Chapter 499
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Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei reached for the jade archives. After reading through them, they both couldn't help exchanging glances. In the blink of an eye, Zhao Fei had become the Suppressing Second Hall Master, and Sikong Wuwei the Suppressing Third Hall Master. The decrees in their hands were the proof. However, they couldn't help but feel as though they were dreaming. Did they seriously get promoted after just breaking through to Red Lotus First Grade?
They had heard of something like this happening before. The moment that those who survived the Subjugation Crusade broke through to the Red Lotus realm, there was a chance of them being recognized by the Palace Lord and were subsequently promoted to Hall Master. If they both said they didn't harbor such expectations themselves, then they would be lying.
It was a truly wonderful feeling to finally accomplish your dreams!
From this day forth, or specifically, the instant that Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei had grabbed on to their decrees of appointment, they instantly became the lords of over a hundred million followers, and their authority would place them over just as many people!
"We thank the Palace Lord for this great esteem!" The two of them hurriedly cupped their fists in gratitude.
Granny Tao chuckled and pointed to Tao Qingli beside her, "Since the two Halls are close by anyway, you can seek guidance from her on anything you don't understand. I will also have her visit your territories often."
"Understood!" The two of them then cupped their fists towards Tao Qingli, "We are in your care, Advisor!"
Tao Qingli gently nodded and smiled. "We should get in touch more often from now on!"
Her words made the other two feel as though they were being treated too nicely, because they seemed to recall Miao Yi saying that this woman wasn't the easygoing type at all. They hurriedly responded, "Yes, my lady!"
Tao Qingli then helped Granny Tao back up, and the latter walked towards the other two as she said, "Go then! Head to Suppressing Tenth Hall and hand over all the duties that were given to you, then hurry along to your new posts as soon as possible!"
"Understood!" The duo responded. However, Zhao Fei hurriedly cupped his fists and added, "Palace Lord, this subordinate would like to make a request to transfer Miao Yi over to my division."
Sikong Wuwei also cupped his fists and said, "He can come to my division as well."
Now that they would soon be leaving Suppressing Tenth Hall territory, they clearly couldn't leave Miao Yi all alone there. If the two of them were able to transfer him over to their side, then it would be easier for them to take care of him as well.
However, it must be noted that the two of them had yet to be officially installed as Hall Masters. Their positions were still that of Manor Heads at the moment, and they were still equal in rank to Miao Yi's own status back in Suppressing Tenth Hall. Where was the logic in a Manor Head taking away another Manor Head to be his subordinate? After all, the other party only had a total of ten Manor Heads. Now that the two of them were already leaving, they still planned on taking one more?
This was not the way a person should take another under their wing. It was against the rules. Even when they'd just arrived at Traversing Water Palace, they only brought along the subordinates who were lower than them in rank by a single level at most. Even the time when Miao Yi went to Suppressing Tenth Hall to be Manor Head, he didn't take any of the Mountain Chieftains under Yang Qing along with him, as he couldn't do so.
It wouldn't be appropriate to ask Shen Huaixin for such a thing after they were appointed. As such, getting Granny Tao to agree right now was their best shot.
Granny Tao continued walking as she shook her head and said, "There's no such rule! You can worry about this after you're done sorting everything out in your respective territories! That should be the more pressing concern for you two right now."
This meant that she declined! The duo was lost on what to say. All they could do was cup their fists towards Granny Tao as she passed them by. "Understood!"
In the end, the two of them were left alone in the vacant main assembly hall once again, staring at one another blankly.
After leaving Traversing Water Palace, they immediately rushed over to Miao Yi's place and informed him of the situation. The three of them couldn't figure out Granny Tao's intentions for the time being, and Miao Yi could do little but congratulate the other two on their promotions.
They felt sorry that they couldn't take Miao Yi along with them. However, Miao Yi didn't mind and assured them not to worry about it. Instead, he urged that they first try to stabilize their footing in the two Halls.
As both Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei still needed to head to Thousand Lake Manor and Mulberry Cloud Manor respectively to settle the proceedings, they couldn't stay for too long and quickly departed.
When Suppressing Tenth Hall received the decree from Traversing Water Palace, they immediately sent people over to the two Manors for the handover procedure. The original Manor Heads for Thousand Lake Manor and Mulberry Cloud Manor were jumping with joy. Initially, they were the ones forced out of their own Manors. Now that the two Manor Head seats were being vacated, the rights to the posts naturally fell back to them with little effort.
After both Manors had successfully finished the handover procedures, Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei immediately rushed to Suppressing Tenth Hall to sign off.
"Hall Master Zhao, Hall Master Sikong, please!"
Shen Huaixin personally led the three Advisors and six Deacons to wait outside the manor and welcome the two, while the rest of his subordinates, as well as the two Aunties, had now become the ones to come forward and bow to the both of them. Now that their positions were that of Hall Masters, their statuses were equal in rank to Shen Huaixin and were no longer the same as they were before.
Xu Jinsong and the others had a terrible expression on their faces. The other party was ranked lower than them the day before, but now their positions had completely overtaken their own. The three of them had been working for Traversing Water Palace for so many years, but the Manor Head seats for both Suppressing Second Hall and Suppressing Third Hall had actually fallen onto these two newcomers' hands instead. Moreover, they were the ones with a higher cultivation than the other two. It was hard to describe what the three Advisors were feeling right now. They resented Traversing Water Palace for this unjust treatment.
To add insult to injury, there was even a banquet held within the main hall, and the three Advisors had to offer up toasts to the other two, all while giving words of congratulations. The forced smiles on their faces surely lived true to the saying: 'The river flows east for thirty years, then rushes west in the next thirty.' Everyone else couldn't help sighing inwardly as they watched on. This was also a testament to the might that Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei now wielded.
Halfway through the banquet, the two Hall Masters asked Shen Huaixin if they could take away some men. Naturally, they had to bring along their old subordinates as well as the newly-trained troops with them too.
Since the subordinates were willing to follow these two and make a better future for themselves, it wouldn't be right of Shen Huaixin to get in the way of that. Not to mention, this would free up some positions in Suppressing Tenth Hall as well. As such, he easily agreed to the request.
Using the opportunity, Zhao Fei asked, "I wish to take Raincloud Manor Head Miao Yi along as well. Please grant me this request, Hall Master Shen."
Since Granny Tao had declined, he wished to try his hand with Shen Huaixin instead.
Shen Huaixin was slightly taken aback. He swept his gaze across Xu Jinsong and the others, then lightly smiled as he said, "Manor Head Miao already has a Manor Head position over on this side. Even if he followed you, he would still be a Manor Head at most. If people hear about this, they might think that our Suppressing Tenth Hall isn't a welcoming place to be in. How about this then? If you're really insistent on taking him along, Hall Master Zhao, then why not try asking the Palace Lord for permission? That way, I will have a valid reason to hand Miao Yi over as well."
Now that two of the three were leaving, there would only be one person remaining to contest against the three Advisors. As such, how could Shen Huaixin possibly let him go? Not to mention, it was also against the rules for Zhao Fei to take along a person who was of the same rank as him back in Suppressing Tenth Hall. 'I only let you take away those at a lower rank as a gesture of respect. What are you trying to do by taking away those equal in rank to you as well? You are the Hall Master of Suppressing Second Hall, not Suppressing Tenth Hall. I can't let you have this. This line should be drawn clearly.'
Zhao Fei smiled and raised his cup. He no longer mentioned taking Miao Yi away, as he knew that it wouldn't be possible to do so anymore. Granny Tao had also refused him already as it was against the rules.
Suddenly, SIkong Wuwei pointed towards Deacon Gao Sheng, who was sitting in his seat and said, "Hall Master Shen, I have great admiration for Deacon Gao's capabilities. Will you be so kind as to show me some face and let me have him?"
The hall instantly fell silent as all eyes fell on Gao Sheng, who was so scared upon hearing Sikong Wuwei's request that the cup in his hand was already trembling, and the alcohol inside was already pouring out. He immediately widened his eyes at Shen Huaixin.
This was revenge! Nothing but blatant revenge! Everyone had heard how he suggested that Zhao Fei and the others should be beheaded back then. If he was really taken away to Suppressing Third Hall, there was no telling what Sikong Wuwei would do to him.
Shen Huaixin lightly smiled, "Hall Master Sikong, you said it yourself how Deacon Gao is a capable individual. Naturally, I have need of him as well here in Suppressing Tenth Hall. Besides, we can't force these things, and should first get Deacon Gao's opinion on the matter, no? Gao Sheng, what say you? Would you like to go? If you do, then I shall release you of your duties here!"
It didn't matter what Gao Sheng thought of the transferral. In front of his subordinates, there was no way Shen Huaixin could just stand by and allow one of them to fall into the hands of an outsider when he knew that there would be danger.
Naturally, Gao Sheng wouldn't agree to it at all. Since the Hall Master had already given him the perfect excuse, he hurriedly responded, "Your subordinate is willing to stay with you, Hall Master!"
The three Hall Masters simply chuckled as though nothing had happened earlier on, and they no longer dwelled on the subject any further.
Halfway through the banquet, Shen Huaixin courteously encouraged Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei to stay for a few more days, so that he could entertain them properly as the host.
Although he had spoken purely out of formality, after pondering it over for a short while, Zhao Fei nodded. "Since the Hall Master is willing to have us, then it wouldn't be right for the two of us to decline. However, I'm afraid we won't be able to stay for too long. We still need to finish the handover procedures on the other side. How about we stay for just one more night?"
Deep down, Shen Huaixin was a little lost for words. However, he still put up a joyful and welcoming expression.
Ultimately, having settled down in their courtyard, that same night, Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei ordered for Xu Jinsong, Ji Ze, and Huang Jizhang to be brought over to them.
When the three of them arrived, Zhao Fei ordered the servants to leave. He then walked together with Sikong Wuwei up to the three of them and asked coldly, "Advisors, are you aware of the reason why the two of us have summoned you?"
Although they could vaguely guess the reason why, they still cupped their fists and answered, "We do not! Please give us some guidance, Hall Masters."
Zhao Fei waved his hand and said, "It's a bit of a stretch to call it guidance. Let's not beat around the bush. The reason why the two of us are staying for one more night is precisely so that we could have a talk with you Advisors. Although we will be leaving Suppressing Tenth Hall, it doesn't mean that we will no longer be involved in Miao Yi's affairs. We hope that the three of you won't go too far."
Xu Jinsong sucked in a deep breath and said, "Hall Masters, don't you think you're misunderstanding the situation here? We take our orders from the Suppressing Tenth Hall Master. It seems a bit inappropriate for the two of you to be giving us commands, no?"
Zhao Fei asked point-blank, "Does that mean you fully intend to continue fighting against Miao Yi?"
Xu Jinsong replied, "That's not what I said, Hall Master Zhao. I won't fight against anyone on purpose. I shall simply do my job according to the rules of Suppressing Tenth Hall."
By Zhao Fei's side, Sikong Wuwei suddenly chuckled and pointed straight at Xu Jinsong's nose and said, "Stop talking in circles. I'm going to make things clear for you right this instant. Try and touch a single hair on Miao Yi's head, and I'll cut your head down and turn it into a soccer ball. Don't think that we won't be able to do anything to you because you're in Suppressing Tenth Hall. Just because everyone else is afraid to do it, it doesn't mean we are!"
Xu Jinsong immediately glared at him with fury. Zhao Fei narrowed his eyes at him and asked, "What? Do you want to try us now?"
Ji Ze and Huang Jizhang hurriedly pulled Xu Jinsong to the side and replied, "We shall remember your guidance, Hall Masters. If there isn't anything else, then please excuse us!"
"Beat it!" Sikong Wuwei said with a wave of his arm. He showed them no courtesy at all.
With a dark expression on their faces, Xu Jinsong and the others left the courtyard...
The next day, as soon as Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei left Suppressing Tenth Hall to rush to their new posts, Xu Jinsong headed to the Chamber of Commerce branch within Suppressing Tenth City on his own.
"Advisor Xu!" Chu Zhehui politely greeted when he saw Xu Jinsong. He then extended his arm outwards and continued, "Let's talk in the private room!"
He assumed that Xu Jinsong was here to talk business with him. Otherwise, there was no reason for the latter to come all this way.
Contrary to his expectations, however, Xu Jinsong waved his arm and said, "There's no rush. Is Manager Su around?"
Chu Zhehui was surprised. He quickly revealed a smile and said, "Yes, she's here! Would Advisor Xu like to meet her?"
"Help me call her out."
"Heh heh! Alright then, please wait for a moment. I'll go call her immediately!" Chu Zhehui gestured for Xu Jinsong to have a seat, then quickly departed.
It didn't take him too long to return. He told Xu Jinsong that Manager Su was waiting for him in the rear courtyard, and asked him to follow after him.
Once he brought Xu Jinsong over to Su Yanran, Che Zhuhui quickly excused himself. Su Yanran then led Xu Jinsong over into the silent chambers, away from prying eyes.
Truth be told, Su Yanran could vaguely guess the reason why Xu Jinsong was here. Else, he wouldn't look for her specifically. When the two of them were finally alone, she asked probingly, "Is Advisor Xu here for 'that' matter?"
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Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei reached for the jade archives. After reading through them, they both couldn't help exchanging glances. In the blink of an eye, Zhao Fei had become the Suppressing Second Hall Master, and Sikong Wuwei the Suppressing Third Hall Master. The decrees in their hands were the proof. However, they couldn't help but feel as though they were dreaming. Did they seriously get promoted after just breaking through to Red Lotus First Grade?
They had heard of something like this happening before. The moment that those who survived the Subjugation Crusade broke through to the Red Lotus realm, there was a chance of them being recognized by the Palace Lord and were subsequently promoted to Hall Master. If they both said they didn't harbor such expectations themselves, then they would be lying.
It was a truly wonderful feeling to finally accomplish your dreams!
From this day forth, or specifically, the instant that Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei had grabbed on to their decrees of appointment, they instantly became the lords of over a hundred million followers, and their authority would place them over just as many people!
"We thank the Palace Lord for this great esteem!" The two of them hurriedly cupped their fists in gratitude.
Granny Tao chuckled and pointed to Tao Qingli beside her, "Since the two Halls are close by anyway, you can seek guidance from her on anything you don't understand. I will also have her visit your territories often."
"Understood!" The two of them then cupped their fists towards Tao Qingli, "We are in your care, Advisor!"
Tao Qingli gently nodded and smiled. "We should get in touch more often from now on!"
Her words made the other two feel as though they were being treated too nicely, because they seemed to recall Miao Yi saying that this woman wasn't the easygoing type at all. They hurriedly responded, "Yes, my lady!"
Tao Qingli then helped Granny Tao back up, and the latter walked towards the other two as she said, "Go then! Head to Suppressing Tenth Hall and hand over all the duties that were given to you, then hurry along to your new posts as soon as possible!"
"Understood!" The duo responded. However, Zhao Fei hurriedly cupped his fists and added, "Palace Lord, this subordinate would like to make a request to transfer Miao Yi over to my division."
Sikong Wuwei also cupped his fists and said, "He can come to my division as well."
Now that they would soon be leaving Suppressing Tenth Hall territory, they clearly couldn't leave Miao Yi all alone there. If the two of them were able to transfer him over to their side, then it would be easier for them to take care of him as well.
However, it must be noted that the two of them had yet to be officially installed as Hall Masters. Their positions were still that of Manor Heads at the moment, and they were still equal in rank to Miao Yi's own status back in Suppressing Tenth Hall. Where was the logic in a Manor Head taking away another Manor Head to be his subordinate? After all, the other party only had a total of ten Manor Heads. Now that the two of them were already leaving, they still planned on taking one more?
This was not the way a person should take another under their wing. It was against the rules. Even when they'd just arrived at Traversing Water Palace, they only brought along the subordinates who were lower than them in rank by a single level at most. Even the time when Miao Yi went to Suppressing Tenth Hall to be Manor Head, he didn't take any of the Mountain Chieftains under Yang Qing along with him, as he couldn't do so.
It wouldn't be appropriate to ask Shen Huaixin for such a thing after they were appointed. As such, getting Granny Tao to agree right now was their best shot.
Granny Tao continued walking as she shook her head and said, "There's no such rule! You can worry about this after you're done sorting everything out in your respective territories! That should be the more pressing concern for you two right now."
This meant that she declined! The duo was lost on what to say. All they could do was cup their fists towards Granny Tao as she passed them by. "Understood!"
In the end, the two of them were left alone in the vacant main assembly hall once again, staring at one another blankly.
After leaving Traversing Water Palace, they immediately rushed over to Miao Yi's place and informed him of the situation. The three of them couldn't figure out Granny Tao's intentions for the time being, and Miao Yi could do little but congratulate the other two on their promotions.
They felt sorry that they couldn't take Miao Yi along with them. However, Miao Yi didn't mind and assured them not to worry about it. Instead, he urged that they first try to stabilize their footing in the two Halls.
As both Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei still needed to head to Thousand Lake Manor and Mulberry Cloud Manor respectively to settle the proceedings, they couldn't stay for too long and quickly departed.
When Suppressing Tenth Hall received the decree from Traversing Water Palace, they immediately sent people over to the two Manors for the handover procedure. The original Manor Heads for Thousand Lake Manor and Mulberry Cloud Manor were jumping with joy. Initially, they were the ones forced out of their own Manors. Now that the two Manor Head seats were being vacated, the rights to the posts naturally fell back to them with little effort.
After both Manors had successfully finished the handover procedures, Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei immediately rushed to Suppressing Tenth Hall to sign off.
"Hall Master Zhao, Hall Master Sikong, please!"
Shen Huaixin personally led the three Advisors and six Deacons to wait outside the manor and welcome the two, while the rest of his subordinates, as well as the two Aunties, had now become the ones to come forward and bow to the both of them. Now that their positions were that of Hall Masters, their statuses were equal in rank to Shen Huaixin and were no longer the same as they were before.
Xu Jinsong and the others had a terrible expression on their faces. The other party was ranked lower than them the day before, but now their positions had completely overtaken their own. The three of them had been working for Traversing Water Palace for so many years, but the Manor Head seats for both Suppressing Second Hall and Suppressing Third Hall had actually fallen onto these two newcomers' hands instead. Moreover, they were the ones with a higher cultivation than the other two. It was hard to describe what the three Advisors were feeling right now. They resented Traversing Water Palace for this unjust treatment.
To add insult to injury, there was even a banquet held within the main hall, and the three Advisors had to offer up toasts to the other two, all while giving words of congratulations. The forced smiles on their faces surely lived true to the saying: 'The river flows east for thirty years, then rushes west in the next thirty.' Everyone else couldn't help sighing inwardly as they watched on. This was also a testament to the might that Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei now wielded.
Halfway through the banquet, the two Hall Masters asked Shen Huaixin if they could take away some men. Naturally, they had to bring along their old subordinates as well as the newly-trained troops with them too.
Since the subordinates were willing to follow these two and make a better future for themselves, it wouldn't be right of Shen Huaixin to get in the way of that. Not to mention, this would free up some positions in Suppressing Tenth Hall as well. As such, he easily agreed to the request.
Using the opportunity, Zhao Fei asked, "I wish to take Raincloud Manor Head Miao Yi along as well. Please grant me this request, Hall Master Shen."
Since Granny Tao had declined, he wished to try his hand with Shen Huaixin instead.
Shen Huaixin was slightly taken aback. He swept his gaze across Xu Jinsong and the others, then lightly smiled as he said, "Manor Head Miao already has a Manor Head position over on this side. Even if he followed you, he would still be a Manor Head at most. If people hear about this, they might think that our Suppressing Tenth Hall isn't a welcoming place to be in. How about this then? If you're really insistent on taking him along, Hall Master Zhao, then why not try asking the Palace Lord for permission? That way, I will have a valid reason to hand Miao Yi over as well."
Now that two of the three were leaving, there would only be one person remaining to contest against the three Advisors. As such, how could Shen Huaixin possibly let him go? Not to mention, it was also against the rules for Zhao Fei to take along a person who was of the same rank as him back in Suppressing Tenth Hall. 'I only let you take away those at a lower rank as a gesture of respect. What are you trying to do by taking away those equal in rank to you as well? You are the Hall Master of Suppressing Second Hall, not Suppressing Tenth Hall. I can't let you have this. This line should be drawn clearly.'
Zhao Fei smiled and raised his cup. He no longer mentioned taking Miao Yi away, as he knew that it wouldn't be possible to do so anymore. Granny Tao had also refused him already as it was against the rules.
Suddenly, SIkong Wuwei pointed towards Deacon Gao Sheng, who was sitting in his seat and said, "Hall Master Shen, I have great admiration for Deacon Gao's capabilities. Will you be so kind as to show me some face and let me have him?"
The hall instantly fell silent as all eyes fell on Gao Sheng, who was so scared upon hearing Sikong Wuwei's request that the cup in his hand was already trembling, and the alcohol inside was already pouring out. He immediately widened his eyes at Shen Huaixin.
This was revenge! Nothing but blatant revenge! Everyone had heard how he suggested that Zhao Fei and the others should be beheaded back then. If he was really taken away to Suppressing Third Hall, there was no telling what Sikong Wuwei would do to him.
Shen Huaixin lightly smiled, "Hall Master Sikong, you said it yourself how Deacon Gao is a capable individual. Naturally, I have need of him as well here in Suppressing Tenth Hall. Besides, we can't force these things, and should first get Deacon Gao's opinion on the matter, no? Gao Sheng, what say you? Would you like to go? If you do, then I shall release you of your duties here!"
It didn't matter what Gao Sheng thought of the transferral. In front of his subordinates, there was no way Shen Huaixin could just stand by and allow one of them to fall into the hands of an outsider when he knew that there would be danger.
Naturally, Gao Sheng wouldn't agree to it at all. Since the Hall Master had already given him the perfect excuse, he hurriedly responded, "Your subordinate is willing to stay with you, Hall Master!"
The three Hall Masters simply chuckled as though nothing had happened earlier on, and they no longer dwelled on the subject any further.
Halfway through the banquet, Shen Huaixin courteously encouraged Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei to stay for a few more days, so that he could entertain them properly as the host.
Although he had spoken purely out of formality, after pondering it over for a short while, Zhao Fei nodded. "Since the Hall Master is willing to have us, then it wouldn't be right for the two of us to decline. However, I'm afraid we won't be able to stay for too long. We still need to finish the handover procedures on the other side. How about we stay for just one more night?"
Deep down, Shen Huaixin was a little lost for words. However, he still put up a joyful and welcoming expression.
Ultimately, having settled down in their courtyard, that same night, Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei ordered for Xu Jinsong, Ji Ze, and Huang Jizhang to be brought over to them.
When the three of them arrived, Zhao Fei ordered the servants to leave. He then walked together with Sikong Wuwei up to the three of them and asked coldly, "Advisors, are you aware of the reason why the two of us have summoned you?"
Although they could vaguely guess the reason why, they still cupped their fists and answered, "We do not! Please give us some guidance, Hall Masters."
Zhao Fei waved his hand and said, "It's a bit of a stretch to call it guidance. Let's not beat around the bush. The reason why the two of us are staying for one more night is precisely so that we could have a talk with you Advisors. Although we will be leaving Suppressing Tenth Hall, it doesn't mean that we will no longer be involved in Miao Yi's affairs. We hope that the three of you won't go too far."
Xu Jinsong sucked in a deep breath and said, "Hall Masters, don't you think you're misunderstanding the situation here? We take our orders from the Suppressing Tenth Hall Master. It seems a bit inappropriate for the two of you to be giving us commands, no?"
Zhao Fei asked point-blank, "Does that mean you fully intend to continue fighting against Miao Yi?"
Xu Jinsong replied, "That's not what I said, Hall Master Zhao. I won't fight against anyone on purpose. I shall simply do my job according to the rules of Suppressing Tenth Hall."
By Zhao Fei's side, Sikong Wuwei suddenly chuckled and pointed straight at Xu Jinsong's nose and said, "Stop talking in circles. I'm going to make things clear for you right this instant. Try and touch a single hair on Miao Yi's head, and I'll cut your head down and turn it into a soccer ball. Don't think that we won't be able to do anything to you because you're in Suppressing Tenth Hall. Just because everyone else is afraid to do it, it doesn't mean we are!"
Xu Jinsong immediately glared at him with fury. Zhao Fei narrowed his eyes at him and asked, "What? Do you want to try us now?"
Ji Ze and Huang Jizhang hurriedly pulled Xu Jinsong to the side and replied, "We shall remember your guidance, Hall Masters. If there isn't anything else, then please excuse us!"
"Beat it!" Sikong Wuwei said with a wave of his arm. He showed them no courtesy at all.
With a dark expression on their faces, Xu Jinsong and the others left the courtyard...
The next day, as soon as Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei left Suppressing Tenth Hall to rush to their new posts, Xu Jinsong headed to the Chamber of Commerce branch within Suppressing Tenth City on his own.
"Advisor Xu!" Chu Zhehui politely greeted when he saw Xu Jinsong. He then extended his arm outwards and continued, "Let's talk in the private room!"
He assumed that Xu Jinsong was here to talk business with him. Otherwise, there was no reason for the latter to come all this way.
Contrary to his expectations, however, Xu Jinsong waved his arm and said, "There's no rush. Is Manager Su around?"
Chu Zhehui was surprised. He quickly revealed a smile and said, "Yes, she's here! Would Advisor Xu like to meet her?"
"Help me call her out."
"Heh heh! Alright then, please wait for a moment. I'll go call her immediately!" Chu Zhehui gestured for Xu Jinsong to have a seat, then quickly departed.
It didn't take him too long to return. He told Xu Jinsong that Manager Su was waiting for him in the rear courtyard, and asked him to follow after him.
Once he brought Xu Jinsong over to Su Yanran, Che Zhuhui quickly excused himself. Su Yanran then led Xu Jinsong over into the silent chambers, away from prying eyes.
Truth be told, Su Yanran could vaguely guess the reason why Xu Jinsong was here. Else, he wouldn't look for her specifically. When the two of them were finally alone, she asked probingly, "Is Advisor Xu here for 'that' matter?"
Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei reached for the jade archives. After reading through them, they both couldn't help exchanging glances. In the blink of an eye, Zhao Fei had become the Suppressing Second Hall Master, and Sikong Wuwei the Suppressing Third Hall Master. The decrees in their hands were the proof. However, they couldn't help but feel as though they were dreaming. Did they seriously get promoted after just breaking through to Red Lotus First Grade? They had heard of something like this happening before. The moment that those who survived the Subjugation Crusade broke through to the Red Lotus realm, there was a chance of them being recognized by the Palace Lord and were subsequently promoted to Hall Master. If they both said they didn't harbor such expectations themselves, then they would be lying. It was a truly wonderful feeling to finally accomplish your dreams! From this day forth, or specifically, the instant that Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei had grabbed on to their decrees of appointment, they instantly became the lords of over a hundred million followers, and their authority would place them over just as many people! "We thank the Palace Lord for this great esteem!" The two of them hurriedly cupped their fists in gratitude. Granny Tao chuckled and pointed to Tao Qingli beside her, "Since the two Halls are close by anyway, you can seek guidance from her on anything you don't understand. I will also have her visit your territories often." "Understood!" The two of them then cupped their fists towards Tao Qingli, "We are in your care, Advisor!" Tao Qingli gently nodded and smiled. "We should get in touch more often from now on!" Her words made the other two feel as though they were being treated too nicely, because they seemed to recall Miao Yi saying that this woman wasn't the easygoing type at all. They hurriedly responded, "Yes, my lady!" Tao Qingli then helped Granny Tao back up, and the latter walked towards the other two as she said, "Go then! Head to Suppressing Tenth Hall and hand over all the duties that were given to you, then hurry along to your new posts as soon as possible!" "Understood!" The duo responded. However, Zhao Fei hurriedly cupped his fists and added, "Palace Lord, this subordinate would like to make a request to transfer Miao Yi over to my division." Sikong Wuwei also cupped his fists and said, "He can come to my division as well." Now that they would soon be leaving Suppressing Tenth Hall territory, they clearly couldn't leave Miao Yi all alone there. If the two of them were able to transfer him over to their side, then it would be easier for them to take care of him as well. However, it must be noted that the two of them had yet to be officially installed as Hall Masters. Their positions were still that of Manor Heads at the moment, and they were still equal in rank to Miao Yi's own status back in Suppressing Tenth Hall. Where was the logic in a Manor Head taking away another Manor Head to be his subordinate? After all, the other party only had a total of ten Manor Heads. Now that the two of them were already leaving, they still planned on taking one more? This was not the way a person should take another under their wing. It was against the rules. Even when they'd just arrived at Traversing Water Palace, they only brought along the subordinates who were lower than them in rank by a single level at most. Even the time when Miao Yi went to Suppressing Tenth Hall to be Manor Head, he didn't take any of the Mountain Chieftains under Yang Qing along with him, as he couldn't do so. It wouldn't be appropriate to ask Shen Huaixin for such a thing after they were appointed. As such, getting Granny Tao to agree right now was their best shot. Granny Tao continued walking as she shook her head and said, "There's no such rule! You can worry about this after you're done sorting everything out in your respective territories! That should be the more pressing concern for you two right now." This meant that she declined! The duo was lost on what to say. All they could do was cup their fists towards Granny Tao as she passed them by. "Understood!" In the end, the two of them were left alone in the vacant main assembly hall once again, staring at one another blankly. After leaving Traversing Water Palace, they immediately rushed over to Miao Yi's place and informed him of the situation. The three of them couldn't figure out Granny Tao's intentions for the time being, and Miao Yi could do little but congratulate the other two on their promotions. They felt sorry that they couldn't take Miao Yi along with them. However, Miao Yi didn't mind and assured them not to worry about it. Instead, he urged that they first try to stabilize their footing in the two Halls. As both Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei still needed to head to Thousand Lake Manor and Mulberry Cloud Manor respectively to settle the proceedings, they couldn't stay for too long and quickly departed. When Suppressing Tenth Hall received the decree from Traversing Water Palace, they immediately sent people over to the two Manors for the handover procedure. The original Manor Heads for Thousand Lake Manor and Mulberry Cloud Manor were jumping with joy. Initially, they were the ones forced out of their own Manors. Now that the two Manor Head seats were being vacated, the rights to the posts naturally fell back to them with little effort. After both Manors had successfully finished the handover procedures, Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei immediately rushed to Suppressing Tenth Hall to sign off. "Hall Master Zhao, Hall Master Sikong, please!" Shen Huaixin personally led the three Advisors and six Deacons to wait outside the manor and welcome the two, while the rest of his subordinates, as well as the two Aunties, had now become the ones to come forward and bow to the both of them. Now that their positions were that of Hall Masters, their statuses were equal in rank to Shen Huaixin and were no longer the same as they were before. Xu Jinsong and the others had a terrible expression on their faces. The other party was ranked lower than them the day before, but now their positions had completely overtaken their own. The three of them had been working for Traversing Water Palace for so many years, but the Manor Head seats for both Suppressing Second Hall and Suppressing Third Hall had actually fallen onto these two newcomers' hands instead. Moreover, they were the ones with a higher cultivation than the other two. It was hard to describe what the three Advisors were feeling right now. They resented Traversing Water Palace for this unjust treatment. To add insult to injury, there was even a banquet held within the main hall, and the three Advisors had to offer up toasts to the other two, all while giving words of congratulations. The forced smiles on their faces surely lived true to the saying: 'The river flows east for thirty years, then rushes west in the next thirty.' Everyone else couldn't help sighing inwardly as they watched on. This was also a testament to the might that Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei now wielded. Halfway through the banquet, the two Hall Masters asked Shen Huaixin if they could take away some men. Naturally, they had to bring along their old subordinates as well as the newly-trained troops with them too. Since the subordinates were willing to follow these two and make a better future for themselves, it wouldn't be right of Shen Huaixin to get in the way of that. Not to mention, this would free up some positions in Suppressing Tenth Hall as well. As such, he easily agreed to the request. Using the opportunity, Zhao Fei asked, "I wish to take Raincloud Manor Head Miao Yi along as well. Please grant me this request, Hall Master Shen." Since Granny Tao had declined, he wished to try his hand with Shen Huaixin instead. Shen Huaixin was slightly taken aback. He swept his gaze across Xu Jinsong and the others, then lightly smiled as he said, "Manor Head Miao already has a Manor Head position over on this side. Even if he followed you, he would still be a Manor Head at most. If people hear about this, they might think that our Suppressing Tenth Hall isn't a welcoming place to be in. How about this then? If you're really insistent on taking him along, Hall Master Zhao, then why not try asking the Palace Lord for permission? That way, I will have a valid reason to hand Miao Yi over as well." Now that two of the three were leaving, there would only be one person remaining to contest against the three Advisors. As such, how could Shen Huaixin possibly let him go? Not to mention, it was also against the rules for Zhao Fei to take along a person who was of the same rank as him back in Suppressing Tenth Hall. 'I only let you take away those at a lower rank as a gesture of respect. What are you trying to do by taking away those equal in rank to you as well? You are the Hall Master of Suppressing Second Hall, not Suppressing Tenth Hall. I can't let you have this. This line should be drawn clearly.' Zhao Fei smiled and raised his cup. He no longer mentioned taking Miao Yi away, as he knew that it wouldn't be possible to do so anymore. Granny Tao had also refused him already as it was against the rules. Suddenly, SIkong Wuwei pointed towards Deacon Gao Sheng, who was sitting in his seat and said, "Hall Master Shen, I have great admiration for Deacon Gao's capabilities. Will you be so kind as to show me some face and let me have him?" The hall instantly fell silent as all eyes fell on Gao Sheng, who was so scared upon hearing Sikong Wuwei's request that the cup in his hand was already trembling, and the alcohol inside was already pouring out. He immediately widened his eyes at Shen Huaixin. This was revenge! Nothing but blatant revenge! Everyone had heard how he suggested that Zhao Fei and the others should be beheaded back then. If he was really taken away to Suppressing Third Hall, there was no telling what Sikong Wuwei would do to him. Shen Huaixin lightly smiled, "Hall Master Sikong, you said it yourself how Deacon Gao is a capable individual. Naturally, I have need of him as well here in Suppressing Tenth Hall. Besides, we can't force these things, and should first get Deacon Gao's opinion on the matter, no? Gao Sheng, what say you? Would you like to go? If you do, then I shall release you of your duties here!" It didn't matter what Gao Sheng thought of the transferral. In front of his subordinates, there was no way Shen Huaixin could just stand by and allow one of them to fall into the hands of an outsider when he knew that there would be danger. Naturally, Gao Sheng wouldn't agree to it at all. Since the Hall Master had already given him the perfect excuse, he hurriedly responded, "Your subordinate is willing to stay with you, Hall Master!" The three Hall Masters simply chuckled as though nothing had happened earlier on, and they no longer dwelled on the subject any further. Halfway through the banquet, Shen Huaixin courteously encouraged Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei to stay for a few more days, so that he could entertain them properly as the host. Although he had spoken purely out of formality, after pondering it over for a short while, Zhao Fei nodded. "Since the Hall Master is willing to have us, then it wouldn't be right for the two of us to decline. However, I'm afraid we won't be able to stay for too long. We still need to finish the handover procedures on the other side. How about we stay for just one more night?" Deep down, Shen Huaixin was a little lost for words. However, he still put up a joyful and welcoming expression. Ultimately, having settled down in their courtyard, that same night, Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei ordered for Xu Jinsong, Ji Ze, and Huang Jizhang to be brought over to them. When the three of them arrived, Zhao Fei ordered the servants to leave. He then walked together with Sikong Wuwei up to the three of them and asked coldly, "Advisors, are you aware of the reason why the two of us have summoned you?" Although they could vaguely guess the reason why, they still cupped their fists and answered, "We do not! Please give us some guidance, Hall Masters." Zhao Fei waved his hand and said, "It's a bit of a stretch to call it guidance. Let's not beat around the bush. The reason why the two of us are staying for one more night is precisely so that we could have a talk with you Advisors. Although we will be leaving Suppressing Tenth Hall, it doesn't mean that we will no longer be involved in Miao Yi's affairs. We hope that the three of you won't go too far." Xu Jinsong sucked in a deep breath and said, "Hall Masters, don't you think you're misunderstanding the situation here? We take our orders from the Suppressing Tenth Hall Master. It seems a bit inappropriate for the two of you to be giving us commands, no?" Zhao Fei asked point-blank, "Does that mean you fully intend to continue fighting against Miao Yi?" Xu Jinsong replied, "That's not what I said, Hall Master Zhao. I won't fight against anyone on purpose. I shall simply do my job according to the rules of Suppressing Tenth Hall." By Zhao Fei's side, Sikong Wuwei suddenly chuckled and pointed straight at Xu Jinsong's nose and said, "Stop talking in circles. I'm going to make things clear for you right this instant. Try and touch a single hair on Miao Yi's head, and I'll cut your head down and turn it into a soccer ball. Don't think that we won't be able to do anything to you because you're in Suppressing Tenth Hall. Just because everyone else is afraid to do it, it doesn't mean we are!" Xu Jinsong immediately glared at him with fury. Zhao Fei narrowed his eyes at him and asked, "What? Do you want to try us now?" Ji Ze and Huang Jizhang hurriedly pulled Xu Jinsong to the side and replied, "We shall remember your guidance, Hall Masters. If there isn't anything else, then please excuse us!" "Beat it!" Sikong Wuwei said with a wave of his arm. He showed them no courtesy at all. With a dark expression on their faces, Xu Jinsong and the others left the courtyard... The next day, as soon as Zhao Fei and Sikong Wuwei left Suppressing Tenth Hall to rush to their new posts, Xu Jinsong headed to the Chamber of Commerce branch within Suppressing Tenth City on his own. "Advisor Xu!" Chu Zhehui politely greeted when he saw Xu Jinsong. He then extended his arm outwards and continued, "Let's talk in the private room!" He assumed that Xu Jinsong was here to talk business with him. Otherwise, there was no reason for the latter to come all this way. Contrary to his expectations, however, Xu Jinsong waved his arm and said, "There's no rush. Is Manager Su around?" Chu Zhehui was surprised. He quickly revealed a smile and said, "Yes, she's here! Would Advisor Xu like to meet her?" "Help me call her out." "Heh heh! Alright then, please wait for a moment. I'll go call her immediately!" Chu Zhehui gestured for Xu Jinsong to have a seat, then quickly departed. It didn't take him too long to return. He told Xu Jinsong that Manager Su was waiting for him in the rear courtyard, and asked him to follow after him. Once he brought Xu Jinsong over to Su Yanran, Che Zhuhui quickly excused himself. Su Yanran then led Xu Jinsong over into the silent chambers, away from prying eyes. Truth be told, Su Yanran could vaguely guess the reason why Xu Jinsong was here. Else, he wouldn't look for her specifically. When the two of them were finally alone, she asked probingly, "Is Advisor Xu here for 'that' matter?"
