Chapter 234 Trends from all parties
As the dawn fell, the outline of the Great Shang Palace gradually emerged from the sky.

The palace walls towered like a giant guarding this ancient land, silent and firm. As the sun rose, the glazed tiles on the palace walls began to reflect a faint silver glow, as if they were countless stars inlaid in the night sky.

The palace gate slowly opened, and the guards in armor and holding spears stood solemnly on both sides. Their eyes were as sharp as torches, alert to the surrounding movements, ensuring the safety of the palace.

Passing through the palace gate is a wide stone road with green pines and cypresses planted on both sides. They sway gently in the night breeze, making rustling sounds, accompanied by the occasional chirping of night birds in the distance, forming a peaceful minor tune.

Walking along the stone road, you will see palaces scattered in the palace. Each palace has its own unique architectural style, some are magnificent, some are exquisite and elegant.

Under the eaves of the palace, strings of lanterns are hung. They sway gently in the night breeze, emitting soft light and illuminating every corner of the palace.

Walking into the palace, you can see exquisite murals and carvings hanging on the walls and the floor covered with gorgeous carpets embroidered with various patterns, including auspicious dragons and phoenixes and blooming flowers. Each one is ingeniously crafted and magnificent.

In the center of the palace is a spacious hall. In the center of the hall stands a huge dragon throne, which is the symbol of royal power and the core of the entire palace.

Surrounding the dragon throne are rows of carved pillars that support a high dome with intricate patterns painted on it, each of which is full of mystery and solemnity.

As the sky gradually brightened, the lights in the palace gradually went out, and the entire palace was immersed in tranquility.

Only the occasional knocking of the night watchman broke the silence of the early morning, reminding people of the passage of time.

However, even under the cover of morning light, the Dashang Palace still exudes its unique charm, which makes people admire it.

Bigan walked out of the palace slowly, his emotions were complicated and difficult to describe. His eyes were firm, but his steps were heavy.

Outside the palace, the commander of the Golden Armor Guard, Yin Pobai, was leading a team of elite soldiers. Their eyes were full of worry and uneasiness, and they were obviously caught off guard by the sudden change.

Bigan stood still, took a deep breath, and slowly said to the commander of the Golden Armor Guard: "Everyone, His Majesty was assassinated and the government is in chaos.

Your Majesty's children have all disappeared several years ago. In order to stabilize the court, I, Bi Gan, will succeed you as king to appease the people."

The commander of the Golden Armor Guard was stunned for a moment, then a look of relief and admiration flashed in his eyes.

He knew Bigan's reputation and what this decision meant. He immediately knelt down and saluted, saying in a loud voice: "Your subjects greet the new king and are willing to serve him until death!"

The soldiers behind him also knelt down, with relieved smiles on their faces.

They had long been dissatisfied with Emperor Xin's debauchery and cruelty. Now that they heard that Bigan would succeed to the throne, the depression in their hearts was finally released.

The news soon spread beyond the palace walls. When the people of Chaoge heard the news, they all appeared heartbroken, but in fact, everyone's heart was filled with joy like the spring water that had been suppressed for a long time.

In the market, vendors talked in low voices. Although they said things like "His Majesty's death is truly a devastating tragedy," their eyes could not hide their excitement.

In the alleys, ordinary people gathered together, pretending to cry, but actually exchanging satisfied glances with each other.

"Have you heard? Bigan is going to succeed to the throne!" An old man's voice trembled, but his eyes were full of smiles.

"Yes, Lord Bigan has always been kind. If he could become king, our lives might be better." A middle-aged woman wiped her tears but couldn't help smiling.

The children were chasing and playing in the streets. Although they didn't quite understand what was happening, they started laughing when they saw the adults' expressions.

Every corner of Chaoge, whether it is high-rise buildings or everyday lives, is quietly changing under the influence of this news.

Although no one celebrated openly, the long-suppressed joy was quietly sprouting, like the coming spring.

And Bigan, standing in front of the tall dragon throne in the palace, his eyes were firm and deep. Although he had thousands of thoughts in his mind, he knew that he had to be strong for the future of Da Shang and for the hopes of countless people.

He will shoulder this heavy responsibility and will not back down no matter how difficult the road ahead is.

The nine-room hall is full of vitality and magnificent.

Bigan, dressed in gorgeous imperial robes, walked slowly up to the high throne, his eyes revealing calmness and composure.

Following a clear order, all the civil and military officials in the court knelt down in unison, their heads touching the ground, and shouted in unison: "Greetings, Your Majesty!"

Bigan nodded slightly, signaling the ministers to stand up. He swept his eyes over the crowd, sensing the awe and expectation in their eyes.

At this moment, he is not only a monarch, but also a symbol of an era and a leader supported by the people.

Suddenly, a minister in a scarlet brocade robe stepped forward. He was a famous wise man in the court, known as the "pillar of statecraft."

After he bowed, he said with some worry in his voice: "Your Majesty, who is the assassin? Do you have any clues now?"

Bigan frowned slightly and replied in a deep voice: "There is no definite clue about the identity of the assassin. I have ordered the palace guards to step up the investigation and will not let go of any clues."

The ministers exchanged worried glances; the news clearly made them uneasy.

At this moment, another minister stood up, with a hint of doubt in his voice: "Yesterday, the late emperor invited the owner of Yang's business to the palace for a banquet. I wonder if it has anything to do with them?"

The Yang family business is well-known in Chaoge and even in the entire Shang Kingdom. Their business network is spread all over the place and has a huge influence.

As soon as the minister's words came out, there was a burst of murmurs of discussion.

Bigan took a deep breath, his voice firm and clear: "I know your doubts. But Yang's company has a deep cooperative relationship with the court, and they have no reason to assassinate.

I will personally investigate this matter and will not allow any injustice to happen."

After hearing Bigan's words, the doubts in the ministers' hearts seemed to be relieved a little, but some still looked worried.

Bigan knew that this uneasiness would not dissipate easily, and he had to find the real "murderer" as soon as possible to set the record straight.

The ministers bowed and left one after another. Bigan sat alone on the throne, his heart surging with anxiety.

At the same time, in the study room of Yang Ling's house, the incense burner was curling, and the tea in the white porcelain cup was steaming gently in front of the two of them.

Jiang Ziya's brows were furrowed, his fingers tapping on the table unconsciously, looking a little anxious.

“Once the Human King dies, the Shang Dynasty will be in turmoil, and none of the religions will sit idly by.” Jiang Ziya raised his head, his eyes revealing deep worry.

Yang Ling took a sip of tea, his expression was unusually calm, and his voice was filled with an unquestionable firmness: "It's okay, let them come.

The most urgent task now is to help Bigan stabilize the situation."

Jiang Ziya sighed. He knew Yang Ling's abilities, but the current situation was complicated and even he felt unprecedented pressure.

"It's difficult. I'm afraid that Grand Tutor Wen Zhong, who is suppressing the rebellion at the front line, will be the first to fight back to Chaoge upon hearing the news."

Yang Ling's eyes condensed slightly, then he slowly put down the teacup, a sharp light flashed in his eyes.

"Although Master Wen is famous, he is not without weaknesses. We can take the lead and consolidate the power in the court, and then use the static to control the dynamic."

Jiang Ziya's brows relaxed slightly. He knew that Yang Ling never spoke lightly. Since he was so confident, he must have his reasons.

"So in your opinion, what should we do?"

Yang Ling stood up, walked to a corner of the study, took out a map from the secret box, and spread it on the table.

"Bigan's succession to the throne will inevitably cause some discontent. We need to first appease those ministers who may have ulterior motives. At the same time, we must also pay close attention to the developments in various places to prevent anyone from taking advantage of the opportunity to cause chaos."

Jiang Ziya nodded. He knew that this would be a protracted struggle and every step had to be taken with caution.

"I understand. I'll make arrangements right away."

Their eyes met as they looked at the map. It was a silent communication, full of trust and tacit understanding.

Although Yang Ling's plan is bold, in this turbulent era, perhaps just such boldness is needed to stabilize the situation.

After Bigan succeeded to the throne, his prestige was at its peak. After all, he was of orthodox royal blood and was deeply loved by the people.

After he came to power, he immediately abolished all the tyranny of Emperor Xin's period, implemented benevolent policies for the people, reduced taxes, opened warehouses to release grain, paid special attention to the lives of the poor, and ordered officials to go deep into the people, understand their sentiments, and solve their sufferings.

Everyone in the government and the country was excited.

As a result, Bi Gan's reputation soared and he became the popular figure of the people of Shang.

In such an atmosphere, Bigan summoned Jiang Ziya, hoping that this wise man could serve as an official in the court and assist him in governing the country.

Jiang Ziya was invited to the palace, where Bigan personally greeted him and expressed his hopes sincerely.

However, Jiang Ziya declined the proposal, saying, "Your Majesty, my heart is with the fishermen and woodcutters. I would like to find the true meaning of life in the rivers and lakes, and I don't want to be confined in the court."

After hearing this, Bigan felt regretful, but he also respected Jiang Ziya's persistence.

He did not force it, but said affectionately: "Mr. Jiang, I admire your talent and wisdom. If one day you wish, the court will always welcome your return."

Afterwards, Bigan discussed with Jiang Ziya the current difficulties facing the country.

The treasury was empty, military spending was insufficient, and the court was in urgent need of money and grain to stabilize the situation.

After hearing this, Jiang Ziya pondered for a moment and agreed to lend the money and grain. He said, "Your Majesty, although I will not serve as an official in the court, seeing that the Shang Dynasty is in such a difficult situation, I am willing to do my part."

After hearing this, Bigan felt relieved and thanked him repeatedly.

He knew that with Jiang Ziya's help, the Shang Dynasty would be able to overcome the crisis.

The two men agreed on the specific details of the loan. Jiang Ziya did not ask for excessively high interest rates. Everything was considered for the stability of the country.

With the help of Jiang Ziya, Bigan stabilized the court and appeased the people. The Shang Dynasty gradually recovered, and the streets of Chaoge were once again filled with laughter.

Bigan's benevolent rule made him famous and he became a wise ruler praised by everyone.

……

When the first rays of morning sunlight penetrated the mist, the front-line battlefield northeast of Dashang had awakened.

Urged by the sound of war drums, the soldiers walked out of their crude tents, their faces engraved with determination and resoluteness.

The iron armor shone with a cold light under the morning sun, and the spears and swords were tightly grasped in their hands, ready for the upcoming battle.

In the distant enemy camp, battle flags were fluttering and banners of various colors were flying in the wind, representing different vassal states and tribes.

The soldiers were arranged in their respective formations, some holding shields and swords, some carrying bows and arrows, and some driving chariots, ready to charge at the general's command.

As the war drums roared, the two armies began to slowly approach each other.

The air was filled with tension and solemnity, the horses neighed, and the soldiers' breathing became rapid. The generals rode on their horses, their eyes as sharp as lightning, examining the enemy's movements and looking for opportunities to fight.

Suddenly, a horn sounded and the battle officially broke out.

The chariots rushed towards the enemy camp like thunder, with wheels rolling and dust flying.

The archers pulled their bowstrings to their full potential and shot arrows at the enemy like raindrops, making sharp sounds of breaking through the air.

The spearmen and swordsmen followed closely behind, shouting war trumpets, brandishing their weapons, and engaging in fierce close combat with the enemy.

On the battlefield, metal clashed, flesh and blood flew everywhere. Soldiers fought between life and death, and every swing of the sword, every stab, could be the dividing line between life and death.

The sound of war drums, shouts, and the collision of weapons intertwined to form a tragic war song. In this life-and-death struggle, some soldiers fell, their bodies covered in mud and blood, but their bravery and sacrifice inspired more comrades to continue fighting.

The generals led the charge, wielding their swords and slaying the enemy, demonstrating unparalleled bravery.

As the battle progressed, the sun gradually rose higher, and the sunlight shone on the battlefield, dyeing the blood and dust golden.

There were more and more corpses on the battlefield, but the battle was not over yet.

The soldiers had forgotten their fatigue, and all they had in their eyes were the enemy and victory.

Finally, after a long and fierce battle, the fighting gradually subsided.

The rebels retreated back into the city again, leaving only a few old and weak soldiers to quietly clean up the mess and prepare for the next battle.

On the battlefield, only the battle flags were left fluttering in the wind, as if telling of the cruelty and tragedy of the battle.

Inside Wen Zhong's tent, torches flickered, casting his shadow on the tent curtain, making it unpredictable.

He sat at his desk, his eyes sharp as a torch, examining the sand table in front of him, planning the next military action.

Suddenly, a trusted soldier hurried into the tent, holding a heavy secret letter in his hand.

"Grandmaster, an urgent secret letter from Chaoge."

The soldier knelt and handed over the letter.

Wen Zhong took the letter, opened it quickly, and glanced at the secret letter. As the words came into his eyes, his face turned pale, his fists clenched, and veins bulged.

The news in the letter was like a bolt from the blue. Emperor Xin's death, Bigan's succession to the throne, and the court changes were all beyond his expectations.

"You bastard Bigan! How dare you usurp the throne!" His voice was low and murderous, and every word revealed his uncontrollable anger.

He firmly believed that Bigan must have colluded with the Yang family business, which was why he took advantage of this critical moment and usurped the throne.

As the minister entrusted with the care of the young emperor and the grand tutor of the current dynasty, he could not tolerate such a thing happening.

"Pass the order down, reorganize the army, and we will return to the court immediately!" Wen Zhong stood up and gave the order decisively.

The deputy general hurried forward, looking worried: "Grandmaster, Lord Bigan has always been loyal, this matter may not be simple, is there any misunderstanding?"

Wen Zhong stopped and turned around, his eyes piercing the deputy general's heart like lightning: "Misunderstanding? Even if there is a misunderstanding, he cannot succeed to the throne without permission!"

The deputy general saw that Wen Zhong's expression had eased a little, so he took the opportunity to persuade him: "Grand Master, if Lord Bigan really had other intentions, why did he wait until today? Besides, Chaoge is now stable and the people live in peace. If we lead the troops back to the court at this time, I am afraid it will cause unnecessary chaos."

Wen Zhong was silent for a moment, the anger in his eyes gradually subsided, he knew that what the deputy general said was true. He sat back at the desk, tapping the table lightly with his fingers, the doubts in his heart like a tangled mess.

"So what do you think?" Wen Zhong's voice was low, revealing a hint of fatigue.

Upon seeing this, the deputy general stepped forward and whispered, "Grandmaster, why don't we send a secret envoy to the court to find out the truth. If Bigan really has ulterior motives, we can make plans later."

Wen Zhong hesitated for a moment, and finally nodded: "Okay, I will do as you say. But if there is even a trace of falsehood, I will not forgive you!"

The deputy general agreed and immediately went to prepare for the secret envoy.

Wen Zhongze returned to the sand table and looked at the flag representing Chaoge with complicated eyes, and the waves in his heart inevitably rose again.

After a brief thought, Wen Zhong gave some brief instructions, then left the tent and jumped onto the back of the black unicorn.

The black unicorn neighed, flew into the air, and headed straight for the Jin'ao Island in the East China Sea. The body of this mythical beast radiated a deep black light, and its eyes sparkled with the light of wisdom.

In the blink of an eye, the waves were split apart, as if a road leading directly to the place where the Heavenly Lord was was opened up.

Jin'ao Island, the headquarters of Jiejiao, ten Heavenly Kings gathered here. They sat around a round table and discussed the general situation of the world.

Wen Zhong's arrival broke the tranquility here, and the Heavenly Lords stood up one after another to show their respect.

"Friend Wen, I wonder what advice you have for me on this trip?" Qin Wan Tianjun spoke first, with an imperceptible solemnity in his voice.

Wen Zhong's eyes flashed with anxiety: "Lord Qin, I want to know the truth about Emperor Xin's death and the current situation of the Shang Dynasty."

Qin Wan Tianjun nodded, his eyes swept across Wen Zhong's face, as if looking for some kind of answer: "We have already investigated clearly that it was Yang Ling, a disciple of the Human Cult, who killed Emperor Xin. Now, the fate of the Great Shang Dynasty is closely linked to the fate of the Human Cult. I am afraid it is no coincidence."

Upon hearing this, Wen Zhong clenched his fists, anger burning in his chest: "Human Cult! It really is their conspiracy! Bigan is just a pawn being used by others!"

His anger was like a raging flame, almost igniting the air around him.

The ten Heavenly Lords looked at each other. They knew Wen Zhong's character. Once he made a decision, it would be as powerful as thunder and lightning and unstoppable.

Qin Wan Tianjun said in a deep voice: "Fellow Daoist Wen, if this matter is really as you said, then the situation in Da Shang will probably be even more complicated.

Although we, Jiejiao, have a rift with Renjiao, we will not sit idly by. "

Wen Zhong's eyes flashed with a hint of coldness: "Lord Qin, I have decided that I must return to the court immediately and expose all this so that the world will know the truth!"

Other Heavenly Kings also expressed their support. They knew that this turmoil not only concerned the future of the Shang Dynasty, but also the balance of the three religions.

"You are wise, fellow Daoist." Qin Wan Tianjun nodded in praise, his eyes flickering with a glimmer of strategy.

Wen Zhong said nothing more. He knew that time was running out and any delay could make the situation even more unfavorable.

He turned around and rode on the black unicorn, ready to return to Chaoge to uncover the truth of the conspiracy.

The black unicorn roared again, soared into the sky, and rushed straight into the sky.

Wen Zhong's figure flashed across the sky like a black lightning, rushing towards Dashang.

Bai Li Tianjun stood up, his face solemn, his voice full of unquestionable determination: "This matter is of great importance, we must report it to the leader as soon as possible so that we can make preparations early."

Qin Wan Tianjun nodded slightly upon hearing this, but then frowned and said distressedly: "The gate of Biyou Palace has not been opened for a long time. The leader is in seclusion and does not ask about the affairs of the outside world. If you want to report this matter, it may not be easy."

Bai Li Tianjun's eyes became more determined. He looked around at the Tianjuns present and then said slowly: "The situation is urgent, the fate of the country and the people's hearts all depend on this move.

We can't give up just because it's difficult to see the leader. We must try, even if it's difficult and dangerous, we have to go to the Biyou Palace."

Upon hearing this, the other Heavenly Kings nodded one after another. They knew that the current situation had reached an extraordinary point and extraordinary measures must be taken.

So, Baili Tianjun took the lead, and the other Tianjuns followed closely behind, and they went to Biyou Palace together, hoping to break the routine and meet the leader.

Biyou Palace is located above the clouds, surrounded by mist and ethereal air. The palace gates are tightly closed, making it like a paradise, away from the worldly affairs.

The Heavenly Monarchs came to the palace gate. Bai Li Heavenly Monarch took a deep breath and called out loudly: "Master, please accept my disciple's greeting! Today we have a big event that concerns the safety of the three religions. I hope you will open the door and see me!"

The sound echoed in the clouds, as if an invisible force penetrated the palace gate and passed into the depths of Biyou Palace.

However, after a long time, the palace gate remained closed and there was no response.

The Heavenly Kings were anxious, but they knew they couldn't act rashly, so they could only wait outside the palace gate, hoping that the leader could feel their sincerity and urgency.

Time passed minute by minute, the sun gradually sank, and the clouds in the sky became colorful.

Just when everyone was about to lose their patience, the gate of Biyou Palace suddenly made a slight noise.

The door slowly opened, and a figure walked out of the palace. It was an old man with an immortal look. There was a deep light in his eyes, and he looked like a wise man who could see through everything in the world.

"Bai Li, you are here." The old man's voice was calm and distant, as if it had existed in this world since ancient times.

Upon seeing this, Baili Tianjun and the other Tianjuns hurried forward and said, "Greetings to Senior Brother Wuyunxian!"

Wu Yunxian waved his hand slightly, signaling them to stand up: "Stand up, and tell me, what is so urgent that you are here to see me?"

Baili Tianjun stood up and reported to Wuyunxian in detail how the fate of the Shang Dynasty was closely linked to the fate of the human religion, as well as Wen Zhong's anxious mood.

After hearing this, Wu Yunxian was silent for a moment, then slowly spoke: "This matter is indeed not to be underestimated, I will personally convey it to the leader."

When Baili Tianjun and other Tianjuns heard his reply, they finally felt relieved.

……

The Kunlun Mountains stand majestically, shrouded in clouds and mist. The Yuxu Palace is filled with rich spiritual energy, like a fairyland.

The Jade Purity Saint Yuanshi Tianzun, the leader of the Chan sect, sat on a high platform with a dignified posture and extraordinary bearing.

On his left and right stood the deputy leader, the Taoist Master Ran Deng, and his disciples, all of whom focused their eyes on Yuanshi Tianzun, waiting for instructions.

Yuanshi Tianzun's eyes swept over every disciple present, and then he slowly spoke: "Something happened in Chaoge, Emperor Xin fell, and Bigan succeeded to the throne. The fate of the Shang Dynasty is closely linked to the fate of the human religion. There must be something strange behind all this."

The disciples present nodded one after another. They had all heard about the situation in Chaoge, but were all waiting for further instructions from Yuanshi Tianzun.

Yuanshi Tianzun nodded slightly and continued: "What do you think about this?"

Manjusri, with his erudition and wisdom, was the first to speak out. His voice was clear and firm: "Master, the actions of the Human Religion are obviously deliberate and have ill intentions. They are using the fortune of the Shang Dynasty to try to control the world. This is a serious threat to the balance of the three religions."

Yuanshi Tianzun nodded, indicating his agreement with Manjusri Taoist, and then turned his gaze to Randeng Taoist: "Randeng, what do you think?"

The Taoist Master Ran Deng pondered for a moment and said, "Master, what Manjusri said is absolutely right. If the Human Cult does not stop this in time, it will probably cause even greater chaos.

The destruction of the Shang Dynasty and the rise of the Zhou Dynasty were the will of heaven. We in the Chan School take it as our responsibility to follow the will of heaven and we absolutely cannot sit idly by and watch.”

Yuanshi Tianzun then turned his gaze to Jade Ding Zhenren, and a hint of expectation appeared between his brows.

Jade Ding Zhenren stood up, his voice carrying a hint of disdain: "Yang Ling is a cunning and ruthless person. His ambition is not only to control the Shang Dynasty, but more likely to shake the foundation of our Chan Sect.

We must take action to uphold justice in the world."

Taiyi Zhenren also spoke up, his tone even more stern: "Yang Ling has always been a secretive disciple, and this time he dared to assassinate Emperor Xin, which is really a heinous crime."

When the disciples heard the two masters' remarks, they all expressed their agreement, and the atmosphere became even more solemn.

Yuanshi Tianzun frowned slightly as he listened to his disciples' speeches. He knew that this matter was by no means a trivial matter and that something had to be done.

He took a deep breath, slowly stood up, his voice full of supreme majesty: "If that's the case, then we can't just sit back and watch.

All the disciples will go down the mountain to assist Xiqi, to help him destroy Shang and restore order in the world."

Upon hearing this, Jade Ding Zhenren and Taiyi Zhenren immediately bowed their hands and promised: "As ordered by the Master!"

Yuanshi Tianzun looked at the other disciples present and said, "This operation is of great importance. You must prepare yourself and not make any mistakes. Remember, our goal is not to fight for power, but to uphold the Way of Heaven and protect the people."

All the disciples stood up one by one and said in unison: "We will obey the orders of the leader and live up to his trust!"

Afterwards, Jade Ding Zhenren, Taiyi Zhen and other Golden Immortals of the Chan Sect prepared to go down the mountain to Xiqi.

(End of this chapter)