Chongming Xianzong

Chapter 627 Recruitment
—A month later, outside the Qin State Duke's Mansion in Fengming Prefecture, Shanbei Circuit
The Grand Master Kang, who had just broken through to the mid-stage of the Golden Core realm, had removed his military uniform and was now dressed in the court robes of a marquis. Among the distinguished guests attending the ceremony, he was ranked only after a few True Persons.

At this moment, his face no longer bore the fierce expression he had during the fierce battle, but instead became peaceful.

As the melodious chimes echoed through the hall once more, he and Fei Nanying, standing beside him, adopted solemn expressions and bowed respectfully.

"Welcome Angel."

The Emperor said, "No need for formalities!"

Wei Dajian, whom Kang Dabao had seen before, was bathed in a warm halo of sunlight. With the help of Su Chen, a minor eunuch, he slowly landed on the welcoming platform that the Duke of Qin's mansion had painstakingly built.

His narrow eyes seemed to conceal daggers; as soon as they swept across the crowd below the stage, heads immediately disappeared.

Headmaster Kang never liked to show off at this time. After glancing at Jiang Qing behind him and confirming that he could rest assured, he hurriedly followed Boyue Fei Nanying and bowed deeply again.

Ignoring the thoughts of the cultivators below, Wei Dajian only glanced at Kuang Liuting and Bai Canhong, who were sitting side by side, before holding the bright yellow imperial edict and slowly standing beside the steps of the temporary government office.

He lightly brushed his sleeves against the wolf's head on the steps, and the spirit pearl held in the wolf's beak began to glow faintly.

Wei Dajian gently stroked the edict in his hand with the spiritual light, and only spoke after removing the seal on it.

The head of the eunuchs of the Great Wei Immortal Dynasty, a great figure who was secretly known as the "Inner Minister," spoke with a booming and majestic voice, which was completely different from the eunuchs in the minds of the cultivators.

But then, Eunuch Wei first announced the words "under the gate," so that everyone below the steps would hold their breath and listen attentively before the imperial edict was read aloud.

The imperial edict stated:

"Disciples: David Xianchao governs the four seas, inherits the foundation of the Taizu Emperor to unify the six directions; the southwestern territory stretches for thousands of miles, and has been fortified by hundreds of battles to secure the nine borders."

The Zhaixing Tower was established in the previous dynasty and has guarded the ruins of three roads through three dynasties, blocking the evil influence outside the barrier of Hanya Mountain. The border people once built a shrine to express their gratitude for its virtue. In recent years, due to concerns, it has temporarily left the royal court, but its people have not disturbed the neighbors, and its ruler has not forgotten his duty as a subject.

Now, Bai Canhong, having assessed the changing times, took the lead in advocating the cessation of hostilities. He sent an envoy with a memorial to express his sincerity, stating his wish to "abandon weapons and return to the Celestial Dynasty to jointly protect the peace and well-being of the people in the southwest." I was moved upon reading the memorial and commended his understanding of the times and his loyalty. Therefore, I hereby issue this edict to reassure his people and comfort their hearts.

Bai Canhong, who has long been in charge of the affairs of the capital, is well-versed in the border situation. In the past, he held the reins of power and was able to ward off evil forces on the frontier. Now, having received the sincere mandate, he should offer his loyalty to the emperor.

I hereby bestow upon him the title of Duke of Ji and Vice Commissioner of the Privy Council of the Northern Army, with the rank of Senior Second Grade, and place him under the jurisdiction of the Privy Council.

He was bestowed with a purple robe, a gold belt, and a gold fish-shaped tally, granted a fief of three prefectures, and awarded a four-tiered sacred mountain in the capital region. He was permitted to enter the court without bowing or using his name when praising or paying homage, so as to honor his rank, preserve his dignity, and not betray his sincerity in following righteousness.

The Zhaixinglou had 120 disciples, all of whom were skilled in spiritual arts and had a basic understanding of classical texts. In the past, they followed their master to guard the border, patrol the spiritual ruins, or apprehend evil cultivators, each having performed their duties.

Now that I have returned to the Celestial Empire, I should be blessed with the favor of being selected and recognized.

The seventeen Golden Core cultivators were all granted titles and ranks, and each was bestowed with a purple silk official robe. They entered the Ministry of Personnel to await the Emperor's favor.

Those below the Foundation Establishment level were all granted the rank of Senior Sixth Grade and below, and were assigned to various prefectures and counties in the capital region, the Lianghe region, and the Liangxi region.

Those in charge of the county and prefectural schools, who are in charge of teaching spiritual arts, are required to compile a "Basic Guide to Spiritual Arts" to teach students and are prohibited from teaching strange and unorthodox arts.

Those who enter local temples and perform rituals at the spirit market must follow the prescribed rites of the "Rituals of David" and must not confuse or disturb their neighbors.
The Zuoxiang County Government Office is responsible for pacifying and registering households, assisting in promoting agriculture and sericulture, arresting and apprehending evil practitioners who disturb the people, and prohibiting the unauthorized use of magic to bully the weak.

Each was given a pair of weapons, a hundred acres of spiritual land, and ten thousand spiritual stones.

You should all carefully observe the proper etiquette of subjects, and not fail to repay the Emperor's grace, so as to repay the Emperor's tolerant virtue, jointly protect the foundation of the Great Wei, so that the southwest may be free from the turmoil of war, and the people may live in peace and happiness, so that you may leave a small name in the records and avoid destruction from disaster.

The Lord will carry it out.

"By order of His Majesty, the edict has been read. You may rise and stand again to hear the instructions."

After reading the imperial edict, Su Chen carried the bright yellow edict down from the imperial platform. Only then did Bai Canhong slowly bend his knees, but instead of bowing down to kowtow like the others, he only lightly touched the stone steps with his knees and his forehead to the ground before lifting them up.

His movements were compliant, yet they seemed somewhat perfunctory. Although the disciples of the Star-Picking Tower behind him were all prostrate, he glanced at them out of the corner of his eye, and his brows furrowed almost imperceptibly.

"Your subject, Bai Canhong, has received Your Majesty's imperial edict."

The Star-Picking Pavilion Master's voice was flat at this moment, without the slightest warmth of gratitude. When he mentioned "Your Majesty does not punish me for my past misunderstandings," he paused, as if he was suppressing something.

"Now that I have been granted this post, I will naturally follow your instructions to discuss border strategies in order to repay the country's kindness." The last sentence was spoken lightly, without any of the earnestness of "I would rather die than repay it."

Everyone present knew that Bai Canhong still harbored resentment, but they also didn't know what great benefits Emperor Wei and Kuang Liuting had offered to the Lord of Zhaixing Tower to persuade him to accept the offer of amnesty.

David Xianchao, the Vice Privy Councilor and Assistant Minister of the Northern Court, and the Duke of Ji, held a prestigious title and a highly important post.

However, this position has always been limited to discussing military affairs and advising on border strategies. When it comes to reports from border towns and discussions on the defense of Lingxu, they are allowed to sit in the ranks and give their speeches, but they do not have the authority to deploy troops or participate in the investigation and coordination of the Imperial Guards.

These seemingly trivial tasks might seem glamorous to an ordinary Nascent Soul cultivator or a free spirit, but compared to a Dao Lord like the Star-Picking Pavilion Master, who is a powerful but nameless figure, they are far inferior.

Not to mention, the cultivation resources available to both are far inferior. In addition, the disciples accumulated by Zhaixinglou still need to be scattered in various places to serve the Kuang family clan.
The more Master Kang pondered, the deeper his doubts became.

You should know that, according to the old bird of the Fei family, the little things that Bai Canhong has obtained so far were only obtained by giving up the great treasure promised by Taiyi Temple and adding the head of the demon officer next to Wei Dajian.

"How pitiful Feng Wenyao is, having met such a bad man!"

Kang Dabao carefully examined the pair of bright wolf eyes. He had heard that this creature could be used to refine pills that aided in the advancement of the Golden Core stage. He would be happy to have a look at it.

Suppressing his distracting thoughts, he turned his gaze back to Kuang Liuting. He had heard from Ancestor Tianqin that the Star-Picking Tower's eventual restoration was largely due to the efforts of this Duke of Qin.

This deal might seem unprofitable to those who don't know how to do business, but Master Kang can discern some other tricks in it.

In his view, the Kuang family clan had a bad reputation and was hard to win people's hearts in the past, which was because they had been tyrannical since the time of Emperor Taizu.

If the current emperor could rule the world like the founding emperor, and all of David would submit to him, then there would be no fear of people being in a state of panic.

However, the situation is now very different from before. It is obvious to all that Bai Canhong and Ying Taiyi Temple have instigated the rebellion. But in the past, the big shots of various families never thought that the Lord of Zhaixing Tower would be given preferential treatment and be granted a title.

Although Emperor Wei's actions in accordance with Kuang Liuting's advice had its drawbacks, the rare instance of making an example of someone to deter others was one of them.

However, this also leaves a way out for those who are caught between two extremes. No matter what the downsides are after being recruited by the Kuang family, at least when they are in dire straits, they will no longer have the idea of ​​mutual destruction, and they will always have a choice.

This is generally a good thing for the various families who are still navigating between the Taiyi Temple and the Kuang family clan. If they see Bai Canhong rise to a higher position after entering the court as an official, then their minds will likely become much more at peace.

Sect Leader Kang had no doubt about this; Bai Canhong, who had offered up a piece of land, would undoubtedly receive a life of honor from the Celestial Dynasty. The title "Master of the Star-Picking Pavilion" was inscribed in gold by Emperor Wei to announce this to the world; how could he bear to see it tarnished even slightly?

It should be known that the Kuang family's reputation for cruelty and brutality is already deeply ingrained in people's minds. In Kang Dabao's opinion, if this matter can slightly reverse the situation, it would be worthwhile.

From this perspective, the idea that outsiders have always said that Bai Canhong's initial thought of "murdering and arson to be recruited by the government" has been fulfilled.

Qin Guoping pacified the three southwestern routes, and also acquired the leaderless ancient Xuandao Yuejian Mountain. He even introduced a seasoned master like the Master of Zhaixing Tower to the imperial court, thus making a fortune.

From this perspective, the current outcome truly seems like a happy ending for everyone. However, whenever he thinks about the lives lost on both sides during this period, Master Kang feels that it is somewhat absurd.

In the end, this vast and boundless Great Wei Immortal Dynasty is nothing more than a game of chess played by those high-ranking cultivators, and few people really care about the billions of living beings on it.

Kang Dabao suppressed his thoughts of "purifying the corrupt world" and put on a respectful expression. He watched as the Grand Eunuch Wei slowly descended the steps so that he could have a serious conversation with Bai Canhong, the newly appointed Duke of Ji.

However, this leisurely time did not last long before it was time to perform the ceremony again.

In recent years, the visits of the three imperial envoys from the southwest have become quite frequent, which has honed the skills of the Qin State Duke's mansion in welcoming them. Even after Grand Eunuch Wei finished reading the imperial edict, he still had to solemnly complete the rituals according to the "Imperial Guard Etiquette Code." Kang Dabao patiently followed Fei Nanying through the formalities, and only breathed a sigh of relief after the ceremony was over.

Afterwards, no important figures remained in the same place. Such a gathering of people of the same rank was a rare treat for them. When Kuang Liuting discussed matters with the True Men, he always only summoned Fei Tianqin, this old bird, to listen in.

This time, Sect Leader Kang originally thought that he had made great contributions and had some ambitions, but in the end, he still failed to achieve his wish. However, he has always been good at making decisions and is happy to relax after not getting involved in the affairs of those important figures.

There was no banquet for this ceremony, which Kang Da Sect Leader found rather uninteresting, and he was about to pull Jiang Qing away with him.

After all, Chu Yanran, who had also made meritorious contributions, was also coming to the Duke's mansion to report her achievements, and Kang Dabao's eldest son, Kang Changyi, whom he hadn't seen for a long time, was fortunate enough to come along.

While he rarely gets involved in matters of state and military affairs, he certainly cannot miss this long-lost father-son bond.

Unexpectedly, just as he turned around, Kuai En, who was also standing at the front of the line, came looking for him again.

This prince consort of the imperial family performed exceptionally well in the most crucial battle.

They killed several Golden Core cultivators and demon officers in succession, including Zeng Zhang, a demon officer under Feng Wen who had escaped from Kuang Liuting's clutches. This added a lot of glory to the face of the Southern King Kuang Shenzhi, who was not present.

In this light, even though he met a renowned teacher when he was nearly fifty, his Mingxing Xuanshu Body is indeed extraordinary, and Kuai En is a disciple of the Southern King in this life, so his future is still very bright.

"Uncle, please wait a moment," the Earl of Feng'en said modestly when facing Kang Dabao, but after Kang Dabao caught up and bowed, he then spoke:
"I wonder if you and Fellow Daoist Jiang have any free time? I have found a piece of blue-feathered sparrow liver here. After being cooked by the chef of the Prince's Palace, it has the effect of brightening the eyes and calming the mind. I know that you are skilled in pupil magic, which would be perfect for you. I wonder if you could spare some time to talk to me?"

Headmaster Kang did not hesitate upon hearing this. After all, he rarely refused a free meal, and he had never intended to sever ties with Kuai En.

Kuai En went to great lengths to host this dinner. Not only were Kang Changyi and Chu Yanran invited early on, but even Luan Gongfeng, who was usually in seclusion refining elixirs, was invited as well.

Seeing Luan Gongfeng's overjoyed expression, Kang Dabao felt somewhat relieved. Back then, he had indeed invoked Kuai En's reputation as a disciple of the Southern King to save Pei Yi's life.

Even now that he has achieved the Golden Elixir, and his relationship with Luan Gongfeng has become much closer, there is still some suspicion of deception in his actions back then.

Kuai En's courteous treatment of Luan Gongfeng, a guest of the aristocratic family, can be seen as helping Headmaster Kang save face and ease his mind.

Kang Changyi had rendered meritorious service on the front lines, and only after the Grand Master Kang examined his injuries and mental state was he satisfied.

His four sons and one daughter, who were able to cultivate themselves, were not by his side at the moment. Even though they corresponded, he could never feel at ease. Only after seeing that Kang Changyi was truly alright could he finally relax.

“It is through life-and-death trials that one grows into such a resolute and iron-willed man.” Kuai En uttered a pleasant remark, walked to Kang Dabao’s side, and hurriedly pulled the father and son to their seats.

The eight-immortal table in the side hall was already neatly arranged, with celadon plates and cups adorned with spiritual chopsticks. The steam carrying the fragrance of spiritual energy permeated the room, creating an elegant and refined atmosphere.

The most eye-catching dish is the "Azure Feather Sparrow Liver" in the center—a three-inch-long sparrow liver lies in a porcelain bowl, its entire body amber in color, drizzled with a layer of honey-soaked spirit flower sauce, the sauce is translucent, and it is also adorned with a few pieces of refreshing grass that look like crushed ice crystals.

Kuai En smiled and explained, "This sparrow liver was taken alive by me on the battlefield. I soaked it in the snow water of Ling Mountain for half an hour to remove the blood, and then soaked it for a long time in the 'Truffle Spirit Spring' made by the Prince's Mansion before it was considered ready."

Kang Dabao scooped up a piece with a silver spoon. It was delicate and smooth in his mouth. The refreshing taste of the spring water mixed with the rich flavor of the sparrow liver spread on his tongue. Sure enough, a warm feeling slowly spread to his eyes, and he couldn't help but nod.

He was somewhat surprised: "My Golden Eyes of Truth have already reached perfection, and things that can make my eyes clear are becoming increasingly rare. I never thought that the Azure Feather Sparrow Liver could be one of them."

Master Kang quickly finished the delicacies on his plate, and then thought about when he should go and find a third-tier spirit bird to aid his cultivation.

"I just don't know if Shilun's skills are up to par!"

As everyone ate and chatted, the dishes on the table gradually dwindled, leaving hardly any soup. Kang Dabao patted his stomach and laughed, "This meal from the Earl of Feng'en is not only delicious but also beneficial for our cultivation. It's much more substantial than those banquets that only focus on appearances."

Upon hearing this, Kuai En smiled and said, "I'm glad you like it, Uncle. If you have any good ingredients in the future, please come over for another small gathering."

"Oh?"

"I have received the imperial decree, and for the next hundred years, I must serve in the south of the mountain. I will need your help in all matters."

Kang Da was slightly surprised. What exactly was the key location in Shannan? Emperor Wei was not satisfied with just throwing Kuang Liuting over there, and even wanted to transfer Kuai En to serve him.

"Was it possible that the Earl of Feng'en was to take command of the Imperial Guards in Shannan?"

"A peaceful and tranquil place is a long-term solution." Kuai En shook his head and smiled before speaking about his duties: "I am deeply grateful for the great favor of His Majesty. He has appointed me as the Chief Administrator of Shannan Circuit. If I encounter any troublesome matters in the future, I may need to ask for your help, Uncle."

"Lord Feng'en, you flatter me. It was just what I was supposed to do." Headmaster Kang's expression changed slightly upon hearing this. He had originally thought that he might be able to return to Yunjiao Prefecture to manage things after this battle, but if Kuai En took over Shannan, would it be more convenient? That was not necessarily the case.

"So this kid is using this feast to pay his respects to his superiors," Kang Dabao muttered to himself, even though he was already full, he still ate a few more bites.

After receiving a bag of "local products" and a beast core from Kuai En, he bid farewell to Kuai En with his junior brother, eldest son, and old friends, and headed towards Chongming Sect.

On the way, they naturally had to first thank Chu Yanran and her husband. As usual, Headmaster Kang treated them with the courtesy due to a junior, which Chu Yanran also dared not accept. It was only after the former insisted that she reluctantly accepted.

Chu Yanran had saved Kang Dabao and Chongming Sect from danger several times. Regardless of whether her original intention was to befriend the Black-Shoeed Taoist, in the eyes of the Grand Master Kang, this friendship was genuine. Therefore, he earnestly said:
"I have been fortunate to receive your guidance in the past, and now my son has been taught by you with great care and has achieved a bright future. I am deeply grateful and will never forget your kindness."

He then took out the bottle of Sanbao Miaohui Dan he had obtained from Yuejian Mountain Storehouse and presented it to the keeper: "I wish to use this elixir to express my humble sentiments."

Chu Yanran was quite perceptive; her gaze lingered on the Danwen (a type of magical artifact), and she was immediately captivated. Taking such a thing out might cost a Golden Core cultivator their life.

However, Master Kang simply gave it away casually.
This shows that the little sect leader back then, who was only a hundred years old, had already grown into a great figure whom she had to look up to.

Chu Yanran had already anticipated this change. This beautiful woman was quite magnanimous, and at this moment, she did not make excuses but accepted the blame with composure: "Then this concubine thanks Headmaster Kang, it would be impolite to refuse."

"Senior, please don't be so polite." Kang Dabao breathed a sigh of relief after seeing Chu Yanran accept the pill. The burden of favors was immense; repaying even a little would bring a sense of relief.

After presenting the pills, Sect Leader Kang pointed at Kang Changxi and said softly, "My son has been away from home for quite some time, and his aunts are very worried about him. I would like to ask for a leave of absence from you, senior. Please grant me permission."

"Your son is my fine student," the beautiful woman praised with a smile, which made Kang Changyi blush slightly.

Chu Yanran naturally had no reason not to comply. She extended her delicate hand and summoned Kang Changyi to her side, giving him some instructions before allowing him to return to Kang Dabao's side.

Just as Sect Leader Kang was about to take his leave, Chu Yanran's beautiful eyes flickered, and she called out to him, "Sect Leader Kang, please wait!"

"Does the senior have any further instructions?"

"I have a son who was found to have spiritual roots before the New Year. I wonder if he can join your sect and begin his cultivation?"

Kang Dabao was slightly surprised, but quickly replied, "Our clan is more than happy to have gained the trust and respect of our senior."

Chu Yanran arched her eyebrows slightly, nodded her head gently, and said in a cheerful voice, "Thank you, Sect Leader Kang. My husband and I will bring our son to pay our respects in a month."

"Then our sect will await the celestial music."

After Master Kang and his entourage had gone far away, Master Qi, who had remained silent until now, finally spoke. But when he sighed, a look of bewilderment returned to the departing VIP.

"Who would have thought that the disciple I hastily took in back then, just to get a few spirit stones and sell wine, would actually be able to provide assistance to Madam and secure a future for Lang Ge'er?"

Chu Yanran's eyes were similar to her husband's, but she was much stronger in spirit and soon suppressed her feelings.

However, as she pulled Master Qi back, the beautiful woman had another thought: "This young Kang might actually become a great man no less than Hei Li in the future."

(Sorry, I suddenly realized that the author of this post retweeted yesterday's post, so I revised it. That's why it's so late.)
(End of this chapter)