I proved immortality through the imperial examination.

Chapter 173 Passing the Order
The front page featured a full-width banner with large, bold black characters: "A List of Stolen Goods from Four Families Executed."

The subtitle, in small print, appears in two cold lines:
"The registers will be copied and inventoried on the spot; the estimated value will be converted into spirit stones according to the state treasury."

Further down were rows of clean, cold, hard entries, like ice scalpels, slicing through everyone's eyes one by one.

Lingtian: A total of 19,000 mu.

Spirit mines: Seventeen spirit sand mines; four black iron veins; two red copper veins...

Spirit Stones: Over 47,000 (still being tallied).

Treasures: Ritual implements, talismans, and elixirs, by the cartload (still being sorted).

In addition, there were countless carriages, horses, boats, and ships; land rents, pawnshop bonds, calligraphy, paintings, ancient books, and classics, the contents of which were too numerous to count.

The rest: shares of the merchant, salt certificates, iron certificates, warehouse keys, all sealed in one volume.

The bottom line, seemingly intentionally left unadorned, simply presents a string of numbers:
"A rough estimate puts the amount in spirit stones at over two million."

With a whoosh, it seemed as if a breeze had risen in the room, but it was just everyone gasping for air.

"...enough to cover ten years' worth of expenses in the prefecture, and this year the national military expenditure is only thirty million..."

"How can there be so much wealth? This is impossible!"

"Nothing is impossible. It's all based on a thousand years of history, so this number is naturally possible."

Someone's Adam's apple bobbed as they murmured the line from the newspaper again, as if they didn't believe it, or as if they were trying to confirm that they hadn't misread it.

Cao Fang was the first to come to her senses, pointing to the newspaper with her finger: "Fields, mines, stones, tools, gold and silver, contracts... This list not only copied the 'items,' but also the entire chain of procedures."

"They also copied the 'accounts'."

Wei Yang continued, his voice so calm it seemed to seep from the belly of a pot, "Things may change hands, but accounts can be traced."

A moment of silence fell over everyone. A crackling sound came from the fire; a tiny spark of chestnut charcoal burst open, then quickly went out.

Finally, someone couldn't contain themselves any longer and found the safest outlet for their anger: "This newspaper... is so harmful! It publishes articles before the government has even reviewed them. Is there no law or regulation? If everyone follows suit, will the world ever have any rules?"

"They need to be disciplined!"

Another official nodded emphatically, "It should have been reviewed by the Court of Imperial Seals, the Imperial Household Department, and the Three Departments before the prefecture issued the document. Now, things have turned out badly, and the people and other counties have become a laughing stock!"

"joke?"

Cao Fang glanced at him and said, "What you see is a joke, but others see wealth."

What does the imperial court lack when expanding its northern border? It lacks soldiers, horses, and most importantly, it lacks funds.

If you and I criticize the 'rules' here, the higher-ups will only think: 'Can this spirit stone be put into storage immediately? Can it be put on its way right away?'"

A slight rustling sound arose inside the room, like ripples on a pool of spring water stirred by the wind.

The group, who were about to agree with the call to "ban the newspaper," swallowed their words and instead held their bowls, bowed their heads, and pretended to drink porridge.

Huang Yao leaned against the brocade railing, and after a long while, he exhaled a breath of stale air and said in a hoarse voice, "Xue Xiang did this on purpose."

"What are you doing on purpose?"

someone asked.

"Intentionally making a scene."

Huang Yao smoothed out the corner of the newspaper, his fingertips trembling slightly. "He didn't ask for permission or inquire; he just published it directly. Who was it for?"
It should be shown to the world.

To prevent us from taking anything, he made sure to keep clear accounts beforehand.

Whether the central leadership cares about its reputation or not, with such a stack of ledgers and such a pile of images, the central leadership will only focus on the financial gains and won't be able to look away.

Long Gu added in a low voice, "The newspaper also included a page of detailed guidelines on 'copying registers'."
Which box was sealed with whose name, which book was marked with whose finger, when could it be made public, when must it be submitted confidentially… even the 'list of observers' was listed, including the names of distinguished figures like Feng Jing.”

Several pairs of eyes turned to Wei Yang and Huang Yao.

Wei Yang remained expressionless, as if she hadn't heard.
Huang Yao closed the newspaper, then unfolded it again, like a heart still unsettled. "I originally wanted to..."

He paused, gave a wry smile, and said self-deprecatingly, "Forget it, let's just call it quits."

Xue Xiang's move was brilliant; the die was cast, and he had all the evidence.

More importantly, he gave them everything the higher-ups wanted.

Two million is enough to move even the gods.

"My lord, the four great families are not truly dead; they still have descendants serving as officials in other regions..."

Cao Fang raised concerns.

Huang Yao snorted, "When the tree falls, the monkeys scatter; what's the use of saying more?"

Whoever has the ability can earn two million for the central government.

A cruel official? You have to be able to be cruel first!
It's all gone. "

The crowd dispersed, each lost in their own thoughts.

After today, everyone will know that Xue Xiang's name will be enough to stop children from crying at night.

…………

The wind howled at the top of the cliff, and the sky was high and the clouds were light.

Below us lies a deep ravine, where white clouds swirl and roll, resembling a vast ocean tide.

The mountain wind surged up from the valley floor, making clothes flutter and rustle.

Xue Xiang stood with his hands behind his back at the edge of the cliff, the wind blowing in his face, but he remained calm.

Zhongli Mo, his white beard wild and unruly, laughed loudly, the sound of his laughter carried by the wind and echoing through the mountains and valleys for a long time.

"happy!"

Zhongli Mei, carrying a wine gourd, exuded boundless pride, "This time, I'm so happy! I wiped out all these hypocritical and treacherous families. It was worth it! It was worth it!"

"Just being able to come with you on this trip has completely dispelled decades of pent-up frustration!"

Although he was a Nascent Soul cultivator, the imperial court had its own laws and regulations, and unless he wanted to flee for his life, it would not dare to kill indiscriminately.

This time, Xue Xiang assigned the three the identity of assistants in a major case, which constitutes legal murder, so it was naturally satisfying.

The two saints, Yun Lei and Yi, stood side by side, one in a black robe fluttering like clouds, the other in a red dress dancing like fire.

"Old Zhong, you never mention the benefits you secretly gained, do you?"

I'm hoping that next time young friend Xue takes on such an operation, you won't be left out. Haha..."

Lei Ze, dressed in a black robe, said loudly, "However, young friend Xue, your courage is just what we like! If there is anything as straightforward as this next time, you should call me and my sister, if not Old Demon Zhong."

The woman in the red dress had fiery eyes and a hint of admiration in her smile. "What a pity, she's a bit too young. Otherwise, she would definitely be my type, hehe..."

Zhongli Mei wasn't angry at Lei Ze's mockery. He had already reaped all the benefits, so he let people say whatever they wanted.

He gulped down a large mouthful of strong liquor, tossed the gourd to Xue Xiang, and said in a loud voice, "Kid, don't listen to their nonsense. Remember this: if anything happens again, even if it's your own petty business, just call Old Zhong, and he'll definitely come running! Haha!"

Xue Xiang took the wine, tilted his head back and drank it all. With a flick of his long sleeve, he spilled a few drops of wine, which were swept up by the mountain wind and turned into white ribbons that danced in the valley.

He replied loudly, "I will always remember the kindness of the three seniors!"

The journey through life is long, but we will surely meet again someday.

The beautiful woman in the red dress, Ling Yun, nodded and instructed, "Please give our regards to the Lord of Mingde Dongxuan."

Xue bowed solemnly: "I will certainly convey your message."

Zhongli Mei laughed heartily and transformed into a rainbow, disappearing into the distance.

The two sages, Yun Lei and Yi, exchanged a smile, and lightning and flames intertwined before disappearing into the sky.

After seeing off the three Nascent Soul stage monsters, Xue Xiang breathed a sigh of relief, but he was still physically and mentally exhausted.

During that long day and night, he did so much.

Especially in terms of seizure and inventory, he was able to get a rough idea in a short time, all thanks to his photographic memory.

But having held on until now, he is exhausted and on the verge of death.

"Young master, everything is done, and the newspaper has already published it."

A whirlwind swept in from Wenshan; its sound arrived before the person did.

After a busy day yesterday, he and Cheng Bei gained a lot and felt that they had truly followed the right person this time.

Xue Xiang was able to summon three Nascent Soul experts, which convinced Wen Shan and Cheng Bei.

Looking at the remarkable feat Xue Xiang has accomplished today, the two of them can only look up in awe.

At this moment, Wenshan was busy with Xue Xiang, while Cheng Bei was sent to protect Xue Xiang's family.

After all, the four major families have just been destroyed. Even a centipede with a hundred legs doesn't die easily. Who knows if there aren't a few loyal followers who might act at the opportune moment?

…………

On Cold Green Peak, the autumn wind had not yet risen, but the sky was already quite dark.

The main hall of the government office was spacious, with vermilion pillars and rows of gilded beasts on the beams, looking down upon the world.

Xue Xiang stood in the center of the main hall, bowing deeply with his hands hanging naturally at his sides.

He made no extra movements, his expression was calm, as if he was waiting for the autumn wind to blow the leaves.

Seated on both sides were all the officials in charge of the Canaan Commandery, except for Prefect Huang Yao.

In addition, the heads and vice-ministers of various government offices who were on duty also rushed over.

After all, it was the central government that directly reached a prefecture to spread the imperial edict, which was a major event for Canaan Prefecture in terms of "integrity".

Incense smoke rose from the burner, the bells and chimes rang softly, and the hall was silent except for the sound of breathing.

The messenger scanned the room and said coldly, "The Cabinet has received the Emperor's decree:"

There was an official in Canaan named Xue Xiang…

The imperial edict, written by the Hanlin Academy, is composed of parallel and six-character phrases, resembling musical notes.

However, Xue Xiang quickly realized the situation despite his carelessness.

A total of three floors:

"Firstly, he was rewarded for his merits. He had secured a huge sum of money for the central government, relieving the urgent need for funds for the northern army, which was naturally a meritorious act. The central government simply promoted him one rank and bestowed upon him a ninth-grade immortal talisman."

Secondly, a warning. Although he achieved great merit in this campaign, he killed too many people, which could not escape suspicion of using public office to settle personal scores. This caused great public controversy, and the central government had to appease the powerful families in various regions, taking advantage of the procedural flaws in Xue Xiang's actions to issue a stern warning, stating that this should not be repeated.

All three should be transferred.

This case has had such a significant impact that Xue Xiang is no longer suitable to remain in Canaan County.

To appease the people, Xue Xiang was ordered to study at the Canglan Academy.

After the messenger finished announcing the decree, Xue Xiang bowed and received the decree.

Before Huang Yao could greet the messenger, the messenger gave a light snort and quickly left.

Before leaving, the messenger gently patted Xue Xiang on the shoulder, saying, "I've heard of the name 'Sad Autumn Guest' in the capital, but I never expected him to be such a handsome young man. He's truly a force to be reckoned with."

Having said that, he went out, took off, and disappeared.

The moment the messenger left, the frozen atmosphere in the room instantly thawed.

Various opinions surged forth.

"He rose so quickly. He's only been in office for a short time, and he's already been promoted again? There were so many treasures when they confiscated his property, who knows how much he secretly pocketed. He's incredibly lucky to have escaped unscathed."

"If they can confiscate the property of others today, they can confiscate my property tomorrow."

If everyone in the world followed suit, focusing only on getting rich through illicit means, who could live in peace?

"Fortunately, they're finally gone. As long as this scourge is gone, the county can enjoy peace."

"........."

Xue Xiang could hear the various whispers and discussions, but he pretended not to.

He bowed to everyone and then prepared to take his leave.

"Please wait, Dean Xue."

Huang Yao called out to stop him, "We've been colleagues for a while now, and before we've even had a chance to get to know each other properly, Academician Xue has already entered Canglan Palace. It's quite disappointing."

"If this household does not hold a farewell banquet for Lord Xue before his departure, it would seem that this household is lacking in manners."

Huang Yao's words immediately changed the atmosphere of the entire venue.

Those who were interested began to appreciate Huang Yao's attitude and soon began to understand its implications.

Xue Xiang's transfer was clearly intended to quell the concerns of powerful families across the country.

But fundamentally, the fact that this guy was promoted already reveals the central government's attitude.

Furthermore, the way the messenger treated Xue Xiang before leaving speaks volumes.

Clearly, Lord Huang had caught these subtle nuances.

“Absolutely, absolutely. Putting aside his official rank, Bei Qiu Ke is one of the most talented and elegant scholars in this prefecture in the past thousand years. My daughter is even thinking of asking Bei Qiu Ke for an autograph.”

"A banquet should be held to congratulate Dean Xue and also to celebrate for our Canaan County. After all, it has been thirty years, and this is the first time that the central government has directly sent an imperial decree to the county."

"…………"

Some reacted quickly and immediately provided an assist to Huang Yao.

Xue Xiang cupped his hands and said, "Your Excellency's kindness is deeply appreciated."

However, due to my personal circumstances, there are many matters to attend to in the prefecture at the moment, and everyone is busy, so I will not trouble you any further.”

"What do you mean by disturbing us? It seems we are not respectable enough. Manager Wei, you should at least say something."

Huang Yao raised an eyebrow and looked at Wei Yang.

Wei Yang was helpless; he was the last person who wanted to deal with Xue Xiang.

But now, with everyone watching and Shangguan threatening him, he couldn't turn a deaf ear. "Academician Xue, you have now achieved great success, your official rank has risen, and you have entered the academy to study. This is a time of great joy."

"To receive such congratulations from the Prefect is no ordinary honor; how could I refuse?"

Xue Xiang stared intently at Wei Yang, thinking back on the past, always remembering his kindness more than his resentment at being betrayed. "Since you have given the order, I dare not refuse."

Wei Yang nodded, a complex look flashing in his eyes.

After everyone had left, Wei Yang stood alone under the eaves.

The wind blew from the heights of Lengcui Peak, ruffling the hem of my clothes.

He watched Xue Xiang's departing figure, overwhelmed with mixed emotions.

"If I had known it was a dragon soaring into the sky, why would I have treated it with such indifference back then?"

A wave of regret washed over him, making his chest feel heavy.

Suddenly, he thought of his wife.

The two were so estranged that they had long since stopped communicating. But seeing Xue Xiang leap up like a dragon, Wei Yang felt it was necessary to deepen this connection, thinking to himself, "Perhaps, it's time for Madam to step in."

The last time his family was rescued, his wife went to great lengths.

At the time, it seemed like a thankless and arduous task, but now it appears to have been a crucial, albeit seemingly insignificant, move.

…………

Under a clear blue sky, light and shadow danced within the Xue family compound.

New leaves are just sprouting on the branches. When the wind blows, the petals flutter down and fall onto the bluestone ground, like a layer of light color being sprinkled.

After attending the banquet in Huangyao yesterday, Xue Xiang finally had some free time.

Xue's mother, along with Song Tingfang, Liu Zhiwei, and Fan Youyi, had built a strong defense early on. The newly introduced "Lai Zi" model was well-received as soon as it was launched.

There are no worries at the card table, only laughter and joy.

Even Xue's mother, who had suffered repeated setbacks, regained her former spirit.

Xue Xiang, who had not joined the battle, set up a cooking pot.

Xiao Shi adds firewood, and Xiao Wan cuts the side dishes.

Soon, the slices of fatty pork were added to the pot to render the fat and release its aroma. Dried chili peppers, garlic cloves, and ginger were then added to the pot as well.

After the chili sauce is stir-fried until the oil turns red, add the ribs to the pot and stir-fry for three minutes, then pour in boiling water.

The moment the pot lid was closed, Xiao Shi sniffed, her round little face filled with craving.

A gentle breeze swept through the courtyard, and flower petals filled the air.

The four people at the table in front of the house also stopped what they were doing. Liu Zhiwei reached out and caught a petal of a flower, placing it on the corner of the table.
Song Tingfang smiled, shook her head, and said, "What a beautiful spring day."

Half an hour later, the stew pot finally boiled.

Xue Xiang lifted the pot lid, and a burst of hot steam shot into the sky, white mist swirled, and a fragrant aroma wafted out.

"Sister, time to make pancakes!"

Xiao Shi jumped up and shouted.

Xiao Wan was carrying a tray with kneaded cornmeal on it.

Then she gently rubbed her fingers together, and clumps of dough appeared as if they were alive, sticking around the edge of the pan.

Clearly, she has also achieved success in her cultivation.

Before long, the pot was boiled again. The meat and bones were tender, the red broth was oily, and when sprinkled with green garlic, the aroma was irresistible.

Just then, the group finished playing cards at the other table and moved on to the next game.

After a satisfying meal, Xue's mother took a nap, Xiao Wan did housework, the little boy read, and Fan Youyi reviewed his lessons.

Song Tingfang, swinging her greasy, white legs, returned to Liu Zhiwei's house next door.

Xue Xiang was about to return to the alchemy room to quickly guide the spiritual energy into his body, but he noticed that Liu Zhiwei had something to say to him, so he deliberately waited for her in the courtyard.

Sure enough, after Liu Zhiwei helped Xiao Wan tidy up the kitchen, she walked towards Xue Xiang.

"Let's talk by the lake."

Xue Xiang reached out to grab her hand, and Liu Zhiwei, unusually, did not dodge, letting him hold it. After walking about a hundred feet, they arrived at the shore of Ink Lake, its surface shimmering.

The willow branches are newly green, and when the wind blows, their shadows gently brush against the center of the lake, rippling outwards in circles.

Xue Xiang and Liu Zhiwei stood side by side on the shore, their feet resting on the damp bluestone.

A lake breeze blows, carrying the fragrance of flowers and the coolness of the water.

Liu Zhiwei gazed into the distance and saw egrets skimming the water, cutting a bright line through the ripples.

She whispered, "I'm going on a long journey."

"guessed."

Xue Xiang asked, "With Senior Uncle Song?"

Liu Zhiwei shook her head, "My spiritual bloodline has awakened, and I can receive many strange and ancient memories."

Sister Song said that this is how the Spirit Clan works: the stronger the bloodline, the more ancient the awakened memories, and the stronger the call from the ancient marks of the Spirit Clan.

This is a trial that the Eldar must undergo; I cannot evade it.

Liu Zhiwei gripped Xue Xiang's hand tightly, "But I'm also afraid that once I go, I may never be able to come back."

Xue Xiang hugged her tightly, "I'll go with you."

"No, no one can accompany me on this journey."

Liu Zhiwei said, "I can resist this call, but Sister Song said that it is actually resisting the opportunity to become stronger."

My lord is no longer the same man he was two years ago; today's man is a peerless hero.

I want to keep up with my husband's pace.

The lake breeze ruffled her hair, which she tucked behind her ear, her expression calm and resolute.

Xue Xiang felt a slight pain in his heart, but didn't know how to comfort her.

Liu Zhiwei gently pecked her cheek. "I hope to follow you, not be dragged along by you."

If I can still help my husband in the future, all my efforts will have been worthwhile.

This sentence, like a stone on a lake, ripples outwards.

Xue Xiang stared blankly for a long time, and finally nodded silently.

He took out a brand-new storage ring from his waist pouch, and then suddenly took out a large amount of resources from his immortal talisman and stuffed them into it.

He then handed the storage ring to Liu Zhiwei and taught her how to infuse it with his own mental restriction.

Then, he handed over a VIP card from the Flying Feather Merchant Guild, saying, "The resources in your storage ring can be exchanged for the resources you want at this merchant guild."

Furthermore, this card offers considerable privileges; if you need assistance along the way, you can receive help from any shop displaying the card's logo.

Liu Zhiwei nodded and nestled quietly in Xue Xiang's arms.

A breeze stirred on the lake, blowing a few peach petals from the shore, which drifted between the two people and floated away with the current.

Xue Xiang reached out and brushed a flower petal from her temple, already feeling relieved.

The next day, he and Liu Zhiwei took Xue's mother, Xiao Shi, Xue Wan, and Fan Youyi back to their hometown in Yunmeng.

Xue Xiang is about to travel to Canglan Academy and stay there.

He had long since handed over his duties in Canaan County.

After the family was settled, Xue Xiang bid farewell to Liu Zhiwei by the shore of Suiyang Lake.

He watched Liu Zhiwei's figure disappear into the center of the lake before he also sailed away.

Passing by Suiyang Ferry, he glanced at it from afar and saw that it was a bustling place with lights and traffic.

Xue Xiang stared at Suiyang Ferry for a long time, but in the end he did not stop the boat and go ashore.

The boat departed from Suiyang Ferry and went straight into the Xiang River.

It was still early for him to report to Canglan Academy, so he let the boat drift with the wind since he rarely had any free time.

He watched the stars on the boat for half the night, and before he knew it, he had fallen into a deep sleep. When he woke up again, the sun was high in the sky.

Before they knew it, the boat had drifted two hundred miles away.

After gazing at a boundary marker at a ferry crossing in the distance, Xue Xiang pinpointed his location.

Seeing that this place was not far from Spring Lake, he didn't know if Han Feng was still there, but he still had to go and see him.

This time, he was able to turn the tables and make a comeback entirely thanks to Han Feng's help.

He fully realized that under the current system, power comes from the top, and the top line must be firmly followed.

Xue Xiang was lucky; Han Feng hadn't left yet, he was just out having fun with Xiao Fangfang.

As darkness fell, the two returned by boat.

Han Feng was overjoyed to see Xue Xiang's visit, and Xiao Fangfang also restrained her flirtatious manner and solemnly bowed to Xue Xiang.

After all, Xue Xiang's feat in Canaan County, if not nationwide, at least shook the entire Canglan Prefecture.

As the top courtesan, Josephine Siao was all too aware of the background and influence of a prominent family in the county.

Xue Xiang looked refined and gentle, and despite his young age, he had managed to wipe out the four great families of Canaan County in one fell swoop.

When the news came, Xiao Fangfang felt it was just a story from a novel and had no credibility whatsoever.

She only had to believe it after Han Feng confirmed the news.

Subsequently, she completely adjusted her mindset and placed Xue Xiang in an extremely important position.

She knew that Xue Xiang must have something important to discuss with Han Feng.

Unlike last time, she no longer acted coquettishly or sweetly, obediently leaving after serving tea.

Han Feng was extremely pleased with Xue Xiang's arrival and invited him to take a walk along the lake.

The night was deep and the lakeside was quiet.

A gentle breeze rippled across the water, and distant fishing lights twinkled like falling stars.

Han Feng was extremely interested in Xue Xiang's actions in Canaan County, so he asked in detail about the process.

Xue Xiang truthfully explained everything except that he attributed the reason for the arrival of the three Nascent Soul elders to one of his elders.

Han Feng clicked his tongue in admiration, "Brother, you have such a clever idea, both courageous and resourceful. The steps were all linked together, and you ultimately created a miracle."

Xue Xiangdao said, "To be honest, I had no choice but to do it."

I come from a humble background. This time, they attacked my family. If I don't retaliate with the strongest possible force, it will happen again.

This time, I used all my strength to annihilate the four major families, setting a precedent for those who come after me.

As for the reputation I might gain from being a cruel official in the court and in official circles, I can't care about that anymore.

Han Feng said, "Brother, there's no need to worry. Officials in the bureaucracy come in all shapes and sizes."

Behind every cruel official lies a capable one. In today's court, redundant officials and bureaucrats abound. My worthy brother has displayed extraordinary abilities, catching the eye of many important figures. Will he lack opportunities to utilize his talents in the future?

After comforting Xue Xiang, Han Feng took out a jade box and handed it to him.

Xue Xiang immediately recognized that the jade box was the one he had given to Han Feng, and it contained the jade scrolls he had obtained from the blessed land.

Before Xue Xiang could refuse, Han Feng said, "Take it back quickly. I've searched through everything inside. I spent a lot of money and hired an expert to check it thoroughly."

This is an ancient book of celestial patterns, all of which are ancient patterns.

I checked them one by one, and I could only understand about a hundred of them, which accounted for about 30% to 40% of the total.

I recorded it all as notes and copied it for you.

The rest, you'll have to figure out on your own.

Xue Xiang opened the jade box and found a jade scroll lying inside, with a book half a finger thick on top of it.

This must be the part of the ancient runes that Han Feng mentioned he had already figured out.

Xue Xiang had heard of Gu Wen.

The term "ancient pattern" has two meanings.

The ancient corresponds to the present.

The "pattern" refers to the dharma pattern.

Tattooing is an ancient art.

Today, it has been carried forward and developed to its fullest extent.

Rare symbols, elixirs, formations, and weapon crafting—each requires the use of magical runes.

Unlike other disciplines, the more ancient the Dharma runes, the closer they are to the fundamental mysteries.

Back then, Xue Xiang had focused his mind on the jade scroll, but he couldn't recognize the winding symbols at all.

Only then did he generously give it to Han Feng.

Unexpectedly, Han Feng displayed gentlemanly conduct, not only returning the item as is but also understanding 30% of the ancient patterns and copying a copy for him.

"Our friendship is so deep, it would be pointless to keep refusing to give way to each other."

Han Feng said seriously.

Xue Xiang accepted the jade scroll, and Han Feng then began to comment on the outstanding talents of the world with him.

This conversation lasted for an hour or so.

The thirteen states of the Great Xia Dynasty, and countless unknown lands overseas, are home to countless heroes and valiant warriors.

Xue Xiang listened intently. It was the first time he had ever known that there were so many extraordinary people in the world, and he felt a surge of pride and a desire to compete with them in their brilliance.

Han Feng patted Xue Xiang's shoulder lightly, "Brother, you are a rising dragon. You will surely soar to the heavens in the future. I firmly believe that."

However, a wise person will have their own methods for seeking the truth.

If you don't mind my rambling, my dear brother, I'd like to add one more thing.

Nowadays, the court is full of redundant officials and bureaucrats. If you follow the established procedures, you may ruin your future.

The opening of the northern borders was precisely the time for heroes to display their prowess.

"My worthy brother possesses such skill; why not venture north and seek fame and fortune?"

"I have the same idea, and I hope my elder brother can help me make a plan."

Xue Xiang had long harbored this idea.

You don't know how difficult something is until you experience it.

He exerted all his strength and made countless contributions in Canaan County, but he only managed to get the rank of ninth grade.

He heard that some of his fellow county students went directly to the north, where they were immediately promoted to the ninth rank, given official positions, and commanded troops, living a very happy life.

"Don't worry, my brother, I know what I'm doing."

Han Feng replied with a smile.

The two hit it off immediately and chatted for more than two hours.

Xue Xiang declined Han Feng's offer to stay overnight and returned home when he was done enjoying himself.

He returned to his rented room in Yong'an City overnight. Although Xue's mother and others had moved out, the original lease was for a one-year term.

Xue Xiang quite liked the alchemy room here, so he made it his place of residence again.

(End of this chapter)