The discussions on the Dao platform continued with fervor, each word resonating with the gathered scholars, cultivators, and disciples. Above the venue, aboard a floating ship, a painter was rapidly completing a masterpiece titled "The Inquiry of Mi Fu."
Meng Kun, standing to the side, carefully examined the painter's work, only to frown deeply as he took in the finished product. Sensing Meng Kun's dissatisfaction, the painter quickly asked, "What seems to be the issue?"
Meng Kun spoke in a low, serious tone, "The painting is extraordinary, filled with divine essence and charm. But why have you depicted Mi Fu as taller than Grand Shennong Zhao Xing?"
The painter hesitated, then cautiously explained, "Mi Fu was standing while Grand Shennong Zhao Xing was seated during their discussion. Naturally, Mi Fu would appear taller."
Meng Kun scoffed, shaking his head. "You're not a realist painter, are you? Why should your art adhere to logic? This is about capturing essence, not reality."
The painter, a young man named Meng Guang, timidly asked, "Uncle, are you suggesting I take a more abstract approach?"
"Of course! While you are painting Mi Fu's inquiry, you should highlight the brilliance of Grand Shennong Zhao Xing! Let his light overshadow all else."
"I understand now!" Meng Guang nodded fervently, immediately returning to his work with renewed inspiration.
This grand Dao Assembly was unprecedented in its scale and splendor. Though it was Shennong's primary stage, practitioners of other professions eagerly joined to witness such a monumental event.
As decreed by Emperor Ji Che, artists were encouraged to attend the assembly, with the incentive that any chosen artwork would become part of an illustrated historical record. This record, detailing the proceedings of the assembly, would be immortalized for future generations.
The imperial decree created a surge of enthusiasm among the artists. The prospect of eternal recognition ignited their passion and creativity. However, it also sparked a key question: what kind of artwork would be chosen?
"You must strive to portray Grand Shennong's brilliance in your work!" Princess Ji Yingluo advised during her inspection of the court's art ship. "That is the only way to ensure selection."
On another ship, the young Princess Ji Zixuan offered a contrasting perspective. "Grand Shennong Zhao Xing possesses a broad and generous heart. Our Emperor Ji Che is a once-in-a-lifetime sage ruler. If Mi Fu has been granted the position to speak first, it means Grand Shennong does not mind sharing the spotlight."
"Just paint what you see without embellishment. I believe that is what Grand Shennong himself would prefer."
Indeed, Zhao Xing had no intention of overshadowing Mi Fu. On the contrary, he allowed ample time for Mi Fu to shine, granting him a stage to fully express his knowledge and abilities. Their exchange, especially the dialogue concerning the interpretation of the word "Ling", was carefully premeditated to align with Zhao Xing's broader vision for ascension.
Not only did Mi Fu elaborate on the foundational Xuanhuang Qi Breaking Technique, but Zhao Xing also encouraged him to present two other groundbreaking works: "Pure Essence Derivative Seeds" and "Techniques for Plant-Based Military Corps."
Zhao Xing's support for Mi Fu was evident. By providing him such a platform, Zhao Xing ensured Mi Fu could perform a personal showcase. Mi Fu did not disappoint. The release of his two treatises caused a wave of excitement among the disciples and scholars of the Shangluo Academy.
"Brilliant! Mi Fu is a true genius!" Zhuang Darong, the Dean of the Divine Wood Academy, murmured in awe. "I finally understand why the academy arranged for him to speak first."
As the Dean, Zhuang Darong could fully grasp the revolutionary significance of Mi Fu's works. For decades, Shangluo Academy struggled to expand due to its high entry barriers. This exclusivity made it a niche institution, accessible only to the elite.
But with the introduction of the Xuanhuang Qi Breaking Technique, along with over 400 plant-based military species detailed in the Pure Essence Derivative Seeds, paired with the Techniques for Plant-Based Military Corps, the number of Shennong cultivators aligned with the Self School would grow exponentially.
If Zhao Xing's "New Interpretation of the Theory of Self and Natural Harmony" strengthened the elite tiers of the Self School, then Mi Fu's contributions fortified its foundation. With this trajectory, the Self School's rise as the foremost Shennong sect seemed inevitable.
"Mi Fu's talents are unmatched. Grand Shennong Zhao Xing has the eye of a true visionary," commented Chu Ganqiu, the Dean of the Martial Arts Academy. As someone who deeply understood the practical applications of the Techniques for Plant-Based Military Corps, Chu Ganqiu was thoroughly impressed.
The impact of Mi Fu's works was akin to someone unveiling the ancient "Canon of Heaven and Earth Soldiers" or the divine "Martial Arts Decision of the Warlord."
"No wonder Zhao Xing repeatedly sought to elevate Mi Fu," murmured Liu Tianning, observing Mi Fu with astonishment. "Mi Fu served under me for decades, yet I never recognized his extraordinary talents."
The implications were monumental.
Previously, Self School cultivators needed to reach the fiftieth stage of Essence Gathering to begin their Shennong training. Now, the threshold had been lowered to the thirtieth stage.
The Xuanhuang Qi Breaking Technique reduced the barriers to entry, while the Pure Essence Derivative Seeds lowered the cultivation costs for Self School Shennong practitioners. Furthermore, the Techniques for Plant-Based Military Corps enabled these cultivators to form combat-ready forces at lower stages, potentially assembling independent armies. This significantly increased the Self School's influence and standing.
Combat prowess, after all, garnered the most attention. In contrast, those who silently tended their fields often went unnoticed. Mi Fu's three revolutionary works elevated him to a pedestal of reverence.
During the early stages of the Dao Assembly, no topic generated more discussion than Mi Fu's contributions. As Zhao Xing watched Mi Fu confidently delivering his lecture on the platform, he couldn't help but feel gratified.
"Finally, Mi Fu has achieved the recognition he deserves. No need for him to be appreciated only after his death," Zhao Xing thought to himself.
Unlike Zhao Xing, Mi Fu preferred to teach by demonstrating. His mastery of painting and the sacred art of words allowed him to draw diagrams and write characters mid-air as he explained his principles, making his teachings more accessible.
Having spent decades refining his methods, Mi Fu's lectures exuded a relatable simplicity.
"Mist Walker, today has proven that Grand Shennong Zhao Xing is worthy of your loyalty, even if it meant defying ancestral traditions," Daoist Yueying suddenly remarked.
"Master Uncle, I did not defy our ancestral traditions," replied the Mist Walker. "Entering Zhongtu Divine Land does not necessarily require force. How could that be considered a violation?"
Daoist Yueying did not refute this but instead commented, "As Grand Shennong, Zhao Xing has generously allowed Mi Fu such an extended platform to speak, demonstrating his magnanimity."
"While Mi Fu may have studied the first version of the Xuanhuang Qi Breaking Technique, he played a significant role in developing the second version and participated in creating the third. For Zhao Xing to grant him such an opportunity, despite his own unparalleled ability, shows a heart worthy of a leader of the Divine Sect."
"Master Uncle, does this mean you'll support me?" the Mist Walker eagerly asked.
"Let's listen further," Daoist Yueying replied with a smile. "If we are to call ourselves the Xuantian Divine Sect, we must evaluate his insights on other schools of thought as well."
At this stage, the Self School, led by Shangluo Academy, had garnered considerable attention. Other attendees began steering their inquiries away from the Xuanhuang Qi Breaking Technique to avoid contributing to the Self School's growing momentum.
Wang Tianzhi, seated on the Dao platform, was visibly restless.
With Mi Fu as the first speaker, delivering a prolonged lecture, and Liu Tianning likely to continue the focus on the Self School, Wang Tianzhi feared the discussions would disproportionately favor the Self School's doctrines. He muttered bitterly to himself, "If this continues, the Self School will surpass us as the dominant force among Shennong cultivators! This is unacceptable!"
"I, Wang Tianzhi, failing to ascend to the position of Grand Shennong is already a bitter pill to swallow. But must it also be during my generation that the prestige of the top sect is lost?"
"How can I face my ancestors?" Wang Tianzhi thought bitterly.
First, there was Liu Tianning, then Zhao Xing, and now, out of nowhere, this Mi Fu appears with the potential to establish a new sect of his own. Damn it, this is like seeing ghosts!
As soon as Liu Tianning finished his formalities, it was finally Wang Tianzhi's turn. He could no longer hold back. Boom!
The Sacred Wood Dao Platform rose quickly, and Wang Tianzhi stepped up as the third speaker, standing before Zhao Xing.
"Heavenly Timing and phenomena: thirty years constitute a cycle, sixty years form an era, three hundred sixty years create a great fortune, and three thousand six hundred years mark a grand epoch! The Jueyin Wind-Wood, Shaoyin Sovereign Fire, Shaoyang Ministerial Fire, Taiyin Damp Earth, Yangming Dry Metal, and Taiyang Cold Water are the Three Yin and Three Yang that govern the Six Qi. Wang Tianzhi asks Grand Shennong: do the principal Qi manifest as constants, and the guest Qi reflect change? Is the phenomenon of Yuan Qi Tides a constant or a variable?"
Zhao Xing couldn't help but smile upon hearing this. Old Wang isn't following the script.
According to the original plan, Wang Tianzhi was also supposed to discuss the Xuanhuang Qi Breaking Technique and approach the topic from the perspective of the Heaven School.
But instead, he started with the "Grand Cycle of the Three Yin and Three Yang," immediately tying it to the current hot topic of Yuan Qi Tides. His intent was crystal clear.
"Old Wang is desperate to salvage the Heaven School's reputation. He's genuinely panicking," Zhao Xing mused with a hidden smile.
However, the Dao Discussion Conference was not exclusive to the Self School. Representatives from all factions could freely share insights, ask questions, and express their doubts or opinions.
Wang Tianzhi's question was both simple and profound. He was asking whether the Yuan Qi Tides were a random anomaly in the heavens and earth, or if they were destined to become a regular phenomenon.
Earlier, Zhao Xing had spoken about Qi Theory, touching on Yuan Qi and Spiritual Qi, which were theoretical topics. But now, Wang Tianzhi's question brought up a pressing practical issue.
The countless attendees of the Dao Platform, who had been deeply immersed in the three major works of the Self School, were abruptly pulled back to reality by Wang Tianzhi's query.
Compared to the theories in the Self School's works, the Yuan Qi Tides were indeed the most relevant topic at hand.
Exactly—how should the Grand Shennongs across the land view the Yuan Qi Tides? How should they respond to it?
After all, no one had ever encountered such a phenomenon before. The heavens and earth were undergoing immense changes, with dramatic shifts in climate, catastrophic natural disasters, and unprecedented opportunities to break free from old shackles.
In this era of transformation, small nations, scattered populations, and secluded sects were genuinely at a loss.
Since the emergence of the Yuan Qi Tides, certain remote regions had indeed enjoyed the first wave of benefits. But many others, lacking sufficient strength or resilience, had already been wiped out by the tides.
"Morning mist and flying clouds, midday's pure radiance, night's dew, and twilight's falling streams—heaven and earth's two Qi blend to form the Xuanhuang Qi." Zhao Xing began addressing Wang Tianzhi's question. He started with the "Principal Six Qi" from the Grand Cycle of the Three Yin and Three Yang.
"The Four Principal Qi dominate. The sun rises, the moon sets, Yin and Yang harmonize, and all things grow—this is the normal cyclical change of the Grand Cycle. Heaven and earth form the Xuanhuang Qi, where Yuan Qi and Spiritual Qi nurture life. The body is not hidden, but the spirit is stored."
"This ties directly to the distinction between 'Ling' and 'Ling,' as raised earlier by Daoist Mi," Zhao Xing explained.
Upon hearing this, Daoist Yueying slapped his thigh with excitement.
The Mistwalker, sitting beside him, winced and rubbed his leg. "If you're excited, hit your own thigh! Why hit mine?"
Ignoring Mistwalker's complaint, Daoist Yueying asked the younger disciple beside him, "Do you understand what Zhao Xing just said?"
"No, not at all."
"Ask your grand-uncle master for an explanation then!"
"Grand-uncle master, please explain!" The Mistwalker finally conceded.
"Zhao Heavenly Venerable was explaining that there are six types of Qi in the heavens and earth: the morning mist, the midday pure radiance, the twilight's falling streams, the night's dew, as well as heaven's Qi and earth's Qi."
"Among them, the Four Principal Qi—governed by the Taiyin and Taiyang—represent the Yin and Yang Qi, which follow the Grand Cycle's rotation and nurture all living things."
"Although I don't know how he managed to divide the Grand Cycle so meticulously, when calculated carefully, it indeed aligns with the historical patterns of Heavenly Timing!" Daoist Yueying exclaimed with enthusiasm.
"Heaven and earth's two Qi forming the Xuanhuang Qi—that summarizes the Four Principal Qi," he continued.
"So, what specifically causes these phenomena of sunrises, moonsets, and the growth of all living things?"
"What causes them?" Mistwalker chimed in, playing along.
"You're so dense! Zhao Xing explained this earlier in his Qi Theory!" Yueying scolded. "Heaven and earth's two Qi—Yuan Qi and Spiritual Qi!"
"The blending of these two Qi forms the Xuanhuang Qi, meaning that Yuan Qi and Spiritual Qi are the root of all existence."
"Yuan Qi is easier to understand, but Spiritual Qi is elusive. Even if it existed in some past eras, most of the time, the world has been dominated by the Yuan Qi Era. So why would Zhao Xing categorize Spiritual Qi as one of the Principal Qi?"
Mistwalker began piecing it together. "Shouldn't it be classified as one of the unpredictable 'Guest Qi'?"
Daoist Yueying's nostrils flared in frustration. He jabbed Mistwalker on the forehead. "With that level of comprehension, you truly only qualify as a temporary sect leader! In our era, you wouldn't even make it as an elder!"
Mistwalker bristled with resentment. This old man constantly invoked "our era," always insinuating that each generation was inferior to the last. He made Mistwalker feel like a clueless child.
Even so, Mistwalker swallowed his pride. "Yes, yes, you're absolutely right. Please, enlighten me further."
Daoist Yueying recapped for him: "Earlier, Zhao Xing and Mi Fu discussed the distinction between two types of 'Ling.'
"Normally, when we refer to 'Spiritual Qi,' we're talking about the type used in spell cultivation. But this should actually be called 'Ling Qi.' The other type, however, is the 'Ling Qi' of living beings!"
"'Ling Qi' has always existed. It grants living creatures their intelligence, which is why it's described as storing the spirit but not the body."
"This also explains why 'Ling Qi' is one of the Principal Six Qi!"
Mistwalker suddenly understood. "So that's why the two souls of heaven and earth always remain external. If they were internal, whether it's martial artists achieving fusion or practitioners refining souls, they'd already be in the Rule Realm."
"Breaking into the Rule Realm was common during the Spiritual Qi Era but rare during the Yuan Qi Era."
"Exactly," Daoist Yueying nodded. "When I awoke, I was only at the Life Palace Stage, but I quickly regained my Rule Realm strength. That's because I had already completed the process of embedding 'Ling Qi' within my body in the past."
"As long as there is Ling Qi for me to absorb, I can rapidly recover my strength."
"Dao and Method, Method and Principle, these are the keys to cultivation. Zhao Xing's willingness to share these insights freely... in our era, that would be—"
"A tremendous opportunity, right?" Mistwalker interjected, now adept at answering promptly.
"Yes!" Daoist Yueying exclaimed with admiration. "Back in our time, where could we have found such an opportunity? Listening to a powerhouse expound the Dao required either extraordinary effort or sheer luck."
"Otherwise, who would bother breaking things down and spoon-feeding them to you?"
"Exactly, so true!"
"Our mortuary fees weren't wasted!"
Changsun Kui's two flesh puppets trembled as he and several other elders from the Corpse Puppet Sect listened with rapt attention, utterly enthralled. Many of their cultivation puzzles suddenly became clear at that moment.
"Zhao Heavenly Venerable is truly a once-in-a-lifetime genius!" Changsun Kui began showering praises upon Zhao Xing.
Of course, his praise wasn't entirely without reason. Zhao Xing had once spared him in the Purple Divine Relic.
At the time, Zhao Xing had released many people on Gulu Star to spare the Mist Walker. Changsun Kui, a Shennong of the Corpse Puppet Sect, had been one of them.
"All that effort of traveling such a long way, paying such a hefty sum to Great Zhou, and waiting for months—it was worth every bit!"
On the Sacred Wood Dao Platform, Wang Tianzhi and Ling Tianchen also found themselves deep in thought.
For the Shennong of Great Zhou, understanding the Yuan Qi Tides had always been limited to two superficial concepts: natural disasters and opportunities. Among the Heaven School's Shennong researchers, Wang Tianzhi and Ling Tianchen held diametrically opposing views.
Ling Tianchen believed that the Yuan Qi Tides represented a guest-Qi anomaly, a massive, once-in-a-million-years seasonal shift impacting the entire Xuanhuang Realm.
Thus, he firmly placed it under the category of "Guest Qi."
Wang Tianzhi, however, had a different perspective. He believed Zhao Xing's proposition that the Yuan Qi Tides signaled the precursor to a new Spiritual Qi Era, leading into the Age of Ascension.
From this viewpoint, the changes brought about by the Yuan Qi Tides would stabilize as a new norm.
His reasoning? The emergence of the transcendent "Super-Rank" realm as a common achievement—not an elusive goal reached by only a few.
If the Rule Stage and Ascension Stage became standard, then the Yuan Qi Tides naturally fell under the category of the Six Principal Qi.
However, explaining the underlying principles remained a perplexing challenge—one that Zhao Xing now addressed.
Spiritual Qi had always existed, yet it was relatively rare, confined to specific secret realms in the Xuanhuang Realm, such as the Ancient Dragon Court or the Southern Wilderness.
"The celestial phenomena of the Taiyin and Taiyin Stars have led to the division of the twenty-four solar terms." Now that Zhao Xing had begun explaining, he elaborated further on this topic.
Hosting the Dao Discourse Conference served multiple purposes: unveiling the Xuanhuang Qi Breaking Technique, drawing people from across the land to Great Zhou to boost its fortune, and unifying the three sects. He couldn't allow the Self School to overshadow the others, as that would undermine the conference's objectives.
"The Yin-Yang twenty-four solar terms are divided into six Qi and six steps, starting on Great Zhou's Great Cold Day, following the sequence of mutual generation among Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water."
"Each step spans sixty days and eighty-seven marks. When expanding the scope of Heavenly Timing, the multiples can be calculated accordingly."
"When a specific Qi is in command, it will exhibit characteristics aligned with its corresponding Five Elements."
"Viewed from the perspective of epochs, the Yuan Qi Tides occur frequently and are clearly a form of cyclical change."
Wang Tianzhi, Ling Tianchen, and others were deeply engrossed in contemplation. This explanation seemed to go beyond their prior understanding of the Grand Cycle of the Three Yin, Three Yang, and Six Qi Theory, adding new layers of insight.
Wang Tianzhi posed another question: "Grand Shennong, if we analyze the Yuan Qi Tides as a form of cyclical change within the Grand Cycle Epoch Theory, does that imply the existence of a 'Grand Four Seasons' concept as well?"
Zhao Xing smiled and nodded. Wang's comprehension lived up to his reputation—he truly was a prodigious talent, merely born in the wrong era. Otherwise, becoming the Grand Shennong would have been well within his grasp.
"Indeed, when extrapolated from the Grand Cycle Theory, there is the concept of a 'Grand Four Seasons.'" Zhao Xing spoke calmly. "However, the Xuanhuang Realm's map is too small, and human lifespans too short to witness the 'Grand Four Seasons' in their entirety."
"Are the epochs written in the Grand Cycle Theory also seasonal cycles?"
"Such foresight is remarkable, truly remarkable…"
"Could this be part of Qing Yuzi's inheritance?"
"Nonsense! Qing Yuzi is insignificant compared to the Grand Shennong. The Grand Cycle Theory predates Qing Yuzi's remnants. All of this was the Grand Shennong's own enlightenment!"
The discussion between Wang Tianzhi and Zhao Xing caused a massive stir. From the perspective of shifting attention, Wang had succeeded magnificently.
Most of the audience stopped thinking about the Xuanhuang Qi Breaking Technique and focused entirely on their Dao exchange. The Heaven School's disciples were ecstatic.
"Hahaha! Wang truly did not disappoint!" exclaimed Prince Jia'an of the Heaven School. "He hasn't embarrassed Xuantian Academy in the slightest!"
"Even the four academies of Wind, Rain, Thunder, and Cloud are watching," said the cold and composed Kan Qing, a Shennong of the Heaven School, with a rare smile of satisfaction. "After half a year of deliberation, placing him as the third Dao debater was the right choice!"
The sequence of Dao debaters had been a major point of contention among the three factions for months.
Apart from Mi Fu being personally chosen by Zhao Xing and Liu Tianning being undisputed, the rest of the lineup was heavily debated. Candidates like Wang Tianzhi, Ling Tianchen, Lu Chunhua, Qiu Yuanshan, Ji Youtang, Meng Kun, Chu Qianqiu, and Zhuang Darong were all in contention.
The deans, vice-deans, and Ritual Studies Doctors of the three factions all had the qualifications to compete.
Though Wang Tianzhi's fame was notable, much of it came from his official position and his status as Li Boqian's junior disciple. Within the Shennong ranks, there were still many who could rival him.
Ultimately, debating wasn't solely about combat ability; achievements in law and doctrine were the deciding factors. With Wang Tianzhi's strong performance, earlier internal disputes were finally put to rest.
"The heavens encompass all directions, ancient and modern, uniting light, time, and shadow. The interplay of the three Yin, three Yang, and six Qi in the Grand Cycle Theory reveals that the Xuanhuang Realm embodies 'Minor Four Seasons,' while the cosmos reflects 'Grand Four Seasons.' How should we prepare for the Yuan Qi Tides, which represent such cyclical cosmic changes?"
"By applying the Guest-Host Overlay Method, excess or deficient guest Qi is added to the third Qi of the principal cycle. The remaining five Qi follow sequential addition—this is the essence of the Guest-Host Overlay."
"Just as harmony arises from complementary Qi and imbalance leads to sickness, adhering to these rules will ensure effective responses to the Yuan Qi Tides."
As he spoke, Zhao Xing glanced toward the Heavenly Heart Hall, subtly promoting Ji Che's grand ascension plan.
"According to the Grand Cycle Theory, extrapolated through the five-step seasonal movements, 1,236,546 years have passed, and the Xuanhuang Realm is currently situated at the southern boundary of the cosmic northern division of the Taiyang Star."
"This happens to coincide with the arrival of the 'Grand Spring.'"
"The Yuan Qi Tides in the Xuanhuang Realm are essentially the cold currents reversing on the eve of Spring's arrival. On a cosmic scale, it represents the interplay of 'Spring Dusk Flying Clouds' and 'Night Dew Qi.'"
Spring symbolizes revival, and our world is about to face a rain of spiritual energy! This is the revival of spiritual energy mentioned in ancient texts!
"However, due to the geographical location of the Xuanhuang Realm, someone is trying to prevent it from descending and monopolize the benefits for themselves. Only His Majesty considers the wellbeing of all the people, striving to ensure everyone can enjoy the blessings of this revival."
Hearing this, Wang Tianzhi smiled. This part wasn't in the script; the Grand Shennong had improvised entirely. He immediately played along, saying, "His Majesty possesses a heart full of great love. Truly, he is a ruler unmatched through the ages!"
"His Majesty possesses a heart full of great love. Truly, he is a ruler unmatched through the ages!" echoed Jin Ke, the King of the Moss Kingdom, standing up in the Hall of Heavenly Heart and raising his cup. "As a minister of the Great Zhou Dynasty, it is truly an honor!"
"I humbly request all ministers to raise their cups and toast His Majesty!"
Tong Wenzhuo couldn't help but feel speechless at such blatant flattery, especially coming from a foreign king. It was truly a failure on their part to let him steal the show. Watching the former Moss Prince, now the Moss King, fawn so openly made Tong wish he could shove him into the "Annals of Fawning Ministers."
However, as the Right Chancellor, it wouldn't be appropriate for him to compete for such opportunities. Yet, he couldn't help but wonder why none of his subordinates were clever or bold enough to act in time.
As all the ministers raised their cups to toast him, Ji Che was filled with delight. "Hahaha, drink to your heart's content, everyone!"
After all, who doesn't enjoy hearing good words? This was why sycophants often found favor—they knew how to please. "No comparison, no comparison," Jiang Hua muttered, marveling at the spectacle.
After Zhao Xing elaborated on the concept of Heavenly Timing of the Universe and praised Ji Che, it was like using a scholarly work to lay the groundwork for flattery. Ji Che wasn't the kind of monarch who was easily pleased by compliments, but Zhao Xing's approach was undoubtedly ingenious.
Who else could flatter in such a manner? There was none—it was unique and unparalleled.
Sima Yu, the official historian, eagerly documented:
"The Grand Shennong, Zhao Xing, expounded the theory of Heavenly Timing of the Universe, proclaiming the emperor to be a ruler unmatched through the ages. The emperor was greatly pleased. At that moment, the King of Moss raised a toast, and the ministers joined in, extolling the emperor's wisdom and benevolence."
With the discussion segment between Wang Tianzhi and Zhao Xing concluded, it was now Ling Tianchen's turn.
Ling Tianchen, however, found he didn't have much to say, as that rascal Wang Tianzhi hadn't left him much room to contribute.
Moreover, Zhao Xing, the Grand Shennong, had just explained that the Yuan Qi Tides were a constant natural phenomenon, not subject to changes caused by the timing of the seasons.
As such, he could only discuss Xuanhuang Qi Breaking Technique from the perspective of those who studied Seasonal Variations. This was an internal-world technique linked to seasonal changes. Ling Tianchen wasn't concerned about fame; his lineage was one that silently contributed without seeking recognition.
His position as the fourth speaker was well-deserved, considering the great sacrifices made by his lineage.
Zhao Xing had also provided Ling Tianchen ample opportunity to elaborate, focusing on the technical aspects. Overall, his presentation was competent and to the point, and he stepped down quickly after finishing.
"Boom~"
Next was the fifth speaker—Meng Kun.
Why wasn't it Qiu Yuanshan, the Dean of Kun Yuan Academy, but Vice Dean Meng Kun instead? The main reason was that Meng Kun had previously discovered Zhao Xing and had provided him with significant assistance.
Qiu Yuanshan was sensible and gave up the opportunity as the primary spokesperson of the Earth School to Meng Kun. "Meng Kun asked the Grand Shennong, may I inquire if the Grand Shennong has any works related to the Earth School?"
"You did promise me several centuries ago!" Laughter erupted in and outside the venue.
Meng Kun's expression was full of grievance, making it seem less like he was participating in a scholarly discussion and more like he was collecting a long-overdue debt. Zhao Xing couldn't help but laugh, as Old Meng's demeanor resembled that of a wronged damsel. "Yes."
Upon hearing this affirmation, Meng Kun jumped up with excitement. Qiu Yuanshan, Ji Youtang, Xiao Zhe, and others couldn't hold back their cheers either.
It was no easy feat!
The uproar caused by Mi Fu's Three Works of the Self School had already had a profound impact, suggesting that the rise of the Self School was inevitable.
The Heaven School had built upon the foundational theories of Three Yin, Three Yang, and Six Qi of the Grand Celestial Cycle, publishing works like Heavenly Timing of the Universe: Yuan Qi Tides. But what about the Earth School? They had nothing.
Well, not entirely nothing—they had a hoe. That was sufficient in the past. But times were changing, and with the Earth School on the verge of falling from the second spot to last place, they couldn't sit idly by.
Meng Kun, disregarding formalities, demanded a scholarly work.
Of course, Zhao Xing was well-prepared. He couldn't allow any single faction to dominate, at least not in terms of theoretical works. Practical development was another matter entirely.
Like Mi Fu, he began a visually enriched explanation, writing five words in the air: "Theory of Five Elements and Four Seasons." The spectators, both inside and outside the venue, immediately perked up.
The Theory of Five Elements and Four Seasons was the unifying framework proposed by the Grand Shennong!
It was a major topic in civil service exams, especially for positions related to officials of the Shennong Division and Dao Division.
"Integrating the Five Elements, Four Seasons, and Heavenly Timing to elucidate the fundamental principles of the universe—has Zhao Divine Venerable already begun revising such a classic?" Daoist Yueying remarked in astonishment as she gazed above.
Wuxing Zhe chuckled in amusement.
Before entering the Great Zhou, Daoist Yueying referred to Zhao Xing by name. After entering its borders, she called him Zhao Chen'an. During the discourse, she addressed him as Zhao Heavenly Venerable. Now, she had upgraded to calling him Divine Venerable.
"It was worth bringing her here," Wuxing Zhe thought to himself. "As long as I can convince this old hag, persuading the others will be much easier."
"The Winter Solstice marks the beginning, and the next Winter Solstice divides the year into five equal parts, each lasting 72 days, corresponding to the 72 changes of the seasons."
"These align sequentially with Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water, adhering to the Five Elements Daily Application Method. The elements align as follows: Jia with Wood, Bing with Fire, Wu with Earth, Geng with Metal, and Ren with Water."
"The seasons are further divided into Meng (Early), Zhong (Middle), and Ji (Late) months."
"For example, Meng Chun (Early Spring), Zhong Chun (Middle Spring), and Ji Chun (Late Spring) are positioned in the east, aligned with the Wood Element, and correspond to Jia and Yi."
"This is consistent with the currently popular theory of the Earth King during Late Summer."
"However, this theory lacks balance. Meng Xia (Early Summer), Zhong Xia (Middle Summer), and Ji Xia (Late Summer) are divided between Fire and Earth, with Fire receiving two months and Earth only one. Meanwhile, the other three elements each have three months."
Zhao Xing first explained the prevailing Earth King During Late Summer theory. Then, he highlighted the issue—that the alignment of the Five Elements with the Four Seasons was inherently imbalanced.
This line of thought caused the Earth Element to be perceived as the weakest. Many Shennong found that when adjusting the ley lines, they would first manipulate the other four elements.
For example, one of the methods Zhao Xing had once examined involved the principle of "using Metal to reduce Fire's intensity and then employing Water to suppress Fire, thus allowing the Earth to be utilized effectively." This approach addressed severe droughts caused by extreme heat and outlined ways to regulate the situation.
Now, Zhao Xing introduced his new theory: The Four Seasons of Earth Sovereignty.
"By allocating the final eighteen days of Late Spring, Late Summer, Late Autumn, and Late Winter to the Earth Element, we achieve a total of seventy-two days. Hence, all five elements manage the four seasons in a perfectly balanced state."
Meng Kun furrowed his brows in confusion. "Grand Shennong, wouldn't this disrupt the cycle of mutual generation between Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water? After all, the Earth Element spans all four seasons from start to finish."
Zhao Xing continued, smiling as he explained: "There is no element more noble than Earth. It governs and balances the four directions. Earth within the four seasons commands all and is second to none."
Hearing this, Meng Kun couldn't suppress a smile.
Zhao Xing was clearly elevating the status of the Earth Element to the most esteemed position. From the perspective of the Heavenly Timing, Earth was associated with four branches, while the other elements were only paired with two each.
After solidifying this idea, Zhao Xing addressed Meng Kun's question. With a wave of his hand, a landmass suddenly materialized, condensed in the sky above.
"The sequence of the Five Elements generating each other remains intact. Whenever we use ley lines to comprehend the Dao and perform techniques, we have never truly strayed from the Earth Element.
"Post-Heaven Earth returns to the origin, and its transformation gives rise to the Xuanhuang Qi. Just as a Shennong cultivates the Pure Essence Soil,
"It begins with the Earth Element, from which the other four elements are generated, shaping the mountains, rivers, and life forms of heaven and earth.
"*By following this path of cultivation, the inner world can eventually transform into a Cave-Heaven realm, which demonstrates the nobility of the Earth Element.
"So, even as the Earth Element reigns supreme, the principle of mutual generation among the five elements remains unaffected?"
The one speaking was Qiu Yuanshan, who was so excited that he forgot it wasn't his turn to speak.
"Precisely," Zhao Xing affirmed with a nod. He had redefined the theory from Earth Sovereignty in Late Summer to Earth Sovereignty Across Four Seasons. Ultimately, he linked it back to the Xuanhuang Qi Breaking Technique and Qi Theory.
This wasn't a case of force-fitting unrelated ideas. The theories of the three factions complemented one another, representing the fundamental principles of heaven and earth. None could be taken in isolation.
Once Qiu Yuanshan comprehended this concept, he gasped in awe, pointing at the floating mountain above, his hands trembling as his breath quickened.
Meng Kun hadn't grasped the concept entirely, but his impatience grew as he watched. "Old Qiu, what are you trying to say? Spit it out already!"
"A... a... a...," Qiu Yuanshan stammered, his voice quivering. After steadying himself, he gazed at the mountain and respectfully inquired: "Grand Shennong Zhao Xing, is this mountain formed of Pure Essence Soil?"
Zhao Xing chuckled and nodded. "Yes. It is not an illusion but a tangible reality."
Meng Kun, Ji Youtang, and others suddenly stood, their eyes glued to the peak above.
As for the scholars from Shangluo Academy, they were even more astounded. Never had anyone been able to cultivate a spirit mountain from Pure Essence Soil!
No one's soil cultivation had surpassed the three foundational stages to achieve a state where a spiritual mountain could be nurtured within their body!
Even the Shennong of the Heaven School were astonished, as Zhao Xing's mountain floated in the sky rather than resting on the ground. This meant that the soil within his Pure Essence Space had broken free of certain restraints, reaching a level capable of suppressing Heavenly Timing itself.
"My heavens... We have always used mountain-crafting techniques to refine the Ten-Thousand Heavy Mountains and relied on Earth-Cutting Ships to transport them for battle. Who would have thought that by cultivating Post-Heaven Earth to the extreme, one's Pure Essence Soil could nurture a mountain on its own?"
"The theory of Earth Sovereignty Across Four Seasons isn't mere rhetoric. Grand Shennong Zhao Xing has truly achieved it!
"With the emergence of this mountain, no Heavenly Timing can prevail against it!"
"So the Great Dao forward... The path lies beneath our feet. Many thanks to Grand Shennong for sharing the Dao!"
Within the venue, a high-crowned Destiny Palace Shennong named Pan Chang from Fuguo stood solemnly and adjusted his robes before suddenly kneeling to the ground.
Prostrating fully, Pan Chang—Fuguo's own Grand Shennong—treated Zhao Xing as a living saint.
"Xiangliu Nation's Shennong, Bo Hongde, offers thanks to the Grand Shennong for sharing the Dao!" Another figure in the viewing platform also knelt devoutly.
Xiangliu Nation, located north of the Great Zhou, was a medium-sized country and an ally of the Great Zhou. Bo Hongde, a renowned master with numerous disciples, bowed, prompting a wave of students behind him to follow suit.
"Tosang Nation's Shennong, Gao Shanyang, expresses gratitude to the Grand Shennong for sharing the Dao!" Gao hailed from an eastern nation as distant as the land of the Great Serpent.
Though only a few managed to grasp the concept immediately, those who did were undoubtedly exceptional talents. Daoist Yueying stared at the mountain, murmuring to himself: "Observing the mountain reveals the Dao... An enlightenment like nectar pouring into my mind."
With that, he cupped his hands toward the mountain and declared: "Daoist Yueying offers thanks to the Divine Venerable for bestowing the Dao."
The Mist Walker grinned as he observed his grandmaster bow. "So, you've finally conceded."
Yet before he could laugh too long, Daoist Yueying struck him on the back of the head. "You insolent whelp! If even I am kneeling, how dare you remain standing? Get down and kowtow immediately!"
"You might not yet comprehend the Divine Venerable's Dao, but in time, you surely will. This is a priceless opportunity!"
"Y-yes, yes!" Mist Walker quickly knelt and prostrated himself.
Humans are naturally inclined to follow the crowd. When many influential figures began kneeling to Zhao Xing, others quickly imitated them. These strong practitioners shared their understanding with their disciples, and soon the realization spread.
The chants of gratitude to the Grand Shennong echoed like an endless tide:
"Thank you, Grand Shennong, for sharing the Dao!"
"Thank you, Grand Shennong, for sharing the Dao!"
"Thank you, Grand Shennong, for sharing the Dao!"
Their voices reverberated across heaven and earth as phenomena such as morning glow, flying springs, and sunsets manifested in cycles.
The ritual team led by Tong Wenzhuo was left speechless in shock. Their earlier collective spells had been entirely overwhelmed!
Now, within the venue, the sound of discourse filled every corner, resonating even in the Hall of Heavenly Heart with a force that seemed capable of overturning the skies.
"What a majestic scene of all beings worshipping the sage! A rarity through the ages," Ji Che muttered, his gaze profound. He gently raised his hand, stabilizing the venue's order and halting the celestial phenomena.
"My elder brother may not have established the Dao yet, but the signs are already present. If this were during a time of abundant spiritual energy, with such manifestations in the Dao venue, he could ascend to the heavens in one step!"