Zhang Kui Asks the Way in Investiture of the Gods

The turmoil in Chaoge City did not affect Mianchi, which was in a remote corner of the country.

Inside the quiet room, Zhang Kui sat cross-legged, his mind focused on his dantian. The five-stage golden pill slowly rotated, radiating a harmonious and powerful magical energy.

Five divine power patterns—Nine Breaths Breath Control, Five Elements Great Escape, Subduing Dragons and Tigers, Size Control, and Flying Body Traces—were imprinted on him like stars, shining brightly. He carefully comprehended the subtle changes of each divine power under the control of the Golden Core, striving to reach the state where every thought and intention was perfectly aligned with his mind.

"Peak of True Immortal... just one step away from Profound Immortal." Zhang Kui looked inward at the five energies surging and circulating within his Crimson Palace, which shone brightly alongside his Golden Core. Now that his foundation was solid, and with the nourishment of Heavenly Dao merits, he could attempt to break through to a higher realm.

"Let's wait until we've completely captured the Yin-Yang Two Qi Bottle before attempting the tribulation. That would be safer." Zhang Kui felt the Yin-Yang Two Qi Bottle being suppressed by the five internal organs and five energies. A small portion of its surface restrictions had been worn away. Although he couldn't fully control it yet, he could already sense the primordial Yin-Yang power within it, which was still in a state of chaos. Given time, he would surely succeed.

The long-dormant Luobao Golden Coin remained as stubborn as a rock, but Zhang Kui could vaguely sense that the transformation within it had accumulated to a certain degree, waiting only for a trigger to reappear with its divine power.

Just as Zhang Kui was about to get up and stretch, his mind suddenly stirred, and his gaze turned to the southeast horizon.

"Such a familiar aura... Is it Grand Tutor Wen?" Zhang Kui raised an eyebrow, quickly calculating in his mind, "The Grand Tutor has just returned to Chaoge, the court is in turmoil, and everything needs to be rebuilt. Why would he personally come to Mianchi? Could it be... that there is some important matter related to me?"

In a short while, three streaks of light fell to the ground like meteors, landing in front of Jishan Hall. The light faded, revealing the figures of Wen Zhong, Ji Li, and Yu Qing.

Wen Zhong, dressed in a black python robe, had his divine eyes closed, exuding an imposing aura without anger, though a hint of weariness was hard to conceal between his brows. Ji Li and Yu Qing followed closely behind, their auras more refined than before, clearly indicating that their cultivation had improved.

"This humble general, Zhang Kui, pays his respects to the Grand Tutor! I was unaware of your arrival, Grand Tutor and the two fellow Daoists. I apologize for not being able to greet you properly." Zhang Kui stepped forward quickly, clasped his hands in a salute, and spoke with respect but without losing his composure.

Wen Zhong's gaze fell on Zhang Kui, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes: "No need for formalities. Zhang Kui, it's been several years, and your cultivation... has actually reached the peak of True Immortal? Moreover, the solidity of your foundation and the abundance of your blood and qi are truly rare. It seems you've had quite a few opportunities these past years."

Ji Li and Yu Qing also sensed the harmonious and profound aura emanating from Zhang Kui, and were greatly amazed. They quickly returned the greeting, saying, "General Zhang, how have you been?"

"I have only gained some insights, and I dare not accept such praise from the Grand Tutor," Zhang Kui said modestly, stepping aside to lead the way. "This is not the place to talk. Grand Tutor, fellow Daoists, please go inside for tea."

The group took their seats in the inner hall, and Gao Lanying came out to greet them upon hearing the news.

Upon seeing Gao Lanying, Wen Zhong sensed her Xuanxian cultivation level, which was the same as his own, as well as the pure Shangqing lineage of the Jie Sect. He nodded slightly and said, "This must be Gao Lanying, the disciple of Master Wudang. She is indeed extraordinary."

After exchanging a few pleasantries, Wen Zhong dismissed his attendants, his expression turning solemn, and cut straight to the point: "Zhang Kui, I have come here today because of a matter concerning the fate of the nation."

Zhang Kui remained expressionless and said, "Grand Tutor, please speak. This humble general is all ears."

"You must have heard about what happened in Chaoge." Wen Zhong sighed, his tone heavy with sorrow. "With Bi Gan's death, the court collapsed, and the evil forces grew stronger. Although I have put forward ten policies,... there are many obstacles. Now, the King of Pingling in the East Sea has rebelled again, and war has broken out once more."

Zhang Kui's gaze sharpened: "The King of Pingling of the East Sea? The Grand Tutor's intention is..."

"My original intention was to recommend you to the King to lead an army of 200,000 to quell the rebellion in the East Sea." Wen Zhong looked intently at Zhang Kui. "You have rendered great service in the North Sea, are proficient in military affairs, and your cultivation is exceptional. You are more than capable of undertaking this task. If you can pacify the East Sea, not only will the court be relieved of its worries about the east, but you will also be able to seize power through this military achievement. This would be a great benefit both in public and private."

Commanding the army to quell the rebellion? Zhang Kui's mind raced instantly.

This is a golden opportunity! Commanding an army of 200,000, and standing alone in command, would not only greatly enhance his status and influence within the military, but also allow him to bring trusted generals like Zheng Lun, Chen Qi, and Wu Wenhua, as well as his secretly trained "new army," onto the battlefield to forge a truly ironclad force in blood and fire. Moreover, the East Sea, near Jin'ao Island, might allow for deeper contact with the Jie Sect and the acquisition of more resources.

In an instant, Zhang Kui had weighed the pros and cons in his mind. He took a deep breath and replied in a deep voice, "I am honored by the Grand Tutor's trust and am willing to go! I will do my utmost to quell the rebellion and uphold the prestige of our Great Shang Dynasty!"

Seeing how readily he agreed, Wen Zhong's admiration deepened: "Good! I knew I hadn't misjudged you. However..." He changed the subject, a hint of helplessness on his face, "The King... did not grant permission."

Zhang Kui was taken aback upon hearing this, and muttered to himself, "King Zhou won't allow it? Grand Tutor, are you kidding me?"

"Your Majesty's intention is... for me to personally lead the army to the East Sea to quell the rebellion," Wen Zhong slowly revealed the final decision.

"Your Majesty's intention is... for me to personally lead the army to the East Sea to quell the rebellion," Wen Zhong slowly revealed the final decision.

Zhang Kui somewhat understood Wen Zhong's true purpose in coming here. With Grand Tutor Wen personally leading the expedition and no one in the court to oversee things, treacherous officials like Fei Zhong and You Hun would inevitably become even more unscrupulous.

"Rest assured, Grand Tutor!" Zhang Kui immediately stood up, clasped his hands in a fist and said solemnly, "Although I cannot accompany you on your expedition to the East Sea, I will guard Mianchi strictly, train the troops diligently, and keep a close eye on the movements of Chaoge. I will do my utmost to fulfill any of your orders, Grand Tutor."

That's exactly what Wen Zhong wanted to hear.

He nodded with satisfaction, stood up, and patted Zhang Kui's shoulder forcefully: "With your words, I have no worries about the rear during my eastern expedition. I am at ease with Huang Feihu in Chaoge City, but I still need your help to investigate the matter of the monster in the city."

He paused, then lowered his voice and said, "The situation in the court is treacherous, and we still need your support. If there are any changes in the court, act decisively and as you see fit."

"This subordinate understands!" Zhang Kui replied, bowing respectfully.

After giving his instructions, Wen Zhong did not linger. He, Ji Li, and Yu Qing needed to return to Chaoge to prepare for the expedition.

Zhang Kui and Gao Lanying personally escorted the three of them out of the mansion gate, watching them disappear into the horizon.

Back in the courtyard, Zhang Kui stood with his hands behind his back, gazing in the direction of Chaoge, his mind filled with countless thoughts.

"Husband, is the Grand Tutor's visit a blessing or a curse?" Gao Lanying walked to his side and asked softly.

"Good fortune may be a harbinger of misfortune, and misfortune may be a harbinger of good fortune." Zhang Kui's lips curled into a cold smile. "The storm is brewing, and we... will walk our own path."

He turned abruptly, his eyes flashing with a sharp light, and gave orders to Zhang Shan, who had rushed over upon hearing the news, as well as Zheng Lun, Chen Qi, and Wu Wenhua, who had been urgently summoned:

"Zhang Shan, time is of the essence. You must condense your martial arts dharma form within six months. Time waits for no one!"

"Brother, I understand." Zhang Shan also realized that the situation had changed.

"Zheng Lun, Chen Qi."

"Your subordinate is here!" The two stepped forward and bowed in response.

"How are the training of your Raven Soldiers and Flying Tiger Soldiers progressing? Within six months, I want to see two highly skilled and efficient Daoist troops."

"Yes, my lord!" Zheng Lun and Chen Qi replied in unison.

"Wu Culture!"

"Here!" Wu Wenhua's voice boomed.

"Recruitment and training of new soldiers will be doubled. You, Boyuan, Zhongqian, Shubao, and Jiyu will personally lead teams deep into the mountains and forests to hunt monsters, temper their blood and qi, and sustain themselves through battle."

Orders were issued in rapid succession, and under Zhang Kui's will, the entire war machine of Mianchi began to operate at an unprecedented speed and efficiency.

After arranging everything, Zhang Kui told Gao Lanying not to disturb him, and then returned to his quiet room alone.

The quiet room is secluded and isolated from the hustle and bustle of the world.

Zhang Kui sat alone on the futon, his eyes slightly closed, his aura as deep and still as an ancient well. Once his mind was clear and all was silent, he focused his inner thoughts, sinking into the depths of his dantian.

There, a jade bottle floats quietly. The bottle is ancient and simple. One side is filled with a pure white aura of extreme yang and strength, while the other side flows with a dark aura of extreme yin and cold. The two are intertwined and form a cycle. It is the Yin-Yang Two Qi Bottle.

Around the bottle, chains formed from five-colored runes could be faintly seen, tightly binding it.

"Hmph, don't think I can't do anything to you. Today I will use these five elements as a furnace to completely refine you."

The next moment, a strange change occurred in the quiet room.

Red, yellow, blue, white, and black spiritual light burst forth simultaneously from the five directions of his five internal organs, yet they were bound within this small space, intertwining and flowing, evolving into earth, water, fire, and wind.

Zhang Kui's face was like ancient jade, devoid of sorrow or joy. He formed the Five Elements Dao Seal with his hands, and the golden core within his body circulated rapidly. His immense magical power surged like a river, following a mysterious trajectory and flowing into his five internal organs.

The liver stores the soul, belongs to the wood element, and its energy flows freely, condensing into a green dragon coiling around it.

The lungs store the soul, which belongs to metal. Its qi descends and manifests as the long roar of a white tiger.

The heart contains the spirit, which belongs to fire. Its energy rises and transforms into the Vermilion Bird soaring through the sky.

The kidneys store essence, belong to water, and their energy is deep and subdued, manifesting as a black tortoise exploring the sea.

The spleen stores intention, belongs to earth, and its energy is neutral, forming a qilin to guard the world.

The five elements converge, and the five spirits manifest.

The five internal organs transformed into five furnaces, bursting forth with blazing divine light. Under Zhang Kui's deliberate guidance, the five elements of Qi converged, collided, and merged above the dantian.

"Refine!"

The five furnaces slowly pressed down, gradually engulfing the struggling Yin and Yang Qi bottles.

The bottle trembled violently, the yin and yang energies instinctively resisting. However, the five furnaces were incredibly tough, and no matter how the yin and yang energies clashed, they continued to rotate slowly, gradually eroding the will to resist on them.

Zhang Kui focused his mind and concentrated all his thoughts on the struggle within his body. Fine beads of sweat gradually appeared on his forehead, but his aura became increasingly powerful and vast.

Within the quiet room, spiritual light surged like a tide, and the essence of Taoism naturally arose.