Seeking Fortune And Avoiding Calamity, Starting From The Heavenly Master's Mansion Chapter 262: 261. The Heavenly Master's Mansion Seeks Retribution (Part 2) - Novel Cool

Chapter 262: 261. The Heavenly Master's Mansion Seeks Retribution (Part 2)

Chapter 262: 261. The Heavenly Master's Mansion Seeks Retribution (Part 2)

Additionally, Tang Xiaotang, who had observed Chu Yu's close-quarters combat during this battle, felt that there seemed to be some subtle changes in him compared to the past, but she couldn't pinpoint it immediately.

The leader of the Shushan Sect this time was Zhang Dongyuan, an elder in the Octuple Heaven Immortal Travel realm. He fought with his Qingming Sword, and his attacks were sharp and lethal.

Apart from Zhang Dongyuan, there were other powerful cultivators from the Shushan Sect who came to Guanzhong.

Among them, the youngest was Zhang Taigang, the senior brother of Ji Chuan and others. He was already famous in the Great Tang and was considered the most outstanding genius in the young generation of the Daoist School of Alchemy.

Although he was still in the Seventh Heaven during this battle, he attracted the attention of many, including Tang Xiaotang. They all believed that as long as he could overcome the hurdle between the Seventh and Eighth Heavens, Zhang Taigang would definitely reach the Immortal Travel realm in the near future.

After the demons retreated northward, Zhang Taigang did not accompany Zhang Dongyuan to meet the Emperor in Chang'an but instead returned directly to Shushan.

There were already rumors that Zhang Taigang had started his closed-door cultivation, most likely to take that final step.

Another person in a similar situation was Fang Zhu, the eldest grandson and heir of the Fang Clan in Jingxiang.

Fang Zhu was the eldest brother of Fang Jian, a disciple of the Heavenly Master's Mansion, and the eldest son of Fang Huansheng, the head of the Fang Clan. He was also the most outstanding young disciple of the Fang Clan.

He had performed exceptionally well in the battle against the demons in Guanzhong.

After the battle, Fang Zhu did not leave immediately like Zhang Taigang but accompanied the elders of his clan to Chang'an to meet the Emperor.

However, after the meeting, he did not linger and left Guanzhong before the other members of the Fang Clan, returning to the ancestral land of the Fang Clan in Jingxiang.

People said that the outstanding young disciples of the top sects were all taking steps towards the Octuple Heaven realm.

Yuxi Ling, the young genius of the Daoist School of Pill Concoction, had been in closed-door cultivation in a remote area, cut off from the outside world.

Given his talent and cultivation progress, it was likely that he was striving to reach the Octuple Heaven realm during this closed-door cultivation.

"Speaking of the Fang Clan of Jingxiang, there's another matter."

Yuan Mobai said, "Fang Yongshan, a Confucianist of the Recitation lineage, has successfully cultivated to the Seventh Heaven realm and achieved a state of immersion. He has also taken over as the vice principal of the Academic Palace in the capital, Luoyang. In terms of age, he is also very young."

Lei Jun nodded. "He's not even forty years old yet."

Fang Yue, styled Duanfeng, and with the courtesy name Yongshan, was from the Fang Clan of Jingxiang, just like Fang Zhu and Fang Jian.

However, he had joined the Academic Palace years ago, and his name had become a taboo within the Fang Clan.

He was a talented child with the nickname "Kirin" since childhood, but the Fang Clan's good seed had been taken away by the Tang imperial family.

In the Academic Palace, the grand tutor was the head, assisted by the vice principal. Below them were the professors and assistants.

When the Academic Palace was first established, its status was lower than that of the original Imperial University, and it was on par with the branches under the Imperial University, such as the Advanced College and the National University.

But later, the status of the Academic Palace gradually increased, and it became equal to the Imperial University.

Since its establishment, the grand tutor had always been Xiao Chuihui from the Xiao Clan in Longyou.

When the position of vice principal was first established, it was held by an official from the aristocratic families, who happened to be Fang Yue's uncle.

Fang Yue, who taught Confucianism, together with Lin Shan, who taught Taoism, and the high monk from Tianlong Temple who taught Buddhism, were all professors in the Academic Palace.

Now that Fang Yue had cultivated to the Upper Three Heavens realm and replaced his cousin of the same surname, he became the new Si Ye of the Academic Palace.

This essentially marked him as Xiao Chunhui's successor, and for the time being, he would act as a transition and Xiao Chunhui's assistant, first familiarizing himself with the situation.

Xiao Chunhui had officially entered the political arena and begun to participate in state affairs, so a large portion of the Academic Palace's affairs gradually began to be handed over to Fang Yue.

After a while, it was believed that Xiao Chunhui would step down from her previous position, and Fang Yue would officially become the second Academic Palace Sacrifice.

"It's said that General Xiao is astonishingly impressive when she makes a move, but her brother, Sacrifice Xiao, is even more low-key."

As Lei Jun chatted with Yuan Mobai, he suddenly smiled. "Aside from when the Xiao Clan in Longyou encountered trouble and the siblings first entered the political scene, stunning everyone, Sacrifice Xiao hasn't made any moves since."

Although Xiao Xuetin usually kept a low profile, she would occasionally create a huge sensation.

In recent years, Xiao Chunhui had been even more low-key than her sister.

Yuan Mobai's tone remained gentle as he said, "Simplicity is true, and it's not necessarily a bad thing. It's just rare."

Lei Jun wholeheartedly agreed. "Master's words are true."

………………

At that moment, in the Academic Palace, Xiao Chunhui was sitting opposite Fang Yue.

Xiao Chunhui, with his slender build and handsome features, smiled as he sat in the main seat. "From now on, I'll have to trouble you, Duanfeng."

Although Fang Yue looked middle-aged, his actual age was much younger than Xiao Chunhui's. "I dare not, but I will continue to follow the Emperor's and your arrangements, Sacrifice."

When Fang Yue first entered the Academic Palace, he was both a teacher of Confucianism to the students and a student of Xiao Chunhui's, so he always maintained a teacher-student relationship with his peer.

Xiao Chunhui had corrected him several times, but Fang Yue remained unchanged, leaving Xiao Chunhui unable to force him.

"Sacrifice, your entry into the Political Affairs Hall to participate in state affairs is a blessing for the country. As for the Academic Palace, I will do my best to assist the Emperor and you," Fang Yue said.

Xiao Chunhui replied, "Duanfeng, you're putting too much pressure on yourself. I believe that under your leadership, the Academic Palace will definitely achieve greater and faster development."

After chatting a little more about teaching-related matters, Fang Yue took his leave.

However, just before he left, he hesitated, something he rarely did.

Xiao Chunhui noticed and said, "Duanfeng, if you have something to say, just say it. There's no need to be so hesitant between you and me."

Fang Yue nodded. "Sacrifice, I think we should reconsider Qingyan's situation."

"Hmm, I'll take it into consideration," Xiao Chunhui said.

"Sacrifice, you must have already thought about it. I was being rash," Fang Yue said as he took his leave.

After seeing Fang Yue out, Xiao Chunhui's expression changed slightly.

He couldn't help but show up as soon as he was mentioned. Sure enough, as he and Fang Yue were talking about Meng Qingyan, Meng Shaoji and Meng Qingyan came to seek an audience with him.

"Sacrifice," Meng Shaoji greeted Xiao Chunhui with a bow.

"No need for formalities," Xiao Chunhui smiled. "I remember you went back to your hometown to visit your family. Did you return early? Has your leave from the Eastern Palace been approved?"

Meng Shaoji respectfully replied, "I've already reported back to the Eastern Palace. For now, I haven't received any assignments in the Eastern Palace, so I specifically came to seek an audience with you."

After saying this, he fell silent.

His eyes darted about as if he were having an intense internal struggle.

Xiao Chunhui didn't rush him but waited patiently.

After a long while, Meng Shaoji finally spoke again. "Sacrifice, I have a hidden matter to report."

The Empress had left the capital, Luoyang, and headed to the old capital, Chang'an.

Currently, the Crown Prince, Zhang Hui, was overseeing the country in the capital.

Naturally, the officials in the Eastern Palace, such as the Master of Writing and the Lecturer, remained unchanged.

As for Shangguan Zhengqing, Ye Song, and the other companions who taught the Crown Prince, they were given low-level positions to serve as the Crown Prince's assistants.

Meng Shaoji was among them.

However, there were already quite a few companions in the Eastern Palace, and Meng Shaoji neither stood out in terms of cultivation nor in his ability to participate in state affairs. As such, he blended into the crowd.

This was naturally a valuable opportunity to gain experience.

However, Meng Shaoji himself wasn't enthusiastic about the political arena.

Although he had a good personal relationship with Crown Prince Zhang Hui, the Crown Prince was currently overseeing the country, and the matters at hand were of great importance. Meng Shaoji didn't think he could be of much help, so he didn't eagerly insert himself.

By not getting too close to the Crown Prince, he also reduced the risks to his safety.

Meng Shaoji couldn't help but think of that strange, pale universe and the bizarre encounter he had experienced. He thought of "Ji Du" and wondered if he should take a chance.

As long as it didn't pose a threat to Crown Prince Zhang Hui's safety and didn't implicate his family, Meng Shaoji was tempted.

He didn't have much to lose...

Initially, Meng Shaoji had many concerns.

Who would have thought that the Empress would move to Chang'an, and Crown Prince Zhang Hui would take the stage early by overseeing the country?

As the country underwent tremendous changes, the ripples affected the fates of countless ordinary people.

Meng Shaoji was one of them.

After returning home to visit his family, when he came back, many things had already changed.

It was as if heaven had a plan to help him reduce his concerns.

Since that was the case, should he take a chance with "Ji Du"? Meng Shaoji, still young at heart, was tempted.

However, his heart's desire didn't lead to recklessness. Meng Shaoji didn't immediately decide to venture into the unknown.

After careful consideration, he chose to seek out Xiao Chunhui first.

Once he started speaking, Meng Shaoji didn't hold anything back. He told Xiao Chunhui everything he knew about his bizarre experience and the existence of that pale universe full of stars.

He also mentioned that there was another person there besides him, Luohu.

Xiao Chunhui listened quietly, occasionally interjecting with a question.

After Meng Shaoji finished telling him everything he knew, Xiao Chunhui didn't respond immediately but fell into deep thought.

Meng Shaoji felt anxious as he watched Xiao Chunhui.

In terms of appearance, Xiao Chunhui looked like a young man in his twenties or thirties.

However, compared to a few years ago, his recent appearance, although still young, had started to show signs of aging, with strands of white in his hair.

His expression remained calm and steady, and although he didn't say anything, he didn't make Meng Shaoji feel oppressed. Instead, Meng Shaoji was infected by his calmness, and his nervousness gradually faded.

After a long while, Xiao Chunhui smiled faintly. "Qingyan, what do you think?"

Upon hearing this, Meng Shaoji immediately felt nervous again.

Fortunately, Xiao Chunhui smiled and said, "It's fine to be cautious, whether it's an open or hidden threat. The Great Tang faces countless challenges every day, and it's not certain that it will happen."

Meng Shaoji took a deep breath and said softly, "I... I'm tempted."

"Xiao Chunhui said, "Since you're tempted, why not give it a try?"

Meng Shaoji looked up, a hint of surprise on his face.

"This is your own opportunity, and it's up to you to decide whether to take it or not," Xiao Chunhui said. "Now that you've told me, I'll do my best to ensure your safety, but the future is unpredictable, and no one can guarantee absolute safety."

He smiled and said, "Although the other party's identity is mysterious, it doesn't necessarily mean they are an enemy of the Great Tang. Moreover, friends and foes often change, and who knows if there might come a time for cooperation? You're in the middle, so there's no need to worry."

Meng Shaoji straightened his body and replied, "Yes, I understand!"

He quickly regained his composure and bowed once more to Xiao Chunhui. "Thank you for your guidance, Teacher."

Meng Shaoji felt a twinge of shame as he said, "I, I'm dull-witted and unworthy of your teachings. My studies haven't progressed, and now I'm tempted by shortcuts... I..."

Seeing Meng Shaoji's demeanor, Xiao Chunhui fell silent for a moment before speaking in a gentle tone, "Everyone has their own talents, and there's no need to belittle yourself, Qingyan. Sometimes, it's not the person but the position and environment that are unsuitable."

He looked at Meng Shaoji and said, "The mysterious person's words about 'no intention to plant willows but ending up with a lush shade' correspond to your current situation, implying that you should consider changing your path. What do you think about this matter?"

Meng Shaoji was taken aback. "I've thought about switching to the path of Divine Archery or Chanting, but... I don't seem to grasp the essence of those paths."

Xiao Chunhui continued, "Actually, there is a path that suits you, but it's not well-known at the moment. However, I believe you will achieve success on this path. The reason I didn't tell you earlier was not because I wanted to keep it a secret, but because it's better to embark on this path when you're older and your mind is more settled. Telling you earlier might have been detrimental to your cultivation."

"Your Majesty, there are some things I must tell him in advance," Xiao Chunhui thought to himself. "But no matter what, someone else will reap the rewards of your efforts..." He shook his head inwardly.

Meng Shaoji was astonished upon hearing this.

Xiao Chunhui took some paper and a brush, wrote a single character, sealed the paper within an envelope, and handed it to Meng Shaoji. "Don't open it in a hurry. There are items related to the ancient Taoist Fu Lu School's legacy in His Majesty's possession. I'll request them after obtaining his permission, and you can then offer them to that mysterious person."

Meng Shaoji was surprised. "Teacher..."

"Since there will be a reward, why don't you ask that friend how he would respond, and then you can make a decision by comparing the two?" Xiao Chunhui suggested with a smile.

Meng Shaoji looked at the envelope in his hand and took a deep breath. "Yes, Teacher!"

A few days later, on Dragon Tiger Mountain, in the Celestial Master's Mansion...

Lei Jun, who was polishing the Dazhoutian Jade, had a slight stir in his heart.

He sank his consciousness into the dark side of the universe within the Heavenly Tome.

There was still no response from Luohu Kangming.

However, Meng Shaoji, in the form of Ji Du, reappeared and mentioned that he had accidentally discovered a spiritual object that might be related to the legacy of the ancient Fu Lu School. He sought Lei Jun's advice on how to offer this treasure.

At the same time, he asked Lei Jun about the path of cultivation that would be most suitable for him.

Lei Jun raised an eyebrow at this.

He wouldn't be surprised by whatever decision Meng Shaoji made.

However, it was a bit unusual for Meng Shaoji to find a related spiritual object so quickly.

Although this young man did have good luck...

Considering his character and style, perhaps he had directly reported it to the authorities?

Lei Jun wondered if they were determined to uncover the mysterious person's true identity or if they were merely testing the waters. He wasn't too concerned about that.

From the moment he recognized Meng Shaoji, he had been prepared for this and didn't mind it.

During this period, based on his understanding of Meng Shaoji and the information about him and his fellow students from the Academy, Lei Jun had some ideas regarding Meng Shaoji's question.

As it involved the deeper aspects of the soul, Lei Jun's understanding of Meng Shaoji in this regard, with the help of the dark side of the Heavenly Tome, was far superior to that of most people, even Meng Shaoji himself.

This young man had extremely high soul talent and insight, but he wasn't an all-rounder like Lei Jun, Xu Yuanzhen, or Tang Xiaotang.

Instead, he was a specialist in a particular area.

However, none of the three branches of Confucian cultivation were particularly suitable for Meng Shaoji.

Meng Shaoji had a gentle yet resilient character. He was patient, meticulous, good at summarizing and discovering details that others overlooked, highly sensitive to the changes in soul and space, and adept at multitasking.

The Chanting branch required inspiration and a strong sense of communication with the natural world, which wasn't his forte.

While Meng Shaoji was highly sensitive to textual information and adept at observing static details, he lacked the Divine Archery branch's ability to perceive dynamic phenomena and the myriad phenomena of the world.

Additionally, his physical body was frail, which was a disadvantage for the Divine Archery path.

This limited his progress in the path of Confucian Studies.

However, his strengths made him more suited to the path of Confucian Studies than the other two branches.

But what Meng Shaoji lacked was exceptional talent in exegesis, a crucial aspect of Confucian Studies.

As a result, his overall performance was mediocre—he had talent, but it was just enough, and he fell short when compared to others.

In Lei Jun's opinion, the path most suitable for Meng Shaoji was a branch of Confucian Studies.

This branch already existed but hadn't developed a distinct style.

However, for this young man, it might be a case of finding light in the darkness...

Meng Shaoji, in the guise of Ji Du, waited anxiously for a response.

Suddenly, a light mist appeared before him, bearing two simple words that left him stunned.

After obtaining the address for offering the treasure from Lei Jun, Meng Shaoji withdrew his consciousness from the dark starry universe and took a moment to regain his bearings.

It was only when he raised his eyes and saw Xiao Chunhui's handsome face that he snapped back to reality. "Teacher..."

Xiao Chunhui smiled and gestured to the envelope in Meng Shaoji's hand.

Driven by curiosity, Meng Shaoji took out the letter from the envelope. On it was a single character, which left the young scholar in a daze.

Xiao Chunhui had written a single character:

"History."

In the dark universe within the Heavenly Tome, Lei Jun responded to Ji Du with two words:

"Historian."

PS: 9k chapter

(End of Chapter)

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