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Chapter 252: Supreme Manifestation, Boundless Ocean Cave-Heaven, and the Competition for Quotas
🕑 Added 2024-11-25 08:02:04 +0000 UTCJingxin Era, Year 29, November 15
Zhao Xing returned to the Dragon Horse Directorate on Twin Island to fully focus on absorbing the Primordial Soul Fruit.
Jingxin Era, Year 30, February 2
Half of the Primordial Soul Fruit was absorbed. Zhao Xing’s Fate Soul advanced from Fifth-Rank Perfection to Fourth-Rank Early Stage. This time, despite his Fate Soul surpassing his physical cultivation level, he felt no discomfort.
The primary reason was his mastery of over a hundred Myriad Manifestation Manifestations, reaching the Perfection level of advanced techniques.
“The next step is the Thousand Manifestation Manifestation, a supreme-level technique,” explained Liu Tianning, seated across from Zhao Xing in the secret chamber of the Directorate.
This Liu Tianning was one of his Myriad Manifestation Manifestations. Early in the Jingxin Era, Year 30, Liu dispatched this Manifestation, officially to observe Zhao Xing's performance in the upcoming East Sea Myriad Beast Competition. However, Zhao Xing suspected Liu had a broader agenda involving gathering evidence against the Liang King faction beyond the Southern Barbarian battlefield.
Without prying further, Zhao Xing focused on Liu’s explanation of cultivation methods.
“The progression from ‘Hundred Manifestation Manifestation’ to ‘Thousand Manifestation Manifestation’ is a qualitative leap,” Liu Tianning explained. “It marks the transition from advanced techniques to supreme techniques. The cultivation focus shifts from combining various techniques to refining individual techniques to their peak.”
“For instance,” Liu Tianning said, gesturing to his current form, “this is a Supreme Manifestation—Soul-Devouring Straw Puppet. Built as the foundation of my Myriad Manifestation Manifestation, it specializes in Fate Soul techniques.”
“Focus your mind and feel the power of a Supreme Manifestation,” Liu instructed.
Zhao Xing nodded, withdrawing his other Myriad Manifestation Manifestations to concentrate on defense.
Red light radiated from Liu Tianning’s eyes, and Zhao Xing instinctively looked up. The depth and mystery in Liu’s gaze seemed to embody profound Dao truths, captivating Zhao Xing’s attention.
Liu Tianning was surprised. Using only thirty percent of his technique’s power, his disciple was unaffected. This was a Supreme Manifestation, after all!
Increasing his power gradually—thirty, forty, fifty percent—Liu reached seventy percent before Zhao Xing’s expression changed. In Liu’s gaze, Zhao Xing saw the pathway to immortality, his ultimate dream.
He became entranced, oblivious to the fact that immortality could not be revealed through such means.
“Wake up!” Liu Tianning’s voice cut through Zhao Xing’s daze as the red glow vanished.
Zhao Xing snapped back to reality, feeling a pang of loss as though the immortal path had slipped away. Realizing this was an effect of the Soul-Devouring Manifestation, Zhao Xing quickly composed himself, noting that he had unconsciously risen into a floating position.
“Teacher, I’ve lost my composure,” he said, returning to his seat.
Liu Tianning nodded approvingly. “Your cultivation over the years has been diligent. For the Soul-Devouring Manifestation to require seventy percent of its power to affect your mind is remarkable.”
Supreme techniques, typically mastered by Third-Rank cultivators or higher, possess unparalleled power and a transcendent nature. Liu Tianning found it impressive that Zhao Xing could withstand his strength.
“Teacher, your guidance was gradual and deliberate. It wasn’t a direct attack, so I was able to endure,” Zhao Xing replied humbly, understanding the intricacy of Liu’s teaching approach. Balancing between demonstrating the Manifestation’s power and avoiding harm to Zhao Xing’s Fate Soul was no small feat.
Liu Tianning dismissed the flattery, getting straight to the point. “Have you discerned the difference between Soul-Binding and Soul-Devouring techniques?”
The foundation of Liu’s Supreme Manifestation was the Soul-Devouring technique. As he explained earlier, advancing to the supreme level requires focusing on a single path.
Zhao Xing contemplated for a moment. “The advanced Soul-Binding technique, whether used to bind others or as a foundation for a personal Manifestation, emphasizes carrying and accommodating the Fate Soul.”
His recent consumption of the Primordial Soul Fruit had elevated his Fate Soul to the Fourth Rank without causing discomfort, thanks to the Myriad Manifestation Manifestations.
“Teacher’s Supreme Soul-Devouring technique is far more aggressive when used against opponents, while on oneself, it continuously refines the strength of the Fate Soul,” Zhao Xing observed.
Liu Tianning nodded approvingly. “Precisely. That is the unique property of this technique. If you seek to break through further, remember this distinction.”
“To cultivate this technique, you’ll need a site aligned with the yin element,” Liu added.
“Yes, Teacher,” Zhao Xing responded.
Liu Tianning didn’t delve deeper into the details, as Zhao Xing wasn’t yet ready for intensive study. His goal was to set Zhao Xing on the right path for future cultivation.
“The straw puppet techniques you’ve learned—Explosive Detonation, Divine Strength, Invisibility, Illusory Form, Sacred Shield, and Flying Puppet—all require the Fate Soul as their foundation,” Liu explained.
“The Soul-Devouring Manifestation is the basis for mastering the remaining supreme-level straw puppet techniques.”
“If you fail to cultivate the Soul-Devouring Manifestation, your straw puppet techniques will remain at the advanced level for life. However, mastering the Soul-Devouring Manifestation allows you to progress further, developing Divine Might Manifestation, Myriad Form Manifestation, Divine Concealment Manifestation, Swift Manifestation, Soul Explosion Manifestation, and Sacred Shield Manifestation.”
“Completing all seven Supreme Manifestations is considered a minor success in supreme techniques. Beyond that, you’ll reach the level of Dao integration, where you can create and transform straw puppet techniques freely, unbound by the existing eighty-one types.”
Zhao Xing nodded solemnly. Achieving mastery over all seven Supreme Manifestations would make him extraordinarily difficult to defeat.
“For now, don’t concern yourself with lofty ambitions. I’ve only achieved minor success myself and won’t mislead you with speculation,” Liu Tianning said.
“Yes, Teacher,” Zhao Xing replied, though he was startled by Liu’s admission. If Liu Tianning had already mastered all seven Manifestations, his claim of “minor success” underscored the incredible potential of supreme techniques.
“All right, go attend to your matters,” Liu Tianning said, preparing to “log off” from his Manifestation. This Supreme Manifestation was for teaching purposes, and continuing to maintain it would only drain his resources.
“Wait, Teacher,” Zhao Xing called out.
“What is it?” Liu Tianning asked.
Zhao Xing hesitated before saying, “While cultivating Myriad Manifestation Manifestation recently, I found an ancient box in the depths of the sea using a Weak Water Manifestation.”
Liu Tianning listened attentively.
“The box contained two sealed fruits. After examining them, I discovered they were Ninth-Rank Primordial Soul Fruits, as described in the Grand Observation Canon.”
“Primordial Soul Fruits?” Liu Tianning’s expression betrayed a flicker of surprise. “Are you certain?”
“Please take a look, Teacher.” Zhao Xing produced one of the fruits he had prepared in advance.
Liu Tianning carefully examined the fruit and nodded. “Indeed, it matches the descriptions in the Grand Observation Canon.”
“I’ve consumed one-third of a fruit, which allowed me to break through to the Fourth-Rank Fate Soul. Its effects are exactly as described in the canon,” Zhao Xing said.
“I’d like to offer this fruit to you, Teacher,” Zhao Xing said earnestly.
Liu Tianning, clearly moved, examined the fruit again. “A Primordial Soul Fruit... its effects are extraordinary. I’ll accept it and consume it when my true body has the time.”
“No, Teacher. I suggest you have this Manifestation take the fruit back to your true body immediately for consumption,” Zhao Xing insisted.
Liu Tianning hesitated. “I’ve only brought three Supreme Manifestations here this time. The other two are occupied with official duties. If I leave, your safety here…”
He was well aware of the recent assassination attempt on Zhao Xing by General Jin Hou on East Sea territory. Though Zhao Xing had dealt with it successfully, it left Liu Tianning uneasy. Where there was one attempt, another might follow.
“Teacher, don’t worry. I’ll be safe until my promotion is finalized,” Zhao Xing reassured him. “Right now, I’m still a Sixth-Rank official. My official promotion won’t take effect until April. That gives you plenty of time to make a round trip.”
“It’s not as though you leaving would instantly lead to my assassination. If it did, I’d have to question whether my Derivation Five Fortune is even real.”
Liu Tianning pondered for a moment before nodding. “Very well.” He left Twin Island immediately, taking the Primordial Soul Fruit with him.
As Liu Tianning departed, Zhao Xing exhaled in relief. He was determined to delay Liu Tianning’s mental deterioration for as long as possible.
Three fruits wouldn’t push Zhao Xing’s Fate Soul beyond the Third Rank anyway. The fruit’s most potent benefit was its ability to mitigate the effects of Fate Soul splitting—a risk Liu Tianning had reached. If Liu consumed the fruit now, it could stave off severe repercussions.
Zhao Xing thought back to his past life. By the time the Fate Soul Tree came into Liu’s possession during the reign of Emperor Wu, it could only treat the symptoms, not the root cause, of his condition.
“Old Liu is feeling his way across the river, and I’m feeling my way across him. Who knows how long he can remain stable? Any progress is progress,” Zhao Xing mused.
“If the fruit helps him, it’ll also serve as a reference for me when I face this challenge.”
Jingxin Era, Year 30, April 4 – Clear Brightness Festival
As the Clear Brightness Festival approached, the sacrificial ceremonies that marked every tenth year were grander than ever. Throughout Chongming Prefecture’s counties, the Yearly Sacrifice activities began in full swing. Prayers to the gods and rituals honoring heaven and earth lasted half a month, temporarily halting most military activity, even on the Southern Barbarian battlefield.
Zhao Xing’s Dragon Horse Directorate on Twin Island participated in the royal ancestral sacrifices of Chongming Prefecture. The ceremony honored ancestors like the Grand Founder, Emperor Wen, and Princess Youruo’s great-grandmother, Bi Xia Yuanjun.
“Following the sacrifices comes the reshuffling of officials,” Zhao Xing muttered as he reviewed official documents in the Directorate’s office.
Every decade, the empire undertook a massive restructuring of its administration. This year’s adjustments were further complicated by the unrest in the East Sea, likely affecting a significant number of officials. Zhao Xing had received a letter from Wang Xuanyi, the Prefect of Chongming Prefecture, inquiring about his preferences for reassignment.
“I must remain on Twin Island; leaving now would undo all my efforts,” Zhao Xing decided firmly.
Twin Island’s Dragon Horse Directorate, under Zhao Xing’s leadership, had made remarkable strides. Its representatives, including his Mountain Cat (Aotian), Blue Lion Hound (Xiaotian), and Spirit Illusion Goat (Huantian), secured three qualification spots for the East Sea Myriad Beast Competition.
Success in the East Sea would grant him a quota for entering the Dragon Court Ancient Lands—a crucial milestone. The difference in rankings determined which secret realm of the Dragon Court Ancient Lands participants could access.
Leaving Twin Island would mean losing his quota, as it was tied to the governmental body, not the individual.
Zhao Xing put down the letter from Wang Xuanyi, the Prefect of Chongming Prefecture, and frowned deeply. The message clearly implied that reassignment was imminent unless Zhao Xing leveraged his connections to stay in his current role.
“Prefect Wang mentioned three possible locations: Myriad Beasts Island, Dragon Lion Island, and Tianhai Island. He conspicuously omitted any mention of me remaining on Twin Island,” Zhao Xing noted, a trace of irritation flashing across his face. “It seems someone is pulling strings to interfere with my promotion.”
In his letter, Wang Xuanyi had previously hinted at a promotion without reassignment, but this new tone suggested a shift. “This reeks of a plot to sideline me,” Zhao Xing muttered. “They’re trying to send me somewhere remote and strip me of my progress.”
After a moment of contemplation, Zhao Xing decided he had no choice but to employ his “ultimate strategy.”
“Master’s wife!” Zhao Xing shouted as he rushed toward the Yonghua Palace within the Bi You Xinggong residence.
In the grand and dignified Yonghua Palace, Princess Youruo was seated behind a desk, reviewing correspondence. Hearing Zhao Xing’s loud voice, she raised her head with an expression of faint displeasure.
“Shouting like that—where are your manners?” she said sharply.
Zhao Xing bowed respectfully. “Master’s wife, someone is trying to harm me!”
Intrigued, Princess Youruo set down the letter she was holding. “Oh? Who dares harm you? Tell me everything.”
“Someone is attempting to transfer me from the Dragon Horse Directorate on Twin Island to an unfamiliar and distant location. Once I’m out of sight, they’ll have ample opportunity to target me,” Zhao Xing said, his tone full of grievance.
Princess Youruo arched an eyebrow, her expression half amused, half serious. “After a decade of outstanding achievements, it’s natural for you to be reassigned to a more prominent county. Why are you so adamant about staying on Twin Island?”
“To secure entry to the Dragon Court Ancient Lands,” Zhao Xing replied without hesitation.
Princess Youruo was visibly surprised. “You truly wish to enter that dangerous place? Is this something your teacher is urging you to do?”
“No, this is my decision,” Zhao Xing clarified. “I’ve fought hard to qualify through the Purple Cloud Archipelago competition. Giving up now would waste all my efforts.”
“You’re not even a proper Beast Tamer. What ranking could you possibly achieve in the Dragon Court Ancient Lands?” she questioned, her tone tinged with skepticism. “That place has been explored for years by countless strong individuals. If you’re looking for treasures, you’re better off asking me directly.”
Zhao Xing understood that Princess Youruo’s doubts came from genuine concern. “Master’s wife, I may not be a traditional Beast Tamer, but I’ve prepared extensively. Besides, there are treasures in the Dragon Court Ancient Lands that others can’t find—ones that are vital for my plans.”
Seeing his determination, Princess Youruo sighed. “Fine. I’ll have Liu Wanliang arrange something to ensure you stay on Twin Island.”
Zhao Xing immediately bowed deeply. “Thank you, Master’s wife!”
April 15, Four Days After Grain Rain
The Great Zhou Empire commenced its decennial administrative reshuffling, and the adjustments for Jingxin Era Year 30 were unprecedented in scale. In Chongming Prefecture alone, the reshuffling affected over ten million officials and clerks, a figure bolstered by the prefecture’s jurisdiction over numerous islands.
On April 15, Zhao Xing, alongside the officials of Twin Island, traveled to Chongming Prefecture City for their formal report.
Among the changes, Sun Shizhao, formerly a Sixth-Rank Upper County Magistrate, was reassigned as the Judicial Commissioner for Shengxian County in Chongming Prefecture. Though still a Sixth-Rank Upper position, Shengxian County was one of the wealthiest and most prestigious counties, granting Sun greater power and influence. Overcome with emotion, he wept openly.
Zhao Xing, however, received a more straightforward promotion, rising three levels from Sixth-Rank Upper to Fifth-Rank Lower, retaining his position as the Left Division Director of the Dragon Horse Directorate on Twin Island.
Promotions were widespread within the Directorate. Tao Anchun, Dong Yuanqiu, and Cao Jiang all climbed one or two ranks. Every official within the Directorate saw an improvement in status.
Despite this, Zhao Xing was now the only Fifth-Rank official in the Directorate, firmly cementing his role as its leader.
At the Tianxin Hall
Zhao Xing stood among the gathered officials, participating in the ceremonial process of receiving the Emperor’s blessing.
“Kneel before His Majesty,” a herald announced.
“Your subject, Zhao Xing, pays homage to His Majesty.”
“May His Majesty’s reign be eternal!”
Exiting the Tianxin Hall, Zhao Xing glanced at his interface panel.
Name: Zhao Xing
Official Position: Lower Fifth Rank
Cultivation Realm: Pure Essence Perfection
Occupation: Shennong
Fortune: Derivation Five
Essence Gathering: Stage 59
Fate Soul: Fourth Rank, Early Stage
Remaining Lifespan: 500 years
“I was 22 years old with a remaining lifespan of 478 years. Now I’m 34, and 13 years have passed. My remaining lifespan should have been 465 years, but after the Fortune Baptism, it increased to 500 years. That means this promotion added 35 years to my lifespan.”
“I’ve consumed the Dragon Whale’s Heart before. Within the scope of a Fifth-Rank official, my lifespan can no longer be increased,” Zhao Xing concluded.
Both his cultivation realm and Fate Soul exceeded the limits of a Fifth-Rank official, so the nation’s Fortune Baptism only enhanced his lifespan and Fortune.
“Subtracting the 200 years gained from the Dragon Whale’s Heart, with my age included, I can still scrape together another 762 years of lifespan within the Great Zhou Fortune system. That will bring me to the limit of 999 years.”
“When that limit is reached, neither the Fortune Dynasty nor common treasures will be able to extend it further. At that point, I’ll need to explore other methods.” He reflected on the challenges ahead.
For personal cultivation, the ultimate standard remained the same—Pure Essence Perfection at Fourth Rank.
All advanced techniques he had learned were now at their peak. Among his weather techniques, Five Elements Mist Concealment had evolved into Five Elements Poisonous Miasma, a powerful area-control technique. Drop of Water had advanced to Drop of Water Domain, capable of large-scale suppression. Other techniques like Nine Heavens Gale, Thunder Breaking Delusion Finger, Heavenly Fire of Calamity, Ten Thousand Li of Ice, and Devouring Cloud Domain were all at their highest level.
In advanced transformation techniques, Teng Snake Transformation and Awakening Thunder Transformation were both mastered.
In advanced earth techniques, he had refined Yin Wind of Calamity, Earth Fiend Thunder, Volcano Technique, Boundless Earth Palace, and Swift Protection.
His self techniques were equally impressive, including Primordial Instant, Myriad Technique Manifestation, Nine Dragons Compression, Wild Growth, and Wasteland Essence Convergence.
His plant-based techniques, such as Jungle Leaping and Mobilizing All Plants as Soldiers, had both reached the seventh transformation.
In fate techniques, Great Derivation Qi Observation Method, Five-Finger Fate Technique, and Fate Divination Technique had all been perfected, while Turtle Coin Divination remained at intermediate perfection due to missing conditions for advancement.
He had also mastered several Fate Soul techniques, including Heavenly Eye, which could see through Yin spirits and detect subtle movements; Sleep Bug, which captured sleep-inducing parasites from his Fate Soul; Memory Preservation Technique, which allowed him to construct a secure memory palace; and Three-Spirit Intersection, a technique linking the Fate Soul to the Earth Soul and revealing karmic connections.
Zhao Xing’s body was now fully adapted to his Myriad Law Pure Essence Dao Body, forged through the combined elements of wind, thunder, and the Five Elements.
He possessed a substantial array of treasures. The Primordial Soul Fruit, though nearly consumed, continued to bolster his Fate Soul’s power and heal its prior damage. The Void Seed, while of unknown type, carried vast potential. His Spring Seasonal Qi Command, an eighth-rank treasure of the ancient Summer Divine Dynasty, had brought his Spring Qi Command technique to perfection. The Soul Armor and Dragon Soul Pendant, both sixth-rank top-grade treasures, stabilized his Fate Soul and prevented deviations in cultivation.
Other possessions, such as the Eight Celestial Maidens—a set of mechanical puppets—and various Shennong-standard equipment like the Golden Raincoat and Cloud Stepping Boots, were becoming outdated.
He reflected, “Most of my equipment, aside from the Soul Armor and Dragon Soul Pendant, no longer matches my current strength. Even my Myriad Technique Manifestations, crafted from sixth-rank materials, deserve better.”
Having ascended rapidly in strength over the years, Zhao Xing had neglected creating personal equipment. With the Dragon Court Ancient Lands competition approaching, he resolved to prepare adequately.
As Zhao Xing pondered, a familiar voice called out, “Sir Zhao! Sir Zhao!”
Turning, he saw Sun Shizhao, Tao Anchun, Dong Yuanqiu, and Cao Jiang waiting outside. Zhao Xing greeted Sun with a smile. “Sir Sun, congratulations.”
Sun Shizhao bowed deeply. “Thank you, Marquis Yuanrang. It’s all thanks to your guidance.”
Zhao Xing helped him up, shaking his head. “It’s your own merit. It has nothing to do with me.”
After pleasantries, Sun Shizhao departed, his gratitude lingering. The decade of cooperation between them had been harmonious, with Sun proving an invaluable partner.
Once Sun had left, Zhao Xing turned to Tao Anchun. “Now that Sun Shizhao has been reassigned, who’s taking over as magistrate for Twin County?”
“Sir, the new magistrate is Qi Ming,” Tao Anchun replied.
“What’s his background?”
“He’s affiliated with the Liang King faction.”
Zhao Xing’s expression darkened. “Who recommended him?”
“Fourth-Rank Censorate Inspector Yin Qiquan. He’s the same one who came to investigate Twin Island last time. Qi Ming also has another recommender—Ren Di, a senior captain of the Qingyang Corps under the Eastern Sea Army.”
Zhao Xing frowned. “Is Ren Di also from the Liang King faction?”
“Yes, he’s a vassal of the Liang King’s estate. He’s held positions in the Eastern Sea since the 270th year of the Dingxin Era.”
“This Qi Ming might prove troublesome,” Cao Jiang said, concerned.
Zhao Xing’s gaze sharpened. “Qi Ming is only Fifth Rank. He won’t cause much trouble. Let’s stay focused on the competition preparations.”
In April, after his promotion, May marked the beginning of the Dragon Court Ancient Lands quota competition in the East Sea. The competition would be held at the Boundless Ocean Cave-Heaven.
The Boundless Ocean Cave-Heaven, governed by the Tusi Clan, was located twenty thousand miles offshore. Due to concerns about potential attempts on Zhao Xing’s life during the journey, Princess Youruo issued a special order for him to travel aboard her Bi You Tower Ship.
This event was one of the grandest spectacles in the East Sea. The scale and importance of the competition attracted countless elites. Princess Youruo herself would attend, accompanied by numerous high-ranking officials. The imperial court dispatched notable figures as representatives, including Second-Rank Taipu Minister Ji Shuchang, Second-Rank Lesser Shennong Minister Wang Tianzhi, and Second-Rank Eastern Sea General Hong Yuanba.
On the Tusi Clan's side, the Azure Dragon Army Commander Bai Yunwu, the envoy Xuanweishe, and the Black Tortoise Army Commander Ji Canghai were assigned to co-host the competition.
Additionally, four prefecture lords of the third rank, representing the East Sea’s coastal prefectures—Chongming Prefecture, Haiyuan Prefecture, Cangyuan Prefecture, and Daming Prefecture—would also attend. Several Dao Academy powerhouses, including Qin Hongying from the Bishui Dao Academy, would participate, as well as a total of over two hundred second- and third-rank officials.
The competition wasn’t limited to high-ranking officials. Over fifty thousand contestants, primarily fourth- and fifth-rank Beastmasters, from various backgrounds—Daoist experts, military factions, nobles, and bureaucrats—were set to participate. Each sought the highly coveted entry slots for the Dragon Court Ancient Lands.
“Fifty-seven thousand six hundred and forty-two participants from the four East Sea prefectures will compete,” Liu Wanliang explained to Zhao Xing as they stood on the ship deck. “Of these, only the top two hundred Beastmasters will directly qualify for entry to the Dragon Court Ancient Lands.”
“The rest will enter the elimination rounds, from which three hundred more will be chosen. Even so, the total slots amount to just five hundred. It’s a one-in-a-hundred chance.”
Liu paused before continuing, his tone skeptical. “You only have three war beasts. Are you really planning to compete for a ranking?”
Princess Youruo, standing nearby, glanced at Zhao Xing and his three beasts. Her expression was one of doubt. “Zhao Xing, you’re not even a proper Beastmaster. Last time, you barely scraped by during the Purple Cloud Islands competition. Do you really think you can make it this time?”
Zhao Xing remained calm. “Master’s wife, I’d like to try.”
Princess Youruo’s voice took on a note of concern. “The Dragon Court Ancient Lands are extraordinarily dangerous. Your teacher has only one disciple. Have you thought this through?”
“I still have ten years to prepare. My war beasts are at the fifth rank now. By the time I enter, they’ll be fourth rank,” Zhao Xing said confidently.
Seeing his resolve, Princess Youruo gave up trying to dissuade him. “Very well. You’re unlikely to qualify this time, but go ahead and try.”
Privately, she was still pessimistic about his chances. The Princess’s war beasts were all fourth-rank and of divine-grade bloodlines, and her team of over five hundred elite Beastmasters were highly skilled. Even then, she wasn’t confident about securing even one-tenth of the available slots. Zhao Xing, with his fifth-rank beasts and non-specialist background, seemed doomed to fail.
However, someone believed in him.
“Senior Brother, you must have a plan to succeed, right?” A soft voice came from behind him. Zhao Xing turned to see Ji Zixuan approaching the ship’s observation deck.
“Oh? The Princess doesn’t have faith in me, yet you do?” Zhao Xing asked with a faint smile.
“Senior Brother wouldn’t act recklessly. Throughout your military career, you’ve never lost a single battle,” Ji Zixuan replied, her tone firm.
Zhao Xing remained silent, and Ji Zixuan pressed on. “You must have a way!”
Zhao Xing glanced at her. “You’re so confident. Why don’t you guess my plan?”
Ji Zixuan thought for a moment, then pulled a document from her sleeve. “Senior Brother, this is the latest competition rulebook. It doesn’t limit Beastmasters’ methods of combat.”
“If I’m not mistaken, your plan relies on your own abilities.”
“In your previous competitions, you never directly intervened. You relied solely on Aotian, Xiaotian, and Huantian to fight their way out of the Purple Cloud Islands.”
“People think you’re an amateur with no real Beastmaster skills. But in reality, all you need is the Pure Essence Beastmaster Fusion technique to dominate.”
“What Teacher Liu could achieve at the fifth rank, Senior Brother can surely accomplish too!” Ji Zixuan declared confidently.
Zhao Xing was slightly surprised. She had accurately guessed his intentions.
Indeed, he didn’t plan to compete by traditional Beastmaster methods. He couldn’t match the expertise, numbers, or quality of beasts raised by families dedicated to the craft for generations. However, the competition didn’t prohibit contestants from using other techniques. As long as one entered the Dragon Court Ancient Lands, any method was valid.
The Lands were an ancient territory of the dragons, where rules differed from the outside world. Humans were viewed as inferior beings, while beasts held dominance. Forming contracts with divine-bloodline beasts was crucial for survival and mobility within the Lands.
“Yes, you’re correct. But no prizes for guessing,” Zhao Xing said, flicking his fingers before turning away.
Watching his retreating figure, Ji Zixuan’s eyes shone with excitement. “Senior Brother really can compete at the fourth rank!”
The Princess’s Bi You Tower Ship made swift progress, reaching the outskirts of the Boundless Ocean Cave-Heaven in just half a day. The entrance, located on Baiyun Island—territory of Bai Yunwu’s family—was heavily fortified. The Princess was welcomed by Bai Mingchuan, Bai Yunwu’s eldest son and heir.
Bai Mingchuan, a Marquis under the Great Zhou Dynasty, shared the same social rank as the Princess. His father, Bai Yunwu, held sway over the waters east of the Eastern Sea, where his authority often surpassed even the Emperor’s.
“Your Highness, I humbly welcome you,” Bai Mingchuan greeted her with a deep bow. Behind him stood a ceremonial guard and the Azure Dragon Army, many of whom bore dragon-like features—horns on their heads, scales on their arms. Some were half-dragons, while others were pure humans.
Decades of integration with the Great Zhou Dynasty had fostered a strong sense of allegiance among the Tusi Clan and other aquatic tribes under Bai Yunwu’s leadership.
As Zhao Xing observed the scene from a distance, he noticed a piercing gaze locked onto him. Turning his head, he saw a figure in the military formation—a swordsman making exaggerated facial expressions.
“Long Xiao?” Zhao Xing was stunned and quickly sent a message via sound transmission. “What are you doing here?”
Long Xiao, a former colleague, grinned. “What do you mean? I joined the Azure Dragon Army years ago.”
“But you’re a Fifth-Rank General. Why are you dressed as a regular soldier?” Zhao Xing asked, perplexed.
“Don’t ask,” Long Xiao replied bitterly. “I used to command my own division as a Fifth-Rank General. Now, Bai Mingchuan has assigned me to the Dragon Vanguard.”
“The Dragon Vanguard? Isn’t that the frontline assault force?”
“Exactly.”
Zhao Xing smirked. “Let me guess. Did you get involved with Bai Ling? Got her pregnant, perhaps?”
Long Xiao’s silence confirmed it.
“Figures. You mess with his daughter, and this is his way of keeping you in line. You’re lucky he didn’t outright kill you,” Zhao Xing said, amused.
“I have to patrol. Let’s talk later,” Long Xiao muttered as his unit moved out.
“I’ll be busy in the Boundless Ocean Cave-Heaven. Don’t count on it,” Zhao Xing replied.
Following the Princess’s entourage, Zhao Xing joined a group of Beastmasters led by Liu Wanliang to prepare for the competition. Among the Princess’s elite team, he stood out as the only fifth-rank Beastmaster accompanied by a peculiar trio: a mountain cat, a hound, and a goat. Their presence drew curious and disdainful gazes.
“Who’s that fifth-rank Beastmaster tagging along behind Liu Wanliang?” a purple-robed woman asked.
“I don’t know,” her companion replied. “Never seen him before.”
Zhao Xing remained calm amid the whispers, focusing on the massive gate ahead—the entrance to the Boundless Ocean Cave-Heaven, where the competition would soon begin.
The towering gate of the Boundless Ocean Cave-Heaven loomed ahead, standing a thousand meters tall, its surface shimmering with faint blue ripples of energy. Around it stretched a vast plain, filled with numerous teams of Beastmasters and their war beasts, all awaiting their turn to enter the competition grounds.
“This is the entrance to the Boundless Ocean Cave-Heaven,” Liu Wanliang explained to Zhao Xing as they approached. “It’s specially designed to host the Myriad Beast Competition. The internal environment has been crafted to simulate classic challenges of the Dragon Court Ancient Lands.”
“Fifty-seven thousand six hundred and forty-two Beastmasters will compete here for just five hundred slots. Only the top two hundred will gain direct entry to the Dragon Court. The rest will battle through elimination rounds to decide an additional three hundred.”
“Should you secure one of those slots, you’ll be eligible to enter the Dragon Court Ancient Lands. From there, if you can return with any item from the advanced task list, you’ll earn a promotion to Fourth-Rank official status. Even your war beasts will be honored and rewarded.”
Zhao Xing nodded, his gaze fixed on the massive gate. After a moment, he asked, “The competition rules—they shouldn’t change now, right?”
Liu Wanliang seemed momentarily caught off guard by the question. “No, the rules are set in stone at this stage. Why do you ask?”
“I just wanted to confirm,” Zhao Xing replied casually, though a hint of satisfaction flickered in his eyes.
Liu Wanliang continued, “The Azure Dragon General and the Taipu Minister have yet to arrive, so we’ll need to wait another four hours before the competition begins. Use this time wisely.”
Zhao Xing’s response was a simple nod, his mind already calculating his approach. As they waited, the murmurs around him grew louder. His unassuming presence had not gone unnoticed among the elite Beastmasters.
“Why is there a fifth-rank Beastmaster in the Princess’s entourage?” whispered a purple-robed woman, Lin Ziyue, glancing toward Zhao Xing.
“I’ve never seen him before,” said another, Wang Zhaozhao, who sat atop a massive tiger beast.
“Strange. We’re all fourth-rank Beastmasters. How did a fifth-rank manage to sneak in?” Lin Ziyue mused. “Is he one of Liu Wanliang’s people?”
“I saw him enter the Yonghua Palace a few times. Maybe he’s a relative of the Princess, here to observe?” said a bald man nearby, joining the conversation.
“That doesn’t seem likely,” Wang Zhaozhao replied. “He brought war beasts—looks like he’s here to compete.”
Lin Ziyue’s gaze turned toward Zhao Xing’s trio of beasts. “I recognize the blue lion hound and the spirit illusion goat, but that mountain cat… isn’t that just a regular wildcat?”
The bald man slapped his forehead as if he’d suddenly recalled something. “Oh, I remember now! That’s Zhao Xing, the Director of the Twin Dragon Horse Directorate. Nine years ago, his mountain cat killed an imperial crocodile. He used that same beast to fight his way through the western division of the Purple Cloud Arena.”
Lin Ziyue frowned, her voice tinged with disdain. “Barely scraping through each round. A quota-holder, no doubt.”
Wang Zhaozhao shared her skepticism. “And now we’re supposed to take this guy seriously? I can’t believe we’re letting people like him compete.”
“Let’s hope he’s not assigned to our team,” Lin Ziyue added. “What a disaster that would be.”
Zhao Xing overheard the whispered judgments but showed no reaction. He was used to being underestimated. It wasn’t surprising that few recognized him; his low profile and deliberate avoidance of attention over the years had kept him under the radar.
Beside him, Liu Wanliang spoke quietly, “Don’t let their words get to you, Zhao Xing. They don’t know the effort you’ve put in. Outside of the initial quota, the Princess hasn’t interfered in your competition results. Everything you’ve achieved has been through your own merit.”
Zhao Xing offered a small smile. “It’s fine, sir. I’m a fifth-rank Beastmaster standing among the Princess’s elite fourth-rank team. It’s only natural for them to talk. In fact, I’d be more surprised if they didn’t.”
As they moved closer to the gate, the murmur of discontent began to fade, replaced by the overwhelming presence of the competition grounds. The swirling blue vortex at the gate’s center pulsed faintly, a doorway into the Boundless Ocean Cave-Heaven. Surrounding the gate were teams from all corners of the East Sea, accompanied by war beasts of varying sizes and ferocity.
“Take a good look,” Liu Wanliang said. “This gate leads to the main competition grounds. Inside, the environments are designed to test the abilities of both Beastmasters and their war beasts. The challenges mimic conditions you’ll encounter in the Dragon Court Ancient Lands.”
Zhao Xing’s gaze sharpened. This was no ordinary competition. The stakes were high, and failure was not an option.
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