: I May Be of Little Talent, But I Am Indeed a Master of Earth Arts!

November 26, 2024 Author: Gu Zhenren

: I May Be of Little Talent, But I Am Indeed a Master of Earth Arts!

The seal of the Guerrilla General was issued the following day.

Crafted entirely from bronze, the seal face was perfectly square, each side measuring about three inches, and felt quite hefty.

Carved on the seal was a swallow with outstretched wings, its tail sharp like scissors, giving the impression it was about to take flight.

The inscription read "Guerrilla General" in sharp, angular strokes, symbolizing the general's troops' ability to move swiftly and excel in surprise attacks.

Zhang Hei ran his thick fingers over the seal, pressing down firmly.

Then, he tucked it into his chest.

Guan Hong accepted his without even a glance.

Liu Er examined the seal in his hand, lost in thought. "The Guerrilla General's seal bears a swallow. I've heard the Soaring Eagle General's seal features an eagle diving with wings spread."

Liu Er was of mixed human and demon blood, his four ears being clear evidence. In other cultivation nations, it was quite rare for someone of his background to be granted a general's position.

To put it nicely, he was a distant relative of the Blood Slaughter Imperial Clan; to put it bluntly, there were many such relatives, and the influence of the Blood Slaughter Imperial Dynasty had long since plummeted.

Ning Zhuo was also studying the seal in his hand.

This, however, was his seal as Army Advisor.

Its face was round, two inches in diameter, made of jade, and had a warm, smooth feel.

The front was carved with a bright moon and clouds, the inscription "Army Advisor" dignified and elegant.

Holding the seal, Ning Zhuo channeled a bit of magic power into it, causing it to glow faintly.

Seeing this, Zhang Hei laughed. "Why bother testing such a minor token? Only high-ranking general or official seals carry military strategies or official arts. Our Guerrilla General seals don't have them, let alone your Army Advisor seal."

Liu Er collected his thoughts and carefully stored his seal away. Seeing Ning Zhuo's studious expression, he couldn't help but chuckle. "Little Brother Ning, if you want a better seal, just earn some merit. I'll report it, and getting you promoted two or three ranks won't be a problem."

Ning Zhuo quickly declined. "I'm just researching it since it's my first time obtaining a national artifact like this."

"I'm not very interested in Liang Zhu Kingdom's official seals."

"That's because my clan is located in Southern Bean Kingdom. If I wish to hold office or command an army in the future, I should seek appointment from Southern Bean Kingdom."

"To be frank with the three generals, I am close friends with Zhu Xuanji, a member of the Southern Bean royal family. He once expressed intent to offer me an official position."

"But I know my limits. With only early Foundation Establishment cultivation, I'm young and inexperienced. I need more training and am not yet ready for great responsibilities."

"By attaching myself to you three generals now, I hope to gain battlefield experience and see if there's a chance to avenge my family against the Six Caves Sect!"

"After that, I must take treasure materials and establish trade with a major power to fulfill my clan's mission."

"And then, I plan to travel more to broaden my horizons."

"I see," Guan Hong stroked his beard.

Zhang Hei's eyes widened. "Zhu Xuanji from Southern Bean Kingdom? I've heard of him, he's a renowned constable."

Zhang Hei looked at Ning Zhuo with renewed respect. He hadn't expected this Foundation Establishment cultivator to have close ties to a famous figure.

Hearing this, Liu Er felt a surge of regret.

Ning Zhuo not only possessed treasure materials and was wealthy, but he also excelled in wood-element spells. Despite being only early Foundation Establishment, his combat prowess was outstanding.

Now, hearing that Ning Zhuo also had powerful connections, even Zhu Xuanji thought highly of him!

Liu Er's question had been an attempt to recruit Ning Zhuo and the Ning family for his own use. But Ning Zhuo's words made him realize this young cultivator was not to be underestimated. He was a young master of the Ning family, with deep ties to the Southern Bean royalty and a substantial background—far beyond someone like Liu Er's ability to recruit.

"At least, not yet!" Liu Er gritted his teeth, his desire for merit, fame, and fortune growing even stronger.

At dusk.

A military unit slowly marched into Canglin Immortal City.

The setting sun's light reflected off their golden armor, enhancing their noble and imposing presence.

The Golden Halberd Army!

One of Liang Zhu Kingdom's imperial guards had officially arrived at Canglin Immortal City.

Although the news had already spread throughout the city, seeing such disciplined troops in person made the citizens solemn and filled them with awe: Such a powerful army!

Military flags flew high, snapping in the evening wind.

The entire army rode horses, their hoofbeats heavy and forceful.

Each soldier held a golden long halberd, the halberds pointing straight up like a forest of spears, radiating an endless sharp aura.

Sun Gan, commander of the Golden Halberd Army, rode at the front.

His expression was stern, his gaze sharp as a sword sweeping the surroundings. The citizens instinctively averted their eyes, not daring to meet his stare.

In stark contrast was a Liang Zhu Kingdom official.

Though also riding a fine horse with a straight back, his demeanor was out of place with the Golden Halberd Army, clearly an outsider.

But no one dared to underestimate this official.

Because his official robes and the ceremonial staff he held identified him—an Imperial Envoy!

Unlike other armies, the Golden Halberd Army, being the smallest and most loyal, did not camp outside the city but entered Canglin Immortal City directly.

The city lord had already arranged accommodations, personally welcoming Sun Gan and the Imperial Envoy, and earnestly invited them to a banquet that evening.

Sun Gan, his face like iron, stated he needed to settle his troops first before possibly attending.

The Imperial Envoy, however, laughed heartily and requested that the leaders of the various army units be invited to the banquet so he could better connect with his colleagues.

Hearing this, Sun Gan snorted coldly.

This was because the Imperial Envoy, named Zhao Xi, was inherently greedy and always used his power to extort bribes during his tours.

Sun Gan disapproved, but Zhao Xi enjoyed the trust of Liang Zhu Kingdom's upper echelons. Despite numerous impeachments, he was frequently sent on missions.

The banquet was lavish, full of local specialties from Canglin Immortal City.

It was divided into an inner hall and an outer hall.

"Little Friend Ning Zhuo?" In the outer hall, Zhang Zhongyi was surprised to see Ning Zhuo enter.

As an Army Advisor, Ning Zhuo counted as a high-ranking member of a military unit.

This was the advantage of joining the Three Generals Camp early; with many positions vacant initially, a small contribution could secure a high rank.

Ning Zhuo was also pleased to see Zhang Zhongyi. After greeting him, he directly took a seat to Zhang Zhongyi's left.

Ning Zhuo didn't hide anything, nor was there any need.

"You joined the Three Generals Camp and became their Army Advisor?" Zhang Zhongyi exclaimed in amazement.

Though he had some reputation, he was merely an army doctor and couldn't participate in the Red Flower Camp's decision-making.

From this perspective, Ning Zhuo's status was already higher than his.

Ning Zhuo then transmitted his voice, telling Zhang Zhongyi that it was by chance; hearing Liu, Guan, and Zhang discussing forming a new army, he was inspired and asked to join.

To do so, he had proactively gifted the three generals three portions of treasure materials: Profound Yellow Motherstone, Blood Fiend Demon Stone, and Nether Black Soil.

Zhang Zhongyi immediately looked Ning Zhuo over, surprised by this Foundation Establishment cultivator's astonishing wealth.

Being able to give such materials suggested Ning Zhuo had even more!

"What a pity Mu Lan didn't listen to me. It would have been great if we had recruited Ning Zhuo."

"Sigh!"

"Her bowstring needs replacing, or she can't fully utilize her exceptional archery skills. If only we had some Nascent Soul-level treasure material..."

Zhang Zhongyi shook his head inwardly.

The night banquet began.

Ning Zhuo and Zhang Zhongyi ate and talked, frequently toasting and getting to know everyone at their table.

Suddenly, the door to the inner hall was pushed open.

Mu Lan stormed out angrily.

"Zhao Xi, you little brat, you're a parasite on our Liang Zhu Kingdom!" Mu Lan scolded, her gaze sweeping the room before settling on Zhang Zhongyi.

She also noticed Ning Zhuo, her eyes lingering on him for a moment.

Mu Lan then said, "Uncle Zhang, let's go. This banquet might be good, but the villain at the table disgusts me!"

Under everyone's watchful eyes, Zhang Zhongyi immediately stood up, feigning anger. "General, I follow."

Though Zhang Zhongyi sighed inwardly, having expected this, it wasn't the time to persuade Mu Lan. He left his seat at once to show solidarity.

The banquet had barely started when Mu Lan and Zhang Zhongyi left in anger.

"Come, come, keep eating, keep drinking," Zhao Xi called out loudly, trying to liven the atmosphere.

His skin was thick, utterly shameless, acting as if he hadn't heard Mu Lan's accusations.

Shuang Jing, Xu Dali, and others hurriedly raised their glasses.

Liu Er was among them, wearing a bitter smile. Zhao Xi's demand for a "travel fatigue fee" was simply outrageous.

At another table in the inner hall, Zhang Hei was tilting his head back, gulping down wine.

Guan Hong sat upright, stroking his long beard, closely watching the conversation at the main table, a cold light flickering deep in his eyes.

After the banquet, as the four of them walked back, Liu Er gazed at the moon in the night sky and sighed deeply.

"Big brother, why the long face?" Zhang Hei asked, puzzled, letting out a belch.

Guan Hong snorted coldly and explained the reason.

Zhang Hei was furious. "That Imperial Envoy openly demanded bribes? How dare he! Is Liang Zhu Kingdom so corrupt?"

"If we achieve great deeds in the future, will we be treated harshly too?"

Liu Er waved his hand. "That won't happen. The recruitment edict was personally issued by the Liang Zhu monarch. It concerns his reputation, the royal family's, and the kingdom's. On this point, he will absolutely ensure fairness."

Liu Er was worried Zhang Hei might develop reservations; he himself wanted to achieve great things in Liang Zhu Kingdom.

Among the nearby cultivation nations, only Liang Zhu offered such opportunities, opening doors for mixed-bloods like him.

Zhang Hei grumbled, "That's good then!"

"My first impression was that damn envoy looked down on everyone, clearly no good."

"Why bother with him!"

"He's just an Imperial Envoy, not our direct superior. Not beating him up is being polite. And he wants our money?"

"Absolutely ridiculous!"

"Our funds are already tight for forming the army."

Liu Er could only sigh.

Ning Zhuo smiled slightly. "Generals, don't worry. Leave the matter of the Imperial Envoy to me."

"With my words, I'll make sure he understands the three generals' righteousness cannot be insulted with mere money."

Liu Er looked at Ning Zhuo.

Ning Zhuo gave him a meaningful smile.

Liu Er understood immediately and ordered Ning Zhuo to act as his envoy to handle the matter.

"Time is of the essence. I'll return now to reason with that Imperial Envoy," Ning Zhuo said.

Liu Er agreed.

Zhang Hei wanted to support Ning Zhuo. "Advisor, you're only Foundation Establishment. How can you confront a Golden Core level Imperial Envoy? I should go with you to bolster our presence."

Ning Zhuo laughed and politely refused.

Liu Er took Zhang Hei's arm, expressing full confidence in Ning Zhuo, saying that doubting his ability to handle it alone was underestimating their little brother.

Cornered by these words, Zhang Hei could only watch Ning Zhuo return.

A short while later.

Ning Zhuo was all smiles, and Imperial Envoy Zhao Xi was also all smiles.

By the lamplight, Zhao Xi kept examining the Nascent Soul-level treasure material in his hand, murmuring appreciatively.

"The three generals of the Three Generals Camp are truly outstanding."

"Those who understand the times are true heroes!"

Ning Zhuo took out another portion of treasure material.

"I have many dealings with Lord Zhang Zhongyi and need his help to treat my friend."

"Please, Your Excellency, go easy on the Red Flower Camp as well."

Zhao Xi looked deeply at Ning Zhuo. "Young man, some matters aren't for an outsider from Southern Bean Kingdom to meddle in lightly."

"General Mu Lan's troubles are much bigger than you imagine."

Ning Zhuo smiled. "I understand."

As he spoke, he produced another Nascent Soul-level treasure material and placed it on the table. "Bigger troubles naturally require more effort from Your Excellency. An additional portion is quite reasonable!"

Zhao Xi's eyes widened, deeply shocked by Ning Zhuo's display of wealth.

"The Ning family of Fire Persimmon Immortal City must be a major clan!"

"Why did they only pass through Liang Zhu Kingdom back then instead of settling down, moving to Southern Bean Kingdom instead?"

"Sigh..."

Thinking this, Zhao Xi felt full of regret.

"How much treasure does this kid still have? Since he likes to meddle..." Just as this greedy thought arose, it was dispelled.

Life Hanging by a Thread!

My Buddha's Demon Heart Seal!

While Ning Zhuo smiled amiably on the surface, he maintained these two techniques.

"Lord Zhao, my helping the Red Flower Camp is just to show goodwill to Zhang Zhongyi."

"If possible, I'd like a small favor from you."

"It won't cause you any trouble; I just need some cooperation..."

Influenced covertly, upon hearing Ning Zhuo's specific request, Zhao Xi immediately nodded. "How could I refuse such a likable young man? Rest assured, I agree."

Ning Zhuo added that there would be a small token of appreciation after the matter was settled.

Zhao Xi nodded repeatedly. "The Ning family's learned traditions and upbringing are truly admirable."

The next day.

While military supplies were being distributed, only the Red Flower Camp's allocation was delayed.

Mu Lan was furious and made a scene, but the supply officer was prepared with perfect excuses, intentionally prolonging the delay.

When Zhang Zhongyi found out, he sighed inwardly, knowing it was that scoundrel Zhao Xi causing trouble.

Coincidentally, Ning Zhuo came to visit. Seeing Zhang Zhongyi troubled, he asked the reason.

Upon learning of it, Ning Zhuo smiled slightly and told Zhang Zhongyi that he had previously, on behalf of the Three Generals Camp, sent gifts that had pleased Zhao Xi. He suggested making another visit today to ask the Imperial Envoy to relent, offering to cover the cost himself for now.

A short while later, Ning Zhuo returned.

Zhang Zhongyi, contrary to his usual demeanor, actively took Ning Zhuo's arm, expressing deep gratitude.

"Mu Lan is stubborn, much like her father. If I intervened, she would resent it, fearing it might create a rift later. I was in a dilemma, but fortunately, Little Friend Ning Zhuo stepped in righteously."

Ning Zhuo said, "I have selfish motives too, Lord Zhang. I want to save my friend."

"Say no more, say no more!" Zhang Zhongyi waved a hand. "The consultation fee is waived this time."

Ning Zhuo then patted the Ten Thousand Miles Wandering Dragon pouch at his waist and released Sun Lingtong.

At this point, even Sun Lingtong's forearms were petrified.

He wasn't anxious, still laughing and seemingly at ease.

Zhang Zhongyi said, puzzled, "To save the child, we still need to invite a Master of Earth Arts. You haven't forgotten, have you?"

Ning Zhuo cupped his hands towards Zhang Zhongyi, slightly bowing. "Lord Zhang, please don't be alarmed. I am that Master of Earth Arts."

Zhang Zhongyi was stunned, looking incredulously at the young man in white before him. "You?!"

Ning Zhuo straightened up, arms at his sides, smiling. "The genuine article."

Sun Lingtong: "Hehehe! Little Zhuo, Physician Zhang, please hurry up. I'm getting a bit impatient."

(End of )