinghai Prefecture, Luliang Prefecture)]
[Effect of the Underworld Palace of Fate: Your lifespan granted by the Fortune Dynasty has fluctuated anomalously. Other aspects remain unaffected. (Scope: Pinghai Prefecture, Luliang Prefecture)]
[Impact of the 'Rebellion Proclamation': Your official rank is now unstable. Adhering to the Rebellion Proclamation may lead to the loss of your current rank, though there is potential to achieve a higher position.]
"These three impacts are part of King Liang's calculated rebellion," Zhao Xing speculated. "Joining his side might indeed offer greater Fortune, higher rank, and extended lifespan."
Aside from his official status and lifespan, even some of Zhao Xing's techniques had been affected.
Three particular spells stood out: [Five-Finger Fate Technique], [Turtle Coin Divination], and [Zhanhou Divination]. Each of these techniques now bore an ominous tag: [Aligned with the Mandate of Heaven].
"Damn this ridiculous buff," Zhao Xing grumbled inwardly, shaking his head in frustration.
"The 'Aligned with the Mandate of Heaven' effect skews all predictions made using these three techniques to favor King Liang. For example, if I were to calculate, 'Will King Liang succeed in his rebellion?' nine out of ten times, the outcome would indicate his success. It's purely the result of his manipulation of destiny-based spells."
Zhao Xing recalled how this misleading buff had fooled him in his past life.
Not just him—countless other top players fell for it too. Believing that King Liang was truly aligned with the Mandate of Heaven, they joined his rebel faction in droves, only to meet disastrous ends. Some lost levels, others lost treasures, and many had their Fortune and ranks reduced to zero.
Adding insult to injury, there were even overly ambitious players who misinterpreted the [Aligned with the Mandate of Heaven] buff as being personally applicable to themselves. These fools raised their own banners, declaring themselves kings, only to die even faster.
"Damn that conniving King Liang," Zhao Xing cursed softly.
The rest of his techniques remained unaffected. Currently, Zhao Xing's top-tier Heavenly Timing techniques included four distinct arts:
[Kunpeng Transformation] (Third Transformation):
A core technique for internal mastery, allowing the practitioner to assume the form of a Kunpeng. At this stage, Zhao Xing had comprehended the innate skill [Kun Swallows the World], a powerful ability to engulf massive amounts of ambient energy, including spiritual essence, clouds, mist, and even water currents, converting them into personal strength. Should he achieve the fourth transformation (Minor Completion), he could unlock the innate talents of the Roc form as well.
[Xuantian Thunder Technique] (Third Transformation):
Mastered with the secret technique [Heavenly Thunder Finger], this technique excels in offense and precision.
[Heavenly Cloud Technique] (Third Transformation):
The [Cloud Gate] technique represents its pinnacle. Renowned as a battlefield-controlling technique, the [Cloud Gate] also amplifies complementary techniques, particularly those associated with rain.
[A Step to Infinity]:
This supreme technique, once the signature of Li Boqian, was also at its third transformation. Known for its overwhelming range and area-of-effect potential, it served as Zhao Xing's go-to for tactical control.
Zhao Xing had also cultivated four top-tier Earth Techniques, including [Boundless Ocean Earth Palace] and [Mystical Water Earth Palace], both reaching the third transformation. The [Earth Spirit Repository Technique] and the [Kunyuan Technique], with their defensive and restorative capabilities, rounded out his mastery.
Combining his eight supreme techniques—four Heavenly Timing techniques and four Earth Techniques—Zhao Xing had a formidable arsenal to handle most situations.
His personal faction techniques remained unaffected as well:
The [Jungle Leaping Technique], now perfected, allowed for unparalleled evasion in forested environments.
[Mobilizing All Plants as Soldiers], while still at its seventh transformation, had yet to see meaningful use due to the lack of sixth-tier plant-based soldiers.
Zhao Xing's repertoire of fate-based techniques, including the [Great Derivation Qi Observation Method], remained mostly unaffected. Observation techniques, like the [Great Derivation Qi Observation Method], only revealed information without influencing outcomes, thus bypassing the effects of the [Aligned with the Mandate of Heaven] buff.
His soul techniques, including [Heavenly Eye] and [Sleep Bug], scaled with his Life Soul, which had now reached a high-tier level. As a result, these techniques now possessed the power of top-tier techniques.
However, Zhao Xing still lamented the time constraints that had limited his progress with [Dreamwalking Technique] and [Entering the Dream], both of which remained more suitable for lower-ranked skirmishes than high-tier conflicts.
For spiritual defense, Zhao Xing relied on the [Soul-Crushing Bell] and his Eighth-Rank Superior Soul Armor. These treasures, combined with his [Pure Essence Body of Myriad Laws], granted him unmatched endurance and spiritual resilience, allowing him to endure far longer than ordinary cultivators of comparable rank.
As for his artifacts:
The [Heavenly Mystery Robe] and [Calamity-Repelling Yellow Almanac] both displayed anomalous fluctuations, likely tied to the overarching changes in Fortune dynamics caused by King Liang's rebellion.
Items like the [Guardian Jade Pendant] and the [Soul-Calming Bell], however, remained stable, ensuring Zhao Xing retained a reliable defense against most threats.
His [Seasonal Qi Commands of the Divine Court], which had reached Perfection with the [Lichun], [Lixia], [Liqiu], and [Lidong] commands, further solidified his mastery of timing techniques.
Finally, Zhao Xing noted that all single-use items he had acquired through the Military Realm remained unaffected and ready for use.
"The anomalies seem to primarily affect fate-based techniques and artifacts, which aligns with my past life's knowledge," Zhao Xing mused. "Fortunately, this influence is universal, impacting both allies and enemies alike, which keeps the playing field somewhat level."
Zhao Xing couldn't help but sneer at King Liang's strategy. The rebellion wasn't merely a physical blockade; it was a psychological siege. The [Aligned with the Mandate of Heaven] buff aimed to sway officials and warriors to King Liang's side.
Zhao Xing's mind turned to another item of significance. "King Liang also possesses the artifact known as the [Hidden Fortune Dragon Ranking], capable of identifying the most talented individuals across the nineteen provinces. This treasure, a relic of the Xuantian Sect, is instrumental in recruiting allies and eliminating threats."
In his past life, this ranking was openly displayed on player panels, allowing King Liang to track his adversaries with unnerving precision. Zhao Xing wondered how it would manifest in this life.
Just as Zhao Xing adjusted to the changing landscape, a loud "Bang!" shattered the silence
Suddenly, a cold wind swept through the Hundred Transference Supervisor's official residence.
A shadowy figure appeared within the residence.
It shimmered faintly with golden light, and a golden dragon coiled around its head. However, from the waist down, it was entangled by a black dragon.
"The split is evident," Zhao Xing noted, narrowing his eyes at the figure. "This is a fragment of Yin God Daizong's soul. Fortune has also split on this Yin God, but it seems the black dragon has gained the upper hand."
The Underworld Palace of Fate, which governed part of the authority over Yin Gods, had evidently begun affecting its subordinates. Zhao Xing observed Daizong's conflicted expression: half cold and indifferent, half struggling with inner turmoil.
"Zhao Xing, receive the decree!" Daizong declared coldly.
Zhao Xing met his gaze with an icy stare, unmoving.
Without waiting for Zhao Xing's response, Daizong took out a black dragon-edged decree and began reading.
"Marquis Yuanrangrang, your rank is elevated by three levels, and you are granted the title of Marquis of Xinyang (with the five virtues of Strictness, Courage, Valor, Wisdom, and Trust), commanding the Xinyang Army of Tianhe Prefecture."
"Your rank increases by three levels, lifespan extended by fifty years, and you are appointed as the Nine-Way Transference Director of Tianhe Prefecture with the honorary title of Guanglu Grandee."
"This takes effect immediately."
"Zhao Xing, why haven't you knelt to accept the decree?" Daizong roared.
Zhao Xing's lips curled into a sneer. "Whose decree are you delivering?"
"This is the decree of King Liang," Daizong replied.
Imperial decrees were known as edicts from the Emperor, and edicts from the Empress Dowager were known as commands. For princes, empresses, and princesses, they were collectively referred to as directives.
"Absurd!" Zhao Xing dismissed with a wave of his sleeve, his voice firm. "I am no vassal of his. Why would I accept a directive from this so-called prince?"
"Daizong, are you planning to join his rebellion?" Zhao Xing's words boomed like thunder, each step forward amplifying his voice and shaking the room.
The black dragon's Fortune clashing against the golden dragon's Fortune immediately faltered under the pressure of Zhao Xing's imposing aura.
Daizong's expression shifted, and he stammered, "Marquis Yuanrang, this deity has no choice. This decree was specially sent for you. Under no circumstances should you accept it!"
"You must leave Tianhe Prefecture immediately—no, leave Pinghai Prefecture altogether—"
Before he could finish, the black dragon's aura surged once more, washing over Daizong.
"Zhao Xing, are you defying this decree?" Daizong's gaze turned cold again.
Clang!
A resonating sound echoed from Zhao Xing's body.
The Soul-Crushing Bell activated, immediately suppressing the black aura enveloping Daizong.
"Daizong, your soul is clouded. I can only destroy this fragment of your soul," Zhao Xing stated calmly, watching Daizong regain clarity. "Don't hold it against me."
Daizong's stiff body moved as he clasped his hands in a trembling salute. "Thank... thank you, Marquis Yuanrang."
Zhao Xing once again activated the Soul-Crushing Bell.
Clang!
An invisible wave of soul energy rippled outward, and Daizong's soul fragment instantly disintegrated into dust.
With a sharp cry, a golden dragon flew skyward, returning to the heavens.
However, the black dragon seized the decree and lunged toward Zhao Xing.
Clearly, when persuasion failed, they resorted to force. The decree aimed to impose submission upon Zhao Xing, making him a vassal of King Liang.
If it succeeded, Zhao Xing would be irreversibly bound to King Liang's cause. Even attempting to leave later would leave a lasting stain on his record.
"Humph, relying on a mere soul fragment to impose your will upon me?" Zhao Xing scoffed, his tone dripping with disdain.
With the Guardian Jade Pendant ringing incessantly, the black dragon holding the decree struggled as if trapped in quicksand, unable to approach Zhao Xing.
"Break!" Zhao Xing shouted, his voice thunderous.
Without Daizong's anchor, the black dragon and its decree were reduced to ordinary spiritual attacks meant to tempt Zhao Xing into submission.
With a casual flick of his hand, Zhao Xing dispelled the black dragon's power with ease.
Plop!
The powerless decree fell to the ground, its glow fading.
The black dragon soared skyward, returning to its massive form.
"I lack the fate-based techniques to sever this minor Fortune black dragon," Zhao Xing mused.
King Liang's suppression of destiny-based spells made it nearly impossible for anyone below the Heavenly Luck Realm to sever these distributed Fortune black dragons.
Of course, absorbing them was an option, but that was precisely what King Liang intended.
Absorbing it would signify accepting the rewards and pledging allegiance, making one a vassal of King Liang.
"Who knows how many people will succumb to temptation and deception, falling into King Liang's rebel camp with this maneuver," Zhao Xing thought as he watched the Fortune black dragon vanish.
A promotion of three ranks, elevation to a second-tier title, and an extension of fifty years to one's lifespan—how could this not be tempting?
Normally, climbing from a Fifth Rank position to Fourth Rank could take centuries of effort.
Even someone like Sun Shizhao, who had joined him on Twin Island, was still stuck at Fifth Rank Superior, grinding his credentials.
For someone like Sun Shizhao, such rewards would be impossible to resist.
However, Zhao Xing found these rewards laughably insignificant.
To others, this was a grand allure; to Zhao Xing, it was a petty bribe.
"I have never flaunted my true strength, neither during the Myriad Beasts Competition nor at the academies where I penned essays on seasonal timing."
"Even during my time at the Star Palace, my cultivation of the Great Derivation Qi Observation Method was carried out in secret."
"My public image is that of a Fifth Rank official with high-level multi-faceted skills—a talent, but far from a peerless genius."
"For King Liang to offer me three promotions, a Marquis title, and real power shows he values me," Zhao Xing reflected.
"However, he doesn't know I've already mastered multiple top-tier techniques and achieved the first layer of the Derivation of the Divine Spirit in this lifetime."
"Why would I board his sinking ship?"
Daizong's status wasn't particularly high, and his soul fragment possessed the strength of a mere Sixth Rank Yin Soul.
Such a soul could only wield basic soul techniques and low-to-mid-level techniques. A higher Yin God, with possession abilities, would be a different story altogether.
Daizong's main body, at best a Third Rank Yin God, was relegated to the mundane task of delivering messages. Destroying his soul fragment wasn't difficult for Zhao Xing.
"The weak are coerced into submission; the strong are lured with rewards. The rebellion must be on the verge of breaking out," Zhao Xing deduced.
King Liang's conferring of the title "Marquis of Xinyang" and the command of the Xinyang Army in Tianhe Prefecture indicated that the position had been vacated.
The original Marquis of Xinyang had either been killed or forced into retirement.
"Retirement requires a delicate process, stripping the Fortune protection without harming the individual, allowing them to enjoy their remaining years peacefully. King Liang has no patience for such subtleties. If they disobey, they die," Zhao Xing concluded.
"Tianhe Prefecture's standing army comprises eleven divisions. I wonder how many have defected, how many have died, and how many are resisting."
"King Liang, as the Prefectural Lord of Pinghai, a First Rank Prince, Commander of the Pacification Army, and wielder of multiple artifacts, must secure military authority," Zhao Xing reasoned.
"But for now, his main focus remains on the seven elite armies entrusted to him by Emperor Jing during the major wars against mid-to-high-level opponents."
"These elite armies—Tongyou, Jiuxiao, Huangquan, Xuanming, Tiancang, Taixu, and Wuyao—won't easily follow him into rebellion. Even under the pretense of purging traitors, many clear-minded individuals won't align themselves with his treachery."
As Zhao Xing was processing these developments, his Earth Mirror began buzzing incessantly with messages.
[Zhao Xing, report to the Hundred Transference Supervisor in Tianhe Prefecture immediately—Zhang Ping]
[Zhao Xing, proceed to Lishui Path of the Hundred Waters Way immediately to maintain order—Zhou Huai]
[All Fifth Rank Shennong officers are to report to the prefecture city and its surrounding four counties to coordinate with the Inspectorate—He Zhengchen]
The Earth Mirror displayed over a dozen orders, all from various superior departments in Tianhe Prefecture, some of which even contradicted one another.
Zhao Xing remained calm, noting that his immediate superior, Zhang Ping, ordered him to the Transference Office, while the Vice Director directed him to guard Lishui Path.
Simultaneously, he received general orders from the Grand Shennong Director, Ye Zijian, and Prefecture Lord He Zhengchen.
Even the three stationed armies within the prefecture had issued commands.
"These orders are all reasonable on the surface, but in this chaotic moment, who knows what's human and what's a ghost pulling strings behind the scenes?" Zhao Xing thought.
"Fortunately, the Earth Mirror still functions," he noted, reaching out to contacts like Long Xiao and others to verify the situation.
"What? Bai Zhengyang is dead?" Zhao Xing was momentarily taken aback.
Zhao Xing quickly steadied his thoughts, replying to Long Xiao, "I warned Seventh Uncle."
Long Xiao sighed heavily. "He didn't believe that the Hong clan would betray him. He scoffed at my concerns, saying I was overly cautious."
"Don't blame yourself," Zhao Xing replied evenly. "People choose their own paths. If he didn't believe, then this was his fate."
"He was a general; you're merely a Fenglong Guard commander. You couldn't override his decisions."
"In the face of a great upheaval, the only thing we can do is protect those within our reach."
Zhao Xing remained indifferent to Bai Zhengyang's death.
If a warning was disregarded, who could be blamed?
Was Long Xiao supposed to beg on his knees for Bai Zhengyang to retreat?
Zhao Xing had long since realized, ever since the Ten Sun Cave-Heaven ordeal, that changing someone's fate was an arduous task.
For individuals like Bai Zhengyang, Zhao Xing could only respect their chosen destinies.
"What about your father-in-law?" Zhao Xing asked. "Is Bai Mingchuan safe?"
"He's fine," Long Xiao replied, "but the Hong brothers, Hong Yuanba and Hong Yuanshou, have already pledged allegiance to King Liang. They've mobilized an army of one million aquatic forces and are advancing toward Chongming Prefecture."
"Has the Bai family's army moved?" Zhao Xing pressed.
"There's internal strife within the Qinglong Army. Ling'er's grandfather is working to purge the traitors but has only dispatched a 200,000-strong force to keep an eye on the Hong brothers' forces."
"At the earliest, it'll take two more days before they can reorganize and pursue them," Long Xiao admitted.
Zhao Xing nodded, recognizing the gap in timing.
"This is the advantage of making the first move," Zhao Xing noted internally.
The clansmen of the Hong family had long held a weak sense of allegiance to the court and were already prepared for such a moment.
When the command from King Liang arrived, their response was swift and strong.
Being well-prepared and motivated by considerable incentives, their actions naturally progressed rapidly.
In contrast, mobilizing the Bai family took much longer.
"What about the Ao Family and Tang Family aquatic clans?" Zhao Xing inquired.
"I'm not sure," Long Xiao admitted, scratching his head. "You know my political instincts are dull. I have no idea what those two clans are planning."
"Then just tell me this—have they made any military moves, and if so, who are they targeting?" Zhao Xing pressed further.
"They have," Long Xiao replied. "Tang Yinglong and Ao Tian, both feudal lords, dispatched their troops almost immediately to pursue the Hong brothers' forces. However, their combined forces only number around 150,000."
"There's not much they can do," Zhao Xing remarked. "Hong Yuanba, as the Eastern Sea Commander, has always had greater ease in mobilizing troops during his tenure."
Long Xiao shifted the topic. "What about you and Old Chen? And what should I do now?"
"Old Chen is fine; he's staying at the Princess Residence," Zhao Xing replied. "As for me, Tianhe Prefecture isn't in visible chaos yet, but it won't be long before it is."
"Stick to the original plan," Zhao Xing continued. "Prioritize suppressing the rebellion by chasing down the Hong brothers' forces. At the same time, defend the Bai family's maritime territory."
"But remember this—don't set foot on land. Pursue them only to the shoreline. I doubt the Hong brothers are planning to disembark anytime soon."
"Understood." Long Xiao clenched his fists. "I've also heard that King Liang's heir is part of the Eastern Sea forces. This time, I'll make sure to kill him!"
"Don't act recklessly," Zhao Xing cautioned. "There will be plenty of opportunities for revenge."
Knowing the Earth Mirror's functionality might degrade soon, Zhao Xing added a few more words. "Remember, even if the Bai family does nothing at all, as long as you prevent your soldiers from defecting and guard against the alien aquatic armies, you won't face any punishment, even if you don't achieve any notable success."
"As for the Hong brothers, while the four aquatic clan chiefs have a duty to monitor one another, any failure in that duty is a minor offense."
"Until the court officially orders you to suppress the rebellion, the small number of troops you've dispatched is sufficient. Do not, under any circumstances, step onto land without an imperial decree."
"Got it." Long Xiao repeated solemnly, "Without an imperial decree, we will not pursue onto land."
"Take care of yourself," Zhao Xing added.
"You too," Long Xiao replied.
Their communication ended just as several voices echoed from above Tianhe Prefecture's capital.
"The essence of rites is harmony!"
"Heaven's will demands strength. To stop war, war must be waged. Kill them!"
"Yu Tianhai, Wang Chengsi, are you rebelling?"
"We act on King Liang's command to uphold the heavenly mandate. How is that rebellion? He Zhengchen, you were appointed by Chancellor Liu Si, a national traitor! Resign immediately and return your office to the court!"
"You are all rebels, rebels!!"
The voices boomed like thunder, causing Zhao Xing's mind to sway. One moment, he felt an overwhelming urge to kill indiscriminately; the next, he wanted to quietly stay home and refrain from acting.
"Li Xiu has already begun the fight. He Zhengchen is the prefect, while the other two are vice-prefects. This is a public split," Zhao Xing noted internally.
His Seven-Star Fate Soul vibrated slightly, dispelling the lingering effects of Li Xiu's spells.
Suddenly, a new shift occurred.
"This is a land with a rightful lord. Do not enter without permission!"
"In my name, with loyal and pure intentions, I summon the Earth Emperor's Register!"
"All residents of Tianhe, return home immediately!"
A buzzing sound filled the air.
A golden, radiant register appeared, hovering over the capital.
Simultaneously, beams of light emanated from every marketplace and residential building.
One by one, people began retreating to their homes.
"Wang Zijun, do you have a death wish? Stop this madness!"
"Earth Official Wang Situ, you are truly ruthless, sacrificing the rest of your lifespan to protect this ignorant populace?"
"Hmph, decay deserves to perish. Let them die!"
"All we need is to buy two more days. Dare to defy King Liang's orders? This is the price!"
Zhao Xing observed these developments with his Heavenly Eye Technique, watching the spells cast by the Rites practitioners.
Suddenly, thunder rumbled across the skies, and the clouds churned violently.
The previously clear blue sky darkened with thick storm clouds.
Nine blazing suns rose in the heavens.
The fierce wind clashed against the defensive formations protecting the capital.
"The Seasonal Qi Command paired with Cloud Laws—this is the Shennong Division taking action," Zhao Xing noted, maintaining his composure.
His Earth Mirror buzzed again.
This time, it activated on its own without Zhao Xing's permission, projecting an image.
Zhao Xing immediately bowed. "Your servant greets Lord Luohou."
Lord Luohou, the supreme officer of the Military Realm's Inspectorate, held absolute authority. Even Liu Tianning was merely one of his subordinates.
As the highest-ranking official, Lord Luohou's authority allowed him to directly activate the Earth Mirror and pinpoint Zhao Xing's location.
"Zhao Xing, did you accept King Liang's fraudulent decree?" Lord Luohou asked sternly.
Clad in full battle gear, he carried the divine bow Jidu Luo Shunyu Arrow and wore the peerless Ninth-Rank Sunfall Heavenly King Armor. As the ruler of the Military Realm, his equipment was custom-crafted, uniquely his own.
"No, I have not," Zhao Xing replied firmly. "King Liang is a traitor. How could I become his vassal? I swear by my Three Souls that, should I have the power, I will slay him!"
Lord Luohou breathed a sigh of relief. He had been closely monitoring Zhao Xing, fearing that he might stray.
With Zhao Xing's completion of the first layer of the Derivation of the Divine Spirit, a Three-Soul Oath was a declaration impossible to fake.
Even so, Lord Luohou spoke further to strengthen Zhao Xing's resolve.
"You must hold firm in your convictions. Let me assure you, His Majesty has long made preparations."
"I, along with three other feudal lords, have already secured control over the top-ranking forces of Jiuxiao, Huangquan, and Tongyou," Lord Luohou said coldly. "Seven strategic military forts in the northern Pinghai Province are under our command. The original commanders of the top ten elite armies have stationed tens of thousands of high-ranking soldiers at the border monuments, awaiting orders. Ji Mingxian cannot cause any significant disruption!"
"Yes," Zhao Xing responded, bowing deeply.
Lord Luohou continued, "Although King Liang controls seventy percent of the seven elite armies stationed here, the original high command did not follow. Once the former leaders join the scene, King Liang won't be able to fully utilize those forces."
"What should I do while stationed in Tianhe Prefecture?" Zhao Xing asked. "If I encounter high-ranking inspectors, monitors, or military commanders, whom should I trust?"
Lord Luohou drew his golden sword and held an imperial seal. "Zhao Xing, heed my command!"
"Yes, my lord," Zhao Xing replied as he knelt, recognizing the imperial sword and seal as symbols of Emperor Jing's direct authority.
"By the decree of His Majesty," Lord Luohou declared, "I temporarily appoint you as the Third-Rank Inspector of the Five Eastern Prefectures of Pinghai Province. You are hereby granted authority over all civil and military officials below the Third Rank in these prefectures. If you encounter dissenters, you may execute them without prior approval!"
"In addition, I grant you first-tier Heaven-level permissions for your Earth Mirror."
"Understood." Zhao Xing bowed deeply, touching his forehead to the ground.
This appointment solidified Zhao Xing's allegiance. His previous trial—refusing King Liang's fraudulent decree—had been critical. Having passed, he now received a role of substantial authority and trust.
"I will provide you with a list of trustworthy individuals," Lord Luohou continued. "These individuals—whether high-ranking inspectors, monitors, military commanders, or civil officials—can be relied upon. They will not join the rebellion under any circumstances."
"I have also updated your Earth Mirror permissions to ensure the list remains secure. While you are not obligated to follow their directives, you should recognize who is on your side during dangerous situations."
"Finally, whether you choose to prioritize your current responsibilities as a Transfer Officer or act in your new role as Inspector is up to your discretion."
"Yes, my lord. I understand," Zhao Xing replied firmly.
The projection ended, and Lord Luohou disappeared as swiftly as he had appeared.
Moments later, Zhao Xing's Earth Mirror displayed three new notifications:
Your Earth Mirror permissions have been elevated to 'Heaven-level, First-Tier (Temporary).'
You have been appointed as the Third-Rank Inspector of the Five Eastern Prefectures of Pinghai Province (Temporary).
You have received a confidential list of reliable individuals.
Simultaneously, his status panel updated. His official rank was now temporarily elevated to Lower Fourth Rank, and the previous "Anomalous" marker beside his title had disappeared. His lifespan also stabilized, indicating the end of external interferences.
The records on his panel detailed the dual influences of the "Imperial Command Sword" and the "Divine Command of the Palace of Fates."
"Lord Luohou conferred this title through the Earth Mirror. Since it's a temporary appointment of Lower Fourth Rank, it seems even he isn't fully aware of my abilities and thus didn't grant control over Third-Rank officials," Zhao Xing thought.
"He doesn't have the authority to promote someone to Third Rank, even temporarily, unless specific circumstances arise. However, the Five Eastern Prefectures are a vast territory, and managing five prefectures alone is no small feat."
"I must act swiftly," he resolved. "If Tianhe Prefecture descends into chaos, I won't be able to stabilize my assigned region, let alone secure control over the Five Prefectures."
Zhao Xing immediately packed his belongings and left his residence, flying through the skies.
Four hours had passed since the death of the previous Xin Yang Marquis.
"My preparations are complete—whether it's personal strength or procedural authority," Zhao Xing mused as he soared above the city.
"From here on, it's time to eliminate anyone tainted by the Black Dragon's fortune or those who have accepted King Liang's decrees. There's no need for debate—traitors must die."
"Before King Liang's rebellion, I tolerated much. Now that the rebellion has begun, it's time for decisive action!"
As for identifying traitors? The Great Derivation Qi Observation Technique would reveal them with ease.
In Tianhe Prefecture's capital, the streets were eerily deserted. All doors and windows were tightly shut, and the midday bustle had given way to an oppressive silence. The once-lively marketplaces were now entirely closed.
Within the city, there wasn't even a hint of wind, but above it, fierce gales howled. Storm clouds loomed ominously, spreading across the nearby counties.
"Someone is stabilizing the Heavenly timing, while others are deliberately disrupting it."
"Even the two mountain peaks outside the city are shifting—are people using volcanic techniques out there?"
"The founding emperor's legacy, 'None Shall Enter Without Permission,' has been triggered. The prefectural register has reinforced this rule."
"Earth Official Wang Situ has sacrificed the remainder of his lifespan to enforce this safeguard. It won't last long, though. The temple's surroundings are shrouded in sinister winds as practitioners from both sides engage in fierce combat."
Zhao Xing could sense the terrifying power clashing near the city's temple, distorting the elemental balance into dark versions of the five elements.
Even a Fourth-Rank cultivator would struggle to remain unscathed in that area, their soul weakened by the chaotic Yin Winds.
Activating his Heavenly Eye Technique, Zhao Xing spotted a fissure splitting open near the temple.
Amidst the chaos, a figure with stark white hair darted into the black void.
"A Priest's soul has left their body to enter the Netherworld," someone muttered.
"Are they planning to report to a Nether Deity and request reinforcements?"
"Who knows if they'll make it out alive," another replied skeptically.
Zhao Xing shook his head. "The Netherworld must be chaotic now. Even the minor and major deities there probably don't know who to follow."
Swish—
Zhao Xing suddenly appeared outside the Transfer Office of Tianhe Prefecture's administrative headquarters.
The place was surrounded by soldiers, at least seven factions locked in a tense standoff. On the ground lay seventy or eighty corpses, many clad in Taoist robes or wearing strange clothing.
"These are the extraterritorial heretic practitioners hiding in the prefectural capital," Zhao Xing noted, recognizing the deceased instantly as fanatics. To him, they were no different from fools.
The rebellion hadn't fully erupted yet. Regardless of whether the officials were aligned with King Liang or the Imperial Court, they were all united in one priority—eliminating the extraterritorial heretics.
Even officials obeying King Liang's edicts hadn't yet completely abandoned their identity as Da Zhou officials, so they still regarded these heretics as enemies.
The presence of these heretics in the prefectural capital was tantamount to a death wish. At best, they could create minor disturbances in county-level towns. Only after Pinghai Province's internal stability collapsed to a certain extent could they have any real impact.
For now, their premature appearance only dragged King Liang's forces down. It was as if the rebels and the court forces had tacitly paused hostilities to jointly deal with these heretics first.
"Stop! Who goes there?" a Fourth-Rank martial artist, wielding a tiger-headed broadsword, roared at Zhao Xing's sudden arrival.
"Zhao Xing, Transfer Officer of the Hundred Pathways, reporting under Lord Zhang's orders," Zhao Xing announced calmly.
"Lord Zhou Huai ordered you to defend Lishui. What are you doing at the administrative headquarters instead? You're a traitor! Take him down!" the martial artist declared, attacking without hesitation.
"Zeng Wu, you dare?!" Another Fourth-Rank martial artist wielding a white-feathered spear intervened, moving like a streak of light to block the strike.
One aimed to capture Zhao Xing, while the other sought to protect him.
The remaining factions were caught in uncertainty, standing guard at the Transfer Office's gates without knowing what to do. Without the ability to discern fortune, they couldn't determine anyone's true allegiance. Their orders were unclear and contradictory.
Inside the Transfer Office, mid-ranking officials had gathered in a circle. Before them, three streaks of lightning intertwined—an intense duel between Chief Officer Zhang Ping and the deputies, Zhou Huai and Lei Guangming, both of whom were Shennong practitioners.
Unseen by most, the three combatants' souls had already left their bodies, fighting a second battlefield in the spiritual realm. Zhang Ping, despite his title as Chief Officer, was clearly losing ground to the combined assault of Zhou Huai and Lei Guangming.
"Too slow. All of them," Zhao Xing muttered, his Heavenly Eye Technique allowing him to observe both battlefields simultaneously.
To him, the spellcasting of Zhang Ping, Zhou Huai, and Lei Guangming was almost laughably slow. Outside, the two attacking Fourth-Rank martial artists also seemed to move in slow motion.
"Zeng Wu is tainted by the Black Dragon's fortune, but that Li Gan fellow isn't," Zhao Xing noted, using his Great Derivation Qi Observation Technique to instantly discern the fortunes of everyone present.
"Chief Zhang hasn't betrayed the court. The two deputies, however, have."
With this insight, Zhao Xing's gaze turned icy. "Die."
He raised a finger toward Zeng Wu, activating the Heavenly Thunder Finger.
A small black vortex appeared at his fingertip, surrounded by flickering arcs of lightning. The vortex pierced through Zeng Wu's skull with surgical precision, appearing as if a bolt of lightning had struck him directly.
Thud!
Zeng Wu collapsed to the ground, lifeless, faster than anyone could react.
Li Gan, who had rushed to intercept Zeng Wu, found himself grasping at air. Stunned, he muttered, "What just happened? How did a mere Fifth-Rank Shennong Officer kill Zeng Wu so easily?"
Li Gan's shock was palpable. He hadn't even fully grasped what had occurred, nor could he have dared to kill Zeng Wu himself under normal circumstances. To him, the situation was a chaotic misunderstanding caused by conflicting orders.
But what truly shocked him was Zhao Xing's power.
"You—! What did you do—?" Li Gan stammered, his words cut short as the remaining force of Zhao Xing's Heavenly Thunder Finger arced toward Zeng Wu's faction, killing thirty-one more individuals behind him.
Thwip! Thwip! Thwip!
Five more soldiers in Li Gan's own formation fell next, all slain with a single strike.
"Stop this madness!" Li Gan shouted in both anger and fear.
"They're traitors," Zhao Xing replied coldly, stepping forward. He gestured with his hand, disemboweling the corpses to expose their insides. Strips of skin peeled back, revealing marks and evidence.
"Look here," Zhao Xing pointed at the remains. "This is King Liang's fraudulent edict and the residual effects of their tainted fortune."
He continued, "On their chests or stomachs, you'll find the Black Dragon's insignia. These men have all rebelled. Is that clear enough for you?"
Li Gan and the others froze, dumbfounded.
"They really betrayed the court?!"
Before anyone could process the gravity of the situation, Zhao Xing's voice thundered again.
"Li Gan, listen to my orders!" Zhao Xing's command struck like a physical force.
"Yes, sir!" Li Gan instinctively snapped to attention, compelled by Zhao Xing's True Words of Beasts Technique.
Using the first layer of his Derivation of the Divine Spirit, with the power of his Seven-Star Soul, Zhao Xing's command carried an undeniable authority, forcing compliance.
"I command you to guard the gates. Allow no one to approach and ensure that all military forces in the city under your jurisdiction remain on standby. Do not act rashly."
"Yes, sir!" Li Gan saluted, his posture firm.
Only after Zhao Xing entered the administrative building did Li Gan begin to question his own behavior. "Why am I suddenly following orders so willingly?" he murmured.
But when he turned around and looked again, he felt a chill run down his spine. "How did that young man walk into the Transfer Office so easily? Is he really just a Fifth-Rank officer?"
Inside, the Transfer Office was a sprawling complex. Designed to handle vast quantities of resources and serve as a base for docked warships and flying vessels, it was the largest government structure in Tianhe Prefecture.
The Transfer Office operated independently of the Prefect, established specifically for wartime logistics. Military commands took precedence over civil orders here.
Thus, the most combat-capable Shennong practitioners of the region were stationed in this very office. Zhao Xing knew that stabilizing the Transfer Office was the key to maintaining control of Tianhe Prefecture.
"What's this? Someone's entered?" Lei Guangming, deep in combat, turned to glance toward the entrance.
The other Fourth- and Fifth-Rank Shennong practitioners, engrossed in their tasks, failed to notice Zhao Xing's entry.
"That's Liu Tianning's disciple," Zhou Huai remarked with a brief glance, his expression icy. "He's already reached the peak of Fourth Rank."
"I don't want trouble with Liu Tianning," Zhou Huai added. "I specifically ordered Zhao Xing to leave the city and defend Lishui Road, yet he's come here instead."
Even with his newfound strength, Zhou Huai was acutely aware of the hierarchy. He knew he stood no chance against Liu Tianning, should it come to that. Liu Tianning's favoritism toward Zhao Xing was no secret.
"Kill him," Lei Guangming ordered three Fourth-Rank officers nearby.
"You're insane!" Zhou Huai snapped. "Killing Zhang Ping might not draw Liu Tianning's attention, but harming Zhao Xing will definitely bring him here in a fury!"
"Then what do you suggest?" Lei Guangming growled, visibly unsettled.
"Capture him. We'll deal with Zhang Ping first and release Zhao Xing afterward," Zhou Huai proposed, clearly wary of provoking Liu Tianning.
Zhang Ping couldn't help but feel bitter. These traitors feared a distant mentor more than they respected their direct superior. It all boiled down to one thing—his own power was insufficient.
"Capture me?" Zhao Xing's voice suddenly cut through their conversation like a blade.
Both Zhou Huai and Lei Guangming froze in shock. In their momentary distraction, Zhang Ping's soul returned to his body.
"He can see and hear us even when our souls leave our bodies?" Zhou Huai and Lei Guangming quickly withdrew to their physical forms.
"Zhao Xing!" Zhang Ping called out urgently. "Leave now! These two traitors have already pledged themselves to King Liang!"
"Zhao Xing, leave," Zhou Huai said coldly. "We have no desire to kill you."
"Leave? I might, but first I'd like to borrow something from you both," Zhao Xing said with a faint smile, his tone turning icy.
"What do you want to borrow?" Zhou Huai asked, his brow furrowing.
"Your heads," Zhao Xing replied, his smile fading into a chilling expression.
Suddenly, a shadow blanketed the area. Emerging from the darkness were ninety-seven identical clones, each standing like a specter surrounding Zhou Huai and Lei Guangming.
"Die."
The clones moved in unison, each pointing a finger forward. Ninety-seven Heavenly Thunder Fingers erupted simultaneously, releasing arcs of crackling black lightning that converged upon Zhou Huai and Lei Guangming.