Chapter 5, Luoyang, the Divine Capital

Luoyang was established in the first year of the Daye era of the Sui Dynasty. When Emperor Taizong Li Shimin ascended to the throne, he recognized the strategic superiority of Luoyang and ordered the repair of the city. By the time Wu Zetian ascended to the throne, she encouraged Emperor Gaozong to issue an edict to rename Luoyang as the Eastern Capital, simultaneously launching a massive construction project in Luoyang. They built palaces on the existing facilities, and the Shangyang Palace, constructed along the Luo River, was particularly extravagant, surpassing all of its contemporaries in splendor

Luoyang, known as the capital city, is divided into northern and southern parts by the Luo River. The northwest of the city houses the palace city, while other streets, blocks, and markets are evenly distributed across the southern and northeastern parts. In the southern part of Luoyang, there are ninety-six blocks for commoners, while the northern part has thirty blocks. A notable feature of Luoyang is its intricate network of waterways, with the Luo River running through the entire city, connecting with other rivers and canals such as the Yi River, the Cao Canal, and the Huangdao Canal, thus facilitating convenient water transportation. The land transportation is also well-planned, with ten major thoroughfares running in both directions, the main roads being a hundred steps wide, and the smaller streets being thirty steps wide. A notable feature of Luoyang is its intricate network of waterways, with the Luo River running through the entire city, connecting with other rivers and canals such as the Yi River, the Cao Canal, and the Huangdao Canal, thus facilitating convenient water transportation. The land transportation is also well-planned, with ten major thoroughfares running in both directions, the main roads being a hundred steps wide, and the smaller streets being thirty steps wide

Long Ying's scalp began to tingle; such treatment was something he had not anticipated before entering the palace

The Hall of Lord Rong: "This is the Hall of All Phenomena, the main palace within the city, and the largest in scale. Within the palace complex, there are a total of thirty-five halls, terraces, and pavilions, most of which face south and sit north. They are of uniform height, arranged along the central axis of the divine path, orderly and aesthetically pleasing in their layout."

The dragon eagle expressed with lingering intent: "Unless she dares to assassinate Wu Zetian in the imperial palace, there is no need to worry about her."

The plump grandfather patted him and left the house

Alas! I am finally about to face the most terrifying woman in the world. Will this cheap Evil Emperor of mine be able to deal with her in just a few moves? When two emperors meet, it is often I who suffers. Suddenly, I think of Xiang Yutian. If this "true Evil Emperor" were in my current situation, what would he do

***

The chubby old man smiled and said, "Because I guessed who she is"

***

Long Ying exclaimed in astonishment: "Is it merely a matter of a single effort?"

The imperial residence stands majestically between the clear waters of the Luo River, where a female emperor established the capital of the nation.

The plump old man said with a strange smile: "You are gravely mistaken to think that way"

Lord Rong said: "Mr. Long, please rest well. The General has instructed that after you have finished your dinner, he will personally come to escort you to the Shangyang Palace to meet His Majesty"

The dragon eagle, feeling dazed and confused, turned its gaze towards the source of the delicate sound, momentarily rendered speechless and astonished

The carriage set off once again

Long Ying inquired: "My lord once said that I must practice to the ninth level of 'becoming a demon' in order to have the capital to contend with Wu Zetian. What is the basis for this? How do you know?"

General, are you now taking your younger brother to pay respects to His Majesty

The plump eunuch's eyes radiated a glow of admiration as he leisurely remarked: "The 'Undying Seal' is a remarkable skill that roamed the world during the Sui and Tang dynasties, unmatched by anyone. It was created by the 'Evil King' Shi Zhixuan, the foremost master of our Holy Sect, who embodies both the Huajian and Butian schools. I recall the battle at the Wulou Temple in the Western Capital, where the founding emperor of the Tang Dynasty, Li Yuan, personally led the army, and master-level experts came out in full force to besiege Shi Zhixuan, who was trapped in the abbot's chamber, yet he managed to escape with ease. Tell me, who was guarding you that night? If the Huajian woman didn't slaughter everyone, it was merely her showing mercy. Tell me, who was guarding you that night? If the Huajian woman didn't slaughter everyone, it was merely her showing mercy. Hey! However, if the eunuch were to exert his full strength, she might not have escaped so easily."

Long Ying was perplexed and said, "What future blessings do I have?"

Long Ying expressed with satisfaction: "I have endured through the most difficult times. The eighth level of demon coercion is the longest, yet the most exciting and interesting. It involves engaging in combat with others, ensuring that the demon seed is fully unleashed, where the demon seed and human heart blend seamlessly, and divine intent converges, resulting in endless transformations. Humans are no longer merely human, and demon seeds are no longer just demon seeds; rather, they are... they are something indescribable. Ha!" Humans are no longer merely human, and demon seeds are no longer just demon seeds; rather, they are... they are something indescribable. Ha!"

Long Ying recalled: "The feeling at that time was terrifying, as if a tremendous force was trying to pull me away. I struggled desperately, and suddenly the pain was excruciating, yet I was clearly alive, then I fainted, until today. The fainting was not true fainting; it was merely a union with a certain mysterious force that transcends this world. There was no distinction between beginning and end; this is precisely the situation described in the fifth chapter of the Demon Cultivation Great Method, 'Demon Tribulation,' and the seventh chapter, 'Nurturing Demons.' Defeat transforms into conquest, destruction gives rise to creation, awakening from a death-like slumber. Those who write about the heart of the Dao and the cultivation of demons must have experienced all of this; otherwise, how could they know?"

The Dragon Eagle was captured in the net, and had no choice but to present the "Heart of Dao Cultivation Demon Technique," fulfilling her long-cherished wish to unify the Demon Sect, while simultaneously elevating her authority to its peak

Dragon Eagle Path: "Undying Seal Technique?"

The fat elder replied: "Approximately six to seven breaths in duration"

Li Duozuo said: "Ordinary subjects, upon their first audience with His Majesty, must perform the ritual of three kneelings and nine prostrations. However, since the young brother has just recovered from an injury, this ritual may be waived"

The most famous attraction in Luoyang is the Tianjin Bridge, with its "Tianjin Xiaoyue" being the foremost of the Eight Scenic Spots of Luoyang. To the south of the bridge lies the most bustling market in Luoyang, complemented by its charming scenery, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. The city is filled with brothels, enticing self-proclaimed romantic poets and scholars to linger and forget their way home. Furthermore, with Wu Zetian having recently relocated hundreds of thousands of households from Guannei, including Yong and Tong, to Luoyang to bolster its population, the number of residents has exceeded one million, indicating the grandeur of the situation.

Long Ying pondered that this was a unique game of the palace dwellers. Even after changing into his small stone house, he could easily find the exit with his eyes covered. Pointing to the square roof of the building that emerged behind the eastern city wall, he wondered, "What place is that? So strange."

Long Ying was taken aback and said: "The Huajian Sect? Hasn't the Huajian Sect been extinct since the passing of the romantic gentleman Hou Xibai? Moreover, the Huajian Sect has always only accepted male disciples; how could a woman suddenly emerge from it?"

In the presence of the Eight Riders leading the way, the carriage carrying the new generation of the Evil Emperor, Long Ying, advanced deeper into the palace city. Everything felt so unreal, like a dream or an illusion, with no clear boundary between reality and the phantasm.

In practical terms, due to the significant increase in the population of Chang'an, the limited agricultural area in the Guanzhong region could no longer cope, leading to years of famine. In contrast, the Eastern Capital, which is connected to the five major river systems of the Yangtze, Qiantang, Huaihe, Yellow River, and Haihe, benefits from the convenience of the Grand Canal's transportation, is rich in resources, and can fundamentally resolve the issue of grain supply.

Since the first year of Yongchun, in reality, Emperor Gaozong and Wu Zetian had already moved the capital to Luoyang and would not return to Chang'an. Wu Zetian's meticulous planning to relocate the capital to Luoyang was driven not only by political considerations but also by substantial needs, all aimed at paving the way for her ascent to the imperial throne

Thus, the moment Long Ying set foot on the land north of the Tianjin Bridge was profoundly significant for her. Of course, there are still reasons behind this that Long Ying, Princess Taiping, and the plump official cannot comprehend.

The plump elder approached the bedside and asked directly, "I haven't seen that girl Tai Ping so delightfully smitten in a long time. What means did you employ on her?"

The woman among the flowers should understand the effect of the demonic cultivation method on Wu Zhao

In terms of politics, only by leaving Chang'an can one escape and diminish the deeply rooted memories and sentiments of the officials and the populace towards the Li Tang dynasty, which is conducive to the transition to a new era and the establishment of a new regime and order

Li Duozuo smiled and said: "Your Majesty's care for this younger brother is meticulous. Aware of the hardships of this younger brother's journey, you have instructed that he should first have a good rest, and after dusk, he will be received at the Shangyang Palace."

Li Duozuo said with delight: "The Emperor has summoned me to speak, and has repeatedly instructed me to receive you with the utmost courtesy, ensuring that you feel at home. With such importance placed on you by the Emperor, is this not a great blessing?"

The vehicle gradually slowed down and came to a stop. The doors opened, and General Li Duozuo boarded the vehicle and sat beside him, kindly saying: "We have finally arrived at the Duan Gate. After the routine inspection, we will enter the Imperial City and head straight to the Palace. I have reviewed the confidential report, and Young Eagle truly has a great fortune. As the saying goes, 'Those who survive great calamities will surely have future blessings,' and this is indeed manifested in Young Eagle's case.

The plump elder chuckled bitterly, saying: "I am filled with doubts just like you, but the fact that the Flower Fairy possesses the Undying Seal Technique is indisputable. Her assassination attempt is clearly aimed at Wu Zhao; if she kills you, Wu Zhao will never obtain the Seed of Demonic Magic. Not to mention how she could precisely grasp your significance to Wu Zhao, how could she possibly harbor any hatred towards her?"

The plump elder chuckled, saying: "As long as you display the grand plaque of the Evil Emperor, I guarantee you will be engaged in endless enjoyment day and night"

Unfortunately, Longying is temporarily unable to enjoy the scenery, as he is placed in a carriage with curtains drawn down at the windows. Although he should still be able to faintly see the outside landscape, his view is obstructed by the cavalry guards on either side. He soon realizes that Wu Zhao must have received the report sent by Princess Taiping ahead of time, informing her of the assassin incident, which explains such a grand display.

Li Duozuo exclaimed: "Did the fat eunuch not tell you?"

The dragon eagle murmured about what other blessings from the mother, when suddenly, from a distance, the sound of a warbler echoed loudly from the steps: "The servant girl sends her greetings to Master Eagle!"

He lowered his voice and said: "Only foreign monarchs and envoys are treated with such grandeur by His Majesty. There is no need to worry about security; Xizhou is the easiest place to defend. As long as the Liji Bridge is guarded and defenses are set up along the riverbank, even immortals cannot come here. You may freely enjoy the grace bestowed by His Majesty."

The plump elder said: "Fortunately, I am here to cover for you, and I even exerted my efforts to infuse energy into your body, only to have it rebound back, nearly injuring myself. Therefore, I dare not act recklessly; the only thing I can do is to pat your cheek and call your name."

Long Ying casually asked: "What etiquette should one pay attention to when meeting the Emperor?"

Long Ying thought to himself with a bitter smile: "Isn't it the Holy Spirit?"

Lord Rong leaned close to his ear and said: "When I first entered the palace, I often got lost. It is much better here; if I were to blindfold you and take you to the Divine Garden located to the west of the capital, I guarantee you would not find your way out in less than an hour. This is our favorite game to play."

The fat elder said: "Having practiced the Demon Cultivation Technique to more than half, is there still room for choice? Who can change what is destined by fate?"

The Fat Elder said: "From this perspective, you have already reached the seventh level of the Demon Cultivation Method. Very good! Truly excellent."

The dragon and eagle stood facing each other in the grand hall, with pavilions rising high. They let out a breath and said: "Truly magnificent!"

In the heart of the Dragon Eagle, he calls for his mother, yet the grain stored in the Hanjia warehouse is sufficient to feed the capital for several years. If we take the Imperial Guard that escorted him here as a standard, their elite troops and ample supplies are indeed deserving of praise. It is no wonder that the several rebellions before Wu Zhao's ascension were swiftly quelled by her dispatched forces. With a sigh, he reflects that his once soaring fighting spirit has been significantly diminished by the grandeur of the Great Zhou Dynasty, which is quite concerning.

Lord Rong said with great confidence: "That is Hanjia Granary City, four li east of the wall, one hundred and ninety-seven steps, and one li two hundred and thirty steps north and south. It connects to the Eastern Palace in the south, and there are four hundred and thirty-six granaries within the city. Mr. Long found it strange because the granaries are shaped like inverted trapezoids, wide at the top and narrow at the bottom. If all the granaries are filled to capacity, they can hold six million shi of grain, making it the largest granary in the country"

In the realm of the martial world, she has eradicated the demonic sects that have wreaked havoc for hundreds of years, particularly the two factions of the demonic sects that were especially rampant during the early Tang dynasty, earning the admiration of the righteous martial arts community. Personally, she has also acquired the classics of the demonic sects, effectively achieving a unification of the demonic path that no one from the demonic sects has ever accomplished. Her achievements are unprecedented.

The plump elder pondered: "It should be this way. If she knew you were not dead, she would definitely attempt to assassinate you a second time before you could transcribe the secret scroll. Wouldn't that give you a chance to question her? I never expected that, aside from you and me, there are still fish that have slipped through the net in the Holy Gate, and they are such formidable experts, capable of putting up a fight against Wu Zhao."

How long does it take to lose consciousness?

The plump elder sighed, "Do you know who was the one that single-handedly nurtured Wu Zhao? Wu Zhao not only practiced the Heavenly Demon Technique of my Yin Gui Sect to the pinnacle of perfection, but also, having obtained the secret scrolls of various sects within the Demon Gate, was able to integrate the strengths of all schools into one. Alas! We shall discuss these matters later; I should not delay for too long, lest I arouse the suspicions of that girl, Princess Taiping."

Those who have gained the favor of Long Ying find him to be approachable and straightforward, devoid of bureaucratic formalities. However, standing in opposition to Wu Zhao, Long Ying's keen demonic instincts sense that his internal and external skills have both reached perfection, making him a formidable opponent, not easily outmatched by the likes of Feng Guo Ting. He is among the top-tier experts in the martial world. Wu Zhao's subordinates are exceptionally talented, which explains why the demonic sect, once it gains control over its movements, suffers a swift and catastrophic defeat. This particular individual is not easy to deal with, and the thought of '催魔' (催魔) makes one’s hands itch with anticipation. Wu Zhao's subordinates are exceptionally talented, which explains why the demonic sect, once it gains control over its movements, suffers a swift and catastrophic defeat. This particular individual is not easy to deal with, and the thought of '催魔' (催魔) makes one’s hands itch with anticipation.

The Grand General was replaced by the eunuch chief, Lord Rong, who was not yet thirty years old. This individual was of remarkable appearance and possessed excellent eloquence. Sitting beside the Dragon Eagle, he casually introduced the names and characteristics of the palaces along the way, his words flowing like a continuous stream.

Long Ying had not yet had the opportunity to inquire further when a knock sounded at the door. The maid outside called out loudly, "Reporting to the esteemed lord, the princess has issued an order that Master Ying must be bathed and dressed."

With just this one sentence, it is known that Li Duozuo was unaware of his identity as a prisoner, shaking his head to indicate that the fat old man had not informed him

Unable to resist, I leaned out to take a deep breath of the crisp winter wind, catching a glimpse of the beautiful scenery ahead with the lake's reflection and the colors of the trees. I exclaimed against the wind, "Is there truly such a wonderful place?"

The plump elder wore a nostalgic expression as he slowly said: "I entered the palace at the age of sixteen. The matter of the Dao heart being corrupted by demons was something I heard from my former master, Wei Lianxiang, as he had received guidance from Xiang Yutian in his youth. Xiang Yutian personally told him that he had already reached the stage of becoming a demon. At that time, Xiang Yutian was invincible; those who could last three to five moves under his hand were already of a level capable of dominating a region. Although Wu Zhao was said to have gathered the strengths of various schools of the Sacred Gate, she likely had not yet surpassed Xiang Yutian, which is why I made that statement." At that time, Xiang Yutian was invincible; those who could last three to five moves under his hand were already of a level capable of dominating a region. Although Wu Zhao was said to have gathered the strengths of various schools of the Sacred Gate, she likely had not yet surpassed Xiang Yutian, which is why I made that statement.

Long Ying lamented, "I do not wish to become the Evil Emperor"

From a courtesan, a talented woman, a noble consort, an empress, a heavenly empress, a holy mother goddess to a divine emperor, she has endured over thirty years of intense struggles both within and outside the court, and today no one dares to challenge her authority

Dragon Eagle's Great Adventure: "Happy? She should be frowning with anger instead."

Long Ying recalled a matter and asked: "Why did you conceal the female assassin, my lord?"

Li Duozuo lowered his voice and said: "It was changed twelve days ago; from now on, we shall all respectfully refer to His Majesty."

Long Ying exclaimed, "Where shall we go now?" He had thought that Wu Zhao would be eager to see him, but could it be that he had misread the feelings of the fat eunuch? This thought made him feel uncomfortable, yet he also found it amusing. He should be happy, yet his mindset was truly contradictory. It was as if he believed he was carrying something heavy, only to realize upon lifting it that it was as light as a feather, leaving him with a strange feeling.

***

Lord Rong gladly said: "That is the most beautiful place within the palace city, named the Divine Pool. In the pool, there are two isles; the Eastern Isle has the Spring Ascending Pavilion, and the Western Isle has the Beautiful and Elegant Pavilion, which is precisely the designated resting place for His Majesty's esteemed guest, Mr. Long."

Long Ying asked with lingering fear, "Do the others know?"

The plump old man, swaying like a winter melon, rested his head on his thick neck and sat by the bed, saying: "What on earth happened? At that moment, you were undoubtedly dead."

As the carriage entered the palace city, the curtains covering the windows were lifted, revealing a magnificent scene of the palatial buildings standing majestically and orderly under the bright afternoon sun, a breathtaking sight that left Long Ying, this country boy who had just arrived, dumbfounded and in awe

The carriage crossed the 200-step-long Liqi Bridge and arrived at the West Isle, resembling a celestial mountain upon the sea. Under the guidance of Lord Rong, Long Ying disembarked from the carriage and stepped onto the gravel path surrounded by lush greenery. Along the roadside, renowned flowers were abundantly planted, with azaleas and lilies visible everywhere, their vibrant blossoms exuding a captivating fragrance. Ahead, the view opened up, revealing glimpses of palaces and pavilions, which, compared to his humble cottage in the desolate valley, seemed to belong to a realm between heaven and earth.

The importance placed on Longying is beyond doubt. She dispatched the commander of the Imperial Guard, General Li Duozuo of the Yulin Guard, to lead two hundred elite troops to receive Longying from Princess Taiping and escort it to the imperial palace

The fat elder said in a deep voice: "The Undying Seal Technique is certainly extraordinary"

This young general, in his early thirties, holds a position of great power and authority. At first glance, he may not be considered handsome, but his features are well-defined. His robust physique is comparable to that of a dragon or eagle, and his face is lean and astute, with bright, sparkling eyes that exude vitality and charm. This remarkable presence has earned him the favor of Wu Zetian, entrusting him with the crucial responsibility of palace security. His position is not only a testament to his status as Wu Zetian's trusted general but also signifies his importance within the military hierarchy of the Great Zhou.

Li Duozuo said: "Lord Rong is currently at the southern gate of the palace welcoming you, young brother. He has his own arrangements, and in the future, your daily life will be managed and taken care of by him"

Long Ying exclaimed, "Who is she? I never imagined there could be such a formidable expert in the world like her"

Looking solely at this strategy of killing two birds with one stone, the overall plan of the eastern migration that combines both offensive and defensive measures reveals the brilliance of Wu Zetian. More than a year before the dragon and eagle were escorted to Luoyang, all conditions for Wu Zetian to ascend to the throne had matured. Those ministers who dared to oppose her were either executed along with their families or exiled to distant lands. The Tang royal family was left with only Li Xian and Li Dan, the two sons. Thus, amidst the shouts of "Long live the Emperor, as the heavens decree" and "In accordance with the will of the people," Wu Zetian ascended to the imperial throne. From that point on, the Tang Dynasty was replaced by the Zhou Dynasty, and Wu Zetian proclaimed herself the "Holy and Divine Emperor." Thus, amidst the shouts of "Long live the Emperor, as the heavens decree" and "In accordance with the will of the people," Wu Zetian ascended to the imperial throne. From that point on, the Tang Dynasty was replaced by the Zhou Dynasty, and Wu Zetian proclaimed herself the "Holy and Divine Emperor."