A journey through the world of martial arts

Chapter 160 Both Sides' Schemes
Upon hearing this, Wei Feng opened his eyes, nodded to Meng Yu and Wang Xiao, and got up first, stepping down from the carriage.

Chu Fan saw the three people come out and gestured to them, "Three Daoist masters, please."

As he spoke, he led the way. With Chu Fan leading the way, they traveled smoothly and soon arrived at a magnificent palace with three gilded characters on it: "Mianzheng Hall".

Chu Fan spoke to the guards at the palace, who immediately went inside to report. A moment later, they came out and bowed to Chu Fan, saying, "General, His Majesty requests your presence."

"Master Wei, please."

Wei Feng and his two companions bowed and followed Chu Fan into the hall. Upon entering, Wei Feng found the place to be very spacious, making one feel small. A dozen or so golden paulownia pillars, each requiring two people to encircle, supported the entire hall. Mermaid lamps were lit on both sides, providing soft and clear light without any strange smell.

Chu Fan led the three forward and stopped three zhang away. Wei Feng looked up and saw a resolute and extraordinary middle-aged man sitting on the throne in front of him, wearing a black dragon robe with patterns that reflected a faint light under the candlelight.

"Your Majesty, these are the three Daoist masters I mentioned earlier: Wei Feng, Meng Yu, and Wang Xiao."

Upon hearing Chu Fan's words, Wei Feng and the other two immediately stepped forward and bowed to the Qi Kingdom monarch in front of them.

"How dare you not kneel before the king! What is your punishment?"

A sudden angry shout rang out, but Wei Feng had anticipated it. He calmly finished his bow, looked at the handsome young man, and said in a low voice, "I am now a person who has renounced the world. Except for my master and elders, I can disregard all worldly etiquette. I only bowed to you because I saw the majesty of the king. I am ashamed to accept the blame that this general has mentioned."

Upon hearing Wei Feng's answer, Chu Fan's eyes lit up slightly, but he then inwardly snorted coldly.

"Chen Ge is still so impatient. The King hasn't even spoken yet, so what right does he have to lecture us? Wei Feng's words are also impeccable. He's a recluse now, but if he gains the King's favor, will he become a worldly person?"

Upon hearing Wei Feng's words and seeing Chu Fan's mocking sword strike, Chen Ge's face immediately flushed red, and his lips trembled slightly. In the end, he remained silent. Meanwhile, the King of Qi's expression turned serious. He rebuked Chen Ge angrily, then turned to Wei Feng with a gentle smile.

"I heard from General Chu that Master Wei intends to spread his teachings in Qi. I wonder what his abilities are?"

The King of Qi was also impatient with playing riddles with Wei Feng. At his level, genuine talent and ability were more important than seeking fame and fortune. Although he had heard Chu Fan mention the extraordinary abilities of Wei Feng and the other two, seeing is believing. Even if he trusted Chu Fan, he still needed to verify it in person.

Hearing Wang Jun's words, Wei Feng felt relieved. It seemed that Wang Jun was a practical person, which saved him a lot of trouble.

"Since Your Majesty has spoken, I will humbly offer my humble teachings. Junior Brother Meng, you shall perform the wondrous techniques of my sect for Your Majesty."

Meng Yu responded and bowed to the king. The king watched with interest as Meng Yu performed his act. He knew a little about Meng Yu's name from Chu Fan, but Meng Yu's specific abilities had not been revealed. Now he would have to take a closer look.

Meng Yu stood in the center of the field, reached out and grabbed a black folding fan that suddenly appeared in his hand. Chen Ge, who was protecting Wang Jun, changed his expression and drew his sword halfway out. Wang Jun glanced at him, and the latter immediately sheathed his sword.

Meanwhile, Meng Yu reached out and flicked his fingers, unfurling his fan. A ball of dark light flew out from the fan, leaping into the air. Suddenly, it expanded and transformed into a screen of light. Just as the King of Qi and Chen Ge were surprised, a huge black shadow appeared in the screen of light, moving back and forth inside.

"Master Wei, this is..."

The ruler of Qi did not know what it was, but he felt that it had an extraordinary aura, like a divine beast.

"This is a strange beast that Junior Brother Meng tamed. It is called the Ink-Scaled Dragon Fish and is a descendant of the Flood Dragon. It has the ability to summon clouds and rain and calm the seas," Wei Feng explained to the king at the right time.

Upon hearing Wei Feng's words, the king's mind stirred. Did this mean that this beast had the ability to control the weather? For a country, national wealth and strength are of paramount importance, and favorable weather is indispensable. If his country mastered this skill, he could fulfill his wish and destroy the Jin state in less than ten years.

Thinking of this, the king's heart was filled with excitement, and he found the dragonfish swimming above even more pleasing to the eye.

Upon seeing this, Chen Ge's expression changed slightly. Looking at the king's appearance, Chen Ge was very worried. These three people were recommended by Chu Fan. If they were kept and given important positions, the king would inevitably praise Chu Fan, and Chen Ge would be at a disadvantage. This was not good news for him.

While Meng Yu was pondering, he manipulated the dragon fish to manifest its ability to summon clouds and rain within the light screen. Within the light screen, the dragon fish soared into the air, and with a sway of its body, boundless water vapor gathered, and rolling dark clouds gathered. In less than half a moment, sweet rain fell from the sky, nourishing all things, and clumps of emerald green grew rapidly at a speed visible to the naked eye.

"well!"

As the king watched the scenes unfold on the screen, he slapped his armrest and exclaimed in delight, saying that this one technique alone was enough to make him want to win over the people involved.

"If Junior Brother has such abilities, it seems that Master Wei's supernatural powers and methods are even more advanced. Perhaps he even possesses the art of immortality."

Chu Fan smiled when he heard the king's praise; the matter was settled.

Seeing this, Wei Feng nodded to Meng Yu, who immediately withdrew her supernatural powers, put away her folding fan, and returned to Wei Feng's side.

"Master Daoist's supernatural powers and magic are truly profound. I have witnessed them today. But does Master Daoist possess the art of immortality?"

Wei Feng then adopted a thoughtful expression, and under the expectant gaze of the king, solemnly declared: "This humble Taoist has no method for achieving immortality, only some techniques for prolonging life, which are far from achieving true immortality."

Hearing Wei Feng say this, the king was disappointed, but the thought of being able to extend his life by thirty years made him somewhat satisfied.

"It is already not easy to extend one's lifespan by thirty years. With such abilities, it would be a waste of your talents to simply pass on the Dharma. I have decided to invite you to serve as the National Preceptor. I wonder if you would be willing?"

Upon hearing this, Wei Feng stepped forward, bowed, and said, "Your Majesty, please forgive me. I am a person who has transcended the mortal world and cannot stay in the mortal realm for long. After four years, I will return to the immortal mountain. I am afraid I am not qualified to accept this position. I beg Your Majesty to rescind your decree."

The king was slightly taken aback upon hearing this, and then said, "Four years is neither a long nor a short time. Daoist Master, you need not decline. After four years, I will definitely select one of your disciples to continue in this position."

Upon hearing the king's words, Wei Feng immediately bowed down, followed closely by Meng Yu and Wang Xiao.

"This humble Taoist priest kowtows to express his gratitude for the Emperor's grace."

Originally, Wei Feng only thought he could get the opportunity to pass on his teachings, but he didn't expect this unexpected joy. There was no reason for Wei Feng to refuse. It would only be four years anyway. He would focus on passing on his teachings and leaving behind his lineage. Then he would let them act as his representatives to fight against the demon race.

"The Imperial Advisor may stay at General Chu's residence for now. Once all the palaces and buildings are completed, the Imperial Advisor will be invited to move in. General Chu, you may leave now."

Chu Fan immediately accepted the order. After Wei Feng and the other two bowed, they followed Chu Fan out of the main hall.

After the four men left, the king squinted and asked Chen Ge, who was standing beside him, "What do you think of these three?"

Chen Ge didn't know what the king meant. After thinking for a moment, he said, "Your Majesty, I think that Master Wei and the other two are virtuous men and could be of use to Your Majesty."

Upon hearing Chen Ge's words, the king opened his eyes and stared at him. Just as the latter was feeling nervous, a loud laugh suddenly rang out.

"You are quite honest. Indeed, I have always valued practicality in employing people. These three are quite capable and can help my ambition. Even if they have ulterior motives, I can bear it."

Hearing the king's domineering words, Chen Ge was startled. Just then, the king turned and asked, "I heard that Chen Cong took Chen Que to Anle City to seek medical treatment. I wonder if there has been any progress?"

“My uncle sent me a letter saying that Master Fu has received the Dragon King’s true teachings and has extraordinary magical powers, especially his medical skills, which can be described as bringing the dead back to life and healing flesh and bones. However, I do not know the specifics.”

When the king learned that Chen was seeking medical treatment, Chen Ge was not surprised. Firstly, Chen had not tried to hide it, and secondly, the king's intelligence network was a force that the court and the public were very wary of.

"Yes, if there is any news, have Chen Cong come to the palace. I have some questions to ask him in person."

"Yes," Chen Ge replied.

Ten days later, Chen Cong finally returned to Yuannan with his clansmen. After ordering someone to take Chen Que to rest, Chen Cong went to the main hall, where the head of the family, Chen Jue, was already waiting.

"Second brother, you must have had a long journey."

"Brother, you flatter me. But this hard work was worth it."

"Oh, it seems that my second brother has gained a lot from this trip." Chen Jue looked at Chen Cong's smiling face and knew that his son was definitely unharmed, but that alone was not enough to make him so happy.

Chen Cong didn't speak, but clapped his hands towards the outside. Four strong young men carried in a sandalwood frame covered with a red cloth. The four men carefully placed it on the ground, afraid of breaking it.

"Second brother, what is this precious thing that makes you so careful?"

Chen Jue also became interested. What good things hadn't the Chen family of Yuannan seen? Why was he being so serious? Just as he was about to lift the red cloth to take a look, his right hand was immediately pressed down by Chen Cong. "Second brother, what are you doing?"

"Brother, please dismiss the servants first. I will explain everything to you."

Upon hearing this, Chen Jue glanced at the serious-looking Chen Cong, his expression turned solemn, and he waved his hand, dismissing all the servants. Finally, Chen Cong closed the door, and seeing Chen Cong's demeanor, Chen Jue's face grew grave.

"Second brother, what exactly is this?"

"Brother, have you heard of the Dragon King of Anle City appearing in spirit?"

"I've heard about it. Could this matter be related to it?"

“Not only is it related, but it’s very closely related. My nephew’s strange illness was cured by the Dragon King, and the golden statue on this wooden frame is the one that my younger brother brought back.”

Upon hearing Chen Cong's words, Chen Jue jumped up in surprise. If he hadn't known that his second brother was a steady person, he would have kicked him out of the house immediately. How could they have so easily run into a celestial being descending to earth?

"Is this serious?"

"How could I dare to lie?"

Knowing that Chen Jue still had doubts, Chen Cong told him everything that had happened. An hour later, Chen Jue was finally convinced and sighed inwardly.

"This is truly a godsend, and also an opportunity for the rise of the Chen family. However, this sentence must still be reported to the King in time. Also, tell Ge'er to pay attention. If I'm not mistaken, the King will surely summon you soon."

"This matter cannot be kept secret. Do you have any instructions, elder brother?" With my grand return, the king will surely find out. Moreover, if I want to offer sacrifices to the Dragon King in the capital, I cannot bypass the king's side.

“Tell the truth, but this golden statue cannot be handed over to the king. You can emphasize the stakes involved.”

"My little brother understands."

Chen Jue looked at the golden statue covered with a red cloth and called out to the outside. Several guards in tight-fitting clothes walked in. Chen Jue gave an order to have the statue placed in the ancestral hall and to uncover it for worship on an auspicious day.

Just as the two were talking in the main hall, a person from the palace came and ordered Chen Cong to go to the palace to see the king immediately. Chen Jue had someone secretly send a gold gift to the messenger. The messenger touched it and said with a smile, "General Chen also gave instructions before I came here. Everything is in order."

Upon hearing this, Chen Jue and his companion secretly breathed a sigh of relief. After seeing off the messenger, Chen Cong immediately bathed and changed his clothes, then boarded a carriage and went to the palace. After being informed, he met the king.

Several hours later, Chen Cong returned from the palace with a calm expression. After discussing with Chen Jue, they finalized the family's grand plan.

The following day, a grand sacrificial ceremony began at the Chen family's residence. The Chen family invited all the noble families they were on good terms with to attend the ceremony, and even the king sent someone to attend. This made some people take it very seriously, and they all sent their most important family members to attend.

"The Chen family is really making a big show of things; even the king has sent people. It seems that today's sacrifice is no ordinary event."

"Just wait and see. We're a small family, we can't afford any more trouble. We'll be lucky if we can pick up a few things at the back."

Just as everyone was talking, a brilliant golden light suddenly appeared in the Chen family manor, followed by a refreshing sandalwood fragrance that filled their nostrils. Just as they were enjoying the fragrance, a cry of surprise startled everyone present, and they opened their eyes and looked in the direction indicated.

A magnificent sight unfolded above the manor, with colorful auspicious clouds and a golden dragon shadow appearing and disappearing. The sight startled everyone, who bowed down and kowtowed repeatedly, shouting "May the dragon protect us!" and "May the gods bestow blessings!"

A moment later, the auspicious clouds and golden light disappeared, and everyone stood up, all looking excited. They never expected the Chen family to have such an opportunity. It seemed that they were about to rise to prominence, and it was time for their own families to latch onto their coattails.

"The Chen family must have reported this unusual phenomenon to the king, which explains why the king is so lenient towards the Chen family."

"The things above are too far removed from us. As long as we manage our own little territory well and maintain close contact with the Chen family, we will surely reap the benefits in the future. It's time to change the gifts we're being given."

Not far from the Chen family manor, Wei Feng stared ahead with a solemn expression. The appearance of the golden dragon of incense earlier had really startled him. Incense deities are the most difficult to create, and he never expected that the demon race could create one in such a short time. There must be something strange about this.

In any case, the power of incense offerings has already caught the king's eye, so it's best to proceed step by step. As for whether the king wants to have his cake and eat it too, that's up to me to decide.

"The Chen family must be aware of the implications; it seems it's time to have a talk with them."

Turning to Wang Xiao beside him, Wei Feng asked, "Junior Brother Wang, are you confident about communicating with the Chen family?"

"Don't worry, senior brother. Leave this to me. I believe the Chen family is willing to sit down and talk with us. A lose-lose situation is not what they want."

"Yes, the shorter the better. I will cover for the king."

Wang Xiao nodded upon hearing this.

In the main hall of the Chen family's inner courtyard, apart from a few people, all were direct descendants of the Chen family.

"I'm sure you all understand what the king means. I hope you will all take good care of this matter of worshipping the Dragon King. I thank you all."

As he spoke, Chen Jue bowed deeply to the elders, who all hurriedly stood up upon seeing this.

"Patriarch Chen, there's no need for that. Since it is the king's word, we should certainly obey. However, we cannot get past Chu Fan. Even if he doesn't seem to be targeting us on the surface, if he makes a move in secret and we can't find any evidence against him, even the king can't show favoritism. Patriarch Chen, do you have a plan?"

"We have already dealt with this matter. Chu Fan only has two powerful backers: the king and that Taoist priest Wei, who is also the newly appointed national advisor. As long as we can persuade him, this matter will be settled, and Chu Fan will not be able to cause any major trouble!"

Upon hearing Chen Jue's words, the old man who had spoken earlier smiled and nodded, stroking his beard and saying, "Since the Chen family has such a solution, we have nothing to worry about."

An elderly man in fine clothes chimed in, saying to Chen Jue, "Tomorrow we will build momentum for this matter. The Chen family will also follow up on the subsequent arrangements. We will deal with the forces of the other families ourselves. We hope that the Chen family will give us a helping hand after the matter is accomplished."

"This is only natural. You all know my character. After the matter is completed, incense and a golden statue will definitely be offered."

"A word is settled!"

"A word is settled!"

After discussing for another half an hour, both sides left, leaving only the Chen clan members behind.

"Nephew Jue, this matter is of great importance. Are you confident?" Elder Chen asked in a deep voice.

"Not a perfect 10, but definitely an 8!"

The clan elder nodded upon hearing this and said nothing more. Let alone eight points, even if it were only five points, it would be worth the Chen family's gamble. Success would bring eternal glory, while failure would only result in the loss of power and position. Who knows if they could not start over in the future? In this light, it was a risk-free deal.

Nanling Prefecture, Yunmeng Marsh

In a mountain cave, Gu Xu was circulating his true essence. The true energy in his dantian had already merged yin and yang, and his primordial spirit behind him had also been condensed into a true form. In terms of cultivation, Gu Xu was the most powerful in the world at that time, and he had a greater chance of dealing with the great calamity of heaven and earth five hundred years later.

"Now the demon race is establishing incense and deities, the Supreme Path is spreading its true teachings, and the Demon Buddha is also making moves. The ten-year agreement has not yet been reached, and things are already so intense. It seems that the two sides are already at odds. The capital of Qi Kingdom is the first flashpoint."

Although Gu Xu was in Yunmeng, every now and then, the ancient elder who was in charge of the Zhenwu Hall would compile the recent events and send them to Gu Xu.

"We've already collected quite a few extremely Yin materials; it's time to head back."

He shone a beam of light outwards, and soon the Seven-Star Toad rushed in, obediently landing on Gu Xu's shoulder, its eyes looking at Gu Xu with a flattering gaze.

"You little rascal, after consuming so many poisons and elixirs, you've finally lit up seven stars. It's time to digest them properly."

With a flick of his sleeve, he erased all traces inside the cave, and with a flash of light, Gu Xu headed towards Lianyun Prefecture.

(End of this chapter)