Chapter 246 Zhao Gongming
"So scary!"
In a flash, Yang Ling's figure shuttled through the Ten Absolute Formations. Every flash of sword light meant the collapse of a large formation.
The morale of the rebels has hit rock bottom.
Wen Zhong, who was riding on the Black Qilin, had a livid face, with a trace of regret and panic in his eyes. He originally thought that the Ten Absolute Formation was enough to trap Yang Ling, or even kill him, but he didn't expect Yang Ling to break it so easily. This was undoubtedly a huge blow to him.
The four generals of the Mo family beside him were even paler, looking at each other, their eyes filled with fear and anxiety. They used to be invincible on the battlefield, but now they were trembling under Yang Ling's sword, and fear was like a cold wind in the winter, penetrating into their bones.
The soldiers defending the city were full of energy and enthusiasm, as if the dawn of victory was already in sight.
Kong Xuan stood on the top of the city wall, following Yang Ling's every move with a look of amazement on his face. He knew Yang Ling was strong, but he didn't expect him to be this strong.
Zhang Kui and his wife on the side were even more stunned. They had heard about the power of the formation before, but after Yang Ling took action, it was broken so easily. This made them have a new understanding of Yang Ling's strength.
Li Jing and his wife were also shocked, but they knew Yang Ling better, so although they were surprised, it was also within their expectations.
Nezha, on the other hand, had an admiring look on his face. He reached out and poked Yang Jian, his eyes sparkling with admiration, and said mischievously, "Your father is so amazing that he can even break the Ten Absolute Formations with ease."
Yang Jian smiled slightly, his eyes full of pride, but he responded calmly: "My father is indeed very accomplished in formations, but it's a pity that I'm not cut out for it."
Hearing this, Nezha frowned slightly, a trace of frustration flashed across his face, and he muttered quietly: "I'm not cut out for this either. The art of formations is too profound. I only know some basic techniques."
Seeing this, Yang Jian patted Nezha's shoulder gently and said in a firm tone, "Nezha, the art of formation is indeed profound, and only a few people can cultivate the magical power of formation, but we don't need to be discouraged.
Everyone has their own strengths. Your bravery on the battlefield is unmatched, and this is your uniqueness. Besides, there is no end to learning. If you really like it, you will definitely achieve something in the future."
Nezha looked up at Yang Jian, and the frustration in his eyes gradually disappeared, replaced by a bright light. His heart was touched by Yang Jian's words, as if a warm current was flowing through his heart, warm and inspiring.
"You're right, I have my own strengths!" Nezha's mouth curled up into a smile, his eyes flashing with determination, as if he had regained his confidence, "I want to become an invincible warrior on the battlefield!"
Yang Jian was pleased to see Nezha regain his former heroic spirit. He knew that Nezha had a heroic character and would be able to overcome all difficulties as long as he had a goal in mind.
The two smiled at each other, their eyes full of expectations for the future.
At this time, the situation on the battlefield had become clear. Yang Ling single-handedly broke through the Ten Absolute Formations and captured ten Heavenly Lords alive, causing the morale of the rebels to plummet.
Wen Zhong's face was as gloomy as water. He knew that today's defeat was inevitable. He took a deep breath and ordered the troops to retreat.
As the signal to retreat sounded, the rebels began to retreat like a tide. The soldiers looked terrified, dropped their weapons, and hurriedly evacuated the battlefield.
Zhang Kui stood on the top of the city wall, watching this scene, and couldn't help but laugh loudly, "Hahaha, you can't even defend the Ten Absolute Formations, and you still want to overthrow the court? How ridiculous!"
On the city wall, the morale of the defenders was further boosted by Zhang Kui's words. They waved their weapons and cheered, as if they had seen the dawn of victory.
In the rebel camp, the faces of the four generals of the Mo family were extremely grim. They surrounded Wen Zhong, looking anxious and asking in trembling voices: "Sir, what should we do? Morale has been completely lost. If we continue to fight, I am afraid there will be a catastrophe."
Wen Zhong frowned, his face as gloomy as the sky covered with dark clouds. He glanced around and saw the soldiers in disarray. His heart was filled with anger and helplessness.
After a long while, he said in a deep voice: "Now, our only hope is to ask for reinforcements."
Yu Qing stood aside, and his face turned pale when he heard Wen Zhong's words, but he knew that this was the only way out.
He nodded and said in a low voice: "Your Excellency is right. Our own strength is not enough to fight against Yang Ling. We can only seek external help."
"But, even the Ten Heavenly Lords have been defeated, who else can we invite?" There was a hint of weakness in Wen Zhong's voice, and a hint of confusion in his eyes.
Yu Qing took a deep breath, and a hint of determination flashed in his eyes: "Now, we can only go to Luofu Cave to ask Zhao Gongming to ascend to heaven.
He has great magical powers and is a senior disciple of Jiejiao's outer sect. If we can ask him to help, he may be able to turn the tide for us."
When Wen Zhong heard this, a glimmer of hope flashed in his eyes.
He knew the name of Zhao Gongming, a master with unfathomable strength. If he could ask him to take action, it would indeed be possible to change the current situation.
"Then let's do it." Wen Zhong's voice was full of determination. "This Grand Master will go to Luofu Cave immediately and ask Zhao Gongming to come and help."
The setting sun is as red as blood, dyeing the sky with a brilliant orange-red. Thousands of rays of light penetrate the clouds and fall on the earth, adding a bit of mystery and solemnity to this magnificent moment.
At this moment of interweaving light and shadow, Wen Zhong, wearing armor, with flying silver hair and a look of heroic spirit, rode on his majestic black unicorn.
The black unicorn's body is covered with scales as deep as the night sky, and each scale is glowing with a faint light, as if it can swallow all the light around it.
Its four hooves stepped lightly on the void, and before it reached the ground, it had already created circles of ripples visible to the naked eye, which were signs that the force of space had been crushed by it.
"go with!"
Following Wen Zhong's low and powerful shout, the black unicorn suddenly raised its head and let out a long roar that shook the earth. Everything seemed to tremble wherever the sound waves reached.
Then, the black unicorn kicked its four hooves hard, and its body instantly turned into a black lightning, cutting through the sky and heading straight for Mount Emei.
Its flying posture is both graceful and swift, like a dark night messenger flying through the clouds. Wherever it passes, it leaves behind a trail of faint ink-colored tracks, which forms a sharp contrast with the gorgeous sunset in the sky, and is so beautiful that it is breathtaking.
Mount Emei, a place known as a holy mountain since ancient times, looks even more majestic and magnificent under the setting sun.
The mountains were shrouded in mist and covered with verdant pines and cypresses, like a flowing landscape painting. As the black unicorn approached, the creatures in the mountains seemed to feel the powerful aura and stopped to look up. Even the wind seemed to become gentler, fearing that it would disturb the sacredness.
Finally, Wen Zhong and Mo Qilin landed steadily on the top of Mount Emei, surrounded by a faint spiritual light, blending into this fairy-like scenery.
Luofu Cave is the largest Taoist temple in Mount Emei, with the most abundant spiritual energy.
Wen Zhong stood in front of Luofu Cave, took a deep breath, and suppressed his inner anxiety and urgency. He knew that what he needed at this moment was calmness and politeness.
He straightened his clothes and then knocked on the cave door.
Soon, the cave door creaked open, and a little Taoist boy in Taoist robes walked out.
He looked young, but his eyes revealed a hint of shrewdness.
The little Taoist boy looked Wen Zhong up and down, then asked, "Where are you from, distinguished guest, and what do you want?"
Wen Zhong bowed slightly and answered respectfully, "I am Wen Zhong, a disciple of the Golden Spirit Holy Mother, and I am the Grand Master of the Great Shang. I came here today to seek an audience with the Immortal Zhao Gongming. I have a favor to ask of you."
When the little Taoist boy heard the words "Grand Master of the Imperial Court", his expression straightened slightly, and then he nodded to show that he understood: "Please wait a moment, I will report it right away."
After saying that, the little Taoist boy turned and walked into the cave, leaving Wen Zhong standing alone at the entrance, with a hint of nervousness and anticipation rising in his heart.
After a while, the little Taoist boy came out of the cave again, with a smile on his face, and said to Wen Zhong: "My master has already known, now please let the master enter the cave."
When Wen Zhong heard this, he felt relieved and hurriedly followed the little Taoist boy into the cave.
The scene inside Luofu Cave is bizarre, with stalactites hanging from the top of the cave sparkling with crystal light, and various mysterious patterns carved on the cave walls, which seem to be telling ancient stories. The cave is full of spiritual energy, which makes people feel relaxed and happy.
As the little Taoist boy passed through the winding passage, Wen Zhong's heartbeat quickened. He knew that he was about to face the eldest disciple of the outer sect of Jiejiao, who had already entered the realm of Daluo Jinxian.
Finally, they came to a spacious stone chamber with a stone table in the middle and a stone chair next to it.
And on the stone chair, sitting upright was a middle-aged Taoist priest in a yellow Taoist robe. His brows revealed a majesty that was intimidating without even being angry. It was the Immortal Zhao Gongming.
The little Taoist boy bowed to Zhao Gongming and then walked out, leaving Wen Zhong and Zhao Gongming staring at each other.
Wen Zhong bowed again and said, "Wen Zhong pays respects to the Immortal Zhao Gongming. I came here today in the hope that the Immortal can lend a hand and help me put down the rebellion."
Immortal Zhao Gongming nodded slightly, motioning Wen Zhong to stand up, and then slowly spoke: "Grandmaster Wen Zhong, I already understand your intention. Tell me, how do you want me to help you?"
When Wen Zhong heard the question from the Immortal Zhao Gongming, his heart tightened. He knew that this was a critical moment and he had to persuade Zhao Gongming to help.
He took a deep breath, calmed his mind, and then said solemnly: "My Lord, Yang Ling is a disciple of the Human Cult. He is very powerful, and there are rumors that he is involved in the regicide and rebellion.
Now he has broken the Ten Absolute Formations and captured ten Heavenly Lords, making it impossible for us loyal men to quell this chaos alone. If I can get the help of the immortals and defeat Yang Ling, I will be able to enter Chaoge and remove the rulers from the court, bringing peace and prosperity to the court.”
When Zhao Gongming heard this, his eyebrows slightly raised, and a hint of deep thought flashed in his eyes.
He knew the name of Yang Ling, a disciple of the Human Cult, and had also heard of various rumors about him in recent days.
Zhao Gongming said in a deep voice: "The Human Cult intends to seize the fortune of the Shang Dynasty. This is a major event that I cannot tolerate as a disciple of the Jie Cult. Naturally, I cannot sit idly by. This matter is of great importance. I must personally go out and meet Yang Ling to see what he is capable of."
When Wen Zhong heard that Immortal Zhao Gongming agreed to help, his heart was so excited that it almost jumped out of his chest.
He bowed deeply once more, his face revealing an expression of joy that was difficult to conceal: "The Immortal is wise and powerful, and I have no way to repay you in this lifetime. If you can quell this chaos, I will be grateful and will certainly offer you treasures to show my gratitude."
Zhao Gongming waved his hand slightly, indicating that there was no need for courtesy: "It is easy to gain a kingdom, but it is hard to find loyal people. You are loyal to the Shang Dynasty, so you don't need to offer anything else. I will handle this matter myself, and you can go back and reorganize the army and prepare for the battle."
Upon hearing this, Wen Zhong felt relieved. He knew that with the support of Immortal Zhao Gongming, the rebellion was already halfway successful.
He bowed deeply to Zhao Gongming again, then said goodbye and left Luofu Cave, his heart filled with rekindled hope.
As Wen Zhong left, the gaze of Immortal Zhao Gongming became profound.
He stood up, his figure flashed in the cave, and then disappeared, leaving only a faint fragrance lingering in the air.
Following Zhao Gongming's low and powerful call, a huge black tiger suddenly appeared, with its limbs ready to attack.
Zhao Gongming gently stroked the black tiger's back, and a stream of spiritual power surged out from his palm and instantly merged with the black tiger.
A faint black light emanated from the black tiger's body, like a ghost in the night, or like lightning in the dark clouds, ready to strike.
With a roar that shook the earth, the black tiger suddenly leaped up, its hooves flying high, carrying Zhao Gongming into the air, and soaring into the sky. Their figures drew a gorgeous arc in the air, as fast as lightning, and unstoppable.
Immediately afterwards, the black tiger soared into the air and turned into a black lightning, cutting through the sky and rushing towards the direction of Chaoge City.
Its posture was vigorous and agile, shuttling freely in the clouds, as if performing a magnificent flying show. Zhao Gongming sat on the tiger's back, his sleeves fluttering, as if he had merged with the world, extraordinary and otherworldly. As they approached, the outline of Chaoge City gradually became clear in their vision. The towering city towers, the fluttering flags, a prosperous scene.
However, beneath this prosperity, there is a subtle atmosphere of uneasiness and tension.
Finally, the black tiger brought Zhao Gongming to land steadily on the open space outside Chaoge City, causing a gust of wind and raising dust all over the ground.
At this moment, the entire Chaoge City seemed to be shaken. People looked up and saw Zhao Gongming riding a black tiger, looking majestic, like a god descending from heaven, which made people feel awe.
Wen Zhong led the four generals of the Mo family out of the tent quickly, feeling excited and nervous at the same time. After all, they were about to greet an immortal with unfathomable strength.
When Zhao Gongming and the Black Tiger appeared before them, Wen Zhong and the four generals immediately bowed and saluted, saying respectfully, "Your Majesty, your presence has brought honor to our humble home. Please follow me into the big tent and rest for a while."
Zhao Gongming nodded, motioned them to stand up, and then followed them into the big tent. The tent had already been prepared with top-quality tea and clean chairs to show the highest respect.
At the same time, in Chaoge City, Kong Xuan was meditating with his eyes closed. Suddenly, he frowned and sensed a powerful breath.
He slowly opened his eyes, his gaze deep, and thought to himself: "Is Zhao Gongming here? This is really tricky."
On the top of the city wall, Zhang Kui and Li Jing looked at each other, both of them revealing worry and fear that were difficult to conceal.
Li Jing said in a deep voice: "I'm afraid Zhao Gongming's arrival will disrupt our plans."
Zhang Kui tightly grasped the weapon in his hand, his face livid: "We must prepare immediately, this battle may be more difficult than we thought."
Yang Jian and Nezha were also patrolling on the city wall at this moment. When they sensed Zhao Gongming's presence, their expressions suddenly changed.
Nezha tightly grasped the Qiankun Circle and said anxiously, "What a terrifying aura! It's even more powerful than I imagined."
Yang Jian frowned and said in a deep voice: "Don't be careless. I heard that Zhao Gongming is a Daluo Jinxian. He is far from someone we can deal with!"
In this tense and uneasy situation, only Yang Ling remained calm. He stood on the city wall, looking into the distance, his eyes like a deep pool, calm and unperturbed.
"Although Zhao Gongming is strong, he is not invincible. We have plenty of ways to deal with him, so there is no need to panic."
Hearing his father's words, Yang Jian felt a little comforted.
Kong Xuan's face was solemn. He knew that facing an opponent like Zhao Gongming, any carelessness could lead to a catastrophic disaster.
He immediately sent people to pass the message everywhere and summoned all the generals to the military meeting hall in Chaoge City.
The generals arrived one after another, and the atmosphere in the hall was tense and depressing.
Kong Xuan stood in the center of the hall, his eyes sharp as torches, scanning every general. He knew very well that the decision at this moment was crucial.
"Everyone!" Kong Xuan's voice echoed in the hall, "Zhao Gongming has arrived. We must immediately discuss countermeasures to deal with the upcoming war."
Li Jing took a step forward. He had practiced in West Kunlun for many years and understood Zhao Gongming much more deeply than others.
He cleared his throat and began to carefully introduce Zhao Gongming's origins.
"Zhao Gongming is a disciple of the outer sect of Jiejiao, and his strength is unfathomable. He holds a magic whip that can call the wind and rain; a dragon-binding rope that can bind demons; and twenty-four Dinghai beads that can suppress the four seas." Li Jing's voice was steady and powerful. "These magic weapons are extraordinary, and we must deal with them with caution."
After hearing this, the generals had different expressions on their faces. Some frowned, some looked worried. It was obvious that Zhao Gongming's strength exceeded their expectations.
Kong Xuan took over the conversation, his voice even heavier: "Zhao Gongming had already attained enlightenment during the reign of Emperor Tian, and is a Daluo Golden Immortal, with great magical powers that no ordinary person can match."
The atmosphere in the conference hall became more solemn. All the generals knew that facing such a powerful enemy, they alone were far from enough.
"Don't worry, I will personally fight against Zhao Gongming." Kong Xuan's voice was not loud, but it caused a strong shock in everyone's heart. "From now on, the dispatch of the army will be handed over to Jiang Ziya."
Upon hearing this, the generals looked at each other in bewilderment. They all knew that Kong Xuan was extremely powerful, but Zhao Gongming's name was well-known, so such a decision was undoubtedly full of risks.
Zhang Kui could not help but stand up. He frowned and said with real concern: "Marshal, you are well aware of Zhao Gongming's strength. This battle is too risky. Please think twice."
Kong Xuan turned around and looked at Zhang Kui with a sharp gaze, his voice carrying an unquestionable power: "General Zhang, I know you are worried, but if Zhao Gongming is not fought by me personally, I am afraid no one can stop him."
There was a sense of calmness and confidence in his words.
"I have made up my mind, everyone please prepare yourself." Kong Xuan emphasized again, and the firmness in his voice made it impossible for the generals present to refute.
The atmosphere in the conference hall suddenly became heavy. Although the generals were full of worries, seeing Kong Xuan's determination, they could only nod silently.
Jiang Ziya stood up, his eyes gleaming with wisdom: "Since the Marshal has made the decision, let's go all out and prepare for the war. I will dispatch the army to ensure the stability of the rear, so that the Marshal will have no worries."
All the generals stood up and expressed their full support for the decision of Kong Xuan and Jiang Ziya.
Kong Xuan nodded. He was full of confidence in Jiang Ziya's ability and knew that the army would be as stable as a rock under his command.
The next day, the two armies faced each other, and the atmosphere was extremely tense. The sun was rising, and the sunlight shone on the armor, reflecting a dazzling light.
Outside Chaoge City, the sky was just beginning to light up with the dawn, but it was unable to dispel the heavy clouds of war in the air. The two armies faced off, like a black and white chess game, with endless tension and murderous intent hidden in the silence.
The army on the east side, with armor as black as ink, glowing coldly in the sun, has a neat array of swords and spears, like a black ocean with surging waves, ready to strike.
The war drums have not sounded yet, but the soldiers' eyes are already burning with an undying will to fight. Every heart is as taut as a string, waiting for the order to be given, and they will shoot towards the enemy like an arrow from a bow.
On the west side of Chaoge City, there was a dazzling golden light, reflecting the resolute faces of the soldiers. Their flags fluttered in the wind, embroidered with intricate totems, demonstrating the glory and faith of the tribe.
This army marched steadily and with great momentum, like an invincible lion slowly approaching its prey, ready to deliver a fatal blow.
Between the two armies was an empty battlefield, with a few wild flowers blooming tenaciously, but they seemed particularly lonely in this solemn atmosphere. The air was filled with the smell of rust and sweat, as well as the indescribable tension and expectation.
In the distance, on the walls of Chaoge City, shadows of people were seen, and the soldiers were either terrified or worried, looking at the life-and-death contest that was about to unfold, with mixed feelings in their hearts. On the top of the city walls, the generals looked solemn, staring at the battlefield, holding the command flags tightly in their hands, ready to issue orders to decide the outcome at any time.
Time seemed to freeze at this moment, with only the occasional neighing of war horses and the sound of weapons colliding breaking the deathly silence.
Wen Zhong stood in front of the army and turned to Zhao Gongming beside him and said, "My Lord, the time has come. Please help us."
Zhao Gongming nodded, and the aura in his body was suddenly released at this moment, like the scorching sun in the sky, burning the earth.
He jumped onto the back of the black tiger, with a mighty tiger, like a god of war. The black tiger walked on the wind, slowly bringing Zhao Gongming to the front of the battle. Zhao Gongming's voice was like thunder, spreading throughout the battlefield: "Open the city gates quickly and surrender, so as to avoid the loss of lives!"
On the city wall, Kong Xuan heard Zhao Gongming's call without changing his expression.
He was wearing armor, holding a spear, and behind him was a group of loyal soldiers.
Kong Xuan walked slowly to the top of the city wall, his eyes like torches, sweeping over Zhao Gongming below. His voice was loud and powerful: "Zhao Gongming, what we are defending is not rebellion, but the foundation of the Shang Dynasty. I have heard of your great name for a long time, and it is a good opportunity to meet you today."
There was a gleam in Zhao Gongming's eyes. He had not expected Kong Xuan to be so calm. He couldn't help but look at his opponent with admiration.
Wen Zhong, the four generals of the Mo family, and many other soldiers below all watched with bated breath.
The air seemed to freeze, and everyone on the battlefield felt the fierce battle that was about to begin.
Zhao Gongming's aura became even stronger. He knew that Kong Xuan was no ordinary person and today's battle would be a tough one.
"Okay!" Zhao Gongming laughed, his voice full of fighting spirit, "Then let's decide who is better on this battlefield!"
Kong Xuan's eyes flickered as he looked at Zhao Gongming and spoke slowly: "Zhao Gongming, this place is outside Chaoge City. If we fight here, I'm afraid innocent people will be affected. Why don't we go to another place and you and I will fight it out there."
Zhao Gongming's eyes flashed with admiration, then he shook his head and smiled: "Kong Xuan, since you and I are both practitioners, why should we be so rigid? Look at my tricks."
As soon as he finished speaking, Zhao Gongming gently waved his right hand, and a roar suddenly sounded in the sky, as if the heaven and earth were trembling under his will.
A huge crack slowly opened up in the void, as if tearing open the curtain of the world.
From the crack, a powerful attraction emerged, as if to swallow everything.
In the cracks, there was a brilliant and colorful light, as if countless stars were spinning and colliding, releasing dazzling light.
Then, an ancient and primitive force surged out from it. It was the purest form of the four elements of earth, water, fire and wind. They intertwined and merged in the cracks, performing the most primitive and magnificent scene in the universe.
The earth element turned into thick soil and rock, slowly spreading out to form the cornerstone of the new world; the water element gathered into rivers, lakes and seas, flowing in every corner of the new world, bringing the source of life; the fire element turned into blazing flames, illuminating the entire space, and also nurturing new power; the wind element shuttled through it, bringing coolness and freshness, and also promoting the communication and integration of all things.
Driven by this force, a brand new small world gradually took shape. It is real and vivid, full of infinite vitality and vigor.
Mountains, rivers, plants, flowers, birds, beasts... everything is born and multiplied in this new world, forming a complete and harmonious ecosystem.
In that world, the four elements of earth, water, fire and wind are all complete, just like a real world, with mountains, rivers, changing winds and clouds, everything seems so vivid and real.
This scene shocked everyone, and even their breathing seemed to stop.
The soldiers of Chaoge City, Wen Zhong and the four generals of the Mo family, and even Kong Xuan himself, were all shocked by the method of recreating the world in the void.
In the face of such a level of cultivation, everyone felt that they were as small as ants.
Zhao Gongming's voice sounded again, full of irresistible majesty: "Kong Xuan, let this small world be our battlefield.
Here, there won’t be any outside interference, and you and I can give full play to our abilities.”
Kong Xuan took a deep breath and suppressed the shock in his heart. He was not afraid because of this and still looked calm and confident.
He nodded, moved his body, and prepared to leap into the void.
"Wait a moment." Zhao Gongming suddenly spoke, his eyes turning towards the direction of Chaoge City, as if waiting for something.
At this moment, in Chaoge City, Yang Ling appeared on the city wall. He looked calm, his eyes penetrating the battlefield and looking directly at Zhao Gongming.
……
(End of this chapter)