The rain outside was pouring down, hitting the ground.
Everywhere was chaotic, with muddy puddles everywhere.
Chen An stood still, looking at the scenes around him, frowning.
"The rain is getting heavier," he murmured softly, thoughts running through his mind.
To outsiders, Chen An seemed to be just standing there enjoying the view. Well, he was indeed admiring the scenery.
But while admiring the view, Chen An was also manipulating the innate energy inside his body.
After reaching the Qi realm, martial artists could easily sense and even control the innate energy within their bodies.
Qi is a combination of internal energy and innate energy, which then sublimates into Qi.
Innate energy is not only the key to advancing to the Qi realm, it also has other functions.
Such as detailed perception of the outside world.
By controlling the innate energy in the body, to some extent it is like having a new organ, allowing him to sense things that are not visible to the naked eye through the innate energy inside his body.
Like now, Chen An seemed to be enjoying the scenery, but in reality, he was also sensing the changes in the external environment through his innate energy.
The rain, the faint rain energy, and even the tiny dust particles in the surrounding space seemed unable to escape his senses, being detected quite clearly by him.
Of course, it was just a rough sense.
When this kind of feeling is applied to combat, it is an amazing martial art sense, allowing him to anticipate the movements of his opponent in advance, achieving various goals.
And if this feeling continues to expand to a higher level, it is likely that he will be able to do even more.
At that level, even sensing changes in seasonal Qi, or predicting daily temperature changes, would not be a problem.
Thinking of this, Chen An couldn't help but sigh.
The path of martial arts gets more exciting as you progress.
Just reaching the Qi realm is already like this, who knows what the future holds.
If he really advanced to that point, he might not even be considered human anymore.
Chen An silently pondered on this thought.
Next moment, the environment around him suddenly changed.
A mysterious feeling surged into his heart, interrupting his thoughts.
He looked up at the sky, seemingly sensing something.
After a moment, a ray of light shone on the ground, illuminating Chen An as well.
The heavy rain that was pouring down all around suddenly stopped, leading to a clear sky.
A smile immediately appeared on Chen An's face.
After the emperor's death, Cheng Zheng ascended to the throne as the crown prince.
According to customs, when the emperor dies, the crown prince needs to observe a three-year mourning period.
However, ever since this rule was invented, except for a few honest individuals, it seems that not many people have actually followed it seriously.
Cheng Zheng was naturally not one of those honest individuals.
With his temperament, once he ascended to the throne, he almost couldn't wait to get to work and implement his ideas for the country.
Of course, even when he was the crown prince, he had done a lot, but at that time, the emperor was still there, so he still had to be mindful.
Therefore, some things that he wanted to do were not possible.
But now that the emperor had passed away, he became the emperor and could do those things he wanted.
Less than a month after ascending the throne, he issued several decrees in quick succession, beginning to implement various changes in important areas.
For example, reforming the Imperial Academy and announcing an examination system to select talents.
Accompanying this, there was also a large-scale assessment of current officials, intending to remove a large number of unqualified officials from their positions.
This was to clean up the country of parasites, and at the same time, to strike at their opponents and arrange for their own people to take over.
After all, there were only a limited number of important positions, and they had long been occupied.
If those people were not removed, how could they make room for their own people?
Fortunately, this examination could also select a large number of qualified talents, who could then be appointed to various positions.
His actions were too quick and aggressive, causing everyone to be on edge.
In this situation, Cheng Zheng, who had just ascended the throne, immediately received a lot of criticism.
This situation was normal.
When other emperors ascended to the throne, they usually issued amnesties and gave benefits to officials and the people.
But instead, he went ahead and made several changes right away.
If he could still maintain a good reputation after that, it would be a miracle.
The criticisms were rampant.
Chen An was in the capital, observing this situation, and couldn't help but sigh.
By now, he understood how Cheng Zheng's past reputation had been formed.
Within the capital, Cheng Zheng's reputation had never been good, as many people thought he was harsh and cold-hearted.
At first, Chen An thought this was a bit unfair.
After all, in his interactions with Cheng Zheng, his behavior had been good and compassionate.
But now, he understood.
With his serious and fierce actions, those who criticized him behind his back for being harsh probably avoided harsher words out of fear of Cheng Zheng's status as the emperor.
With the sudden changes, those who had previously been corrupt or deceitful would have a hard time going unnoticed.
Many would lose their positions.
How could the reactions not be negative?
This was indeed harsh.
Even if Chen An were in that position, he believed he would be criticized as well.
Butt decides the brain.
But there were no ifs in the world.
Chen An was not an official.
And with his circumstances, even if he were an official, he wouldn't need to be corrupt.
Wasn't the fourth princess's easy life not satisfying enough, or the wealth of the Duke of Chen's mansion not abundant enough?
Corruption? What was that little money?
These situations had already determined that he and those people were not on the same path.
But fortunately.
Despite making several swift moves, Cheng Zheng was not a fool. Along with issuing those sharp decrees, he also gave out many benefits and drew a group of people to his side.
For example, opening up the Imperial Academy and only allowing the recruitment of children from distinguished families, in order to win over the noble families.
He also promoted a group of officials who had been suppressed by the second prince's faction, in order to control the court.
Looking at all these operations, they might seem rushed, but overall, they were still under control.
It was just a bit too quick.
In Chen An's opinion, if Cheng Zheng had taken his time and not drawn the knives so quickly, the impact would have been greatly reduced.
At least with a buffer in place, many problems would not have arisen.
But this was the difference in their characters.
Chen An had mentioned it once, but Cheng Zheng didn't care, so he didn't try to convince him further.
As a hired worker, the most important thing was to be self-aware.
Giving suggestions was your job, but whether they were heeded or not was the boss's decision.
You couldn't force the boss to listen to you, could you?
Then you might as well fire the boss and become the boss yourself.
Keeping a low profile was the best.
Furthermore.
Chen An behaved appropriately, even with a little bit of slacking off, Cheng Zheng became more and more satisfied with him.
It was all about comparison.
Compared to those around him who were fiercely advocating, or even risking their lives to advise, Chen An's combination of ability, loyalty, and keeping to his own duties was quite comforting.
Therefore, to Chen An's surprise, he found that Cheng Zheng's reliance on him increased day by day, even though he had only wanted to slack off.
This was not right.
I just wanted to slack off.
Feeling the intense gaze from Cheng Zheng, Chen An helplessly thought about many things.
Since Cheng Zheng ascended the throne, Chen An had obediently stayed in his own mansion, carrying out Cheng Zheng's orders without trying to seize power or do more.
This was a valuable lesson from the history lessons in his past life.
It was well known that if a person held too much power, it would make the emperor suspicious.
If you already had strong power, and the emperor was still treating you well, you shouldn't be proud, but rather more cautious.
Because with one misstep, either you or someone close to you could fall, leading to disaster.
Chen An was just here for cultivation, not to become an emperor, so why bother?
But he wanted to slack off, while Cheng Zheng didn't allow it.
"Your Majesty, I am lazy and just want to focus on my cultivation at home. This important matter should be handled by someone else," Chen An said helplessly, looking at Cheng Zheng in front of him. "I think Duke Liu is quite suitable for this."
Distantly, Liu Chu turned his head with a bewildered look.
"Chang'an, I understand your intentions, but this matter really requires your presence," Cheng Zheng said, grabbing Chen An's hand. "Duke Liu's loyalty is unquestionable, but his strength may not be sufficient at this crucial moment to handle this responsibility."
"I've thought it over, and at this moment, the only one by my side with enough strength and ability to bear this responsibility is you, Chang'an," he said with anticipation.
This responsibility he mentioned was to guard the imperial city.
In other words, to act as Cheng Zheng's head bodyguard and protect his safety.
To take on this role, one had to be loyal to Cheng Zheng, otherwise, it wouldn't be protection but hostage-taking.
Moreover, this position required significant strength.
This was about protecting the emperor, so could someone weak handle it?
Especially when Cheng Zheng had just ascended to the throne, and the people's hearts were still unsettled, it required someone with formidable strength to take on this responsibility.
"Alright."
Chen An chuckled bitterly, but in the end, he couldn't resist Cheng Zheng's insistence and nodded in agreement.
After that, he quickly transitioned and became the head bodyguard in the palace.
This also meant that Chen An couldn't freely cultivate anymore.
Well, if you have to protect the emperor, can you still cultivate?
Do you know what 996 is?
Of course, Cheng Zheng wasn't that extreme, and the workload was mostly manageable.
But compared to the leisurely days at the gate, it was still different.
Chen An took almost half a month to adapt to this lifestyle.
Speaking of which, a Qi realm martial artist was quite effective in guarding the palace.
Because of the presence of innate energy, Chen An could keenly sense changes in the environment, even the slightest fluctuations that would catch the attention of a Qi realm martial artist.
This ability wasn't particularly useful outside, but in a place like this, it was perfect.
However suitable it may be, in the past, few Qi realm martial artists were willing to lower themselves to guard outside the palace.
Chen An might be the first within the Grand Huad Dynasty to do so.
From this perspective, he was also giving face to Cheng Zheng.
As the days passed, it wasn't boring.
The palace was vast, and even with patrols, Chen An could spend most of the day admiring the various sights.
During this time, many envoys from the outside world arrived, making the palace bustling with activity.
Naturally, it wasn't boring at all.
"Oh?"
Early in the morning, the sound of footsteps could be heard from outside.
Sensing the distant aura, Chen An subconsciously looked up towards the direction where the footsteps were coming from, and happened to see a group of slender figures approaching.
Many people were entering from outside, and judging by the number, they should be envoys from a major country.
And as for why it was a major country, it was because of the number of people.
A small country wouldn't be able to send so many envoys.
"Song Country?"
Watching the approaching figures from a distance, Chen An couldn't help but feel more interested.
The Song Country was not far from the Grand Huad, and like the Grand Huad, it was also a mighty nation with a complicated relationship involving blood feuds and marriages with the Grand Huad.
And now, with Cheng Zheng's ascension, envoys from the Song Country had arrived.
It seemed that these envoys were the ones before his eyes.
It's just that Chen An didn't know whether these people coming to the Grand Huad were just here to congratulate or if they had other motives.
But that didn't stop him from observing the envoy group with keen interest.
However, it seemed that someone in the crowd noticed his gaze, as one person looked up and their gaze swiftly shifted towards Chen An's direction.
The atmosphere instantly changed, with a subtle sense of solemnity in the air.
A master!
Nonchalantly, Chen An averted his gaze, but he became even more curious.
Though he was not close to the location of the envoy, the person from afar could keenly sense his gaze and perceive his presence.
If not a coincidence, this person was probably also a master who controlled innate energy.
Qi realm?
This thought flashed through Chen An's mind, and then he casually shifted his focus to other areas to patrol.
Soon, the sound of bells resonated throughout the palace.
In the main hall, Cheng Zheng officially received the envoys from the Song Country.
"The envoys have come from afar and brought a generous gift. Your courtesy is appreciated," Cheng Zheng said politely to the Song Country's envoy, displaying impeccable etiquette.
The leader of the Song Country delegation appeared to be a man in his forties or fifties, with a dignified appearance, hinting at a special status within the Song Country.
"Lao Liu has come a long way from the Song Country. May I ask what brings you here?" Cheng Zheng politely inquired.
"I am just an ordinary mortal, how would I dare give counsel to the Grand Huad Emperor," Liu Sheng smiled. "But, there is a matter that puzzles me."
"Oh?" Cheng Zheng raised his head, pondered for a moment, then spoke, "But please, go on."
"Since my arrival in the Grand Huad, I have heard that Duke Chen of your country retired due to old age, passing his title to his grandson. Is this true?" Unexpectedly, Liu Sheng's question ended up involving Duke Chen.
Cheng Zheng's gaze immediately sharpened, but he nodded in confirmation and said, "It is true. Duke Chen was burdened by old illness and felt unable to serve the court any longer. Thus, he voluntarily petitioned to pass on his title to his grandson, Chen Chang'an. Is there a problem with this?"
"Of course not."
Liu Sheng chuckled, "However, I may be a mere mortal, but I once had a relationship with Duke Chen. Hearing this news about Duke Chen, I couldn't help but feel nostalgic.”
“The grandson who received Duke Chen's approval and inherited his title must be a remarkable talent."
"Coincidentally, this time I brought several talented individuals from our country. I was hoping to take this opportunity to meet Your Majesty and have them spar with the new Duke Chen. Would this be possible?"
With the conversation falling silent, all eyes in the room involuntarily focused on Chen An.
At this point, what else could Chen An say?
So, he sighed and reluctantly spoke, "I am willing."
As his words fell, whether it was an illusion or not, the smiles on Liu Sheng and others' faces became even brighter, as if they had achieved their objective.
"I am Zhao Jun from the Song Country, please advise!"
Moments later, on the vast competition field, a burly man with a face full of muscle stepped forward, clasping his fists and announcing his name.
This Zhao Jun seemed to come from the Song Country's royal family and practiced a robust technique. Refined textures adorned his skin all over, indicating a mastery of more than one forging technique.
After exchanging greetings, he quickly made his move.
A massive hammer came swinging at him.
Most people used swords or knives as weapons, perhaps slightly larger ones. However, Zhao Jun was different; he wielded a large iron hammer that, infused with internal energy, exuded overwhelming power.
"Internal energy mastery?"
Surprised, Cheng Zheng looked on from above.
"Indeed," Liu Sheng chuckled and touched his beard, looking somewhat pleased.
The rain outside was pouring down, hitting the ground.
Everywhere was chaotic, with muddy puddles everywhere.
Chen An stood still, looking at the scenes around him, frowning.
"The rain is getting heavier," he murmured softly, thoughts running through his mind.
To outsiders, Chen An seemed to be just standing there enjoying the view. Well, he was indeed admiring the scenery.
But while admiring the view, Chen An was also manipulating the innate energy inside his body.
After reaching the Qi realm, martial artists could easily sense and even control the innate energy within their bodies.
Qi is a combination of internal energy and innate energy, which then sublimates into Qi.
Innate energy is not only the key to advancing to the Qi realm, it also has other functions.
Such as detailed perception of the outside world.
By controlling the innate energy in the body, to some extent it is like having a new organ, allowing him to sense things that are not visible to the naked eye through the innate energy inside his body.
Like now, Chen An seemed to be enjoying the scenery, but in reality, he was also sensing the changes in the external environment through his innate energy.
The rain, the faint rain energy, and even the tiny dust particles in the surrounding space seemed unable to escape his senses, being detected quite clearly by him.
Of course, it was just a rough sense.
When this kind of feeling is applied to combat, it is an amazing martial art sense, allowing him to anticipate the movements of his opponent in advance, achieving various goals.
And if this feeling continues to expand to a higher level, it is likely that he will be able to do even more.
At that level, even sensing changes in seasonal Qi, or predicting daily temperature changes, would not be a problem.
Thinking of this, Chen An couldn't help but sigh.
The path of martial arts gets more exciting as you progress.
Just reaching the Qi realm is already like this, who knows what the future holds.
If he really advanced to that point, he might not even be considered human anymore.
Chen An silently pondered on this thought.
Next moment, the environment around him suddenly changed.
A mysterious feeling surged into his heart, interrupting his thoughts.
He looked up at the sky, seemingly sensing something.
After a moment, a ray of light shone on the ground, illuminating Chen An as well.
The heavy rain that was pouring down all around suddenly stopped, leading to a clear sky.
A smile immediately appeared on Chen An's face.
After the emperor's death, Cheng Zheng ascended to the throne as the crown prince.
According to customs, when the emperor dies, the crown prince needs to observe a three-year mourning period.
However, ever since this rule was invented, except for a few honest individuals, it seems that not many people have actually followed it seriously.
Cheng Zheng was naturally not one of those honest individuals.
With his temperament, once he ascended to the throne, he almost couldn't wait to get to work and implement his ideas for the country.
Of course, even when he was the crown prince, he had done a lot, but at that time, the emperor was still there, so he still had to be mindful.
Therefore, some things that he wanted to do were not possible.
But now that the emperor had passed away, he became the emperor and could do those things he wanted.
Less than a month after ascending the throne, he issued several decrees in quick succession, beginning to implement various changes in important areas.
For example, reforming the Imperial Academy and announcing an examination system to select talents.
Accompanying this, there was also a large-scale assessment of current officials, intending to remove a large number of unqualified officials from their positions.
This was to clean up the country of parasites, and at the same time, to strike at their opponents and arrange for their own people to take over.
After all, there were only a limited number of important positions, and they had long been occupied.
If those people were not removed, how could they make room for their own people?
Fortunately, this examination could also select a large number of qualified talents, who could then be appointed to various positions.
His actions were too quick and aggressive, causing everyone to be on edge.
In this situation, Cheng Zheng, who had just ascended the throne, immediately received a lot of criticism.
This situation was normal.
When other emperors ascended to the throne, they usually issued amnesties and gave benefits to officials and the people.
But instead, he went ahead and made several changes right away.
If he could still maintain a good reputation after that, it would be a miracle.
The criticisms were rampant.
Chen An was in the capital, observing this situation, and couldn't help but sigh.
By now, he understood how Cheng Zheng's past reputation had been formed.
Within the capital, Cheng Zheng's reputation had never been good, as many people thought he was harsh and cold-hearted.
At first, Chen An thought this was a bit unfair.
After all, in his interactions with Cheng Zheng, his behavior had been good and compassionate.
But now, he understood.
With his serious and fierce actions, those who criticized him behind his back for being harsh probably avoided harsher words out of fear of Cheng Zheng's status as the emperor.
With the sudden changes, those who had previously been corrupt or deceitful would have a hard time going unnoticed.
Many would lose their positions.
How could the reactions not be negative?
This was indeed harsh.
Even if Chen An were in that position, he believed he would be criticized as well.
Butt decides the brain.
But there were no ifs in the world.
Chen An was not an official.
And with his circumstances, even if he were an official, he wouldn't need to be corrupt.
Wasn't the fourth princess's easy life not satisfying enough, or the wealth of the Duke of Chen's mansion not abundant enough?
Corruption? What was that little money?
These situations had already determined that he and those people were not on the same path.
But fortunately.
Despite making several swift moves, Cheng Zheng was not a fool. Along with issuing those sharp decrees, he also gave out many benefits and drew a group of people to his side.
For example, opening up the Imperial Academy and only allowing the recruitment of children from distinguished families, in order to win over the noble families.
He also promoted a group of officials who had been suppressed by the second prince's faction, in order to control the court.
Looking at all these operations, they might seem rushed, but overall, they were still under control.
It was just a bit too quick.
In Chen An's opinion, if Cheng Zheng had taken his time and not drawn the knives so quickly, the impact would have been greatly reduced.
At least with a buffer in place, many problems would not have arisen.
But this was the difference in their characters.
Chen An had mentioned it once, but Cheng Zheng didn't care, so he didn't try to convince him further.
As a hired worker, the most important thing was to be self-aware.
Giving suggestions was your job, but whether they were heeded or not was the boss's decision.
You couldn't force the boss to listen to you, could you?
Then you might as well fire the boss and become the boss yourself.
Keeping a low profile was the best.
Furthermore.
Chen An behaved appropriately, even with a little bit of slacking off, Cheng Zheng became more and more satisfied with him.
It was all about comparison.
Compared to those around him who were fiercely advocating, or even risking their lives to advise, Chen An's combination of ability, loyalty, and keeping to his own duties was quite comforting.
Therefore, to Chen An's surprise, he found that Cheng Zheng's reliance on him increased day by day, even though he had only wanted to slack off.
This was not right.
I just wanted to slack off.
Feeling the intense gaze from Cheng Zheng, Chen An helplessly thought about many things.
Since Cheng Zheng ascended the throne, Chen An had obediently stayed in his own mansion, carrying out Cheng Zheng's orders without trying to seize power or do more.
This was a valuable lesson from the history lessons in his past life.
It was well known that if a person held too much power, it would make the emperor suspicious.
If you already had strong power, and the emperor was still treating you well, you shouldn't be proud, but rather more cautious.
Because with one misstep, either you or someone close to you could fall, leading to disaster.
Chen An was just here for cultivation, not to become an emperor, so why bother?
But he wanted to slack off, while Cheng Zheng didn't allow it.
"Your Majesty, I am lazy and just want to focus on my cultivation at home. This important matter should be handled by someone else," Chen An said helplessly, looking at Cheng Zheng in front of him. "I think Duke Liu is quite suitable for this."
Distantly, Liu Chu turned his head with a bewildered look.
"Chang'an, I understand your intentions, but this matter really requires your presence," Cheng Zheng said, grabbing Chen An's hand. "Duke Liu's loyalty is unquestionable, but his strength may not be sufficient at this crucial moment to handle this responsibility."
"I've thought it over, and at this moment, the only one by my side with enough strength and ability to bear this responsibility is you, Chang'an," he said with anticipation.
This responsibility he mentioned was to guard the imperial city.
In other words, to act as Cheng Zheng's head bodyguard and protect his safety.
To take on this role, one had to be loyal to Cheng Zheng, otherwise, it wouldn't be protection but hostage-taking.
Moreover, this position required significant strength.
This was about protecting the emperor, so could someone weak handle it?
Especially when Cheng Zheng had just ascended to the throne, and the people's hearts were still unsettled, it required someone with formidable strength to take on this responsibility.
"Alright."
Chen An chuckled bitterly, but in the end, he couldn't resist Cheng Zheng's insistence and nodded in agreement.
After that, he quickly transitioned and became the head bodyguard in the palace.
This also meant that Chen An couldn't freely cultivate anymore.
Well, if you have to protect the emperor, can you still cultivate?
Do you know what 996 is?
Of course, Cheng Zheng wasn't that extreme, and the workload was mostly manageable.
But compared to the leisurely days at the gate, it was still different.
Chen An took almost half a month to adapt to this lifestyle.
Speaking of which, a Qi realm martial artist was quite effective in guarding the palace.
Because of the presence of innate energy, Chen An could keenly sense changes in the environment, even the slightest fluctuations that would catch the attention of a Qi realm martial artist.
This ability wasn't particularly useful outside, but in a place like this, it was perfect.
However suitable it may be, in the past, few Qi realm martial artists were willing to lower themselves to guard outside the palace.
Chen An might be the first within the Grand Huad Dynasty to do so.
From this perspective, he was also giving face to Cheng Zheng.
As the days passed, it wasn't boring.
The palace was vast, and even with patrols, Chen An could spend most of the day admiring the various sights.
During this time, many envoys from the outside world arrived, making the palace bustling with activity.
Naturally, it wasn't boring at all.
"Oh?"
Early in the morning, the sound of footsteps could be heard from outside.
Sensing the distant aura, Chen An subconsciously looked up towards the direction where the footsteps were coming from, and happened to see a group of slender figures approaching.
Many people were entering from outside, and judging by the number, they should be envoys from a major country.
And as for why it was a major country, it was because of the number of people.
A small country wouldn't be able to send so many envoys.
"Song Country?"
Watching the approaching figures from a distance, Chen An couldn't help but feel more interested.
The Song Country was not far from the Grand Huad, and like the Grand Huad, it was also a mighty nation with a complicated relationship involving blood feuds and marriages with the Grand Huad.
And now, with Cheng Zheng's ascension, envoys from the Song Country had arrived.
It seemed that these envoys were the ones before his eyes.
It's just that Chen An didn't know whether these people coming to the Grand Huad were just here to congratulate or if they had other motives.
But that didn't stop him from observing the envoy group with keen interest.
However, it seemed that someone in the crowd noticed his gaze, as one person looked up and their gaze swiftly shifted towards Chen An's direction.
The atmosphere instantly changed, with a subtle sense of solemnity in the air.
A master!
Nonchalantly, Chen An averted his gaze, but he became even more curious.
Though he was not close to the location of the envoy, the person from afar could keenly sense his gaze and perceive his presence.
If not a coincidence, this person was probably also a master who controlled innate energy.
Qi realm?
This thought flashed through Chen An's mind, and then he casually shifted his focus to other areas to patrol.
Soon, the sound of bells resonated throughout the palace.
In the main hall, Cheng Zheng officially received the envoys from the Song Country.
"The envoys have come from afar and brought a generous gift. Your courtesy is appreciated," Cheng Zheng said politely to the Song Country's envoy, displaying impeccable etiquette.
The leader of the Song Country delegation appeared to be a man in his forties or fifties, with a dignified appearance, hinting at a special status within the Song Country.
"Lao Liu has come a long way from the Song Country. May I ask what brings you here?" Cheng Zheng politely inquired.
"I am just an ordinary mortal, how would I dare give counsel to the Grand Huad Emperor," Liu Sheng smiled. "But, there is a matter that puzzles me."
"Oh?" Cheng Zheng raised his head, pondered for a moment, then spoke, "But please, go on."
"Since my arrival in the Grand Huad, I have heard that Duke Chen of your country retired due to old age, passing his title to his grandson. Is this true?" Unexpectedly, Liu Sheng's question ended up involving Duke Chen.
Cheng Zheng's gaze immediately sharpened, but he nodded in confirmation and said, "It is true. Duke Chen was burdened by old illness and felt unable to serve the court any longer. Thus, he voluntarily petitioned to pass on his title to his grandson, Chen Chang'an. Is there a problem with this?"
"Of course not."
Liu Sheng chuckled, "However, I may be a mere mortal, but I once had a relationship with Duke Chen. Hearing this news about Duke Chen, I couldn't help but feel nostalgic.”
“The grandson who received Duke Chen's approval and inherited his title must be a remarkable talent."
"Coincidentally, this time I brought several talented individuals from our country. I was hoping to take this opportunity to meet Your Majesty and have them spar with the new Duke Chen. Would this be possible?"
With the conversation falling silent, all eyes in the room involuntarily focused on Chen An.
At this point, what else could Chen An say?
So, he sighed and reluctantly spoke, "I am willing."
As his words fell, whether it was an illusion or not, the smiles on Liu Sheng and others' faces became even brighter, as if they had achieved their objective.
"I am Zhao Jun from the Song Country, please advise!"
Moments later, on the vast competition field, a burly man with a face full of muscle stepped forward, clasping his fists and announcing his name.
This Zhao Jun seemed to come from the Song Country's royal family and practiced a robust technique. Refined textures adorned his skin all over, indicating a mastery of more than one forging technique.
After exchanging greetings, he quickly made his move.
A massive hammer came swinging at him.
Most people used swords or knives as weapons, perhaps slightly larger ones. However, Zhao Jun was different; he wielded a large iron hammer that, infused with internal energy, exuded overwhelming power.
"Internal energy mastery?"
Surprised, Cheng Zheng looked on from above.
"Indeed," Liu Sheng chuckled and touched his beard, looking somewhat pleased.
