Lao Tzu is Ji Gong

The battle gradually came to a conclusion. Because Zhao Gongming had a magical artifact in hand, the Antarctic Immortal was no match for him and was defeated by Zhao Gongming. Zhao Gongming was very pleased with himself after defeating the Antarctic Immortal. He excitedly told the Antarctic Immortal to hurry back and then shouted outside the city, asking Xiqi to send people out to fight.

"Is that all you are? Get back here. I knew none of you could do it. Go back and tell Jiang Ziya that I will defeat all the reinforcements he has brought, one by one, and avenge my many disciples. Let him wait. He will be the last one. I will spare your life today."

"You brat, you're too arrogant! Just you wait, we'll make you pay!" The Antarctic Immortal was injured, and a sika deer carried him back to the city.

"Report, Your Majesty, the Antarctic Immortal has been injured, and that scoundrel Zhao Gongming is still challenging us outside. Please give your instructions, Your Majesty."

"Quickly, quickly bring the Antarctic Immortal in, and find a powerful immortal to treat his injuries."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

Chaos erupted once again. The Old Man of the South Pole was rescued by the people sent by Jiang Ziya. Jiang Ziya and the others were discussing how to deal with Zhao Gongming's magical artifact.

"I never expected Zhao Gongming's magical artifact to be so powerful. Lord Shang, what do you think we should do?" Ji Fa asked again.

"We can't keep going out here and passively taking hits like this. We must find a way to get rid of Zhao Gongming once and for all. Otherwise, who knows how many more people will be lost in Xiqi?"

Chapter 1146 Ji Fa is captured

"What should we do, given Zhao Ziya's intentions?"

"We should do this..." After much deliberation, the immortals finally came up with a way to capture Zhao Gongming.

"Good, good, good, this method is excellent, excellent!"

So Jiang Ziya's side sent men to fight Zhao Gongming again.

Jiang Ziya's side sent Lu Ya to fight Zhao Gongming. Lu Ya was not an enlightened immortal from any major sect. He was proficient in all kinds of evil magic and immortal techniques. It could not be called unorthodox, but these techniques were twice as effective with half the effort. Before going into battle, Lu Ya gave Jiang Ziya a secret weapon that could greatly reduce Zhao Gongming's magic and strength. Because of this, the magic weapon could not exert its true power.

The two fought each other on the battlefield. Because Jiang Ziya had used his secret weapon beforehand, Zhao Gongming's strength was completely suppressed by Lu Ya, and he had no way to effectively fight back. So for a time, Zhao Gongming was unilaterally beaten by Lu Ya, and in the end, Zhao Gongming was killed by Lu Ya, which was also within Jiang Ziya's expectations.

When Shen Gongbao learned that Zhao Gongming had been killed by Lu Ya, he was greatly alarmed, but even more so, he was furious.

"Foolish! He was killed by Lu Ya just like that. After the victory, instead of hurrying back to discuss countermeasures, he was arrogant and complacent. Now look what happened! Jiang Ziya is really bold. He even killed Zhao Gongming. I will never let you go, Jiang Ziya!" Shen Gongbao gritted his teeth, but it was no use. Zhao Gongming was still dead, and everything was in vain.

Shen Gongbao was determined not to let Jiang Ziya get away with this. Even if Zhao Gongming died, Shen Gongbao could still make Jiang Ziya suffer.

"Men, immediately set up the Red Sand Formation and send all the demons and monsters imprisoned within it out to wreak havoc in the direction of Xiqi. Tell them that if they disobey, I will grind them to dust!"

"Yes, Your Excellency, I will take care of it immediately." The subordinate trembled as he left, clearly terrified of the ferocious-looking man before him.

Wen Zhong's side immediately engaged in battle with the Western Zhou army. Due to the defeat in the battle against the Western Zhou army, the Shang Dynasty army was routed and retreated. Unbeknownst to them, during their march, they came to a place to camp. After a long journey, everyone took a short rest here. Wen Zhong looked at the soldiers in front of him. Some were wounded and some were dead. They were being defeated by the allied forces of Xiqi and the feudal lords. Was Heaven really going to destroy his Shang Dynasty?

Wen Zhong sat there receiving the dry rations and water from his men, feeling extremely uneasy. He asked his men, "Do you know where this is? Why does this environment feel so strange?"

"Grand Tutor Hui, this is Jue Long Ridge."

Wen Zhong was shocked upon hearing this, not for any other reason than the name of the place called Jue Long Ridge. His master had warned him that everyone would face a calamity in their life. If they did not encounter it, they would live a peaceful old age. But if they did, it would surely bring great disaster.

Wen Zhong remembered his master's words from years ago: "You cannot bear to see the word 'extinction' in your life." Wen Zhong then knew that his time was probably coming to an end.

Meanwhile, on a distant hilltop, two people were admiring Wen Zhong's miserable state. These two were Ji Fa and Jiang Ziya, who had just arrived from the main camp. They had set up a table of wine and food, drinking and enjoying Wen Zhong's defeat.

"Father, I think Wen Zhong is about to fall from grace."

"You're right. It's a pity. He was a genius, but his talent has been wasted!" Jiang Ziya said, then drank the rest of his drink in one gulp and said no more.

"What you say is true, Shangfu. If Wen Zhong could come to my Xiqi, I would definitely give him an important position. He is proficient in both literature and military strategy, but it is because of King Zhou that he is willing to give everything for the Shang Dynasty. King Zhou will not be very grateful to him!" Ji Fa sighed to himself, lamenting that good talents were eager to seek out King Zhou, but King Zhou was disgracing his own country and loyal ministers.

The two were drinking and watching a play, while the Shang Dynasty army in the distance was already demoralized and running out of supplies.

Wen Zhong sent Mo Liqing to survey the surrounding area, because this place was truly taboo for him. He needed to understand the layout of the place so that he could find a way to escape if necessary. Mo Liqing accepted Wen Zhong's order and used his abilities to explore the area alone.

While Mo Liqing was surveying the area, he unexpectedly saw what appeared to be people on a distant mountaintop. Out of curiosity, he cautiously went to investigate and saw Ji Fa and Jiang Ziya drinking in the distance. Suddenly, an idea came to him. He planned to sneak up behind Jiang Ziya and Ji Fa while they were off guard, kidnap King Wu, and use him to coerce Xiqi into withdrawing its troops.

Jiang Ziya possesses magical powers, so he probably won't be able to succeed. However, King Wu Ji Fa is different. He knows martial arts and can be considered highly skilled, but he is not proficient in magic. Therefore, it is much easier to capture Ji Fa than to capture Jiang Ziya. So he prepared to carry out his plan and secretly lurked behind Jiang Ziya and Ji Fa.

In truth, this was nothing short of a desperate struggle, and even Heaven wouldn't allow it to happen. Although Jiang Ziya was drinking, he had already noticed Mo Liqing secretly spying on him. However, he remained silent, instead deciding to play along and see what Mo Liqing would do next in order to prepare a response. Thus, Jiang Ziya deliberately lowered his guard, giving Mo Liqing an opportunity to take advantage of the situation.

Unexpectedly, Mo Liqing was indeed not using his brain. Seeing that Jiang Ziya was unprepared, he prepared to attack Ji Fa. In fact, he did just that, and unsurprisingly, he succeeded.

Mo Liqing thought he had succeeded after capturing Ji Fa. He threatened Jiang Ziya after capturing Ji Fa. At this moment, Jiang Ziya was surprised, as if he had not expected Mo Liqing to have such a move.

"Jiang Ziya, if you know what's good for you, you'd better order your Xiqi army to retreat and let my Shang army return to Chaoge. If you don't withdraw your troops, I will kill your king."

"May I ask who you are, brave warrior? You've kidnapped my king and this is your only request. If I grant it, can you do it?"

Chapter 1147 Death of Wen Zhong

"You don't need to know who I am. Don't worry, as long as you agree to my request, I will release Ji Fa immediately."

"Is that so? Then I can't make that decision either. After all, withdrawing the troops concerns the safety of the people. If you insist on doing so, there's nothing I can do. I suppose it's worth it to exchange the life of my king for the lives of the whole world. Kill me if you want."

Jiang Ziya had already foreseen Lei Zhenzi's return and knew that Lei Zhenzi would definitely save Ji Fa, so he wasn't worried at all and secretly gave Ji Fa a reassuring look.

Sure enough, at that very moment, Lei Zhenzi came to see Jiang Ziya on business. He appeared behind Mo Liqing, quickly rescued Ji Fa, and fought Mo Liqing for several moves. Mo Liqing was no match for him and fled.

Meanwhile, facing Jiang Ziya's relentless advance, Wen Zhong had no choice but to lead his army in a gradual retreat. By the time they reached Jue Long Ridge, Wen Zhong's army had nowhere left to retreat.

Seeing that Wen Zhong and his men had been cornered, Jiang Ziya ordered his men to cease their pursuit. Wen Zhong's men came to pay their respects and said, "Grand Tutor, since Jiang Ziya's men have stopped pursuing, why don't we allow our men to temporarily encamp here and reorganize the army? In case of a sudden enemy attack, we can prepare accordingly."

After listening, Wen Zhong found it to be very reasonable and said, "Everyone has been traveling for several days and is already exhausted. If we continue now, it may not be appropriate. So, as you said, let's set up camp here today."

Upon hearing Wen Zhong's words, his subordinates were about to go and make the necessary arrangements. Unexpectedly, Wen Zhong suddenly stopped them and asked, "Where is this place? Why do I have a vague sense of unease, as if something is about to happen?"

The subordinate looked around, cupped his hands and said, "Grand Tutor, you need not worry. This is Jue Long Ridge, a place with steep terrain that is easy to defend and difficult to attack. I don't think Jiang Ziya's army will be able to break through."

Upon hearing this, Wen Zhong took two steps back, swaying unsteadily, unable to stand. His subordinate, bewildered, quickly supported him and asked, "Grand Tutor, what's wrong?"

It would have been better if they hadn't asked. As soon as they did, Wen Zhong's eyes rolled back and he fainted. Everyone hurriedly carried Wen Zhong into the tent and called the accompanying doctor to treat him.

After examining him, the doctor said, "Generals, rest assured! The Grand Tutor has been fighting for many years and has developed a strong physique. He only fainted due to a sudden surge of anger, and there is nothing serious about it. I will go and prepare the medicine now. He will recover in a few days."

Hearing the doctor's words, the generals were finally relieved. Currently, the enemy was winning victory after victory, and Grand Tutor Wen, as their pillar of strength and their only support, was crucial. If anything were to happen to him, the army would surely descend into chaos.

As evening fell, Wen Zhongsu awoke. Looking at the faint candlelight in the tent and listening to the occasional bugle calls from the enemy, his heart was heavy.

He stepped outside the tent, gazing at the dark night sky, a strange sadness creeping over him as he reflected on recent events. This afternoon, when his subordinates told him this was Jue Long Ridge, his heart felt like it had been struck a heavy blow; he was completely stunned. Was it that fate was trying to take him away?

Suddenly, he remembered his master's prediction that he would never see the word "extinction" in his life. Now that he thought about it, he was afraid that his luck was about to run out! However, Wen Zhong was really unwilling to accept this! He thought that he would risk his life to fight one last time.

After standing outside for a while, Wen Zhong returned to his tent and summoned several trusted generals. Once everyone had arrived, Wen Zhong discussed the recent battle situation with them.

Wen Zhong said, "Generals have followed me in battles across the north and south for many years. Now the enemy's arrogance is growing stronger, and I'm afraid the brothers in the army won't be able to hold out for much longer."

As soon as he finished speaking, one of the generals stood up and said, "Grand Tutor, there is no need to worry. We will definitely work together and fight the enemy to the death."

Upon hearing this, the generals of the Central Guard echoed in unison, "That's right! We are willing to fight our way out for the Shang Dynasty's empire and its people!"

Wen Zhong was deeply moved upon hearing this. He said, "I know that you generals, like me, have long since disregarded your own lives. On behalf of the people of the Shang Dynasty, I thank you all for your loyalty and bravery in fighting the enemy. Come, let us drink this cup together, and tomorrow we will fight the enemy army to the death!" After saying this, everyone raised their cups together and drank them down in one gulp.

The next day, the two armies clashed, and Wen Zhong's army was routed. Wen Zhong then led the remaining troops to retreat hastily to their camp at Jue Long Ridge.

Looking at the ravaged army and the lingering smoke of battle in the distance, Wen Zhong felt an overwhelming sense of desolation. Those who had fought alongside him were gone; now he was all alone!

Wen Zhong slowly walked into the tent, step by step, having given up all hope. However, he would never surrender to be humiliated by Jiang Ziya. With that thought, he drew his treasured sword, which had been with him for many years, and plunged it into his heart.

After a long while, the Shang army, unable to wait for Wen Zhong to come out and give orders, had no choice but to rush in. Once inside, they were immediately stunned. What they saw was Wen Zhong kneeling before Chaoge, a sword thrust straight into his heart.

Those with more courage stepped forward and checked his breathing; he had been dead for quite some time. The Shang army, leaderless and suffering repeated defeats, was now in complete disarray, scattering and fleeing in all directions, each seeking their own way out.

When news of Wen Zhong's death arrived, the entire court was thrown into panic. A hero had fallen, and the whole country was filled with grief.

When King Zhou of Shang heard the news that Wen Zhong had passed away, the wine cup in his hand slipped from his grasp and fell to the ground. He stood up and repeatedly confirmed the news. After receiving an affirmative answer, King Zhou slumped back into his chair, unable to recover for a long time.

He never imagined that the all-powerful Grand Tutor Wen would end his life in such a way. That night, King Zhou of Shang couldn't sleep a wink; Wen Zhong's death was a devastating blow to him!

The next day, as soon as he went to court, King Zhou of Shang announced the news of Wen Zhong's death. The ministers discussed it among themselves. One of the ministers said, "Your Majesty, Grand Tutor Wen led the army to fight against the enemy and made great contributions. Although he is dead now, he should still be given a grand funeral to show Your Majesty's care for your subjects."

Chapter 1148 The Three Immortals Emerge from the Mountain

Shen Gongbao stepped forward and retorted, "Your Majesty, Wen Zhong committed suicide. Your Majesty's decision not to pursue the matter is already a great favor. There is no reason to give him a lavish funeral!"

Upon hearing this, another minister couldn't hold back any longer and stepped forward, saying, "Grand Tutor Wen was Your Majesty's teacher. Now that he's dead, no one is claiming his body. Won't this cause the world to criticize Your Majesty?"

King Zhou of Shang remained silent. After listening to these words, he ordered, "Grand Tutor Wen fought many battles in the south and north for the sake of the Shang Dynasty and its people, and maintained the stability and peace of our dynasty. Now, Heaven has not been on our side, and the Grand Tutor has died suddenly. This is my misfortune, and also the misfortune of all the people."

At this point, King Zhou of Shang was overcome with grief and shed tears. His courtiers also wiped away their tears, lamenting the departure of this great general!

After composing himself, King Zhou of Shang continued, "The dead cannot be brought back to life. We should give Grand Tutor Wen a grand funeral so that the whole world may know of his contributions to our dynasty." The crowd knelt and shouted, "Your Majesty is wise!"

With Wen Zhong's death, the last pillar of the Shang Dynasty collapsed. Under the tyrannical rule of King Zhou of Shang, the people had long been filled with resentment. Now, Ji Fa's loyal army was advancing, naturally winning the support and love of the people. They swept through the enemy lines with great might!

After Wen Zhong's death, King Zhou of Shang lived in constant fear, and even his sleep at night was restless.

That day, he woke up from a nightmare again. When Daji found out, she advised King Zhou of Shang: "Your Majesty, Shen Gongbao is loyal and devoted to sharing the burdens of Your Majesty and the Shang Dynasty. Why don't you let him think of a solution? He will surely not disappoint you."

King Zhou of Shang was still not entirely at ease. He said, "I can certainly see Shen Gongbao's loyalty, but it seems that none of the people he found can defeat Jiang Ziya. Now that Grand Tutor Wen is gone, I am really not confident."

Daji comforted him, saying, "Your Majesty is the chosen one of Heaven. What trouble can a small country possibly cause? Your Majesty, you can rest assured that this matter can be entrusted to Shen Gongbao."

King Zhou of Shang was left with no choice. After Wen Zhong's death, there was no one else in the court capable of shouldering important responsibilities. He had no choice but to follow Daji's advice and decide to reinstate Shen Gongbao.

So he summoned his eunuch, intending to bring Shen Gongbao to the palace. Daji stopped him, saying, "Your Majesty, it is already late. Why not summon him tomorrow?"

King Zhou of Shang then realized that it was already late at night, but he could no longer fall asleep. So he simply ordered the imperial kitchen to prepare a few dishes and brew a pot of wine. Seeing that King Zhou of Shang was in high spirits, Daji said, "I haven't shown Your Majesty the dance I recently learned. Would Your Majesty be interested in watching it?" King Zhou of Shang had nothing to do and was also afraid of having nightmares again, so he was naturally happy to agree.

He said, "I naturally want to see the dance my beloved concubine has just learned." Daji smiled slightly, as if she had expected it. She slowly rose and walked gracefully to the center of the hall. Every gesture—raising a hand, twisting her waist, turning her head, spinning—exuded a captivating charm.

King Zhou of Shang was so stunned by what he saw that he gradually forgot his worries and fell asleep with his head down.

King Zhou of Shang did not wake up until the sun was high in the sky. Annoyed that he had slept so long, he summoned palace maids to help him change his clothes and wash. A moment later, he went to the imperial study and summoned Shen Gongbao.

After Shen Gongbao bowed, he asked, "Why did Your Majesty summon me here in such a hurry?" King Zhou of Shang sat down and slowly said, "My dear minister, you have traveled far and wide for the sake of the people of Shang, and I have seen it all. Now that Grand Tutor Wen has passed away, you are the only person I can rely on."

Upon hearing this, Shen Gongbao realized that King Zhou of Shang had overheard Daji's words. He feigned humility and said, "Your Majesty is too kind. This is all my duty. It is my honor to be able to share Your Majesty's burdens."

King Zhou of Shang no longer beat around the bush. He went straight to the point, saying, "I summoned you here today because I have something to discuss with you." Shen Gongbao replied, "Your Majesty, please speak freely. I will do my utmost to share Your Majesty's burdens." King Zhou then explained his desire for Shen Gongbao to find more capable people to resist Jiang Ziya. Upon hearing this, Shen Gongbao smiled wickedly and replied, "Your Majesty, rest assured, I will find capable people to subdue Jiang Ziya." King Zhou loudly praised him, declaring that if the matter was handled well, he would reward him handsomely.