Gate of God

by Stayrr

This is a strange and inexplicable world…Mountains, water, stones, flowers, grass, trees, wood, the Sun, moonlight, stars… All creation under the Heavens and Earths are sources of energy. In this world, there are all the classics from his previous world, but there is a new addition: The Law of Dao. Fang Zhengzhi was conflicted. I can obtain power from reading books? Should I read T

7. 205

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Chapter 205: Variable

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

This scene was indeed stupefying.

Fang Zhengzhi had never thought that the power of the Dao of All Creation would be as strong. He could witness the speed of Ying Shan's recovery with his very own eyes.

This completely went against all the knowledge he gained in his previous world.

He recalled his process of practising Dao over the past years. The access of Dao can give life to the particles that made up one's body, allowing them to congregate to a single point to increase one's power and speed.

After one attained the Divine Seal State, one could use the pocket dimension within to interact with the outside world, controlling the power of All Creation.

After one attained Star Conglomerate, the Dao of All Creation would be controlled by one's pocket dimension. Hence, one would be able to borrow the power of various Dao of All Creation in order to execute powerful techniques.

As for Heavenly Reflection, it was the perfect fusion of the pocket dimension and the outside world.

Borrowing the Dao of All Creation to create one's unique territory.

As for the Supernatural state.

It could actually allow one to walk the line between life and death, controlling the powerful energy of the Supernatural state. This seemed as if it was the most mysterious concept within the Dao of All Creation.

I really wonder what kind of power lies beyond the Supernatural state…

Fang Zhengzhi didn't think for much longer. The scene unfolding before him didn't give him any more time to understand it further.

Nangong Mu evidently knew Ying Shan's enlightenment state. The healing of the wounds on Ying Shan's arm was already to be expected, hence he wasn't too shocked.

Thus, once again, he moved.

All of a sudden, two rays of light, glowing green and blue respectively, lit up and intersected one another. The green provided support, while the blue provided the main force. Despite it being ice, it could still prosper and grow with life.

Up in the sky, a blizzard of ice and snow began to brew. A blue light glowed, covering the swords that were impaled into the ground below with a thick layer of solid ice.

Ying Shan bathed within the ice and snow, standing completely still and allowing the ice and snow to cover his body.

With a faint smile, he lightly waved the blade in his hand. A black light instantly expanded from the tip of his blade, swallowing the entire territory of ice and snow.

"Boom!"

A horrifying force exploded from Ying Shan's body.

It was as if the entire sky had turned black.

That, was Ying Shan's territory. Or, it could be said that this was the black world.

The black light pressed down upon the green and blue rays. These two rays supported themselves strenuously, just like two faint candlelights in the dark night.

Even though it wasn't very bright, it didn't extinguish.

"How long can you hold this up?" Ying Shan laughed.

"I believe I can hold on for another five minutes." Nangong Mu gritted his teeth.

"What happens after five minutes?"

"Then you will have to wait five minutes to find out."

"Looks like you are indeed quite determined. However, can you really hold on for five minutes?" Ying Shan waved his blade once again. The sky turned even blacker, likening the cloud-covered sky at midnight.

"I can." Nangong Mu's tone sounded very confident.

At the same time, the green and blue rays of light on his body grew in brightness. Under additional pressure from Ying Shan, his green and blue territory actually expanded instead of falling.

"I never thought, I really never thought that… Today, there is actually an unexpected surprise. Nangong Hao's little brother had actually attained the Heavenly Reflection Peak State?!" As Ying Shan looked at this scene unfolding in front of his eyes, the shock in his eyes grew.

"Heavenly Reflection Peak State?!"

"Nangong Mu actually attained the Heavenly Reflection Peak State?"

"How can such a powerful person not enter the Rising Dragon Roll? The Heavenly Reflection Peak State can definitely rank him among the top twenty in the Rising Dragon Roll. Taking into account the Green and Blue Secret Art, he would at the very least be ranked among the top ten!"

"Nangong Hao has attained the Heavenly Reflection Peak State. Now, Nangong Mu has also done the same?! My God… This generation of the Nangong family are both Heavenly Reflection Peaks?"

When the examinees heard what Ying Shan said and looked at Nangong Mu wrapped within the green and blue rays, a deep sense of respect grew within them for the first time towards this lonely, yet ordinary youth.

Nangong Mu didn't speak. His expression was very calm, as if he had heard something that was very ordinary.

"But, is the Heavenly Reflection Peak State… truly enough?" Ying Shan looked around at his surroundings, then looked at the sword on the rock. A powerful aura of confidence filled his eyes.

Even though it was the Heavenly Reflection Peak State, it only meant that the territory control would be stronger than the Heavenly Reflection Beginning State. On the other hand, the Supernatural State was another world altogether.

The difference between two enlightenment states was the difference between Heaven and Earth.

Nangong Mu remained silent. The perseverance in his eyes didn't diminish one bit.

"Seems like you are rather self-confident?" Ying Shan was supposed to end this fight quickly. However, he was truly somewhat surprised by Nangong Mu's actions. Furthermore, everything was under his control. He didn't mind wasting time for some answers.

"Self-confident? No, you are wrong. I am not self-confident." Nangong Mu finally spoke.

"Then why do you appear so calm?"

"If you were me, you would be just as calm."

"Looks like you are unwilling to reply my question?"

"Of course I am unwilling."

"Then, let's not waste any more time." Ying Shan nodded. Then, step by step, he walked towards Nangong Mu. He walked very slowly. However, every step he took caused the green and blue rays of light surrounding Nangong Mu's body to waver.

Just as if it had been pressed down upon by a powerful force.

This scene instantly caused a sense of desolation to fill the hearts of the examinees.

Ever since Xing Qingsui became severely injured from the sneak attack, Nangong Mu became their hope. However, if even Nangong Mu wasn't able to block Ying Shan, who else would be able to pull out that sword?

Even though Nangong Mu attained the Heavenly Reflection State, even though he had the Green and Blue Secret Art.

But now, his opponent was Ying Shan. Ying Shan, the Vice Domain Chief within the Ying Domain of the Ten Devilish Domains, with the power of the Supernatural Intermediate State.

Every examinee knew this. Hence, Fang Zhengzhi also knew this.

Nangong Mu's opponent was Ying Shan of the Supernatural State. Just as he said, he was able to hold on for five minutes. However, it was ultimately only five minutes.

There was no hope of winning.

Hence, the current situation required cooperation.

Fang Zhengzhi shifted his feet, and slowly advanced forward a step. It was the same way Ying Shan walked towards Nangong Mu.

Yan Xiu also took a step forward, right at the instantly Fang Zhengzhi lifted his foot. Thus, Ping Yang was also unconsciously pulled forward a step by Fang Zhengzhi.

Hence, Ping Yang looked at Fang Zhengzhi with shock in her eyes.

"I always thought you were very afraid of dying."

"That's right. Did I ever say that I'm not afraid of dying?" Fang Zhengzhi looked at Ping Yang.

"Yet, you still walk forward?" Ping Yang didn't quite understand.

"If I can run, I would definitely be running now." Fang Zhengzhi's expression was very normal. There wasn't the slightest bit of shame on his face when he claimed that he wanted to run.

"You are indeed very shameless." Ping Yang felt that she was truly embarrassed to be grouped together with the person in front of her.

"Thank you for your praise. So, you will follow me, is that right?"

"Yes." Ping Yang nodded. Her voice was pitifully soft. She was indeed very embarrassed to be in the same team as Fang Zhengzhi. However, at this moment, she didn't have a second choice.

"Looks like you are also very afraid of dying."

"Do you think I am the same as you? This is called seizing the chance to live." Ping Yang twitched her mouth and retorted.

"Then, for this chance to live, lend me your Blazing Qilin Spear to play around with."

"Your words are always so irritating. Can't you at least respect my Blazing Qilin Spear?" Ping Yang seemed somewhat unhappy. However, she still passed the Blazing Qilin Spear to Fang Zhengzhi.

Holding it lightly, Fang Zhengzhi was able to feel the surging power coming from the Blazing Qilin Spear.

With the spear in my hands, the world is mine.

At this instant, Fang Zhengzhi felt as if he overlooked the entire world.

Hence, the speed of his movement increased slightly. He walked, step by step, towards Ying Shan.

Changes in a battle always occurs within the time it takes for a breath.

Ying Shan was holding up against Nangong Mu. Naturally, it wasn't possible for him to not be paying attention to the movements of the people around him. Hence, he noticed Fang Zhengzhi walking towards him.

As well as Yan Xiu and Ping Yang who were following behind Fang Zhengzhi.

At the same time Ying Shan turned his head, the gazes of the other examinees also fell upon Fang Zhengzhi.

"Fang Zhengzhi is joining the battle?"

When this thought rose within the examinees, they couldn't really believe it.

After all, from the start of the combat examinations, Fang Zhengzhi had embodied the great values of winning due to outnumbering others. After which, he began to channel his efforts into the Broken Bridge and the Twin Stone Tablets.

All along, Fang Zhengzhi wasn't a hero in the hearts of the people. At the very least, nobody among them would pin their hopes on him.

Nangong Mu was the descendant of the Nangong family. He mastered the Green and Blue Secret Art, one of the two great teachings of the Nangong family.

Even with such powers, he wasn't able to match up to Ying Shan.

Then, what use was Fang Zhengzhi?

Fang Zhengzhi didn't have to guess to understand the thoughts of the surrounding examinees. But, were their thoughts important? Of course not.

Thus, he naturally wouldn't stop what he was doing.

Just like that, Fang Zhengzhi walked all the way up to the side of Ying Shan's territory before stopping.

"Hello, my name is Fang Zhengzhi!" Fang Zhengzhi, very magnanimously, introduced himself to Ying Shan.

Under the current circumstance, such a self-introduction indeed didn't fit the situation. At the very least, when the surrounding examinees heard this, they instantly felt the urge to bow down.

At this time, shouldn't he be saying, "Evil demon, surrender while you can!"?

Even though such a sentence was just as inappropriate.

At least it embodied some vigor within. What was the meaning of this self-introduction towards the demon?

Ying Shan was slightly taken aback. Then, he suddenly began to laugh.

"Young Lord was right. You are indeed an unfathomable person!" This was the second time Ying Shan said this. Hence, this meant that the first time he said this was also directed towards Fang Zhengzhi.

"Your young lord knows me?" Fang Zhengzhi seemed somewhat shocked.

Just as Ying Shan was about to reply, he realised that no matter whether he replied "Yes" or "No", it still seemed somewhat inappropriate.

If he replied "yes", that meant that his young lord had met with Fang Zhengzhi before. However, if he replied "no", that seemed to conflict with what he had just said.

It was a very simple conversation. However, many things could be inferred from the words within.

"Looks like… you are about to join the fight?" Ying Shan didn't reply Fang Zhengzhi's question. Instead, he directly approached the main topic.

"No, I am here to negotiate peace!" Fang Zhengzhi shook his head.

"Negotiate peace? Ha ha ha… Fang Zhengzhi, you are a very intelligent person. Do you really think that us, the demon race, can negotiate peace with your human race?" Ying Shan felt as if he had heard the funniest joke in the world.

"Why not? You can explain your reasons, but, can you at least take a seat and make a pot of tea? Then, we can have a nice chat and discuss the history of the demon race and the human race." Fang Zhengzhi said calmly.

"Make a pot of tea? Have a nice chat? Don't you feel that you are a little naive?" Ying Shan looked towards Fang Zhengzhi. He couldn't believe that Fang Zhengzhi would actually make such a request under such circumstances.

Where did this thought even come from?

However, Fang Zhengzhi's words evidently caused him some anger. In fact, it caused him so much anger that the shadow territory around Ying Shan trembled slightly. This caused Nangong Mu's green and blue territory to grow a little brighter.

Ying Shan's attention was focused on Fang Zhengzhi. Hence, there was no way he would notice this detail.

The other examinees were also fixated upon Fang Zhengzhi. Hence, they naturally would not be able to notice this. However, Nangong Mu knew this.

Thus, the gaze Nangong Mu shot towards Fang Zhengzhi changed somewhat.

He didn't understand whether or not Fang Zhengzhi was doing this on purpose. However, he could clearly feel the pressure on his body decreasing slightly.

"Yes, you are right, I am indeed somewhat naive. This place isn't very suitable for making tea. Most importantly, there are no tea leaves!" Fang Zhengzhi exclaimed.

Tea leaves…

Ying Shan's mouth twitched slightly. He suddenly felt as if he wasn't suitable to chat with Fang Zhengzhi. Because, no matter how they talked, their thoughts didn't seem to be on the same frequency.

"If you wish to delay time, you might be disappointed." Ying Shan decided to not speak with Fang Zhengzhi any further.

"Why do you always think badly of others? Alright, since you aren't willing to sit down and have a chat, why not let us make an exchange?" Fang Zhengzhi shook his head lightly, seeming somewhat disappointed.

"If you have something to say, say it quick." Ying Shan was losing his patience.

"This spear on my hand… do you recognise it?" Fang Zhengzhi waved the Blazing Qilin Spear on his hand.

"The Blazing Qilin Spear, one of the ten great treasures of the Great Xia Dynasty, containing the blood of the Blazing Qilin. It's offensive power ranks first among the ten great treasures, how would I not recognise it?" Ying Shan nodded.

In reality, if it wasn't because Fang Zhengzhi held the Blazing Qilin Spear on his hands, why would he even bother making such useless conversations with Fang Zhengzhi?

In this combat examination, he had sneaked into the World of the Sage.

Everything was within his control.

The only thing he had miscalculated was that Princess Ping Yang would enter. Furthermore, she had even brought along one of the ten great treasures of the Great Xia Dynasty, the Blazing Qilin Spear.

Despite being in the Star Conglomerate State, Ping Yang was able to gain the advantage in power over Xing Qingsui of the Heavenly Reflection State.

He kept waiting until the battle between Xing Qingsui and Ping Yang ended in order to see how powerful the Blazing Qilin Spear actually was.

Now that the Blazing Qilin Spear fell in the hands of Fang Zhengzhi, with his Heavenly Reflection powers, what would happen if Fang Zhengzhi was matched against himself of the Supernatural State?

Nobody knew for sure.

This was also the reason why Ying Shan didn't confront Fang Zhengzhi immediately. Because, Ping Yang stood beside Fang Zhengzhi all along.

He didn't wish for the Blazing Qilin Spear to end up in the hands of Fang Zhengzhi.

Because, that would be the only variable in the World of the Sage. Now, Fang Zhengzhi seemed to have picked up this variable and even stood in front of him.

Most importantly, he held the Blazing Qilin Spear and offered to make an exchange.

Ying Shan was already about to lose his patience. However, at such a time, he still decided to maintain his patience for a little longer...

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Chapter 206: Shame

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

The thing that Fang Zhengzhi didn't lack the most was patience.

Control over the World of the Sage had been lost. Everybody in the World of the Sage kenw this. Hence, the people of the Imperial Academy would similarly know this. He didn't know what was the situation at the Imperial Academy at this moment.

However, there was one thing he was sure of. The longer he dragged, the more advantageous it was for his side.

"How would you feel if I use this Blazing Qilin Spear to make an exchange with you?" A slight smile appeared at the edges of Fang Zhengzhi's mouth. He patiently waved the Blazing Qilin Spear in his hand with a sincere expression of his face.

"Use the Blazing Qilin Spear to make an exchange with me?!" Ying Shan was slightly taken aback. Then, he became truly shocked.

He hadn't interacted much with Fang Zhengzhi. In reality, this was the first time they had met with one another. However, he didn't believe that Fang Zhengzhi was an idiot.

Will someone who attained the Double Roll Champion in the county and capital examinations be an idiot?

Definitely not.

Moreover, Ying Shan would definitely not be so naive as to believe that Fang Zhengzhi's brain had suddenly failed. He could feel Fang Zhengzhi's calm and collected demeanor. Under such dire circumstances, such a demeanor was already deserving of respect.

Then, what is Fang Zhengzhi's intention?

Ying Shan couldn't understand.

The surrounding examinees couldn't understand as well. When they heard Fang Zhengzhi's words, they were dumbfounded. Behind their confusion, there was even greater horror and worry.

They were truly afraid that Fang Zhengzhi would give the Blazing Qilin Spear to Ying Shan.

After all, Fang Zhengzhi was a person who would be impossible to read by ordinary thinking.

If the Blazing Qilin Spear was really passed into Ying Shan's hands by Fang Zhengzhi, that would be the time that they would truly lose their last chance of survival.

The shock on Ping Yang's face couldn't be concealed as well.

If there was one person who seemed relatively calmer at the scene, that would be Yan Xiu.

Yan Xiu didn't know what Fang Zhengzhi wanted to do. However, no matter whether Fang Zhengzhi's words were true or false, he would still believe that Fang Zhengzhi had his own reason for doing this.

"Fang Zhengzhi, the Blazing Qilin Spear is mine!" Ping Yang felt like she had to remind Fang Zhengzhi of this fact.

"But, isn't it now in my hands?" Fang Zhengzhi reminded Ping Yang as he held on to the Blazing Qilin Spear to accept the reality in front of her.

"If… you pass the Blazing Qilin Spear into the hands of the demon race, I will never forgive you." Ping Yang evidently didn't expect Fang Zhengzhi to say such a shameless thing.

"Between your life and the Blazing Qilin Spear, which one would you choose?"

"I want both!"

"One cannot be too naive. You always have to sacrifice one thing to gain another. I choose life, so, naturally I will have to sacrifice the Blazing Qilin Spear." Fang Zhengzhi chided patiently.

"Hmph!" Being unable to win the argument, Ping Yang didn't bother arguing further.

When Ying Shan heard the conversation between Ping Yang and Fang Zhengzhi, his eyes glinted with light. Even though he wasn't keen on believing Fang Zhengzhi's words, there was always a probability. If Fang Zhengzhi truly gave up the Blazing Qilin Spear, that would save him quite a lot of trouble.

"You are truly willing to pass the Blazing Qilin Spear to me?" Ying Shan thought for a moment, and then decided to maintain his patience for a little while longer.

"Of course." Fang Zhengzhi seemed very sure.

"Alright, as long as you pass the Blazing Qilin Spear to me, I will spare your life!" A deep, sinister smile formed at the edges of Ying Shan's lips.

"Make an oath."

"An oath? Sure! I, Ying Shan, swear to the Demon God that as long as Fang Zhengzhi passes the Blazing Qilin Spear to me, I will definitely spare Fang Zhengzhi's life!" Ying Shan hesitated for a moment, but decided to swear solemnly in the end.

After all, he only swore to spare Fang Zhengzhi's life. He didn't promise to not attack Fang Zhengzhi. For example, disabling him for life?

"Yes, this oath doesn't seem too bad. However, what I want isn't for you to spare my life, so… I believe this oath is useless." Fang Zhengzhi nodded very seriously.

"You…" Ying Shan face fell. The smile on his face froze instantly. He felt as if he had been fooled around with.

Furthermore, him, the great Ying Domain Vice Domain Chief of the Ten Devilish Domains, was actually fooled around by this tiny kid in front of so many people of the human race?

You don't want life. Then, what were you discussing with Ping Yang about? And why did you still ask me to make an oath?

This is shame, true shame!

The other examinees looked at one another, not knowing whether to laugh or to cry.

Call Fang Zhengzhi stupid?

But the great Vice Domain Chief of the Ten Devilish Domains seemed to have been fooled and played around with by Fang Zhengzhi.

Call Fang Zhengzhi smart?

What kind of smart person would take out the Blazing Qilin Spear, the only source of self-protection, as an item of exchange at such a time?

Ping Yang's clear gaze shot towards Fang Zhengzhi. She really wanted to exclaim, well done! However, when the words reached the edges of her mouth, she swallowed it back. After all, Fang Zhengzhi was using her Blazing Qilin Spear to make a bet.

"Hmph, I just knew you would talk glibly!" Ping Yang huffed lightly and cocked her head to one side.

On the other hand, Yan Xiu's expression remained calm. It was just as if everything was to be expected.

Among the people present at the scene, the person who was affected the most was Nangong Mu. He could clearly feel that Ying Shan's emotional state had been battered greatly.

The pressure from Ying Shan's territory had been noticeably reduced by a little.

Within the time span of a few sentences, Fang Zhengzhi was able to cause Ying Shan to almost lose control over his emotions twice, giving Nangong Mu more time and more strength. How is Fang Zhengzhi able to achieve this? Nangong Mu really couldn't understand.

Xing Qingsui's expression was a ghostly shade of pale. But, he strenuously continued to hold his eyes open. He felt somewhat angry, angry at himself for bringing Ying Shan into the World of the Sage. Even more, he hated himself for not holding his guard against Ying Shan.

If it wasn't for this, how would Ying Shan's sneak attack be a success?

Now, all he wished for was to use his life to exchange for all the mistakes he had made. However, he had already lost his qualification to do so. The only person who was qualified to do this now was Fang Zhengzhi.

"What are your terms? I will only give you one chance to speak!" Ying Shan had no way to continue negotiating with Fang Zhengzhi happily any further. Because, he felt that he might die of anger if this continued.

"My terms are very simple. I want to use the Blazing Qilin Spear to exchange for your weakness!" Fang Zhengzhi could feel Ying Shan's rage. Thus, he couldn't continue to fool around. It is fine to play with fire, however, no matter what, it isn't fine to burn up oneself.

"Weakness?" Ying Shan was taken aback. He really didn't expect Fang Zhengzhi to ask for this.

The other examinees were also taken aback.

This exchange simply couldn't complete. Why would Ying Shan be stupid enough to tell his weakness to Fang Zhengzhi? That was evidently impossible. Then, what were the intentions of Fang Zhengzhi's words?

"The Blazing Qilin Spear is what I use to protect my life. Your weakness is what you use to protect your life. I am using my life protection to exchange for yours. Such an exchange is only fair, don't you think so?" Fang Zhengzhi ignored the glances coming from the surrounding people. Instead, he looked at Ying Shan calmly.

"Ha ha, what you said does makes sense." When Ying Shan heard this, he finally laughed out. "Then, how can you prove that the weakness I speak of is real?"

"All you have to do is to make an oath to the Demon God. Or, maybe you can let me jab at your weakness just once?" Fang Zhengzhi looked at Ying Shan anticipatedly.

His intention naturally wasn't to make an exchange.

Even people of his previous world weren't stupid enough to make an exchange with a stranger, and there were even less reasons to do so under current circumstances. Thus, the reason he wanted to exchange Ying Shan's weakness was because weakness was too vague, and hard to trade.

Of course, if Ying Shan really revealed it, he didn't mind listening.

However, will the Vice Domain Chief of the Ten Devilish Domains be so stupid? Fang Zhengzhi didn't have such a hope. Yet, what would be the difference whether he did or not? His aim was to delay time, hence, the purpose of this exchange was only an excuse to delay time.

A vague and extremely complicated exchange was the best way to delay time.

Furthermore, most importantly…

Fang Zhengzhi was conducting a test.

He was testing how much Ying Shan feared the Blazing Qilin Spear.

From their conversation, Fang Zhengzhi could confirm that Ying Shan knew very well the power of the Blazing Qilin Spear. Hence, if Ying Shan really agreed to this exchange, it meant that he was indeed extremely fearful of the Blazing Qilin Spear. The results of the battle will hence be an unknown. If Fang Zhengzhi himself fought with all his strength, there would be at least a fifty percent hope of winning.

However, if Ying Shan immediately chose to give up on the bet.

This meant that the threat of the Blazing Qilin Spear to him would at most cause some light injuries, that was it. If he wanted to leverage on the Blazing Qilin Spear to defeat Ying Shan, there wasn't even a one out of ten chance of winning.

"Ha ha ha… You are truly willing to go to such painstaking lengths as to use the Blazing Qilin Spear to exchange for my weakness? Unfortunately, I will have to disappoint you." Ying Shan already didn't bother to engage in any further conversations with Fang Zhengzhi. Waving the blade on his hand, he prepared to advance.

When Fang Zhengzhi saw Ying Shan's determined attitude, he knew that the Blazing Qilin Spear on his hand didn't pose as much of a threat to Ying Shan as he thought.

However, he was just trying to delay time. Hence, he didn't mind talking more.

"Calm down. If you don't agree to these terms, we can change to another one…"

"Stop your nonsense, prepare to die!"

Ying Shan was truly enraged this time.

Even though the Blazing Qilin Spear posed as a threat to him, he was ready to fight to the death. He hadn't even thought of walking out of the Yan Capital alive. Then, as long as this threat didn't cost his life, it wasn't considered a threat.

Stepping out, Ying Shan had actually given up on the trapped Nangong Mu under his immense rage and instead turned around and charged towards Fang Zhengzhi.

Fang Zhengzhi's eyes lit up, and his plan instantly changed.

The tactic of delaying time immediately turned into creating a diversion and luring the enemy away. Moreover, he had never thought that he would have to fight face-to-face with Ying Shan so quickly.

Hence, when Ying Shan moved, he quickly shouted out.

"Quick, run!"

Then, without giving any opportunity for Ping Yang and Yan Xiu to speak, he pulled along the two people on his left and right and began to run. That demeanor was completely devoid of any hesitation and doubt.

The examinees who were prepared to watch a huge battle unfold at one side were instantly stunned.

If this was the combat examinations, wouldn't running immediately when the battle began mean that one admitted defeat and was to be eliminated?

Can he not be so weak?

In any case, you are holding on to the Blazing Qilin Spear, one of the ten great treasures of the Great Xia Dynasty. If now isn't the time to fight with all your might, when is? At the very least, why can't you at least make a few jabs with the spear and run away when the situation turns dire?

Isn't running away once the enemy comes like what you are doing now a little too shameless?

Will Fang Zhengzhi care about these things that didn't cause any pain or discomfort?

Of course not.

Preserving his life was his greatest virtue. As for enlightenment during a battle or making a comeback, to hell with these! That's forceful cheating.

"We are just making an exchange, can you at least show some sincerity? If you can't accept one of the terms, we can always continue discussing. If the next one is rejected as well, there is always another one! Fighting and killing are never ways to resolve a problem…" As Fang Zhengzhi ran, he didn't forget to shout out loudly.

"Alright, let's sit together and talk this out nicely!" Ying Shan's eyes were already somewhat bloodshot. The feeling of being shamed affected him deeply, hence, he gritted his teeth tightly.

"I feel that it is still better to maintain some distance. If you stop, I will definitely stop immediately." Fang Zhengzhi would definitely not fall for this trick.

"Hmph!" Ying Shan huffed coldly. He didn't bother replying Fang Zhengzhi any further. The speed of his legs increased, instantly turning into a smoky shadow…

Ying Shan's speed gave Fang Zhengzhi a huge shock.

Isn't this a little too fast?

Luckily, I am prepared and learnt Yan Xiu's Wind Shadow Technique so that I won't be too slow either.

One chased, while the other ran.

Ying Shan's territory naturally shifted a little towards Fang Zhengzhi's position.

Nangong Mu, who was initially trapped within Ying Shan's territory, regained some colour in his face. The pressure on his body also relaxed very evidently. His eyes were filled with a slight shock as the green and blue territory illuminated up and expanded.

Even if the rest of the examinees didn't understand Fang Zhengzhi's intention, it was impossible for him not to understand.

Only he knew how many intentions Fang Zhengzhi had.

Without further ado, and even without much hesitation, Nangong Mu turned around and leapt towards the position of the rock. The Green and Blue Dual Blades on his hands slashed towards the four black chains that sealed the golden sword.

The golden sword hilt was wrapped around by a golden dragon, whose faint golden glow illuminated the blade of the sword.

The chains that were able to seal such a sword naturally couldn't be broken with any ordinary weapon. However, the swords on Nangong Mu's hand were not ordinary weapons either.

They were treasures that were passed down through generations among the Nangong Nobles. The Green and Blue Dual Blades.

The Green and Blue Dual Blades, other than being the essential weapon for employing the Green and Blue Secret Art, was extremely sharp. Even among the weapon list of the Great Xia Dynasty, it ranked in the top thirty.

"Clang!" A crisp sound resounded.

A pinkie sized incision was made on the black chain.

Nangong Mu's body trembled. Fresh blood spurted out of the wound on his chest, staining the robe he wore on his body red.

Such a movement naturally wouldn't escape Ying Shan's ears.

The figure that charged towards Fang Zhengzhi decelerated. Turning back his head, Ying Shan realised that Nangong Mu had raised his Green and Blue Dual Blades once again and slashed down with lightning speed.

"I see!" As the Vice Domain Chief among the ten domains, he was naturally well-versed with the arts of war. However, due to his rage, he fell for Fang Zhengzhi's trick.

This struck another blow to his pride.

Fang Zhengzhi must die!

However, the more pressing problem now was to stop Nangong Mu from pulling out the sword.

Ying Shan instantly made a decision. Turning his body, the entire body once again charged towards Nangong Mu, who was standing on the rock. He simply didn't bother with Fang Zhengzhi anymore.

Fang Zhengzhi always upheld a famous quote.

If the enemy doesn't move, I won't move. If the enemy moves… I will move around, anyhow!

Now that Ying Shan had moved towards Nangong Mu, he naturally couldn't allow Ying Shan to reach Nangong Mu's side as easy.

"Watch out for my hidden weapon!"

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Chapter 207: Shadowless

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Fang Zhengzhi roared as if he was afraid that Ying Shan wouldn't know.

"Hidden weapon?" Ying Shan definitely didn't feel that using a hidden weapon behind his back was shameless. Not too long ago, he had used the same method to harm majority of the examinees at the scene.

However, he didn't slow down. Because, his target was Nangong Mu.

On the other hand, Fang Zhengzhi's actions now was undoubtedly disturbing him from behind.

With his vast battle experiences, Ying Shan definitely wouldn't be held back by Fang Zhengzhi's harmless disturbance.

Fang Zhengzhi's state was only Heavenly Reflection. Even if he threw out a few hidden weapons, how could they even harm him?

On the other hand, Nangong Mu had already raised his sword once again and the chain was very likely to be broken.

Time was everything.

Hence, Ying Shan continued to advance.

Not knowing what hidden weapons Fang Zhengzhi threw at him, he instinctively waved the blade on his hands behind his back, causing a black barrier to appear behind him.

That was enough.

But…

The impact of the hidden weapon he imagined seemed a little too forceful.

"Boom!" A loud bang resounded.

The black barrier behind Ying Shan's back was completely shattered without any resistance, turning into spots of black light. A force with the power of a volcanic explosion rushed towards him, instantly slamming into Ying Shan's back.

Ying Shan, who didn't have any time to react, stumbled and almost fell face-down onto the ground.

The rumbling in his chest resembled the rolling of waves.

"Pssh!" A mouthful of fresh blood spurted out from Ying Shan's mouth into the air, which quickly turned into steam. A powerful scorching, piercing pain came from the skin on his back.

Without even looking, Ying Shan knew that he suffered minimally broken bones and torn muscles.

Ying Shan was deeply shaken.

He really couldn't understand what kind of hidden weapon had such a strong power?!

Turning back his head, he discovered a fully scarlet spear impaled onto the ground. The golden rays glinted from the tip of the spear, glowing faintly from under the ground.

On the other hand, Fang Zhengzhi dashed towards the spear with lightning speed and smoothly regained the spear.

"I have already reminded you, yet you didn't take it seriously? You are really disappointing me too much…" Fang Zhengzhi held the Blazing Qilin Spear and gazed at Ying Shan with an innocent expression on his face.

"The Blazing Qilin Spear?! You… You used the Blazing Qilin Spear as your hidden weapon?" Ying Shan's eyes were wide with shock.

He would never have thought that Fang Zhengzhi would be so brave as to send the Blazing Qilin Spear as a hidden weapon flying towards his back.

One must note that under the circumstances just now, if he didn't pursue Nangong Mu, or, as long as he treated it a little more seriously and turned his head around to look, that Blazing Qilin Spear would definitely land in his hands.

Throwing the Blazing Qilin Spear as a hidden weapon? This was the act of a daredevil.

Not only was Ying Shan unable to comprehend this, the rest of the people on the scene also stared with their eyes opened wide.

Nobody would ever had thought that Fang Zhengzhi's "hidden weapon" was actually the powerful Blazing Qilin Spear! Wasn't that a little too much?

"He threw out the Blazing Qilin Spear?!"

"Oh my God, that's the Blazing Qilin Spear? Isn't he afraid that…"

"This is simply nonsense!"

The examinees stared at Fang Zhengzhi in disbelief, their mouths agape.

Ping Yang's face similarly turned somewhat pale with fear.

Standing behind Fang Zhengzhi, she had the clearest view of what had transpired.

When Fang Zhengzhi shouted out, "watch out for my hidden weapon", the Blazing Qilin Spear had already left his hands and turned into a ray of light and flew towards Ying Shan, bringing along a small golden glow.

At that moment, her heart had fallen apart.

Most importantly, Fang Zhengzhi had purposely shouted, "Watch… hidden weapon!"

The most important factor was the word, "watch".

What is this guy trying to do? You don't value other people's treasures at all? Ping Yang regretted somewhat, regretted lending her Blazing Qilin Spear to Fang Zhengzhi.

However, what left her speechless was that Fang Zhengzhi had actually retrieved the Blazing Qilin Spear. Furthermore, he seemed to have caused Ying Shan of the Supernatural State to spurt out a mouthful of blood?

That was completely unbelievable.

Yan Xiu had also witnessed Fang Zhengzhi's actions. No matter how much he trusted Fang Zhengzhi, he was ultimately stunned by such a daring move.

However, fortunately, Ying Shan actually didn't turn around.

Instead, he used a simple black barrier to defend against the Blazing Qilin Spear, the treasure with the greatest offensive power among the ten great treasures of the Great Xia Dynasty.

This move was naturally effective.

However…

This move? Why is this effective?!

Nobody had thought of such an outcome. However, it was a fact that Ying Shan didn't use his full powers to defend against this move.

One move was enough to injure Ying Shan?

Among the people present at the scene, even Nangong Mu with his Green and Blue Secret Art was unable to injure Ying Shan beyond a few superficial wounds. However, Fang Zhengzhi's move caused Ying Shan to spurt out a mouthful of blood?

It was obvious who was better.

"Clang!"

Right at this moment, a crisp sound snapped people out of their thoughts.

Nangong Mu's sword had already landed at this moment. One chain among the four black chains had already been broken off. This caused the wound on his chest to once again flow with streams of bright, fresh blood.

However, he didn't stop.

Instead, he continued to slash towards the other three chains.

Nangong Mu didn't distract himself by observing Fang Zhengzhi's battle. For some unknown reason, he felt that Fang Zhengzhi would definitely be able to hold back Ying Shan.

Maybe it was because Fang Zhengzhi was able to rile up Ying Shan's emotions with just a few sentences previously.

Or, maybe it was because that there was no other choice at the moment.

After weighing the pros and cons, he decided to focus on what he was supposed to do. As for the rest, he would let Fang Zhengzhi settle them.

Just as Nangong Mu had expected.

After Fang Zhengzhi's powerful blow, Ying Shan stopped. His eyes flashed with a faint cold glow. For the second time, he felt shamed. And this time, it was built upon his vast battle experiences.

Hidden weapon…

Who in this world would use the Blazing Qilin Spear as a hidden weapon?

He really wanted to turn around and grab Fang Zhengzhi, then place his mouth close to Fang Zhengzhi's ear and shout, "Why would you throw the Blazing Qilin Spear?"

However, he couldn't do this. Because, he had to stop Nangong Mu.

Once the sword was pulled out.

Only the Heavens would know whether the World of the Sage would once again fall under the control of the Imperial Academy. When that time comes, all his plans would be foiled. Hence, he didn't have time to delay any further.

Injury?

This was indeed true. However, being of the Supernatural State, how could he be afraid of injuries? The blood and charred flesh on his back began to peel off rapidly, and slowly began to recover with a speed that could be observed with one's naked eyes.

The Supernatural State.

Even though such a heavy injury required some time to heal, Ying Shan didn't delay much longer. Lifting his feet, he pounced towards Nangong Mu once again.

"Watch out for my hidden weapon!" Fang Zhengzhi's voice was like an overly attached woman bugging Ying Shan. He had no choice but to slow down slightly.

Ying Shan was already injured. If he was impaled by the Blazing Qilin Spear once more, he would require at least an hour to recover completely.

An hour...

There were many things that could happen under such circumstances. For example,the sword would be pulled out, or, he could even be killed by these people.

The Supernatural State was very powerful.

However, that didn't mean that he was invincible.

In reality, every human had one similar weakness. That, was their pocket dimension.

The pocket dimension was the core of all their power. The heart of Dao grew from the heart. The access of Dao was done through the heart. Hence, the power of human's pocket dimension lay in their hearts.

On the other hand, the demon race's powers lie within their demon eye. They gained and controlled power through their demon eye. If the demon eye was injured, this meant that all their powers would disappear.

Ying Shan naturally couldn't allow such a thing to happen. Hence, this time, he definitely wouldn't dare to underestimate his opponent like what he did previously.

He turned his head.

However…

The Blazing Qilin Spear he expected didn't arrive.

What came was a silver light that filled the entire sky. It was like stars that shone in the night sky, bright yet hidden. The sound of air being pierced could be heard.

Naturally, that was the "Torrential Pear Blossom" which Fang Zhengzhi always loved to use.

Under the additional power provided by the Heavenly Reflection State, the silver needles were each covered with ice and frost. As for its deadliness, killing a person of the Star Conglomerate State wasn't a problem at all.

Ying Shan gazed at the starlights that flew towards him and narrowed his eyes. He didn't know what trick Fang Zhengzhi was trying to play, and what treasures Fang Zhengzhi threw at him.

But, after the lesson learnt from his first experience, he definitely wouldn't underestimate his opponent.

A powerful force rose from Ying Shan's body.

The dense, ink-like territory instantly condensed itself, focusing on blocking the starlights that flew over.

"Clang clang clang clang…"

A stream of sounds rang out. The starlights clashed into the territory, then, fell to the floor one-by-one, revealing a scene of broken needles…

Other than that, there wasn't any further changes.

"Just that?" Ying Shan stared, somewhat confused, at the broken needles on the ground.

Ping Yang was also somewhat confused.

When she saw Fang Zhengzhi give up using the Blazing Qilin Spear for a second time and instead, fish out a handful of silver needles from his pockets, she was filled with hope and expectation. She eagerly anticipated Fang Zhengzhi to make another miracle.

But now…

This eager anticipation seemed somewhat inappropriate.

The other examinees also stared with their eyes wide open. When Fang Zhengzhi injured Ying Shan in one move, they had actually pinned all their hopes on Fang Zhengzhi.

As the saying went, taking advantage of one's injury to take one's life. Quoting military tactics, pursue while at an advantage. The essence of these were that the second attack would be stronger and deadlier than the first.

Then, what was the meaning of this starlight that was loud as thunder, yet as small as raindrops.

Couldn't he at least make a nicer show?

On the other hand, Yan Xiu wasn't too shocked this time.

He knew very well that the handful of silver needles were very ordinary street products. There wasn't even the smallest bit of improvement or enhancement. How could such a thing harm Ying Shan?

"How is the power of my Torrential Pear Blossoms?" Fang Zhengzhi fished out another handful of silver needles once again and waved them in front of Ying Shan, anticipating his review.

"..." Ying Shan didn't speak. He fell into silence. Because, he really didn't know what to say.

He only knew that he seemed to have turned cultured today, so cultured that he didn't even have the slightest bit of temper. He really wanted to swear, however, that was evidently a waste of time.

Hence, he didn't pay any further attention to Fang Zhengzhi. Instead, he continued to charge towards the rock.

However, due to the previous delay.

Nangong Mu's sword once again slashed onto the second chain. This time, Nangong Mu's strength seemed to be even stronger than the previous time. He was actually able to cut halfway into the chain.

"Don't run, watch out for my hidden weapon!" Fang Zhengzhi shouted out once again the moment Ying Shan turned his head.

This time, Ying Shan didn't turn his head immediately. His speed was fast as lightning, turning into a smoke-like shadow just with his speed alone. In an instant, he had arrived beside the rock.

He was too fast, so fast that people couldn't see clearly what was happening.

Under such circumstances, there was no hidden weapon that could be faster than Ying Shan's speed.

Everybody held their breath. Because, as long as Ying Shan ascended the rock, Nangong Mu wouldn't be able to slash the chain. Then, the battle would turn into a horrible one.

Nangong Mu's expression was as calm as ever. With his abilities, he could naturally feel that Ying Shan had arrived below the rock. However, he didn't move. The sword in his hands slashed down with the same powerful determination.

As if he completely missed what was happening.

Xing Qingsui's hand strenuously pushed against the ground. He wanted to stop Ying Shan. However, having lost so much blood, to be able to resist fainting was already the best he could do.

This moment seemed to have become the most critical moment in the battle.

Anybody would be able to guess Ying Shan's intentions. No matter how Fang Zhengzhi attempted to harass Ying Shan, as long as he didn't dare to fight head-on with Ying Shan, it would forever be futile.

Everybody could predict that Ying Shan's next move would be to mount the rock, and then descend into a killing spree.

However, right at this moment, the blade in Ying Shan's hands suddenly turned around.

As always, people move with their blades.

The moment he turned his blade, he seemed to spin backwards on the spot. Instantly, the advance became retreat, slashing towards his back with the speed of a black light.

A sly and crafty military tactic.

As the Vice Domain Chief of the Ying Domain in the Ten Devilish Domains, Ying Shan was very proud. All along, he had been respected for his outstanding talents.

However, this time, he had been controlled by Fang Zhengzhi multiple times.

He could indeed charge immediately up the rock. However, if he did this, he wouldn't be able to live with himself. This wasn't related to the task at hand. He only wanted to win on an intellectual level for once.

Even though it was only once.

If he couldn't achieve this, he would never be able to calm his own heart. If his heart wasn't calm, how could he reach the peak level of power?

Hence, he chose to counter-attack.

Using slyness to defeat slyness.

He decided to change the direction of his blade at the critical moment Fang Zhengzhi chased up to him and thrust suddenly towards him, catching him off guard. This would take down that annoying person in one move.

The blade was still the same blade, carrying along the faint smell of blood.

However, under the intense wrapping of shadows, the shiny, bright blade turned pitch-black, as if it was soaked in ink. Within this pitch-black shadow territory, not a glimmer of light shone.

This was Ying Shan's most powerful technique, a technique that shook their entire Ten Devilish Domains.

The Shadow Blade Technique.

There was another name for this blade technique, Shadowless.

Under the influence of his dark shadow territory, his blade was able to become untraceable and unable to locate.

Due to this blade technique, when Ying Shan became known to the world, he gained a nickname within the demon race. That was, Ghost Shadow Blade.

Either he didn't participate in a fight, or he would deliver the killing blow in one hit!

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Chapter 208: Face Head-On

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Going from advance to retreat was something that was extremely hard to achieve. However, Ying Shan's movements were as smooth and natural as the moving clouds and flowing water. It was as if everything he had done before was in preparation for this strike.

Darkness covered the ground, and the blade in Ying Shan's hand had already disappeared.

This was Shadowless.

However…

Disappearing alongside Ying Shan's blade was also Fang Zhengzhi, as well as Yan Xiu and Ping Yang.

This seemed to not make any sense at all.

However, it was for a fact that when Ying Shan drew his blade and counter-attacked, Fang Zhengzhi disappeared. Or, it could be said that all along, Fang Zhengzhi had never appeared behind Ying Shan.

Ying Shan's expression of unparalleled self-confidence froze.

He couldn't understand. Where did Fang Zhengzhi go? Why would Fang Zhengzhi suddenly disappear?

"Are you looking for me?" Fang Zhengzhi's voice sounded out from behind Ying Shan's body.

Ying Shan turned around and was even more shocked to see Fang Zhengzhi standing below the rock. Holding a Blazing Qilin Spear in his hands, a similarly shocked expression appeared on his face.

Of course, Fang Zhengzhi never expected Ying Shan to turn around suddenly.

He was indeed pursuing Ying Shan from behind, and his objective was naturally also to delay Ying Shan from going up the rock.

However, he didn't chase closely behind Ying Shan. Or, it could be said that all along, he maintained a misalignment behind Ying Shan's body. This wasn't because he could guess Ying Shan's intentions.

Instead, it was a habit.

To someone who was well-versed with sneak attacks, it was only natural for him to instinctively avoid a few possibilities of falling for a sneak attack as well.

This was similar to a general on the battlefield who was well-versed in cutting off people's supplies. He would definitely guard the back of his own battlefield very heavily.

Fang Zhengzhi was such a person. He was used to unleashing sudden attacks, and used to sudden counter-attacks. Hence, he would definitely not allow himself to follow so closely behind the enemy's back, and instead, pursue at a misaligned angle.

Ying Shan's counter-attack was incredibly beautiful.

However, there was one greatest flaw in this counter-attack. That was before one's blade turned, one mustn't turn his head, not even reveal the slightest bit of intention to do so.

Hence, it would naturally be impossible for Ying Shan to know Fang Zhengzhi's position.

Hence, Ying Shan counter-attacked.

On the other hand, Fang Zhengzhi didn't have time to react, charging in front of Ying Shan. In an instant, both of them entered each other's visual blind spot. This was a golden opportunity.

If Fang Zhengzhi took advantage of this, he would definitely be able to inflict serious damage upon Ying Shan.

However, Fang Zhengzhi had no way of knowing that Ying Shan would turn around. Hence, he maintained his blazing speed and charged in front. He wanted to stop Ying Shan from the side, thus, he naturally didn't take advantage of this opportunity.

This was a coincidence that left people speechless.

However, this coincidence caused Ying Shan's heart to once again be unable to reach a state of calm. Such a perfect plan was foiled? What hint did he reveal?

How could this not harm him?

A list of doubts rose up within Ying Shan's head.

These questions similarly filled the minds of the surrounding examinees.They already couldn't understand the reason why Ying Shan turned around.

Now, they were still unable to understand the reason.

The scene that unfolded a moment ago.

Ying Shan very evidently unleashed a powerful killing blow. The power of that blade likened one that aimed to slice off a mountain peak.

However, all along, Fang Zhengzhi wasn't following behind Ying Shan.

This was something they had seen very clearly.

Then, what is Ying Shan trying to slash with this blade? The air? Or, was it to vent his rage?

Nobody could understand. However, there was one point which they understood very well.

Fang Zhengzhi had successfully blocked the way between Ying Shan and Nangong Mu. Yan Xiu and Ping Yang stood in the same row beside Fang Zhengzhi.

Standing below the rock.

Ying Shan's blade was as ink-black as before. However, this ink-black blade seemed somewhat heavy in his hands. The Shadow Blade Technique emphasized slyness and being traceless. If it was used during a sneak attack, it would be even more unexpected. That was the most important reason he was sent for this task.

Now that tracelessness had turned into traceable, the power of this blade technique had been reduced by at least seventy percent.

"How… did you see through it?" Ying Shan had to ask this in the end. This stemmed from his pride and self-respect.

Fang Zhengzhi knew very well what Ying Shan was asking.

Answer with the truth?

That was just because his luck was a little bit good…

Fang Zhengzhi wasn't so stupid. If he wasn't able to win based on abilities, then, he had to defeat the opponent with his temperament, at least causing the opponent to feel afraid.

"Because, your move contains a life-threatening weakness. Or, it could be said that every single one of your moves contained a life-threatening weakness. This is a habit you cannot change. And it is this very habit that lets me know whatever you are going to do." Fang Zhengzhi's expression was very serious. It was like an elder pointing out the flaws of a younger person's techniques.

Ying Shan frowned slightly. Everyone had a weakness. He was no exception. However, he didn't know whether Fang Zhengzhi was speaking about the same weakness which he knew of.

He was more inclined to believe that Fang Zhengzhi was spouting nonsense.

However, Fang Zhengzhi had indeed previously proved this with his actions. Each of his actions were indeed expected and foreseen by Fang Zhengzhi. That was a rather bad feeling, it was even somewhat scary.

Being able to determine an opponent's weakness with one look?

Has Fang Zhengzhi's talents already reached such a level?

"He really saw through Ying Shan's moves?"

"Isn't that… not very possible?"

"So it seems that Ying Shan previously wanted to deliver a killing blow to Fang Zhengzhi? But, it has been foreseen by Fang Zhengzhi, allowing him to dodge it? No wonder…"

When the examinees heard the conversation between Ying Shan and Fang Zhengzhi, they began to guess.

"Clang!" A gentle sound snapped Ying Shan and the examinees from their thoughts.

On the rock, two chains had already been broken. The golden sword let out a low cry, as if it could break out from the stone any moment.

At this moment, success took another step forward.

From the moment Fang Zhengzhi stood out until now, he hadn't even fought once with Ying Shan face-to-face. However, he injured Ying Shan badly on his back, and most of all, delayed at least two minutes worth of time.

Most importantly, up till now, Ying Shan hadn't even taken a single step up the rock.

There was no other way to describe this other than being a miracle.

Just like how Fang Zhengzhi used two hours to complete six examination papers in the theory examination of the Imperial Examination, becoming the theory examination roll champion with his full marks.

Nobody would have thought of such an outcome, much less that such a thing would occur.

But these were the facts. Facts that cannot be argued against.

"Will you be able to stop me even if you are able to see through my techniques?" This time, Ying Shan didn't rush to ascend the rock immediately. Because, he had already viewed Fang Zhengzhi as a true enemy.

At least, it was an enemy that allowed him to take seriously.

"There is a saying. When you meet with a problem, you must face it head-on!" Fang Zhengzhi stood his spear on the ground with a proud and unyielding expression on his face.

However, this aura appearing from Fang Zhengzhi's body.

In addition to everything Fang Zhengzhi did previously, truly caused people to feel slightly unwell.

Ying Shan had this exact feeling.

Face head-on?

Then, what did you just do? Sneaking an attack on me from behind, relentless sly and cunning tactics, since when did you ever face head-on?

The surrounding examinees also had this same thought. However, at this moment, they stood in the same camp as Fang Zhengzhi. Hence, they could get used to this indisposed feeling.

At this moment, Yan Xiu had opened the Mountain and River, Heaven and Earth Fan in his hands and stood quietly beside Fang Zhengzhi. He didn't feel indisposed. Instead, he only chose to fight alongside Fang Zhengzhi at this time that Fang Zhengzhi decided to face this battle head-on.

Ping Yang similarly stood shoulder-to-shoulder beside Fang Zhengzhi. By right, Ping Yang should have walked away at this moment. Because, she already had no more strength to fight. More importantly, she had already given her Blazing Qilin Spear to Fang Zhengzhi. Then, how could she fight with Ying Shan of the Supernatural State?

However, Ping Yang didn't walk away.

She stood beside Fang Zhengzhi and waved her fists, preparing for the fight.

"Can you take a rest at the side?" Fang Zhengzhi's words harshly cracked down on Ping Yang's determination for the battle.

Ping Yang's tiny mouth instantly pouted, seeming as if she was very angry. As the great Princess Ping Yang, she had pride and arrogance that ran through her bones. Furthermore, she had another reason to be arrogant, one that came with her birth.

That was a reason that everybody within the Yan Capital knew.

She didn't believe that Fang Zhengzhi didn't know this. However, all along, Fang Zhengzhi gave her the feeling that either he didn't know, or he didn't care.

"I am very strong!" Ping Yang insisted.

"Strong? Can you defeat me?" Fang Zhengzhi looked at Ping Ying with a look of despise.

"I can defeat you!" Ping Yang's clear eyes looked towards Fang Zhengzhi as her tiny lips curled into an arrogant look. Her expression was very serious, as if she was reciting a fact.

"Will you die… if you don't boast?" Fang Zhengzhi casually shot a middle finger towards Ping Yang.

Ping Yang's face instantly flushed red. She stared hatefully at Fang Zhengzhi, then looked at Ying Shan, then finally gritted her teeth and "gloomily" went to one side.

"You will definitely regret this!"

"I wont!" Fang Zhengzhi replied Ping Yang's words very directly.

Then, he looked towards Ying Shan. There were some things that he could not avoid forever. When facing Ying Shan, he might be able to temporarily suppress Ying Shan based on intellect. However, the huge difference in enlightenment state meant that he wouldn't be able to deliver a life-threatening blow.

The Supernatural State…

That, was the enlightenment state of a truly powerful man.

Ying Shan's eyes narrowed. He didn't expect Fang Zhengzhi to fight him face-to-face. However, Fang Zhengzhi stood right in front of him, holding the Blazing Qilin Spear, giving him no choice but to believe it.

"Then, show me your true powers!" There was no light on Ying Shan's blade. It was like a shadow that danced in the darkness. However, the tip of the blade pointed towards Fang Zhengzhi.

The Blazing Qilin Spear on Fang Zhengzhi's hand similarly pointed towards Ying Shan. The Blazing Qilin Spear glowed with a red light, and a tiny golden light glowed quietly at the tip of the spear. That, was the Blazing Qilin True Blood.

He knew that it was difficult to avoid this battle further. However, he suddenly realised a problem.

It seems like I don't know any spear techniques?

What should I do?

This seemed to be a problem. However, Fang Zhengzhi didn't have too much time to think through this. Because, Ying Shan's blade had already moved.

Within the pitch-black darkness, Ying Shan's blade stabbed directly towards him.

At this moment, Yan Xiu also moved. He flipped over the Mountain and River, Heaven and Earth Fan in his hands almost at the exact instant Ying Shan's blade moved.

"Heaven and Earth Reversal!"

To be considered among the Yan Five Treasures, the power of the Mountain and River, Heaven and Earth Fan was no ordinary matter. In the Star Conglomerate State, it could turn into a Mountain River Territory. Now, Yan Xiu had entered the Heavenly Reflection State.

His own territory and the Mountain River Territory complemented and gave life to one another. It was actually able to forcefully tear a gap within the boundless, infinite darkness. A huge mountain range extended towards the sky, just like the lone peak in the black darkness.

A powerful yet sad pressure pressed down upon Ying Shan.

Ying Shan's figure slowed down slightly, then, he began to accelerate once again. However, the footprints he left on the mud became evidently deeper than before.

"Rise of the Eastern Red Sun!"

Yan Xiu let out a low bellow as a bright red sun appeared on top of his head. Following which, a powerful red crescent slashed towards Ying Shan.

Fang Zhengzhi naturally couldn't let Yan Xiu face Ying Shan all by himself.

When Yan Xiu's Mountain River Territory appeared, he had also moved. Even though he wasn't familiar with spear techniques, did it matter? Nevermind that.

He held a spear in his hand, however, why can't a spear be used as a sword?

For example…

"Mountain Waterfall Cascade!"

At the moment Yan Xiu employed the Asura Cut, Fang Zhengzhi also leapt upwards. Using the tip of the spear as the tip of a sword, he plunged the Blazing Qilin Spear down from top to bottom.

This blow.

Fang Zhengzhi had no idea what power it would have.

However, there was one thing he knew for sure. The slashing of a blade downwards and the plunging of a spear downwards were indeed different in their powers.

Most importantly, the Mountain Waterfall Cascade could concentrate all the powers on one single point.

This was a technique used for stabbing.

"I'll stab you to death!" Fang Zhengzhi didn't bother about which sword techniques couldn't be used with spears. He only lived by one value. Any spear technique that could kill people was a good spear technique.

Ying Shan could feel an immense pressure on his body.

As he gazed at the killing intent from Yan Xiu's sword, there wasn't much change in his expression.

However, when Fang Zhengzhi leapt up and directed the tip of the spear towards the ground, plunging down towards his head, he was truly shocked by this strange technique.

The wielder of a spear.

King of the weapons. Pole for a month, blade for a year, spear for a lifetime.

Among the eighteen weapons, the spear was the hardest to use. However, once it was mastered, a spear could become one's second life. A spear was like a dragon in the water.

Usually, there were three basic fighting techniques for the spear. Left head-off, right head-off and thrust.

However, no matter how much Ying Shan grinded his brain, he never would have thought that somebody would raise his spear and plunge it down from above.

"He doesn't know how to use a spear?" This thought instantly flashed across Ying Shan's mind. However, after this thought flashed, another thought arose.

"There is trickery involved!"

Such a great talent who attained the Double Roll Champion in the county and capital examination not knowing how to use a spear? That probability was too low. Even if he might not be proficient at it, he should at least be well-versed with its basics.

However, at this moment, Fang Zhengzhi was completely portraying a layman who used the spear as a stick.

Very evidently, he was definitely trying to employ some sort of trick.

Ying Shan couldn't see through the trick, hence he didn't bother. He lightly waved the blade in his hand, turning it into two blade intents, one of them real, and the other an illusion. The illusion led the attack, while the real one followed behind. This was experience, using an illusion to test one's real power.

However, splitting one into two meant that the blade didn't embody Ying Shan's full power.

This caused the surrounding examinees to feel somewhat stunned.

When Fang Zhengzhi leapt up high in the air and plunged his Blazing Qilin Spear downwards, an icy feeling gripped their hearts. Because, nobody in history would ever use the Blazing Qilin Spear in this manner.

What caused them even more shock was that when Fang Zhengzhi plunged down with the spear, Ying Shan didn't take the opportunity to advance. Instead, he held back and used blade intents.

Ying Shan didn't have sufficient combat experience? Couldn't he see the weakness in Fang Zhengzhi's technique?

This was evidently something that wasn't quite possible.

Then, could the truth be that Fang Zhengzhi's strange spear technique contained a profound secret that they couldn't understand? But, where in the world is the profound secret in this plunge?

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Chapter 209: Rising Sword and Shattered Rock

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Nobody could guess.

However, the truth revealed itself.

Fang Zhengzhi channeled all his energy into this plunge. In addition to the fact that Mountain Waterfall Cascade was a technique with very high penetrating power, all the power was concentrated at the tip of the spear, which happened to be at the same spot at which the True Blood of the Blazing Qilin Spear was located.

This jab seemed very ordinary. However, its true power was extraordinary.

However, Ying Shan defended against it with a fake. Then, the results of what happened next could be predicted.

In an instant, the illusion was pierced through, turning into bits of black light. After which, the posture of the Blazing Qilin Spear remained the same, plunging directly towards Ying Shan while bringing along a spot of golden light.

"Boom!"

The spear contacted with the blade.

The blazing Qilin Spear's bizzare technique at this moment was executed brilliantly. Upon contact, Ying Shan instantly felt trouble. Because, Fang Zhengzhi's strange technique, which he thought was a fake, was a real one.

A intensely sharp and oppressive air channeled itself from the tip of the Blazing Qilin Spear into the blade in Ying Shan's hand.

Leaving a hole with the size of a speartip in the jet-black blade.

This wasn't over yet. Because, at this moment, Yan Xiu's cut had arrived. Asura embodied killing. Even though it was a righteous Dao, the air of killing definitely inspired reverence.

After Ying Shan's blade was penetrated by the Blazing Qilin Spear, it was already a little futile to block off Yan Xiu's Asura Cut.

As the saying went, a single slip may cause everlasting sorrow. During a battle, a single mistake and the loss of a key moment would cause one to be defeated. That was the meaning behind this.

However, Ying San was still Ying Shan.

The Vice Domain Chief of the Ten Devilish Domains. His vast combat experience and decisiveness at key moments were definitely not something any average person could compare to.

After losing a move, he changed from advancement to retreat. At the same time, the blade in his hand slashed upwards. That was one of the hardest techniques to master for the blade, with the intent of the technique Water Cutting Blade.

Water Cutting Blade. Even water could be cut. The speed, agility and deadliness of the blade was evident.

"Boom!"

The second clash rang out once again.

Right at the moment this sound rang out, Ying Shan vanished.

His body had completely immersed into the shadow territory.

Not only could the blade be shadowless. Ying Shan himself could turn shadowless as well.

However, immersing into the shadow territory during a battle meant that the injury suffered by Ying Shan during the clash caused him to have no choice but to hide.

This outcome undoubtedly caused great shock to the surrounding examinees.

They really couldn't understand how did this nonsensical technique injure Ying Shan once again?

Then, they thought of something which Fang Zhengzhi had previously said.

"When you meet with a problem, you must face it head-on!"

At that moment, almost everybody believed that Fang Zhengzhi had said this grudgingly. It was only a form of reassuring himself after falling into impasse.

However, the facts were that once Fang Zhengzhi faced it head-on, Ying Shan was defeated.

A very strange defeat.

Fang Zhengzhi actually had the advantage in a head-on combat?

The examinees couldn't understand the meaning behind this. Ying Shan himself couldn't understand it as well. He really couldn't understand, why was Fang Zhengzhi's technique not a fake?

Don't tell me he really doesn't know spear technique?!

Impossible!

Ying Shan really didn't want to admit this. This was due to his experience, as well as his self-respect and self-confidence. He didn't believe that his judgement would be incorrect. At the very least, he wouldn't go against the judgement of his many years of experience due to one failure alone.

However, his blade had already been damaged. Even though it wasn't broken, the initially advantageous situation he used to have had now suffered a sudden, devastating decline.

Another combat?

That was something only an idiot would do.

Moreover, on the rock, NAngong Mu's sword had already landed once again.

The third chain had been sliced into two by the Green and Blue Dual Blade.

"Buzz!"

The cry of the sword was like that of a dragon. The golden glow expanded greatly and the rock seemed to be on the verge of exploding. It was as if the sword was struggling to release itself from the rock by itself.

The surrounding examinees looked at the scene unfolding before them.

Each of them revealed a delighted expression. It was as if they had seen a tiny glow of light in the pitch-black darkness. That, was the hope of life. How could it not bring delight?

Yan Xiu held the Mountain and River, Heaven and Earth Fan in his hand with a calm expression. He stood under the rock and guarded it tightly.

On the other hand, Fang Zhengzhi felt somewhat flabbergasted.

He was astonished as to why would Ying Shan's power be so weak? What happened to Supernatural?

Before engaging with Ying Shan, he had even prepared to suffer injuries. However, why did Ying Shan escape so quickly after just one contact?

Or, could it be said that I am really a talent? The technique I created at the last minute had actually brought out three hundred percent of the power of the Blazing Qilin Spear?

Fang Zhengzhi was a little confused. However, all along, he wasn't someone who advanced prematurely.

After winning a move, it was better to stand guard below the rock.

As long as Nangong Mu broke off the four chains, the World of the Sage would return to the control of the Imperial Academy once again. When a few imperial messengers or similar people arrive, the rest of this wouldn't be much of his problem anymore.

Safety!

Was always the utmost priority.

That was similar to the value that Fang Zhengzhi scrupulously abided by all along. He had always despised things such as challenging higher levels, leveling up during times of great danger and enlightenment while at the doors of death.

Not too long ago, he had just gained enlightenment about the territory of the Heavenly Reflection State. As to the feeling of pacing around the doors of death in the Supernatural State, he didn't even have the slightest bit of knowledge. Charging in to fight just like that?

That was undoubtedly an act of suicide.

Within the shadow territory, Ying Shan's figure danced around. However, no matter how he danced, Fang Zhengzhi and Yan Xiu continued to remain unmoving under the rock.

Without the slightest bit of hurry and worry.

This way, Ying Shan became worried.

Fang Zhengzhi and Yan Xiu could afford to wait slowly. However, he couldn't.

He needed to prevent Nangong Mu from pulling out the sword as fast as possible. However, under current circumstances, the probability of charging up the rock before Nangong Mu broke off the fourth chain wasn't too great.

Hence, he had to change his strategy.

Ying Shan's eyes narrowed slightly. In an instant, he spotted Ping Yang.

Ping Yang was standing by the side, pouting her mouth. She was bored stiff and was in a bad mood. Her clear eyes were fixated on Fang Zhengzhi and Yan Xiu, and even seemed to be saying something with her mouth.

Ying Shan's eyes lit up.

However, they quickly darkened again. Because, he saw the Red Flame Flower Armor on Ping Yang's body.

Hence, he could only shift his gaze away with great difficulty onto those heavily injured examinees that lay on the ground.

In an instant, his eyes lit up with the brightest possible glow.

The examinees on the ground might not match up to Nangong Mu of the Heavenly Reflection Peak State, nor could they match up to the crafty and shameless Fang Zhengzhi, nor the heavily gifted Yan Xiu.

However, to be able to enter the third round of the Imperial Combat Examination, which of them wasn't the creme of the human race?

Most importantly, all of these people were heavily injured. Any blow could take their life easy. This way, what was the point of giving up something so easy to attain for something much harder?

When he thought of this, the edges of Ying Shan's mouth curved into a slight smile.

Hence, the shadow territory slowly expanded. His body had also gradually broken out from the shadow territory. This was something very natural. A condensed territory could concentrate its powers, causing it to become as dense as ink. As it widened, it naturally couldn't maintain its shadowless state.

In an instant, everybody's gaze was fixated on Ying Shan.

They were all guessing that this would be the Ten Devilish Domains vice domain chief's last struggle. Hence, it would be impossible for Fang Zhengzhi to become as lucky as before.

Would Fang Zhengzhi die?

This thought flashed across their mind, bringing along a few dilemmas.

In the end, they all reached one conclusion.

If Fang Zhengzhi's death could exchange for the reopening of the World of the Sage, saving them from the abyss of suffering, then, that was worth the death.

For an ordinary mountain villager.

Wasn't this the greatest honour and glory one could attain? His name would be forever recorded in the books of the Imperial Academy, and remembered by future participants of the Imperial Examination.

How great was that!

Among them, the majority were descendents of nobles. Ever since birth, they were treated highly and with nobility. The death of an ordinary villager could exchange for their lives. How great was that?

As they thought, their faces were filled with calm. Or, it could be said, it was peacefulness.

However...

This peaceful expression didn't last for very long. Because, they all felt as if there was something very hard, and somewhat cold, near their necks.

As such, all the examinees instinctively lowered their heads.

As they looked down, the peaceful looks on the faces of the examinees finally couldn't be maintained anymore. Instead, it turned into absolute horror.

Sword!

Dozens of swords floating in mid-air.

This was a horrifying scene. Even more horrifying was that these swords floated frightfully close to their necks. The slightest movement was sufficient for blood to be drawn.

These swords were naturally the swords on the ground. However, these swords were controlled by black shadows that reached out from beneath the ground.

Around the hilt of each sword wrapped a black shadow.

They were just like hands.

"Ah!" A blood-curdling cry rang out. An examinee grabbed his neck with both hands as his eyes widened and rolled about. His mouth was wide open. He wanted to breathe, but that felt like something that was absolutely impossible.

"Plop!"

The examinee's head tilted to one side, and crashed to the ground. Bright red blood flowed out from the chink between his fingers, dripping on and staining the rock-filled ground.

Very powerless, and very helpless.

When the examinees each witnessed this scene, they had no way of concealing the terror in their eyes anymore.

"Ah!"

"Don't kill me!"

"I still have a great future ahead, Vice … Vice Domain Chief Ying Shan, please don't kill me!"

Even though begging to be spared in front of the demon race wasn't a very glorifying thing for humans, there were still many among them who had never entered the battlefield.

They hadn't yet passed the imperial examination, and hadn't yet served their country.

Hence, in the true face of death, the human attribute of horror naturally greatly surpassed their rationality.

"Why are you all making noise! Ying Shan's actions are naturally meant to threaten them with our lives. Don't tell me you want to be a burden to them?" A voice rang out among the clamorous and horrified shouts.

It was Xing Qingsui.

The "them" Xing Qingsui referred to was naturally Fang Zhengzhi, Yan Xiu and Nangong Mu.

There was also a sword that pressed against his neck. He was powerless to defend against this.

However, he didn't cry out. Ever since that sword pressed against his neck, he didn't make a single sound. Only until cries of horror sounded out from around him was he finally enraged enough to speak.

The gazes of the examinees instantly focused onto Xing Qingsui.

They really wanted to say something. However, when they had clearly seen the sword at Xing Qingsui's neck, they forcefully swallowed back the words that reached their mouths.

As the direct descendant of the Stablisation Constabulary, he grew up in the battlefield ever since young. What he saw was blood, what he drank was rain. As they charged and broke through enemy lines, since when was there even a single time they didn't discard their notion of life and death?

This was the Stabilisation Constabulary. The head of the thirteen constabularies, the Stabilisation Constabulary!

"Well said! Today, I will meet death together with Young Master Xing!" Another voice sounded out at this moment.

"I am willing to die as well!" A third voice closely followed.

Very unfortunately, there wasn't a fourth. Because, not everybody was able to see past life and death like Xing Qingsui did. Even though at a certain moment, one or two certain people burned with righteousness, it was always impossible for everybody to be the same.

"I don't want to die!"

"I don't want to die either…"

"Ah!"

A third cry sounded out. The person who fell was the exact same examinee who shouted "I don't want to die". This caused his eyes to be filled with disbelief.

He was clearly begging for forgiveness, yet, Xing Qingsui and the rest were begging to die.

Why was he the second person to die?

He couldn't understand, and didn't have time to try and understand. Because, his mind had already blurred, and his body and turned powerless...

This sudden turn in events instantly caused the rest of the examinees who were preparing to beg for mercy to close their mouths shut.

Each of them stared with their eyes wide open at Ying Shan.

"Clang!"

A clear sound rang out in the quiet space. Nangon Mu's sword had finally landed on the fourth chain. This time, he had used every bit of energy he had. Blood spurted out wildly from his chest.

However, the chain broke with one slash.

"Boom boom boom!"

An immensely powerful tremor spread out from the rock as lines of cracks began to form on the rock, covering the entire rock like a huge spider web.

Nangong Mu's looked at the rock beneath his feet with a calm expression in his eyes.

The entire time, he only focused on doing what he was tasked to do. No matter what happened below, no matter whether Fang Zhengzhi won or lost.

Even if blood-curdling cries rang out, even if he could clearly hear cries of mercy.

He only focused on what he was supposed to do.

There wasn't the slightest bit of hesitation, nor the slightest bit of pause.

It was somewhat apathetic.

However, it embodied a determined perseverance.

The cracks of the rock widened even greater. There was even a faint glow that seemed to be about to explode from within the rock. If it was not too long ago, this scene.

Was undoubtedly a moment filled with hope and survival.

However, after a sword placed itself beside the neck, the mood and attitude of one looking at this scene would evidently change.

The World of the Sage was out of control.

There was still some value to their existence.

However, once the World of the Sage was reopened, the imperial messengers of the Imperial Academy would charge into the world. When that time came, nobody knew whether Ying Shan, forced into an impasse, would take a risk out of desperation and kill them all in one move.

"Boom!"

Finally, the rock completely shattered. A beam of golden light rushed out from the rock towards the sky, turning into a golden light pillar that connected with the sky.

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Chapter 210: Real Versus Fake

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

At this moment, the only thing left in the World of the Sage was a patch of golden light.

There was no more darkness. The golden light lighted up the entire ground, illuminating the sword-filled ground, as well as people's eyes.

However, everybody's mood and thoughts were completely different.

Nangong Mu stood beside the light pillar, his eyes tightly fixated onto the sword that radiated with a golden light.

Xing Qingsui's gaze was filled with a preparedness for death. From the moment the golden light glowed up, the only thing on his mind was that his death was finally worth it.

Ping Yang's eyes on the other hand was filled with an intense joy. She gripped her two fists tightly in an emotionally moved manner.

Ying Shan looked at the golden light with a somewhat cold look in his eyes. His expression seemed somewhat malevolent. However, he didn't rush towards the golden light immediately. Instead, he stood still on the spot.

As for Fang Zhengzhi and Yan Xiu, they, on the other hand, were fixated upon Ying Shan, as if they had completely missed the golden light.

The expressions of the other examinees at this moment also became immensely complicated. Some were happy, some were devastated. Some cried, while some stood stunned.

Finally, the golden light dissipated.

The entire World of the Sage returned back to its initial calm.

The only thing left was a sword. A sword impaled into the ground that glowed with a faint golden light. The body of the sword shuddered slightly, and the low cry of a dragon seemed to emerge from the blade of the sword.

"Pull the sword!" Xing Qingsui's voice rang out at this moment.

However, Nangong Mu didn't move.

He only gazed silently at that sword, standing completely still on the exact same spot. He seemed to be waiting, and also seemed to be admiring. Nobody knew what he was thinking.

But, he indeed didn't move.

Surprisingly, Ying Shan didn't move as well.

A strange calmness settled over the entire place. Time, on the other hand, continued to flow by.

Nobody knew how long had passed before Nangong Mu finally moved. He didn't pull out the sword. Instead, he slowly turned around and looked at Fang Zhengzhi, who was standing not too far away. He seemed to be asking something.

At this moment, Ying Shan also looked towards Fang Zhengzhi. His eyes seemed to be waiting for something.

Fang Zhengzhi could feel the gaze coming from the two of them. He obviously knew the meaning behind Nangong Mu and Yingshan's gaze.

Now, the seal of the sword had been broken.

However, what was unexpected was that the examinees in the World of the Sage didn't disappear immediately. Then, that also meant that the World of the Sage was still out of control.

The reason Nangong Mu persisted in slashing open the sealing chains was naturally to reopen the World of the Sage. As long as the World of the Sage was under control, those swords held against the examinees' necks wouldn't pose a danger anymore.

However, reality was that those swords were still against the necks of the examinees.

The examinees, on the other hand, were still lying on their exact same spots.

Then, the moment Nangong Mu pulled out the sword would be the moment Xing Qingsui and the rest of the examinees perished.

Nangong Mu didn't pull out the sword.

Ying Shan could continue to wait indefinitely.

Fang Zhengzhi definitely could choose to wait as well. However, no matter how long they waited, there was always a limit.

The scene in front of him was undoubtedly a stalemate. Nangong Mu and Ying Shan, on the other hand, had tossed the key to resolving this stalemate to Fang Zhengzhi at the same time. It seemed somewhat unthinkable.

However, both Nangong Mu and Ying Shan didn't think that there was any problem with this decision.

At this moment, the other examinees had also finally understood the intentions of Nangong Mu and Ying Shan. However, the feeling of having their fates held in Fang Zhengzhi's hands was definitely not a very good one.

"Pull out the sword!" Xing Qingsui's hurried voice rang out again. There was a trace of resolution in his voice. Of course, he knew what everybody was waiting for. However, in his mind.

There was only one way, forward.

Then, he would naturally pin his last hopes on pulling out the sword.

Fang Zhengzhi twitched his mouth. He actually didn't really like making such a decision. Because, this required quite a lot of brain cells. However, he had no other choice.

After all, not only did this choice determine the life and death of the few examinees, it similarly also determined the life and death of himself, Yan Xiu and the rest.

It seemed as if pulling out the sword wasn't related to Fang Zhengzhi's life at all. What was reality like?

Now, the last hope of reopening the World of the Sage was pulling out the sword. However, who dared to say for sure that once the sword was pulled out…

The World of the Sage would definitely reopen?

The sword was impaled into the ground. That was a bargaining chip. However, once the sword was pulled out, this represented that the last bargaining chip would be used up. Success and failure depended on this one move.

Nangong Mu had thought of this. Ying Shan had also thought of this.

Hence, the two of them didn't move.

"If I add this sword to the Blazing Qilin Spear, I wonder whether they can defeat you?" Fang Zhengzhi looked at the sword and finally spoke.

"Maybe." Ying Shan didn't deny nor confirm.

"If I ask you to let them all go, is there a possibility?" Fang Zhengzhi looked at the surrounding examinees. He didn't really like these people. However, at the very least, at this moment, he was in the same camp as these people. Or, it could be said, they were of the same race.

"There is."

"Then, what are the terms of this exchange?"

"A sword."

"So, I'll have to pull out the sword first. Is that right?"

"There is no need."

"Looks like you don't wish for this sword to be pulled out?"

"Of course."

"However, if the sword isn't pulled out, how can we guarantee our lives?" Fang Zhengzhi tossed the problem over to Ying Shan.

"This is your problem."

"You are really naive. Do you really think I care about their lives and deaths?" As he spoke, Fang Zhengzhi walked towards the sword impaled on the ground.

Step by step, Fang Zhengzhi neared the sword.

Ying Shan didn't speak, neither did he move. However, the other examinees on the other hand were on the verge of tears. Because, they could clearly feel that as Fang Zhengzhi neared the sword, the swords on their necks turned a little bit colder.

Nangong Mu looked at Fang Zhengzhi. His expression was calm. All along, he didn't speak.

Fang Zhengzhi walked up to the sword.

Then, his hand grabbed onto the hilt of the sword.

Every movement he made was completely without hesitation. It was as if he was grabbing a very ordinary sword. He didn't even bother to take a single glance at the surrounding examinees.

This caused a sense of despair to fill the hearts of the surrounding examinees.

Only Xing Qingsui's gaze seemed extremely calm, as if in approval of Fang Zhengzhi's actions.

Fang Zhengzhi's hand held onto the sword hilt.

He could clearly feel the intricacies of the carvings into the sword hilt. Moreover, he could even feel the tremendous power that this sword contained within. That, was power as dazzling as the sun.

At this moment, Yan Xiu had also walked to Fang Zhengzhi's side. He looked at Fang Zhengzhi's movements and remained silent.

On the other hand, Ping Yang pouted her tiny mouth.

"Fang Zhengzhi, are you really going to pull out the sword?" Inside her heart, Ping Yang was hoping that Fang Zhengzhi would pull out the sword without hesitation. However, as the princess of the Great Xia Dynasty, she suddenly felt that this seemed somewhat inappropriate.

Fang Zhengzhi didn't reply Ping Yang's question. Instead, he gripped the sword in his hand tightly.

Then, he let go of his hand slowly.

"I believe this sword is fake!" Fang Zhengzhi suddenly turned around and looked at Ying Shan with an extremely serious expression on his face.

"Fake?" Ying Shan was slightly taken aback.

He had thought that Fang Zhengzhi only had two choices, either pull out the sword, or don't. However, he never expected that Fang Zhengzhi would say such a thing at such a time.

Was the sword real or fake?

Ying Shan had no way to determine the answer to this problem.

In the entire World of the Sage, the only person who might be able to answer this question was Fang Zhengzhi alone.

Because, Fang Zhengzhi was the one who defeated the Broken Bridge, the Twin Stone Tablets and the stone house.

However…

Could Ying Shan trust Fang Zhengzhi?

Of course not. Hence, he had no way of determining the authenticity of Fang Zhengzhi's words.

At this moment, Nangong Mu also looked towards Fang Zhengzhi. Similarly, he didn't know whether Fang Zhengzhi's words were true. Fang Zhengzhi might be using this method to trick Ying Shan.

However, what trick could he employ based on the legitimacy of the sword?

When Yan Xiu heard Fang Zhengzhi's words, a slight pondering look appeared on his face. However, he didn't speak.

"Real or fake, you would know once you pull it out. Isn't that right?" When Ping Yang heard Fang Zhengzhi's words, she seemed to have suddenly understood something. Then, she suggested aloud very cooperatively.

"Since it is fake, why is there a need to pull it out?" Fang Zhengzhi shot a disdainful look towards Ping Yang. He didn't even need to wait for Ying Shan to speak.

"You…" Ping Yang was enraged.

She felt as if she was extremely smart. She was able to instantly understand the intentions behind Fang Zhengzhi's words, and act it out with him in such a cooperative manner. However, Fang Zhengzhi seemed to not have accepted this kindness.

This caused her to become somewhat angered.

"If you don't pull out the sword, how do you know whether it is real or fake?" After Ying Shan heard the conversation between the two people, he finally spoke again.

"What is the reason the World of the Sage went out of control?" Fang Zhengzhi didn't directly answer Ying Shan's question. Instead, he asked a question back at him.

"That is naturally due to the consciousness of this sword controlling the World of the Sage. Hence, as long as one possesses this sword, he possesses the ability to control the World of the Sage." Ying Shan replied.

Fang Zhengzhi nodded lightly. When the World of the Sage crumbled and they appeared in his sea of swords, he was naturally filled with doubt. Hence, at first, he had directed this question towards Yan Xiu.

"You are right. However, this sword has no consciousness. Hence, it is naturally a fake." Fang Zhengzhi was very confident of his reply.

"Ha ha ha… Fang Zhengzhi, if this sword was fake, will you be so nice as to tell it to em? Don't tell me you don't know what this represents?" Ying Shan suddenly laughed.

Just as he said, if this sword was fake, that meant that Fang Zhengzhi had lost his last bargaining chip.

"I said just now that their lives and deaths don't matter to me." Fang Zhengzhi smiled lightly.

When the other examinees heard this, they glared at Fang Zhengzhi with menace in their eyes. Even if you don't care about our lives and deaths, you don't have to say it out like that!

That is too insulting.

However, Ying Shan's eyes narrowed slightly.

Fang Zhengzhi's behaviour was too abnormal.

He had no choice but to doubt. If Fang Zhengzhi really didn't care about the lives and deaths of these examinees, it would be impossible for the current situation to be as calm.

However, if Fang Zhengzhi cared about their lives.

Then, it was simply impossible for him to say something such as "the sword is fake".

What is…

His intention?

All of a sudden, Ying Shan's eyes lit up.

He understood.

Fang Zhengzhi was lending him a knife to kill.

First, ensure that these examinees lost all their value to him. Then, using his blade to kill off these examinees.

When that time came, he would pull out the sword and still be able to bear a righteous name.

However, if he pulled out the sword now, even if he lived, he would be hated upon by millions of people.

This was a very perfect plan.

At the same time, it meant that the sword in front of Fang Zhengzhi, was real!

If it was said that Ying Shan had been somewhat confused by Fang Zhengzhi's words previously, now, after having understood everything, Ying Shan's mind was as clear as snow.

"Since you claimed that the sword is fake, why would you continue to hold on to it?" Ying Shan was now very sure of himself. Hence, he obviously wouldn't fall for Fang Zhengzhi's trap as easily.

As long as these examinees were in his hands, Fang Zhengzhi wouldn't pull out the sword.

"You don't me you are willing to use their lives to exchange for this fake sword?" Fang Zhengzhi looked at Ying Shan with some shock.

"I only wish for this sword not to be pulled out." Ying Shan nodded.

"Make sure you don't regret, this is really a fake sword." Fang Zhengzhi urged very persistently.

A slight smile formed on the edges of Ying Shan's smile. Once he determined that the sword was a real one, Fang Zhengzhi's actions undoubtedly became nothing but a joke.

"Leave that sword and I will let them go!" Ying Shan said directly.

"Alright, however, there are currently three people standing beside this sword. Hence, you have to let go of people in an order. For each of us that leaves, you must let go of a portion of them. How about that?" Fang Zhengzhi laid out his terms.

"Alright!" Ying Shan nodded.

Ping Yang looked towards Fang Zhengzhi. She really couldn't quite understand what Fang Zhengzhi was thinking. Don't tell me Fang Zhengzhi is really willing to give the sword to Ying Shan?

"Since when did this shameless guy become so righteous?" Ping Yang mumbled.

Of course, Ping Yang wanted to rescue the people.

However, she understood that using the sword to exchange for the people was ultimately only a temporarily relief. Once Ying Shan regained the advantage, whether their people would be worthy of fighting against Ying Shan would remain an unknown variable.

This didn't suit Fang Zhengzhi's usual actions.

If the person who did this was Xing Qingsui, then, Ping Yang wouldn't speak.

However, this was Fang Zhengzhi?

Fang Zhengzhi didn't notice Ping Yang's strange expression. Instead, he only took one look at Yan Xiu, then nodded slightly towards him.

Yan Xiu understood Fang Zhengzhi's intentions. He walked away slowly until he reached Ping Yang's side.

"That sword is real, am I right?" Ping Yang looked at Yan Xiu coming over and asked very softly.

"It is fake." Yan Xiu took one look at Ping Yang and spoke calmly.

"Who is going to believe that? The light is so bright. What kind of fake sword would have such a power?" Ping Yang twitched her mouth. She naturally wouldn't believe Yan Xiu's words.

Ying Shan didn't bother paying any attention to Ping Yang and Yan Xiu.

Instead, his finger moved slightly. The swords against the necks of five examinees dropped to the ground.

As they felt the God of Death leave them, the five examinees breathed out heavily. Then, they hurriedly crawled to Ping Yang and Yan Xiu's side, as if they had long forgotten the heavy injuries on their bodies.

Fang Zhengzhi once again shot his gaze towards Nangong Mu.

Nangong Mu similarly left without the slightest bit of hesitation. However, he didn't walk towards Ping Yang and Yan Xiu. Instead, he walked very quietly to the side.

This scene appeared somewhat strange. After all, it was understandable if Yan Xiu left. However, why would Nangong Mu leave?

Could it be that Nangong Mu had also believed Fang Zhengzhi that the sword was fake?

How could it be fake?

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Chapter 211: Pulling out the sword

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

The golden pillar that reached the sky a moment ago was something everybody had seen with their own eyes.

The sealed stone had also completely exploded and shattered on the ground. On top of that, the material of the four chains that sealed the sword was definitely not ordinary as well.

If it was said that the sword was fake, there was simply nobody that would believe.

Furthermore, this was said by Fang Zhengzhi. Hence, the more reason why people wouldn't believe it.

"Don't tell me Fang Zhengzhi is really going to use that sword to exchange for our lives?"

"Can he be so good?"

"No matter how hard I try, I still can't understand. I feel that the probability of this is rather low!"

One by one, doubts rose within the hearts of the people.

Some of them were still filled with hatred from things Fang Zhengzhi had said previously. Another portion of the people were filled with astonishment from the words he was saying at this moment.

However, these thoughts didn't persist for very long. The joy of freedom made them forget all the misgivings they had.

Was there anything that could be more important than escaping with their lives from the blade on the neck?

The situation entered a stalemate once again.

Because, there was still one person left beside the sword. Ying Shan's hand similarly still held the lives of the last five people.

No matter what kind of exchange it was, only at the last moment would one be able to tell whether it was successful. For example, at this moment, Fang Zhengzhi stood beside the sword, while Ying Shan still controlled the life and death of the five examinees.

Xing Qingsui was naturally among these five examinees.

At this moment, Nangong Mu gripped the Green and Blue Dual Blade tightly in his hand, as if preparing to do something.

There was a saying that went, the onlooker sees more of the game. Nangong Mu believed greatly in this saying. As such, all along, he had used the perspective of an onlooker to view this exchange.

That was the reason he was willing to listen to Fang Zhengzhi and leave the sword.

Of course, he didn't believe that the sword was fake.

However, he had to leave.

Because, only by leaving could he then rescue the lives of the next five examinees.

The person involved in the situation would have to guess whether the sword was real or fake. However, an onlooker wouldn't have to. All he had to do was to take one look to know that the situation was obvious at a glance.

Ying Shan had spared the lives of ten examinees.

However, Fang Zhengzhi continued to stand beside the sword.

It seemed like a fair exchange. However, it actually wasn't fair. Because, only one person was needed to pull out the sword!

This was a very cruel reality. Fang Zhengzhi had made the wisest possible choice. Exchanging for the lives of ten examinees by asking two people to leave.

As for the lives of the last five examinees, they naturally couldn't be saved anymore.

Then next…

Fang Zhengzhi should be pulling out the sword.

Nangong Mu had thought of this a long time ago. At this moment, Xing Qingsui had also suddenly thought of this. After the state of the situation had advanced until this step, it actually wasn't too difficult to understand it now.

When he understood this, he bit his lips tightly and prepared himself mentally.

A gust of wind lightly blew past. Fang Zhengzhi's blue robe billowed in the wind. The situation had suddenly turned somewhat quiet. Everybody was waiting, waiting for Fang Zhengzhi to pull out the sword.

Fang Zhengzhi stood beside the sword and gazed towards Ying Shan.

Ying Shan was also looking at Fang Zhengzhi.

His eyes narrowed slightly. Previously, he had been confused by Fang Zhengzhi's words, hence didn't manage to guess this immediately. However, at this moment, he understood.

So that is the reason!

Ying Shan was somewhat regretful. However, if he had another chance to choose, he would still make the same choice. It was a very worthwhile exchange to use the lives of ten ordinary examinees to bet for a chance. Most importantly, he still held the most important person in his hands - Xing Qingsui.

"Are you going to pull out the sword?" The edges of Ying Shan's mouth curved into a smile.

"This sword is fake, why will I pull it out?" Fang Zhengzhi lightly shook his head.

"Are you going to say this even now?"

"I am just speaking the truth."

"Then, what are you going to do next? If you want me to let go of the people first, I can tell you immediately. That is impossible." Ying Shan's face carried a firm expression.

"No, I only need you to make an oath to the Demon God. After I leave, you will let go of the people!" Fang Zhengzhi shook his head once again.

"You are going to leave?" A glimmer of shock flashed across Ying Shan's eyes.

"Since you said that it was impossible for you to let go of the people first, then, it would definitely have to be me who leaves." Fang Zhengzhi said this as if it was somewhat obvious.

"Alright!" Ying Shan nodded.

If the exchange was really smoothly completed, then, the person with the advantage would naturally be him. Because, as long as the exchange was completed, the sword would return back under his control. He would also regain active control the situation. Then, there was no purpose in any further trickery.

The remaining examinees were somewhat confused. What was the point of making such a request? Because, they all believed that Fang Zhengzhi would definitely pull out the sword.

Don't tell me it is to enrage Ying Shan again?

If that was really the case, they could only conclude that Fang Zhengzhi really had nothing better to do.

Nangong Mu's expression also seemed somewhat shocked.

He felt that his judgement couldn't be wrong. Then, what was the point of Fang Zhengzhi doing such a thing? For the first time, he felt as if he couldn't really understand what Fang Zhengzhi was thinking.

Fang Zhengzhi didn't speak further. Instead, he quietly stood on the spot, waiting for Ying Shan to make the oath.

"I, Ying Shan, swear to the Demon God that as long as Fang Zhengzhi abides by the agreement and leaves, I will also abide by the agreement and temporarily free the remaining five examinees!" Ying shan used the word, "temporarily". The meaning behind it was even more obvious.

Yet, Fang Zhengzhi nodded. He didn't voice out any objections.

Ever since Ying Shan's voice landed, he had begun to leave slowly. It was as if he was doing something that was only to be expected. He walked very indifferently, and very calmly.

However, this movement caused the rest of the people to stare with their eyes wide with shock.

Ying Shan indeed used the lives of the ten examinees to bet for this chance.

However since when did he believe that this chance would be fulfilled? However, now it seemed like he had won the bet. Fang Zhengzhi had really left. He left that sword.

Each of the examinees looked at Fang Zhengzhi with their faces filled with disbelief. All of them felt that Fang Zhengzhi should have pulled out the sword. However, the reality was that Fang Zhengzhi didn't do so. Instead, he had really left.

"What is Fang Zhengzhi even doing?"

"Don't tell me he doesn't know that once the sword ends up in Ying Shan's hand, that means that we would all die?"

"I… I can't comprehend this!"

The examinees were completely stunned. They really didn't know what Fang Zhengzhi was trying to do.

The swords at the necks of Xing Qingsui and the other four examinees fell to the ground.

Ying Shan had fulfilled his part of the oath.

Fang Zhengzhi had also fulfilled his promise.

Hence, the two of them, just like two righteous men who valued trust very highly, exchanged places. Ying Shan stood beside the sword, while Fang Zhengzhi returned back to Yan Xiu's side.

This seemed to be an extremely peaceful and harmonious exchange.

However, when it was a human and a demon who were in such harmony, it seemed more or less somewhat strange.

Most importantly, this wasn't an exchange everybody wished to see. At least, among the examinees who were still alive, none of them were willing to witness such a conclusion.

Xing Qingsui had been carried to the crowd by a few examinees whose injuries were relatively lighter. His gaze was fixated upon Fang Zhengzhi. It was filled with a deep sense of dissatisfaction. He really couldn't understand, why Fang Zhengzhi would give up that sword at the last and most critical moment?

"Why didn't you pull out that sword?" Xing Qingsui asked with great difficulty.

"If I said that I gave up my own chance to live so that you can live temporarily, would you believe?" Fang Zhengzhi didn't reply his question directly. Instead, he directed a question back at Xing Qingsui.

"I don't believe!" Xing Qingsui replied without even thinking.

"How about the rest of you?"

"We don't believe either!"

"Then, what do you think is the remaining possibility?" Fang Zhengzhi smiled lightly.

Xing Qingsui grew silent. The rest of the examinees also looked at one another, not knowing what to say.

"The sword is fake?" An examinee asked probingly.

"That's right. Don't tell me you people aren't able to understand such a simple thing?" Fang Zhengzhi seemed to reply this question with great despise.

"How can that sword be fake?"

The examinees were somewhat speechless. However, an even greater majority of them were in disbelief.

On the other hand, Fang Zhengzhi didn't even bother replying anymore. Instead, he lightly waved his hand and looked at the crowd with a disdainful gaze.

Among the crowd, there was only one person who was calm.

That was Yan Xiu.

Nangong Mu stood beside the crowd, seeming somewhat lonely. However, his gaze had all along been fixated on Fang Zhengzhi's face. He wished to infer something from his expression.

However, what disappointed him was that when Fang Zhengzhi mentioned that sword, his expression was calm the entire time.

Ying Shan stood beside the sword. His gaze slowly began to sharpen. No matter what Fang Zhengzhi was thinking, it was him who had regained the advantage in the current situation.

As long as the sword was in the ground.

Then, the World of the Sage would be sealed.

With the power of the Supernatural State, killing off Fang Zhengzhi and Yan Xiu would only be a matter of time.

At this moment, the situation seemed to have returned back to its starting point.

However, it was more serious than its initial state.

Xing Qingsui and the rest of the examinees had already completely lost their strength. The only people at the scene with energy left to fight were Fang Zhengzhi and Yan Xiu, as well as the injured Nangong Mu.

As for Ping Yang?

She was completely ignored by Fang Zhengzhi.

"How are you so sure that the sword is fake?" Ping Yang looked at Fang Zhengzhi. She didn't really wish to ask Fang Zhengzhi this question. Because, she would definitely be despised by Fang Zhengzhi once she asked this. However, she was really too curious.

"Do you want to try?" Fang Zhengzhi turned towards Ping Yang.

"Try? How?" Ping Yang was somewhat taken aback.

"Try to pull it out of course…" Fang Zhengzhi said in a very straightforward manner.

"Pull…" Just as Ping Yang was prepared to ask how he was going to pull it out, her eyes turned round.

Or, it could be said, not only Ping Yang, but everybody's eyes had turned round.

Ying Shan's expression turned somewhat distorted for the first time. That was a distortion caused by being intensely shaken from deep within his heart. He had thought of countless possibilities, but he had never thought of this.

Nangong Mu's calm was finally broken.

All along, he felt as if he understood Fang Zhengzhi. However, in the end, he suddenly felt as if he couldn't really understand. And now, he had a thought.

He seemed to have been overthinking all along.

He didn't know how Fang Zhengzhi did this. However, if Fang Zhengzhi was really able to achieve this, then, the advantage had all along been with him.

The sword...

Had been pulled out.

Without a single sound.

It floated in mid-air and gave off a faint, golden glow.

That was an extremely mysterious scene.

However, that was reality.

"You… don't tell me you…" Ying Shan would have never even dreamt that Fang Zhengzhi could be able to achieve this. Because, this was his ability. Shadow control.

"You have a problem?" Fang Zhengzhi looked at Ying Shan with an innocent expression.

In this pocket dimension, there were a few hundred types of Dao. He had conglomerated seven years of stars. Shadow? Shouldn't he at least conglomerate something like that?

The first time he witnessed Ying Shan controlling the shadow on the ground to pull out the sword.

He had already felt that this move didn't seem too bad at all.

Hence, he began to try it. However, thinking and doing ultimately required some trial and error. This trial and error required some time.

Hence, the entire time, he was dragging time. At the same time, he had been trying non-stop to control the swords on the ground with shadow.

Until the moment he held that sword with his hand.

He could finally ascertain that he was already capable of achieving this.

Then, he evidently didn't have to pull out the sword immediately.

Would Ying Shan pull it out?

Of course not.

Hence, Fang Zhengzhi wasn't in a rush at all. At the very least, he wasn't rushed enough to pull out the sword while Ying Shan still controlled the lives of over ten examinees. He had sufficient time to wait.

As for whether that sword was real or fake?

Fang Zhengzhi naturally didn't know.

What he needed to do was to let Ying Shan feel that he wouldn't pull out the sword.

Hence, he kept telling everybody. That sword is fake, it is fake, it is fake…

Furthermore, he had even used his own actions to tell Ying Shan and the rest of the examinees.

He had the opportunity to pull out the sword.

But, he didn't pull it out. The entire time, he didn't pull it out.

Even if he had the sword hilt in his hand, he wouldn't pull it out either.

This way, Ying Shan would definitely not have expected Fang Zhengzhi to attempt pull it out once again.

Even more importantly, even if Ying Shan strongly believed that the sword was real, he would still grow doubts due to Fang Zhengzhi's consistent actions. Was there a possibility that the sword would be fake?

Even though it was only a guess.

Opportunities…

Sometimes grew within the span of just one thought.

Fang Zhengzhi's thinking was very simple. All he wanted to do was to ensure other people wouldn't expect him to pull out the sword. As for how they thought? He didn't know, and didn't have to know.

And now…

At the moment when everybody felt that the sword might really be fake.

He pulled out the sword.

When Ying Shan stood beside the sword with unparalleled self-confidence, he had effortlessly sent a shadow through the ground towards the sword hilt, then, rapidly pulled it out.

Ping Yang wouldn't be able to think of such a turn of events. Hence, her tiny mouth grew wide with shock.

Nangong Mu similarly didn't think of this. Because, he remembered very clearly the people who were able to control shadow.

Hence, the calm on his face was broken, turning into shock.

Ying Shan had even more reason to not have thought of this. Because, this was his technique. Just as Nangong Mu said, the people within the human race who knew how to use this technique were few. Fang Zhengzhi's name wasn't among them.

Yan Xiu, on the other hand, was able to think of this. However, he wasn't sure that Fang Zhengzhi could achieve it.

However, why did that even matter?

No matter whether Fang Zhengzhi was able to achieve this or not, he would definitely have a way to pull out the sword. This, was how Yan Xiu thought in his heart all along.

The situation…

At this moment, entered a short state of calm.

The sword floated in mid-air, glowing with a faint golden light. Everybody's gaze was fixated upon that sword, the sword that Fang Zhengzhi pulled out from the ground.

The trace of a smile appeared on the edges of Fang Zhengzhi's mouth.

"Pull out the sword? What a simple thing to do!"

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Chapter 212: Dragon Protection Squad

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Within the Yan Capital, the torrential rain remained.

Ninth Prince Lin Yun stood under the downpour with an expression of anxious worry. The torrential raindrops splattered on his face, however, he remained completely still.

In front of him was the Advanced Academy. Eunuch Pan, wearing an official robe, waited outside the door of the Advanced Academy, signifying that Emperor Lin Mubai was inside.

The World of the Sage had gone out of control.

This was a very urgent matter. Because, nobody knew what was happening within the World of the Sage. Not only did this concern the conducting of the imperial examination, more importantly, it concerned the safety of the creme of the Great Xia Dynasty.

Most importantly, Ping Yang was also trapped inside.

Princess Ping Yang, one who was favored most by the Emperor. More importantly, one who could not afford to suffer the slightest bit of mishap.

Even the current crown prince's importance couldn't compare to that of Ping Yang in the Great Xia Dynasty. Because, Ping Yang represented protection. A protection that concerned the entire Great Xia Dynasty.

If it was any other time, Ninth Prince Lin Yun would definitely rush into the Advanced Academy without the slightest bit of hesitation, even if he were to meet with a raging temper of a dragon.

But now…

He stopped.

The reason was that other than Eunuch Pan, there was a team of soldiers in brightly-coloured armour standing outside the door of the Advanced Academy.. No matter how much the torrential rain battered them, the armour on their bodies remained clean.

Their territory could be exposed to the outside world. Furthermore, it could be maintained indefinitely. This only meant that every single one of them had a power above the Heavenly Reflection Intermediate State.

An army composed completely of people above the Heavenly Reflection Intermediate State.

There was only one in the entire Great Xia Dynasty.

That was the Dragon Protection Squad.

A soaring golden dragon was etched on the chest of each soldier, representing their grand status. They do not have to greet princes, nor do they have to dismount when they enter the imperial capital. That was the privilege of the Dragon Protection Squad.

The background of every single member of the Dragon Protection Squad was extremely noble. They came from the thirteen constabularies and were the direct descendants of noble families. However, they only obey the orders of the present Emperor.

They represented the Emperor. At the same time, they were the link that connected the Emperor to the thirteen constabularies and all the noble families.

The Dragon Protection Squad appearing in the imperial capital wasn't something very out of the ordinary.

However, dozens of Dragon Protection Squad members appearing at the imperial capital at the same time represented only one possibility. Something big had happened. Something big that concerned the entire Great Xia Dynasty.

Ninth Prince Lin Yun stopped. He hesitated. However, he didn't hesitate for much longer.

Very quickly, Ninth Prince Lin Yun moved.

Step by step, he walked towards the door of the Advanced Academy.

Standing guard at the door, Eunuch Pan moved his lips, but didn't speak. The dozens of Dragon Protection Squad members also looked at Ninth Prince Lin Yun.

A person walked out from the group, blocking in front of Ninth Prince Lin Yun.

His expression was as cold as ice.

He held a sword in his hand. That was a sword that was already unsheathed. The blade of the sword was polished until it was sparkling bright, glowing with a silver light under the battering of the torrential rain.

"Ninth prince, you seem to have an urgent matter?" The person who spoke wasn't the one holding the sword. Instead, it was a person standing beside Eunuch Wei. He was over thirty years of age, and his expression was just as cold.

"Yes!" Ninth Prince Lin Yun nodded with a determined expression.

"How urgent?"

"Very urgent!"

"What has ninth prince been governing recently?"

"The imperial examination."

By right, the imperial examination concerns the future of the Great Xia Dynasty and is extremely urgent. However, I believe you can still wait for a while."

"What if in addition to that, it also concerns Ping Yang's safety?"

"Ninth prince, please enter!"

The Dragon Protection Squad member blocking Ninth Prince Lin Yun's path kept his sword and made way.

Without another word, and without any form of apology, he left quietly and returned to where he initially stood. It was just as if he had never moved before.

Eunuch Pan's expression contained some shock. However, he still quietly pushed open the door of the Advanced Academy.

Ninth Prince Lin Yun walked in. The moment he crossed the main door that led into the Advanced Academy, the raindrops that stuck to his body seemed to have been fixed in place, hanging in mid-air. Then, after Ninth Prince Lin Yun crossed the door completely.

Those raindrops fell onto the ground and returned back to the storm.

Within the Advanced Academy, a faint aroma hung in the air. However, the aroma was mixed with a trace of blood scent.

Two members of the Dragon Protection Squad stood on the left and right sides of the academy respectively. A flag stood in the dead center of the academy. A flag stained with blood.

A person was covered under the flag.

This was a form of etiquette, an etiquette that belonged to the Dragon Protection Squad. There was only one circumstance under which such an etiquette would appear. The meant that there was someone among the Dragon Protection Squad who died.

And now, this dead person was carried into the Advanced Academy.

Then...

Things weren't as simple as somebody dying.

The Dragon Protection Squad comprised five hundred people. This was something that remained constant ever since the Great Xia Dynasty was founded. Fifty people formed one group. Every group was appointed a Dragon Envoy.

"A Dragon Envoy died?!" Ninth Prince Lin Yun finally understood why the Dragon Protection Squad member at the door would claim that even the imperial examination could wait.

Because, it had been ten years ever since a Dragon Envoy had to be replaced.

What exactly happened?

Ninth Prince Lin Yun didn't ask. Because, this wasn't something he should ask. What he needed to do now was to answer, answer properly when inquired by Emperor Lin Mubai.

"Hail Emperor!"

"Speak." Emperor Lin Mubai's voice came from behind the table. However, it didn't seem to carry any intention of asking the Ninth Prince to rise.

"Report! The World of the Sage had gone out of control. Everyone who entered the third round of combat examination have been trapped in the World of the Sage. May Emperor spare my uselessness!"

"Have you investigated the reason behind this?"

"Replying Emperor, I didn't dare to jump to a conclusion for the definite reason behind this, however, I guess that it might be related to the sword in the World of the Sage."

"Guess? As the invigilator of the imperial examination, you dare to tell me that you are guessing? Furthermore, you are guessing about the sword that doesn't exist? Do you know the incident about Ping Yang entering this combat examination?"

"I know."

"With her abilities, even if she uses the Blazing Qilin Spear, the time would definitely come when she exhausted her strength. She… didn't enter the third round, right?"

"Ping Yang didn't use the Blazing Qilin Spear. She followed Fang Zhengzhi, passed the Broken Bridge, the Twin Stone Tablets and entered the third round…"

"Broken Bridge, Twin Stone Tablets? You mean Fang Zhengzhi was able to solve the Broken Bridge and Twin Stone Tablets?"

"He even solved the stone house."

"So, Ping Yang is now trapped in the World of the Sage as well?"

"Yes."

"What are you still kneeling for?! Follow me to the Imperial Academy!" After Emperor Lin Mubai finished speaking, he stood up from the chair and charged out directly, completely ignoring the ninth prince.

When the two members of the Dragon Protection Squad witnessed this, they didn't speak a single word. Instead, they continued to stand quietly on the spot. Their expression was as calm as before, just like two carved statues.

Ninth Prince Lin Yun took once glance at the two members of the Dragon Protection Squad, looked at the Dragon Envoy on the ground covered by a flag, then turned around and left. He didn't say a single word. However, he seemed to be pondering something.

Within the World of the Sage.

The crisp cry of the sword resonated in the sky. The golden sword rose from Ying Shan's side and turned into a streak of light, landing in Fang Zhengzhi's hand.

A cool gust of wind blew past, billowing Fang Zhengzhi's robe.

With the spear on his right hand, the sword on his left, and even a trace of a smile at the edges of his mouth, Fang Zhengzhi looked somewhat comical. However, not a single person would make fun of him at this moment.

Because, the sword Fang Zhengzhi held in his hand was the sword of Sagely Battle God Meng Tian.

Ying Shan's expression was frightfully dark.

In his entire life, he had been praised by countless people. However, behind the praises, he had also similarly went through countless failures and setbacks. This caused his personality to become cold yet firm and persistent.

But now…

That firm and persistent personality of his seemed to be facing the greatest challenge of all.

His distorted expression represented the rage in his heart. The feeling of being played around in the palms of others caused him to have no way of holding back the burning anger in him.

Most importantly, the person who played him like a fool, was someone who was less powerful than him.

That feeling was like an adult who experienced dozens of years of trials and hardships being fooled around by a three-year-old kid. Shame, unwillingness, anger, misery…

Ying Shan didn't say another word. Instead, he swallowed the shattered teeth that he had bitten.

Then, he tore off the layer of skin on his forehead.

An emerald green pearl was revealed on his forehead. Its faint sea green glow was like the flames of hell, causing people to shudder involuntarily.

The demon eye, origin of the demon's power.

"Green?" Fang Zhengzhi was somewhat confused.

He remembered that in the previous county examination, the demon he defeated had a blue demon eye. However, the one on Ying Shan's forehead was instead green.

"The emerald green demon eye means that Ying Shan had already entered the Supernatural Intermediate State." Yan Xiu said.

"Seems that the colour of the demon eye is related to one's power?" When Fang Zhengzhi heard Yan Xiu's words, he understood and guessed that the colour of the demon eye should represent the power of the demon.

In the previous county examination, the demon's power was around that of Star Conglomerate.

This meant that the Star Conglomerate State was blue and the Supernatural State was green. What about the Heavenly Reflection STate?

Just as Fang Zhengzhi prepared to speak, the words that reached his mouth turned into another sentence…

"If the demon eye turns black… what does that mean?"

"Turns black? Oh no!" Yan Xiu didn't reply Fang Zhengzhi's question. Because, his expression had already changed. There was never a previous time when his expression was as shocked as this.

Nangong Mu's expression similarly turned extremely shocked. He gripped the Green and Blue Dual Blades in his hands tightly, and his legs unconsciously shifted two steps towards the direction of Fang Zhengzhi.

This was an instinctive movement. However, the meaning behind this action represented the fear that rose in Nangong Mu's heart.

Ever since Ying Shan's identity was exposed.

To holding off Ying Shan afterwards, and then lastly slicing the chains on the sword.

Nangong Mu had never revealed the slightest bit of horror.

But now…

He had clearly taken two steps backwards.

The other examinees were also terrified.

Each of them felt as if they had seen Death crawl out from hell. They were absolutely terrified.

"Quick, run!"

"Why can't we leave even though the sword had been pulled out?!"

"I don't want to die!"

The examinees started to shout. Their voice, filled with hope for a miracle, rang out. However, ever since Fang Zhengzhi had pulled out the sword, there weren't any further movements.

The sword…

Was it real, or was it fake?

This wasn't a question that they were concerned with anymore.

They were more concerned with how they were going to hold their ground for fifteen minutes.

Fang Zhengzhi didn't know these. Instead, his face was filled with confusion.

At this moment, Ying Shan's face turned extremely distorted. The emerald green demon eye on his forehead seemed to have been completely sucked in, turning into a black colour, the same black colour as a black hole.

This was an extremely strange scene. At the very least, Fang Zhengzhi didn't understand. What is Ying Shan trying to do?

"Should we… run?" Ping Yang's clear eyes gazed towards Ying Shan. Despite her arrogance and pride, her expression at this moment turned into one of hesitation and indecisiveness.

Her hand held tightly onto Fang Zhengzhi's arm.

This was also an instinctive move. Even Ping Yang herself wouldn't be able to explain why she would always grab onto Fang Zhengzhi instinctively.

"Run where?" Fang Zhengzhi asked.

The perimeter limits of the sea of swords in front of them could be seen with one glance. There was simply nowhere to run.

"I'll ask you one last time, is the sword in your hand… real or fake?" Ping Yang looked at the sword in Fang Zhengzhi's hand with a trace of hope.

"I don't know. Don't I have to test such a thing out before I know?" Fang Zhengzhi explained very innocently. He really didn't know.

"I think it isn't very convenient to try anymore." Ping Yang wanted to speak further, but stopped.

"Why…" Fang Zhengzhi didn't manage to finish his sentence before he hurriedly shut his mouth. Because, Ying Shan had already charged towards him.

In reality, this wasn't because Fang Zhengzhi couldn't see Ying Shan's movements.

However, Ying Shan had disappeared.

In an instant, he disappeared without a trace. As compared to his shadowless form within his dark territory, this time, Fang Zhengzhi could confirm that this was a form of speed.

Extreme speed.

Almost within the span of a thought, Fang Zhengzhi felt a slight numbness on the skin of his head.

As if his face had been cut by a blade.

That was also extreme speed. However, it was the wind generated by the extreme speed…

Sneak attack?!

No, this was a head-on attack!

Fang Zhengzhi had never entered the Hall of Dao, nor did he practice any fist techniques in his past life. However, he knew one rule. This was a rule that he had concluded based on his own experiences.

If someone wanted to attack your face...

What should you do?

Should you dodge to the left, or dodge to the right? Or, should you turn around and run? Or even fall to the ground?

Actually, all of these weren't fast enough.

Falling to the ground was the easiest. However, it would be rather hard to crawl back up again.

Hence, in conclusion.

Squatting, was the fastest.

This squat wasn't any simple squat. It had to be a deep squat. Moreover, it had to be an instinctive deep squat. One cannot fear splitting his pants. After all, face… was the most important.

Fang Zhengzhi had this awareness. Furthermore, he had remembered this learning experience by heart.

As such, he squatted very quickly, and very deeply. A little bit more and his butt would have touched the ground.

"Rippp!"

Without a doubt, it was impossible for the underwear he wore inside to withstand such a fast and deep squat. It bidded goodbye to its life with a rather muffled sound.

However, as the saying went, gain is luck, while loss is fate.

You can't make progress by clinging to old things. If the old doesn't go, the new will not come.

Most importantly, Fang Zhengzhi felt that he had saved his face. It was very thrilling, and very dangerous. A fist stopped right on top of his head...

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Chapter 213: The Most Powerful Strike

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

This fist naturally belonged to Ying Shan.

For the first time, the distance between Fang Zhengzhi and Ying Shan was reduced to a brushing of shoulders. Actually, a better description would be a brushing of the head.

How quick!

Fang Zhengzhi exclaimed to himself. However, his actions didn't stop.

Squating deeply was a matter of skill.

This matter of skill naturally wouldn't be just a simple squat.

When one squatted all the way, it also meant that the power in his body had reached an explosive point. It was just like a bow being drawn suddenly.

As such, after squatting deeply, Fang Zhengzhi very naturally continued with another action.

Thousand Years of Pain!

Under normal circumstances, the best position to use the Thousand Years of Pain would be behind a person's body. However, Fang Zhengzhi had always been somebody who didn't care too much about the details.

Being behind had its benefits, however, being in front… had its own advantages as well.

The Blazing Qilin Spear and the sword naturally wasn't suited for such a move. Hence, When Fang Zhengzhi squatted down, he had already kept these two weapons into the Heart Protection Mirror.

Thus, he could use this move without any worries.

Furthermore.

He definitely could put in all the power he had.

"Kill!"

Fang Zhengzhi pressed his palms together. Using all the strength he could muster, he pushed towards the position on top of his head.

Did this move hit its target?

Actually, one could know based on the feelings coming from his two hands alone.

"Boom!"

Compared to Ying Shan, Fang Zhengzhi's power was naturally somewhat lower. However, it was impossible for the power of a strike that contained all his strength to not be immense.

In addition to that, the target of this strike was among the most vital parts of the human body.

Furthermore, it was an extremely soft part.

One hard, while the other soft.

Actually, the outcome of this could be imagined...

Fang Zhengzhi didn't know if Ying Shan would feel the pain.

However, he could hear the sound of something shattering. Most importantly, he felt Ying Shan's body tremor. This was a tremor that truly originated from the soul.

"Ah!"

At this moment, even a man as powerful as Ying Shan shouted out with a sound that came from the depth of his soul. Then, he retreated. He advanced fast, but retreated even faster.

The entire world seemed to have turned silent at this moment.

Nobody could understand what had just happened.

It was too fast…

So fast that nobody was able to observe clearly.

All they saw was Ying Shan moving, then, disappearing. The next moment, Ying Shan appeared in front of Fang Zhengzhi. Then, Fang Zhengzhi seemed to have squatted then. After that...

Ying Shan retreated.

He even let out a shout when he retreated.

This voice sounded very desolate. Furthermore, it carried some peculiar form of shame and anger.

Everybody's gaze instinctively shifted to Fang Zhengzhi.

Thus, somebody saw the posture Fang Zhengzhi was in before he had time to pull back his hands.

They had no idea what kind of technique this was. Because, there were never any books that mentioned it, nor were there anybody who had described it to them. However, they could see where this technique targeted.

Then, they looked towards Ying Shan.

Very quickly, they realised that Ying Shan's face was distorted in a rather exaggerated manner. He was unable to resist the trembling in his legs, and furthermore, he even instinctively pressed his legs together.

"Don't tell me...?!"

"Seems like, it is that place?"

When this thought flashed across their minds, everybody instinctively reached out their hand and used it to cover a certain part.

Pain…

Even though they didn't experience it personally, they could imagine that kind of pain.

Nangong Mu's gaze towards Fang Zhengzhi suddenly turned somewhat strange. He believed that he had read all the books in the world, however, he had never seen this technique before.

Even though this technique wasn't very morally upright.

But, what he was more concerned about was, how did Fang Zhengzhi think of this?

Because…

Ying Shan's movements were too fast. It was so fast that simply nobody would have time to think. However, Fang Zhengzhi's reaction was mysteriously fast. Not only was he able to use the action of squatting to avoid Ying Shan's punch, he was even able to add in a continuation to utilise this technique.

It was definitely impossible for Fang Zhengzhi to have thought of this on the spot under such circumstances.

Then, there was only one explanation. This technique had always existed within Fang Zhengzhi. Or, it could be said that he had either used it before or practiced it before.

Ping Yang's clear eyes at this moment seemed somewhat stunned. However, after the moment of shock, her small face suddenly flushed red. She looked at Fang Zhengzhi and huffed very shamelessly.

"Shameless!"

Yan Xiu definitely wouldn't scold Fang Zhengzhi for being shameless like Ping Yang did. Instead, he looked at Fang Zhengzhi, then pressed his palms together and tried mimicking Fang Zhengzhi's movements for a few times.

Fang Zhengzhi felt the various types of gazes coming towards him from all around.

He was somewhat confused.

Why does everybody's gaze seem so strange after seeing this Thousand Years of Pain? Don't tell me they don't know the beauty of this technique?

Didn't I manage to cause Ying Shan to retreat? Why is nobody praising me?

Don't tell me that this world…

Didn't contain such a move?

When Fang Zhengzhi thought of this, a trace of understanding suddenly rose within him. So that is the case.

He had initially felt that the reason his move succeeded was due to its continuous flow. However, now it seemed like the true reason why his move was successful was because this technique simply didn't exist in this world.

Since that was the case, Ying Shan naturally wouldn't be able to expect Fang Zhengzhi to employ such a move.

That, was the critical reason for Fang Zhengzhi's success.

And next, Fang Zhengzhi realised something even stranger. He had initially felt that Ying Shan would be able to recover very quickly. After all, Ying Shan was of the Supernatural State.

Even though this move was deadly, it was ultimately impossible for it to cause any severe injuries.

However, Ying Shan didn't seem to be as calm as before. Instead, he bit down on his lips very tightly. That pain had even caused sweat to appear like raindrops on his forehead.

"What is this all about?" Fang Zhengzhi was very confused.

When Yan Xiu heard Fang Zhengzhi's words, he looked towards Ying Shan. There wasn't too much of a shock in his expression. Instead, he looked as if everything had been expected.

"Ying Shan had completely absorbed the power of the demon eye into his body. Hence, he had lost all Supernatural abilities. However, his power and speed had completely surpassed his initial Supernatural Intermediate State." Yan Xiu explained.

"This is possible?"

"The cost of this is that after fifteen minutes, his power would be gone completely."

"This means that we must drag for fifteen minutes?"

"Yes."

Fang Zhengzhi understood. However, what he also understood was that these fifteen minutes would be easy to drag. The reason he was able to cause Ying Shan to retreat a moment ago was completely because of luck.

However, luck cannot shine on a person forever.

Hence…

He still had to think of a way to defeat Ying Shan.

On the other hand, Ying Shan naturally wouldn't give him any time. After his face contorted in the extreme manner. Ying Shan finally moved again. He took a step forward, but a slight tremor continued to run through his body.

It was likely due to the extreme pain.

Yan Xiu blocked in front of Fang Zhengzhi. Because, he could tell that Ying Shan's target was Fang Zhengzhi. As such, blocking Fang Zhengzhi was the same as blocking Ying Shan's attack.

Nangong Mu also blocked in front of Fang Zhengzhi.

His expression was very calm. However, his eyes were filled with determination. There was no reason for this. He just stood right at the front, holding the Green and Blue Dual Blades and pointing to the front.

"Work together!" Two words came out of Nangong Mu's mouth.

"Okay." Fang Zhengzhi nodded.

"Yes." Yan Xiu also nodded.

As such, the three youths stood together. Fang Zhengzhi stood in the middle, Yan Xiu stood on the left, while Nangong Mu stood on the right.

The other examinees exchanged glances. Then, two people stood out.

Among them, one was Wang Chuanping, the person who Fang Zhengzhi had let off in the first round.

The other was a middle-aged man.

"My name is Wang Manxin. I am Chuanping's cousin. Since Chuanping had stood out, I will stand out as well." The middle-aged man spoke.

"Nicely done!" A clear voice sounded out. Then, a figure appeared beside Fang Zhengzhi, wearing a Red Flame Flower Armor that flashed with a red glow under the light.

"What are you doing here?" Fang Zhengzhi looked at Ping Yang.

"I am wearing the Red Flame Flower Armor, I can take at least a blow!" Ping Yang raised her tiny head high, with an air of arrogance and determination.

"You are going to be my meatshield?"

"Hmph, your words are always so annoying. This is called sharing delights and common hardships. Don't you know?"

"The meaning of sharing delights and common hardships is sharing your food and suffering together. Then, can you share half of your treasures in the Ping Yang Residence for me to play around with?"

"Dream on!"

"Shut up!" When Ying Shan heard Fang Zhengzhi and Ping Yang quarreling like kids, he finally couldn't take it anymore. He couldn't even be bothered to care about the pain in his body. In an instant, his speed had actually reached an extreme state once again.

"You are all going to die!"

Ying Shan's enraged roar reverberated in the air.

A smoke-like shadow charged towards Fang Zhengzhi with a blazing speed.

Nangong Mu's sword had also moved at this moment.

A green and blue glow lighted up. Without any form of dodging. It slashed down directly towards that shadow.

Yan Xiu had also opened the Mountain and River, Heaven and Earth Fan. A light that was as bright as the starry skies glowed from the Mountain and River, Heaven and Earth Fan, crushing down on the shadow with the force of a mountain.

Wang Chuanping and Wang Manxin's body also lighted up, using their two different types of territories to protect the six people.

However, the clash they expected never happened.

"On top!" An alarmed cry came from an examinee at the back.

The six of them raised their heads at the same moment.

In the sky, a black shadow was plunging down rapidly.

Fang Zhengzhi had no idea how Ying Shan achieved this. However, Ying Shan did indeed manage to do so. Charging at them head-on with an extremely fast speed, yet suddenly appearing at the top.

Nangong Mu's sword had already slashed forwards, while Yan Xiu's Mountain and River, Heaven and Earth Fan had also been used.

Then, the only people who were able to defend against Ying Shan's attack seemed to be Wang Chuanping and Wang Manxin's double territories.

Fang Zhengzhi could initially wait until Wang Chuanping and Wang Manxin fended off this blow before he attacked. However, since the both of them had stood out, that meant that in a way, they were like ants on the same string.

He naturally couldn't let these two people get injured as easily.

Hence, he moved.

Holding the Blazing Qilin Spear and the sword in his left and right hands respectively at the same time, he thrusted out towards the black shadow that fell from the sky.

Can the sword and spear be used together at the same time?

Fang Zhengzhi didn't think so. However, if he had ten hands, he definitely wouldn't mind grabbing ten weapons to fend this off.

"No, it isn't the top! It's below!" Right at this moment, another voice sounded out. That was the severely injured Xing Qingsui.

"Below?!" Fang Zhengzhi startled.

Then, he suddenly felt as if his legs had been trapped by something, just like a pair of metal cuffs locking his feet and preventing him from moving.

"Die!" A voice came from below the ground. Immediately after, a palm rose out of the ground. This was a knife-like lam. It was blazing fast and carried along with it an intense and powerful killing intent. The target was Fang Zhengzhi's throat.

Fang Zhengzhi believed that it was already exceedingly difficult to change from a mad charge to an attack from the top.

However, he had simply never thought that Ying Shan would actually still have something up his sleeves.

The shadow on top was an illusion.

The attack from under the ground was the real, deadliest blow.

This was experience. An unparalleled amassing of battle experience. At the same time, this was the most powerful technique that made Ying Shan the Vice Domain Chief in the Ying Domain of the Ten Devilish Domains.

Double Shadow Kill!

Even among the demon race, there were rarely people who had seen this move.

This was a deadly move with the intent to kill.

It was Ying Shan's most powerful killing technique, combining the five Daos of shadow, sunlight, earth, Asura's kill intent and immobilisation.

Using sunlight to project the shadow on the ground into the sky, then lighting the sky up with an intense glow, causing people to be unable to discern whether the shadow was real or fake. Then, immersing into the earth to reach beneath people's feet, first immobilising the opponent, then unleashing the killing intent of Asura.

It was very complicated.

And, most importantly, it was very fast.

So fast that people would have no way of reacting.

Fang Zhengzhi's thoughts were as boundless as the sky, however, he had no experience fighting with elites in the battlefield. Hence, he naturally wouldn't be able to see through Ying Shan's move.

Even though Nangong Mu and Yan Xiu were experienced, how could their experience match up to that of Ying Shan?

Furthermore, with Ying Shan's current abilities, it would be rather impossible for the six of them to fend off Ying Shan's relentless attacks even if it was a head-on collision.

Under such powerful anger.

Ying Shan had actually given up unleashing it head-on. Instead, he chose to employ such a mysterious sneak attack and killing blow. The endurance of his mind could be clearly seen.

Furthermore, Wang Chuanping and Wang Manxin's territory mainly defended them against attacks from the top and around them.

As for an attack from below the ground.

It was evidently extremely weak. This also ensured that Ying Shan's attack didn't meet with much resistance. His speed was also so fast that nobody was able to see it clearly.

Fang Zhengzhi was able to think of methods to defend against people hitting his face.

However, in his previous world, he had completely zero experience seeing people suddenly appear from below the ground. Hence, there naturally wouldn't be any habitual moves for him to defend against such an attack.

It seemed very helpless.

But, this was reality.

It was always impossible to forcefully cross the huge difference between power and experience.

Even if one was as smart as Fang Zhengzhi.

Then, he could only look on helplessly as the palm pierced towards his throat. A palm that was like a knife, carrying along with it the killing intent of Asura and the penetrating power of an extreme speed.

"Boom!"

A tremendous boom sounded from where the six people stood.

That was a sound generated by the force of the strike. At the same time that sound rang out, a black light exploded outwards like a ripple.

The entire World of the Sage shook from this powerful impact.

At the same time, a mouthful of boiling, red blood spurted towards the sky. Under the glow of the sunlight, the beads of blood seemed shiny and transparently bright, just like the blossoming red flowers.

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Chapter 214: Thrice

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

The bright flower blossomed in mid-air, turning into blood mist droplets that were as thin as dust as they landed.

Fang Zhengzhi felt his face grow somewhat hot. That was the heat generated by the blood mist falling onto his face. The palm of his hands also grew hotter. Because, he held a boiling hot hand in his own.

Ping Yang's clear gaze looked silently at Fang Zhengzhi as the edges of her mouth curved into a happy smile.

"I have said… my… my Red Flame Flower Armour can block off one strike, am… am I right?" Ping Yang's lips opened slightly, breathing out a wisp of air, likening that of an orchid flower. However, this wisp of air also contained the faint scent of blood.

"Why?!" Fang Zhengzhi couldn't understand.

He really couldn't understand. There wasn't much friendship between him and Ping Yang. Furthermore, considering Ping Yang's arrogance, why would she serve as a meat shield for him at this moment?

"Because, I am smart enough."

"Smart?"

"I want to live, so, you definitely cannot die… as long as you don't die, there is still a chance I can live…" A trickle of blood flowed down the edge of Ping Yang's mouth. Her body suddenly grew limp, completely falling into the arms of Fang Zhengzhi.

"Boom!" Another loud sound exploded.

This time, it naturally came from Nangong Mu and Yan Xiu fighting Ying Shan together.

After Ping Yang blocked off an attack for Fang Zhengzhi.

Nangong Mu and Yan Xiu were the fastest to react and detect Ying Shan's location. The Green and Blue Dual Blades as well as the Mountain and River, Heaven and Earth Fan exploded with a bright glow, pressing down on Ying Shan.

After Ying Shan charged out from the ground, the distance between the six people and Ying Shan had become a tiny circle. Hence, Ying Shan naturally had nowhere to run.

Furthermore, after a successful attack.

Ying Shan didn't have the slightest bit of intention to retreat. He was ready to continue attacking. However, he had no choice but to deal with Nangong Mu and Yan Xiu's joint attacks.

A pair of empty palms clashed with the Green and Blue Dual Blades as well as the Mountain and River, Heaven and Earth Fan.

However, it was Nangong Mu and Yan Xiu who stumbled back.

In addition to forcefully absorbing the power of the demon eye into one's body without a care for destroying one's powers, how could Nangong Mu and Yan Xiu's joint attacks defeat Ying Shan of the Supernatural Intermediate State?

"Die!" Ying Shan's expression turned wild. At this moment, he only had one thought. That was to kill, to kill Fang Zhengzhi, to kill Fang Zhengzhi regardless of anything else.

Hence, after causing Yan Xiu and Nangong Mu to retreat, he set his aim upon Fang Zhengzhi once again.

Fang Zhengzhi carried Ping Yang in his arms.

However, Ping Yang's body was still etched in between him and Ying Shan.

If he allowed Ying Shan another blow, there was a very high possibility that Ping Yang would block another attack for Fang Zhengzhi.

"Boom!"

Another palm contacted.

Bright red blood soared in the air, creating a sparkling blood mist like that of a blood rain.

Fang Zhengzhi looked towards a man standing in front of him whose face was a deathly shade of white. He wanted to ask once more, why. However, this time, the man didn't wait for him to ask.

"Princess is right… if Young Master Fang … dies, none of us would be able to… live…" The man fell to the ground with the similar trace of a smile on his mouth.

At the moment the man fell, another man blocked in front of Fang Zhengzhi.

He was Wang Manxin, Wang Chuanping's cousin.

The man just now was naturally Wang Chuanping. He was the only person fast enough to be able to block Ying Shan's palm strike. Unfortunately, there wasn't a Red Flame Flower Armour on his body.

"There is still me!" Wang Manxin looked at Ying Shan. He held his blade horizontally in front of his chest with a firm and resolute expression on his face.

At this moment, time seemed to have stopped completely.

Everybody stared with shock at Wang Chuanping, who had fallen to the ground, as well as Wang Manxin, who was standing in front of Fang Zhengzhi. Everybody understood.

This wasn't a rash action. This was the hard truth.

From the time Ying Shan appeared until the time he successfully completed his sneak attack.

Xing Qingsui had fallen. Even though Nangong Mu had harmed Ying Shan, it was only a superficial injury.

Only Fang Zhengzhi.

Ever since Fang Zhengzhi stood out, Ying Shan suffered setbacks after setbacks. He suffered the injury on his back, then allowed Fang Zhengzhi to successfully delay enough time for Nangong Mu to slice open the chains.

Then, after which, pulling out the sword and causing Ying Shan to retreat once again, and almost losing the battle completely.

One incident followed by another told everybody one fact. That was, Fang Zhengzhi was their true last hope in being able to escape the World of the Sage.

Furthermore, Fang Zhengzhi still held that sword in his hand.

The sword with the greatest chance of reopening the World of the Sage.

Most importantly…

Ying Shan's target was completely focused on Fang Zhengzhi.

How big was the difference between a killer with a target and a killer without one? That was the difference between an normal person and a madman.

Nobody wished for that to happen, regardless of whether they admitted it or not.

Now, their lives were firmly tied to that of Fang Zhengzhi. As long as Fang Zhengzhi lived on, Ying Shan's target would always be only Fang Zhengzhi. Hence, they could employ unlimited tactics by the side.

However, what if Fang Zhengzhi died?

Then, the consequences could be imaged.

Ying Shan, who had lost his target, would begin a mad killing spree. Nobody would be able to escape the World of the Sage, and nobody would be able to prevent their imminent death.

"There's me as well!"

"Me too!"

"I don't want to die! But… I still have to stand out!"

One by one, the examinees began to move towards the six people. Their eyes contained the same look. They were all ants on the same piece of string. Either they lived together, or they died together.

Ying Shan charged out from among the six people.

The time Ying Shan took to deliver three palm strikes was extremely little. So little time passed that it was easy to neglect it. However, within such a short span of time.

Ping Yang was injured. Wang Chuanping had fallen from that one palm strike.

Nobody knew whether he was alive or dead.

Even Nangong Mu and Yan Xiu suffered light injuries from confronting Ying Shan.

Nangong Mu's chest had already completely been stained red. It was unknown whether this was due to the blood mist that fell from the sky or the aggregation of his previous injuries.

Yan Xiu's face was pale and white. His breathing was heavy and laboured.

Such a scene was evidently an even greater crisis than before.

However, it was due to such a crisis that the examinees turned wild. Each of them stood out one by one and blocked in front of Ying Shan with their chests puffed out.

Even Xing Qingsui had stood up. Furthermore, he stood right at the front, holding the sword stabbed into his chest and allowing droplets of fresh blood to spill onto the rock below.

"Ying Shan, come on! I, Xing Qingsui, am not afraid of you!"

Ying Shan's expression at this moment turned malevolent. Black light flashed around his body continuously, making him seem extremely unstable, and extremely berserk.

"Those who block me shall die!"

Ying Shan let out an enraged roar and moved again. He turned into a misty blur shadow and charged towards Xing Qingsui. The berserk black light revolved around his two palms.

At the moment Ying Shan charged towards him, Xing Qingsui raised the sword in his hand. Once again, his hand became as stable as the mountain, pointing the Black Meteor Sword at Ying Shan.

He carried a proud expression on his face, just as if he was a general on the battlefield. He smiled as he gazed at the tiny enemies that charged towards him. That was a form of contempt. No matter how powerful the opponent was, in Xing Qingsui's heart, he would be as tiny as an ant.

This was because…

He was fearless.

This time, Ying Shan didn't attempt to cross Xing Qingsui.

His palm was aimed directly at the sword wound on Xing Qingsui's chest. Killing a creme of the human race such as Xing Qingsui was also part of his task.

However, right at this moment.

A golden light plunged down from the skies. That was like a waterfall, a waterfall that fell from the skies to the ground, carrying along with it a rapid current of light rays.

A powerful waterfall from the sky, just like the silver river descending from Heaven.

This was the Mountain Waterfall Cascade.

However, at this moment, there was no mountain. There was only the sky shining with a faint golden light. This was a waterfall that fell from the sky. It was higher than the mountain, and the current was more than that which fell from the mountain as well. It had an even greater destructive power.

Within the flowing current, there was also a sword.

A sword that was initially impaled into a rock and was pulled out in the end.

At this moment, Ying Shan's gaze followed that stream of golden light. He suddenly felt somewhat emotional. All along, he believed that he was a genius, born with a talent and gift that greatly exceeded that of his race.

In the previous world he lived in, he was the most powerful.

Starting out by joining the Ten Devilish Domains as a pawn.

Time and time again, he managed to live on the battlefield, and time and time again, his accomplishments filled the books. He didn't have a powerful background, nor did he have a fortunate childhood. Instead, due to having to live a harsh life ever since he was born, his body turned frail and weak due to malnourishment.

Despite his numerous accomplishments in battle, opportunities passed by time and time again, opportunities that he was not allowed to take advantage of due to his weakly appearance.

Until...

He met a woman.

That was a woman that he would remember for life.

He recalled the first time he met with the woman, there wasn't a second person following beside her. Despite her noble status and background, she came alone.

The woman stood in front of her within the blood-filled battlefield, stepping on a pool of blood that had already turned black, and looked at him...

She only said one simple sentence.

"A book cannot be judged by its cover!"

This was a famous quote from the world of the human race. Ying Shan didn't know why the woman would say such a thing to him. However, ever since the woman had said this, he became the Vice Domain Chief of the Ying Domain.

The second time he met the woman, she had also said one sentence.

"A book cannot be judged by its cover!"

It was still the same quote from the world of the human race. However, this time, Ying Shan understood.

He understood that his appearance had finally become his advantage. He could be leveraged on to achieve greater things. He was about to enter the human world and become the most important member of the demon race planted among the thirteen constabularies.

Within the time of three years, he led and controlled the elites of the demon race within the Yan Capital. Time and time again, he was able to deliver the most critical information during the most critical times of battle, ensuring that the demon race was always at an advantage in the war against humans.

The third time he met the woman…

Was beside the Ten Mile Lake. She was wearing a white dress with hair that was as silky as a waterfall. Ying Shan deeply remembered every single word she spoke and every single action she made.

Even though he couldn't understand why the woman wanted him to participate in the combat examination.

He couldn't understand why he was tasked with such a job despite his status.

Was it because he hadn't done well in these three years?

Or was it because he was becoming older?

He couldn't understand. However, he had no reason to question. Instead, he asked about the person's characteristics.

The woman replied.

"A person who cannot be judged by his looks!"

Initially, Ying Shan didn't quite understand this sentence. But now, he understood. When that golden waterfall fell from the sky above his head, he understood.

He understood why the woman would request for him to enter the combat examination.

He understood even more why he had to be the one carrying out this task personally.

Because, this was indeed a person who cannot be judged by his looks!

A fifteen-year-old human with intelligence so sly that even he couldn't compare to. And now, he had displayed a talent in combat that the rest of the world wouldn't be able to match.

If this person continued to live, the demon race would be at risk!

"Kill!"

Ying Shan gave up Xing Qingsui despite their close proximity.

Because, his true target in the combat examination had always been one person. That person was Fang Zhengzhi. A person whom the young lord of the demon race was willing to sacrifice a vice domain chief for in order for the person to die.

The riverside of the Ten Mile Lake was experiencing a storm. A white dress danced in the torrential rain.

The woman lightly held a green umbrella in her hand. The ink painting on the umbrella seemed even clearer and brighter. Beside the woman, the bright red rock was being pounded on continuously by the rain, becoming so smooth that it was like a sea of fire.

A boat travelled gradually towards her on the surface of the lake.

Drawing a faint line on the surface of the stormy lake, as if connecting all the droplets of water that landed on the lake into a pristine white pearl necklace.

Not too long later, the boat stopped beside the lake.

A few women wearing green dresses walked down. None of them held an umbrella. The torrential rain battered their faces, but their expressions remained extremely respectful.

"Young lord."

"Yes." The woman nodded, but she didn't move.

"There is news from the Yan Capital. The Imperial Academy had lost control of the World of the Sage. I guess, is this related to Vice Domain Chief Ying Shan?" A girl in a green dress at the front of the line spoke softly.

"Unrelated." The woman didn't even think before immediately shaking her head.

"Young lord feels that it is?" The girl in the green dress was somewhat confused. However, she didn't dare to express any form of doubt.

"Fang Zhengzhi."

"Fang Zhengzhi?! No matter how talented he is, he is ultimately only a human who had just entered the Heavenly Reflection State. With Vice Domain Chief Ying Shan's powers, Fang Zhengzhi should be dead by now. Then, how will the World of the Sage being out of control be related…" The girl in the green dress suddenly stopped speak and knelt down instantly.

"It is fine. Rise. Actually, the probability of Ying Shan being able to kill Fang Zhengzhi is only one out of ten. Or, it could be said that it is only five percent." The woman looked towards the Yan Capital with a pondering look.

"Thank you young lord! But, why… why is it… five percent? Ying Shan is…" The girl in the green dress rose gradually. Her expression evidently looked somewhat shocked, as if in disbelief. However, she had no choice but to believe.

Because, the person who stood in front of her was her young lord. At the same time, she was claimed to be the most talented genius the demon race ever had within the past thousands of years. A miraculous girl who was well versed with the The Art of Becoming Invisible, astronomy, geography, deduction from aspects of celestial bodies, one who knew everything under the world, one who was always in control of any situation on heaven and earth.

"Actually, the reason I sent Ying Shan into the combat examination is only to delay Fang Zhengzhi from entering the imperial government." The woman spoke calmly.

"Using a vice domain chief to exchange for the time a person enters the imperial gov…"

"Very worth."

"..." The girl in the green dress grew silent.

"The Double Dragon Roll Champion would shock the world, and bring peace to the world!"

"I understand, I am stupid and shallow!"

"You can leave."

"Roger!"

A gust of wind blew past. The woman lightly raised her head. Her beautiful eyes gazed towards the direction of the Yan Capital once again. Her jet-black hair lightly danced in the wind while the white cloth on her face billowed, revealing a stunning beauty.

If Fang Zhengzhi witnessed this scene, he would definitely recognise this woman.

Because, her name was…

Yun Qingwu!

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Chapter 215: The Vast Lake

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

The scholars in the Great Xia Dynasty had a lot of opinions about Yun Qingwu.

Song, dance, poetic essays and the four arts, she was proficient and knowledgeable about all of them. But, she was a miraculous woman. However, she was a woman with a veil. There was almost nobody who had ever seen Yun Qingwu's face.

Until Fang Zhengzhi appeared.

In the Huai An County, during the Hundred Flower Gathering, Fang Zhengzhi unveiled Yun Qingwu in one move.

Afterwards, he entered Yun Qingwu's boat at the riverside of the River of Trust, gaining the reputation of a lecher.

Fang Zhengzhi had asked Yun Qingwu a question in the boat, asking whether she was an influential figure. At that time, Yun Qingwu only said one sentence.

"My surname is Yun!"

In reality, her surname was really Yun. Because, the Demon Lord who controlled the Ten Devilish Domains also had the surname Yun.

Yun Qingwu, a person without any influence, bringing along only a group of maidservants, travelling about the various capitals and cities alone. Who would ever think that she was actually the young lord of the demon race?

However, this was the miraculous woman pursued by scholars all over the world despite never having seen her face, a person who nobody dared to offend. Who could she be if not the young lord of the demon race?

The situation…

Finally descended into chaos from this moment onwards.

Within the World of the Sage, The expression in Ying Shan's eyes carried a sense of yearning. It was a yearning for the past, and it is this very yearning that gave him an unwavering determination in his heart.

He had to complete this task.

Because…

This was recognition.

How many times would a demon even be recognised in his entire life?

"Kill!" The black light on Ying Shan's body congregated completely at this hands, carrying a vast and powerful air of death as it pushed towards the golden waterfall that descended from the skies.

The golden waterfall crashed down.

Without dodging, surging forward rapidly, the golden tip of the sword concealed itself within the waterfall. It was faintly discernible.

In reality, Fang Zhengzhi could afford to hide behind the crowd of people.

Over ten people...

Even if Ying Shan was able to kill each of them in one strike of the palm, he ultimately still required some time.

The longer time was delayed, the higher Fang Zhengzhi's chance of living.

Fang Zhengzhi wasn't the Holy Mother, he didn't have the great ambition of protecting the world, nor did he possess the sense of righteousness to rescue the human race from disaster. However, with a group of people blocked in front of him.

Who were willing to block off the fatal blows for him, one following another.

How could he continue to hide behind?

This wasn't the Holy Mother, nor was this ambition and righteousness. This was the pride of a man, especially when there was a woman who was about to faint falling to the ground in front of him.

Even though he didn't really like this woman.

But she was ultimately…

Still a woman.

How could a man allow a woman to block in front of him?

"Die!" Fang Zhengzhi knew he couldn't defeat Ying Shan. However, he had to try. Even if he had to completely let out all the energy he had in his pocket dimension, he still had to try.

A sword slashed down!

The golden light exploded outwards.

The waterfall that fell from the skies seemed to have found an avenue to escape at this moment. The golden rays of light crushed down completely, slamming together with a ink-black palm.

The light and the dark.

The golden ray and the faint shadow.

Two completely different lights intersected.

Fang Zhengzhi fixed his gaze tightly on Ying Shan below him.

Ying Shan also fixed his gaze tightly on the Fang Zhengzhi on top of his head.

The four eyes met.

Yet, their expressions were completely the same. It contained determination, an unwavering determination. Both of them bit down hard on their lips. Fang Zhengzhi held the sword hilt in his hand.

While Ying Shan held the sword blade.

"Boom!"

A huge boom resounded. The golden light and the black light exploded with the two people at the center. Countless rays of golden light that resembled swords and countless rays of black shadow shot out in all directions.

"Ah!" A examinee who wasn't able to dodge in time was directly hit by the light. He grabbed his shoulder tightly. There was a wound on his shoulder, a wound that seemed to have been slashed by a sword.

Yet, the golden light and the black shadow didn't stop.

Each of the examinees gritted their teeth. They wanted to dodge. However, the speed of the golden light was too fast. In addition to the initial injuries on their bodies, how hard it was to dodge could be imagined.

However, after a huge mountain stood in front of the examinees.

The situation seemed to have taken a turn.

Very quickly…

Green and blue rays lighted up at the same time, immersing itself within the huge mountain and turning into a gigantic territory that shielded the examinees within.

Rays of golden lights and black shadows crashed onto the territory, resounding with a rumbling sound.

Regardless whether it was Nangong Mu or Yan Xiu, or even the heavily injured examinees hiding within, they could clearly feel the intensely sharp power contained within these rays.

"How powerful!"

"Why would it be so powerful?"

The examinees couldn't quite understand. How can a person who had just entered the Heavenly Reflection State be so strong? So strong that they were trembled, so strong that they were fearful.

His power…

Where did it come from?

"It is concentration!" Nangong Mu's lips parted slightly, gazing at Fang Zhengzhi who was bathing in the golden light.

"Concentration?" The examinees were confused.

"The two of them are both deep in concentration!" Yan Xiu also spoke. He didn't choose to combine strength with Fang Zhengzhi at this moment. Because, he knew that anybody who was concentrating on a task wouldn't wish for anybody to distract them.

This was the trust between friends. It was also respect for a friend's abilities.

Fang Zhengzhi wanted to prevent Ying Shan from killing people, while Ying Shan swore to kill Fang Zhengzhi.

Two different beliefs, yet, they both became a form of concentration.

However, the difference in power was still unavoidable. This was reality, a reality that one had to face no matter what.

Ying Shan had the power of the Supernatural Intermediate State. In addition to absorbing all the power of the demon eye, how could Fang Zhengzhi defeat the blow that Ying Shan had put all his strength in?

The golden sword crashed with the black shadow. A tremendous power crashed towards Fang Zhengzhi like a wave, endless and infinite.

Fang Zhengzhi had never felt such a powerful force before. Even when he was faced with Chi Hou in the Divine Constabulary, he never had such a feeling.

It might had been because Chi Hou held back, or it might be due the amount of determination contained in this force.

Regardless, Fang Zhengzhi had no way of preventing this force from entering him. The powerful force flowed from the blade of the sword to the sword hilt, then forced itself into Fang Zhengzhi's body through his arms and crushed towards his heart.

Dao grew from the heart.

The pocket dimension of the human race was located at the heart.

If the heart faced an impact too powerful, the pocket dimension would also face a similar damage, and might even shatter and collapse.

Then…

Even if the person didn't die, he would still become a disabled man.

Fang Zhengzhi knew this. However, that force was too strong. All he could do was to release all the power he had in the pocket dimension to oppose that force.

However, in his previous full-force attack, he had already channeled the power in his pocket dimension. How would he have any leftover power?

A lush green glow suddenly lighted up.

Protecting Fang Zhengzhi's heart like a layer of film.

The force slammed into the layer of film, generating an intense tremor. The feeling caused Fang Zhengzhi to feel somewhat uncomfortable, agitating the blood and air in his body.

However, that force didn't enter into his heart.

"What is it?"

"Don't tell me… it is the Heart Protection Mirror? The Heart Protection Mirror that Chi Guyan lost to him when he was leaving the Divine Constabulary?" Fang Zhengzhi recalled the scene at the Divine Constabulary.

He suddenly had a feeling that Chi Guyan seemed to have lost to him on purpose...

Other than being able to contain items, this Heart Protection Mirror seemed to actually be able to protect the heart?

Fang Zhengzhi felt that his luck was rather good. At the very least, he seemed to have obtained a rather good treasure. However, the Heart Protection Mirror was able to protect one's heart, but was unable to counter the force that entered his body.

If it wasn't able to defend against that force, the Heart Protection Mirror would be destroyed sooner or later.

It was only a matter of time.

Fang Zhengzhi didn't know how much power his pocket dimension still contained. The previous attack had already completely used up all the white mist in his pocket dimension.

However, in his pocket dimension, there was a tree. That was a humongous tree that almost reached into the sky. On the tree, there were completely lush green leaves, and various kinds of fruits.

Below the tree, there was a lake that was as vast as the sea.

The water that fell from the huge tree, droplet by droplet, came together and formed a stream. Then, it formed a pond. And now, it was a lake...

Eight years ago…

Fang Zhengzhi planted the heart of Dao in his heart by observing the Illustration of All Creation.

After battling with the Blue Fire Wolf, he successfully accessed Dao, attaining Divine Seal, then Star Conglomerate. Each of these successes came naturally.

As for the rest of the time, he began to continue collecting stars. He collected stars continuously, one by one by one, causing hundreds of stars to fill his pocket dimension.

These stars dripped water onto the earth below the tree.

After ordinary people conglomerated stars, it was one droplet of water that fell to the ground. However, in Fang Zhengzhi's case, hundreds of droplets of water fell to the ground. Naturally, a lake formed within his pocket dimension.

There was a time when Fang Zhengzhi felt that he could already rule the world.

He depended on this lake, the lake that was as vast as the sea. This had always been something he counted on, forming the source of his confidence.

However, things that occurred afterwards caused Fang Zhengzhi to change his view. He realised that enlightenment state might be more important. Hence, the lake remained a lake, waiting silently within his pocket dimension.

It had never been used by Fang Zhengzhi before.

However, the current circumstances seemed somewhat different. The white mist in the sky had been completely used up.

Then, what was left?

It was the lake of course.

Hence, the lake began to roll, and began to boil. It was like a pot of boiling water. Threads of white mist rose from the middle of the lake, quickly filling up the sky once again.

Immediately after, the dense white fog clashed together with the force that entered his body.

There was no movement. There was no sound.

However, when this white fog clashed with the force that entered his body, Fang Zhengzhi felt somewhat dizzy and his limbs felt somewhat weak. He didn't know if this was due to exhaustion.

The only thing he could confirm was that the force entering his body hadn't completely disappeared.

It continued to crash towards his heart.

Then...

He could only cause the lake to boil once again, then, filling up the sky with white fog again.

Once, twice, thrice…

After the fourth clash, Fang Zhengzhi suddenly felt that his head wasn't dizzy anymore. His limbs weren't weak anymore either. Because, the force that entered his body had already completely disappeared.

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Chapter 216: Confession

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Fang Zhengzhi's eyes lit up once again.

On the other hand, Ying Shan's face was a deathly shade of white. He could naturally feel the powerful and continuous energy coming from within Fang Zhengzhi's body, clashing together with his force over and over again.

However, he couldn't understand why would a person of the Heavenly Reflection State possess such vast and endless power?

Genius...

Even if he was a genius, how could such an unconventional thing happen?

Ying Shan was filled with immense shock.

What caused him even more shock was that an immense power began to press towards him. That was naturally Fang Zhengzhi's power. Because, he held the blade of the sword in his hands.

The boundless power crashed down upon him like the sea.

Ying Shan's hand that grasped the sword actually became somewhat unstable.

"Boom!"

The sword and the palm separated.

The rock on the ground turned into powder, as if it had been struck by a waterfall that descended from the sky. A deep crater appeared. Within the deep crater, there were even countless sword marks etched clearly within.

Ying Shan's body was forced back exactly five steps before he managed to stand still.

On the other hand, Fang Zhengzhi stood on the spot holding the sword in his hand.

He didn't take a single step back.

This scene, without a doubt, caused everybody to fill with shock.

From the moment Fang Zhengzhi attacked, to the moment Ying Shan retreated, the amount of time that passed seemed very long. However, in reality, the amount of time that passed between the connection of the sword and the palm to their separation was only the blink of an eye.

"Ying Shan… was forced to retreat?!"

"How is this possible?!"

"A person of the Heavenly Reflection State had actually forced a person of the Supernatural Intermediate State to retreat?"

Everybody stared at Fang Zhengzhi, their faces filled with shock.

Even Yan Xiu, despite his unwavering trust for Fang Zhengzhi, was still in somewhat of a disbelief. He trusted Fang Zhengzhi, however, that didn't mean that he believed Fang Zhengzhi could win.

But now…

Fang Zhengzhi had won. He forced Ying Shan to retreat within one move, while standing still without moving.

Nangong Mu's eyes flashed with light. His calm expression was shattered. He had pinned all his hopes upon Fang Zhengzhi. However, that hope was due to intelligence.

It wasn't due to power.

However, Fang Zhengzhi had once again gained the advantage in a battle of power. How could he not be shocked?

Xing Qingsui held the sword in his hand, his body already completely stained with blood. However, he didn't even notice it one bit. Instead, what he was more concerned about was, how could Fang Zhengzhi win in one move?

Ping Yang's tiny mouth opened slightly. She had already collapsed from exhaustion, however, she wasn't yet unconscious.

After experiencing Ying Shan's power personally, she evidently knew how much power Ying Shan's fully-powered palm strike contained. Despite wearing the Red Flame Flower Armour, she was still unable to defend against it.

Yet, Fang Zhengzhi was actually able to force Ying Shan to retreat?

"How did he…" Ping Yang wanted to ask, how did he do it, why could he do it. However, when the words reached her mouth, she didn't speak.

For some unknown reason, after experiencing the Broken Bridge, the Twin Stone Tablets and the stone house, she always had this feeling in her heart. As long as Fang Zhengzhi wanted to do something, he seemed to definitely be able to achieve it.

There wasn't a reason.

It seemed very unreasonable. However, Fang Zhengzhi was such an unreasonable person.

Fang Zhengzhi held the sword in his hand.

Naturally, he knew why. If it was a battle of enlightenment states, Ying Shan definitely overpowered him. However, if it was a battle of strength, he didn't believe that he would lose to Ying Shan.

This was a sense of confidence that came from within his bones.

Unfortunately…

This sense of confidence met with a problem.

He certainly didn't intend to stop. After winning a move, he should leverage on his advantage to give chase. However, he couldn't do so. Because, a tiny problem appeared with the sword in his hand.

It broke.

"Crack!"

In an instant, the golden sword, from the sword hilt to the blade of the sword, was filled with web-like cracks. Then, piece by piece, fell to the ground.

The sword…

Was it real?

This question appeared in Fang Zhengzhi's mind again.

He had no way of ascertaining whether this sword was real. Then, why would his sword appear here? And what was the power contained in the sword all about?

If this sword was real.

Why would it break? Or, it could be said, from the start to the end, this had always been a broken sword?

Fang Zhengzhi looked at the broken sword in his hand and began to think.

On the other hand, when the examinees behind him saw the sword in Fang Zhengzhi's hand break...

They didn't think this way.

They didn't consider whether this sword was real or fake. What they were more concerned about was, what to do with a broken sword?

This feeling was very hard to describe. It was as if the hope that had just started burning within them was suddenly extinguished by a pail of cold water. Their hearts were filled with a chilling sense of coldness from their heads to their toes.

Ying Shan's thoughts were the complete opposite of the examinees.

The sense of coldness in his heart began to burn with hope once again after seeing the sword in Fang Zhengzhi's hand break.

"How can one fight… with a broken sword?" Ying Shan looked at Fang Zhengzhi.

Everybody else looked at Fang Zhengzhi as well.

Then, gritting their teeth, they held out the swords in their hands.

One following another, swords appeared in front of Fang Zhengzhi. Within them, there was a completely black sword. That was Xing Qingsui's Black Meteor Sword.

"My sword can hold a fight!" Xing Qingsui's tone seemed somewhat weak. However, his expression was very determined. For a sword user, the sword was his life.

Xing Qingsui offered his sword to Fang Zhengzhi. This was equivalent to offering his life to Fang Zhengzhi.

Fang Zhengzhi didn't receive the sword.

He was thinking. From the Broken Bridge to the Twin Stone Tablets to the illusion within the stone house, scenes flashed within his mind.

Broken…

Yet not broken!

One in the light, one in the dark. The Twin Stone Tablets.

Advance, yet there was no path. Retreat, and one could exit.

"I understand!" Fang Zhengzhi's eyes instantly lit up. He finally understood what the levels in the World of the Sage represented.

"Come out, if you still wish to leave!" Fang Zhengzhi suddenly shouted out loudly.

His voice reverberated in the air.

This caused the other examinees to feel somewhat shocked. They couldn't really understand what Fang Zhengzhi was shouting. Come out? Leave? Could it be that Fang Zhengzhi had suffered some brain damage after clashing with Ying Shan?

Within the World of the Sage, don't tell me that other than themselves, there were still other people?

The wind blew lightly…

Other than that, there were no other movements.

Fang Zhengzhi's face reddened slightly.

Don't tell me I guessed wrongly?

That's not very possible…

"The world is so big, don't you wish to go out and explore it?" Fang Zhengzhi shouted again, unsatisfied.

The wind continued to blow. Other than that, there were still no other movements.

On the other hand, the rest of the examinees looked at Fang Zhengzhi as if they were staring at an idiot.

Don't tell me he had really turned dumb?

"It is so lonely to stay here alone. There is nobody to talk to you, or bring you to see the beautiful sceneries. Such loneliness, don't you feel cold?" Fang Zhengzhi's voice sounded out once again.

However, other than his own voice, there weren't any other replies.

"There are other people here?"

"Is he crazy? How can there be other people in the World of the Sage?"

"How is he talking to?"

Each of the examinees were filled with disbelief. The World of the Sage was a pocket dimension, controlled by the royal family. How could nobody know if there was somebody inside?

Yiong Shan looked at Fang Zhengzhi, somewhat confused. He didn't know what Fang Zhengzhi was doing. However, there was one point he knew very clearly. He had to kill Fang Zhengzhi as fast as possible.

Time was running out, he didn't have any more time to waste.

Even though he suffered injuries in that previous attack.

However…

So what?

This was his task. This was also his last task before his death. Then, he had to complete this task, no matter what he had to sacrifice.

Hence, Ying Shan moved again.

His figure bent slightly like a bow as the black light in his palms began to flow. This strike was his last strike.

Win, and he would be king.

Lose, and he would fail.

However, Fang Zhengzhi continued to shout out. "Come out please, as long as you are willing to come out, I will definitely treat you well. I will pamper you, love you, care about you, hold you in my hands…"

When Ping Yang heard this, she almost couldn't lie still anymore. Her small face reddened slightly, spitting out lightly towards Fang Zhengzhi. "Shameless!"

Yan Xiu's expression changed slightly, seeming somewhat helpless.

On the other hand, Nangong Mu's expression became rather strange. He thought, could it be a female?

The sword that Xing Qingsui held trembled slightly. It wasn't because he lacked strength. Instead, he suddenly regretted. Why did he take the initiative to offer his own sword to such a person?

Ying Shan's bent body suddenly paused.

A powerful feeling of shame suddenly rose up inside him. He couldn't understand. As the great Vice Domain Chief of the Ten Devilish Domains, why would he lose to such a person?

This was evidently a lecher without the slightest bit of doubt.

Furthermore, his lecherous personality was so obvious.

Genius…

Monstrous.

Lecher!

Words bounced themselves continuously within Ying Shan's mind. They were almost impossible to get rid of. However, he still moved in the end. His body was as fast as lightning. Because, no matter how much he couldn't stand his lecher in front of him.

That was still his target. A target he had to kill.

"Come, come into my embrace. I will bring you to review the huge world, explore the countless mountains and rivers. Only I can give you happiness!" Fang Zhengzhi continued to drone on.

Yet, at this moment, Ying Shan attacked.

His speed was blazing fast, so much so that nobody would be able to react in time. His body was like a mist. There was still a shadow that hadn't disappeared at the spot he initially stood.

This was his last attack. How could Ying Shan hold back?

However…

A figure was even faster than him.

That figure came out from below the shattered rock. It turned into a faint ray of light and soared into the sky. Then, it descended down from the sky, drawing a beautiful arc in the sky.

Finally, it landed into Fang Zhengzhi's hand.

Ying Shan's charging body stopped. His eyes were filled with disbelief. That was a true sense of shock that came from the heart. Anybody who witnessed such a scene would definitely be filled with shock.

At this moment, all of the examinees also stared with their eyes widened.

Even somebody as calm as Nangong Mu dropped his jaws.

Xing Qingsui's body trembled. The Black Meteor Sword in his hand actually left his hand and fell to the ground with a clang.

Only Yan Xiu's eyes still maintained the final trace of calm. However, within that trace of calm, there was still a faint glow. That was a sense of happiness that truly came from the heart.

Ping Yang's eyes that were as clear as water looked at Fang Zhengzhi. Her face was flushed with red. She really couldn't believe such a mysterious thing had happened. "Dont… don't tell me he was previously… talking to… talking to the sword?!"

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Chapter 217: Pride

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Everybody's gaze was drawn towards Fang Zhengzhi. Or, it could be said that everybody's gaze was fixated upon Fang Zhengzhi's right hand.

Because, at this moment, Fang Zhengzhi held a sword in his right hand.

A sword that appeared extremely ordinary, yet, wasn't ordinary at all. There were no decorations on the hilt of the sword, nor were there any exquisite carvings.

From the hilt of the sword up to the bright and clean blade of the sword, it turned from jet-black to glowing bright. It seemed to be of the highest quality. However, this feeling of quality was broken at the tip of the sword.

Because, at the tip of the sword, there was a purple scar. It was an extremely evil purple…

Just one look was enough to deduce that this purple scar didn't belong to this sword.

It was like a bloodstain on the blade of the sword, giving people the urge to wipe it off immediately. However, this sword had been buried under the rock for nobody knew how long.

How could a bloodstain exist?

When everybody saw the sword in Fang Zhengzhi's hands, there were filled with various complicated expressions. Envy, jealousy, shock, lament and disbelief…

As for the purple scar at the tip of the blade, it was neglected by majority of the people.

Except for Fang Zhengzhi.

Fang Zhengzhi knew what this purple scar was. It was the blood essence of the Demon Lord Si Kong. Because, at the instant he held that sword in his hand, an image flashed across his mind.

A slash that shocked the world.

Leaving a sword scar within the Blood Shadow City. A sword scar that split the Blood Shadow City into two.

Causing the fall of Demon Lord Si Kong.

However, the fall of Demon Lord Si Kong left a drop of blood on the sword. This drop of blood also represented a curse. A curse through the blood, ensuring that it would remain forever on the sword.

The curse was actually very simple. Meng Tian would never be able to use a sword for the rest of his life.

Fang Zhengzhi didn't quite understand. Why would the Demon Lord Si Hou leave this curse? Cursing a person to never use a sword again? Why couldn't he just curse him to death? Or curse him to be unable to fight again?

That seemed to be more direct.

Fang Zhengzhi couldn't understand the reason behind this, hence didn't bother to think further. However, it was because of this curse that led to Sagely Battle God Meng Tian never using a sword ever again, changing to the blade.

Because, he couldn't use a sword anymore.

"How about I call you Purple Scar?" Fang Zhengzhi asked softly. He wasn't a person who judged a book by the cover. However, he felt that his name seemed rather suitable for this sword.

The sword in his hand let out a low cry, as if replying Fang Zhengzhi's words. This caused the surrounding examinees to reveal a shocked expression once again.

Don't tell me this sword really has consciousness?!

"I understand, seems like you don't really like this name. Then, let me change it. How about I call you… Traceless?" Fang Zhengzhi nodded, as if being able to sense the dissatisfaction in the sword.

Very quickly, the sword let out a clear cry, just like that of a dragon.

"Alright, I will call you Traceless!" The edges of Fang Zhengzhi's mouth curled into a slight smile.

"Traceless?!" When the surrounding examinees heard Fang Zhengzhi's words, they were completely speechless. This sword is named Traceless? Can't you see that huge purple scar at the tip of the sword?

Don't tell me this was the legendary tale of covering one's ears whilst stealing a bell?

A person could be shameless…

Who knew that the sword would be just as shameless!

Fang Zhengzhi looked at the surrounding examinees with a disdainful expression. He naturally knew what these people were thinking. However, he knew the thoughts of "Traceless Sword" even more clearly.

It felt as if there was a scar on a person's face.

Wouldn't he never wish for others to call him scar face?

If there were really people who did this, they were definitely itching to be punched.

Man had pride.

As for a sword...

How could it not have pride?

Fang Zhengzhi held the sword, pointing the tip of the sword at Ying Shan. An evil purple flashed at the tip of the sword.

"Looks like this is the real sword!" Ying Shan's eyes narrowed slightly.

"Didn't I already tell you earlier that the sword just now was fake?" Fang Zhengzhi spoke without a single trace of red on his face.

"..." Ying Shan's lips quivered.

He had no way of arguing. Because, Fang Zhengzhi had indeed said that the golden sword was fake. However, under those circumstances, there were simply nobody who would believe that.

Don't tell me that he really knew the sword was fake?

Then why would he pull out the sword?

Ying Shan felt that his mind was in a mess. He couldn't really understand. However, very quickly, his mind cleared up again. Because, no matter what the truth of the matter was.

He only had one task. That was to kill Fang Zhengzhi.

Hence, Ying Shan moved. A shadow flashed across until it neared Fang Zhengzhi. The black light flowed about his two palms as a cold glint filled his eyes.

This seemed to be a deadly blow that would definitely kill.

However…

This deadly blow was blocked by a sword.

That sword came from the ground. It was a very ordinary sword. However, that sword blocked in front of Ying Shan. Furthermore, the tip of the sword pointed at Ying Shan's throat.

Ying Shan definitely wouldn't let an ordinary sword block his way. Instead, he lightly pushed the sword. Instantly, the sword was reduced to powder.

However, this didn't mean that Ying Shan could go nearer to Fang Zhengzhi.

Because, a second sword, a third sword, a fourth sword… all the swords impaled onto the ground began to move at this moment. One by one, they were pulled out from the ground and flew into the air, blocking Ying Shan's advance.

"How… is this possible?!" Ying Shan looked at the numerous swords floating in the sky. He couldn't understand the logic behind this.

Controlling swords with shadow?

Ying Shan definitely could achieve this. Furthermore, he also knew that Fang Zhengzhi would be able to achieve this.

Hence, when the first sword blocked his path, he wasn't taken aback at all. Because, with Fang Zhengzhi's abilities, he could easily use shadow to pull out swords.

However…

This didn't mean that Fang Zhengzhi would be able to pull out all of the swords in the sea of swords.

Not even mentioning that Fang Zhengzhi didn't have this ability.

Even Ying Shan himself didn't believe that he could achieve this.

Even though the sea of swords wasn't vast, it still covered a few miles of area. Using the shadow territory to cover the area of a few miles, and still having to control it to pull out he swords.

It was simply impossible.

The surrounding examinees also looked at this scene with an expression of shock.

In the sky, one by one, the swords spun rapidly. It was just as if they were being moved by a tremendous tornado. The infinite number of swords formed a huge sword tornado with Fang Zhengzhi at the center.

"What is this all about?"

"So many swords… how can he control all of them?"

Each of the examinees was filled with disbelief. Not even mentioning that Fang Zhengzhi was only of the Heavenly Reflection State, even a person of the Supernatural State wouldn't be able to achieve this and control as many swords.

What level of mental power and control must one achieve in order to achieve this?

This was something that was simply impossible.

"Don't tell me…"

A thought rose within the minds of the examinees.

Then, an expression of pure joy appeared on all of their faces. That was a joy that came from deep within their hearts, as if they had been given a new life.

Nangong Mu lowered the Green and Blue Dual Blades in his hands. Because, there was no more need for him to fight.

Yan Xiu similarly kept the Mountain and River, Heaven and Earth Fan. His expression seemed somewhat cold, however, he couldn't conceal the bright glow in his eyes.

Xing Qingsui fell to the ground. He picked up the sword from the ground and kept it again. His face seemed somewhat pale, however, he heaved a sigh of relief.

Ping Yang's tiny mouth formed an O shape. Her large, clear eyes was also in the shape of an O. She looked at the sword tornado that circled Fang Zhengzhi's head with an expression of unparalleled happiness.

However, when she recalled Fang Zhengzhi's shameless words a moment ago.

She still felt somewhat unsatisfied.

"Hmph!" Ping Yang cocked her head to one side and pouted her tiny lips. However, her eyes were still fixated upon Fang Zhengzhi.

Fang Zhengzhi silently held on to the sword.

He stood unmoving in the middle of the sword tornado with a smile on his face. He looked at Ying Shan.

"I am not satisfied!" Ying Shan had certainly already understood what had transpired by now. However, he wasn't satisfied. He truly wasn't satisfied.

"So what whether or not you are satisfied?" Fang Zhengzhi's expression was filled with calm.

Ying Shan was silent. He didn't speak anymore. Because, just as Fang Zhengzhi said, why did it matter whether or not he was satisfied?

From the moment Fang Zhengzhi held the Traceless Sword…

The outcome had already been determined.

Even if he was of the Supernatural Intermediate State, he didn't have the slightest glimmer of hope of harming Fang Zhengzhi. This wasn't related to his powers. This was because Fang Zhengzhi controlled that sword.

When Fang Zhengzhi held that sword, it was equivalent to controlling the entire World of the Sage.

Then, what other chances did Ying Shan have?

Not even mentioning killing Fang Zhengzhi, even his own life and death was determined by a single thought from Fang Zhengzhi.

"I lost!" Ying Shan gradually raised his head and looked into the sky. He didn't know which direction was that. Instead, he could only take that direction as the direction in his heart.

A direction towards the Ten Mile Lake at the outskirt of the Yan Capital.

He knew that at the riverside of the Ten Mile Lake stood a woman. A woman that waited in the torrential rain.

What the woman was waiting for was naturally not he himself.

Instead, it was an answer sheet. An answer sheet that could make her smile.

Ying Shan bit down hard upon his lips. He had never seen the woman smile before. That might be because he had only seen her three times, or it might be because women didn't really like to smile.

He didn't know these. However, he only knew that as a demon, he couldn't disappoint the woman.

In reality, regardless of whether it was on the battlefield or when he was planted in the Yan Capital, he had smoothly completed each of his tasks every single time.

How many times could one be recognised in his life as a demon.

He used to be confident and felt that he would be able to repay this recognition.

Yet now…

Was the last day he would be living in this world. He had failed his last task. He had no way of presenting a satisfactory answer sheet to the woman.

He didn't know what the woman's expression would be like when she heard of this. He only knew that he would be a demon who let a woman down.

Disappointment.

Ying Shan's eyes gazed quietly at the direction in his heart. He didn't cry. Because, he was a demon. A demon who was the vice domain chief of the Ten Devilish Domains.

He couldn't bring himself to cry in front of humans.

Even if he died.

He had to become a demon with his own pride and dignity.

Hence, he moved.

Step by step, he walked towards Fang Zhengzhi, and walked towards that sword tornado formed by an infinite number of swords, allowing the swords to stab through his body one by one.

There wasn't the slightest flash of black light on his body.

He didn't resist.

Instead, he looked silently at Fang Zhengzhi and walked, one step at a time, into the sword tornado...

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Chapter 218: Heaven Dao Sage Tablet

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

The storm in the Yan Capital didn't seem to have any intention of stopping. Instantly, it grew stronger and stronger.

This caused the air in the Imperial ACademy to seem somewhat stressful. Especially after "All hail the emperor!" sounded out from outside the door, everybody felt as if there was a huge stone in their hearts.

From the time the World of the Sage had went out of control till now, a very long time had passed.

However, it still didn't seem to have any intent of recovering.

One must know that the people within the World of the Sage were all the future creme of the Great Xia Dynasty. It was like the foundation of a dynasty.

They represented the future of the Great Xia Dynasty.

If there was no future, how could a dynasty survive for long?

Especially when the Xing Qingsui of the Stabilisation Constabulary was also trapped within. That was the son of the first wife of the Stabilisation Constabulary's Xing Hou, the assigned successor of the Stabilisation Constabulary.

Most importantly was Ping Yang.

The Princess Ping Yang who was favored the most by the Emperor, a person whom no accidents must occur to.

King Duan Lin Xinjue didn't personally report this to Emperor Lin Mubai. He knew very well Emperor Lin Mubai's reaction after hearing this piece of news.

Furthermore, there still wasn't a confirmed answer to the incident occurring inside the World of the Sage.

Under such circumstances…

Why would he be willing to take responsibility for this unknown storm? However, this was an imminent storm. Even if he wanted to avoid it, there was no way to do so.

Hence, he could only accept it.

King Duan Lin Xinjue stood up from his chair. Han Changfeng naturally stood up as well. However, once the two of them stood up, they knelt down on the floor together.

Other than King Duan Lin Xinjue and Han Changfeng, all the Imperial Messengers in the Imperial Academy also knelt down on the ground.

Nobody dared to raise their heads.

The footsteps outside the door grew nearer and nearer, then it stopped.

Lin Mubai wore a golden dragon robe and stood with his hands behind his back. His eyes carried an expression that was completely out of harmony with his appearance. He didn't look at the people kneeling down onto the ground. Instead, he only gazed at the somewhat empty room.

Behind him, stood Ninth Prince Lin Yun dressed in a brocade robe, Crown Prince Lin Tianrong dressed in a white dragon robe, Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping drssed in a white official robe, and the Six Council Officials of the dynasty.

By right, Crown Prince Lin Tianrong could avoid this matter altogether. However, he still came. Because, he was the crown prince, the crown prince that controlled the imperial government.

He simply had no way of shirking this responsibility.

Hence, Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping naturally came as well.

If the Emperor, the crown prince, and the left prime minister were all present, how would the Six Council Officials dare not to come?

"Your imperial examination was indeed held very well. I remember when we were choosing the chief examiner of the imperial examination, each of you fought so hard for this, promising to do it very well. But now?" Emperor Lin Mubai spoke.

The emptiness of the room reflected that the World of the Sage was still out of control. Then, things wouldn't be solved very easily.

King Duan Lin Xinjue lowered his head. The other imperial messengers also kowtowed on the floor.

Nobody dared to reply. Because, everybody could hear the anger that Emperor Lin Mubai attempted to conceal in his tone. Once the Son of Heaven raged, no matter how high you stood, you could still fall a thousand yards.

"Speak!" Emperor Lin Mubai spoke again. A powerful aura expanded outwards.

This caused King Duan Lin Xinjue's back to instantly become soaked with sweat. He wanted to speak, but his throat felt unnaturally dry. He couldn't produce a single sound.

Han Changfeng's forehead was also beaded with sweat. However, he couldn't follow King Duan Lin Xinjue and remain silent. Because, he was the chief examiner of the imperial examination.

Hence, no matter what happened, he couldn't remain silent.

"I feel that the World of the Sage being out of control, might be… a good thing!" Han Changfeng lowered his head. Even a man as calm as him felt an immense pressure when faced with the air of a dragon that Emperor Lin Mubai gave off.

"A good thing? Mister Han please continue." Emperor Lin Mubai didn't sit down. Instead, he stood on the spot without a change in his expression.

"Replying Your Majesty, ever since I became the imperial messenger of the Imperial Academy, and held the role as chief examiner for the imperial examinations for so many years, I had always been cautious and conscientious, and displayed utter loyalty and responsibility. I had never made any mistakes. I don't believe that this imperial examination is affected by external powers. The reason might be because related to the fact that Fang Zhengzhi had broken the Broken Bridge, the Twin Stone Tablets and the stone house." Han Changfeng gritted his teeth.

"Continue."

"I believe that the World of the Sage being out of control seems very dangerous, but, it might be a test. A test given by the World of the Sage to the examinees. The World of the Sage is a world created by Sagely Battle God Meng Tian. Hence, no matter how dangerous the test would be, there wouldn't be any threats to their lives. The longer it dragged meant that the examinees went through more tests. Could… this be a form of opportunity?" When Han Changfeng finished his sentence, his heart tightened.

This was the best way of putting things. It was equivalent to pushing himself towards the place where the wind and the waves were the fiercest. If his guess was correct, he could naturally avoid a disaster being pinned onto his head.

However, if a real problem occurred...

The charge of hosting the examination inappropriately would be worsened.

However, Han Changfeng didn't have any other choices. Because, if there was really something bad occuring in the World of the Sage, there was simply no way he could avoid the charges. Since he would be in trouble either way, what harm would there be in adding another charge to this?

"Oh?" When Emperor Lin Mubai heard this, his brows clearly relaxed.

He naturally understood the World of the Sage very well. There was only one reason why the World of the Sage went out of control. That was a piece of consciousness Sagely Battle God Meng Tian had left in the World of the Sage.

That consciousness temporarily controlled the World of the Sage.

Just as Han Changfeng said, that consciousness originated from Sagely Battle God Meng Tian. Hence, there was a huge possibility that no true harm would come to the examinees involved in the imperial examinations.

But what if it wasn't a test?

Emperor Lin Mubai now had two choices. One was to forcefully open the World of the Sage. However, that could possibility disturb the consciousness within the World of the Sage, and might even destroy the World of the Sage.

Even though there was a chance to save the people, there was also a chance to kill them…

The other possibility was to wait.

Just as Han Changfeng guessed, wait for the test of the World of the Sage to end.

These were two very difficult choices. If there was something bad occurring within the World of the Sage, further waiting would definitely aggravate it. However, if the World of the Sage was completely fine, what would they do if a problem suddenly occurred?

Emperor Lin Mubai gazed at the empty room, weighing the benefits and losses.

Nobody spoke at this moment, and nobody helped Han Changfeng to beg for forgiveness at this moment.

Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping frowned slightly. His thin face seemed somewhat dark. Han Changfeng was a good ally of the Crown Prince, hence he evidently didn't wish to lose Han Changfeng due to such an incident.

However, acting before there was a clear resolution to the incident…

Was undoubtedly causing them to fall into the trap of becoming the passive party.

Hence, he waited.

Similarly, none of the Six Council Officials spoke. There might be some logic behind what Han Changfeng was saying. However, before things were truly resolved and understood, who would dare to stand out blindly?

As for Crown Prince Lin Tianrong, he naturally wouldn't speak. Han Changfeng was the Crown Prince's teacher. This was something that every knew. As the Crown Prince of the dynasty, he had his own stance.

This stance was fairness and justice.

The atmosphere in the Imperial Academy returned to its initial state of silence.

Until…

A scene suddenly appeared in mid-air inside the room.

In that scene stood a youth wearing a blue robe. He held a sword in his hand. A sword that had a purple scar at the tip of the blade.

And around the youth.

Countless swords were whirling around him with blazing speed.

This was a shocking scene. What was even more shocking was that in front of the youth, there was a weakly middle-aged man. That man was tolerating countless swords stabbing through his body.

The middle-aged man didn't produce a single sound. Instead, he bit down hard onto his lips.

Blood, stained the earth.

Outside the Yan Capital, within the Ten Mile Lake, a boat sailed slowly into the distance. The torrential rain battered the boat, causing the flag on it to dance in mid-air.

Yun Qingwu, wearing a white robe, stood quietly at the head of the boat. She held a green umbrella in her hand and gazed in the direction of the Yan Capital.

"It should have ended about now."

"Young lord, we need a minimum of one month to get from the Yan Capital to the Huai An County… please remember to rest." The lady in the green dress looked at the back of Yun Qingwu. She didn't inquire further about the results of the imperial examination. Because, Yun Qingwu had never been wrong about what she said.

Then, Ying Shan's task should have failed.

Or, it could be said that ever since the very start, this was a task doomed for failure. However, she didn't express any suspicion. Just as Yun Qingwu said, if a failed task could lead to victory of the overall situation, was it still a failure?

"Yes, the Huai An County…" Yun Qingwu nodded. Her eyes were slightly hazy. A picture suddenly flashed across her mind. That was the Hundred Flower Gathering held a few months ago at the Huai An County. It was that very moment which she had been unveiled.

Huai An County, Cang Ling Mountain.

Didn't Fang Zhengzhi grow up from the Northern Mountain Village below the Cang Ling Mountain?

As she thought, Yun Qingwu instantly shook her head. Very quickly, her gaze turned brighter.

"A demon appeared in the imperial examination. The combat examination would be forced to stop. Han Changfeng's position as the Chief Imperial Messenger would definitely be hard t o hold onto. The human race would have lost a great talent leading the Imperial Academy. The Crown Prince controlled the government, hence he wouldn't be able to escape censure. King Duan has failed in his responsibilities of supervising the imperial examination. Hence, the Cang Ling Mountain situation wouldn't concern the two of them anymore."

"Stabilisation Constabulary, the head of the thirteen constabularies. I am really excited to see how you would foil the plans I had set in the Cang Ling Mountain? The 'Heaven Dao Sage Tablet' is mine, "The Vast World" is also mine. This is a deadlock!"

Inside the Imperial Academy, everybody stared silently at the scene that appeared in mid-air.

That was naturally the scene depicting the World of the Sage.

The scene depicting the World of the Sage had appeared in the Imperial Academy. This seemed to be a happy occasion, representing the fact that the World of the Sage had returned to the control of the Imperial Academy.

However, when this scene appeared in the middle of the Imperial Academy, nobody could feel happy. Because, everybody's gaze was fixed upon the youth inside the scene.

Even Emperor Lin Mubai's eyes flashed with light. Because, this was a scene that nobody would be able to imagine, and a scene that simply nobody would be have to predict...

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Chapter 219: Owner of the Sword

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

"It's… Fang Zhengzhi?!"

Staring at the youth in the scene, almost nobody wished to believe what they had just seen. In their hearts, no matter how talented Fang Zhengzhi was, he was only somebody who had just entered the Heavenly Reflection State.

Killing an enemy with a sword?

Or was it killing an enemy with a ten thousand swords? No matter how they looked at the situation, it didn't make any sense. How could a person who just entered the Heavenly Reflection State have the power to use ten thousand swords?

One by one, doubts arose in their hearts.

Then, their gazes were drawn to the sword in Fang Zhengzhi's hand. That sword seemed extremely ordinary. However, the purple scar at the tip of the sword was extremely evil.

"Could it be… that sword?!"

There was a sword in the World of the Sage. That was the sword of Sagely Battle God Meng Tian. This was a legend, yet, it was a legend that everybody knew.

"Fang Zhengzhi had retrieved Meng Tian's sword?" When this thought rose in their minds, everybody was filled with an unparalleled sense of shock.

Next, what caused even greater shock was that the middle-aged man in the middle of the sword tornado had a black gem-like object on his forehead.

It seemed somewhat faint and dark. However, there wasn't a single person who didn't know what it represented.

The demon eye!

The demon race. That man was a demon?!

Fang Zhengzhi was using the sword of Meng Tian to kill a demon.

Most importantly, behind Fang Zhengzhi stood over ten examinees. Among them was the severely injured Xing Qingsui, and Nangong Mu whose chest was stained with blood.

There was also…

Ping Yang, lying on the ground with blood dripping down her lips.

"What actually happened in the World of the Sage?!"

"Ping Yang is injured?!"

"Fang Zhengzhi had obtained the sword of Meng Tian and is using it to kill the enemy?"

One by one, questions that caused great shock arose in everybody's hearts.

Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping's lips moved, but remained silent in the end. Instead, he let out a long drawn out sigh. He knew that the situation was already out of his control.

The Six Council Officials instinctively gazed towards Han Changfeng. No matter what happened in the World of the Sage, just the fact that a demon had snuck into the combat examination was enough to give Han Changfeng no way of escape.

Moreover, Ping Yang lay on the ground, and the direct descendant of the Stabilisation Constabulary, Xing Qingsui, had a sword stabbed through his body. All of these meant that whatever happened in the World of the Sage, it definitely couldn't be explained by something as simple as a test.

King Duan Lin Xinjue's expression was somewhat pale. As the supervisor of the imperial examination, he had the responsibility of monitoring and supervising it. However, this current outcome was something he would never have thought of, and would never wish to think of.

However, this was reality.

Then…

Next up was finding out how to resolve this problem.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong's expression was similarly somewhat dark. As the Crown Prince in charge of the government, mishaps in the imperial examination were something he couldn't shirk any responsibility in. Moreover, what grieved him the most was Han Changfeng.

Han Changfeng was his teacher, and his biggest ally and supporter as he attracted talents into the government.

As an elderly official who had organised the imperial examinations for many years, how many disciples did he have below him? It was an extremely horrifying number. It was these disciples who had been the greatest supporter of the Crown Prince.

Now, this huge tree seemed to be on the verge of falling. How could Crown Prince Lin Tianrong be satisfied with this outcome?

Among the people in the crowd, the only person with a different emotional state was Ninth Prince Lin Yun. Political matters were completely irrelevant to him. As the supervisor of the imperial examination, he had to take responsibility for this as well.

However, these weren't the things he was most concerned about. What he was most concerned about was the fact that Ping Yang was still alive, Xing Qingsui was still alive. Even though Nangong Mu was injured, he was still alive. As well as Fang Zhengzhi, and Yan Xiu…

At least half of the the future creme of the Great Xia Dynasty were still alive.

Actually…

That was enough.

"I want to enter!" After a temporary shock, Emperor Lin Mubai regained his composure. However, a painful look remained in his eyes.

His gaze was fixed upon Ping Yang's body. That was his daughter, his blood daughter. The daughter he loved the most. As long as he saw Ping Yang, he would be able to think of a woman.

That was a woman he thought of every single moment of his life.

But now, the daughter of that woman and himself was lying on the ground, with blood dripping from the edge of her mouth. How could he not feel pained? How could he still have the audacity to meet that woman again?

"Emperor, you cannot! Even though the World of the Sage is reopened, but, nobody can ensure that this isn't a trap. If it was purposely set by the demon race…" When Yu Yiping heard Emperor Lin Mubai's words, he instantly knelt down onto the ground.

"Trap? I am the true dragon son of Heaven, why would I be scared of a trap?" Emperor Lin Mubai's tone turned cold and directly walked past the crowd towards the scene projection.

Nobody dared to stop him. Instead, a stone door in the projection rapidly opened.

The first person who followed behind Emperor Lin Mubai was naturally Crown Prince Lin Tianrong. Even though the person who moved first was Ninth Prince Lin Yun, Crown Prince Lin Tianrong still managed to win based on speed.

Next was Ninth Prince Lin Yun, Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping and the Six Council Officials.

Since Emperor Lin Mubai had entered, how would they dare to not enter?

As he looked at the people entering, King Duan Lin Xinjue finally gritted his teeth and stood up from the ground. Then, following behind the crowd, he entered.

Han Changfeng didn't follow. Instead, he sat down on the floor with a rather blank expression on his face. He didn't speak. All he did was sit in silence.

Around him, the imperial messengers of the Imperial Academy were just as silent. Their eyes looked towards Han Changfeng silently. Nobody spoke…

Within the World of the Sage.

Fang Zhengzhi stood with the sword in his hand. Around him, the countless swords had already fallen to the ground. Because, Ying Shan had given up struggling. Since Ying Shan had given up, the swords had lost their purpose.

Ying Shan was dead…

This was definitely a shocking and joyful thing for the people within the World of the Sage.

A smile formed at the edges of Yan Xiu's mouth. This was the happiest kind of smile for a friend. Fang Zhengzhi had done it. Hence, he was happy for Fang Zhengzhi.

As for Nangong Mu and Xing Qingsui, they each began to tend to their own injuries.

The other examinees looked at Fang Zhengzhi, then looked at the Traceless Sword in Fang Zhengzhi's hand. Their gazes were filled with a complicated expression. There was envy, and a few unknown emotions...

However, these emotions were quickly replaced by shock.

Because…

Emperor Lin Mubai had appeared in front of them.

Not just Emperor Lin Mubai. There were still Crown Prince Lin Tianrong, Ninth Prince Lin Yun, Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping, the Six Council Officials, King Duan Lin Xinjue. All of them appeared in the World of the Sage.

Emperor Lin Mubai and Ninth Prince Lin Yun looked at Ping Yang.

While Crown Prince Lin Tianrong, Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping, King Duan Lin Xinjue and the Six Council Officials were permanently fixed upon the Traceless Sword in Fang Zhengzhi's hand.

"This is the sword of Sagely Battle God Meng Tian?"

"One that can control the World of the Sage, a sword that contained consciousness?"

Everybody's emotions were more or less stirred up. Crown Prince Lin Tianrong and King Duan Lin Xinjue's gazes were somewhat fiery. Even as princes, this sword still stirred up excitement within them.

After all, the Sagely Battle God represented a legend in the Great Xia Dynasty. A legend that had never been surpassed by any second person after so many years.

"Hail Emperor!" The examinees looked at the people who entered. Their bodies suddenly trembled and knelt on the ground.

"Rise." After Emperor Lin Mubai responded, he directly made his way beside Ping Yang. He reached out his hand and pressed it onto Ping Yang's arm as his body glowed with golden light.

It was as bright as the sun.

"Father?! I… I am fine…" Ping Yang had never thought that the first person who entered the World of the Sage would be Emperor Lin Mubai. Hence, she was naturally somewhat stunned.

As she felt the heat coming from Emperor Lin Mubai's hands, her heart grew warmer inside.

Emperor Lin Mubai nodded. After channeling Qi into Ping Yang's body, all he felt were blast injuries. There wasn't any serious injury.

"First, send the injured out. The Law Council will be in charge of investigating whatever happened in the imperial examination. As the chief examiner of the imperial examination, Han Changfeng will be temporarily confined in the Law Council prison. His crimes will be settled after everything becomes clear!"

"Roger!"

The Imperial Academy organized the combat examination. Hence, there were naturally doctors specialised in treating the injured.After the injured examinees were sent out, they could receive treatment immediately. Hence, there wouldn't be any threats to their lives.

The torrential rain in the Yan Capital caused puddles of rainwater to congregate on the streets. However, the restaurants and residences all around the Yan Capital was bustling with activity.

Because, today was the day the combat examination roll would be released. It also represented the announcement of the imperial examination's final results.

However...

The door to the Imperial Academy was fully shut.

This caused the people of the Yan Capital to guess wildly. Countless rumours began to spread.

As the saying went, paper cannot wrap a fire. There were no such things as perfectly sealed walls in the world. The things that happened within the World of the Sage were personally witnessed by all of the imperial messengers. Furthermore, there were many injured casualties and within the Imperial Academy, there were families and relatives of the examinees walking about to see how they were doing. Hence, things naturally began to spread rapidly.

"Did you hear? A demon had entered the combat examination. I think it was even a Vice Domain Chief!"

"Vice Domain Chief? How is that possible?"

"How can it not be possible? My cousin witnessed it personally with his own eyes. He had participated in the combat examination this time and said that the demon was named Ying Shan. He was even of the Supernatural Intermediate State!"

"Supernatural Intermediate State? Oh my God… then, how are they still alive?"

"I seems that Fang Zhengzhi had obtained a sword. That was the sword of Sagely Battle God Meng Tian. Then, he killed that demon called Ying Shan."

"Fang Zhengzhi killed Ying Shan?! Didn't he just enter the Heavenly Reflection State? What is this all about? Not mentioning that he killed Ying Shan, I wouldn't even believe if he managed to block one attack!"

Within the restaurant, youths in brocade robes discussed. There were also busybodies shouting out at one side. However, most of them were half in disbelief.

However, the door of the Imperial Academy was shut tightly. This was an undebatable reality. This also meant that a problem had definitely occurred during this combat examination.

In the military tent of the Patrol Guards.

King Duan Lin Xinjue's expression was somewhat ugly. As the imperial prince of the Great Xia Dynasty, he naturally didn't worry about losing his life because of this. However, he still felt somewhat uncomfortable about the investigations of the Law Council.

This was because the Law Council had always been under the control of Crown Prince Lin Tianrong. If the Law Council leveraged upon this opportunity to pin crimes, even he himself wouldn't be able to avoid being punished.

And below King Duan Lin Xinjue, Elder Wen who was dressed in a black and white Dao robe also frowned tightly.

In comparison, Mister Hua who was dressed in a scholarly attire had a rather calm and indifferent expression. He only sat quietly on the chair, as if waiting for King Duan Lin Xinjue to speak.

"Mister hua, you seem like you have an idea?" King Duan Lin Xinjue looked at Mister Hua's calm expression with some confusion.

"Replying Your Majesty, I wouldn't claim that it is as great as an idea. However, I believe that the person who should be worried is the Crown Prince. Your Highness, on the other hand, wouldn't need to worry too much." Mister Hua smiled lightly.

"Why is this so Mister Hua?"

"The greatest criminal charge this time will naturally be upon Han Changfeng. Even though the Law Council is controlled by the Crown Prince, if they really conducted thorough investigations, there wouldn't be any benefits to the Crown Prince."

"What do you mean?"

"If Your Highness wants to gain the advantage in this, you only need to do one thing!"

"What is that?"

"Help Han Changfeng to plea for leniency in front of the Emperor."

"You want me to help Han Changfeng to plea for leniency? My father is currently furious. I didn't fulfill my responsibility in the supervision, how can I still help others to plea for leniency?" King Duan Lin Xinjue couldn't understand.

"Your Highness please recall, what was the reason you requested to conduct the imperial examination?"

"That is naturally to form ties and recruit talen… Wait a minute. You mean?" When King Duan Lin Xinjue heard this, his eyes suddenly lit up as if he had somewhat understood.

"Han Changfeng had conducted the imperial examination for so many years. Even though he had made mistakes, he still maintains the heart of the Emperor. If Your Highness helps Han Changfeng to plea for leniency, the Emperor would naturally infer that you prioritize protecting the creme of the dynasty. Why would he blame you?"

"However, the heart of the Emperor is hard to guess. What is the point of me taking such a risk?"

"Two benefits. Firstly, gain the reputation of prioritising talents. Even if the Emperor blames you, he wouldn't truly punish you. Secondly, if Your Highness helps Han Changfeng to plea for leniency, how do you think the Crown Prince would think?"

"It would naturally be…" When King Duan Lin Xinjue said this, his eyes finally lit up. "I understand, Mister Hua your plan is killing two birds with one stone?"

"Your Highness is smart and wise. As long as Your Highness helps Han Changfeng to beg for forgiveness, then, not only would your mistakes in the imperial examination not be made more severe, the Emperor would also regard you highly. Han Changfeng is the teacher of the Crown Prince, yet the Crown Prince wouldn't help him to plea for leniency. However, Your Highness is willing to do so, implying that you prioritise talents. Other than that, Your Highness can leverage on this opportunity to spread the incident about Han Changfeng's son. Even if the Crown Prince still trusts Han Changfeng, Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping had always been overconfident about his own decisions and thoughts. Hence, he might not hold back just because of Han Changfeng's reputation as the teacher of the Crown Prince. Then, there would be two outcomes. The first would be that the Crown Prince and Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping would part ways, the second would be that one party will give in. As for Han Changfeng, no matter whether he would be spared, it would still be impossible to be as powerful as before."

"Mister Hua's plan is indeed wise! There is one more thing I wish to consult Mister Hua about. Fang Zhengzhi had obtained Meng Tian's sword in the World of the Sage…"

"That sword is Sagely Battle God Meng Tian's sword. Fang Zhengzhi is just an ordinary citizen. Your Highness wouldn't have to worry about this."

"Alright, then I will act according to Mister Hua's plans. I will enter the palace to meet the Emperor right now!" After King Duan Lin Xinjue finished speaking, he immediately walked out of the military tent. There was no more worry left on his face.

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Chapter 220: Movement of the Undercurrent

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

In the imperial palace of the Yan Capital, in front of the door to the Advanced Academy, dozens of members of the Dragon Protection Squad continued to wait outside, allowing the torrential rain to fall upon them, yet remaining as still as a mountain.

When a middle-aged man around the age of forty, wearing a purple official robe, whose phoenix eyes were long and narrow walked over from afar, the dozens of members of the Dragon Protection Squad suddenly turned respectful. When the middle-aged nearer, they neatly bowed towards the middle-aged man.

"Lord Hou!"

The Dragon Protection Squad only took orders from the current Emperor. However, in front of the middle-aged man, they were still extremely respectful. This wasn't very much related to his order of feudal nobility.

Because, even if a prince was in front of them, they still dared to hold their swords.

However, the middle-aged man was different. He was the lord of the Great Xia Dynasty's Stabilisation Constabulary, the head of the thirteen constabularies, the most stable pillar of the dynasty, and the sworn brother of the current Emperor.

The Stabilisation Constabulary's Xing Hou, Xing Yuanguo.

Xing Yuanguo looked towards the dozens of members of the Dragon Protection Squad. A faint glimmer of light shone in his long and narrow phoenix eyes. He naturally knew about the Dragon Protection Squad returning to the Yan Capital. However, he didn't ask further.

He was a general, and a military lord. His responsibility was to protect the country. Hence, he only protected the country.

As for what he shouldn't know, he never inquired further. This was the teachings passed down in the Stabilisation Constabulary ever since it was founded.

"Yes." Xing Yuanguo lightly nodded his head. He didn't speak a further word with the Dragon Protection Squad, and walked in immediately after Eunuch Pan pushed open the door.

Once he walked into the Advanced Academy, Xing Yuanguo saw the dead body covered by the flag. Beside the dead body stood another two armoured members of the Dragon Protection Squad.

His expression changed slightly. However, he didn't ask further. Instead, he walked quietly to one side and knelt down.

"Hail Emperor."

"Official Xing get up quickly, how is the kid Qingsui's injuries?" As Emperor Lin Mubai spoke, he stood up from his dragon chair and personally went in front of Xing Yuanguo to support him up.

"Bleeding isn't of any much significance to a man. He can only blame his own weakness. This incident has been caused by Qingsui, accidentally bringing in the demon into the combat examination and causing injuries to the princess. I am responsible for my failed supervision, and hope that I will be punished as due!" Xing Yuanguo didn't stand up immediately and instead insisted on kneeling onto the ground.

"The spy of the demon race is hard to guard against, Official Xing need not blame yourself. The reason why I called you here today is to discuss about matters of the country." Emperor Lin Mubai reached out to pull him up again.

This time, Xing Yuanguo didn't insist in kneeling further. Instead, he stood up very quickly.

"Emperor please tell me more!"

"There are three thousand volumes of the Law of Dao, while there are thirty-six types of Heaven Dao. Ever since the Great Xia Dynasty was founded, we had been collecting the thirty-six Heaven Dao Sage Tablets. There are currently thirteen in the Sage Land, nine in the Heaven Dao Pavilion, while the rest of the Heaven Dao Sage Tablets are spread in various places. I'm sure that you know the importance of this Heaven Dao Sage Tablet."

"Your meaning is?"

"The Stabilisation Constabulary had always maintained close ties with the Divine Constabulary. Now that the Sagely Relic had descended in the Cang Ling Mountain of the Northern Desert River of Trust Capital's Huai An County, I wish that you can go there personally."

"Why not ask the Divine Constabulary to obtain it directly?"

"I fear that the power of the Divine Constabulary alone isn't enough to guarantee success. I'm sure you know the geography of the Cang Ling Mountain, despite hundred of years it still hadn't been explored fully. If an army recklessly enters the mountain, they might face losses. Furthermore, after the Sagely Relic had appeared, the Dragon Protection Squad had been attacked along the way, causing them to lose a Dragon Envoy…"

"Is it the demon race?"

"Yes."

"I understood. I will move out now!"

"Orders for the Dragon Protection Squad. Your task for this journey to the Cang Ling Mountain is to ensure the safety of Xing Hou. If there are any accidents, all of the Dragon Protection Squad will face death as the heaviest punishment!" When Emperor Lin Mubai heard Xing Yuanguo agree to this, his gaze turned towards the two members of the Dragon Protection Squad beside him.

"Roger!" When the two of them heard this, they instantly knelt down.

"Official Xing, you must remember that safety is always the first priority. No matter how important the Heaven Dao Sage Tablet is, it cannot compare to the Stabilisation Constabulary. You must take care!"

"Thank you for your concern!" Xing Yuanguo nodded, then immediately bowed and left.

On the other hand, the two members of the Dragon Protection Squad beside the dead body instantly stood up and followed behind Xing Yuanguo.

Within the Ping Yang Residence, a faint medical aroma came from within the exquisitely designed room. Ping Yang lay grudgingly on the bed. There seemed to be tears in her clear, big eyes while her tiny mouth pouted.

Beside her, a lady in a pink dress sat. Wearing a snow-white fur belt, the lady's elegant body was brought out perfectly.

Her large jet-black eyes were extremely bright, as if spots of stars were glowing within them. Her silky hair fell to her waist like a waterfall, and a jade-green pearl flower was horizontally inserted on her hair. There was pureness within her tender beauty.

"Sister Yan, I don't want to lie down, I want to ride a horse…" Ping Yang looked towards Chi Guyan who sat beside her and spoke with a begging tone.

"Sure, do you want to ride your Snow Jade, or the Ninth Prince's Purple Lightning Dragon Stallion?" Chi Guyan smiled lightly and revealed a youthful look of pure beauty.

"Sister Yan, you have a way to let me ride the Purple Lightning Dragon Stallion? Brother Jiu is very stingy. No matter how many times I asked him, he didn't lend it to me. Does Sister Yan really have an idea?"

"Yes, but we must wait until your injury is recovered."

"Oh… alright!" Ping Yang stuck out her tongue and gave a pained look. Then, tucked her tiny head into the blanket. However, right before her head went in, the edges of her mouth curved into a crafty look of somebody getting away with her evil scheme.

Chi Guyan looked at Ping Yang hidden inside the blanket and the edges of her eyes revealed a trace of fondness. Then, she stood up softly from the chair and walked slowly towards the window, staring out at the fresh flowers dancing in the torrential rain outside the room.

"Passing the Broken Bridge, the Twin Stone Tablets and the stone house? And even obtaining Meng Tian's sword… I fear King Duan and the Crown Prince are going to start acting."

"A Vice Domain Chief entering the combat examination? The first person he attacked was Xing Qingsui, yet, his target afterwards was Fang Zhengzhi? Hm…"

"Supernatural Intermediate State? Paying such a big price to attack one person? If it is just to strangle the baby in the cradle, isn't the chance of success greater on the road?"

"Such a big sacrifice just to delay the advancement of the imperial examination. No! Looks like there are other plots at play. The Dragon Protection Squad had lost a Dragon Envoy. The city gates had been attacked by unknown people. Looks like… they want to lure the snake out of its hole! But, which snake are they trying to lure?"

"King Duan? The Crown Prince? They have all been affected by the imperial examination. Then, it is… the Stabilisation Constabulary! In order to lure the Stabilisation Constabulary… it is going to cost the demon race something. What is it going to be?"

Light flashed in Chi Guyan's eyes. However, the expression on her face remained calm. Instead, she continued to stand quietly in front of the window, staring at the torrential rain that still hadn't stopped.

It was night. However, there was still a fire light glowing in the Eastern Palace.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong still wore the same white dragon brocade robe that he wore outside the palace today. However, his expression seemed extremely dark. Yet, he remained silent.

Because, the person sitting below him was Yu Yiping.

If Yu Yiping didn't speak, he could remain silent.

"Give it up!" After a long time, Yu Yiping finally gritted his teeth. A Chief Imperial Messenger of the Imperial Academy was very important. However, it was exactly because he was too important that Yu Yiping had to give him up.

Because, this was a Chief Imperial Messenger who had lost the people's trust. Then, he might become a hidden chess piece who could affect the overall situation.

"My teacher… would never do anything that went against me." Crown Prince Lin Tianrong didn't retort. Instead, he mumbled softly.

"Crown Prince, if you wish for your position in the Eastern Palace to be stable, you must consider the worst case scenario. Even if there was the slightest bit of chance, you still have to nip it in the bud. Crown Prince, you must understand the principle behind affecting the overall situation just by pulling a single strand of hair."

"What do you plan to do?"

"King Duan plead leniency for Han Changfeng. Hence, he had naturally gained a good reputation of treasuring talents. Then, let us push the boat with the current and make the incident about Han Changfeng intending to falsify the theory examination paper known. This way, the Emperor would definitely becoming suspicious about King Duan pleading leniency for Han Changfeng. If Han Changfeng would truly consider the overall situation for Crown Prince, he would definitely accuse King Duan of having insufficient information!"

"But this way, my teacher would definitely die without a doubt. Furthermore, I fear that the members of the Han Residence might…"

"My teacher's years of teaching and achievement…" Crown Prince Lin Tianrong couldn't bear to do so.

He had been taught by Han Changfeng ever since he was young. Even though Han Changfeng had just committed a serious offence, if he was willing to help Han Changfeng to plea for leniency with King Duan, when things settle down, not only would Han Changfeng be spared from death, he might only be demoted by one level and could remain in the government.

"We have to proceed with this quickly! Else, when the Emperor starts to question, the pressure on the law council will become even greater. Crown Prince, you mustn't lose the advantage just because of one moment of kindness!" Yu Yiping's eyes flashed with light.

"But…" Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was somewhat hesitant.

"Crown Prince!"

"Why must you… sigh… alright, let's go according to what you said!"

"Crown Prince is firm and decisive in handling affairs. I will definitely follow you till death!" Yu Yiping stood up at this moment and actually knelt down directly in front of Lin Tianrong.

"Get up quick!" When Crown Prince Lin Tianrong saw this, he instantly stood up from his chair. However, a faint glint flashed at the sides of his eyes.

Two days later, the rain stopped. However, the wind persisted. It continued to wreak havoc within the Yan Capital, invoking surging waves of wind, causing the sky above the Yan Capital to be filled with darkness.

In the early morning within the Imperial Hall, numerous officials stood in silence. Emperor Lin Mubai sat straightly on the dragon chair. However, his expression didn't seem too happy. This was because the law council had finalised the case of the Imperial Examination.

As the law official of the Great Xia Dynasty, even though 'Wan Chong' was almost fifty years of age and his hair was already beginning to turn white, he had always been swift and decisive in his actions. Furthermore, this case concerned the most important Imperial Examination with the Emperor personally supervising it and the Crown Prince's secretive manipulations. Naturally, he dealt with this case very swiftly.

The few of Han Changfeng's most serious crimes were quickly laid out. Among them, there was a statement of confession which Han Changfeng had signed himself, proving that he had the intention of tampering with Fang Zhengzhi's theory examination paper, as well as pointing out King Duan Lin Xinjue's various failings of his responsibilities to investigate this incident.

Why it was a failure to investigate and not conspiring with Han Changfeng?

The reason was very simple. The entire government knew that Han Changfeng was the teacher of the Crown Prince. If it was said that he received orders from King Duan Lin Xinjue, who would believe that?

"Han Changfeng intended to tamper the theory examination paper?!"

Such a crime was a bolt from the blue, shocking the entire Imperial Government. However, this had been confessed and signed by Han Changfeng personally. The evidence was irrefutable.

The officials were filled with shock. However, nobody stood out to object this.

King Duan Lin Xinjue's expression turned ashen. He gazed at Crown Prince Lin Tianrong who stood within the Imperial Hall. He would never have thought that his brother would be as heartless.

This had also strengthened the belief in his heart to fight for the great position.

Because, he knew that if he admitted defeat in this fight, his situation in the future would be worse than that of Han Changfeng.

As the Duan King, he controlled the military.

This was his first time participating in the Imperial Examination, hence he definitely could bear the consequences of failing in his supervision. However, this also meant that he had no way of being involved in the Imperial Examination in the future.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong's expression was calm. After sacrificing Han Changfeng, the position of Chief Imperial Messenger was now empty. However, he didn't reckon that King Duan Lin Xinjue would be able to take advantage of this position.

Hence…

The Imperial Academy was still under his control.

The case of the Imperial Examination had temporarily assumed a state of calm due to Han Changfeng's personal confession of the crime. Next up would naturally be to settle the rest of the matters related to the Imperial Examination. For example, the arrangements of the post-examinations.

How could it not have a result?

Hence, there was the suggestion of a rematch. However, a rematch of the entire examination wasn't an option. After all, that was equivalent to announcing to the entire dynasty that the Imperial Academy was incapable.

Furthermore, due to the attack by the demon race, the majority of examinees suffered heavy injuries. An immediate rematch would indeed seem unfair.

The final verdict was that a preliminary examination would be added before the court examination. This way, not only would it not affect the conduct of the court examination, but it could also give the injured examinees sufficient time to recover.

After the matters of the Imperial Examination had been completely settled, the hearts of the officials finally united. Because, they all knew that there was a very important matter that was finally about to be raised.

That was the sword left by the Sagely Battle God Meng Tian!

"Emperor, the identity of the demon that appeared in the World of the Sage had been confirmed to be the Vice Domain Chief of the Ten Devilish Domains' Ying Domain, Ying Shan!" Law official Wan Chong would naturally not mention the sword directly.

Because, that was the dumbest possible action. Under circumstances when the intentions of the Emperor was still unclear, the thing he had to do most was to make sure the officials of the Imperial Government knew the power of the sword.

"He really is Ying Shan?!"

"I heard that Ying Shan is of the Supernatural Intermediate State. Fang Zhengzhi had only just entered the Heavenly Reflection State, how could he kill Ying Shan?"

"Seems that he had obtained the sword of Sagely Battle God Meng Tian."

"Who would have thought that one sword would be able to kill Ying Shan. This is indeed terrifying."

When they heard the words of the law official, the numerous officials began to discuss spiritedly. Shocked expressions appeared on each of their faces, while Crown Prince Lin Tianrong and King Duan Lin Xinjue quietly stood on top of the Imperial Court.

They were naturally waiting, waiting for the most suitable moment to give the most suitable reason. Then, the sword would land in the hands of the most suitable person.

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Chapter 221: Divine Order

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

"Even though the sword was obtained by Fang Zhengzhi, he obtained it from the World of the Sage. The World of the Sage belongs to the Imperial Government. Hence, the owner of the sword would definitely be the government!" An official instantly stood out after receiving a visual prompt.

"Mr Wan is right, I agree!"

"I agree too!"

"Even though Fang Zhengzhi does have some talent, he is ultimately still of the Heavenly Reflection State. It is indeed a fearful possibility that the demon race would attempt to steal such a powerful sword. When that time comes, not only would both the sword and a life be lost, the consequences are also dire. I hope Your Majesty can give the order for Fang Zhengzhi to return the sword to the government for protection as soon as possible!"

"Mr Li's analysis is very wise. It is said that the ordinary man is innocent; however, a man with great treasures and ambitions would be in great danger. News of Fang Zhengzhi obtaining the sword from the World of the Sage had already spread to public. If he doesn't surrender it, his life might be in danger!"

"I agree! In order to protect the great treasure of the dynasty and spare Fang Zhengzhi from this danger, I hope Your Majesty can pass the order!"

Very quickly, officials began to stand out one by one. Each of them wore an expression of absolute selflessness, righteousness and empathy for others.

However, in their hearts, Fang Zhengzhi was just an ordinary citizen who hadn't entered the government. Combined with his low birth status, how could they allow Fang Zhengzhi to obtain that sword?

Furthermore, even if Fang Zhengzhi had passed the Imperial Examination, his official rank would only start from Rank Seven. And even if the Emperor was being very generous and kind, the highest rank obtained in history after passing the Imperial Examination was only Rank Five.

On the other hand…

These officials who were able to discuss in this Throne Room, even those standing at the furthest corners, were at least Rank Four Officials. In a government filled with Rank One, Two, Three and Four Officials, who would care about one Fang Zhengzhi?

"Father Emperor, may I express my opinion!" At this moment, King Duan Lin Xinjue finally stood out from the crowd. The officials had begun discussing the matter at hand and the time had come. Naturally, he had to speak before Crown Prince Lin Tianrong did.

This was the first-move advantage.

When Crown Prince Lin Tianrong saw King Duan Lin Xinjue stand out, he retracted his feet that was in the middle of stepping out. However, there wasn't much change in his expression.

"Yes." Emperor Lin Mubai nodded his head with a calm expression.

He naturally knew what conflicts were going on in the Imperial Government and had already made a decision in his heart about this matter. However, as the Emperor, there were some things that had to be said by the high ranked officials.

"Sagely Battle God Meng Tian is the military hero of our Great Xia Dynasty and represents the heart and soul of our dynasty's army. Now, Sagely Battle God Meng Tian's sword had been found again. This is the perfect time to boost our military power. I request for the sword to be handed to me temporarily for protection and boost the morale and power of our army!" When King Duan Lin Xinjue saw Emperor Lin Mubai nod his head, he instantly bowed and spoke.

"His Highness King Duan is right. The sword represents the heart and soul of our army. With this sword, the army of the Great Xia Dynasty would definitely feel blessed by the Emperor and protected by the Sagely Battle God Meng Tian. When they face the demon race, they would definitely be able to do so with determination and spirit!"

"I also agree that the sword be handed to the military for protection!"

After King Duan Lin Xinjue finished his speech, two middle-aged men wearing armours stood out. Both of them were military generals leading their respective armies with respectable positions in the Imperial Government.

"Sixth Brother's words are logical, however… his views are a little superficial. Sagely Battle God Meng Tian indeed came from the military. However, he represents the entire Great Xia Dynasty. He is the hero of our Great Xia Dynasty. Riding alone for a thousand miles to kill Demon Lord Si Kong in the Blood Shadow City, how impressive is that! The determination within his bones is something everybody in the dynasty respects. I request for Father Emperor to hand the sword to me, using it as a means for the government to impart values. During the Law of Dao Examination, it could be displayed prominently at the door to send a message to the people!"

After Crown Prince Lin Tianrong heard this, he stood out and spoke loudly, looking towards King Duan Lin Xinjue's direction.

"His Highness Crown Prince is indeed wise and able to look at the situation as a whole. Using the sword to send a message to the people would be just like spreading the spirit of Sagely Battle God Meng Tian to the people. As the Crown Prince, if he is able to employ this spirit to constantly improve himself, it would be a blessing to the dynasty and a blessing to the entire world!"

"I agree that this sword should be guarded by the Crown Prince as well to send a message to the people!"

"Me too!"

"Me too!"

"Me t…"

Once Crown Prince Lin Tianrong's words landed, a huge group of officials rushed out and bowed down on the ground.

In the Imperial Government, Crown Prince Lin Tianrong controlled the political matters. Hence, his power naturally exceeded that of King Duan Lin Tianrong. This was clearly reflected in the current situation.

"Ever since I have been following the Emperor and received Emperor's kindness, assisting in running the government, prioritising the stability of the society, I believe that the Crown Prince guarding the sword is a blessing for the people!" After everybody had expressed their opinions, Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping stood out, slowly walked in front of the officials and knelt down with both his arms raised.

"Left Prime Minister is right, I hope that Your Majesty can value His Highness Crown Prince's sincerity!" The Law Official also stood out at this moment.

King Duan Lin Xinjue looked around at the officials that knelt down all over the floor and tightened his fists and bit his lips. Just as he prepared to speak again, he saw Emperor Lin Mubai lightly shaking his head on the dragon throne.

This caused King Duan Lin Xinjue to instantly swallow back the words that reached his mouth.

"Crown Prince and King Duan both have good points. Let's put aside this matter for now, tomorrow, order Fang Zhengzhi into the palace to continue the discussion. We will end for today!" Emperor Lin Mubai waved his hands, stood up and left.

"Long live the Emperor!"

In the Ping Yang Residence, Ping Yang wore a red robe and sat in her chair and played mindlessly with a jade toy. Then, she heard the knocking coming from outside the door.

"Princess Your Highness, Young Master Fang wishes to meet you."

"Young Master Fang? Which Young Master Fang? It can't be Fang Zhengzhi, right?" Ping Yang was filled with doubt. She didn't believe that Fang Zhengzhi would come to the Ping Yang Residence to visit her.

"It is."

"Huh? That shameless guy really came? I bet he wants something from me. That's right… that guy had obtained the sword of Sagely Battle God Meng Tian, I bet he wants to request for me to help him plea in front of my Emperor father."

Ping Yang's clear eyes glinted with light, instantly guessing Fang Zhengzhi's intentions. Then, a smile formed on the edges of her mouth.

"Let him in!"

"Roger!"

Not too long later, Fang Zhengzhi was brought to an apartment by the Ping Yang Residence's housekeeper. A gust of wind blew, causing his blue robe to dance lightly in the wind.

"Young Master Fang, please enter!"

"Oh, thank you. This is for you!" Fang Zhengzhi casually tossed a bronze coin into the housekeeper's hands, then entered the room with a smile on his face.

Leaving the housekeeper standing rooted to the ground in the wind.

"One cent?!"

Fang Zhengzhi initially thought that Ping Yang would have more or less recovered from her injury. However, when he entered the room, he realised that Ping Yang was lying on the bed with a thick blanket over her.

Most importantly, there was still a slight trembling within the blanket. The injury seemed very serious.

"Do… do you have… have… something for me?" Ping Yang lay in her bed. Her voice seemed extremely pained. Beads of sweat even formed on her forehead.

When Fang Zhengzhi heard this, a suspicious expression filled his face.

Ping Yang had indeed blocked an attack for him. However, she wore the Red Flame Flower Armor on her body. He didn't believe that she would be injured so severely.

Furthermore, with Ping Yang's status, if she was really injured as badly, why would there not be any servants or housekeepers caring for her in the room?

Fang Zhengzhi took one glance around the bed and immediately realised that there weren't any articles of clothing, and the pair of golden threaded shoes on the floor seemed somewhat messy.

You want to trick me with such an obvious acting?

Fang Zhengzhi smiled faintly to himself. However, the expression on his face was filled with care and concern, hastily walking towards Ping Yang's bed.

"Which part of your body is injured? Is it still very bad? Let me see!"

As Fang Zhengzhi spoke, he quickly tore off the blanket covering Ping Yang's body. He decided to use his own actions to tell Ping Yang, your acting is really bad.

In an instant, the blanket was pulled off and danced in mid-air.

Ping Yang's eyes instantly turned round. Her face turned deathly pale and looked at Fang Zhengzhi, as well as the blanket dancing in the air, with absolute disbelief.

On the other hand, Fang Zhengzhi was completely taken aback.

He had correctly guessed the beginning of the story. Ping Yang was acting. However, he hadn't correctly guessed the ending of the story. Ping Yang was indeed acting, however, at this moment, Ping Yang wasn't wearing clothes.

Or, it could be said that Ping Yang only wore one layer. That was a bright red bellyband with a golden peony sewn onto it.

Of course, on her small white leg, there was a skirt that she didn't have time to remove completely. Beside it, there was a red robe.

"Ah!" Ping Yang screamed.

Her voice instantly reverberated around the entire Ping Yang Residence. Even the air of the palace beside the Ping Yang Residence echoed with this piercing scream.

Fang Zhengzhi knew very clearly how many archers stood guard around the Ping Yang Residence, and knew even more clearly what a huge crime he had committed on this day.

Disrespecting the princess!

If it was said that the previous time was unintentional, then what was this?

If it was also claimed to be unintentional…

Even Fang Zhengzhi himself couldn't completely believe this explanation. Hence, he ran. He charged out of the room with the fastest possible speed and ran outside without even turning back his head.

Ping Yang's eyes burned with a raging flame. Grabbing the red robe beside her and wearing it over her body, she instantly gave chase. She had already decided that no matter what kind of betrayal of friendship this represented.

Today, she must kill this shameless guy.

However, once she reached the door, she suddenly stopped. Because, a jade-green coloured gold hairpin lay on the ground at the entrance of her room.

Ping Yang was sure that this jade-green gold hairpin didn't belong to her. Because, she simply had never worn goods of such trash quality.

"Could it be?" Ping Yang was in somewhat of a disbelief.

However, she still continued to advance forward. Because, Fang Zhengzhi had already stopped. He was completely surrounded by a group of soldiers armed with bows and arrows.

Wishing to escape from the Ping Yang Residence?

This was simply a huge joke. The importance of Ping Yang to the Great Xia Dynasty meant that Emperor Lin Mubai would naturally place the best soldiers here.

Not mentioning Fang Zhengzhi, even someone as powerful as Ying Shan, or even Xing Hou Xing Yuanguo of the Stabilisation Constabulary wouldn't dare claim that they would be able to walk out of the main gate of the Ping Yang Residence.

"Arrival of the Divine Order!" Just as Ping Yang prepared to order for Fang Zhengzhi to be captured, a voice suddenly sounded out. Then, a small eunuch in official clothes quickly walked towards Ping Yang and Fang Zhengzhi.

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Chapter 222: Challenge of Authority

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

When they heard about the arrival of the Divine Order, all of the soldiers armed with bows instantly knelt down. This didn't mean that they didn't know about the severity of the situation. Instead, it meant that they knew about the severity of the situation too well…

Because, the person running out of the room was Fang Zhengzhi.

Ping Yang's scream was bloodcurdling. That evidently came from receiving a huge shock. If it was any other person running out of the room, they didn't mind treating him as an assassin and killing him on the spot.

However, if it was Fang Zhengzhi…

Then that would be somewhat normal.

Which soldier in the Ping Yang Residence didn't know that Fang Zhengzhi and Princess Ping Yang were definitely sworn, jealous enemies? However, no matter how much animosity there was between them, it wasn't something that they could interfere with.

Hence, they decided to kneel down and hastily stay out of the situation.

Fang Zhengzhi's initially despondent eyes instantly felt as if they had seen a ray of light. The soldiers that blocked his way actually knelt down? Without further ado, and without caring about the thing called a Divine Order which he felt wasn't very much relevant to him, he decided that running for his life was the priority.

In a flash, he manoeuvred around the kneeling soldiers and the small eunuch, wind billowing around his feet.

"Young… Young Master Fang, Divine… Divine Order!" Just as he prepared to announce the Divine Order, the small eunuch noticed that Fang Zhengzhi was actually running away. He was evidently unable to react to this.

The Divine Order had arrived, why did this guy suddenly run away?

He couldn't understand. However, to be able to locate Fang Zhengzhi in this Ping Yang Residence required quite a lot of effort. If he really allowed Fang Zhengzhi to run away, where was he supposed to find him again?

"Quick, catch him, don't let him run!" When Ping Yang saw that Fang Zhengzhi intended to run away, she similarly didn't bother about the Divine Order anymore. Instead, she barked orders to the soldiers.

"Woosh!"

The soldiers who were initially kneeling on the ground instantly stood up. However, all of them understood. She said catch, not kill. Hence, the problem would be simple.

A few leaders leapt up and blocked off Fang Zhengzhi's path of escape. The soldiers behind flanked from the left and right.

The pitiful Fang Zhengzhi didn't even manage to run fifty metres before being surrounded once again. This dealt quite a heavy blow to his pride. No matter what, am I not someone who had passed the Imperial Examination?

The Heavenly Reflection State! I have actually been blocked off by these generals in the Ping Yang Residence? Shouldn't I be the kind of person that blatantly dances among thousands of soldiers?

What is wrong here?

"Young Master Fang, Young Master Fang, don't run! Divine Order!" The small eunuch didn't notice Fang Zhengzhi's expression. When he saw Fang Zhengzhi being blocked off, he instantly ran over.

"For me?" Fang Zhengzhi was somewhat doubtful.

He always thought that this Divine Order was for Ping Yang. He had never imagined that it would actually be for him. Divine Order? What Divine Order? Don't tell me I'm about to be promoted to an official?

That's too fast.

I had just passed the Imperial Examination. The rankings aren't even out yet, how can I receive the Divine Order now? But, I haven't prepared myself completely for this yet!

At this moment, Ping Yang also came to Fang Zhengzhi's side. After she heard the small eunuch's words, she seemed to have understood. She could guess the gist of this Divine Order's content. However, this caused her to raise a new suspicion.

She believed that Fang Zhengzhi came to seek her help today.

Hence, she malingered and pretended to be sick. However, it seems that Fang Zhengzhi hadn't received the Divine Order? Then, why is he here?

"The Emperor invites Fang Zhengzhi to bring the sword tomorrow to the Throne Room during morning assembly!" The small eunuch didn't care about what happened between Fang Zhengzhi and Ping Yang. Instead, he hurriedly announced the contents of the order.

Then, he threw down the Divine Order and swiftly ran away, disappearing from sight.

This was the Ping Yang Residence…

If there was one place in the Yan Capital that eunuchs were most unwilling to go to, it would definitely be the Ping Yang Residence without a doubt. If it wasn't for the Divine Order, he would never be willing to even take half a step into the Ping Yang Residence.

Furthermore, the current situation seemed like there was a fight going on.

If I don't run now, when else?

The small eunuch ran, leaving Fang Zhengzhi standing alone in the middle of the army holding the Divine Order written on a golden cloth and looking at the archers in front of him that carried arrows yet didn't draw their bows.

Bring the sword into the Throne Room?

Fang Zhengzhi naturally didn't think that it would be as simple as bringing in the sword. Very evidently, this was a daylight robbery. Don't tell me I really have to give the sword to the country?

In reality, Fang Zhengzhi had also thought that the sword in his hand would be an object of jealousy for some people. However, it was just jealousy.

His reasoning was that since the sword was obtained by him, it naturally belonged to himself.

This was reasoning from his past world.

As the saying went, kill monsters, level up and win treasures…

He had killed the monster, and passed the level. Hence, the treasure obtained naturally belonged to himself. This was something very logical and reasonable. However, in reality, this world didn't seem to be like that.

Under the rule of the Emperor, all of the treasures in the world belonged to the Royal Family.

"Looks like my thinking was too naïve!" A faint smile formed on Fang Zhengzhi's lips. All along, he was someone who preferred to go with the flow, without much interest in things like power.

Of course, he still wasn't interested in these. This was his personality, one that didn't like being bounded or restricted. The paths of entering the Imperial Government as an official or entering the army comprised too many restrictions of freedom. This wasn't something he strove for.

However, not striving for these didn't mean that he could be bullied.

"Hey, Fang Zhengzhi, does this thing belong to you?" Ping Yang's voice interrupted Fang Zhengzhi's thoughts.

"Huh? Why would my jade-coloured golden hairpin be with you? Never mind, I initially already intended to give it to you. You can have it, I have something on and will have to leave first!" Once he finished speaking, Fang Zhengzhi prepared to leave.

"You are going to leave just like that?" Ping Yang looked at Fang Zhengzhi in somewhat of a disbelief.

The previous time in the room, after Fang Zhengzhi had held her hostage, Chi Guyan used a jade-coloured golden hairpin as an excuse to dissolve the tense situation between Fang Zhengzhi and Ping Yang.

At that time, even though Fang Zhengzhi had made the promise, Ping Yang didn't believe that Fang Zhengzhi would really carry it out.

Why would a shameless person keep his words?

This was the first thing Ping Yang thought. The second thing she thought was that even if Fang Zhengzhi really gave it to her, he would definitely do so with an intention.

But now…

She felt that she had thought wrongly. The previous scene demonstrated to her that before he came, Fang Zhengzhi didn't know that the Emperor would ask him to enter the palace. More importantly, now that Fang Zhengzhi had evidently knew of this, why did he choose to leave?

Doesn't he know that I am the great princess? Or, he had simply never seen me as the princess?

"Don't tell me you still wish to extort from me? This jade-coloured golden hairpin cost me two hundred silver taels, it is very expensive!" Fang Zhengzhi naturally didn't know what Ping Yang was thinking. He wondered if Ping Yang wasn't very satisfied.

But, he had already spent two hundred silver taels on this. It was indeed extremely painful.

However, compared to the blow that Ping Yang had blocked for him in the World of the Sage, it was naturally too little. If Ping Yang wasn't satisfied, he could actually consider adding another fifty taels to buy a pearl flower, or something similar.

"Hmph! Only two hundred silver taels…" When Ping Yang heard Fang Zhengzhi's explanation, she knew that Fang Zhengzhi had misunderstood her intentions. However, this also made even clearer the fact that Fang Zhengzhi wasn't here to seek her help, causing her to unconsciously pout her lips. Then, she looked at Fang Zhengzhi. "Shouldn't you help me put this on after giving it to me?"

"I still have to put it on for you? How troublesome…" Fang Zhengzhi twitched his mouth very helplessly. However, in order to escape as fast as possible, he decided to bear with it.

Hence, he quickly walked in front of Ping Yang, held the jade-coloured golden hairpin, chose a modern and pretty angle and inserted the golden hairpin diagonally.

"Hmm, not bad!" Fang Zhengzhi felt that his taste in choosing things was rather impressive.

"Hmph… only not bad? It is clearly very beautiful, alright?" Ping Yang pouted her lips highly, an arrogant expression filling her face.

This scene undoubtedly didn't quite match the previous tense atmosphere. Most importantly, around the two of them, there were a few hundred armoured soldiers wielding bows.

What happened to catching him?

Each of the soldiers stared blankly at Ping Yang and Fang Zhengzhi, heaving a sigh inwardly. Indeed, if the other party was Fang Zhengzhi, no matter how loudly the princess cried out, there was actually nothing wrong…

But, what happened between the two of them in the room?

The second day, in the early morning, the sky of the Yan Capital seemed constantly somewhat dark under the billowing wind. It was slightly cold. On the other hand, in the Throne Room within the Imperial Palace, this coldness was intensified.

As the meeting room of the Great Xia Dynasty, the glory of the Throne Room couldn't be described in words. Bright red paint caused the entrance to glow with unparalleled brightness. Within the room, a huge golden pillar held up the entire structure of the room. On top of the golden pillar, eight lifelike golden dragons twisted their bodies around it from the bottom of the pillar to the top. The forms of the eight golden dragons were all different, arranged in the formation of The Golden Dragon and Pearl.

One golden pillar with the golden dragon carved on it. This was the one and only symbol of the imperial power.

Among those there were able to stand within the Throne Room, who among them didn't represent the greatest authorities in the Great Xia Dynasty? They held meetings in the room, but controlled the countless number of lives in the world.

This, was the highest level of authority in the world.

But today…

This authority seemed to be facing a challenge, a challenge that had never been faced before. They were waiting for a person. A person who wasn't an official, didn't hold any appointment, and didn't come from any prestigious family background.

All the officials stood silently within the Throne Room. However, there was an air of coldness on everybody's faces. They really didn't understand how could an ordinary citizen dare to make them wait?

Don't tell me he didn't know what a great glory it was for an ordinary citizen to receive the Divine Order?

Who among those who were invited to the room didn't kneel for a few hours before the time they were expected outside the room, awaiting the start of the morning assembly and waiting to meet the Emperor?

But today…

The time for the morning assembly had already exceeded by half an hour. What could be discussed and what couldn't be discussed were all not negotiable.

Yet, this guy who should be kneeling outside waiting to enter the room actually hadn't arrived?

Most importantly, the eunuch in charge of reporting actually claimed that that guy had overslept. Furthermore, he was currently taking his time in a restaurant within the Yan Capital eating bread and drinking chicken soup...

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Chapter 223: Killing two birds following another two birds with one stone

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

The present Emperor, the numerous officials, Crown Prince of the Eastern Palace, were all standing in this Throne Room, waiting for an ordinary citizen who was still eating his bread.

How unbelievable was this.

The officials were enraged, each of them filled with righteous indignation. There were even people who entertained the thought that it wouldn't be reasonable to pin a criminal offence of withholding truth from the Emperor. However, not a single official voiced this out.

The reason was very simple. Even though Fang Zhengzhi was an ordinary citizen, he was the theory examination roll champion of this Imperial Examination, a stunning talent that scored full marks in all six examination papers. Furthermore, he had even defeated and killed the Vice Domain Chief of the Demon Race, Ying Shan.

Most importantly, nobody knew who leaked the news, but in one night, the entire Yan Capital knew of the news that Fang Zhengzhi was going to enter the palace to meet the Emperor. Hence, numerous rumours were raised. Some claimed that the Emperor was about to reward Fang Zhengzhi's valiant achievement in killing the demon.

There were also some who claimed that Fang Zhengzhi's performance in this Imperial Examination was extraordinary, hence was about to be promoted against convention.

Of course, the centre of attention was always at the incident of the sword. Hence, naturally there were people who suggested that the Emperor might be eyeing the sword…

In that case.

The officials knew very clearly that no matter what, it was impossible to kill Fang Zhengzhi on the spot just because he was late in entering the palace.

That was tyranny, and also a move that would bring chill to the hearts of the people.

Naturally, nobody dared to mention it.

However, this wasn't an acceptable reason for Fang Zhengzhi to undermine the Imperial Government. Such a blasphemous act deserved harsh punishments and serve as a warning to others.

"At least fifty strokes on the spot!"

"Fifty? I believe that if it isn't at least a hundred, it would simply be useless!"

"In the end, it is still because he is too young and lack experience. He doesn't know how to judge the importance of things. The first time I entered the palace to meet the Emperor, I had knelt in front of the room for exactly three hours."

A few high ranking officials discussed softly among themselves about how best to punish Fang Zhengzhi when he arrived.

Right at this moment, a loud announcement suddenly rang out from outside the door.

"Fang Zhengzhi, enter the room and meet the Emperor!"

"He's here?!"

"This guy ate his bread for a total of half an hour, why hasn't he choked to death?"

"Don't you know that he paired it with chicken soup? The hope of him choking to death isn't very high. However, there is indeed some hope in seeing him beaten to death."

When they heard the voice outside the door, anticipating looks appeared on each of the officials' faces. Even they were angered. Then, as for His Highness the Royal Crown Prince, His Highness King Duan and the Emperor, how could they not be angered?

"Huh? The morning assembly hasn't started yet?"

A leisurely voice sounded out from outside the door. Right after which, a figure wearing a blue robe stepped across the door of the Throne Room and walked over in a very natural and poised manner.

"Citizen Fang Zhengzhi greets the Emperor!"

"Fang Zhengzhi, you are really daring. What time is it already?" When one official heard Fang Zhengzhi's words, he instantly stood out.

The Emperor was supposed to be kind and forgiving, hence he naturally couldn't tell off an ordinary citizen personally. Thus, it was the jobs of these high ranking officials to do so in advance. This was knowing the Emperor's intent, a good role model of an official who understood the Emperor's intent.

"Time? I am indeed early! I had already told them that it was still early, but the eunuch in charge of leading the way didn't want to believe me at all. When I heard that I am invited by the Emperor yesterday, I was so excited that I couldn't sleep the entire night. Only in the early morning was I finally able to close my eyes. Who knew that I would still interrupt everybody's morning assembly? Should I go outside the room to kneel for a while?"

As Fang Zhengzhi spoke, he turned his body around and really prepared to step across the door once again and kneel for a while outside the room.

"Stop right there, you… you better come back…" How could the official ever imagine that Fang Zhengzhi's skin would be as thick? He was clearly almost an hour late, yet, he claimed to be early?

All the officials in the dynasty had already been standing for such a long time in this Throne Room. Who among them wasn't aching all over and would allow Fang Zhengzhi to continue to drag the time?

"Never mind, one who doesn't know isn't guilty. Fang Zhengzhi was born in a village, and this is the first time he is invited to enter the palace. Not knowing the timing of the morning assembly can be forgiven. Please enter!" At this moment, Emperor Lin Mubai spoke.

"Emperor is kind and forgiving!" When the officials heard Emperor Lin Mubai's words, they all praised in unison.

After Fang Zhengzhi heard what Emperor Lin Mubai said, he turned around swiftly and smoothly, looking at the numerous enraged officials with an innocent expression on his face.

"Fang Zhengzhi, I heard that you killed Vice Domain Chief Ying Shan of the demon race in the World of the Sage. I am very happy. What reward would you like?" Emperor Lin Mubai asked.

Naturally, he couldn't direct inquire about the sword. This was the heart of the Emperor. The Emperor's role in the dynasty was to gain the support of the people. Hence, the things he had to do were naturally righteous.

As for the sword…

He believed that the officials below him would definitely bring it up. What he had to do was to make a decision, a decision made very helplessly under very pressurised and forced circumstances.

"Contributing to the building up of the dynasty, risking my life and shedding blood is my lifelong desire. I don't crave for great riches, nor do I want a high ranking position and a handsome salary. If Your Majesty insists on rewarding, I feel that an Anti-Death Medallion or something similar would be sufficient." Fang Zhengzhi replied in a righteous manner.

"Anti-Death Medallion?!"

"This guy is indeed thick-skinned!"

"How can man be shameless to such an extent? Ever since the establishment of the Great Xia Dynasty, not even five Anti-Death Medallions have been given out. Who among them didn't make great, everlasting contributions and accomplish great things for the country? This guy on the other hand only killed a Vice Domain Chief of the demon race, yet he still dares to ask for an Anti-Death Medallion?"

When a group of officials heard Fang Zhengzhi's words, their eyes turned round with rage. They had absolutely never seen such a blasphemous and shameless person.

"Pff…" Emperor Lin Mubai coughed softly. Even he would never imagine that Fang Zhengzhi would give such a reply. The Anti-Death Medallion definitely couldn't be given to him.

However, he asked, and Fang Zhengzhi replied. This wasn't exactly inappropriate, and probably could be considered as the innocent heart of a child.

"The Anti-Death Medallion cannot be obtained so easily, it requires a great accomplishment. However, you are only fifteen years of age, there would still be many opportunities to do so in the future." Emperor Lin Mubai shook his head lightly with a faint smile on his face.

"I see…" Fang Zhengzhi seemed somewhat disappointed.

On the other hand, the two high-ranking officials standing by the side knew what they should be saying. Just as they were preparing to start, Law Official Wan Chong took the first step and instantly stood out from the crowd.

He was the chief investigator of the Imperial Examination's case, hence, was naturally the one with the biggest say.

In the situation today, the favour of the Emperor and the Crown Prince, as well as the entire room of officials were already all in the bag. All he had to do was to reach in and grab in order to win it. Hence, why would he end up behind others?

Fighting for achievements, understanding the Emperor's intent…

All these tested an official's ability to see the situation. To be able to become one of the Six Council Officials, Wan Chong naturally had his own unique insights

"Fang Zhengzhi, I am the Law Official Wan Chong, in charge of the case of Han Changfeng during the Imperial Examination. There is one thing I wish to understand from you. I heard that you used the sword that Sagely Battle God Meng Tian left in the World of the Sage when killing Ying Shan, is that true?" Law Official Wan Chong brought out the main topic with one sentence, using investigation of the case as an excuse.

As for why he asked this even though he knew the answer clearly.

It was his scheming. He had definitely considered that Fang Zhengzhi would claim that this was false. However, he had material proof and eye-witnesses to justify this. How could he allow Fang Zhengzhi to lie openly in the Imperial Hall?

If Fang Zhengzhi lied, he really didn't mind charging Fang Zhengzhi with withholding truth from the Emperor. This was killing two birds with one stone, doubling his contributions.

"That's right!" Fang Zhengzhi nodded with a sincere expression on his face.

"This sword is left by Sagely Battle God Meng Tian when he died and is of great importance to the Great Xia Dynasty. Even though Fang Zhengzhi was lucky and fortunate to be able to obtain this sword in the Imperial Examination, it is still a contribution. I plea for Your Majesty to grant Fang Zhengzhi a thousand fine silver to commend him for his service in retrieving the sword!" Law Official Wan Chong was slightly disappointed when he saw Fang Zhengzhi nod.

However, this didn't affect his plans. It only meant that his contributions would be downplayed a little.

When the other officials heard this, they suddenly understood. Using Fang Zhengzhi's accomplishments to force him to surrender the sword. This was what the Emperor wanted. To be able to become the Law Official, Wan Chong indeed had his own fortes.

"I agree with Mr Wan. Fang Zhengzhi, having obtained Sagely Battle God Meng Tian's sword in the Imperial Examination, is indeed the pride of our dynasty, and a blessing to the people. A thousand fine silver isn't enough to reward such a contribution, I hope Your Majesty can increase the reward!"

"I also agree to this. Such a great contribution deserves more reward!"

"I agree!"

"I agree!"

Fang Zhengzhi hadn't even had the time to speak before a group of officials stood out one following another, simply not giving him a chance to object.

Each of their faces were filled with righteousness, wanting to reward Fang Zhengzhi for his contribution.

The sensation, the excitement, the virtues, permeated the air of the Throne Room and hung overhead for a long time.

When Emperor Lin Mubai saw this, his expression turned somewhat awkward, as if he was pondering something. He didn't seem to have any intention of speaking.

"I wish to speak. Fang Zhengzhi had done a huge service during this Imperial Examination, from killing the Vice Domain Chief of the demon race to retrieving the prized sword for the dynasty. All of these are great contributions. Now, even though the Imperial Examination had been delayed, but with Fang Zhengzhi's accomplishments of attaining Roll Champion in the theory examination and passing the three stages of the Broken Bridge, Twin Stone Tablets and the stone house and hence could be considered as passing four stages, I wish that Your Majesty can grant kindness to Fang Zhengzhi and allow him early entry into the government. I believe this doesn't go against the rules of our ancestors!" At this moment, Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping stood out from the front of the crowd of officials. He also pled for Fang Zhengzhi to be rewarded.

However, he pled an even greater reward.

It should be known that under usual circumstances, one who passed the Imperial Examination was qualified to enter the government as an official. However, this required waiting. A short time to wait would be half a year, while a longer time would be three to five years. Even waiting more than ten years and still not receiving the appointment wasn't unheard of.

Fang Zhengzhi was fifteen years old. Entering the government as an official at fifteen years of age was an extremely rare occurrence in the history of the entire Great Xia Dynasty.

But now…

Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping directly requested for Fang Zhengzhi to be appointed as an official. This seemed to go against the laws of ancestors. However, in reality, this was a brilliant move. Granting great kindness to Fang Zhengzhi could not only spread the name of the Emperor, but also cause Fang Zhengzhi to become a person envied by everybody in the world.

This was killing another two birds with one stone, on top of the Law Official's scheme. This was the brilliant move of killing two birds following another two birds with one stone.

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Chapter 224: Cannot bear to part with

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

What was the slyness of the old? What was understanding the Emperor's intent? Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping used his actions to tell all of the officials present that he was the person who knew the Emperor's heart best.

At this moment, Emperor Lin Mubai's expression finally seemed somewhat at ease.

This was the exact outcome he wanted. Even though Fang Zhengzhi was an ordinary citizen, his performance in the Imperial Examination, regardless of whether it was the theory examination or the combat examination, all proved that he was indeed a talent who could be nurtured.

Since that was the case.

He naturally couldn't recruit him forcefully.

The same knife cuts bread and fingers. Emperor Lin Mubai knew this very clearly. But, he needed this sword, the sword that could rebuild an awe-inspiring Great Xia Dynasty. But, he didn't wish to turn Fang Zhengzhi's heart cold because of this.

Hence, he had to grant great kindness. And, it had to be true great kindness.

Donating a sword.

And receiving unparalleled rewards in return, and also the opportunity to enter the Imperial Government. To an ordinary citizen, this was enough. Of course, he could grant Fang Zhengzhi even more benefits. However, Fang Zhengzhi was still too young.

The young had to face obstacles and difficulties. One couldn't reach the sky in a single bound.

Emperor Lin Mubai respected Fang Zhengzhi's abilities. However, Fang Zhengzhi was ultimately still an ordinary citizen. He had to strike a balance and not lose the support of the noble families.

"Council Official Qiao, are there currently any formal appointments available?" Emperor Lin Mubai finally spoke.

When they heard Emperor Lin Mubai's words, the officials present were slightly taken aback. Even though his words were very simple, the two words formal appointments expressed the Emperor's intent.

He was about to gain an appointment directly?

Entering the government at fifteen years old, and holding a formal appointment once he entered. Such kindness of the Emperor was exceedingly rare in history. It was clearly evident that Emperor Lin Mubai held Fang Zhengzhi in high regard.

As the officials were taken aback, nobody bothered to consider whether Fang Zhengzhi would be willing to surrender the sword. From their viewpoint, since the Emperor intended to obtain the sword, could the opinion and views of an ordinary citizen still be considered an opinion?

The Minister of Manpower Official 'Qiao Dean' stood out at this moment and lightly rubbed his greying beard. This expression was calm, but inside, he was rapidly considering how to reply this question.

He understood the intention of the Emperor, but Emperor Lin Mubai didn't make clear what rank he was considering. This caused him some difficulty. If he announced an appointment that was too high ranking, the officials might be against it. If he announced one that was too low, he feared that the Emperor would blame him.

"The Wen Tian County in the Wu An Capital of the Southern Nation seems to be lacking a county head…" Minister of Manpower Official Qiao Dean asked probingly. A county head was a rank seven official appointment. This was already very hard to achieve.

Furthermore, to be in charge of a county was an extremely important appointment.

"Fang Zhengzhi is still young, a county head is in charge of the lives of many citizens and require some experience. It is too chaotic and the location is a little too far. I can't bear for this to happen." When Emperor Lin Mubai heard Minister of Manpower Official Qiao Dean's words, he shook his head lightly.

When the officials heard this, they were taken aback once again. This meaning of this last sentence was very clear. Don't tell me he wishes for Fang Zhengzhi to remain in the Yan Capital?

Then, he would become a real Imperial Official.

Among the Imperial Officials, the smallest appointment was already almost rank five.

Rank five?!

An ordinary fifteen-year-old citizen who had just passed the Imperial Examination was about to be appointed as a Rank Five Official. This Emperor's kindness was something almost nobody in history could match up to.

Minister of Manpower Official Qiao Dean also wiped off the beads of sweat that formed on his forehead at this moment. He had never thought that Emperor Lin Mubai would hold Fang Zhengzhi in such high regard.

The Emperor's intent was already obvious, hence, he naturally knew how to reply.

Just as he prepared to speak.

A voice sounded out from outside the door.

"Your Majesty, outside the room, Xing Qingsui of the Stabilisation Constabulary, Yan Xiu of the Yan family and Nangong Mu of the Nangong Nobles wishes to meet Your Majesty.

"Qingsui? Isn't he heavily injured? Why would he meet me? Yan Xiu and Nangong Mu… Isn't Nangong Mu injured as well? Quick, welcome them in!" When Emperor Lin Mubai heard the voices from outside, he nodded his head.

A look of doubt and suspicion formed on the faces of the officials when they heard the voices outside. Yan Xiu requesting to meet the Emperor wasn't something that they hadn't expected.

However, what was the reason Xing Qingsui and Nangong Mu requested to meet the Emperor?

Both of them were injured in the combat examination. Why did they come all the way to the palace instead of resting their injuries?

Could it be that something happened to the Stabilisation Constabulary? Or, there was an important matter from the Nangong Nobles?

That's not probable…

If something really happened, it was sufficient to send somebody to report it.

Fang Zhengzhi stood quietly within the room. He was also somewhat confused. He didn't tell Yan Xiu that he was going to meet the Emperor. Furthermore, he had only met with Xing Qingsui and Nangong Mu once in the combat examination. Xing Qingsui and Nangong Mu had specially requested to meet the Emperor just because of him?

He had truly never imagined this.

Very quickly, Xing Qingsui, Yan Xiu and Nangong Mu walked in. Xing Qingsui was carried on a stretcher by four guards. Even though he was wearing a black official robe, there were still bloodstains visible on his chest.

"Subject Xing Qingsui hails Your Majesty." Once he entered the Throne Room, Xing Qingsui crawled up from the stretch and kowtowed onto the floor. His body trembled as he bit his lips tightly. He was evidently in extreme pain.

"Subject Yan Xiu hails Your Majesty."

"Subject Nangong Mu hails Your Majesty."

Today, Yan Xiu didn't wear a brocade robe. Instead, he wore a black official robe with a Mountain River illustration sewn onto it. It seemed somewhat solemn. Nangong Mu also wore an official robe similar to that of Yan Xiu.

However, a sword was sewn onto it instead.

This was the first time Fang Zhengzhi had seen Yan Xiu in such an attire.

Then, recalling Yan Xiu addressing himself as subject when he greeted the Emperor, a thought suddenly flashed across his mind. Could Yan Xiu have had an official position or title of nobility all along?

How could he never have mentioned it before…

However, after a brief moment of consideration, he realised that it was normal. Yan Xiu was the descendent of the Yan family. Furthermore, he was a direct descendent. Hence, it was normal for him to have inherited a title of nobility.

"Rise!"

"Thank you Your Majesty!"

"Somebody come, Qingsui is injured, give him a seat!"

"Thank you Your Majesty, but, I can stand."

"The Stabilisation Constabulary is indeed the land of heroes. I never thought that Qingsui's attitude would be similar to that of Xing Hou. However, Qingsui, what important matter do you have to talk to me about instead of resting your injuries at home?" Emperor Lin Mubai looked at Xing Qingsui in a rather confused manner. The relationship between Xing Hou and himself were as close as brothers, hence, he would naturally treat Xing Qingsui like his own son.

"I am here because of the sword."

"Sword?"

"I heard that there were some high-ranking officials in the government who wished to snatch Fang Zhengzhi's sword. However, I had personally witnessed Fang Zhengzhi killing the demon with the sword. If it wasn't for Fang Zhengzhi, the sword would never be revealed and remain buried deep within the World of the Sage. Even though I know that I have no say in the Imperial Government, but I don't agree with this move." Xing Qingsui's tone was very determined, staring at the officials like a tiger eyeing its prey.

When the officials heard Xing Qingsui's words, they were taken aback.

Xing Qingsui was actually here to help Fang Zhengzhi keep the sword?

If these words came from Yan Xiu, they would definitely not be as stunned. However, they seemed to never have heard that Xing Qingsui was now on Fang Zhengzhi's side.

What actually happened in the World of the Sage that spurred the direct descendent of the Stabilisation Constabulary to plea for Fang Zhengzhi? This indeed exceeded their imaginations.

"Ha ha… don't tell me you are all here because of the sword?" A glimmer of shock flashed across Emperor Lin Mubai's eyes. The reason he asked Xing Qingsui instead of Yan Xiu was actually very simple.

Because he didn't want anybody to mention the sword.

Xing Qingsui had followed Xing Hou for many years in the Stabilisation Constabulary, hence he could naturally infer this intention. However, this didn't deter him from voicing it out. This represented the determination in his heart.

"I am here for the sword!"

"Me too!"

After Yan Xiu and Nangong Mu heard Emperor Lin Mubai's words, they replied respectfully.

This scene instantly caused the officials to be somewhat taken aback. Fang Zhengzhi was just an ordinary citizen. The fact that he was close to Yan Xiu was already something unthinkable.

However, even more unexpected was that after this combat examination.

He had actually spurred Xing Qingsui of the Stabilisation Constabulary and Nangong Mu of the Nangong Nobles, a family which isolated themselves from the people thousands of miles away, to plea for him in front of the Emperor?!

The three of them seemed to have no power to speak regardless of whether it was in the Yan Capital or the Imperial Government. However, the three of them represented three powerful forces in the Great Xia Dynasty.

The Stabilisation Constabulary, leader of the Thirteen Constabularies.

The Yan family of the Western Liang.

The Nangong Nobles hidden away in the world!

Furthermore, other than Nangong Mu, the other two were almost undisputed successors. This also meant that these two people would become forces of immeasurable power in the future of the Great Xia Dynasty.

Emperor Lin Mubai wanted for Fang Zhengzhi to surrender the sword.

The officials could understand this. Hence, the officials knew very clearly that the three people in front of them understood this as well. However, this didn't deter them from entering the palace to plea in front of the Emperor.

Fang Zhengzhi…

What traits did he have that caused the three of them to enter the palace for him?!

A glimmer of light flashed across Emperor Lin Mubai's eyes. It was naturally impossible for him to instantly change his mind because of Xing Qingsui, Yan Xiu and Nangong Mu's words.

However, he was still rather shocked by the behaviour of these three people.

Emperor Lin Mubai respected talents. He admired and valued Fang Zhengzhi's talent. However, he had also heard of Fang Zhengzhi's behaviour outside and hence wasn't very satisfied with his way of dealing with things.

He had always felt that Fang Zhengzhi's personality required some tuning. Furthermore, his mentality was too leisurely, lacking pressure and motivation.

He didn't really understand how the cold Yan Xiu could walk together with Fang Zhengzhi.

But, he never expected someone with a frank and straightforward personality like Xing Qingsui to have any form of relation with Fang Zhengzhi. Furthermore, Nangong Mu had a lonely personality ever since young. How could such a person click with someone with a personality like Fang Zhengzhi's?

Could it be that my views of Fang Zhengzhi had been… wrong?

This thought rose in Emperor Lin Mubai's mind. As the Emperor of the Dynasty, he had unparalleled self-confidence. It was simply impossible for him to admit his mistakes easily. Even if any doubts arose in his heart, it would quickly be suppressed and rejected.

"The Imperial Officials had already made a decision on this matter. Fang Zhengzhi's contribution of the sword would be rewarded by gold, and taking a post in the Yan Capital! Qingsui, you are injured. You should go back and rest. Yan Xiu and Nangong Mu, please stay. After the morning assembly, accompany me to walk the Imperial Garden and chat with me. Ha ha… It is very rare for the two of you to visit me, I have been thinking of you!" Emperor Lin Mubai smiled softly and waved his hands lightly at the three of them.

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Chapter 225: Hole in the Throne Room

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Xing Qingsui, Nangong Mu, and Yan Xiu were all here because of Fang Zhengzhi and the sword.

However, they all knew what the Emperor, Lin Mubai, meant when he refused to say anything explicitly, calling it the decision of the courts.

Going against the Emperor's wishes was extremely dangerous.

However, after looking at each other, they could feel the determination in each other's eyes.

Xing Qingsui was pale from standing so long. He had been stabbed in the chest during the combat examinations. Even though he was carried here, the strain of standing was taking its toll on him.

However, as someone who had fought on the battlefield, and as the heir of the Stabilisation Constabulary, he would stand for what he believed in, even if it meant a possibility of going against the Emperor's wishes.

Xing Qingsui stepped forward, but did not answer.

Yan Xiu had already stepped forward before this. Nangong Mu virtually stepped forward in synchronisation with Xing Qingsui.

"Your highness!"

Before the three of them could say anything, Fang Zhengzhi stepped forward and blocked them. Then, he turned to smile at them.

Fang Zhengzhi had no idea why Xing Qingsui and Nangong Mu came. However, since they were here, he could not possibly let them go up against the Emperor.

He had been listening in from start to finish. In actual fact, he had expected everything that the officials had said. What had surprised him was that the Emperor wanted him to stay in the capital.

Does he really want to make me an official?

If Fang Zhengzhi was merely an ordinary citizen, any wronged feeling of his would have been eliminated. The Emperor was incredibly generous to reward him with gold and an official position in exchange for the sword.

It was a pity that Fang Zhengzhi's ambitions were never political.

As such, the position of an official was not particularly attractive to Fang Zhengzhi. In fact, it was almost negligible.

Just as he was preparing to voice his opinion, a red figure rushed in from outside the door. Then, it ran up to the Emperor.

"Father, you've been so biased. How can you ask them both to go to the Imperial Gardens? Who will accompany me then..." A crisp voice rang out.

There were only a few people in the Great Xia Dynasty who could rush into the Throne Room unobstructed. Those were all the dictators of a particular region, people who were on par with Lin Mubai.

Other than those people, there was one other...

That was Ping Yang.

Ping Yang was the Emperor's favorite princess. As such, she could go find the Emperor at all times of the day unobstructed. Even the officials did not dare to breathe a word about the regulations when speaking about her.

She was the most pampered princess of the Great Xia Dynasty.

"Haha... Ping Yang is here, then I must definitely accompany my Ping Yang first!" Emperor Lin Mubai smiled as he looked at Ping Yang in the red cloak. He then motioned for her to sit by his side.

"Father is the best! You promised to accompany me first ya? Then let's go to the Imperial Gardens!" Ping Yang grabbed the Emperor's hand and shook it lightly.

"Hang on for abit, my morning court session has not ended. When this is over, I will accompany you in the Imperial Gardens." Emperor Lin Mubai said in a pampering manner.

"Isn't it just a broken sword? Can it be better than the Blazing Qilin Spear you gave to me?"

"Ping Yang, you can't say that. Sagely Battle God Meng Tian is a hero. How can you say his sword is a broken sword?"

"Is that so? Then let's say it's a treasure, but why should there be an argument about it? I say that the sword belongs to who has it. Don't... you all agree?" Ping Yang looked at the Emperor innocently before turning to the other officials, smirking as she did so.

"About this..." All of the officials looked at each other. They could tell that Ping Yang was here about the sword as well.

However, Ping Yang was different from Yan Xiu and the others.

Yan Xiu and Xing Qingsui represented the future powers of the Great Xia Dynasty. However, Ping Yang represented the current power of the Great Xia Dynasty, a power which no one dared to antagonize.

At the very least...

No official wanted to go against Ping Yang in public.

If they went against Ping Yang, it was very possible that their backyard may catch fire, their house may be sacked, and their official robes may be torn of their body as they walked on the street...

That kind of mental torture was possibly worse than death.

Emperor Lin Mubai was still smiling. He knew from the moment Ping Yang entered what she was here for. However, he was unwilling to call her out.

As such, he looked to his Left Prime Minister, Yu Yiping.

Yu Yiping knew that he was probably the only person who could say something. Ping Yang would probably diss anyone else.

"Princess is logical. However, that can only apply for items without owners. If the item is already owned by someone, then the rule cannot apply. I have a jade bracelet here that was given to me by an ancient Emperor. Everyone here knows that this is mine. Even if I drop it now, anyone who picks it up cannot claim it. It is still mine. I wonder if Princess agrees with this?"

Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping smiled and took out his jade bracelet as he looked at Ping Yang calmly.

In fact, his statement may have seemed ordinary, but it was incredibly loaded. He had made it known that this jade was given to him by an ancient emperor. No matter how rebellious Ping Yang could be, she would not be so willful when she was talking about the ancestors.

"You..." Ping Yang's face was flushed. She swallowed her words just before she said it out loud. She may be rebellious, but she still knew her limits.

If an ancient emperor had presented this to Yu Yiping, who was she to say that it did not belong to him? That fact itself was a deal breaker.

All of the officials knew exactly what Yu Yiping was doing. He managed to stump Ping Yang with a single sentence.

As an official and a minister, Yu Yiping was able to understand what the Emperor wanted and felt, was able to resolve the Emperor's problems and put the Emperor's mind at ease. His skills were indeed admirable.

The Emperor nodded and smiled. He did not want to see Ping Yang argue with his officials.

The best way was to use the ancient emperors to shut Ping Yang up. This way, the issue could be easily resolved.

"Minister Yu is wise! I am extremely convinced!"

Just as everyone was awed by Yu Yiping's intellect and wit, a voice rang out.

All of the officials looked in the direction of the voice. They quickly realized that the voice had come from Fang Zhengzhi.

"Fang Zhengzhi?! He's praising Minister Yu?"

"He has given up I guess?"

"Give up? Official Li is rather deep. Did you think that a hillbilly like him could possibly go up against all of us? Won't we all be put to shame?"

All of the officials looked at Fang Zhengzhi mockingly. That being said, everyone thought that Fang Zhengzhi was doing the right thing.

Fang Zhengzhi was able to react to the situation and find some support in a huge pillar who was Yu Yiping. At the same time, he did so whilst following the wishes of the Emperor. This was quite the feat.

Heir Lin Tianrong looked to Fang Zhengzhi.

He had always thought of Fang Zhengzhi as a hillbilly. He never thought much of his 'extraordinary' abilities. However, seeing Yan Xiu, Xing Qingsui and Nangong Mu all step up for him was quite the sight.

Fang Zhengzhi was also about to be given the post of an official.

If that was the case...

It would not be a bad thing for him to absorb Fang Zhengzhi into his camp. If Fang Zhengzhi really decided to side with Yu Yiping, then he would have a stake in the claims to the sword as well.

After the Heir, Lin Tianrong, glanced at Fang Zhengzhi, he turned quickly to Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping and nodded his approval.

Yu Yiping knew what Lin Tianrong was thinking. However, he did not think that Fang Zhengzhi would be easy to absorb. That being said, since Fang Zhengzhi was willing to show such sincerity, he would not be too petty.

"Young master Fang, thank you for your compliment. In this Imperial Examinations, you have proven yourself to be the undisputed best. You finished the entire Theory Examination flawlessly, stunning the empire in the process. Then, in the Combat Examinations, you defeated one of the demon's Vice Domain Chief, saving Princess Ping Yang and countless candidates in the process. These are all great achievements. I believe that you will serve well as an official in the capital!" Yu Yiping's attitude changed as he smiled warmly at Fang Zhengzhi. His last statement showed his approval to make Fang Zhengzhi an official in the capital.

King Duan clenched his fists tightly when he heard it.

He could tell that Yu Yiping was trying to recruit Fang Zhengzhi. However, thinking about the possibility of Fang Zhengzhi siding with the heir sent chills down his spine.

He was extremely unsettled. He did not understand why he felt this way. Fang Zhengzhi was just a hillbilly. Even if he was made an official, he would just be a Rank Five Official.

With countless officials in the capital, a Rank Five Official was really not particularly powerful.

But...

Why did he feel so unsettled?

King Duan was furious.

However, Ping Yang was even more furious.

She was here to help Fang Zhengzhi claim the sword. Instead of appreciating her held, Fang Zhengzhi spoke up for Yu Yiping. This enraged her immensely.

"Fang Zhengzhi, I came here to help you!" Ping Yang exploded with rage.

"Thank you your highness. However, I do think that Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping makes sense. Any item with an owner should not be taken away even if it's lying on the floor. For example... this sword!" Fang Zhengzhi smiled.

As he spoke, a ray of light shone from his chest, shooting high up in the throne room, before...

"Boom!"

A loud sound echoed out and a two meter wide hole appeared in the throne room.

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Chapter 226: A slight tug

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

There was a blade stuck right in the middle of the cavity.

It looked like an incredibly ordinary sword. There were no patterns or intricate engravings on the hilt. The entire sword, from hilt to blade, began to glow.

A faint purple light began to shine from the ground. This was a strange purple glow, and it represented Si Kong's last drop of blood.

This blade was not exquisite, however, no one in the entire court would call this an ordinary blade.

This was Meng Tian's sword, the sword which had killed the Demon Lord Si Kong.

Everyone in the throne room was staring at the sword.

"This is the Sagely Battle God Meng Tian's sword?!"

"This is an extremely good sword!"

"With this sword, the glory of the Great Xia Dynasty would be reinforced!"

All of the officials looked at the sword, their eyes filled with greed and lust. However, none of them dared to make a move on it.

This blade meant too much.

This was the sword of Meng Tian, one of the greatest heroes of the Great Xia Dynasty. He was the pride of humanity, and his sword represented his legacy.

King Duan and Lin Tianrong were both looking at the sword. Both their eyes glimmered and King Duan felt his hand shaking unconsciously.

If he could get hold of this sword, then it would solidify his place in the courts.

This blade represented greatness. Being Sagely Battle God Meng Tian's sword, it represented his legacy and will.

Combining that with his current position, who would dare go up against him in the three armies?!

The heir also felt his palms begin to sweat. He knew what King Duan wanted. You want to use the power of the sword to bring the three armies to their knees?

He could not let King Duan have his way. No matter what, he had to get the sword, because the sword represented Meng Tian's will.

The Emperor himself was slightly taken aback, nothing more. Even though the blade was stuck in the ground, it was almost as if it was in his hand.

As the Emperor, he could have the sword at any time he wanted.

This was the first time Yan Xiu, Ping Yang, Xing Qingsui and Nangong Mu seen the sword.

They knew that Fang Zhengzhi had gotten this sword from the World of the Sage, but, Why did he stab it into the ground?

Also, what did Fang Zhengzhi mean...

"An item with an owner?!"

Yu Yiping's expression was much darker than everyone else. Even though he was also looking at the sword, he was thinking about what Fang Zhengzhi had said just now.

"Any item with an owner should not be taken away even if it's lying on the floor!"

What did Fang Zhengzhi mean by that?

Could it be...

Yu Yiping had a bad feeling. The feeling was strong, but he refused to believe that this was going to happen.

Fang Zhengzhi was slightly nervous. He was not nervous about the sword, but about the gaping cavity he had caused in the throne room.

Uh oh, I might have thrown it a little too heavily...

Where is this place?

The Throne Room!

Uh oh... am I going to have to pay for the gaping hole I made in the throne room? How much is it going to cause...

Will anyone believe me if I said it was an accident?

Fang Zhengzhi's gaze swept over all the officials in attendance, then he snuck a peek at King Duan and the Heir before finally looking at the Emperor's expression.

Then he heaved a sigh of relief.

No one seemed to notice the hole in the ground. All of them were looking at the sword. Well that was easy. He could simply push the blame to the sword. No one would have the sword killed or fine the sword right?

When he thought about that, Fang Zhengzhi's courage grew as he looked at the officials innocently.

"Fang Zhengzhi, you just said that this was an item with an owner, even if it's thrown on the ground, no one should take it away. What did you mean by that?" One of the officials stood out after Yu Yiping glanced in his direction.

"What do I mean? Don't you understand the meaning of that statement? Then how did you pass your examinations..." Fang Zhengzhi looked at that official condescendingly.

"How did I pass my examinations?!"

All of the officials looked at Fang Zhengzhi. It was extremely humiliating for a Rank Four Official to be humiliated this way.

It was nothing but blatant humiliation...

This humiliation was equivalent to a well read sage picking up the simple 'Three Character Classic' and having it snatched away by a child saying, "Return it to me, it's not like you can understand it!"

What audacity.

"You..." The official's face turned red and white. He wanted to rebut Fang Zhengzhi, but it would really be a joke if a Rank Four Official took offence with what a commoner said. As such, he had no other choice but to rephrase his question, "What I am asking you is, what is your purpose in saying this?"

"Oh, so you are asking me for purpose? But, didn't Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping make it very clear? Any item with an owner should not be affiliated with who picked it up, but with who owned it initially. Do you have any issue with what he said?" Fang Zhengzhi asked.

"Hahaha... Prime Minister Yu is clearly right. But you seem to imply that this sword is yours? Fang Zhengzhi, I do agree that you are talented, but this is the legacy of Meng Tian, how can it be yours?" The official laughed. He did not see the link between what Yu Yiping said and what Fang Zhengzhi was saying.

"That's simple. All we have to do is call and see if the sword responds. Whoever makes the sword respond is clearly the owner?" Fang Zhengzhi said in a matter-of-fact fashion.

He had called out the sword in the World of the Sage. He had the confidence to do it again here. All he needed was someone to question him.

Then, he could prove it to everyone.

"Is it possible that you can..."

"Official Wang!"

A voice interrupted the official. Then, one of the observers rushed out and shook his head at the official.

As one of the invigilators of the Imperial Examination, he knew exactly what had happened inside the World of the Sage. He also knew that Fang Zhengzhi had called out the sword then.

Fang Zhengzhi was clearly setting up a trap.

The moment the official said anything to challenge him, Fang Zhengzhi could call the sword and the entire court would be silenced.

Using Yu Yiping's words to silence the courts?

The man who stood out smiled icily. He had to admire Fang Zhengzhi's plan. However, this was the throne room, how could a brash youth be allowed to have his way?

"Fang Zhengzhi, you found this sword in the World of the Sage and used it to kill a demon. It is only natural for this blade to listen to you temporarily. However, this does not prove that the blade is yours!"

"Furthermore, this sword is the embodiment of Meng Tian's will. It was made to kill demons. Whilst I am sure you can use this sword, there are many talents in the Great Xia Dynasty. I believe that this sword should be given to someone more powerful. That is the only way its full power can be brought to bear!"

"Of course, I also believe that you will have outstanding power in the coming years. When that day comes and you have served the dynasty, who is to say the blade won't be given to you?"

After finishing his little speech, that man looked at Fang Zhengzhi contentedly. He thought that he outmaneuvered Fang Zhengzhi once again.

So...

What is Fang Zhengzhi going to do now?

The official who had asked the question felt a chill down his back. He finally understood the danger just now. He had nearly played right into the hands of a court novice.

If he had done so, his future would have been over.

He nodded appreciatively at the law official. Then, he retreated back into the crowd.

The other officials also knew what Fang Zhengzhi was trying to do. They were slightly surprised. Even so, they mocked, You're trying to play us even before you enter court?

Don't try to bite off more than you can chew. You may have the heart, but you don't have the abilities.

Yu Yiping was slightly solemn. He had thought that Fang Zhengzhi had already given up, but Fang Zhengzhi was trying to turn it in his favor?

Sadly, Fang Zhengzhi was still quite immature.

The law official saw that Fang Zhengzhi did not speak anymore. He also saw all of the officials looking at him. He knew that this was the time to close the case.

"I will help young master Fang present the sword!" The law official smiled at Fang Zhengzhi and at the seated Emperor.

After getting the Emperor's approval, he walked to the sword.

After a faint cough, he held the hilt in his hand.

He tensed his arm and pulled...

The sword did not move.

"Oh? It is a good sword. It is stabbed quite deep into the ground, hahaha... I have to use some strength!" The law official flushed in embarrassment when he failed to extract the sword.

However, being a seasoned politician, he knew how to adapt.

He laughed.

But his laugh was slightly forced. His expression became solemn and his posture changed. He placed two hands on the hilt and tugged...

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Chapter 227: Sword Spirit Recognizing an Owner

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

This made his posture quite ugly.

The sword was deep in the ground. In order to exert one's full force, it was impossible to maintain a straight posture.

The law official also didn't bother about his appearance anymore. He grabbed the hilt tightly and took up a more stable stance.

He was putting in quite a bit of effort.

However, in doing so, he looked quite comical and the other officials began to snicker amongst themselves.

Before long...

Those snickering officials realized that something was amiss.

The law official had been working the sword for sometime now. He was putting in so much effort the veins were popping out of his arms. His face was completely flushed and he was sweating profusely.

His smile had all but disappeared, sweat dripping from his forehead.

He was using every last ounce of his energy.

However, the blade still remained stuck in the ground...

It did not move a single inch.

All of the officials were stunned by what they saw. Law Official Wan Chong cannot even extract a sword?

How is that possible?!

Wan Chong was quite capable, which explained why he managed to rise through the ranks so quickly. He rose through the ranking boards very quickly as well. Even though his cultivation was slightly delayed as a result of his political ambitions, he already entered the Supernatural State a few years ago.

How can someone in that state fail to extract a sword from the ground?

No one could believe their eyes.

Could it be...

A thought flashed in the minds of all the officials on scene. That was the only plausible explanation, but it was slightly ridiculous.

Perhaps... just perhaps... the blade that Meng Tian left behind...

Had a spirit!

Everyone believed this. After all, it had caused the World of the Sage to go out of control. However, no one believed that the sword would really choose Fang Zhengzhi as its owner.

He was just a commoner who had just broken through to the Heavenly Reflection State. He did not even rank in the top 10 of the Rising Dragon Roll. Furthermore, there was still the Golden Dragon Roll above that.

And this sword?

This sword once belonged to the mighty Meng Tian. Such a sword should be immensely arrogant. Why would it choose Fang Zhengzhi as its owner?

All of them had thought that the blade's spirit had used Fang Zhengzhi to kill the invading demon.

But now...

It looked like they were all wrong.

"Could it be that this blade has really taken Fang Zhengzhi to be its owner?!"

All of the officials looked at each other. Their eyes were filled with shock and disbelief. No one had expected something like this to happen.

King Duan frowned deeply. He wanted to give it a go, but he was weaker than Wan Chong. What would he do if he failed to extract the sword?

The heir's, Lin Tianrong, eyes also glowed icily. He no longer looked at Wan Chong, who was still trying hard to extract the sword. Instead, he turned to look at Yu Yiping.

Yu Yiping's expression darkened.

If the blade cannot be extracted, then he would be the 'main culprit'. After all, he had suggested finding an owner...

Yan Xiu, Xing Qingsui, and Nangong Mu were all stunned by what they saw. After the initial shock, they looked at Fang Zhengzhi with conflicted expressions.

They had heard Fang Zhengzhi's 'confession' in the World of the Sage.

"Is there really such a thing?" The three people looked at each other in disbelief. Deep down, they rejoiced.

Ping Yang's crystal clear eyes looked at the flushed Wan Chong. She too was surprised, but her expression quickly changed to one of anger.

She glanced furtively at Fang Zhengzhi, pouting, "Hmph, shameless person! Did he really manage to lie his way into getting the sword?"

Fang Zhengzhi looked at Wan Chong, who was sweating profusely. He knew what Yan Xiu, Ping Yang and the others were thinking.

In actual fact, he had put in quite a lot of effort to achieve the current situation.

Last night, he spent the whole night awake. After leaving Ping Yang's residence, he locked himself in his room, telling stories to the sword.

He started with some children's stories, then progressed on to various martial art novels. In the end, he even narrated the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. The whole point was to feel the strong happiness in the blade.

As for the confession?

It had helped a bit. However, to let an arrogant blade like the Traceless Sword want to belong to him, it was far from enough. Stories were the finisher.

Fang Zhengzhi felt happier and more confident as time went by. He began to hum a little tune, "Tug and tug, tug at a carrot..."

However, he did not watch his volume.

The entire court began to fill up with Fang Zhengzhi's humming. It was quite a comical scene when coupled with Wan Chong's flushed expression.

The Emperor's expression began to change slightly as he nodded towards a middle aged man in armor.

"Official Wan, you have labored enough. Why not you leave such a small matter to a general like me?" The middle aged man stepped out from the crowd after getting the nod from the Emperor.

All of the officials heaved a sigh of relief upon seeing the middle aged man step out.

"Thank you General Jin. You should not have to engage yourself in a small matter like this. However, I sprained my waist whilst walking in the park yesterday. My strength is simply not up to standard today!" The Law Official immediately let go of the hilt and wiped off the sweat on his face.

He had already been embarrassed. However, he could not possibly continue being stubborn about it. He had already used up all his energy.

"We might be in trouble!" Xing Qingsui was slightly worried when he saw General Jin step out.

Yan Xiu did not speak, but he too was nervous. Even though he was not in the courts, he knew the abilities of General Jin very well.

Even though General Jin was not the most powerful person in the courts, his congenital characteristics made him one of the strongest.

Nangong Mu looked at Fang Zhengzhi, wanting to say something.

However, Fang Zhengzhi was still humming his tune, almost as if he did not see General Jin coming out. He looked rather aloof.

In actual fact, Fang Zhengzhi was slightly worried.

However, the more flustered he was, the worse it would get. He simply could not go up against the officials here. He could only let things take its course.

He decided to concentrate on the sword.

In actual fact, he did not want Nangong Mu, Yan Xiu, and the others to be involved. That way, they could just be spectators.

By this time, General Jin had already walked to the sword. He glared at it then took a large step. He did not care about posture. His only intention was to extract the sword.

He did not bother with anything fancy. His hulking arms were extended as he grabbed the sword. His body glowed red, almost like a sun in the throne room.

"Get up!"

All of the officials, including King Duan, the Heir, Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping, and the Emperor himself stared wide eyed as General Jin bellowed.

"Kacha!" A loud sound echoed out.

"Is it out?!"

"Did he manage to extract it?"

"General Jin is powerful!"

All of the officials were ecstatic when they heard the loud sound. Any sound represented hope. At the very least, the sword was moving.

"Kacha!" Another sound echoed out.

All of the officials were getting increasingly excited. It was almost as if they saw the light at the end of a dark tunnel. They were all focused on the sword.

Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping's darkened face also began to regain some color.

If General Jin could extract the sword.

Then, he would be left off the hook.

"Fang Zhengzhi, you say that the sword has recognized you as its owner. Now that it has been extracted, what do you have to say?" One of the officials stepped out contentedly. This was the official who had been humiliated previously.

After being humiliated, this official decided to take this opportunity to get back at Fang Zhengzhi.

"Is that right?" Fang Zhengzhi looked at him condescendingly. His lips twitched, "Official, not only are you a frog in the well, you're also... blind?"

"You, how dare you say that I'm blind?!" The official was stunned. His anger built, but he still did not understand what Fang Zhengzhi was saying.

Blind?

Before he could rebut, one of the officials tugged hard at his clothes.

This made the official doubt himself.

His gaze turned to look at General Jin, who was still trying to extract the sword.

Then...

He saw that General Jin's expression was slightly awkward. More importantly, his hands and legs were trembling vigorously.

It was clear that General Jin had used all of his energy.

Under his feet were two additional craters. These were clearly the result of General Jin digging in his feet in an attempt to extract the blade.

Even so, the sword was still deeply embedded in the ground.

It was almost as if it had melded together with the throne room.

General Jin did not manage to extract it?

The official's rage disappeared in an instant. He was extremely ashamed. He felt as if he had just swallowed a fly. He decided to retreat without a second word.

"What... what is going on?!"

"Even General Jin cannot extract the sword?"

"The sword really..."

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Chapter 228: Present the sword? Take the sword by force?

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

The Sword Spirit has recognized an owner?

The smiles on all of the officials' faces disappeared when they saw the shaking General Jin. They all thought of the same thing.

However, no one dared to say it out.

Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping's expression was contorted.

King Duan, Lin Tianrong, as well as all of the officials in the throne room had a similar expression. The worst of them all was General Jin.

General Jin's eyes were bloodshot and his lips turned purple from all the exertion.

Even so, the blade in his hand did not seem to move. No matter how hard he tried, the blade would not come out from the stone.

The worst feeling was that he could not stop until Emperor Lin Mubai gave him permission...

No one stood out.

If General Jin could not extract the sword, that could only mean that the sword was incredibly difficult to extract. None of the officials had the confidence to try.

Emperor Lin Mubai's expression changed as he looked at General Jin.

He could tell that there was a problem. However, as the greatest power in the entire country and the son of the dragon, how could he be stymied by a blade?

This situation had escalated far beyond that of a sword.

If he knew that the sword had already recognized an owner, then he would not have asked Fang Zhengzhi to present the sword. He would have simply given the sword to Fang Zhengzhi and made himself seem generous.

But now, if the sword could not be extracted, his authority would be impacted.

For thousands of years, the Emperor was without equal. How could he be insulted like that?

Emperor Lin Mubai knew that he had to make a decision.

But...

This blade belonged to Meng Tian. It represented Meng Tian's will and determination. If Fang Zhengzhi was really its owner, then it would be impossible to extract it from the ground.

Emperor Lin Mubai clasped his palms as his eyes glowed. He exuded a mountainous, domineering aura.

This aura quickly filled up the entire throne room.

All of the officials turned to look at Emperor Lin Mubai. They knew how powerful this man was. As the emperor, there was no one more commanding than him.

"Is the Emperor going to take matters into his own hands?" All of the officials looked on with complicated expressions.

Based on his abilities, there was a good chance that he could extract the sword himself.

However, that would completely change the situation. He would be taking the sword by force. Fang Zhengzhi had not offered the sword to him.

Furthermore, what if he failed to extract it from the ground?

The situation would really go out of control.

Take the sword by force? Kill Fang Zhengzhi?

Some people would want to see the issue resolved this way. However, most people did not want things to end that way. Even though they didn't think Fang Zhengzhi deserved the sword, they thought that he was a talent who can be used in the future.

"Hum!"

The Traceless Sword began to hum at a high pitch. The entire blade began to shake as a strange purple light glowed from the bottom, almost as if it was fighting against some force.

Fang Zhengzhi felt his heart in his throat. He could feel that the blade was in a bad mood, almost as if it was being trapped by something.

Just as he prepared to speak, the high pitched hum disappeared.

Emperor Lin Mubai's aura also disappeared with it. The throne room returned to calm as Lin Mubai loosened the grip on his hands.

He did not try to extract the sword, neither did he stop General Jin from trying. He sat on the throne quietly and calmly, almost as if he was waiting for something.

Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping glanced at Emperor Lin Mubai's expression. His heart fluttered. He could guess what the Emperor was thinking.

As the Emperor of the Great Xia Dynasty, the Emperor had to think of the big picture. The sword may be a treasure of the empire, but it already recognized an owner.

He could take the sword forcefully from its owner and be a thief. He may even have to kill off one of the brightest talents of the Great Xia Dynasty.

That was not a wise choice.

As such, he gave up any thought of taking the sword by force. As such, this matter had already been resolved. This was not a resolution that Yu Yiping had expected.

It was a resolution that none of the officials had expected.

And now...

Emperor Lin Mubai still needed some way to retain his standing and reputation, a way that would satisfy all of the officials.

Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping could have provided that way. However, that would utterly humiliate him in front of Fang Zhengzhi...

Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping knew what the Emperor wanted, but he couldn't bring himself to do it. After considering his options, he chose to remain silent.

There were countless other intelligent officials present who could guess the Emperor's intentions. However, they all chose the same path as Yu Yiping.

None of them were willing to admit that they were worse than an immature 15 year old commoner.

The throne room became incredibly silent. The silence was rather unsettling.

The only sound that could be heard was General Jin's heavy panting and occasional exclamations.

"Rise!"

"Oh gosh!"

"Rise!"

"Come on up!"

This looked like a stalemate. However, amidst the stalemate, there was still one person standing in front of the throne. This person was Ping Yang, and she was extremely excited.

"Come on, General Jin!"

A crisp voice rang out throughout the throne room. Her naivety eventually resulted in General Jin shuddering and falling to the ground, thoroughly exhausted.

At this point, a faint cough could be heard from outside the throne room.

Then, a figure appeared at the entrance to the throne room. This man was in his eighties, and his hair was completely silver. His face was thin and wrinkled and his eyes were drowsy. However, his silver dragon robe made sure that he was still respected.

"King Liqin?!"

All of the officials were stunned when they saw him.

King Liqin was the uncle of the Emperor.

He was an incredibly elderly man, but no one could ignore his presence.

He did not meddle with the courts, but he was an influential man in the armies. He had stood next to the previous emperor and played an invaluable role in his conquest of the south.

Back then, he was touted as having immense wit and foresight.

However, no one could understand why he had pulled out of the courts and given up command of the armies after the previous emperor had taken the throne.

He had just been leading a simple, leisurely life in the palace.

If Meng Tian was a legendary figure, then King Liqin was a living fossil of the Great Xia Empire army.

"King Liqin is here?!"

All of the officials looked at each other, unsure of what was going on. That was until they saw a lady behind King Liqin.

This was a lady dressed in a pink dress. She had a purple belt with gold embroidery tied around her waist which accentuated her great figure. There was also a Roc Bird with its outspread wings embroidered in silver. The Roc Bird's eyes were golden pearls.

The eyes glimmered like stars in the sky.

The lady also had a gold jade hairpin. It was also a Roc Bird with its wings extended. It was extremely magnificent.

The girl was quite calm, but her eyes glimmered like the stars.

The girl followed closely beside King Liqin. She did not speak, but all the officials looked at her closely.

Because...

She was the Heaven's Pride Talent of the Great Xia Dynasty. She was the top of the two Dragon Rolls, Chi Guyan.

"Greetings, your highness!" King Liqin stepped into the throne room but did not advance any further. He bowed deeply upon entering.

"Uncle, please rise!" Emperor Lin Mubai stood up from his throne and made a motion with his hands upon seeing the elderly man fall to his knees.

King Liqin paused for a moment before standing up. However, he did not enter the throne room, choosing to stand at the entrance like a statue.

"Thank you, your highness!"

"What brings you and Chi Guyan here?" Emperor Lin Mubai's eyes glowed when he saw Chi Guyan.

"The weather has been bad and I've been bored. Chi Guyan happened to come visit me, so we decided to take a walk. We never expected to stumble across the throne room and interrupt a court session." King Liqin looked quite frail, almost as if he could be knocked over by a gust of wind.

"Uncle, what are you saying? I can always postpone my court session. Now that you are here, how about we go sit in the gardens?"

"I am deeply appreciative of your highness' goodwill. However, please do not let us interrupt the important court session. I have nothing better to do, a little wait wouldn't hurt." King Liqin looked at the Traceless Sword being held by General Jin as he spoke.

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Chapter 229: Presenting the sword

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

King Liqin looked like he was reminiscing something of old, but his eyes were incredibly complicated and it was impossible for others to know what he was thinking.

That being said, there was one thing all of the officials could be sure of.

King Liqin's appearance in the throne room was definitely not a coincidence. Furthermore, Chi Guyan, the top ranked youth of this generation, was by his side.

Would Chi Guyan come into the throne room for no reason?

Definitely not.

For the past year, Chi Guyan has stayed away from politics. She had confined herself within the Heaven Dao Pavillion. She had only decided to descend from the mountain a few month ago, but had never taken a step into the courts.

As such, King Liqin and Chi Guyan's arrival must be about the sword.

How was the aged uncle of the Emperor going to resolve this conflict?

Upon hearing what King Liqin had to say, Emperor Li Mubai nodded lightly. Then, he was silent. He definitely knew why King Liqin and Chi Guyan were here.

However, as an emperor, he had no need to guess what methods King Liqin would use to solve this problem. All he had to do was nod or shake his head.

As the emperor, his decision was final.

King Liqin looked at the sword. He did not let Emperor Lin Mubai wait too long. After glancing at the Traceless Sword, he began to speak, almost as if he was murmuring to himself.

"Good sword, this is really a good sword. Is this the sword from the World of the Sage? Is this Meng Tian's sword? I have heard my servants talking about this blade over the past few days whilst I've been lazing around in my residence. I never expected to see it for myself in the throne room. Not bad, not bad..." King Liqin praised the sword, but he did not move a single step.

All of the officials were trying to guess what King Liqin was thinking? Was King Liqin eyeing the sword as well?

The courts were still calm and silent. No one spoke other than King Liqin.

King Liqin began to murmur to himself again.

"All these years, I have not had any hobby other than collecting swords. However, with my age, I have become less and less mobile. I wonder if you can help me remove the sword so I can take a look at it?" King Liqin said.

General Jin flushed when he heard this. He was the closest to the sword and he would be happy to help King Liqin, but he could not do anything.

All of the other officials finally understood what King Liqin wanted. He wants to extract the swords too?

King Liqin had not determined who would be the one to extract the sword.

His statement was extremely simple.

But, it was actually quite loaded. Now the Emperor had a perfectly legitimate reason to try to extract the blade.

News would spread that the current Emperor went to extract a sword from the ground just so his uncle to admire it.

This would ensure that the Emperor's reputation was unsullied. In fact, people will even praise him for being filial. He would also be able to prevent people from calling a thief.

If Emperor Lin Mubai did not choose to step out, then there was only one person who could extract the sword.

That man was Fang Zhengzhi.

That was also quite the perfect plan. As a filial nephew, the Emperor could order Fang Zhengzhi to extract the blade and present it to his uncle. That would also satisfy the courts.

No matter what the Emperor decided, his reputation would not be at risk. More importantly, his decision would reveal whether he wanted the sword.

If he did, he would extract it himself.

If he didn't, he would make Fang Zhengzhi do it.

King Liqin murmured to himself then stepped back into position. As an official and an uncle, he left the final decision to the Emperor.

All of the officials looked to the Emperor, keenly awaiting his decision.

Emperor Lin Mubai gently raised his hands and placed them on the dragon table. He calmly looked at the officials, then at the slightly anxious King Duan and Heir Lin Tianrong.

Finally, his gaze landed on Chi Guyan.

Chi Guyan did not speak. She had been completely silent since entering the throne room. She stood quietly by King Liqin's side, supporting him by the arm.

She looked like a granddaughter taking care of her granddad.

Even so, no one ignored her presence. She was the leader of the two dragon roles. She was also the one in the prophecy. As such, one day, she would become the most powerful in the world.

Chi Guyan's expression was calm as a lake.

All of a sudden, Emperor Lin Mubai chuckled.

"Haha... what's so difficult about uncle's request? This blade was brought out of the World of the Sage by Fang Zhengzhi. I think he should extract it."

Many of the officials were in shock when they heard this. Most of them thought that Emperor Lin Mubai would extract it himself, considering the significance of the sword.

But it looked like the Emperor wanted Fang Zhengzhi to do it.

How is this possible?

No one was willing to believe this. This was something that no one had expected. Is the Emperor really going to gift this powerful sword, the sword that represents Meng Tian's will and our country's prowess, to a commoner?!

Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping paled. If he had not said what he had said, none of this would have happened.

Fang Zhengzhi would not have drove the blade into the ground.

No one would have tried to extract the sword.

Was this a coincidence?

Or did Fang Zhengzhi plan this?

Yu Yiping's eyes glowed icily. If it was the latter, Fang Zhengzhi was a scary man and a threat to his position.

King Duan and the Heir both bit their lips. They had linked the sword to the battle for the throne. But now, the all powerful sword was about to be given to a commoner?

How could they ever be happy about that?

Even though all of the officials were stunned, they still turned their gazes on Fang Zhengzhi.

Yan Xiu, Xing Qingsui, and Nangong Mu also turned to look at him, nodding their approval.

Ping Yang smiled widely, almost as if she saw victory within her grasp.

Fang Zhengzhi heaved a sigh of relief. He had never lusted for power, and had did not want to challenge the Emperor's authority.

All he wanted to do was keep the sword.

But now, even though he did not know what was going on, it seemed like the sword... was safe?

The Emperor had asked him to extract the sword.

It was all too easy now. All he had to do was extract the sword in front of all of the officials and hand it over to the old man to take a look...

And it would all be over?

Fang Zhengzhi was ecstatic.

"Yes your highness!" Fang Zhengzhi bowed deeply towards the Emperor, then glanced at the officials, a smirk at the edge of his mouth.

Then, he began to saunter up to the sword.

General Jin was quite relieved to see this. Before Fang Zhengzhi could say anything, he stood to the side, his hulking arms wiping the sweat from his forehead.

All of the officials looked on solemnly as Fang Zhengzhi prepared to extract the sword.

It would be extremely humiliating if an immature 15 year old commoner managed to do something none of them could do, extract the sword.

Fang Zhengzhi did not think of all this. All he knew was that this blade was his and he had no intention of giving it to anybody. Even if the opponent was the Emperor himself, he had to give it a try.

"Extracting a sword, how simple!" Fang Zhengzhi hummed a little tune as he extended his hand and lightly gripped the hilt. Then, he tugged lightly.

All of the officials cursed as they saw Fang Zhengzhi move so casually. Must he humiliate them so badly? He could act a little at the very least?

They did not have to think for very long.

They all realized that Fang Zhengzhi was putting in quite a bit of effort.

However...

The sword was not extracted.

"Could it be that this fella has some manners?"

"No matter what, he has not humiliated us completely."

All of the officials were quite glad to see that the sword was not extracted. The more effort Fang Zhengzhi required, the better they would look.

Fang Zhengzhi was slightly doubtful.

Whilst it looked like he was doing it rather casually, he was putting in a significant amount of effort.

"Could it be stuck?" Seeing that the blade was still in the ground, Fang Zhengzhi grabbed the hilt with both hands and tugged.

The only sound was that of the cold wind blowing in from outside the throne room.

Fang Zhengzhi's smile was frozen. The Traceless Sword was still stuck in the ground.

"Could it be that even he cannot extract it?"

"Haha... that's impossible. The sword has already recognized him as the owner, how can he not extract it?"

"He should just be acting."

The officials looked on as Fang Zhengzhi failed to extract the sword a second time. They began to hold little discussions amongst themselves, appreciative of Fang Zhengzhi's effort to make it look difficult.

"Fang Zhengzhi, be a little quicker, the Emperor's uncle is waiting for you!" Ping Yang pouted as she saw Fang ZHengzhi struggling.

Fang Zhengzhi ignored Ping Yang, his eyes fixated on the Traceless Sword. Sweat dripped from his forehead. I thought the sword already recognized me as its owner? Was my faith misplaced?

F*ck me...

Where is my fairytale ending?!

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Chapter 230: This sword is named Traceless

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

There was an old saying: One may be enjoying the scenery from the bridge, but the one truly enjoying the scenery is the one watching you from the tower.

Fang Zhengzhi felt that way right now. Before this, he was standing by the side watching others try to extract the sword. Now, everyone else was watching him.

The person had changed, but the result was still the same.

"Come on out, be obedient!" Fang Zhengzhi stroked the sword hilt and cooed. Then, he grabbed the hilt with both hands and pulled.

Again!

Again...

All the officials stared wide eyed at Fang Zhengzhi. They had no idea what game he was trying to play, but the sword had not moved a single inch.

"Is he really acting?" One of the officials asked doubtfully.

"Could it be that even he can't extract the sword?" Another official postulated.

"How can it be? The sword was stabbed into the ground by him, how can he fail to extract it? The sword already recognizes him as its owner!"

"Does he really dare to defy an order from the Emperor?"

All the officials began to chatter among themselves. They could not believe that Fang Zhengzhi himself could not extract the sword.

There were only two possibilities. One, Fang Zhengzhi was defying an order from the Emperor, two, even Fang Zhengzhi himself could not extract the sword.

Defy an order?

That was virtually impossible. Even if Fang Zhengzhi had the courage to do it, he stood to gain nothing...

"Even he cannot pull it out? Could it be that... he's not the owner?!"

When this official spoke up, everyone began to look at Fang Zhengzhi differently.

Before this, Wan Chong and General Jin had attempted to extract the sword without the Emperor giving a direct order for them to do so.

But now that he had ordered Fang Zhengzhi to extract it, failing to do so would be a heinous crime!

Yan Xiu, Xing Qingsui, and the others all grew increasingly nervous seeing that Fang Zhengzhi could not pull the sword out. Why is it taking so long?

Something is wrong.

King Duan and the Heir's initially solemn expressions quickly brightened up. They would have a chance if Fang Zhengzhi could not extract the sword.

King Liqin's expression was still mixed. The feeling from his eyes were completely different from Chi Guyan's. Her eyes were shining like stars in the night sky. On the other hand, he was like a statue.

Everyone looked at Fang Zhengzhi.

Chi Guyan included. Her eyes glimmered. She could tell that Fang Zhengzhi was putting in a lot of effort into trying to pull out the sword, but the result was not what she expected.

"Did someone mess with it?" Chi Guyan quickly dismissed the idea. There was no one who could have meddled with it in front of King Liqin and Emperor Li Mubai.

So...

He really couldn't extract it?

Fang Zhengzhi was indeed struggling to pull out the sword. He had tried again and again, but the sword refused to budge. The cold wind continued to brush against his face.

After some time, Emperor Li Mubai's expression began to change. As the Emperor, he could not rush Fang Zhengzhi. All he could do was glance in the direction of Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping.

Yu Yiping immediately understood what the Emperor wanted. He stepped out, "Fang Zhengzhi, age is catching up with King Liqin, don't let him stand out in the cold for too long."

"Exactly, quickly pull the sword out!"

"Fang Zhengzhi, do you really have the audacity to defy an order from the Emperor?"

All of the other officials began to chime in.

Fang Zhengzhi began to sweat profusely. He too wanted to pull the sword out quickly, but the story was completely out of control.

What could he do?

"Come on, stop throwing a tantrum! Come on out?"

"If you come out, I will take you to see nice scenery! The world is huge and it would be very boring for you if you stayed here."

Fang Zhengzhi continued to speak to the reactionless sword.

The expressions on all of the officials' faces changed drastically upon hearing Fang Zhengzhi's words. What is he talking about? Don't we stay here all the time too?

This is the throne room, a place where many people want to enter but can't.

"We have gone through so much together. Think about it, I brought you out from the World of the Sage. We are meant to be together, by each others' side. Isn't that a great thing?" Fang Zhengzhi continued, ignoring the gazes of the other officials.

All of them were puzzled upon hearing this. Is Fang Zhengzhi talking to the blade? Even if the sword had a spirit, can it understand human language?

All of the officials looked at Fang Zhengzhi, clearly dumbfounded.

However, Ping Yang, Yan Xiu, and the others did not think that way.

They had seen Fang Zhengzhi use such 'nonsense' to convince the sword to follow him out of the World of the Sage. Fang Zhengzhi was using the same tactic now.

"You still don't want to come out? Do you want me to tell you another story?" Fang Zhengzhi looked on doubtfully.

"Hum!" The Traceless Sword hummed.

F*ck... me! Fang Zhengzhi was speechless. This is the throne room! Is having such an arrogant and willful sword truly a good thing?

The worst part was...

He was telling the story of "Water Margin" yesterday. He had just finished the one about Wu Song defeating the tiger. The next one in line was about Pan Jinlian and Ximen Qing

"Fang Zhengzhi, what do you think you're doing? Are you trying to defy an order?" Yu Yiping glared at Fang Zhengzhi whilst he chuckled to himself.

Fang Zhengzhi was completely exasperated, but he had no other choice. He had to do it.

"Your highness, your commoner needs some preparation."

"Preparation?" Emperor Lin Mubai was slightly confused by Fang Zhengzhi's words.

"Yes, just like how one needs to prepare rations before a battle, I need to prepare too before I extract the sword." Fang Zhengzhi replied.

"Mm, approved." Emperor Lin Mubai nodded.

All of the other officials were speechless. What is there to prepare? That being said, they were all rather impressed by Fang Zhengzhi's ability to understand the concept of preparing sufficient rations before a battle.

Fang Zhengzhi began to narrate the story without hesitation.

"After Wu Song killed the tiger, he became a constable in the province... there was a powerful family in the province, who had a chambermaid named Pan Jinlian. She was in her early twenties and exceedingly beautiful. The lord of the family wanted to make her his mistress, but she did not want that. She went to report this to the lord's wife. In a fit of anger, the lord..."

Fang Zhengzhi continued to narrate the story. All of the officials felt something was amiss. What is this story? Why haven't we heard of it?

When Fang Zhengzhi got to the point where Pan Jinlian seduced Ximen Qing...

Ping Yang flushed and pouted, "This guy is so incredibly shameless!"

Chi Guyan also could not believe her ears.

She knew that Fang Zhengzhi was shameless, but she never expected him to narrate such a story in the throne room. He even had the audacity to call this preparation?!

It was unbelievable.

All of the officials were angered by what they were hearing. How can such a person manage to top the Theory Examinations?

"I will never want to be associated with this man!"

"This person is a disgrace to all the academics!"

"This is an insult to our culture and heritage!"

All of the officials raged, anger building up in their chests. If not for the fact that the Emperor had approved this, they would have called for his head.

Emperor Lin Mubai smiled bitterly as he heard Fang Zhengzhi continue to narrate the story.

Fang Zhengzhi ignored all of them. This is one of the best classics from the previous world, what is so shameless about it?

Fang Zhengzhi continued narrating.

The Emperor and the other officials were forced to listen by the side.

Fang Zhengzhi finally got to the point where Wu Song killed Ximen Qing at the Mandarin House, leaving blood writing behind. All of them were captivated by the story, and began to secretly applaud it.

It was almost as if a huge load had been lifted off their shoulders.

All of them had felt something on their chest throughout this court session. However, they were all relieved by Fang Zhengzhi's story. It was unbelievable.

At this point, a soft hum could be heard. A ray of light shone skyward and landed in Fang Zhengzhi's hand. It was the traceless sword.

"It's out?!"

"That's... that's all it took?!"

"What's going on?"

"This is unbelievable!"

"This is a story for the ages!"

All of the officials were stunned when they saw the Traceless Sword in Fang Zhengzhi's hand. Why would the blade release itself after the story?

Fang Zhengzhi did not bother explaining anything to the officials. He gently gripped the sword and walked hastily to the door of the throne room, placing the sword in King Liqin's hand.

"My lord, this sword is named Traceless!"

"Traceless?!"

"Can't he see the huge purple mark?"

All of the officials saw the strange purple mark on the sword. They were all confused. Who gave the sword its name?

King Liqin stared at the sword in his hand. He examined it from hilt to blade, finally getting to the strange purple mark at the tip. His eyes finally began to show some life.

"I see!"

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Chapter 231: Sword Envoy

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

King Liqin's words seemed to have no link to the sword in Fang Zhengzhi's hand, but Fang Zhengzhi knew what King Liqin was driving at.

He remembered the hallucination he had when he first held the Traceless Sword in the World of the Sage. He felt a wave of emotions as he remembered the power of the sword and the curse.

I love my life, and I love a just cause. However, if I can't get both, I would willingly sacrifice my life for a just cause." This was something that was said by Mencius. Fang Zhengzhi used it to describe how Meng Tian gave up the sword for a just cause.

"Hmm?" King Liqin's eyes glowed when he heard what Fang Zhengzhi said. Then, his wrinkled face broke out in a smile, "I thought that the Emperor had gotten himself a good sword. Little did I expect that he had also gotten himself someone so knowledgeable! ..."

All of the officials were stumped by the conversation between Fang Zhengzhi and King Liqin.

Fang Zhengzhi had presented the sword. King Liqin did not judge it, and only said a single phrase of 'I see'. Then, Fang Zhengzhi mentioned giving up his life for a just cause, drawing praises from King Liqin.

What in the world is going on?

King Liqin, one of the main pillars of the previous Emperor's success, had never involved himself in politics. His appearance today was completely unexpected, his compliments about Fang Zhengzhi even more so.

All of the officials were stumped by what they saw.

Then, something even more shocking happened. After saying that, King Liqin...

Left!

Chi Guyan also left with him.

King Liqin did not even take the sword from Fang Zhengzhi, neither did he take a second look before leaving. More importantly, he left satisfied.

Didn't he say he liked the sword?

What's going on now?

Why did Chi Guyan leave? What was her motive in coming to the courts today? She said nothing from start to finish, standing quietly by King Liqin's side.

She was almost like a spectator.

However, Chi Guyan was wearing official robes and she wore the Roc Bird hairpin. There was no way she could just be a spectator.

If she wasn't a spectator, why would she leave without saying a single word...

Most of the officials looked at each other and looked at each other, unsure of what had happened. However, a select few had glimmering eyes. This select group included Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping.

"The top ranking person on the two dragon rolls is indeed a talent!" Yu Yiping smiled widely, "She is able to attend to the Emperor's wishes without saying a single word. Who will she side with in the battle for the throne?"

Yu Yiping did not speak again. He had already seen the subtle changes in Emperor Lin Mubai's expression. If he could see it, the Emperor could definitely see it.

Even though King Liqin's words seemed cryptic, the meaning could not be any more obvious. A good sword, and a good man. The person he was referring to was obvious for all to say.

Furthermore, even though Chi Guyan did not speak, her stance was clear for all to see.

"Fang Zhengzhi, you have done a great service by presenting the sword today. You also killed a demon Vice Domain Chief, Ying Shan, during the Imperial Examinations, saving Princess Ping Yang and more than a dozen Great Xia Dynasty elites in the process. Many officials have requested that you be rewarded. As the Emperor, I must reward you handsomely. From today on, you will be the "Sword Envoy" of the Great Xia Dynasty, increasing the influence of the empire. You will also be rewarded with a thousand ingots of gold!"

Emperor Lin Mubai's voice resonated throughout the entire throne room. Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping had predicted most of the events of today. However, there was one thing he did not expect - that Emperor Lin Mubai would make Fang Zhengzhi the Sword Envoy.

This was a position that did not exist before this...

This was going to get interesting.

The officials all had varying reactions to what Emperor Lin Mubai said. Some were jealous, others were chuckling icily, some were envious, some were derisive...

"Thank you your highness, but... may the commoner ask a few questions?" Fang Zhengzhi did not bother with the other officials' reactions. He was more concerned about whether he would be restricted in this post.

If it is too restrictive, can I resign?

"You are now the Sword Envoy, you are not to call yourself a commoner, you have to call yourself an official!" Emperor Lin Mubai looked a little displeased.

"Yes your highness. May the official ask a few questions?"

"Go ahead."

"What does the sword envoy do?"

"The sword envoy's secondary responsibility for increasing the influence of the Great Xia Dynasty. Your primary responsibility is to take good care of this sword on my behalf." Emperor Lin Mubai paused for a moment as he pondered his words. Then, he continued, "Furthermore... you have the freedom to enter and exit the palace complex, including the throne room, and speak your mind in front of me!"

Fang Zhengzhi had understood the gist of it.

As the sword envoy, he was just a glorified sword guard. As for entering and exiting the palace complex as well as his freedom of speech, those were all peripherals. If he really brought the sword in and out of the palace for a spin everyday, he would be targeted by assassins everywhere.

That being said, this was the perfect job for Fang Zhengzhi. He could become an official without doing anything. When he walked the streets, he would still be an official... hang on, he forgot to ask what rank the sword envoy was.

"Official still has one more question."

"Go ahead."

"What... is the rank of the sword envoy?" Fang Zhengzhi did not have high expectations of the post. As a guard of a sword, he may be a rank seven official, or possibly even a lowly rank nine official.

When Emperor Lin Mubai heard the question, he went silent.

All of the officials looked to each other. They all knew that this was not an easy question to answer.

The post of sword envoy was one that had never existed before this. This meant that it was not under the jurisdiction of any of the six ministries. As a result, it was unlikely to cause any disruption to the courts in the near future.

However, determining its rank was rather difficult.

If he set it too low, it would be disrespectful to the Sagely Battle God Meng Tian. However, if he set it too high, it would not be appropriate for Fang Zhengzhi to assume that role.

How can an untested commoner, fresh out of the imperial examinations, become a rank one or rank two official? That would be ludicrous!

"Rank four!" Emperor Lin Mubai grit his teeth as he spoke.

"Rank four? Thank you your highness!" Fang Zhengzhi had never expected that he would become a rank four official in the blink of an eye.

The jaws of all the other officials fell to the ground upon hearing that.

Rank four...

That was quite a high rank in the courts. The governor of a province was probably only a rank five official. For larger cities like the Golden Scale City, the governor was only a rank four official.

Rank four may be a little low for what Meng Tian's sword represented to the Great Xia Dynasty. However, for a commoner who had just passed the imperial examinations...

This was completely unprecedented.

Rank four official in a single leap. This was a rank that some people took many years, even decades to reach. How could they not be in shock?

"Congratulations brother Fang on your appointment!" Xing Qingsui paled, but he stilled bowed to Fang Zhengzhi.

"Thank you!" Fang Zhengzhi returned the bow.

It was rare for Fang Zhengzhi to thank someone. However, Xing Qingsui had come to the throne room to plead on his behalf despite the severe injuries he had suffered. This was something that surprised Fang Zhengzhi.

Yan Xiu and Nangong Mu also came over to say their congratulations.

After a brief moment of hesitation, the other officials also came up to congratulate Fang Zhengzhi.

They were not trying to butter up Fang Zhengzhi. After all, the lowest ranking of them all was also a rank four official. However, this was a courtesy that had to be extended.

Furthermore, Fang Zhengzhi was no longer a commoner. He was now a rank four official of the Great Xia Dynasty.

More importantly, no one could guess what Emperor Lin Mubai was truly thinking.

King Duan clenched his fists tightly and his eyes began to glimmer. The heir, Lin Tianrong, also looked on solemnly, almost on the verge of tears.

As for Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping, his expression did not change much. He strode over to Fang Zhengzhi and praised him for his contributions and achievements.

This surprised many people. Those who were familiar with Yu Yiping knew that Yu Yiping was preparing to take down a person when he treated them this way.

"Humph, what's the big deal about this, he's just a rank four official..." Ping Yang looked up haughtily. However, her crystal clear eyes were glowing subtly...

The strong gale had stopped and rays of sunlight shone on the grounds of the capital. It felt like the worst of the storms were over.

However...

To the north of the capital, there was a new bout of torrential rain.

Cang Ling Mountain was the largest mountain in the Northern Lands. The area may be poor and backward, but it was densely populated.

These villagers were extremely hardworking and lived off the land.

Most of them never left their villages their entire lives. Their only wish was to live. However, the Great Xia Dynasty did not seem to think that their lives were particularly valuable.

Troops of armored soldiers arrived at these villages. They held gleaming spears in their hands, their armors showing that they were from the army of the Great Xia Dynasty.

"Seal the mountain!"

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Chapter 232: Seal the mountain

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

"Seal the mountain!"

The same voice reverberated throughout multiple villages.

More than a hundred families assembled in the main square of the Northern Mountain Village, led by Village Elder Zhang Yangping. There were over a hundred armored soldiers standing in front.

Fang Houde and Qin Xuelian were amongst the crowd. Every villager was lost and helpless.

"Commander sir, you can't seal the mountain. What are we going to eat if you seal the mountain?" Zhang Yangping pleaded with the commander.

"You're the village elder of the Northern Mountain Village?" The commander looked at Zhang Yangping.

"Yes sir, I am the village elder. Commander sir, all of us villagers hunt for a living. If you seal the mountain, we will be unable to hunt. Over a hundred families will lose their livelihood."

"I hear that you all have a Hall of Dao in the village?" The Commander ignored the pleas and posed a question of his own.

"Yes, yes. That Hall of Dao was moved from the Southern Mountain Village. Back then, a lady from the Divine Constabulary had ordered it. If commander sir does not believe me, you can confirm it with the sensei in the Hall of Dao." Zhang Yangping felt a tinge of hope.

"Mm, the road from here to Huai An County has been sealed. If you all need to go there for any emergency, you had better go by a mountain road. However, there are many beasts along those roads, so go in a group. Take this token with you. When the soldiers on the mountain see it, they will let you pass." The commander took out a black metal token and placed it in Zhang Yangping's hand.

"Commander sir, then... are you still going to seal the mountain?" Zhang Yangping asked hopefully.

"Sealing the mountain is a military order!"

"About that... sealing the mountain... but... commander, commander sir... someone from our village entered in the examinations this year. He passed the provincial exams, and..."

"I know about that. Li Xiantai from Huai An County has already told me about it. If not for that reason, it won't be so easy for you all to make your way to Huai An County!" The commander waved his hand in exasperation, interrupting Zhang Yangping.

"Commander..."

"Okay, enough. I have been rushing through the night for a few days now. All of my soldiers are tired. Is there a place for us to stay?"

"It is already prepared."

"Good. My soldiers and I will be setting up camp up here in the north. Even though we will be a slight inconvenience, we have already accorded you many privileges. Other villages are not given such good treatment. As such, do prepare better alcohol and food for us. Do you understand?" The commander requested.

"Yes, yes, commander sir, please rest assured!" Zhang Yangping wanted to add something, but he swallowed it. He had to swallow his pride for the safety of the hundred families he led.

After all, this was a military order. It was undefiable.

Even though the villagers knew that Fang Zhengzhi had already passed the provincial examinations, they did not know if he had passed the imperial examinations. They did not want Fang Zhengzhi to make enemies with the military because of this.

This was the only way he could protect Fang Zhengzhi as an elder. He would inconvenience himself to ensure that his descendants had a smooth sailing future.

"Oh please, he just passed the provincial exams. The results of the imperial examinations are not out yet. Will a hillbilly dare to go up against military orders?" The commander replied derisively upon seeing Zhang Yangping's expression. Then, he turned to his soldiers, "Eat and drink your fill tonight! Tomorrow, I want all of you energized! This is a big expedition, anyone who messes it up will be killed without hesitation!"

"Yes sir!" The soldiers replied in unison.

The commander nodded in satisfaction. Then, he frowned as he looked at the worn down Northern Mountain Village, "Li Xiantai told me that kid is named Fang something? I missed it out because I was in a hurry. Forget it, this kind of village will never produce anyone of importance. The imperial examinations are not so easy to pass. Furthermore, I am now acting on military orders, even the River of Trust Province Governor will have to be subordinate to those!"

Zhang Yangping frowned as he saw the commander walk away. He did not say anything else, sighing as he looked to the sky.

Fang Houde walked up beside him upon seeing his reaction.

"Brother Yang Ping, what's going on?"

"The sealing of the mountain is a military order. We can't change that. If not for the fact that Li Xiantai had helped speak up on our behalf, we may not even be able to leave our village." Zhang Yangping lamented in exasperation.

"If it's a military order, there's nothing that we can do about it. There's nothing to worry about Brother Yang Ping. There must be some trouble in the mountains that will be resolved shortly. When Zhengzhi left, he left behind some silver cheques. I'll get Xuelian to bring it over later. It should be able to tide us through." Fang Houde comforted.

"Aish... all I can hope for is a hasty resolution to this." Zhang Yangping sighed again.

In the river that linked the capital to Huai An County.

A boat was sailing quickly through the river when an eagle like bird of prey swooped down from high above and landed on a pole at the bow of the boat.

A lady dressed in green rushed out and retrieved a bamboo container from the claw of the bird. She took out the letter from inside it, read it, then rushed to the entrance of the cabin.

"My lord, there is news from the capital!"

"Carry on." A faint voice could be heard from inside the cabin.

"The Vice Doman Chief has died in the Combat Examinations. He was killed by Fang Zhengzhi, and..."

"Keep going."

"And... Fang Zhengzhi is in possession of the Sagely Battle God Meng Tian's sword. Furthermore, he is now the sword envoy, a rank four official."

"Okay, I got it, how long more to Huai An County?"

"It would take at least another 17 days."

"Do it in 15."

"Your wish is my command!"

The lady in green disappeared from the entrance.

Inside the cabin, Yun Qingwu wore a plain white dress. Her face was covered by a veil as she held a pen in her hand.

There was a maroon desk and a stack of papers in front of her. There were countless dots and lines on each piece of paper, making it incredibly complicated.

Yun Qingwu frowned, then began to write. She had to consider each and every stroke, making it look extremely tedious.

After some time, she had only made five strokes.

She raised her head to look at the sky outside. She slowly put down the pen in her hand as her eyes glimmered, "To think that he still passed despite the sacrifice of a Vice Domain Chief? A rank four sword envoy... according to the traditions of the Great Xia Dynasty, he should be on his way back to his village? If this is Heaven's will, how do you think you will escape my plan?"

Inside the capital, Fang Zhengzhi and Yan Xiu said their goodbyes at the door.

According to the traditions of the Great Xia Dynasty, he should be going back to his village to visit his relatives and celebrate his promotion with his parents.

Fang Zhengzhi was not one who valued traditions, but it was still months from the combat examinations retest and the Court Examinations. Furthermore, his birthday was coming.

It was his sixteenth birthday, the mark of maturity.

As such, he had to celebrate his birthday back in his village. After a few months from home, he was beginning to feel homesick.

Furthermore, Yan Xiu had gotten a letter from Western Liang, asking him to make a trip back. Staying in the capital alone would be incredibly boring.

He decided to make a trip back to the village and take in the sights. He would bring the Traceless Sword on a tour!

To stay in one city your whole life...

Was so boring.

The world was huge! One should go see it!

"When we meet in the Court Examinations, I will definitely defeat you!" Yan Xiu waved his Mountain and River, Heaven and Earth Fan as he told Fang Zhengzhi confidently.

"Haha... don't be so cocky, I am quite powerful now!" Fang Zhengzhi chuckled and shook his head in disbelief.

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Chapter 233: In Trouble

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Yan Xiu nodded slightly, then mounted his Snow Treading Dragon Stallion and galloped towards the gates of the capital.

Fang Zhengzhi watched as his friend left, then turned around and mounted his own Snow Treading Dragon Stallion. He was headed for the streets.

On this return trip, Fang Zhengzhi should have had an officer follow him around to announce the good news. However, as he was planning to travel, he rejected the offer of an officer.

Fang Zhengzhi decided that he would bring some souvenirs back home. As such, he decided not to leave with Yan Xiu, choosing to do some shopping first...

Inside Ping Yang's residence, flowers were in full bloom, their aroma filling up the gardens. Ping Yang was dressed in a red cloak, visibly unhappy.

"Why does Sister Yan have to go back to the Northern Lands so soon? Why don't I send a request to the Emperor, asking if I can follow you to the Northern Lands?" Ping Yang grabbed on to Chi Guyan's arm.

"Don't you want your Purple Lightning Dragon Stallion?" Chi Guyan smiled. She knew that the Emperor would never let Ping Yang out of the city.

"Purple Lightning Dragon Stallion? Where?" Ping Yang's eyes glimmered.

"It's here!" A voice rang out from outside the courtyard. Then, the Ninth Prince walked through.

He was leading a horse.

The horse was covered from head to toe in black triangular scales. It had a purple colored horn on its forehead, with subtle lightning patterns lining the horn.

It was clearly an extraordinary stallion.

"Hahaha... Ninth Brother, you're finally willing to give me the Purple Lightning Dragon Stallion!"

"Give it to you? You must be dreaming. I am just lending it to you for a ride on Chi Guyan's account. When Chi Guyan returns, you have to return the Purple Lightning Dragon Stallion to me!" The Ninth Prince looked on reluctantly.

"Ninth Brother, rest assured. I will definitely return it to you!" Ping Yang smirked. Before the Ninth Prince could say anything, she snatched the reins from his hands.

"Haha..." Chi Guyan looked at Ping Yang pamperedly. Her starry eyes looked to the north, "The Heaven Dao Tablet, Cang Ling Mountain... it looks like that shameless thief is on his way back home?"

After more than two hours, Fang Zhengzhi loaded up the Snow Treading Dragon Stallion and trotted it to the gates of the capital.

"I am always a man of my word. I will bring you to see the world right now." Fang Zhengzhi murmured.

All of the guards at the gate looked on conflictingly when they saw Fang Zhengzhi. However, none of them said anything, nor did they try to stop him.

Once he was out of the gates, he headed north...

Just as he was about to gallop and let the Snow Treading Dragon Stallion loose, he saw a figure appear on the road north. This figure was dressed in white, but there was no "Heaven Dao" embroidered on it.

Most importantly, the figure was riding a horse.

A horse which was very familiar to Fang Zhengzhi.

It was snow white from head to toe, with a mark of fire in the middle of its forehead. This was the Scarlet Flame Snow Cloud, a descendant of the most powerful Fire Dragon bloodline.

Fang Zhengzhi had always thought of it as his.

"It's been so long, Young Master Fang!" A crisp voice rang out. The other person did not try to disguise his voice.

"Drop the act! Human...oid!" Fang Zhengzhi looked at the figure derisively. He knew that he was Chi Guyan in a man's disguise. He had confirmed this in the Divine Constabulary previously.

"I am also on my way to the Northern Lands. How about you take care of my meals and I'll pay you 500 silvers?" Chi Guyan surprisingly did not argue with Fang Zhengzhi.

"I will accept nothing less than 1000!" Fang Zhengzhi replied in disdain.

"600!"

"If your offer is any less than 950, don't even think about it!"

"700!"

"I will give in to you a little more. 940, or we will go our separate ways!" Fang Zhengzhi hesitated, then grit his teeth.

"900!"

"880. I like this number. The remaining 20 shall be my tip to you. Don't think too much about it. I am so willful because I have the money." Fang Zhengzhi smirked. With the power of the Snow Treading Dragon Stallion, the journey would take a month at most. Why not earn an extra 880 silvers along the way?

More importantly, how could he tour without a lady companion?

Even though this was not a companion he liked, but she was still acceptable.

"You are still as shameless as before!"

"Thank you for the compliment!"

Fang Zhengzhi and Chi Guyan continued bargaining just outside the city gates, oblivious to the fact that there was a figure in a black cloak standing in the shadows.

"Chi Guyan?" The figure said raspily before disappearing into the darkness.

A month later.

There were troops of armored soldiers walking around in Huai An Country. This gave the entire ancient city a rather solemn atmosphere.

Fang Zhengzhi rode the Snow Treading Dragon Stallion sloppily. Next to him was Chi Guyan, still in her disguise.

Chi Guyan was much more refined than Fang Zhengzhi. As the breeze brushed against her clothes, they flapped lightly in the wind, making her look refined and elegant

Furthermore, her Scarlet Flame Snow Cloud drew the attentions of many young girls in Huai An County. Many of them looked out their windows just to catch a glimpse of it.

Fang Zhengzhi had already stopped thinking much about that.

Along the way to Huai An County, there were countless girls following behind them at every stop. They were all mesmerized by the group of two. Initially, he found it interesting, but he slowly grew numb to it.

"Why aren't you going back to the Divine Constabulary? We are already at Huai An County." Fang Zhengzhi's mouth twitched as he asked Chi Guyan.

"Did I say I was going back to the Divine Constabulary?" Chi Guyan smiled as she returned the look.

Fang Zhengzhi happened to see the smile. He was slightly stunned. He had to admit that Chi Guyan did have the assets that would allow her to be arrogant.

When she smiled, she was just as beautiful as the starry night sky, completely mesmerizing.

However, Fang Zhengzhi was not too attracted by the smile. After all, he liked a gentle lady. At the very least, she could not be more powerful than him?

Even though he was not one to bully a lady, he did not want to be bullied by a lady.

"If you're not going back to the Divine Constabulary, are you planning to come to the Northern Mountain Village with me?" Fang Zhengzhi replied disdainfully. How is it possible that the powerful and rich Chi Guyan would want to follow him back to his decrepit hometown?

"Mm, that was exactly what I had in mind." Chi Guyan nodded.

"You're really going to follow me back to the Northern Mountain Village?" Fang Zhengzhi was taken aback.

"Yes." Chi Guyan nodded.

"I am not to be taken advantage of. On the way from the capital, I have grilled you eight Green Furred Rabbits, 13 Fire Plume Chickens, two Metal-Toothed Thorn Hogs and one Steel Horned Goat. Now you want to come to my house for free food and lodging... you must be dreaming!" Fang Zhengzhi said solemnly.

"Is that so? What if I have silver?"

"Do you think you're the only one with silver? Do you think that silver can buy anything under the sun? This is not about the money, this is about a bottomline, do you understand?"

"I'll give you 1000 silvers for a one month stay."

"Deal!"

"I remember that you like the number 880?"

"Yes I do, but there is a difference of 120 between 1000 and 880. Do you think I am as spoilt as you? I will never give 120 silvers in tips! You are so naive!"

It was early in the morning. Since they were already in Huai An County, Fang Zhengzhi was in no rush to get back home. During this tour, he had taken care of everything, from cooking to washing.

Now that they were in Huai An County, he wanted to find a nice restaurant to enjoy a meal in.

"I'll make it clear. Now that we are in Huai An County, our previous deal has reached its expiry. We will split the bill inside the restaurant!" Fang Zhengzhi told Chi Guyan.

"Didn't you just say that I was spoilt? Why are you helping me save now?" Chi Guyan looked at Fang Zhengzhi comically.

"They are separate matters. You requested to follow me and I provided you with food. It is only right that you pay me. Now that our deal has run its course, how can I as a man allow a lady to treat me?" Fang Zhengzhi replied derisively. He loved money, but he was not going to be given a treat by a lady.

"Man? Then why don't you treat me?"

"Aren't... you a man too?" Fang Zhengzhi looked at Chi Guyan's dressing and smiled, "If you're willing to change into a dress, I might consider!"

"Shameless!"

Fang Zhengzhi's pockets were quite full at this point. There were few in Huai An County who were richer than him. He had gotten almost 70,000 silvers from the sale of Ping Yang's horse, and Ping Yang had sent him even more afterwards.

On top of the thousand gold reward from the Emperor...

He had quite a fortune.

As such, he picked the best possible restaurant. This was the same restaurant he had met Yan Xiu in.

It was just as old and exquisite as before, but, there were many soldiers inside now.

Fang Zhengzhi had not paid much attention to the soldiers he had seen along the way. However, seeing so many in the restaurant made him have his doubts.

"Is Huai An County in trouble?"

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Chapter 234: You would be beheaded

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Fang Zhenghi was slightly worried. He quickly called a waiter over and gave him a couple of silvers to find out what was happening. This was by far the most efficient way to gather information.

"What is going on in Huai An County? Why are there so many soldiers?"

"Master, you have asked the right person. I don't know the exact details, but a month ago, troops of soldiers began to come to Huai An County. I hear that there is ferocious beast on the loose in Cang Ling Mountain. All of the roads have been sealed. Can Ling Mountain itself has also been sealed."

"Ferocious beast?" Fang Zhengzhi had entered the mountain once a month for the entire duration he had stayed in the Northern Mountain Village. He knew how dangerous it was. However, most of the beasts would stay hidden unless they were being threatened.

Just like the Blue Fire Wolf back in the day.

Wolves tend to hunt in packs. However, that Blue Fire Wolf was travelling alone. It was definitely unique, and not likely to appear for decades.

Could it be that another unique beast is on the loose?

So many soldiers have been activated.

What beast could it be?

Fang Zhengzhi wanted to ask more, but the waiter shook his head. He clearly did not know any more. Fang Zhengzhi lost his appetite upon hearing that Cang Ling Mountain had been sealed for a month.

He ordered a few snacks and finished them quickly. Then, he walked to the city gates.

Chi Guyan did not say anymore. She simply followed Fang Zhengzhi all the way to the city gates.

However...

They were stopped at the gates.

Just as what the waiter had said, the road to the foot of Cang Ling Mountain had been sealed.

"Stand right there!"

Two soldiers lowered their spears towards Fang Zhengzhi and Chi Guyan. Then, they looked at the stallions that the two of them were riding. After looking at each other, one of the soldiers said, "Where are you two young men going?"

"The Northern Mountain Village." Fang Zhengzhi replied.

"Do you have the token to pass?" The soldier asked.

"No." Fang Zhengzhi shook his head.

"Then I'm afraid you cannot pass. The military has sealed all of the roads to Cang Ling Mountain. If you have any pressing matters, you can go to the military to get a token." The soldier was respectful. He could tell that their stallions were extraordinary. He could not afford to antagonize them.

"What token? I'm not going!" Fang Zhengzhi shook his head.

"About that... please do not make things difficult for us. You really cannot pass without the token." One of the soldiers said with difficulty.

"What if I charge past?"

"If you charge past without a token... you would be going against military law. I am sure you know what the consequences are, so..."

"It sounds serious. According to military law, what will happen if I disobey an order?" Fang Zhengzhi ignored the soldier and turned to ask Chi Guyan.

"You will be beheaded!" Chi Guyan replied calmly.

"I doubt you will dare to charge through if it is so serious?" Fang Zhengzhi pressed.

"You can guess."

"I'm too lazy to guess. I am someone who will just do as I wish. If you get lost along the way, don't blame me!" After Fang Zhengzhi finished, he whipped the Snow Treading Dragon Stallion. With a whinny, the stallion bounded past the blockade and galloped towards the Northern Mountain Village.

All of the guards were stunned by what they saw. None of them could react in time. That man charged through despite knowing the consequences?

Hang on...

I think someone else charged through!

Just as they were about to shout, a white figure flashed past. Chi Guyan rode the Scarlet Flame Snow Cloud and followed closely behind Fang Zhengzhi.

Yet another one?!

All of the soldiers looked at each other in confusion.

"Someone else has charged through!" Just as they were about to shout it out, an officer rushed over.

"What are you screaming about?" The officer bellowed.

"Sir, someone charged through the blockade, those two..."

"Smack!"

"Smack!"

He slapped both soldiers before they could finish their sentences.

"Do you all want to die? You are both blind, but I am not. Do you two not know what that stallion is? It is the Snow Treading Dragon Stallion of the Divine Constabulary. That is the stallion of the Red Pinion Squad!" The officer raged.

"Divine Constabulary... Red Pinion Squad!" Both soldiers felt a chill down their spines.

Even though they had not spent much time in the army, the name 'Red Pinion Squad' was etched deeply in their minds. That was the elite army of the Divine Constabulary.

"Those two are from the Red Pinion Squad?!"

"Are you blind? There was only one Snow Treading Dragon Stallion!"

"Then who was the other guy?"

"I'm not sure, but he must be from an equally elite army."

"Is there another army as powerful as the Red Pinion Squad? Don't try to bully me just because I'm not well read."

"I am serious. Do you know the Stabilisation Constabulary? Their 'Mountain Breaking Army' is just as powerful! This was what my uncle told me!"

"Your uncle knows a lot!"

"Smack!"

"Smack!"

The two of them got slapped again.

"Shut up, both of you! Are you supposed to discuss the Mountain Breaking Army here? Don't try to implicate me even if you two have a death wish!"

"Yes sir, we will not dare do it again."

Fang Zhengzhi had wanted Chi Guyan to eat dust. However, before the half mile mark, he realized that something was amiss.

The Snow Treading Dragon Stallion had been overtaken by the Scarlet Flame Snow Cloud?

No matter how hard he whipped his ride, he could not catch up. He was always trailing behind in the dust cloud of Chi Guyan. If he kept this up, he would die from too much dust inhalation.

As such, an exasperated Fang Zhengzhi could only 'cordially' invite Chi Guyan to travel alongside him.

Chi Guyan did not object either.

The narrow road was completely occupied by the two of them. The road became a little squeezy when they passed the army camps along the way.

However, due to the fact that Fang Zhengzhi's Snow Treading Dragon Stallion was famed throughout the Northern Lands, all of the guards parted for them.

Some of the ration carrying supply carts also stopped by the wayside for them to pass.

No one came up to ask them if they had the token to pass through. They continued on their journey unimpeded. Fang Zhengzhi also began to relax.

"This stallion is quite good. Maybe I should go get another hundred from the Divine Constabulary and give one to each of the families in the Northern Mountain Village. That would be great!" Fang Zhengzhi muttered as he rode alongside Chi Guyan.

Chi Guyan ignored him, focusing solely on riding the Scarlet Flame Snow Cloud.

"Cang Ling Mountain is a good place. The grass is the best. Furthermore, there are many ferocious beasts. With such grass and meat, I'm sure the hundred would reproduce to give many more."

"Then, I can open up a stable. The horses can run about inside and I can pick the best to give back to the Divine Constabulary."

"Don't you think the Divine Constabulary is quite stupid? How could they have not thought of that, aish... what a pity!"

Fang Zhengzhi continued muttering to himself, seeing that Chi Guyan wasn't replying.

"The method for rearing the Snow Treading Dragon Stallion is a Divine Constabulary secret, how can we release it?" Chi Guyan finally replied.

"You are absolutely correct. As such, in order for this great plan to come to fruition, I must make the Northern Mountain Village a subsidiary of the Divine Constabulary. That way, it will still stay within the constabulary. Don't you agree?" Fang Zhengzhi replied.

"You do think quite far, but, why would my Divine Constabulary absorb a useless, far flung village?" Chi Guyan replied with a question.

"Useless? You couldn't be more mistaken. The Northern Mountain Village is a prime location. It's scenery is fantastic and it is a hotbed for talents. I am willing to wager that the Northern Mountain Village would be more prosperous than Huai An County in two months. Do you believe me?"

"Two months?" Chi Guyan's expression changed.

"Yes."

"Are you for real?"

"Of course."

"Okay then. If you're able to make the Northern Mountain Village more prosperous than Huai An County in two months, I will absorb them into the Divine Constabulary. But what if you can't?"

"That won't be possible. You can forget about discussing things that won't happen." Fang Zhengzhi waved her away confidently.

"Stop daydreaming. If you can't do it, you will be my servant for two years. You will cook me whatever I want to eat!"

"So vicious?"

"If you don't dare to take it up, forget it."

"Fine, deal!" Fang Zhengzhi grit his teeth. His love for money had stemmed from the Northern Mountain Village.

On this trip back, he wanted to clarify some things for himself. His silver would definitely allow the village to continue surviving for many years, but this was far from enough.

Without some powerful backing, the village would not survive regardless of how much silver they had. They needed a powerful and influential backer.

Who was better than the Divine Constabulary?

After a few hours, Fang Zhengzhi and Chi Guyan finally arrived at the entrance to the Northern Mountain Village. The crystal clear river continued to flow through the entrance.

However, all of those ladies who worked the fields at this time of day were missing.

"The weather is so good, yet they're off lazing?" Fang Zhengzhi murmured to himself. He galloped towards his home without thinking much of it.

Before long, he heard loud noises from the assembly square.

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Chapter 235: Villagers are troublemakers

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

The Northern Mountain Village had a tradition. Whenever there was a celebration, all of the families would gather at the square for a meal. It always added color to their otherwise mundane lives.

As such, when he heard the loud noises from the square, Fang Zhengzhi's heart leapt. Which family is holding a wedding this time?

To think that I made it just in time.

Fang Zhengzhi was incredibly happy.

"There's meat to eat once I come home, home is the best!"

Fang Zhengzhi missed the dishes from his village. When he brought Chi Guyan to his home, the doors were locked and the lights were switched off.

Fang Zhengzhi was not surprised. If there was a wedding in the village, Fang Houde and Qin Xuelian were probably at the square too.

What am I going to do? The doors are locked...

Should I go over the wall? Fang Zhengzhi was not that uncouth. He chose to pry open a brick by the door. As he expected, there was a key there.

After opening the door and making sure the Snow Treading Dragon Stallion and the Scarlet Flame Snow Cloud were comfortable, Fang Zhengzhi and Chi Guyan made a beeline for the assembly square.

Chi Guyan had spent some time in the Northern Mountain Village. She knew the rules here and did not question Fang Zhengzhi.

Before they arrived at the square, Fang Zhengzhi saw a few cauldrons and grills from afar. Meat was currently being grilled, its aroma filling the air.

There were dozens of tables next to the grills.

The sounds reverberated from the center.

"So many people?" Fang Zhengzhi was taken aback. There were only a hundred families in the Northern Mountain Village. After including all of the singles, there were usually no more than a dozen tables.

But today was different.

Was this marriage with someone from a neighboring village? Are they here too? Where is the red cloth?

Just as he was contemplating, Fang Zhengzhi's gaze froze. He realized that there were many weapons by the side of the square. The center table was occupied by soldiers.

All of the villagers stood to the side of the soldiers. Ladies and children stood behind them, waiting on them constantly.

"Why are there so many soldiers in the village?!" Fang Zhengzhi began to have his doubts. The soldiers seemed to be having their way.

They seemed to be used to this kind of treatment. They had clearly been staying here for some time.

Does this have something to do with the ferocious beast?

Is there a need for so many soldiers just to capture a beast? Furthermore, shouldn't these soldiers be at camp if they're trying to subdue the beast? Why are they here?

Questions filled Fang Zhengzhi's mind. He could not understand what was happening. He began brisk walking to the square.

He arrived at the square shortly.

The villagers were all busy serving and waiting on the soldiers. None of them noticed Fang Zhengzhi's and Chi Guyan's arrival. However, Chi Guyan's attire was too outstanding. It simply did not fit in with the villagers.

When they arrived at the outskirts of the square, they were finally noticed.

"Ayy? Why is there an academic... ah! This is... oh my god, Zhengzhi is back?!" A voice rang out in shock and joy.

The voice was rather soft considering the loud noises in the square. However, its impact was quite stunning. More and more people began to notice...

"It's Zhengzhi!"

"Why is Zhengzhi back all of a sudden?!"

"Oh my god, Zhengzhi is back!"

The voices overlapped and attracted the attention of all the villagers. Before long, all the villagers stopped what they were doing and looked at Fang Zhengzhi in surprise.

"Zheng Er, it's Zheng Er, Zheng Er is back!" Qin Xuelian, who was holding a pot of wine next to the center table, exclaimed.

Her body began to tremble as a smile broke out on her exquisite face.

During the past few months, Qin Xuelian had been looking forward to this moment. She had missed her son so much.

Excitement and surprise caused Qin Xuelian to flush.

So much so she forgot about the pot of wine she was holding in her hand.

"Smack!"

The pot of wine fell on the table, flipping over plates and bowls. The wine happened to splash on a 40 year old soldier. That man happened to be the leader.

His expression darkened instantly.

"Bloody b*tch, come quickly and clean up the mess you made!" The leader looked on unhappily.

Qin Xuelian did not hear the leader's commands. All she saw was her son returning. Everything else was secondary to her.

Ignoring the bellows of the leader, Qin Xuelian rushed towards Fang Zhengzhi.

Fang Houde rushed towards Fang Zhengzhi as well.

Fang Houde was sitting near the outside. He wore a black cloth shirt and looked rather frail. However, he brightened up upon seeing Fang Zhengzhi.

"Why is Zhenger..." Before Fang Houde could finish, he found that the atmosphere was changing. He turned his head and saw that all of the soldiers had stood up.

"Crash!"

With a crash of armor, over a dozen soldiers left their seats furiously. They looked at Qin Xuelian, who was stunned by what was happening.

"Did you not hear what our leader said? Go clean up your mess!" One of the soldiers placed his hand on the hilt of his sword as he glared at Qin Xuelian.

"Soldier master, please do not be angered. Xuelian was too excited by her son's return. It was an honest mistake, an honest mistake..." Zhang Yangping, who was also seated at the center table, stepped out and apologized to the soldiers.

"Oh please! Who hasn't had a son who left for work. If not for the fact that Li Xiantai had spoken up for you all, do you think that you would have the opportunity to go in and out of the village? This is a favour from our leader. Do you think other villages have such privileges? We have already done so much for you all, don't take advantage of us!" The soldier said haughtily.

"Yes yes yes, I will personally clean it for you!" Zhang Yangping walked towards the leader. However, he did not have a handkerchief. As he walked, he kept searching for a cloth.

"Scram to the side. Our leader has made it clear that he wants that b*tch to clean it up!" The soldier commanded.

"Hahaha..." All of the soldiers looked at Qin Xuelian and smirked with lust.

Qin Xuelian was rooted to the ground. In that moment, she had no idea what to do.

She had never been forced into this position before. More importantly, she was about to be taken advantage of in front of her son.

In that instant, she blushed...

Fang Houde clenched his fists tightly. How can he call himself a man if he can't even protect his wife?

Just because he was a loyal citizen didn't mean that he had to take the soldiers' humiliation.

They may be backward, but they were righteous.

Even so, he could not possibly put the village in danger simply because he was angry. After all, they were soldiers of the Great Xia Empire. Attacking them would be akin to a rebellion.

Even though he was furious, he could not attack them.

In an instant, Fang Houde pushed past the soldiers blocking Qin Xuelian. He hugged Qin Xuelian, fiercely protective of her.

One of the soldiers was nearly pushed to the ground.

That soldier was completely embarrassed. He looked at Fang Houde, then back at his commander.

The commander was slightly stunned by what he saw.

A villager actually dares to go against the Great Xia Dynasty army? How audacious!

Even though Li Xiantai had told him that the Northern Mountain Village was special, the commander did not think that they could go up against the army.

Now that they had set up camp here, they had to find a way to subdue the villagers. How else was he going to maintain his reputation?

His eyes glimmered icily.

It would all be fine as long as no lives were taken.

"Know your place!" The commander bellowed.

Upon hearing their commander speak, all of the soldiers instantly knew what to do. He was going to make an example of Fang Houde. They could beat him till they were happy, so long as he did not die.

"Oh? I knew that the villagers are all troublemakers! Brothers, beat him up! Make sure he learns his lesson!" The soldier did not hold back any longer.

He had decided to make an example of this audacious villager. He wanted all the villagers to know who was boss now.

"What did you say?"

After the soldier gave the command, a voice rang out next to him.

He was stunned. It felt like the voice had come from right next to him. More importantly, the voice was icy, bone chillingly icy.

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Chapter 236: Killing in a fit of rage

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

"I said, make sure he..." The soldier unconsciously turned to his back. He realized that there was a youth standing by his side.

The youth was dressed in a blue long-sleeved shirt. He still looked quite immature and couldn't be more than 15 or 16 years old.

He had been staying in the Northern Mountain Village for more than a month but he had never seen this youth. This youth must be the "Zhengzhi" the villagers have been talking about.

Why would he be by my side all of a sudden?

He was clearly at the perimeter of the square just moments ago.

There were at least a few hundred meters between the edge and the middle of the square. More importantly, the square was filled with tables and villagers.

How did he manage to get here so quickly...

Just as the soldier was preparing to bellow, he felt his throat contract. When he looked down, he saw a hand gripping his neck. Then, he felt his legs lift off the ground.

This made him immensely uncomfortable. He was finding it difficult to breathe.

He wanted to move, but he was completely immobilized. He felt like there was an invisible force restricting his every movement. He could not even blink.

"Stop that!" The commander stood up ferociously and put his hand up. His face was flushed from all the drinking, but his eyes were filled with anger.

His hand was placed on the hilt of his sword. He was threatening to pull it out at any moment.

"Zheng Er, don't do it!" Qin Xuelian was completely shocked by the scene unfolding before her eyes.

"Ah, Zheng Er... release him quickly. Don't interfere in this. I am tough and can take a beating!" Fang Houde shouted from the side.

"Zhengzhi!" Zhang Yangping also chimed in. He quickly turned to the commander, "General Wang, this is a misunderstanding. Zhengzhi has just returned and doesn't know anything. I have some silver that I will use to procure better wine for you all. Please be merciful and let Zhengzhi off..."

"Uncle Yangping!" Fang Zhengzhi interrupted Zhang Yangping as he tightened his grip.

The soldier who was suspended in the air turned pale as his lips turned purple. His eyes were bloodshot and looked like they were about to pop out at any second. He was being asphyxiated.

"Young man, how dare you go against the army?" The commander looked on at his suffocating subordinate and tightened his grip on his sword hilt.

At this point, a white figure walked out from behind Fang Zhengzhi and approached Qin Xuelian and Fang Houde. It was Chi Guyan.

"Hello uncle and auntie!" Chi Guyan bowed slightly to Fang Houde and Qin Xuelian, almost like she was greeting her elders.

This seemed very normal to the people of the Northern Mountain Village.

However, if people who knew Chi Guyan saw it, they would be completely awestruck. Since when did the arrogant Chi Guyan ever bow to anyone?

This was something that even the Emperor did not have the privilege of experiencing.

"Ah? It's Guyan... you're here too? Ask Zhengzhi to put that man down!" Qin Xuelian looked at Chi Guyan in shock and embarrassment.

She was a guest who had travelled a great distance to be here. Furthermore, she was a guest that Qin Xuelian liked. It was quite an embarrassment to her for Chi Guyan to witness this.

"No worries, just let him settle this. Uncle, Auntie, let me accompany you over there." Chi Guyan pulled Qin Xuelian by the arm and led her to the side.

Qin Xuelian did not really understand what Chi Guyan was saying. However, she trusted Chi Guyan. She did not want to leave, but she was pulled to the side by Chi Guyan.

"Who are you?!" For the first time ever, the commander was being ignored. He was completely furious at being ignored by two people at the same time.

"Is it important?" Fang Zhengzhi replied.

"Oh please, if my guess is correct, you must be the little boy who passed the provincial examinations? I never expected you to be so young. Even so, do you know what you're doing now? Going against the army is the equivalent of rebelling! If you let the man go now and kowtow to us in apology, I will forget that this ever happened!"

The commander's eyes glowed icily. He knew that there was a youth who had passed the provincial examinations. But, so what?

They were ordered to set up camp at the Northern Mountain Village. They were in charge of the logistics at Cang Ling Mountain. Their orders had come from the headquarters. Who was this young man to question the army?

The army was a powerful entity!

"Kowtow and apologize?" Fang Zhengzhi smirked as his grip tightened even more. "You are merely taking advantage of your position in the army to bully the villagers. Scum like you deserve to be executed!"

"Executed?! Hahaha... you won't be so audacious! He is a soldier of the Great Xia Dynasty. Even if you passed the Imperial Examinations and was made an official, killing a soldier of the Great Xia Dynasty is punishable by death!" The commander chuckled icily.

He could feel the iciness in Fang Zhengzhi's voice. However, he did not believe that a youth fresh out of the provincial examinations would dare to kill a soldier.

"Zhengzhi, don't be brash!" When Zhang Yangping heard what Fang Zhengzhi said, he was completely stunned. He could understand what Fang Zhengzhi was feeling.

He must be enraged seeing his parents being bullied.

However, he would destroy his future if he killed this soldier. He was the pride and hope of the Northern Mountain Village. Zhang Yangping was not going to stand idly by and watch him destroy his own future.

All of the other villagers were in chaos. Fang Zhengzhi was only right to protect Qin Xuelian and Fang Houde. However, he was going against the Great Xia Dynasty Army.

He was going against a military order.

If Fang Zhengzhi really killed the soldier, what was going to happen to them?

"Let him go!"

"If you don't let him go, we will deal with you severely!"

All of the soldiers bellowed. They did not believe that Fang Zhengzhi would kill a soldier in a fit of anger.

Fang Zhengzhi was furious. However, having come from a peaceful world before, killing was always difficult for him. It was something that he did not want to do.

Right now, he did not think of killing the soldier either.

However, when he looked at the tables around him, the wave of fury consumed him.

He saw that the main table was given wine and meat, whilst the other tables were given measly dishes.

The dishes were clearly of different standards.

The discrimination was clear.

He had never felt such pure, unadulterated rage...

Everyone was supposed to be equal, but was that the case? In the face of the soldiers, the villagers were all prey, having to give up the best that they had to the soldiers.

They also had to be thankful for the 'privileges' that the soldiers accorded to them.

How ironic.

"This boy has an intent to rebel. He has attacked a soldier, capture him!" The commander laughed icily seeing that Fang Zhengzhi had ignored them. This fella dares to defy the army just because he passed the provincial exams?

Upon hearing the order, dozens of soldiers leapt into action.

All of them attacked Fang Zhengzhi.

Each soldier held a sword in his hand. Each of their swords glimmered with an icy glow. Their form of capture involved a vicious beating before handing Fang Zhengzhi over to the military courts.

They were too close.

The moment they took out their swords, the tip was already at Fang Zhengzhi's eyes.

Fang Zhengzhi had many ways to block their attack.

However, upon considering the views of the villagers, he suppressed his anger and subconsciously stepped back.

He also released his grip on the soldier.

Little did he expect that the soldier would lunge towards him, sword drawn, immediately after he was released.

Fang Zhengzhi suddenly remembered a phrase.

Nice people finish last!

He had only wanted to teach these bullies a lesson. However, he never expected that they would want to kill him when he did not want to kill them.

"Die!" Fang Zhengzhi could not hold it in any longer. In fact, he did not see a need to hold it in any longer.

A few hours ago, Fang Zhengzhi had met a similar problem at Huai An County.

He had barged through the blockade. He should have been beheaded there and then.

At that time, he had asked for Chi Guyan's opinion. However, this time, he did not. There was no need to.

Everyone had a pressure point.

Fang Zhengzhi included. His pressure point was Fang Houde, Qin Xuelian, and the Northern Mountain Village.

He could not stand idly by as his family and fellow villagers were bullied. No child in the world would watch his or her parents get bullied without doing anything.

Kill!

In that instant, Fang Zhengzhi moved forward.

His hand was outstretched.

"Snap!" A crisp sound rang out.

The soldier who was being strangled stared at Fang Zhengzhi. He had never expected that Fang Zhengzhi would have the audacity to kill him! Furthermore, Fang Zhengzhi had done it so openly and without hesitation.

He was a member of the Great Xia Dynasty Army!

He was a subordinate of the general!

Where did someone who had not even become an official get this courage from?!

He could not figure it out. However, his neck was already broken. He could no longer breathe and the life slowly faded from his eyes. Finally, his head cocked to one side and his eyes rolled into his head...

Fang Zhengzhi released his grip.

The soldier's body crumpled to the ground. His body was faced towards Qin Xuelian as it fell.

This was the second time Fang Zhengzhi had killed.

The first time was when he had used the Traceless Sword to kill Ying Shan. He had no choice then. This was the first time he had made a conscious decision to kill.

However, he had no regrets.

In that instant, all of the attacking soldiers stood rooted to the ground. Even the commander himself was in disbelief. Fang Zhengzhi had the audacity to antagonize the army?

He even killed a soldier?!

All of the villagers were stunned by what they saw.

"Zhengzhi killed someone!"

"He killed a soldier!"

"What are we going to do?!"

All of the villagers were at a loss.

The commander was furious.

"Shing!"

With a swift pull, he drew his blade. Never in his life had he been humiliated this way. Furthermore, he was being humiliated by a 15 year old.

"Shing!"

"Shing!"

All of the other soldiers drew their blades as their commander drew his. All of their eyes were filled with anger and shock.

They were taken aback by Fang Zhengzhi's actions.

Actions and words were completely two different things.

Fang Zhengzhi may have said it, but no one believed that he would do it. No one thought that he would kill a soldier in the face of hundreds more. Could anyone be more audacious?

"How dare you rebel!" The commander bellowed. He knew that there was no point asking Fang Zhengzhi to kowtow and apologize. The army's reputation and prowess must not be damaged.

If a teenager who had just passed the provincial examinations could kill a soldier in a fit of rage, what was the army for?

Now that Fang Zhengzhi had killed, he had to find a way to pin a charge on Fang Zhengzhi that would ensure his execution. Rebellion! That was the most severe charge!

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