The Dao Sovereign of Shennong

The silence on the Myriad Dao Plains was deafening before it exploded into a cacophony of shouts.

"What just happened? It was too fast!"

"I couldn't even see clearly. How did it end with just a corpse left behind?"

"Pure Essence Projection! It's the overwhelming force of Pure Essence Projection. Could it be that Zhao Xing has broken through to Third Rank?"

"Even Lian Tianyu and Zhang Han, both military marquises seasoned in the battlefield's sea of blood and corpses, are gone just like that?"

"This is terrifying. Liu Tianning has actually trained such a monstrous disciple."

"If even Pure Essence Projection can't be unleashed, who could still stand against Zhao Xing?"

"Hahaha! Those who opposed, come on, send more people!"

"Kang Zhengxian, Chu Qianqiu, Zhong Yuan—are you going to keep sending challengers?"

Below, the trio of Wen Weiqi, Xin Bojian, and Yu Gongzhi stared in stunned silence at the spectacle.

"Senior Brothers, am I seeing things? Is this something a human can actually achieve?" Wen Weiqi asked, dumbfounded.

"You're not mistaken. He really fought seven opponents at once and achieved such a clean and decisive victory," Yu Gongzhi muttered, his gaze drifting to the bloodstained remnants on the ground. "If it were us, we'd be no more than those bones right now."

"No, even bones might not remain," Xin Bojian added grimly. "We're definitely not stronger than Lian Tianyu."

"Senior Brother's decision was truly wise!" Wen Weiqi and Yu Gongzhi said, their voices tinged with lingering fear.

If their teacher had been foolish enough to send them against Zhao Xing, the outcome would have been disastrous.

Even if they had been allowed to fight ten against one, what good would it have done? The result would have been the same.

Zhao Xing's combat power far exceeded anyone's expectations.

It wasn't just Kang Zhengxian, Chu Qianqiu, and Zhong Yuan who were shocked; even Liu Tianning and Xu Xing seemed slightly taken aback.

Zhao Xing's Pure Essence Soil appeared to possess a strength far beyond others.

Despite being classified as Fifth-Rank soil, it had achieved a crushing, absolute dominance!

"Who else dares?!"

Zhao Xing's thousand clones roared in unison. "Who else dares to oppose my master's proposal?!"

Xu Xing, observing from outside the barrier, gave Liu Tianning a subtle thumbs-up.

Your disciple is extraordinary.

Liu Tianning's lips curled into a faint smile.

The impact of this battle was undeniable.

Neither Chu Qianqiu, Kang Zhengxian, nor Zhong Yuan dared to send any more disciples into the ring.

The deterrent effect was crystal clear!

"Dean Chu, Dean Kang, Dean Zhong—are you satisfied with the caliber of my disciple?" Liu Tianning asked calmly.

Kang Zhengxian and Zhong Yuan immediately conceded, bowing slightly. "We underestimated your high disciple's capabilities, Dean Liu. The Seedling Method is indeed worth implementing. We misjudged."

With that, they clasped their hands in apology and descended.

Liu Tianning's gaze shifted to Chu Qianqiu, whose eyes reflected hesitation and inner turmoil.

Three of the defeated challengers—Zhang Han, Lian Tianyu, and Lin Haishan—were his disciples.

Although the Soldiers' Institute boasted considerable combat strength, their representatives had lasted merely one additional exchange.

And yet, they were utterly crushed.

His resolve faltered.

Seeing Chu Qianqiu's obstinance, Liu Tianning's eyes grew colder.

"Dean—"

Before their imminent Dao Struggle could commence, a rotund figure struggled into the air, accompanied by a loud declaration: "Dean Liu, we have no further objections."

"Uncle-Master, you—?" Chu Qianqiu froze, stunned by Jiang Yaochun's unexpected appearance.

"Qianqiu, Uncle-Master hopes you will stand firm for what is right," Jiang Yaochun said, his voice steady. "From what I know, Zhao Xing has only utilized the resources allocated for the first phase of the Seedling Method. He has yet to formally begin the second phase."

Chu Qianqiu's expression grew complicated.

Indeed, the resources Zhao Xing received from Shangluo Academy barely amounted to several billion in the first phase—far from the vast, hundred-billion-level allocations typical of later stages.

To achieve such growth in so short a time, his arguments no longer held water.

Whether it was due to Liu Tianning's discernment in selecting disciples or Zhao Xing's unparalleled talent, the evidence was irrefutable.

Zhao Xing's overwhelming strength spoke louder than any argument.

"So be it." Chu Qianqiu took a deep breath, his gaze gradually clearing.

His eyes reflected the distant Myriad Dao Tree as he declared, "I will fully cooperate with Dean Liu in implementing the Seedling Method."

With that, he descended alongside Jiang Yaochun.

Even Liu Tianning seemed momentarily surprised.

He had intended for Zhao Xing to make a statement through his performance.

But this impact had been far greater than anticipated.

The obstacles had been swept away entirely!

In the viewing stands, Lord Luo and Lord Tianyan couldn't help but laugh.

"Liu Tianning didn't even need to act. This young man handled everything."

"And that attitude—'Who else?'—so brazen! I love it!" Lord Luo declared. "The title of Marquis of Shenwei is well-earned, carrying the aura of invincibility."

Duke Wei nodded approvingly. "Indeed, this title is fitting."

Lord Tianyan pointed below, laughing. "Look at the members of Shangluo Academy who injured themselves beforehand just to avoid fighting."

"It's an old tradition," Duke Wei remarked. "When Liu Tianning first arrived at Shangluo Academy, his peers did the same."

Above the plains, Xu Xing's voice echoed once more.

"Any objections?"

"Any objections?"

"Any objections?"

Following the protocol to inquire thrice, Xu Xing nodded when no one spoke.

The transfer of authority was more peaceful than anticipated.

"From this day forward, the Seedling Method led by Dean Liu Tianning will be fully implemented!" Xu Xing announced.

Even the usually discontented Princess You Ruo smiled at this moment. "Zhao Xing, well done."

Much of the opposition within Shangluo Academy had been aimed at her.

Many disliked the close ties between Liu Tianning and the Ji royal family.

Now, Zhao Xing's display validated Liu Tianning's plan. The resistance against their alliance waned considerably.

Even eliminating opponents would not have extinguished their opposition as effectively.

"Senior Brother is amazing," Ji Zixuan said, her eyes sparkling.

Satisfied with the smooth progress of the plan, Zhao Xing retracted his clones and stepped back.

"Chu Qianqiu and Zhuang Darong are still alive, perhaps due to the presence of that tree guardian," Zhao Xing thought, his gaze falling on the large figure of Jiang Yaochun. The latter seemed to sense his gaze and returned it with a slight nod.

"Well, having a few strong individuals around could be beneficial when I eventually take charge of Shangluo Academy," Zhao Xing mused.

For a middle-tier Shennong of the Self School, training talents with a national-level perspective wasn't difficult.

However, higher grades, especially the Second Rank, are considerably rarer.

The loss of even one requires a long time to replenish.

Shangluo Academy, through its nearly three thousand years of development during the Great Zhou era, has always maintained a relatively small number of high-ranking cultivators.

And this was during peacetime!

If Zhao Xing were to take charge in the future, he didn't want to end up isolated, without any capable people at his command.

"Third order of business!"

Xu Xing continued.

"The barrier surrounding the Myriad Dao Tree will fully open tomorrow at dawn and remain accessible for a month."

"During this period, everyone will have the opportunity to enter the Myriad Dao Plains and observe the Myriad Dao Tree."

Cheers erupted instantly from the crowd below.

Not just the Shennong cultivators, but the guests who had traveled from afar also broke into smiles.

Many among them had come to Shangluo Academy specifically for the chance to witness the Myriad Dao Tree.

If it were only for the ceremony, the number of attendees would have been halved.

Who would have the time to travel such a long way just to watch internal disputes?

"The Myriad Dao Tree is a rare treasure and isn't often opened to such a large audience, let alone for a whole month."

"They say that each leaf of the tree contains the insights of the sages, and only Dao surpassing the First Rank contributes to the growth of the trunk."

"Though it primarily benefits the Shennong cultivators, the insights are still rooted in the universal principles of Yin-Yang, the Five Elements, and the rules of Heaven and Earth."

"A whole month? I'll need to eat my fill before going. Once I'm up there, I'm not coming down!"

"Up there? Each leaf of the Myriad Dao Tree exerts its own pressure. Very few people can climb it to view the leaves up close. Even observing from a distance is immensely beneficial!"

"..."

"Let's go and prepare!"

Many people remained on the Myriad Dao Plains, awaiting the opening ceremony the next day.

Zhao Xing returned to the warship with Liu Tianning.

"Well done," Liu Tianning praised without hesitation as he looked at Zhao Xing. "I didn't expect you to have grown to this level."

"It's all thanks to your guidance, Teacher," Zhao Xing said, bowing respectfully.

Without the help of Liu Tianning and Princess You Ruo, he wouldn't have obtained his first Spiritual Qi resources.

He wouldn't have broken through the Fifth Rank so quickly either.

Later, during the rebellion instigated by King Liang, it was also due to Liu Tianning's arrangement that he had two identities, allowing him to seize the initiative.

The Heavenly Spirit Pearl he obtained afterward wouldn't have even been a consideration.

Without Liu Tianning and Princess You Ruo's assistance, Zhao Xing estimated that he might have reached the Fifth Rank in Emperor Jing's era at the usual pace. With some luck, he could have reached the Fourth Rank, but that would be the extent of it.

Now, however, Emperor Jing's reign hadn't even concluded, and he had already achieved the Third Rank and been conferred the title of Marquis, though he had yet to claim his Third Rank Fortune award. Once he returned from the Ancient Dragon Court, he would be able to receive it.

"I am now officially Shangluo Academy's top candidate for leadership," Liu Tianning said. "There are still some crucial matters I need to discuss with Dean Xu and other key figures in the academy."

"For the time being, you can stay here. Take the chance to study the Myriad Dao Tree or explore other treasured locations."

"I'll inform you when there's news."

When Liu Tianning spoke of results, he meant real results.

To put it bluntly, he intended to secure some benefits for Zhao Xing!

Some of the treasures borne by precious or rare trees yield extraordinary effects.

The drawbacks of the Myrad Law Manifestation Technique had always weighed heavily on Liu Tianning's mind, especially since he had led Zhao Xing down this path.

He needed to prepare early to mitigate and delay its inevitable repercussions.

"Please take your time, Teacher. I'm in no rush," Zhao Xing said with a smile. "I'll take this opportunity to study the Myriad Dao Tree."

He could tell Liu Tianning was a bit anxious, partly due to concerns for him.

However, there was no way Zhao Xing could reveal the truth to his teacher—that his cultivation method, the Derivation Divine Art, included a supreme-level secrecy seal that prevented him from explaining it even if he wanted to.

"Very well, go ahead. But don't delve too deeply. I'll call you over to eat when certain rare fruits ripen. Their flowering and fruiting happen in an instant."

"Understood," Zhao Xing said with a bow.

He left the Golden Dragon warship and prepared to pilot his Silver Dragon Airship to the barrier entrance of the Myriad Dao Plains.

"Senior Brother, are you heading to the Myriad Dao Plains to await the Myriad Dao Tree's opening?" Ji Zixuan appeared at the bow of the ship.

"Junior Sister, are you planning to go as well?"

"Yes," Ji Zixuan nodded. "May I ride with you?"

"Of course. Come aboard." Zhao Xing gave her a curious glance.

The two had known each other for over a decade, old acquaintances by any measure.

He noticed that Ji Zixuan seemed a bit awkward around him lately.

"Thank you, Senior Brother." Ji Zixuan obediently boarded the ship and even took the initiative to help Zhao Xing pilot the airship.

However, they hadn't flown far before a crowd of people surrounded them.

"Marquis of Shenwei! Zhang Zhen, Doctor of Canonical Studies from the Tianzhu Institute of Shangluo Academy, requests an audience."

"Doctor Zhao, I am Wu Lei from the Ziteng Institute. I sincerely seek your guidance."

"Master Zhao, would you be willing to lecture on your 'New Chapter of the Theory of Self and Nature'?"

"Doctor Zhao, I have a question—"

Various small airships converged, their passengers looking eagerly at Zhao Xing.

"Senior Brother," Ji Zixuan called out. "It seems a lot of people are looking for you."

"Hmm?" Zhao Xing stepped out to take a look.

In front of the airship was a dense crowd of people and boats, all shouting his name.

"Am I this famous now?" Zhao Xing couldn't help but chuckle.

Previously, as Liu Tianning's "top enforcer," he was tasked with carrying out missions.

Back then, who would dare approach him for advice?

Now that the Dao struggle had concluded, those concerns were gone.

As soon as Zhao Xing's Silver Dragon Airship left, everyone started following him!

Zhao Xing understood why this was happening.

The New Chapter of the Theory of Self and Nature!

Over a year ago, two new chapters were brought back by Pang Yuanzhen.

After more than a year of dissemination, they were now widely known throughout Shangluo Academy!

The higher-ups greatly appreciated the chapters, and the middle and lower tiers revered them!

Zhao Xing's Theory of Self and Nature had elevated the position of the Self School!

Currently, the Heaven School dominated the mainstream, and the Earth School was not far behind, both recognized as prominent academic traditions.

But the Self School had always been dismissed as a minor path!

The Five Elements and Four Seasons Theory of the Self School was mockingly referred to as the "Minor Five Elements and Four Seasons Theory" by adherents of the Heaven and Earth Schools.

It was infuriating! Unbearable!

Yet there had been little room for rebuttal.

Zhao Xing's two new theories had sent shockwaves through Shangluo Academy, especially among the Shennong cultivators, sparking an intellectual frenzy.

By proposing the use of extraordinary plants to alter heavenly timing and nourish the earth, he had essentially elevated the Self School above both the Heaven School and the Earth School.

From then on, when encountering cultivators from the other two schools, Shennong practitioners no longer needed to bow their heads meekly. Instead, they could argue their case with sound logic and solid evidence.

Ji Zixuan said, "Senior Brother, the road is completely blocked. They've all come for your new works."

"There are so many people wearing Doctor robes, and even a few in Dean robes."

"Senior Brother, why not give them a lecture?"

Zhao Xing responded, "This isn't the place for it. It's too chaotic."

Ji Zixuan nodded in agreement. "True, and if students like Lin Yuejia or Liu Hui show up—those overly zealous ones—there could be trouble if anyone disrespects you."

Zhao Xing raised an eyebrow. "How do you know so much about this?"

Lin Yuejia had been one of the first students to attend Zhao Xing's lectures at Xuantian Academy.

As for Liu Hui, he'd initially been sent by Zhou Cheng to cause trouble. Yet during that lecture, Zhao Xing had introduced the Grand Zhou Celestial Cycle Theory of Three Yin, Three Yang, and Six Qi. Not only had Liu Hui been convinced, but even his teacher had switched allegiance.

These were relatively obscure incidents, so how did Ji Zixuan know about them?

"Did you arrange for Lin Yuejia to attend?" Zhao Xing asked, staring at Ji Zixuan.

Her face betrayed a trace of panic. "I… I didn't mean to underestimate you, Senior Brother. I just wanted to—"

Zhao Xing chuckled. "Why would I blame you? If you're going to find people to support me, you should find more of them. Otherwise, it lacks credibility. Junior Sister, remember to be more ambitious next time."

Ji Zixuan froze for a moment, then obediently nodded. "Yes, Senior Brother, you're absolutely right. I'll make sure to do better next time."

The crowd grew larger and larger, and it was clear this situation couldn't continue.

Zhao Xing used a wind-based voice transmission technique to address them all: "I deeply appreciate your admiration, but with the Myriad Dao Tree about to open, this is not the appropriate place for a discussion."

"I will hold a lecture at Shangluo Academy's Dao Arena in a month. For now, I ask everyone to disperse."

His voice carried on the wind, spreading in waves across the gathering.

Hearing his words, the crowd—though reluctant—understood that this chaotic setting wasn't suitable for scholarly exchanges. With the Academy staff stepping in to maintain order, they gradually dispersed.

On the morning of June 10th, in the 37th year of the Jingxin Calendar, at dawn.

The barrier of the Myriad Dao Tree opened precisely on time.

The crowd, which had been waiting on the plains for hours, immediately surged toward the tree, flying through the air.

Zhao Xing joined them, riding the clouds as he flew forward.

The colossal tree, towering ten thousand meters high, shimmered brilliantly in the space between heaven and earth.

Despite the illusion of proximity, the journey to the Myriad Dao Tree still took two to three minutes of flight.

"Whew—"

When Zhao Xing was about a hundred meters away, he felt an invisible force of heaven and earth pushing outward.

"So many Dao insights gathered in one place—it's no wonder ordinary people find it hard to approach."

Looking ahead, Zhao Xing noticed his flying speed decreasing noticeably.

Without the ability to withstand the pressure of these Dao insights, it was impossible to move forward.

Many cultivators, upon reaching their limits, simply sat down to meditate and observe from afar.

"Senior Brother, I can't go any further," Ji Zixuan said, her face flushed.

A fiery essence radiated from her body, but if she tried to push forward, even maintaining flight would become impossible.

"Reaching this point as a Fifth Rank cultivator is already impressive, Junior Sister," Zhao Xing said. "You should meditate here."

"Yes, Senior Brother, don't worry about me."

Zhao Xing nodded and continued flying forward.

The pressure of the Dao insights grew stronger and stronger.

Yet he was still able to move.

"When I broke into the Pure Essence Realm, I perfected the Five Elements Dao in every aspect. Back then, I achieved the Myriad Dao Physique through the integration of the Straw Puppet Method, formed by the complete Five Elements."

"Now, as I endure the pressure of these Dao insights, my resistance is far greater than most."

To form a Pure Essence Dao Body, one needed to comprehend the Dao of the Five Elements.

Most cultivators, whether martial artists or spellcasters, chose to focus on a single element.

The terminology varied: martial artists would speak of the Frost Gold Body, Fiery Gold Body, or Thunder Gold Body, while spellcasters referred to the Frost Dao Body, Fiery Dao Body, or Thunder Dao Body.

The process of condensing a Pure Essence Dao Body involved understanding a single element to its advanced stage, drawing from its principles to transform the body. This was the hallmark of the Fifth Rank Pure Essence Realm.

However, mastering additional elements exponentially increased the difficulty, requiring extraordinary talent and immense effort. As a result, most cultivators stuck to a single path.

This approach offered certain advantages but also came with limitations.

For example, the Frost Gold Body performed poorly in environments rich in fire essence but excelled in others, such as retrieving spirit fish from the icy depths of the Extreme Night Sea.

The leaves and branches of the Myriad Dao Tree exuded a vast array of Dao insights, disrupting the balance of the Five Elements in the surrounding environment.

Most of the Dao present were at the level of True Intent, making it difficult for those with a singular focus to approach the tree. Of course, high-ranking cultivators were an exception.

Even with a single path, a high-level cultivator could make progress.

But the Myriad Dao Physique, formed by the fusion of all Five Elements, was a mark of exceptional talent.

Zhao Xing's Dao Body, nearly flawless, allowed him to approach the Myriad Dao Tree with relative ease.

"Let's start with the leaves."

Zhao Xing chose not to venture further, as the branches and trunk housed the strongest Dao—left behind by First Rank and Transcendent cultivators.

These represented principles that distorted the rules of heaven and earth. Attempting to comprehend them would yield little and risk entrapment.

"Step by step."

He flew around the outer canopy, where the leaves were densely packed.

"The golden leaves represent the Metal Element, while the green ones signify Wood."

"Comprehending all Five Elements to their peak would enable the third layer of the Yin-Yang Self Sutra, allowing me to perceive the 'Five Element Particles.'"

"With my Myriad Dao Physique reaching its pinnacle, I'll be ready to break through to the Third Rank."

Zhao Xing analyzed his current state. What separated him from the Third Rank Soul Foundation Realm?

The transformation of his physical body, the integration of his vital energy, and the deep union of his life soul.

"A stronger body and a more integrated life soul make the 'house' bigger."

"When the life soul merges with vital energy and the body embodies peak Dao insights, the result is the Soul Beyond form."

The term "Soul Beyond" emphasized the crucial role of vital energy in this process, as it was an inseparable part of leaving the body.

"At that point, I'll be able to roam the Nether Realm—to farm its lands and hunt for treasures."

As he searched for a leaf that resonated with him, Zhao Xing reflected on his progress.

His life soul had already reached the Third Rank.

Once the other conditions were met, he would truly enter the Third Rank realm.

"Most people get stuck at this stage because of their life soul's level. My case is different," Zhao Xing thought with a smile.

The Great Zhou Dynasty did not promote life soul cultivation techniques. For cultivators at the Fourth Rank, progressing to the Third Rank was extremely challenging.

Many had reached the pinnacle of the Fourth Rank but remained stuck with a life soul still at the early stages of that level—or even at the Fifth Rank.

In mainstream practice, the primary way to cultivate the life soul was to receive a bestowed method from the imperial court.

Such bestowals signified an invitation to take on responsibilities as a Third Rank cultivator.

If one wasn't granted a method, rare life-soul treasures like the Life Soul Pill or the Heavenly Soul Fruit could suffice.

For those without access to either, there was one more path: the battlefield.

In the life-and-death clashes of war, with heightened vigilance and the constant threat of death, the life soul underwent extreme training.

Of course, this method was incredibly inefficient. Those who succeeded through such means were one in ten thousand.

It was clear how difficult self-cultivation was. Even with an open pathway, success was far from guaranteed.

A faint sound of trickling water, "Zhe-li-li~," drew Zhao Xing's attention.

A blue leaf, swaying gently, created a ten-meter radius of light rain beneath it.

Zhao Xing focused and quickly approached this Water Element leaf.

The leaf was oval-shaped, approximately twenty meters long and four meters wide.

Beneath it, three Fourth Rank cultivators sat cross-legged in contemplation.

Upon seeing Zhao Xing arrive, one of them immediately stood, cupped his hands, and greeted him.

"I am Yang Long from Shenwu Academy, bearing the title of Marquis Shenwei. Please, take your place."

"Marquis Shenwei, thank you," Zhao Xing responded, cupping his hands as well.

The other two cultivators also rose and paid their respects.

All three were martial artists who had come to the Myriad Dao Tree in pursuit of advancement.

They treated Zhao Xing with genuine respect, even displaying a sense of camaraderie. After all, Zhao Xing's military achievements—especially his role in subduing the King of Tianxia—had earned him their admiration.

"Brother Yang, there's no need to stand on ceremony," Zhao Xing replied. "I'll just occupy a corner."

The leaf was large enough to accommodate all of them without crowding.

Time was precious, so the group wasted no more words and returned to their meditation.

The rain droplets falling from the blue leaf were imbued with the True Intent of Water.

The moment a drop touched Zhao Xing's Myriad Dao Physique, it began to erode his body.

His flesh and meridians suffered destruction, only to be swiftly repaired by the vitality within his energy.

"Each droplet damages the body's Dao foundation, but the extent of the damage is manageable," Zhao Xing mused. "It's a process of destruction and repair, enhancing my comprehension of the Water Element."

Yang Long and the other two cultivators were using this technique to refine their Water Gold Bodies.

One had cultivated the Frost Gold Body, while another possessed the Weak Water Gold Body.

As the rain eroded their physiques, they focused on self-repair, strengthening their Dao comprehension in the process.

"The droplets are like elite soldiers assaulting the fortress of the body," Zhao Xing thought. "With enough repetition, one learns how to fortify the fortress—and ultimately, transform it into a superior structure."

As he meditated, Zhao Xing occasionally used his Heavenly Eye to observe the others' progress.

The principle appeared straightforward but was deceptively complex in practice.

Within a short time, Zhao Xing had achieved an initial comprehension of an advanced level of the Water Element.

When the rain fell on his body again, the droplets could no longer harm him and instead flowed harmlessly away.

Yang Long and the others sensed the change and opened their eyes in unison.

"Marquis Shenwei, have you comprehended it already?" one of them asked.

"By chance," Zhao Xing replied modestly, "I've gained insight into the True Intent of Dust Water."

Dust Water True Intent represented the most basic and ubiquitous form of water in the world.

Using it as a foundation to enter the Third Rank was the most common approach for cultivators of the Water Element.

Yang Long and his companions, aware of their own limits, knew even Dust Water True Intent was difficult to master.

Zhao Xing cupped his hands again and said, "I won't disturb you further. I'll explore elsewhere."

"Marquis Shenwei, please go ahead," they replied, smoke still rising from their bodies where the rain had created small holes.

They couldn't afford to be distracted.

Watching Zhao Xing effortlessly comprehend a True Intent within an incense stick's time, they couldn't help but marvel.

"He doesn't even seem satisfied with Dust Water True Intent and plans to aim higher," one of them remarked.

Yang Long sighed. "The difference between people is greater than the difference between humans and dogs."

He returned to his meditation, leaving Zhao Xing to continue his exploration.

Zhao Xing's affinity for the Water Element surpassed that of the other elements.

After finding a leaf imbued with Dust Water True Intent, he easily grasped its essence in a mere ten minutes.

However, to achieve a top-tier Dao Physique and enter the Third Rank, Dust Water True Intent wasn't enough.

"To reach the pinnacle, one must comprehend True Intents like Heavy Water of Primordial Origin, Heavenly Water of Creation, Mystic Water of the Abyss, Weak Water, Lunar Water of Darkness, Divine Water of the Three Lights, or the North Ocean's Black Water," Zhao Xing thought.

"For the Fire Element, options include Southern Bright Flame, Sunfire, Six Ding Divine Fire, Three-Flavored True Flame, and Nine Heavens Profound Fire."

"For Wood, there's Greenhill Wood Essence, Lunar Jianmu, Solar Heaven Mulberry, Cangwu, Undying, and Yellow Springs."

"For Metal, choices include Solar Geng Metal, Lunar Xin Metal, and Taiyi Fine Metal."

"For Earth, there's Celestial Pivot Earth, Earth Repository, Mystic Earth, and Spirit Mountain Intent."

"The stronger the Dao, whether for a Gold Body or a Dao Physique, the further one can advance—and the more resilient the body becomes," Zhao Xing concluded.

Even as a spellcaster, he recognized the importance of physical fortitude.

For example, the Wood Element's Undying Intent, derived from the legendary Undying Divine Tree, granted unparalleled vitality and recovery.

"It's said that a Dao Physique imbued with Undying Intent can regenerate endlessly, as long as it isn't obliterated in a single strike."

While the claim was likely exaggerated, the essence held true. Such physiques were nearly impossible to exhaust in battle.

Zhao Xing reflected on the vast power gap between each tier of the Third Rank.

"Every major sub-level—upper, middle, and lower—represents a massive difference in potential."

"Take someone like Ye Yukong," he thought. "His Gold Body is top-tier, capable of distorting the very rules of heaven and earth."

A foundation rooted in the True Intents of the Five Elements allowed one's every movement to influence the natural order. Without it, such feats were unattainable.

"The same martial technique or spell can yield vastly different results depending on the practitioner."

The Myriad Dao Tree encompassed nearly all known Dao.

Here, anything one sought could likely be found. Whether it could be understood and mastered, however, was another matter.

Zhao Xing swept his gaze over the surrounding leaves, his thoughts clear: What I need is here—I just have to find it.

Shangluo Academy was one of the sacred grounds of the Shennong Division, and the Myriad Dao Tree was a rare treasure within its boundaries.

From Zhao Xing's perspective, though there were still a few other Myriad Dao Trees in the world, the one at Shangluo Academy stood apart. It could undoubtedly be classified as a "Peerless Treasure."

However, Shangluo Academy didn't concern itself with chasing such accolades. The world already knew that their Myriad Dao Tree was the most extraordinary.

"The True Intents of the Five Elements that can reach the First Rank are quite numerous. Let's see which ones suit me better," Zhao Xing thought as he explored the various branches and leaves.

Determining suitability was simple: if a particular Dao was easier to comprehend, it was likely suitable. Otherwise, it wasn't.

Time passed quickly, and in the blink of an eye, three days had gone by.

On June 13, Zhao Xing sat on a branch of the Myriad Dao Tree, gazing at three leaves in front of him.

The leaves were only the size of a palm, as if they had just sprouted. Each bore patterns of the sun, moon, and stars, emitting a faint blue glow.

The light intertwined and struck Zhao Xing's body.

Moments later, his skin began to emit a similar glow as the power of water took the shape of stars, the sun, and the moon, weaving together in harmony.

The oppressive feeling vanished instantly.

"Three Lights Divine Water True Intent," Zhao Xing murmured as he opened his eyes. He smiled and cupped his hands toward a wooden stele near the intersection of the branch and the trunk.

"Thank you, Senior Mang Yazhi."

Zhao Xing didn't know who Mang Yazhi was. The stele bore only a name and a date: the 13th year of the 2005th cycle of the Xuanhuang Calendar.

Each cycle spanned 120 years. The current date was the 72nd year of the 4416th cycle of the Xuanhuang Calendar.

A staggering 290,000 years had passed since then.

The deeds of the ancients had faded into obscurity, leaving behind only the Dao they once cultivated.

On June 13, Zhao Xing began to comprehend the True Intent of Solar Geng Metal.

He approached a treehouse nestled among golden leaves. The leaves were narrow and sharp, exuding an aura that made his entire body feel as though it were being pierced and burned.

"This is where Solar Geng Metal True Intent, capable of reaching the First Rank, resides."

Zhao Xing glanced at the treehouse shrouded by leaves. It seemed like a blazing sun resting atop the tree, radiating an unbearable brilliance.

Even with his Heavenly Eye activated and using all his strength, he could barely discern a few ancient characters inscribed on the structure.

"Yage? Is this a name or a place?" he wondered aloud. "Never mind, it's not important."

Zhao Xing stepped into the golden-leafed area and began his comprehension.

Each time he gained insight, he advanced a little further, attempting to draw closer to the treehouse.

Though the tree trunk beneath his feet was wide enough for eight carriages to travel side by side, walking on it felt as precarious as balancing on a tightrope—and as harrowing as scaling a mountain of blades.

By June 20, Zhao Xing had reached the doorway of the treehouse.

At that point, he had gained an initial understanding of Solar Geng Metal True Intent.

After some deliberation, he decided not to proceed further.

"Perhaps there are treasures from ancient times inside, but I don't necessarily need them."

"My goal is simply to break through to the Third Rank. Gaining an initial understanding is sufficient—I don't need to waste more time here."

To condense a Third Rank Dao Physique, only a foundational grasp of the True Intent was required. Perfecting it to the First Rank could be done gradually over time.

Zhao Xing cupped his hands in a gesture of respect, then decisively turned away.

That afternoon, he discovered another treehouse.

"What incredible vitality!" Zhao Xing exclaimed.

The moment he stepped into the area, he felt his qi and blood surge. His heart began to race, and his blood roared like a vast ocean.

The overwhelming vitality seemed to blanket the entire space, threatening to dismantle his body's very structure.

To his surprise, Zhao Xing grew three centimeters taller in an instant.

Instinctively, he felt the urge to activate the Dapeng Transformation.

"Incredible! This vitality is as boundless as the heavens and earth—it feels as if I've mistakenly activated the Hou Transformation Technique."

"This must be Cangwu True Intent. Only the Dao of Cangwu True Intent could evoke such a sensation," Zhao Xing concluded instantly.

The True Intents capable of reaching the First Rank were all unique and unmistakable.

Without hesitation, Zhao Xing sat down to meditate and comprehend.

Time flowed quietly, and before long, it was already July 8.

On that day, Liu Tianning arrived at the Myriad Dao Plains aboard the Golden Dragon Warship, his gaze fixed on the distant Myriad Dao Tree.

Ji Zixuan, who had been eagerly waiting, ran up to the warship as it landed.

"Dean Liu!" she greeted respectfully.

"Hmm. Is he still in the Myriad Dao Tree?" Liu Tianning asked.

"Yes," Ji Zixuan nodded obediently.

"Good. I understand," Liu Tianning replied, his expression calm.

He turned to a burly middle-aged man beside him and said, "Ren Jiu, head to the Myriad Dao Formation Bureau. If my disciple is still comprehending by the day after tomorrow, do not disturb him."

"Yes, Dean," Ren Jiu replied. As a Third Rank Mechanist, his authority was unquestionable.

Though the Myriad Dao Tree was only open for a month, Zhao Xing could stay as long as he needed.

After all, he was Liu Tianning's disciple.

Thanks to the smooth transition of responsibilities, Liu Tianning felt no urgency to summon Zhao Xing.

He was in a position to let treasures wait for Zhao Xing, rather than the other way around.

On July 10, the barrier around the Myriad Dao Tree reopened, and most individuals were transported out.

Only a select few—esteemed guests and exceptional talents of Shangluo Academy—remained inside, continuing their comprehension.

Zhao Xing was among them.

He had already comprehended Three Lights Divine Water True Intent, Cangwu True Intent, and Solar Geng Metal True Intent.

At that moment, he was delving into his fourth True Intent: Lihuo True Intent.

"I first encountered the Dao of Lihuo when I was at the Ninth Rank," Zhao Xing recalled. "The Dao of True Lord Lihuo reshaped the rules of heaven and earth, embedding his Dao into the fabric of reality."

"For over twenty years, I've frequently used the Lihuo Shrine at Lihuo Dao Academy."

"That experience was far more advanced than my current comprehension. It was of the 'Establishing Dao to Shape Heaven and Earth' level, the pinnacle of the Xuanhuang World even in this era of revived spiritual energy."

"Reflecting on those moments at the Lihuo Shrine, I spent fifteen days to grasp the fundamentals of Lihuo True Intent."

Zhao Xing brushed off a flicker of flame that had appeared on his sleeve.

Three days for Three Lights Divine Water True Intent, seven days for Solar Geng Metal True Intent, five days for Cangwu True Intent, and fifteen days for Lihuo True Intent.

"Now, only Earth True Intent remains."

In truth, Zhao Xing could have broken through to the Third Rank after mastering his first True Intent.

But his standards were high; how could he settle for just one path?

"Hmm? It's already July 10. Why haven't I been transported out yet?" Zhao Xing wondered.

He remembered the announcement: the Myriad Dao Tree would be open for one month, from June 10 to July 10.

However, it was already July 10, and Zhao Xing had still not been teleported out by the formation.

Curious, he inspected the surrounding area and found a message left by Liu Tianning.

"You don't need to worry. Stay as long as you want."

Zhao Xing chuckled softly.

"Figures. Ever since I joined Shangluo Academy under Dean Liu's wing, that battle took all the hardships I'd have faced for the rest of my life and compressed them into one event."

"Everything left now is just enjoyment."

If Shangluo Academy were likened to a kingdom, then Liu Tianning was its emperor—and Zhao Xing would undoubtedly be the crown prince.

"Heh, heh," Zhao Xing laughed smugly at the thought.

He remembered how focused he had been during that fight, pouring every ounce of his energy into ensuring a flawless performance for Liu Tianning's arrival.

Little did he know, that grand opening would also serve as the perfect conclusion.

"Well then, time to thoroughly comprehend and master the last of the Earth True Intents."

On July 11, Zhao Xing began searching for a suitable Earth True Intent for himself.

He eventually found an exposed root near the base of the Myriad Dao Tree's massive trunk. The root was adorned with intricate carvings of mountains.

"Ling Mountain True Intent," Zhao Xing murmured as realization dawned upon him.

The exposed root extended deep underground, forcing Zhao Xing to employ his stealth techniques to delve deeper and study it fully.

From July 11 to August 11, Zhao Xing spent an entire month comprehending the Ling Mountain True Intent.

Ling Mountain True Intent wasn't typically the first choice for forging a top-tier Dao Physique. However, Zhao Xing decided to master it because of its future applications in mountain-based techniques.

His eventual "Myriad Laws Dao Physique" would synergize perfectly with the Ling Mountain True Intent, allowing him to learn mountain techniques more quickly and unleash their full power. For instance, Kunyuan Earth Palace's ninth-tier artifact, "Myriad Heavy Mountain", was a treasure of Ling Mountain Academy, and mastering Ling Mountain True Intent would make controlling this massive divine weapon effortless.

Without it, or with a weaker Earth True Intent, the cost in energy to wield such an artifact would skyrocket.

Hypothetically, without a strong Earth True Intent, Zhao Xing could exhaust himself before even striking his target with the mountain.

"That should do it."

Zhao Xing activated the "A Step to Infinity" technique, leaving the Myriad Dao Tree and appearing on the surrounding plains.

"Teacher, I need a location rich in vitality and a large supply of resources to replenish my energy," Zhao Xing immediately messaged Liu Tianning.

"Meet me at the gate of Shenhua Academy," Liu Tianning's response was concise.

Determining his direction, Zhao Xing once again used the A Step to Infinity technique and disappeared.

Shenhua Academy, one of the birthplaces of the Condensed Splendor Method, was considered one of the Self School's Four Great Techniques.

Legend had it that one of Shangluo Academy's founders created the entire series of Condensed Splendor techniques here, giving the Self School's Shennong branch a new suite of cultivation methods.

The hallmark of the Condensed Splendor Method was its adaptability—it allowed practitioners to harmonize with their environment, optimizing their path of growth. Unlike destructive methods that drew energy from the world forcefully, this technique fostered coexistence with nature.

Liu Tianning was waiting at the academy's gates when Zhao Xing arrived. He studied his disciple intently.

"You're about to break through to the Third Rank?" Liu Tianning asked.

"Yes." Zhao Xing nodded.

"Which Five True Intents have you chosen?" Liu Tianning inquired.

For practitioners of Myriad Laws Straw Puppet techniques, their path inevitably required the Myriad Laws Dao Physique, leaving little room for deviation.

"Cangwu, Geng Metal, Three Lights, Ling Mountain, and Lihuo," Zhao Xing replied.

Liu Tianning nodded approvingly. "Good choices. All of them are First Rank True Intents."

Zhao Xing had already mastered top-tier techniques two years prior. For someone who had cultivated techniques to such a level, it became much easier to comprehend the pure principles of heaven and earth.

The order—whether to cultivate techniques first or seek enlightenment—varied depending on the individual. For prodigies like Liu Tianning and Zhao Xing, either approach worked seamlessly.

"Go to the Shenhua Pool," Liu Tianning instructed.

"But isn't the Shenhua Pool only opened once every ten years?" Zhao Xing hesitated. "Teacher, I don't need such extravagance—"

"I said it opens today, so it opens today," Liu Tianning declared with a calm but commanding tone.

"While you're there, you can also absorb the 'Four Seasons Splendor' from the Shenhua Pool."

"It will greatly benefit your Pure Essence Soil and the growth of your Flying Puppet."

"You are only the third Shennong in history to master top-tier straw puppet techniques. How could this be considered extravagance?" Liu Tianning's tone left no room for debate.

Grateful yet humbled, Zhao Xing cupped his hands in acknowledgment. "Teacher, you are truly wise."

With a wave of his hand, Liu Tianning summoned wings formed of intertwined vines and took Zhao Xing by the arm. "Let's go."

The Flying Puppet Technique activated, and in the next moment, Zhao Xing found himself before a pool suffused with dense vitality.

"This is the most energy-rich location in Shenhua Academy," Liu Tianning explained.

"The sky above the Shenhua Pool adheres to the Great Heavenly Timing Cycle, generating six types of energy—Morning Glow, Noon Sun, Flying Fountain, Flowing Dew, Heaven's Energy, and Earth's Energy—each cycling in turn."

"These six essences gather above the Shenhua Pool."

"Below the pool lies the essence of the land itself, derived from the ley lines of nineteen provinces, comprising a total of twenty-eight top-tier ley lines. This is the quintessence of earthly energy."

Liu Tianning's mastery of theory and application was unmatched. In his youth, he had annotated classics for the three great sects, and during his century-long seclusion in the Military Realm, he had authored works such as "149 Variations of the Seasonal Command"—an exhaustive study of seasonal transformations within cave-heavens and blessed lands, explaining their principles and how to stabilize and harness them.

Since taking over Shangluo Academy, Liu Tianning had effortlessly managed every sacred site, treasure, and ancient arrangement.

"The Shenhua Pool is surrounded by the Four Seasons Divine Trees," Liu Tianning continued. "Spring governs the east, with 108,000 trees representing early, mid, and late spring."

"Winter governs the north, with another 108,000 trees embodying early, mid, and deep winter."

"Summer governs the south, with trees representing early, mid, and late summer."

"Autumn governs the west, with 108,000 trees for early, mid, and late autumn."

Feigning curiosity, Zhao Xing asked, "And the water? Teacher?"

Liu Tianning smiled. "That isn't water. It's energy."

"The energy has been liquefied. What you see in the Shenhua Pool is the essence of heaven and earth itself."

Zhao Xing displayed a carefully measured expression of astonishment, which Liu Tianning found satisfying. The elder felt a deep sense of responsibility to provide Zhao Xing with only the best, compensating for what he believed had been lacking before.

"Absorb the Four Seasons Splendor and break through to the Third Rank amidst this liquefied energy."

"With the strength of this energy, the robustness of your soul, and the power of your Dao Physique, you will become the most formidable Third Rank foundation in the world!"

Zhao Xing knew these words weren't mere flattery.

If the strongest Third Rank foundation wasn't forged in Shangluo Academy, where else could it be?

Moreover, as the most advanced practitioner of the Derivation of the Divine Spirit, Zhao Xing already surpassed Liu Tianning's achievements at the same rank.