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Chapter 278: The Ambush and Counter-Ambush, Zhao Xing’s Backup Plan!
🕑 Added 2024-12-08 06:08:19 +0000 UTC"Assassins arrived in Mingyue Prefecture ten days ago?" Zhao Xing froze for a moment, surprised by the startling news.
Understanding the gravity of the situation, he didn’t hesitate and immediately agreed, "King Tianyan, I’ll return to the prefectural capital right away."
After ending the Earth Mirror communication, Zhao Xing closed his eyes and entered his Memory Palace.
"It’s already late April, yet King Liang’s Hidden Fortune Dragon Rankings has opened earlier than expected," Zhao Xing reflected inwardly.
"By all rights, it shouldn’t have been activated until the latter half of the year. Starting it several months early shows how much more desperate King Liang has become compared to his actions in the previous timeline."
"The Hidden Fortune Dragon Rankings functions similarly to the Creation Disk, but with differences. The Creation Disk can analyze and encompass everything, big or small, while the rankings focus primarily on the strongest individuals."
"My sudden appearance on the Hidden Fortune Dragon Rankings, with such a high rank, must be the result of multiple factors. Strength on the rankings doesn’t solely refer to cultivation or combat power."
He began analyzing his situation step by step:
"First, my Fortune is strong. After making a deal with the Fate Blackbird, my Fortune increased significantly, reaching the Sixth Derivation. This is an indicator of ‘strength’ in the rankings."
"Second, my cultivation strength is undeniable. Though I’m only Fourth Rank, I’ve achieved the first layer of the Derivation of the Divine Spirit, and my comprehension already far exceeds the average for this level."
"I’ve also mastered top-tier techniques: the Cloud Law’s Cloud Gate and A Step to Infinity, the Thunder Law’s Heavenly Thunder Finger, the Boundless Earth Palace, Profound Water Palace, and the Earth Spirit Repository Technique."
"Not to mention the Kunpeng Transformation and Dreamwalking Technique."
"With the amplification of the Derivation of the Divine Spirit and my Myriad Straw Puppet techniques, I can already match a mid-Third Rank in combat. My escape and survival skills are even better."
"And with my arsenal—including the Seasonal Qi Command set, Yuan Yin Sacred Codex, Heavenly Secret Robe, and Purple Moon Soul Lamp—my strength is amplified even further."
Zhao Xing furrowed his brows as he considered this. Despite his arsenal of abilities, he hadn’t showcased his full power in a true life-or-death struggle yet. His apparent Fourth Rank cultivation shouldn’t have placed him so high on the rankings.
In his Memory Palace, Zhao Xing meticulously reviewed his past actions. Events replayed like a movie reel in his mind.
"Stop!"
The scene paused on a specific moment: Zhao Xing at Xuantian Academy, conversing with Hu Yang, followed by him penning his thesis on military spatial calculations.
"So this is it," Zhao Xing took a deep breath.
"Third factor: Influence!"
"My work, ‘Theory of Three Yin, Three Yang, and Six Qi: Grand Zhou Celestial Cycle - Mathematical Applications,’ must have had a massive impact!"
"It can precisely calculate the periodic fluctuations of spatial passages in the Military Realm. In this regard, it even surpasses Wu’s Balanced Time Theory Across Four Directions."
"I underestimated its significance," Zhao Xing realized.
"From a military perspective, my analysis of Military Realm spatial passages could determine the life or death of an elite army from either King Liang’s or the Imperial Court’s faction."
In warfare, controlling key terrains and chokepoints is critical. Knowing the exact activation dates of these Military Realm passages could dramatically alter strategic outcomes. Arriving a day early or late could completely change the result, while arriving too early wastes resources.
"In late March, I met Hu Yang and spent considerable time calculating the opening date of the ninth entrance to Danxia Cave-Heaven. Not long after, these assassins were dispatched. This can’t be a coincidence," Zhao Xing concluded.
Even when he slew the King of Tianxia, it didn’t draw such immediate attention from King Liang’s camp. Yet, not long after publishing his findings, an assassination plot began.
Continuing his review, Zhao Xing saw another critical moment: himself in the Star Palace, documenting insights into cultivating the Derivation of the Divine Spirit’s first layer.
"This too—my insights on cultivating the Derivation of the Divine Spirit!"
"My writings could provide enormous guidance to others practicing the Derivation of the Divine Spirit."
Only highly gifted or high-ranking cultivators could even attempt the Derivation of the Divine Spirit, so the impact of his insights would be immense.
Zhao Xing narrowed it down to these reasons:
His military mathematical thesis on spatial passages.
His cultivation insights on the Derivation of the Divine Spirit.
Other factors, like his essays on natural harmony or his connections with Liu Tianning and his disciples, likely contributed as well. However, these two points seemed to be the primary causes.
Opening his eyes, Zhao Xing’s expression remained composed.
While the assassins had already infiltrated Mingyue Prefecture and were likely formidable, there was no need to panic. Panicking wouldn’t change anything.
"Gao Dongpo, continue overseeing the implementation of the disaster prevention plan," Zhao Xing instructed.
"Most of Mingyue Prefecture’s counties have been stabilized. Only a few areas with unique challenges remain. You and your team are fully capable of handling them."
"Understood! Thank you, my lord, for your guidance," Gao Dongpo said, deeply moved as he bowed.
"I will never forget your teachings."
Zhao Xing’s decision to delegate full authority to Gao Dongpo would significantly boost his subordinate’s career. Gao Dongpo, an official of Mingyue Prefecture, held a rank technically equal to Zhao Xing’s but had been entirely won over by Zhao Xing’s competence.
Some superiors hog credit for themselves, but Zhao Xing not only demonstrated extraordinary skill but also ensured his subordinates shared in the achievements. For someone like Gao Dongpo, this was an ideal superior.
Of course, Gao Dongpo had no idea that Zhao Xing was preparing for his own escape!
"Do your job well, and the Prefect will remember your contributions," Zhao Xing said with a smile, patting Gao Dongpo on the shoulder before flying away.
All of his avatars stationed nearby were withdrawn as well—leaving them would risk collateral damage.
Watching Zhao Xing disappear into the distance, Gao Dongpo sighed with admiration.
"Working under him is truly a blessing. What an extraordinary leader!"
He quickly rallied his team, shouting, "Let’s move! Don’t let down the Prefect or Lord Zhao!"
Arriving at the Mingyue Prefecture Office, Zhao Xing addressed Ye Yukong directly, "Prefect, someone is planning to kill me."
"Oh? Approved," Ye Yukong replied reflexively, reaching for his seal.
Zhao Xing: "???"
What exactly are you approving? The assassination itself?
"Prefect, I said there are assassins planning to kill me, not that I need an official document for it!"
"What?!" Ye Yukong snapped to attention, now fully alert. "Someone wants to kill you? Outrageous!"
"Don’t worry, Chen’an! With me here, I’d like to see who dares!" Ye Yukong declared confidently.
Zhao Xing: …
Why do you look so excited?
Ye Yukong was already brimming with energy, his demeanor completely transformed. The air around him grew sharp, radiating a domineering aura. His previously unremarkable appearance now seemed strikingly handsome.
Finally, some action! He had grown bored of stamping documents all day, his days in the Prefecture Office filled with lethargy.
But assassins? Now this was interesting!
"Do you know where the assassins are? How many of them?" Ye Yukong asked eagerly.
"I’m not sure," Zhao Xing replied. "All I know is that they’ve been in Mingyue Prefecture for ten days. Given their target, at least some Third Rank experts will be involved."
Given his well-known ability to summon Myriad Straw Puppets, Zhao Xing knew they wouldn’t send just one person. A lone assassin would only end up wasting their effort.
"The assassins wouldn’t hide in the prefectural capital—it’s too heavily guarded. Nor would they enter heavily fortified counties," Ye Yukong deduced.
"For someone like you, they’d need at least five Third Rank experts, including a Shennong, a warlock, a martial artist, a priest, and a ritualist."
"Why five? How can you be so specific?" Zhao Xing asked, curious.
Ye Yukong smirked. "Because only a Shennong understands how to counter another Shennong."
"Then there’s the warlock to amplify spells and track your movements using fate divination."
"The priest to attack your soul, the martial artist to physically destroy you, and the ritualist to cast interference spells like Forgetfulness, Silence, or Stupidity—minimizing any commotion during the assassination."
"If they’ve been here for ten days, they wouldn’t hide in areas where disaster warnings have dropped below Level 5. They’d likely remain in counties still under Level 6 alerts."
Ye Yukong drew his sword suddenly, his eyes gleaming with excitement.
"I know where they are! Let’s go get them!"
He pointed at the map, ready to issue orders.
Zhao Xing: "???"
What’s with this sudden shift? How is it that when military action comes up, you react so decisively?
Ye Yukong’s excitement was palpable as he pointed at the map with his sword, indicating the potential locations of the assassins. Zhao Xing, on the other hand, was still stunned by the speed of Ye Yukong’s deductions.
"Prefect, shouldn’t we deliberate on this a bit more?" Zhao Xing cautiously asked. "You’ve determined their likely location so quickly?"
Ye Yukong confidently tapped the map with his sword. "If the assassins want to avoid detection by the Heavenly Observation Division and the temples, they would have no choice but to hide in these extreme environments. That’s the first factor."
"Secondly, most areas in Mingyue Prefecture have been stabilized under your guidance, leaving only these remaining counties under Level 6 disaster warnings. These are places where you would naturally be expected to intervene next."
"And third," Ye Yukong continued, "assassins planning for long-term operations can’t carry unlimited supplies. To maintain peak combat readiness, they’d need someone like a Military Shennong to provide food and other essentials for their team."
His sword traced three points on the map—three counties at the border of Mingyue Prefecture, all adjacent to areas with relatively normal environments.
"These counties—Yuan County, Dang County, and Yuyang County—are the only viable hiding spots. If the assassins fail to eliminate you, these locations provide the best escape routes into neighboring territories."
"Where else could they be?" Ye Yukong asked with a triumphant grin.
Zhao Xing was momentarily speechless. Ye Yukong’s analysis mirrored his own thoughts almost perfectly, despite the fact that Zhao Xing had taken considerable time to reach his conclusions. Yet, Ye Yukong had deduced it all in mere moments.
Zhao Xing couldn't help but marvel at the sheer brilliance of Ye Yukong's deductions.
"No wonder the court appointed Ye Yukong as the Prefect," Zhao Xing thought. "Even if his administrative abilities aren't the best, Mingyue Prefecture wouldn't easily fall to enemy hands with someone like him in charge!"
His admiration was genuine, though he couldn't help but notice Ye Yukong's extreme specialization in military matters. Zhao Xing sighed inwardly, truly impressed. "The Prefect is a genius!"
"Hahaha, Chen’an, you're flattering me too much!" Ye Yukong laughed heartily, clearly pleased to hear such genuine praise from Zhao Xing.
Zhao Xing, however, turned serious. "Prefect, the assassins targeting me this time won’t be weak. Given my ranking on the Hidden Fortune Dragon Ranking, it’s essential to consider the severity of this matter."
Ye Yukong’s face grew solemn. "The Hidden Fortune Dragon Ranking, huh? What's your current position on it?"
"I’ve entered the top 100," Zhao Xing replied plainly.
"WHAT?!"
Ye Yukong froze, his eyes widening in disbelief. "Chen’an, did you just say you’re in the top 100?"
"Yes," Zhao Xing confirmed. "I currently rank within the top 100 on the Hidden Fortune Dragon Ranking."
Ye Yukong was utterly stunned. "You're ranked higher than me! What on earth did you do?"
Zhao Xing hesitated. The contents of the Three Yin, Three Yang, and Six Qi Grand Theory he had developed were still classified information, so he couldn't provide specifics. Seeing his reluctance, Ye Yukong quickly understood that Zhao Xing couldn’t reveal the details.
After a moment’s thought, Ye Yukong spoke decisively. "If that’s the case, it’s impossible for me alone to eliminate all the assassins targeting you. We need a comprehensive plan. Chen’an, you should return to the prefectural city immediately. Avoid alarming the assassins."
"Understood. I’m already on my way back," Zhao Xing replied.
Ye Yukong wasted no time, pulling out an Earth Mirror to begin preparations. While Zhao Xing was unsure of Ye Yukong’s exact strength, it was well-known that Ye Yukong was a peak Third Rank Sword Dao Master, famous for his self-created Mingyue Sword Technique, considered one of the top-tier techniques in its class.
Even though Ye Yukong was notorious for his lack of administrative skills, the court had still entrusted him with such significant authority, a testament to his unparalleled combat prowess and military expertise. Zhao Xing was confident that Ye Yukong could handle this assassination crisis. Even if he couldn’t, the safety net of Lord Tianyan and King Luo was there to back them up.
"For now, my priority is to return to safety," Zhao Xing thought as he hastened his pace.
Zhao Xing’s main body departed from Sui County toward the prefectural city. At the same time, multiple avatars of his began converging on the city from different directions. This tactic created enough distractions to confuse any potential assassins.
Moreover, Zhao Xing had divided his Life Soul into seven parts. This unique division made it nearly impossible for anyone to determine which body housed his true self.
Half a day later, Zhao Xing’s main body successfully arrived in the prefectural city. Meanwhile, elsewhere, King Tianyan and King Luo were engaged in a covert conversation.
"Luo, dispatch elite forces to Mingyue Prefecture immediately," King Tianyan commanded. His hair, now fully grown out, framed his aged face, adding an air of gravity to his words. "We must ensure Zhao Xing’s safety at all costs!"
King Luo’s expression turned serious. He had already been briefed on the internal power struggles within the Mandate Officers and the re-establishment of control over the Creation Disk by the Heavenly Mechanism Pavilion. "What happened?" King Luo asked. "Why is Zhao Xing suddenly so critical?"
"Zhao Xing has entered the Hidden Fortune Dragon Ranking, currently ranked seventy-seventh," King Tianyan revealed. "Assassins have already infiltrated Mingyue Prefecture and have been lying in wait for ten days. They’re preparing to strike soon!"
"Seventy-seventh on the Hidden Fortune Dragon Ranking?" King Luo’s eyes widened slightly. He understood the implications of such a high ranking.
"I will immediately send Dragon Abyss Prefect and Lord Shenluo to Mingyue Prefecture," King Luo declared.
"Send two more!" King Tianyan insisted.
King Luo hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Tianyan, I can deploy forces, but I need to understand why Zhao Xing is so crucial. The Heavenly Mechanism Pavilion must provide transparency. Otherwise, diverting such resources to protect him could expose both of us to criticism."
King Tianyan’s tone hardened. "Just mobilize the forces. I stake my life on the validity of this decision."
"Lives mean little to the grand scheme of things," King Luo retorted bluntly, his words cutting but logical. "Tianyan, you know as well as I do that every move must be justified. Without a proper reason, I can’t justify this to the court."
"This is top-secret information," King Tianyan replied firmly. "If you want answers, you’ll need to consult the Emperor directly."
King Luo’s pupils contracted at the mention of "top-secret." The gravity of the situation dawned on him. However, he couldn’t possibly guess that Zhao Xing’s insights into the proper cultivation path for the Derivation of the Divine Spirit technique could potentially shape the next millennium of development.
"Fine. Knowing that this is classified is enough for me," King Luo said after a pause. "I’ll also send Linghuan Marquis and the Master of the Heavens’ Feast Palace to assist."
"Move quickly!" King Tianyan urged before abruptly ending the communication.
When Zhao Xing finally returned to Mingyue Prefecture, he received a message from King Luo.
"Zhao Xing, Dragon Abyss Prefect, Lord Shenluo, Linghuan Marquis, and the Master of Heavens’ Feast Palace will arrive through secret channels. They will coordinate with Ye Yukong to deal with the assassins. Additionally, King Tianyan will visit Mingyue Prefecture personally, but he won’t stay long. Meet him at the Lihuo Dao Academy."
"Understood," Zhao Xing responded respectfully.
Although he had heard of Dragon Abyss Prefect, the other three names were unfamiliar to him. It was clear these were hidden elite forces within the Great Zhou’s arsenal.
On April 27th, Dragon Abyss Prefect, Lord Shenluo, Linghuan Marquis, and the Master of the Heavens’ Feast Palace secretly arrived in Mingyue Prefecture. Zhao Xing did not meet them; as per King Tianyan’s instructions, any direct contact could create karmic entanglements, exposing their presence to the enemy’s Fate Diviners.
On April 28th, King Tianyan appeared at the Lihuo Dao Academy. Zhao Xing met him in a secluded chamber. Draped in a black-and-white robe, King Tianyan held a mysterious compass, his aura steady and foreboding.
"Zhao Xing, we need one of your Life Souls to act as bait," King Tianyan said gravely. "Without this, the assassins won’t take the bait."
"I’m ready," Zhao Xing replied without hesitation.
With a wave of his hand, an avatar stepped forward from the shadows, its presence indistinguishable from Zhao Xing’s true self.
"That avatar is equipped with a Life Soul at the early Third Rank."
"Put on this robe." Lord Tianyan waved his hand, summoning a black-and-white robe.
"Understood," Zhao Xing responded immediately. The avatar stripped off its current attire and donned the new robe.
"Now, have this avatar leave the city and head sequentially to Zhang County, Dang County, and Yuyang County."
"Understood." Zhao Xing promptly set off, not bothering to question where the five elite experts were stationed. It wasn't his concern, and frankly, he wouldn’t have been able to find them anyway.
"As for your remaining six souls, merge them into one and stand in this circle." Lord Tianyan tossed the compass into the air.
Black and white lights cascaded down, forming a barrier on the ground.
"Understood." Zhao Xing followed instructions without hesitation. He quickly discerned Lord Tianyan’s strategy—his main body was now shrouded and hidden, leaving the baited avatar with the strongest Life Soul exposed to draw attention.
The other avatars carried faint and weak soul fragments, easy for higher-ranking enemies to distinguish as decoys.
"Your main body must remain absolutely still, focus only on maintaining calm, and await the results."
"Understood." Zhao Xing cleared his thoughts and entered a meditative state.
In Dang County, at an estate adorned with fiery red maple leaves on the eastern outskirts, a middle-aged man garbed in a Six Ren Daoist Robe gazed upward through a skylight. The light streaming in created a dynamic image on the floor, like flowing water.
"Daoist Tianjue, what have you divined?" A man resembling a golden-furred ape with twin blades strapped to his back entered the room.
"Golden Wild King, it is time to act. Zhao Xing will arrive in Dang County at the hour of You," Daoist Tianjue said with certainty. "This time, it will be his main body."
"Are you sure?" From the shadows, a woman with a crisp voice emerged. "Don't make the same mistake as those other fools who tried to assassinate Liu Tianning and ended up attacking countless Myriad Law Avatars instead."
"Ice Profound King," Golden Wild King retorted, looking at the woman draped in a Cloud Rain Robe and wearing a Hundred Flower Hat, "you're a Military Shennong too. Can't you tell when it's his real body?"
Ice Profound King shrugged indifferently. "I follow the Heavenly Timing Path. Before the split of Xuantian Academy, no one respected the Shangluo Academy, much less the Straw Puppet Method practiced there."
"If not for Liu Zonghai and Wu Cheng refining this method, we Shennongs would still be regarded as nothing more than glorified farmers."
"A single ultimate technique changed the future of an entire faction. The power of law is truly profound." A scholarly man in elegant attire entered the room, clutching a scripture in one hand.
Trailing behind him was a blind priest carrying a divine statue and a spiritual tablet.
The group instinctively stepped back upon seeing the refined scholar enter.
"Come now, there's no need for such hostility. I'm not going to eat anyone," the scholar said with a warm smile. "What were you discussing?"
"Master Gu," Golden Wild King greeted respectfully. "Daoist Tianjue has confirmed that the hour of You today is the optimal time for action. Zhao Xing will be in Dang County."
"Excellent news." The scholar, Master Gu, nodded approvingly. "I thought we'd have to wait three to five months. Tianjue, your skills are as remarkable as ever."
"You flatter me," Daoist Tianjue replied modestly.
Despite Master Gu’s friendly demeanor, the group remained wary. His status as a Second Rank Ritualist appointed by King Liang was undeniable, and his methods, though polite, were deeply unsettling.
The group—Daoist Tianjue, Ice Profound King, Golden Wild King, and the blind priest—all feared him. His techniques, including Intelligence Diminishing Spells, Forgetfulness Spells, and Speech Forbidding Arts, were tormentingly effective.
"Let’s finalize this," Master Gu declared. "We strike at the hour of You. Capture him if possible. If we can apprehend Zhao Xing, he’ll be a useful bargaining chip against Liu Tianning. If not, kill him to drive Liu Tianning to madness."
"Ensure that we at least retrieve a body."
"Understood."
On April 28th, precisely at the hour of You, Zhao Xing’s Cloud Rain Tower Ship drifted leisurely into Dang County.
"So, this is Dang County. What a harsh sight," Zhao Xing mused as he observed the thunderclouds ahead.
"Lightning storms rage above, while below, the earth quakes with explosions and storms sweep everything away."
At this moment, Zhao Xing had entirely forgotten the assassination plot. To maintain his cover, he had sealed his own memories of the mission upon leaving the city. He was here in Dang County purely as a disaster relief envoy, focused on assessing the damage and planning recovery efforts.
"Dang County has always had a harsh environment. The recent upheavals have only worsened the conditions," Zhao Xing muttered, shaking his head.
"Fortunately, Huang Shanggong evacuated most of the population early. Thanks to that, the majority of citizens have taken refuge."
"Now, eighty percent of Dang County's settlements are uninhabited," he noted. "Let’s begin by inspecting the most devastated areas."
Piloting the Cloud Rain Tower Ship, Zhao Xing directed it toward the most intense thunderstorm zones in Dang County.
Unbeknownst to him, a pair of watchful eyes observed his every move.
"The target has appeared," Ice Profound King reported, her gaze fixed on the ship from within a thunder pool. "Confirmed to be Zhao Xing’s main body."
"Proceed," Master Gu’s voice echoed in her ear.
"Understood." Ice Profound King manipulated the thunderclouds, summoning rain to obscure the area. Visibility dropped dramatically as heavy rain poured down.
The Cloud Rain Tower Ship began to sway precariously in the storm. Ice Profound King and Golden Wild King closed in slowly.
"He’s entered the Forgetfulness Spell Formation," Daoist Tianjue announced from below. "Ice Profound King, Golden Wild King, you may proceed to capture him."
In a flash, Ice Profound King and Golden Wild King appeared before the Cloud Rain Tower Ship.
"What?!" Zhao Xing exclaimed, startled. "Who are you?!"
"Boom!"
Golden Wild King’s twin blades swung down, their golden arcs crashing like mountains collapsing toward the ship.
"This is bad!" Zhao Xing immediately abandoned the ship, fleeing for his life.
"Run? Do you really think you can escape?" Ice Profound King blocked his path, licking her lips with a predatory grin.
"Fine. I won’t run." Zhao Xing’s gaze sharpened, his demeanor calm.
The moment he faced these two unfamiliar Third Rank experts, his Dream Storage Spell unlocked, and his sealed memories returned. He immediately grasped the purpose of his avatar's mission.
"You’re really not running?" Ice Profound King blinked in surprise. "Aren’t you Liu Tianning’s disciple? Haven’t you learned top-tier techniques? Aren’t you even going to resist?"
"Smart people know when to bow to power. You two are clearly formidable, so why should I bother fleeing?" Zhao Xing said with a relaxed tone.
"I surrender. Take me to meet your leader," he added, using the opportunity to stall for time.
"???" Ice Profound King looked at him, bewildered.
Golden Wild King and Ice Profound King were momentarily stunned.
Why wasn’t he following the usual script? Wasn’t Zhao Xing known for being fiercely defiant? Wasn’t he the one who was exiled for publicly rebuking King Liang? Where was his unyielding spirit now?
"Looks like your backbone isn’t that strong after all," Golden Wild King sneered, resting his blade on his shoulder as he floated closer to Zhao Xing. "Alright then, come along with us."
"Please, both of you, I can fly on my own," Zhao Xing said, sounding nervous. "There’s no need for you to harm me, my lords."
Golden Wild King and Ice Profound King exchanged disdainful glances.
Ice Profound King mocked, "Liu Tianning really chose an excellent disciple, didn’t he?"
"Hahaha, let’s head down," Golden Wild King said with a laugh.
The two escorted Zhao Xing to the maple-leaf estate below.
"Master Gu, we’ve completed the mission. Zhao Xing has been captured alive," Golden Wild King announced with pride.
"Oh?" Master Gu appeared at the doorway, but as soon as his gaze landed on Zhao Xing surrounded by the two captors, his expression shifted dramatically.
"Whoosh—"
Without saying a word, Master Gu grabbed the blind priest beside him and bolted.
He didn’t even bother to shout a warning, unwilling to waste a single moment in his escape!
"Master Gu—what are you doing?!" Ice Profound King and Golden Wild King were left dumbfounded.
Daoist Tianjue quickly realized what was happening and used his escape technique, burrowing underground without hesitation.
Seizing the moment of their confusion, Zhao Xing also fled at lightning speed.
In the blink of an eye, only Ice Profound King and Golden Wild King remained in the courtyard.
"Damn it!" Ice Profound King and Golden Wild King finally snapped out of their daze and rushed to capture Zhao Xing.
But at that very moment, a moonbeam descended from the sky, illuminating the two of them.
The rain had ceased at some unknown point.
A single ray of moonlight pierced straight through Ice Profound King.
"What?!" Golden Wild King was forced to stop abruptly, his face paling as his gaze turned upward.
"The moon?!" Golden Wild King’s widened eyes took in the massive moon now dominating the sky. With a roar, he swung his twin blades at the celestial object.
"Block this? With three centuries of sword power behind this strike, do you think you can block it?!"
A commanding voice echoed from within the moon.
Golden Wild King squinted and, to his shock, saw a figure standing on the magnified moon.
"The Lord of Bright Moon Manor! It’s you!!" Golden Wild King roared in rage, realization dawning. "This was a trap all along! Hold it off!"
His fur bristled, and his blades gleamed with hazy golden light, resonating with the essence of Gengjin, slicing through the sword intent bearing down on him.
Golden Wild King’s movements were as fast as a Third Rank pinnacle expert should be. Yet despite his power and speed, he couldn’t shatter the moon.
He lasted only three breaths before the massive moon crushed him completely.
"Splurt!"
A sharp beam of moonlight fell, revealing Ye Yukong standing behind Golden Wild King, his long hair billowing.
The moonlight phenomenon vanished just as swiftly.
To Golden Wild King, it was the moon itself that had killed him; he’d come so close to withstanding it. Yet to outside observers, his blades had never struck anything. Even the final two slashes he made were reflexive, executed instinctively after death.
In reality, he had perished long before those attacks landed.
"Hmph, even the true essence of Third Rank martial arts remains confined by the rules," Ye Yukong murmured, sheathing his sword.
Turning swiftly, he sped off in pursuit of Zhao Xing. "Zhao Xing, stop running—"
Ye Yukong’s voice trailed off in surprise. He found himself unable to catch up.
"What kind of technique is this? It’s unbelievably fast."
Zhao Xing flitted through the thunderclouds, widening the distance between them in just a few breaths.
"If I don’t use the Bright Moon Step, I won’t catch him?" Ye Yukong muttered. "No wonder they sent a combination of pinnacle Third Ranks to eliminate him."
While the chase and counterattack unfolded in Dang County, Zhao Xing’s other avatar sought out Sima Yunhai.
"Teacher Sima, someone is trying to kill me. The assassination team arrived at Bright Moon Manor twelve days ago. I’m currently fleeing in Dang County, pursued by five pinnacle Third Rank experts."
"What?" Sima Yunhai exclaimed, clearly alarmed. "I’ll come to assist you immediately!"
"No, Teacher," Zhao Xing shook his head. "I came to inform you, not to seek rescue."
"I’ve recently ranked within the top one hundred of the Hidden Fortune Dragon Ranking, likely drawing King Liang’s attention. I suspect this is related to the essay I wrote on the Grand Zhou Celestial Cycle."
"Even if you save me this time, it will only be temporary. I need you to report the situation to Xuantian Academy."
"I understand." Sima Yunhai turned back to his floating ship. "I will notify the academy right away."
"Thank you, Teacher," Zhao Xing said with a respectful bow.
At Xuantian Academy, various factions existed, and Sima Yunhai was a key figure in the Yun Sect.
Meanwhile, another of Zhao Xing’s avatars within the academy paused mid-pen stroke.
"Lord Hu, I can no longer continue my calculations," he said.
"Hmm? What’s wrong?" Hu Yang inquired with a puzzled expression.
"My main body is being hunted by King Liang’s rebels. I am being pursued as we speak," Zhao Xing replied calmly. "All because of the numerical pathway I identified in my essay on the Grand Zhou Celestial Cycle."
"I can no longer divide my focus; I must prioritize survival."
"What?!" Hu Yang was shocked, his expression quickly turning serious. "Very well. Find a safe place and protect yourself!"
"I’ll report this at once. I won’t allow you to come to harm!"
Hu Yang, a master of Transformational Methods, was a prominent figure in the Hou Sect, the largest faction within Xuantian Academy. Known for its three ultimate methods of transformation, the Hou Sect held significant influence.
Zhao Xing’s "Three Yin, Three Yang, and Six Qi Grand Zhou Celestial Cycle" had first gained recognition for its innovative approach to Hou transformation calculations. This was how Zhao Xing had come to the attention of the academy’s upper echelon.
Now, with Zhao Xing’s groundbreaking solution to the passage issue of the Military Realm, Hu Yang couldn’t stand idly by and let such talent fall into King Liang’s hands.
Without hesitation, Hu Yang transformed into a golden bird and took off, rallying reinforcements.
Back in Dang County, Daoist Tianjue frantically tunneled his way to safety, covering a thousand miles in a single breath to escape the region entirely.
"!"
Suddenly, he slammed into something solid, bouncing back violently. His head throbbed as dizziness set in, forcing him to end his tunneling technique and surface.
As Tianjue Daoist surfaced, his head barely breaking through the ground, a glowing rope swiftly tightened around his neck.
"Ugh—" Tianjue Daoist’s face flushed as he gasped for air.
Kneeling beside him was Ling Huanhou, with porcelain-like skin and sharp, handsome features. He pressed one foot against Tianjue Daoist’s shoulder, raising a finger to his lips.
"Shh~ No shouting now. Feeling dizzy is normal. Relax, just relax~" Ling Huanhou said soothingly.
Tianjue Daoist’s pupils dilated. Reflections of countless illusions flickered within his eyes.
With a calm motion, Ling Huanhou unclasped a hooked chain from his waist.
"Thud—"
The hook plunged straight into the back of Tianjue Daoist’s head.
A shrill, ghastly howl echoed as Tianjue Daoist’s primordial soul was forcibly yanked out.
The hook wrapped the glowing essence in coils before Ling Huanhou casually tied it to a nearby black-and-silver stake.
Surrounding the stake was a small Earth Shrine, complete with a shimmering Shenlou Pearl and a ground-reflecting mirror. Before the shrine stood a roaring cauldron of oil, a rack of cruel instruments displayed on its edge.
"Now, shall we begin?" Ling Huanhou said, flashing a sinister smile. "Tell me—who sent you to assassinate Zhao Xing?"
Elsewhere, one of Zhao Xing’s avatars sought out Pang Yuanzhen, Wei Zhao, and Yang Song.
"Mr. Pang, Lord Wei, Lord Yang," Zhao Xing began somberly. "It seems I must take my leave and cannot join you in discussing Dao matters today."
The trio froze, surprised by his sudden announcement.
"Marquis Yuan, what’s happened?" Pang Yuanzhen inquired.
With a sigh of grief, Zhao Xing explained, "King Liang has sent an assassination team to hunt me in Dang County. Were it not for my myriad avatars, my true body would already be a corpse by now."
He paused before continuing with grim determination. "However, with the power King Liang wields, even if this attempt fails, as long as he desires my death, I will eventually meet my end."
His words carried the weight of despair. But suddenly, his tone shifted, fiery resolve replacing resignation.
"But no matter. Death comes for all. Some deaths carry the weight of mountains, while others are as light as a feather."
"You need not worry for me! I was born a soldier and serve as Shennong. To die suppressing rebellion or combating natural disasters—this would be a worthy death!"
If Golden Wild King and Ice Profound King had heard this, they would likely have risen from their graves in sheer indignation. "Who’s hunting who here?!"
"It’s only a pity," Zhao Xing lamented, "that I couldn’t finish my latest essay on the Natural Philosophy of Self. Nor can I discuss the Dao with you gentlemen further. Such a regret."
These heartfelt words stirred Wei Zhao and Yang Song to fury.
"That vile King Liang!" Wei Zhao snarled. "Under the guise of righteousness, he’s persecuting the talented Shennong. It’s an affront to heaven and earth!"
"Marquis Yuan!" Yang Song declared passionately. "I’ll stand with you till the end! If we must die, let’s spill his blood first!"
Recognizing the volatile mood, Pang Yuanzhen raised his hands. "Please, my lords, do not act rashly. I’ll report this to Shangluo Academy immediately. Rest assured, we will not allow harm to come to Marquis Yuan!"
Back in Dang County, Masha County, dark clouds hung ominously in the sky.
"Damn Tianjue, damn Golden Wild and Ice Profound—they’ve ruined me!" Master Gu cursed under his breath as he carried the blind priest in a desperate retreat.
Behind them, a faint golden glow flickered ominously, closing in like a predator stalking its prey.
"These useless fools can’t even distinguish an avatar from the true body! Utter trash!" Master Gu bemoaned.
"Master," the blind priest interjected, "there’s someone ahead."
"I see them! Of course I see them!" Master Gu snapped, his voice laden with despair. "But what can we do? Everything is within their calculations. No matter where we flee, someone will be waiting!"
"So what do you plan to do, Master?" the blind priest pressed. "It seems we have no choice but to stop."
"I know that! Just give me a moment to think—stop pestering me!" Master Gu roared. Strange runes writhed across his face, squirming like worms.
"Oh, so we’ve walked right into the Heaven’s Net Earth Formation." The blind priest chuckled grimly. "Master, your fate is sealed."
"You’re useless too!" Master Gu snarled. The runes on his face writhed frantically, as if something was trying to break free.
"Allow me to lend you a hand, Master." The blind priest’s lips curled into a sinister grin. In a flash, his hands struck like lightning, plunging into Master Gu’s eye sockets.
"Riiip—"
The priest yanked out both eyes, tossing them into his mouth, chewing with sickening relish.
"You fool! You’re too hasty!" Master Gu roared as his garments began to tear apart. The runes across his body burst out, latching onto the blind priest.
"Ha~"
The blind priest retaliated, thrusting a hand into Master Gu’s chest, clawing savagely.
Moments later, the writhing runes burrowed into the blind priest as Master Gu’s body crumbled into nothingness. All that remained was a single tattered scroll, fluttering in the wind.
The blind priest, however, had transformed entirely.
"Lord Shenluo," he uttered, his voice now a mix of his own and Master Gu’s.
Perched atop a mechanical bamboo steed in the sky, Lord Shenluo was flanked by floating constructs of various sizes.
"Yushan Priest," Lord Shenluo said, his gaze tinged with pity. "You, once a renowned figure, have now stooped so low, becoming a mere puppet of another's script."
"And who isn’t a servant to strength?" the priest replied coldly. "Lord Shenluo, aren’t you just a puppet to the Luo King yourself?"
"Enough talk," Lord Shenluo’s eyes gleamed with fighting spirit. "We’ve crossed paths twice before—one win and one loss. Let today’s battle determine not only victory but life and death!"
"Come on!" Lord Shenluo roared, lightning crackling in his wake. "Let’s see if your descent into evil has made you stronger!"
In Kunshan, at the Kunyuan Academy palace:
"Lord Meng, Lord Gu," Zhao Xing’s avatar addressed the two figures solemnly. "Thank you both for your guidance over the years. I fear I can no longer receive your teachings. Please take care."
"What are you saying, Chen’an?" Meng Kun asked, alarmed. But before either of them could press further, Zhao Xing’s fragment of a soul within the avatar dissipated, leaving the form lifeless.
The two exchanged a grave look, quickly piecing together the situation.
"Chen’an must be in grave danger!" Meng Kun exclaimed. "Investigate immediately! Find out what’s happening!"
"Mobilize every branch of Kunyuan Academy’s Earth Repository in Pinghai Prefecture!" Meng Kun commanded, his fury palpable. "If King Liang has harmed Zhao Xing, I’ll march to Pinghai myself!"
"Don’t be reckless, old Meng," Gu Changqing cautioned, gripping Meng Kun’s arm. "We’d do better to strike from Luliang Prefecture and uproot King Liang’s base entirely."
Meanwhile, Zhao Xing’s avatars sent reports through reflective ground mirrors to Liu Tianning and Princess You Ruo. For them, Zhao Xing abandoned his emotional pleas, opting for a factual recounting of events.
After a brief wait, there was no response from Liu Tianning. However, Princess You Ruo replied promptly, her message concise:
"I understand."
"Princess You Ruo’s style grows more and more like old Liu’s," Zhao Xing mused. "I wonder what Liu Tianning is up to these days."
Though distant aid wouldn’t resolve his immediate crisis, Zhao Xing wasn’t seeking rescue from this wave of assassins. He sought a long-term solution.
"King Liang wants to assassinate me? Fine. I won’t suffer this in silence. If I escalate this, survival becomes possible," Zhao Xing thought.
"He claims to uphold justice, yet wastes resources on killing a mere Shennong. If the world knew of this hypocrisy, his two centuries of built prestige would crumble."
"He may control Pinghai Prefecture, but he can’t silence the masses."
"This isn’t just about defense. I need to counterattack, ensuring that every faction knows opposing me means paying the price."
"King Liang," Zhao Xing muttered with steely resolve. "Let’s see if your army can even leave Pinghai Prefecture once the Three Shennong Factions are united against you!"
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