Taking a deep breath, Hong Zhu's gaze was firmly locked onto the magic sword, which seemed to possess an enchanting power that drew all her attention. She gritted her teeth, deciding to follow the desire within her.
"I choose this sword," she declared, her voice resolute and unwavering.
Di Sha Jiang Jun observed her with a barely perceptible glimmer of relief in his eyes. He had longed for that ancient tome, and now Hong Zhu's choice perfectly aligned with his own aspirations.
"Then I shall choose this Blood Refining Divine Art," he stated.
Chen Moxuan nodded and effortlessly tossed the magic sword and the ancient tome towards Hong Zhu and Di Sha Jiang Jun, his movements fluid and precise, devoid of any hesitation. The two treasures traced elegant arcs in the air before landing steadily in their hands.
As Hong Zhu caught the magic sword, a chilling aura surged through the blade and into her body, causing her to involuntarily shiver. However, she quickly acclimated to the sensation, her eyes sparkling with excitement and fervor.
"Thank you for bestowing this sword upon me, Senior!" she exclaimed loudly, her voice brimming with a thirst for power.
Di Sha Jiang Jun carefully opened the ancient tome, its yellowed pages seemingly imbued with centuries of history and secrets. His gaze brightened as he followed the dancing words, as if he could already envision the glorious future that awaited him upon mastering its teachings.
"Thank you for granting me this book, Senior!" His voice, though not as impassioned as Hong Zhu's, was filled with determination and resolve.
Chen Moxuan waved his hand dismissively and swiftly vanished from sight, leaving Chen Feng momentarily as the center of attention among the crowd.
As news of the Divine Weapon spread throughout the court, discussions erupted instantly. Curiosity and longing for the legendary magic sword filled the air. Meanwhile, within the palace, the king sat upon his dragon throne, his expression revealing uncontainable joy and anticipation. He decided to personally reward those who had contributed to this achievement to showcase the nation's glory and authority.
However, Chen Moxuan was surprised when the emperor summoned only Hong Zhu and Chen Feng. Hong Zhu had obtained the magic sword and deserved recognition for her merit. Chen Feng had fought valiantly in battle and also warranted a reward. Yet no one mentioned Di Sha Jiang Jun's cultivation method.
At that moment, Chen Moxuan looked at Chen Feng's face, which bore a hint of excited smile as he knelt on one knee, holding the imperial edict with both hands. Once he dismissed the messenger, Chen Moxuan quietly examined the contents of the edict.
By the decree of the Emperor, it is proclaimed: The soldiers of the Eagle Wing Guard, led by Chen Feng, have displayed remarkable bravery and outstanding achievements in the border battle. As a reward, they are granted fertile lands, a set of earth-level cultivation techniques, a Mystic Level Divine Weapon, and are to return to the capital immediately to pay their respects. It is hoped that they will continue to strive for the nation. Thus it is decreed.
Chen Moxuan shook his head. "No promotion? It seems there truly is no one in the court for you. With such great military accomplishments, this is all you receive? Tsk tsk."
Chen Feng, however, did not mind. He smiled and replied, "Ancestor, our Chen Family does lack a reliable background in the capital. I feel that receiving this set of techniques and a Divine Weapon is already quite good."
Chen Moxuan shook his head again. He took out a long spear. The spear was pitch black; if it weren't for its exceptionally sharp tip, it would resemble a mere firewood stick.
"This is the Feng Lei Spear, a top-grade Heavenly Rank weapon. Although it cannot compare to that magic sword, it's suitable for you now since there’s no immediate danger. Even if it were stronger, you probably wouldn't be able to wield it effectively. Just hold onto it for now."
As he spoke, Chen Moxuan tossed the Feng Lei Spear into Chen Feng's hands.
"Prepare yourself for the journey to the capital. However, Ancestor, I predict you won't stay there long; the Azure Wolf Kingdom's matters are far from resolved. Most importantly, the Azure Wolf Kingdom is not simple at all."
Chen Feng was taken aback by this remark. If Ancestor said it was not simple, then it surely meant that the Azure Wolf Kingdom was hiding some secrets.
After receiving the imperial edict, Chen Feng had no choice but to temporarily step away from his duties with the Eagle Wing Guard to head to the capital and receive the Emperor's personal commendation.
Before leaving, Chen Feng sought out Zuo Qiu Tian Yong and instructed him to take good care of their subordinates.
"Tian Yong, I will be away for a while. You need to look after Hao Ying Yang Wei's brothers and ensure they are well-trained and living stable lives," Chen Feng said with a serious tone.
Zuo Qiu Tian Yong nodded firmly in response. "Rest assured, Commander. I will take good care of everyone. By the time you return, the Eagle Wing Guard will be even stronger."
Satisfied with his response, Chen Feng set off on his journey to the capital.
As he traveled towards the capital, Chen Feng felt a surge of excitement at the thought of meeting the Emperor. The scenery along the way was beautiful, but he had no time to appreciate it fully.
Upon arriving in the capital, he was struck by its bustling splendor. Chen Feng felt a mix of emotions but remained resolute in his beliefs.
The palace loomed majestically before him as he stepped inside, overwhelmed by its grandeur and filled with an indescribable excitement.
Led into the main hall, Chen Feng knelt on the ground, awaiting the Emperor's presence.
The hall was silent, the atmosphere tense. The Da Ao Emperor slowly scrutinized Chen Feng, his imposing demeanor unmistakable, his gaze deep as if he could see into one's soul.
"Chen Feng, you have achieved remarkable military feats at the border, bringing glory to the nation. I am greatly pleased," the Emperor's voice boomed.
Hearing this, warmth surged within Chen Feng. He raised his head to meet the Emperor's gaze, which was solemn yet commanding.
"Thank you for your commendation, Your Majesty. I will continue to work hard for the country and live up to your expectations," Chen Feng replied resolutely.
The Emperor smiled slightly, satisfaction evident in his eyes. He gestured for Chen Feng to rise and take a seat beside him.
In the grand hall, the ministers stood in formation, their expressions varied. Among them was a minister with a gloomy face and an unfriendly demeanor. This man was the court's treacherous official, Su Mingyu, who had always been envious of those more capable than himself and harbored jealousy and resentment towards Chen Feng's glory.
"Hmph, just a mere military general, yet he receives such honors. It's truly infuriating," Su Mingyu thought darkly.
He cast a glance at Chen Feng, his eyes filled with malice as if he wished to see him brought to ruin. Meanwhile, the Emperor continued to praise Chen Feng and inquired about the battles at the border, his words laced with concern and expectation.
Chen Feng answered each question earnestly, recounting both the hardships of war and the joy of victory. The Emperor listened intently, nodding in approval as he expressed admiration for Chen Feng's bravery and wisdom. The atmosphere in the hall gradually warmed.
Seeing this, Su Mingyu's resentment deepened. After the morning court session concluded, he approached the Minister of Revenue.
The Ministry of Revenue controlled the weapons and techniques acquired through battles fought across the Da Ao Kingdom.
"Remember, do not give that Chen fellow any options; just give him the worst!" Su Mingyu ordered.
The Minister of Revenue hesitated for a moment before responding awkwardly, "But Your Majesty has set regulations regarding ranks... I can't do that!"
Su Mingyu seized the Minister by the throat, his terrifying spiritual power nearly crushing him.
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