Chapter 525: Turns Out It's a Trap

Frontline encampment of the Two Rivulets Realm.

The camp of the Three Generals.

The Strategist's Residence.

Ning Zhuo focused his attention, his divine sense locked onto the jade slip in his hand, constantly observing the images within.

This was the latest situation regarding Liu Er and the others, using three mechanical constructs to harvest the Spiritual Dragon's Whiskers.

"The performance of the Golden Scaled Coiling Snake is almost perfectly in line with my expectations."

"The actual performance of the Rolling Electric Ball Cage is also not bad."

"Only the Rooting Drill Hammer is unsatisfactory."

"In almost every battle, this mechanical hammer is damaged. Only one instance survived, and that was merely an accident."

Ning Zhuo mused to himself as he thought, "How can I improve it to increase the survival rate of the drill hammer?"

In Shuang Jing's eyes, the cost incurred by the Three Generals' camp was already pitifully low, but Ning Zhuo was not content, still wanting to make improvements.

To some extent, it was this relentless pursuit in the art of mechanisms that propelled his progress in the field.

Sun Lingtong said, "That's easily done."

The three mechanical constructs created by Ning Zhuo had also piqued Sun Lingtong's interest.

In the past few days, he had also been studying these contraptions and found them quite amusing.

When Ning Zhuo was comprehending and improving the mechanical constructs, Sun Lingtong also participated. This situation was not uncommon in the past decade or so.

Sun Lingtong had once wished to find his missing master, which was his greatest motivation for learning the art of mechanisms.

But gradually, this motivation changed.

Sun Lingtong's ambition did not lie in the art of mechanisms; he was merely interested, but he knew that Ning Zhuo loved it to the core.

He himself could also feel the visible improvement of his personal skills during the process of their joint research.

Sun Lingtong continued to suggest, "Xiao Zhuo, you can simply design a mechanical hammer and let any of the cultivators among Liu, Guan, or Zhang hold it."

"With their protection, the mechanical hammer will strike more accurately and be safer, absolutely immune to being smashed by the raging Spiritual Dragon's Whiskers."

Ning Zhuo exclaimed in surprise, frozen in place in a daze.

After several breaths, he slapped his forehead: "That's right, why didn't I think of that? This method is the simplest and most convenient way to solve the problem."

"Boss, you are still amazing."

Within the mechanical dragon, Sun Lingtong was praised with a beaming smile, letting out a hearty laugh: "Xiao Zhuo, you are actually walking the righteous path."

"I am merely being lazy."

"Following your direction, if you could design a drill hammer that can activate and protect itself, it would definitely be better."

"This way, Liu, Guan, and Zhang can free up at least one hand, not having to shoulder this task, and have more room to exert themselves."

Ning Zhuo shook his head: "Boss, while that is true, I actually fell into a cognitive bias."

"I constantly find myself wanting to use the art of mechanisms to solve all problems. I enjoy this process and am extremely eager for the wonderful feeling of achieving success."

"But on practical issues, I might be thinking too far ahead. Just as you are guiding me now, it can be handled this way entirely."

"This will save me a great deal of time and energy."

"All mechanical arts are merely means, with the main purpose of solving practical problems."

"Although I like this craft, I cannot forget my original intention."

"Thank you for your guidance, Boss!"

Ning Zhuo was greatly enlightened and sighed: "I often hear that some people read so much that they become bookworms. If I delve into the art of mechanisms too rigidly, I fear I might also become a mechanism-art bookworm."

Sun Lingtong laughed heartily: "Xiao Zhuo, I just said it casually, but it's great that you can be inspired."

"In the past, in Fiery Persimmon Immortal City, you resided in one place, read extensively, and lived a life of forbearance that was indeed too monotonous, gloomy, and oppressive."

"Many people think that with your talent and comprehension, you should reside in one place, cultivate steadily, and wait until you have achieved certain accomplishments in your cultivation before traveling around. It would not be too late."

"But in my opinion, what do these outsiders understand? Traveling around now is what is most suitable for you."

"You yourself may not realize it yet, but observing you, you have changed a great deal along the way."

Ning Zhuo pondered for a moment and nodded slightly: "Indeed."

"Reading ten thousand books and traveling ten thousand miles is truly the best way to broaden one's horizons."

"Along this journey, I have seen all sorts of people. Even though books record things in great detail, it is not as vivid as reality."

"In Misty Hidden Mountain, I met the local mountain god. At Myriad Medicine Gate, I befriended a drinking companion and truly felt that life could be so leisurely and comfortable. In Thousand Peaks Forest, I met Liu Er, who has great ambitions, and despite his humble circumstances, he still strives forward daily."

"And the Vanguard Camp."

"Participating in Iron Flow Plains, I witnessed the demeanor of the military firsthand. Although I don't know them at all, I admire them from the bottom of my heart!"

"So unafraid of sacrifice, facing death with heroic abandon — this is yet another kind of life's demeanor."

Speaking of this, Ning Zhuo tilted his head slightly, his gaze seemingly penetrating the roof and casting towards the vast firmament: "How vast this world is. How many people live and cultivate in this world, walking forward in their own ways. Some have great ambitions, some are leisurely and content, without any distinction of high or low; one could say they are in myriad forms, each with its own beauty."

"Meeting and befriending these people, I sometimes feel humble, sometimes envious, and sometimes longing."

"It is truly interesting!"

At this point, a slight curve appeared at the corner of Ning Zhuo's mouth.

Sun Lingtong laughed heartily: "Xiao Zhuo, I see your mood has been much more cheerful recently."

Ning Zhuo scratched his head: "Yes, Boss."

"We entered Thousand Peaks Forest to seek my mother's遗物 (relics)."

"Therefore, we were pursued by Nascent Soul demon cultivators and narrowly escaped death. We joined the army of the Two Rivulets Realm, scheming for a long time. We even played the role of Old Monster in the Stone, risking our lives on the battlefield."

"Now, we have finally reached this step."

"Du Tiechuan and the Spiritual Whiskers Dragon King fought fiercely, each sustaining injuries. They also fear Old Monster in the Stone, a third-party Divinity Transformation level expert, making it difficult for them to exert their full strength."

"Currently, we are in a stalemate, where various armies and various Nascent Soul and Golden Core level experts are appearing, competing with each other."

"This is precisely the opportune time for us to deal with the Six Caves Sect."

"Not only can we avenge our family, but we can also reclaim my mother's relics. We have worked so hard for so long and finally see hope."

"How can I not be happy?"

Sun Lingtong let out an "en": "Indeed."

Ning Zhuo's eyes were clear and bright, and he suddenly said: "At this moment, I feel very happy!"

Sun Lingtong: "En?"

Ning Zhuo said sincerely: "I do not envy the brotherhood between Liu, Guan, and Zhang at all. Because I have you, Boss."

"I can travel around with you, Boss, and face adventures together, always feeling a sense of security in my heart."

"This way of life is indeed much more interesting than being in Fiery Persimmon Immortal City."

"I can meet all sorts of people while constantly approaching my goals. I am getting stronger with you, Boss, fighting together, and almost every once in a while, there are new achievements."

"These days are truly wonderful! Boss, thank you!!"

Sun Lingtong was caught off guard by Ning Zhuo's words.

His eyes were slightly red, his nose twitched, and he gritted his teeth and said: "Xiao Zhuo, you guy..."

Sun Lingtong took a deep breath, let out a clear laugh: "Brat, don't be so easily satisfied."

"I am still waiting for you to save your mother, and then we brothers can explore hidden secrets and be great rogues throughout the world!"

Ning Zhuo let out an "en" and nodded heavily: "I will accompany you, Boss!"

Sun Lingtong put his hands on his hips and laughed heartily.

Just then, a soldier reported, bringing a letter.

It was a letter specifically from Shuang Jing to Ning Zhuo.

In the letter, Shuang Jing invited Ning Zhuo to meet outside the camp.

Sun Lingtong: "This Shuang Jing must have seen that Liu Er has been occupying the top position on the ranking for the past few days, so he came to find you, Xiao Zhuo."

"This guy has plotted against you many times, and his aunt also caused trouble for us in Cyanwood Immortal City."

"This is a good opportunity; we can tease him well."

Ning Zhuo shook his head with a calm expression: "There is no need for that."

"That's too much of a waste of time."

"I wish I could split myself in half right now. There are too many things to do."

"Teasing him, or even humiliating him, doesn't create value, so what's the point?"

Sun Lingtong widened his eyes: "This is a good opportunity for you to exhale and feel proud. Just thinking about making this arrogant guy eat dirt and cater to you makes you feel great."

Ning Zhuo shook his head: "It's just a matter of pride."

His nature was different from Sun Lingtong's.

Ning Zhuo's life for over a decade had been one of forbearance. He had long been accustomed to it and had become used to it.

It was also this life experience that made Ning Zhuo very steady and mature beyond his age.

Sun Lingtong grumbled: "Xiao Zhuo, this is not fun at all. Life should be enjoyed freely; otherwise, what's the point?"

"Besides, I am not just trying to have fun. If you don't show up and feign compliance with Shuang Jing, how can you stall for time?"

"If you refuse Shuang Jing outright, this kid will definitely hold a grudge and won't let it go."

Ning Zhuo smiled slightly: "Don't worry, Boss, I have already made arrangements."

White Jade Camp.

"Hmph!" Shuang Jing slammed the table in anger and stood up.

He glared towards the direction of the Three Generals' camp: "He doesn't even bother to reply to my letter? This kid Ning Zhuo is so arrogant, good, very good!"

"Then don't blame me for using my means."

Shuang Jing immediately made a decision, left the White Jade Camp, and visited the Quartermaster.

He was of the royal surname and held a noble status, and was quickly ushered into the study for a private conversation with the Quartermaster.

Shuang Jing embellished the relevant situation and informed the Quartermaster.

The Quartermaster feigned sudden realization: "So that's how it is. I was wondering why this Liu Er, a mere Golden Core realm cultivator, has been dominating the top position for so many days, it's unexpected. It turns out there is such a secret behind it."

Shuang Jing immediately spoke respectfully: "Liu Er is merely of mixed human and demon blood; his vision is too narrow. With such a powerful tool, it should be submitted to the army and quickly popularized. This way, the time it takes for our army to scour the battlefield will be greatly reduced, which will be of great help to the overall situation."

"But as it stands now, Liu Er is solely pursuing his own private interests, prioritizing himself over our Two Rivulets Realm. If such thoughts and actions are not corrected, causing widespread imitation and damaging the excellent atmosphere within the army, then it would be very bad."

Shuang Jing wore the appearance of one who cared for the country and its people.

The Quartermaster glanced at him oddly, thinking: Liu Er is an outsider, newly recruited, and being able to form a new army is already commendable. To ask him to abandon his personal interests and think for the country is truly asking the impossible.

He also mused internally: The soldiers of my main army are resting; the time spent scavenging for spoils is exactly what the generals can utilize. Even if the time spent cleaning up the battlefield is reduced, the army cannot be mobilized, so what can be done?

Even though Shuang Jing didn't have much experience in leading an army, this was clearly speaking nonsense with eyes wide open, and he must have had other motives.

The Quartermaster then narrowed his eyes: "May I inquire, Lord Shuang Jing, what guidance you have?"

Shuang Jing immediately cupped his hands: "How dare I speak of 'guidance'? I am precisely seeking your assistance, requesting your intervention, to rectify this unhealthy trend for our great army and our Two Rivulets Realm's grand endeavor!"

Saying so, he handed over a storage bag to the other party.

The Quartermaster took the storage bag, his divine sense swept within, and immediately a smile appeared on his face.

"Good!" The Quartermaster waved his hand, "Lord Shuang Jing's words are reasonable. For the sake of our army and the great cause of our King, we subjects should fulfill our respective duties and serve with all our might. Such unhealthy trends must be nipped in the bud; that is the best approach."

Shuang Jing was overjoyed, not surprised at all.

Given his status, it was not difficult to persuade the Quartermaster to make things difficult for a mixed-blood human-demon, a loose cultivator who had just stepped into the officialdom of the Two Rivulets Realm.

Immediately, Shuang Jing stood up: "There is no better day than today. Why not ask your Lordship to depart immediately and severely punish the Three Generals' camp!"

The Quartermaster: "Well said. Although Liu, Guan, and Zhang have merits, they still lack tempering and training. This time, I, this official, will properly teach them the ways of officialdom."

Shuang Jing added: "The key person in this matter is the Strategist of the Three Generals' camp, named Ning Zhuo. It is he who designed and created the mechanisms."

The Quartermaster then asked who this person was.

Shuang Jing answered, and the Quartermaster felt at ease: "A mere Foundation Establishment realm cultivator, and a person from the Southern Bean Kingdom, hehe."

"Go!"

"Let's depart now. Lord Shuang Jing, please accompany and bear witness."

Shuang Jing hesitated immediately: "This—"

As a result, the Quartermaster grabbed his arm, saying rather forcefully: "Let's go, let's go together!"

Shuang Jing had no choice but to comply.

The Quartermaster gathered a team of men and aggressively arrived at the Three Generals' camp, only to be blocked at the camp gate.

Du Tiechuan's military discipline was strict, and the cost of violating military regulations was too high. The Quartermaster dared not force his way in and ordered the soldiers of the Three Generals' camp to quickly report.

The three generals, Liu, Guan, and Zhang, were training their soldiers. After hearing the commotion, the three arranged their soldiers and immediately went to the camp gate.

The Quartermaster was a cultivator at the Nascent Soul level. Seeing the three generals come to pay respects, he sat on horseback and arrogantly waved his hand: "Why don't I see your army's Strategist? Have him come quickly to pay his respects to me."

Liu Er immediately cupped his hands: "The Strategist is not in the camp; he is currently outside scouting the battlefield."

The Quartermaster immediately turned his head and looked at Shuang Jing.

Shuang Jing cursed inwardly, calling him an "old fox," and could only let out a cold snort and step forward: "Don't speak nonsense; I am certain Ning Zhuo is in the army. This matter is of great importance; have him come quickly to receive his punishment."

Liu Er felt rather surprised and immediately stated that their side had worked diligently, fought risking their lives, and had never been negligent in clearing the battlefield. Their achievements were evident to all. What wrong had they committed to warrant punishment?

The Quartermaster stated directly: You possess secret powerful tools that can efficiently clear the battlefield, which is beneficial to the overall situation. Naturally, you should offer them up, yet for your own private interests, you prioritize yourselves over the great army and the country.

He then questioned: Are you still generals of the Two Rivulets Realm?

Without waiting for the three generals to refute, the Quartermaster waved his hand: "Men, enter the camp and tie up that little Strategist and bring him to me. He has too much audacity, actually not even coming to see me! Even if he is from another country, since he has joined our country's army, he should be disciplined."

As the Quartermaster issued his order, two Foundation Establishment cultivators immediately accepted the command and charged directly towards the camp gate.

Zhang Hei glared: "How dare you?!"

The next moment, he directly attacked, throwing two punches that knocked down the two Foundation Establishment level soldiers, who screamed repeatedly.

Such a sudden change surprised Shuang Jing.

The Quartermaster was furious, pointing his finger at Zhang Hei: "What a bold black rogue, to be so arrogant in front of me, this official! Bind your hands yourself. If I, this official, have to personally intervene, your crime will be compounded."

"Bah!" Zhang Hei spat in the direction of the Quartermaster.

Shuang Jing gasped, not expecting Zhang Hei to be so reckless.

"Oh no." Liu Er's face paled, and he was about to speak to ease the situation.

But the Quartermaster was filled with rage, not giving Liu Er a chance to ease the situation, and directly pushed out a palm.

A palm print appeared out of thin air, flying towards Zhang Hei.

Liu Er shifted sideways, obstructing with his body.

The next moment, he was struck by the palm print and flew back, spitting blood, and after flying a considerable distance, he fell to the ground.

The Quartermaster was startled, immediately feeling a sense of foreboding.

Then, he heard a harsh, sharp voice transmit: "Good, what a great official's might."

The Quartermaster quickly turned his head to look, his heart suddenly skipped a beat, and in his panic, he squeezed out a smile: "Lord Zhao, you have actually arrived!"

The person who came was precisely the Supervising Official Zhao Xi. Zhao Xi was very decisive and directly waved his arm.

The Quartermaster, despite being a Nascent Soul level official, dared not block at all and endured the slap.

He fell from horseback, his posture resembling kneeling, almost falling to the ground.

His cheeks rapidly became swollen and red, his previous anger and arrogance had completely vanished, replaced by fear and awe.

"Lord, Lord Zhao, please listen to my explanation."

Another slap landed.

Both of the Quartermaster's cheeks were swollen red symmetrically.

Supervising Official Zhao Xi pointed at the Quartermaster: "Fortunately, I came here to supervise the army, otherwise I would not have discovered such a person as you, who, for your own private interests, abuses your position for personal gain!"

"Shut your mouth, you have no right to speak here."

"If you speak, your crime will be compounded!"

The Quartermaster became anxious, suddenly turned his head, and looked at Shuang Jing.

Zhao Xi also narrowed his eyes and looked at Shuang Jing.

Shuang Jing's face turned pale, unable to hide his panic, and he quickly dismounted, bowed his head, and greeted him.

The Quartermaster glared, staring intensely at Shuang Jing, his eyes filled with a mixture of anger and resentment.

Zhao Xi narrowed his eyes, let out a cold snort, and waved his sleeve, telling Shuang Jing to leave.

Shuang Jing took a deep breath, his steps seemed slow but were actually fast, and he quickly left this place of trouble.

When he had gone far away, he finally turned his head to look towards the direction of the Three Generals' camp, gritting his teeth: "Good, good Three Generals' camp, good Ning Zhuo, so you were waiting for me here!"

He had completely understood.

This time, he wanted to plot against Ning Zhuo, but Ning Zhuo was already prepared and had connected with Supervising Official Zhao Xi.

It was as if Ning Zhuo had set a trap, and Shuang Jing, along with the Quartermaster, had walked straight into it!

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