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

18. 554

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Chapter 554: Heavenly Rage

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

The Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was infuriated. However, he could not help but be fearful of what Fang Zhengzhi had in his hand. This was because the situation today was extremely unfavorable to him.

After all, the Majesty had just reprimanded him.

He did not wish to be entangled in further complications after that incident.

However…

Fang Zhengzhi seemed bent on giving him trouble. After opening the letter, he gave an exceptionally surprised and horrified expression.

"Wow, so this is what happened!"

He then gave a series of astonished gasps to attract the courtiers' attention. All of them then stared at Fang Zhengzhi with unmoving gazes.

"What exactly is written in the letter?"

"Could it be the conversations between the Southern Region Noblelite and the Crown Prince?"

"It should not be the case. The Southern Region Noblelite had already been dead for more than a year. How could the Crown Prince be in possession of this letter?"

The courtiers were all curious, though none of them believed that the letter in Fang Zhengzhi's hand was a real copy.

Talking about curiosity…

Ping Yang's curiosity was definitely higher than anyone else.

Hence, when Fang Zhengzhi released a sound of exclamation, Ping Yang quickly grabbed the letter from his hand without any hesitation.

"Hm?" Ping Yang swept her gaze across the letter as her usual rosy and playful demeanor was slowly drawn out from her face. Her pair of clear eyes seemed stuck to the letter as she displayed an incredulous expression.

Clearly, Ping Yang was extremely shocked.

This led the courtiers to feel horrified.

If only Fang Zhengzhi displayed such an expression, they would all have thought that the problem lay in the letters. However, if even Ping Yang had such an expression, then these letters might be pointing to some clues that they never discovered.

As this thought flashed through their minds…

Ping Yang suddenly grabbed all the letters from Fang Zhengzhi's hand and smirked condescendingly at him.

After which…

Ping Yang then bolted towards the Emperor Lin Mubai.

As the Crown Prince Lin Tianrong saw this scene, he became extremely anxious. To think that the letter was now in Ping Yang's hands. Furthermore, she was going to hand it over to the Emperor!

How could he not be anxious!

"What kind of letter is that? What evidence did this person create out of thin air?" The Crown Prince widened his eyes, hoping to get a glimpse of the content of the letter.

But he was unable to.

He regretted his previous actions. Why did he have to deny his connections to those letters? Why did he have to say they did not belong to him.

If…

If he had not said those words? Then these letters would never have been torn open, not would it land into Ping Yang's hands and then in the hands of the Emperor.

"Fang Zhengzhi, it is not so easy to frame me, the Crown Prince!" Lin Tianrong gritted his teeth and stared at Fang Zhengzhi accusingly.

After King Duan saw this scene, he also topped in his tracks and a hint of doubt flashed through his eyes. Up till now, he had also thought that Fang Zhengzhi's actions were way too fake.

Although the outcome of his actions seemed to be satisfactory.

However…

Would such a childish technique work on the Emperor Lin Mubai?

Even if those letters truly contained information regarding Lin Tianrong's connections with the Southern Region Noblelite, the Emperor Lin Mubai probably would not believe them.

After all, it was a simple task to forge a letter. If one could mimic a person's handwriting, it was not a difficult thing to do.

This was King Duan's opinion of the situation, and also the all the courtiers were having.

As for the Emperor Lin Mubai…

His face seemed to be expressionless as he watched Ping Yang running over with the letters. He then stared at the letters in her hand.

In the end, he still took over the letters.

He then slowly opened the letter in his hands.

The courtiers watched intently as Lin Mubai took over the letters. They were carefully observing the minor changes in his facial expression

"Hm?" At that moment, Lin Mubai's lips opened ever so slightly and emitted a soft hum. At that same time, his eyes glimmered in shock.

He then looked up at Fang Zhengzhi. That gaze was akin to the one a hunter would cast on his ferocious prey before he commenced his kill.

It was both shocking and inexplicable.

Many a time, people thought that a hunter would be extremely elated to see a ferocious beast. However, when a hunter truly meets a ferocious beast that exceeded their imaginations, joy and happiness was a far cry from their actual feelings.

It was a battle.

A battle for life and death.

The survival of the fittest!

Lin Mubai's gaze was of such a nature. He wanted to detect something from Fang Zhengzhi's face, and although he failed terribly, he still kept his gaze tightly on him.

Time….

Seemed to have stopped.

Everyone looked at Lin Mubai expectantly while the Lin Mubai observed Fang Zhengzhi with interest.

Apart from them, both Yan Xiu and Nangong Mu were also watching.

Of course, Wen Dabao also stared intently, although the expression on his face was totally different. His expression was one of fear, a fear that made him tremble with unease.

After god knows how long, Lin Mubai cast his glance away from Fang Zhengzhi and at the same time, folded the letter in his hands.

"Tianrong!" Lin Mubai cast his glance towards the Crown Prince Tianrong.

"You son is present!" Lin Tianrong was shocked as he stared into the eyes of Lin Mubai. Despite not knowing what happened, he subconsciously knelt down.

"Do you know what sin you have committed?" Lin Mubai had a cold expression on his face.

The courtiers were all shocked at this result. This was because the Emperor would not question the Crown Prince with this tone without any basis.

Sin?

That would mean that he was guilty!

But what crime did the Crown Prince commit?

Although Lin Mubai did not explicitly state his crime, the courtiers only had one possibility in their minds. Could it be that the Crown Prince indeed maintained connections with the Southern Region Noblelite?

How could that be!

No courtiers would believe in such a thing.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was even more perplexed at the situation. He couldn't have not known what was in his study room. How could he miss out on a letter from the Southern Region Noblelite if it was truly present?

It is a fake!

Everything is a fake!

"Father, Fang Zhengzhi is wronging me. I have never sent any letters to the Southern Region Noblelite. Father has to believe me!" Lin Tianrong gave an expression which showed that he was being wronged.

"Is that so?" Lin Mubai still maintained his stern tone.

"Father, please think carefully. My study room has already been destroyed. The entire room was burned to a crisp. How can there still be any letters present in this situation? Besides, even if there are letters present, how can it be regarding the Southern Region Noblelite. How can father believe in this coincidence! Fang Zhengzhi is the one who had created this fake letter to frame me. Father, please make the correct decision!"

The Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was bitter. How could he, a prestigious Crown Prince, be framed in his own residence by such childish tactics. How could he not be bitter about this?

Fang Zhengzhi!

I, the Crown Prince, will kill you!

"The entire study room was burnt? Destroyed? Are you sure?" The moment Lin Mubai heard this sentence, another cold presence enveloped the area. Everyone could feel immense pressure coming from him.

The sudden change in the situation left the courtiers with cold sweat breaking out from their forehead.

However, they still could not understand…

Why would Lin Mubai be so infuriated after reading the letter? Why would he not first check the validity of the letters?

This should not be the case!

Judging from Emperor Lin Mubai's intelligence, he should not be acting too rashly, especially when this issue was related to the Crown Prince.

What exactly…

Did the letters contain?

"You son… Your son…" Lin Tianrong felt perspiration dripped down from his forehead. However, he still gritted his teeth and said, "Your son would never lie to Your Majesty!"

"You bastard, how dare you deny the accusations!" Lin Mubai finally released his fury as a golden glow lit up in his eyes.

This was a blinding golden brilliance.

It was exactly the same as the light emitted when Hua Fei saved Lin Tianrong.

As this golden light shone across the room, a bright voice bellowed across the atmosphere. It was as though the dragon had offered his mighty roar.

"Your Majesty, please calm down!"

"Your Majesty, please calm down!"

"Father, please calm down!"

Voices rang consecutively across the room. Following which, all the figures knelt down in respect. Even King Duan Lin Xinjue also knelt down subconsciously.

However, the golden brilliance surrounding Lin Mubai did not seem to be diminishing. IN fact, it was becoming brighter every second, as though he was bathed in golden light.

At the same time, a giant shadow seemed to be appearing behind him. It looked like an extremely huge creature.

"I will ask you one more time. Do you know what sin you have committed?"

"Your son, Your son… do not know of any sins!" The Crown Prince had long kept his head stuck firmly to the ground. However, he gritted his teeth and stood his ground.

Most importantly, he did not even know what crime he had committed, not to mention the content of the letter that Fang Zhengzhi gave Lin Mubai.

How then, could he have admitted to anything?

"Hmph, it looks like you are not going to admit it!" Lin Mubai then bellowed and swung his arms. IN an instant, a golden light was released from his body and rushed into the horizon.

The night sky was instantly illuminated.

The countless stars dazzling in the night sky seemed to lose their luster as well.

Boom! A loud explosion rang from the horizon. Following which, a golden ray shot downwards as though a meteor had fallen from the sky, smashing onto the study room which was already completely charred.

Bang!

Rubble and dust exploded in all directions.

The golden light blew up all the ashes in the area. Countless black flakes danced around in the air and covered the horizon.

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Chapter 555: The Plan Begins

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

There was silence.

The courtiers, the royal guards and the servants all looked at the spot where the golden light landed, despite the fact that dust was still obstructing their vision.

"His Majesty is truly enraged!"

"It is the Emperor's rage, the Emperor's rage…"

"There is definitely a problem with that letter!"

Thoughts flashed through the courtier's mind. However, all of them were simple baseless conjectures. No one knew the true content o the letter.

The Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was trembling.

He was the prestigious Crown Prince. However, under the immense pressure from the Emperor's rage, he would also feel a shiver down his spine. This was the power of the Majesty.

Perhaps, one day, he could attain such power too.

However…

It was still too early for him!

King Duan Lin Xinjue knelt down on the floor. On the surface, he seemed to be pleading for mercy for Lin Tianrong. However, anyone could see that he had a cold-blooded smile on the side of his lips.

"Father is enraged! It has been years since he was so angry. Fang Zhengzhi, you are truly something! To be able to let father feel so indignant with just a few letters. Even I am starting to get curious, what exactly did you use to frame my Third Brother?"

Lin Xinjue sniggered as he cast his glance onto the place where the golden light landed. Slowly, his eyes widened as the smile on his face became more obvious.

So that was why!

"It is a secret chamber!"

"There is a secret chamber underneath the study room!"

"How can it be?"

As the dust settled, the courtiers had also discovered the secret chamber underneath the study room. This was supposed to be a well0hidden room. However, all the disguise were no match for the beam of golden light that shone through the horizon.

Lin Tianrong also slowly moved his gaze towards the secret chamber. He stared straight into the entrance to the secret chamber which was blasted open and the black secret passage that was illuminated by the moonlight.

In an instant, his body shivered and he became extremely pale. Even his legs became wobbly.

It was the secret chamber!

Did father know about the secret chamber?

How could that be? Wasn't it about the Southern Region Noblelite? What has that got to do with the secret chamber? What was happening?

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong could not connect the relationship between the two. How would a letter regarding the Southern Region Noblelite lead to the discovery of his secret chamber underneath his study room?

They were two completely different issues altogether…

But now, they were so coincidentally connected together.

"Might it be…" Crown Prince Lin Tianrong's mind whirled at a high speed and when he once again cast his gaze onto Fang Zhengzhi, he finally understood.

It was deliberate!

It was a deliberate act to say that the letter was from the Southern Region Noblelite!

The aim was to make the Crown Prince deny the accusations so as to give him the authority to tear open the letter in front of everyone else. He could then expose this to the public.

At that moment, Crown Prince Lin Tianrong finally understood the entire ploy.

Fang Zhengzhi was not looking for any letters to begin with when he circled the study room. He was merely checking the validity of the secret chamber he had heard about. He then used "childish" methods to lower his opponent's guard.

"Damn it!" Li Tianrong felt bitter. As the prestigious Crown Prince, he was played in the Fang Zhengzhi's palms again and again. It felt extremely terrible.

"Do you have anything else to say?" Lin Mubai's voice interrupted Lin Tianrong's thought and pulled him back into reality.

"I have committed a sin and I should not have lied to father. You son… indeed constructed a smaller study underneath my main study. But… your humble son do not know that father was referring to this issue!" Lin Tianrong kept his head firmly to the ground. He was very clear with the information the secret chamber contained.

It contained all the conversations he had with the courtiers and the ploys he had so prided himself on accomplishing. However, it was now all exposed by the Emperor, Lin Mubai.

The moment these things were made known to public…

He would die!

So would the courtiers who had joined him in his hideous acts!

"Your Majesty, please calm down. Although the Crown Prince had hidden some things from you, there must be a reason for it. Perhaps the Crown Prince really did not know what your Majesty was referring to!

"Yes, your Majesty! It can be thought of as a type of protection as well, creating a secret chamber underneath the main study. After all, certain ancient books cannot be placed so flippantly in the main study. They have to be treated with care! Please forgive the Crown Prince for his ignorance!"

"Please forgive the Crown Prince for his ignorance!"

The courtiers looked at the exposed secret chamber and all knelt down simultaneously. Cold sweat broke out on their foreheads even though they had no idea what the Crown Prince was hiding in the secret chamber.

However…

They knew that somewhere in that stash of secret documents, their names would appear.

At this moment, saving the Crown Prince,

Was akin to saving themselves.

The Majesty Lin Mubai then stared at the kneeling courtiers and frowned while keeping silent. He then moved closer to the secret chamber a step at a time.

"Father, your son will repent! I beg for your forgiveness!" As Lin Tianrong saw Lin Mubai walking closer to the secret chamber, he shuffled forward a few steps and hit his head hard on the ground. A blood stain could be seen on the ground where he continuously begged for forgiveness.

"We beg for your forgiveness, your Majesty!"

"The Crown Prince is indeed guilty. However, he is still the Crown Prince. May the Majesty believe in his will to repent and give him one last chance!"

"Yes, may the Majesty forgive the Crown Prince!"

When they saw Lin Mubai waling towards the secret chamber, all the courtiers exchanged glances and once again knelt down simultaneously to beg for forgiveness.

"Father, I am truly repentant. Please give me one last chance. I will stay in the residence to reflect on my wrongdoings. Please forgive me!"

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong had already guessed the content of the letter. He also knew that the moment Lin Mubai entered the secret chamber, he would be finished.

He was now making a risky bet.

He was betting on Lin Mubai's last shred of kindness and benevolence.

"I have already given you a chance. However, you did not seem willing to take it that time. How can I then, give you another chance?" Lin Mubai said as he stared coldly at Lin Tianrong. The raging presence surrounding him did not seem to be diminishing.

"Father!" Lin Tianrong was desperate and could care less about his reputation. He immediately knelt down right at Lin Mubai's feet as stared at him with a tear-stricken face.

"Hmph!" Lin Mubai kicked him away and quickly walked towards the secret chamber. Lin Tianrong's pleading did not budge him at all.

As King Duan Lin Xinjue observed this scene, an expectant look appeared on his face.

Secret Chamber?

The secret chamber underneath the study room!

No one would believe it if the Crown Prince said that there was nothing inside. Once the information inside the secret chamber was exposed, he would definitely be ripped of his Crown Prince title.

As he stared at Lin Mubai who was moving closer to the secret chamber, he felt agitated. This was because the moment Lin Mubai entered the study room, it would signify the end of the Crown Prince.

"Father, can you still remember the queen. She as the queen for the Great Xia Dynasty as well as my mother. However, now that mother left on her own accord, I am the only one left. Although this Crown Prince Residence might seem prestigious, it is lonely. I have always remembered the look on mother's face when she left!"

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong quickly walked towards Lin Mubai and threw himself onto the ground. He then smashed his head repeatedly on a stone, causing blood flow profusely from his forehead.

Lin Mubai finally stopped in his tracks as his whole body trembled.

As the courtiers saw this scene, they seemed to see their last saving grace and exchange glances. Following which, they also spoke.

"Your Majesty, the Crown Prince had lost his mother since young. He might have made some mistakes here and there. May the Majesty forgive him and give him another chance!"

"Yes, your Majesty. When Queen Yan was present, she had made many contributions to the Great Xia Dynasty. May your Majesty forgive the Crown prince on this accord!

"Please have mercy, your Majesty, forgive the Crown Prince's sin of not being properly raised and restrained. May you put him under house arrest and let him reflect on his wrongdoings!"

"Please have mercy, your Majesty!"

"Please have mercy!"

The pleading sounds of the courtiers overwhelmed the residence as more than half the courtiers knelt onto the ground. They were pleading for the sake of the Crown Prince.

"Queen Yan?" Lin Mubai lifted his head ever so slightly and stared at the shimmering stars in the horizon. A figure then appeared in his head.

Gentle, magnanimous, wise and meticulous.

She was the most peaceful queen. She had once controlled the entire 3000 concubines huge imperial harem with grace and order. The Great Xia Dynasty had enjoyed peace within the imperial harem under her control.

Until she willingly gave up her seat.

Without any regrets.

Following which, Ping Yang's mother left the palace and left an imperial harem with no leader.

At that time, almost all the courtiers encouraged Queen Yan to once again take up the reins as the queen. However, Queen Yan did not so do.

She merely said, "The position of the queen belongs to her! Even if she left, it will always be hers. NO one can ever replace her!"

She then "left".

She used her death to send a message. The message was that the queen of the Great Xia Dynasty could only be that woman. No one else was befitting enough for that role.

No one understood Queen Yan's actions up till now.

However, one thing was true.

The day Queen Yan died, Lin Tianrong was immediately given the title of the Crown Prince!

And since that day, the Great Xia Dynasty had never gained a new queen.

That was until the appearance of Hua Fei. Even then, she was not conferred the title of a queen. No one ever brought up the issue of the queen or its successor.

"Father, please give your son one last chance!" Crown Prince Lin Tianrong stared at his father's hesitant face and gritted his teeth before smashing his head onto the stone once again.

Lin Mubai then slowly turned his body. As he stared at a bloodied Lin Tianrong, some minor changes could be observed on his face.

"I do not want to see you in the next month. Stay in your residence and reflect. If this ever happens again. I will punish you together with this sin you have committed!" Lin Mubai said after a long deliberation.

"Thank you, father. I will definitely reflect and turn over a new leaf!" Lin Tianrong was elated upon hearing those words and immediately knelt down to thank the Majesty for his grace.

He knew he had made the correct bet.

All the courtiers also heaved a sigh of relief upon hearing those words.

As long as Lin Mubai did not enter the secret chamber, it meant that everything was still under control. The Crown Prince seat would also still remain in the hands of Lin Tianrong.

This was both a misfortune and a blessing!

At that moment, Lin Mubai then cast his glance on Fang Zhengzhi before glancing at Ping Yang, who was standing beside him. He then shook his head lightly and sighed.

"Ping Yang, will you accompany me for a walk?"

"Alright!" Ping Yang immediately nodded upon hearing those words and bounced in front of Lin Mubai.

"Fang Zhengzhi, Yan Xiu, Nangong Mu, Wen Dabao, will you guys accompany me as well?" Lin Mubai nodded his head before casting his glance back at the rest.

"As you wish!" Yan Xiu, Nangong Mu, and Wen Dabao immediately replied with respect.

On the other hand, Fang Zhengzhi pouted and stared at the rest before he helplessly nodded, "Your humble commoner will do as you wish…"

"Back to the palace!"

"The Emperor returns to the palace!"

"The Emperor returns to the palace!"

As voices rang consecutively throughout the residence, Lin Mubai headed towards the palace. Beside him were Ping Yang, Fang Zhengzhi, Yan Xiu and the rest.

As Lin Tianrong witnessed this scene, he bit his lips and said, "Fang Zhengzhi, I, the Crown Prince will never forgive you. I will never let this go!"

King Duan then cast a glance at LIN Tianrong before shifting his glance over to the courtiers who had recovered from their kneeling position. A hint of disappointment could be seen from his eyes.

However, he did not have the intention to stay. He merely greeted Lin Tianrong and quickly followed behind Lin Mubai.

The courtiers then exchanged glances and waved at Lin Tianrong before quickly making themselves scarce. No one dared to mention anything about the secret chamber.

At that moment, no one dared to bring up the arson case in the Crown Prince Residence despite the fact that the Assassin was still at large.

However, this did not mean that the arson case was closed. This was because the case had already been made known throughout Flame Capital City.

In the night.

In an elegant and secretive accord, a figure whose features was completely concealed by a black-colored cape stood silently.

"Young Master, the investigation of the arson case in the Crown Prince Residence is completed!" At that moment, another figure appeared behind him.

"Speak." The black hooded figure said.

"There are two spots which caught fire. However, the most important spot was still the study room. The secret chamber underneath the study room was even exposed!"

"The secret chamber?"

"Yes, there is a secret chamber underneath the study room! It was the Majesty who personally blasted open the door to the secret chamber. However, he did not enter the room, merely giving the Crown Prince a month of house arrest. Your humble servant believes that… we should probably push back our plan."

"Haha, the plan stays. I believe… it is about time our Crown Prince unleash his full power!" The figure laughed as he said. Following which, the figure lifted his head and stared into the moonlight, allowing the silver brilliance to grace his exquisite features.

It was an elegant and delicate face.

A pair of eyebrows so refined they look like bladed edges of a sword. Black glimmering eyes and pale white skin. However, the pair of eyes seemed to be gleaming with too much resolve. It was emanating so much pressure that it would make any ordinary human feel uncomfortable. It was as though someone was looking at an eagle, an eagle staring at its prey from high above.

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Chapter 556: A Dramatic Change in Identity

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Flame Capital City, within a rustic and elegant compound.

A white figure could be seen in the courtyard, filled with the fragrance of flowers. Under the illumination of the moonlight, a long shadow could be seen.

"Young Master!" A figure walked towards the entrance of the courtyard and immediately knelt down.

"Is it all prepared?" The white figure slowly turned around and stared at the figure who just entered the courtyard. The white veil on her face fluttered ever so slightly.

"Young Master, everything is ready. However, there was a fire at the Crown Prince Residence tonight. Domain Chief Ying Feng is worried that it may affect our plan. Hence, he sent me to ask for Young Master's opinion," The figure said.

"Hm… it is normal that Domain Chief Ying Feng will have this worry. Has the issue been thoroughly investigated?" The white figure nodded before asking.

"The security alert around the Crown Prince Residence is high. There are more guards than usual after the fire. Hence, despite plating spies in the Crown Prince Residence way beforehand, we have only found a few things. First, there were two spots that caught fire, with the majority of the damage being done to the study room. Secondly, the secret chamber that was revealed underneath the main study room was instigated by a few letters Fang Zhengzhi claimed to have picked up. Lastly, no one knows about the specific details of the letter, although the Emperor was infuriated upon seeing the content."

"Letter?"

"Yes, from what I know, the content of the letter should have direct connections with the secret chamber underneath the study room. Fang Zhengzhi claims that he found those letters on the site. However, I believe that Fang Zhengzhi had prepared the letters way beforehand, and took the chance to present it to the Majesty. Although…"

"Although what?"

"Although the Majesty had found the secret chamber according to the content of the letter. He did not enter the secret chamber and conduct an investigation. This was akin to not punishing the Crown Prince despite concrete evidence that he was in cahoots with some courtiers. He simply let him go scot free. Hence, from my perspective, Fang Zhengzhi's plan must have failed!"

"Failed?" The white figure started thinking after hearing those words. After which, the figure then shook her head and said, "Many a time, things that seemed to have failed on the surface might be very successful. Perhaps there are still some things we have not realized. You mentioned that Fang Zhengzhi found more than one letter, am I right?"

"Yes!"

"A few letters… I understand now! You can stop the investigation into the case. How is the situation over at Ten Mile Lake? Is Yan Qianli still at Ten Mile Lake?" The white figure nodded and continued asking.

"Yes, based on what I have investigated, Yan Qianli should be returning to the capital after staying at Ten Mile Lake for three days. However, no one knows why she had not returned to the capital." The other figure then answered.

"It seems like an accident will happen for our plan this time around," The white figure then closed her eyes and frowned slightly.

"Then… should we still continue on our plan?"

"Yes. Do everything as per normal. No plan can be perfect. There is bound to be some accidents. I do not mind this one bit," The white figure shook her head and said.

"Yes! Then I will report back to the Domain Chief!" The figure then nodded before leaving.

The white figure then once again opened her eyes and lifted her head to look at the bright moon and glimmering stars, "Fang Zhengzhi, both of us have chosen the "sparrow" role this time around. However, who will be the true sparrow?"

She sat down elegantly and strummed the Chinese instrument delicately, immersing herself in the melodious tune.

It was not a long distance from the Crown Prince Residence to the palace. However, Fang Zhengzhi had been walking for a full 30 minutes and they had not reached their destination.

The reason was simple…

The Emperor Lin Mubai was walking very slowly.

How then, can Fang Zhengzhi walk fast?

Of course, Lin Mubai was not really walking. He was seated comfortably in a huge carriage. Fang Zhengzhi, Yan Xiu, Ping Yang and the rest were also on this same carriage.

It was extremely spacious and decorated with luxurious statues. Even with the six of them in it, there was still plenty of space.

"Father, do you have something to say? Why did you call everyone in?" Ping Yang blinked her eyes and stared at Lin Mubai, who was keeping his eyes half-closed.

"Of course!" Lin Mubai opened his eyes and stared at Ping Yang. Following which, he patted Ping Yang lightly on the head and cast his glance at Fang Zhengzhi, saying, "Fang Zhengzhi, speak. What do you want from me?"

"A mansion hundred over square miles in area!" Fang Zhengzhi immediately said without any hesitation.

"Hundred over square miles? Are you trying to build a palace?" Lin Mubai stared at Fang Zhengzhi in shock before gritting his teeth and said, "Alright, I'll allow it. However, Flame Capital City do not have such huge land space for you. You find your own place and I'll send people over to build it for you!"

"It would be for naught if I merely have the residence. I need servants who can clean and serve me in the residence," Fang Zhengzhi added.

"Rest assured. Since I have already promised you a residence, I will definitely give you servants and a cook as well. It comes as a package!" Lin Mubai could feel his wealth slowly depleting.

"I also want to abolish tax for the Northern Mountain Village and the other eight villages within a ten-mile radius from it!"

"I can understand that you would want to abolish tax for the Northern Mountain Village. After all, that is where you were born and raised. But why the eight villages within a ten-mile radius as well?" Lin Mubai was perplexed at the request.

"Because I can!" Fang Zhengzhi calmly replied.

Lin Mubai was dumbfounded and gritted his teeth while he said, "Alright then, because you can. I will promise you all of that. Do you have anything else you want?"

"Nothing else." Fang Zhengzhi shook his head.

"No more? Are you sure? I have such a big secret in your hands. The notorious Fang Zhengzhi only wants a mansion and some tax-free shenanigans from me? I was already prepared to part with a huge proportion of my wealth. Are you sure you are going to let me go so easily?" Lin Mubai said in disbelief.

"There is truly nothing else I want," Fang Zhengzhi once again shook his head.

"Alright then, since you are done, I will promise you all this on one condition!" Lin Mubai smiled as his eyes gleamed.

"I will not do anything too troublesome!" Fang Zhengzhi seemed to have predicted Lin Mubai would have a request. He did not seem surprised.

The Emperor?

All who were able to sit on the throne were considered a dragon amongst men. That meant that they were extremely shrewd and intelligent!

Since he had already promised to part with a mansion more than hundred square miles in area, why would he not request something from Fang Zhengzhi as well?

"It won't be troublesome at all," Lin Mubai gave a mysterious smile.

"Then please speak."

"It would be enough for you to know this fact. I am tired and wish to return to the palace now. I will send my instructions to Ping Yang Residence a few days later. You guys may return as well." Lin Mubai did not intend to continue the conversation. He merely stared at Fang Zhengzhi then at Ping Yang.

"Father, will third brother…" Ping Yang opened her mouth to speak as her pair of clear eyes sparkled with worry.

"One can forgive a sin committed by the heavens, but not one committed by himself! I only hope that he learns his lesson from this incident!" Lin Mubai spoke as his face was overwhelmed with worry.

"Then…" Ping Yang was slightly hesitant.

"It is late. Let's all go back and rest," Lin Mubai said.

"Then, we will be going!" Ping Yang nodded and stopped asking.

Yan Xiu and Nangong Mu did not say anything as well. In fact, they kept silent the moment they boarded the carriage.

Similarly, Wen Dabao also fell silent the entire time. He had an incredulous look on his face. This was because he still had not figured out what exactly happened.

Didn't the Emperor say to accompany him for a walk?

Was this all?

Furthermore, why did the Emperor bestow Fang Zhengzhi with a mansion hundred square miles wide in area? He even abolished tax for the Northern Mountain Village and many other villages. He even thought that these requests were too little?

What was going on? Might it be due to the letters?

Those letters…

What exactly did they contain?

Furthermore, what did Ping Yang's words meant? What did the Emperor mean as well? What did he mean by one could forgive a crime committed by the heavens, but not one committed by oneself?

Wen Dabao stared at Ping Yang, then at Fang Zhengzhi, Yan Xiu and Nangong Mu.

He was completely confused.

Two days later.

Law of Dao Imperial Examinations had officially begun.

These two days could be said to be the busiest two days for Flame Capital City. There had been many interesting happenings that filled the teahouses and restaurants with unending discussion topics.

However, on the official date of the Imperial Examinations, all the focus was still rightfully turned back onto the most prestigious examination in the Great Xia Dynasty.

Since early morning.

The Flame Capital City was in a lively and busy state. Countless students planning to sit for the examinations stood waiting at the entrance of the Imperial Academy, waiting to enter the examination grounds.

Nangong Mu, who was dressed inconspicuously, also stood within these candidates.

He did not make any attention-grabbing actions. However, he still attracted lots of attention and became the topic of discussion the moment he appeared.

"The last time, Nangong Mu got the top three in the Theory Examination. However, he was unlucky in the Combat Examination as he met Fang Zhengzhi, resulting in his disappointing overall results. Nangong Mu should be able to clinch the top place this time around!"

"I don't think that would be a problem. I'm just curious how much Nangong Mu had grown in two years?"

"Two years ago, Nangong Mu had already reached the pinnacle of the Heavenly Reflection State. Could he have reached the Supernatural State by now?"

"I don't know… After all, it is too difficult to progress from the Heavenly Reflection State to the Supernatural State. Alas, he is Nangong Mu, the brother of the prodigy Nangong Hao. No one knows."

"That's right. After all, he is Nangong Hao's brother!"

The candidates discussed softly within themselves. However, no one dared to approach him, only observing him from afar.

At that moment, three other figures also appeared from afar.

They were Fang Zhengzhi, Yan Xiu, and Ping Yang.

The still looked the same. However, the situation this time was different from the Imperial Examinations two years ago. Fang Zhengzhi's appearance immediately caused the prospective candidates to make way for him.

"It's Fang Zhengzhi!"

"Why is he still here? Didn't he already pass the Imperial Examinations?"

"Perhaps, he is only here to see Nangong Mu."

All the candidates stood at two sides of the Imperial Academy and stared at the three of them with a hint of curiosity in their eyes.

Fang Zhengzhi did not care about the discussion going on within the candidates.

He then walked towards Nangong Mu and stared at the closed front door of the Imperial Academy before pouting in dissatisfaction.

"Open the door!" Fang Zhengzhi shouted at the guards on two sides of the entrance.

"Open the door?"

"He is telling the Imperial Academy guards to open the door?"

"Are you kidding, who does he think he is?"

Everyone was shocked upon hearing Fang Zhengzhi's words. They then started looking at him with a condescending look on their faces.

However, the moment the guards heard Fang Zhengzhi's words, they exchanged glances before quickly opening the door of the Imperial Academy.

"Lord Fang, please!" The guards shouted with respect after opening the door.

The scene was clearly observed by all the candidates. They looked at the scene with widened eyes and dropped jaws, unable to react to the situation.

Fang Zhengzhi, on the other hand, did not hesitate and entered the Imperial Academy immediately.

Everyone was dumbfounded.

"He went in?"

"Why can he enter? I thought the Imperial Examination had not yet started!"

"What is going on?'

The candidates stared at one another with a perplexed expression.

But the truth was that…

Fang Zhengzhi had entered the Imperial Academy.

Furthermore, he entered it through the front door righteously, together with Yan Xiu and Ping Yang at his side. He also experienced no obstructions at all.

After a moment, the sound of a gong came from the inside of the Imperial Academy.

All the candidates seemed to be rudely awakened from their thoughts as well. They stopped thinking about Fang Zhengzhi and started recollecting their thoughts.

At that moment, the door of the Imperial Academy opened from the inside.

Two lines of guards swiftly walked out from the Imperial Academy. Dozens of Imperial Academy Invigilators clad in black robes followed after.

After which…

Everyone was once again dumbfounded.

Apart from the guards and the invigilators, there was one more person walking in the middle of this huge congregation. He was wearing a brand new black Imperial robe with a dazzling "Li" word carved on the chest area.

He was also holding a golden scroll on one hand.

"Fang Zhengzhi!"

"He… might he be…"

"How can this be!"

"Fang Zhengzhi is the Chief Examiner for this Imperial Examination?"

All the candidates stared at Fang Zhengzhi with widened eyes. They had never expected such a thing to happen.

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Chapter 557: Times Have Changed

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Fang Zhengzhi…

The Chief Examiner?

This was unbelievable no matter how you looked at it.

The Imperial Examination was of utmost importance in the capital. The person who passed the Imperial Examination would be able to become an official in court. The Chief Examiner was the person who wielded the highest authority in this highly regarded examination.

He could destroy a candidate's future with just a sentence or conversely, he could pave the way for another candidate if he wanted to. It was not an understatement to say that the Chief Examiner was the most important figure in this examination.

"This is not possible, this is an illusion!"

"How can Fang Zhengzhi be the Chief Examiner this time. He is not even 18 years old!"

"How can this be? This must be the first time since the founding of the Great Xia Dynasty that the Chief Examiner for the Imperial Examination is younger than 18 years old!"

All of the candidates stared at Fang Zhengzhi, who was standing in the middle of all the invigilators. After all. This was absurd.

'Master Fang, can we begin?" Just as the candidates were having doubts, an invigilator walked towards Fang Zhengzhi and asked in a respectful manner.

"Yes, you may begin," Fang Zhengzhi nodded his head and handed the golden scroll in his hand over.

"Yes!" The invigilator took over the golden scroll with both hands before slowly retreating back two steps. He then coughed softly before he opened the scroll, "By orders of His Majesty, Fang Zhengzhi has been bestowed the title of Chief Imperial Messenger of the Imperial Academy. He is a Rank 2 Official and currently enjoys the royal endowment. He will also be the Chief Examiner for this Law od Dao Imperial Examination!"

"Royal Rank 2 Official!"

"Oh my dear lord, he is really the Chief Examiner for this Imperial Examination!"

"A Chief Examiner younger than 18 years old. This must be the first since the founding of the Great Xia Dynasty. Furthermore, he has already been bestowed the title of a Rank 2 official and has the royal endowment! This is akin to the treatment received by the Six Council Officials!"

As the candidates listened to the content of the royal message, they were all dumbfounded. This result was not something they had expected.

This was because…

Just a few days ago…

When Fang Zhengzhi entered Flame Capital City together with Chi Hou and Yan Xiu from the Divine Constabulary, he was still a criminal. However, he was now already the Chief Imperial Messenger of the Imperial Academy, the Ministry of Rites Official, and enjoying the royal endowment.

How preposterous was that?

No one would believe it. However, the truth was right in front of their eyes.

At that moment, all the candidates stared at Fang Zhengzhi, the youngest Chief Examiner of the Imperial Examinations in the history of the Great Xia Dynasty, the person who was in control of their fates.

Thoughts then flashed through their mind.

Capital Examinations Double Roll Champion, Prefectural Examinations Double Roll Champion, Imperial Examination Double Roll Champion and Court Examination Double Roll Champion. This was the greatest achievement ever in the history of the Law od Dao Examination. Till date, no one had ever surpassed that amazing feat.

Furthermore, he was also the main architect of the Southern Region Battle scheme and the guy who once fought with half- saint demon Can Yang. Just one of this achievement would be enough to impress anyone.

However…

When all of these accolades were concentrated on a single individual, he then had the power and capabilities to become the youngest Chief Examiner for the Imperial Examinations.

The candidates exchanged glances and thought of the same thing. It was that Fang Zhengzhi had somehow become a mentor they must be grateful to if they passed this exam.

This was because their rankings in this examination would be personally handled by Fang Zhengzhi. In that case, wouldn't he be the mentor that all the successful candidates had to be grateful to?

Just thinking about calling a person younger than them their mentor…

The candidates felt dejected and worthless.

"It is about time. Let's begin the examinations." Fang Zhengzhi stared at the crowd of silent candidates and waved his hands, seemingly uninterested.

In fact, he had no interest in being the Chief Examiner whatsoever.

However…

This was the Emperor Lin Mubai's request.

He had already accepted the gift of the hundred square miles mansion. Furthermore, the Majesty had personally sent the royal message down to Ping Yang Residence. He had no choice but to accept it.

"Yes!" The invigilator nodded and immediately rang the second bell, signaling the candidates to enter the examination grounds.

Gong!

The sound of the giant cymbal reverberated through the academy.

At that same time, all the candidates recollected their thoughts. When their gaze once again fell back onto Fang Zhengzhi who was in the middle of all the invigilators, no one else had any doubt in their hearts.

That was because, despite their will, it was not something that they could change.

Furthermore, casting aside Fang Zhengzhi's background and character, he definitely had the capabilities and rights to be the Chief Examiner.

The reason was simple. He was the first person in history to have ever completed all six Imperial Examinations in one sitting and attained a perfect score in all of them.

This reason alone would suffice.

If such a person could not become the Chief Examiner, then who could?

Once the gong chimed, the Imperial Academy's door opened as the guards and the invigilators separated themselves into two neat lines.

Fang Zhengzhi then stood in the center of the entrance. The proper decorum of the Law of Dao Examinations dictated that all candidates taking the examination would have to give a scholar salute to the Chief Examiner before entering the examination grounds.

The candidates queued up orderly and respectfully greeted Fang Zhengzhi and allowed themselves to be checked by the guards. Fang Zhengzhi was also unexpectedly serious, putting on a stern expression and keeping his back upright.

"Hm…"

"Very good!"

"Good job! Work hard!"

"Get a good grade!"

Under the warm encouragement of Fang Zhengzhi, all the candidates entered the examination grounds with slightly more confidence.

Nangong Mu seemed to have accepted this as well. After getting checked by the guards, he walked towards Fang Zhengzhi and bowed respectfully just like the other students.

Following which, he then waited patiently for Fang Zhengzhi's words of encouragement.

He waited…

Then a voice rang beside his ears.

"Do you wish to be the champion? Just draw three circles on your exam paper!"

Nangong Mu felt his legs go wobbly and almost fell to the ground. He then stared calmly at Fang Zhengzhi, who was currently smiling cheerily at him.

What did this mean? The Chief Examiner was helping a specific candidate pass the examination? Three circles to be the champion? As he stared at Fang Zhengzhi's face, Nangong Mu was fell speechless.

Alas…

This guy was truly shameless.

How could he have said those words in a setting as serious as the Imperial Examination? Furthermore, he was the Chief Examiner and he said it right in front of all the candidates.

"I want to prove myself using my own strength!" Nangong Mu said as he gritted his teeth.

"Hmm, commendable. Alright then, don't blame me later on if I don't recognize your script and decides to fail you," Fang Zhengzhi shook his head and said regretfully.

Nangong Mu did not reply to that sentence and walked into the examination ground with a darkened face.

As the candidates listened to the conversation between Nangong Mu and Fang Zhengzhi, their faces also darkened. Could they really get the champion if they drew three circles?

No one could answer this question.

However, this information was like the plague. It instantly spread throughout the entire Imperial Academy. As long as one drew three circles on the paper, they would be able to get champion on the Theory Examination.

And the person who said this was none other than the Chief Examiner this time, Fang Zhengzhi, Master Fang!

"Shameless! Why would the Emperor choose this person to become the Chief Examiner? This is… this is just an insult to this highly regarded procedure that has been running through the Great Xia Dynasty for the past decades!" One of the courtiers shouted in rage as he heard this news.

This was especially so after the news of the three circles reached his ears. He felt a wave of rage and shame overwhelming him.

The few other courtiers that sat beside him also shook their heads as they were deep in discussion. They naturally disapproved of this action as well.

"However, while Fang Zhengzhi is really quite shameless, if we simply look at proficiency level in the Law of Dao, he is no doubt the most proficient in the entire Great Xia Dynasty," The other courtiers said after thinking for a moment.

"Hmm indeed. If we look at the Law of Dao alone, I'm afraid that even Nangong Hao and Chi Guyan might not surpass Fang Zhengzhi!"

"Yes, Fang Zhengzhi's proficiency in the Law of Dao is at least a hundred times higher than me!"

All the courtiers nodded their heads at this point.

While he was shameless,

Some things were true as well.

Completing six Imperial Examination papers within four hours was a feat that was unprecedented and probably impossible to surpass. To say that he would take the top place in the Great Xia Dynasty was not an overstatement.

"But his proficiency in the Law od Dao does not make him a good Chief Examiner. The character, sternness, and reputation of the Chief Examiner are important as well," The enraged official was clearly displeased.

"Times has changed. It might not be bad that the Emperor is trying new things. It has been long since the court had seen some new blood," The courtier patted his enraged friend on the shoulders as he said.

"Yes, Fang Zhengzhi was given the title of a Rank 2 Official this time and was even given the royal endowment. This is akin to the treatment received by the Six Council Officials!"

"I believe that Fang Zhengzhi is already not too far away from the Six Council Officials seat."

"If that is the case, it would be terrifying. A member of the Six Council Officials, the Chief Imperial Messenger of the Imperial Academy, the mentor of the scholars, privilege of choosing the people he wants and favorable treatment from both the Emperor and Princess Ping Yang. Who… who else could go against him in court?"

"Should we get on his good side beforehand?"

"I feel that…"

"I'm sorry, guys! I have something on at home, I will be going!"

"I also remembered some urgent matters I have to settle, I will be going!"

"I'll be going!"

"I mean… no one wants to foot the bill?" The enraged courtier widened his eyes and watched as his comrades leave one after another. He then stared at the table filled with delicacies and caressed his money pouch before his face went pale.

Flame Capital City, Royal Palace.

When everyone was concerned with the Imperial Examinations and Fang Zhengzhi, the royal palace seemed incredibly peaceful and calm.

Rows of royal guards clad in shining golden armor roamed the palace in an orderly and stern manner. Their spears reflected the blinding sunlight, casting warm glows all around.

The morning court session had ended even before the sun rose. Once the Imperial Examination began, the courtiers would also not enter the palace to request an audience with the Emperor.

For the palace which was usually filled with people….

It was truly a peaceful and calm day.

"We can finally rest for a day!"

"Yes, usually we would have to pick up courtiers after courtiers in and out of the palace. We cannot even stop to rest for a moment! My throat always feels like it is going to go hoarse any moment. It is finally time to rest!"

"Yes, it is only during the day of the Imperial Examination. After today, checking the scripts and reporting the scripts would be another long day of work.

The eunuchs who were in charge of sending messages in the palace yawned while they engaged in small conversations.

The female servants also got a rare break and they found a place with warm sunlight to rest. They stretched their tired bodies as they enjoyed the fragrance of the flowers coming from the Imperial Garden.

"How comfortable!"

"The concubines are all concerned about the Imperial Examinations. This puts a lot of pressure off our backs. We don't have to serve them every moment of the day anymore."

"At least we won't get beaten up today!"

The servants showed an expression of bliss and relaxation.

While they were serving the concubines, they would often get a beating if the concubine got angry. However, today was different. All the concubines seemed to be wishing for good luck and would refrain from doing such actions.

After all, although they were in the palace.

Most of them were of noble backgrounds and would have one of their family members participating in the examinations. If they could pass the examination and become a member of the courtiers, it would be beneficial to the concubines themselves as well.

The palace today was neither crowded nor sinister. One could not hear the desperate screams of the female servants when they were getting beaten, nor could they hear the shrill voices of the eunuchs as they shouted.

Everything seemed exceptionally peaceful.

And at the entrance of the royal palace, on top of the high castle walls was a figure with an expression starkly different from the eunuchs and the female servants.

The golden armor enhanced her delicate and exquisite figure.

She had that heroic presence and coupled with her refined eyebrows, would send chills down anyone's spine.

She was the commander of the Royal Guards, Chen Feihua.

She was also Imperial Concubine Hua Fei, the Emperor Lin Mubai's favorite concubine.

"Reporting to the commander, it is time for your break!" At that moment a royal guard swiftly moved towards Chen Feihua and whispered.

By normal standards, Hua Fei was definitely of a higher rank than the commander of the Royal Guards,

However…

As long as Chen Feihua was wearing the armor of the Commander of the Roya Guards, no one in the palace was allowed to call her Hua Fei. Even the Emperor Lin Mubai had to call her the commander!

Naturally, this rule would not apply to the courtiers.

In Chen Feihua's words, she was only in charge of the palace. She then should not have authority over what the courtiers outside of the palace and the Emperor's children should call her.

"Alright, I got it," Chen Feihua nodded and stared at the patrolling royal guards with an expressionless face.

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Chapter 558: Time and Night Descends

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

A moment later, after Chen Feihua cast her glance through the entire palace, she retracted her gaze and swung her arms to release some tension before walking down the castle wall.

"Inform Vice Domain Chief Bai that he will be on shift tonight!"

'Yes!" The guard nodded and answered immediately after receiving the command. He then quickly ran to report the message.

Chen Feihua then slowly walked deeper into the palace. After half an hour, she finally arrived at an elegant antique room.

The moment the few guards standing near the room saw Chen Feihua, they stood up in respect and pushed the door open carefully.

Chen Feihua then walked into the room.

A few female servants closed the door and helped Chen Feihua remove the armor on her body. They then helped her change into a dress before placing a pot of freshly brewed tea and a scroll in front of her.

"Is your Highness not on duty tonight?" The female servant lightly asked.

"No." Chen Feihua shook her head.

"Then do you want me to inform Eunuch Wei, to call the Emperor here tonight?" The female servant nodded before asking.

"There is no need to. Please leave me. Without my command, do not let anyone disturb me." Chen Feihua once again shook her head.

"Yes!" The few female servants then immediately retreated out of the room.

Chen Feihua's eyes had never left the scroll that was passed to her. She used her porcelain-like fingers to gently flip the scroll.

In the palace filled with deceit, bribery, and schemes, Chen Feihua strived to do her best and fulfill her responsibility, as though nothing else mattered.

Within the Imperial Academy.

The Imperial Examination had already started. Countless candidates stared at the paper in front of them and were burying their heads in their essays. This Imperial Examinations contained six parts, as usual, and were as difficult as its predecessors.

All the candidates frowned upon seeing those questions.

"It is too difficult!"

"I've heard that in the previous examination, Fang Zhengzhi completed all six parts in four hours. I have no idea how he could have done it!"

"It is incredible!"

After experiencing the difficulty of the paper first-hand, all the candidates had a newfound respect for the Chief Examiner Fang Zhengzhi.

If their image of Fang Zhengzhi only came from rumors before this.

For example, he was a shameless individual born in a peasant family in the wilderness. He paid no attention to decorum and had never received any formal education growing up.

However…

Staring at the six-part paper in front of them, they knew that it was this exact person that did what they could never do in their lifetime. This was the person that became the Chief Examiner of the Imperial Examination, the Chief Imperial Messenger of the Imperial Academy and the mentor of the scholars before he even turned 18 years old.

Gong!

The sound signaled that it was nearly time to hand in the papers.

All the candidates were flustered. They stared at their half-completed paper and felt despair and dejected.

It was too difficult, they were not even close to completing the paper. The time given to them was merely four hours. It was too difficult to complete all the questions within the time limit.

Not to mention checking their work or paying attention to the nuances of the questions.

Were they really going to hand in their paper like this?

A decade of studying beside the cold and lonely window frame, just for a moment of fame in the Imperial Examination.

However, if they did not even complete the paper, how could they possibly make it to the roll? How could they then, gain fame and power?

"Three circles!"

As though struck by an epiphany, all the candidates with empty spots on their papers thought of this line Fang Zhengzhi said. As long as one drew three circles on the paper, they would have a chance to be conferred the title of champion in the Imperial Examination.

But, how should we draw these three circles?

Where then, should we draw them?

This was another difficult problem!

"Let's go!"

"I am considered to be an exceptional artist, three circles is by no means difficult! Did he think this will be difficult enough to stop me?"

"I am going to draw the three most beautiful circles in this examination hall!"

As all the candidates put down their pens, the circles on their papers started appearing on by one. Following which, the sound signaling the candidates to hand in their papers rang.

Gong!

The candidates heaved a sigh of relief and looked at the circles on their paper with satisfaction. They then stared at the time and realized that it was almost noon.

Handing in a collecting the papers did not take too long.

As the candidates handed in their papers and sealed it with their names, a thick stack of exam papers were collected by the invigilators and kept into a secure room.

More than ten Imperial invigilators were already sitting in front of the table and looking at the thick stack of exam papers while rubbing their palms. It was time to showcase the results of their decades of study.

Fang Zhengzhi, Ping Yang and Yan Xiu then sat above them.

Normally, the moment the Imperial Examination concluded, the busiest procedure of script checking would begin. After all, it would not be long before they had to release the results. They only had time until the following day to do so. This meant that by sunset tomorrow, they had to finish vetting all the hundred over scripts.

Time could be said to be very tight.

"Master Fang, shall we start vetting right away?" An invigilator stared at the collected scripts before asking Fang Zhengzhi.

"There is no rush, let's eat first." Fang Zhengzhi had already sat down for long enough. He even felt an ache in his thighs and butt region. It would be impossible for him to begin the vetting procedure right away.

"This… Master Fang, vetting of the exam scripts had been an important and rushed event in the past years. If we deliberately set aside time to eat, I'm afraid time-wise…" The invigilator then stopped talking.

In the past, the vetting procedure was extremely insane. Eating was the least of their worries, all the invigilators had merely four hours to sleep each day.

To think that Fang Zhengzhi would suggest eating…

This undoubtedly raised doubts and worry in the minds of the invigilators. After all, they were not Fang Zhengzhi and would not be able to withstand the wrath of the Emperor. If the vetting of the scripts were indeed delayed, they would be the one getting punished.

"Relax, we have enough time," Fang Zhengzhi said as shook his head, seemingly unworried.

"This…" The invigilators stared at each other as though they wanted to say something. However, once they cast their glance back at Fang Zhengzhi, they swallowed their words.

As for Ping Yang…

She looked like she was not able to stand it anymore as well.

Her aim of accompanying Fang Zhengzhi to the Imperial Academy was merely to experience what it was like to invigilate an Imperial Examination. As for the vetting of scripts, she had no interest in that.

"Yan Xiu, I am slightly hungry as well. Where are we headed to for lunch?" Ping Yang rubbed her stomach and stared at the nonchalant Yan Xiu.

"Unravel Restaurant," Yan Xiu answered without any delay.

"Unravel Restaurant? Hm, not bad, although that place is slightly further away, their stewed pork appeals to my taste buds. Let's go to Unravel Restaurant for lunch then. I am treating!" Ping Yang nodded in satisfaction before waving to the invigilators cheerily.

"Then let's go to the Unravel Restaurant for lunch. All of us." Fang Zhengzhi agreed with Ping Yang's decision and walked towards the entrance.

All the invigilators stared at the three of them, dumbfounded. They were planning to go to the Unravel Restaurant which was so far away just to have a meal when the time was so tight?

This was something that was unprecedented.

However, the Chief Examiner had already spoken. They naturally could not go against his orders. After all, Fang Zhengzhi was the Chief Imperial Messenger of the Imperial Academy, that was to say, their boss.

Therefore…

All of them headed out of Imperial Academy.

Under the horrified and perplexed gazes of the candidates who just left the academy, they head towards the Unravel Restaurant.

"What is happening? The invigilators are not going to vet the scripts?"

"They went out together?"

"Are they actually going to eat?"

"That cannot be. In the past, weren't the invigilators extremely busy? How can they have time to go out for a meal?"

All the candidates had an incredulous expression on their face.

After which, they saw a bunch of invigilators led by Fang Zhengzhi and Ping Yang walked a total of an hour before they stepped into a place called Unravel Restaurant.

"They are really going to eat!"

All the candidates stared at the scene with widened eyes.

At the same time, the candidates who were celebrating the end of their examinations in the Unravel Restaurant also stared at the scene with shock. They were staring at Fang Zhengzhi and the invigilators entering the restaurant.

"Am I seeing things?"

"I think I am too!"

"The invigilators are actually coming to such a far place just to eat. Shouldn't they be vetting the scripts in the academy?"

No candidates believed what they saw. However, the truth was that the bunch of invigilators, Fang Zhengzhi and Ping Yang included just brazenly walked into a room on the second floor.

Then…

The Flame Capital City burst into a fanatical discussion once again!

Almost all the courtiers received the same news. After the Imperial Examination, not only did Fang Zhengzhi not vet the scripts, he even went to a restaurant in the South of the city called the Unravel Restaurant to have lunch.

"What is Fang Zhengzhi thinking? Isn't he afraid that he would not have enough time?"

"The Majesty gave him such an important job but he is making a fool out of himself! Heading halfway across the city just to have lunch? I have to reprimand him for this!"

"Forget it, he is now protected by the Emperor. Even the Crown Prince cannot do anything to him, you reprimanding him? Do you still want to live?"

"Just what, I want to see if he truly can finish vetting all the scripts in the allocated time. If he doesn't, how is he going to explain to the Majesty?"

The courtiers felt that Fang Zhengzhi's actions were unruly and disrespectful. However, under such circumstances, they could do nothing to change the situation.

Therefore…

They could only wait.

Fang Zhengzhi took his time with the meal. After the main course, he even ordered a plate of fruits and only finished his meal after two hours.

The invigilators were already extremely anxious and some could not even sit still. By the time they exited the restaurant, the sun was already setting and the sky had begun to turn dark.

"Master Fang, shall we vet the scripts now?"

"There is no rush, let's take a nap and start vetting tomorrow," Fang Zhengzhi shook his head before burping and stretching his body. He seemed relaxed.

Waking up early in the morning then invigilating.

How troublesome.

This was what Fang Zhengzhi was thinking at the moment. If possible, he truly did not want to be involved with something that requires so much effort but gives so little in return.

"Master Fang, please spare us. We are merely invigilators! If we delay the vetting of the scripts, we may be beheaded!"

"Yes, Master Fang, we better start vetting the scripts now!"

"We have to release the results the following day, if we only have a day to vet tomorrow, it will be impossible to finish vetting all the scripts!"

The courtiers almost knelt down to beg for Fang Zhengzhi to start vetting the scripts.

The important of the Imperial Examinations knew no bounds.

If they did not complete the vetting within the allocated time, no one knew what the consequences were. In fact, it had never happened.

"Fang Zhengzhi, are you sure that you can finish vetting all the scripts within a day?" Ping Yang stared at the pained expression on the faces of all the courtiers before casting her glance at the relaxed Fang Zhengzhi. She then grew slightly doubtful. After all, she had some understanding regarding the vetting of the Imperial Examination scripts.

"One day?" Fang Zhengzhi pouted before saying, "I am thinking of vetting all the scripts in four hours. How tiring must it be to vet for a full day!"

"Four hours?"

"How can this be, there are a few hundred scripts waiting for us to vet! From the initial vetting to the second stage, every script has to pass through at least five invigilators. After which, we still have to…"

"That is impossible!"

The other invigilators also widened their eyes upon hearing this brazen declaration.

If there was an answer script, then it might be possible to finish vetting all the scripts in a day. However, the Imperial Examination required answers that were up to interpretation.

In others words, many things require careful consideration and logical reasoning.

Under such circumstances, it required a few invigilators to discuss and finally agree upon whether the candidate's interpretation was of first-class or second-class and so on.

Furthermore, every script had to be vetted by more than five invigilators. When all give invigilators were done, they would then send it over for the second-round of vetting.

Let's not say four hours…

Time would be extremely tight even if they had two days.

"Master Fang, this is not a joking matter. May Master Fang return to vet the scripts immediately. We are prepared to sacrifice out sleep and give it our all!" A courtier said with ambition and resolve.

"Yes, please order for us to return and start vetting the scripts!" The other invigilators nodded in agreement and shouted.

"You guys truly don't want to rest for the night and want to start immediately?" Fang Zhengzhi stared helplessly at this bunch of invigilators as he said.

"Yes!" The invigilators nodded.

"Alright then, let's start now!" Fang Zhengzhi stared at the sky and finally agreed.

"Thank you, my lord!" All the invigilators heaved a sigh of relief upon hearing Fang Zhengzhi's agreement. They then hurried back to the Imperial Academy.

Ping Yang, on the other hand, followed behind curiously.

As for Yan Xiu, he seemed exceptionally calm and not worried at all.

It did not take long for the invigilators to return to the Imperial Academy. They ran back to their tables and stared at the huge stack of scripts as a worried expression inevitably appeared on their faces.

"Start vetting!" Fang Zhengzhi gave the command.

"Yes!" The invigilators nodded and started giving out the scripts.

"Pick out the scripts that have circles on them. Then, discard all of them," Fang Zhengzhi said as he stared at the invigilators allocating the scripts.

"What?"

All the invigilators were dumbfounded at this request. They all stopped in their tracks and stared at Fang Zhengzhi with widened eyes, not able to react to the situation.

All those who drew circles on their scripts would fail the test?

What was going on?

They had all heard Fang Zhengzhi mention that those who drew circles would have the chance at getting the champion spot! They were even prepared to pay extra notice to those who drew circles on their paper.

Why did Fang Zhengzhi suddenly change his mind?

"Master Fang, this… might not be very appropriate?"

"Yes, will it be fair if we do this?"

"Although this would ensure that we have enough time, but if we really go through with this…"

The invigilators all voiced out their concerns. This method of script vetting was undoubtedly too flippant for an exam as prestigious as the Imperial Examination.

Was this guy really just going to just fool around?

At that moment, all the invigilators had this thought in their mind. They stared at Fang Zhengzhi's flippant demeanor and helplessly sighed.

"It seems like you people don't believe my judgment. Let's do this. Pick a few random scripts with circles on them and take a look. You will believe me then." Fang Zhengzhi could, of course, guess their thoughts upon seeing the expression on their faces. However, he was not eager to explain himself. He merely pointed to the stack of scripts in front of them.

Although the invigilators had doubts about Fang Zhengzhi's speech, they still acted quickly.

Following which…

All of them started frowning.

he scripts circulated amongst the invigilators and were eventually cast aside.

"What is this person writing?"

"He dared to hand in a script with such a huge part unanswered?"

"This… they are all…"

After the invigilators were done with ten scripts, the expression on their faces changed. They stared at the scripts with circles on them and fell speechless.

"Do I have to say it again?" Fang Zhengzhi smiled and looked at the invigilators below.

"No… you don't have to!"

"Master Fang's insights is truly incomparable!"

"The scripts with circles are truly not worthy of consideration. Master Fang is right! There is no unfairness in this!"

The invigilators then exchanged glances and nodded.

"Then let's begin," Fang Zhengzhi nodded.

"Yes!" The invigilators immediately replied.

Following which, the scripts with circles were singled out and cast aside. A few invigilators who were still not bought over briefly glanced through these scripts as they were put aside.

However, they all shook their head in disagreement.

After the filtering, only around sixty scripts remained. All the scripts with circles were singled out and placed at one side.

It was naturally much easier to vet sixty scripts than the hundred over that they were tasked to do originally.

Four hours later.

The list of names who passed the Imperial Examinations was finalized.

"Alright then. We are almost done. You people finalize the list and send in the results to your Majesty!" Fang Zhengzhi stared at the list and stretched before preparing to leave the area.

The moment Ping Yang heard this sentence, she immediately opened her eyes. It was almost four hours since the vetting began, she had already become impatient. If not for her curiosity with Fang Zhengzhi's vetting methods, she would already have returned to Ping Yang Residence.

"Can we leave already?"

"Yes!" Fang Zhengzhi nodded.

"We are done?" Ping Yang still could not believe her ears.

"Yes, we are all done," Fang Zhengzhi nodded once again.

"That cannot be! You really completed the vetting process in less than four hours. If this new reaches my father, god knows how he will react." Ping Yang said. She was truly surprised at his efficiency.

"You will know when he gets the results." Fang Zhengzhi waved his hands as he said.

"Yes. I will definitely report this matter to my father personally," Ping Yang nodded her head as she listened, as though she had accomplished this feat herself.

This two people held a light-hearted conversation as they left, with Yan Xiu following quietly behind.

When the three of them left the room…

The invigilators all exchanged glances and could see the same perplexed yet impressed look on each other face.

"Is this Fang Zhengzhi?"

"The Chief Examiner who is younger than 18 years old, the new Chief Imperial Messenger of the Imperial Academy!"

"Your Majesty truly has an eye for talent… it is not something we commoners can do!"

"He completed the vetting in less than four hours. If not for the fact that I witnessed it first hand, I would never have believed it!"

If the invigilators had any qualms about Fang Zhengzhi being the Chief Examiner, they were all completely eradicated at this moment. No one had any more objections.

Within four hours…

The results for the Imperial Examinations were out!

This was an unprecedented happening in the Great Xia Dynasty since its founding.

"Fang Zhengzhi, can you please tell me. How are you so sure that the scripts with circles are definitely the ones that failed? What if there are some hidden gems within the stack, wouldn't that be…" After walking out of the Imperial Academy, Ping Yang seemed to become more aware of the situation and asked.

"A person who thought about cheating even in a Theory Examination would never be a true scholar. Do you then think he would work for the palace conscientiously and with fervor?" Fang Zhengzhi looked at Ping Yang and answered.

"Hm… now that you mention it, it seems to make sense. Even if we truly left out some hidden gems along the way, based on this act alone, we can determine his flawed character and cast him aside!" Ping Yang was stunned for a moment and immediately regain her usual playful demeanor. She then said, "Shall we go back to the residence for a meal?"

"The time is just about right!" Fang Zhengzhi did not reply to Ping Yang's question. He merely looked upwards and stared at the darkened sky.

A star shined brightly in the horizon.

It was extremely bright.

However, what is signified was also the darkness of the sky.

"Time? What do you mean it is about time? Are you actually saying…?" Ping Yang stared at Fang Zhengzhi with a perplexed expression. Following which, a brilliance flashed through her pair of clear blue eyes.

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Chapter 559: That Which I Seek Is The World!

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

"Yes." Fang Zhengzhi nodded.

"But, didn't father already…" Ping Yang knew what Fang Zhengzhi was trying to say. However, she still shook her head in disbelief.

"What's meant to come will come," Fang Zhengzhi said calmly.

"If we had already predicted it beforehand, why don't we want to stop it?" Ping Yang stared at Fang Zhengzhi with a perplexed expression.

"How can you stop that which has not happened?"

"But in that case…"

"Some things cannot be prevented even if you know them in advance. That is because once he had that thought, there is no way he won't try to accomplish it. It is only a matter of time.: Fang Zhengzhi explained once again.

Yan Xiu nodded his head in agreement upon hearing this. However, he still chose to remain silent.

"What about you? Do you have such thoughts?" Ping Yang cast her glance onto Fang Zhengzhi anxiously.

"A long time ago…"

"What about… what about now?"

"Who would have completely no desire for the throne? However, after giving it some thought, I feel that I might not be all that suitable for that seat." Fang Zhengzhi said in a rare serious tone.

"Not suitable?"

"Yes, I will have to wake up before the sun rises every morning to do the morning court session. I will have to stay at the same place the whole time and also defend myself against people plotting against me. It is too tiring!"

"Too tiring… is that even a reason?" Ping Yang blinked her eyes in confusion. She had grown up in the royal family since young and naturally knew the importance of the throne seat.

Alas, she was born in the royal family.

God knows how many of her blood brothers had fought over that seat their whole lives. Many even ended up dead or being banished due to their actions. However…

Someone was telling her that the throne seat was too tiring.

This reason was slightly incredulous.

"Yes, that is my reason," Fang Zhengzhi nodded and repeated with conviction.

"Yan Xiu, do you think that is even a reason?" Ping Yang gave up on Fang Zhengzhi and immediately turned to ask Yan Xiu, who was standing by her side.

"Yes," Yan Xiu nodded without hesitation.

"Why?" Ping Yang could not seem to understand as she asked.

"That is because I feel it is tiring as well," Yan Xiu once again replied.

"You also feel that it is tiring? Are you telling me… you are also aiming… no that is not right. If you truly want the throne seat, that means that King Yan also… that is not right as well! How can King Yan have such thoughts…"

"The tiredness I'm referring to is the Western Liang throne seat!" Yan Xiu stared at the confused Ping Yang and explained.

"The Western Liang King Yan seat? How tiring can that be? You have the elite Yan cavalry and you get to rule over the entire area. Wait a minute, are you telling me… you don't wish to inherit the throne?"

"Yes." Yan Xiu nodded once again.

"How can you not? You are a son of Yan! Furthermore, King Yan will never agree to your decision!"

"Yes, he will not."

"Then can you go against King Yan's will? I clearly remember that you listen to your grandfather all the time!" Ping Yang was even more confused upon hearing those words.

"I don't know," Yan Xiu shook his head.

"Alright then, I will take it that that is a joke. Oh, Fang Zhengzhi, since you have already guessed… tell me, what should we do next?" Ping Yang pouted as she turned to look at Fang Zhengzhi.

"I have no idea," Fang Zhengzhi answered truthfully.

"You have no idea?" Ping Yang's eyes widened as they were filled with disbelief.

"Of course I have no idea. How would I know how and what to do in this kind of scenario?" Fang Zhengzhi replied with a straight face.

"How can you not know? If you do not know why didn't you stop this from happening!" Ping Yang immediately became anxious and her face turned slightly red.

"I refuse to answer what I have already answered.," Fang Zhengzhi stared at Ping Yang condescendingly.

"You shameless person, don't play suspense with me, the princess! Alright then, how much silver would it take for you to tell me the plan!

"I truly have no plans," Fang Zhengzhi laid out his hands helplessly as he said.

"Really?"

"That's right, it's very real."

"Then what do we do? Are we really going to stand by and watch?"

"That was what I was planning to do."

Ping Yang's lips trembled for a few moments as she stared at Fang Zhengzhi with her pair of crystal clear eyes, as though trying to see through his thoughts. However, she gave up eventually and said, "No way, I cannot just sit by and do nothing!"

"And what are you going to do?" Fang Zhengzhi stared at Ping Yang expectantly as he asked.

"This…" Ping Yang was stunned as her face blushed. As Fang Zhengzhi had said, what could she do without a plan?

However…

She would not want to just stand by and do nothing!

"Do you truly wish to do something?" Fang Zhengzhi stared at Ping Yang's blushed face and sighed as he asked.

"Of course!" Ping Yang said with a straight face.

"Then try to think of a plan with your witty brain."

"Think? Think what?"

"What would you have done if you were orchestrating this plan?" Fang Zhengzhi asked.

"If I am orchestrating? This…" Ping Yang fell silent and started thinking. After a moment, she shook her head and said, "This is too difficult, it is almost impossible. Even if we take out father's own prowess, the royal guards themselves would be a problem!"

"So, what would be the greatest problem?"

"Naturally the royal guards!" Ping Yang did not hesitate to reply.

"Mmm…" Fang Zhengzhi nodded.

"What does mmm means? Are you saying… that's not possible. The royal guards have been in the hands of Aunt Hua all these years. How can they betray father!" Ping Yang said in disbelief.

"Yes, if they will not betray the Majesty, then what should we do?"

"This…" Ping Yang was once again startled. Fang Zhengzhi's words swirled around in her brain. If they would not betray the Emperor, then what was the next step?

Time flew.

At that moment…

A brilliant light shone within the palace. That light was blinding and appeared out of nowhere into the horizon, illuminating the sky right above the palace.

"Hmm?" A group of people passing by the Imperial Academy stared at the light emerging out from the palace with a surprised expression. "What is happening to the palace?"

It was impossible to stay calm.

This was because this was Flame Capital City, and that place is none other than the palace!

In actual fact, not only were they surprised, the entire Flame Capital City was shocked at the sudden appearance of that light.

"There is a duel within the palace?"

"Are you telling me… there are assassins?"

"That cannot be! The royal guards are present, who will dare to infiltrate the palace?"

"But that light just now… what is going on?"

Everyone stared at the light in awe while feeling extremely puzzled.

In Flame Capital City, when all the courtiers saw this light, they immediately frowned. Unlike the commoners, they knew exactly where this light was coming from.

Most importantly…

They could see the significance and power of this light!

"The palace!"

"Who is it?"

Flame Capital City, within the barracks stationed outside the East gate.

This was the main base of the city guards. At that moment, all of them were also looking in the direction of the light.

All of them were also equally astonished.

They were the city guards!

Their job was to protect the safety of Flame Capital City. However, their job scope had never included guarding the safety of the palace. This was because the palace had always been personally guarded by the royal guards.

However, this did not mean that they would do nothing while they watch a battle happen in the palace where the Emperor, also known as the son of the heavens was living in.

"Seal the gates!" A commander immediately ordered.

The first thing to do when the palace was in trouble was to seal the city gates. This could prevent the assassins from escaping and also defend against further aggression.

After all…

No one could confirm that there would be no further backups from outside of Flame Capital City.

"Halt!" A voice rang at this time. Following which, a figure appeared behind the commander. He was clad in a silver armor and a ferocious beast carving could be seen on his helmet.

This was the hallmark of power, a trademark armor of King Duan.

"Respect for King Duan!" The commander immediately turned and knelt down.

"I have received information that someone will be assassinating the Majesty tonight. All the city guards stay alert!" King Duan Lin Xinjue waved his hands at the commander before leaping into the middle of the city guards.

All of the city guards had a shocked expression on their faces upon hearing Lin Xinjue's words. To think that there were people who wanted to assassinate the Emperor!

How could this be?

They were in Flame Capital City!

There were countless city guards and even royal guards stationed within the palace. How could someone think about assassinating the Emperor under such impenetrable defense?

"All the city guards at my command!" King Duan Lin Xinjue did not feel the need to explain to the city guards. He simply flashed the city guard token.

"Yes!" All the city guards stared at the city guard token in King Duan Lin Xinjue's hand and recollected themselves. Their eyes shone with a firm resolve.

The command was absolute!

This was their duty as soldiers and also something that they repeated every night.

Anyone holding the city guard token would be the arbiter of their fate.

Moreover, the person holding the token now was King Duan Lin Xinjue. They naturally obeyed without hesitation.

"The first squad, surround the East gate and prevent the assassins from leaving!"

"Yes!"

"The second squad, head towards the South gate…"

"Yes!"

"Third squad…"

"Yes!"

"The rest, follow me into the palace to save the Emperor!" King Duan' gaze seemed exceptionally cold at that moment.

"Yes!"

Once all the city guards heard Lin Xinjue's command to seal off the four palace gates and charge into the palace, they headed straight out of their barracks and charged towards the palace.

The sky was still darkening.

A bright moon slowly rose.

There were no signs of rain, although a light breeze graced Flame Capital City. The moonlight shone onto the ground and illuminated a dark figure on top of a building not far away from the palace.

He wore his court attire neatly and a bright sapphire was engraved onto his headwear. A light brilliance shone within the crystal.

Behind him, there were ten other black-masked figures. They had their swords on their back and their eyes shone mercilessly with bladed resolve.

Su Qing!

A man who rose from a Rank 4 Official to the Chief of the Northern Lands Five Constabularies in merely a year. He should be in prison now, but…

He was standing on top of the building.

"It has finally begun!" Su Qing cast his glance on the majestic castle walls as he said. He could not see what was happening within the palace. This was because the law of the Great Xia Dynasty dictated that the buildings around the palace must be of a lower height than the castle walls.

However, he simply stood silently on top of the building and stared into the tall castle walls as a cold-blooded smirk appeared on his face.

"My lord, King Duan had started his actions!" A figure landed on top of the building like a dragonfly skidding through the water. He was incredibly silent with his movements.

"I got it." Su Qing nodded.

After the figure heard Su Qing's reply, he then quickly retreated, as though he had never appeared on the building.

"Soon, just a while later. Just a while later and the results will be out!" Su Qing muttered softly.

A while later, he cast his gaze away from the castle wall and subconsciously stared at a huge building from afar.

On the entrance of that building were three turquoise-colored, elegantly written characters.

The Imperial Academy!

"Chief Imperial Messenger of the Imperial Academy? Chief Examiner, Rank 2 Official with royal endowment, all accomplished under the age of 18. I'm afraid such accomplishments are unprecedented in the entire history of Great Xia Dynasty."

"Very well!"

"At the very least, you are qualified to be my opponent!"

"However, that is only the beginning. How can a cricket block a battering ram? What you seek is merely official rankings. However, that which I seek is the world!"

"How then… can you hope to defeat me?"

"Fang Zhengzhi, no matter how arrogant and intelligent you are, if you cannot control the world, how can you become my opponent?"

"You will not stop me this time!"

The side of Su Qing's lips lifted ever so slightly, revealing a cold-blooded sneer. At the same time, his eyes seemed to glow in a chilling brilliance, which appeared even more sinister under the illumination of the moonlight.

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Chapter 560: The Perfect and Unassailable Plan

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Flame Capital City, Within the palace.

Over twenty masked black figures were staring at a middle-aged man clad in golden armor. Their gazes were cold and without mercy.

Behind the middle-aged man were a few hundred royal guards. However, the royal guards were all lying on the ground and drenched in perspiration.

This was a strange scene.

This was the palace within the Flame Capital City!

Normally, this area was controlled by the royal guards. However, the royal guards did not seem to have the advantage in this situation. Conversely, they seemed to be unable to move at all.

"Bai Qi, is there any point in struggling?" A masked figure with sharp gaze walked forward as he cast his gaze on the middle-aged man clad in golden armor.

Beside the black figure was another one of his comrades, though this figure had a more gentle and feminine gaze.

The two of them looked slightly different from the rest. Their clothing seemed to be a lot more elegant. Clearly, it was made from a higher quality material.

"You recognize me?" The golden armored man struggled to keep himself from fainting and supported himself with one hand on the ground. He perspired profusely though he still managed to stay upright.

"Of course, why would I not recognize the vice-commander of the royal guards?" The masked figure smiled gently though his expression remained stern.

The feminine black figure neither spoke nor utter even a sound.

Same goes for the other masked figures.

"Who exactly are you guys?" Bai Qi's mouth trembled as he spoke. He seemed extremely weak.

"Aren't you supposed to be more concerned about what we have done to you?" The masked figure stared at the trembling Bai Qi and asked.

"Hmph! I have no interest in these lowly tactics!" Bai Qi gritted his teeth and muttered.

"Is that so? Then we shall not waste any more time." The masked figure nodded his head and walked towards Bai Qi one step at a time.

"Tell me. How did you people do it? All the royal guards on shift today were all poisoned. How could you people have known who are the guards on duty?"

"It seems like the vice commander is still slightly curious, am I right?" The masked figure walked as he sneered. A cold-blooded smile appeared on his face.

On the other hand, Bai Qi gritted his teeth and kept silent.

The masked figure stared at Bai Qi and finally stopped in his tracks. He then slowly bent forward and whispered into Bai Qi's ears.

"What? You guys…" Bai Qi's eyes widened as his eyes widened in horror, "Good move, but I don't believe that you can bribe everyone in the kitchen as well as the people in charge of delegating the shifts in the royal guards!"

"Bribe? Haha, that is too troublesome. It would be simpler if we have their family members as hostages!" The masked figure once again lifted his head and laughed.

"You guys… the families of the royal guards are protected by the kingdom. This information could not have been leaked. How did you get them?"

"That is something you don't have to know!" The masked figure did not wish to continue the conversation any further and lifted his hand, "Vice commander Bai is truly loyal. Even after being poisoned by the lethargy powder, you are still standing in our way. I will send you off quickly!"

"Hmph!" Bai Qi's eyes widened and stopped talking.

At that moment, another figure appeared right in front of the masked man and blocked his hand which was just inches away from Bai Qi.

The masked figure was startled and immediately looked to his side.

It was the feminine figure that was standing beside him all these while.

"It seems like… someone cannot bear to see this! Alright then, we will keep him alive!" The masked figure's eyes then glowed before his hand fell onto Bai Qi's neck.

Smack!

Bai Qi then fainted onto the ground.

Two other black masked figure then stepped forward and brought out a metal chain to secure Bai Qi to a wall, making sure that he would not be able to move even if he woke up.

"Is this alright?" The masked figure then stared at the feminine figure beside him.

The feminine figure did not answer. She merely walked further into the palace, around half of the remaining masked figures immediately followed her footsteps.

The masked figure sniggered before nodding to his followers behind him to catch up with the group in front.

Countless royal guards were down on the ground.

Many of them struggled to lift themselves off the floor. However, fatigue overwhelmed their bodies and they were drenched in perspiration.

The eunuchs and female servants were horrified to see the scene. However, there were also a few of them who were searching for water to give to the royal guards.

At that moment…

Over a thousand black figure also appeared from afar. They moved forward in small groups of hundred and in unison steps. They were also incredibly fast.

"The master orders to kill off all who dares to approach the royal guards!"

"Yes!"

A few black figures sped through the area.

The eunuchs and female servants who were feeding water to the royal guards lost their lives immediately. Their eyes were still wide opened in shock.

But blood was already gushing out from their throats.

"Ah! Murder!"

"Run! There are assassins, fast… catch them quickly!"

"Protect the Emperor!"

A few eunuchs and female servants screamed hysterically as they ran in all directions. However, they could never be faster than the black figures.

All the eunuchs and female servants who even uttered a sound fell dead onto the ground.

Until…

None of the eunuchs and female servants dared to approach the royal guards or even utter a single word. All of them clasped their mouth tightly with their hands with widened eyes and trembling bodies.

At that moment, two masked figures walked forward from afar. One of them had eyes as sharp as an eagle, while another one had a feminine and gentle gaze. Behind this two black figures, there were over twenty other black figures.

All the eunuchs and female servants stared at the new group of black figures in horror as the bowed forward in fear. They kept their bodies on the ground the entire time.

However, the two figures did not even bother with the eunuchs and female servants. They did not even look at the blood on the ground. They merely walked forward, deeper into the palace with every step.

Flame Capital City, Entrance of the Imperial Academy.

Ping Yang kept her gaze on the light coming from the palace as she opened her mouth slightly, looking extremely shocked.

"Third brother, he truly… but how did he get past the royal guards?" Ping Yang seemed to have recollected herself after a while and asked.

"The easiest way is to poison them. Spiking their meals!" Fang Zhengzhi stared at Ping Yang and casually mentioned.

"Spiked?" Ping Yang's eyes widened and seemed to have remembered something. "If third brother wants to spike the royal guards, it would be a simple task. But in that case, how would father protect himself? Without the royal guards… no, I have to save him!"

Ping Yang said as she prepared to rush back to the palace. However, the moment she moved a step forward, she stopped in her tracks as her pair of clear crystal eyes widened once again.

"City guards?" Ping Yang stared at the city guards who were congregating together from afar. Anyone would be surprised to see this scene.

But quickly…

Ping Yang's eyes lit up as well.

That's right, there were the city guards as well! Sixth brother's city guards!

Ping Yang had hesitated no more. She immediately rushed towards the city guards and ignored Fang Zhengzhi and Yan Xiu.

"Stop right there!" Ping Yang hollered as she stood right in front of the city guards.

"Princess Ping Yang? Your Highness… we have an urgent military mission. May the princess let us pass!" A guard stopped in his tracks as he saw Ping Yang in his way. He did not dare to charge his way through. After all, Ping Yang had quite the reputation in Flame Capital City.

"Stop whatever urgent military matter you have. Return to the palace immediately to protect my father. If anyone disobeys me, they will suffer my wrath!"

"This… Princess Ping Yang, our mission is to seal off the West gate of the palace. As for protecting the Majesty, King Duan and the other city guards are on their way!"

"Hm? You say you are headed towards the West gate?"

"That's right! Princess Ping Yang, rest assured the Majesty will be saved. With King Duan there, he will never let the Majesty come to any harm. I will be going now!" The city guard then wasted no time and charged forward.

The rest of his team also followed along, charging past Ping Yang.

As for Ping Yang…

She was already dumbfounded and could not react in time as she stared at the city guards rushing past her.

"City guards sealing the west palace gate? Sixth brother is protecting father? This… how did sixth brother know that third brother will…" Ping Yang's lips muttered and could not wrap her head around it.

Fang Zhengzhi and Yan Xiu reached Ping Yang at that moment. As he stared at the leaving city guards, Fang Zhengzhi frowned.

He knew who the city guards obeyed. There was only one person who could mobilize such a huge team of city guards to seal off the palace gates. That person was none other than King Duan Lin Xinjue.

City guards…

Palace!

Fang Zhengzhi's eyes widened and sparkled. He seemed to have realized something.

"I see! That is how it is!"

"Have you figured out something? Quick, tell me! What is happening? Why would sixth brother send people to surround the palace and even go into the palace to protect father?" Ping Yang seemed to be awakened from her thoughts upon hearing Fang Zhengzhi's voice and asked.

"It seems like King Duan had also realized something will be going on tonight!" Yan Xiu's voice rang instead. At the same time, he frowned, as though he was deep in thought.

"Sixth brother knew as well?" Ping Yang was once again surprised. After which, she shook her head violently and asked, "Why would sixth brother know?"

"This is no longer important. The important thing is that… what is King Duan's motive for entering the palace?" Fang Zhengzhi waved his hand and interrupted Ping Yang.

"Are you telling me is not to protect father?" Ping Yang stared at Fang Zhengzhi with a puzzled expression.

"Don't you feel that everything is a set-up?" Fang Zhengzhi did not answer her question directly. Instead, he asked her a thought-provoking question.

"A set-up? What do you mean?" Ping Yang seemed to be confused.

"Think about it. If you could orchestrate this entire thing, would you allow the Crown Prince to usurp the throne while informing King Duan to protect the Emperor?" Fang Zhengzhi hinted.

"This… of course not! Why would I do that? Wouldn't that mean I have achieved nothing?" Ping Yang replied without hesitation.

"No! They accomplished a lot. In fact, it is orchestrated in a much more sophisticated and unassailable manner than we would have ever imagined. It could be said that it was a perfect plan!" Fang Zhengzhi shook his head and said.

"A perfect and complete plan?" Ping Yang could not seem to understand. How would this become a perfect plan? Where was the sophistication and how could it be unassailable?

"Yes, it is indeed perfect. No matter which side won, he will benefit from the result. However, this plan… there must be something else to follow-up with!" Yan Xiu nodded in agreement as he said.

"What are the both of you talking about? Why can't I understand? What winner? What follow-up?" Ping Yang blinked her eyes as she stared at Fang Zhengzhi and Yan Xiu with a perplexed expression.

"I cannot explain. I have only understood a small part of the plan up till now. I have not deciphered the details and intricacies of the plan yet," Yan Xiu shook his head and stared at Fang Zhengzhi, asking, "Have you understood it?"

"Not yet, but almost!" Fang Zhengzhi shook his head as well.

"Why would both of you say that the plan is unassailable if you have not even understood it?" Ping Yang was dissatisfied at Fang Zhengzhi's and Ping Yang's words.

"There is something called reaping the benefits at other's expense, do you understand what that means?" Fang Zhengzhi asked.

"Of course I do. It means to watch both parties conflict and only interrupt when they are already heavily injured to receive the greatest benefits!" Ping Yang replied immediately.

"Hm, you are right, but just a bit off. This plan can refer to more than two parties, and can even go up to four or five parties If needed…" Fang Zhengzhi nodded as he replied.

"Three to five parties?" Ping Yang's eyes widened in shock.

"Have you heard of a story in the Law of Dao? This was the exact plan the Qin Dynasty used to unify all the countries. Before they attacked a country, they would first promise the other countries great benefits. Following which, they would destroy all the countries at once while they were suspicious and defensive against the others. This was what preceded the Great Qin Dynasty!"

"Yes, of course, I have heard about this. But what has this got to do with what we are dealing with?" Ping Yang stared at Fang Zhengzhi quizzically.

"It is the same plan, except that the people and the situation now are slightly different. However, it is as perfectly executed as it was by the Qin Dynasty. Furthermore, it will never fail!" Fang Zhengzhi took a look at Ping Yang then at the stars on the horizon and continued, "Such a plan would be impossible to foil if we do not understand the full procedure!"

"Impossible to foil?" Ping Yang trembled upon hearing those words.

"Yes, impossible to foil," Fang Zhengzhi nodded as he said.

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Chapter 561: Usurpation and Simply Passing By

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

"What do we do then? Are we really going to just stand by and watch?" Deep down, Ping Yang wanted to trust Fang Zhengzhi. However, if he was planning to make her sit through all this without making a move, she would absolutely be unwilling to.

This was because…

The person in the palace was her father.

The father who doted on her so much.

When someone seemed to have missed out on some memories most people had, such as the warmth of a mother's love, the significance of the father was unbelievably huge. Their entire understanding of family probably only revolved around her father's love.

Despite the fact that she was born in a royal family.

"Actually, I was thinking…" Fang Zhengzhi was just about to say they should just stand by and watch when he looked towards Ping Yang. Upon seeing the anxious expression on her face, he swallowed his words and decided it was better for him to be sensitive.

From Fang Zhengzhi's perspective…

He had no intention of getting involved in this battle.

It was normal for people to fight over the throne.

All who managed to sit on the throne had deployed some sort of unscrupulous tactics and spent countless hours working their way towards that goal. This was true even for Emperor Tai Zong, the widely-respected emperor in the previous generation.

He only managed to ascend the throne after the Xuanwu Gate incident.

Those who succeed become Kings, while those who fail become known as invaders and usurpers.

If Emperor Tai Zong did not instigate the Xuanwu Gate incident, there might not be the glorious age of Control by Zheng Guan, when the country enjoyed swift economic progress, cultural advancements, and a corruption-free government. Who could then fault Emperor Tai Zong for his actions?

"What do we do?" Ping Yang heard Fang Zhengzhi's words and once again cast her glance over at him, her eyes filled with anticipation.

Fang Zhengzhi then lifted his head slightly and stared at the night sky before saying, "If we cannot be the one that reaps the benefits at the end, we only have one other role left to assume!"

"What role is that?" Ping Yang was puzzled.

"A Passer-by!"

Palace, Throne room.

This was the place where the morning court sessions were conducted. Normally, Lin Mubai should not be sitting on his throne seat now. However, he was right there, on top of the luxurious seat with dragon carvings in the throne room.

He wore his golden dragon robe neatly. Eunuch Wei stood beside him.

Apart from the both of them, there were no other people in the throne room. The giant throne room looked slightly empty, too empty in fact. It gave off a claustrophobic pressure despite the spaciousness.

Until…

Two masked figures walked into the palace.

"How insolent, who dares to barge into the throne room!" Eunuch Wei's voice rang the moment the two masked figures walked into the room.

At the same time, he stepped forward. Not a hint of surprise or fear could be seen from his eyes.

Following Eunuch Wei's holler, the two masked figure also stopped in their tracks. They did not intend to move closer towards Eunuch Wei or Emperor Lin Mubai.

Emperor Lin Mubai then raised his hands.

Eunuch Wei stopped speaking upon seeing the signal and retreated to his original position.

"Since you have already arrived, do you plan on keeping your mask on?" Lin Mubai stared at the two masked figures and said.

The two masked figures then exchanged glances before they slowly took off their mask, revealing two young faces

The person on the left had a gaze as sharp as an eagle and a face like porcelain, while the person on the right had thin lips and long, slanted eyes, looking slightly feminine.

It was Crown Prince Lin Tianrong!

"Didn't I order you to reflect within your residence? Why did you come?" Lin Mubai nodded and did not pay attention to the person on the left. He merely fixed his gaze upon Lin Tianrong.

"Why would father ask when you yourself know best!" Crown Prince Lin Tianrong's eyes darted around as he answered. He looked slightly flustered.

"Get the hell out of here," Lin Mubai spoke without much fluctuations in his voice, although his words spoke for themselves.

He tolerated no nonsense.

He also did not wish to discuss this matter any further. He merely used a few non-elegant words to tell Lin Tianrong what he had to do.

This was the Emperor.

The prestigious Emperor revered by many.

Despite the fact that he had no protectors around him and that all his royal guards were robbed of their fighting capabilities, his presence was still overwhelming.

The voice echoed across the throne room.

Lin Tianrong's expression changed immediately and subconsciously took a step backward. He perspired profusely on his face as hesitation flashed across his eyes.

"The Great Xia Emperor is truly something!" The eagle-eyed figure suddenly spoke and stared at Ling Tianrong with a condescending look, "Crown Prince my lord, are we going to get the hell out?"

"Shut up!" Lin Tianrong spoke coldly and took a step forward back to his original position. He then stared at his father with a chilling gaze and said, "Father, I have no intention of going back if I am already here."

"Scram!" Lin Mubai once again shouted. His tone was obviously a lot more intense than the previous one. At the same time. A ray of golden light could also be seen enveloping his body.

An immense pressure seemed to be gushing wildly from his body.

Lin Tianrong was once again taken aback. He subconsciously wanted to take a step back but before his feet landed, he retracted his movements and stood his ground.

"Father, there is no changing the results. As long as you willingly give up the throne, I will spare your life!" Crown Prince Lin Tianrong trembled as he said those words, though his gaze seemed exceptionally determined.

This sentence…

He had longed to say this sentence many times, though he always suppressed his desire to say them. This was because he was the Crown Prince, he could wait, until the day when he officially and rightfully claims his throne.

When Lin Mubai finally decided to pass down his treasured seat.

However, he could no longer wait.

This was because his Crown Prince seat was in jeopardy. If not for his pathetic pleadings and taking advantage of his mother to seek forgiveness, he might already be stripped of his Crown Prince title.

How then, could he continue to wait?

"Crown Prince, please return to your residence immediately. The Emperor is magnanimous and will not punish you severely. You cannot go down this path!" Eunuch Wei could not help but remind Lin Tianrong upon hearing his words.

"Haha… punish me severely?" Lin Tianrong laughed and revealed an insane and insolent expression. "If I, the Crown Prince becomes the Emperor, what kind of punishment will you be giving me?"

"Crown Prince…" Eunuch Wei was about to persuade Lin Tianrong again when he saw Lin Mubai's expression and swallowed his words.

"Father, the entire palace is under my control. The moment you die, the throne seat of the Great Xia Dynasty will become mine. I hope that father will consider my suggestion. If father will willingly give up your seat, I will definitely not hurt…"

"Shut your goddamn mouth, do you know what crime you are committing now?" Lin Mubai interrupted Lin Tianrong before he could finish and asked sternly.

"What crime? This crime is slightly serious, isn't it? Contacting the neighboring states, usurping the throne, I believe the lightest punishment for that will simply be to delay my death sentence. Am I right?" Ling Tianrong answered seriously after thinking for a few moments.

"It seems like you've come prepared!" Lin Mubai nodded as he heard those words. At the same time, the golden brilliance enveloping his body disappeared.

Lin Tianrong sneered upon seeing this scene.

It was as though he had already seen the dawn of victory. If Lin Mubai would give up his throne willingly, that would be for the best.

After all…

Not many people knew Lin Mubai's true strength.

However, there was no doubt that if Lin Mubai were to fight with all his might, the throne room would be dyed a bloody-red. How then, would he be able to conduct the morning court session tomorrow as the new Emperor?

Lin Tianrong did not want o wait any longer.

He had already prepared the speech he would give tomorrow morning. Furthermore, he had already prepared everything beforehand, even coming to the battlefield with his dragon robe.

Hiss!

A crisp sound rang throughout the throne room.

Lin Tianrong tore off the black suit he had been wearing and revealing a luxurious golden robe underneath. It was shining brilliantly and decorated with majestic dragons and soaring clouds.

"Preparations? Of course, I am prepared. Father was killed by assassins from the neighboring countries. When your filial son reached the palace, a will was all I saw. Oh… that's right, there is one thing missing from the will, the royal seal. I will have to trouble Eunuch Wei to help me, the Crown Prince… wait a minute, that's not right. May I trouble Eunuch Wei to help me, the Emperor, stamp the seal of approval!"

"Crown Prince you…" Eunuch Wei stared at the golden robe Lin Tianrong was wearing and the scroll he held in his hand with a horrified expression.

Wearing the dragon robe and bringing a fake will into the throne room!

These actions had demonstrated that Lin Tianrong was fully prepared for this day. At the same time, it also meant that there was no possibility of redemption.

"Do not call me the Crown Prince anymore, call me Your Majesty!" Lin Tianrong said coldly as he brandished a long sword in his hand. The sword shone with a chilling gleam.

As Lin Tianrong flashed his weapon, twenty other masked figures also walked into the throne room. All of them wore a black suit and held different kinds of weapons on their hands.

However, the only difference about their weapons from Lin Tianrong's sword was that…

Their weapons were already stained with blood. The blood dripped down onto the royal floors of the throne room, tainting the room with the stench of fresh blood.

"Father, haven't you always loved that woman? Didn't you almost give up the throne seat just for her? Why don't you give it up for real this time? You can find her, as long as you give the seat to me. You can be released from this shackle and find her without a care for the world. Isn't this what you always wanted?"

Lin Tianrong's voice was filled with hatred and menace, his facial expression twitching ever so often. This was a release of pent-up rage for the past few years, the outburst of a poisonous venom brewing for a long time.

"Presumptuous!" A roar could be heard and at the same time, a golden light illuminated the entire throne room. This light was emanated by a golden dragon, a dragon formed from the concentration of golden light particles.

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Chapter 562: Eye of the Dragon

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

The dragon leaped majestically as the clouds soared!

When the golden light took the form of a dragon, pieces of white clouds started appearing in the throne room, engulfing the entire throne room in an instant.

Roar!

A desolate roar could be heard.

Two blood-red circles lit up amongst the golden light. They seemed arrogant and unfeeling. As the dragon soared around the throne room, the red light moved along as well.

Boom!

Sounds of thunder could be heard from the clouds, especially places where the clouds were especially thick. The rumbling sounds of thunder could be heard from the throne room.

Following which, a claw emerged from the mist.

The claw was coated with a chilling metallic surface. It seemed otherworldly, something that could not have been formed by accumulating the natural energy of the earth. It seemed like a ferocious beast, a truly fearsome one.

What a strange scene.

When the twenty black figures saw this scene, they subconsciously lowered their bodies under the immense pressure. Even their weapons seemed to be trembling ever so slightly in their hands.

"What… is this?"

"A real dragon?"

From their perspective, the moment they stepped into the throne room, they were left with no choice. They had to continue on the path they chose no matter how difficult it was.

However, they were still completely stunned when they saw the claw emerging from the mist.

Alas…

The shock did not last long.

They still moved in unison after a moment.

All of them were enveloped in a brilliant glow. This was the hallmark of the Rebirth State. Lin Mubai was facing over twenty Rebirth State individuals himself.

"Don't be afraid. This is merely father's protective artifact the Green Dragon Eye. Take note of the two golden light, do not make contact with the red light!" Lin Tianrong stared at the roaring golden dragon above him and retreated quickly behind the twenty black figures.

Green Dragon Eye.

It was the most precious treasure in the Great Xia Dynasty. No one knew its exact power and strength. However, it's value was definitely way above the ten treasures.

Furthermore, no one had ever seen the true form of the Green Dragon Eye. This was because the Emperor had never revealed its true form to anyone.

The reason was simple…

The Green Dragon Eye was a gift from Ping Yang's mother to the Emperor.

Emperor Lin Mubai would never allow the courtiers and his children to see such a precious object, much less reveal its true power without a proper reason.

"Green Dragon Eye?" The twenty black figure exchanged glances as they dispersed themselves across the throne room. They pointed their weapons in unison towards Lin Mubai.

"Kill!"

"You unfilial son!" Lin Mubai stared at Lin Tianrong who had already retreated to the entrance of the throne room as his eyes glimmered with golden brilliance. He then stood up from his dragon throne.

Every step he took, he walked closer towards Crown Prince Lin Tianrong.

At that moment, the twenty black figures also made their move. Twenty shimmering light charged towards Lin Mubai like shooting stars in the night sky.

They were fast.

However, the golden dragon circling above the throne room was faster.

At the moment when the twenty black figures attacked, the golden dragon also stuck out its claw from the mist and blocked the spot right in front of the incoming brilliance.

Boom!

Boom! Boom!

Consecutive rumbling sounds echoed through the throne room.

At the same time, two beams of red light rained down from the sky.

Strangely…

Underneath the blood red light, one could see chilling fangs similar to that of a real dragon. It looked sinister and terrifying.

"Ah!"

A black figure screamed in pain.

At the same time, a ball of blood-red flame rose in the throne room. It was formed from the complete combustion of the black figure's body.

That ball of red flame seemed to have risen from the ground, but also looked as if it was emitted from the black figure's body naturally from the high-temperature combustion.

"Help, help me…" The black figure muttered a few words as a ball of demonic red flames appeared from his mouth, until he could no longer speak.

Thump!

A light thud could be heard.

A charred body then appeared on the floor of the throne room.

The remaining black figures then stopped in their tracks as they looked at their comrade with widened eyes. They were all in shock as they stared at the piece of charred flesh.

He was a Rebirth State individual!

Let's not even mention a Rebirth State…

Even Supernatural State beings were known to possess extremely high self-rejuvenation capabilities. However, a Rebirth State individual was now instantly burnt into a piece of charred flesh.

How could they not be horrified?

"What exactly is the Green Dragon Eye?"

"What was that demonic red flame just now?"

"Is this the true form of the Green Dragon Eye?"

All the black figures lifted their heads in unison and stared at the soaring dragon amongst the clouds. A tinge of hesitation rose in their hearts.

This was because they had already faced off against the Green Dragon Eye.

For just one round.

But all their attacks were successfully blocked. Furthermore, even one of their comrades died. One of them had failed to survive when they commenced a unison attack.

Lin Mubai did not intend to stop walking.

He still moved towards Lin Tianrong one step at a time. He did not seem to pay any attention to the black figures in front of the Crown Prince.

"Quick, stop him, even if he is the almighty father, he cannot possibly use the Green Dragon Eye forever. Attack him consecutively and we will eventually wear him out!" Lin Tianrong stared at Lin Mubai, who was closing in and retreated a few more steps. He only stopped after stepping onto the ledge of the throne room.

He knew that the Green Dragon Eye was Lin Mubai's most treasured object.

He also knew that it was the greatest treasure that belonged to the Great Xia Dynasty.

However…

He did not know the full extent of its power. To think that it would be able to kill off a Rebirth State individual while blocking off the attacks of another twenty figures with similar power.

The greatest treasure.

Who would inherit it?

"As long as we kill father, this Green Dragon Eye will be mine!" Lin Tianrong stared at the dragon soaring above and said greedily.

"Onward!" The eagle-eyed figure finally said something. He used his sharp gaze to stare at the soaring dragon as well, though he seemed a lot calmer and composed when compared to the Crown Prince.

He did not retreat.

He did not even move his feet.

He merely stood at his original position and waved to the twenty black figures.

"Go!" The twenty figures were filled with determination upon hearing his words. They then lifted their heads to look at the soaring dragon above as their eyes shone with a bladed resolve.

They did not have any more hesitation…

No one retreated as well.

The shimmering brilliance once again enveloped their body and illuminated the entire throne room.

At that moment, they only had one thought in their minds.

Only one party shall live!

Roar!

The dragon made its move again.

This time, it came down straight from the clouds, tumbling its gigantic body around. The golden scales shimmered with molten fiery, as though a layer of molten gold was just poured over it.

When the dragon appeared, a few purple lightning also struck from within the clouds, heading towards the black figures who were shimmering with brilliance.

Boom!

Boom! Boom!

A series of rumbling sounds could be heard once again.

Rubble flew across the throne room as the jade engraved onto the pillars and walls fell onto the ground. The thick majestic ground was now filled with craters of varying depths and sizes.

Thump! Thump!

The sound of bodies falling to the ground happened almost instantaneously. Amongst this wreckage, two blood-red light could still be seen, staring silently at the entrance of the throne room.

As the feet shuffling against the gravels echoed through the throne room, a figure bathed in a golden light emerged from the wreckage.

The golden robe was overflowing with brilliance and above him, a dragon soared ever so majestically, it's pair of blood-red eyes shimmering coldly.

"Unfilial son, do you know, how much I do not want to revoke your title!" Lin Mubai stared at Lin Tianrong and said with an indifferent tone.

"Not revoking my title? Haha, if you do not wish to revoke my title, why would you reveal my secret chamber underneath my study room. If not for the fact that I mentioned mother, you would have already punished me for the crime of collusion!" Lin Tianrong leaned against the entrance to the throne room weakly, though he spoke with conviction and determination.

"Collusion? If I have to punish you, I will punish you for colluding with neighboring countries in a conspiracy to usurp the throne!" Lin Mubai said as he flung something into the air.

In an instant…

A few letters landed in front of Lin Tianrong.

Lin Tianrong was shocked at this action as his eyes flashed with uncertainty. He could recognize the letters in front of him. They were none other than the ones Fang Zhengzhi gave Lin Mubai a few days ago.

This was the exact reason his secret chamber was discovered and was given the punishment of house arrest in front of all the courtiers.

Now, those letters were right in front of him.

He hesitated. However, he still reached out for the letters in the end and opened them. Following which, his eyes widened.

Those letters were like the harbinger of hell.

"How could this be? This is not possible!" Lin Tianrong immediately threw the first letter onto the ground and tore open the second one.

Then the third and the fourth…

It did not take long for the letters that were picked up by Lin Tianrong to once again end up on the ground. The only difference being that they were now torn open.

Lin Tianrong's expression had also totally changed.

If he was displaying a firm and determined expression previously,

Then at that moment…

He was fearful, extremely fearful of what he just read!

"This cannot be…impossible. This is preposterous, you are lying to me! Yes, that's right you are a liar!" Lin Tianrong's voice echoed through the night sky, his face becoming sickly pale.

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Chapter 563: Near-Life Gate

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

For a long time, Lin Tianrong had always thought that Fang Zhengzhi's letters to Lin Mubai were regarding the secret chamber he built underneath his study room.

However, it was not until now…

That he truly understood.

Compared to the secret chamber, the true content hidden within these letters were simply inconceivable.

The first letter was one between him and the Southern Region Noblelite. This letter should not have appeared in his study room, and neither should it appear in Flame Capital City. This should have been in the Southern Region, in the hands of the deceased Southern Region Noblelite.

This was because it was a conversation that was carried out in secret between the two of them while the Crown Prince himself was in the Southern Region.

Why would it appear here?

There was only one possibility. It was that when the King of the Southern Region Shan Yu arrived at Flame Capital City, she brought this letter with her and it somehow landed in Fang Zhengzhi's hand.

The second letter was a conversation between the eagle-eyed man and himself. This letter similarly, should not have been discovered. It should be lying safely within the secret chamber in the Crown Prince Residence.

How could Fang Zhengzhi had gotten a letter that was in the secret chamber?

Lin Tianrong still could not fathom how he did it.

As for the third and fourth letter…

All of which had some sort of connection with the secret chamber in the Crown Prince Residence. However, each of them was extremely important letters that clearly state his heinous crimes. Anyone of them would be enough reason for Lin Mubai to strip him of his title.

And these letters fell right into Lin Mubai's hands.

St that moment, Lin Tianrong finally understood what exactly did Fang Zhengzhi give his father. He also understood why his father would reveal the secret chamber right in front of all the courtiers and ridicule him on the spot.

It was a warning!

However, what he did not understand was that, why would Lin Mubai still allow him to enjoy the Crown Prince title even after reading the letters, and merely let him off with a stern warning and house arrest?

After all, these crimes…

Were too serious!

It was impossible that Lin Mubai would forgive him!

"Do you know why your mother died?" Lin Mubai ignored Lin Tianrong's gasps of shock and horror. He merely stared into the chilling brilliance that flashed across the night sky outside of the throne room.

"Why?" Lin Tianrong asked subconsciously.

This was a question he always had. However, he knew that this was a question he could never ask. This was because his mother had committed suicide. She had killed herself not long after that other woman left.

However, that did not mean…

He didn't want to know.

"Your mother gave up everything and relinquished everything. She wants me to compensate her for all that she had lost! Therefore, she wants me to feel guilty. She wants to use her death to lay the path for you to be the Crown Prince. She gave you a Crown Prince title that no one can ever take away from you with her death!"

Lin Mubai cast his glance back on Lin Tianrong as a rare sentimental expression appeared on his face.

The Royal Palace was filled with endless power struggles and underhanded tactics. In order to survive, one had to learn to protect oneself and also ignore the unscrupulous things they saw. However, certain things were impossible to ignore even if one wanted to.

For example, what Lin Tianrong's mother did.

She died.

At a time when Lin Mubai owed her countless emotional debts, she died without as much of a ruckus. How then, could Lin Mubai not give the Crown prince seat to Lin Tianrong?

"Mother died… for my Crown prince title?" Lin Tianrong was dumbfounded and involuntarily trembled at that thought.

He was born in the royal family.

He had seen way too much power struggle for a person his age.

Therefore, he understood what Lin Mubai meant perfectly well.

His mother, after well knowing that she would not gain the Emperor's love, resolutely chose to end her life. In return, she would earn the Lin Mubai's grieve and guilt, paving the way for her son to be the Crown Prince.

All these years, he had been…

He had been fighting to keep his Crown Prince position, using unscrupulous tactics and sometimes outright aggression.

How ridiculous!

At that moment, he realized how sturdy his position as the Crown prince was. He also understood why Lin Mubai only gave him the punishment of house arrest even after reading these letters.

Even when he had already stepped brazenly into the throne room, Lin Mubai merely told him to get the hell out.

This was because behind this Crown Prince title was a deceased mother.

It was a title the queen paid for using her life. He did not have to earn it himself. He merely had to sit comfortably in that position until it was time for him to be the Emperor.

However…

It was too late. The moment he rushed into the palace with the eagle-eyed black figure and brandished his sword in front of his father, there was no turning back.

"If you turn back now, I can spare your life!" Lin Mubai walked forward one more step. The dragon above him followed.

An immense pressure could be felt from Lin Mubai's body.

"Spare my life? Spare my life…" Lin Tianrong's eyes widened as he stared at the dragon above Lin Mubai's head. His body leaned back subconsciously the more he did so.

He hesitated…

After understanding everything, he hesitated for the first time.

He did not have any memories of his mother. By the time he started remembering things, his mother had already passed away. He was soon named the Crown Prince and the being that all the courtiers looked up to.

However, he had always felt something was lacking.

Family!

He received neither love from his mother or father.

This was because his father had only doted on one person for as long as he could remember. That person was Ping Yang, the daughter that Lin Mubai and that other woman had together.

This was what he had always thought.

However, at this moment, this thought had changed.

His father loved him all the same, even though this care and concern came at the expense of his mother's life. This still showed that his father treated him differently.

"Green Dragon Eye you say, I want to give it a try!"

Just as Lin Tianrong was hesitating, another voice rang across the throne room. Following which, a figure appeared beside Lin Tianrong.

A fist then appeared out of nowhere.

It seemed like an ordinary fist and there was nothing exceptional about it.

This fist went straight towards Lin Mubai without the slightest hesitation. It was as fast as lightning.

"Hm?" Lin Mubai simply focused his attention on the fist and the dragon above him immediately reacted.

A dragon claw emerged and positioned itself right in front of the fist. A golden hue enveloped the claw as it shone with a metallic brilliance. The majestic golden scales could also be clearly seen.

The fist then collided with the dragon claw as it should have.

However, the moment the fist made contact with the dragon claw, the fist changed form as well. It changed into a claw as six sets of extremely complicated runes circled in the air. They were golden, red, blue, green, purple and silver respectively, glowing brilliantly in the air.

A ray of light as thin as a silk thread then connected the six set of runes together.

It seemed just like…

A giant picture.

A giant picture formed up of countless threads and runes.

If Fang Zhengzhi had seen this scene, he would definitely have recognized it. The picture this scene formed was exceptionally similar to the Illustration of All Creation he saw when he was younger.

Boom!

The entire throne room shook at the collision.

Rubble flew across the room as cracks appeared on the ground. Following which, a great explosion occurred, threatening to blow up everything in its way.

The sky above the throne room was rumbling and churning with thunder and lightning.

With the collision point of the claw and the fist as its center, the terrifying shockwaves rapidly spread across the area. The force was so huge that even the door of the throne room was forcefully ripped from its hinges.

Within the throne room, the twenty black figures immediately climbed up from the ground, the shimmering brilliance covering their bodies protecting them from the shockwaves. All of their faces seemed extremely serious and sunken.

On the other hand, Lin Tianrong was thrown off the ground by this impact. From the expression on his face, one could tell that he was extremely frightened.

However, he was not completely flung from his original position.

That was because…

The moment his body left the ground, he could feel a hand pressing down on his shoulders, forcefully keeping him onto the ground.

At the same time, a figure shielded him from the shockwaves, the black suit worn by this figure danced around amongst the strong gale of wind. However, the figure did not seem to care.

"As I have expected, it's not a real dragon. Oh, that's right, Crown Prince, I did not mean to hurt you!" The figure stood where he was and did not bother to look at Lin Tianrong at all., though his tone seemed to be apologetic.

However, Lin Tianrong knew very well that…

Such words were meant to ridicule and put him down!

The golden brilliance took a step back as the dragon claw retreated into the clouds. However, the sinister blood-red eyes glowed even brighter.

"Descend!" A voice rang from the golden brilliance.

The clouds above the throne room descended immediately upon hearing this command. In an instant, it suppressed all the gravels and residual shockwaves in the area.

Lin Mubai's figure once again appeared.

He then stared at the figure beside Lin Tianrong. This time, he did not ignore him. Instead, he stared right into his eyes.

The eyes as sharp as an eagle.

"Pang Shengdao? you are a royal of the Northern Barbarians?" Lin Mubai squinted as he said.

"Northern Barbarians? Ha… that is what the Great Xia calls us. We prefer to call ourselves the Holy Barbarian Empire. Furthermore, I do not like to call myself a royal or a noble. I prefer people to call me young master!" The eagle-eyed man smiled lightly as he said.

"Hm, you are pretty strong!" Lin Mubai nodded as he commended him on his strength.

"I merely got some advantages here and there. I thank the Emperor for his praises. It is such an honor!" The eagle-eyed figure laughed and at the same time.

"The third son of the Northern Barbarian Emperor, Qian Yu. You disappeared during the riots of the Northern Barbarian Palace and returned to the palace alone when you were ten. You represented the Emperor in visits to other countries at age 11 and became a general at the age of 12. Although you did not grow up together with the Emperor, you managed to impress him so much that he tried to pass his throne to you three times despite violent objections from the ground, only for them to be rejected by yourself. Am I right?" Lin Mubai seemed to know exactly who he was.

"The Emperor seems to know me well. That's right, I am Qian Wu!" The eagle-eyed figure, Qian Wu nodded his head.

"Why did you people choose Tianrong?" Lin Mubai then turned serious as he asked, staring at the Crown Prince behind Qian Wu.

Lin Tianrong merely gritted his teeth and fell silent.

"I will be happy to answer you, however, we seem to be running out of time," Qian Wu smiled as he pointed in the direction of the entrance to the palace.

Just as Qian Wu lifted his hands…

A ruckus could be heard coming from that exact direction.

"If that is the case, let's do it!" Lin Mubai nodded upon hearing Qian Wu's words. He immediately dismissed his intentions of probing further.

"Alright!" Qian Wu answered as he lightly stepped forward.

The moment his feet landed on the ground, the six sets of runes lit up once again and the threads moved on their own as though they were alive, connecting them into a huge picturesque scene.

Boom!

The throne room trembled once again.

However, the trembling was of a different level than the one made previously. This was a lot more intense, as though the ground was about to split open, or if something terrifying was going to break through the ground.

"Open!" Qian Wu's voice rang once again. At the same time, he also made his move. He punched his fist on the ground as a brilliance immediately enveloped him.

At the same time…

A huge crater appeared on the ground.

A metallic shine could be detected from the crater. Moments later, a green color substance could be seen. It was a color completely different from the light emanating from it.

The green substance became thicker and bigger as time passed.

Eventually, the substance overflowed from the crater.

Boom!

The ground split open once again.

Above the crater, a door could be seen. It was a door at least 15 feet tall. More accurately, it was a 15 feet tall bronze door.

Countless carvings could be seen on the door as a desolate presence could be detected. The green that they saw just now was the color of rusted copper, the greenish-bronze color of rust.

Clang!

The bronze door slowly opened, making a few creaking sounds along the way. It seemed extremely heavy and possibly connected to another independent and special dimension.

As the huge bronze door slowly opened, a few rays of brilliance shot through the cracks.

Red, Blue, Green, Purple, Gold, Silver…

These lights glowed within the door, emitting a faint chill as the sparkled. They seemed just like the stars in the sky, though they assumed a much colder and sinister presence.

"Near-Life gate, for the Emperor of the Northern Barbarians to give this thing to you, he truly recognizes you as the next Emperor!" Lin Mubai stared as the bronze door slowly opened. He could not help but squint his eyes in its glory. He seemed undisturbed by it, though the sinister light seemed to irritate him.

When the dragon above his head saw the light emitted from the bronze door, it also thrashed about wildly. It coiled closer towards the clouds as it began emitting a desolate presence.

It seemed to be highly against the presence within the bronze door.

"The Great Xia Emperor truly has an eye for good things. I will cut the nonsense then. Let us now see which is stronger. The greatest treasure of the Great Xia Dynasty, or the greatest treasure of our Holy Barbarian Empire!" Qian Wu was not surprised that Lin Mubai knew about the history of this bronze door. In fact, he was pretty thrilled by it.

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Chapter 564: The Grand Debut of the Passer By

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Following Qian Wu's words, the bronze gate was finally opened. A giant figure then appeared from within.

Boom! A loud bang could be heard.

A huge footprint immediately appeared on the ground of the throne room.

The night was supposed to be peaceful.

However, it was not a peaceful night. Flame Capital City was illuminated by lights as countless citizens stood watching on the streets.

In addition, there were countless soldiers clad in shining armor running towards the four different entrances of the palace, each of them holding a spear in their hands.

"What exactly happened?"

"Why are the city guards heading towards the palace?"

"Did something really happen in the palace?"

The citizens stared at the unsettling scene and descended into a flurry of discussion, their eyes flickered with suspicion and fear.

Everything happened too suddenly. After a pillar of light appeared from the palace, the atmosphere in Flame Capital City also became inexplicably tense.

At the entrance of the palace, two rows of royals guards clad in golden armor stared at the city guards infiltrating their grounds with cold gazes.

"How dare you trespass into the palace!" The royal guards raised their spears in response to the city guard surrounding the palace gates.

"This…" The city guards were startled upon seeing this scene. They all hesitated and none of them dared to step forward.

After all, this was the palace.

Even if they were acting on the orders of King Duan, they were still fearful of charging straight into the palace.

At that moment, a figure appeared from afar. He dismounted from a tall, white, boisterous horse as his silver armor glistened under the moonlight. A ferocious beast was carved right in front of his chest.

"It's King Duan!"

"Your Highness is here!"

The moment the city guards saw King Duan Lin Xinjue, they subconsciously retreated for a few steps, leaving a passage that was wide enough to fit three people.

Quickly. King Duan passed through the city guards and arrived in front of the royal guards.

The royal guards stared at King Duan as the expression on their faces changed ever so slightly. They clinched the spears in their hands tightly.

"What is the meaning of this, King Duan? This is the palace…" A royal guard stepped out from the group and blocked King Duan's way.

However, he did not manage to complete his sentence.

This was because he saw a cold blinding flash in front of him the moment he started speaking.

Following which, he felt a chilling sensation on his neck. He looked down and his eyes widened in shock. He saw a sword.

A sword that was thrust right into his throat.

"Ah… argh.." The royal guard's mouth was wide opened. He wished to speak but blood kept pouring out of his mouth, preventing him from finishing what he wanted to say.

Thump!

The royal guard then fell onto the floor with an expression of disbelief on his face.

He would never understand why King Duan would dare to kill him. Furthermore, he did not seem to hesitate when doing so. There was not even as to a word of warning.

It was all too sudden.

It only took a short moment from the time King Duan made his move to the royal guard collapsing onto the floor. The royal guards were unable to react to this situation.

The city guards behind King Duan were also dumbfounded. They stared at the fallen royal guard with their mouth agape and an incredulous expression.

"King Duan killed someone?"

"And it's a royal guard!"

"What is going on?"

Not a single city guard understood the situation. Although they acted on orders, the scene right before them reeked of a revolution.

Could it be…

King Duan was leading his army of city guards for a revolt?

Against the ten thousand strong royal guard army?

How could this be?

They could not believe their eyes. However, they could not voice out their concerns as well. They were merely ordinary city guards whose role was to listen to any and all military orders.

How then, would they dare to ask such questions?

"Kill them!" King Duan's voice rang echoed through the area. At the same time, he raised he blood-stained sword up in the air.

Drops of blood rolled down from the blade onto his silver armor, tainting the pristine armor with the wrath of fresh blood.

The two rows of royal guards at the entrance of the palace also finally recollected themselves.

This was clearly a war.

A war that needed no explanations.

The moment the city guards rushed into the palace and assumed their roles as infiltrators, they would have to assume their roles as the palace guards. There was no need for words.

They only had to do one thing.

That was to eradicate them all!

"Kill!"

War cries escaped the mouths of the city guards as they raised their spears in response. The clanging sound of their armor reverberated through the area as they moved forward.

One step at a time towards the royal guards standing in front of the palace.

King Duan stared at the two rows of royal guards standing in front of the palace with cold eyes. This was because he had no time to waste around here.

However…

At that moment, a voice rang from behind him.

"Oh my god, King Duan is murdering people! And… oh my, are those the royal guards! Might it be that King Duan is trying to start a revolution?"

"Revolution?"

The city guards stopped in their tracks upon hearing that word. Revolution, together with treason and other serious crimes, was heavily punished in the Great Xia Dynasty, one that was punishable with the death sentence of your entire family.

Even if they were merely acting on orders.

Therefore, this did not mean that people taking part in the revolution would always end up winning.

The royal guards stared at the city guards who had stopped advancing and heaved a sigh of relief. However, they did not intend to put down the spears in their hands just yet.

Stand guard and be ready for any surprise attacks was the only thought in their mind now.

"Who dares to say that I am holding a revolution?" King Duan looked at his city guards and frowned. He then subconsciously looked behind him.

He saw three figures.

Three extremely familiar figures.

However, the only difference was that the figure in the middle was wearing a brand-new court attire. There was even the word "imperial" sewn from golden threads in the middle of that attire.

It was the attire specifically made for the Chief Imperial Messenger of the Imperial Academy.

"Fang Zhengzhi?" King Duan gritted his teeth as he stared at the court attire. He had the impulse to tear down that attire and even kill this person in the midst of all this chaos.

However, he knew that he could not do that.

This was because Ping Yang and Yan Xiu stood beside him. How then, could he order for Fang Zhengzhi to be killed?

"King Duan, are you planning to revolt?" Fang Zhengzhi stared at the fallen royal guard before looking at the blood-stained sword in his hands. He wore a horrified expression.

When Ping Yang and Yan Xiu stared at the fallen royal guard, they similarly turned their glance towards King Duan, their expression filled with confusion and fear.

"What nonsense, how can I be planning a revolt?" King Duan immediately answered without hesitation. Furthermore, he thought that Fang Zhengzhi was extremely childish for asking such a question.

Revolution?

Putting the truth of this incident aside, even if he had the intention to hold a revolution, how could he have admitted to it at that moment?

"Then why did you kill the royal guards?" Fang Zhengzhi seemed to not believe Lin Xinjue's words. He then pressed him further.

"What has that got to do with you?" King Duan said in a chilling tone.

"As an official courtier of the Great Xia Dynasty, I have the responsibility to advice King Duan against such actions, shouldn't I?" Fang Zhengzhi pointed at his attire and said with a righteous expression on his face.

"Sixth brother, why did you kill the royal guards? Are you even bringing the city guards into the palace? This is clearly an act of revolution!" Ping Yang shouted with a horrified expression on her face.

"No, don't listen to the nonsense Fang Zhengzhi is spouting. The royal guards you see in front of you are fakes. Sixth brother made the city guards seal off the palace entrance in order to save father!" King Duan answered Fang Zhengzhi's question bitterly after listening to Ping Yang's words.

"Fake?" Ping Yang was obviously startled.

"King Duan is saying that the royal guards are fakes? I don't believe it, do you have proof?" Fang Zhengzhi asked quizzically.

"I have no time for your nonsense. I am going to save father right now, the city guards are following my command. Those who dare to stop me…"

"King Duan is revolting! King Duan is revolting!"

Before he could say the harsh words, Fang Zhengzhi's voice once again echoed through the area, this time even louder than the previous one.

King Duan Lin Xinjue then had no choice but to swallow his words.

Although his eyes still glowed with a chilling presence.

As he stared at Fang Zhengzhi who was still rattling away, he clenched his sword tightly. He could not wait to kill him off in a single stab.

"How dare you accuse me of holding a revolution!" King Duan felt that he was totally misunderstood. However, he also could not find a way to stop Fang Zhengzhi from talking.

"Are you saying I am wrong?" Fang Zhengzhi stared at the burning anger in King Duan's eyes while giving him an accusing look.

King Duan felt like swearing.

However, he still managed to control his anger as he stared at the two rows of royal guards at the palace entrance. His eyes glimmered with resolve yet again.

He truly did not have time to waste around here.

Tonight, was his chance to shine. A chance that he could not have given up no matter the circumstances. As long as he barged into the palace, his position in court would never be shaken ever again.

"Fang Zhengzhi, I have already mentioned that these people are fakes!" King Duan sounded unusually infuriated.

"How can you prove it?" Fang Zhengzhi blinked as he said.

"I do not wish to waste my time on you. If you do not believe me, follow me into the palace!" King Duan did not wish to waste time explaining to Fang Zhengzhi.

Most importantly, he could not explain it.

How did he know that these royal guards were fake? How did he then, knew that something was about to happen in the palace? All of these could not be explained in a short period of time.

"Alright then, King Duan please proceed!" Fang Zhengzhi nodded upon hearing those words. Following which, he pointed at the two rows of royal guards in front of the palace entrance.

The royals guards trembled in fear upon seeing Fang Zhengzhi's accusing finger. Their facial expressions were unusual.

"Proceed?" King Duan listened to Fang Zhengzhi and was stunned for a moment. This was indeed strange, and extremely peculiar.

Fang Zhengzhi's changed his attitude way too fast!

Just a moment ago, he was accusing King Duan of holding a revolution. The next moment, he was telling King Duan to bring him into the palace, even giving him permission to massacre the royal guards.

What was going on?

King Duan felt that something was amiss. However, he had no time to think about such issues. He had to get into the palace as fast as possible.

"Kill them all!" King Duan pointed at the royal guards with his sword.

The city guards once again heard the command from King Duan. Although they still had doubts about his actions, no one dared to go against his wishes.

"Kill!"

"Kill them all!"

War cries echoed through the area once again.

Following which, the city guards made their move again, charging towards the royal guards in neat and compact formation. Their spears pointed mercilessly forward as they ran.

"Onward!"

As the royal guards looked at the city guards, they gritted their teeth and braced themselves for the impact.

A bloody battle was about to begin.

Fang Zhengzhi, Ping Yang, and Yan Xiu stood silently at the side and stared at the ongoing battle, just like passers-by that just happened to walk past.

"The royal guard has strong individual combat abilities. However, they cannot fend off these many city guards. I am guessing this battle will end swiftly." Fang Zhengzhi seriously commented on the result of this battle.

"That's right, my exact sentiments." Ping Yang nodded upon hearing Fang Zhengzhi's words, showing her approval of his views.

"It should be done in 15 minutes." Yan Xiu nodded as he said.

King Duan, who was riding his majestic white horse and holding his long sword listened intently to their conversation. His lips subconsciously twitched upon hearing those words.

The city guards and royal guards were in an unusual heated battle.

However, there were three "passers-by" who seemed to be keeping their distance from this incident, but getting somehow involved in it.

Furthermore, they had a nonchalant expression on their faces. It made King Duan felt extremely uncomfortable.

"This is not right! Why did Fang Zhengzhi appear? Is it coincidence? He simply saw the bright light in the palace and came here to watch a show. Or, could he have some other motives?" King Duan felt a shiver down his spine and stared at Fang Zhengzhi, who was in a discussion with Ping Yang and Yan Xiu. A bladed resolve shone through his eyes.

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Chapter 565: Seal, Unleashed!

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

From King Duan's impression, Fang Zhengzhi indeed had the habit of watching a troublesome issue unfold. However, he did not like endangering himself in these situations. In other words, while Fang Zhengzhi liked some conflict, he did not wish to be inside them.

However, what was happening in the palace now was…

"There is something wrong!" King Duan quickly came to a conclusion that Fang Zhengzhi and Ping Yang's appearance was definitely not one of coincidence.

Although…

What was their purpose of coming?

Accompanying him into the palace? If it was only Fang Zhengzhi alone, this would be possible. However, Ping Yang could easily bring him into the palace. Entering the palace would not be a problem in the first place.

Why then would he want to deliberately follow him?

King Duan could not understand his actions. Subconsciously, he heard a voice telling him that he should not allow Fang Zhengzhi to follow behind him.

However, another voice was telling him that if Fang Zhengzhi truly wished to be involved in this situation, it would be better to keep an eye on him.

This was a troublesome decision.

One on hand, King Duan wanted to see what Fang Zhengzhi wanted to do. On the other hand, he was afraid of Fang Zhengzhi's special purpose of following him.

Just when he was struggling with the two decisions, the battle at the palace entrance had come to an end.

A huge group of royal guards lay in a pool of blood while the surviving guards had already retreated into the palace. The city guards had successfully occupied the entrance to the palace.

"Charge!" King Duan did not hesitate upon seeing this scene. He immediately issued an order. As for Fang Zhengzhi…

He had too much to attend to right now.

He would let Fang Zhengzhi follow him. Why would he be afraid?

This was King Duan's exact thought.

Following King Duan's command, the city guards charged into the palace, their war cries echoing through the palace.

King Duan also entered the palace immediately.

"We enter as well right?" Ping Yang blinked her eyes as she stared at Fang Zhengzhi.

"Alright, but you must first promise me a few things," Fang Zhengzhi stared at the city guards and Lin Xinjue as they stormed into the palace as he wore an unusually serious expression on his face.

"Speak!" Ping Yang was stunned as she looked at Fang Zhengzhi's expression. She then bit her pink lips in apprehension.

"Firstly, after entering the palace, you must stay by Yan Xiu and my side. You must be less than five steps away from us!" Fang Zhengzhi said.

"Okay!" Ping Yang answered and nodded her head.

"Secondly, you can only watch. Do not try to fight while you are inside!" Fang Zhengzhi then said.

"But what if something is happening to father…"

"If it is something the Emperor cannot solve, do you think you will be able to?" Fang Zhengzhi interrupted before Ping Yang could complete her sentence.

"I… I think I can do it!" Ping Yang bit her lip and said after a moment of hesitation. Her final answer was filled with conviction.

"You can?" Fang Zhengzhi looked at Ping Yang quizzically.

"Yes, I am strong!" Ping Yang nodded as she affirmed.

"Who are you trying to fool… have you reached Heavenly Reflection State?" Fang Zhengzhi stared at Ping Yang's confident face and could not help but comment.

"No, but I am strong!" Ping Yang seemed extremely determined.

"Alright then, but, without my permission, you cannot do anything." Fang Zhengzhi fell speechless. Following which, he then looked at the huge wave of city guards entering the palace and shook his head before saying, "Alright, I mean to tell me before you act rashly."

"Alright!" Ping Yang nodded upon hearing those words.

"Yan Xiu, let's go!" Fang Zhengzhi cast his glance at Yan Xiu, who kept silent all this time.

"Alright," Yan Xiu nodded.

The three of them quickly entered the palace.

However…

After just a few steps, they stopped. This was because King Duan Lin Xinjue and the guards had stopped as well.

In front of the city guards were thousand over black figures.

Under the concealment of the night sky, thousand over black figures blocked the way. Each of them held a shiny weapon in their hands, reflecting the moonlight and giving off a chilling presence.

Beside those black figures were royal guards clad in golden armor laying weak on the floor and drenched in perspiration.

"It seems like… we will need to engage in one more battle. Let's find a safe place to watch this show." Fang Zhengzhi pouted as he said to Ping Yang.

"Alright then," Ping Yang agreed as well.

This conversation was naturally heard by King Duan Lin Xinjue. In an instant, he subconsciously tightened his grip on his weapon.

Outside the palace, on top of a building

Su Qing stood on the rooftop clad in a neat court attire. The black figures behind him stood motionless as well.

At that moment, a black figure once again landed behind Su Qing.

"Reporting my lord. King Duan has entered the palace. However, apart from King Duan…" The black figure hesitated and stopped speaking.

"What else is there?" Su Qing frowned as he said.

The plan was crucial. He did not wish for any accidents to happen. Naturally, he did not like to hear something that he did not expect.

"Apart from King Duan, Fang Zhengzhi had also entered the palace together." The black figure quickly answered upon hearing Su Qing's words.

"Fang Zhengzhi?" Su Qing was startled as he subconsciously clenched his fist. "You are saying Fang Zhengzhi and King Duan appeared at the entrance of the palace, and entered the palace together?"

"No, Fang Zhengzhi appeared after King Duan. Fang Zhengzhi was accompanied by Ping Yang and Yan Xiu as well.

"Can you be sure that Fang Zhengzhi did not plan this together with King Duan?" Su Qing asked while he pondered the consequences.

He did not believe that Fang Zhengzhi and King Duan planned something beforehand.

However…

He was not going to take chances.

After all, if Fang Zhengzhi was indeed an accomplice of King Duan. His current plan might be heavily disrupted.

"I don't think so. From what I observed, Fang Zhengzhi even accused King Duan of treason and revolt upon his arrival, shouting at the top of his lungs. In order to not attract attention, King Duan then allowed Fang Zhengzhi to accompany him into the palace!" The black figure recalled as he shook his head.

"Alright, I understand. Continue to keep an eye on them. If anything happens, report immediately!" Su Qing nodded as he waved to the black figure.

"Yes!" The black figure immediately left to fulfill his mission.

A black figure standing behind Su Qing then stepped forward. He then bowed respectfully to Su Qing before whispering, "My lord, do we have to report this situation to Young Master. After all, this wasn't part of our plan!"

"Accidents are bound to happen. Young Master will be able to take care of it!" Su Qing frowned as he replied the black figure.

"I understand," The black figure nodded as he retreated to his original position.

Su Qing then cast his glance back at the palace as he frowned. His eyes exuded a chilling presence as he thought, to think that you would choose to appear at this time… Fang Zhengzhi, what is your aim?

Simply watching a show?

That's not right!

Su Qing shook his head as he thought. In his plan, he expected Fang Zhengzhi to show up. However, he did not expect that Fang Zhengzhi would show up in this manner.

There was no advantage to showing up at this moment.

"Fang Zhengzhi, don't you know that only people who can withstand pressure and hardship will achieve the final victory? I thought you have improved over the years, however… you are still as reckless as you were a year ago! You thought that you would know the entire plan simply by following King Duan? How naïve!"

Su Qing snickered as he thought. However, he still felt that something was amiss. It seemed like a bad premonition.

This was because he could not understand. If Fang Zhengzhi appeared with King Duan at the palace entrance…

What could he accomplish?

"Even if you know that King Duan played an important role in my plan, what can the three of you do to an entire army of city guards? What ruckus can you wreck on my beautiful plan?"

Within the throne room.

The bronze gate stood righteously within the throne room. It exuded a desolate presence as a giant claw slowly emerged from the gate.

A green metallic scale covered the claw.

Roar!

The sound of a giant beast echoed through the room.

The gravels within the throne room began to move about from the shockwaves of the roar. Following which, another claw emerged.

A spiral-shaped horn then appeared from the gate.

Lin Mubai immediately squinted his eyes at this moment. He stared at the huge figure emerging from the bronze gate. However, he did not show any signs of retreating.

Finally…

The beast completely revealed itself.

A beast completely covered in green scales appeared in the throne room. It had a sharp spiral horn on its head and a thick mane. It looked similar to a green colored lion and was 25-foot-tall.

It appeared out of nowhere from the bronze door.

Clearly, this was a ferocious beast.

However, this was not just any ferocious beast.

"Beast, Green Scaled Suanni!" Eunuch Wei's voice rose at this moment. His eyes were glued to the humongous beast emerging from the gate.

The Law of Dao had its records.

The dragon had nine offsprings, each of them starkly different. The Suanni was one of the nine offsprings. Although the Suanni in front of their eyes was not a true Suanni, it possessed all the characteristics of it. It possessed at least 70% of the true Suanni bloodline.

However, this was not the end. After the Suanni appeared, the bronze gate did not close. It continued to shine with a sinister brilliance.

Quickly…

The roar of another beast appeared from within the gate.

A back figure then dashed out of the bronze gate, the heatwaves generated from its body engulfing the throne room. A pair of blinding red wings then appeared in the air.

Screech!

The piercing scream penetrated through dark skies into the horizon.

A crimson flame enveloped its body and vaporized a small part of the clouds floating on the ceiling of the throne room. It then looked downwards with its eyes constructed purely from flames.

"Beast, Flaming Phoenix!" Eunuch Wei once again stared at the soaring beast in the air as beads of perspiration appeared on his forehead.

However, this did not seem to be the end.

After the appearance of the phoenix, the bronze gate once again shone with the familiar sinister brilliance. Huge ferocious beasts then emerged from it consecutively.

In an instant…

The spacious throne room was filled up.

"Five of them!" Eunuch Wei stared at the five huge figures and the bronze gate, which had finally returned to its normal state, in awe. He felt a shiver down his spine.

Roar! The ferocious beasts growled in unison.

The Green Scaled Suanni was already impatient as it was the first one to emerge from the gate. It swung its claws around and immediately made a huge crack on a huge pillar holding up the throne room.

Creak! The cracks continued spreading through the pillar.

Boom!

The entire pillar was smashed to smithereens.

The moment Lin Mubai saw this scene, he clenched his fist subconsciously. The throne room was passed and protected from generation to generation. Although the destruction of a single pillar would not destroy the entire throne room…

If the five beasts continued to have their way within the throne room, it would no longer exist after this fight.

"Emperor of the Great Xia, please comment on my control over the Near-Life Gate?" Qian Wu stared at Lin Mubai's clenched fist as he snickered coldly.

"Worthy of someone being called the top prodigy of the Northern Barbarians. Your King has an eye for talent!" Lin Mubai said as he stared at the five beasts, igniting the golden brilliance that surrounded him yet again.

The dragon above his head seemed to have felt his will as well. Its demonic eyes seemed to shine with an even more sinister blood-red glow.

As for Crown Prince Lin Tianrong, he could merely stare at the scene with widened eyes.

"Five ferocious beasts! Qian Wu can summon five beasts from the Near-Life gate at once! Is this his true power? How did he do it?" Lin Tianrong was slightly horrified.

In fact, he had always known that Qian Wu was strong. However, he did not know that Qian Wu was this powerful.

The Near-Life Dao one of the Six Daos of Rebirth.

If the Heavenly Dao was said to be the balance amongst the Six Daos, and the Dao of Asura the most offensive Dao, the Near-Life Dao was probably the one most suited for battle!

This was because the Near-Life Dao was a rite of seals. The moment the Near-Life Dao was combined with the Near-Life gate, it would strike fear even into the hearts of the bravest warriors.

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Chapter 566: Fated Reincarnation of Life and Death

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

The pressure within the throne room was extremely intense, to the point of being terrifying.

The screams of despair and slushing of blades could also be heard from the throne room every so often. It was a stark reminder of what was happening.

Eunuch Wei's back was completely wet from perspiration. He stared tightly at the five ferocious beasts in front of him with incredible apprehension.

"Your Majesty…"

"It doesn't matter!" Lin Mubai waved his hands at Eunuch Wei before he slowly walked towards the beasts with a solemn expression.

One step at a time.

Roar!

The five beasts stared at the advancing Lin Mubai and unleashed their ferocity completely. They roared at Lin Mubai in unison.

The next moment, the five beasts acted.

They charged at Lin Mubai from both the ground and the air, each of their eyes flashing with a chilling presence.

"Beasts of Sin!" Lin Mubai hollered. At the same time, a strong golden brilliance emitted from his body. It was majestic and blinding.

Lin Mubai was not retreating. Instead, he was charging straight towards the beasts as well.

At the same time, the golden dragon hovering on top of him also took action.

It plunged toward, aiming its huge draconic claws at the five beasts. It also made use of its giant tail and crack it on the head of the Green Scaled Suanni.

The moment the Green Scaled Suanni saw Lin Mubai rushing over, it opened its gigantic jaw and tried to crunch down on Lin MuBai.

However, just when it was about to succeed,

Lin Mubai mysteriously disappeared without a trace.

The golden dragon tail then reached the Green Scaled Suanni, striking its forehead with lightning speed.

Boom!

The Green-Scaled Suanni lowered its head as its two front paws were smacked right down. It then knelt powerlessly onto the ground. At that moment, Emperor Lin Mubai appeared right above it.

He was still bathed in a golden brilliance.

He was holding a sword in his hand as well. A sword as innocently white as jade.

"Die!"

Emperor Lin Mubai had a cold resolve in his eyes. His stabbed his sword towards the head of the Suanni without hesitation. Just as his sword was about to strike the Suanni's head, something strange happened!

The sword changed form into a giant blade 600 feet in length. There was also a mist like presence circling the sword.

Boom!

The giant sword pierced right through the Green-Scaled Suanni's head, sending a loud sound which echoed through the throne room. Following which, the Green-Scaled Suanni lay motionless on the ground.

Blood splattered in all directions.

It all happened too fast. It only took the blink of an eye from the moment Lin Mubai took action to the time when the Suanni fell. Lin Mubai had managed to take down a ferocious beast that had at least 70% of the pure Suanni bloodline!

This was undoubtedly shocking.

Lin Tianrong stared at the giant sword in his father's hands and the blood dripping down from its blade with his mouth agape.

He could hardly remember a time when Lin Mubai got engaged in a fight.

However, this fight alone was more than enough to prove that his father, the Emperor of the Great Xia, was indeed a powerful figure who deserved to be feared and respected by all.

Qian Wu was clearly taken aback by this as well. He stared at the defeated Green-Scaled Suanni with a cold gaze.

"The Emperor of the Great Xia Dynasty lives up to his name!" Qian Wu exclaimed. He had not expected Lin Mubai to be a weak opponent. However, he did not expect him to be this strong.

Merely one hit?

Qian Wu subconsciously clenched his fist. He did not rush forward with an attack immediately.

That was because from the moment Lin Mubai killed the Green-Scaled Suanni in a single blow, the phoenix circling the air had already snuck up behind him.

Caw!

A high-pitched cry rang across the throne room.

The phoenix struck mercilessly at Lin Mubai with its steel-like claws. It aimed specifically for the head, clearly with murderous intentions. One could expect Lin Mubai to at least be gravely injured if he was hit by that attack.

Roar!

The dragon bellowed as well when he heard the high-pitched phoenix cry. At the same time, it immediately stationed itself behind Lin Mubai to defend him from the fatal blow.

Clang!

The steel-like claws grasped onto the dragon's body and tore off a few pieces of that golden scale. A huge block of golden brilliance also fell onto the ground.

Roar!

The dragon bellowed once again as it lashed out its ferocious claws.

Boom!

The sound of the collision caused the entire throne room to tremble. The two giant beasts were blown away from each other due to the shockwaves from the collision.

However, this was not all. Behind the phoenix, three other beasts lurked…

"What a bunch of sinful beasts!" Lin Mubai muttered softly. At the same time, he threw a ferocious beast off its course with simply a forceful kick.

Alas, the other two beasts had already opened their jaws, ready to devour Lin Mubai.

"Open!" Lin Mubai hollered as the golden brilliance around him increased in intensity once again. It became two long golden spears which were thrown right into the jaws of those beasts.

Argh!

Two miserable cries of suffering sounded in unison.

At the same time, they retreated for a few steps as blood flowed profusely from the wounds in their agape jaws. The blood scattered in all directions as they grimaced in pain, raining down onto the ground.

Going against five powerful beasts with the strength of one man.

This was the power of Emperor Lin Mubai.

The golden brilliance encircled Lin Mubai ever so gloriously as he stared at Lin Tianrong, who was cowering at the entrance to the throne room.

"Unfilial son, if you…"

Before Lin Mubai could complete his sentence, his facial expression changed.

This was because he heard a piercing scream from underneath his feet. It was a giant tail that was green in color and filled with thick scales.

Boom!

Emperor Lin Mubai flew across the room all the way back to his throne seat like a comet dashing through the sky. His face became extremely pale.

He would never expect that the Green-Scaled Suanni which suffered a penetrative wound to the head was still alive.

Was this the rumored extreme vitality of the ferocious beasts?

"Your Majesty, your Majesty…" Eunuch Wei stared at the injured and airborne Lin Mubai and immediately walked forward in an attempt to cushion the impact.

However, he was immediately blown away by the shockwaves.

"Your Majesty, how are you feeling?" Eunuch Wei asked with a concerned expression on his face.

A mouthful of blood then gushed out from Lin Mubai's mouth. At the same time, the golden brilliance around him seemed to have dimmed slightly.

"Protect…"

"Wait!" Lin Mubai immediately interrupted Eunuch Wei. Following which, he coughed violently for a few times before standing up with grace once again.

"Your Majesty, why are you doing this?" Eunuch Wei stared at Lin Mubai with tears in his eyes. He could not bear to see the Emperor go through such pain.

"It doesn't matter," Lin Mubai said as he waved his hands.

"Very good. Emperor of the Great Xia, you did not disappoint me. This fight alone is worth my trip to the Flame Capital City. Alas, I cannot show mercy when the interests of our countries are at heart. Please forgive me!" Qian Wu looked at Lin Mubai's pale expression and said with respect.

"Naturally," Lin Mubai nodded in reply. However, he kept his gaze on Lin Tianrong all this time.

Eunuch Wei naturally noticed this tender expression and could no longer hold in his words.

After a moment of hesitation, Eunuch Wei gritted his teeth and positioned himself right in front of Lin Mubai, protecting Lin Mubai with his body.

"Crown Prince, are you still unwilling to repent even after seeing your father in this state? Are you really willing to see your father killed by someone from another country?" Eunuch Wei was almost pleading with Lin Tianrong to give up on his actions.

Lin Tianrong was startled at this turn of events.

He stared at his weak and pale looking father as he clenched and loosened his fist countless times. He looked extremely hesitant.

Qian Wu also shifted his gaze back to Lin Tianrong at this moment.

"What do you think? Are you going to spare your father's life? I assume that your Crown Prince position is already gone. However, your father might still give you a title similar to King Duan. You can still live out the rest of your life in peace and comfort!" Qian Ru said condescendingly.

"What rubbish! I am the Crown Prince, the Heavenly Son, the next Emperor of the Great Xia Dynasty. As long as my father is dead, I will own everything that ever belonged to the Great Xia. Kill him! Kill him right now!" Lin Tianrong gritted his teeth in determination as he said those words. His expression looked similar to that of a cultist that had gone insane.

"Haha, great. Very good. I will fulfill your wishes and kill him for you!" Qian Wu grinned with satisfaction upon hearing Lin Tianrong's words.

At the same time, he moved his hands slightly.

The four other beasts seemed to be revitalized by some mysterious power and started hissing softly, their jaws glistening with a murderous intent.

"Your Majesty, the Crown Prince has already decided, we cannot let this go on!" Eunuch Wei stared at Lin Mubai, urging him to take action.

"My Dear Queen Yan, I am extremely sorry. Tianrong has been blinded by the power and allure of the throne. I cannot fulfill my promise to you and hand the glorious lands of the Great Xia into his hands!" Lin Mubai cried in despair as his face showed an expression of desperation upon hearing Eunuch Wei's words. He looked as if he was on the verge of tears.

"Dragon Protection Squad, take action!" Eunuch Wei said while trembling as he heard Lin Mubai's words. However, he quickly recollected himself.

"Yes!" Voices shouted in unison from the back of the throne room.

Following which, countless soldiers clad in shining armor emerged from the back of the throne seat, each of them holding a long sword in their hands.

They were the Dragon Protection Squad!

The most elite squad in the Great Xia Dynasty.

They were a squad that served only the Emperor. For a long time, they represented the Emperor in all parts of the country, executing secret missions stealthily.

However, they had appeared in the throne room.

Furthermore, none of the members of the Dragon Protection Squad were absent. The ten Dragon Envoys of the squad stood in frontlines and held their flags in confidence. Ten bright red flags fluttered majestically within the throne room.

"First Dragon Envoy, Yan Qing, present!" A middle-aged man clad in shining armor stepped forward and knelt down in front of Lin Mubai.

"Dragon Protection Squad? Yan Qing! Why… why are you people here?" Lin Tianrong was clearly shocked at the sudden appearance of the Dragon Protection Squad, especially at the appearance of the First Dragon Envoy Yan Qing. His lunatic expression turned into one of shock and horror.

"Crown Prince, stop going down this path. Stop while you still can. The Emperor knew about your plans a long time ago. Did you really think he would not make preparations?" Yan Qing slowly stood up and turned his gaze to Lin Tianrong.

Yes, father had seen the letters from Fang Zhengzhi. He knew that this was going to happen! Lin Tianrong clenched his fists as he thought.

He remembered everything. It was Fang Zhengzhi again!

Fang Zhengzhi handed his letters with Qian Wu to Lin Mubai's hands, giving Lin Mubai the time to prepare his defenses.

He hated Fang Zhengzhi so much. He hated him for disrupting his plans again and again.

He regretted not killing Fang Zhengzhi while he was in the Southern Region. He regretted killing the Noblelite Shan Ling first. He could no longer turn back time.

How could he then, give up when the throne was just in sight?

His eyes turned stone cold and stared at the twenty black figures who were huddling in the corner.

"What are you waiting for? Kill them all! No one opposing me leaves this place alive!" Lin Tianrong bellowed like a ferocious beast.

"Yes!" The twenty black figures replied in unison. They quickly stood forward and came to the side of the four beasts.

From their perspective, as long as they were not facing against Lin Mubai's Green Dragon Eye, they had no fear. This was because they were Rebirth State individuals.

They had enough power to completely crush the Dragon Protection Squad in front of them.

"Dragon Protection Squad, haha… Father, do you really think you can stop me simply with the Dragon Protection Squad?" Lin Tianrong stared at the twenty Rebirth State individuals and four beasts with confidence.

He had good knowledge of the strength of the Dragon Protection Squad.

The First Dragon Envoy Yan Qing was a Rebirth State individual. Some of the other Dragon Envoys had also reached the Rebirth State.

However, this did not mean that they could defend Lin Mubai against the twenty black figures.

Furthermore, Lin Mubai was already injured.

And on his side…

He still had four ferocious beasts with him.

Four beasts that could not only stand their ground against Lin Mubai but also possessed immense vitality.

Most importantly, he still had Qian Wu with him, and also some backup forces outside of the throne room. Why then, would he be afraid of the Dragon Protection Squad?

Lin Tianrong's brazen laughter echoed across the throne room.

At that moment, a brilliant light flew into the room and sped across Lin Tianrong's head. It was as though a comet had graced the majestic throne room.

In an instant, it reached the spot above the raging phoenix.

The phoenix was obviously taken aback by this sudden encounter. It looked upwards with its flaming eyes in shock and horror.

It then saw a fist.

A fist that was right in front of its eyes.

Boom!

The phoenix felt its body tremble violently before it fell straight towards the ground. It then caused a huge explosion and gravel scattered in all directions.

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Creak…

Cracks appeared on the ground and the dust that was buried for centuries under the ground of throne room instantly erupted across the room. In the blink of an eye. The enter throne room was covered in a layer of fine white dust.

This scene undoubtedly came as a shock to both eh black figures and Crown Prince Lin Tianrong.

It happened too fast!

So fast that they did not have the time to react.

"Who is it?" The twenty black figures had the same question in their minds. They then focused their gaze on a blurred figure amongst the dust.

A few moments later, the dust settled.

A giant crater also appeared on the ground of the throne room.

Within the crater, the phoenix lay flat on the ground, quivering and convulsing in pain as it whimpered.

There was also a figure standing on top of the Flaming Phoenix.

She was clad in a sky-blue battle dress decorated with intricate white lotus embroidery. Her black hair extended all the way to her waist like morning dews on a leaf. There was also a flower hairpin keeping her hair in place, giving her that elegant presence.

"I wonder if it will be enough if I join in the fight?" A faint and gentle voice appeared from the dust. There was no arrogance to that voice.

She simply stared at the Flaming Phoenix silently as she stood motionless with grace. She was barehanded and her hair was slightly damp.

However, the sight of her was enough to make Crown Prince Lin Tianrong and the twenty black figure retreat subconsciously.

That was because…

She was Chen Feihua.

The commander of the royal guards of the Great Xia Dynasty, also known as Hua Fei, number 17th on the Holy Rankings.

"Hua Fei!" Lin Tianrong immediately stopped his insane laughter as he stared at the Flaming Phoenix under Chen Feihua's feet. He then felt a shiver down his spine.

Number 17th on the Holy Rankings.

This was merely just a ranking board. However, the true meaning and accolade of this ranking was something one should never ignore.

"I have long heard about the prowess of Chen Feihua, the number one concubine of the Great Xia Dynasty. She indeed lives up to her reputation!" Qian Wu's gaze was also glued onto the whimpering Flaming Phoenix that was under her feet.

However, his gaze was different from that of Crown Prince Lin Tianrong.

Lin Tianrong's gaze was one of awe, shock, and fear. However, Qian Yu's gaze was one of excitement and happiness. His eagle-like eyes were flashing with brilliance.

"Are you the one who injured the Emperor?" Chen Feihua said with an expressionless face. She then lifted her leg slowly before thrusting it down with full force.

A snapping sound could be heard.

The whimpering sounds from the Flaming Phoenix immediately stopped. Its giant head was completely crushed, splattering blood and ashes all over the ground of the throne room.

However, Chen Feihua's dress was still completely clean. She still looked as fresh as a lotus who managed to bloom from a patch of marshland, completely untainted by her tardy surroundings.

"That's right. It was me!" Qian Wu said as he squinted his eyes.

The Flaming Phoenix was not a beast that was exceptionally strong. However, it was extremely agile and could be considered a rare creature.

However…

It was destroyed by Chen Feihua in a single blow.

It was impossible to stay completely calm after that. However, Qian Wu managed to keep his anger under control. He did not even take another look at the Flaming Phoenix.

"I understand." Chen Feihua nodded her head. She then acted swiftly.

She charged towards Qian Wu without any further fanciful display of prowess. She was bathed in a golden brilliance which complemented her blue dress. It was a gorgeous scene.

"Don't you dare hurt the master!" The black figures immediately released their powers upon seeing this scene, charging straight towards Chen Feihua.

Boom!

At that moment, the golden brilliance exploded.

A golden aura then spread across the throne room. It seemed like a layer of golden mist, completely enveloping the room.

Chen Feihua, on the other hand, disappeared after that explosion.

"Hm?" The twenty black figures stared at the golden mist that suddenly appeared in the throne room. They then realized that Chen Feihua had disappeared without a trace, causing them to be stunned for a moment.

However, they all reacted immediately.

They increased the intensity of the brightness surrounding them and covered their entire body in their brilliance. They looked as if they were protected by that veil of light.

Following which, a sound similar to that of glass breaking echoed through the room.

The twenty black figures then trembled slightly and looked in unison in the direction of the sound. Their eyes then widened at that sight.

This was because just a few feet away, a golden figure had emerged.

There was also a black figure standing beside her with an expression of horror on his face. The brilliance that was originally surrounding him was already broken.

The object that destroyed that brilliance was naturally a fist.

Boom!

After the fist destroyed the veil of light, it went straight for the heart of the black figure, piercing right through the chest of the black figure without hesitation. There was no fancy display of prowess as usual.

The black figure's eyes widened in fear.

He lowered his head as he stared at the woman in front of him. A long lock of elegant black hair fluttered behind her back and expressionless face.

She looked as calm as still water.

There was no murderous intent in her eyes. However, her fist destroyed his protection veil immediately and even crushed his heart.

"You… so strong…" The black figure twitched uncontrollably as blood poured out from his mouth. He could not believe that this was how he would die.

However, the moment his heart was destroyed, he knew that he was already dead. Furthermore, he died when he was incapable of offering resistance.

Number 17th on the Holy Rankings!

Was this the true strength of someone who was number 17th on the Holy Rankings?

Why would there be such a huge difference in strength?

The black figure wanted to understand this difference in strength. However, he could no longer speak as he felt the fist that pierced straight into his heart being removed from his body.

Following which, his body could no longer support his weight and he collapsed powerlessly onto the floor.

"This…" The twenty black figures stared at Chen Feihua with unmoving eyes. They stared at the elegant figure clad in a blue dress and the golden brilliance surrounding her.

They were truly startled by what just happened.

One blow!

They were both Rebirth State Individuals. However, Chen Feihua merely needed one blow to defeat them. What's with this difference in strength?

"Pinnacle of the Rebirth State!"

"She is truly at the pinnacle of the Rebirth State!"

"Number 17th on the Holy Rankings!"

The twenty black figures did not retreat. However, the expression on their faces became extremely serious as they observed Chen Feihua closely.

That glamorous appearance and refined temperament.

Managed to strike fear into the depths of their hearts nonetheless.

"Incredible, you did not let me down!" Qian Wu stared at Chen Feihua, who was standing within the golden mist, with a grin on his face.

"What should we do now?" Lin Tianrong said in desperation after listening to Qian Wu as he trembled in fear. He knew exactly how strong Chen Feihua was.

One Chen Feihua could definitely go against at least ten other Rebirth State Individuals.

However, Qian Wu was saying that she did not let him down?

Was this a game?

No!

This was a fight for the throne, a sin that was rightfully called usurping the throne. If he failed, it would represent the loss of everything. Everything that he had done up till now would turn into nothingness.

"Relax, it is just a woman!" Qian Wu did not even look at Lin Tianrong. He merely answered casually.

"Woman? Don't you know…"

"Leave it up to me!" Qian Wu interrupted Lin Tianrong with an impatient expression on his face, dismissing his opinions with a wave of his hand.

Lin Tianrong's face immediately sunk.

As the Crown Prince of the Great Xia Dynasty, heir to the throne and future Emperor, he did not like to be ignored, especially by a prince from the Northern Barbarian Empire.

The Noblelite from the South had made such an expression in front of his face as well during the battle of the Southern Mountain Range.

Following which, the Noblelite of the Southern Region was killed, right under the blade of his sword. However, now that Qian Wu made such an expression, he was unable to do anything.

This was because Qian Wu was not Shan Ling, the Noblelite of the Southern Region.

"Hua er!" At that moment, Lin Mubai's voice echoed through the room. He stared at Chen Feihua, who was standing in the mist and shouted with apprehension.

"Your Majesty, I am late!" Chen Feihua immediately walked towards Lin Mubai upon hearing his voice. She completely ignored the black figures around her.

She went straight towards Lin Mubai.

She didn't walk very fast. However, none of the black figures dared to stand in her way.

She then reached Lin Mubai's side after a while.

At the same time, the golden mist within the throne room dissipated, as though it had never appeared. It seemed bizarre.

"Hua er, why did you come? Didn't I tell you to…" Lin Mubai stared at Chen Feihua, who had arrived right in front of his eyes and greeted her immediately.

"I was just passing by and came in after hearing some noises from the throne room." Chen Feihua answered calmly.

"So Hua er was just passing by." Lin Mubai nodded after hearing the reply and did not question her further.

"Just passing by?" Lin Tianrong's lips moved ever so slightly.

He was not an idiot. Chen Feihua could not have just passed by. However, this only meant one thing.

That would mean Chen Feihua's appearance was not part of Lin Mubai's plan.

suggesting that Chen Feihua was alone. There would be no further backups from the royal guards behind her.

"Yes, I have also brought a few people along." Chen Feihua added. She then turned her body and cast her glance back onto Qian Wu, Lin Tianrong as well as the twenty black figures.

"You brought people? Hua Fei, you…" Lin Tianrong stammered upon hearing Chen Feihua's words. He immediately turned pale.

At the same time, unison footsteps sounds could be heard from the entrance to the throne room. After which, rows of soldiers clad in golden armor rushed in.

Each of them was holding a shining spear in their hands.

The royal guards!

Thousands of them!

As Lin Tianrong stared at the royal guards who appeared out of nowhere, he subconsciously moved closer towards Qian Wu, his eyes filled with terror.

The twenty black figures also had a horrified expression on his face.

Chen Feihua alone was not that terrifying. However, a thousand-strong army of royal guards was definitely a force to be reckoned with.

Just passing by?

Together with a thousand over royal guards?

Furthermore, why would a thousand royal guards be stationed outside the throne room? Weren't all the royal guards on duty poisoned?

Unless…

All these royal guards were not on duty!

"Crown Prince, please stand back." Qian Wu's voice rang across the throne room. He acted as though he did not see the royal guards at all. There was no anxiety in his voice.

"What do you mean? Are you truly planning…" Lin Tianrong was just about to say something when he saw Qian Wu walking towards Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua.

"Qian Wu of the Holy Barbarian Empire pays respect to Hua Fei of the Great Xia Dynasty!" Qian Wu stopped after five steps and greeted Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua respectfully.

This action startled the Dragon Protection Squad and the royal guards who had just entered the throne room. This was because they could not understand what Qian Wu was thinking.

Shouldn't he be escaping?

Dragon Protection Squad, the royal guards, coupled with Hua Fei was more than enough to deal with the three beasts and twenty Rebirth State individuals he had. Victory was theirs to claim.

However, Qian Wu did not have the intention to leave. Conversely, he was issuing a challenge, to Hua Fei nonetheless! The person ranked number 17th on the Holy Rankings, Hua Fei.

Chen Feihua did not react. She merely stared at Lin Mubai as though waiting for his approval.

"What does Hua er wants to do?" Lin Mubai stared at Chen Feihua's eyes before staring at Qian Wu. A hint of hesitation flickered through his eyes.

"The Great Xia Dynasty has always ruled with decorum and etiquette. Since Qian Wu has issued an official challenge, I request that your Majesty command me to take the required actions." Chen Feihua answered calmly.

"If that is so, please be careful!" Lin Mubai nodded his head as he said.

"At your command!" Chen Feihua bowed slightly before she turned to look at Qian Wu. She then bowed slightly to Qian Wu at her original position before saying, "Five blows. If you can survive five blows, you can leave!"

"Alright!" Qian Wu nodded in agreement as he said.

He was not surprised at Chen Feihua's confident words, nor was he insulted by her arrogance. He merely nodded his head like a student would.

As though he had predicted these events prior to their happenings.

At that moment, Chen Feihua acted. In fact, from the moment Qian Wu nodded, Chen Feihua already flew at breakneck speed towards him.

Just a punch like the one from before, a punch without any fancy display of prowess.

A brilliance then appeared in Qian Wu's eyes. He stared at the fist right in front of his eyes, carefully observing the fist that crushed a Rebirth State individual's heart in a single blow.

He did not retreat.

In fact, he charged forward!

He welcomed the fist with his own.

At the same time, six complicated runes appeared on his hands. The runes then glowed in six different colors and thin threads could be seen connecting them together.

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Chapter 568: The Plan Begins!

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Both of them did not attempt to dodge. This was a direct fight without any schemes or tactics as both fists unsurprisingly collided.

The golden mist hovered around as brilliance shone through the cracks.

Boom!

A huge explosion sound could be heard.

Heatwaves spread across the room.

However, this was not all. Another gigantic explosion could be heard at the same time when Chen Feihua's and Qian Wu's attacks clashed. The entire throne room trembled from the impact.

Around the palace entrance.

The city guards were fighting against the black figures with their overwhelming numbers. It should almost a one-sided battle.

However, that did not happen.

It was a stalemate.

The thousand-strong black figure army was blocking the city guards with their lives. Although they were on the retreat, it was a methodical and strategical retreat, not one of complete and utter defeat.

King Duan had a sunken expression while standing behind the city guards. The black figures in front of them were clearly not ordinary people.

They were well-trained.

They had perfect offensive and defensive formations when they fought.

"Kill! What are you guys waiting for! We need to pave a way no matter the price!" King Duan's roared impatiently.

However, the city guards were still progressing slowly.

Fang Zhengzhi and Yan Xiu observed the battle on the sidelines with an expressionless face. On the other hand, Ping Yang was clearly impatient. One could see a hint of anxiety in her pair of clear eyes.

"Hey, shameless fellow! Think of something!" Ping Yang said as she stared at Fang Zhengzhi, seemingly urging him to take action.

"What? Think of something?" Fang Zhengzhi asked.

"Find a way to defeat these black figures!" Ping Yang eagerly said.

"Why do we have to defeat them?" Fang Zhengzhi asked.

"What… what else is there? They are stopping the city guards. If we cannot get past them, we will not be able to save father!"

"We do not need to defeat them to save the Emperor."

"How do we save father without defeating them?"

"We can simply leave a portion of the army to stall these black figures while the rest go on forward." Fang Zhengzhi stared at Ping Yang helplessly.

"Hm… we can do that?" Ping Yang seemed to have reacted to the situation as she said.

This conversation was naturally heard by King Duan Lin Xinjue, In an instant, he felt as though he was struck by an epiphany.

Splitting the forces?

Yes, why didn't he think of that!

They were in the palace! The palace was extremely spacious. There was absolutely no need to waste time with the people here!

King Duan Lin Xinjue felt that he was introduced to a whole new world of battle tactics. According to the normal art of war, one should always clear the obstacles right in front of them before proceeding. This was because leaving a portion of the enemy forces alive would increase the risk of their mission.

Even if they managed to infiltrate the area, the enemy forces might be able to perform an ambush or sneak attack on them in the future.

However…

The situation now was different.

They were in Flame Capital City, the land of the Holy Emperor. As long as they could charge into the palace, they did not have to worry about further ambush attacks.

Lin Xinjue seemed to have realized something upon this thought.

However, he was uncomfortable that this epiphany was granted by Fang Zhengzhi. He was the commander of the city guards, to think that he would need an outsider to provide him with battle tactics.

This was undoubtedly a disgrace.

On the other hand, the situation did not allow him to stand his ground. He had to swallow his shame and heed Fang Zhengzhi's suggestion as he needed to get to the throne room as quickly as possible.

"Split the forces right now. General Wang and his troops will stay. The rest of you follow me into the throne room!" King Duan said as his face turned red.

"Yes!"

At the rooftop outside the palace.

A black figure quickly sped towards the rooftop from the entrance of the palace. He then landed behind Su Qing, his face filled with admiration and respect.

"My lord, King Duan has already entered the inner palace!"

"Oh? That is slightly faster than my expectations. How did he do it?" Su Qing was slightly surprised after hearing the news from her informant.

"He split his forces!"

"I see, it seems like he has improved in the art of war. Cooping himself up in his residence to study did him some good!" Su Qing nodded as he said.

"This… this idea was raised by Fang Zhengzhi."

"Fang Zhengzhi? I understand. Although this is a bit faster than our original plan, it doesn't matter. We are almost done. Send out the message to commence the plan!" Su Qing squinted his eyes as he said.

"Yes!" The figure then disappeared without a trace.

Su Qing then cast his glance back onto the castle walls of the palace. He turned around and walked down from the rooftop.

A couple of black figures standing behind him immediately followed behind.

At the same time, a ferocious beast similar to a giant black eagle flew into the horizon with breakneck speed, quickly flying out of sight.

Flame Capital City, East gate.

The city guards standing guard at the gate exchanged glances in apprehension. Although there was clearly commotion coming from within the palace, their role was to guard the city gates.

No one dared to let down their guard.

At that moment, a figure appeared out of nowhere under the night sky. It was a figure that completely cloaked himself in the darkness. Their legs were wrapped in cloth and their spears were also wrapped in black fabric.

"Enemies… enemies!" A voice rang from the top of the castle walls. Even though the figures were completely clad in black attire, they were still discovered when they were near the castle walls.

This place was the capital of the Great Xia Dynasty.

The city guards guarding the castle walls had not seen this scene for a very long time. There was a huge group of black figures planning to infiltrate the city.

How preposterous!

"General, there are enemies!"

"What?" A husky voice sounded. Following which, a middle-aged man clad in a shining armor came to the edge of the castle walls.

Upon looking at the scene, his eyes widened.

"How can this be? This is Flame Capital City, the center of the Great Xia Dynasty. How could someone attempt to infiltrate this place? Why didn't you report immediately!" The middle0aged man stared at the huge number of black figures dashing towards the castle walls with a horrified expression. He could not understand the situation.

"General, the sky was dark. The enemies were camouflaged in the darkness. We cannot possibly tell the exact numbers of the enemies. Furthermore, almost 90% of the city guards had entered the palace together with King Duan. What should we do?" The soldier who was standing guard at the castle wall tower reported.

"Quick, shut the city gates!"

"Yes!"

"All the city guards listen up! As a soldier of the Great Xia Dynasty, we must protect Flame Capital City with our lives! Those who wished to be excluded will suffer death!"

"Yes!"

The army commands echoed across the city walls. However, this did not affect the black figures from approaching. As they slowly appeared in the middle-aged man's field of vision, his expression changed.

This was because looking down from the castle wall, he could see a huge army of black figures with no gap in between. There also seemed to be no end in sight, their numbers extending far into the dark horizon.

"How can this be? How did so many people get to the castle wall in such a short time?" The middle-aged man paled. He was now sure that this was a premeditated ambush.

Or could this be…

This was a war!

"Quick, go to the palace and inform King Duan!"

"Wait!" Just as the middle-aged man gave his orders, another voice rang. Following which, a figure walked out from the shadows.

"Lord Su?" The middle-aged man looked at the young man on the castle wall. He was surprised to see him here.

That was because the person was Su Qing.

The Chief of the Northern Lands Five Constabularies Su Qing!

News of Su Qing entering Flame Capital City had long spread across the country. However, this did not mean that he should appear here of all times.

"General Li!" Su Qing nodded as he walked towards the middle-aged man.

Behind him stood a couple of black figures. Each of them was masked by a black scarf and emitted a chilling aura.

"Lord Su, I have urgent matters to attend to. Could you…"

"General Li need not worry. I know everything!" Su Qing interrupted General Li. Following which, he walked to the edge of the castle wall and cast his glance at the countless black figures that extended into the horizon. He then frowned and said, "I didn't think that the Northern Barbarians would send a 100000-strong army into the borders of the Great Xia Dynasty!"

"What? 100000!" General Li was startled upon hearing the numbers. He once again looked a the horde of infiltrators and could confirm that there were simply too many to be counted.

However, 100000-strong army?

This was an impossible task.

After all, this was Flame Capital City, well within the borders of the Great Xia Dynasty. How could someone have hidden a 100000 strong army right under their eyes? How strange was that?

General Li was doubtful of his words. However, Su Qing had already confirmed the identity of the infiltrators. They were the Northern Barbarians. He had to treat them with caution.

"What is General Li waiting for? The Northern barbarians are known to be ferocious and merciless. Their army definitely came prepared. The army of Flame Capital City alone will not be able to defend against them. There are also Northern Barbarians creating a ruckus within the palace. General Li should light the pinnacle flame and summon troops from all over the country to protect Flame Capital City!" Su Qing stared at General Li's horrified expression and calmly suggested.

"Light the pinnacle flame? This.. without the Emperor's or King Duan's orders, I don't think…" General Li perspired profusely upon hearing those words.

Lighting the pinnacle flame!

This was an exceptionally important decision.

How could he attempt such a thing without a royal decree?

"What rubbish! Did I not make it clear enough? The Northern Barbarians had already disrupted the peace in the palace. How can the Emperor then make time to issue a royal decree? If General Li waste any more time, Flame Capital City will be infiltrated. How then can the citizens live in peace? Can you bear the responsibility of shaking the very foundation of the Great Xia Dynasty?" Su Qing's face sunk.

"Of course I cannot. However, if the enemy doesn't truly have a 100000-strong army and is deliberately trying to…" General Li hesitated as he spoke.

"Is General Li doubting my judgment?" Su Qing once again interrupted General Li, his eyes shining with a chilling presence.

"No, of course not, but…" General Li immediately shook his head as he said.

"Does General Li knows why I rushed to Flame Capital City all the way from Northern Lands?" Su Qing kept his gaze on General Li.

"Isn't Lord Su here for the Crown Prince…"

"Of course not! As the Chief of the Northern Land Five Constabularies, I have gotten the secret message a long time ago that the Northern Barbarians are preparing for a war. I am here to report this urgent message. As for the issue regarding the Crown Prince, how could I have predicted that?" Su Qing said.

"This…" General Li was slightly convinced upon hearing those words.

He had only heard rumors about Su Qing entering the capital. Naturally, he had no clue about the intentions behind his actions. However, Su Qing mentioned that he could not have known about the Crown Prince issue beforehand.

Just from this point alone, General Li was slightly persuaded by his speech.

Did the Northern Barbarians truly hide 100000 soldiers within the Great Xia Dynasty under their watch? If that was the truth, it would be terrifying.

If he made a single mistake handling this issue, his entire family would probably be executed.

"It is a crisis. Is General Li going to waste any more time? The moment Flame Capital City is taken, the glory of the Great Xia Dynasty might go down in ruins!" Su Qing urged once again as he saw the hesitation on General Li's face.

"Lord Su's words… are accurate, however, without the Emperor's…" General Li bit his lips in apprehension. He was already completely drenched in perspiration.

The outer castle walls of Flame Capital City was flooded with enemy troops.

The situation in the palace was unknown as well. This was indeed a crucial time when both internal and external security was being threatened. If he did anything right, he would be generously rewarded.

On the other hand, a mistake would be extremely detrimental as well.

How could he then make a decision lightly?

He was extremely hesitant.

However, at that moment, he saw a flash of light in his eyes. It was a chilling flash, a flash from the reflection of the moonlight off the blade of a sword.

It emitted a chilling presence in the night sky.

Most importantly, that flash of light was extremely near. It was so close that he had no time to react nor dodge it. He also did not prepare any defenses beforehand.

Slash!

The sword pierced through his throat as blood gushed out profusely.

"It is a time of crisis. However, General Li has displayed incompetence and weakness at this crucial time. I have executed you on behalf of King Duan!" Su Qing's voice rang.

At the same time, he removed the sword from General Li's throat.

A blood fountain followed the trajectory of the sword as it was raised into the air. Fresh droplets of blood then rolled down the blade of the sword.

General Li's eyes widened in shock.

He had never expected Su Qing to kill him. Furthermore, he did so in front of all the city guards under his command.

"Urgh!" He wanted to say something. However, he could no longer speak. He held his throat with his hands and he fell to the ground.

"Light the pinnacle flame. Summon all the troops back to protect Flame Capital City!" Su Qing walked forward and stepped onto General Li's head. He raised his sword high up in the air as the moonlight reflected off its merciless blade.

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Chapter 569: A Fearless Figure

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

At that moment, the city wall descended into complete silence.

Everyone standing on the city wall was dumbfounded by the scene in front of them. The stared at the warm fresh blood on the ground in shock as they tried processing the events that just happened in their minds.

They were not afraid of people being killed.

However, this was not something that simple.

General Li was dead!

He was killed in a single blow by the Chief of the Northern Lands Five Constabularies!

The city guards exchanged glances as they were at a loss of what to do. Under normal circumstances, they were trained to retaliate the moment their commander was killed.

However, their opponent was Su Qing.

He was the Chief of the Northern Land Five Constabularies. Most importantly, they all heard Su Qing's words. The Northern Barbarians were planning to invade Flame Capital City. Furthermore, they were already right in front of their eyes.

100 thousand strong army!

There were only about a few thousand city guards left spread out amongst the four city gates. How could they ever defend against such a huge force?

"Yes!"

"Light the pinnacle flame!"

"Quick, summon all the troops back to protect Flame Capital City!"

The city guards finally moved after a few moments of hesitation. Naturally, they could not make the decision during such a crucial time. After all, there was always someone who would take responsibility for these actions.

Today, that person would be Su Qing.

What else did they have to worry about?

Even if the Emperor wanted someone to take the blame for the incident, Su Qing would be the first one on the list. He was the one who gave the command while they were merely executing them.

"On command, light the pinnacle flame!"

"Light it!"

Voices rang throughout the east gate as they went into a scurry trying to light up the pinnacle flame. Some of the soldiers were even holding the messaging flag on their hands.

Quickly, the pinnacle flame was lit up.

Thick black smoke wafted towards the sky. It was exceptionally thick and dense, even the strong and chilling gale of the night was unable to dissipate the smoke easily.

At the same time, a blinding light bolted through the horizon. It blended in elegantly with the horizon like a shooting star across the sky.

Su Qing finally smiled in satisfaction upon seeing this sight.

The pinnacle flame was lit and the signal was released!

The troops stationed all around the country would immediately rush back to Flame Capital City. This was undoubtedly the thing that would be given the top priority no matter what mission they were executing.

"Lord Su, the Northern Barbarian army is already nearing the gate. Should we send someone to inform your Majesty about the situation?" A commander walked towards Su Qing as he said respectfully.

"Naturally. However, we should first set up our defenses and be clear about their motives. If we act rashly, we will walk right into their trap!" Su Qing replied.

"Trap?" The commander seemed confused.

"Yes, although I knew about the movements of the Northern Barbarians a long time ago, no one could predict how they are going to attack. If the attack on the city gates was merely a decoy for the attack on the Majesty, wouldn't we be walking right into their trap by sending someone to inform your Majesty?" Su Qing explained.

"Lord Su is right. However, if this is not a decoy, then wouldn't it be bad if we stalled…" The commander hesitated for a moment before saying his opinions with a trembling voice.

"I will check if it is a decoy!" Su Qing said confidently.

"How will Lord Su validate this?"

"As a courtier of the Great Xia Dynasty, I will lead in times of crisis. I will not shirk from this responsibility. Open the city gates. I will personally attend to this matter."

"This… Lord Su, I cannot allow that. The Northern Barbarians are extremely ferocious and merciless. If Lord Su…" The commander rejected this plan the moment he heard it.

Negotiating with the Northern Barbarian troops alone?

That would be courting death!

"Say no more, I have already decided!" Su Qing waved his hands before he turned and walked down the city wall.

The couple of black figures standing behind him followed behind.

The commander stood at his position, clearly dumbfounded. He stared at Su Qing's back as a terrible premonition rose in his heart. However, he could not pinpoint exactly what was wrong about Su Qing's actions.

Isn't Lord Su usually wise and cautious? Why would he use such a method? The commander clenched his fist as he frowned.

He wanted to inquire more into Su Qing's actions.

However, Su Qing had already made his way down the city walls.

Most importantly, General Li was already dead. Su Qing would naturally assume the role of the commander of the city guards. As soldiers, how could they resist his commands?

"Open the gate!"

"Lord Su is going to negotiate with the Northern Barbarians army. Open the gate!"

Creak!

As the commands were passed down, the bulky city gate was pushed open. The chilling night breeze grazed their faces while it carried the sand on the ground out of the city gate.

Countless black figures were still rushing towards the city gate. They held a spear wrapped in black cloth in their hands while being masked in a similarly dark-colored sash.

Their chilling murderous intent could be felt from miles away.

Su Qing squinted his eyes as he stared at the approaching black figures. He then slowly moved forward and walked past the city gate.

The several black figures behind him all these while did not follow him out. Instead, they stood motionless at the city gate, staring at Su Qing as he left.

Each of the city guards was horrified at Su Qing's brave actions.

"Close the gate!"

"Hold up!" A black figure said in a cold tone. The bladed resolve flickering in his eyes sent chills down the city guard's spine.

No one questioned the black figure when those words were spoken. However, the city guards had an incredulous expression on their faces.

"No one is to close the city gate before Lord Su returns!" The black figure said.

"How… how is this possible? If we do not close the gates, the Northern Barbarian army will invade us!" A city guard immediately objected when he heard those words.

However, just as he finished his sentence.

He saw a glimmer of light in front of him.

Slash!

A blade mercilessly pierced through his throat.

This attack naturally came from the black figures. Blood poured out from the city guard's wound as the rest of the city guards stared at the scene in disbelief.

"Why… why…"

Thump!

Before the city guard could complete his sentence, he collapsed onto the ground.

The city guards who were tasked with guarding the city gate also subconsciously took a step backward. Their eyes were filled with fear and apprehension.

Killing the soldier upon any disagreements.

Such strict management was rare nowadays.

"Are you guys afraid?" The black figure said as he cleaned his blood-stained sword on the fallen city guard's armor. At the same time, he cast his merciless glance across all the city guards.

"No!" The city guards replied immediately.

"As a soldier of the Great Xia Dynasty, you guys should have the resolve to die for your country. What do you guys think of this guard here, who wished to leave Lord Su to his own deserts when he is risking his life for the country?" The black figure asked.

"This.."

"He deserves to die!"

"Yes, he deserves it!"

The city guards exchanged glances as they stared at the fresh blood on the ground before answering bitterly.

"If the Northern Barbarians truly invade Flame Capital City, we will also defend it with all our might. You guys can just close the city gate when the time comes. Do you understand?" The black figure said coldly.

"Understood!" The city guards nodded as they replied in unison.

They had on choice but to understand that twisted logic. After all, they could either choose to agree and understand those words or face death like their fallen comrade. The choice was clear.

Furthermore, Su Qing had already stepped out of the city gate. The black figures also promised that they would be the first line of defense against the Northern Barbarian army.

They could only hope for this to be true.

The night was not peaceful. The sand swirled on the ground as the chilling night breeze made its way across Flame Capital City, caressing the face of every city guard.

Su Qing stood outside the city gate in his neat court attire. His fearless figure was the hope of all the city guards standing behind the city gate.

He stood upright without any signs of withdrawal or fear.

The black figures outside were closing in. They crossed over the wide river protecting the city and got to the point where they were almost going to trample over Su Qing.

"Archers, prepare!" The commanders ordered the soldiers to get into formation and stand in alert positions. Apart from the arrows, the oil was already boiled and ready.

All these were preparations for the fierce battle ahead.

Finally…

The black figures trampled over Su Qing's body and charged towards the city gate. They did not bother to stop, acting as though they did not see Su Qing at all.

They were like a gluttonous cloud that devoured everything in sight at an insane speed.

This scene was undoubtedly shocking for the city guards. They would never expect that the black figures would ignore Su Qing.

"Not good! Close the city gates!" A commander reacted to the situation had immediately shouted.

However…

No creaking sounds could be heard coming from the city gate. Even the sound of the drawbridge being retracted could not be heard. It was as though the soldiers were unable to hear the commands.

"Damn it. Are you guys all deaf?" The commander's face sunk. He was just about to go down the city gate to take a look when a black figure blocked his way.

"What is going on?" The black figure asked.

"The Northern Barbarians has broken through Su Qing. We need to close the city gate immediately…"

Before he could finish his sentence, he was interrupted. He felt a cold sensation on his neck. There was also a streak of blood flowing down his chest.

It was a quick but fatal slash.

The commander covered his gaping wound with his hands as blood spewed out. He stared at the black figure in front of him and his blood-stained sword.

However, the black figure did not seem to bother with him. He merely walked slowly towards the commander and placed a finger lightly on his forehead.

Thump!

The commander then fell onto the ground after a light push.

The black figure then once again brandished his sword in the air. It reflected a merciless brilliance under the moonlight. Within mere moments, another commander had fallen under this blood-stained blade.

"My lord, what… what are you doing?" The city guards were unable to react to such a drastic turn of events.

What was going on?

Why would Su Qing's underlings attack the commanders!

Were they traitors?

How could that be!

Lord Su had already given up his life for the country. He was trampled under the feet of the Northern Barbarian army. It would be impossible to even find his complete body for a burial.

However, if they were not traitors…

Why would they kill the commanders?

The city guards could not understand their actions. However, the commanders were not the first few who were killed. From the moment General Li was killed without a valid reason, the pointless killing had been going on within the city gate.

They wanted to ask questions, though they couldn't.

They could clearly see the black figures' actions.

The black figure was extremely quick and merciless. He was so merciless that the city guards were trembling in fear. They stood rooted on the ground as if frozen in time.

More of their comrades fell, killed by the black figure.

Some of the city guards then reacted to this turn of events. No matter what the reason was, the black figure should not be killing city guards one after another.

"Stop it!"

"What are you doing? Are you insane?"

"Quick, take down this crazy guy!"

The remaining city guards recollected themselves and finally started began their retaliation. However, the black figure had ten other insane comrades behind him. They were extremely fast as well.

Slash!

The sound of swords cutting through raw flesh echoed through the city gates. The bodies of city guards kept pilling up as they were massacred indiscriminately by the black figures. They widened their eyes in shock as they noticed a light chilling aura around the black figures.

"These are Rebirth State individuals!"

"Why? Why will there be Rebirth State individuals behind Lord Su? What is going on?"

"There are more than one!"

The city guards could not understand what they just saw. Even if Su Qing was the Chief of the Northern Land Five Constabularies, having one Rebirth State individual as a bodyguard would already be a privilege. To think that he had more than ten of them protecting him at once?

This was something unimaginable.

This was because there were less than 100 people in the Great Xia Dynasty who had attained this rank!

The city guards had started their counter-attack.

However, how could they defend against a massacre conducted by ten Rebirth State individuals?

Every glimmer of a blade would mean the loss of a life. Each reflection of the moonlight they saw would mean another fallen comrade.

Fresh blood danced amidst the chilling breeze.

The blood-stained city gate had once again opened the wounds of the past. It had once again pushed this ancient city who had already undergone the baptism of a ferocious war to the edge of the blade.

Screams echoed through the air.

At the same time, the black figures outside of the city had broken into the city through the city gate and flooded the streets of Flame Capital City.

The black cloth covering their spears were taken off.

Each of those spears shone brightly, emitting a chilling presence under the illumination of the moonlight. Quickly, those cold spears were enveloped by a peculiar warmth. The warmth of fresh blood.

"This is a command! Finish the battle in 15 minutes!"

"Yes!" A unison voice echoed into the horizon. Blood was slowly absorbed into their black attire as they claimed the lives of the citizens of Flame Capital City. The thick armor hiding underneath the black façade was then revealed.

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Chapter 570: The Demon King Debuts

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

This was a massacre, though it was not a massacre without any resistance.

The arrow rain from the city guards finally landed. Sharp arrows descended from the sky and pierced through the thick armor of the black figures, causing them to collapse onto the ground.

They were the elites!

Although they could not compare to the Mountain Breaking Army in Stabilisation Constabulary or the Red Pinion Squad in the Divine Constabulary, there were still considered elites. They were elites specializing in guarding the Flame Capital City.

However, General Li was dead, under the merciless sword of Su Qing. They had lost all command and King Duan had also mobilized too many city guards to surround the palace.

This made them feel slightly powerless.

However, they were still resisting the black figures with full force. None of the city guards chose to escape. They faced the Rebirth State individuals and Northern Barbarian army with fervor. They raised their spears in pride and shot their arrows with confidence.

"Kill them all!"

Deafening shouts could be heard echoing throughout Flame Capital City.

This awakened many courtiers and nobles from their deep sleep. They rushed out of their residences in shock as the courtiers picked up their rusted sword in preparation for battle.

"Protect Flame Capital City!"

"The gate is broken. Invaders are in. Kill them all!"

"Quick, no one knows what is happening within the palace as well. Send someone to report the information to the Emperor!"

"Yes!"

Voices rang throughout the city. At the same time, countless figures were maneuvering themselves amongst the streets of Flame Capital City. Some were nobles carrying their small daggers while others were courtiers who were speeding towards the palace with a sword in their hands.

The majestic lion in slumber, the Great Xia Dynasty, had awakened in an instant!

At the city gate of Flame Capital City.

This battle was at its end. There were simply too many black figures. They had an overwhelming advantage in both numbers and strength, evident from the massacre done by the Rebirth State individuals. There was a limit to how much the city guards could do.

However, this did not mean that they weren't strong enough.

This was because fate, timing, location, and luck had forsaken them in this battle. Most importantly, they were soldiers whose job was to listen to their superiors unconditionally.

If not for this reason, Su Qing's orders would definitely be questioned and he would likely be refuted on the spot. However, they were the elites. Naturally, their adherence to orders would be even stronger than that of a normal troop.

Bodies were strewn all over the ground, tainting the city gate a bloody red.

Amongst the black figures, a shadow appeared from a distance. His neat court attire of the Great Xia Dynasty was exceptionally eye-catching.

"Lord Su, you…" a commander stuttered as he saw the incoming Su Qing. His eyes widened in shock and disbelief even at death's door.

Why?

Why would a Chief of the Northern Land Five Constabularies betray the country?

A sword then pierced through his chest.

Su Qing held the sword in his hands as he stared coldly at the horrified commander. He then snickered, "Loyalty is your most fatal flaw!"

"My lord, the east and south gate are already under our control. The west gate is almost done as well. The north gate is the only one still doing a futile struggle!" A black figure then reported to Su Qing.

"My lord, many nobles of Flame Capital City and citizens are charging straight at us!" Another black figure then came forward to report another piece of information to Su Qing.

"Hm, these are all within my predictions. Follow the plan!" Su Qing was not surprised at these two pieces of information as he replied.

"Yes!" The two black figures replied respectfully.

Following which, countless strangely shaped bronze parts appeared in the hands of the black figures. These parts were then quickly attached to the city gate.

The city gate was originally made from stones and minerals. However, after the bronze parts were attached, it quickly emitted a green glow. The intensity of the light then increased as time passed.

In less than 15 minutes, the gate had completely changed. It had turned into a giant bronze door filled with a desolate presence. An intense green light emanated from the bronze door.

"What is that?"

"Green bronze door!"

"What happened to the city gate? Why did it change form?"

The nobles who had just reached the scene stared at the remodeled city gate in shock.

"We have to stop them no matter what they are planning to do!"

"Yes, let's go!"

The nobles and citizens were horrified. However, they continued forward and quickly drew their swords, charging straight towards the city gate.

The black figures were already lying in wait for them in neat formations.

"Kill!" The black figures stared at the approaching nobles and citizens as they shouted. None of them retreated and their eyes shone with a chilling aura.

Another bloody battle began.

Blood spurted across the streets as spears fell onto the ground together with their fallen owners. Sounds of pain and war had shaken this ancient city to its very core, tainting the night with a shade of red.

"Kill them all!"

Amongst the countless war cries, the bronze door transformation was completed. It was shining with a brilliance similar to that of an emerald. The intensity of the color was so intense that it was almost sinister.

Whoosh!

Whoosh!

After the fourth whooshing sound, four emerald pillars of light shot up into the horizon. It emerged from all four of the gates, namely the north, south, east, and west gate, before congregating in the air at the midpoint of Flame Capital City.

Following which…

A similarly colored emerald pillar descended from the sky. It traveled at a speed comparable to that of a comet, dashing into the ground with an incredible force.

Boom!

An explosion sound could be heard.

The light beam landed right in the middle of the palace, specifically the throne room!

Within the throne room.

The two figures were finally separated at the moment of the explosion. The golden figure flew back to Lin Mubai's side, as the black figure retreated for a few steps.

And the spot where they separated was a green bronze door.

That was the Near-Life Gate!

The Near-Life Gate that had already closed!

However, the Near-Life Gate was glowing with an emerald brilliance. It was a blinding and sinister brilliance, one that was painful and searing to look at.

Lin Mubai squinted his eyes at this sight.

He naturally saw the emerald light pillar that descended from the horizon. This was the exact beam of light that disrupted the battle between Chen Feihua and Qian Wu.

"Your Majesty" Chen Feihua's gaze was fixated onto the Near-Life Gate. Her expressionless face showed a hint of shock, for the first time in this entire harrowing battle.

"If it is meant to be, It will be!" Lin Mubai shook his head as he said. At the same time, he took a red pill from his pocket and swallowed it.

It had been some time since Lin Mubai suffered injuries.

However, he did not intend to take any medication. That was until he saw this emerald beam of light land into the throne room.

"What is this?" Lin Tianrong stared at the sinister light emanating from the Near-Life Gate. He felt extremely uncomfortable being in such close proximity to it.

He had a bad premonition.

It was a premonition that should not be present and did not make sense. This premonition did not originate purely from the sinister light as well. It was also partly due to the three ferocious beasts who were kneeling on the ground.

The three ferocious beasts kneeled on the ground with their eyes closed as their bodies trembled.

This was a peculiar scene. This was because they had also emerged from the Near-Life Gate. However, they were now bowing to the Near-Life Gate, as though they were paying respect to a higher authority.

"Relax, my Crown Prince. This is when the real show begins!" Qian Wu did not reply Lin Tianrong's question directly. Instead, he glanced at him with a cold stare.

At the same time, Qian Wu moved.

Six brilliant runes appeared on his hand. Countless threads then connected those runes together before they started spinning, forming a wheel of blinding light.

However, Qian Wu did not press the light wheel directly on the ground this time. He merely kept it at his abdomen level as his face turned red.

Belch!

Blood spurted out of Qian Wu's mouth.

A buzzing sound could then be heard. It was as if that sound was generated from the resonance of the heavens, earth, and nature. It had the power to make everyone's mind go blank for a moment.

"This is not right. Is he trying to…" Chen Feihua stared at this scene as an ominous foreboding arose within her. She wanted to stop this from happening, though she was already too late.

This was because the instant blood spurted out of Qian Wu's mouth, that spinning wheel of light was also imprinted onto the Near-Life Gate.

Creak!

The sealed Near-Life Gate came back to life.

However, there was something different. Previously, the gate was shining in a dull bronze-green brilliance, one that was similar to that of the Near-Life Gate's color. However, it was bright emerald this time.

A sinister bright emerald color.

The moment the Near-Life Gate opened, the emerald light was instantly absorbed into the gap, as though it was devouring the essence within this light.

Lin Tianrong stared at this scene in horror.

Eunuch Wei also widened his eyes as his face paled in fear. This was because an exceptionally devastating thought just flashed through his mind.

This applied not only to Eunuch Wei.

This included the First Dragon Envoy Fang Qing, the rest of the Dragon Protection Squad and the royal guards. A thought flashed through everyone's mind.

Something of the legends passed down through folklore.

Creak!

The Near-Life Gate opened upon the creaking sound of the heavy door. The bronze gate had already lost all its emerald brilliance. The desolate and ancient presence from its dull appearance filled the entire room.

At that moment…

A figure appeared from the Near-Life Gate.

He did not have the murderous stare the beasts possessed when the appeared. There was also no deafening roar heralding his appearance. There was peaceful and suffocating silence.

The figure flickered within the Near-Life Gate. It swayed from the left to right, disappearing and revealing himself again and again.

Time seemed to have stopped at that moment. No one dared to speak as their eyes were fixated on the flickering shadow.

Finally…

That shadow stopped moving.

It stopped right in the middle of the Near-Life Gate.

That was a tiny shadow. Compared to the huge Near-Life Gate, this figure seemed tiny. If one were to compare him to the size of the ferocious beasts which appeared from the same door, he would even be insignificant.

However, despite this unassuming stature, Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua stared at the figure in the Near-Life Gate with apprehension. They clenched their fists tightly in response.

A cool night breeze blew across the throne room.

Sleeves of their loose court attire fluttered amongst the wind.

At that moment, that figure moved once again. It slowly and casually walked out of the Near-Life Gate, landing on the dilapidated ground.

There was no rumbling sound of a heavyweight stepping onto the ground.

There was also no giant sharp claws attached to him.

It was a human foot, a foot that was wearing a clean white boot not tainted by any dust.

As this foot stepped forward, the figure revealed himself from the Near-Life Gate.

He was in the shape of a human.

He had a slender body and wore a pair of pristine white boots. He looked exactly like a scholar and had a beast-shaped jade hanging from his waist.

He looked just like a studious and gentle scholar.

He had extremely fair skin and exquisite features. However, no one treated him as an ordinary scholar.

This was because his eyes looked extremely sinister, like that of the devil.

The sinister emerald light once present on the Near-Life Gate seemed to flicker ever so often in his eyes. It seemed to give off an authority that one could not resist, making people involuntarily offer their respect. Most importantly, there seemed to be an "injury" on his forehead.

More specifically, it looked like an eye.

A closed eye that looked just like an injury.

Apart from that, there was also two curved horns on his head, each of them engraved with countless complicated and intricate patterns. A faint golden brilliance seemed to be surging within those carvings.

It was extremely silent.

Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua stared at the devilish-looking guy that appeared from the Near-Life Gate and subconsciously leaned closer to one another.

The royal guards and Dragon Protection Squad also paled at this sight.

They did not retreat in the face of this terrifying enemy. However, they did not advance as well!

Flame Capital City.

Within a giant residence.

The decorations in this residence were clearly different than that of the other luxurious residences in Flame Capital City. It was still luxurious, nonetheless, though instead of the resplendent and shining theme that the rest of the city was obsessed with, this looked more like an otherworldly paradise.

One could smell the fragrance of flowers, see deep and beautiful alleyways and even have a game at an ancient chess board or take walk in the intricate courtyard filled with docile Green Mountain Tigers. This giant residence was elegant and peculiar.

An old guy sat in the middle of this residence. He was clad in a long robe and his skinny stature made him look extremely frail.

However…

This was the person that garnered the respect of everyone in the Great Xia Dynasty. This was because he had witnessed the uprising of the Great Xia Dynasty. He was the living history of the country, the uncle of Lin Mubai.

He was King Liqin!

"Hm?" He suddenly emitted a faint voice. Following which, he opened his eyes immediately as the murkiness within them instantly disappeared, turning into a blinding brilliance.

Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Purple, Violet…

The seven colors intertwined beautifully within his eyes.

At the same time, King Liqin stood up and slowly straightened his posture. He then stared into the horizon and the sky that had returned to its original dark hue.

"The Great Xia Dynasty has enjoyed years of peace. Although we are prosperous, it has been too peaceful and undisturbed. The court is backward in thinking and the nobles are gaining too much power. Everyone is only thinking about self-preservation and not self-improvement. This is the result of our arrogance!"

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Chapter 571: The Demon King's Four Ancient Formations

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

King Liqin's words sounded slightly patronizing but his expression remained, as though he had already predicted such a result from the start.

At the same time, a black crack appeared in front of him. It was as big as a door!

King Liqin walked in extremely slowly. As he stepped into the crack, his body slowly became blurred.

Truly mighty warriors would not be troubled by the past. Their only thought would be there's a problem … and they should solve it!

The Eastern Gate of the Flame Capital City.

The city gate constructed with countless bronze parts still radiated with a dark green glow, exuding a strange and eerie quality in the darkness of the night.

Those clothed in black were still battling the nobles and the citizens as their battlecries sounded one after the other.

At this moment, a group of people galloped over hastily from afar, their shimmering coats of armor reflecting faint glimmers of radiance under the moonlight.

"It's the Mountain Breaking Army. Xing Hou has arrived!"

"So has Chi Hou from the Divine Constabulary!"

"We're saved!"

The faces of the nobles and the citizens void of hope instantly lit up when they turned towards the figures charging over in the distance.

"Big Brother, it's the Northern Barbarians!" Chi Hou, who donned purple robes, immediately identified the assailants dressed in black after he noticed the armor clad on their bodies.

As the guardian of the Divine Constabulary, one of the five constabularies of the Northern Lands, Chi Hou naturally had a deeper understanding of the Holy Barbarian Empire to the north of the Great Xia Empire.

"The Northern Barbarians?" Xing Hou frowned. Although he did not cross swords with the Holy Barbarian Empire on many occasions, he still knew of their savage brutalities. "Could that be the Near-Life Gate of the Northern Barbarians?"

"No, the Near-Life Gate is the greatest treasure owned by the Northern Barbarians, and that is not the Near-Life Gate. If my guess is correct, that should be the four formations created from the Near-Life Gate … Wait a minute, four?! Could those be the Four Ancient Formations?!" Chi Hou gazed at the bronze city gate which radiated with dark green light, and his face turned pale.

"The Four Ancient Formations! Aren't those the legendary … This is bad! His Majesty is in danger!" Upon hearing this, Xing Hou's body jerked forcefully as his face was instantly washed white.

"Big Brother, with the Four Ancient Formations protecting the city gate, it's impossible for the Red Pinion Squad of the Ten Mile Lake to invade the city. What should we do now?"

"My worthy little brother, lead the Mountain Breaking Army to attack the enemy from within the castle. I'll go to the Imperial Palace to save His Majesty myself!"

"No, the Mountain Breaking Army has always been led by Big Brother. Furthermore, we cannot grasp the situation inside the Imperial Palace at the moment. Big Brother is the leader of the Thirteen Constabularies, and we can only prevail if Big Brother is around. I shall save His Majesty, and Big Brother shall stay here and attack!" Chi Hou immediately shook his head.

"If I perish in battle, you shall lead the Thirteen Constabularies, Little Brother …"

"Big Brother, my mind has been set. If not for Big Brother's reminders, I would have already committed atrocious mistakes in our journey to the Flame Capital City. Only Big Brother is worthy of being the leader of the Thirteen Constabularies. I'll be off, Big Brother!" With that, Chi Hou immediately yanked the reins of his horse and turned around, riding straight towards the Imperial Palace at top speed.

Xing Hou gazed at Chi Hou's figure riding away into the distance, dazed. He wanted to say something else, but he swallowed his words in the end.

"Mountain Breaking Army!"

"Here!"

"Line up, attack!"

"Yes!"

The Throne Room of the Imperial Palace.

The worn-down yet quaint bronze Near-Life Gate still stood in the centre of the Throne Room, but its two heavy bronze doors have already been closed shut again. And in front of the Near-Life Gate, stood a man dressed in white like a scholar. His eyes flickered with a demonic and strange green glow.

"Ooo …" Three menacing beasts creeped lowly before the 'Demonic Man', their eyes closed shut as they let out soft moaning sounds.

"Why aren't you bowing?" After hearing the moans of the three beasts, the Demonic Man finally looked at the Emperor Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua. His sound was crisp and clear, and his eyes shimmered with a dark green glow.

"This is bad. Dragon Protection Squad, protect His Majesty and Lady Hua Fei!" Fang Qing subconsciously took a step forward as he met the Demonic Man's gaze.

As the first Dragon Envoy of the Dragon Protection Squad, he was responsible for safeguarding the might and dignity of the Great Xia Empire and his Emperor. Who his opponents were, or how powerful they were, were not in his considerations.

Following his command, hundreds from the Dragon Protection Squad stepped out in unison, spreading themselves in front of the Emperor Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua. Even the Imperial Ranger Squad guarding the doorway of the Throne Room was activated, with each soldier raising their long spears, pointing straight at the Demonic Man.

"Your Majesty? Oh, is this the Imperial Palace?" The Demonic Man scanned his surroundings, glancing past the various soldiers of the Dragon Protection Squad and Imperial Ranger Squad. His eyes flashed with a trace of astonishment.

He then cracked a smile shortly after. It was a smile evoking surprise and curiosity, like a predatory hawk suddenly spotting a herd of sheep.

"Hahaha …" He chortled loudly and maniacally, thrusting his body forward and backward. As his laughter reverberated , the entire Throne Room shuddered violently.

"Rumble!"

Countless fragments of rubble cascaded down from the ceiling as multiple cracks extended swiftly throughout the floor.

"Boom!"

The few golden pillars holding up the Throne room seemed to have been destroyed by something, and collapsed instantly as the ceiling crashed down.

"The Throne Room is collapsing!"

"Quick, protect His Majesty!"

"Your Majesty, please leave!"

Voices rang out from the Dragon Protection Squad and the Imperial Ranger Squad.

Then, a ray of green light dispersed outwards from the Demonic Man like a ripple spreading out in all directions.

"Slash!"

The soldier from the Dragon Protection Squad standing at the front of the vanguard was immediately severed into two, not leaving any room for resistance.

"Quick, block it!" Upon witnessing this sight, Eunuch Wei did not hesitate any longer and immediately screamed at the two squads.

"Slash! Slash!"

Amidst the uproar, tens of soldiers from the Dragon Protection Squad toppled over one after the other.

They were the most elite force of the Great Xia Empire. Every single person in the squad possessed a level of strength minimally above the Supernatural State. But under the effects of the green light, their resistances were completely nulled.

A golden ray of light then shot up.

Golden mist blanketed the skies as a figure leapt up, delivering a swift punch into the green glow.

"Boom!"

The golden light was immediately blown backwards.

And at the same time, another golden ray of light propelled upwards. Following that, clouds and mist rose into the air. A golden dragon bolted through the clouds as two demonic streams of crimson light shot down, colliding with the green glow.

"Boom!"

The dark green light vibrated, but still penetrated through the bodies of several soldiers in the Dragon Protection Squad, and they disappeared like dust into the darkness of the night.

"Boom!"

The ceiling of the Throne Room crashed down onto the ground, as the four walls quickly followed. An enormous crater appeared on the ground with the Demonic Man in the centre.

The magnificent Throne Room, once the symbol of the Great Xia Empire's unrivalled might, has been reduced to dust!

And this was all due to a single attack from the Demonic Man. How ridiculous is that?

Shivers inevitably ran down the backs the remaining soldiers from the Dragon Protection Squad and Imperial Ranger Squad guarding their emperor as they stared at the Demonic Man standing by the Near-Life Gate.

"Blurt!" Lin Mubai's body jolted as he expectorated a mouthful of blood violently. He was already wounded, and his condition deteriorated after using the Green Dragon Eye.

Chen Feihua, who was standing beside Lin Mubai as she witnessed this scene, instinctively support Lin Mubai's arm. But such an ordinary action caused dense sweat droplets to ooze from her forehead. Her chest rose up and down as her face flushed extremely red.

"Blurt!" Chen Feihua also expelled a mouthful of blood.

A single blow from the Demonic Man caused the Throne Room to collapse, and dealt severe injuries on the Emperor Lin Mubai who possessed the Green Dragon Eye as well as his concubine Chen Fei Hua.

"Your Majesty!"

"Lady Hua Fei!"

Several guards from the Dragon Protection Squad immediately stepped forward. Each of their gazes wavered in anxiety.

The Crown Prince Lin Tianrong gazed at the crumbled remains of the Throne Room and the Demonic Man still standing beside the Near-Life Gate. He was completely petrified.

"A De … Demon King?!" Lin Tianrong's eyes were wide open. Naturally, he knew that anyone capable of emerging from the Near-Life Gate could not possibly be human.

However, his opponent was in the form of a human! That means …

He can only be a demon!

He belonged to race that was rarely documented even in the Great Xia Empire's literature, a race that evolved from the beasts, a race that possessed intelligence that rivalled that of humans, and a race that wielded bodies capable of further training like humans.

They concealed themselves amidst the mountains and rivers, feasting on the richness of nature and absorbing the essence of the sun and moon. They were an existence that surpassed all types of beasts.

And the Demonic Man standing before him was evidently no ordinary demon.

He boasted absolute fluency in his linguistic abilities and was dressed in such an immaculate manner, and a single blow from him could destroy the sturdy Throne Room.

Such power …

"A Demon King!"

After this thought flashed through the Crown Prince's mind, he was completely dazed. He did predict that Qian Wu would produce some sort of trick, but he definitely did not imagine Qian Wu summoning a Demon King from the Near-Life Gate.

And a Demon King with a country under his rule, no less.

How could Qian Wu possibly be sharing any benefits with him?

A contract?

Memories of him signing the contract with Qian Wu quickly surfaced in Lin Tianrong's mind, recalling the generosity that Qian Wu showed when distributing his loot.

Back then, Lin Tianrong thought that Qian Wu did not know how to negotiate.

But now … he finally understood.

It was not because Qian Wu was unsure on how to negotiate; he did not intend to negotiate at all. That was because he never wanted any of the conditions stated on the contract; he wanted the entire Great Xia Empire.

"What's going on? How could the Throne Room … What … is that?!" A familiar voice sounded behind the dazed Crown Prince, his legs rooted to the ground.

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Chapter 572: With Trust Now Gone, A Passerby Enters The Scene

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

"Sixth Brother? And the Palace Guards?!" The Crown Prince Lin Tianrong could clearly recognize the person exclaiming these questions, but as he heard the rumbling footsteps that followed afterwards, he still subconsciously turned back for a glance.

He was evidently surprised at the appearance of King Duan, Lin Xinjue, and his army of Palace Guards he led in. He could still accept the appearance of the Dragon Protection Squad and the Royal Guards, but … the Palace Guards?

Why did Sixth Brother have the gall to charge into the palace with the Palace Guards? They are forbidden to enter the Imperial Palace, unless …

Sixth Brother already knew his plan beforehand?

When Lin Tianrong came across this thought and thought about Qian Wu again, his body shuddered with rage.

All this while, he has been a fool that was exploited by others.

He felt indignant, extremely indignant, but what could he do now? Voice his protestations now? That was impossible because he was already out of options.

"What exactly is …" Lin Xinjue did not spare Lin Tianrong a glance, instead staring closely at the Throne Room which had been reduced to a pile of rubble, as well as the giant bronze gate in the middle. He was similarly astonished.

In fact, before he arrived, he already knew that a major battle would break out in the Imperial Palace, but he never would have guessed that he would be greeted by a mere pile of rubble.

Where's the Throne Room? Was it destroyed?

Furthermore …

Who's the Demonic Man standing in front of the enormous bronze door?

"Could that be … a demon?!" Lin Xinjue finally stopped in his tracks when this thought flashed through his mind.

The Dragon Protection Squad and the Royal Guards were similarly surprised when Lin Xinjue and the tens of thousands of Palace Garrison Guards appeared in their line of sight. After all, the Palace Garrison Guards were technically barred from entering the Imperial Palace.

But …

Lin Xinjue blatantly brought the Palace Garrison Guards in like this. Is this a rebellion? Or a rescue mission?

In the past, no one would think of the former, but the situation is different now. Under current circumstances, once Lin Xinjue does decide to lead a rebellion, the Great Xia Empire would very well descend into a crisis of unprecedented severity.

"Father, I've come too late. I …" Lin Xinjue blurted his words out quickly after a brief moment of astonishment, but he still swallowed his words when he saw the state of Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua.

Injured?!

Father has been injured! And so has the Imperial Concubine Hua Fei?!

How is this possible? Hua Fei is ranked seventeenth on the Sacred Rankings. What … exactly is going on here?

"What are you here for?" Lin Mubai asked unhesitantly as he glanced at the stunned Lin Xinjue, his eyes flashing with a pinch of coldness.

"I … I heard the ruckus inside the Imperial Palace, and I … I was worried that Father was met with an accident, so I specially brought the Palace Garrison Guards here to rescue you …" LIn Xinjue stammered as he subconsciously gulped several times.

"Rescue? You locked the four gates of the Imperial Palace, abandoned the Flame Capital City, and specially rushed all the way here just to rescue me?" LIn Mubai clenched his fist.

"I … I was afraid there might be traitors …"

"Traitors? Are you referring to your third eldest brother?"

"Father, I …" Lin Xinjue wanted to explain himself, but he could only swallow his words as he met Lin Mubai's piercingly cold gaze.

"What does Your Highness have to fear?" Qian Wu's voice suddenly sounded. His eagle-like eyes gazed at Lin Xinjue who has already turned around to face him, his mouth cracking a patronizing sneer.

"Who are you?" Lin Xinjue frowned and asked instinctively as he looked at Qian Wu standing a short distance away from the Crown Prince Lin Tianrong.

"Oh, I forgot that Your Highness still cannot recognize me, and can only recognize Su Qing. My apologies. But has Su Qing not informed Your Highness of the purpose of my visit to the Imperial Palace?" Qian Wu asked apologetically.

"What …What do you mean? LIn Xinjue's face turned slightly pale.

"Haha, no need to be alarmed, Your Highness. You'll just have to wait a little longer. Once the Great Xia Emperor dies, the throne would definitely belong to the Crown Prince, or perhaps, even Your Highness!" Qian Wu chuckled.

"Qian Wu, you … What exactly do you want?" Upon hearing this, the Crown Prince Lin Tianrong turned pale as his eyes became bloodshot.

"Is Your Highness unaware of what I'm trying to do?" Qian Wu turned around to face the Crown Prince.

"Could it be that you're thinking of …"

"Of course!" Qian Wu interrupted him even before he could complete his sentence. "Since ancient times, it was always survival of the fittest, and the strongest of all would become the king. Since both the Crown Prince and King Duan are eyeing the throne, you'll definitely have to battle it out. Isn't this very fair?"

"Fair? You want to elect an obedient puppet to take the throne, don't you?" Lin Tianrong's tone turnde cold as the aura his body exuded became extremely unstable.

"Does Your Highness have to be so direct?" Qian Wu laughed.

"You …" Lin Tianrong's body surged with a violent gush of energy. He clenched his fists tighter than ever before as his eyes flashed with a frightening radiance.

At this point, he was naturally deduced Qian Wu's true intentions.

The Great Xia Empire boasts thousands of years of rich history, with miles of fertile plains and large populations. It would be totally impossible for the Holy Barbarian Empire to immediately control and stabilize the kingdom given its current level of power. Hence, Qian Wu is selecting a decently obedient puppet between him and King Duan to ascend the throne.

If things escalate to such a stage, both him and King Duan would be well within the Holy Barbarian Empire's grasp, regardless of who ascends the throne.

"Over my dead body! I'll never let you have your way!" The Crown Prince Lin Tinarong finally displaced himself, charging directly towards Qian Wu with bloodshot eyes.

"Oh? You don't want the throne?" Qian Wu sneered as he gazed at Lin Tianrong, and threw his fist towards his opponent.

"Watch out, Your Highness!" A person in black flew forward and blocked Qian Wu's attack, his body shining with a blinding radiance.

"Boom!"

With a thunderous crash, the person in black was thrown backwards, colliding with Lin Tianrong. Both their bodies collapsed to the ground.

"Blurt!" Lin Tianrong expelled a mouthful of fresh blood.

"Trash!" Qian Wu muttered as he quickly turned his attention to King Duan, Lin Xinjue. "Your Highness is an intellectual. I'm sure you wouldn't follow in the footsteps of this trash, would you? Of course, if Your Highness isn't smart enough, I wouldn't mind finding someone smarter in the large palace!"

Qian Wu looked extremely arrogant.

Everyone in the Dragon Protection Squad and the Royal Guards clenched their fists tightly as they took in the sight before their eyes.

Trash? That's still an insult!

Although Lin Tianrong did launch a mutiny against the throne, he would still be the Crown Prince of the Great Xia Empire until Lin Mubai officially strips him of his title.

"Your Highness, save His Majesty first!" One of the leaders of the Palace Garrison Guards seethed with rage as he looked at the Crown Prince sprawled on the ground and turned to Qian Wu standing in the distance.

Lin Xinjue's body jerked. He certainly wanted to save the Emperor, but the situation unfolding before his eyes has evidently surpassed all his calculations. He subconsciously clenched his fists tighter as he looked at the Crown Prince lying on the floor.

He witnessed the power of Qian Wu's strike very clearly.

The man in black's strength was minimally in the Rebirth State, but he was sent flying backwards by a single punch from Qian Wu. And furthermore … Both Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua sustained grave injuries, while the ground was covered in countless corpses from the Dragon Protection Squad and the Royal Guards.

Everything indicated that Qian Wu has clinched the absolute advantage in this battle.

Worse still, there were only around ten thousand Palace Garrison Guards standing behind him, with the rest still outside the palace walls. What could he even do?

The Imperial Palace!

He did not come to the Imperial Palace simply to steal their thunder; he wanted to exploit the ongoing chaos to seize the throne of the Great Xia Empire in one fell swoop.

He has waited too long for the throne, and he did not want to wait any longer.

He'll save the Emperor, slay the Crown Prince and be conferred the latter's title. In that case, he'll still be the Crown Prince, and no one would know the changes that await him in the days to come.

This was an opportunity to ascend straight to the throne.

However, a throne seized himself and a throne conferred to him are two entirely different matters. Although he was fully confident of eradicating the Holy Barbarian Empire's influence after ascending the throne, his title would still be one that was conferred to him.

What should he do? Should he fight?

What if he can't outmatch them?

It's just as Qian Wu said – the Great Xia Empire does not merely have the two princes. The Imperial Palace alone has too many worthy candidates for the throne. If he cannot outmatch Qian Wu, he would lose his final chance to ascend the throne.

He was hesitating greatly.

"Father!" Just as Lin Xinjue was struggling to make a decision, an unusually impatient voice rang through the crowd.

Following that, a fiery-red figure charged out from behind Lin Xinjue, running straight towards Lin Mubai without a trace of hesitation.

"Oh no, is that the Princess?!'

"It's dangerous!"

Eunuch Wei and Yan Qing's voices rang out simultaneously from the crowd as both of them gazed at the incoming figure, seeming evidently nervous.

"Ping Yang, no!"

"Quickly fall back!"

Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua's voices sounded at the same time as they looked at Ping Yang running straight towards them. Both of them subconsciously prepared for her arrival.

Suddenly, another figure appeared in front of Ping Yang. His brand-new black uniform flowed gently in the night breeze, emitting a soft sound as he raised a hand to block Ping Yang's advance.

"How troublesome. Didn't you agree to be a passer-by observing from the sidelines? Where did our mutual trust go?" The person curled his lips, revealing a face showing resignation.

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Chapter 573: I Can Become The Emperor?

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

"It's Fang Zhengzhi!"

"Why did he come together with her Highness?"

"Shouldn't he be at the Imperial Academy?"

The Dragon Protection Squad and the Royal Guards gazed at the figure who appeared in front of Ping Yang, with each soldier being slightly astonished and suspicious, but this was evidently not the time to be muddling over these thoughts.

As for Ping Yang … she crashed straight into Fang Zhengzhi's embrace.

"Let me go, let me go … Father is injured, I must save my father!" Ping Yang struggled with all her might, her delicate body wrestling and pounding against Fang Zhengzhi's chest.

Before she arrived, she did imagine the numerous possibilities that could occur when she reached the Throne Room, but she would have never imagined that she would be greeted by a pile of rubble.

Worse still, it was not just the Throne Room that was reduced to waste. There were fresh blood stains on the corners of Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua's lips. Both of their faces were completely pale, and this sight has already surpassed all her expectations.

In this situation, how could she keep her promise with Fang Zhengzhi?

"Are you Fang Zhengzhi? I heard that you were the ringleader of the previous round of Court Examinations, the youngest Chief Imperial Messenger of the Imperial Academy, the current Chief Examiner of the Imperial Examinations, and our greatest benefactor in the battle of the Southern Regions!" Qian Wu did not pay much attention to Ping Yang, instead observing Fang Zhengzhi with much interest, his mouth cracking the faintest of smiles.

"Is that so? I'm afraid I've never heard of you before." Fang Zhengzhi turned around slowly and sized up Qian Wu, his eyes containing a glint of confusion.

"Haha, let me introduce myself. I am Qian Wu of the Holy Barbarian Empire …"

"Actually, I'm not that interested in you." Fang Zhengzhi waved his hand, impatiently interrupting Qian Wu.

"No matter. I know what you're interested in. I can give you all the treasures and riches you desire. I can even give you the title of an Army General and a military strategist, and even give you the throne if you wish. And i promise not to restrict your freedom in any way. How do these sound?" Qian Wu was not angered by Fang Zhengzhi's words and instead continued rambling on.

"Army General? Military strategist? The throne? What does this person want?"

The Palace Garrison Guards and the Royal Guards could not completely grasp what Qian Wu was saying. Was Fang Zhengzhi not a wastrel?

Even though he was now helming the Imperial Academy, that was still a civilian title.

And Qian Wu would simply bestow these military titles to him. This certainly baffled them.

Most importantly, the Holy Barbarian Empire was in no way weaker than the Great Xia Empire, and judging from Fang Zhengzhi and Qian Wu's conversation, they were clearly meeting each other for the first time. So why would this happen?

"Cough, cough …" The Crown Prince vomited another mouthful of blood. He stared intensely at Qian Wu, his fists clenched so tight that they were turning white.

He recalled the terms of his deal with Qian Wu. One of them was to kill Fang Zhengzhi, but now?

After Qian Wu saw Fang Zhengzhi, he immediately nullified his promise to give the throne to Lin Tianrong. How could Lin Tianrong not hate him? And how could he not be overwhelmed with rage?

Lin Mubai's face flushed red. Even though Qian Wu's words were directed at Fang Zhengzhi, they were clearly meant to deliver a slap across Lin Mubai's face.

Fang Zhengzhi was a Rank Three Official in the Great Xia Empire who enjoyed the treatment given to a Rank Two Official.

But under the Holy Barbarian Empire? He would be an Army General, the National Military Strategist, and even be conferred the throne. Such a jarring difference in treatment would make anyone's heart waver.

"Are all these Rank One Official titles?" Fang Zhengzhi's face beamed with satisfaction after hearing Qian Wu's proposition.

"Of course they are Rank One titles, and legitimate Rank One titles for that matter! Hence, you just need to hand Princess Ping Yang over to me and everything I promise you will become reality!" Qian Wu smirked once again at Fang Zhengzhi's facial expression.

"Fang Zhengzhi, you dare betray your country?!"

"Fang Zhengzhi, let Her Highness go at once!"

"Release the princess now!"

Upon hearing what Qian Wu said, the various Royal Guards immediately raised their long spears and pointed them at Fang Zhengzhi, each appearing extremely nervous. After all, they all knew the place that Ping Yang has in Lin Mubai's heart.

If Ping Yang does land in Qian Wu's grasp, no one would be able to imagine just what Lin Mubai would do in retaliation.

Fang Zhengzhi scanned the various Royal Guards circling him and smirked. He could certainly tell that Qian Wu was attempting to sow discord.

Qian Wu was intentionally using Ping Yang's safety as a bargaining chip, and he managed to arouse suspicions among the Royal Guards with just a few words.

This plan of his was indeed executed beautifully, to say the least.

Even Lin Mubai appeared slightly unnerved, although he could see through Qian Wu's ploy given his intellect. But …

How could he relax if Ping Yang is involved?

"That sounds amazing!" Fang Zhengzhi chuckled and gently nodded his head before turning his gaze towards Lin Mubai. "Your Majesty, he offered me a Rank One post just like this. Why don't you promote me too?"

"Promote you?"

Lin Mubai was taken aback, but he quickly regained his composure. Fang Zhengzhi was bargaining with him, and using the benefits offered by the Holy Barbarian Empire as a basis to bargain.

The Royal Guards and the Palace Garrison Guards were also stunned by Fang Zhengzhi's question. Their eyes flashed with rage.

"Shameless!"

"How dare this scoundrel use Her Highness' safety to threaten His Majesty?"

"What audacity!"

They were enraged but helpless, since Ping Yang was indeed in Fang Zhengzhi's hands. And most importantly, the Northern Barbarians did offer an enticing deal.

"If I need to use promotions and riches to gain your loyalty towards me, I …" After taking a deep breath, Lin Mubai suddenly stopped in the middle of his sentence, seemingly having thought of something. With that, he stared at Fang Zhengzhi with an intense gaze. "Fine, I'll give you whatever you want!"

"Your Majesty, you …"

"This …"

After hearing what Lin Mubai's words, all the Royal Guards and the Palace Garrison Guards stared blankly with eyes widened. None of them could believe their ears.

Lin Mubai actually agreed?

Ever since Lin Mubai ascended the throne, he has never conceded to a single threat, but now, he has agreed to Fang Zhengzhi's request?

To give him whatever he wants?

Oh my god!

Was Fang Zhengzhi really going to become the king?

He's not even eighteen years old!

"Thank you, Your Majesty!" After hearing this, Fang Zhengzhi nodded his head and turned his attention to Qian Wu. "I'm sorry. It's not that I don't want to go over to your side, but these two offers are so similar that I don't know which one to choose. Why don't you add a little more?"

"Add a little more?"

"He already offered him the throne. What else can he add?"

"Could it be that he does not want to be the Emperor?"

The Royal Guards were dumbfounded by Fang Zhengzhi's request to Qian Wu.

Fang Zhengzhi seemed to have dawned upon this point after completing his sentence, and his expression seemed evidently conflicted. "But since you've already offered me the throne, you can't really top that offer with anything else. Why don't you let me be the Emperor of the Holy Barbarian Empire for a few days just for fun. You did talk about your concubines, but I've never actually …"

"Insolent!" Qian Wu's eyes turned cold, finally cutting off Fang Zhengzhi's rambling. In reality, his target has always been Ping Yang.

But of course, if Fang Zhengzhi was willing to become his slave, he didn't mind keeping him to toy with his new pet. However, with Fang Zhengzhi clearly mocking him now, how could he allow Fang Zhengzhi to continue humiliating him?

"You're already angry?" Fang Zhengzhi met Qian Wu's cold gaze in resignation. He then turned to the silent Lin Xinjue. "Why is Your Highness still in a daze? With the situation being so clear now, shouldn't Your Highness be scrambling to beg for pity like a dog?"

"Shut up! I'm not one who begs for pity!" Lin Xinjue was waiting for the most appropriate chance to act. However, Fang Zhengzhi's words undeniably stabbed right through his plan, instantly engulfing his heart with an inexplicable rage, as if someone had stepped on his tail.

"Is that so? Then what is Your Highess waiting for? Quickly get rid of him!" Fang Zhengzhi curled his lips, revealing a look of disdain.

"Get rid of him?" Lin Xinjue shivered. He scanned the surrounding Royal Guards then looked at Lin Mubai, standing there in the distance.

If he never opened his mouth, all the attention would naturally avert his direction.

But … Fang Zhengzhi lured him into speaking, and in such a direct manner. In this case, how could he continue hesitating and waiting for his ripe chance?

"Scoundrel!" Lin Xinjue's eyes flashed with hate, but he ultimately clenched his teeth. "Heed my command, Palace Garrison Guards. Protect the Emperor!"

"Yes!"

Following Lin Xinjue's command, the Palace Garrison Guards, ten thousand strong, finally leapt into action again. Their flashing spears pointed straight at Qian Wu and the Demonic Man.

Qian Wu closed his eyes. He was naturally unfazed by Lin Xinjue's interference, but this was not within his original plans. According to his previous calculations, Lin Xinjue would continue to wait for the right opportunity to strike.

Or at least … not strike so prematurely.

But now, Lin Xinjue has launched his attack, and worse still, with all his might.

"Sowing discord!" This phrase flashed through Qian Wu's mind.

He used this method to deal with Fang Zhengzhi, but now, Fang Zhengzhi used the same method to deal with Lin Xinjue. And worse still, Fang Zhengzhi's method was far more direct and vicious.

"Interesting!" Qian Wu scanned across the rowdy Palace Garrison Guards and smirked once again. At the same time, he turned his gaze towards the Demonic Man beside the Near-Life Gate.

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Chapter 574: We Got The Wrong Person

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

The Demonic Man slowly shifted his gaze from Qian Wu to Fang Zhengzhi, then veered towards Ping Yang struggling profusely in Fang Zhengzhi's arms.

The ferocious beast crouching beside the Demonic Man also felt a disturbance and abruptly opened its eyes, its icy cold pupils shimmering with a frigid glimmer.

"Roar!"

Its gargantuan body shifted as it plunged its razor-sharp claws into the ground, tearing and shattering the rocks. It opened its gaping mouth and lunged straight at Fang Zhengzhi and Ping Yang without any hesitation.

"Your Highness, get out of here!" In the instant when the beast lunged towards Ping Yang, a figure leapt out at top speed and shieldedher. He was a commander of the Royal Guards clad in a coat of golden armor.

"Crash!" The beast's razor-sharp claws swiped the commander's chest armor, instantly blowing him backwards diagonally. He then plummeted to the ground and rolled over.

A Royal Guards commander has been killed with a single swipe.

But the beast did not stop there. After swiping a Royal Guards commander to death, it bounded into the air and pounced towards Ping Yang and Fang Zhengzhi in midair.

"This is …" Ping Yang finally stopped struggling. Her crystal-clear eyes gazed up at the unbelievably enormous figure looming over her head as her delicate little mouth opened up subconsciously.

She certainly saw the three ferocious beasts crouching in front of the Demonic Man. It was a strange sight indeed.

But in the spur of the moment, she could not ponder about this peculiar scene carefully. Only when the beast lunged towards her did she finally sense the menacing aura emanating from the beast and take in the sheer size of its body, capable of obscuring every bit of moonlight.

Instinctively, Ping Yang began struggling against, attempting to break free of Fang Zhengzhi's grasp, but she then realized that Fang Zhengzhi's hands had no intention of letting her go – and it wasn't just his hands.

Fang Zhengzhi had no intention of dodging the incoming attack at all. He simply held onto Fang Zhengzhi in resignation, as though he could not hear the beast's roars thundering from behind him at all.

"We're doomed. Her Highness is about to be killed by that shameless scoundrel!" Ping Yang grew hopeless as she stared at the pair of lethal claws right in front of her eyes.

But suddenly, a hellish and murderous surge of bloodlust rose up from behind her, sending chills down her spine.

And then … a blood-red ray of light lit up behind her, instantly travelling in front of her. There was a human figure cloaked in the blood-red radiance, his ink-colored robes drifted softly in the night wind.

He held a dagger-like ray of red light, sparkling and clear yet brittle like a cicada's wing, but surging with ferocity.

"Stab!"

As the blood-red light flashed through the air, the giant beast became suspended in midair, its icy pupils in its eyes glaring at the man cloaked in the red light. It was an expression of disbelief.

Following that, a pitiful shriek reverberated through the air.

"Ow …"

The giant beast's heat plummeted to the ground while its two severed claws remained suspended in midair. Two arrows of blood propelled out from the beast's legs, dripping to the ground. It was too quick.

It took less than a blink of an eye from the time the beast launched its attack to the time the red light flashed through the air. The result was blatantly obvious – another beast has fallen.

Silence!

Unparalleled silence!

The various Palace Guards gazed at the new participant on the battlefield and the shower of blood-red light cloaking him, as well as the giant beast sprawled on the ground.

"It's Yan Xiu!"

"He can actually …"

"Could Yan Xiu have already reached the Rebirth State?"

Flabbergasted, they were completely flabbergasted, especially the Dragon Protection Squad and the Royal Guards. They had personally witnessed the sheer ferocity of these beasts, but now …

It lost both its claws with a single strike from Yan Xiu!

Yan Xiu? Just which Enlightenment State was he in?

"The Dao of Asura?" Qian Wu's gaze turned cold as he gazed at the hostile figure standing in front of Fang Zhengzhi and Ping Yang. "Are you Yan Xiu from the Western Liang?"

Yan Xiu ignored Qian Wu, not even sparing him a glance. He merely took a step forward and stopped in front of the moaning beast.

He clenched his right hand and the blood-red light began flashing again.

"Boom!"

He pummeled right through the giant beast's skull. The already cracked ground could no longer withstand the tremendous impact of his fist, sending debris and dust flying in all directions.

The beast's moans stopped. Fresh blood poured out from its mouth, staining the ground.

Another beast has died!

Qian Wu finally clenched his fist tightly. As the person who dominated the battlefield all this while, his presence has been consecutively disregarded by Fang Zhengzhi and Yan Xiu.

Furthermore, among the five beasts that emerged from the Near-Life Gate, three of them have died consecutively after Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua slaughtered two more. And it took Qian Wu painstaking effort to locate these beasts.

Yet, they perished one after the other right in front of his eyes.

How could he endure it any longer?

Just as he wanted to say something, he was interrupted by another voice.

"What are all of you standing there for? You still don't want to attack? The Throne Room has been destroyed, and you still have the shame to spectate the action from the sidelines? Are all of you bystanders? Kill him!"

Upon hearing these screams, everyone in the Dragon Protection Squad and the Royal Guards shuddered. That was clearly Fang Zhengzhi's voice. And only Fang Zhengzhi would 'insult' them with such 'righteous rhetoric' without pulling any punches.

And most importantly … right after he finished yelling, he still remained in his original position without moving an inch. They could never match his level of shamelessness.

Yet in spite of that, they still heeded his command.

As the squad responsible for ensuring the Emperor's safety, their top priority was clearly to protect the Emperor. But just as Fang Zhengzhi said, there wasn't a Throne Room anymore, so why would they continue standing there in a daze?

Indeed! Their opponents are strong!

They are faced with twenty elite warriors in the Rebirth State, along with two menacing beasts and a demon king. But so what?

They are the Dragon Protection Squad and the Royal Guards – the elites among the elites of the Great Xia Empire's finest soldiers. Hence, fear is not an option.

"Kill! Kill them!"

Once Fang Zhengzhi's voice faded, the Dragon Protection Squad and the Royal Guards finally understood his intentions. Fang Zhengzhi's words may be uncouth but their underlying rationale was blatantly clear: to protect the Emperor.

They had to protect the Emperor.

But now, their opponents were overwhelmingly formidable, to a point where they could not withstand the pressure at all. In that case, they could only sacrifice their lives to give the Emperor a chance of escaping.

"Eunuch Wei, take the Emperor and the Royal Concubine with you and flee!" After the Dragon Protection Squad's first Dragon Envoy Yan Qing yelled this, he charged towards Qian Wu and the Demonic Man with all his might.

Behind him, a few hundred soldiers from the Dragon Protection Squad also charged out at top speed. The Royal Guards also began launching their attack.

The soldiers instantly surrounded the people in black as well as Qian Wu, thrusting their long spears towards Qian Wu with an eerie cold glow.

"Whoosh! Whoosh whoosh whoosh …"

Sounds of arrows propelling through the air rang through the battlefield.

Those were the Palace Guards. After the Royal Guards rushed out, the Palace Guards did not delay their attacks, drawing their huge bows and sending a torrential storm of arrows raining down on the twenty-plus people in black.

It was chaos.

And the root cause of this chaos was Fang Zhengzhi's righteous rhetoric.

The Crown Prince Lin Tianrong's lips were stained with blood, and his heart was full of hate. He hated the fact that even though he clearly fell out with Qian Wu, the Palace Guards' arrows were still headed straight for him.

"Your Highness, leave quickly!"

"I'm not going anywhere!" Lin Tianrong shrugged off a person in black and turned his gaze towards Fang Zhengzhi who was standing leisurely at his original spot in the distance. Lin Tianrong clenched his teeth – he hated Fang Zhengzhi, but he hated someone else even more, and that person was the one who landed him in this sorry state. "Quick, kill Qian Wu!"

"Yes!" The people in black studied the expression on Lin Tianrong's face but still nodded obediently in the end.

Following the Crown Prince's orders, the people in black, over twenty strong, finally split up. One group headed straight for Qian Wu while the other started an internal struggle.

"Fang Zhengzhi!" Qian Wu glared at the smiling Fang Zhengzhi, then saw the shower of arrows pelting down over him and the numerous figures charging towards him in all directions. His eagle eyes flashed with rage.

This scoundrel is as shameless as the rumors say!

He was not afraid of these 'moths' that were flapping towards him, but that did not mean that enjoyed interacting excessively with them.

A single sentence, Fang Zhengzhi's sentence, sank the originally predictable situation into complete chaos. Yet, as the sole perpetrator, Fang Zhengzhi was simply spectating the drama from the sidelines.

How could this not anger Qian Wu?

"King Xieluo!" A six-colored talisman character quickly lit up in his hand as he bellowed at the Demonic Man standing beside the Near-Life Gate.

"Understood." Upon hearing Qian Wu's voice, the Demonic Man twitched his lips and slowly lifted his right hand.

"Om!"

It sounded as though the entire world was being uprooted.

Following that, a ray of dark-green light radiated from the Demonic Man's palm and instantly dispersed outwards like a ripple travelling in all directions.

"Slash! Slash"

Soldiers of the Dragon Protection Squad and the Royal Guards originally charging towards the Demonic Man became petrified once they came in contact with the green light, and one by one, they were dissected into two halves.

"Plop! Plop!"

Their bodies fell to the ground without any resistance.

But the dark-green light did not stop there. It continued expanding to its surroundings like a scythe of a Grim Reaper, claiming one life after another with such ease.

"Crap, we got the wrong person. This guy is the real final boss!" After taking in this sight, the smile hanging brightly on Fang Zhengzhi's face tensed up slightly.

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Chapter 575: He Fled, Came Back and Switched Sides!

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

There is an old saying: you must never misjudge your opponents, otherwise you would land into trouble very easily!

When Fang Zhengzhi arrived, the Throne Room had already been reduced to dust. Hence, he did not witness the sheer power of King Xieluo's initial attack. Furthermore, Qian Wu cottoned up to him immediately after he arrived. This led him to assume that all the problems would be solved as long as he slaughtered Qian Wu.

But after he saw King Xieluo's strength, he finally understood … he was targeting the wrong person this whole time! And this bears severe consequences.

This was as if you entered the bridal chamber after your marriage and have sex with your wife's younger sister instead of your wife, and when you raised your head, you see your wife standing at the door with a knife in her hand.

Shocking!

And after the shock, it was naturally time to run, since you have no way of explaining yourself, and no time to explain.

Fang Zhengzhi similarly made the wisest choice. He grabbed Ping Yang with one hand and Yan Xiu with the other, and dashed into the distance without any hesitation.

The reason for his swift escape was definitely not the inability to explain why he had sex with his sister-in-law, but because he misjudged his opponent's strength.

With the combined forces of the Dragon Protection Squad, the Royal Guards and the Palace Guards, coupled with Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua's strength, how could such a formidable team be no match for these few 'assassins'?

Who would believe this?

Fang Zhengzhi did not believe this at first, but now he did. He realized why the Dragon Protection Squad and the Royal Guards refused to budge. He also realized why the Throne Room could be reduced to a pile of rubble even with the combined strength of the three squads, the Emperor and his Royal Concubine.

Because Qian Wu has a 'monster' named King Xieluo on his side. He was too strong!

Fang Zhengzhi fled without any emotional baggages because he witnessed these techniques before, and he knew very well the sheer level of strength required to execute these techniques.

Anyone below the Rebirth State would be instantly slaughtered.

And Fang Zhengzhi would definitely punch any idiot who claims that King Xieluo was only in the Rebirth State to death.

"Ah!"

"Ah …"

Waves of pitiful screams reverberated through the palace as the various Palace Guards and Royal Guards watched the speedily expanding green light, their faces flushing white.

They wanted to flee but they couldn't, because they were soldiers.

As soldiers, there was only one way they could die – to die in battle. Once they fled, they would definitely be labelled as a deserter and never be able to redeem themselves.

But then … they saw someone dragging two others away, fleeing away quickly past them as fast as they could.

The Palace Guards and Royal Guards could clearly see that it was Fang Zhengzhi leading the escape, dragging Ping Yang and Yan Xiu behind with him.

Naturally, none of them would object to Ping Yang escaping, but … Fang Zhengzhi? Escaping? That scoundrel is escaping!

They could clearly remember Fang Zhengzhi's righteous and stern disposition just a moment ago, and his sentence "What are all of you standing there for? Kill him!"

"Kill him!"

"Kill him! What are all of you standing there for?"

What a rousing and exhilarating speech. But now … Fang Zhengzhi was fleeing, and with such speed.

"Continue your attacks, I'll protect Her Highness!" A voice travelled from the direction he was fleeing towards, and drifted into the ears of the Palace Guards.

"…" The Palace Guards and Royal Guards were rendered speechless once again.

Can someone really be this shameless?

The Palace Guards and Royal Guards were enraged yet resigned to their fate. But worse still, Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua, who were both being forced back despite the Dragon Protection Squad's defenses, did not express any sort of astonishment or objection after hearing Fang Zhengzhi's words.

"Fang Zhengzhi, you must protect Ping Yang!" Chen Feihua's voice drifted into the Palace Guards and Royal Guards, seemingly overwhelmed with gratitude.

The difference in treatment was simply too stark..

The Palace Guards and Royal Guards understood this point, and all they could do was to defend their Emperor to the death. However, they were completely helpless against the impending green light.

"Get down!"

"Get down quickly!"

Without knowing who yelled this warning, the Palace Guards and Royal Guards finally reacted and all of them fell to the ground at top speed. However, those who could not dodge the green light in time released waves of pitiful screams as they collapsed to the ground, shaking the souls of the survivors.

Too strong!

In an instant, many strong warriors in the Supernatural State were decapitated. The Demonic Man King Xieluo was certainly not an opponent that these ordinary soldiers could deal with, even if they were labelled as the most elite soldiers.

Lin Xinjue also leapt to the ground, seeming quite pitiful. He wanted to flee too, but could he? Of course he couldn't, because he was King Duan.

And more importantly, he was unwilling to forsake this chance.

"That cruel Fang Zhengzhi, if not for him fanning the flames, would I be in such a pitiful state now?" Lin Xinjue gazed across the battlefield stained with the corpses of Palace Guards, then turned to see Fang Zhengzhi fleeing into the distance. He clenched his fists and gritted his teeth.

With that thought in his mind …

He then realized that Fang Zhengzhi suddenly turned back.

Eh? He's coming back!

He actually came back!

As he watched in suspicion, Lin Xinjue realized that Yan Xiun and Ping Yang were returning along with Fang Zhengzhi, and behind them were thousands of people in black.

"F*ck!" As a prince who grew up in a royal family since young, he rarely cursed, but he could not control his urge to hurl a vulgarity in this moment.

He obviously knew the identity of the men in black.

They were the same bunch as the people he met at the entrance of the Imperial Palace.

Back then, he heeded Fang Zhengzhi's advice and ordered the Palace Guards to break into two parties, allowing the people in black to become hidden dangers.

But now … these dangers have exploded in full force! And worse still, at such a critical moment.

At first, his greatest advantage was his strength in numbers, but once these people in black enter the battlefield, his sole advantage was no longer existent. Yet, this was obviously not the worst part.

The worst part was that, Fang Zhengzhi knew the situation they were in, and yet he still led the people in black over? How was this any different from pouring a pot of oil into a raging fire?

Hatred overwhelmed Lin Xinjue's heart.

As he watched the thousands of people in black approach them, he finally came up with an idea.

"Switch sides!"

Lin Xinjue clenched his fist. If he revolted now, defeating a few hundred soldiers in the Dragon Protection Squad and a few thousand Royal Guards would not be a problem with the force of his ten thousand Palace Guards coupled with the thousands of people in black from the Northern Barbarian army.

And most importantly, his Palace Guards still controlled the four gates of the Imperial Palace. Under such circumstances, no word of his mutiny would leak out to the world.

Lin Xinjue's eyes shimmered radiantly. It was difficult to make this decision, but once he decided to switch sides, it meant that he would still be the Northern Barbarian's puppet to manipulate the Great Xia Empire despite ascending the throne.

Should he still fight?

No, he can't fight anymore!

How could he win the thousands of Northern Barbarian soldiers in black under such circumstances. They were elite soldiers that could not be defeated by his ten thousand Palace Guards. Coupled with the strength of Qian Wu and the Demonic Man King Xieluo, how could Lin Xinjue possibly win?

What could he do? What exactly could he do?

Was he really fated to be a mere puppet?

Lin Xinjue was indignant. He held it in for too long, and finally found a splendid chance after much difficulty, only to become a puppeted emperor. How could he be satisfied?

"No, there's definitely a way out once I take the throne!" Lin Xinjue bit his lips hard as images of the former emperors flashed through his mind.

How many emperors were manipulated by their officials when they first ascended the throne? But what happened afterwards? Many of them executed those treacherous officials and severed the chains that bound their rule, finally becoming eternal emperors respected by all.

The throne. There will definitely be a way out once he ascends the throne.

Without the throne, everything would just be empty talk. Everything would be too late once Qian Wu controls the situation and finds a replacement emperor.

"Hahaha … Fang Zhengzhi, did you think you could really run away? Kill! Kill them all! The Dragon Protection Squad, Royal Guards and the Palace Guards, don't leave a single survivor!" Qian Wu's laughter erupted as he turned towards Fang Zhengzhi, Ping Yang and the thousands of people in black behind them. He chuckled maniacally.

"Wait, Qian Wu. Is your offer still valid?" Upon hearing what Qian Wu exclaimed, he blurted his question out, unable to hold back any longer.

"Oh? Has Your Highness finally thought it over?" Qian Wu was slightly stunned as he sized up Lin Xinjue who just stood up, wearing an arrogant smile.

"Yes!" Lin Xinjue gritted his teeth.

"Your Highness!"

"No, Your Highness!"

"The Northern Barbarians have immense greed, and will never fulfill their promise!"

"Please reconsider, Your Highness!"

One by one, the Palace Guards advised him without hesitation, completely astounded by Lin Xinjue's words.

The Dragon Protection Squad and Royal Guards not far away were also extremely astonished.

King Duan wanted to switch swides?!

Even though they could understand where Lin Xinjue was coming from, merely holding the thought and actually executing a revolt were two entirely different matters.

"Your Highness, are you sure you wish to be part of the Northern Barbarian Empire?" Qian Wu ignored the cacophony and the shocked glares of the crowd, and continued probing with a smile.

"Yes, I've made my decision!" Lin Xinjue gritted his teeth again and replied with conviction.

"No, Your Highness, this is treason. We are …" A Palace Guard commander stepped out but he could not finish his sentence – because a sword stabbed his throat.

"Ow, ow …" His hands held onto Lin Xinjue's suit of silver-white armor tightly. His eyes glared boldly, and he wanted to say something, but he was no longer able to utter a word.

"This is my order to the Palace Guards. Anyone who defies my order will be met with death!" Lin Xinjue raised one hand to issue the order as he pulled out the sword from the commander's throat with the other hand.

An arrow of blood poured out from his body, making him look unbelievably pitiful.

After the ten thousand Palace Guards witnessed this sight, each of them glanced at each other in hesitation.

"Your Highness has treated us kindly all these years. I'm willing to follow Your Highness!"

"So am I!"

"Be loyal to King Duan and heed the order!"

"Anyone who defies the order shall be executed!"

Voices erupted from the army. Shortly afterwards, a few Palace Guard commanders quickly knelt down and bowed to Lin Xinjue. Upon seeing their commanders kneel, over 90% of the entire force knelt down in unison.

The remaining Palace Guards were furious.

"I'll only listen to His Majesty!"

"Protect the Great Xia Empire to the death!"

"I'll never betray my country!"

These voices blasted from their mouths, and as they pledged their allegiance to the empire, the Palace Guards who were kneeling down began to hesitate again.

After a moment, a few Palace Guards rose up again.

"Kill them!"

"Slaughter these traitors!"

"Ah! I'll take you on …"

"Slash …"

After the cacophony died down, the entire battlefield descended into a ghastly silence. All the Palace Guards knelt before Lin Xinjue. Lin Mubai shivered as he witnessed this sight.

"Traitor, traitor!"

"Be calm, Your Majesty. His Highness may be in a state of delusion …" Chen Feihua's lips were stained with blood but her hands grabbed onto Lin Mubai tightly.

Qian Wu gazed at the approaching horde of people in black as well as Fang Zhengzhi and Ping Yang in front. With that, he finally turned towards Lin Xinjue and the sea of kneeling Palace Guards.

"Isn't it a little late for Your Highness to be doing this? My Northern Barbarian army has arrived. What use does your few Palace Guards have?" Qian Wu sneered.

"Such a small group of Palace Guards is indeed useless, but the four gates of the Imperial Palace are still under my Palace Guards' control. And don't forget, I'm not just the commander-in-chief of the Palace Guards, but also the Chief of the Great Xia Empire's military. If the Flame Capital City is attacked, the opponent's forces would definitely surround the city. How can you handle such an attack without me?" Lin Xinjue gritted his teeth and explained after hearing Qian Wu's words.

"That does make a little sense!" Qian Wu nodded as he cracked a friendly smile. "In that case, shall Your Highness kill your father along with me?"

"Of course!" Lin Xinjue clenched his fist. He definitely knew the meaning behind Qian Wu's words, but at this stage, he had no other choice.

With the way things are going, he could only endure the pain if he wanted to reinvigorate the Great Xia Empire again!

After he ascends the throne and abolishes the control of the Northern Barbarian Empire, all these sacrifices would be worth it, even if it means bearing the sin of murdering his father with his own hands.

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Chapter 576: Better To Die In Glory Than To Live In Dishonor

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

"Hahaha, in that case, what else is Your Highness waiting for?" After hearing Lin Xinjue's agreement, Qian Wu's wicked smile became even more sinister.

He thoroughly enjoyed this feeling. Although he was not a hunter who was keen to play with his prey, why wouldn't he be elated to see an internal conflict erupting in the Great Xia Empire's royal family?

"I'm sorry, Father!" Lin Xinjue gritted his teeth again, his eyes becoming clouded and cold. "Listen up, Palace Guards. Whoever kills Lin Mubai shall be rewarded with generous amounts of wealth and property!"

"Hualala!"

At Lin Xinjue's command, the kneeling Palace Guards all stood up and drew their long bows. Countless arrows flew straight for Lin Mubai, shimmering with an eerie cold glow under the moonlight.

"Good, very good! Another traitor! I've seen countless types of people during my rule, and although I admit that I've not accomplished anything significant, I still made some considerable contributions, but I still could not understand my own son!" Lin Mubai looked at the army of Palace Guards with bows fully drawn, looking slightly dejected.

The Crown Prince committed treason!

This was something he found out long ago, but King Duan's revolt was still unexpected, and another excruciating stab into his already wounded heart.

No pain is greater in life than the betrayal of your relatives and children. Yet, Lin Mubai has been confronted with the consecutive betrayals of the Crown Prince Lin Tianrong and King Duan Lin Xinjue. How could he be fine?

"Hahaha … I never expected Sixth Brother to obey the Northern Barbarians. I've really underestimated him!" The Crown Prince Lin Tianrong became slightly maniacal after listening to their exchange of words.

He may have committed treason, but he would never become another person's puppet.

But … Lin Xinjue did just that. How could he not resent his brother?

"Your Highness, do you really want to kill His Majesty?" The Dragon Protection Squad's first Dragon Envoy Yan Qing looked at Lin Xinjue standing in front of the Palace Guards, still in disbelief.

"Fire!" Lin Xinjue ignored Lin Tianrong's words and Yang Qing's question, instead relying on his actual actions to convey his message to everyone.

"Swoosh!"

"Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh!"

A storm of arrows shot up into the sky, travelling across a graceful arch before raining down on Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua.

"Protect the Emperor!"

A few rays of light fired out from the Dragon Protection Squad, creating an enormous light screen in the air which blocked the cascading storm of arrows.

"Roar!"

"Roar!"

Two beastly bellows sounded as two gigantic figures pounced towards Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua amidst the rain of arrows.

"Leave here now, Your Majesty!"

The Dragon Protection Squad did not retreat after seeing the advancing beasts, and instead charged towards their assailants without anyone bearing any thought of escaping. However, they too knew that everything they were doing now was merely to buy time.

And the effect?

If everything goes according to plan, the delay would pay off.

But now … their efforts may very well end in vain, because the four gates of the Imperial Palace were already secured by the Palace Guards. Without any backup, what use would their efforts be regardless of how much time they bought?

"Roar!"

The beast's razor-sharp claws instantly sent a soldier from the Dragon Protection Squad flying backwards.

At the same time, Qian Wu's gaze slowly turned towards the approaching Fang Zhengzhi, Ping Yang and Yan Xiu. A sinister smile appeared on his face.

"Kill Fang Zhengzhi and capture the other two alive!"

"Yes!" A few people in black in the Rebirth State instantly acknowledged Qian Wu's order. In a flash, they rushed towards Fang Zhengzhi.

"Eh? Both of you are about to be captured alive!" exclaimed Fang Zhengzhi after hearing Qian Wu's words.

"That's still better than dying!" Ping Yang pouted indignantly.

"Um." Yan Xiu nodded softly. No one knew whether he was replying Fang Zhengzhi's question or conferring with Ping Yang's opinion.

"I'd rather die in glory than live in dishonor. Let's give everything we've got for the sake of the Great Xia Empire!" Fang Zhengzhi yelled, appearing extremely courageous in the face of imminent death.

Of course, his words drifted into the ears of the Royal Guards and the Dragon Protection Squad.

There's an ancient saying: it's much easier for people's feelings to resonate with each other, even those at odds with one another. Furthermore, Fang Zhengzhi's expression was tragically heroic.

"I'd rather die in glory than live in dishonor?!"

"For the Great Xia Empire!"

"Well said!"

The Royal Guards and the Dragon Protection Squad knew that Fang Zhengzhi was usually very shameless, but their suppressed emotions were now roused up again after hearing his battle cry.

After all, they were all in this state of mind.

Fight! What else could they do besides fighting?

"Charge! Take them all on!"

"Let His Majesty escape!"

The various Dragon Protection Squad soldiers and Royal Guards charged towards the approaching beasts with great vigor. A small group of them charged towards the Palace Guards instead.

The battle was becoming more chaotic than ever.

"You're courting death!" A few people in black looked at the Royal Guards and Dragon Protection Squad riled up by Fang Zhengzhi's words, their eyes shining with a cold glow. They rushed towards them at breakneck speed.

"Sh*t, such incredible speed. I can't overpower them, let us kill a few scapegoats first!" Fang Zhengzhi turned towards the approaching people in black, slightly stunned. Then, he suddenly stopped, pulled Ping Yang and Yan Xiu, and ran towards the Northern Barbarian army behind him.

"Eh? Stop them!" A few people in black were taken aback as well.

After all, Fang Zhengzhi's flippant allegiances were so unpredictable. One moment, he was sounding his war cry like a tragic hero, and the next moment, he was bolting away. These were the things that only people like Fang Zhengzhi were capable of doing.

However, with the Northern Barbarian army getting closer and closer behind Fang Zhengzhi, they were naturally unfazed by the possibility of Fang Zhengzhi switching sides again.

They quickened their steps and closed the distance.

Closer, closer!

Watching as Fang Zhengzhi led Ping Yang and Yan Xiu straight towards the Northern Barbarian army, a few people in black were as overjoyed as wolves seeing sheep enter their pack.

"Pass down Young Master's orders: Kill Fang Zhengzhi and capture Yan Xiu and Ping Yang alive!"

"Yes!" Upon hearing this, thousands of Northern Barbarian soldiers dressed in black hollered a reply in unison, lifting their flashing spears up high and charged towards Fang Zhengzhi without any hesitation.

Fang Zhengzhi finally stopped in his tracks once again.

Ping Yang also flashed her weapon – a scarlet spear with a tint of golden light flashing at its tip.

The Blazing Qilin Spear, one of the ten greatest treasures of the Great Xia Empire.

Yan Xiu stopped in his tracks as well, his body cloaked in a blood-red glow as an overpoweringly sinister aura emanated from his body.

After the few people in black took in this sight, their lips contorted into a smirk and speedily rushed behind Fang Zhengzhi.

"Die!" They attacked.

A lustrous radiance illuminated from their backs. As powerhouses in the Rebirth State, they had total confidence in their combat abilities, especially with their advantage in numbers.

But suddenly …

Fang Zhengzhi finally turned around.

The people in black saw the faint smile plastered on his face, but more importantly, his eyes taunted them strongly.

"Eh? Is he smiling?"

"How can he smile at this time?"

"This is bad!"

In a moment of hesitation, the few people in black subconsciously sensed impending danger. Then, they saw a devastating inferno enveloping the heavens and the lands.

It was the flames spitting out from the Blazing Qilin Spear.

And within those flames was a blood-red ray of light containing a sinister bloodlust, slicing towards their throats.

Such a turn of events certainly terrified the people in black, as Yan Xiu and Ping Yang were evidently resisting their attacks with their lives without regard for self-defense, hurling their spears at the Northern Barbarian army without any considerations.

Under such circumstances, they had only two options: either to take Yan Xiu and Ping Yang head-on in a deathmatch, or to avoid their attacks temporarily. Making a choice wouldn't take too much time as they would not possibly opt for a brutal deathmatch regardless of whatever considerations they have. Furthermore, Qian Wu ordered them to catch Yan Xiu and Ping Yang alive.

In a flash, the few people in black instantly dodged Yan Xiu and Ping Yang's attack, and following the inertia after their sprint, their bodies naturally avoided Fang Zhengzhi and rushed back into the Northern Barbarian army.

Their flashing spears immediately avoided the bodies of the few people in black but at the same time, stabbed towards Fang Zhengzhi without any reservations.

"Did you think that you can take me down with you just by fighting with all your might? How naive!" They smirked again.

"Is that so?" Fang Zhengzhi turned towards them again, his lips still maintaining that faint smile with his gaze brimming with contempt.

And at this moment, the spears pointing at Fang Zhengzhi all slanted to one side even though the thousand Northern Barbarian soldiers did not halt their advance. The spears seemed to have taken lives of their own, completely avoiding Fang Zhengzhi.

"What?!" The few people in black were visibly astonished when they witnessed this spectacle.

The entire Northern Barbarian army avoided Fang Zhengzhi completely?

How is this possible?

Did they not hear their master's orders? Why would they not kill Fang Zhengzhi? What exactly is going on?

As they mulled over this, the few people in black shivered. They all felt a cold sinister aura.

"This is bad!"

"We've been tricked!"

In an instant, they regained their senses. Although they have not realized what was going on, the sense of foreboding danger made it clear that they had fallen into a trap.

Alas … it was too late.

The cold bloodlust had already arrived in front of them.

Two daggers as black as ink sliced their throats at lightning speed, creating fountains of gushing blood.

"Ah!"

"How evil!"

They quickly covered the wounds on their throats with their hands. Being in the Rebirth State, the healing abilities of their bodies were far greater than imagined.

Except for the strange red light from the Green Dragon Eye, nothing else can possibly decimate them in a single blow.

They immediately stopped the bleeding at their throats after pressing down on the wounds with their hands, but the wounds did not recover.

"Something's wrong with the dagger!"

A thought flashed through all their minds at the same time. Following that, a frightening power ferociously crashed into them from the side. It was as though they were hit by a mountain.

"It's a powerhouse in the Rebirth State!"

Their hearts suffered a second jolt from shock. After being ambushed and having their throats sliced, they could only use one hand to stop the bleeding and naturally could not retaliate with full strength. Under such circumstances, it would be fine if their opponents were ordinary soldiers.

But … If they were similarly in the Rebirth State, it would be a completely different story.

"Scram!" As they flashed their palms out, they released a splendid radiance which swept across the surrounding Northern Barbarian soldiers.

They needed a space where they would not be secretly attacked, but the Northern Barbarian army had no intentions to spare them such a space. As the light in their hands glowed, a few people rushed in front of them.

"Boom!"

"Boom!"

Their opponents countered their attacks with the same technique.

As their palms collided, lines of thick mud walls trapped the few people in black, isolating the blasts of air produced from the collision.

"There's more than one enemy in the Rebirth State!" Their bodies crashed into each other abruptly, and at the same time, they lost their grip over the wounds on the throats, causing fresh crimson blood to gush out of their wounds once again.

"Sh*t!"

"Why is this happening?"

"Who exactly are you?!"

The people in black pressed down on their wounds again. At this point, they certainly realized that their secret assailants were not the Northern Barbarian soldiers, because those soldiers would never ambush them and more importantly, the Northern Barbarians couldn't possibly be elite warriors in the Rebirth State.

They were enraged, but their opponents had no intention of replying them.

And at the same time, the cold bloodlust struck approached them menacingly from behind again. The people in back stepped back subconsciously, but the sinister chill was extremely close to their bodies.

"Stab!"

One of them finally stopped in their tracks. He wore an unfathomable expression, his eyes staring tightly at the dagger that pierced through his heart.

The frigid chill numbed his body.

"Who … Who exactly are … are you?!" He lifted his head to greet his opponent draped in black clothes. The pupils in his attacker's eyes were pitch-black.

He felt indignant, extremely indignant.

They were clearly holding the absolute advantage in this situation, an indisputable advantage. As long as he could survive this battle, he would become the one of the most accomplished officials of the Northern Barbarian Empire, but now, he was about to die.

To die …

How would he be willing to die like this?

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Chapter 577: Fang Zhengzhi's True Identity

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Alas, the power swiftly draining from his body made the person in black realize that everything has already been set in stone. It was a reality that was impossible to change.

"Cough cough … are you? Who … are you?!" He coughed several times, feeling extremely indignant, making it look slightly pathetic.

"Shan Yu!" The person's tone was unbelievably cold. At the same time, the black cloak covering her head loosened in the wind, revealing silky black long hair.

Her wheat-colored skin gave off a strange yet wild sense of beauty under the moonlight, and the pitch-black pupils in her eyes were like two restless balls of fire.

"Shan Yu? Shan … You … You are the Princess of the Southern Region!" The person in black wore a hideous expression. He was shocked, unbelievably shocked. He knew that he had fallen into a trap, and that the thousands of people in black in front of him were not the Northern Barbarian army. But he would have never imagined that they would be the Southern Region Army, and that the woman standing before him now would be their Princess!

How is this possible?

Why is the Southern Region Army inside the Imperial Palace?

Didn't King Duan mention that the four gates of the Imperial Palace were sealed off by the Palace Guards? How could the Southern Region Army have infiltrated the palace from the outside?

He couldn't grasp the situation, but Shan Yu had no intention of letting him think about it further. She forcefully yanked the dagger out from his heart. Blood splashed everywhere like a fountain.

Then, he saw three figures standing among the countless people in black. The person in the middle still maintained his mocking smile.

"Eh? Looks like you're about to die, so why don't you answer my final question? Was my stirring heroic performance acted convincingly?" Fang Zhengzhi probed him in curiosity.

"Act … Act …" The person in black's chest pumped up and down as blood gushed out uncontrollably. At the same time, a mouthful of fresh blood poured out from his mouth. His feet became weak, no longer able to support his weight.

"Plop!"

He fell to the ground.

In the instant he collapsed, he could see another person in black falling to the ground not far away. He could see the same disbelief in his comrade's eyes.

The Southern Region … It was the Southern Region!

Why are they in the Imperial Palace?!

His eyes were bursting with vigor and rage but his body fell silent.

Ping Yang subconsciously puffed up her mouth after watching the person in black being literally angered to death by Fang Zhengzhi.

"Where are the Rebirth State warriors you promised? They're still weaker than me!" Ping Yang cast a look of disdain at the person in black sprawled on the ground, then turned to Fang Zhengzhi and asked, "Did you act as well as I did?"

"You?" Fang Zhengzhi responded with the same expression.

"But honestly speaking, I nearly believed you when you exclaimed that you'd rather die in glory than live in dishonor!" Ping Yang added after she thought about it.

"This is called talent, and talent cannot be learnt." Fang Zhengzhi smirked and turned his attention to Shan Yu and the two pitch-black daggers in her hands.

After not seeing her for a year, this woman's improvements have been this drastic?

Fang Zhengzhi only witnessed Shan Yu's abilities once a year ago outside the Emperor's chamber of the Southern Region. Her style can be summarized in three words: quick, precise, and brutal.

But now …

Shan Yu has evidently improved a great deal compared to a year ago. Although Shan Yu relied on an ambush strike, her opponent was nonetheless in the Rebirth State, and such a drastic gap in their state levels was not something that can be overcome this easily.

Judging by her close combat abilities alone, Shan Yu's level of attainment was indeed top-notch.

As the two people in black collapsed, their remaining comrades could not hold on any longer too.

Fang Zhengzhi was not surprised by this at all, because the thousands of soldiers in front of him were the most elite troops of the Southern Region, and furthermore, there were a few great Settlement Chiefs in the Rebirth State hidden within the regular troops.

But with her mastery level skyrocketing, coupled with her unexpected ambush attack, she did not require too much effort to swiftly dispatch these few people in black in the Rebirth State.

Fang Zhengzhi stopped watching the battle between the people in black and the Southern Region soldiers, instead turning around slowly and gazing at the neat files of Palace Guards in the distance as well as the Palace Guards in front of Lin Xinjue.

"Your Sixth Brother seemed to have committed treason …" Fang Zhengzhi whispered.

Ping Yang naturally noticed the changes in the Palace Guards but reserved her opinions, only gritting her teeth as her clear eyes reflected a tinge of dreariness.

Although Lin Xinjue has a different mother, they … share the same father. How could she possibly be happy watching her half-brother suddenly switch his allegiance halfway through the battle?

Shan Yu arrived beside Fang Zhengzhi. Her ink-like pupils were not fixated on Fang Zhengzhi, instead focusing on Lin Tianrong not far away.

She has already waited for this day … for a very long time.

A year ago, the Nobelite Shan Ling was murdered and died in the Southern Region. His corpse was ferried back to their empire by the Silver Horned Wolf Calvary, and he only left a single letter on his body. The letter contained only a single sentence.

"Fang Zhengzhi is the murderer."

That day, there was heavy snowfall which painted the entire Southern Region landscape silver.

That day, there were howling winds which blasted through the dense forests of the Southern Region.

Shan Yu could still remember the expressions plastered on the faces of the Southern Region soldiers and the emotions in her father's eyes on that decisive day, and it was also that day when she became the new King of the Southern Region.

"Lin Tianrong …" Shan Yu's gritted her teeth but her eyes ultimately shifted away from Lin Tianrong and onto Lin Xinjue. "Attack!"

"Attack!"

Following Shan Yu's command, thousands of Southern Region soldiers brandished their spears in the air at the same time.

"Attack!"

"Attack!"

At a second command, thousands of long spears lunged out menacingly.

For the Southern Region soldiers, hurling long spears was naturally harder than hurling pikes, but the difference in familiarity was not a major issue.

Thousands of long spears shot into the sky but did not fall towards Lin Tianrong, instead preparing to land unmistakably on the Palace Guard formation.

"Ah!"

"What's going on?"

"Enemies are attacking from behind?!"

All the Palace Guards who were continuously drawing their bows had been focusing their attention on Lin Mubai all this time without paying much attention to the developments unfolding behind them. In fact, they would have never expected that the 'Northern Barbarian Army' charging from behind would strike them down so suddenly, and with long-range spear projectiles no less.

Amidst waves of pitiful screams, the neatly filed formation instantly descended into chaos.

And that was not all. After the aerial strike of the spears, the Southern Region Army charged out, brandishing their knives and daggers while charging straight towards the 'fragmented' Palace Guards formation broken up by the long spears.

"Kill!"

"Kill!"

Battle cries reverberated through the air, followed by stampeding thunders of footsteps.

This was a sudden turn of events. Too sudden.

It was so quick that the two forces originally engaged in a violent battle were completely taken aback. The Royal Guards, Dragon Protection Squad and the Palace Guards were all flabbergasted.

"The Northern Barbarian Army, how can it be?" The Dragon Protection Squad were left with eyes wide open.

"They actually attacked the Palace Guards. Is this a mistake?" The Royal Guards were suspended in disbelief. After all, they could not see what went on in the distance amidst the chaos.

"Qian Wu, what is going on?" Lin Xinjue was visibly jittery. The reason for his betrayal was obviously the thousands of Northern Barbarian soldiers that suddenly appeared.

But now … the Northern Barbarian Army actually turned on his Palace Guards?

How could he tolerate this any longer?

"They are not the Northern Barbarian soldiers!" Qian Wu squinted, casting his gaze tightly at the people in black charging towards them, clenching his fist.

If these attackers were not Northern Barbarian soldiers, that would mean that the thousands of Northern Barbarian soldiers he stationed in the Imperial Palace would have possibly been wiped out.

How can this be?

What exactly happened in the Imperial Palace?

"Not the Northern Barbarian soldiers?" Lin Xinjue's heart jumped. He turned his attention to the approaching horde in black and sure enough, his eyes opened wide as well. "That … That's the Southern Region Army?!"

When he noticed the attire worn beneath the black cloaks of the approaching horde, a single name appeared in his mind that he would have never thought of otherwise.

The Southern Region Army!

They were definitely an existence neglected by everyone.

Because, they were the protection squad that accompanied the Princess of the Southern Region Shan Yu into the Flame Capital City, and most importantly, they were a force that was supposedly stationed in the south hall.

So … how could they possibly be in the Imperial Palace?!

"Your Majesty, is this … your doing?" Chen Feihua was highly suspicious as they shifted her gaze towards the thousands of approaching Southern Region soldiers.

As the head Domain Chief of the Royal Guards, she did not arrange for the Southern Region Army to enter the Imperial Palace, so how could they possibly be appearing here?

"No." Lin Mubai shook his head.

"No? Then … could it be?" Chen Feihua was stunned. Immediately, a single thought flashed through her mind, the sole plausible scenario in this situation.

The Imperial Palace has four gates, but once the four gates are guarded, coupled with the surveillance of the Royal Guards and the towering palace walls, it was possible for any army to infiltrate the palace from the outside, but there was one place which led straight to the Imperial Palace.

The Ping Yang Residence!

It was not a flaw in the Imperial Palace's defence because the Ping Yang Residence's tight security was even stricter than many areas in the Imperial Palace itself.

Hence in other words, it was harder to infiltrate the Ping Yang Residence than the four gates of the Imperial Palace. But …

If the main mastermind behind this was Ping Yang herself, it would be a completely different story.

"The Ping Yang Residence and the Imperial Palace are only separated by a single city!" After listening to Chen Feihua's comment, Lin Mubai nodded gently.

"I understand." Chen Feihua nodded too.

She did not need to say anything else because things have already progressed to this stage. The Crown Prince has committed treason, King Duan has switched his allegiance, and the Imperial Palace has been surrounded.

It was already meaningless to fuss over the reason why the Southern Region Army entered the Imperial Palace through the Ping Yang Residence.

The Southern Region Army's unexpected entrance finally upheaved the original imbalance of the battle. Nearly ten thousand Palace Guards were thrown into disarray by the sudden attack by the Southern Region Army from the rear. And the Royal Guards entered the battle, taking advantage of the chaos.

After being mercilessly barraged with attacks from the front and back, the nearly ten thousand Palace Guards finally showed signs of impending defeat. They could no longer go on the offense and can only opt for defense.

Lin Xinjue was extremely frantic, his heart surging with rage. At this point, he inevitably deduced the method the Southern Region Army used to enter the Imperial Palace.

They entered via the Ping Yang Residence?

No one would believe anybody who thinks that this was not Fang Zhengzhi's idea?

However, Fang Zhengzhi evidently entered the Imperial Palace at the same time as him, and have never once mentioned anything regarding the Southern Region Army.

Furthermore …

Most importantly, Fang Zhengzhi intentionally staged an 'ambush' when he first arrived. If he knew in advance that the approaching army was the Southern Region Army, why would he immediately switch his allegiance?

"Fang Zhengzhi, how dare you trick me?" Lin Xinjue gritted his teeth. He was furious, but he had no other options. Once he made this decision, there was no going back.

Qian Wu's gaze became extremely sinister. Ever since Fang Zhengzhi appeared, all of his plans have been scrambled.

If not for Fang Zhengzhi, Lin Mubai would have already been dead, and the Crown Prince Lin Tianrong would be jostling with Lin Xinjue in a battle to the death.

That was his plan, his flawless plan. The harder the princes battled, the more he gained, and controlling the situation thereafter would have been much easier.

But everything changed ever since Fang Zhengzhi entered the picture.

Lin Xinjue launched his attack preemptively, causing the situation to go a little out of control. And after he painstakingly reinstated his puppet emperor, Fang Zhengzhi charged in with the Southern Region Army.

Furious.

Now, he was absolutely furious.

"King Xieluo!" Qian Wu yelled again.

The Demonic Man standing beside the Near-Life Gate, King Xieluo, gently lifted his hand again after hearing Qian Wu's voice. "I only agreed to deliver three attacks. This is the last time."

"Okay, but I only want you to kill one person – Fang Zhengzhi!" Qian Wu pointed straight at Fang Zhengzhi as he hollered at the Demonic Man.

"Kill him? Haha, what an interesting request!" The Demonic Man gazed at Fang Zhengzhi, His visibly uninterested face cracked a smile once again.

Naturally, Fang Zhengzhi heard Qian Wu's words, and looked at King Xieluo's dark-green eyes, the 'scar' on his forehead had the two scimitars on his head.

He was speechless.

"Uh … Did you get it wrong? I'm just a passerby! Shouldn't your target be the Emperor?" Fang Zhengzhi pointed at Lin Mubai who was being surrounded by the Dragon Protection Squad.

Then, he saw Lin Mubai's face turn dark.

But at such a time, he couldn't care less about anything else. If his predictions are correct, the Demonic Man standing before him should be the 'Demon King' which that old duff mentioned last time.

The Demon King!

This was an endangered species, and most importantly, this species was very, very powerful.

"King Xueluo, don't stare at me. Why are you coming closer? He told you to kill Fang Zhengzhi, and actually, my name is Fang Zhengzhi. You can ask them if you don't believe me, they can testify!" Fang Zhengzhi looked at the approaching King Xieluo and had no choice but to reveal his true identity without an ounce of sincerity.

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Chapter 578: Is This Considered A New Battle Strategy?

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

"Fang Zhengzhi?"

"Testify?!"

When the Palace Guards, Dragon Protection Squad and the Palace Guards heard what Fang Zhengzhi said, they appeared completely speechless.

"Ugh, none of us can match the thickness of Lord Fang's skin!" A Royal Guard shook his head, expressing his resignation at the sheer extremity of Fang Zhengzhi's shamelessness.

"Precisely, it's unmatchable!"

"I would really have believed him if I didn't know the truth."

And this statement instantly received a unanimous agreement from the rest of the Royal Guards. Even the Dragon Protection Squad standing beside Lin Mubai nodded.

Previously when Fang Zhengzhi trumpeted his appearance and followed Chi Hou of the Divine Constabulary into the Flame Capital City, he also mentioned that his name was Fang Zhengzhi, and even took out his alleged 'proof'.

Did anyone believe him?

Of course nobody did, and most importantly, when he confronted the Crown Prince Lin Tianrong at the Imperial Palace gate, Fang Zhengzhi even subverted this 'lame' explanation himself.

But now? He's reusing the same tactic!

Who would believe him?

Nobody thought that anyone would believe them. Furthermore, his opponent was a Demon King whose intelligence was in no way poorer than a human's. How could he possibly believe Fang Zhengzhi's nonsense?

But then, King Xieluo, who was walking towards Fang Zhengzhi, suddenly stopped and turned around slowly to ask Qian Wu, "He said his name is Fang Zhengzhi?"

Immediately, everyone was startled, regardless whether it was the Palace Guards, the Royal Guards, the Dragon Protection Squad, or even Lin Tianrong and Lin Xinjue.

He believed it?!

King Xieluo actually believed him!

How could this be?

He was a Demon King with an intelligence far exceeding that of ordinary humans. He actually believed such nonsense?

"King Xieluo, you …" Qian Wu's eyes were wide open, as his face revealed his disbelief. He had a deal with King Xieluo. Hence in other words …

If King Xieluo really used this 'reason' to fulfil their pact, Qian Wu wouldn't be able to do anything.

"King Xieluo? Hahaha …" Ping Yang chuckled after hearing what King Xieluo said. She turned to Fang Zhengzhi and chimed, "He must be an idiot! He actually believed your name is Fang Zheng …"

Ping Yang's tone was full of disdain but she did not manage to finish her sentence just yet.

Just before she could finish her sentence, a figure appeared in front of her. His curved antlers radiated with a faint golden glow. He donned scholarly white robes which drifted in the night wind, and his strange pair of eyes flickered with an odd dark green light.

"Zheng …" Ping Yang's final word was seemingly squeezed from her lips. She looked at King Xieluo inches away from her, her clear eyes wide open.

He was too fast!

She totally did not notice how King Xieluo reached her in such a short amount of time. He was even faster than Canyang during the Battle of the Southern Region.

And most importantly … did he not believe Fang Zhengzhi's words?

Why did he still come over?

Ping Yang gulped subconsciously and tightened her grip on the Blazing Qilin Spear. She wanted to strike, but another hand held hers down.

It was a slightly warm hand, which was evidently sweaty and shaky too, but that hand still held onto hers, refusing to let go.

"That shameless scoundrel, why …. isn't he running?" Ping Yang looked at the hand which held hers down, then looked up at Fang Zhengzhi beside her.

She could sense Fang Zhengzhi's true intentions from the drops of sweat on his palm.

If Fang Zhengzhi abandoned her now, she wouldn't be surprised. After all, they were faced with a formidable Demon King.

"Are you having fun?" King Xieluo boomed, his flashing green eyes glaring at Fang Zhengzhi as his lips cracked a smirk.

"Are you not having fun?" Fang Zhengzhi's voice rang just as King Xieluo finished his question. His lips also revealed a faint smile.

"Haha, this is getting interesting!" King Xieluo eyed Fang Zhengzhi closely. Slowly, he took a step forward and his smile widened.

"I feel so too." Fang Zhengzhi nodded. He took a step out too, appearing very relaxed.

Too close!

In this moment, Fang Zhengzhi and King Xieluo were less than one foot apart.

This was a truly bizarre sight.

Normally, Fang Zhengzhi would be fleeing now. One could only imagine the danger of confronting a Demon King up close, but what about Fang Zhengzhi now?

He took a step forward!

His decision baffled everyone.

And when Ping Yang took in this sight, her palms became as sweaty as Fang Zhengzhi's. As haughty as Ping Yang was, she was still extremely nervous at this juncture.

She certainly realized that King Xieluo was merely toying with them, just like how Fang Zhengzhi toyed with the people in black previously.

But what she did not undertand was, why isn't King Xieluo striking them down even after his opponents severely underestimated him and after he has arrived in front of them?

Ping Yang was not the only one with this doubt. Lin Xinjue and Qian Wu were also puzzled.

"Why hasn't he attacked?" Qian Wu clenched his fist even tighter. He didn't think that King Xieluo was someone who delayed his actions, and in fact, King Xieluo has always executed his tasks promptly.

But now … not only did King Xieluo not attack Fang Zhengzhi immediately, he even started 'chatting' with Fang Zhengzhi out of the blue?

"Are both of you together, or is it just you alone?" King Xieluo seemed to have ignored the gazes of the onlookers, and asked Fang Zhengzhi with a smile.

"Together!"

"Together!"

"Together!"

Three voices chimed simultaneously right as King Xieluo finished his sentence.

One of them belonged to Yan Xiu. His expression was as cold as ever. He eyed King Xieluo closely as the blood-red glow around his arms swirled continuously.

The second voice belonged to Ping Yang. Her palms were still a little sweaty but she clenched her fist tightly. Her crystal-clear eyes radiated with an extraordinarily tenacious glow.

And the third voice belonged to … Shan Yu.

She too stood beside Fang Zhengzhi. She had already raised the pitch-black dagger in her hand, and her hand was illuminated by streams of fiery red patterns.

"Alone!" A fourth voice was heard.

Naturally, it was Fang Zhengzhi's voice, but his words were not echoed by the other three, because …

Just as he voiced his opinion, Yan Xiu, Ping Yang and Shan Yu attacked – without any hesitation and without their usual confidence in Fang Zhengzhi, seeming as though they have completely ignored Fang Zhengzhi's existence.

The glistening blood-red light shot towards King Xieluo while a figure appeared before him, her sinister bloodlust going straight for King Xieluo's throat.

Yan Xiu and Shan Yu were too quick.

Ping Yang subconsciously shielded Fang Zhengzhi, her crystal-clear eyes blinking at Fang Zhengzhi while her other hand held onto him tightly, her expression seemingly provoking him, implying, "You shameless scoundrel, did you see that? I protected you again!"

"Boom!"

A thunderous explosion rumbled.

Shortly afterwards, two people flew up together while locking in an embrace, like the long spears hurled into the air by the Southern Region Army, arching gracefully across the sky.

This baffled Ping Yang. She felt that she should have blocked Fang Zhengzhi from the attack, but she didn't know why she did not feel anyone strike her back. And yet … she was flying again?

What's going on?

Could it be that the shameless bastard she was embracing figured out her plan, and forcefully swapped places with her in the instant the attack landed?

That's not right either!

He did not move a muscle.

As she mulled over it, she discovered a new problem. The direction she was flying towards didn't seem right. If King Xieluo struck her from behind, shouldn't she be flying backwards? So why was she thrown forward instead?

"Are you crazy? Why are you holding onto me?"

Just as Ping Yang was completely baffled, Fang Zhengzhi's voice rang in her ears. It was a angry yet helpless scream.

In fact, Fang Zhengzhi was indeed pretty helpless at this point of time.

Who in the right mind would not pummel their enemies in a battle and instead hug their comrades so tightly instead? Was this some new battle strategy?

A human shield? Fine!

Fang Zhengzhi could understand Ping Yang's intentions, using her body to block a direct blow at Fang Zhengzhi because she knew that she was wearing the great treasure of the Xia Empire.

But … King Xieluo was no idiot!

At such a close range, he could easily spin behind Fang Zhengzhi without a problem.

And most importantly, did Ping Yang not hear Qian Wu's condition for King Xieluo to kill Fang Zhengzhi only? So why would King Xieluo possibly waste his time attacking Ping Yang?

Fang Zhengzhi felt slightly indignant taking this attack. And not just that, the attack he took was considerably powerful. An immense force surged from behind him, barraging his insides.

"Cough!"

Fang Zhengzhi's face flushed red as he expectorated a mouthful of blood straight onto Ping Yang's face, staining her astonished face with a blood-red flower.

"Plop!" Both of them crashed into the ground, kicking up the gravel and dust.

Silence.

But it was a fleeting silence.

Following that, Yan Xiu's eyes swelled.

"Ah!" A hellish voice erupted from Yan Xiu's mouth. Then, a sinister aura surged violently from his feet, shrouding his entire body.

"Kacha, kacha …"

Moires fissured through the ground speedily beneath his feet as the blood-red glow cloaking his body grew oddly clear and transparent like a crystal.

At the same time, Shan Yu's skin turned as black as ink.

This was the result of being enveloped by countless red moires. Her ink-like eyes instead blazed into flames, with the fiery embers dancing within her pupils, bizarre and sinister.

"Ow!" A beastly voice burst from Shan Yu's throat.

"Protect the Lord!"

"Save Lord Fang!"

"Block that monster!"

The Southern Region Army was now tangled up with the Palace Guards, but they immediately turned around and gazed at Shan Yu dressed completely in black after noticing the development of the battle. They changed their direction seemingly subconsciously, and charged towards King Xieluo who was standing on Fang Zhengzhi's original spot.

"Hahaha, how interesting, but what a pity. I don't have any obligation to kill you all!" King Xieluo's eyes scanned Yan Xiu, Shan Yu and the approaching Southern Region Army. His snow-white scholarly robes drifted in the night wind and suddenly, his body vanished.

And in the next instant …

King Xieluo's body appeared in front of Fang Zhengzhi and Ping Yang. He looked at Fang Zhengzhi quietly with eyes flashing with a dark green glow as his lips cracked a strange smile.

"You should thank my sincerity because I'll only be killing you!"

The night grew darker.

Both the Royal Guards and the Dragon Protection Squad were astounded by the sight that unfolded before their eyes. All of them gasped.

"That's the Demon King?"

"He's too fast!"

"It's impossible to win!"

"Fang Zhengzhi became useless after the Battle of the Southern Region. He should already be dead after that blow right?"

The Royal Guards and the Dragon Protection Squad gazed at the lifeless body of Fang Zhengzhi sprawled on the ground. They felt some pity, but the results of life and death on the battlefield were already determined right from the start.

Now, they were more concerned about Ping Yang's safety.

Although King Xieluo did declare that he would only kill Fang Zhengzhi, and neither did King Xieluo and Qian Wu's deal mention anything about capturing Ping Yang, what if something out of the blue happened? And who could ensure that nothing unexpected would happen?

"Ping Yang!" Lin Mubai clenched his fists and prepared to charge out, but he was held back firmly by Chen Feihua and the Dragon Protection Squad.

"Your Majesty, leave the Princess' safety to us!"

"Quick, save Her Highness!"

"Yes!"

Following a single command, tens of soldiers from the Dragon Protection Squad rushed out from Lin Mubai's side without hesitation and charged towards Ping Yang.

"Humph, how naive! Intercept them!" Qian Wu sneered as he gazed at the motionless Fang Zhengzhi.

Regardless whether Fang Zhengzhi was alive or dead, the result of the battle was already determined when King Xieluo arrived in front of them. In other words, when Qian Wu made the deal with King Xieluo …

Fang Zhengzhi was already dead!

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Chapter 579: A Profound and Frightening Power

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Following Qian Wu's command, a few people in black quickly blocked the Dragon Protection Squad's advance. And at the same time, since the Southern Region Army suddenly charged towards King Xieluo, the Palace Guards could finally have enough space to breathe, and began drawing their longbows again.

Lin Xinjue's eyes lit up. The Southern Region Army's interference has sent the Palace Guards into a chaotic frenzy again. He couldn't possibly let this opportunity slip.

"Adopt the Two-Headed Formation, shields in front and bows behind!" Lin Xinjue yelled to the Palace Guards just as the Southern Region Army charged out.

"Yes!" The Palace Guards immediately executed the order, and in an instant, the originally defensive formation immediately transformed into both an offensive and defensive formation.

"Fire!"

Another command sounded.

The Palace Guards fired their arrows into the air but not in the same manner as they previously did. This time, besides aiming for Lin Mubai, they aimed for the Southern Region Army behind them.

"Kill them!"

"Kill them!"

The Dragon Protection Squad and Royal Guards swiftly clashed with the Palace Guards again, startling the Southern Region Army.

"Line up!"

"Charge!"

A few great Settlement Chiefs from the Southern Region Army yelled their orders, as they continued resisting the Palace Guards' assault while continuing to charge towards them.

The battlefield descended into chaos once again.

Yan Xiu and Shan Yu were evidently astonished when they saw King Xieluo disappear. Now, they were charging at him once again without a single ounce of hesitation.

But … the distance was much further this time.

"Get up, you shameless scoundrel, quickly …" Ping Yang was pinned down by Fang Zhengzhi's motionless body. She looked up at King Xieluo, her crystal-clear eyes reflecting unparalleled anxiety.

She wanted to push Fang Zhengzhi away, but she realized that his body was incredibly heavy. His eyes were tightly shut, as though he had passed out. And furthermore … his face was extremely pale without a single hint of pink, and his body was completely soaked in sweat.

Sh*t!

He was indeed touting when he said he could protect himself!

"He's this weak?" King Xieluo gazed upon the motionless Fang Zhengzhi in surprise, but he quickly lifted his right hand, causing a strange ball of dark green light to glow under the night sky. "Then die!"

"Die?! No!" Although Ping Yang felt cheated, she still instinctively flipped over and pushed Fang Zhengzhi's body beneath her when she noticed King Xieluo raising his hand.

She didn't know why she did this either.

Fang Zhengzhi was already unconscious, so logically speaking, fleeing was her best option. And most importantly, King Xieluo's target was not her.

But … she still held onto Fang Zhengzhi only because she vaguely felt that Fang Zhengzhi was their sole key to end this war.

"Eh? Looks like I really do have to kill another person!" King Xieluo looked at Ping Yang shielding Fang Zhengzhi with her body and was slightly taken aback, but then cracked a cold smirk.

And with that, the light radiating from his hand grew brighter and brighter.

"Don't hurt my Ping Yang!" Lin Mubai couldn't take it any longer, and immediately charged out from the Dragon Protection Squad's defensive circle. At the same time, a dense golden light surged from his body and morphed into a bounding golden dragon in the air. Two mystifying red spots of light flickered in the golden dragon's eyes.

The Green Dragon Eye.

Then, just as Lin Mubai's Green Dragon Eye appeared …

Chen Feihua acted, churning up a cloud of dense gold mist under the dark night sky which instantly shrouded the entire area above her head.

"Run, Ping Yang!" Chen Feihua screamed anxiously as her body melded into the golden mist.

Making a move before Lin Mubai meant that her actions had become instinctive, triggered subconsciously by an innate instinct deep within her heart. However, King Xieluo ignored the golden mist that appeared on her head.

In fact, he had no intentions of bothering about anyone else, because he only needed to do one thing – to kill Fang Zhengzhi, and anyone else who impeded his mission.

It was very simple … hence, he naturally ignored the golden mist and Lin Mubai. He just slapped her palm down without any reservations on Ping Yang's back.

"No!" Amidst the golden mist, a voice erupted. Shortly after, a golden silhouette charged out from the golden mist with eyes dyed completely gold as well. And behind her dragged lines of black fissures.

Chen Feihua was admittedly much faster than Lin Mubai, swiftly expanding the range of her golden mist and forcefully boosting her powers to reach King Xieluo.

Watching as King Xieluo was about to strike Ping Yang, Chen Feihua pummeled her fist into King Xieluo's side, her motion as fluid as water without any interruptions.

"Eh? Overconfident." King Xieluo's palm was centimeters away from Ping Yang, and after he noticed her looming fist, he stopped his attack and cracked a cold sneer. At the same time, a dark green light fired out from his eyes and collided with Chen Feihua's fist.

Chen Feihua was stopped in her tracks. It was as if she was imprisoned in midair. Her body shuddered. The golden mist which populated the air around her quickly dissolved away and then, she flew backwards.

This all happened in the blink of an eye.

From the time Chen Feihua arrived in front of King Xieluo, to the moment she flew backwards, everything happened so unbelievably quick.

"Hm!" King Xieluo grunted, avoiding Chen Feihua and instead focusing his attention on Ping Yang and Fang Zhengzhi, raising his palm once again.

But then, the golden dragon that charged out from Lin Mubai's body finally reached the airspace above King Xieluo's head.

"Hua er!" Lin Mubai's hand reached out to grab Chen Feihua in midair while the airborne golden dragon charged down ferociously towards King Xieluo.

Two strange rays of red light pounced towards King Xieluo like enraged spectres.

"Go and die!" King Xieluo noticed the strange red light and the golden dragon charging down and flexed his palm. As a mighty Demon King, how could he not be angry when his attacks have been interrupted time and time again.

Furthermore … he wasn't just faced with Lin Mubai. Even Yan Xiu and Shan Yu have rushed over, making it three of them.

One was the current Emperor of the Great Xia Empire, one was the direct descendant of the Yan Family and the chosen heir to inherit the Western Liang throne, and the last one was the current King of the Southern Region.

In other words, all three of them held supreme control over their respective territories. And all three of them have gathered before King Xieluo, combining their forces against him.

The clear blood-red light sliced at the back of King Xieluo's neck like a sabre, and following that came two waves of chills.

"Scram!"

Just as the golden dragon, blood-red light and the two waves of chills all congregated above King Xieluo, a sinister bellow sounded and shortly after, a pillar of dark green light shot up to the sky and instantly illuminated the entire sky. It was a pillar of light that sprouted from beneath the ground, reaching for the heavens at breakneck speed.

And just as the pillar of light charged out from the ground, the three of them seemed to be restrained by a certain binding spell. Shortly after, their bodies shivered and flew backwards like Chen Feihua.

"Plop!"

"Crash!"

Lin Mubai rolled on the ground with Chen Feihua in his arms while Yan Xiu and Shan Yu crashed into the Southern Region Army, creating a huge opening among the troops.

"Your Highness! Are you alright?"

"Master Yan!"

"Quick, treat his wounds!"

The Southern Region Army ignored the soldiers crushed to death by Yan Xiu and Shan Yu, and rushed up to heal them. A few Settlement Chiefs took out two elixirs and fed one to each of them.

Not far away, the Dragon Protection Squad were rushing to Lin Mubai's side and impeded the advance of a few people in black, once again forming a protective circle around Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua.

"Quick, save His Majesty!"

"Yes!"

Waves of anxious voices rippled through the crowd.

Although the Royal Guards were battling the Palace Guards, both sides were slightly petrified after witnessing this scene.

The green pillar of light has yet to dissipate.

King Xieluo's body was right in the middle of the green pillar of light. His eyes has turned completely green and the two scimitars on his head were radiating with a brilliant golden glow.

"Demon King!"

"Is this the true strength of a Demon King?"

"He's too powerful, we have no chance of winning!"

The Royal Guards gazed at King Xieluo standing in the middle of the green pillar of light, and chills went down their spines. This was undoubtedly a battle of a different level.

The difference was simply too stark!

His speed and strength were both completely different realms compared to theirs.

Both the Dao of Asura and Shan Yu's close combat techniques, or even Lin Mubai's Green Dragon Eye, were no match for King Xieluo. How could they win?

"Scram, don't bother with me. Quickly save Ping Yang!" Lin Mubai pushed the Dragon Protection Squad soldiers beside him away and stood up again.

But just he stood up, his body swayed. His already pale face began turning purple. And then …

"Blurt!" A mouthful of fresh blood spilled out from his mouth.

"Your Majesty!"

"Quickly, take His Majesty and Lady Hua Fei away!"

"Quickly!"

The Dragon Protection Squad looked at the swaying Lin Mubai and the motionless Chen Feihua, and quickly surrounded them again. They helped them up and prepared to retreat.

"Did you think you could escape?" Qian Wu cracked an unbelievably sinister smirk when he saw Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua injured again.

His deal with King Xieluo was for the latter to kill Fang Zhengzhi. But now?

Not only did he fulfil their original condition, he added Ping Yang in as a bonus, forced the Southern Region Army back to save Shan Yu, and even injured Lin Mubai, Chen Feihua, Yan Xiu and Shan Yu.

He killed four birds with one stone!

Success was right within reach. How could he possibly let Lin Mubai escape? As long as he killed Lin Mubai, victory would be his.

The Great Xia Empire … the empire bearing thousands of years of history, was finally falling into the hands of the Northern Barbarian Empire?

Qian Wu's eyes flickered with excitement. He charged towards Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua without any reservations.

The six-colored talisman in his hand lit up.

At the same time, the two remaining beasts let out thunderous wild roars as though being beckoned by Qian Wu, and bounded for Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua at top speed.

King Xieluo then raised his hand up again.

No one could possibly interrupt him as he stood in the centre of the green pillar of light. He had no intentions of wasting any more time either. Everything would end once he beat his palm down again.

"Die …" Before he could finish his last word, King Xieluo's hand was suspended in mid-air. His sinister expression now turned into one of disbelief.

Because … the motionless Fang Zhengzhi sprawled on the ground had disappeared, and so has Ping Yang. Both of them had vanished into thin air.

Of course, they did leave a few marks behind. For instance, there was a tiny flask sitting on the ground at Fang Zhengzhi and Ping Yang's original spot. It was a white jade flask without any stains.

They've escaped?!

King Xieluo's expression was completely stiff for three whole seconds before loosening up. He has been interrupted three times as a proud Demon King, but now …

The 'prey' he secured just slipped away under his nose?

How could he not be enraged?

King Xieluo clenched his fist and scanned his surroundings. At the same time, a faint green light spread out in all directions swiftly, creating a mist-like glow.

"Run? Where could you run …" King Xieluo's face was evidently scribbled with anger, but strangely, he did not finish his sentence again. And not only that, his furious expression dulled and his body jerked backwards violently, as though sensing a grave danger.

Then … a ray of light appeared from King Xieluo's original spot. It was a ray of light originating from the green pillar of light, and shortly after, that ray of light arched down onto the ground.

"Crash!" A thunderous collision.

At this moment, the surface of the ground, and even the entire Imperial Palace, began quaking. The brilliant moonlight in the night sky seemed to have been completely engulfed by darkness.

A terrifying aura soared freely through the air, kicking up countless gravel and creating a spreading dust storm.

And suddenly … an enormous pit appeared in the ground. No one could tell the exact depth of this pitch-black pit, like an abyss that extended deep into the ground.

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Chapter 580: All This Strength Was Not Wasted!

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

This was an astounding and unbelievable sight, because everyone could see King Xieluo cloaked in the radiance of the green pillar of light, but this ray of light still lit up within the green pillar of light, and with such frightening power no less.

Everyone looked at the green pillar of light, and inside it, there was now a gigantic black crack.

"Who's that?" A single doubt flashed through everyone's minds as they observed the black crack very closely with shocked eyes. Even King Xieluo was no exception.

And then, a figure also appeared from the black crack.

It was a frail-looking old man with clouded eyes. His bony fingers were covered in wrinkles, and he looked as though he could be blown to the ground by a mere gust of wind.

But this old man walked out from the black crack and stepped into the green pillar of light. The night wind ruffled the old man's snow-white hair which danced freely in the air.

"It's King Liqin!"

"It's actually King Liqin?!"

"King Liqin actually came?"

Countless eyes turned towards King Liqin, revealing conflicted expressions. They were astonished by King Liqin's appearance, and were looking forward to his appearance, but they were still slightly worried because …

King Liqin was already old!

Although everyone knew that King Liqin was the person who previously helmed the military forces, with countless achievements in battle under his belt, he has indeed grown old.

An old man who was near his end, an old man who no longer bothered with national affairs, an old man who has shut himself in his quarters all this while to tend to his flowers and birds – why did he appear here now?

And what could he even do?

"King Liqin?! That old duff still possesses such incredible strength?" Qian Wu noticed the figure emerging from the black crack.

He definitely heard King Liqin's name before. He was a legend of the previous generation.

However, that was all in the past. Why would he bother with an old man awaiting death?

That was what Qian Wu assumed, as did everyone else. No one expected King Liqin to appear, and no one would have imagined that the attack moments ago was launched by King Liqin himself.

Even Lin Xinjue was shocked.

"How can this be? That attack … why is it this powerful?" Lin Xinjue's fist was clenched tighter than ever. He didn't wish for any other unexpected hiccups, especially not a hiccup such as this.

King Xieluo eyed King Liqin closely, staring into the latter's clouded eyes, then revealing another smirk.

But then … it was not one of contempt, but of excitement.

"King Liqin? This is finally becoming fun!" King Xieluo clenched his fists. He didn't wait for King Liqin to reach the ground, because he was always an impatient Demon King.

"Crack!"

The ground fissured.

King Xieluo has already arrived in front of King Liqin, his white robes drifting in the green light cloaking his body, his eyes growing more mystifying than before.

Close combat.

This was a battle strategy rarely employed by elites, but King Xieluo was using for a very simple reason. He was not underestimating King Liqin, and on the contrary, he held King Liqin in extremely high regard.

In that case … the best technique to use against a frail old man would be to pit their physical strength against each other, competing to see who had the faster reactions and stronger bursts of power under immense physical exhaustion.

His fist, enveloped by dark-green light, pummeled straight for King Liqin without any hesitation or reservation.

"This is bad!"

"Watch out, Old Master!"

"It's dangerous, Old Master!"

Both the Royal Guards and the Dragon Protection Squad were riled with anxiety upon witnessing this nerve-wrecking scene. None of them expected King Xieluo to act so promptly and furthermore … to engage in close combat.

"Bang!"

A bony palm pressed on top of the fist. The feeble-looking wrinkled hand looked as though it could not take a single blow, so everyone had the same thought when it pressed on the fist.

Will it break?

But the sound of cracking bones was never heard.

On the contrary, the fist charging for King Liqin stopped, halting steadily before its target without moving a muscle.

"Demon King, you should not be here!" King Liqin stared at King Xieluo. A magnificent might emanated from his frail body.

"Is that so? I'm standing right here, what can you do about it? Hahaha …" A maniacal laughter followed. King Xieluo then thrusted his fist forward again, and at the same time, a layer of vicious black scales oozed from his fist, as though being melded from liquid metal.

King Liqin's expression finally changed. His hand pressing on King Xieluo's fist shuddered slightly as a drop of sweat dripped from his forehead.

"The greatest weakness of mankind is mortality!" King Xieluo exclaimed as he moved his other fist at the same time.

"Crash!" A deafening sound.

Both of them were finally separated.

King Xieluo was still standing where he was, but King Liqin was retreating swiftly.

"Crack!" When King Liqin collapsed onto the ground, a few more fissures opened in the ground. King Liqin managed to stand up again after much difficulty.

"Cough cough … you're truly the Demon King!" King Liqin coughed gently and slowly straightened his body up. His expression was incredibly tense.

And when the Royal Guards and the Dragon Protection Squad watched this scene, they all let out sighs one after another. The difference in strength was presented very clearly with just a single exchange,

Ignoring the question of whether King Liqin's strength could truly match that of King Xieluo, the difference in age was an inevitable fact.

"Uncle!" Lin Mubai screamed. He then expelled another mouthful of blood, "Don't bother about me. Take Ping Yang away, quick …"

"Ping Yang?!"

"That's right, where's Ping Yang?"

"And where did Fang Zhengzhi go?"

Everyone finally realized that Fang Zhengzhi and Ping Yang had disappeared after hearing Lin Mubai.

This was a peculiar sight indeed.

No one noticed when Fang Zhengzhi and Ping Yang escaped, and most importantly, they were faced with a Demon King.

How did Fang Zhengzhi escape?

Didn't he become useless after the Battle of the Southern Region?

Everyone had this doubt in their hearts because they all saw Ping Yang holding Fang Zhengzhi tightly in her embrace without any intentions of escaping.

So naturally, it was impossible for Ping Yang to be escaping with Fang Zhengzhi in tow. Instead, it should be Fang Zhengzhi who led Ping Yang away. But this way, it sounded even more absurd.

How could a powerless wastrel who took a direct blow from a Demon King possibly escape with Ping Yang?

"Are you all looking for me?" Then, a voice sounded. It was not too loud, but it certainly shook everyone.

"It's Fang Zhengzhi?!"

"He … he actually fled!"

"How is that possible, he took a direct blow from the Demon King. He didn't die?"

Everyone looked in the direction of the distant voice with eyes wide open. No one could believe what they saw.

But … the truth was still the truth.

Fang Zhengzhi was standing there with Ping Yang beside him. Ping Yang's eyes were wide open in disbelief.

"You … How did you do that?!" Ping Yang glared at Fang Zhengzhi, slightly spellbounded.

Even so, she knew for sure that Fang Zhengzhi had rescued her from King Xieluo's grasp, but she could not figure out what exactly happened in that instant.

It was too quick!

At first, when she sensed the terrifying aura creeping up behind her, she was prepared for certain death, but Fang Zhengzhi suddenly opened his eyes. And in that moment, she felt an arm holding her.

And after that … there was nothing after that.

Because, she was already at her present location, and Fang Zhengzhi was standing beside her again, albeit with a pretty pale face.

"You're asking me? I took a direct hit, what were you doing hugging me so tightly?" Fang Zhengzhi blurted without hesitation upon hearing Ping Yang's question.

What was the feeling of bitterness? This was!

It was obviously impossible to confront King Xieluo directly, and he could only invent unorthodox ways of battle to score a victory. To this end, Fang Zhengzhi racked his brains and waited for King Xieluo to approach.

And to his pleasant surprise, King Xieluo did approach him.

In that instant, Fang Zhengzhi saw the light at the end of the tunnel and prepared to use his greatest 'secret weapon'. But then, tragedy unfolded.

Although he declared that he should be the only one to face King Xieluo, Yan Xiu and Shan Yu also charged in without any prior notice.

Fine … Yan Xiu and Shan Yu ignored his pleas, but what was that girl Ping Yang thinking? She hugged him in the heat of the moment.

In that moment, Fang Zhengzhi felt like dying. And true enough, he took a direct blow from King Xieluo.

After that, he was prepared to fake his death with much effort and wait for a chance to launch an sneak attack. But then, Ping Yang pressed his down without any hesitation.

Although her petite body was not that heavy, her grip was as tight as an octopus', pinning him down to the ground.

How could he execute his plan? There was no way to do it!

Watching as King Xieluo was about to strike him to death, he was relieved when Chen Feihua attacked King Xieluo in desperation. Lin Mubai, Yan Xiu and Shan Yu also attracted King Xieluo's attention.

In that instant … Fang Zhengzhi saw hope again.

It was certainly a miraculous opportunity for a sneak attack. The enemy was above him, and as long as he could land a kick on King Xieluo's feet … Just thinking about it felt so good!

But just as Fang Zhengzhi prepared to launch his kick, a giant black crack appeared above him. It was a crack that charged down speedily from the heavens, and most importantly, a ray of light leaked out from within that crack.

Fang Zhengzhi was flabbergasted. There was someone else in the 'sneak attack business'?

In that moment, he was presented with two choices: either to work with his 'compatriot' to land a successful sneak attack, or to leave this chance to his 'compatriot'.

There was nothing much to think about. Fang Zhengzhi immediately opted for the second choice and escaped with Ping Yang.

Everything then flowed into place. His compatriot's sneak attack failed, and King Xieluo was still standing there unharmed.

There was no other way around it. He couldn't possibly run up to King Xieluo and say, "Hello, let's talk about life, shall we? Come closer, just a little closer …"

King Xieluo would have dealt him a deathblow before he even attacked.

Demon King!

Was he of a similar existence to a Sage?

Fang Zhengzhi's heart shuddered just thinking about that old man's terrifying strength, He was not that idiotic to confront a Demon King with the strength comparable to a Sage directly.

Fang Zhengzhi felt that it was time to run.

And this time, he was really prepared to run, never to turn back. He didn't care about claiming the credit for slaying the demon to save the Great Xia Empire from catastrophe. Furthermore, since King Liqin already arrived, how could Fang Zhengzhi be the person to claim the credit?

Just as he prepared to flee … Ping Yang held him again, with both her hands grabbing his wrists in a deadlock. Her small face was red, and her crystal-clear eyes were flickering with excitement.

"You haven't been wasted, right? You were totally fine after the Battle of the Southern Region, right? Your strength is still there, right? It must be, it must be. That's great, that's really great. Quick, quickly kill that Demon King. I believe you!" Ping Yang exclaimed as she shook Fang Zhengzhi's arms, completely ignoring the fact that her breasts were rubbing against his arms non-stop …

The Royal Guards, Dragon Protection Squad, Palace Guards and the Southern Region Army heard Ping Yang's words and stared at Fang Zhengzhi in shock.

"Fang Zhengzhi was not wasted?!"

"How is that possible?"

During the Battle of the Southern Region, didn't he consume all of his Dao Fruits? How can he still possess his strength?"

"Surviving was already a miracle. It's impossible for him to still retain his mastery levels!"

"But if his strength was really drained, how did he escape from King Xieluo's grasp just now?"

"Could it be that he still possesses his strength?"

"My god, if that's true, then … what state is he in now?"

Everyone stared at Fang Zhengzhi with eyes wide open because they knew that, if Fang Zhengzhi really did retain his strength … it was an absolutely terrifying prospect.

Ignoring Fang Zhengzhi's future accomplishments, someone who crossed swords the Demon Canyang a year ago would certainly be a force to be reckoned with in this battle.

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Chapter 581: Fang Zhengzhi's State

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Everyone had their eyes on Fang Zhengzhi.

But Fang Zhengzhi did not concern himself with the discussion around him. Not with Ping Yang's breasts rubbing against his arm…

What a soft feeling.

She had grown up indeed!

After being shaken by Ping Yang for some time, he was finally relieved. Forget it. The only reason why this lady would hug him immediately was to protect him while his powers were wasted.

As he was about to forgive her, Fang Zhengzhi snapped back to reality. Ping Yang didn't have the intention to apologize, and even asked him to fight the Demon King?

And to believe in himself?

"Believe my ass!" Fang Zhengzhi snapped. "Are you blind? It's the Demon King, can't you tell?"

"I can tell. But your powers weren't wasted, right?" Ping Yang was taken aback, then replied as she blinked her eyes and looked at Fang Zhengzhi in anticipation.

"My powers weren't wasted, but…"

"Your powers really weren't wasted?! Hahaha, that's great, that's great…" Ping Yang was so excited she had cut him off mid-sentence.

And perhaps due to her excitement, she fell in Fang Zhengzhi's embrace, her pink, supple lips kissed Fang Zhengzhi's.

In an instant…

Fang Zhengzhi felt her tender, moist lips on his.

And his eyes were wide in surprise.

Even Ping Yang's eyes, too. She looked as if she had been struck by lightning.

"F*ck!" Fang Zhengzhi felt he was getting taken advantage of. Yet, what's worse was that Ping Yang had forced a kiss on him, and then pushed him away violently?

What were you doing!

It was you who initiated it!

Fang Zhengzhi really wanted to scold her, as he was well aware who was around him: Emperor Lin Mubai, Consort Hua, and Prince Li of the First Rank.

To scold Ping Yang in the view of so many people?

How would Ping Yang marry in the future!

But he wouldn't want to make himself marry Ping Yang, right? Well, Ping Yang wasn't bad, she had grown up and looks feminine…

Yet, Ping Yang was far from his ideal gentle and virtuous lady.

Fang Zhengzhi looked at Lin Mubai from afar and noticed his dazed, pale face staring right at him.

"Your Majesty, it was a misunderstanding! She initiated it!" Fang Zhengzhi really wanted to explain himself.

But apparently, Emperor Lin Mubai did not bother listening to his explanation, his eyes staring straight at Fang Zhengzhi while his body shivered ceaselessly.

"This brat's powers really weren't wasted? Not wasted? How could this happen? There was never one whose powers were not wasted after losing his Dao Fruit!"

"Oh? The emperor is talking about my powers?" Fang Zhengzhi listened silently as Emperor Lin Mubai mumbled to himself.

Then he looked at his surroundings once again.

He realized everyone was astounded by that fact. And it seemed as if no one noticed what happened between Ping Yang and him a moment ago.

"Fang Zhengzhi still has his powers? How is this possible?" Lin Xinjue was shocked. He had never expected this.

Whether it was Lin Xinjue, the Dragon Protection Squad, the Royal Guards, or even the Southern Region Army, at that very moment, everyone only had one thing in mind.

Fang Zhengzhi still had his powers!

And he had already admitted it himself.

"Blurgh!" Blood spewed out from Lin Tianrong's mouth. His clenched his teeth while his body trembled. "Fang Zhengzhi, indeed it was you who burned my study!"

If Lin Tianrong had eliminated the possibility of Fang Zhengzhi being the arsonist due to his wasted powers, then now he could be certain that…

The masked man in the Crown Prince's residence that day was, in fact, Fang Zhengzhi!

"Your Excellency Fang, bring Ping Yang away!" Prince Li of the First Rank's voice rang aloud, bringing everyone back to reality.

"Alright!" Fang Zhengzhi agreed without thinking. He had already decided to escape, and now with Prince Li of the First Rank's words, he had no reason to hesitate.

"No, you kill that Demon King, then save Grandfather and Father!" Ping Yang's face was blushing but responded quickly upon hearing Prince Li of the First Rank's words.

"I'm not going." Fang Zhengzhi rejected as he shook his head.

"Why?" Ping Yang was confused.

"Nonsense, because I can't defeat him!" Fang Zhengzhi really didn't want to say this, but he still said it simply because it was the hard truth.

Couldn't defeat him…

How then shall he fight?

Did he really want to seek death?

"You can't defeat him? But didn't you fight Canyang a year ago?" Ping Yang asked in suspicion.

"I fought Canyang?" Fang Zhengzhi felt helpless.

"Uh…" Ping Yang dazed momentarily and quickly snapped back. Indeed, Fang Zhengzhi had such a fight, but Fang Zhengzhi never defeated Canyang. But Ping Yang pouted her lips and reluctantly said: "But… it has been more than a year since?"

"Yes, more than a year had passed." Fang Zhengzhi nodded.

"So, what is your state now? You have some breakthroughs, right? You're in the Rebirth State, right? Have you reached the peak of the Rebirth State like Aunt Hua? Or have you reached Half Sage? Yes, you must have reached Half Sage, right? Since you're Half Sage, what's there to fear? So what if he is Demon King, you have the power to fight!" Ping Yang showed her anticipation once again.

"Did I say I have reached Half Sage?" Fang Zhengzhi curled his lips.

"It's not Half Sage? Is it… you've reached the Sagely State?!" Ping Yang's crystal-clear eyes glimmered with joy.

"Sagely State!"

"Fang Zhengzhi reached the Sagely State?!"

"How is this possible? He isn't even eighteen years old. There had been no one like this in the entire history of Great Xia Dynasty, right?"

The Dragon Protection Squad and the Royal Guards were absolutely stunned.

Fang Zhengzhi was speechless. Reached the Sagely State? He wondered if he would look as pitiful as he was now, had he really reached the Sagely State.

"Do I look like I have reached the Sagely State?" Fang Zhengzhi asked instead of responding to her childish questions.

"Not really…" Ping Yang gave a serious look at Fang Zhengzhi and realized she had thought too much. If he had really reached the Sagely State, he wouldn't have said he could not defeat King Xieluo. "But… even if you were just at Rebirth State, you could try!"

"Are you so sure I'm at Rebirth State?" Fang Zhengzhi opened his hands in helplessness. He seemed to understand why Emperor Lin Mubai and the others were so surprised when they heard his powers were not wasted.

It seemed it wasn't just Ping Yang.

Everyone thought he had a breakthrough.

More than a year ago, when Fang Zhengzhi reached Heavenly Reflection State from Star Conglomerate State, the Great Xia Dynasty was astounded. Then, when he had attained the Supernatural State at the Southern Region…

He still remembered everyone's expressions.

How was it possible!

How could he reach the Supernatural State!

It was utter disbelief. No one could fathom how he could achieve continuous breakthroughs in such a short span of time.

But now…

It was the opposite. Everyone thought he had a breakthrough, yet, who said it was a rule to achieve a breakthrough after a year?

"You're not at Rebirth State? Then what state have you reached?" Ping Yang froze briefly.

"Supernatural State!" Fang Zhengzhi replied nonchalantly.

"Supernatural State?! How are you at Supernatural State!" Ping Yang was flabbergasted. When she knew Fang Zhengzhi had not achieved a breakthrough, she was elated.

But…

What did Supernatural State mean?!

His powers had not increased. Why was he still at Supernatural State after more than a year? Wasn't he supposed to achieve breakthrough after breakthrough?

It was just Ping Yang who was surprised.

When the Dragon Protection Squad and Royal Guards heard "Supernatural State" from Fang Zhengzhi, they were floored.

"Supernatural State?"

"How is Fang Zhengzhi still at Supernatural State?"

"What is going on? Didn't he reach Supernatural State more than a year ago? Have his powers remained as it was since then?"

"Oh, I get it. Fang Zhengzhi had lost his Dao Fruit. Though his powers were not wasted, he can never the increase his powers!"

"I see. It seems Fang Zhengzhi is stuck at Supernatural State. What a pity!"

The Dragon Protection Squad and Royal Guards exchanged looks and finally understood the situation. But when they looked at Fang Zhengzhi again, they seemed a little odd.

Because they knew clearly that, no matter how mighty a genius might be, when his powers could not advance, he would eventually be mediocre.

"Hahaha…" Qian Wu's laughter arose, apparently mocking him. "I thought he was some talented genius, but now his powers are unable to advance? Hahaha… such a waste of time. Never mind, I'll do you some good. I'll let you reincarnate and achieve your Rebirth State!"

As he finished his sentence, a gold cylinder appeared on his hand.

"Whoosh!"

A ray of red light emerged from the gold cylinder, beaming into the sky.

"Signal?!" The Dragon Protection Squad and Royal Guards were stunned upon seeing this. They wanted to stop it but it was too late.

Because after the ray of red light beamed upwards, a dark green ray lit up in the sky. A fusion of four hues of green rays.

"Bang!"

The dark green ray cascaded from the heavens, transforming into a pillar of light, crashing onto the giant Near-Life Gate erected on the ground.

And at the same time, characters of six colors lit up on Qian Wu's hand, threads of light joined the characters together.

"Near-Life Gate, open!" Qian Wu bellowed as he forced his palm on the ground.

"Boom!"

The ground was shaking. The Near-Life Gate which was previously shut started moving again. The giant bronze door slowly opened, revealing a pitch darkness inside.

But shortly, rays of red, blue, green, and other colors of light shone in the darkness. They grew, they proliferated, until it was like a dazzling array of countless stars.

Yet the rays of light seemed completely mysterious. Strangely cold and threatening.

"How is this possible? Qian Wu can reopen the Near-Life Gate!"

"It's the Four Ancient Formations. As long as the Four Ancient Formations isn't broken, it can continue to amass power, and the Near-Life Gate can be opened again!"

"Then, what will happen? Will there be another Demon King?"

"No. Even if the Holy Barbarian Empire was filled with sages, there would never appear another Demon King. If I have guessed correctly, it is the Commander of the Beasts!"

"Commander of the Beasts? No, we have to stop him!"

"It's too late. The Near-Life Gate can only be controlled by the one who masters the Near-Life Path, and once it is open, it can no longer be closed!"

But upon witnessing the reopening of the Near-Life Gate, everyone was stunned. The Dragon Protection Squad, the Royal Guards, and even the Palace Guards and the Southern Region Army stopped whatever they were doing.

It was at this moment…

They finally knew Qian Wu's true motives.

They knew why Qian Wu had to enter the palace, and why he planned for Lin Xinjue to rush here for a rescue.

One reason was the quest for the throne between the crown prince and Lin Xinjue. But more importantly, Qian Wu wanted the palace to be separated from the outside world. As long as he was in the palace and the Four Ancient Formations was not broken, this battle would never end.

"In a moment, just a moment, the Near-Life Gate would open once again. Your Highness, King Duan, do you now regret your choice?" Qian Wu looked the bewildered Lin Xinjue from far away and asked, revealing a smirk.

"I… I have never regretted it!" Lin Xinjue paled slightly, then clenched his teeth and answered.

"Hahaha, that's great!" Qian Wu smiled again, then he turned towards Fang Zhengzhi. "Fang Zhengzhi, you dare to spoil my plans, today you must…"

Qian Wu did not finish with "die".

Because Fang Zhengzhi was gone. He had disappeared from his position. But more peculiarly, Ping Yang was still there.

"He escaped?! Alone?" Qian Wu froze. Then he smirked once again: "Good, that's what that shameless person would do!"

Qian Wu's eyes were filled with contempt. But soon enough, he noticed something was off. Ping Yang's eyes were fixed on something.

And it wasn't just Ping Yang…

Everyone was staring in a single direction.

"What are they looking at?" Qian Wu thought to himself and looked in that direction. Then, just like everyone else, he was completely puzzled.

They were all looking at the Near-Life Gate.

There was a figure standing at the Gate, one who was wearing a fresh new set of imperial attire.

"Fang Zhengzhi hasn't escaped?" Qian Wu was baffled. Then he saw Fang Zhengzhi gesturing in front of the Near-Life Gate with both hands. "What is he trying to do? Blocking the Gate with his own body? Hahaha…"

Qian Wu laughed out loud upon seeing this.

Of course, he was able to guess what Fang Zhengzhi was doing: trying to destroy the Near-Life Gate. But it was utterly foolish of him. Childish even.

The Near-Life Gate!

The most precious treasure of the Holy Barbarian Empire.

How could it be destroyed so easily?

Not to mention Fang Zhengzhi with his Supernatural State, even the Emperor himself could not leave a scratch on the Near-Life Gate.

"Indeed, he's so silly and gull-" Qian Wu didn't manage to finish his remark, and his eyes stared so wide they could almost pop out, his mouth opened the largest it could stretch.

It was shocking beyond words.

Not only Qian Wu…

At this very moment, everyone shared the same expression. Even Prince Li of the First Rank and King Xieluo.

"Crack!" It was a deafening noise.

The Near-Life Gate that was originally slowly opening rose up in the air. Or rather, it was lifted up in the air.

Lifted!

Someone lifted the Near-Life Gate?!

How was this possible!

Total silence.

It was as though the world had stood still. The night breeze blew past countless wide eyes and stunned faces.

"Dong!"

"Dong, dong…"

These were the sounds of the bronze that shook the hearts of everyone present, resounding through the night sky…

"What a surprise, it's actually this light?" Fang Zhengzhi stopped after a few knocks, grumbling amusedly.

"Roar!"

At this moment, a giant beast roared loudly. Though it was shocked like the others, it didn't just stand still like Qian Wu.

Upon hearing Fang Zhengzhi knock on the Near-Life Gate, it responded as it could.

And after that loud roar…

The giant beast lunged toward Fang Zhengzhi, opening its mouth fiercely. It was not difficult to imagine it swallowing him whole.

"Ah, you little one. Dare to sneak an attack on me?" Fang Zhengzhi looked at the beast charging towards him, his lips curled in a smile. Then he raised the Near-Life Gate and hurled it at the beast.

The giant beast would never have expected Fang Zhengzhi to smash the Near-Life Gate at it. How could it ever dodge it during a mid-thrust in the air?

"Boom!"

The ground shook with the deafening crash.

Without any resistance, the beast was hit by the Near-Life Gate. Its body sunk with its claws lying on the ground, its head smashed into bits.

It did not even moan in pain. Utterly lifeless.

"It's dead?!"

Everyone looked at the bloody mess on the ground, the unmoving giant beast. Then they turned to Fang Zhengzhi who had lifted the Near-Life Gate above his height.

Only a thought appeared in their minds.

"This is the Supernatural State?!"

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Chapter 582: A Rising Wave

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Someone with only a Supernatural State had single-handedly raised the Near-Life Gate, then swiftly crushed a beast with it.

Who would believe this?

No one could believe their eyes.

Yet, the beast really lay dead on the floor. And Fang Zhengzhi was right in front of them, with a smirk on his face.

"Supernatural State?"

"This fellow is really only at the Supernatural State?!"

"Are you kidding me?"

Everyone stared at the one who had raised the Near-Life Gate in disbelief, with the urge to slap themselves awake.

A dream, this must be a dream!

That was the Near-Life Gate…

Wait a moment!

Fang Zhengzhi lifted the Near-Life Gate?!

When this thought floated in their minds, everyone was stunned. No, how could Fang Zhengzhi lift the Near-Life Gate?

"How is this possible?"

"To control the Near-Life Gate, one has to master the Near-Life Dao, right?"

"Could it be that this Near-Life Gate is a fake?"

"That's impossible. The beasts and the Demon King walked out from it, how can it be a fake?"

Their ideas were dismissed quickly because the Near-Life Gate was obviously not a fake.

But it was also due to this fact that made the scene even more unbelievable. Questions about the weight of the Near-Life Gate aside, the crux of the issue was: how did Fang Zhengzhi even move it?

It was utterly shocking.

No one could grasp the situation. Because Fang Zhengzhi was only of Supernatural State. How could he master the Near-Life Dao, one of the Six Rebirth Dao Techniques, and raise the Near-Life Gate?

But the matter of fact was Fang Zhengzhi had indeed raised it, and more importantly, the bronze door that was previously open was slowly closing.

Closing!

It really was closing!

Everyone looked with much bewilderment as the Near-Life Gate shut with a boom.

And Qian Wu's eyes were wide with shock. As the chief of the Holy Barbarian Empire, he always had a clear line of thought and calm judgment.

But now…

He really couldn't calm down.

What kind of monster was this guy? With only Supernatural State, he could kill a beast so effortlessly, and he could even move the Near-Life Gate!

"Gate… My Near-Life Gate!" Qian Wu didn't know how Fang Zhengzhi did it. But it wasn't about how he did it. The Gate was now in Fang Zhengzhi's hands, and it was shutting. "Return my Near-Life Gate!"

"Return it to you? Why would I hand you my Near-Life Gate? Silly!" Fang Zhengzhi laughed nonchalantly while shaking the Near-Life Gate.

In a trip to the palace, not only did he not attain the credit he wished for, but he had to suffer a strike for no reason. Now that he had chanced upon a Near-Life Gate, why would he return it?

Fang Zhengzhi was not stupid.

"What are you talking about? Your Near-Life Gate?!" Qian Wu shot an icy glare.

"Of course it's mine. Who else could it belong to, you?" Fang Zhengzhi replied disdainfully. He felt Qian Wu's question was really naïve, perhaps a little childish. How could Qian Wu not understand the simple logic that an item in one's hands belongs to him?

"Ah… just return my Near-Life Gate!" Qian Wu finally realized Fang Zhengzhi wanted to snatch his Near-Life Gate.

The Near-Life Gate's status as the most treasured possession of the Holy Barbarian Empire aside, how could its mighty emperor tolerate such an insult…

It was snatched right from his hands!

How could anyone tolerate this?

Qian Wu clenched his fists, his body lit up in six colors. He took a big step forward, then suddenly, he stopped.

Because he saw the Dragon Protection Squad's icy stares and the First Dragon Envoy Yan Qing gloating over his misery.

"No!" Countless thoughts flashed through Qian Wu's mind.

Of course, he could snatch his Near-Life Gate back from Fang Zhengzhi this very moment, but he was the leader, the highest in command of the Holy Barbarian Empire.

If he were to fail, even just by a small error…

This campaign would be said to have failed.

Anger!

Qian Wu would never have thought he'd experience anger at such intensity.

Even on the day that he returned to the Holy Barbarian Empire.

But he also understood that he had to remain calm because this was war, not just a simple quarrel between two people.

Thus, he had to look at the bigger picture. Now was not the time to get injured, or lose, even if such risks were very minimal.

Qian Wu ground his teeth in rage, his fists grew white from clenching them so tightly. The Near-Life Gate must be returned; it was key to the success of the campaign.

But…

He couldn't fight for it.

Qian Wu was trying his very best to control the urge to fight.

No, if he were to go, Yan Qing and the Dragon Protection Squad would counter immediately. If that happened, not only could he not take back his Near-Life Gate, he could even be sent right through it.

Qian Wu understood this perfectly. As the commander, he must remain calm always, for he could not afford a single misstep.

But at this moment, a figure appeared in front of him, his black the imperial attire waving in the nightly breeze.

"Fang Zhengzhi!" Qian Wu looked at the figure in front of him with disbelief. He could not believe that fact that Fang Zhengzhi was presenting him the Near-Life Gate although he had contained his urge to snatch it back.

A person of Supernatural State would initiate an attack?

"Look at my Near-Life Gate, I'm smashing it!" Of course, Fang Zhengzhi couldn't guess what Qian Wu was thinking. Upon flashing a smirk at Qian Wu, Fang Zhengzhi lifted the Near-Life Gate and immediately smashed it toward Qian Wu.

"You're warning me?" Qian Wu said to himself coldly, silently mocking Fang Zhengzhi's actions. Most importantly, didn't this fellow know that the Near-Life Gate was Qian Wu's?

And to smash Qian Wu with his Near-Life Gate?

How ridiculous.

As he prepared to shrink the Near-Life Gate for keeping, he noticed Fang Zhengzhi's expression. Smiling in anticipation.

What was he smiling at?

Qian Wu froze for a moment, then he realized a possibility. Suddenly, a chill ran down his spine.

"Boom!"

With a loud crash, the Near-Life Gate was smashed to the ground as countless debris ricocheted among the columns of dust clouds.

Qian Wu managed to take a few quick steps backward when the Gate was smashed. His forehead and back were dripping cold sweat.

It wasn't because the speed of the smash was too fast. Conversely, Fang Zhengzhi hurled the Gate slowly.

But it was exactly due to this…

Which made Qian Wu broke out in cold sweat.

What a close call.

If he had not noticed Fang Zhengzhi's expression, then the Holy Barbarian Empire's most valuable treasure, the Near-Life Gate, would indeed have been in Fang Zhengzhi's hands.

Of course, he could shrink the Gate.

Then, what would happen?

It was without a shred of doubt that the Near-Life Gate wouldn't magically fly back into his hands, but it would land in Fang Zhengzhi's. If that had happened, the Near-Life Gate would really have belonged to Fang Zhengzhi.

But to intentionally rush here and warn him of it? And accomplishing all of these while Qian Wu was at the peak of his fury. This careful strategic planning was scarily precise!

"Oh? Weren't you hit? I'll have to smash again!" Fang Zhengzhi looked at Qian Wu who had taken a few steps back, then glanced disappointingly at the giant Near-Life Gate.

Was that so predictable?

How could it be!

He lifted the Near-Life Gate once again.

"I dare you!" Qian Wu stared sternly. Watching the most valuable treasure of the Holy Barbarian Empire smashed repeatedly like a hammer made him miserable.

"Boom!"

Fang Zhengzhi responded to Qian Wu with his actions. Qian Wu had no choice but to take a few steps back, his fists cracked as he clenched tightly.

"I'll smash again!" Fang Zhengzhi didn't believe Qian Wu could continue tolerating this. He would smash the Near-Life Gate until Qian Wu decided to shrink it.

"Boom!"

"I don't believe I can't hit you with this!"

"Boom!"

"Once more!"

"Boom!"

Massive dents appeared on the ground while the Near-Life Gate was repeatedly raised and smashed.

Qian Wu's was heartbroken.

But he had no other choice. He was sure that Fang Zhengzhi could control the Near-Life Gate, though he had no idea how. The Near-Life Gate could weigh no less than ten tons, yet it was light as a feather to Fang Zhengzhi.

"Despicable!" Qian Wu was shaking with rage.

Fang Zhengzhi, with his actions, showed him a 'truth': the Near-Life Gate was not only a treasure, it was also a powerful 'weapon'.

But who would use a treasure as a weapon? And to even use it as a hammer! In the whole world, only Fang Zhengzhi could do this.

The Dragon Protection Squad, the Royal Guards, the Palace Guards and the Southern Region Army were all stunned.

"One could use the Near-Life Gate like this?"

"Doesn't he fear of destroying the Near-Life Gate?"

"I doubt so!"

Everyone was speechless.

A person of Supernatural State smashing the Near-Life Gate around someone who was at least at the advanced stages of Rebirth State, or perhaps even reached the peak of Rebirth State, 'running' around the palace.

If they had not witnessed it themselves, how would they ever believe such a thing happened?

Supernatural State!

Was this guy really at the Supernatural State?

Everyone had the same question in their minds.

Supernatural State? This shameless fellow was definitely fooling her. He obviously had the power of the Rebirth State. Could he be faking a low profile?

That's impossible. With his arrogant personality, how would Fang Zhengzhi fake a low profile? As Ping Yang recalled the previous time she asked for his state, she grew more certain.

Yes, Fang Zhengzhi should still be at the Supernatural State.

This could be the only reason why Fang Zhengzhi was so reluctant in revealing his state. Because Yan Xiu was already very close to or had even reached the Rebirth State.

How, then, could Fang Zhengzhi proudly declare that he's still at the Supernatural State after a year?

"Hey shameless guy, smash him now! We'll be winners if you just smash him to bits!" Ping Yang shouted out loud without a care.

From a distance away, Yan Xiu and Shan Yu stood up again. They saw the mess damage that Fang Zhengzhi had done.

Both exchanged looks and nodded.

Then, two figures broke through the Southern Army's protection and charged at Qian Wu. Yan Xiu's body emitted a bright red glow, while Shan Yu's eyes were filled with raging flames.

Qian Wu's expression finally changed.

Now he didn't have many cards in his hand. Among the twenty-plus Rebirth State warriors who were brought into the palace, nearly half of them belonged to Crown Prince Lin Tianrong.

A few Rebirth State masked figures were killed by Fang Zhengzhi, and some were knocked out by Lin Tianrong's men.

Initially, with the Near-Life Gate in his possession, these weren't an issue to him. Because as long as the Near-Life Gate was in the palace, he could have any number of fighters.

But now…

Qian Wu was brimming with hatred. Since Fang Zhengzhi had appeared, every one of his plans was spoiled by him, and now, even the Near-Life Gate was in Fang Zhengzhi's hands.

The Near-Life Gate!

Yes, the crux of this issue was the Near-Life Gate!

If he could kill Fang Zhengzhi and seize back his Near-Life Gate, every problem could be easily solved.

Suddenly, an idea popped up in Qian Wu's mind. He would need some time if he were to kill Fang Zhengzhi, but it would be very easy for King Xieluo.

And killing Fang Zhengzhi was also their third agreement.

At this moment, Qian Wu felt a little relieved. Luckily his last agreement with King Xieluo was to kill Fang Zhengzhi, instead of Emperor Lin Mubai.

"King Xieluo, as the Demon King, would you need a few hours to kill a person with Supernatural State?" Qian Wu stared at King Xieluo from a distance away.

Of course, he also noticed Prince Li of the First Rank who was standing in front of King Xieluo, but he didn't think Prince Li, who was on the verge of death, could stop a Demon King.

"Boom!"

Immediately after Qian Wu finished his sentence, the ground beneath King Xieluo's feet sank while surrounding stones turned into powder.

Then, a figure charged towards the sky at breakneck speed, and with a speed not much slower than teleportation, it descended towards Fang Zhengzhi.

King Xieluo did not answer Qian Wu with words…

But with action.

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Chapter 583: Let's Fight the Demon King Together!

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

"That's really fast!" Everyone had the same thought. And at this time, Prince Li of the First Rank, who was standing in front of King Xieluo, moved too.

His appeared much weaker compared to King Xieluo, but his speed wasn't slow at all. He reached behind King Xieluo an instant after he moved.

But he didn't overtake King Xieluo.

This made things a little awkward. Because someone who was truly powerful didn't need much time to attack. And Prince Li of the First Rank couldn't stop him in time.

So…

What's the point?

Fang Zhengzhi saw them both charging towards him. And at this moment, he was impressed by Prince Li of the First Rank.

He's old but still very powerful!

Fang Zhengzhi wasn't stupid. Prince Li of the First Rank was initially in front of King Xieluo, and even if King Xieluo was any faster, Prince Li of the First Rank could hold him back if he tried hard enough.

Just like that time when Chen Feihua saved Ping Yang.

If one tried hard enough…

Everything was possible!

But apparently, Prince Li of the First Rank wasn't about to risk his life for this. He followed behind King Xieluo intentionally.

"This old man wants me to be his 'shield'?" Fang Zhengzhi instantly recognized Prince Li of the First Rank's plans. With Prince Li of the First Rank's power, defeating a Demon King by himself would seem a little difficult.

In that case, dragging Fang Zhengzhi into this would be the best way.

For someone like Prince Li of the First Rank…

He couldn't trust any personal relationship. And most importantly, there wasn't much of a close relationship between them, to begin with.

They never dined, drank, or played cards together. Not to even mention visiting brothels, fighting in battles, or suffering together like brothers in arms.

They had only met once in the Throne Room.

Prince Li of the First Rank obviously would not risk his life for Fang Zhengzhi. Instead, he would be concerned with the bigger picture and try to save the Great Xia Dynasty.

Hence, he would use Fang Zhengzhi to block an attack, then in the heat of the fight, sneak a powerful attack on King Xieluo.

Fang Zhengzhi stared at the approaching King Xieluo, and Prince Li of the First Rank who was following tightly behind him. He sighed to himself: this old man had such confidence in him!

Prince Li of the First Rank didn't fear that King Xieluo would kill him in a strike. But upon seeing Fang Zhengzhi smashing repeatedly at a desperate Qian Wu, he had reason to trust Fang Zhengzhi.

It was a pity that…

Fang Zhengzhi wasn't stupid.

Neither did he had any noble ideas of sacrificing himself for the bigger picture.

Without any further hesitation, Fang Zhengzhi turned and ran away. Obviously, he didn't just run in any random direction. He ran towards Emperor Lin Mubai.

Crying for help while running.

"Your Majesty, please save me!"

At this moment, everyone, including the Dragon Protection Squad, Royal Guards, Palace Guards and Southern Region Army, was shocked.

Because Fang Zhengzhi ran at a speed no slower than the both of them.

And more importantly, King Xieluo who was charging at him turned suddenly toward a different direction.

"Don't come here!"

"Quick, run out of the palace!"

With Fang Zhengzhi approaching the emperor, the Dragon Protection Squad began to panic. Emperor Lin Mubai couldn't even stand straight, and Imperial Concubine Hua Fei suffered injuries too.

And now Fang Zhengzhi would lead the Demon King to them. Didn't he understand any idea of guarding the emperor? Hadn't he thought of sacrificing himself to protect the emperor?

With a Demon King chasing behind him, he had decided to run toward the emperor.

And to ask the emperor to save him?

It was the Demon King!

But how could the Dragon Protection Squad even sustain a devastating blow from the Demon King?

"Run out of the palace?" Fang Zhengzhi curled his lips. King Xieluo was in the way of the palace gate. To run out of the palace was to seek an instant death.

That didn't help.

Fang Zhengzhi was determined to run toward Emperor Lin Mubai, as if he hadn't heard the Dragon Protection Squad's advice, screaming as he ran.

"Save me! The Demon King is coming!"

"Oh no! Protect His and Her Majesty! Now!"

The Dragon Protection Squad was shocked. Due to Fang Zhengzhi's "panic" and his loss of ability to think clearly, they had no choice but to fight their death to resist the attack.

They couldn't just kill Fang Zhengzhi like that, right?

And even if they had such a thought, now was not the time to do so.

The Royal Guards, who were attacking the Palace Guards, snapped back to reality but they were unable to help.

After all…

Regardless of King Xieluo or Prince Li of the First Rank, or even Fang Zhengzhi, these people were moving much faster than what the Royal Guards were capable of. They were unable to stop them.

It all happened in an instant.

And it so sudden that no one could stop Fang Zhengzhi from running toward Emperor Lin Mubai, not even Yan Xiu or Shan Yu.

He's reaching!

Everyone was watching closely as Fang Zhengzhi almost reached beside Emperor Lin Mubai when King Xieluo was only meters away from him.

But if King Xieluo were to change his target at this moment…

Then Emperor Lin Mubai would most likely lose his life. Well, it was clear that King Xieluo's was chasing Fang Zhengzhi, but what if that happened?

When the Emperor's safety was hanging by a thread, no one would allow for such a possibility.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong and King Duan Lin Xinjue were also flabbergasted. Even Qian Wu clenched his fists.

"Don't…" Ping Yang screamed. She wanted to scream "don't hurt my father", but neither did she wish for Fang Zhengzhi to be hurt.

It was a dilemma which stopped her words.

"Don't hurt the Emperor!" At this moment, Prince Li of the First Rank's voice thundered aloud. It resonated like a giant bell from the heavens, shaking the souls of everyone present.

At the same time…

The thin and frail Prince Li of the First Rank, who was following closely behind King Xieluo, closed on him with a sudden burst of speed.

His bony fingers pressed on King Xieluo's shoulder and rays of light in rainbow colors glowed brilliantly.

Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet, indigo…

As these rays lit up, King Xieluo was stopped mid-air, his demonic, ashen face look somewhat surprised.

"Oh? It seemed I have underestimated you!" King Xieluo turned behind, looking at the rainbow rays wrapped around Prince Li of the First Rank's skinny frame and the dark green rays flowing in his eyes.

Prince Li of the First Rank looked extremely stern. While the dark green flow rays had disappeared, the rainbow rays now concentrated in his eyes.

This scene was incredibly shocking to the surrounding onlookers.

"Those rainbow rays were…"

"That should be correct!"

As they set their eyes on the rainbow rays surrounding Prince Li of the First Rank, they all thought of one thing. Something that everyone knew but only a handful had really witnessed it.

It was rumored that there were thirty-six Sacred Rocks in the world, and upon each of them was an inscription of a divine Dao which allowed one to instantly reach the Sagely State.

But only a few knew how exactly one reached the Sagely State or how the Sacred Rocks looked like.

But everyone knew it was a fact that there was a Sage Land in the Great Xia Dynasty in which thirteen Sacred Rocks were hidden.

A staggering number.

Very staggering indeed, because even the Heavenly Dao Pavilion had only nine Sacred Rocks.

For an empire like the Holy Barbarian Empire, which was comparable in power to the Great Xia Dynasty, its share of Sacred Rocks could be described as pitiful.

In fact…

The Holy Barbarian Empire only had one Sacred Rock!

Of course, this was not to say that the Holy Barbarian Empire was not powerful enough. But because a very long time ago, the entire world only had one country: Great Xia.

But as time passed, Great Xia was separated into many countries and the concept of a united Great Xia was lost.

Until a few thousand years ago…

The Great Xia Dynasty emerged once again. Five Sacred Rocks were exchanged for five hundred thousand troops, and together with the combined strength thirteen residences, they conquered the world and rebuilt the empire on this very piece of land, forming the Great Xia of today.

It was another glorious period of the empire. Although it was not comparable to the glory of ancient past, they still stood proudly on their original land. Only it was a pity that in a few thousand years, the number of Sacred Rocks declined, till the thirteen Rocks of today.

What had caused this to happen? It's too complicated to explain.

But even so, the Great Xia Dynasty now had thirteen Sacred Rocks. But the Sage Land no longer existed.

Then, where would the thirteen Sacred Rocks be?

Of course, no one had the answer.

Someone had guessed that the thirteen Sacred Rocks were hidden in the thirteen residences because each residence had a world of its own.

For example, the Divine Constabulary had the Heavenly Treasure Hall, the Stabilization Constabulary had the Blue Jade Terrace. If the Sacred Rocks were hidden in these worlds, no one would be able to find them.

It was a safe choice to do so.

As for the accuracy of this guess, no one dared to verify.

It was a hidden secret, but when everyone saw the rainbow glow in Prince Li of the First Rank's eyes, that was what they thought of.

"So, the Great Xia Dynasty's Sacred Rocks were in Prince Li of the First Rank's residence!" Qian Wu looked at Prince Li of the First Rank, his eyes lit up while he smiled coldly.

Because he was also aware that it was only when one had mastered the inscription on the Sacred Rock, then he would shine with such brilliance.

Prince Li of the First Rank, Sage Land, Prince Li of the First Rank's residence, gardening, bird-keeping…

Instantly Qian Wu understood why Prince Li of the First Rank always remained shut in his residence and the location of the thirteen Sacred Rocks.

Prince Li of the First Rank's residence.

Yan Capital City, the capital of the Great Xia Dynasty, the home of the emperor. In such an open place with free flow of human activity, who would have thought to obtain them? Who would have even thought of it?

"When I conquer Great Xia, the thirteen Sacred Rock will belong to my Holy Barbarian Empire!" Qian Wu thought excitedly. This made him impatient. "King Xieluo, kill them now!"

"King Xieluo, as the Demon King, your actions have already crossed the line. Do you know the consequences if you dare to hurt the Emperor?" Prince Li of the First Rank asked, staring at King Xieluo as he pressed firmly on his shoulder.

"Consequence? Hehe… Let's talk about this after you defeat me!" King Xieluo laughed, then continued: "And talking about consequences, do you know the consequences of stopping me? Can't you tell that the one I'm killing is Fang Zhengzhi?"

Of course, Prince Li of the First Rank knew that King Xieluo was after Fang Zhengzhi. But as Fang Zhengzhi led him closer to Emperor Lin Mubai…

How could he tolerate this?

And more importantly, he wasn't certain that after killing Fang Zhengzhi, King Xieluo would keep his promise and return to the Near-Life Gate.

Qian Wu's words and the Demon King's words…

Were they trustable?

With Prince Li of the First Rank's age and experience, he wasn't so naïve as to gamble a dynasty's fate on a single "promise".

Now, the best solution wasn't for King Xieluo to kill Fang Zhengzhi.

But…

Stopping him from continuing to kill.

Initially, Prince Li of the First Rank's plan was for Fang Zhengzhi to take a blow from King Xieluo, and when King Xieluo was striking Fang Zhengzhi, he would sneak an attack of his true powers from behind when King Xieluo let his guard down.

But he never expected Fang Zhengzhi to run, and even without any hesitation, toward Emperor Lin Mubai.

Wait!

Where's Fang Zhengzhi?!

Prince Li of the First Rank looked around for Fang Zhengzhi, but he was gone.

Turning back, Prince Li of the First Rank's rainbow rays flickered a little as he saw a black figure dashing away in the distance.

And without question…

This figure was Fang Zhengzhi.

Prince Li of the First Rank was stunned briefly.

He wanted to call out to Fang Zhengzhi and say "Hey, let's fight the Demon King together!"

But obviously, Fang Zhengzhi would never return. He ran so quickly, never once turning back. In the blink of an eye, there was only a tiny silhouette of him left.

"He ran away while I held King Xieluo back? This brat… he did that intentionally!" King Xieluo suddenly came to this realization.

"Move, move away, are you blind? Can't you see the Near-Life Gate in my hand? Let me pass or I'll smash this!" Fang Zhengzhi could be heard shouting from afar.

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Chapter 584: Destroying the Palace

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Prince Li's expression seemed a little stiff.

But Qian Wu reached the peak of his fury as he clearly saw Fang Zhengzhi running away with his Near-Life Gate.

Did he run away?

Yes, indeed. Along with his Near-Life Gate.

Did he do it intentionally? If he really wanted to save his own life, shouldn't he drop the Near-Life Gate?

Qian Wu could not be certain. But he was sure of the consequences if Fang Zhengzhi brought it out of the palace.

"Give my Near-Life Gate back!"

"You're mistaken. This is my Near-Life Gate!" Fang Zhengzhi replied without even turning back, speeding toward the palace gate while carrying the giant Near-Life Gate.

There was a saying that one's success was dependent on his bravery.

How would he return something that he had already seized?

Would that be silly!

Of course, he wouldn't sacrifice his life for Prince Li of the First Rank who was only concerned with the Great Xia Dynasty and saving the Emperor and Ping Yang, but not him.

But for him to return something that he had snatched was impossible.

"Boom!"

The Near-Life Gate was smashed on the ground, creating a path between the Palace Guards blocking the way.

Then, Fang Zhengzhi used the Near-Life Gate as a springboard, with a forceful push, he leaped past the contingent of Palace Guards, leaving with a giant vanishing silhouette.

And watching Fang Zhengzhi leave…

Qian Wu's was about to erupt. He wanted to get King Xieluo to chase after Fang Zhengzhi but seeing King Xieluo was so close to Emperor Lin Mubai, he hesitated.

But King Xieluo didn't hesitate.

With a jerk of his shoulder, a ripple of light rays lit up, and the hand that was previously holding down his shoulder was released. Then he rushed toward Fang Zhengzhi.

With insane lightning speed.

Prince Li of the First Rank took a step back in the direction of Emperor Lin Mubai, his expression intense and grave as he furrowed his brows. But he didn't chase after King Xieluo.

He wasn't sure if King Xieluo would turn back.

"Uncle, I can handle the situation here, please go to the palace gate now!" As Emperor Lin Mubai watched King Xieluo chasing after Fang Zhengzhi, he spoke after his a few heavy coughs, despite the appalling pallor on his face.

When Prince Li of the First Rank heard Emperor Lin Mubai, his eyes gleamed as he watched King Xieluo run farther and farther away in the distance, and Qian Wu, and Lin Xinjue who was surrounded by the Palace Guards.

Clenching his teeth, he hesitated no further.

"I'll leave this place to Your Majesty, then!" Finishing his sentence, Prince Li of the First Rank chased after them immediately.

Everything was a matter of urgency. Fang Zhengzhi indeed ran away, but he also took with him the Near-Life Gate. This meant that he had saved the palace from some disaster.

Although the emperor's security is of top priority, if the Near-Life Gate landed in the wrong hands, the consequences would be unthinkable.

The rainbow rays glowed again.

And off went the Prince Li of the First Rank in the direction of Fang Zhengzhi and King Xieluo.

Following closely behind King Xieluo were two figures: Yan Xiu and Shan Yu. Their speeds were as fast as him. When King Xieluo gave chase, both had followed along.

"Grandfather bring me along!" Ping Yang exclaimed.

Prince Li of the First Rank squinted his eyes in the distance. With a motion of his palm, the wave of rainbow rays wrapped Ping Yang and brought her beside him.

To Emperor Lin Mubai, Ping Yang's presence in the palace would only bring harm instead of good.

Prince Li was well aware of this and bringing Ping Yang along would ease Emperor Lin Mubai's worries. It would make the situation in the palace more manageable.

"They all ran away?" Qian Wu wondered as he watched Prince Li of the First Rank brought Ping Yang with him. He looked at Emperor Lin Mubai and Chen Feihua surrounded by the Dragon Protection Squad, then at the Palace Guards and Southern Army who were still fighting.

He felt that he should continue to stay at the palace.

But…

What for?

To kill Emperor Lin Mubai? Without King Xieluo, and with his Near-Life Gate taken away, it would be impossible to kill Emperor Lin Mubai.

But he couldn't give up just like that.

Fight till the end!

Qian Wu shot an icy glare and finally joined the battle.

In the darkness of the night, a figure dressed in a purple robe leaped over the palace gates from a strange angle, entering the palace with lightning speed.

Lord Chi Hong from the Divine Constabulary.

He rarely did such sneaky entrances for the past few decades, but he didn't wish to waste any time on the guards at the palace gates.

Though he leaped and jumped and hurdled, his speed never decreased. Instead, he ran faster and faster.

As he approached the Throne Room, he squinted intensely. Because the Throne Room as he had expected was gone.

"Where's the Throne Room?" Chi Hong was stunned. Then a frightening thought emerged: "Was the Throne Room destroyed?!"

He was petrified at this thought.

"Who are you!" Even if it was Chi Hong, anyone would have been rattled when a shadow emerged from a distance, especially with such a huge shadow.

A ridiculous shadow was cast under a moonlight. And more importantly, that shadow moved unbelievably fast.

Was it a beast?

With this thought, he took a closer look. Then his jaw dropped in a shock.

It was even more shocking than the missing Throne Room!

"Fang Zhengzhi?!" Chi Hong's mouth was wide agape, uttering a name he would never have expected.

Weren't his powers wasted?

How could he move so fast?

And how heavy was the giant bronze gate he had raised on his hand?

How could he even lift it?

Wait a moment.

This bronze gate seemed a little familiar…

Chi Hong was absolutely bewildered as countless questions raced through his mind. No matter how he thought, he could never grasp what was happening here.

And Fang Zhengzhi, who was running toward him, lit up when he saw Chi Hong.

Had the heavens heard his prayers and provided a savior?

"My Lord, please save me. Stop the demon behind me!" Fang Zhengzhi didn't bother with formalities and exclaimed without hesitation.

"Demon? What demon? Weren't your powers wasted? How can you run so fast? Have you been deceiving me all this while?" Chi Hong shot him a barrage of questions.

"It just a demon easy for you to defeat. But I can't defeat him. I'll explain things later, please help me here!" Of course, Fang Zhengzhi couldn't explain matters like this, so he just stated his requests.

"A small demon?" Chi Hong hesitated briefly. Then he remembered his purpose here – to save the emperor. And any small demon must be killed immediately. As for the issue of Fang Zhengzhi hiding his powers from him, it could be discussed later. "Alright, leave it to me!"

'Thank you, my Lord!" Fang Zhengzhi smiled, then ran past Chi Hong, toward the palace gates without stopping even for a moment.

And Chi Hong continued his way toward the Throne Room's position.

But…

He didn't run very far.

Because when Fang Zhengzhi ran past him, his vision suddenly expanded, and he spotted a flickering figure under the moonlight.

The figure was dressed like a scholar in a white robe, a jade pendant shaped like a beast hung at his waist. He had a pale complexion and handsome, exquisite features.

But most importantly, his eyes seemed freaky, almost devilish.

Dark green rays filled his eyes, and the "scar" on his forehead blinked slowly. His most obvious feature? Two curved horns at the top of his head.

Under the moonlight, it shimmered in with a golden hue.

"A person?!" Chi Hong stopped dead in his tracks. Once again, he was shocked as he watched the figure charge toward him in breakneck speed. "Fuck, how is this a small demon?"

Chi Hong really felt like screaming at Fang Zhengzhi, even more so if he could pin him down and punch his face.

He could tolerate Fang Zhengzhi deceiving him about his powers being wasted.

But how could he say that that Demon King was just some small demon?

"Fang Zhengzhi, you stand right there!" Chi Hong shouted at Fang Zhengzhi. Within his mission of saving the emperor in mind, he couldn't just run away like Fang Zhengzhi.

"My Lord, I believe in you, you can do it. It's just a mere Demon King!" Fang Zhengzhi replied without stopping.

Chi Hong was speechless.

Then his eyes turned toward the huge bronze gate Fang Zhengzhi was holding up. And in an instant, a name flashed in his mind.

The Near-Life Gate!

Wait a minute, he was holding the Near-Life Gate?

How was it possible!

Of course, Chi Hong had seen the Near-Life Gate in the past. But he would never have expected that the Near-Life Gate would be lifted by Fang Zhengzhi, and with that, Fang Zhengzhi could run at such a speed?

Could it be that this guy had mastered the Near-Life Dao? That's even more impossible. The Near-Life Dao was a secret technique of the Northern Barbarians royal family, how could Fang Zhengzhi have mastered it?

The more he thought, the more confused he became.

Then…

He ran.

He was helpless as the Demon King was approaching. As he ascertained what Fang Zhengzhi was holding was indeed the Near-Life Gate, naturally, he had some clues.

If the Near-Life Gate was in Fang Zhengzhi's hands, and he was chased by the Demon King, then he was sure that protecting the Near-Life Gate was more important.

With this reasoning, Chi Hong was able to run quickly without any concern.

"Hey, Fang Zhengzhi, you stand right there. Tell me, are you holding the Northern Barbarians' Near-Life Gate?" Chi Hong shouted as he ran toward Fang Zhengzhi.

"Oh? My lord, you know your stuff well. But now, this Near-Life Gate is mine!" Fang Zhengzhi corrected Chi Hong.

"Your Near-Life Gate? You're beyond shameless!" Chi Hong chided.

But he was very surprised.

Was it really the Near-Life Gate? What was going on? And what was happening in the palace?

Fang Zhengzhi realized something was amiss because Chi Hong's voice was obviously not far away. Then he looked behind.

"Shit. Go fight the small demon, why are you following me?"

"Fuck your small demon. You think I'm stupid? It's obviously the Demon King!" Chi Hong snapped back.

"But you're the Divine Lord of the Northern Lands! Can't you defeat a mere Demon King?" Fang Zhengzhi continued to run as he replied.

"I can't defeat him!" Chi Hong wasn't at all embarrassed to say that. Then he asked: "What's going on in the palace? How's His Majesty?"

"Good question, my lord. I'll tell you for a hundred thousand pieces of silver!" Fang Zhengzhi grew hopeful with the palace gate in sight.

"You still care about silver at this juncture? Don't you fear I'll go back on my word?"

"Oh, I really don't. As the Divine Lord who is rushing to save the emperor in the palace but was scared away by the Demon King, do you think this will make an interesting story when people talk about it in the restaurants?"

"How dare you threaten me!" Chi Hong's was shocked, then he clenched his teeth and replied anyway. "Alright, a hundred thousand pieces of silver it is!"

"The Throne Room is destroyed; the emperor is still alive."

"And?"

"That's all."

Chi Hong felt as though he had poured a hundred thousand pieces of silver in the drain. But as least he knew Emperor Lin Mubai was safe, and that relieved him.

"Hey, wait for me!"

"My lord, you're silly. Don't you know that the last in line will the first to suffer?" Fang Zhengzhi didn't bother looking back as he charged with full speed toward the palace gate.

"…" Chi Hong was speechless.

And at this moment, the surprised palace guards rushed toward them and aimed their spears at Fang Zhengzhi.

Just like how Chi Hong felt when he saw Fang Zhengzhi. Millions of questions emerged in their minds. It was utter disbelief.

But these questions didn't seem important anymore.

Because the Near-Life Gate that Fang Zhengzhi was holding was about to fall.

"Boom!" A deafening crash.

Tiny stones flew out upon impact and a giant crevasse appeared on the ground, reaching the palace gates from Fang Zhengzhi's foot. The huge shockwave made forced the Palace Guards to retreat.

At the moment when the Near-Life Gate was dropped, Fang Zhengzhi leaped insanely high, across the towering palace walls.

"This brat…" Chi Hong was once again totally astounded.

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Chapter 585: The Last Attack, Breaking Through the Capital

Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Chi Hong looked behind. His heart almost shrank. As the Lord of the Divine Constabulary in charge of guarding the Northern Lands Five Constabularies, this had immeasurable confidence and bravery.

But…

That did not mean he wasn't cautious.

After all, there was a difference between confidence and arrogance. And more importantly, didn't this seem a tad too exaggerated?

Something huge appeared from thin air and loomed above him. This figure was entirely covered in thick black armor, and two massive, curved horns were erected on its head.

Dark green rays of light flowed freely in its eyes.

Under its gigantic, powerful body were four massive hooves covered in black fur stepping toward Chi Hong.

The sky was blocked by the enormity of this giant. The stars the and moon were gone. Its black shadow engulfed the palace gates.

Chi Hong finally understood what Fang Zhengzhi meant when he said the last in line would be the first to suffer.

Apparently…

The Demon King appeared when Fang Zhengzhi leaped over the palace gates. Its goal was simple: to close the distance with Fang Zhengzhi and kill him in mid-air.

Chi Hong was in a dilemma.

At this juncture, of course, he could run away. Because the Demon King's target was Fang Zhengzhi. But could he really do so?

No.

It did not matter if Fang Zhengzhi would survive if he escaped. Chi Hong couldn't abandon Fang Zhengzhi for the sake of the Near-Life Gate in his hands.

"Little rascal, you owe me one!" Chi Hong squatted, then his body glowed brilliantly in emerald green rays.

"Whoosh!"

In an instant, Chi Hong leaped up forcefully, with his palms outstretched, ten bright green rays shot out from his fingers.

"Boom!"

The ten rays blasted out from his fingers with lightning speed and instantly smashed on the giant Demon King's head.

And the ten rays simultaneously exploded.

"Pshh…"

Countless emerald green rays interweaved in the air, forming a giant green net, upon which the Demon King's giant head lunged against.

"Snap!"

The green net was on the verge of breaking.

Such a shockingly bizarre scene in the dead of night.

The Palace Guards by the palace gates first saw Fang Zhengzhi leaping past the palace walls, then watched an enormous black figure looming above them while it stepped forward. And finally, its head knocking hitting against the giant green net.

Truly astounding.

"What creature is that?!"

"So powerful!"

"Quick, run, it's coming!"

All the Palace Guards gasped and started to disperse. To them, it was a battle they could never win.

"Roar!"

At this moment, the Demon King roared like a beast. The green net was torn into pieces, then its giant figure suddenly shrank. In an instant, he had returned to his original size, dressed in white like a scholar.

"Oh my god!"

"A demon in human form, could it be the Demon King?!"

"It's the Demon King! What is going on? Save me now!"

The scattered Palace Guards was bewildered upon this transformation as they searched for concealed places to hide.

"So you think you can stop me?" King Xieluo didn't care about the petrified Palace Guards but stared right at Chi Hong with his cold, strange, green eyes.

Chi Hong's body fell painfully on the ground, a trace of blood streaked from his mouth, his face slightly pale.

The Demon King.

What a terrifying existence.

Even the emperor might not defeat him in a fight, how could the Lord of the Divine Constabulary expect to stop him?

But Chi Hong had no regrets.

Because he was one of the thirteen residences who fought alongside the emperor in battles. He was responsible for the defense of the palace and of the Great Xia Dynasty.

He could resort to unscrupulous means in the quest for power, he could kill hundreds of people for the sake of the dynasty's progress, but he could not choose to save himself over the Great Xia Dynasty when it was on the brink of death.

"I have stopped you!" Chi Hong stared back at King Xieluo's green eyes. Despite his pale face, his expression was unrelenting.

"Good!" King Xieluo nodded, then he moved. But this time he did not charge at Chi Hong, instead, he continued his chase for Fang Zhengzhi.

"You're not killing me?" Chi Hong looked at King Xieluo who began to run toward Fang Zhengzhi. He didn't get it. After all, he was already injured.

And he did anger King Xieluo.

Not killing…

How did that make any sense?

Chi Hong was puzzled.

On the other hand, Fang Zhengzhi felt as though he had gone to hell and back. Indeed, the Demon King was powerful. If it weren't for Chi Hong who stopped him, he would have been severely hurt, if not already dead.

But why did King Xieluo not stop to fight Chi Hong?

Fang Zhengzhi saw King Xieluo who, once again, started to charge at him. He was momentarily confused, but he finally understood when he spotted the three figures behind him.

Yan Xiu, Shan Yu and Prince Li of the First Rank.

Of course, King Xieluo had the chance to kill Chi Hou. But if he delayed any further, he would be stopped by them.

What that happened, it would be one versus four.

Though he could probably defeat them, it would waste some of his time.

"Indeed, a clever Demon King!" As the one and only target of King Xieluo, he felt immense pressure.

Didn't he just go to the palace for the "show"? Why did he need to chase so relentlessly? Well, Fang Zhengzhi didn't offend him, and it was just a Near-Life Gate!

No time to hesitate any further.

Fang Zhengzhi could only run.

It was such a happening night. The moonlight cascaded from the skies, wrapping tenderly around the historic Yan Capital like fine layers of silk.

Countless people streamed about the streets and alleys of Yan Capital, for the noise in the palace and at its gates were too loud for them to sleep.

Then…

A figure appeared in their vision.

He emerged from the palace and weaved around them, wearing in a new black imperial dress bearing "Imperial" on its chest, a symbol of his identity.

After all, this man was once of high status.

The teacher of many geniuses, the youngest of the Chief Imperial Messenger of the Imperial Academy, and the Chief Examiner of this year's Imperial Examinations: His Excellency Fang Zhengzhi.

Had someone in Yan Capital not heard of him, this person would be grossly ignorant.

But with his glory as the Chief Examiner of the Imperial Examinations, why would he end up in such a sorry state?

And what was he holding on his hand?

In ancient texts, it was mentioned that powerful people could lift enormous weights.

Could it have been that powerful people could lift… gates?

And most importantly…

How could His Excellency Fang, whose powers were wasted in the Southern Region war, run so insanely fast while lifting such a giant bronze gate?

Everyone had so many questions.

Of course, all questions consolidated into the most crucial one: His Excellency seemed as though he was running to escape something, but where was he running to?

Confusion, shock, astonishment…

Countless expressions appeared on their faces as they really wanted to stop him from "running away" and ask him: why?

But when they saw King Xieluo chasing behind Fang Zhengzhi, these transformed into terror as they felt fear from deep within.

"What demon is that? Why does he have two horns on his head!"

"Demon King! He's the Demon King in human form!"

"Huh? Demon King!"

"Quick, run!"

The commoners, who were about to ask and learn what was going on, immediately dispersed upon seeing King Xieluo.

No one was in their way. Or rather, no one wished to stand in their way.

Yan Capital was big.

But when the two figures were running at such a mind-bending speed, Yan Capital didn't seem that big after all.

Fang Zhengzhi was in a difficult situation. But when he saw the mayhem at the Yan Capital gates, which was closing…

He felt even worse.

"Open the gates, let me out!" Fang Zhengzhi's voice, filled with misery and helplessness, reverberated through the night.

It didn't seem like it was shouted by an eighteen-year-old teenager, for it was too melancholic. As if there were a thousand sorrowful cuts upon his heart.

It was a depressing atmosphere.

Of course, there was a demon behind him. A Demon King.

Existence was painful.

Fang Zhengzhi had no other choice but to keep running.

When the soldiers and others at the capital gates heard Fang Zhengzhi's distressed cries, they instinctively looked behind him.

Then they were astonished.

"Fang Zhengzhi?!" Su Qing exclaimed. He stood at a high position at the top of the capital gates, while his clothes flapped incessantly in the winds.

At the most important juncture of this campaign…

He had to remain absolutely calm.

He never forgot this even when he was facing Marquis Xing Yuanguo of the Stabilization Constabulary, and when they were attacked by thousands of soldiers of the Mountain Breaking Army.

But now…

He really couldn't remain calm.

Because witnessed so clearly that Fang Zhengzhi was holding up a bronze gate, and the most valuable treasure of the Holy Barbarian Empire, the Near-Life Gate.

At this moment, he felt as though he had been struck by lightning.

Numb and a little dumb.

How did the Near-Life Gate end up with Fang Zhengzhi? And it was even brought to the capital gates? How could he lift the Near-Life Gate? How could he run so fast…

Like the countless commoners who witnessed this sight, many questions emerged in Su Qing's mind. His intelligent, quick-witted mind suddenly halted.

Because he was totally confused as to what was happening.

And he wasn't the only one.

The soldiers of the Holy Barbarian Empire around him couldn't understand too. Everyone looked at Fang Zhengzhi who was running toward them and the shiny Near-Life Gate glowing under the moonlight…

They were completely baffled.

"Stop Fang Zhengzhi now!" Su Qing commanded the only order he could think of, his mind snapped back after it had frozen momentarily.

He didn't know what had happened for such an unbelievable scene to happen, but he was certain that the palace gates should be shut and the Near-Life Gate must not remain in Fang Zhengzhi's hands.

With his order, the Holy Barbarian soldiers moved into position, raising their pikes and ready to attack.

"No, guard the palace gates, stop him from leaving the capital!"

As a commander in a battle, Su Qing was aware that changing his orders at the last minute was a fatal mistake. The soldiers may not be able to adapt, and they might lose trust in him.

But…

Su Qing ordered once again.

If he was described as dazed a moment ago, he was now much calmer. At least he felt so.

The reason was simple. He saw the white figure chasing behind Fang Zhengzhi and the Mountain Breaking Army charging toward the capital gates.

If he had ordered them to attack…

They would be destroyed.

It could be said that Su Qing corrected his mistake at the appropriate time. But a mistake was still a mistake, just like how one could not simply apologize and walk away after he had reached in a girl's pants.

Su Qing corrected his mistake quickly.

Su Qing was still captured by Xing Yuanguo, because he had much experience in the battleground, and he understood that anything could happen in battle.

Just like…

Fang Zhengzhi lifting the Near-Life Gate, running toward him.

He was shocked, but this kind of shock did not make him confused and dazed but presented to him an opportunity.

And this was related to his position.

His goal was to break through the capital gates. And now that someone was running toward him, with the Near-Life Gate, how great of an opportunity would it be!

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