"Overall, this matter was handled quite smoothly."

Aboard the ship, Yang Wudi, watching Wu Wang being surrounded by a group of Punishment Hall attendants, stroked his shiny bald head and muttered softly.

The Sleep God, with hands behind his back, watched the Human Emperor sitting in front of the hall and heaved a deep sigh.

"You don't understand, do you?"

Yang Wudi nodded eagerly, eyes fixed on the Sleep God.

The latter, however, simply smiled calmly and said slowly, "I..."

"You don't understand either?" Yang Wudi interjected, full of surprise.

The Sleep God almost yanked out his Divine Artifact, the Golden Hong Pillow, and slung it at Yang Wudi's head.

He cursed through a divine message:

"I don't understand?

Hmph, just now, your Sect Master executed a three-step strategy, consisting of deterrence, rallying, and pressing forward.

He used the raised executioner's blade as deterrence, rallied the forces of the Human Domain through actions like presenting the old grain, which are very likely to incite others' anger, then used this momentum to press forward, forcing the Human Emperor to personally grasp the reins of power in the Human Domain.

Others, who can't stand in his position, simply can't keep up with his pace.

Moreover, I believe that Wu Wang had this idea for a while, but he improvised on the spot this time.

The others were completely unprepared, which is why you think things went a bit too smoothly.

You bald donkey, do you think your Sect Master rallied the forces for what? To climb higher?"

Yang Wudi looked at the Sleep God, not daring to say 'You're the donkey, your whole family are donkeys,' and could only say, "Normally, that would be the case."

"That's right."

The Sleep God watched Wu Wang, who had now broken away from the crowd and returned with a few friends, and forced a smile at the corner of his mouth.

The Sleep God said:

"Your Sect Master is brilliant because he doesn't care about what ordinary people care about.

Others think he wants to use the situation to solidify his own power, but they didn't expect him to resign from his position directly;

When everyone thinks he is just speaking out of a sense of justice and feels he is too impulsive, none of them realize that he actually has a grander plan, pulling the Human Emperor back to the core of power in the Human Domain.

This matter, if Shennong had someone else do it, it really wouldn't be easy to handle.

After all, those currently in important positions are people trusted by Shennong, and if Shennong took back control directly, it would probably cause widespread shock.

Today, it's not just about taking back power, but also about rallying the various forces of the Human Domain around the Human Emperor again, simple and direct, yet quite effective."

Yang Wudi sighed, "Then wouldn't it work the same if His Majesty replaced someone else to make things difficult for the Benevolent Emperor Pavilion? Having to involve the Sect Master... Sigh, it's truly a pity now that he's made it to Vice Pavilion Master."

"This matter shouldn't be arranged by Shennong; Shennong values Brother Wuwang greatly and wouldn't let Brother Wuwang make such a sacrifice."

The Sleep God laughed. "It was Brother Wuwang who actively chose this path, and moreover, he went through with it thoroughly and completed it extremely swiftly. Stop muttering to yourself and hurry up to show your loyalty."

"HEH HEH HEH."

Yang Wudi laughed awkwardly, patted his bald head, and immediately switched back to a look of deep suffering, throwing himself towards Wu Wang.

"Sect Master! You've been wronged, Sect Master! This subordinate is heartbroken, yet I don't know what I can do for you, Sect Master!"

Wu Wang's mouth twitched slightly, and he kicked the bald strong man who was hugging his thighs, sending him flying.

Yang Wudi's sturdy body flew across the air, turning into a cross star at a distance, and it was unknown where he had been kicked to.

This guy...

He was just chatting with the Sleep God in high spirits, pretending to be serious—does he think I'm blind?!

Looking back at the Sleep God at the bow, there was no longer a trace of him.

Clearly, because there were too many people around Wu Wang, he didn't want to get involved with others, so he deliberately hid himself.

Entering the ship and returning to the top cabin, Wu Wang secretly gave instructions, and under the Grand Elder's urging, the great ship slowly withdrew from the sky above the large city and then took a detour toward the Annihilation Sect.

As the ship left, Formation light walls slowly rose around the great city, as if drawing the curtains over this place.

The eyes and Immortal Consciousness of those from Military Families and Sects, who had been following Wu Wang, were also cut off by the Formation.

There was still much to do afterward.

Shennong had already started issuing orders through the Four Officials of Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter.

The original Benevolent Emperor Pavilion had indeed lost all prestige, but the 'Human Emperor Pavilion' established under Shennong's rule had swiftly been constructed, with its reputation and authority instantly maximized.

Inside the Human Domain, no disturbance arose from this matter.

But the news of "Wu Wangzi angrily rebuking the ministers and chopping down the Pavilion Master before resigning and returning to the wild" inevitably spread throughout the Human Domain, becoming a topic of conversation for mortal Cultivators.

Within half a month, some big cities' theaters already had this drama on stage.

Those idle poets also inscribed the name 'Little Golden Dragon Wu Wangzi' into miscellaneous books and wove it into ballads, circulating it everywhere.

Of course, these were just fleeting reputations.

Compared to the ones Wu Wang had actively cast aside, they were indeed insignificant.

On the way to the Annihilation Sect, Sanxian Daoist and Old Snow Eagle couldn't bring themselves to discuss returning to the Southeastern Region under such circumstances, so they vaguely followed Wu Wang back to the Annihilation Sect.

The Grand Elder, seeing Wu Wang was not in good spirits, secretly sent messages instructing all within the Annihilation Sect to maintain quiet, to avoid making a fuss, and not to have celebratory feasts.

As a result, when Wu Wang returned to the Sect, the Annihilation Sect was quiet and peaceful.

There was still a subtle sense of loss.

He returned to his own cave dwelling and made his way past the screen to the soft couch. Wu Wang dragged his tired body over and collapsed into it, sighing softly.

Almost simultaneously, everyone behind him took a half step forward, wanting to comfort Wu Wang.

But they heard Wu Wang reflecting aloud, "You know, I'm really something. Resigning is just resigning, but I had to kill so many people and cause such a commotion. It seems I'm inherently a little restless and just had to make some noise."

"Brother Wuwang is being too modest with such words."

Ji Mo and Le Yao exchanged glances, their smiles showing a rare understanding.

Ji Mo laughed and said, "What's there to miss about those false reputations and positions? With your accomplishments, and His Majesty Shennong's regard for you, aren't those vain titles just a few words away from coming back to you? Within the Human Domain now, in terms of fame and calling power among the various forces, aside from His Majesty and a few Pavilion Masters, it's you. I never expected to meet such a person like you so early, back in the days of the Women's country..."

Wu Wang raised an eyebrow, his eyes full of mischief. "You mean that time you were hung from the city walls?"

"Hey, that's going too far!"

Ji Mo's eyes bulged in exasperation, while Le Yao tilted her head slightly to the side.

"What?"

"That time I was framed by Lin Qi's father, the reason for the Yan Emperor's order strife. I've explained it to you before; we'll talk about it in detail later," Ji Mo hurriedly explained, beads of sweat forming on his forehead.

Ling Xiaolan calmly added fuel to the fire, "There are quite a few romantic tales involved in this, but he hadn't met you then, Le Yao, so it's not really a mistake. It's just a bit indiscreet, that's all."

Le Yao showed a look of realization on her face, and a hint of curiosity actually appeared. Her eyes narrowed into slits as she looped her arm through Ji Mo's, whispering gently, "Husband, do you have any premarital sweethearts you haven't finished mentioning?"

"This..."

"Come here, let's have a good talk. I remember the Annihilation Sect also has your dwelling."

"Eh, my lady, I'll explain, in detail..."

Amidst everyone's teasing gaze, Le Yao dragged Ji Mo out of the cave dwelling, and the cave immediately filled with joyous laughter.

Wu Wang smiled and said, "Senior Sanxian, Senior Snow Eagle, please make yourselves comfortable and find a seat. This is where I usually practice and rest, and it looks like I'll be cultivating here for quite a long time."

Old Snow Eagle gave Wu Wang a thumbs up, praising him, "Refreshing! Young Master Yan's heroic feat today is worthy of a grand toast!"

"Brother, this place of yours is too small," the Sleep God said slowly. "Let's go to mine later. I'll prepare some delicacies you've never tasted."

Wu Wang smiled and replied, "Then I must trouble you, brother."

Lin Suqing rolled up her sleeves, asking if she should lend a hand.

The Sleep God, however, repeatedly declined, explaining he had ample manpower; if he needed more, he could simply carve them out of wood.

Dongfang Mumu ran to and fro, moving several chairs over.

Lin Suqing changed into a short skirt and tied her hair into two buns, her graceful figure fluttering around as she went about making tea and pouring water, adding a lively atmosphere to the cave.

The Blue Bird flew in from outside, bringing a peculiar Spirit Fruit and placing it beside Wu Wang.

An aged voice reached Wu Wang's ears, "This fruit is known as the Happy Fruit. It can make one forget their worries. Give it a try."

Worry...

Wu Wang really wanted to reach out and gently hold the Blue Bird, his thumb rubbing softly on her small head...

Forget it, she would get dizzy.

"Thank you, Senior," Wu Wang tossed the fruit into his mouth and bit into it. Juice filled his mouth, making him feel indeed slightly better, but he didn't really have any worries he needed to forget.

The Blue Bird cocked its head, observing closely at his side.

Wu Wang was forced to drop his "reserve" and chuckled twice in cooperation.

Off to the side, Ling Xiaolan watched the scene unfold, and for some reason, she too covered her mouth and lightly laughed twice.

When Wu Wang looked up, Fairy Ling had already shifted her gaze elsewhere and began to spread out the cushion she carried with her on a stool, then sat down in front of a bookshelf.

"Alas—"

Sanxian Daoist let out a long sigh, his eyes full of bright light as he stared intently at Wu Wang and said slowly, "Chi Xia... Wu Wang, the fact that you could consider the Human Domain to such an extent, and let go of such a high position, truly makes me feel ashamed. Such courage to give up power so easily."

"Mainly because I had no choice," Wu Wang said with a smile. "I slipped away before they could get me. By losing my threat to them, both sides are happy."

Sanxian Daoist thought carefully for a moment, then said warmly, "Is this our Emperor's strategy?"

Wu Wang silently reflected on the tone Sanxian Daoist used when he spoke those words.

'Our Emperor,' these two words were very calm and slipped out smoothly, almost without thinking, subconsciously taking His Majesty Shennong as 'our Emperor.'

In other words, even if Sanxian Daoist had some special identity, this old Daoist...

May not be aware of it himself.

Wu Wang brushed aside these details and began to discuss the matter with them.

The words of Wu Wang, the person involved, naturally triggered continuous thoughts among the listeners; even Ling Xiaolan hadn't realized that there were so many calculations within this matter.

Deter the ministers, return governance to Shen Nong.

Unify the people's power, work together with a common purpose.

Wu Wang said with a smile, "Although our Emperor has absolute prestige in the Human Domain, the Human Domain itself is too loose. The initial establishment of power was somewhat arbitrary, which has led to some deeply rooted problems today that are hard to reverse. His Majesty wants to reform, but he also can't directly move against those who have contributed to his cause. After all, during the great battles, the number of powerhouses on the Human Domain's side also determined the direction of the battle. What is ultimately contended for in the Great Wilderness is still strength. Even in the past, as long as one's strength was great, they could act recklessly without being immediately killed, as powerhouses were needed to face the Innate Gods. But now, these old notions should be changed."

Ling Xiaolan said, "But the threat from the Heaven Palace to the north is still there; under such circumstances, the 'only the strong prevail' mindset isn't really wrong."

"If the hearts of the people are scattered, the strong will only protect themselves wisely. What use would they be then?"

Wu Wang said with a smile, "These fat rats have fattened themselves up, and most of them will become even more afraid to die. Xiaolan, there's something His Majesty told me, 'Starting a venture is difficult, maintaining it is even harder,' and His Majesty Shennong is a bit too kind-hearted. So I just... gave him a little push."

Wu Wang chuckled smugly.

This feeling of scheming against the old seniors in return was indeed delightful.

At last, he felt relieved of the frustration from being fooled by the old seniors so many times before.

"This old man feels that the Sect Master has withdrawn brilliantly," the Grand Elder stroked his beard and contemplated, then said slowly, "The incident in the Southeastern Region was too big, too many people were killed, although the arrival of His Majesty suppressed all conflicts. But as soon as the situation stabilizes slightly, those with guilty consciences will probably join forces to drive the Sect Master out at the first opportunity. By stepping back directly like this, you create more room to maneuver for later."

Wu Wang narrowed his eyes and smiled, nodding continuously while listening, looking very content.

Ling Xiaolan smiled and said, "Brother Wuwang, you seem to be quite enjoying yourself."

"Shouldn't I be praised for doing so much?"

Wu Wang gazed at the sunlight outside the cave dwelling, watching the figures chasing after Xiao Deng and the ear mouse, leaping and darting about, and said with a smile, "Indeed, it's better to have a lively home."

Lin Suqing sneakily made a meat-twisting gesture at Wu Wang.

This bad Young Master has never given up the idea of finding a few more Maidens!

Wu Wang said slowly, "Actually, when it comes to fame and fortune, if you take them to heart, then they are of consequence; if you don't hold them in mind, they are as fleeting as passing clouds. What's most important in the Great Wilderness? Cultivation, making yourself stronger. First, achieve immortality, then acquire the ability to protect your undying life; even if you can't achieve immortality, you should ensure your Lifespan is sufficiently long. Senior Sanxian, wouldn't you agree?"

The old face of Sanxian Daoist was filled with resignation as he said slowly, "Although that's true, not everyone has such talent to advance along the path of cultivation."

Wu Wang directly asked, "Senior, who did you promise that you couldn't become an Immortal?"

"An old... acquaintance."

Sanxian Daoist's eyes filled with reminiscence as he smiled calmly, waved his hand, and signaled Wu Wang to drop the subject.

Just then, several stunning beauties sent by the Sleep God arrived to invite them to dine.

Wu Wang immediately perked up, bringing along his family, even including a pet and a little one, as they entered the Sleep God Hall together.

The Sanxian Daoist and Old Snow Eagle were instantly awestruck by the scene inside the Sleep God Hall and the profound Dao rhythm of the Innate God.

Old Snow Eagle looked around and quietly asked the most somber-looking Grand Elder, "This Sleep God, what's his background?"

The Grand Elder pointed to the Ming Snake standing quietly in a corner, smiled without saying a word, and then made a shushing gesture.

Old Snow Eagle suddenly understood, saw the curiosity in Sanxian Daoist's eyes, and the two old fellows murmured to each other.

"Who is this guy?"

"He's the housekeeper of the Evil God Ming Snake, the kind that probably climbs into bed at night."

"OHH."

The Sanxian Daoist's face showed sudden realization.

However, the two old men immediately felt as if they had fallen into an ice cave, instinctively looked up, and caught Ming Snake's gaze.

Ming Snake slightly curled its lips and retracted its aura.

The Sanxian Daoist almost fell to the ground, but Old Snow Eagle grabbed him and took him to sit at the banquet.

The Sleep God truly went all out, bringing out the divine beast meat he'd treasured for years; he cooked a whole table of exotic delicacies, many of which Wu Wang had never eaten before.

The vastness of the Great Wilderness could not be contained within a single cookbook.

At the table, guests toasted one another, chatting and drinking leisurely, regardless of their cultivation level or status and reputation. Calls of 'Bottoms up!' echoed one after another, with phrases like 'After drinking this wine, we're all friends!' emerging endlessly.

While they were drinking merrily, Ji Mo strolled over with his hand on his waist, took a seat next to Wu Wang, raised his eyebrows at him, and spat out two words, "Sorted out!"

Le Yao did not come along, probably still feeling a bit shy.

Wu Wang's mouth twitched, and he cursed, "Those who are married should sit at the kids' table!"

Dongfang Mumu, upon hearing these words, quickly protected the dozen or so precious dishes in front of her, her small mouth greasy yet staring fiercely at Ji Mo, which prompted laughter from everyone present.

「Until the stars twinkled.」

The Annihilation Sect learned of the things happening outside, and many disciples voluntarily ran to the front of Wu Wang's cave dwelling.

The male cultivators shouted, "Sect Master, we support you forever!"

Fervor filled their voices.

The female cultivators shouted, "Sect Master, we volunteer to serve you again!"

This was the highest form of respect expressed by Black Desire Door.

It wasn't more than two days later when Xiao Jian Daoist brought a large group of core members from the Benevolent Emperor Pavilion. Wu Wang graciously turned them away at the door, secretly sending Xiao Jian Daoist a message to return for a gathering in ten days to half a month.

Personal friendship aside, Wu Wang did not need nor wanted to accept these 'young faction's' gestures of goodwill and pledges of support.

Wu Wang increasingly felt that these matters within the Human Domain were not very interesting.

Could any commotion here truly surpass Heaven Palace?

How many days could such overwhelming power and influence bring stability?

It was unlike him, always looking northward, attentive to the slightest movements in the Heaven Palace; even before returning to the Human Domain, he had even bluffed Young Master a bit.

That was where the real interest lay.

Wu Wang had just seen off Xiao Jian Daoist and his 'accomplices'. He was planning to get a few exercise books for Immortal Mu when, suddenly, a bit of enlightenment arose in his heart, and he heard the distant sound of music.

As if someone in the unknown was calling him to go there;

In a trance, he also saw a mist, within which Divine Light was flickering.

「Inside the cave dwelling, next to the chessboard.」

Wu Wang stopped giving Old Snow Eagle some pointers, said, "I'm off to a meeting," and then closed his eyes to concentrate, as strands of Divine Light surrounded him, and his Spiritual Mind shifted to another part of his Divine Soul.

The eyelashes of Wu Xing's divine body trembled lightly.

Following that, traversing the Great Dao of the Star God, he pushed open a grand door and for the second time, Wu Wang entered the opulent Temple, calmly seating himself in a throne near the front but on the edge.

「Heaven's Divine Court Conference!」

Wu Wang was silent at the moment, calculating the possibility of Emperor Shun's appearance, and with the Dao and rhythm of the Star God, he deceived the other Great Daos.

A steady male voice traveled along the Dao, "As the Earth God, I obey His Majesty's command and temporarily preside over the Divine Court."

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