Three years passed. Now my territory has become a more advanced economic powerhouse. Honest and uncorrupt leadership, combined with my grounded approach, emphasizing compassion and unity with the greatest ambition: survival in this era of chaos.
Over the past three years, we've had small skirmishes with bandits, which we easily defeated. We've welcomed many migrants fleeing endless battles, especially former Yellow Turban members who saw my leadership as more realistic and practical than ideological. Hearing that my territory had no taxes, free education, and free healthcare, many people from across the land willingly migrated here, becoming my citizens.
My security system is now stronger with good rotations, and my scouts are highly skilled at gathering information from every city. Furthermore, many of my cities are producing various talents, from scholars to great warriors, as well as excellent fishermen, farmers, and miners. China is a fertile ground for human resources, but due to incompetent governance, it's like polishing jade by smashing it. I must polish it well.
"My Lord," I gathered in City Hall to begin another campaign. This time, the Emperor summoned me, or rather, He Jin did, due to matters concerning the eunuchs.
"I should go; the Emperor demands."
"But my lord, this is a trap."
"Yes, I know. That is why I want you all to stay here, defend with all your might until I return. Make sure there is not a single enemy sword lying on our region."
"YES, MY LORD!" I trust my people. At this moment, I must be careful. This insidious plan aims to take my head due to the eunuchs' insistence, so I must be slightly paranoid by not bringing troops and allowing them to become arrogant.
The higher their attitude, the more it hurts when they fall.
So I immediately departed for Luoyang on an ordinary horse. I didn't use any of my powerful bred horses because they would be stolen, so I wore ordinary soldier's clothes, carried a dragon sword, and rode a common horse without any jewelry or signs of my status as a warlord.
In four days, I arrived in Luoyang and saw the Han Empire's forces.
"General Tian Xian has arrived!" When I reached Luoyang, many residents flocked to me, especially the poor. They had heard rumors that my territory was very prosperous, making this place feel like hell compared to my region, which was like heaven amidst the chaos.
However, my intention this time was not to take in more refugees, unless they were truly desperate and prostrated themselves before me. I couldn't refuse them any longer, so I told them to stand up.
"General Tian Xian, I welcome you to the capital," He Jin said, appearing with many followers and eunuchs. The people were already prostrating themselves before me, and this was an extremely awkward moment. It made me look like a tyrant forcing people to submit to my superiority. Given this dynasty, slander was common, so I would prepare to face the full impact.
"Traitor! You want to take over the capital!" one of the eunuchs seized this opportunity to make a name. The populace panicked at their antics and began to plead.
"If you plea to them, I will not shelter you in my region even if you bow to the ground for the rest of your life." The residents stopped and looked at me. I stepped forward, maintaining a two-meter distance from the Han Court.
"Traitor? For a man like you, without manliness, who only hides behind women's skirts, wealth, and power. Call me a traitor? Pathetic. If this is just a game of insults, you're wasting my time. I'd rather manage my own territory." I immediately turned and began to walk away. All the residents of Luoyang started running to their homes to evacuate to my territory.
"You are all traitors! You abandoned the dynasty in its dire need!" I laughed at that and looked at all of them, including He Jin.
"To hell with this corrupt dynasty. If my leaders are as corrupt as you and incapable of providing solutions due to an emperor's absence, don't expect any respect from me, even if you are the most influential person in all of China." I took a bomb and threw it into the sky, forming a large firework with the Han Empire's logo.
From a distance, my territory could see the firework. Border guards saw the firework.
"Lord Tian needs support! LORD TIAN NEEDS SUPPORT!" They rushed to activate the large bell, ringing it four times. Everyone in my territory heard it.
"Lord Tian needs support!" All taverns, establishments, and various locations closed. All men, from young to old, took their armor and weapons and rushed towards the firework on horseback. Even in the barracks, horses were immediately prepared to depart.
All fishermen stopped their activities and quickly moved to the river to provide support, bringing all their best ships towards the firework.
Caravan after caravan of supplies immediately rushed forth, pulled by strong, well-maintained horses. Even various oxen sent from afar and bred to pull heavy equipment and large supplies joined in.
I smiled and glanced at the Han Court, then snorted.
"My army will arrive shortly. Stop me from aiding the common folks, and I will raze down this capital with you in it." Then a border guard arrived.
"My Lord, there is an army on the land and river rapidly getting closer. Should we be worried? Ah, General Tian Xian!" Then, war trumpets sounded throughout Luoyang.
A large army with my banner stood tall on the horizon, consisting of many swordsmen, cavalry, and even special war machine units. On the river, an armada formation arrived with specialized ships that were once fishing boats, transformed into warships ready to provide support.
Then came the cavalry, who immediately dismounted and formed a perfect Phalanx defensive formation with shields, like a turtle shell with very sharp spears as spokes.
"My Lord! Stand back! We cover you!" I was extremely pleased to see my army swiftly prioritizing my safety. This loyalty and discipline made my army the best in all of China.
Combined with the invention I made here, which is...
[ Invention (Special) ]
Translucent One Way Mirror Shield VI : Provides protection with a reflective surface on one side, allowing defenders to see attackers without being seen. Enhances durability and visibility, making it easier for soldiers to monitor the battlefield while remaining hidden, Incorporates lightweight materials for better mobility while maintaining strong defense capabilities. Integrates advanced materials that enhance both durability and visibility, providing superior battlefield awareness and protection
Rotary Sail VI : Enhances materials used in the sail, making it more durable and efficient, Incorporates advanced engineering techniques for better wind capture and speed, Increases the size and strength of the sail, further boosting speed and maneuverability. Integrates lightweight, high-strength materials for maximum performance and efficiency.
Simplified Wind Turbine VI : design for converting wind energy into mechanical power using wood. Enhances the efficiency of the turbine with better aerodynamic blades. Incorporates improved construction techniques for increased durability and performance. Adds a mechanism for automatic alignment with wind direction, optimizing power generation. Uses advanced materials and engineering to maximize efficiency and longevity.
Animal Armor VI : protective gear for animals, providing essential defense against attacks, Enhances the materials used, increasing durability and comfort for the animals. Incorporates lightweight design for better mobility without compromising protection. Adds modular components that can be customized for different types of animals and combat scenarios. Uses advanced materials and ergonomic design to provide maximum protection and comfort, ensuring optimal performance in combat situations
With all these new discoveries, I only need to push for advancements in Warfare, but it's not time yet, as we haven't transitioned into an era of power gaps. I need to prioritize supplies first.
All the residents watched my army, clad in magnificent armor with special modifications. The sound produced by this armor was like full knightly plate, yet it was actually lightweight steel, similar to modern military vests. This armor could block all forms of thrusts, stabs, and slashes without issue, even withstanding blunt force impacts.
What was even more surprising was that everyone wearing this armor was just an ordinary citizen, yet a loyal soldier when the country needed them. All their armor, swords, and spears would be sharpened and used without hesitation. The discipline I cultivated in my army yielded excellent results, making me quite pleased.
"Escort Luoyang people from here."
"Yes, My Lord." My troops formed a special protective formation for the residents, who immediately took shelter within the shield formation created by my army. Then, large carriages pulled by 12 horses and 8 oxen appeared like massive caravans, and some residents also boarded larger ships for evacuation.
"If you'll excuse me," I blew a specific note on a trumpet, and everyone heard it.
"Lord Tian orders to retreat! Escort the people!" My troops retreated in the same formation, unbroken. Even while retreating, we maintained discipline and formation to minimize casualties on our side. Even the archers were ready to fire to reduce interference as we withdrew. We were aided by the fleet, ready to fire and destroy all forms of support and reinforcement, slowing down any pursuit.
I left the capital, now empty of its populace, in a style that astonished several people. I made a name for myself again, a better one now in the eyes of the common people: I was a hero. In the eyes of the leaders, I was a rival and an enemy.
When I returned to my main capital in Dongwu, as a gathering point, I gained new residents along my journey from Xuchang and Chenliu, who heard that I had evacuated the people of Luoyang. The poor, abandoned by the government, gathered and joined our march, and and now we've reached almost 1,399,364 people.
And this time, with only one year remaining, we held another thanksgiving ceremony. This time, the Jade Emperor himself appeared. For three years, we hadn't been able to hold a ceremony due to constant harassment from bandits and invaders, even pirates. This time, we could finally perform this ceremony.
And this time, the Jade Emperor, who was present, blessed us with prosperity, well-being, and also a heavenly blessing where all our crops, land, and mines returned to their original, more fertile state, which we immediately sacrificed as a form of gratitude.
We held another celebration, and this time I just needed to hold out for a few more months.
But these few months brought news of the eunuchs' defection and He Jin's assassination, which was none of my business. Now it's the Era of Dong Zhuo, and what's worse is that many fear Dong Zhuo, who is a true tyrant.
But I'm focused on getting what I want: the completed Devil Quest and God Task.
[ Devil Quest ]
[Quest Complete : Survive 5 Year of Yellow Turban Arc, Increase Your Military Might, Your Region prosperity, Defend your Region form invading bandit, Lord and possible raider | Reward : Free 5 Selection of Artifact ]
[ Fairy Artifact ]
Antique Casting (Region Artifact) : Any machinery in the producing factory or place gains a crafting speed and accuracy boost of 500%, producing multiple results per crafting attempt, even with the lowest and most worthless materials. This buff reduces material usage by 90%, maximizing efficiency and ensuring optimal resource utilization with divine-level results.
Lucky Coin (Companion Artifact) : Whenever a team, squad, branch, or member is on field duty, their chances of survival increase significantly, even in the face of the lowest odds or suicide missions. This artifact ensures their safety amidst the harsh realities of the outside world, the indifferent cruelty of the universe, and the unforgivable truth of creation.
Dreaming Essence (Region Artifact) : A single drop of this essence enchants anyone, ensuring the settlement is always clean regardless of its previous condition. The air conditioning or weather system emits a pleasant scent throughout every season.
Excessiveness (God Artifact ) : Any obtainable rewards received from artifact buffs, work, missions, commissions, or any acquisition method come with an additional bonus of fifty times the original quantity. This bonus is not limited to currency but can also include materials, items, and supplies.
Blindness (Skill Artifact): This buff protects the user by making their actions, plans, and intentions completely unpredictable. No one, not even those with foresight or six senses, can anticipate the user's moves even person who paranoid to master tactician or people who genuinely all knowing and all oblivious unable to predict user. also User's actions and intentions are completely unpredictable to others, to the point where even those with gifted intellect and intuition cannot deduce the user's actions and intentions, rendering precognition useless against the user.
[ God Task ]
[Task Complete : Increase Your Influence and Name | Reward : Advisor System Mechanism.]
[ Advisor System : This system provide you any Person who can aid you in this Matter : Generic, Culture, Science, Faith, Military. Person to be your Advisor is limited only from Three Kingdom Game across the world and Chinese Game, Novel and Movie. make sure you understand who worth to be Your advisor as Advisor Bonus and Ability is important]
[ Devil Quest ]
E : Sided With Dong Zhuo or Aid Coalition to Overthrow Dong Zhuo | Reward : Free 2 Selection of Artifact.
[ God Task ]
5. Expand your Territory and Try to Create Foreign Alliance | Reward : Appeal Attracting System
Aligning with Dong Zhuo or aiding the Coalition to overthrow him? That depends on who is willing, but right now, the most important thing is expansion.
[ Advisor Recommendation ]
Advisor: Jiutian Xuannü | Origin : The Legend of Sword and Fairy 7
Category: Military, Generic, Culture
Military: Jiutian Xuannü offers unparalleled support in warfare, ensuring victory in your campaigns. Her divine influence boosts military effectiveness and strategic prowess, making her a formidable asset in any conflict.
Generic: As a goddess of longevity, Jiutian Xuannü enhances the resilience and endurance of your region. Her presence ensures that your kingdom can withstand and recover from even the most severe diseases and natural disasters, contributing to long-term survival and stability.
Culture: Jiutian Xuannü's divine fertility abilities foster population growth and cultural development. Her influence leads to increased fertility and a thriving population, enriching the cultural and societal fabric of your region.
Special Ability:
Celestial Guardian: Jiutian Xuannü can summon celestial warriors to protect your region during crises. This ability enhances the defense of your kingdom, provides a substantial boost to morale, and ensures that your defenses are nearly impregnable against threats.
Recruit Her ? [ Yes ] [ No ]
Upon my return to the main capital in Dongwu, our gathering point, I gained new residents throughout my journey from Xuchang and Chenliu. Those who heard that I had evacuated the people of Luoyang, the poor neglected by the government, gathered and joined our march. Now, our population stands at nearly 1,399,364.
This time, only one year remained before we could hold another thanksgiving ceremony. And this time, the Jade Emperor graced us with his presence, blessing us after three years of constant harassment from bandits, invaders, and even pirates had prevented such ceremonies. Now, we could finally perform this sacred ritual.
The Jade Emperor blessed us with prosperity, well-being, and a heavenly blessing, where all our crops, land, and mines returned to their original, more fertile state. We immediately sacrificed our agricultural produce and resources as a token of our gratitude.
We celebrated again, and this time I just needed to hold out for a few more months. However, these recent months brought hot news of the eunuchs' defection and He Jin's assassination, which was none of my concern. Now, the Era of Dong Zhuo has arrived, and many fear Dong Zhuo as a true tyrant.
I remain focused on achieving what I desire: completing the Devil Quest and the God Task. Now, the choice remains: side with Dong Zhuo or aid the coalition to overthrow him. However, the most important thing right now is expansion.
"Time out!" I shouted, startling everyone present.
"My Lord... what happened? Did we make a mistake?" I just remembered I was in a meeting for expansion. I pressed "Yes" and received a notification:
[ Your Advisor is waiting at the Pagoda ]
"I have received divine aid. Follow me to the Pagoda." All the advisors began to follow me to the Pagoda. Upon arriving, there was a commotion as Heaven sent a Goddess to meet me, which surprised many.
As I entered, I saw the goddess for the first time. Although I had seen Leona and Diana, seeing a Chinese Goddess was an incredible reference.
"Greetings, General Tian Xian. My name is Jiutian Xuannü. I was commanded by the Jade Emperor to be your advisor in Military, Generic, and Culture. I will manage your region's affairs while you conduct your campaigns in this era of chaos," Jiutian Xuannü said softly and courteously. We immediately saluted as appropriate, but this goddess was captivating, her beauty even surpassing the four beauties of China.
"Greetings, Goddess Jiutian Xuannü."
"Please do not call me 'Goddess' as an honorific. I feel that title is for a servant. I consider you a sibling among gods and goddesses, though you have not yet achieved ascendancy, I shall consider you a fellow deity," she stated. Perfect, 100% Wife Material. Holy shit, am I dreaming?
Jiutian Xuannü giggled at my face, which displayed various expressions, especially since everyone else in the Pagoda and my advisors were completely losing their composure.
But that didn't make me slack off just because I had a Goddess as my advisor. I had to improve the quality of my leadership, and naturally, experience was crucial.
I immediately went to the capital again and began planning my next steps. News of my advisor being a goddess directly sent by the Jade Emperor was astonishing and even reached the government and other warlords.
"A goddess sent by Heaven to be his advisor?! Is he Heaven's Chosen One?" That was the first thought that came to everyone's mind in the Han dynasty. When they came to my region to form an alliance with me, they were utterly shocked by the rapid progress here.
My region is now highly advanced, with more strategic soldiers and border patrols, and good rotations. Crops are more fertile, quality of life is guaranteed, education is high-standard, healthcare is free, and most astonishingly:
No taxes.
Literally, the populace pays no tribute to me, but I give much to them—technology, science, knowledge, prosperity, and even divine aid. When the alliances saw Jiutian Xuannü directly, they were enchanted by her beauty and also by her intelligence, which was not easily swayed.
While I am currently expanding north, Jiutian Xuannü manages my region and protects it with what she requested: a direct Celestial Army. This Celestial Army wears divine armor and weapons, ready to take action against anyone who disturbs the peace in my region.
Meanwhile, I undertook a massive expansion to the north, taking the areas of Leling, Zhangwu, Zhuo Lu, Ji, Tuyin, Junmi, Linyu, Liucheng, Yangle, Xuantu, and Xiangping. We did so with speed and precision using Blitzkrieg methods. We locked down the seas and plains, preventing enemy movement, in addition to the mountains filled with barbarian tribes from Mongolia, which posed their own challenge.
With the acquisition of these territories, my region grew stronger. My population increased from 1,399,364 to 1,675,747, a significant boost. This increase will be very useful, especially with the help of my advisors.
However, the question is whether I need to go to Yamatai first. I asked the gods if Yamatai was connected to Dynasty Warriors. The answer was no, as these were different games.
I decided to expand trade with neighboring kingdoms, Korea and Japan. We received excellent support, especially the high quality of herbs from Korea and rocks from Japan. Japan, with its fertile land resources and high-quality minerals from volcanoes, as well as high-quality fabrics woven by locals, and Korea with its gold, horses for farming and pulling with high stamina and endurance, high-quality ginseng that we could cultivate further, hides from wild animals, and some endemic Korean animals given by the King of Silla as a sign of respect for marrying his daughter.
"So there it is, quite good, isn't it? Some of these animals are rare and can be further bred to prevent extinction. Some animals also include those only found in myths or only in heaven, isn't that right, Sister?" Jiutian Xuannü chuckled softly because she knew I had a better plan in the Bohai Sea.
Jiutian Xuannü took a map and placed it on the board, and then we discussed managing the territories. I explained each region we attacked in terms of geography and cultivation, as well as terrain conditions and strategic locations. I also explained the resources possessed by those regions, connecting roads, city and settlement planning, and formations for land use for work and living, as well as useful fortifications for my region that could be further developed based on the natural resources of the location.
My transparent approach made everyone under my rule happy, as their leader wasn't planning behind their backs to harm them, but openly presented my plans to everyone. Although I knew there were spies, I didn't care because their blindness would make me unpredictable. Perhaps they thought I was only for prosperity, but they were wrong; I was performing regular "Upgrades."
"Alright, I will arrange everything." I truly felt grateful to Jiutian Xuannü for going to the trouble of arranging what I planned. Perhaps I couldn't give her more, but Immortal Peach and Immortal Gourd could be a good form of respect.
[ God Task ]
[ Quest Complete : Expand your Territory and Try to Create Foreign Alliance | Reward : Appeal Attracting System ]
[ Appeal Attracting : This system is designed to help you understand and implement actions that will attract and appeal to the entities you wish to influence. By analyzing your desired targets, this system will provide tailored recommendations on the most appealing actions, gifts, policies, or gestures for the target, and this system will constantly update and refine recommendations based on real-time feedback and results.]
[Appease Attracting Active]
[Giving an Immortal Peach to Jiutian Xuannü will greatly increase favorability.]
[Giving an Immortal Peach to the Celestial Army will increase favorability and attract more deities when you summon them.]
Giving Immortal Peach? Fortunately, the Tree of Life is with me, so I can give it to them.
I stepped aside for a moment, then took something from my pouch. Everyone watched me, and I threw a single seed into the sea. From the sea, giant roots emerged, forming a massive tree trunk that covered my entire territory. This colossal tree was visible even from the far reaches of China, Myanmar, Japan, Korea, and various distant lands.
I touched the roots of this tree, and from its sprawling branches appeared dozens of peaches of the third kind, which bloom only once every nine thousand years. I handed them out one by one with a gentle smile.
"These Immortal Peaches that bloom every nine thousand years are supposed to only grow in heaven, and you are all from heaven. Consider this merely a delicious treat from us, mortal humans, for immortals like yourselves. I hope you enjoy it." I touched the roots, and the Tree of Life returned to its seed form, which I put back in my pocket.
My actions were completely unexpected, and even Jiutian Xuannü and the Celestial Army were confused as to how a mere mortal like me could possess such a fruit and such a strange tree that could grow fruit that takes so long to ripen. Since one day in Heaven can be up to 1000 years on Earth, imagine how long it would take for this fruit to ripen, yet it ripened in the blink of an eye? This makes no sense.
[God Task]
6. Test Your Might: Defeat Lu Bu | Reward: Mount or Weapon or Armor or 10 Artifacts
Finally, the Beast of Men versus the Man who is the King of Beasts. This will be a good thing for me.
"General Tian Xian, we appreciate the Immortal Peaches you have given us. We will reciprocate this kindness soon, and what do you wish for?" Jiutian Xuannü said with a smile.
"A coincidence? No, this is the will of heaven."
"I do not seek wealth, women, or status. Perhaps," I replied, making a folded-hand gesture as a student to a teacher. "You are all Heavenly Infantry with vastly different combat capabilities, creating a large skill gap between us. I want to reduce that gap and leap beyond that limit. I want to train with you directly, considered as a return of kindness. Treat me as a student and apprentice to become a warrior."
"No," a loud voice boomed from above. A warrior descended from there, and imagine my surprise that the warrior was no ordinary soldier but His Excellency, Erlang Shen, descended directly from Heaven.
"If you wish to become a Heavenly Warrior, then you must become a disciple of a heavenly warrior. I will train you and test you directly. I received a personal decision from the Jade Emperor to test you. If you succeed in my test, then I will give you my armor as a reward."
[Give Erlang Shen an endless thrill of a fight by keeping up with him in battle without any trickery. It will give him a big impression and brotherhood.]
Considering Erlang Shen is the God of Truth, none of his words are false. I must take this test seriously.
"Yes, Master." I saluted Erlang Shen.
"Starting now!" Erlang Shen attacked me.
I immediately dodged and used my Lock On ability to target Erlang Shen. With this, I could read every one of his movements. We attacked each other with the finesse of sword and spear, the roar of my dragon sword and Erlang Shen's divine spear echoing around us.
I continuously matched Erlang Shen's speed and power without the slightest distraction, my attacks accurate with precision for parries and dodges, using elegant and nimble side steps and body twisting. I launched a counterattack that successfully struck Erlang Shen, but he did not retreat. His abilities should not be underestimated; he was merely holding back to see how far I could develop.
I stopped holding back and immediately used my combat abilities honed in hell. My aura instantly changed, my attacks now faster and stronger. Erlang Shen sensed this change and began to take me seriously. I aimed for his blind spot and launched complex attacks from various sides. Erlang Shen responded with a fatal strike, but I managed to evade it by an inch before it hit my body. My attack struck his helmet.
Erlang Shen retreated and smiled, realizing that I was getting faster, stronger, and more precise with every passing second. There was no room for error, as Erlang Shen could defeat me with a single blow. I am not Wukong, who has many lives; one attack could mean death.
The battle continued with high intensity. Every movement, every attack, and every parry felt like a deadly dance between life and death. I seized every opportunity to strike precisely and evade quickly, maintaining a balance between offense and defense. Erlang Shen began to look impressed by the abilities and perseverance I displayed.
The fight intensified as Erlang Shen attacked me with an incredibly fast spear thrust, shattering my left arm in an instant. Fortunately, with Lock On and Light Rush, I was able to avoid the fatal blow. Despite the injury, I used adrenaline to ignore the pain and continued to fight with unwavering spirit.
I gripped my sword, activating Ignition to cauterize my wound and stop the bleeding. With the wound healed, I entered a state of pure fighting instinct, surrendering everything to my combat instincts
When Erlang Shen attacked again with the same move, I swiftly evaded, pinning his spear to the ground with my foot. My technique surprised him, and I launched a counterattack that shattered his helmet from the impact of my Dragon Breath sword.
Our battle continued to escalate, becoming more thrilling and intense. Erlang Shen grew faster and stronger, sensing the ferocity of my combat. This was no longer just a master-disciple spar, but two warriors reveling in battle until our bodies could no longer endure.
Throughout the fight, everyone watched in awe, mesmerized as I held my ground and pushed myself. I grew faster, stronger, and more adept with my sword. My attacks became heavier and more fatal, forcing Erlang Shen onto the defensive.
In a careless moment, I failed to notice Erlang Shen's thrown spear. He seized the opportunity to stab me from behind. However, I managed to twist my body, impaling his own spear into him. I tried to press the attack, but Erlang Shen kicked me away, creating distance.
Quickly, I pulled out his spear and attacked again, but Erlang Shen used his leg to unbalance me. He spun to cut off my head, but I ducked, avoiding the fatal strike.
I did not retreat, pressing my assault, focusing on destroying Erlang Shen's armor while defending myself. I fought with pure determination and spirit, without tricks or divine power, relying solely on focus, commitment, and drive.
For 300 rounds, or seven days non-stop, our battle became a phenomenal spectacle in heaven. I managed to destroy 60% of Erlang Shen's armor, even though my body was riddled with wounds, including the loss of my left arm. Each wound Erlang Shen inflicted only made me stronger and more efficient.
Erlang Shen, satisfied, declared this my final test. He attacked with greater speed and strength than before, using his deadly Demon Exterminator skill. I felt a massive shift in his attacks and struggled fiercely to keep defending and attacking.
This battle reached a heavenly level, and I was able to withstand Erlang Shen's mighty power. In one miraculous moment, I managed to wound Erlang Shen, grazing his cheek with my sword, proving I was capable of harming a god.
Erlang Shen laughed, seeing his scratched cheek, and looked at me, unconscious from exhaustion. However, I didn't fall; instead, I remained upright, my sword still pointed at him, its tip dripping with Erlang Shen's blood. He knew this would attract demons from this pantheon.
"Lady Jiutian Xuannü, give this armor and this token to him. From this day forward, General Tian Xian is my sworn brother." Erlang Shen shed his torn armor and returned to heaven in high spirits. Meanwhile, I coughed and awoke from my faint.
"So, this is what it feels like to wound a god and fight him to a standstill... Brother... did I do well?" Jiutian Xuannü smiled with relief, seeing me alive and still struggling; everyone knew how stubborn I was.
"Yes, very impressive." I chuckled softly and sighed, then slumped down with my sword piercing the ground like a knight bowing to a queen. I never allow my body to touch the ground without permission.
I passed out and experienced a brief coma, but my consciousness returned peacefully. I could feel my body undergoing drastic changes. I woke up and saw my body covered in bandages.
"You're finally awake," Jiutian Xuannü sat beside me and helped me sit up.
"Thank you, how long was I unconscious?" Jiutian Xuannü smiled and offered me a medicinal potion. I drank it without hesitation, completely trusting her. I felt my body transform, and the effects of the Immortal Peach made my body into a "God Among Men," with Heaven and Earth as witnesses. My appearance shone with the beauty of the sun and moon, possessing unmatched power from both heavenly and hellish realms, exuding a charm that rivaled celestial rulers and demon lords. I embodied perfect harmony and vitality, effortlessly wielding Yin and Yang energy as my birthright.
"Excellent, Jiutian Xuannü. Now Lu Bu won't be able to fight me."
"A day. I've already spoken with the Alliance to help overthrow Dong Zhuo for now. Dong Zhuo wants to seize your territory and me as his concubine." Hearing that, I immediately raged. Taking my advisor as his concubine? That damned pig is audacious.
"I understand." I got up and tore off all my bandages with great force. My body was perfectly sculpted like a god's, with muscular contours like a warrior who had fought thousands of battles, and skin as pure as the sun and as elegant as the moon itself, with boundless vitality from darkness and light.
My hair had also grown long, like Sephiroth's. I wanted to cut it, but now wasn't the time.
"It's time to pay respects to the new regent." I left my room, and the servants who saw me were stunned by my handsome appearance and dramatically altered presence, like a celestial prince. I suppose this is thanks to my "You Improve? So Am I?" ability, which enhanced my handsomeness. Why am I even concerned about my handsomeness? I'll die a virgin anyway.
I will maintain this virginity.
"I will go to meet the regent." I went to my room to get dressed and then headed to Luoyang alone to meet the regent. However, word had spread that I had become Erlang Shen's direct disciple, with many calling me a general sent by heaven.
Many poems were composed about me, recounting my history as a defector from the empire, who built a kingdom more prosperous than the empire, supported by heaven, with even heaven sending its deities to train me.
However, I had no interest in poetry or theatrics amidst the chaos of this dynasty. Messengers sent false reports that I had attacked Luoyang without the coalition's knowledge, causing them to panic prematurely.
But only one person had a similar idea to mine: Cao Cao. His intelligence gathering was more efficient than the others.
"It seems fate has brought us together, my friend," Cao Cao greeted me. I returned his greeting.
"Not fate, more accurately because we have common interests in this matter, Lord Cao."
"What do you think of my offer? I see your strength, wisdom, and intelligence. Join me." Cao Cao's offer was quite tempting; if I joined him, Wei would become the dominant force. However, I didn't want to do that now.
"I will consider it."
"I will await good news." We proceeded to Luoyang, but Cao Cao and I had different solutions. Cao Cao attempted to assassinate Dong Zhuo, while my approach was different. In court, Cao Cao was caught for treason, whereas I was not, because I brought something Dong Zhuo loved most: treasure.
Based on the Appeal Attracting system, I knew what Dong Zhuo desired.
[Giving Dong Zhuo 700 Jin of 24-karat gold will increase his favorability.]
Fortunately, I had brought it, lifting a large box and slamming it down in the Royal Court.
"Greetings, Regent. I bring tribute as compensation for my audacity in refusing to hand over my advisor as your concubine," I said gently, opening the chest to reveal the gleaming 700 Jin of 24-karat gold, neatly arranged before them all. Even Cao Cao was surprised by my trick.
"Hahahaha, good! That's a proper request, a pile of gold. Very well, your apology is accepted. And what about my offer? Become my adopted son, and you can choose my daughter or granddaughter as your wife." I yearned to rip that pig's mouth off, but I had to remain calm, controlling my emotions before dismembering him.
"I am not interested in your throne, your wealth, or your women, nor anyone in the Royal Court," I replied firmly. Dong Zhuo laughed at that and looked at me.
"How naive, you naive man. I heard you were chosen by heaven, and even Erlang Shen personally trained you for seven days. Well, between you and my son, Lu Bu, who is the strongest?" I smirked slightly and stood.
"Of course." I took a bandage and wrapped my hand. Dong Zhuo laughed, seeing me unarmed, then tossed me a dagger.
"Entertain me." I caught the dagger, then threw it into the air, walking towards Lu Bu, who was preparing. As the dagger fell precisely into my hand, I used a card-throwing technique, making the dagger spin rapidly like a propeller.
It was too fast for Lu Bu to react, but the dagger didn't cut off Dong Zhuo's head; instead, it shaved a bald spot in the center of his hair, including his crown. His hair was cleanly shaven by the dagger, with a part down his scalp.
"Nice hair, imperial clown," I sneered. Cao Cao burst into laughter, and even some others in the room joined in. Dong Zhuo was furious, his face turning red with rage.
"KILL HIM! KILL HIM NOW!" Lu Bu immediately attacked me, but I dodged agilely, quickly catching his halberd, and kicked him with a Spartan kick. His body was sent flying backward, crashing through a wall.
Swiftly, I freed Cao Cao and then left.
"DON'T LET HIM ESCAPE LUOYANG!" I smiled and laughed, hearing Dong Zhuo scream.
We ran with Xiahou Dun and Cao Ren. We passed various officers and some of Dong Zhuo's troops, who were like mere small fry to me. Furthermore, I wielded Lu Bu's halberd like a dagger.
I mimicked Erlang Shen's martial arts and assimilated them with my speed, strength, and elegant yet formidable techniques from my Son of God King ability. It was too easy for me, and we finally managed to escape from Luoyang.
"Wait." I spun Lu Bu's halberd and threw it like an anchor. The halberd spun rapidly, heading towards Lu Bu, who was chasing us. Lu Bu caught his halberd but was dragged by the speed of his own halberd's rotation and thrown into a building, collapsing it right on top of him.
I made sure Lu Bu was injured enough so that he wouldn't be able to fight at Shisui Gate and Hulao Gate.
[ God Task ]
[Task Complete: Test Your Might, Defeat Lu Bu | Reward: Mount or Weapon or Armor Or 10 Artifact]
I would, of course, choose a Mount because I also need a good steed. From heaven came my magnificent mount. Its origin is Granblue, and who is it? Huanglong, one of the raid bosses.
[ God Task ]
7. Complete Devil Quest | Reward: 3 Wish
"Lord Cao, I will return to my territory to prepare an attack on Dong Zhuo. Excuse me," I said. I swiftly mounted Huanglong, who moved like light, and in a short time, I was back in my territory. My people could now directly witness this mythical beast.
It was an amazing sight, a true miracle. Huanglong turned out to be a female and a benevolent creature. I treated her with great care.
Upon arriving in my territory, I was immediately greeted by officials and citizens. They were captivated by Huanglong's presence, who exuded an aura of majesty and power. I dismounted and walked towards the palace, where I was met by my advisors.
"Welcome, any good news?" I recounted how I shaved Dong Zhuo's head bald in the middle, which made everyone burst into laughter, imagining Dong Zhuo's comically bald head.
But the celebration isn't over yet, due to one important detail: thanks to the gold I gave him, Dong Zhuo can now amass an army and even use that gold to hire bandits and mercenaries.
The Coalition's invitation arrived four days after the "scalping" incident. Lu Bu clearly holds a grudge against me and will challenge me again later, but I frankly don't care; I'm more concerned with my own land.
[Leling]
- Land Advantage: Region open space close to the sea, good for ponds and salt mines. Sea water cultivation will increase quality and quantity by 50%.
- Population: 87,345 / 1,975,673
[Zhangwu]
- Land Advantage: Region covered in open space with open sea, great for ship port and fish port. Manufacturing ships will increase speed and quantity by 50%.
- Population: 94,678 / 1,975,673
[Zhuo Lu]
- Land Advantage: Region full of Mountain and wild forest, good for wild animal and horse breeding. Rare chance of getting exotic animal breeding and increasing population of northern wild horses by 50%.
- Population: 92,345 / 1,975,673
[Ji]
- Land Advantage: Region pinched by mountain and slope, great for defense. Increases manufacturing of war machines by 50%.
- Population: 86,789 / 1,975,673
[Tuyin]
- Land Advantage: Region with great open space and special fortifications along the way. Increases the training of the army by 50%.
- Population: 84,567 / 1,975,673
[Junmi]
- Land Advantage: Region full of Mountain and Mineral source. Harvesting mines will receive more ore by 50%.
- Population: 91,234 / 1,975,673
[Linyu]
- Land Advantage: Region full of Mountain and Mineral source. Mining gives 50% more obtainable.
- Population: 90,456 / 1,975,673
[Liucheng]
- Land Advantage: Region full of forest and good quality of wood. Tool making, lumbering, and forestation will increase by 50%.
- Population: 96,123 / 1,975,673
[Yangle]
- Land Advantage: Region with special fortifications to oversee the sea. Fort build will increase by 50%.
- Population: 95,234 / 1,975,673
[Xuantu]
- Land Advantage: Region with a flourishing forest, great for lumbering. Lumbering activity will increase good quality wood by 50%.
- Population: 97,789 / 1,975,673
[Xiangping]
- Land Advantage: Region close to the border with a neighboring kingdom, with a great view of all of China. Increasing visibility on the sea from the land by 50% and trading opportunity by 60%.
- Population: 98,234 / 1,975,673
A good thing. It's time to resupply, train, and do some soldiering with additional troops. And this time, it's time for me to start the Campaign.