In the name of supernatural powers

Chapter 167 Bow Divine Power

Hunyuan.

Lu Zhao entered the Hunyuan realm again.

This time, the old Taoist priest did not stir the pool, but sat inside the Taoist temple.

But a stick was stuck in the pool, automatically stirring it. Lu Zhao glanced at the pool as he passed by, and the blue goldfish sprayed water at him, wetting the hem of his clothes.

Lu Zhao walked up the steps and entered the Taoist temple.

The old Taoist priest awoke from his meditation and saw that Lu Zhao's clothes were wet. The power of the water beast was attached to him, but his foolish disciple remained unmoved.

With a wave of his hand, the water vapor dissipated.

Upon seeing this, Lu Zhao immediately became alert and asked, "Teacher, did you tamper with that goldfish just now?"

"Not too stupid."

The old Taoist priest nodded and said, "The Water Beast was originally a Taoist priest from the Jiajing era who was skilled in making talismans and had many techniques. Now it has been reduced to a wild beast and is no longer the Taoist priest it once was, but it can still use some techniques driven by instinct."

"Just like that pool of water that just now could continuously corrode your soul, its original intention was to refine you into a puppet. Your beastly nature is hard to get rid of, and you can't control your Qi, so in the end you can probably only fall into a deep sleep for a while."

Lu Zhao asked, "Did Master know him back then?"

The old Taoist priest said, "Of course I know them. There weren't as many cultivators in ancient times as there are now. Reaching the third level already makes one famous far and wide."

The potential of powerful individuals in ancient times was higher, but their numbers were far fewer than in modern times.

If the Ming Dynasty had had a leader as strong as those of today, I wouldn't have had to abandon the country and its people, thus exhausting the Ming Dynasty's fortune.

"You've married Miss Lin? My poor disciple, you may have run away with Miss Chen, but you can't escape Miss Lin."

The old Taoist priest sighed softly, as if he felt sorry for his disciple.

"This 'peach blossom fate' has never been a good omen since ancient times. You don't need to be sad. Since ancient times, beauties have always been won by heroes. A stunningly beautiful woman can't possibly have an entanglement with an old man in the fields."

Lu Zhao's lips twitched, looking as if he had swallowed a fly. He said, "This disciple is just helping her solve the problem."

The old Taoist priest feigned a question: "But you still got entangled with her. Didn't you say your heart wasn't in this?"

"I'm just helping her deal with things at home."

“We have always judged people by their actions, not their intentions, but we cannot judge people by their intentions, not their actions. You are already husband and wife in fact.”

"..."

Lu Zhao was speechless.

The old Taoist priest let out a hearty laugh, feeling extremely relaxed.

His disciple had always been upright and unyielding, and always contradicted his teachings.

Now he himself has suffered the consequences; he still couldn't escape the clutches of power.

He suppressed his laughter, his expression becoming more serious, and said, "As Zhuangzi said in his Treatise on the Equality of Things, 'If one follows one's own preconceived notions and takes them as one's teacher, who is the only one without a teacher?'"

"A person's right and wrong are based on his position. What a gentleman considers right may be wrong to a petty person. We cannot condemn a petty person who is only trying to survive, nor can we dwell on the flaws of a gentleman."

"You yourself have said that ideals are meant to blossom upwards and take root downwards, and taking root inevitably involves getting muddy."

Although the old Taoist priest was pleased that his disciple had failed him, a teacher's duty is to impart knowledge, teach skills, and resolve doubts.

His disciple was confused, and he had to explain it clearly to prevent Lu Zhao from being misled by evil words and slander in the future.

The old Taoist priest had seen too many similar people and things; many famous officials had been brought down by sabotage and malicious gossip.

Life is rarely smooth sailing. Throughout history, countless great figures have experienced hardships, and many wise rulers and virtuous men have left behind stains on their records.

Does that mean we can deny everything about them?

In the old Taoist's view, Lu Zhao was only just getting started, and only when he had achieved complete success and reached the end could a conclusion be drawn.

The merits and demerits of a person's life can only be definitively judged after death.

Upon hearing this, Lu Zhao was slightly taken aback, his frustration dissipated, and his thoughts became clear.

Lin Zhiyan's matter was secondary; what truly perplexed Lu Zhao was the issue of 'trading ports'.

He once used beef smuggling to take down Lü Jinshan and defeat Zhao De. Now he sits in Lü Jinshan's position, but Zhao De and his vested interests still exist.

They not only didn't become his enemies, but instead invited him to their table.

Lu Zhao became a beneficiary, becoming the former Lü Jinshan, and even surpassing Lü Jinshan.

Is it a form of corruption to cooperate with former enemies in order to rebuild one's hometown? More accurately, once cooperation begins, it will happen countless times in the future.

Can I guarantee that I will stay on the right path in the future?
But his master's words enlightened him: in one's position, one must fulfill one's responsibilities.

It is a true dereliction of duty for an official to fail to benefit the people.

He clasped his hands and bowed, saying, "Thank you for your teachings, Master."

The old Taoist priest said, "Now that you have understood, you should listen more to your teacher's teachings in the future."

Lu Zhao replied, "I understand, and I will certainly follow Master's teachings."

"..."

The old Taoist priest was already used to this, and asked, "Did that girl tell you about the Dragon-Subduing and Tiger-Taming Divine Power?"

Lu Zhao repeated Lin Zhiyan's words.

He asked, "Then how should this disciple choose the sequence of the Dragon-Subduing and Tiger-Taming Divine Powers?"

After a moment's thought, a glint of inspiration appeared in the old Taoist priest's eyes. He observed Lu Zhao's destiny and then examined the meridians throughout his body through the internal and external aspects of his spirit and soul.

At the first stage of perfection, the soul and the physical body are in harmony.

Lu Zhao's bone structure is characterized by the sun, moon, dragon, and tiger, and his destiny is governed by the Ziwei Blood Bathing Plate, making him both extremely noble and extremely ominous, and also most suited to the supernatural powers of subduing dragons and tigers.

One's own malevolent nature aligns with supernatural powers, which in turn provide the ability to protect one's life.

So the old Taoist priest kept whispering in Lu Zhao's ear that even if Lu Zhao and Lin Zhiyan were not destined to be together, he would still use some means to get them together.

Only by becoming powerful can Lu Zhao serve him.

"All three are suitable for you, but the knife is the most suitable. The Dragon Subduing and Tiger Taming Divine Power is fierce and malevolent, and the knife has the heaviest malevolent aura among all weapons."

The old Taoist priest changed the subject, saying, "However, I think we should choose the bow. All things are divided into Yin and Yang, which are both mutually opposed and intertwined."

"The bow's killing intent is not too strong, which is the best, and it can also be compatible with your first divine power."

This aligns with Lu Zhao's thinking.

He had no experience with cold weapons; swords and spears required him to spend extra effort to practice, but bows were not so costly.

"Then this disciple will obey Master."

Lu Zhao then brought up the matter of Buddhism, wanting to hear his master's opinion.

In matters involving disputes between various forces, the master is also a god-like figure.

"Hehe, these bald monks are as shameless as ever."

The old Taoist priest looked disdainful and said, "The Heavenly Gang and Earthly Fiends have existed since ancient times, even before Buddhism was introduced to the Central Plains. How did they become their legacy?"

"You don't need to pay attention to them. If you want to reach the top, you will inevitably make many enemies. Even the big tree that protects you now may become your obstacle in the future."

"Today, I will teach you something new."

As he spoke, the old Taoist priest took out a blank book from his sleeve.

Lu Zhao took it and opened it, but couldn't see any words.

The old Taoist priest handed over a writing brush and said, "This is today's lesson: Interpreting the Scriptures."

“You have already grasped a portion of the power. What you need to do next is not to follow the rules, but to interpret them.”
-
September 10th, Cangwu.

Suddenly, news spread that the Lin family's only daughter had gotten married.

Liu Hanwen's strong reaction yesterday, involving Lin Zhiyan, naturally warrants an investigation from various factions.

If you don’t check, you won’t know. If you check, you will be shocked.

It seems that Chief Liu's beloved daughter has secretly married someone, a border region official with no real background.

This explosive news immediately attracted countless high-ranking officials within the system to gossip. They wanted to see if Chief Liu would break up the couple or stage another "beautiful flower stuck in cow dung" drama.

The events that happened in the capital a few years ago are still vivid in my mind.

Zhao De was a member of Chen's faction, and Chen Yunming was the first to learn about the situation, including Lu Zhao's dual supernatural abilities.

Inside the office of the Director-General of the Department of Finance, Taxation and Household Registration.

Lu Zhao's information appeared on Chen Yunming's desk for the third time. Even the second-in-command of Nankai Province did not expect that he would have to look at the information of such a minor figure three times.

The secretary clicked her tongue in amazement and said, "This young man is quite lucky with women. First it was your daughter, and now it's the only daughter of the Lin family. She is indeed very beautiful in the photos."

"There are rumors going around that Chief Liu is going to break up the couple."

"He'd better get rid of it, but that seems unlikely."

Chen Yunming said, "I heard from the Divine Power Academy that Scholar Han initially wanted to transfer Lu Zhao to the Divine Power Academy, but Chief Liu refused."

The secretary asked, "Should we do something?"

Chen Yunming shook his head and said, "No need, I don't want to get involved."

Although the reformists support Buddhism, and his leaders in Chang'an also support Buddhism, Chen Yunming does not think it is a good thing for a Buddhist master with the Heavenly Divine Power to appear.
-
Meanwhile, Lin Zhiyan returned to Cangwu and was immediately taken to see Liu Hanwen.

Inside the Liu residence, in the open hall.

Liu Hanwen sat on the sofa, next to a retired military officer, former Chief of the South China Sea Circuit, Mr. Lü.

He was ninety-three years old, with age spots dotting his loose skin, and his eyelids were always drooping, as if he were dozing off.

This elderly military commander had two students, one named Liu Hanwen and the other named Lin Yinong.

The secretary and Ding Shoujin were sitting on the sofa on the right.

Lin Zhiyan stood in front of everyone with his head down and remained silent.

Liu Hanwen said to Lü Jun, "Getting a marriage certificate with a strange man without saying a word, teacher, do you think this is appropriate?"

"She had only known that young man for less than six months before she dared to get a marriage certificate. If I hadn't discovered it in time, she might have already brought the child home!"

Lin Zhiyan pursed her lips, lowered her head, and remained silent.

I don't know who it is, but they're always pressuring me to go on blind dates. Every year on my birthday, I go to wish them a happy birthday, and the old man always says, "I don't have any wishes, I just hope to hold my great-grandchild before I die."

If I actually hug you, you won't be happy!
Lu Jun slowly waved his hand, his voice old and calm, and said, "Alright, Xiao Liu, you're over seventy years old and still so impetuous. Let the child speak first."

"Xiao Yan, come sit next to Master Lü first."

Upon hearing this, Lin Zhiyan immediately rushed to Lü Jun's side, grabbed his arm, and said, "Master Lü is the best."

"Haha, you know Master Lü is good, but why haven't you come to see him before?"

Lu Jun asked, "You were definitely wrong this time. How could you secretly get engaged to someone you've only known for less than six months without telling your family?"

Lin Zhiyan said pitifully, "Master Lü, I know I was wrong, I won't do it again next time."

Lu Jun said, "Just be more careful next time. You can go have some fun now."

"Thank you, Master Lü!"

Lin Zhiyan breathed a sigh of relief and ran out of the open hall.

Liu Hanwen said angrily, "You just keep spoiling her. That's how she got spoiled."

Lu Jun's tone remained calm and unhurried as he said, "As long as Xiao Yan is happy, everything else is minor. Besides, I've looked at that young comrade's information, and he's a perfect fit in every way."

"Are you going to break up this loving couple? Where are you going to find someone with dual supernatural powers that Xiao Yan likes and who can inherit the Dragon-Subduing and Tiger-Taming skills?"

"..."

Liu Hanwen was speechless.

He couldn't find it, but the feeling of having his own cabbage suddenly eaten by a pig was unpleasant.

According to the original plan, we should have observed him for a period of time to see his character and abilities before making a decision.

Lu Jun asked, "More importantly, what are your plans for handling the affairs of the state?"

Liu Hanwen replied, "Relocating industries inland will boost the economy. The people have been suppressed for too long, and this cannot continue."

Lu Jun asked, "I'm talking about the people of the State. They were once part of the Federation. Shouldn't we at least give them food to eat?"

Liu Hanwen fell silent.

His teacher was one of the conservatives who were ousted from power. They advocated for the acceptance of everyone and for uniting people all over the world to fight against disasters.

The state-owned districts are their achievement.

But reality is often harsh. The Federation cannot resolve the conflicts between different ethnic groups and cultures, so how can it unite everyone?

Liu Hanwen disagreed with his teacher's approach, so he joined the "reformists," which is now the establishment.

Seeing that he could not get an answer, Lü Jun sighed and said, "We made a mistake back then and failed to handle the issue of the people well. But seeking common ground while reserving differences is always the right thing to do. If the Federation wants to revive, it must solve the problem of the Chinese and the barbarians."

Liu Hanwen said, "That's not something I should be thinking about. My historical responsibility and mission is to achieve economic recovery and free farmers from their burdens."

He helped to establish the rationing system, and it should be his responsibility to end it.

Lu Jun said no more, "Play a couple of games of chess with me. It's been a long time since you've come to play chess with me."

Even if they are as close as father and son, they will turn against each other if they have different beliefs.

He was a loser in the arena of power and had no right to point fingers at the victors.

--------------

September 11th, Ant Ridge.

As always, Lu Zhao conducted life development in the morning.

[Vitality: 63]

On average, it's 0.3-0.4 per day, and I expect to reach 70 next month. I'm ready to break through this mental barrier.

After the heart is strengthened, it can nourish the body through the circulation of Qi, and muscle strength will gradually increase, the exact amount of which varies from person to person.

According to the data Lu Zhao had seen, the average level of a second-tier superhuman is 10-15 times that of an ordinary person, and they are capable of wrestling with an adult brown bear.

"I need to prepare the materials for the Five Elements Pill, otherwise I'll be stuck at the mental barrier and unable to advance."

Lu Zhao discovered that the speed of life development was a bit too fast, so much so that he hadn't even prepared the potion to break through the fifth level yet.

I go to the cafeteria for breakfast at 8 a.m., have a routine meeting at 9 a.m., and meet with important business guests at 10 a.m.

Lu Zhao ate lunch at noon, rested until 1 p.m., and then continued working. At 2 p.m., he received a notification from the Extraordinary Rating Department that he had passed the rating and officially become a second-tier extraordinary being certified by the Federation.

From now on, there will be a subsidy of one thousand dollars every month, and you can apply for drugs that can help you break through five barriers within the federal government.

At 3 p.m., Han Dong came to examine Lu Zhao again. After a brief conversation, he also recommended that Lu Zhao undergo surgery first.

Han Dongcai said, "Close combat is too dangerous. You're an official, not a ruthless bandit. Solve problems through the system, instead of rolling up your sleeves and getting involved yourself."

"I'm going back to Cangwu next week. Remember to report to the Divine Power Academy next year. I'll personally sponsor some medicine to help you break through the fifth level."

At 7 p.m., Lin Zhiyan called, briefly explained the situation, and then they chatted casually.

Most of the time, Lin Zhiyan was the one talking, and Lu Zhao would just give a simple "hmm" to indicate that he was listening.

The call ended at 10 p.m. at Lu Zhao's suggestion.

The remarkably similar pace of life continued until October, when the work at the treaty port was fully implemented.

Originally an agricultural area, Ant Ridge has seen the emergence of many companies, mainly in transportation and slaughtering, providing a large number of jobs for the local area.

If all goes well, the family's annual income, which was originally less than 30,000 yuan, can double to 60,000 yuan, which will also boost the local economy and industry and indirectly create more job opportunities.

This was Lu Zhao's first achievement as an official.

On October 1st, Han Dongcai left Fangshi and returned to Cangwu.

Meanwhile, the city's executive office welcomed a group of special guests.

The bald heads reflected the light slightly as a group of monks came to the door.

(End of this chapter)