Chapter 915 Promoting a General, Heading to the Luo Family
Chapter 915 Promoting a General, Heading to the Luo Family
A group of palace maids came out, each carrying a plate of rewards, and gave one to everyone.
The rewards are nothing more than some precious pills that can replenish qi and blood, quickly restore true qi and heal injuries, as well as a Nirvana Realm divine weapon.
Everyone naturally accepted it with great joy.
Seeing this, the Holy Emperor continued with a smile, "Now that the grand event has ended and it is the New Year, would you all like to take your seats below and have a drink with the civil and military officials?"
"Thank you, Your Majesty!"
Everyone quickly greeted each other and took their seats.
The seating arrangement was also carefully planned. Based on the rankings from the first round, Ye Kang sat at the very front, next to Hua Nongying.
Even the Ninth and Tenth Princes could only sit at the back according to their ranking.
Then came delicious food and rare spirit wine, and everyone enjoyed singing and dancing together, laughing and having a great time.
It wasn't until nightfall that the Emperor finally lost interest, put down his wine cup, and gave a wink to the eunuch behind him.
The latter immediately stood up, and everyone stopped and quietly looked in the direction of the eunuch.
The eunuch announced, "By imperial decree, all the heroes who have given their all at this grand gathering deserve commendation and encouragement. Ye Kang of Wuyang City is hereby summoned to receive his investiture!"
Upon hearing this, Ye Kang was stunned.
There will be rewards?
He quickly stepped forward and respectfully cupped his hands in greeting.
The eunuch continued, "Ye Kang, the valiant general, is brave and resourceful, with extraordinary cultivation. However, he was previously just a student at the academy, which was a waste of his talents. As a hero of the Martial Dynasty, you should serve the country and its people. Therefore, you are hereby appointed as the Demon-Suppressing General of Luoyan Prefecture, to assist General Luo Qilin in vanquishing demons and protecting this region. You are also awarded a set of Xuanfeng Armor, a Demon-Slaying Blade, and 100 high-grade spirit crystals. Take office immediately without fail!"
"what!"
Not only was Ye Kang shocked, but everyone else was also dumbfounded.
To be promoted directly from a student to a Demon Suppression General is too fast!
Of course, it's not to say that Ye Kang is unqualified; at least his strength is definitely sufficient, and perhaps even surpasses it.
But the place of this reward is actually Luoyan Prefecture, which is a bit strange. Luoyan Prefecture is not exactly a benevolent place...
"General Ye, why don't you accept the imperial decree and express your gratitude?"
"Your Majesty, I obey! Thank you for your grace!"
Ye Kang quickly reached out and accepted the storage ring given to him by the palace maid.
This is a ring made by the Three Offices for generals. Only generals are qualified to wear it. It has a lot of space inside, containing documents, tokens, and all sorts of things.
Accepting the ring signifies that Ye Kang is no longer a commoner, but a general within the Three Offices system.
Seeing this, the Holy Emperor nodded in satisfaction: "The youngest Demon-Suppressing General in ten thousand years, Minister Ye, you should cherish this opportunity."
Ye Kang immediately replied solemnly, "Your subject will do everything in his power to safeguard the peace and tranquility of Luoyan Prefecture!"
Being an official is something Ye Kang is very familiar with. Anyway, his strength is not enough yet, so he will first use the Wu Dynasty as a backer to make things easier.
With this identity, at least others will have to think twice before trying to harm you.
Ye Kang returned to his seat with a smile and used his divine sense to check his storage ring.
Sure enough, the Xuanfeng Armor, the Demon-Slaying Blade, the appointment document, and the general's token were all present.
In addition, there were a bunch of standard pills and talismans, which were considered extra benefits for the general.
After speaking of Ye Kang, the Holy Emperor summoned Hua Nongying and appointed her to the position of Imperial Observatory.
The top ten geniuses were also rewarded to varying degrees. This was an added value brought by the Heavenly Dharma Assembly, and the imperial court would naturally make good use of it to cultivate a group of loyal new people.
If nothing unexpected happens, these phoenix-like geniuses will all be among the officials in the future.
After bestowing the honors, the Holy Emperor announced the end of the banquet, and everyone returned to their respective manors to prepare for what was to come.
Needless to say, the local geniuses of Wudu all went home.
The warriors from the other four cities followed their leaders, preparing to be teleported back.
At the manor in Wuyang City, everyone gathered together. Jiang Yueqing looked at Ye Kang and said, "I originally wanted to take you back to meet King Wei, but now it seems that you have to go to Luoyan Prefecture to take up your post immediately. If you need to take a break, you can come to the Wuyang City headquarters on your own, and I will introduce you."
"Thank you, General Jiang. But I have a question that I don't understand. I hope you can enlighten me."
"You want to know about Luoyan Prefecture, right?"
“Indeed, I noticed that everyone’s expressions were strange when they were being conferred their titles today. Moreover, I have read many books, but I know very little about Luoyan Prefecture. Since we are about to take office, how can we be completely ignorant?”
Jiang Yue looked at him sympathetically, then sighed and said, "You're right, but Luoyan Prefecture is not unknown. On the contrary, it is the largest prefecture in the entire Wu Dynasty, with eight counties and thirteen islands under its jurisdiction. It is located on the coast of the sea and is extraordinary."
"So big?"
"Yes, but no, because this place is not entirely dominated by the Wu Dynasty, but is co-governed with the demon race. It is a true form of co-governance, with half of the area occupied by powerful demons who rule the residents through incense offerings."
"What! The Temple of Incense Offering!"
Ye Kang was startled. He was familiar with the incense path, after all, there was still an incense seed in his Purple Mansion, and it was growing bigger and bigger, and the power of the incense was becoming stronger and stronger.
However, the current methods of helping him are far less effective than other means, so we don't pay much attention to them.
Could it be that these demons also possess Buddhist incense offerings and methods?
Jiang Yueqing said, "That's right. Demons and monsters are wild gods who raise humans as food. However, because Luoyan Prefecture is too close to the demon race's main camp, the Wu Dynasty can't say much. But the two systems are different after all. Since they are so close, there are often frictions and disputes. The previous Demon Suppression General of Luoyan Prefecture died at the hands of a demon saint."
"What! They dared to kill the Demon-Suppressing General?! Are the demons really that audacious?!"
Jiang Yueqing shook his head: "Luoyan Prefecture is different from other counties. The situation is complicated. Once a conflict breaks out, the death of a few generals or demon emperors is not worth mentioning. That's why the Holy Emperor arranged for you to be sent to Luoyan Prefecture, which has caused everyone's surprise. You are an outstanding genius. Going to such a place will definitely have benefits, but it would be a pity if you were to die prematurely."
Jiang Yueqing didn't hide anything and spoke frankly.
Ye Kang thought for a moment, then smiled and said, "A genius who dies young is not a genius at all. Since the Holy Emperor has appointed me, I cannot refuse."
Jiang Yueqing nodded and said, "It's good that you have this awareness. It just so happens that Luoyan Prefecture belongs to Wuyang City, so I am your superior and will take care of you. The general of Luoyan Prefecture is named Luo Qilin. Take this letter with you and he will understand."
Jiang Yueqing took out a jade slip, which Ye Kang gratefully accepted and bowed to Jiang Yueqing.
Afterwards, Ye Kang found Su Hongxiu and Jin Lingfeng.
"Master, remember to send me a message. The Su family has been very kind to me, and I cannot forget to repay their kindness."
Su Hongxiu waved her hand: "You're awake, you're awake, go ahead."
After saying that, she left in a huff.
Ye Kang sighed helplessly, then looked at Jin Lingfeng: "Brother Jin, please keep an eye on things for me and send me a message. I'm afraid the school leader might deliberately hide it from me."
Jin Lingfeng patted Ye Kang on the shoulder: "Don't worry, brother, I'll definitely support you! You don't need to worry about my father either. Our Zhaoyi Wushuang Prefecture is on par with the mighty Wuyang City, and my father is the most trusted subordinate of King Wei. Even if I risk being beaten to death by my father, I will make him speak well of King Wei!"
"Then I am relieved. Take care, Brother Jin. I will come to see you again when I have time, and we can go to the insect fighting arena together again."
"A word is settled!"
Jin Lingfeng also left. Ye Kang's mission was actually complete. What Su Zhongjing hoped he would do was become good brothers with Jin Lingfeng, then get the heir to help persuade Marquis Zhaoyi, and then Marquis Zhaoyi would persuade King Wei.
Ye Kang, as the first link, has already finished; the rest is up to fate.
After bidding farewell to everyone present, Ye Kang left the manor alone and, guided by an inner court official, exited the Cantian Palace.
Although the Holy Emperor said he could take office immediately, it didn't mean he had to leave right away.
Ye Kang will have to stay in Wudu for a few more days, waiting for his superiors in Wudu to assign him clerks and deputy generals.
During this time, Ye Kang did have a place to stay. Luo Yin and Luo Xue had made arrangements in advance and invited him to the Luo family.
The head of the Luo family, Luo Youmin, is a True Immortal Realm expert and an official in the imperial court. The Luo family is one of the most powerful clans in Wudu. With Luo Youmin in charge, the others will naturally give him face and not restrain him.
As soon as Ye Kang left the Celestial Palace, Luo Xue was already waiting below.
She waved happily and said, "Ye Kang! Come with me!"
Ye Kang immediately followed. Nirvana Realm experts can fly in Wudu, but they must strictly abide by airspace regulations, follow designated routes, and slow down.
The two flew obediently for a while and then arrived at a manor.
The manor is surrounded by beautiful mountains and clear waters, brimming with spiritual energy. A thin mist drifts through the manor, as if dragons and snakes are hidden within, and hundreds of birds sing.
The two went inside, and Luo Yin greeted them, leading Ye Kang into a reception room.
Inside sat a middle-aged man with a restrained demeanor and an imposing presence; it was Luo Youmin.
In fact, when martial artists cultivate to the Returning to Truth Realm, age is the most deceptive thing. Because of the accumulation of Qi, some people look like they are eleven or twelve years old, having returned to the extreme of simplicity.
Some people look like they are seventy or eighty years old, as if they are on their last legs.
But in reality, someone who looks seventy or eighty years old may be far younger than someone who looks eleven or twelve.
Although Luo Youmin looks like a middle-aged man, he is actually quite young.
He raised his eyes and smiled at Ye Kang: "You've arrived, General Ye."
"Greetings, Lord Luo."
Ye Kang dared not be arrogant; a mere Demon Suppression General was certainly no match for Luo Youmin's official rank.
The latter didn't mind and gestured for him to sit down, saying, "Please sit down. My home is simple; I hope General Ye will forgive my humble abode."
Ye Kang sat down in the guest seat, adopting a listening posture, like a junior humbly seeking advice.
Luo Youmin didn't keep them in suspense. He took a sip of the spiritual tea and said, "I must thank General Ye for taking good care of my daughter in the Dragon Guardian Blessed Land and for helping us see the true colors of that Zhong family brat."
"No, it's also because Luo Xue is pure of heart. If she were stubborn and unrepentant, I wouldn't pay any attention to her."
"Hehe, this girl is undoubtedly kind-hearted and upright, but she is a bit spoiled. It is her good fortune that General Ye can overlook these things. I can rest assured that I will entrust her to you in the future."
"what?"
"what???"
Luo Xue and Ye Kang were both stunned. What was this old guy talking about?
Luo Xue blushed immediately and said, "Father! Don't talk nonsense!"
Luo Youmin looked puzzled: "What's wrong? Could it be that I've made a mistake? Aren't you two in love?"
"Of course not!"
"That's strange. Oh well, perhaps I'm just getting old and being presumptuous. There's no need to worry about it."
Luo Youmin remained calm, but Ye Kang and Luo Xue both had twitching lips.
I thought to myself, "You're the most lucid person in this room, with the strongest spirit. You're too old, are you kidding me?"
She was clearly feigning ignorance, trying to take advantage of the situation and seize control of Ye Kang, her ideal son-in-law.
That's a very obvious plan.
Ye Kang said, "Lord Luo's joke is quite damaging to Miss Luo Xue's reputation."
“Exactly!” Luo Xue echoed.
Luo Youmin smiled and said, "Then let's not talk about that. Luo Yin has already told me that he promised you a chance. Our Luo family keeps its word. Since you haven't taken up your post yet, you can't miss this opportunity."
Ye Kang cupped his hands and said, "This is precisely why I have come. We martial artists are willing to give up everything for the sake of martial arts. Given the opportunity, we should seize it."
"Hmm, not bad. Only with a firm heart can one achieve great things. This opportunity is not complicated. It is an ancient cultivation cave outside Wudu. It is of a very high grade and was left by a powerful being in the Yin Extinction Realm. Of course, the Yin Extinction Realm is not uncommon. The main reason is that there is likely a clue to a first-class aura in it."
Upon hearing this, Ye Kang's eyes immediately lit up.
First-class Qi, this is great! I don't need anything anymore at the Nirvana Realm. Now I'm just preparing for the Return to Truth Realm.
The rarity of a single strand of first-rate Qi is self-evident; all experts in the Returning to Truth Realm would flock to it.
Qi is also divided into nine grades. The green qi that Ye Kang had previously captured was the lowest grade, the ninth grade.
First-class refers to Qi of grade three or above.
The strength of a True Martial Artist is greatly related to the grade of their Qi. If a Yang Extinction expert's Six Paths Qi are all second- or third-rate, then there is no hope of achieving Dao Integration.
Conversely, if one possesses the first-rate energy of the Six Paths, one's chances of attaining enlightenment far exceed those of others.
Luo Youmin is holding the lifeline of a Returning to the True Realm in his hands!
Such a generous gift, is it really meant for me?
Ye Kang had some doubts.
Luo Youmin replied, “I know you are worried, but I can vouch for it with my Dao Heart. It is indeed a first-class Qi. However, this Qi has limitations. It can only be used in the early stage, that is, the Yin-Yang Initial stage. For the middle and late stages, its grade will drop directly to third-class. A martial artist like me would not consider it unless absolutely necessary.”
"I see. Lord Luo is magnanimous. I admire you."
"Don't rush to thank me. It's just a possible clue. Whether you can get it or not depends on your own abilities."
"Understood. Regardless of the outcome, I am very grateful to Lord Luo for his promotion."
Luo Youmin nodded in satisfaction.
His idea was simple: Ye Kang was a prodigy, and such a person needed to be cultivated into a good relationship, preferably by using his daughter to keep him tied down.
Even if it doesn't work out, it's still good to befriend him.
That energy was too restrictive and of little use to him; Luo Yin and Luo Xue were still far from returning to their true nature.
Since that's the case, instead of keeping it, we might as well do Ye Kang a favor.
A martial artist like this, who has no established background and comes from the sand tribe, is most grateful for favors. Investing in him won't be a bad idea.
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