Library of Heaven's Path

by Little Merger

Traversing into another world, Zhang Xuan finds himself becoming an honorable teacher. Along with his transcension, a mysterious library appears in his mind. As long as it is something he has seen, regardless of whether it is a human or an object, a book on its weaknesses will be automatically compiled in the library. Thus, he becomes formidable. “Emperor Zhuoyang, why do you detes

11. 321

Library of Heaven's Path #Chapter 321: You Have Been Recruited - Read Library of Heaven's Path Chapter 321: You Have Been Recruited Online - All Page - NOVEL NEXT

Chapter 321: You Have Been Recruited

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

"Done!" Zhang Xuan clapped his hands with glee.

Seeing how casual the other party was, everyone suddenly felt dizzy and an urge to spew blood welled in them.

Wasn't he being too eccentric?

The Teacher Guild had explicitly stated that one was not to punish a student physically, yet you had to the cheek to beat the other party up so severely. If the Teacher Guild were to pursue the matter, no one would be able to shoulder the responsibility.

"Liu laoshi, you..." Mo Hongyi was speechless. He nearly fainted from anger, "Teachers aren't allowed to beat students up!"

Is this fellow for real! It is one thing for you not to know the rules of the master teacher examination, but you would have at least taken a class before, you would have at least taught some students before... As a 2-star master teacher examinee, how could you not know these fundamental rules?

A teacher was supposed to win over his students by virtue. If the Teacher Guild were to realize that one had punished a student physically, it is very likely that one's teaching license would be revoked.

"Beat students up? Who said that I had beaten a student?" Zhang Xuan glared at the male student. "Did I beat you up?"

"No! I am indebted to teacher. You did it to save me, you did not beat me up!" The male student quickly kowtowed as he explained through his now-incomplete set of teeth.

"..."

The crowd was thrown into a frenzy.

Brother, can you be any more arrogant?

Do you think that we are all blind?

All of us personally saw you beat the other party up. It is one thing for you not to admit it, but you even threatened the student! This is truly atrocious and deplorable!

They had seen ridiculous people, but they had never seen someone who left them so speechless.

"Hmph!"

Flinging his hands, Principal Xie's face steeled.

As the principal and a 1-star master teacher, a teacher had beaten up and threatened a student before him. He couldn't simply remain motionless to this matter.

"Liu laoshi, punishing a student physically is already a violation of the responsibilities of a teacher. I will report this matter to the Teacher Guild, so you should prepare yourself for the sanction from the guild! Also, our Tianwu Academy is unwilling to recruit a deplorable and irresponsible teacher like you, so please leave immediately!"

After which, he pointed to the doors.

"Sanction? Irresponsible?"

Zhang Xuan was taken aback. He turned to Principal Xie and asked, "Is this your judgment on the matter?"

"That's right!" Principal Xie harrumphed.

"Fine!" Zhang Xuan shook his head. "Given your eye of discernment, you still call yourself a 1-star master teacher? Honestly speaking, I would really like to ask... Are you blind?"

Pu!

"Did this fellow just insult Principal Xie?"

"The heck! He physically punished a student and insulted a 1-star master teacher. Is this fellow insane?"

...

...

The other teachers' eyeballs were about to pop out from their sockets.

This is the principal of Tianwu Academy, a Zongshi realm pinnacle expert. In terms of strength, he is ranked in the top ten of the academy. Not to mention, he is a 1-star master teacher as well. To say that he is blind...

The heck!

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They had only thought that he was arrogant a moment ago, but now, they realized that he was insane!

Otherwise, how could a teacher who came for a public recruitment beat up a student in public and insult a 1-star master teacher?

Master teachers were not to be sullied. Just this crime was sufficient to have him killed!

The corners of Mo Hongyi's mouth twitched as well.

However, he knew that even though Zhang Xuan had an eccentric personality and a vile mouth, he had the capability to back it up. Based on his understanding of the latter, it was impossible for him to be insulting Principal Xie for no good reason.

Reexamining the male student's condition, he suddenly froze. "This..."

Meanwhile, Principal Xie was already spurting blood.

He was so furious that all of his hairs stood at its end and it felt as though he would erupt at any moment.

"Liu laoshi, do you know that you are insulting a master teacher!" Suppressing his rage, Principal Xie spat through gritted teeth.

If not for his identity, he would have charged up and taught this arrogant fellow a lesson.

"Insulting a master teacher? Me?" Zhang Xuan looked at him with a look of pity. "Someone is insulting the identity of a master teacher, but it isn't me. It is you!"

"You..." Infuriated, Principal Xie was just about to step forward to teach this conceited brat a lesson when the other party walked up to the male student with his hands behind his back and explained calmly.

"Blood Calamity Spider. It is a unique type of savage beast around the size of a human's thumb. It feeds on the blood of living beings and favors dark and cold habitats. It often moves around in the dark and most importantly, it carries a lethal poison on it."

Everyone thought that this fellow was going to say something important, but he talked about an unrelated savage beast instead. Everyone was baffled.

Principal Xie came to a halt and his eyebrows furrowed together. He wanted to see what this fellow had up his sleeves."

"If a cultivator were to fall prey under this spider's poison, he won't die immediately. However, the venom will numb his nerves and cause a change in his personality. He will become violent and an urge to battle with others would overwhelm him... This is because only battle could alleviate the boiling poison in his body and bring him peace!"

Zhang Xuan continued.

"There is actually such a savage beast?"

"Is there really such a peculiar poison in the world?"

Upon hearing the effects of the poison of the Blood Calamity Spider, a conjecture appeared in everyone's mind. However, they didn't dare to confirm it. Rather, their gaze remained fixated on the young man before them.

"That's right, this male student had fallen prey to this poison and it was already at an extremely severe stage! Thus, he couldn't help but fight with others to alleviate his raging emotions. Did you all realize that even though the movements of his battle techniques were sharp and lethal, there was a trace of redness in his eyes? No matter how many battles a cultivator undergoes, it isn't possible for their fights to affect their mental state and change the color of their eyes."

Zhang Xuan surveyed the surroundings.

"Trace of redness... I noticed it too, but I thought that it was because of his agitation!"

"That's right, I saw it too. I thought that it was because of his unique battle technique... Could it really be because of a lethal poison?"

"How is that possible? If he was poisoned, why couldn't any of us detect it?"

...

...

Recalling the sight they saw when the male student was displaying his battle technique, everyone froze.

There was something bizarre about that male student's gaze, but there were some battle techniques which could change one's gaze as well. Thus, they didn't consider such a possibility.

Besides, who would have known that there was a poison in the world which could affect a person's mental state and make them aggressive?

"I wasn't beating him up just now. I was using a unique method to force the poison out of his body. If you don't believe me, you can look at the blood on the floor!"

Zhang Xuan casually pointed.

Following his finger, the crowd saw the blood that flowed out from the apertures of the male student when Liu laoshi beat him up just a moment ago.

To their horror, the blood was thick and black in color. The blood had curdled on the spot and the stones in contact with it corroded, causing a dent to appear. It was an extremely eerie sight.

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"There was really lethal poison..."

Principal Xie's face turned pale.

It was impossible for normal blood to curdle so quickly, even less so, corrode stone.

Such a situation would only occur if the blood was harnessing a lethal poison.

Which meant to say...

There was lethal poison within the male student! And Liu laoshi wasn't beating him up just now, he was... expelling his poison!

"Usually, one would die within three months of falling prey to the Blood Calamity Spider's poison. Judging from his current state, he should only be a month in, so he isn't in any danger. That's also the reason why he was still able to suppress the poison with his cultivation, making it impossible for anyone to notice it."

Zhang Xuan turned to Principal Xie and said, "Even so, despite being the top academy in Tianwu Kingdom, how could you all not know that one of your students had fallen prey to lethal poison! It is out of kindness that I saved him, yet you framed me of beating him up and even threatened to report this to the Teacher Guild... You're the principal of the academy as well as a 1-star master teacher. How could you fail to see through this much? May I ask... If you aren't blind, what else could it be?"

"I..."

Principal Xie's face paled.

The black poisoned blood was an extremely clear sign that the male student had been poisoned. However, overwhelmed by rage, Principal Xie actually overlooked the matter. He even bellowed at the other party for beating the male student up. Embarrassed, his face flushed. He wanted to explain but words evaded him.

"Liu laoshi, please calm down. Poison master is an uncommon occupation and very few people have knowledge of it. It's normal for one not to know of it!"

Sensing the awkwardness of the situation, Mo Hongyi interjected.

He was right. Most of the information regarding poison had been sealed by the Poison Hall so most people were uninformed about the matter.

Furthermore, teachers prided themselves on being righteous. As such, they rarely came into contact with something as vile as poison, so naturally, they would have very limited knowledge on them.

Knowing that it was impossible for Zhang Xuan to insult the other party for no good reason, he had reexamined the condition of the male student. When he saw the poison in the blood he spat, he was also thrown into a state of shock.

To be able to tell that the other party had been poisoned just through his battle technique, and even solve it... This meant that Zhang Xuan's mastery of poison had most probably reached the level of a grandmaster.

3-star painter, 2-star beast tamer, and pill forging skills exceeding that of a 4-star apothecary... How many hidden capabilities was this fellow hiding up his sleeves?

Initially, he had thought that even though the other party was superior in terms of pill forging and teaching, it would just be limited to those. However, after this incident, he realized that... the other party was skilled in many other occupations as well, just that he hadn't displayed it before him.

"Even if you didn't know that it was lethal poison, that student had already said that I am saving him. Yet, you still chose to doubt me. Is this the discerning ability that a 1-star master teacher should have?"

Oblivious to Mo Hongyi's attempt to alleviate the atmosphere, Zhang Xuan continued.

"..."

"..."

Upon hearing those words, everyone went speechless.

The male student did say that you were saving him, but you had just finished beating him up then, not to mention, your ferocious glare. No matter who saw this, they would have thought that you were threatening him. Intimidated, he would have no choice but to answer that way.

Who would have known that... he truly meant it.

"It's due to my lack of observation. I am truly unworthy of the title of 1-star master teacher..."

Under Zhang Xuan's intense interrogation, Principal Xie's face paled and he looked as though he had aged a decade.

He was supposed to be the one conducting the test for the public recruitment, but little did he know that he himself had failed to notice so many crucial details.

"Alright, there's no need to be depressed. Just continue learning earnestly and don't come to a conclusion recklessly before clarifying the situation!" Zhang Xuan shook his hands casually.

Everyone staggered.

This was the principal of Tianwu Academy! Yet, he was being lectured as though he was a student by a mere ordinary teacher...

Everyone was completely speechless, but at the same time, they were also astonished by this Liu shi's means..

Not only did he manage to locate the root of the problems of the two students, something that even Principal Xie overlooked, he was even able to treat the two of them easily. Be it his eye of discernment or his means, it was at an astounding level. If not for them witnessing this sight personally, they would have never believed it to be possible.

In an instant, they were all filled with amazement and respect for this young teacher.

Just when everyone's gazes were gathered on him, wanting to know how he managed to notice the lethal poison in the male student's body, Liu shi's majestic aura suddenly dissipated. Like an expectant student waiting for his examination results, he scratched his head awkwardly and asked, "This... So, will I be accepted into the academy?"

"Of course, of course, you're accepted into the academy!" Hearing Zhang Xuan's question, Principal Xie's vision suddenly turned dark, but he hurriedly nodded his head anyway.

If you're not accepted into this academy even with such high-level capabilities, then I would really be unworthy to be the principal of the academy...

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Chapter 322: Mu Xueqing's Countermeasure

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

Mu Xueqing was a talented student of Tianwu Academy.

Despite being only eighteen this year, she had already reached Pixue realm with over a dozen acupoints opened up.

Given her fame and the bright future laid before her, she should have been happy. Yet, she had been in low spirits recently.

This was because her teacher had left the academy.

Since the new teacher wasn't here yet, she was left to her own devices and was currently lazing around.

Stretching her back, a beautiful curvature which could easily send any man into frenzy appeared.

"Senior!"

At this moment, a youngster walked over.

"Meng Tao, what news have you uncovered? Is it reliable?"

Upon seeing the approaching person, Mu Xueqing immediately turned to face him with a serious expression etched on her face.

"I have looked into the matter, and... that Master Teacher Zhang Xuan is indeed an incredible figure! In fact, based on what I've just found out, he seems to be even more amazing than how you made him out to be! However, I heard that he is in the midst of his 2-star master teacher examination and has to leave the capital for a while."

The eyes of the youngster named Meng Tao gleamed in reverence.

"Tell me about it!" Mu Xueqing's blushed.

Last night, when the news of Genius Mo Hongyi's records being broken reached her ears, the name of Master Teacher Zhang Xuan was also brought to her attention.

Despite being under twenty, he had achieved many outstanding feats, leaving others amazed and frenzied. In fact, he was even already in the midst of taking his 2-star master teacher examination... even though she heard it directly from an elder in her clan, she still found the matter hard to believe.

After confirming the matter several times, she decided that from then onwards, Zhang shi would be her number one idol!

Thus, when she arrived at the academy this morning, she immediately told her juniors of this matter, and the news left all of them gasping in amazement as well. The junior before her, Meng Tao, had refused to believe this matter, so she had him check for himself.

"I heard that when Zhang shi arrived at the capital, he went to the Painter Guild to take the painter examination. Over there, he was met with provocation by the Ji Clan's Ji Mo gongzi and eventually, he used a savage beast to create a fifth level painting, earning him the rank of a 3-star painter..." Meng Tao said.

Initially, he couldn't believe that someone could be more impressive than Mo Hongyi. After all, Mo Hongyi's reputation as the number one genius of Tianwu Kingdom was already deep-rooted in the capital.

However, after looking into the matter, he realized that not only was Zhang shi more capable than Mo Hongyi, the gap between them was huge as well. Even after verifying the news personally, he still found it hard to believe. He had to pinch himself to make sure that it wasn't just a dream.

"Using a savage beast to paint a fifth level painting?" Mu Xueqing clenched her fists tightly.

As a genius, she revered other geniuses as well.

Although the name of Zhang shi was only established the day before, the number of legendary feats he had achieved was overwhelming, leaving her with no other choice but to be awed.

"Say... now that our teacher has left, if the academy can get Zhang shi to be our replacement teacher, how wonderful will that be..."

Even though the news gathered by her junior was identical to what Mu Xueqing had heard last night, she couldn't help but feel another surge of admiration for the young master teacher.

"Bring him in? Senior, Zhang shi is a figure who is going to become a 2-star master teacher, how can the academy afford to hire him..."

Meng Tao was speechless.

There were only three 2-star master teachers in Tianwu Kingdom, and every time they held a lecture, all teachers, including the principal, would attend it. To invite the other party over as their teacher...

It was nothing more than a pipe dream.

"I know it as well, but I can't help but hold such expectations. I really wish that I can listen to his lecture once. Given how talented he is, his lessons must be deep and profound. Perhaps I might even achieve a breakthrough in my cultivation just by listening to one of his lessons!" Mu Xueqing said with a dreamy look.

"Right, isn't the academy recruiting teachers today? Are the results out yet?"

"There's not much news circulating at the moment, but from what I gathered, there is only a handful of star teachers applying for the position. The rest of them are just some ordinary teachers. I doubt they will be able to teach us anything good..." Meng Tao shook his head. He didn't bear much expectations for the new teachers.

"That's true..."

Mu Xueqing nodded as well.

If they were good, they would have long been brought into Tianwu Academy. They wouldn't have the need to attend the public recruitment at such a timing.

"Bad news, bad news..."

Just when the two of them were discussing the matter of the new teacher, they heard an anxious voice. Then, a lady rushed in with a reddened face.

"Calm down, don't panic. What's wrong?" Mu Xueqing frowned. "Didn't I ask you to camp outside the Elder Hall to check out the accepted teachers? Why are you already back? Wait, could it be that the results are already out?"

"Yes!" Panting, the lady hurriedly nodded her head.

"So fast?" Mu Xueqing was taken aback.

According to the news, there were over a hundred teachers who attended the public recruitment today. By right, it should have taken a significant amount of time to sieve through them.

"I saw the principal pass the identity tokens of our class over to a young teacher..."

After taking a few deep breaths, the lady finally managed to catch her breath and she started recounting the situation.

"A young teacher?"

"Un. That teacher seems to be in his twenties. Since I was too far away, I didn't manage to hear anything. However, I saw..." even now, the lady still found it hard to believe what she saw to be true.

"You are murdering us with anxiety! What did you see?" Mu Xueqing glared at her and hurriedly urged her on.

"I saw... the teacher beating up a freshman to the point the other party was vomiting blood..." the lady said.

"He beat up a freshman to the point the other party was vomiting blood?"

Mu Xueqing and Meng Tao glanced at one another in horror.

A teacher beating up a student?

Such violence was unheard of in Tianwu Academy.

"It's true! I've seen it with my own eyes... this is what I've secretly recorded down previously, look!"

With a flick of her wrist, the lady produced a Record Crystal. Infusing zhenqi into it, two figures instantly appeared on it. Taking a closer look, a young man was beating up a student.

Peng!

The student spurted a mouthful of blood, and eventually, he kneeled before the young man.

As the scene was recorded from a distance, they were unable to hear the conversation taking place inside the Elder Hall. Even so, they could clearly see the tragic state of the pummeled student.

"You said that... the principal gave our identity tokens to this fellow?"

After seeing that sight, Mu Xueqing's face turned ashen.

What in the world was going on?

How could they hire such an aggressive person to be their teacher?

"Indeed, I witnessed it myself! Furthermore..." The lady uttered nervously before she pausing for a brief moment. "After grabbing the tokens, he immediately started walking toward our class. He should be arriving soon!"

"Arriving soon?"

Mu Xueqing clenched her fists tightly. "Doesn't the Teacher Guild prohibit teachers from getting physical with students? Why would the academy hire this kind of teacher?"

"This..." The lady shook her head. "I don't know either!"

"Senior, could it be that the academy knew that our class... is uncontrollable, so they intentionally found such a teacher to teach us a lesson and beat us into submission?" Meng Tao scratched his head.

"Beat us into submission? Hmph, let's see if he has the capability to do so!"

Mu Xueqing's face darkened.

"Meng Tao, get everyone to stop cultivating and gather here!"

"Alright!"

Meng Tao nodded and hurriedly left. Soon, slightly more than a dozen students gathered around Mu Xueqing.

"Senior!"

"Un! I believe that Meng Tao should have told you about what happened earlier. The academy has hired that vile fellow who gets physical with students on a whim to be our teacher. About this issue, what thoughts do you all have?"

After saying so, Mu Xueqing glanced at the crowd.

"If he were to become our teacher, our lives will become a living hell! I oppose to it!"

"However, what can we do about it? The academy has assigned him to us, and our identity tokens are already in his hands. Unless we head to the Administrative Office to request for a teacher switch, there's nothing we can do in this situation!"

"Since the academy has sent him to us, it definitely won't allow us to switch to the other classes. Since it came down to this, let's think of a way to chase him away so that we can get a better teacher here!"

"Even if we can't get a genius like Zhang shi, we have to at least have a star teacher. If we were to come under the tutelage of an aggressive fellow like him, our future will be ruined!"

...

The crowd harrumphed indignantly.

Meng Tao had already explained the situation, and he had shown them the recording in the Record Crystal as well. Every single one of them felt infuriated upon seeing the teacher laying his hands on a student, especially since it was to the point that the student was vomiting blood.

Given how brutal he was in treating his students, how could he be worthy of being a teacher?

They expected them to become the students of such a person?

Dream on!

"Alright, there's no use talking about it. Since the academy has passed our identity tokens to him, we are already his students. We have to find a way to chase him away!"

Mu Xueqing raised her hand to get the others to calm down.

"Why don't we intentionally go against him to trip him up!"

"Trip him up? How do you intend to do it?"

"For example... let's refuse to follow all of his instructions! As a teacher, realizing that he is powerless in the class, he would surely leave on his own accord soon."

"This might be useful against others, but that fellow is an aggressive person. If we were to really disobey his instructions and he were to get physical with us, who would be able to stand against him?"

"This..."

The group fell silent.

Regardless of what plans they had, the main problem was that this new teacher was an aggressive person. If he were to lay his hands on them, given the disparity in their strength, it would be impossible for them to stand up against him.

After all, even the strongest person among them, Mu Xueqing, was only at Pixue realm. Given their strength, it was impossible for them to stand against a Tongxuan realm cultivator.

"How about this? If he were to really lay his hands on us, let's record the scene down using a Record Crystal and find a way to send it to the Teacher Guild. I don't believe that the guild will ignore such a matter!"

"It is a good idea, but given how that teacher dared to beat up a student before the principal, elders, and so many teachers, he must have connections there. Or perhaps he might even be backed by the academy. If we were to screw this matter up, he might make things worse for us!"

"Indeed! If he were to know that we are plotting his downfall, won't he oppress us even further?"

...

The crowd proposed several more plans, but they were all vetoed.

Given how their new teacher was able to beat up a student before so many teachers, he must have had the backing of the principal. Otherwise, he wouldn't dare to act so brazenly.

The idea of recording down the scene was not bad, but if it were to land in his hands before reaching the Teacher Guild, they would have a tough life ahead of them.

They had devise a plan properly so as to solve the problem once and for all. Otherwise, once they were to alarm him, their life would just get worse.

"What should we do? Senior, do you have any ideas?"

After racking their brains, they found that they were unable to think of a feasible plan. Eventually, everyone turned their sights to Mu Xueqing.

She was the de facto leader of the class, and everyone obeyed her words.

"I do have an idea!" Mu Xueqing's eyes suddenly lit up. Looking at the crowd, she said, "We are all students, and if we were to try to torment our teacher, once the Teacher Guild learns of it, we'll surely be punished. Or even worse, if the word of the matter were to spread, our reputation might fall to the gutters!"

The crowd nodded.

In this world, teachers were an esteemed existence and students were expected to obey their teacher's commands. If it was discovered that they tried to harm their own teacher, they would definitely suffer the condemnation of the public, and their families wouldn't let them off easily as well.

"Then what should we do?" Meng Tao asked anxiously.

"Since we can't do anything to our teacher, then... we should still be allowed to ask questions, right?"

A mischievous glint appeared in Mu Xueqing's eyes. "There are quite a few students in our class who like painting, tea ceremony, formations, equipment forging, pill forging... we can ask questions about these! If he is unable to answer those questions, let's see if he still has the cheek to remain here!"

"That's a good idea!"

"This way, not only will we not offend him, he will also be too embarrassed to remain here. Two birds with one stone!"

"That's a good plan..."

Hearing Mu Xueqing's idea, everyone's eyes lit up.

This was indeed a good plan.

Not only would they not offend the other party, they could also humiliate him at the same time.

"Wait... he is supposed to be a teacher guiding us on our cultivation. If we were to ask about these, he could just say that he isn't adept in those occupations. If so, our plan will be foiled!"

One of the female students spoke up.

Every teacher had their own expertise. Given Tianwu Academy's size, it was natural that they had teachers specializing in the various occupations as well. It was clear that they were up to something if they were to pose all of these questions to a single teacher.

Besides, as a teacher specializing in cultivation, it wasn't embarrassing for him to be unable to answer questions on other occupations!

After all, it wasn't possible for one to be adept in all occupations!

"I have already thought of that as well. We can just exert some pressure on him!" Mu Xueqing seemed to have already thought of a countermeasure, and a hint of a smile flashed across her beautiful eyes.

"Exert some pressure on him?"

"That's right! Later, when that teacher arrives, I will say that I have met with Master Teacher Zhang Xuan and he has expressed the intention to accept me as his student!" Mu Xueqing smiled.

"If that's the case, with Zhang shi as a backing, that teacher will surely be intimidated. He probably will be hesitant to go too far, and he will be too embarrassed to admit to knowing nothing at all as well... just that, if Zhang shi were to realize that we had made use of his name, won't we be in trouble?"

A student asked hesitantly.

"How is that possible? Zhang shi is an amazing genius, not to mention, he's a 2-star master teacher as well. We probably won't even get a chance to meet him in our entire life! Who asked him to suddenly become so famous all of a sudden, so much that everyone in the streets is talking about him? Besides, it's just a name, he probably won't ever find out about it!"

Mu Xueqing flung her hair.

The world that Zhang shi lived in was vastly different from theirs, it was impossible for them to ever be associated with him. Since he had become a huge topic in the past two days, they could make use of his name to intimidate that aggressive teacher.

"Alright, let's do it this way then..."

After contemplating for a moment, the group felt that there wasn't too much of a problem with the plan and they nodded in agreement.

"Un, when that teacher arrives, make sure not to display your hostility. All of you must be respectful to him so as to not allow him to grab hold of any of your handles!"

Mu Xueqing instructed.

"Yes!" The group answered.

...

"Is this the class I will be taking?"

Just when the group was busy plotting against Zhang Xuan, Zhang Xuan himself was currently standing outside the classroom, looking around to verify that he had come to the right location.

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Chapter 323: You're Expelled!

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

After Liu laoshi had settled the problems of the two students, Principal Xie no longer doubted his capability and passed the class token over.

Based on his teaching experience in Hongtian Academy, he knew that each of these tokens represented a student. Placing them in his storage ring, he started walking toward his classroom.

The school was vast, and he got lost several times. It was only after grabbing a passerby and verifying the directions several times that he finally reached his classroom.

Jiya!

Pushing the door open, he walked in.

The classroom was much wider than those in Hongtian Academy. It was around seven to eight hundred meters square big, and the ground was forged using smooth bluestone. On the two ends, there was a sculpted savage beast each, adding an aura of grandness to the classroom.

In the center of the room, there were slightly more than a dozen of students surrounding a beautiful lady. They were absorbed in a discussion, and as such, none of them seemed to sense his presence.

Zhang Xuan shook his head.

The sound of him pushing the open wasn't loud, but it wasn't soft enough for him to go unnoticed either. For all of them to be oblivious to his presence, they were truly lacking in alertness.

Walking forward, he was just about to address them when he heard the content of their conversation.

"Senior, did you really meet Master Teacher Zhang Xuan yesterday? And he said that he wanted to take you in as his student?"

"That is Master Teacher Zhang Xuan, the number one genius of Tianwu Kingdom! I really want to meet him too... Senior, if you were to become his student, you must bring me to meet him. I am his loyal fan!"

"Same here..."

The students surrounding that lady had faces flushed with excitement, as if they were fans talking about their idol.

"Met me? And I intended to take her in as my student?"

Zhang Xuan was stunned. He hurriedly took a closer look at that lady.

He was certain that he had never met that girl before, needless to say, accepting that lady as his student.

Besides, he spent the entire day at the Master Teacher Pavilion yesterday, and he came here for the public recruitment right after leaving the library. Thus, how could he have met a Tianwu Academy student?

After all, he was someone who didn't even know where the academy was at...

"Zhang shi is currently in the midst of conducting a mission for his 2-star master teacher examination, and by the time he's back, he will already be a 2-star master teacher. Even though it'll be difficult, I will plead with him to conduct a lecture for us..."

The lady in the middle grinned. However, halfway through her words, she suddenly noticed Zhang Xuan and she frowned, "Who are you? Why are you in our classroom?"

Huala!

The moment she said those words, the students surrounding her immediately turned around to stare at Zhang Xuan with a guarded expressions.

"I have come under the dispatchment of the academy to be your teacher for this term!" Facing their gazes, Zhang Xuan said.

"Our teacher?"

The students were taken aback.

As the recording in the Record Crystal was taken from quite a distance away, they weren't able to see Zhang Xuan's appearance clearly. However, after hearing that he had beaten a student up, they thought that he would be a bulky person. They didn't think that he would look so refined.

Liu Cheng, whom Zhang Xuan was impersonating, was a twenty-four-year-old young man with a slim build. Even though Zhang Xuan thought that the other party's appearance was far from a match to his, at the very least, it was still pleasant to the eye.

"Paying respect to teacher!"

The lady in the center coughed, and only then did everyone recover from their daze. They hurriedly bowed and greeted Zhang Xuan.

"Un! My name is Liu Cheng, and you all can call me Liu laoshi. I will be guiding you all on your cultivation from now onward!"

After that, Zhang Xuan walked up to the lecture stand and sat down. Then, he turned to the lady in the center and asked, "You have met Master Teacher Zhang Xuan?"

"Reporting to Liu laoshi, it was just a stroke of good luck!"

Mu Xueqing hurriedly nodded her head.

"So you really met him? May I know how he looks like?" Zhang Xuan continued asking.

"This..."

Not expecting Liu laoshi to ask such a question, Mu Xueqing hesitated for a moment before answering, "He is slightly taller than Liu laoshi, and he has a muscular build. When I met him then, he was dressed in a green robe. His eyes are electrifying and his smile is charming. He gives a feeling of one who is unsullied by the world, as though a deity in the heavens..."

Even though she had heard numerous stories about Zhang shi, no one had ever described his appearance!

Even so, she had no choice but to answer Liu laoshi's question. If she didn't, it would definitely incur the other party's suspicion. Thus, she could only describe him based on her imagination.

A bizarre expression appeared on Zhang Xuan's face.

Zhang Xuan was at least aware of how high he stood. Since when did he possess such outstanding appearance?

"Based on my knowledge, if a 2-star master teacher intends to accept a student, countless people would definitely jump at that opportunity. Furthermore, Master Teacher Zhang Xuan is a genius among geniuses, so there must be many talented students interested in coming under his tutelage. So, why would he accept you as his student?"

He was already sure that the other party was lying, and based on the expressions of the crowd, he could roughly deduce what they were up to. Thus, Zhang Xuan continued questioning.

"I..."

Not expecting this aggressive teacher to ask such difficult questions, Mu Xueqing swayed from side to side. Suppressing the urge to spurt blood, she mustered her courage and continued on with the story, "I helped him on a minor affair yesterday, and upon realizing that my talent is still acceptable, Zhang shi decided to take me in. As for the details... I don't really know either!"

"I see... since Zhang shi is willing to take you in, as a normal teacher, I don't think that I'm qualified to vie with him over a student. You do have the right to choose your teacher as well. Here is your identity token, you should go to him!"

Flicking his wrist, Zhang Xuan took out a token and threw it over.

Zhang Xuan didn't know who the lady was, but her blood was infused into the token. By matching the aura of the two, Zhang Xuan was still able to find her token easily.

"What do you mean..."

Mu Xueqing subconsciously grabbed the token, but she was in a daze.

This wasn't how it should have gone.

It was impossible for one to only have a single teacher in his entire life. It should be an honor for a student to have a master teacher value his students.

Shouldn't Liu laoshi value her more after hearing that Zhang shi was interested in accepting her?

What did he mean by throwing the token over?

"I don't mean anything!" Zhang Xuan shrugged casually. Lifting his eyelid slightly, he said, "It just means that... you're expelled!"

"Expelled..."

Mu Xueqing's body shuddered, and she nearly spurted a mouthful of blood.

I am a genius! Regardless of where I go, I am someone who all teachers want under their tutelage. Yet, to expel me at first sight?

Are you sure you aren't joking?

"That's right. As a student, instead of studying, you choose to use your wits to fool your teacher... of what use are you to me? Don't worry, I'll report this matter to the academy and have them post an announcement to inform all students of the matter. Thus, you can feel free to go to Zhang shi!"

Zhang Xuan said calmly.

"I..."

Mu Xueqing's body trembled.

Due to her appearance and her talent, she was one of the most celebrated students in the academy. If the entire school were to know of her expulsion, how could she face others in the future?

She knew that this teacher was eccentric, but... this was way too eccentric!

Based on her predictions, even if the other party didn't believe that she was acquainted with Zhang shi, he would at least be intimidated.

After all, what if, against all odds, she was really acquainted with Zhang shi? Even the principal would have to take her seriously if that was the case.

Yet, this fellow... he didn't even bother to weigh the consequences before expelling her from his class...

If scoring poorly in the Teacher Qualification Examination was the most shameful matter for a teacher, then being expelled was the most shameful matter for a student.

Even if her cultivation were to reach a high level, this blemish would continue to remain with her no matter where she goes.

"I am not fooling teacher..."

Gritting her teeth, Mu Xueqing hurriedly spoke up.

"You aren't fooling me?"

Zhang Xuan shook his head. Standing up, he placed his hands behind his back and walked slowly around the classroom. "Firstly, despite the sound I made coming in, you, as a Pixue realm cultivator, didn't notice me at all. Instead, you continued chatting with the others. Do you think that it makes sense?"

"You chose to disregard the presence of a teacher, this is flouting Clause 17 of the student guidelines of Tianwu Academy, disrespecting one's teacher. In severe cases, one is even susceptible to being expelled!"

"Also, to intentionally say that you know Master Teacher Zhang Xuan before me... let's put aside the question of whether it is real or not. If it is real, it means that you are using Zhang shi's reputation to oppress me. Based on Clause 42 of the student guidelines, making use of your background to disrespect one's teacher or even threaten him is prohibited. In severe cases, one might even be expelled!"

"On the other hand, if it is false, that means that you are lying to your teacher. This is flouting Clause 45 of the student guidelines, spreading false rumors to mislead or deceive a teacher. This is also a clause going against whom calls for expulsion!"

"Regardless of which it is, if we were to operate strictly by the rules, you will be expelled. What else do you have to say for yourself?"

The student guidelines of Tianwu Academy were pasted all over the academy. On his way here, Zhang Xuan had passed by it numerous times, and he had long memorized them all.

This bunch of children wanted to climb over his head... since that was the case, he should first teach them that he wasn't one to be trifled with!

"I..."

Mu Xueqing's face became devoid of color. Staggering backward, she stared at Zhang Xuan as though he was a monster.

Didn't he just arrive at the academy?

Why is he so familiar with the student guidelines?

More importantly... I thought that he is a person who settles matters physically! Why are his verbal skills equally powerful?

"Pack up your things and leave! I welcome students with their own opinions and thoughts, but I don't welcome students who fan others to stand against me!"

Zhang Xuan gestured.

With just a single word, this lady was able to get the other students to greet him. It was clear that she wielded great prestige among the group.

If he didn't intimidate them on the first meeting, it would be impossible for Zhang Xuan to control them in the future.

Teaching wasn't confining one's students to follow strictly by one's instructions. However, if Zhang Xuan failed to establish his superior position on the first meeting, he wouldn't be able to control them once they rebelled. More importantly... the students wouldn't learn anything like that.

They would underestimate you, and naturally, they wouldn't learn properly from you as well.

"Teacher... Senior Mu is the most talented student in our class. Despite being only eighteen this year, she has already reached Pixue realm. She is our goal and direction, so we beseech teacher to rescind your order!"

Seeing that the new teacher was going to expel their leader as soon as he arrived, Meng Tao immediately stood forward.

"Most talented student? Goal and direction?"

"She started training when she was seven, and it has been eleven years since then. During that time, she consumed three Acupoint Soothing Pill and ten other pills, but even so, she only managed to open twelve acupoints, giving her a strength of 16 ding."

"Despite having learned the Floating Water Palm for three years, she has only reached Minor Accomplishment in it. Furthermore, she isn't adept in it yet, and in a battle, she is unable to bring out its full might!"

"On top of that, at least seven of her acupoints are completely sealed by her turbid zhenqi, making it difficult for her to advance in her cultivation. Even reaching Tongxuan realm will be a huge hurdle for her..."

At that point, Zhang Xuan turned to Meng Tao and spoke composedly, "This... can be called talented as well? You must be joking!"

"I..."

Mu Xueqing's face immediately turned as pale as a sheet of paper.

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Chapter 324: The Dumbfounded Students

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

Everyone knew that her cultivation speed was amazing, and that she was a genius.

However, none of them knew that it was because of her clan. Furthermore, due to the excessive number of pills she had consumed in the past few years, pill poison had accumulated in her body, making it extremely difficult for her to raise her cultivation.

Otherwise, she could have long applied for graduation upon reaching Pixue realm. She wouldn't have to remain in the academy all this while.

Not a single teacher had noticed her condition, not even the previous teacher who she was fond of. Yet, this person was able to point out her condition accurately despite having just met her. This was way too fearsome!

Could it be that... he wasn't an aggressive teacher, but someone who possessed true capability?

Mu Xueqing's body trembled.

If that wasn't the case, how was he able to tell that seven acupoints had been sealed with her turbid zhenqi and that it would be hard for her to reach Tongxuan realm with just a single gaze?

Meng Tao also didn't expect this teacher to know so much either. Even though he had been with Senior Mu daily for several years, he didn't know of this matter either. Frozen on the spot, he wanted to speak up for his senior, but couldn't find the words to say.

"In the previous academy tournament, Senior Mu was ranked number ten. She is one of the most talented geniuses in the academy, and everyone agrees on it. Why... are you saying that she isn't a genius?"

A female student couldn't accept Zhang Xuan's judgement.

"Being a genius isn't about how far one can progress in a limited period of time, but how far one is able to go! It is incredible that she has reached Pixue realm at her age, but due to pill poison accumulating in her body and the fact that she has cultivated a mindset of reliance on them, her future growth is limited!"

Zhang Xuan shook his head.

Since he was taking over the class, he was given basic information on the students. Matching it with the students, he could tell that this lady with appearance that could match Wang Ying's was the strongest student in the class, Mu Xueqing.

Knowing her name, it wasn't too difficult to look into her background.

Mu Xueqing's father was a famous 2-star apothecary. What others deemed as incomparably valuable pills wasn't anything much to her.

While it provided her an edge over the other students, it also created a fatal flaw for her future cultivation.

Even though Zhang Xuan didn't use the Library of Heaven's Path, given his Soul Depth of 10.1 and his expertise as an apothecary, he was able to discern and deduce Mu Xueqing's condition with a glance.

After all, he used his own strength to take the 2-star master teacher examination. If he couldn't even see this much, it would have been impossible for him to pass the first four tests.

This Mu Xueqing's cultivation was not bad, but she was too reliant on pills. This was detrimental to her future growth.

All medicine possessed poison, and the same applied for pills as well. Of course, that was assuming that the pills didn't reach the level of an Inscribed Pill.

Be it Formation, Satiation, or Perfection... considerable amount of impurities still remained in those pills. Without pure zhenqi to wash away these impurities, it was very easy for the pill poison to accumulate and block one's acupoints, slowing down the progress of one's cultivation.

This was precisely the reason why many people choose not to consume pills unless they were unable to achieve a breakthrough with their own strength.

It was just like with an illness. If one could tide through it easily, very few people would choose to resort to medicine even if they knew that medicine would help them recover faster.

Her current cultivation speed was outstanding. Furthermore, with a 2-star apothecary of a father guiding her along, her foundation was strong as well. However, as time passed, she would slowly lose out to her peers.

In fact, it was a huge question whether she could even reach Tongxuan realm or not.

The pill poison was one problem, but the mindset she formed which made her reliant on pills was another one. As she achieved breakthroughs in her cultivation relying on medicine, she had already lost confidence in herself.

"She isn't a genius. In fact, you are in a much better position than her!"

Zhang Xuan turned to the female student who had just spoken up for Mu Xueqing and said, "Even though your cultivation is only at Pigu realm primary stage, you have trained your physical body well, and your State of Mind is steady as well. If I'm not wrong, there's a beast tamer in your family who used the blood essence of a savage beast to help you raise your cultivation."

"Such a method is similar to consuming medicine to raise one cultivation, but as the blood essence of savage beasts is more compatible with the human body, not only will it not hinder your cultivation, it will even make your muscles more compact, thus raising your strength!"

"If I'm not wrong, you should be capable of battling against Pigu realm intermediate stage opponents!"

"I..."

The female student nearly leaped in shock.

Her father was a 1-star beast tamer, and before she reached Pigu realm, she had consumed the blood essence of a savage beast. This made her physical body significantly stronger than an ordinary cultivator's, thus granting her the strength to fight against those with cultivation exceeding hers.

She had only told this matter to a few good friends, so it was impossible for the academy to know of it. Yet, this teacher was able to point it out with a single glance...

This was way too scary!

"However... while the blood essence of a savage beast is not bad, there's a saying that 'the weak must be slowly nourished'. There won't be severe side effects if a male were to consume it, but for you... the body of a female is already weak, and while triggering your physical functions through the blood essence might grant you significant strength in the short run, as time goes by, all kinds of invisible side effects will start appearing."

"It is just as if a severely ill patient consumed a thousand-year-old ginseng, not only will his illness not be treated, it might even claim his life!"

Zhang Xuan shook his head.

The female student's skin was slightly red, and her blood was boiling forcefully. Her condition showed signs of the beast tamer secret arts. Even though it wasn't written in the information provided by the academy, it wasn't too difficult for Zhang Xuan to deduce this much.

"You as well!"

After speaking on the two ladies' circumstances, Zhang Xuan's gaze landed on Meng Tao. "You have a reserved personality, and there is a shroud of scholarly aura around you. Also, I can see several calluses between your thumb and your middle finger, and I don't think that there's any battle technique that would result in that. Furthermore, there is a slight patch of darkness at the corner of your shirt. If I'm not wrong, you should be fond of painting, and you often imitate the drawings of experts!"

"However, it is a pity that you aren't looking deep enough, resulting in your failure to capture the essence and spirit of whatever you see. If you are to continue painting like that, it is unlikely that you will ever create a Spiritual Canvas or Infused Intentions level painting."

"As for you, you must be interested in tea ceremony! I can catch a slight aroma of tea from you and it smells refreshing as well. However, you have been spending more time on the Way of Tea than your cultivation, causing the latter to stagnate and become unstable... if I'm not wrong, you haven't achieved a breakthrough in a year's time. Furthermore, your will in cultivation is lacking. You often ignore your teacher's instructions and spend your time thinking about other matters. You are the typical example of a person who gets easily distracted by toys..."

With his hands behind his back, Zhang Xuan pointed out the conditions of four students straightforwardly, and there was no mistake in his words at all. Everyone was shocked and dumbfounded; the entire room fell silent.

What in the world was going on?

They had just decided to intentionally ask him questions on their other occupations so as to embarrass him, but... before they could say anything, he had deduced their occupations and spoke about them casually!

Could it be that this teacher... was skilled in all occupations?

If that wasn't the case, how could he deduce so easily based on an ink mark on the corner of his shirt and the scent on the other's body that Meng Tao liked painting and the other male student was interested in tea ceremony?

This... was way too scary!

"Alright, show me your battle techniques!"

Seeing that he had managed to amaze everyone, Zhang Xuan turned to the remaining students and said.

The situation with the first four was more apparent, and he was well-versed in their occupations as well. Thus, he was able to speak of them easily.

On the other hand, he couldn't do the same for the remaining students.

Tianwu Academy was completely different from that countryside Hongtian Academy. Other than cultivating, most students would take on an occupation that they liked as well.

Even though most of them wouldn't even reach the level of an apprentice, it could serve as a hobby and a way to train their State of Mind.

It was just like Liu shi and the others learning the Way of Tea from Elder Tian.

Their understanding of tea ceremony hadn't reached the level of an apprentice, but this didn't hinder their interest in it at all.

These fellows were the same as well. Even though they had learned a little of their supporting occupation, they were still a considerable distance away from reaching the level of an apprentice.

"Yes!"

Amazed by the teacher before them, the others immediately executed their battle technique, not daring to hesitate at all.

In an instant, the howling of the wind roared in the entire classroom.

A moment later, Zhang Xuan nodded his head.

He had to say that the students in Tianwu Academy were at a much higher caliber than those in Hongtian Academy. Regardless of whether it was their battle techniques, cultivation techniques, or their understanding toward their supporting occupation, it wasn't something that Zhu Hong, Mo Xiao, and the others could compare to.

"The battle technique [White Canary in the Clear Skies] you practiced has swift and powerful movements, but you aren't able to catch up with their pace. Furthermore, your zhenqi is too lacking to train in this technique. If you were to meet with a slightly stronger opponent, without even moving, if he were to attack your armpit, you would immediately fall in defeat!"

"The reason why there is such a situation is because you aren't serious about your training. If I'm not wrong, your supporting occupation should be a blacksmith! A blacksmith needs to refine all kinds of ores and metals, and this requires great strength. Wielding the hammer for extended periods of time caused the strength of your right arm to far surpass your left, resulting in imbalance. A bird has a pair of wings, and if one wing is stronger than the other, it would be weird if a problem didn't occur!"

"You must be interested in appraising. However, it is a pity that appraising is a money-burning occupation. Judging from how tattered your uniform is, you must have worn it for more than half a year already. Which is to say... your family isn't too well off. Despite not possessing the money, why are you learning appraisal? Without coming into contact with true treasures, will you be able to identify a treasure if you see one?"

"As for you, you are dedicated to your cultivation training, and as such, you didn't pick any supporting occupation. This isn't anything much, but did you realize that even though you are diligent in your training, you didn't improve much? This isn't because you aren't working hard enough or are lacking in talent. It is because you are cultivating wrongly! It should have been a wide and open cultivation technique, but you cultivated it as though a close and confined technique..."

...

Walking among the students, every single seemingly casual word of Zhang Xuan would cause a student to pale and sweat profusely.

This Liu laoshi was able to tell the problems in their cultivation and supporting occupations through their battle technique, and his words were spot-on!

His discerning ability was truly at a frightening level.

It was almost... terrifying!

Their supporting occupations were at a very low mastery, barely coming into contact with the basics, but they spanned over seven to eight occupations. Furthermore, Zhang Xuan spoke the same words as those said by their supporting occupation teachers. This wasn't a feat that a normal cultivation teacher should be capable of.

In fact... they felt that even a master teacher might not be as discerning as him!

"T-this..."

Mu Xueqing was completely dumbfounded.

It was just a moment ago that she confidently said that as long as they asked him some questions on their occupations, this new teacher would definitely back down. Yet...

Before they could say anything, the other party had already stripped them bare, pointing out to them all their flaws.

Aren't you a teacher who dealt with students through violence?

Aren't you just a normal teacher, one who hasn't even reached the level of a star teacher?

Why do you seem to know everything?

Why do you seem to be adept in everything?

This...

What kind of monster did the academy send them?!

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Chapter 325: The Shocked Elders

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

Elder Hall.

The teachers who came for the public recruitment had all left and Principal Xie was gone as well. All that were left were the elders.

"The class Bai Fan laoshi left behind is one of the best classes in the entire academy, as well as the one that's the hardest to take. I wonder if Liu laoshi can subdue them and make them listen to him obediently!"

Upon recalling the arrangements made previously, an elder shook his head.

The students in the class possessed superior talent, and on top of their high cultivation, most of them had strong backgrounds as well.

Putting everything aside, their leader Mu Xueqing was the only daughter of a 2-star Apothecary Mu Dan of the Apothecary Guild, and she was well doted on by him. Putting aside her high cultivation, she had many tricks up her sleeves as well. No ordinary teacher would dare to offend her.

"I'm afraid that it will be difficult. Those students are troublesome. Have you forgotten the teachers we sent to them before? They didn't even last for a day!"

Another elder flashed a bitter smile. "If that wasn't the case, we wouldn't have to conduct a public recruitment for them!"

The main reason why a public recruitment was conducted during the term wasn't just because of the departure of those teachers.

After all, if a teacher could take ten students, taking twenty wasn't too much of a problem either. They could simply scatter the class and spread them out over the others, and assign a few teachers over to take them.

However, the main problem was that... these students refused to cooperate!

Especially this class.

They had sent several teachers already, but none of them lasted for more than a few days before being chased away.

Furthermore, due to backgrounds of the most of them, the academy wasn't in a position to punish them too harshly as well. After a few rounds, no teachers were willing to accept them anymore.

Left without a choice, they could only hire teachers from the outside.

"I think that there's still a chance though. Those two students from before, one of them had an aversion toward studying while the other one was prone to violence; these were the most difficult problems a teacher could face. Yet, this Liu laoshi easily solved them and even reprimanded the principal at that. He isn't any simple figure as well. He might really be able to subdue all of these students!"

"This Liu laoshi is indeed gutsy, but each of those students is a thorny one. I wonder what kind of conflicts would emerge when the two of them meet one another!"

"Say, do you all think that they will fight?"

An elder suddenly asked worriedly.

"This..."

Everyone suddenly froze.

If it was any other teacher, in fear of the Teacher Guild and in consideration of their identity, it would be impossible for them to lay their hands on the students. However, they couldn't say the same about that Liu laoshi.

He even dared to insult the principal, a 1-star master teacher, to be blind. Not to mention, he had beaten that male student in front of their eyes...

If Mu Xueqing and the others went overboard, it seemed very likely that he would get physical with them!

If these students were volatile chemicals, then this Liu laoshi must be an explosive one... didn't you see the principal's brooding expression? He left as soon as the public recruitment came to an end.

"This is bad! If they were to fight, given the background of those students, it might cause a huge uproar!"

"That's right, we have to stop them!"

At this, the elders' faces immediately twisted in fear. Unable to remain still, they hurriedly stood up and rushed over.

If the incident of a teacher beating up a student were to occur here, then Tianwu Kingdom would surely become the laughingstock of all surrounding kingdoms!

The Master Teacher Pavilion might even be urged into action!

Realizing the graveness of the matter, the elders hurriedly rushed to Zhang Xuan's classroom.

"It's over, look!"

Before even reaching the classroom, an elder wailed in agony.

Hearing the shout, everyone hurriedly turned their gazes over and saw a female student kneeling motionlessly outside the classroom.

Upon seeing her appearance, everyone staggered and they nearly keeled over.

This was the most troublesome student in the class, Mu Xueqing!

This lass had good talent, and her cultivation was high as well. She was already a handful of trouble normally, but to have her kneel at the door... Liu laoshi, you are about to smash through the heavens!

They hurried over.

"Xueqing, why are you kneeling outside? Hurry up and get up!"

An elder walked up and tried to help her up.

As this elder wasn't even a master teacher apprentice, he had to address Mu Xueqing's father as Apothecary Mu respectfully whenever he saw the other party. Upon seeing this shocking sight, how could he remain motionless.

"I can't!"

Mu Xueqing shook her head. "I've done wrong so it's only deserving for me to be punished. If I were to stand up now, Liu laoshi will surely expel me. If so, how can I face my father?"

"We will deal with that Liu laoshi for you, so don't worry..."

They thought that she would plead with them to deal with Liu laoshi, but never in their wildest imaginations did they expect her to say such words. Stunned, Elder Bai found the words he was about to say stuck in his mouth. With widened eyes, he asked, "Ah, what did you say?"

"It's... deserving for you to be punished? You have done wrong?"

The other elders were stunned as well.

Mu Xueqing was nicknamed the 'Little Demoness' in the academy due to her unruliness. Yet, to be kneeling at the door and admitting her mistakes...

Why did it seem so inconceivable?

"Indeed! After Liu laoshi's guidance, I realized my own inadequacies, and I am willing to study under him as his student. Elders, there's no need to persuade me anymore." There was a determined look in Mu Xueqing's eyes.

That Liu laoshi was able to point out her physical problems, as well as those of other students, with a single glance. Without a doubt, he was a person of great capabilities.

She had heard her father mentioning the issue of pill poison as well. It was something unavoidable when one consumed pills.

Given how Liu laoshi was able to point out her problems so easily, he might have a solution to it. It wasn't easy for her to come by such an opportunity and such a formidable teacher. If she allowed this chance to pass her by, she would definitely regret it for life.

She might be rebellious, but she wasn't a fool.

"Guidance? Realized your own inadequacies?"

Elder Bai and the others were perplexed.

When did this Mu Xueqing become so obedient?

If she was like from the start, she wouldn't have scared away several teachers.

"Elder Bai, is it possible that Liu laoshi has already... started?"

An elder suddenly thought of something and he paled.

A shudder suddenly ran through everyone's bodies.

Given that it was Liu laoshi they were talking about, it was possible!

That male student from before also changed his attitude after being beaten up. Could this Mu Xueqing be the same as well?

As such a thought ran through their mind, they subconsciously turned to look at her. However, they couldn't find a single injury on her.

Jiya!

Just when they were perplexed over the matter, the doors suddenly opened.

A student walked out. It was Meng Tao.

"Senior, teacher has asked for you to come in!"

"Yes!"

Hearing that she had obtained her teacher's permission, Mu Xueqing's eyelids leaped and she immediately charged in excitedly without even bidding the elders farewell.

"This... it doesn't seem like she has been beaten up..."

Baffled by the entire situation, an elder commented.

If she was beaten into submission, there should at least be some injuries on her! Even if she wasn't injured, she should harbor some resentment toward the other party. To run in excitedly the moment the teacher called for her to enter, to the point that her face was red in agitation...

Who in the world could look so happy and excited after being beaten up?

But... if she wasn't beaten up, why in the world would this wilful lass be kneeling obediently at the door?

"You're called Meng Tao, right?"

An elder hurriedly stopped Meng Tao before he could return to the classroom. "Your grandfather, Meng Fan, is a good friend of mine. We've met the other time as well!"

"Elder Jin!"

Only upon hearing someone call him did Meng Tao realize that there were so many people at the doorstep. Shocked, Meng Tao's body stiffened and he hurriedly clasped his fist.

This Elder Jin was a good friend of his grandfather and they've met many times.

"Did Liu laoshi... inflict any physical punishment on you all?"

Elder Jin asked.

The other elders pricked up their ears as well.

"Inflict physical punishment?" Meng Tao was taken aback. "Liu laoshi is such an amiable person, why would he inflict physical punishment on us?"

"Then... Mu Xueqing..." Elder Jin pointed.

"Oh, Senior Mu did it of her own volition. Teacher got her to pack up and leave this classroom to join the other classes, but senior was unwilling to. Thus, she kneeled outside in hope that teacher would change his mind!" Meng Tao said.

"Of her own volition?"

The elders glanced at one another.

Based on their previous experiences, if a teacher dared to talk to her like that, this young miss would have already rushed to the Elder Hall to cause a ruckus.

Why was she keeping silent this time, even willingly kneeling at the door?

"Elders, Liu laoshi is still in the midst of the lesson and I have to get back now. Farewell!"

After saying so, Meng Tao hurriedly rushed back into the classroom.

"This..."

Seeing that the fellow was the same as well, the elders couldn't help but open a slit in the classroom doors and peer in.

Through the slit, they could see the students standing respectfully before Liu laoshi. No matter what Liu laoshi asked them to do, they would immediately carry it out without protesting or hesitating at all.

Was this really that most unruly and troublesome class of the academy?

How did it suddenly change so abruptly?

Even if Liu laoshi was capable, how long has it been since he left the Elder Hall?

Adding it up, it was only an hour at most. In this time, he managed to whip the most rebellious students in the academy into obedience...

Can anyone tell me what is going on?

All of the elders felt dizzy.

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Chapter 326: Three Sentences

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

In the classroom.

Mu Xueqing was staring straight forward without blinking at all.

She thought that Liu laoshi would say something after calling her in, but he only got her to stand by in the corner while he continued to offer pointers to the other students one by one.

"During your cultivation, do you feel a slight blockage when your zhenqi flows through your chest?"

Walking up to a youngster, Liu laoshi said.

"Yes!" The youngster was shocked to hear Liu laoshi's words, but he still nodded.

"The cultivation technique you took up at the start is [Tianwu Fundamental Formula]. There isn't too much of a problem with your cultivation technique, but when you were trying to break through to the Zhenqi realm, you directed your zhenqi into the wrong meridian, causing a problem to occur with your body. Am I right?"

"That's right..."

The youngster clenched his fist and nodded.

That was true, but it was a matter of two years ago, and his previous teacher had already solved this trauma for him.

"After which, you switched to [Four Tributaries True Martial Formula]. This cultivation technique is slightly calmer than the former, and it did help to alleviate your problem. However, it doesn't solve the root of your problem, and as time went by, your hidden trauma worsened.

Liu laoshi looked at him calmly, "Listen to me, switch to [Eastern Blaze Art]!"

"Eastern Blaze Art?"

The corners of Mu Xueqing's mouth twitched.

That was the most violent cultivation technique Tianwu Academy had. Even ordinary cultivators had to be careful when practicing it, fearful that it might inflict some grievous injury on them. Given that the other party had already sustained a trauma, wasn't practicing this cultivation technique no different from courting death?

"I..." the youngster also realized that something was amiss, and his face distorted in distress.

"Rest assured, I am here. Nothing will happen to you!" Liu laoshi gestured grandly.

"Alright!" Clenching his teeth, the youngster nodded.

Eastern Blaze Art couldn't be considered a valuable cultivation technique, and there was a copy in the classroom. Taking the copy, the youngster flipped through it and started cultivating.

Driving his zhenqi according to the formula written inside the manual, the youngster's flushed and paled at intervals, as though he was suffering from irrepressible pain. Just when Mu Xueqing thought that he would fail to hold on and his cultivation would go berserk, his aura suddenly rose.

Boom!

The sound of zhenqi exploding resounded, and the aura within the other party's body suddenly soared swiftly.

"A br-breakthrough?"

Mu Xueqing uttered with quivering lips. Unable to comprehend the sight before her, her body trembled in shock.

The other students also stared at the seemingly inconceivable sight with eyes widened as though a gong.

As fellow peers who were together on a daily basis, they knew the situation of that youngster well. He had been stuck at his current cultivation realm for more than half a year without progressing at all.

The previous teacher had tried many methods, and even Mu Xueqing had pleaded with her father for a precious pill for him... but it was all to no avail.

His previous teacher said that he could only persevere and progress slowly. It would take at least two years before his cultivation could start to advance... in the end, just by getting him to change a cultivation technique, Liu laoshi managed to induce a breakthrough in his cultivation...

Did it have to be so exaggerated?

"Do you find it difficult for you to harness your strength? It is because of your zhenqi..."

Ignoring everyone's shock, Liu laoshi acted as though he had only done something insignificant and immediately went on to the next student.

Ten minutes later, the student's aura also rose suddenly, and with a 'boom!', he broke through his bottleneck and achieved an advancement in his cultivation realm.

Peng! Peng! Peng! Peng!

In less than four hours, all of the students in the classroom had their cultivation raised significantly.

This Liu laoshi was as though an enlightened sage. With just a few words, he was able to point out the problems in their cultivation and resolve them.

With a pale face, Mu Xueqing's entire body stiffened.

This sight was too shocking.

Those who were weak-minded would have probably gone insane on the spot.

Her father was a 2-star apothecary, and due to his esteemed standing, she had met with numerous star teachers and even master teachers!

But even the master teachers she met weren't so incredible as to get a person to achieve a breakthrough in their cultivation with just a few casual words...

This was completely beyond her comprehension.

"How could he be so incredible? He is... probably on par with Zhang shi..."

Swallowing a mouthful of saliva, at this moment, Mu Xueqing felt nothing but reverence for Liu laoshi.

When she first heard of how this teacher inflicted physical punishment on a student, she was extremely angry, and she even found herself loathing him.

Yet, after seeing the other party inducing a breakthrough in each of them with just a few casual pointers, she realized that he was an extraordinarily capable teacher

He didn't pale in comparison to her idol, Master Teacher Zhang Xuan.

When did the academy recruit such a monster?

Looking at the other students, Mu Xueqing trembled once more.

The gazes they directed toward Liu laoshi had changed as well--they were filled with admiration and respect.

From the looks of it, even if she were to try to incite them to stand against him, none of them would listen to her.

In less than four hours, he managed to surpass her position in the group's hearts...

Even though this was all happening before her eyes, she couldn't help but suspect that her eyes were playing tricks on her.

...

"It's your turn!"

Disregarding the frenzied Mu Xueqing, Zhang Xuan walked up to another youngster.

This was the final student in the class, Lu Chong. He was currently at Fighter 5-dan Dingli realm primary stage.

Upon seeing the teacher, the youngster didn't say anything. He simply clasped his fist and stood silently on the spot.

"Liu laoshi, Lu Chong doesn't like to speak..." Meng Tao hurriedly walked up.

"Un! I heard that his cultivation and family background are ordinary, and it is because he kneeled at the entrance of Tianwu Academy for seven days straight that an exception was made for him?"

Recalling the information provided by the academy, Zhang Xuan asked.

Most of the students in this class had huge backgrounds, but this Lu Chong was an exception. The part on his background and family was vague, and the only thing detailed was that he had kneeled outside for seven days straight before his admission.

"Yes!" Meng Tao nodded.

"To be able to kneel for so long to become a student of the academy, you do have the tenacity. However, cultivation isn't all about tenacity!" Zhang Xuan shook his head.

Without a doubt, the student before him was the most stoic student in the class. However, despite having being admitted into the academy for two years, he had only managed to progress from Pigu realm primary stage to Dingli realm primary stage.

"The cultivation technique you are currently practicing is Frost Martial Technique, right?"

Zhang Xuan continued looking at Lu Chong.

The youngster nodded silently.

"Please don't blame him, Liu laoshi. He is like that. We have been together for more than two years, but he hasn't spoken more than three sentences..."

Seeing how the fellow was still reluctant to talk, Meng Tao quickly explained awkwardly.

"Oh? He hasn't spoken more than three sentences in two years?"

Zhang Xuan chuckled softly, "I will make him speak more than three sentences now!"

Meng Tao was taken aback, and the others expressed their disbelief as well.

Even Mu Xueqing couldn't help but shake his head.

This Lu Chong was no different from a mute. Even her, as Tianwu Academy's famous beauty, was unable to pry his mouth open. The previous teacher also failed to make him speak as well.

If not for the fact that they had heard him speak before, they would have thought that he was mute!

He hadn't even spoken three sentences in two years! To make him speak more three sentences now? How was that possible!

"You all don't believe me?"

Sensing the crowd's disbelief, Zhang Xuan asked. Then, he turned to the youngster before him and asked him as well, "You don't believe me as well?"

Lu Chong was still silent.

"Fine then..."

Not minding it, Zhang Xuan placed his hands behind his back and said, "If you were to cultivate on like that, you won't even reach Pixue realm in ten years. At this rate, you will be dead before you can... exact your vengeance!"

"Exact vengeance?"

Everyone was taken aback. Why did Liu laoshi suddenly bring up exacting some vengeance?

They had been with Lu Chong for two years, but they had never heard that he had a grudge against anyone!

Just when they were perplexed over the matter, they saw the seemingly mute youngster suddenly turning pale, and his body trembled in agitation. "Tea-teacher, how did you know that my goal is to exact vengeance?"

"You don't have to bother how I know of it! Your vengeance is both a motivation as well as a hindrance to your cultivation. You are suppressing your worries too deep within, and it has suppressed your cultivation, making it difficult for you to achieve a breakthrough. I know that the reason you refuse to speak is because you're afraid that you might accidentally speak of your enemy's name and make them aware of your existence."

Zhang Xuan said calmly.

"Don't worry, as long as you believe in me, I promise you that you will be able to exact your vengeance within ten days!"

"Ten days?"

Lu Chong found his words hard to believe, "This enemy... is a Tongxuan realm expert..."

He was only at Dingli realm primary stage whereas his enemy was a Tongxuan realm expert. There was a huge gap between the two, and it couldn't be covered that easily. Let alone ten days, even five years would be insufficient for him to catch up!

"It's your choice to choose whether you want to believe me or not! However... You only get this one chance!"

Zhang Xuan said.

"I..."

Conflicted, Lu Chong hesitated for a moment before gritting his teeth. His knees caved in and 'putong!', he kneeled on the floor.

"Liu laoshi, please guide me..."

"It has been more than three sentences..."

Hearing the duo's conversation, everyone flew into a frenzy.

...

Near the Master Teacher Pavilion, in a grand residence.

"Liu shi, how long will it take before teacher finishes his 2-star master teacher examination and returns?"

Zhao Ya asked.

"I don't know either. I've tried looking into the affair at the Master Teacher Pavilion this morning, and based on what I've got, he has already left the capital to conduct the mission, and they estimated that it would take at least ten days!"

Recalling the answer from the Master Teacher Pavilion, Liu Ling replied.

"That is quite long..." Zhao Ya's eyebrows furrowed into deep creases.

"Ten days isn't really long, it depends on how you look at it. How about I bring you all around Tianwu Royal City so that you all can expand your horizons?" Seeing the bitter look on the faces of Zhang Xuan's students, Liu Ling chuckled.

"Expand our horizons? Sure! Where are we going?" Yuan Tao's eyes lit up.

Tianwu Royal City was a city far grander than any of those in Tianxuan Kingdom. He had already wanted to explore the city, and upon hearing Liu shi's words, he could no longer hold back his excitement.

"Why don't I bring you all to Tianwu Academy first? That is the greatest academy in the thirteen surrounding kingdoms, a sacred land for cultivators. From time to time, the master teachers from the Master Teacher Pavilion would head there to conduct lectures. It might be good for you to take a look around there!"

Liu Ling pondered for a moment before replying.

"Master teachers conduct lectures there as well?"

"The greatest academy?"

"Zhang shi would take a minimum of ten days anyway, it would be good to take a look!"

...

Upon hearing that master teachers would conduct lessons there and that it was a sacred land for cultivators, everyone was moved.

"Furthermore, I heard that Tianwu Academy promotes a free learning environment, so we can enter the lesson of any teacher freely without reporting in advance. It would be good for you to listen to the lectures of other teachers as well!"

Liu Ling smiled.

"Alright!"

Hearing that they could listen in to any lessons they wanted, the crowd was excited.

Thrilled, Zhao Ya and the others immediately set off for Tianwu Academy.

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Chapter 327: Teacher, I Was Wrong!

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

"Teacher, can I... really exact vengeance within ten days?"

In the one-to-one tutoring room, Lu Chong kneeled before Zhang Xuan. Until now, he still found the situation hard to believe.

Shouldering a debt of bloodshed, he had never told anyone about his burden, and he never expressed it either. In order to prevent himself from revealing it in his dreams or such, he even feigned a mute. He was confident that he had hidden it well.

But this Liu laoshi was able to conclude that he was shouldering a huge grudge just by hearing of his past affairs and his cultivation state. His capability was way too fearsome!

More importantly... the other party promised him that he would be able to exact his vengeance within ten days!

His enemy was a Tongxuan realm cultivator! If it was that simple, he wouldn't have to cultivate as though his life was at stake for the past two years!

"Since I have promised you as such, I have my own ways. However... my method will be excruciating, and whether you can take it or not will be up to your will!" Zhang Xuan looked at the youngster.

He was extremely satisfied with this student of his.

In order to learn under a teacher to raise his cultivation, he was willing to kneel for seven days straight; for fear of revealing his secret, he pretended to be mute for two years straight. Regardless of which it was, it was a clear sign that he had strong mental fortitude and a resolute will.

His talent might not be anything much, but as long as he was groomed properly, his cultivation would definitely soar. It was just a matter of time before he surpassed Mu Xueqing.

Otherwise, Zhang Xuan wouldn't have said that much to him.

When accepting students, he valued mental fortitude and will more than anything else. As for talent, with his capability, it didn't mean anything to him.

"As long as I can have my revenge, I am willing to suffer any kind of pain!" Lu Chong clenched his fists tightly. His eyes were determined.

"Alright!"

Placing his hands behind his back, Zhang Xuan stared at him with deep eyes. "There's a special occupation which none is willing to come in contact with or bring up. Have you heard of poison masters?"

"I have!" Lu Chong nodded.

He had wanted to learn the art of a poison master back then, but he didn't have the connections to look for the Poison Hall.

"Teacher, could it be that..."

Lu Chong hesitated for a moment before asking doubtfully.

Wasn't poison master a job which was looked down on by the others? Could it be that Liu laoshi was a poison master?

Or did he want to impart to him the skills of a poison master?

"I am not a poison master, and I won't teach you that either!"

Seeing through his thoughts, Zhang Xuan shook his head. "I have a way that can raise your strength swiftly, but it will require the use of poison. Even though it won't be detrimental to your future cultivation, you will have to suffer excruciating pain. Furthermore, if you fail to endure it, you will die."

What he was referring to was the method to cultivate the Poison Body which he saw in the books in the Poison Hall.

Once one managed to successfully cultivate the Poison Body, not only would one be immune to the toxicity of poisons, one's strength, spirit, and agility would be enhanced significantly as well, granting one significantly higher fighting prowess.

Other than the Heaven's Path Divine Art, the only way to raise his strength immensely within the limited time he had was this.

Usually, when poison masters cultivated the Poison Body, they would consume poison and this would affect their longevity. Back then, the reason why Gu Mu sustained a trauma was due to this as well.

However, after the compilation of the Library of Heaven's Path, the detriments to the cultivation method had been reduced to the bare minimum. Even so, without the support of Heaven's Path zhenqi, it wouldn't be easy to cultivate it. One would have to suffer a great pain.

Since Lu Chong possessed strong mental fortitude, it was worth a try. Perhaps, he might produce outstanding results.

"Regardless of how much pain it puts me in, as long as it allows me to exact vengeance, I am willing to give it a try!"

Lu Chong's eyes were filled with resolve.

He only had this one opportunity.

While he was cultivating, his enemy wasn't resting either. Given his talent of only a single rise in a cultivation realm every two years, it was impossible for him to ever surpass the other party.

Since this Liu laoshi said that he could give him the strength to exact vengeance within ten days, he was willing to believe in the party.

He had seen with his own eyes how his fellow peers grew visibly stronger under his guidance. No matter how foolish he could be, it was obvious that he was a person of great means.

Seeing the resolve in the other party's eyes, Zhang Xuan nodded in satisfaction. Then, with a deep and slightly cold voice, he warned, "The cultivation technique that I am about to impart you must not be leaked to anyone. Otherwise, even if I don't do anything, you will suffer a recoil from your zhenqi and you will die tragically!"

"Yes!"

Lu Chong nodded. Raising a hand, he swore, "I, Lu Chong, swear to never impart the cultivation technique and secret arts Liu laoshi impart me to anyone else, and if I were to break my vow, may my soul dissipate!"

"Un!"

Zhang Xuan tapped on an acupoint on Lu Chong's body and discreetly sent a surge of zhenqi into his body.

The cultivation technique he was imparting to the other party was too powerful. If it were to leak out, it would bring trouble to him, as well as the world. Even though the other party had sworn to it, he himself needed to prepare a countermeasure as well.

After his study and research of poison, his Heaven's Path zhenqi was capable of turning into a tonic or a poison with a single thought.

If the other party were to seal his mouth tightly, this surge of zhenqi would clear away all of the obstacles lying in his meridians and raise his cultivation. However, if he were to abuse his strength, this surge of zhenqi could also have him killed in an instant.

"Cultivating the Poison Body requires the complementation of poison. I don't have such medicinal herbs on me at the moment, so I will impart the cultivation technique to you tomorrow! However, I will teach you another technique that can strengthen your physical body. You should learn it well as a strong physical body is required to withstand the lethal poison!"

After making preparations, Zhang Xuan looked him in the eye and said, "I will only recite the cultivation formula once. How much you remember and understand will depend on your ability. Don't let me down!"

"I won't let teacher down!" Lu Chong nodded.

"Very well, this physical body enhancement technique..."

Zhang Xuan started explaining.

The technique he was referring to was the Heaven's Path Golden Body. Of course, he imparted the simplified version which he imparted to Zhao Ya and the others as well.

Cultivating the Poison Body required one's body to come into contact with lethal poison. If one's body wasn't strong enough, it would be hard for one to hold on.

Even though this Heaven's Path Golden Body was inferior to the one which Zhang Xuan cultivated, it was still a product of the Library of Heaven's Path and it mustn't be underestimated. As long as one cultivated it seriously, it wouldn't be a problem for one to grow stronger swiftly.

"... and this is what we call a complete body!"

Soon, Zhang Xuan finished reciting the cultivation formula.

"Teacher, thank you for your bestowment!"

After hearing the formula of the technique, Lu Chong's body trembled and his face flushed in agitation.

Having studied in Tianwu Academy for two years, he had seen quite a few cultivation techniques and he also knew of a few physical body enhancement technique formulas.

Compared to the one which Liu laoshi had just taught him, they were all trash.

At the very least, this technique was at Phantom pinnacle or above!

If Liu laoshi were to auction it, it would definitely fetch an astronomical sum. Even the Tianwu royal family would go in a frenzy for it...

It was such a valuable technique, yet Liu laoshi taught it to him without asking for anything... This was a huge debt which he would never be able to repay.

"You should start cultivating!"

Ignoring the other party's agitation, Zhang Xuan waved his hands casually.

"Yes!"

Knowing that teacher didn't like to waste his words, Lu Chong hurriedly sat on the floor and started cultivating.

Following the Heaven's Path Golden Body's formula, Lu Chong drove his zhenqi on a specific path in his body, and after a moment, he felt an extremely comfortable and relaxing sensation gush through his body; all of the traumas he had sustained before instantaneously disappeared.

"Incredible!"

After an unknown period of time, a cracking sound echoed in the muscles throughout Lu Chong's body, and his strength rose significantly.

Hu!

Lu Chong opened his eyes.

At this moment, he felt as though he harnessed boundless strength in his body.

"Un, not bad. You managed to achieve Minor Accomplishment within two hours. This shows that you have a good foundation!"

Zhang Xuan nodded his head in satisfaction.

For revenge, the other party was willing to take all kind of pain, so he must have trained his body for this goal as well. Otherwise, it would have been impossible for him to reach Minor Accomplishment for the simplified version of Heaven's Path Golden Body within two hours.

"You can go out now. Your other classmates are probably anxious for you!"

After he was done with the cultivating the physical body enhancement technique, Zhang Xuan pushed the door and walked out.

It had been more than two hours since the duo entered, and the students outside were probably anxious from waiting already.

...

In the classroom.

"Liu laoshi said that... he would grant Lu Chong the strength to defeat a Tongxuan realm expert within ten days. Do you think that... it is possible?"

Until now, that student was unable to believe it.

"I don't know either. However, judging from how Liu laoshi was able to help us achieve breakthroughs in our cultivation just by giving us a few casual pointers, I doubt that his discernment is inferior to that of a master teacher!"

"I have heard the lessons of a master teacher before, and it is only slightly deeper than the lecture of our previous teacher. Compared to Liu laoshi... I think that their lessons are lacking!"

"Indeed... is he really just an ordinary teacher?"

Discussions sounded in the classroom.

Initially, they harbored deep hostility toward this teacher. However, the moment he started guiding them, everyone immediately realized that they had met with a good teacher and fell to his side.

"At Tongxuan realm, one's strength exceeds 100 ding, granting them the might to easily split open a tree. Lu Chong is currently only at Dingli realm primary stage, and that is two whole realms away from Tongxuan realm... how can he possibly reach Tongxuan realm in ten days under such conditions?"

Mu Xueqing shook her head.

She was at Pixue realm, and she knew how difficult it was to raise one's cultivation. It would already be incredible if Lu Chong could reach Dingli realm intermediate stage within ten days. To advance two whole realms and match a Tongxuan realm expert...

To her, it sounded no different from boasting.

"Indeed..." Meng Tao nodded as well.

Back then, it took him an entire year of effort to advance from Dingli realm primary stage to advanced stage. To reach Tongxuan realm within ten days... he didn't think that it was possible either.

Jiya!

Just when they were discussing, the door suddenly opened and Liu laoshi and Lu Chong walked out.

At this moment, Lu Chong looked spirited, and his eyes were filled with energy. Explosive power could be felt from his body, and it felt like the mighty waves in the ocean, exerting great pressure on the one looking at him.

"Dingli realm... pinnacle?"

Upon sensing his aura, Mu Xueqing and Meng Tao fell silent. Their eyes grew so wide that they were about to pop out from their eyes.

How long had it been since he entered the room with Liu laoshi?

To advance from Dingli realm primary stage to pinnacle in two hours...

The duo felt like spurting blood.

Compared to him, their cultivation speed was no different from a snail's. It took them several months before they could see a slight progress in their cultivation, yet Liu laoshi simply brought Lu Chong in for just a while and he had already broken through two smaller realms...

Did it have to be that exaggerated?

Furthermore, they were oblivious to the fact that Lu Chong's simplified Heaven's Path Golden Path had granted him the strength exceeding that of an ordinary Dingli realm pinnacle!

Adding his physical strength along with that of his zhenqi, he possessed an astounding might of five ding!

An ordinary Dingli realm pinnacle could only wield a might of four ding.

"This... this is too incredible... Senior, I think it is best that you admit your mistake. It is impossible to find such an incredible teacher anywhere else..."

Suppressing his shock, Meng Tao hurriedly sent a telepathic message to Meng Tao.

Halfway through his words, Meng Tao realized that the other party wasn't responding. Thinking that his senior's proud nature was acting up again, he hurriedly turned around to persuade her, but the unexpected sight before him nearly caused him to faint.

Putong! The incomparably arrogant Little Demoness Mu Xueqing who would never admit her mistakes was already kneeling before Liu laoshi with an earnest expression on her face.

"Teacher, I am in the wrong... please forgive me! I will do whatever you ask of me in the future. I won't disobey you ever again! Even if that genius Master Teacher Zhang Xuan were to come over, I will disregard him as though he is just mere air!"

"..." Zhang Xuan.

Chapter 328: Brawl of the Two Ladies

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

"Stand up!" Even though he felt dismayed at Mu Xueqing's words, Zhang Xuan walked over to help her up.

He didn't intend to quarrel with a student over this affair. The only reason why he threatened her with expulsion was to warn her so that she would listen obediently in the future.

Due to her consumption of pills from young, the pill poison had already permeated deep into her body, blocking her meridians tightly like shackles. He needed her unreserved trust to clear away the impurities in her meridians.

Thus, he intentionally gave her the cold shoulder so that she could think it through and cherish this opportunity. If she was willing to grasp this opportunity, Zhang Xuan didn't mind saving her. However, if she decided to remain obstinate, Zhang Xuan didn't think of it as a huge loss either. At worst, he would just lose a student. If he wanted, he could easily groom students with cultivation surpassing hers within ten days.

"Even though there is poison in the pills, it isn't a severe problem. Otherwise, the standing of alchemists won't be that high either!"

Zhang Xuan explained, "Your cultivation method has the effect of swiftly propelling the medicinal energy through your body, allowing it to take effect swiftly. However, at the same time, it also causes the pill poison to be absorbed into your body swiftly as well, thus causing your condition to become so severe. Over the years, the pill poison accumulated in your meridians, making it difficult to expel it!"

"Write down your cultivation technique, I will modify it for you. As long as you cultivate according to it, the pill poison that has sunk into your body should be expelled in less than ten days and you will experience a rise in your cultivation as well!"

Pill poison was a difficult problem for even a 4-star master teacher. However, given that Zhang Xuan had cultivated the Heaven's Path Divine Art—the cultivation technique closest to perfection—it wasn't too difficult for him to solve it.

"Yes!" Not daring to hesitate, Mu Xueqing quickly copied down her cultivation technique on a piece of paper.

After taking a look at it, he did a few modifications before passing the paper back to her and instructing her to cultivate according to it.

An hour later, Mu Xueqing felt a refreshing sensation gushing through her body. The shackles which seemed to be binding her body before seemed to have been released, and a relaxing feeling surged to embrace her body from within. In fact, she even managed to achieve a small breakthrough in her cultivation, opening up another acupoint.

Sensing the change in her body, Mu Xueqing finally understood how incredible this Liu laoshi was. Instantaneously, she was filled with gratitude for him.

"Alright, we'll end the lesson here. You all may leave now!"

After settling Mu Xueqing's issue, Zhang Xuan casually waved his hands.

The crowd nodded and left the classroom.

Leaving the classroom, the group could no longer suppress the excitement in their hearts.

"Liu laoshi is simply too formidable! After his guidance, I realized that my cultivation method was entirely wrong. If I were to cultivate according to his instructions, I will surely be able to reach Dingli realm in less than three months!"

"It's the same for me as well. After cultivating according to the formula teacher gave me, I feel relaxed all over, and my strength is also progressing swiftly. I didn't expect that a problem I didn't think much of would weigh me down so much.

"This is what a truly incredible teacher is like! Did you notice that we actually know about the things he had pointed out, but we have never thought of putting them together..."

"I thought that the academy would send another mediocre teacher over, but to think that Liu laoshi would be this formidable..."

...

Everyone's eyes were glowing.

Even though it hadn't been long since they met with their new teacher, they were already completely amazed by him.

"To be able to raise our cultivation with just a few casual pointers, even master teachers might not possess such capability!" Hearing the group's discussion, Meng Tao couldn't help but add in.

"Indeed! I've had the honor of meeting with several master teachers, and I even once obtained Pavilion Master Jiang's Tutelage Jade Token and listened to two hours of his lecture. His lecture was impressive, but he was still lacking compared to Liu laoshi's precise guidance!" Mu Xueqing nodded.

Due to her family background, she had come into contact with numerous master teachers from young, to the point that she had even listened to Pavilion Master Jiang's lesson before. However, his guidance wasn't as spot-on as Liu laoshi's, the latter pointing straight to the crux of the problem and allowing one to improve immensely once they corrected it.

"Even Pavilion Master Jiang's lesson is lacking compared to his? Does this mean that our Liu laoshi's teaching ability is already above that of a 2-star master teacher?" Meng Tao asked in disbelief.

"Not only Pavilion Master Jiang, I think that the genius Master Teacher Zhang Xuan also pales in comparison to him! He only managed to cause a huge uproar in the master teacher examination due to his talent... the cultivation of his students aren't anything much. Based on what I've heard, they are all at Dingli realm, and even the strongest of them was only at Pixue realm!"

Mu Xueqing continued.

"If he was really as proficient in teaching as Liu laoshi, how could his students be so weak?"

With a new idol, Mu Xueqing was no longer blinded in her reverence for the genius master teacher.

Recalling the news she had heard, she made a comparison between Zhang Xuan and Liu laoshi, and arrived at this conclusion.

Master Teacher Zhang Xuan was a talented individual, but in terms of teaching, it was impossible for him to match up to Liu laoshi.

Otherwise, how could his direct disciples be so weak?

One had to know that Liu laoshi had claimed that he could make Lu Chong defeat a Tongxuan realm expert within ten days. Regardless of how short the duration when Master Teacher Zhang Xuan's students had been with him, it was definitely more than ten days.

It was clear who was the superior one.

"Who did you say was mediocre in teaching? I dare you to repeat your words!"

Mu Xueqing had just finished speaking her piece when a cold voice sounded out behind them. Turning around, they saw an incredibly beautiful lady who was around Mu Xueqing's age standing in the distance. Her eyebrows were knitted tightly together in displeasure.

Upon seeing this lady, Mu Xueqing, who always prided herself on her looks, couldn't help but gasp in admiration. However, envy soon welled up in her.

"What business of yours is it whomever I speak of?" Mu Xueqing harrumphed coldly.

She was the Little Demoness who feared nothing at all. She might have become an obedient lamb facing Liu laoshi's authority, but if a random stranger thought that she could climb over her head, then she must be dreaming!

"Did you just say that Master Teacher Zhang Xuan is mediocre in teaching, and his students are weak?"

The beautiful lady opposite to her stared at her with eyes burning with fury.

"Why? Have I said anything wrong? There is nothing to be said about Zhang shi's talents, but the students he taught are truly ordinary. Just by looking at their cultivation, one can tell that his teaching abilities are subpar!"

Mu Xueqing was a person who favored the carrot over the stick. Even though she revered Zhang shi a lot, she couldn't help but retaliate verbally upon sensing the threat the lady's voice.

"You... since you said so, let's not waste any words. Do you dare to duel with me!?"

The lady's face steeled and she gritted her silver teeth.

"Duel with you?"

Mu Xueqing was taken aback.

She must be sick!

She only casually said that Master Teacher Zhang Xuan's lessons couldn't compare up to Liu laoshi's, yet this lass was acting as though she had killed her entire family. What in the world was she up to?

However, as the Little Demoness and one of the top students in the entire Tianwu Kingdom, she couldn't back down a duel!

"Let's fight then, do you think that I will be scared of you?" Harrumphing coldly, Mu Xueqing flung her sleeve.

"Senior..." seeing the Little Demoness flying to a rage, Meng Tao and the others were shocked. They hurriedly tried to stop her.

On the other hand, another lady beside the beautiful lady looked a little worried as well.

"Zhao Ya, Liu shi told us not to cause any trouble..." the female said feebly, worried that they would get into trouble.

"Wang Ying, they have already insulted our teacher, are we to tolerate it?" A young man stepped forward. With a flick of his wrist, he whipped out the spear behind his back, and the joints of the spear started fixing itself together.

"Indeed, we can't tolerate it. They have insulted our teacher and us. So what if this is Tianwu Academy?" A plump-faced fatty stepped forward.

They were Zhao Ya, Zheng Yang, and the others who came to Tianwu Academy for a leisurely stroll.

They had been walking around Tianwu Academy, and the grandeur of the top academy of the thirteen surrounding kingdoms had indeed left them stunned. After walking for an entire afternoon, just as they were about to return, they heard someone insult Zhang laoshi!

How could they watch by the side as the respected figure in their hearts was being sullied?

They could tolerate being insulted themselves, but they couldn't allow anyone to insult Zhang laoshi!

In their hearts, Zhang laoshi was an existence equivalent to a god. What Liu laoshi and Jiang Chen... all of those meant nothing to them at all!

"I..."

Seeing Zheng Yang and Yuan Tao fervently supporting Zhao Ya's decision, Wang Ying hesitated for a moment before nodding her head, "Alright!"

Zhang Xuan's five students always had a fearless personality. Otherwise, they wouldn't have dared to challenge Lu Xun publicly during the Teacher Evaluation.

Even though they were at Tianwu Academy, and they had no connections or backing here, they couldn't forgive the fact that someone had dared to insult their teacher.

"There is a sparring ring right in front. Whoever loses must apologize to the other party!" Zhao Ya's pitch-black hair flew in the air, and in an instant, she felt as though a pure and valiant goddess. "Do you dare to accept the challenge?"

"What is there to fear? Rather, I'm afraid that you will go back on your words when you lose!" Mu Xueqing didn't back down at all.

"Then cut the crap, let's go!"

Zhao Ya couldn't be bothered to argue with the other party, and she began to walk toward the dueling ring.

As an academy for cultivators, Tianwu Academy had average-sized sparring rings throughout the entire campus to allow students to spar with one another and raise their cultivation.

"What's wrong?"

"It seems like Little Demoness Mu Xueqing is sparring with someone!"

"Sparring with someone? Who would be so daring as to fight with her? Zhao Wuxing? Or is it Liu Changyan?"

"It isn't them... I haven't seen the other party before either. It is an extremely beautiful lady, so beautiful that I couldn't believe my eyes!"

"The battle between two beauties? I have to take a look then..."

...

Sensing the strong smell of gunpowder between the duo, the other students, who were walking leisurely around the campus, were immediately roused and innumerable people gathered around the sparring ring.

Mue Xueqing was both beautiful and strong, and she had always been in the center of attention in the academy. Not to mention, the lady she was facing was even more beautiful than her. In an instant, the attention of the entire academy was focused on this duel.

Large circles of crowd gathered around the sparring ring.

"She's indeed beautiful!"

"That... why haven't I met her before?"

"She must be new. Otherwise, given her beauty, it is impossible for me to not have heard of her!"

...

Upon seeing Zhao Ya, the eyes of the student population lit up.

After triggering her Pure Yin Body, her disposition and appearance became refined, and she stood out from the typical ladies. In an instant, she attracted everyone's gazes, and the eyes of many male students were glowing.

"Damn it..."

Seeing those male students directing furious glares at her, Mu Xueqing's face steeled, and she was about to explode with fury.

In the past, regardless of where she went, she was the center of attention. But at this moment, her spotlight was being stolen by some other lady. How could she take this lying down?

"If I don't leave your smash your head until you even forget your own name, I'll forsake my surname..."

Clenching her jaws forcefully, Mu Xueqing clenched her fists tightly.

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Chapter 329: Duel Agreement

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

"Zhao Ya, even though there isn't much to be said about the other party's character, she isn't weak. You must be careful!"

Zheng Yang stepped forward and told Zhao Ya with a hushed voice.

"Un, don't worry!" Zhao Ya responded.

After Zhang laoshi's guidance yesterday, she opened up another ten acupoints. Even though the lady before her wasn't weak, she could only be considered to be on par with her. When it comes down to it, it was hard to say who would lose.

Hu!

Leaping forward, Zhao Ya landed lightly on the sparring ring. Staring at Mu Xueqing with her black beady eyes, she gestured with her hands and said, "Let's begin!"

"Hmph!"

Refusing to back down, Mu Xueqing leaped onto the sparring ring as well. She unleashed her might, which had just risen from her breakthrough just a moment ago, and strength gushed through her as though a flowing river.

"It's beginning!"

"The battle between the two beauties..."

Seeing the two beauties facing each other on the sparring ring, the crowd immediately fell silent, fearful that they would interrupt their concentration.

"I will make you apologize!"

With a clear thud, Zhao Ya pushed against the floor and charged forth. At the same time, a howling aura which bore some reminiscence to the gleam of a sword shrouded her arms.

"The one to apologize will be you!"

Refusing to yield, Mu Xueqing also charged forward.

Peng peng peng peng!

Soon, the duo had already traded blows several times. As Pixue realm cultivators, the might of their blows caused a violent sonic boom to burst in the air.

"Incredible! Where did this lady come from? Despite her young age, she is actually able to match Mu Xueqing!"

Amidst the crowd, a young man looked at the battle with a perplexed expression.

It was the student who was ranked first in the student tournament, Zhao Wuxing.

"I have no idea as well. It seemed as though she suddenly appeared today!" Beside him, another person looked at the stage with a doubtful expression as well.

If Mu Xueqing saw this person, she would definitely recognize him as the one who was placed second in the student tournament, Liu Changyan.

Despite being the two most famous students in the academy, Zhao Wuxing and Liu Changyan couldn't hold back their curiosity to spectate the battle.

"Who do you think will win?"

After looking for a moment longer, Liu Changyan chuckled.

"In just a few days, Mu Xueqing's cultivation has improved, and the restraint in her movements has also disappeared, causing her fighting prowess to soar greatly. Even though the lady she is facing is using inferior battle techniques, her movements were forceful. Furthermore, there seems to be some kind of frosty aura to her moves, making it difficult for one face it head on... I can't really say for sure who will win!"

After hesitating for a moment, Zhao Wuxing said.

As the number one student in the entire academy, his eye for such matters was astonishing. However, regardless of whether it was their cultivation or their means, the two ladies on the sparring ring seemed to be on the same level. He couldn't say for sure who would win either.

Liu Changyan nodded in agreement. Then, he suddenly frowned, "That lady who abruptly appeared has a strong foundation, but why are her battle techniques so weak? All of the moves she has used were at intermediate-tier Mortal or so. If her battle techniques were slightly more advanced, she might have won already!"

"Indeed!"

Zhao Wuxing was also perplexed by the sight.

These two beautiful ladies had both reached Pixue realm. As long as they wished, they could easily access the high-tier or even pinnacle Mortal battle techniques. To still be using intermediate-tier Mortal at her cultivation realm, that was indeed a little lacking.

If not for the frosty aura in her body limiting the other party's movements, rendering Mu Xueqing unable to gain on her, she would have already lost.

"This isn't good!"

Zheng Yang and the others could also see the problem.

Zhao Ya's Pure Yin Body granted her a huge advantage against cultivators of the same cultivation realm. However, as the battle techniques she knew were still limited to the level of Tianxuan Kingdom, there was still a huge distance between both parties.

More importantly, it had only been two months since Zhao Ya advanced from Fighter 1-dan Juxi realm to Pixue realm. The rapid rise in her cultivation caused her to lack actual combat experience.

On the other hand, as the Little Demoness who had caused innumerable storms in Tianwu Academy, Mue Xueqing had plenty of battle experience.

Lacking battle techniques and battle experience. If not for her overwhelmingly powerful physical constitution and her powerful zhenqi, she would have already lost by now.

"Don't panic. Even though Zhao Ya is lacking in practical battle experience, it isn't that easy for the other party to triumph over her!"

Liu Yang said.

Back then, Zhao Ya's physical constitution could even suppress Lu Xun laoshi. No matter how powerful this lady was, could she be stronger than Lu Xun?

"Don't worry. Once she gets used to the tempo of the battle, it will just be a matter of time before she defeats the other party!"

Zhao Ya's disadvantage was due to her lacking battle experience. As the battle continued on, Zhao Ya would slowly get used to the flow of the fight, and by then, it wouldn't be difficult for her to defeat the other party.

"Damn it!"

Since the crowd below was able to realize this, naturally Mu Xueqing could notice it as well, and her face steeled.

Even though she wasn't the strongest female in her age group in Tianwu Kingdom, she wasn't too far from it. She thought that it should have been easy for her to teach a lass younger than her a lesson, but never in her dreams did she expect for the other party to be this formidable!

When did such an incredible freshman appear in Tianwu Academy?

"If this continues to drag on, given how condensed her zhenqi is, I will surely lose. I have no choice but to use that technique!"

Mu Xueqing gritted her teeth, and a ferocious glint appeared in her eyes.

Even though the other party was in a disadvantageous position at first, as time went by, she found the tables being slowly turned on her.

In the end, her cultivation was forcefully pulled by pills, so her zhenqi was still a little thin.

"Hmph!"

Harrumphing lightly, Mu Xueqing frowned. Her aura suddenly surged, and she released a forceful punch.

"It's Apothecary Mu's [Fallen Flower Fist]!"

A grim look appeared on Zhao Wuxing's face.

"Fallen Flower Fist?" Liu Changyan turned to Zhao Wuxing and asked.

"Indeed. It's a high-tier Phantom battle technique. It's said that when Apothecary Mu reached Zongshi realm, in remembrance of his dead wife, he created this technique. There is a total of three moves to this technique, and every single one has overwhelming strength. Even Mo Hongyi was filled with praises for it!"

Zhao Wuxing stared at the lady on stage and commented, "To think that Apothecary Mu would pass this technique onto his daughter and that she would have already mastered the first move!"

"High-tier Phantom battle technique? Techniques of such level are rare even in the capital, the other lady Mu Xueqing is facing is in trouble!"

Amazed, Liu Changyan nodded his head.

Even in Tianwu Kingdom, a high-tier Phantom battle technique was considered to be top-notch. On top of that, the other lady was lacking in good battle techniques, making it difficult for her to withstand this move.

As they expected, facing the savage pressure from the other party, Zhao Ya's face warped in shock.

"I have to go all out!"

Gritting her silver teeth, she knew that she would definitely fall in defeat if she were to continue executing normal moves. Thus, with a bellow, she pumped her zhenqi furiously through her veins.

She was putting her all into this single move.

Peng!

The Fallen Flower Fist met her palm.

Deng deng deng deng!

The duo's faces reddened, and they retreated seven to eight steps consecutively before fresh blood spurted from their mouths.

It was a draw!

"Zhao Ya!"

"Senior!"

Zheng Yang and Meng Tao dashed up to the stage.

"Seems like I have underestimated you. It is a draw today, but do you dare to fight against me three days from now?"

Flinging her arms, Mu Xueqing pushed Meng Tao and the others aside before glaring at Zhao Ya coldly.

"So be it! If you lose at that time, you have to apologize!" Zhao Ya stared back at her as well.

"Apologize? I only said that Zhang shi isn't good at teaching, what business of it is yours?"

At this, Mu Xueqing suddenly realized something and she froze. "It can't be that... you all are Zhang shi's students?"

"That's right! He is our teacher! Your action of insulting him is equivalent to insulting all of us!" Zhao Ya replied.

"I see!"

Finally understanding the reason why the other party was so furious as to challenge her to a duel, Mu Xueqing shook her head. "I am also filled with respect for Zhang shi, just that... I am being objective here. In terms of teaching, I can guarantee that our Liu laoshi is definitely superior to your Zhang shi!"

"Liu laoshi? I've never heard of him!" Zhao Ya shook her head. Then, with a proud look, she declared, "Our Zhang laoshi is definitely the best in teaching! No one is able to match up to him!"

"You..."

Mu Xueqing gritted her teeth. "Since none of us is willing to concede, then let our fists do the talking! Let's meet again three days from now on, and whoever loses has to admit that their teacher is inferior to the other party's teacher! Do you dare to accept my challenge?"

"Why wouldn't I dare to accept your challenge?" Zhao Ya nodded.

"Fine, it's a deal then! Let's go!"

Seeing that the other party had agreed to it, Mu Xueqing flung her arms, turned around and left.

It hadn't been long since she came into contact with Liu laoshi, but she felt grateful to the other party for solving the trauma in the body and raising her cultivation. Given that a student of Zhang shi was challenging his prestige, she felt a need to guard his honor!

She wanted to let people know that even though Liu laoshi wasn't a master teacher, he was in no way inferior to a master teacher!

"Let's go!"

Zhao Ya also left with Wang Ying and the others.

"These few people are Zhang shi's students?"

"This is a huge affair..."

"I've heard of Zhang shi! He's the genius who broke all of Genius Mo Hongyi's records, taking over his position as the number one genius of Tianwu Kingdom! No wonder that lady was so incredible, she is his student!"

Upon learning that Zhao Ya and the others were Zhang shi's students, the crowd below broke into a commotion.

Those students who harbored ideas on Zhao Ya immediately vanquished all of their thoughts.

Master Teacher Zhang Xuan was a rising figure in the city, and many influential powers were eager to build a connection with him.

Laying hands on his students was no different than suicide!

"Right, isn't Mu Xueqing's teacher Bai Fan laoshi? Who is Liu laoshi?"

"You still don't know about it? Bai Fang laoshi has already left the academy, and this Liu laoshi is a teacher who was just recruited today!"

"Just recruited today?"

"That's right. I was in charge of attending to the interviewees, so I personally saw the scene back then. That Liu laoshi is indeed a capable teacher..."

...

The student recounted the events during the public recruitment.

"With a single word, he fixed a student's aversion to studying, and with a beating, he fixed a student's violent tendencies?"

"You must be joking! There's actually such a person in the world?"

After hearing those words, the crowd was dumbfounded. They couldn't help but doubt that the other party was lying to them.

"It's true!" The student said indignantly. "You all know Mu Xueqing's personality as well. If it's not true, how could she be willing to fight with another person for him when she has only come into contact with him for such a short period of time?"

"This..."

"Now that you speak of it, I suddenly thought of something. When I met the students in their class this morning, their cultivation didn't seem to be that high yet. How in the world was all of their cultivation raised in just a few hours?"

"That..."

"Could this really be due to Liu laoshi's guidance? For him to be so formidable, who in the world is this Liu laoshi?"

The more the crowd discussed, the more curious they were about Mu Xueqing's new teacher.

"Ah choo!"

After leaving the classroom, just as Zhang Xuan was walking on a pavement, he suddenly sneezed. Perplexed, he rubbed his nose.

What's wrong? Did I catch a cold?

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Chapter 330: Physician Guild

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

Not long after Mu Xueqing and the others stepped out of the classroom, Zhang Xuan left as well.

To raise Lu Chong's cultivation in the shortest time possible, he had to purchase sufficient medicinal herbs to concoct the poison. It was impossible for him to obtain these herbs just by waiting in the academy.

"There are only two sources where one can obtain medicinal herbs. The herb kings and the Physician Guild!"

Zhang Xuan contemplated as he proceeded forward.

Herb kings referred to wholesaler of medicinal herbs, and the Great Herb King of the Red Lotus City was the largest wholesaler in the thirteen surrounding kingdoms.

"If Tianwu Royal City has a herb king, Bai Chan and the others wouldn't have to go through so much effort to travel to Red Lotus City to purchase medicine... I better head to the Physician Guild!"

Given how Bai Chan and the other physicians traveled all the way to Red Lotus City to purchase medicinal herbs, it was clear that there was no herb king in Tianwu Royal City. Even if there was, it was unlikely for him to have a wide variety of herbs.

Since that was the case, Zhang Xuan decided to head for the Physician Guild straight.

The Apothecary Guild and the Physician Guild both expended huge quantities of herbs on a daily basis. The pills the former forged were mostly related to raising one's cultivation, and thus, the medicinal herbs they possessed were mostly tonics and Spirit medicinal herbs. On the other hand, the latter concocted medicine with the purpose of saving and treating others, and poisonous herbs frequently appeared in their prescriptions. Therefore, it was more likely that latter would possess the poisonous herbs that Zhang Xuan was looking for

After asking around in the academy, Zhang Xuan soon found out where the Physician Guild was located.

It wasn't too far from Tianwu Academy, and he arrived at its doorstep within an hour.

The Physician Guild wasn't as grand as the Master Teacher Pavilion, but still, it was larger and more imposing than the Painter Guild.

Upon walking into the lounge, Zhang Xuan immediately saw a group of people lining up neatly within. There were apprentices seated at the front diagnosing the patient. It was quite similar to the hospitals in his previous life.

Walking around the crowd, Zhang Xuan walked up to the reception and a young lady in her twenties walked up to welcome him with a sweet smile.

"May I know what gongzi hopes to enquire..."

"I wish to buy some medicinal herbs!" Zhang Xuan said.

"You wish to buy some herbs?" The lady hesitated for a moment before asking politely, "Can you show me your prescription?"

"Prescription?"

He was just here to buy medicinal herbs, so how could he possibly have something like that?

"You can only buy medicinal herbs with a prescription..." Seeing the confused look on the other party's face, the lady frowned.

"Where can I obtain a prescription?" Zhang Xuan asked.

"Physicians and apprentices have the right to issue a prescription!"

The lady looked at Zhang Xuan with a bizarre gaze, "However, apprentices can only issue prescriptions consisting of low-tier medicinal herbs. If you wish to purchase high-tier medicinal herbs, you will have to look for a physician!"

To dare to come up here to buy medicinal herbs when you don't even know where to get a prescription from... It is fortunate for you that my temper is good, otherwise you would have already been kicked out as a troublemaker!

"Oh, the medicinal herbs I want to buy can't be considered as high-tier but they are still quite rare. I will recite them for you, so can you tell me whether I should look for an apprentice or a physician to issue a prescription?"

Seeing the long queue before the apprentices and a longer one before the physicians, Zhang Xuan decided to clarify everything properly before deciding on a course of action.

He didn't want to leave in disappointment after lining up for several hours at the apprentice queue only to realize that the other party was unable to issue the prescription.

"Alright!"

The lady nodded.

"I want to buy White Angelica Flower, Crimson-edged Leaf, Wolf Venom Grass..." After pondering for a moment, Zhang Xuan listed out over a dozen medicinal herbs.

Before he could finish his words, the lady's eyes widened into large circles. Alarmed, she took a step back and knocked a bronze gong. "Guards, someone is causing trouble..."

"..." Zhang Xuan.

Hualala!

A few armored guards rushed over.

"Ya Rou xiaojie, what's wrong?"

The guard leader was a tall and bulky man. With a physique as though a steel tower, his presence exerted a huge pressure on those around him.

Tongxuan realm expert!

"That man is causing trouble..."

Receptionist Ya Rou pointed.

"Cough cough..." Zhang Xuan didn't expect that he would be taken for a troublemaker when he only intended to purchase medicine. Shaking his head, he said, "I am a teacher of Tianwu Academy, I am really here to buy medicinal herbs!"

After which, he flashed an emblem indicating his identity as a teacher.

He didn't want to be thrown out from the guild despite having only entered a moment ago.

"Oh, so it's Liu laoshi. Pardon our disrespect!" After taking a glance at the emblem, the guard leader clasped his fist. He then turned to Ya Rou and asked doubtfully, "What is going on?"

Tianwu Academy was known as the sacred land for cultivators, and the teachers possessed immense prestige in the capital. No one dared to look down on them.

Since the other party was a teacher, it was unlikely that he would cause trouble here given his esteemed standing.

"He... Despite not having a prescription, he said that he wanted to buy prohibited medicinal herbs like White Angelica Flower, Crimson-edged Leaf, and Wolf Venom Grass. If this isn't causing trouble, what else is...?"

Not expecting that this ignorant fellow to be a teacher of Tianwu Academy, Ya Rou was taken aback for a moment. However, she soon recovered and explained the situation.

"Buying prohibited medicinal herbs?"

After hearing the reason, the guard leader turned to Zhang Xuan, "Liu laoshi, medicinal herbs like the Wolf Venom Grass possess lethal poison, and thus, the guild deems them as prohibited herbs. Even with a prescription, we aren't allowed to sell them to you. Unless... Unless a physician vouches for you personally, otherwise it will be impossible to purchase those herbs!"

"I'm unable to purchase those herbs even with a prescription?"

"Yes! These prohibited medicinal herbs possess lethal poison, and in order to prevent people from abusing these medicinal herbs to conduct vile deeds, the guild decided to impose strict rules on their distribution. I seek your understanding on this matter." The guard clasped his fist and explained respectfully.

If not for the fact that the other party was a teacher of Tianwu Academy, he would have thought that he was here to cause trouble as well.

Despite knowing nothing at all, to head to the guild to purchase prohibited medicinal herbs... He sure was brazen!

"Oh!" Zhang Xuan nodded.

He could understand the rationale behind their actions. In his previous life, some of the more potent medicine, such as sleeping pills, weren't available to the general public even with a prescription.

They were simply trying to prevent widespread use of these lethal medicinal herbs, which could potentially cause unrest in the city.

"Since Liu laoshi understands this matter, I have to ask you to leave and not make things difficult for us..." Seeing that the other party comprehended their plight, the guard leader continued.

However, before he could finish his words, the young man before him knitted his eyebrows tightly together. With a helpless expression, the other party shook his head, "Seems like... I have to try taking the physician examination then. Sigh, to think that even purchasing medicinal herbs would be such a hassle..."

"Taking the physician examination?"

"Purchasing medicinal herbs would be such a hassle?

Upon hearing those words, Ya Rou and the guards nearly keeled over.

Physician was one of the higher ranked occupations of the Upper Nine Paths. As such, the difficulty of the examination was extraordinary.

Despite not even being an apprentice, not to mention how you didn't even know that a prescription was required to purchase medicinal herbs, how could you boast so arrogantly that you are going to take the physician examination? Furthermore, for you to do so just to purchase medicinal herbs...

Brother, will you die if you act a little humbler?

Ya Rou's complexion immediately turned awful.

She had seen many braggarts before, but she had never seen one who was capable of bragging to the stars.

Even if you don't know that a prescription is required to purchase medicinal herbs, you should at least know that taking the physician examination requires an in-depth knowledge of medicinal herbs!

To not even know that the White Angelica Flower, Crimson-edged Leaf, and Wolf Venom Grass are prohibited medicinal herbs... and you still wish to take the physician examination? You must be joking!

"Liu laoshi, the physician examination isn't as easy as you think..."

The guard leader was infuriated by how lightly the other party was taking the occupation, but in consideration of his identity as a teacher of Tianwu Academy, he suppressed his anger and tried to explain the matter to him.

"Un, I understand! How can becoming a member of an occupation of the Upper Nine Paths be easy?" Zhang Xuan nodded.

Hearing the other party's words, the guard leader nodded, thinking that the other party had given up on the idea. However, upon hearing the words that followed behind it, he staggered and nearly spurted blood.

The young man looked at him with a serious face and asked, "So... may I know where the physician examination is held?"

To not even know where the physician examination is held... and you still want to take the examination?

"It's at the Physician Hall over there..." The guard leader was seething with rage, but he still managed to hold himself back. Pointing to the front, he replied with a trembling voice.

Looking toward where the other party's finger was pointed, Zhang Xuan saw a huge hall, and a plaque placed on top of the entrance that wrote 'Physician Hall'!

"Alright, thank you. May I trouble you to prepare the medicinal herbs that I just spoke of? I will come and claim them after I'm done with the physician examination!"

Upon knowing the location, Zhang Xuan instructed the receptionist, Ya Rou, before heading over.

"Braggart!"

Upon seeing the other party leave, Ya Rou could no longer hold herself back and harrumphed with clear disdain in her voice.

She was already absolutely certain that this fellow was here to wreak havoc.

Otherwise, who would attempt the physician examination despite knowing nothing at all?

"He does seem somewhat unreliable. Given the prestige associated with being a physician, how can it possible for anyone to pass the examination that easily?" The guard leader shook his head as well.

It is one thing if you have studied the Way of Medicine before, but to not even know where the physician examination is held and that a prescription is required to purchase medicinal herbs, it can't be clearer to see that you are a newbie! And yet, you still want to take the examination...

Aren't you underestimating this occupation a little way too much?

"That may not necessarily be so. I recall that there's a person in our guild who managed to pass the 1-star physician examination despite not being an apprentice!"

A guard spoke up.

"Oh, you're speaking of 3-star Physician Mu Hong? He is an exception. Having come from a lineage of physicians, he has been learning the Way of Medicine since young. He possesses true ability, that's why he's able to pass the 1-star physician examination straight!"

The guard leader said.

The other party was right, there was indeed an exception in the guild.

It was the famous Physician Mu Hong.

Even though Physician Mu Hong had never taken any examination prior to passing his 1-star physician examination such that he wasn't even an apprentice then, he had been accompanying his father on diagnosis and treatment runs and he was already famous by then.

"He is just an arrogant lad, how can he be compared to Physician Mu Hong?" Ya Rou harrumphed coldly.

Physician Mu Hong had begun learning Way of Medicine from young, and by the age of thirteen, he was already treating patients by himself. Even though he had never taken the examination prior to that, he practically grew up in the Physician Guild and he was well aware of everything here.

On the other hand, that fellow clearly knew nothing at all. Given the foolish and ignorant look on his face, and how he didn't even know of the prohibited medicinal herbs... how could the two of them possibly be the same?

"But no matter what, the other party is a teacher of Tianwu Academy. I don't think that he will complete not care for his reputation like that!"

The guard leader said.

"This..."

Ya Rou fell speechless.

The standing of a teacher was beneath that of a physician, but due to their relationship with master teachers, it was an esteemed occupation as well. As an official teacher of Tianwu Academy, it was unlikely for him to abandon his pride to cause trouble at the Physician Guild.

"He might really possess true ability!"

"Indeed, it's possible that he might, like Physician Mu Hong, pass the 1-star physician examination straight and amaze everyone!"

The two guards held deep respect for teachers.

"Now that you speak of it, it isn't entirely impossible..." Hearing the analysis of the others, Ya Rou hesitated for a moment before nodding her head. Just as she was about to continue speaking, the young man who just left a moment ago returned and asked sheepishly.

"May I know... what procedures are there to the physician examination? Also, what books do I have to read?"

"..." Ya Rou.

"..." The guards.

Translator's Thoughts

StarveCleric StarveCleric

I have one extra edited chapter at hand so I'll launch a challenge. Post a phrase commonly used in the series that you find interesting, and if one of them receives a hundred likes by today, I'll post another chapter.

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Chapter 331: Challenging the Guild Leader?

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

Initially, they thought that the other party might really possess true capability as it was unlikely that a teacher would cause trouble given their esteemed standing. However, after hearing the other party's words, they realized...

They were overthinking it!

To not even know the procedures to the physician examination, the heck was he taking the examination for!?

Suppressing his anger, the guard leader said, "Liu laoshi, since you don't even know the procedure for the physician examination, I think... it is better for you to just drop the matter..."

"Drop the matter?"

Zhang Xuan shook his head, "I don't want to take the examination as well, but you just told me that it is impossible to buy those medicinal herbs if I'm not a physician! Alright, you just have to tell me what is tested on the physician examination, I'll settle the rest!"

The crowd tugged on their hair.

We don't want to bother you either... Just that, don't you think that you are going a little too far, attempting to take the physician examination despite knowing nothing at all?

However, since you are so adamant to shame yourself, we'll wash our hands clean of this matter then...

Displeased, the complexion of the guard leader darkened further. Even so, he still explained the procedures of the examination, "Similar to the examinations of other occupations, the physician examination tests one's theoretical knowledge and practical skills... After you enter the Physician Hall, there will be some specialized personnel to bring you around..."

Hearing those words, the young man nodded, turned around, and walked to the Physician Hall.

"Physician Hu, the one in charge of the Physician Hall, detests this kind of ignorant examinee who banks on sheer luck to pass. That fellow is probably in for a round of misfortune!"

"I thought that teachers will at least conduct themselves with propriety in consideration of their standing. But from the looks of it, it seems like I was expecting too much... To not even know the procedures of the physician examination, how can he possibly pass the examination?"

"Indeed! If it was so easy to become a physician, there wouldn't be just thirty physicians in the entire city!"

...

Seeing how that fellow walked into the Physician Hall despite knowing nothing at all, everyone shook their heads.

The guard leader initially thought that the other party might truly possess true capability. However, upon realizing that the other party was truly ignorant, he felt disdain toward the other party as well.

It was often said that the academy's teachers were respectable and modest. After seeing this teacher, he realized that it was all bullshit!

Have you seen a person who would dare to take the physician examination despite not knowing a single thing at all?

"Alright, Ya Rou xiaojie, we will continue our patrol. See you later..."

Eventually, the guard leader clasped his fist and prepared to leave. But just as he was about to leave, the ground beneath him suddenly shook. A loud chime reverberated within the Physician Guild.

Dong!

It seemed to originate from a huge bell, and under the deafening reverberation, even the ground tremored.

"What's going on?"

"I've got no idea, but it sounds like it came from the Physician Hall!"

"Physician Hall?"

"That seems to be the case..."

...

After hearing the sound, the patients who were lined up for a diagnosis burst into commotion.

In contrast to the confusion of the patients, the guard leader's face turned ghastly pale, and he began to tremble uncontrollably. With a fearful voice, he uttered, "This fellow... it can't be that he barged into the [Wall of Dilemma]..."

"Wall of Dilemma? What's that?"

Ya Rou asked doubtfully.

She was just a front receptionist. While she was roughly aware of the rules surrounding the physician examination, she didn't know the specific tests on the examination.

"The Wall of Dilemma... is a place where the incurable illnesses are recorded... The illnesses that no one in the Physician Guild has been able to cure for the past century!" The guard leader seemed as though he was about to cry.

"The illnesses that no one in the Physician Guild has been able to cure for the past century? Even a 3-star physician like Mu Hong?"

Ya Rou was taken aback.

In their Physician Guild branch, the most skilled physician was 3-star Physician Mu Hong!

If the illnesses that no one could cure were recorded on the wall, didn't that mean that even 3-star Physician Mu Hong was helpless before them as well?

"Indeed..."

The guard leader nodded his head, "Not just him, the physicians in our guild for the past few generations had been unable to do so as well. That's why it is called the Wall of Dilemma..."

"If that's the case, why do you look so worried? Since it's a place where difficult illnesses are recorded, it shouldn't be a problem for him to enter, right?"

Ya Rou was perplexed.

She thought that it was a huge affair. In the end, didn't that teacher just enter the place where difficult illnesses were recorded?

At most, the teacher could just back off after realizing his ignorance. As the guard leader of the Physician Guild, do you really need to be trembling uncontrollably like this over such a small matter?

Ya Rou wasn't the only one, the other guards were bewildered as well.

Their leader had always been a calm person. Taking the encounter from a moment ago as example, even though he was infuriated by the other party's arrogance, he still remained calm and responded to his queries patiently and politely.

Why would someone as calm as him become so nervous upon finding out that the other party had barged into this Wall of Dilemma?

"You all don't know what that place represents..."

Seeing the casual look on everyone's faces, the guard leader shook his head.

"What that place represents?"

"That's right! The Wall of Dilemma is a place... where only the guild leader of each generation is qualified to enter! Entering such a place means to challenge the incumbent guild leader for his position!"

With pale, trembling lips, the guard leader explained.

"Challenging the guild leader... for his position?"

Everyone felt their vision turning dark.

What in the world was going on?

Why would barging into the Wall of Dilemma equate challenging the guild leader?

"Written on the Wall of Dilemma are problems that had stumped the physicians of the guild for a long period of time."

Seeing the doubt in everyone's eyes, the guard leader smiled bitterly and explained, "In order to become the guild leader, one has to possess medical skills far surpassing the others so as to win the respect of the entire guild!"

Everyone nodded.

It was natural that one had to possess skills far surpassing other members to become a guild leader of an occupation!

"Unlike cultivation, the Way of Medicine isn't something that can be quantified. You can't simply gauge a person's medical skills by how long the treatment takes. After all, a complete treatment involves many aspects such as the post-recovery care and checking whether any trauma was inflicted in the process of the treatment... A person might be able to treat a patient within two days, but in the end, he might only be treating the symptoms rather than the root of the problem, thus leaving room for the illness to make a comeback. On the other hand, another physician could take a whole month to treat the same patient but he could be treating the root of the problem instead..."

Everyone nodded in agreement.

The strength of a cultivator could be easily gauged via a fight. But for physicians, it was harder to quantify one's ability. Different physicians had different specializations, and the fastest treatment might not necessarily be the most effective one.

This was even more so when the two physicians were around the same level.

"Thus, the Physician Guild came up with a way to determine if a physician was superior to another—the Wall of Dilemma!"

The guard leader continued, "Recorded on the wall are the most difficult problems the physicians of the guild have faced throughout the years, and only those who intend to challenge the current guild leader would enter its premise. The more problems one solve, the more advanced one's medical skill is deemed to be, and thus, the easier it will be for one to gain the respect of the entire guild! If one couldn't even solve a single problem, it will be taken as that the other party was causing trouble and challenging the guild leader's authority. As such, that person will be punished!"

"This..."

Everyone blinked their eyes as they came to a realization.

It was no wonder why he was so anxious.

Despite knowing nothing at all, the other party barged into the Wall of Dilemma—an action taken as a challenge against guild leader. If he were to fail to solve any of the problems listed, he would be subjected to a severe punishment.

On the other hand, they, who had 'misled' him, might be implicated as well.

"But since the illnesses listed on the Wall of Dilemma are problems that no one in the guild is able to solve, even if he were to answer them wrong... No one should know of it, right?"

After a moment of silence, Ya Rou asked.

Since it was a wall full of questions that no one could solve, no one should be able to say for sure whether a person's answer was right or wrong!

Even if that fellow were to answer randomly, he might just be able to smoke his way through.

"If only it was that simple..."

The guard leader smiled bitterly, "The Wall of Dilemma is a unique Spirit artifact that is linked to the headquarters. If someone challenges the Wall of Dilemma, a 4-star physician on the other side of the wall will check the answer personally. If he deems it to be correct, an orange glow will appear on the wall; if he deems it to be wrong, a red glow will appear instead!"

"Linked to the headquarters?"

"Glow?"

Everyone was stunned.

If that was the case, it was impossible for that Liu laoshi to falsify his results. Given how ignorantly that fellow acted just now, red glows would only appear again and again, and then... it would be the end of them!

"Then that bell is..."

Ya Rou asked.

"That bell informs the entire Physician Guild that someone has triggered the Wall of Dilemma to challenge the guild leader..." At this, the guard leader froze and pointed forward, "We're done for..."

Looking toward where his finger was pointed at, the edges of everyone's mouths twitched.

More than a dozen of the top echelons of the guild were currently walking toward them.

"Guild Leader Mu Hong, 3-star Physician Du Rao, Physician Cheng Feng..."

Every time a name was called, Ya Rou's eyebrows would twitch once.

They were all figures in the upper echelon of the Physician Guild. The chiming of the bell had summoned all of them here!

For someone to challenge him... it was clear how awful the Guild Leader Mu Hong's complexion would be.

"What happened?"

Guild Leader Mu Hong immediately walked to the Physician Hall and asked imposingly.

"Reporting to the guild leader, a person has just entered, and he seems to be challenging... the Wall of Dilemma!" An apprentice who was done diagnosing a patient replied.

He didn't see the situation clearly, but after hearing the bell, he heard a thing or two from the discussions in the surroundings.

"Challenging the Wall of Dilemma?"

Guild Leader Mu Hong's eyebrow twitched.

Someone was eyeing his seat!

"Who is it?"

"I... I didn't get a good look at him. However, he seemed to came from over there so the front receptionist might know something!" The apprentice hesitated for a moment before replying.

"The receptionist? Call those guys over!"

Guild Leader Mu Hong instructed. Ya Rou and the guards had no choice but to walk over with tearful faces.

"Speak, what happened? Who is the one who challenged the Wall of Dilemma?" The guild leader spoke authoritatively.

"Reporting to the guild leader, it's a teacher from Tianwu Academy who goes by the surname of Liu..."

The guard leader trembled in fear, but he mustered his courage and answered.

"A teacher who goes by the surname of Liu?"

Physician Mu Hong blinked, "Why would a teacher enter the Wall of Dilemma?"

"He is here for the physician examination, so we directed him to the Physician Hall... We also have no idea how he managed to enter the Wall of Dilemma..."

The guard leader said with a quivering voice.

"He is here for the physician examination? How many stars is he? To challenge the Wall of Dilemma, is he a 3-star physician? But this doesn't make sense..."

Guild Leader Mu Hong frowned as he contemplated over the matter.

Since the other party dared to challenge the Wall of Dilemma and him, he had to be at least a 3-star physician, but when did... such an incredible physician appear in Tianwu Academy?

"3-star?" The guard leader nearly fainted. "Reporting to the guild leader... he doesn't have a rank yet, and he isn't even an apprentice!"

"He isn't even an apprentice? And yet, he dares to challenge me?" A dark line streaked across Physician Mu Hong's forehead. "Is his medical skills outstanding?"

"Outstanding..." The guard leader cried. "It... it's possible that... he doesn't know medicine at all!"

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Chapter 332: Perfect Solution

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

"He doesn't know medicine at all?" Guild Leader Mu Hong's body trembled.

To dare to challenge him despite not knowing the slightest thing about medicine at all... When did the position of a guild leader become so cheap?

"What happened? Explain everything to me clearly!"

With a complexion so dark that it seemed as though one could squeeze ink from it, he bellowed.

"It... it's like that..."

The leader of the guards and Ya Rou explained the situation with Liu laoshi in detail to Guild Leader Mu Hong.

After hearing the words of the duo, regardless whether it was Mu Hong, Du Rao, Cheng Feng, or the other physicians, they were all dumbfounded.

How could there be such an eccentric person in the world...

To manage to stumble into the Wall of Dilemma like that, wasn't he lucky!

"Guild Leader, given that he has triggered the Wall of Dilemma, connection with the headquarter must have already been established. What should we do now?"

Physician Cheng Feng asked.

Upon the activation of the Wall of Dilemma, a bell would chime and the Wall of Dilemma would attempt to establish connection with the headquarter. Most likely, a 4-star physician would have already been stationed on the other side, waiting to assess the challenger. If they were to intrude into the test halfway, it was highly probable that they would incur the ire of the headquarters.

"What else can we do? We can only wait here until he's done. Since he doesn't even know the slightest thing about medicine, he would surely be unable to answer any of the questions. Once he fails, we'll teach him a lesson and kick him out!"

Mu Hong's complexion looked awful.

Challenging the Wall of Dilemma didn't just undermine his authority and sully his prestige... More importantly, the headquarter would be alarmed of this farce as well!

To allow such an ignorant oaf to challenge the Wall of Dilemma... Just the thought of what the headquarter would think of them made Mu Hong tempted to kill the other party...

For such a blemish to appear on a Tier 1 Kingdom Physician Guild, could the situation be any more darned...

"Yes!"

Knowing that the guild leader was truly enraged over this matter, the crowd didn't dare to even breathe loudly.

"Can we see the results of the Wall of Dilemma from here?"

While a gloomy atmosphere was looming in this area, there was huge bustle over at the apprentices and patients' side. The apprentices had finally understood what was going on and they immediately put aside their work to observe the abrupt situation out of curiosity.

"Un!" One of the more knowledgeable people in the crowd nodded. "The Wall of Dilemma of the Physician Hall is constructed with a unique material similar to that used in the examination hall of the Master Teacher Pavilion. If the challenger inside were to submit an erroneous answer, the exterior wall of the room will flash red. On the other hand, if a correct answer is submitted, an orange glow will appear. Furthermore... there are different tiers to the answer as well!"

"Tiers?"

"That's right. Different techniques and medicinal herbs used in the treatment of the same illness would yield different effectiveness. As such, treatment methods can be classified as Subpass, Pass, Good, and Excellent. A ray of orange light represents Subpass, two rays represent Pass, three rays represent Good, and four rays represent Excellent! Back then, Guild Leader Mu Hong consecutively solved four illnesses on the Wall of Dilemma, and on top of that, every single treatment method he submitted ended up inducing three rays of orange light, dazzling the entire Physician Hall. It was truly an unforgettable sight for all that was present back then..."

Recalling that incredible scene back then, the faces of a few veterans of the guild reddened in agitation.

Those illnesses were problems that had remained unsolved by the geniuses of the guild throughout the years. Those problems might not be anything much to those 4-star physicians of the headquarter, but to Tianwu Kingdom, they were questions of absurd difficulty!

Guild Leader Mu Hong's feat of solving four questions with three orange rays of light each had left everyone both awestruck then.

"Guild Leader Mu Hong sure is incredible!"

"Indeed!"

"Given how that fellow who just barged in knew nothing at all, a red light will probably appear very soon..."

Discussions could be heard around the room.

Weng!

Suddenly, the wall of the Physician Hall trembled, and an imposing aura emanated from it.

"That fellow has just finished answering a question on the Wall of Dilemma, and the physician on the other side is currently checking it. I think he'll be in for a round of misfortune soon..."

Halfway through his words, that person's eyes suddenly widened. A reverberation echoed in the room, and he suddenly froze.

The wall before him emanated a bright light, but it wasn't red... It was orange!

"How is this possible? Did he answer it correctly? But... how can that be? These questions have remained unsolved over the course of so many years, and innumerable 3-star physicians had attempted them only to end in failure. How could he possibly succeed? Isn't he an ignorant oaf who knows nothing at all...?"

Rubbing his eyes, that person stared at the sight before him in disbelief.

"It seems like not only did he provide a correct answer, it seems to be... above the level of Subpass..." A voice sounded among the crowd.

After which, before the light on the wall could fade completely, another burst of light took its place!

The two rays of light overlapped with one another, filling the room with tremendous brilliance.

Weng!

Before everyone's gaze of disbelief, the wall shook once more and yet another ray of light burst forth. For a moment, it was as if a sun had descended upon the room, blinding everyone's eyes with its radiance.

Three rays!

Four rays!

Five rays!

A total of five rays of orange light had appeared from the wall!

"This is... Perfect! A perfect answer..."

Upon seeing the sight, the mouths of a few veterans in the room twitched. They were rendered completely speechless by the sight.

It was common knowledge that there were only four levels to a treatment method: Subpass, Pass, Good, and Excellent! But in truth, there was another level that few knew about, a level that only existed in the legends. A treatment method of that level was capable of solving an illness completely in the shortest period of time while using the most inexpensive and common medicinal herbs!

It was known as Perfect Treatment Method. Such treatment methods possessed absurd compatibility with the illness that not the slightest side effect would be derived from the treatment. Compared to this, all other treatment methods were no different from dirt.

However, such level of treatment method existed only in the legends. In the several thousand years of history since the establishment of Tianwu Kingdom, no one had ever heard of the existence of a Perfect Treatment Method!

Yet, not only did that ignorant oaf actually managed to come up with such a treatment method... Are my eyes playing tricks on me?

"Five rays of orange light?"

"What in the world is going on?"

"A Perfect Treatment Method?"

The entire room burst into an uproar.

Upon seeing this sight, Guild Leader Mu Hong felt a little light-headed. He immediately turned to Ya Rou and the guard leader and glared at them.

The heck!

Didn't you say that the fellow who went in was an ignorant fellow?

Explain to me what is going on...!

"I..."

Tears streamed down the face of the guard leader.

Brother, I thought you didn't know anything at all?

How in the world did you manage to solve the incurable illnesses of the Wall of Dilemma? Furthermore... for it to induce five rays of orange light, a Perfect Treatment Method?

"He... he... is probably just lucky. Perhaps he will fail at the next question..."

Biting his tongue, the guard leader could only force his way through.

However... before he could finish his words, the wall shook once more.

Weng weng weng weng weng!

Another five rays of orange light burst into the surroundings once more.

"Another Perfect Treatment Method?"

"What the heck is he!"

...

Seeing the second instance of five rays of orange light, another huge uproar exploded in the hall. The guard leader felt a stinging sensation on his face, and he nearly spurted blood and died from frustration.

He had just said that the other party was only lucky when the other party immediately overthrew his words with his actions. Even if you are so eager to slap my face, surely you don't have to do it so quickly...

Weng weng weng weng weng!

However, that wasn't the end of it yet. The light grew brighter and brighter, and the intervals between them grew shorter and shorter. It was as if they had stepped into a festive firework celebration; wave after wave of orange light assaulted their vision.

"Three times!"

"Four times!"

"Five times..."

"Eighteen times..."

...

It was only less than an hour since the appearance of the first instance of the five rays of orange light, and it had already appeared consecutively for another seventeen times.

Slowly, the shock grew into numbness.

Guild Leader Mu Hong's lips quivered. At this point, he was already on the verge of tears.

He thought that he could already be considered as a genius given how he induced three rays of orange light for four times. He thought that no one in Tianwu Kingdom would be able to match his feat. However, after seeing this sight... he realized that his accomplishment was truly nothing at all!

The other party doesn't know medicine?

What a joke! If the other party doesn't know medicine, then what do I count as?

Am I worse than an ignorant oaf?

"Guild leader..."

Seeing Mu Hong's current state, the guard leader called cautiously after noticing the latter's daze.

"Guild leader your head! I am no longer the guild leader, that fellow inside is!" Mu Hong flung his sleeves furiously.

As long as one's result in the Wall of Dilemma surpassed that of the previous guild leader, one would automatically take his place. Mu Hong had only managed to induce three rays of orange light four times, but the other party had achieved the level of Perfect for eighteen times straight. At this point, there was already no way to dispute this!

In other words, that fellow inside was already the guild leader!

"Yes..."

The mouth of the guard leader twitched, and he hurriedly shut his mouth fearfully.

He was afraid that this Physician Mu Hong would go on a rampage and kill him on the spot if he were to speak any further.

"H-he..."

Ya Rou shuddered fearfully. She felt so much regret that her guts were turning green.

If only she knew that the fellow inside possessed incredible medical skill that was superior to even that of the guild leader, she would have never dared to act so rudely to him!

Considering how disdainfully she treated him at the start, it was about time for her to resign from her job and go into hiding.

In contrast to the gloomy atmosphere floating around Guild Leader Mu Hong and the others, the majority of the crowd in the hall was rowdy, excited by this incredible sight.

"Five rays of orange light! All eighteen of those solutions are a Perfect Treatment Method!"

"To be able to see such a formidable physician overcome the Wall of Dilemma, I feel like I haven't lived my life in vain..."

"Hurry up and inform the old master! Wasn't his illness listed on the Wall of Dilemma? There is finally a cure for him..."

...

The commotion slowly crescendoed as everyone's eyes burned with excitement.

The explanations and descriptions from the apprentices and veterans had given them a rough idea of the current situation.

To actually solve eighteen difficult illnesses listed on the Wall of Dilemma, and on top of that, for all of them to reach the level of Perfect Treatment Method, the medical skill of the person inside had already surpassed the capability of a 3-star physician!

It was a huge benefit to have such an incredible physician in Tianwu Kingdom.

After all, no matter how much money they had, if they couldn't find a sufficiently capable physician to treat them, it would be for naught.

...

"There are only a total of twenty questions on the Wall of Dilemma. Could he really... solve all of them in one go?"

Putting aside his dismay, Physician Mu Hong stared at the wall before him intently.

Other people might not be aware of how many questions there were on the Wall of Dilemma, but as the previous guild leader and someone who had challenged the Wall of Dilemma, it was natural that he was aware of the situation on site.

Even though these questions had accumulated over several centuries, every succeeding guild leader would always strike a few questions off the wall, leaving only a total of twenty questions.

The other party had already solved the eighteenth, and every single answer was on the level of Perfect. Could this fellow really solve all twenty questions in one go?

"Impossible... The final question is an illness who no one was able to solve in the past several centuries. It is impossible for him solve it..."

Recalling the final question, Mu Hong clenched his jaws.

Even though the other illnesses were difficult as well, this concept of 'difficult' was only limited to Tianwu Kingdom. To the physicians in Xuanyuan Kingdom or other more advanced regions, those problems were nothing more than a walk in the park.

However... the final question was an illness that stumped even the physicians of Conferred Kingdoms!

It was an extremely rare and troublesome illness. Rumor has it that a 5-star physician had once attempted to find a solution to the illness, but in the end, he wasn't even able to find the root of the problem, leaving him at a loss to even where he should start.

Weng weng weng weng weng!

Just as his thoughts were wandering around, orange rays of light filled the hall once more. The nineteenth question was also solved with a Perfect grade.

"It's down to the last question now..."

Physician Mu Hong's breathing quickened.

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Chapter 333: We Don't Know Either

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

A middle-aged man was seated on the lofty throne within Tianwu royal palace.

The emperor of Tianwu Kingdom, Mo Tianxue!

"You say that someone challenged the guild leader in the Physician Guild, and that he solved nineteen consecutive questions on the Wall of Dilemma?"

Mo Tianxue was staring at a guard in disbelief.

He was well aware of the fact that the questions on the Wall of Dilemma were difficult illnesses which had baffled innumerable genius physicians over the years. Even if a 4-star physician came, he would definitely be unable to solve all of them in a single go. Yet, a seemingly unimpressive fellow had solved nineteen successive questions. On top of that, his solutions were on the level of Perfection...

This is insanity!

"It is the unmistakable truth!" A gray-robed man clasped his fist respectfully.

This gray-robed man's aura was rather irregular, but one could still tell that he was a Zongshi realm expert.

Those who were familiar with the kingdom's workings would definitely recognise his identity as a member of the most secretive army in Tianwu Kingdom —— Shadow Squad!

The Shadow Squad was an organization directly controlled by Mo Tianxue, and they often carried out unhonorable missions in the darkness.

With such a huge affair at the Physician Guild, all of them rushed to the royal palace in first time to inform the emperor of the news.

"To be capable of solving so many questions on the Wall of Dilemma and provide perfect treatment methods over and above all, that person's mastery in the Way of Medicine has most probably already reached the standard of a 4-star or even 5-star physician!"

Mo Tianxue clenched his fists tightly.

"Indeed. If he were to offer his services to the kingdom, the traumas that occur in the guards' training would be resolved easily. Perhaps, with his help, Your Majesty might even be able to achieve a breakthrough to reach that level!"

The gray-robed man said.

"You're right!" Mo Tianxue's eyes lit up. Then, with an anxious look, he asked, "Have you found out who he is?"

There was no such thing as a perfect cultivation technique. As such, all kinds of traumas would appear in one's cultivation.

Even though most of them do not pose a threat to one's life and do not affect one's ability to exert their strength, it locks down one's cultivation, making it difficult to progress further.

If one can solve his traumas, there is a high possibility that he will be able to advance another step in his cultivation.

But of course, that is only a possibility. After all, a physician is only capable of treatment. Unlike master teachers, a physician is incapable of offering pointers for one to achieve a breakthrough. Even so, resolving one's trauma would extend one's longevity and make one more spirited.

This is also the reason why physician is one of the top occupations of the Upper Nine Paths.

"We have already looked into the matter. His name is Liu Cheng, and he is a newly recruited teacher in Tianwu Academy! At twenty-four this year, his cultivation is at Tongxuan realm primary stage. He passed the teacher examination in Quanhai City's Teacher Guild, and he once took a class at Quanhai City for a year! Here is his information!"

After which, the gray-robed man passed a piece of paper over.

The fact that the Shadow Squad was able to gather comprehensive information on Liu Cheng so quickly bore testimony to their fearsome prowess.

"Un!" Grabbing the paper, Mo Tianxue swiftly browsed through the contents.

All kinds of personal information on Liu Cheng had been recorded on the document.

The identity that the Master Teacher Pavilion created for Zhang Xuan was truly impeccable. There were no flaws, and even the Shadow Squad was only able to gather this much.

"To think that an ordinary teacher in Quanhai City would possess such astounding medical skills! Help me prepare another identical set of the gift that was meant for Master Teacher Zhang Xuan, and as soon as he leaves the Wall of Dilemma, we will head over to greet him!"

After browsing through his information, Mo Tianxue affirmed that there was nothing wrong with his background and he gestured excitedly.

"The present for Zhang shi?" The gray-robed man was taken aback.

As a close aide of the emperor, he knew how valuable the gift prepared for Zhang shi was.

"Indeed! A talent of his level is already on par with Zhang shi. In fact, his usefulness surpasses even that of Zhang shi!" Mo Tianxue reasoned.

"Yes!" The gray-robed man nodded.

"Alright, let's go. Accompany me to the Physician Guild!" After which, Mo Tianxue dismounted his throne and began forward without any hesitation.

...

Tianwu Academy.

Principal Xie was sitting gloomily alone in his courtyard.

No matter who it was, it would be hard for one not to feel embarrassed getting criticized by a new teacher.

"Principal, principal..."

He was thinking of a way to vent his frustration when an elder rushed into his courtyard.

"What's wrong?"

Principal Xie frowned.

"That... Liu laoshi went to challenge the Wall of Dilemma!" An elder said.

"Challenge the Wall of Dilemma? To provoke Guild Leader Mu Hong, is there something wrong with that fellow's head?" Principal Xie's body swayed, and he nearly blacked out.

Instead of teaching your class properly, what are you doing over at the Physician Guild? On top of that... challenging their Wall of Dilemma and provoking their guild leader, you must be mad!

"He is truly a problematic teacher. Nevertheless, he possesses true capability and will become a pillar of the academy in the future. We mustn't allow anything to happen to him!"

The other party had embarrassed him in public, but as fellow teachers, he felt obligated to stand up for him. "Bring me my name scroll, I will visit Guild Leader Mu Hong now. Hopefully, he won't pursue the matter on my account!"

"No, that's not enough. Challenging the Wall of Dilemma is equivalent to an attempt to wrest authority from the current guild leader. Guild Leader Mu Hong won't allow this matter to simply rest... Let's go to the Master Teacher Pavilion to look for Pavilion Master Jiang. With his help, the situation should be much easier to resolve"

Thus, Principal Xie stood up and prepared to rush to the Master Teacher Pavilion.

"Cough cough... Principal, wait for a moment. Allow me to finish my words first..."

The elder felt stifled. The principal had reacted violently after hearing a single sentence. He couldn't find a chance to cut into his words at all.

"What's the use of talking about it? I know Guild Leader Mu Hong's temper well, he will definitely fly into a rage upon seeing someone eye his position! Even though that Liu laoshi is a little arrogant, he is still a member of our Tianwu Academy. We mustn't allow anything to happen to him. Otherwise, the pride of our academy will be sullied!"

Principal Xie swung his hands and rushed out of the courtyard.

However, barely after he took two steps, the elder stopped him.

"Principal, allow me to first finish my words..."

The elder felt faintheaded.

Why are you so agitated? Can't you allow me to finish my words?

"Speak! Can it be that... we're already too late and that Guild Leader Mu Hong has already laid his hands on him?" Seeing the anxious look on the other party's face, an ominous omen loomed over his mind. Gedeng, Principal Xie's heart skipped a beat.

"That's not it... Liu laoshi has solved nineteen questions on the Wall of Dilemma consecutively, and he provided a perfect treatment method for every single one of them... Right now, the entire Physician Guild is in an uproar!"

Afraid that the other party would jump into conclusion once more, the elder spoke quickly.

"Solved nineteen questions on the Wall of Dilemma? Provided a perfect treatment method for each of them..." Principal Xie was taken aback. It took him moments before he managed to digest the other party's words, and his eyes nearly popped out from its sockets. "You mean to say that... Liu laoshi has already broken Physician Mu Hong's record and he is now the new guild leader of the Physician Guild?"

"Yes..."

The elder flashed a bitter smile.

When he first heard this news himself, he also felt as though the world had gone mad. His condition then wasn't any better than that of the current Principal Xie.

"How-how-how is this possible?"

Principal Xie froze in shock.

...

Oblivious to the huge uproar he had caused, Zhang Xuan was staring at the final question on the Wall of Dilemma.

The Library of Heaven's Path could only reflect flaws, it couldn't provide a solution to these flaws.

When a person is ill, it means that a flaw has appeared on him, resulting in his current condition. As long as one is able to identify the crux of the problem and work backward, it isn't too difficult to treat an illness.

That was precisely the reason why even though the first nineteen questions had stumped many talented physicians, Zhang Xuan was able to solve them easily, providing perfect treatment solutions without thinking for long.

"Innate Muscular Deficiency resulting in the lack of strength in one's body and a lifespan of only twenty years. How do we treat this?"

The final question carved on the Wall of Dilemma was just two short sentences, and it seemed to be simple.

"Innate Muscular Deficiency?"

With a will of his mind, a book appeared in Zhang Xuan's head.

Zhang Xuan had taken in a substantial number of books in the Master Teacher Pavilion. As physician was one of the top occupations of the Upper Nine Paths, there was a substantial collection within. It just so happened that there was an introduction on the illness.

"Innate Muscular Deficiency results in the stagnation of the growth in one's muscles. A person born with such a condition can only lie on the bed, unable to exercise or cultivate..."

There was only a brief introduction to the illness in the book. There wasn't a solution provided.

"Let's see whether there is any solution to it. Flaws!"

Placing his hand on the wall, Zhang Xuan thought.

Weng!

A book appeared in his mind.

"Innate Muscular Deficiency refers to a lack in strength in one's muscles. Flaws: An inborn damage in one's meridians..."

On the portion of the book detailing the flaws of Innate Muscular Deficiency, the locations of the damaged meridians, acupoints, and body parts were stated.

"This..."

With a glance, Zhang Xuan suddenly froze. "This illness is actually the opposite of the Heaven's Path Golden Body?"

He had never heard of the illness, but based on the flaws, he realized that it bore striking resemblance to the cultivation method of Heaven's Path Golden Body.

That was to say, one could easily solve this illness through the cultivation method of Heaven's Path Golden Body.

"The Heaven's Path Golden Body shouldn't be leaked out, but this is a part of the physician examination. If I were to answer this question inaccurately, I might not be able to become an official physician..."

Feeling distressed, Zhang Xuan rubbed his glabella.

He didn't know about the Wall of Dilemma, and up until now, he still thought that he was only taking the physician examination.

"Since I know the specific points where the flaws appear in, as long as one uses zhenqi to nourish these few spots, the illness should still be treated even without the cultivation method of Heaven's Path Golden Body!"

After hesitating for a moment, Zhang Xuan suddenly slapped his forehead.

All along, he had been thinking in the capacity of an individual, neglecting the fact that the zhenqi could come from an external source.

As long as he wrote down points that needed to be nourished with zhenqi and avoid mentioning the formula in detail, the Heaven's Path Golden Body would not be leaked.

After all, the crux to all cultivation techniques lies in the formula to propel one's zhenqi.

"Alright!"

After confirming the treatment, Zhang Xuan picked up a brush and started writing on the wall.

...

"It'll probably be impossible for him to solve this question!"

Physician Mu Hong stood stiffly before the Physician Hall with his hands clenched by his sides.

The other party had already surpassed his feat, replacing him as the new guild leader. No matter how depressed he got over this matter, this was already a fact. At this moment, all he wanted to know was whether this Liu fellow would be able to solve all twenty problems on the Wall of Dilemma with a Perfect grade.

If that really happens, the Tianwu Kingdom Physician Guild would gain great prestige because of this.

However... Even 4-star physicians would be puzzled by the final question. Is it even possible for that Liu laoshi to succeed?

Weng!

Just as they were anxiously waiting for the result, the wall before them started to tremor once more.

"The results are out..."

Everyone waited with bated breaths. Physician Mu Hong stiffened in nervousness.

Hu!

A bright ray of light radiated from the wall.

"It's... a ray of white light? What does white light means?"

"Red light should indicate failure while orange light reflects a correct answer. Why would there be a white light?"

Upon seeing the light, everyone became flabbergasted.

Even Physician Mu Hong widened his eyes in astonishment.

The answers should either be right or right. In other words, the light should either be red or orange. For a white light to be emanated instead... What the heck?

"Can the wall in the Physician Hall have spoiled?"

"That should be impossible, right..."

Everyone blinked in disbelief.

"Wait, something seems to be appearing..."

Just when everyone was overwhelmed with shock, someone from within the crowd shouted suddenly.

Swiftly turning toward the smooth wall, four words slowly floated into appearance——

We don't know either!

Translator's Thoughts

StarveCleric StarveCleric

Sorry to delay updates on a cliffhanger -_-""

I've posted it on my Discord already but my editor and I have been rather busy lately so do pardon us.

I won't be able to guarantee updates for the next two days but rest assure that we'll make up for the chapters lost over the weekend~

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Chapter 334: Guild Leader

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

"We don't know either? What does that mean?"

"I have no idea too!"

"It is said that answers to the Wall of Dilemma are appraised personally by 4-star masters... For 'we don't know either' to appear, does that mean that... even 4-star physicians are unable to determine whether the answer Liu laoshi gave is correct?"

"That... can't be true, right? If that's the case, doesn't that mean that Liu laoshi's medical skill surpasses that of a 4-star physician?

"This..."

...

Everyone stared at the wall before them dumbfounded.

The four words 'we don't know either' left everyone faint-headed.

The ones on the other side of the Wall of Dilemma are 4-star physicians. And, even they are unable to determine whether the answer is correct or wrong...

The heck.

Liu laoshi, exactly what kind of answer did you give? Such that other side does not dare to reject it outright, even admitting its ignorance?

The corners of Physician Mu Hong's lips twitched. He found himself swaying from side to side, unable to maintain his balance.

He thought he had imagined every circumstance possible, even that of five rays of orange light. Never in his wildest dreams had he expected that the other party would admit to... not knowing the answer!

Don't know your head!

All of you are 4-star physicians! To speak of such words before so many people... Are you still in your right mind?

Weng!

Before they could recover from their shock, the four words on the wall had faded and another line appeared.

"We will announce our judgement ten days later!"

These words disappeared slowly as well.

"Seems like... the other side is truly unsure. They will need to report to a higher level branch or look for a patient with Innate Muscular Deficiency in order to test out the treatment method!"

Even though it was said that the Wall of Dilemma was connected to the headquarter, this headquarter actually referred to another branch which was just a tier higher than that of the Tianwu Physician Guild branch. After all, the headquarter was a incomparably powerful, filled with 8-star to 9-star physicians. How can it possibly be connected to small place like Tianwu Kingdom Physician Guild?

It was just like how Zhang Xuan requested for a Unravel Yin Pill from the headquarter in the Tianxuan Kingdom Apothecary Guild back then. In truth, their communications had merely reached Tianwu Kingdom, and Apothecary Hong Yun was dispatched.

Otherwise, if everyone were to contact the headquarter for all random and miscellaneous matters, wouldn't it die from exhaustion?

"We will give our judgement ten days later... So does it mean that he solved the question... or not?" The crowd was stunned.

"Even if he answered the last question wrongly, this Liu laoshi has already answered nineteen questions with a Perfect grade. He has already surpassed Guild Leader Mu Hong, making him... the new guild leader!"

Someone commented.

Everyone came to a realization.

So what if that fellow got the final question wrongly? The results had already far surpassed that of any previous guild leader!

Without a doubt, he had already become the new guild leader.

"However, wasn't his purpose here the physician examination? If he doesn't have a rank beforehand, what rank should he be assigned?"

Someone raised his doubt.

Suddenly, the entire room fell silent.

Indeed, if he doesn't possess any rank as a physician from before, how should we handle this situation?

He was able to solve all of the questions on the Wall of Dilemma, even forcing 4-star physicians to admit their ignorance...

The level of mastery of his medical skill definitely far surpasses that of a 3-star, perhaps even reaching the level of a 5-star!

However... Since even the guild wasn't able to evaluate such a high ranked physician, how can they issue such an emblem to him?

"Don't worry, the answer will be out in ten days. Once the answer is determined, the headquarter will decide his rank personally, so we don't have to worry too much!"

A 2-star physician said.

"Un!" The crowd nodded.

That made sense as well. This shouldn't be a matter within their consideration. Given how the other party challenged the Wall of Dilemma and solved so many questions, even jotting down an answer beyond the understanding of 4-star physicians, this problem should be one for the headquarter to bear.

There wasn't a need for them to think so much.

Jiya!

They were still discussing when the door to the Physician Hall opened and Zhang Xuan walked out.

Upon seeing the huge crowd gathered outside, and that all of the gazes were on him, Zhang Xuan was given a shock.

"What... is going on?"

He had merely taken a physician examination, why was there such a huge crowd, and why were all of them looking at him?

Glancing around, he finally found the leader of the guards and Ya Rou, and the hurried over, "Why is the examination different what you told me... So, have I passed the examination?"

According to their words, the physician examination should be no different from that of other occupations. Yet, after he went in, he didn't see anyone, only a wall which kept posing questions to him.

It was completely different from what they said. It can't be that I took the wrong examination? Will they fail me for this...

"Gu-guild leader, you are jesting..."

The leader of the guards trembled uncontrollably.

"Guild leader?" Zhang Xuan was stunned. He stared at the duo, and just he was about to ask them what they meant, more than a dozen of physicians with an emblem pinned on their chests walked over and clasped their fists, "Paying our respects to Guild Leader Liu!"

"Guild Leader Liu? What does this mean..." Zhang Xuan was dumbfounded. He had no idea what was going on.

It is just a physician examination... Why is everyone calling me guild leader? Did they eat something wrong this morning?

"Guild Leader Liu challenged the Wall of Dilemma and solved nineteen questions consecutively. As such, you have become the new leader of our Physician Guild!"

Physician Mu Hong stepped forward.

"New guild leader?"

Zhang Xuan blinked his eyes.

Becoming a guild leader just by answering a few questions? Isn't this too much of a child's play?

The others swiftly explained the situation to him, and upon comprehending what was going on, Zhang Xuan went speechless.

He had only intended to take the physician examination. Never in his dreams did he expect to cause such a huge commotion and become the guild leader of the Physician Guild...

Even so, everything had already happened, and there was nothing much he could do. Remembering the initial aim he had in mind coming to the Physician Guild, he turned to Ya Rou and asked, "Then... since I became the guild leader, do I have to right to purchase White Angelica Flower, Crimson-edged Leaf, Wolf Venom Grass... All of these medicinal herbs?"

"..." Ya Rou cried.

She had just said that the other party didn't have the qualifications to purchase it, and he went on immediately to become the guild leader of the Physician Guild...

This face slap!

"Since you are the guild leader, of course you do have the qualifications to purchase these medicinal herbs. However, we don't have all of the herbs you want here!"

Upon knowing about the entire situation, Mu Hong hesitated for a moment before explaining to the other party.

Physicians do utilize poison in their treatments, but it is extremely rare. While the guild had White Angelica Flower, Crimson-edged Leaf, and such medicinal herbs, it didn't have the more potent poisonous medicinal herbs.

"Then... Bring me those that can be found here first!" Zhang Xuan said.

"Un!" Mu Hong replied and issued some instructions to Ya Rou. It didn't take long for Ya Rou to return with a huge bag of medicinal herbs.

After taking a look, Zhang Xuan verified that all except two of the medicinal herbs he needed were inside.

"Goldleaf Spark Twig and Nine Worms Flower are lethal poison, so we don't have any of them here. However... the Poison Hall will definitely have them!" Mu Hong said.

"Poison Hall?" Zhang Xuan shook his head.

Naturally, Zhang Xuan knew that the Poison Hall had them as well.

However, it would take him four to five days just for a to-and-fro trip to the Red Lotus City. On top of that, he would require an additional ten days to tread through the Red Lotus Range to arrive at and return from the Poison Hall. In total, the journey would would take at least half a month. By the time he returned, it would already be way past ten days.

"Right, I heard that Pavilion Master Jiang likes collecting valuable medicinal herbs. You might be able to find those two herbs from him!"

After hesitating for a moment, Mu Hong suddenly recalled something and said.

"Pavilion Master Jiang? Alright!"

Zhang Xuan nodded.

It might have been difficult for him to obtain those two valuable medicinal herbs from anyone else, but Pavilion Master Jiang... was his student! As long as he appeared before the other party as 'Yang Xuan', obtaining these two medicinal herbs shouldn't be a problem at all.

"How much do all of these medicinal herbs cost?"

Keeping the medicinal herbs into his storage ring, Zhang Xuan asked.

"A total of fourteen million gold coins!" Mu Hong clasped his hand.

"Fourteen million gold coins?" Zhang Xuan was astounded.

He thought that it would only cost a few hundred thousand gold coin. For it add up to fourteen million gold coin, this was daylight robbery...

But considering that he was already the guild leader, it was impossible for the other party to lie to him blatantly in public. Thus, he could only hand over a huge wad of cash helplessly.

Ten million might be a huge sum, but Zhang Xuan accrued quite a substantial wealth back when he was still in Tianxuan Kingdom. As such, he was still able to bear with such expenditure.

"I still have matters to attend to so I'll be leaving now. Physician Mu Hong, I will only serve as an honorary guild leader, so I'll be depending on you to deal with the matters of the guild!"

Zhang Xuan only came here just to buy medicinal herbs. Since he had already achieved his goal, there was no need for him to remain here. Thus, he clasped his fist and bided farewell.

"Ah?"

Everyone thought that the new guild leader would immediately attempt to conduct a reorganization of the entire guild. After all, most newly appointed leaders tended to flaunt their authority by trying to instill new changes to the organization. Yet, contrary to their expectations, the other party simply dumped everything on Physician Mu Hong and left. This left everyone dumbfounded.

"Farewell!"

Ignoring the bewildered gazes of the crowd, Zhang Xuan walked out of the Physician Guild. It didn't take long before he disappeared from their sight.

He wasn't interested in being a guild leader or whatsoever. His only goal at the moment was to successfully advance as a 2-star master teacher so as to gain the authority to look up the affairs of Empyrean Kong shi and find the solution to his Innate Fetal Poison.

There was nothing more important than this.

"What happened?"

After Zhang Xuan left, everyone was silent for a long time. At this moment, a perplexed elder suddenly walked into the guild.

"Physician Hu? You... aren't at the Physician Hall?" Upon seeing the elder, the crowd froze in shock.

Physician Hu was the physician in charge of the physician examinations. How in the world was he only walking into the guild at this moment?

"I just went out for a moment. What's going on?" Physician Hu had been away the entire time so he had no idea what was going on. He was just perplexed as to why such a huge crowd, not to mention, Guild Leader Mu Hong and the other influential elders, was gathered here.

"Went out for a moment..."

Everyone was speechless.

They had considered the possibility that Liu laoshi might have intentionally challenged the Wall of Dilemma. But judging from how Physician Hu wasn't around then... there was a high chance that the other party really stumbled into the room accidentally.

But yet, he still managed to solve all of the questions on the Wall of Dilemma...

Does it have to be so darned?

"You all are saying that... in the hour I was gone, someone barged into the Physician Hall and solved all of the questions on the Wall of Dilemma with Perfect Treatment Methods?"

Soon, someone explained the situation to Physician Hu, and in that instant, Physician Hu could only hear thunder rumbling in his head.

For such a matter to happen while he was gone, it seems like he wouldn't be able to escape the blame for neglecting his responsibility...

...

The ruckus that Zhang Xuan's successful challenge of the Wall of Dilemma caused wasn't just limited to Tianwu Kingdom.

On the other end of the Wall of Dilemma, a few elders were gathered together. They were all staring at one another blankly.

"The Innate Muscular Deficiency is a terminal disease. Back then, Physician Fei Qing attempted to solve this affliction but even he fell in defeat before it. In the end, he could only watch as his patient fell into death's embrace. The answer that physician gave us... Can it really be the right treatment method to the illness?"

"That... I don't know either, but there are two ways to check on it. We can either report it upward or we can try the solution on someone with Innate Muscular Deficiency!"

"I remember that the second princess of the alliance suffers from Innate Muscular Deficiency!"

"Indeed! Prepare the carriages, let's head off to the Alliance Head Residence now!"

The few elders stood up simultaneously.

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Chapter 335: Myriad Kingdom Alliance

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

There were countless kingdoms like Tianxuan and Tianwu scattered all over the continent.

The ranks of a kingdom are as follows—Unranked (Tianxuan Kingdom), Tier 2 Kingdom (Beiwu Kingdom), Tier 1 Kingdom (Tianwu Kingdom), and Conferred Kingdom (Xuanyuan Kingdom).

Due to the multitude of kingdoms, conflict and war were inevitable. Thus, in order to mediate the conflicts among the kingdoms, an existence transcending beyond the system of kingdoms emerged.

Myriad Kingdom Alliance!

The Wall of Dilemma was connected to the Physician Guild of the Myriad Kingdom Alliance!

The alliance head who those elders spoke of was the most authoritative figure within the alliance, the one whom all emperors bowed down to and dared not defy.

Soon, the carriage arrived at the Alliance Head Residence.

"Report to the alliance head that Guild Leader Meng and Physician Hong from the Physician Guild requests an audience!"

"Yes!"

Soon, under the lead of the guards, the physicians walked into the palace-like Alliance Head Residence.

"You're saying that you found a way to treat Lian-er?"

Arriving at the main hall, a middle-aged man looked at them with glowing eyes. He exuded an aura of authority and power which all would defer to.

"We aren't sure about whether the treatment method is effective or not, so we would like to..." Guild Leader Meng's face flushed as he hesitated for a moment before continuing, "...try it out..."

"Audacious!"

As the most authoritative man in the Myriad Kingdom Alliance, it was already a huge torture for him to watch helplessly as his daughter suffer. Yet, these physicians were saying that they want to experiment an unverified treatment method on his daughter. If something wrong were to happen, who could bear the responsibility?

"Are you suggesting to experiment with my daughter's life?"

Raising his eyebrows, a menacing aura emanated from that middle-aged man. In an instant, the two physicians felt as though they were suddenly plunged into massive storm, and the world was ripping apart before them.

The alliance head of the Myriad King Alliance wasn't a hereditary position but a nominated one. Without absolute strength, it was impossible for one to rise up to the position.

"I dare not to!"

Guild Leader Meng's face paled. Exhaling deeply, he said, "Alliance head, please allow me to finish my words first. If you don't wish to have the princess take on this risk, then we won't say any more on the matter!"

"Un!" The middle-aged man nodded gravely.

"We are indeed helpless before the illness the princess is suffering from, but just today, a physician from a Tier 1 Kingdom has delivered us a plausible treatment method to verify!" Guild Leader Meng said.

Upon hearing that it was a treatment method from a Tier 1 Kingdom, the middle-aged man's complexion turned even more awful.

Even a 5-star physician of the Myriad Kingdom Alliance was unable to solve the matter, what kind of solution could a measly physician from a Tier 1 Kingdom possibly offer?

Are you jesting with me?

But even though the middle-aged man was infuriated, he didn't say a thing. He simply stared at the duo coldly, waiting silently to see what they had to say.

"Alliance head, you must be thinking how absurd it must be for us to take the treatment method from a measly Tier 1 Kingdom for real... But if you were to see the treatment methods that person sent prior to that, you won't be thinking the same!"

As though reading the thoughts of the other party, a bitter smile flashed across Guild Leader Meng's face, "That person challenged the Wall of Dilemma, and in a single hour, he solved nineteen questions. On top of that, all of the solutions he gave... reached the level of Perfect!"

"All nineteen solutions are at the level of Perfect?"

The middle-aged man was taken aback, "Are you certain of this?"

The Physician Guild's Wall of Dilemma was where all the difficult illnesses uncovered over the years were recorded. One could already be considered as a genius among geniuses if one could solve a question or two on it. To solve nineteen at once, and for all of the solutions to be Perfect...

This meant that the other party's comprehension of the Way of Medicine had already reached an incredibly high level.

"Yes. This is the treatment method he proposed for the last question. His idea is extremely novel, and none of us here have ever seen something like this before. Upon recalling that the second princess is afflicted with the same illness, we came over in hopes of trying it... If it's really effective, the princess will be able to recover from her affliction!"

Guild Leader Meng said.

The middle-aged man hesitated.

There wasn't a single person in the world who would be willing to allow his own daughter act as a guinea pig.

"Other than the method he proposed, we truly can't think of any other solutions. Furthermore... the second princess doesn't have much time left. Thus, I beseech you to give it a try!"

Guild Leader Meng clasped his fist.

Those afflicted with Innate Muscular Deficiency were fated to be unable to reach their twenties. The princess was already nineteen this year, and her condition was deteriorating with every single passing day. Even if this treatment method was ineffective, it was much better than doing nothing at all!

"Alright. I'll be troubling you then!"

After a long moment of silence, the middle-aged man closed his eyes and exhaled deeply.

If there was any other choice, he would have never allowed his daughter to undergo such risk.

Soon, the princess was brought over.

"Pardon my rudeness!"

Taking a deep breath, Guild Leader Meng recalled the treatment method written on the Wall of Dilemma and drove the zhenqi in her body.

Wu wu wu wu!

The wind howled!

The strength of a 4-star physician had already surpassed that of Zhizun realm. Even if he didn't come into direct contact with the other party, he was still able to send a surge of zhenqi into the other party's acupoints to clear her trauma.

Peng peng peng peng!

Soon, an immense amount of zhenqi was sent through the other party's acupoints and meridians according to the treatment method detailed on the Wall of Dilemma.

Hu!

Exhaling deeply, Guild Leader Meng wiped the sweat off his forehead.

There was simply too many acupoints and meridians one had to deal with in the treatment method. Furthermore, many of these meridians and acupoints were narrow, and thus, he had to concentrate deeply. It was fortunate that he possessed superior medical skills and a high cultivation, otherwise, a single careless mistake could easily spell the other party's death.

"I wonder if it's effective..."

After carrying out the instructions on the treatment method strictly, Guild Leader Meng glanced at the second princess worriedly. But with just this single glance, his entire body shuddered and his eyeballs were popped out from their sockets.

The second princess, who was still lying completely motionless a moment ago, suddenly leaped off the bed and smashed her fist into the ground, causing stone fragments to fly everywhere.

"..."

Rendered speechless by the sight before them, the other physicians trembled in astonishment as their lower jaws fell to the ground.

The middle-aged man stared at the situation with a dumbfounded expression. At this point, he was already on the verge of going insane.

His second daughter had been diagnosed with Innate Muscular Deficiency at birth. Pain and suffering followed her as though they were her shadows, and immobility had always been something she had to cope with. Making use of his connections as the most influential person in the Myriad Kingdom Alliance, he had invited the most formidable of physicians from all locations, but all of them were helpless before her affliction.

He thought that it would be yet another disappointment. Never in his dreams did he expect that she would really be cured of her affliction this time around...

More importantly... Shouldn't recovery be a slow process? Shouldn't one start from moving their fingers before walking around?

How in the world was she able to... leap off the bed right after the treatment was completed, and not to mention, smash through rock with her fist?

This was way too exaggerated!

"Lian-er, you've... recovered?"

Unable to believe his eyes, the alliance head asked.

"Father, I have recovered fully. Furthermore... I feel boundless strength surging through my body!"

The lady chuckled as she stomped on the ground.

Hu!

A rock tile flew up, and the lady struck the tile with her palm.

Peng!

Fragments flew around the room.

"..." The crowd.

For an Innate Muscular Deficiency patient to abruptly become a powerful person with overwhelming muscle strength with just a short treatment...

Even if the treatment method was effective... wasn't this was way too effective!

"Guild Leader Meng, may I know from which kingdom did the person who presented the treatment method come from? I would like to thank him personally!"

Seeing her daughter walking around healthily as though an ordinary person, the middle-aged man was so excited that his eyes were gleaming.

"Yes... He came from a remote Tier 1 Kingdom near Xuanyuan Conferred Kingdom!" Guild Leader Meng pondered for a moment before replying.

"Father, there's no need for you to do so. Since I have recovered, I would like to go out and walk around. I will meet and thank the person who saved me personally!"

The lady chuckled.

"Alright then!"

The middle-aged man nodded his head.

...

Naturally, Zhang Xuan was oblivious to the matters occurring at the Myriad Kingdom Alliance. At this moment, he had already altered his features to take on the appearance of 'Yang Xuan', and he was currently on his way to the Master Teacher Pavilion.

After taking a few steps, he suddenly stopped.

"Wouldn't it be inappropriate for me to meet Jiang Shu like that?"

Yang Xuan, who he was impersonating at, was supposed to be a master teacher ranked above 3-star.

Given his standing, if he were to travel all the way to the Master Teacher Pavilion to look for Jiang Shu, he might incur the other party's suspicion instead.

He was confident in fooling others, but having taken the master teacher examination, he understood how fearsome the eyes of master teachers could be.

The slightest carelessness might possibly cast doubt upon his identity or even give him away.

"I should look for Liu Ling and the others and have them bring Jiang Shu over to me!"

After hesitating for a moment, Zhang Xuan decided on another course of action.

It was perfectly normal for a master teacher of 'Yang Xuan's' level to summon his student if he wanted to meet him. It would hurt his prestige instead if he were to head there personally to look for the other party.

As Zhang shi''s students, Zhao Ya and the others were considered as celebrities in the capital. As such, it wasn't too easy for him to find their residence.

"Looks like that fellow Bai Chan at least knows how he should act!"

Upon seeing the residence, Zhang Xuan chuckled. He immediately knew that his threat was effective.

Otherwise, it would surely be impossible for Liu Ling, Zhao Ya, and the others to find such a huge residence in the vicinity of the Master Teacher Pavilion.

After ascertaining the location, Zhang Xuan walked over. Soon, he was already standing at the entrance.

"Old master, you're back..."

Just as Zhang Xuan was thinking about how he should explain his identity to the guards to enter, Sun Qiang suddenly appeared and welcomed him. The latter was so agitated that the fats on his face were bouncing around vigorously.

"Un!"

Sun Qiang had appeared at a timely moment, saving Zhang Xuan of the hassle. Nodding his head, he walked into the residence.

"Old master, I heard from the young master that you're coming as well. I thought that it will take a while longer before you arrive here..."

Sun Qiang spoke agitatedly as the duo walked along the corridor of the residence.

Bai Chan's ability to accomplish tasks was indeed splendid. This residence was several times larger than the one Zhang Xuan rented at Tianxuan Kingdom.

"Teacher!"

Soon, he arrived at the main hall. After receiving news of Yang Xuan's arrival, Liu Ling and the others also hurried over.

At this moment, Bai Chan had an anxious look on his face.

The person before him was the teacher of Pavilion Master Jiang and Zhang shi. No matter how brazen he might be, he didn't dare to act out of place before him.

"Un!"

Nodding his head, Zhang Xuan surveyed the surroundings before frowning, "Where are the students of Xuan lad?"

Bai Chan, Liu Ling, Lu Xun, and Huang Yu were all here. Why were all of his students missing instead?

He was currently assuming the identity of Yang Xuan, the teacher of their teacher. In other words, their grandteacher!

How could they not greet their grandteacher? They were being too impertinent!

"They..."

Liu Ling and the others were just about to speak when flurried footsteps sounded beyond the hall.

"Liu shi, bad news! Zhao Ya has been injured by someone. Please save her..."

After which, Zheng Yang and the others walked in while supporting Zhao Ya.

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Chapter 336: Medicinal Herbs Obtained

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

Zhao Ya's injury was far more severe than they expected. If not for her resilient physical constitution, she might not have even survived the journey back.

Liu Ling didn't expect someone to end up so severely injured on a trip to the academy. Shocked, he hurriedly went up to them.

"What happened?"

"She was injured by a vile woman. Liu shi, please save her!" Zheng Yang said.

"Un!" After taking a look, Liu Ling heaved a sigh of relief. "Her zhenqi is in an erratic state having suffered violent tremors. It isn't a serious problem, she should recover after half a month of recuperation."

"Half a month? This won't do. She has to duel with that woman once more three days later..."

Taken aback, Zheng Yang was about to plead with Liu shi to do something about the matter when the latter waved his hands and clasped his fist toward Yang shi, "This is your grandteacher, Yang shi. Hurry up and greet him!"

"Grandteacher?"

"Yang shi?"

Only at this moment did Zheng Yang and the others notice the middle-aged man who was sitting at the center of the room.

Yang shi was a man who had produced innumerable miracles in Tianxuan Kingdom. But more important than that, their teacher was his direct disciple.

They had heard of the other party's legends, but they never had the chance to meet him.

Upon hearing Liu shi's words, they trembled in shock, hurriedly kneeled on the floor, and bowed deeply.

"Grandstudent Zhao Ya (Zheng Yang, Wang Ying, Liu Yang, Yuan Tao) pays respect to grandteacher!"

"Un!"

Zhang Xuan nodded his head. Then, with a frown, he turned to Zhao Ya and said, "What's wrong?"

He didn't expect that someone would actually dare to beat up Zhao Ya when he had barely left for just a single day. Who in the world had such guts so as to lay their hands on his student?

"Reporting to grandteacher, my injuries are a result of a loss to another in a fair duel. It's only due to my lacking cultivation that such a situation arose!" Zhao Ya explained.

"A fair duel?" Zhang Xuan frowned.

If she lost in a fair duel, it could only mean to say that she was lacking as compared to the other party. Even as her teacher, it wasn't appropriate for him to stand up for her such a situation.

"Come over!" Zhang Xuan beckoned.

"Yes!" Zhao Ya walked forward.

Placing his finger on the other party's pulse, he sent a surge of pure zhenqi through the latter's body via her meridians.

Pilipala!

Under the nourishment of the Heaven's Path zhenqi, Zhao Ya's erratic zhenqi gradually calmed down, and her wounds healed at a speed visible to the eye.

"Thank you grandteacher for treating me!" Feeling strength returning to her body, Zhao Ya's eyes gleamed in excitement.

Their grandteacher was indeed as incredible as the rumors put him out to be. With such a casual action, not only did the other party manage to heal her injuries, he seemed to have triggered her cultivation as well. At the current moment, Zhao Ya suddenly felt that an urge to achieve a breakthrough.

"Incredible!"

Upon seeing this sight, Liu Ling's admiration toward Yang shi soared once more.

He could tell that Zhao Ya's injury was a result of her forcefully tapping into her strength, overexerting herself, thus resulting in a backlash. Her internal organs had been jolted, and her zhenqi had been dissipated forcefully. It wasn't really a huge matter, but it would take at least half a month for her to recover fully.

Yet, Yang shi managed to heal her completely just by placing a finger on her pulse for a few breaths. His means were truly unfathomable. If not for witnessing the sight personally, he would have never thought of this to be possible.

"What do you mean by dueling with someone else three days later?"

After waving his hands to show that it wasn't a huge matter, Zhang Xuan suddenly recalled Zheng Yang's words and frowned.

What was with these little fellows? Why were they always pitting themselves against others, arranging duels even?

"Reporting to grandteacher, we were outside strolling when we heard a woman publicly sullying the reputation of our teacher. Unable to tolerate it, Zhao Ya stepped forth and challenged her to a duel to uphold our teacher's honor. Who could have known that the other party wasn't weak, and Zhao Ya was eventually beaten into such a state!"

Before Zhao Ya could reply, Yuan Tao had already opened his mouth.

Upon hearing his words, the crowd was taken aback.

Most master teachers detested seeing their own students causing trouble.

Picking a fight with another was already a folly in itself. Yet, they were still unwilling to admit their mistakes and even complained so brazenly. Zhang shi might still be willing to overlook it, but to utter such words before a master teacher whose rank was likely to have exceeded 3-star... There was no doubt that the other party would be displeased. In the worst case scenario, Zhang shi might even suffer a severe reprimand from the latter...

Knowing this, everyone rolled their eyes at Yuan Tao. They were all nervous that Yang shi would get angry.

"Sullying the reputation of your teacher?"

Yang shi's eyebrows shot up, "Not bad, a student should indeed uphold the honor of his teacher. You all did well!"

"Did well?"

They thought that they would have to suffer a severe lashing, but Yang shi ended up praising them instead. Everyone was stunned, and even Liu shi couldn't help but stagger.

Did this mean that he was encouraging them to fight with others?

The ideology that this teacher of his had was... way too extreme, wasn't it!

"However, it is shameful to get beaten up when you were the one who challenged the other party to a duel!" Zhang Xuan harrumphed.

"Actually... Zhao Ya didn't lose out to her in terms of cultivation. It was just that the other party's battle techniques were too strong..." Zheng Yang hesitated for a moment before speaking.

In truth, the other party won only due to her superior battle techniques.

Tianwu Kingdom was a Tier 1 Kingdom whereas Tianxuan Kingdom was an Unranked Kingdom. Given their different ranks, there was a world of difference in the battle techniques available in the two kingdoms as well.

It was already an incredible feat for Zhao Ya to withstand the other party's moves for so long.

"Battle techniques?"

Only at this moment did Zhang Xuan recall that he had never imparted Zhao Ya any battle technique before.

He had imparted Wang Ying the Heaven's Path Leg Art and Heaven's Path Movement Art, Zheng Yang the Heaven's Path Spear Art, and Liu Yang the Heaven's Path Fist Art. After awakening the unique constitutions of Yuan Tao and Zhao Ya, he didn't impart them any battle technique. It was no wonder why they would suffer a huge disadvantage when battling others.

"Since your teacher is currently taking the 2-star master teacher examination, I will impart you a battle technique on his behalf. Are you willing to learn it?"

Thus, Zhang Xuan turned to the lady before him and asked.

"I am willing!" Hearing that grandteacher was going to impart her a battle technique personally. Zhao Ya hurriedly clasped her fist and bowed.

What a joke! This was the teacher of her teacher! The battle technique he was going to impart her was definitely incredibly profound.

"Since you've been using a sword since young, I'll impart you a sword art!"

After contemplating for a moment, Zhang Xuan said.

"However, my sword art is sharp. You've just gotten injured so it's not suitable for you to cultivate for the time being. You should just rest for today, I'll impart the sword art to you tomorrow!"

Even though Zhao Ya had learned some kicking and punching battle techniques, those weren't her expertise. Her true specialty lies in swordsmanship instead, which she had been learning from young. Thus, she would be most suited to learn a sword art.

"Yes!" Zhao Ya nodded.

She had just gotten injured, and she was indeed not in a good condition to be learning a formidable sword art at the moment. Only when in her top condition would she be able to learn better and bring out greater might from the sword art.

"Alright, you should rest for now. Sun Qiang, send someone to the Master Teacher Pavilion to get Jiang Shu over. Tell him that I have something I need him for!"

After dealing with Zhao Ya's matter, Zhang Xuan waved his hands and dismissed them.

He had browsed through many books in the Master Teacher Pavilion, and there were a substantial number of them on swordsmanship. However, those techniques were rather profound, and it might be difficult for Zhao Ya to master them if he were to impart them straight. Thus, Zhang Xuan decided to learn them for himself and test their might before modifying it to suit her.

If he didn't attempt to comprehend every aspect of the sword art before imparting them to Zhao Ya, it might affect her fundamentals, thus causing potential problems in the future.

Sun Qiang moved swiftly and in less than an hour, Pavilion Master Jiang was already before him.

Looking at Yang shi, who was seated at the main seat in the hall, he excitedly kneeled down and bowed, "Jiang Shu pays respect to teacher!"

Not only did the person before him help him to tame a powerful savage beast, the other party even imparted him a cultivation technique to clear away the trauma in his body. As such, he was filled with gratitude for the other party.

"There are two medicinal herbs that I need, Goldleaf Spark Twig and Nine Worms Flower. Do you have them?"

Cutting straight to the point, Zhang Xuan asked impassively.

"Goldleaf Spark Twig and Nine Worms Flower? I do happen to have them!"

With a flick of his wrist, two medicinal herbs appeared on Jiang Shu's palm. These were the medicinal herbs that Zhang Xuan was looking for.

"Un!" Taking the medicinal herbs, Zhang Xuan waved his hands. "I won't take advantage of you. How much do these two medicinal herbs cost? I'll have Sun Qiang pass you the money later on!"

"I am heavily indebted to teacher. It's just two medicinal herbs, please treat it as a filial gesture of mine..."

Jiang Shu hurriedly said.

Without Yang shi's cultivation technique, it was just a matter of time before his trauma acted up. His life would have been constantly at risk. But now, not only did he manage to tame a powerful savage beast, he even managed to clear up his trauma. For this, he would be willing to even run through a mountain of flames for the other party! In comparison to that, two medicinal herbs were truly nothing.

It was this kind of earnest gratitude that induced the formation of a golden page in the Library of Heaven's Path.

"Fate brought us together, that is the only reason why I helped you. I won't take advantage of you." Zhang Xuan frowned. With an imposing tone, he said, "I will pay you however much the cost!"

Seeing his teacher insist on the payment, Jiang Shu was impressed.

Did you see that?

This is the true magnanimity of a master teacher.

It was impossible for one to not respect him.

"Yes!" Nodding his head, Jiang Shu rummaged through his memory before replying, "I got these two medicinal herbs from the Great Herb King back then. As both of their maturity exceeds a hundred years, they are worth a total of twenty million gold coins!"

"Twenty million... cough cough!"

Zhang Xuan had intended to pass the money to the other party grandly, but upon hearing those words, he nearly coughed blood and fainted.

Twenty million gold coin?

The heck!

Even if he were to sell himself, he wouldn't be able to earn this sum of money!

He thought that it would just be a few million gold coins, that was why he offered to pay for it so generously. Never in his dreams did he expect these two medicinal herbs to be even more expensive than all of the other herbs added up together.

What the hell could these herbs be to cost so much money...

All he wanted to do was to accept a student, raise his strength, and earn his trust. To think that just doing so would result in his bankruptcy...

This was way too darned!

"Money is just material possession. As a master teacher, thinking about money all day long... will affect your mental resilience!"

With a reddened face, Zhang Xuan waved his hands grandly.

"..."

Jiang Shu was baffled.

I said that there was no need to pay but you insisted on it. So why are you saying that thinking about money will affect one's mental resilience now?

Seeing the bizarre expression on the other party's face, Zhang Xuan coughed awkwardly. Waving his hands casually, he said, "You should condition yourself well for the next few days. I'll find some time to help you achieve a breakthrough in your cultivation... Treat it as the payment for these two medicinal herbs!"

He had promised the other party to pay him, only to realize that he had insufficient money. As the unfathomable expert Yang shi, he couldn't afford to lose his reputation over such a minor matter. Thus, he could only promise the other party some other benefits.

"Help me achieve a breakthrough?"

Just as Jiang Shu was curious as to why his teacher would have such a sudden change in attitude, he heard those words and his excitement then instantaneously erased all doubts that were on his mind. He hurriedly kneeled to the floor and kowtowed.

"Thank you, teacher..."

He had been stuck in Zongshi realm pinnacle for many years. If he could achieve a breakthrough and reach Half-Zhizun, his lifespan and strength would be increased significantly.

"You can leave now!"

Having collected all of the medicinal herbs, Zhang Xuan was anxious to return to the academy. Thus, he bided everyone farewell.

"I still have matters to attend to so I'll be leaving first. I'll come by once more tomorrow!"

Saying so, Zhang Xuan stepped out of the residence.

After leaving the residence, he walked into an isolated alley. Looking around to ensure that there was no one around, he reverted back to the appearance of Liu laoshi and headed straight back to Tianwu Academy.

The residence that Bai Chan acquired was right between the Master Teacher Pavilion and Tianwu Academy. Thus, it didn't take him too long to return back to his classroom.

However, before he could enter the classroom, Meng Tao rushed up to him and said in a fluster, "Teacher, you're back. Please save senior! She's... injured!"

"Mu Xueqing is injured?"

Zhang Xuan was taken aback.

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Chapter 337: Raising Lu Chong's Strength

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

In less than a day after leaving his students, Zhao Ya was injured by someone. Then, in less than four hours since leaving the classroom, Mu Xueqing was injured as well?

Wasn't this too coincidental? Was the God of Misfortune lingering around him?

"Yes!" Meng Tao's face was flushed.

"Bring me to her!"

Shaking his head, Zhang Xuan followed him into the classroom.

Upon entering the classroom, he saw Mu Xueqing leaning against the wall of the classroom with a pale face.

Walking up to her, Zhang Xuan took a look and...

He suddenly felt dismayed.

Indeed...

He couldn't discern anything at all!

Zhao Ya was cultivating a cultivation technique he imparted, and the technique could be considered as an offshoot of Heaven's Path Divine Art. Furthermore, he had been with her for a significant period of time, thus even without knowing the illness, he was able to cure her easily.

On the other hand, Mu Xueqing was a student he had just accepted today. As such, he didn't have a clear idea of her physical condition and thus, was unable to see through the root of her affliction in a glance.

If he couldn't even discern the root of her problem, how could he possibly treat her?

"Execute a battle technique!"

After hesitating for a moment, Zhang Xuan could only decide on the crudest course of action.

"Yes!"

Even though Mu Xueqing was perplexed over her teacher's instructions, she still nodded out of trust for the other party. Clenching her fist tightly, her arm shot out swiftly.

Her offense caused the book of her in the Library of Heaven's Path to be refreshed. After taking a look, Zhang Xuan heaved a sigh of relief.

This lass had forcefully used battle techniques beyond her and injured her meridians. This wasn't a big problem for him.

With a flick of his fingers, a few silver needles appeared and flew toward several parts of her body.

A moment later, Mu Xueqing felt a surge of comfort gushing through her body. The injuries she had sustained from forcefully executing battle techniques beyond her had disappeared without a trace.

Sensing the change in her body, Mu Xueqing widened her eyes in disbelief.

Her father was an apothecary who often formulated pills to treat the traumas of others. She knew that injuries caused by forcefully using battle techniques beyond one's capability were hard to resolve. A single mistake in the treatment could potentially cause one's cultivation to be crippled.

Yet, why did this complicated problem seem so easy in the hands of Liu laoshi?

"I apologize for adding to teacher's troubles..."

Mu Xueqing understood that Liu laoshi's means far surpassed that of ordinary physicians or apothecaries, and her admiration for the latter deepened.

"It's nothing. How did you get injured?"

Zhang Xuan asked doubtfully.

"Senior got..."

Meng Tao was about to explain when Mu Xueqing raised her hand and interrupted.

"I was trying out battle techniques and forcefully used battle techniques beyond my cultivation out of my negligence... Teacher, sorry for worrying you!"

Zhang Xuan could tell that that Mu Xueqing was hiding something, but since the latter was unwilling to talk about it, Zhang Xuan decided not to ask any further. "Alright! If there's nothing else, Lu Chong, you stay behind. As for the rest, you should return and rest for the day!"

"Teacher..."

Mu Xueqing hesitated.

"Is there something?" Zhang Xuan turned to look at her.

"Teacher, can you impart me a battle technique..." Mu Xueqing asked with a reddened face.

She was the one who tried to turn the entire class against him at the very start. Thus, she felt embarrassed asking the other party to impart her a battle technique at this moment.

However, she knew that if she didn't learn a new battle technique, it would be impossible for her to triumph over that lady.

Her father's battle technique was too powerful for her. If she didn't execute it well, she would sustain heavy injuries just like how she did earlier.

More importantly...

It was impossible to become adept at a battle technique without several years of effort. She was going to fight against that person three days later. If she were to ask this of anyone else, she would never make it in time. Thus, she could only pin her hopes on Liu laoshi, who had created miracle after miracle.

"Battle technique?"

Zhang Xuan turned to look at her doubtfully. "What do you want to learn?"

"I specialize in saber, so if possible, I hope that teacher can impart me a saber art..."

Mu Xueqing said.

"Saber art?"

Zhang Xuan was surprised.

Ladies tended to prefer swords due to their lightness and elegance which complemented their disposition. Yet, this lass favored sabers instead. This was something that was beyond Zhang Xuan's expectations.

"Alright, I'll think about a suitable saber art and impart one to you tomorrow. You should leave for now!"

Zhang Xuan nodded.

"Alright!"

Mu Xueqing bowed in gratitude before leaving with Meng Tao and the others.

"Senior, why didn't you allow me to say it?"

After leaving the classroom, Meng Tao couldn't hold himself back and immediately questioned.

She obviously got injured while trying to uphold Liu laoshi's honor, so why did she stop him from saying it?

"Say? What do you intend to say? That I got injured while sparring with Zhang shi's student? If I were to say so, Liu laoshi would most probably drag me to the other party to apologize!"

Mu Xueqing harrumphed.

"This..."

Meng Tao froze.

The standing and influence of a master teacher mustn't be underestimated. A genius like Zhang shi wasn't someone that an ordinary teacher like Liu laoshi could stand up against.

If Liu laoshi were to find out that his students had conflicts with other party, it was highly possible that he might drag senior there to apologize.

"It's not a big deal for me to lower my head and apologize, but I earnestly feel that Liu laoshi isn't inferior to Zhang shi in any way... In fact, I think he is even more capable than the latter! How can there be such a huge difference between their reputations? I must defeat that fellow and bring honor to Liu laoshi's name!"

Determination gleamed in Mu Xueqing's eyes.

How could Liu laoshi, despite his capability, remain as an unknown figure in the capital? Clearly, it was due to the lack of a suitable platform for him to display his prowess. The duel with Zhang shi's student was an excellent platform to prove Liu laoshi's ability. As long as she wins against the other party... Liu laoshi's name would be known throughout the entire capital instantly.

Everyone would know that even though Liu laoshi wasn't a master teacher, his capability wasn't inferior to one!

"I agree with you!"

Meng Tao nodded his head in agreement.

Indeed.

If senior were to report this matter to Liu laoshi, it would be impossible to continue on with the duel. If so, how could she bring honor to Liu laoshi's name? How could she make everyone understand that he is an incredible teacher?

Of course, he also knew that she was only trying to justify her actions. That wasn't her primary aim at all.

Mu Xueqing was a mini tyrant in the academy, having chased away several teachers. Someone had crossed her path and even wounded her. If she didn't get her revenge and make the other party apologize to her, she wouldn't be able to let this matter rest.

"Alright, don't let Liu laoshi know about this matter. I'll teach whoever who dares to babble to him a lesson!"

Mu Xueqing glared at her juniors menacingly.

"Yes!"

Everyone hurriedly nodded their heads.

"We won't say anything, but what if Lu Chong..."

Meng Tao suddenly thought of something and pointed toward the classroom.

Lu Chong was currently alone with Liu laoshi in the classroom. Even if they were to seal their mouth, it would be for naught if Lu Chong revealed the matter.

"Lu Chong? That fellow is reluctant to even open his mouth! Do you think it is possible for him to babble to Liu laoshi?" Mu Xueqing rolled her eyes.

"That's true..." Meng Tao scratched his head awkwardly.

In the two years that they had been with Lu Chong, the latter had spoken less than three sentences. How could he possibly start gossiping about this matter...

...

And just like they had guessed, Lu Chong didn't say anything.

At this moment, he was staring cautiously at Liu laoshi... The request that Liu laoshi raised had put him in a difficult position.

"Take off your clothes..." His teacher's voice sounded.

"Take off my clothes..."

Scratching his head in embarrassment, Lu Chong was at a loss.

"The cultivation of Poison Body is extremely difficult. For that, the physical body enhancement technique that I taught you has to reach Major Accomplishment at minimum. You are still lacking in mastery, and I'll have to give you a boost!"

Zhang Xuan said.

Cultivating the Poison Body was an extremely difficult and dangerous matter. Otherwise, countless poison masters wouldn't have died in the midst of doing so.

"Yes!"

Upon hearing that his teacher was only getting him to strip for cultivation purposes, Lu Chong heaved a sigh of relief.

If Zhang Xuan were to know what the other party was thinking, he would definitely die of rage.

The students nowadays... Do they all mature that early?

What in the world is going through their minds...

Soon, Lu Chong took off his clothes and lay horizontally on a bench in the classroom.

Frowning slightly, Zhang Xuan flicked his wrist and a few silver needles appeared on his palm.

With a slight movement, the silver needles immediately pierced into Lu Chong's acupoints. The pure Heaven's Path zhenqi started flowing through his body.

Lu Chong's talent was nothing short of ordinary. Given his current cultivation speed, it would take at least two days or so before he could reach Major Accomplishment for the simplified version of Heaven's Path Golden Body. After reinforcing his cultivation, around four days would have already passed.

Zhang Xuan had already boasted that he would grant Lu Chong the ability to exact vengeance within ten days. If Lu Chong were to spend so long a time on the Heaven's Path Golden Body, it would be difficult for him to form the Poison Body within the deadline.

Thus, in order to hasten the process, he intended to use his own zhenqi to drive the other party's and raise the other party's cultivation.

If he were to do so for Zhao Ya and the others, they might grow reliant on him, and this kind of mindset could potentially limit their future accomplishments. However, Lu Chong was different.

He had kneeled at the entrance of the academy just so to come under the tutelage of a teacher. Furthermore, to prevent himself from revealing anything, he could even play off as a mute for two years... His mental fortitude was far beyond Zhang Xuan's other students.

With such mental fortitude, how could he possibly lose his confidence even if his rate of growth of his cultivation was slow after this?

More importantly, the method of forcefully raising one's cultivation would expose one in excruciating pain. Zhao Ya and the others, and this was including Yuan Tao as well, would be unable to endure such grievous pain.

Peng peng peng peng!

Zhang Xuan flicked his five fingers, and silver needles danced around.

Surge after surge of zhenqi flowed through Lu Chong's body via his meridians, and the previously narrow meridians began to tear apart.

It was as though thousands of knives were lodged into his body, slicing his flesh simultaneously into innumerable pieces. It was fortunate that Lu Chong possessed a strong will. Otherwise, his mind could have broken down by now.

"Endure it!"

The zhenqi in Zhang Xuan's body pumped furiously as he shot all of the silver needles in his hands out.

Zhang Xuan was well-versed in the pathways that one's zhenqi had to flow through for the cultivation of the Heaven's Path Golden Body. The silver needles seemed lodge into Lu Chong's body in a certain pathway, heading upward until it eventually reached the cap of his head.

Boom!

Under the guidance of Zhang Xuan's silver needles, zhenqi gushed into Lu Chong's head. In that instant, Lu Chong felt as if an explosion had occurred in his head, as though he had broken through a bottleneck.

"Pixue realm... I have actually reached Pixue realm?"

He instantly realized that he had broke through Dingli realm pinnacle, reaching Pixue realm.

"Don't move, it's not over yet!"

Feeling the agitated trembling of Lu Chong's body, Zhang Xuan's eyebrows shot up. With a flick of his hands, the medicinal herbs that Zhang Xuan obtained from the Physician Guild appeared in his hands. With a sudden burst of zhenqi, he reduced all of those medicinal herbs into powder.

Tzzzzzzz!

The powder melded together, and a reaction immediately occurred. Swiftly, it morphed into an extremely toxic substance.

With a grasping action, the silver needles across Lu Chong's body flew back and plunged into contact with the toxic powder. In an instant, the entire needle turned black.

Then, with another flick, these poison needles flew back into Lu Chong's body.

"AH..."

The lethal poison flowed through the silver needle and seeped into the Lu Chong's body. An excruciating pain several times greater than that of the previous one struck him. His face immediately paled, and unable to hold himself back, he yelled in agony.

Hu!

After striking all of the silver needles back onto the other party's body, Zhang Xuan heaved a sigh of relief. Wiping the sweat off his forehead, he kept the remaining medicinal powder back into his storage ring.

He was done conducting the first round of poison tempering. Whether the other party was able to pull through would depend on his mental fortitude.

If he failed to hold on, he would fall into death's embrace!

But if he held on, he would be able to metamorphose from a cocoon into a butterfly, becoming one of the strongest experts in Tianwu Kingdom!

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Chapter 338: Zongshi Realm Heaven's Path Divine Art

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

As the lethal poison seeped into his bloodstream, Lu Chong found himself reaching the limits of his sanity.

The intense pain that assaulted his mind was too hard for him to endure.

"Father, mother, sister, brother..."

Many figures flashed across his head, as though attempting to summon him over to the other side. A powerful force threatened to pull his soul into the eternal darkness, a place where he would never be able to return from.

"No, I can't faint now. The moment I give in, teacher's hard work would be in vain... How can I face father, mother, and the others like that?"

Clenching his fists tightly, he yelled tenaciously within.

For two years, he had played the role of a mute. It wasn't because he didn't want to speak of the matter, but... his enemy was simply too strong and influential! He didn't want to be killed before he became sufficiently strong to exact vengeance.

He was at the age where bustle posed an irresistible attraction to him. Yet, he forcefully held himself back and stayed away from social interactions, as though a reticent old man. This had caused great stress to weigh on his heart.

Yet, why did he still continue to push on?

It was because that resentment in his heart didn't allow him to rest!

His father, mother, sisters, brothers... His entire family consisting of 137 people died in agony... If not for his coincidental absence during that tragedy, he might have been reduced to a corpse as well.

He thought that his vengeance would be a hopeless cause, especially given his subpar talents... But Liu laoshi had presented a chance to him. He mustn't let go of it!

"Persevere! I have to persevere on!"

Howling furiously in his mind, the will that he had tempered over the course of the past two years intensified. His drowsiness and weakness abruptly vanished, replaced by tenacity.

"Not bad!"

Seeing how the other party was still able to hold on despite the intense pain, Zhang Xuan nodded in satisfaction.

His evaluation of Lu Chong turned out to be spot-on. The latter's mental fortitude was indeed impressive. If he could persevere on with the same tenacity, it was highly likely that he would be able to successfully cultivate the Poison Body. If so, his strength would be raised tremendously.

"The effects of the lethal poison will continue on for an entire night. This night will be painful, so find some way to persevere on. Don't worry, you'll soon realize that your suffering isn't in vain!"

After instructing so, Zhang Xuan placed a blanket over Lu Chong and walked out of the classroom.

The cultivation for the Poison Body had already started, and there was no stopping now. Whether Lu Chong could persevere on or not would depend solely on his mental fortitude. No one could help him through this. Since Zhang Xuan was of no use here, he decisively left the room.

After leaving the room, he realized that the sun had already set.

Thus, he found a restaurant and ate some food.

"I have to impart a sword art and saber art to Zhao Ya and Mu Xueqing tomorrow respectively. I should give it a try first..."

He had promised the two ladies that he would impart them battle techniques, but the current him was incapable of utilizing either weapon. Thus, he had to quickly cultivate and master these two battle techniques so that he could impart them well.

"I should begin with swordsmanship!"

Zhang Xuan's consciousness delved in the Library of Heaven's Path and he started browsing through the sword-related battle techniques he saw in the Master Teacher Pavilion.

"Correct!"

Soon, a complete sword art secret manual was formed.

"Sword, the sovereign of the hundred weapons. Nimble and flexible, as though a snake or a phantom..."

A complete cultivation method of a sword art was detailed in the book.

Casually picking up a tree branch from the ground, Zhang Xuan drove his zhenqi according to the formula written in the book.

However, a short moment later, he stopped and frowned.

"That's not right... There are still some flaws in the sword art. It isn't complete yet..."

The battle techniques in the Master Teacher Pavilion were at a higher level than those in Tianxuan Kingdom. Even the weakest of them was at least of Mortal pinnacle, and many of them were at Phantom low-tier.

The more profound a battle technique was, the rarer and more valuable it was. There were only several dozen of sword art manuals in the entire library. With this quantity, it was impossible to even form a single perfect move after compiling all of the correct portions together, lest to say, a Heaven's Path battle technique.

"Forcefully cultivating this kind of incomplete sword art might cause one's cultivation to go berserk..."

Looking at the incomplete sword art manual, Zhang Xuan felt dismayed.

He thought that he would be able to form Heaven's Path Sword Art with just the sword art manuals in the Master Teacher Pavilion. From the looks of it, he was underestimating the matter.

It was fortunate that he didn't impart this sword art to Zhao Ya. If he did, the latter might have probably died from cultivating this technique before she could dueling with her opponent.

"Forget it, I should take a look at saber art manuals first..."

Holding back his dismay, he turned his attention to the saber art manuals.

Soon, the frustration on his face deepened.

Just like for sword art, there were too little saber art manuals here as well. It was impossible for a complete move to be formed with this meager quantity.

Other people required profound secret manuals for their battle technique, but Zhang Xuan was different. All he needed was quantity. As for quality... it was of negligible difference.

As the greatest occupation in the world, master teachers didn't think highly of ordinary battle techniques. As such, they didn't bother collecting them.

While this wasn't anything much to other master teachers, to Zhang Xuan, this was extremely bad news.

"Where in the world can I find fundamental manuals on saber art and sword art?"

After organizing his thoughts, Zhang Xuan scratched his head in frustration.

"Right! How could I forgot that I am at Tianwu Academy! There must be quite a few fundamental saber art and sword art manuals here!"

Zhang Xuan's eyes suddenly lit up.

It might be difficult to find battle technique secret manuals elsewhere, but this wasn't an issue for Tianwu Academy. As a school for cultivators, there must be plenty of such items on the campus.

Thus, Zhang Xuan grabbed a nearby student, asked for the location of the teacher's library, and started walking over with widened strides.

Soon, he arrived in a huge vault filled with books.

After flashing his identity token, he walked into the room.

As expected of the location where the secret manuals of the academy were stored! Even though it wasn't as large as the Master Teacher Pavilion's library, it was still of formidable scale. Cultivation technique and battle technique manuals of all kinds filled the shelves, and in just a single glance, it was clear that the number of books definitely numbered beyond a million.

There were many books on the other occupations in the Master Teacher Pavilion, but over here, the books were mostly cultivation technique and battle technique manuals; the books on the other occupations numbered in the minority.

Cultivation techniques beneath Zongshi realm were useless to Zhang Xuan. Thus, he went straight for the sword art manuals.

Soon, he found the shelves where the sword art manuals were held. There were more than several thousand books on those shelves.

He quickly collected them into the Library of Heaven's Path.

"Compile!"

This time, the sword art that was compiled was in perfect condition, thus safe for cultivation.

Instead of testing it out immediately, Zhang Xuan went to the section on saber art and collected the respective books into the Library of Heaven's Path as well.

"Hm? Zongshi realm cultivation technique?"

Walking along the shelves, Zhang Xuan collected a few other battle technique manuals when he suddenly saw the books on a row of shelves and his eyes lit up.

To think that there would be... Zongshi realm cultivation technique manuals here!

In Hongtian Academy, Zongshi realm secret manuals were incomparably valuable. As such, they were placed in an isolated vault and only elders were qualified to browse through them. Zhang Xuan didn't expect Zongshi realm cultivation technique manuals to be accessible to all teachers in Tianwu Academy.

Casually picking up a book, Zhang Xuan browsed through it. Soon, a bitter smile spread across his face.

He thought that Tianwu Academy was truly practicing equality in education, granting both elders and ordinary teacher access to the same resources. But after flipping through a book, he realized that... it was just wishful thinking on his part...

Even though those were indeed Zongshi realm cultivation technique manuals, no doubt about that, those were the most ordinary and simplest cultivation technique. In terms of quality, they were around Mortal low-tier.

Using these cultivation techniques, even if one was incredibly talented, it would take at least a decade or so before one would be able to advance a single realm.

It seemed like the truly incredible cultivation techniques were still kept in an isolated vault. Those that were available here were the useless ones.

It was a waste to throw it away, but no one cultivated them anyway.

Even so, this was a huge treasure trove to Zhang Xuan.

Sliding his finger across those manuals, he swiftly collected them all in his mind.

"Correct!"

He had collected quite a few Zongshi realm cultivation technique manuals back when he was at Red Lotus City. Adding all of these into the mix as well, the Library of Heaven's Path immediately formed the Zongshi realm Heaven's Path Divine Art.

"I should go out first before starting to cultivate!"

Holding back his urge to cultivate on the spot, he strolled around the library and collected some other useful-looking books before leaving.

Returning back to the classroom, Zhang Xuan went over to examine Lu Chong's condition, and upon seeing that the latter was still trying his best to withstand the poison, he nodded his head in approval. After which, he walked into the small classroom and sat down cross-legged.

Flipping open the Zongshi realm Heaven's Path Divine Art, he closed his eyes and started cultivating.

Tzzzzzzzz!

Along with the flow of his zhenqi, spiritual energy in the air began to gush into his body, flowing through his acupoints and meridians.

"Un?"

After cultivating for a moment, Zhang Xuan abruptly opened his eyes.

His cultivation didn't feel as smooth as before. In the past, achieving breakthroughs felt as easy as simply drinking a cup of water. But now, he felt starved instead. It was as if he was trying his best to gobble down whatever that was before him, but whatever that was before him was simply insufficient to satiate his appetite.

"It's spiritual energy..."

After pondering for a moment, Zhang Xuan came to a conclusion.

The first seven realms of a Fighter, Juxi, Dantian, Zhenqi, Pigu, Dingli, Pixue, Tongxuan... The cultivation of these realms didn't require much spiritual energy. For example, in Pixue realm, one only had to open up one's acupoints to raise one's strength. In Tongxuan realm, one only had to connect all of one's meridians together. In Dingli realm, one only had to temper one's physical body...

However, it was different once one reached Zongshi realm. The accumulation of spiritual energy and storage of zhenqi became the priority instead.

Every slightest increase in one's cultivation realm required a vast supply of spiritual energy.

Using an analogy, a Zongshi realm cultivator's dantian was like a pond whereas the spiritual energy in the air was like a stream flowing into the pond. If one wanted to fill the pond, naturally, the greater the flow, the better it was.

Cultivating a high-tier cultivation technique would cause this stream to expand. With Heaven's Path Divine Art, Zhang Xuan's 'stream' was no different from a ridiculously wide river. Naturally, the volume of water that could flow through it at any given moment was much greater than a small stream... But of course, that was only if there was sufficient water being supplied to the river in the first place.

Without sufficient water, no matter how vast the river was, the rate at which it filled the pond wouldn't be much faster than a stream.

That was to say... while there was no problem with the Heaven's Path Divine Art, due to the lacking spiritual energy in the environment, Zhang Xuan would be unable to leverage the advantages of his cultivation technique to the maximum extent.

In other words, Zhang Xuan was no longer able to raise his cultivation by an entire realm in just two hours like he did in the past!

"Given how thin the spiritual energy in the air is, it will take at least three to five months before I reach Zongshi realm pinnacle!"

Zhang Xuan thought in dismay.

The prowess of Heaven's Path Divine Art was incredible, but it had no way of making up for the lacking spiritual energy in the air. Given the current rate of absorption, it would take at least three to five months before he reached the peak of Zongshi realm.

Of course, if others were to know of his thoughts, they would definitely raise their pitchforks and light their torches.

Reaching Zongshi realm pinnacle within three to five months is already an incredible feat, you know? To be unsatisfied with such speed...

"Forget it. I should go to the Apothecary Guild tomorrow to see if I can find any pills harnessing spiritual energy. With the help of such pills, I should be able to advance my cultivation realm faster..."

Knowing that it would be terribly inefficient to cultivate normally, Zhang Xuan chose to put the matter aside for now.

The lack of spiritual energy in the environment was a huge problem to Zhang Xuan, but this problem could be alleviated by consuming pills. The Apothecary Guild had many pills that harnessed concentrated spiritual energy within them.

Thus, Zhang Xuan turned his attention away from the Zongshi realm cultivation technique to the sword art manuals and saber art manuals in the Library of Heaven's Path.

Four hours later.

Hu!

Casually grabbing a sword from the weapon rack in the classroom, Zhang Xuan drove his zhenqi according to the formula in his head and flicked the sword in his hand lightly.

Sss-la!

The zhenqi Zhang Xuan imbued into the sword formed a blinding radiance on the tip of the sword.

And with a light slash...!

A sword qi flew for more than a dozen meter before coming to a stop. A narrow but deep cut appeared on the hard ground.

--

Dantian refers to a place in the abdomen. Usually, this is where the core of a cultivator's energy come from, somewhat similar to how our blood has to be pumped from our heart. In Fighter 2-dan Dantian realm, what one does is to open up this dantian so that they could accumulate zhenqi.

Sword qi refers to a visible emanation of a slash from the edge of the sword.

Weapons, Battle Techniques and Cultivation Techniques follow the same power system.

Mortal, Phantom, Spirit, Saint, God. Each level can be divided into low-tier, intermediate-tier, high-tier, and pinnacle. There are exceptions, especially when it comes to the higher tiers due to the massive difference in prowess between tiers. For example, there additional tiers between ranks.

For a Battle Technique, there is the concept of mastery as well (i.e. how adept you are at using the technique). The higher the rank of the battle technique, the harder it is to gain mastery in it. Mastery is divided into Novice, Initiate, Minor Accomplishment, Major Accomplishment, and Consummation.

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Chapter 339: Lu Chong's Deep Grudge (1)

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

Zhang Xuan's eyes lit up. He immediately picked up a saber and attempted a light swing as well.

Just like with the sword, an imposing white emanation formed flew forth the saber, leaving behind a deep cut on the ground.

"As expected of a battle technique compiled from high-tier battle techniques! These two techniques are much stronger than the Heaven's Path Fist Art and Heaven's Path Spear Art!"

Zhang Xuan was satisfied with the force of the sword qi and saber qi.

After reinforcing his understanding of the techniques, Zhang Xuan finally heaved a sigh of relief and a slight smile crept onto his face. "After I simplify these techniques and impart them on to Zhao Ya and Mu Xueqing, they would surely be able to emerge victorious regardless of who their opponents are!"

He had no idea who Zhao Ya's opponent was, but he knew the primary reason behind Zhao Ya's loss was due to her disadvantage in terms of battle techniques. Once she learns this sword art, no matter how powerful her opponent may be, it would be impossible for the other party to withstand her attacks.

Zhang Xuan was certain that there was no battle technique in Tianwu Kingdom that could surpass those created through the Library of Heaven's Path.

As for Mu Xueqing, even though she didn't say a thing, it couldn't be any clearer to Zhang Xuan that her injury originated from a brawl. After imparting her this saber art, she should be able to protect herself from any opponent.

...

Mu Xueqing returned to her residence.

Recalling what that had happened today, she couldn't help but doubt that everything was just a dream.

Even though she had witnessed Liu laoshi's capability with her own eyes, she still found it way too unbelievable.

With just a few casual pointers from him, all of the students in the class achieved a breakthrough in their cultivation, and the problem of the pill poison that had accumulated in her body was resolved. On top of that, he even declared that he would grant Lu Chong the strength rivaling that of a Tongxuan realm cultivator within ten days... Even a master teacher wouldn't be able to rival those feats!

Walking into the living room, she stretched her back and prepared to return back to her room to rest. But just then, her father suddenly rushed into the living room with an agitated look on his face.

"Qing-er, you're back! I've good news for you!"

"What's wrong, father?"

Her father, Apothecary Mu, had always maintained his composure regardless of the situation. What in the world could have happened for him to get so agitated?

"There's a cure for you!" Apothecary Mu's eyes were gleaming with excitement.

"A cure?" Mu Xueqing was perplexed.

A cure? It wasn't like she was terminally ill! What did 'a cure for you' mean?

"You have been consuming pills since young to augment the speed of your cultivation. Even though you managed to improve swiftly, due to your physical constitution and the nature of your cultivation technique, a significant amount of pill poison has accumulated in your body, thus making it extremely difficult for you to advance to higher realms! I only managed to notice this problem last year... and by then, it was already too late."

Apothecary Mu looked at her daughter apologetically. "In order to solve your trauma, I've visited the Physician Guild and consulted them on your problem. However... none of them had a feasible solution for your problem! Even Guild Leader Mu Hong is helpless before this matter, and he even inscribed the question on the Wall of Dilemma..."

"I thought that it would be nigh impossible to find a cure for your problem, but... today, an incredible physician appeared, and he solved all of the questions on the Wall of Dilemma with perfect treatment methods! In other words... there's a cure for your pill poison..."

Apothecary Mu's eyes were glowing.

He had always felt guilty to his daughter over the issue of the pill poison, and thus, he had gone to great extents to find a cure to his daughter's affliction. Upon realizing that the new guild leader of the Physician Guild could solve the problem easily, he could no longer hold back his agitation.

"Pill poison?"

Mu Xueqing blinked. She was just about to say that she had been cured of her pill poison when her father continued speaking.

"You don't know how talented this new guild leader is. He solved nineteen questions on the Wall of Dilemma consecutively, achieving a Perfect grade for each of them. In the end, he even came up with an answer that even 4-star physicians were incapable of evaluating..."

Apothecary Mu praised in amazement.

Even though he had heard the news from a reliable source, he still found it hard to believe.

If not for his friend in the Physician Guild swearing on the matter, he would have surely thought the other party was just pulling his leg.

"Ah, right! I heard that... the new guild leader is a teacher in your academy. Help me look into it tomorrow so that I can make some preparations. I'll pay him a visit and beseech him for the treatment method to cure you of your affliction..."

Apothecary Mu turned to his daughter and said.

"There's such a formidable teacher in our academy? What's his name?" Mu Xueqing asked doubtfully.

She had heard of the Physician Guild's Wall of Dilemma as well. To be able to solve nineteen questions with a Perfect grade, that person was indeed an incredible genius!

His feat was in no way inferior to that of Master Teacher Zhang Xuan.

But Mu Xueqing knew all of the teachers in the academy, and she was certain that none of them were capable of such a feat.

After all, how could a person possessing such formidable capability possibly remain unknown!

"If I recall correctly..." Apothecary Mu pondered for a moment. "His surname seems to be Liu..."

"Liu?" Gedeng, Mu Xueqing's heart skipped a beat. A figure suddenly appeared in her mind, and her face flushed in agitation. Staring intently at her father, she asked, "It can't be that his name is... Liu Cheng?"

This was the name Liu laoshi introduced himself with when he entered the classroom.

"That's right, his name is Liu Cheng. He seems to be a new teacher in Tianwu Academy..." Recalling the contents of his conversation with his friend, Apothecary Mu nodded.

"Liu Cheng..."

Mu Xueqing's widened into large circles, and at that moment, she looked as though she had seen a ghost.

Was her teacher a physician too? Not to mention, he actually solved nineteen questions on the Wall of Dilemma and became the new guild leader of the Physician Guild?

Even though she had already guessed the answer before her father said anything, she was still astonished when she heard the confirmation.

"You know this teacher? Great! I'll pay him a visit tomorrow and beseech him to solve your pill poison..." Oblivious to his daughter's shock, Apothecary Mu continued speaking excitedly.

"There's no need to pay him a visit... He has already cured my pill poison affliction..."

It took awhile before Mu Xueqing managed to digest this news. Smiling bitterly, she said.

"He has already cured you?" Surprised, Apothecary Mu swiftly turned to look at his daughter.

"Yes..." Mu Xueqing nodded.

"Why... would he help you?" The situation was much too sudden for Apothecary Mu to accept.

Given Liu laoshi's standing, there shouldn't be any reason for him to solve his daughter's affliction for free.

"That's because..."

Hearing her father's doubt, Mu Xueqing tilted her face upward and a proud expression appeared on her face.

"He... is my teacher!"

"Your teacher?" Apothecary Mu was stunned.

The same situation was also occurring with Meng Tao and the other students of Liu laoshi. That very night left innumerable people astonished.

...

Waking up from his sleep, Zhang Xuan felt revitalized.

He had spent the entire night modifying the Heaven's Path Sword Art and Heaven's Path Saber Art for Zhao Ya and Mu Xueqing's usage.

The battle techniques created through the Library of Heaven's Path were formidable, but without Heaven's Path zhenqi to sustain one, not only would one be unable to bring out the full might of the technique, one might even sustain severe injuries from it.

Just like a baby swinging a hammer—Without sufficient strength to wield it, a formidable tool would just hurt oneself.

The two ladies would be able to better bring out the might of the battle techniques after Zhang Xuan made some modifications to the respective techniques according to their needs.

After walking out from the small room, Zhang Xuan saw Lu Chong panting heavily on the bench. The latter had managed to survive the first round of torture in cultivating the Poison Body.

"Teacher!"

Upon seeing Liu laoshi, Lu Chong hurriedly clasped his fist.

"Un!"

From the very start, Zhang Xuan had expected that Lu Chong would be able to tide through the pain. Thus, he wasn't too surprised by the matter. Nodding his head, he smiled, "How do you feel?"

"I..."

Lu Chong hesitated for a moment before replying, "I don't feel anything different from before. I am still at Pixue realm primary stage. Why didn't my cultivation rise..."

As soon as the poison started to fade, he immediately took an internal look at his condition. Just like how he was yesterday night, he was still at Pixue realm primary stage. There wasn't any advancement in his cultivation at all. If not out of trust for Liu laoshi, he would have thought that the pain he suffered yesterday night was for naught.

Upon recalling the pain he felt then, he couldn't help but shudder.

It was as if he was plunged into the deepest abyss of hell, subjected to the worst tortures that could exist in this world. Many a time he felt that it would be better for him to just let go of everything and give up. If not for the grudge in his heart fueling his determination, he would have surely caved in.

"There's a Strength Measuring Rock Pillar there. You should give try hitting it!"

Zhang Xuan smiled lightly.

"Yes!"

Even though Lu Chong was perplexed by the instructions, he still nodded his head and walked over to the rock pillar. Clenching his fist, he struck it with all of his might.

Weng!

The rock pillar trembled, and a line of digits slowly floated into appearance.

"44 ding? Pixue realm pinnacle... H-how is this possible?"

Upon seeing the numbers on the pillar, Lu Chong's body trembled and his eyes widened in shock.

He could clearly sense that his cultivation didn't rise at all. How did he manage to achieve a might of 44 ding?

This was too scary!

A normal Pixue realm cultivator's strength would only increase by one ding for every acupoint opened. Going by that calculation, 44 ding was equivalent to having 40 acupoints opened. However... Lu Chong had only cleared one acupoint to date. So, how in the world could he possibly possess such tremendous strength?

"The strength originates from your physical body!"

Zhang Xuan nodded his head as he explained. He was rather satisfied with the outcome.

What the Poison Body augmented was the might of one's physical body, not one's zhenqi cultivation.

Upon reaching a certain level of strength for one's physical body, one could gain the strength to rival zhenqi cultivators. In fact, some of the formidable poison masters were even able to tear Zongshi realm cultivators apart without using their zhenqi at all.

By tempering his physical body through lethal poison, in the course of a single night, Lu Chong's strength rose from 5 ding to 44 ding!

"I..."

Seeing the number on the stone pillar, Lu Chong's eyes reddened.

Back then, when Liu laoshi said that he would grant him the strength to exact vengeance within ten days, he still bore some doubts to the other party's words. But now, not even the slightest trace of doubt lingered in his mind!

In just a single day, his fighting prowess rose from the level of a Dingli realm primary stage cultivator to a Pixue realm pinnacle cultivator. This rate of growth was completely unheard of! Even though Lu Chong was experiencing it firsthand, he couldn't help but doubt if it was all just a dream.

"Thank you, teacher!"

All that was left in his mind at this moment was awe and gratitude for the young Liu laoshi.

"So, can you tell me about your matter now?"

Zhang Xuan asked.

"I..."

Lu Chong clenched his fists tightly.

"Remember, you are Liu Cheng's student, my student. Even if your enemy is the emperor of Tianwu Kingdom, as long as he is at fault..."

Placing his hands behind his back, Zhang Xuan exuded an aura of indubitable confidence. "I'll blast a hole through him for you!"

"Teacher..."

Having lost his family, Lu Chong had to learn to be independent swiftly. In the past two years, he trusted no one and relied on no one. He chose to shoulder all of his burden alone. But despite his incredible mental fortitude, in the end, he was just a young child.

In an instant, all of Lu Chong's pent-up emotions suddenly came bursting forth, and tears started streaming down his face.

If it was anyone else who said such words to him, he would have surely laughed it off, thinking that the other party was just bragging.

But for some reason, he couldn't help but feel inclined to trust the words of this Liu laoshi.

He had lost all of his pillars of support with his death of his parents. He didn't expect to find the feeling of wanting to rely on someone on Liu laoshi.

Even though the teacher before him was young, he felt like an indomitable mountain that pulled his floating heart back to the ground, allowing to him to find calmness. For once in a very long time, he felt that he wasn't alone.

"Go on, speak!"

Zhang Xuan looked at Lu Chong.

"Yes..."

Thus, Lu Chong began talking about his history.

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Chapter 340: Lu Chong's Deep Grudge (2)

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

It wasn't too different from the plots of cliché plots one would see in soap opera.

The Lu Clan, which Lu Chong was born in, wasn't exactly a prestigious clan in Tianwu Royal City, but still, it was a sizeable one.

Lu Chong's talent had been average since young. On the other hand, her elder sister was the star of the clan, becoming an apprentice formation master at just seventeen-year-old. Back then, she was the talk of the town.

However, that was also the origin of the disaster.

Talented and beautiful, she caught the eye of a certain scion.

Love eventually grew into hate, and the story ended in a tragedy.

"Eventually, our entire family of 137 people was all killed in the span of a night. Back then, I happened to be out hunting and coincidentally avoided the calamity..."

Recalling the matter, the resentment he sealed in his heart burst forth, and his entire body trembled in agitation.

"Your clan used to be in Tianwu Royal City?" Zhang Xuan asked.

If his clan wasn't located in Tianwu Royal City, there would be no need for him to act so cautiously here, going to the extent of even playing mute.

"Yes!" Lu Chong nodded. "Given my weak cultivation, I knew that I would never be able to escape from the other party's pursuers. Thus, I decided to join Tianwu Academy instead and cooped myself within its compounds. I think that it is likely that the other party didn't think that I would pose much of a threat that I was able to survive until now."

"The most dangerous place is always the safest place. Perhaps the other party didn't expect you to hide in the prestigious Tianwu Academy. However... given that a clan of 137 people was killed, there should have been a huge uproar in the city. Didn't the Master Teacher Pavilion and Tianwu Kingdom attempt to investigate the matter and return justice to the Lu Clan?" Zhang Xuan realized that there were some doubtful aspects to the matter.

The Master Teacher Pavilion was a powerful organization spread across innumerable nations. Not only was it responsible for grooming master teachers and guiding the populace, it also took on the role of maintaining order in the region. While they typically didn't interfere in fights of minor scale, an entire clan being slaughtered overnight was a huge matter. Given such, the Master Teacher Pavilion should have sent someone to look into the matter.

Besides, even if the Master Teacher Pavilion chose not to interfere, how could the royalty of Tianwu Kingdom stay out of the matter as well? How could they allow the murderer to get away scot-free when an entire clan was killed in the capital right beneath their eyes?

"I am not sure about the details either. After everyone else died, I went undercover. I didn't dare to look into the matter out of fear that the other party would notice my existence." Lu Chong had a savage expression on his face, and deep resentment burned in his eyes.

Zhang Xuan continued asking a few more questions, but after realizing that Lu Chong didn't know much about the matter as well, he stopped.

"There's no need to bother all these first, just focus on your training for the time being. Use the method I taught you yesterday to cultivate. As long as you persevere on for five more times, you should attain the strength to kill Tongxuan realm pinnacle experts easily. You should rest well for now and prepare for the second round tonight!"

"Yes!" Lu Chong clasped his fist before returning back to his dormitory.

Even though Lu Chong had worded it lightly, Zhang Xuan knew that the matter wasn't as easy as it sounded.

Given how the royalty of Tianwu Kingdom stood idle when an entire clan was killed, his opponent must either possess immense strength or be of high standing.

More importantly, if it was only a matter of love turning into the hate, the other party could have just killed his sister. Was there a need to wipe out the entire clan?

There was probably something deeper to it.

It seemed like his student was still hiding several matters from him.

"I shouldn't pressure him if he doesn't wish to say it. I will ask him when he's willing to talk about it!"

Shaking his head, Zhang Xuan decided not to dwell on the matter.

Even though he had decided to help the other party, their time together was still too short. It was normal for Lu Chong to not have absolute trust in him. Thus, Zhang Xuan wasn't angry.

In the book compiled on Lu Chong in the Library of Heaven's Path, it was only reflected that Lu Chong carried a deep grudge against him. It didn't state who his enemy was, and what exactly happened back then.

It was just like the case with Zhao Ya and Mu Xueqing. He could tell that the duo was injured, as well as how they were injured, but he wasn't able to tell who was the one who did it.

...

Walking out of the classroom, Lu Chong turned around and glanced at the young Liu laoshi. His eyes reddened, and he tightened his fist.

It wasn't that he didn't trust Liu laoshi, but he... didn't dare to tell him th e truth!

He knew very well the standing and influence his enemy wielded. He didn't want the only person in the world who treated him sincerely to be harmed because of him.

"Liu laoshi, I am indebted to you. It seems like I won't be able to repay you... I really hope that you won't be implicated in this matter. After all, you're just an ordinary teacher in the academy! If they were to realize that you have taken me as your student and imparted me with knowledge, they might lay their hands on you!"

"Allow me... to settle my grudge myself!"

Coming to this decision, Lu Chong turned around and left.

The sudden surge in his strength had reignited his hope for exacting vengeance.

...

Not long after Lu Chong's departure, the other students arrived.

After imparting them some basic knowledge and giving them pointers on their cultivation one by one, Zhang Xuan called Mu Xueqing into the small room and imparted her with the Heaven's Path Saber Art.

Initially, when Mu Xueqing heard that there was only one move, she was slightly disappointed. However, after learning it, she realized that it was an exceedingly profound and high-level skill. Agitated, her body couldn't stop shaking.

Even though she was unable to tell the tier of this saber art, she knew that it was at a much higher level than the Fallen Flower Fist that her father imparted her.

They weren't even comparable to one another.

This saber art seemed to harness the fundamental laws of the universe. Profound concepts were concisely expressed through this single move, making one feel as though it was impossible to withstand it.

"Thank you, Liu laoshi for your generous bestowment!"

After practicing it for two hours, Mu Xueqing finally opened up the zhenqi pathway required for the Heaven's Path Saber Art. Filled with gratitude and reverence for her teacher, she kneeled onto the floor and kowtowed.

The other party had solved her pill poison issue and imparted her with such an incredible battle technique...

It was impossible to express her gratitude through words.

"I must defeat that lady and bring honor to Liu laoshi's name!"

Gritting her silver teeth, she strengthened her resolve.

She had no other way to repay her teacher but to bring glory to him, and defeating Master Teacher Zhang Xuan's student was the most effective way to do so.

Oblivious to the fact that this newly accepted student of his had already made up her mind to give Zhao Ya a good thrashing, Zhang Xuan instructed for the other students to cultivate properly before leaving the classroom.

It wasn't easy for him to create the Zongshi realm Heaven's Path Divine Art, but due to lack of spiritual energy, he could only cultivate slowly. Now that he had some free time, he decided to head to the Apothecary Guild to find some suitable pills with concentrated spiritual energy.

...

"Is that Liu laoshi really as incredible as they say? Helping others achieve a breakthrough with just a few casual pointers?"

Not too far away from Zhang Xuan's classroom, two young men were discussing.

If any other students were here, they would surely recognize the duo to be the two stars of the academy, the champion of the academy's tournament, Zhao Wuxing, and the first runner-up, Liu Changyan.

The one who had just spoken was Zhao Wuxing.

"There must be a reason behind these rumors! It's not like you don't know Mu Xueqing's temper. To be able to make her listen obediently and even fall out with Zhang shi's students, that Liu laoshi must possess exceptional means." Liu Changyan replied.

After witnessing the brawl between the two ladies, the duo grew interested in the legendary Liu laoshi.

"No matter what, we should see for ourselves whether it is real or not. I don't believe that there's any teacher in this academy who can surpass Bai laoshi in terms of teaching!" Even though the Liu Changyan's words were logical, Zhao Wuxing still found it hard to believe the matter.

As they lived on the campus, they were unaware of the ruckus that Liu laoshi had caused in the Physician Guild. Otherwise, they wouldn't have been doubtful of the other party's capability.

As for Bai laoshi, he was the most famous star teacher in the academy. His standing was similar to that of Lu Xun in Hongtian Academy.

"Hm? Why is the carriage of the royal family here?"

Just as the two of them were discussing the matter, Liu Changyan abruptly pointed to the road.

Tracing the other party's finger, Zhao Wuxing was stunned.

A golden carriage was slowly heading toward the academy from the streets.

The insignia of the royal family was on the exterior of the carriage.

"Eight horses... This is the carriage that only the core members of the royal family are entitled to ride on. Is this the crown prince or... the third princess?"

Speaking of the third princess, Zhao Wuxing and Liu Changyan's eyes immediately burned in passion.

Third Princess Mo Yu was the ideal goddess in their mind. Not only was she beautiful, she was blessed with great talents as well... Despite her young age, she had already passed the master teacher examination, causing her name to be known throughout the capital.

If not for Zhang Xuan and Mo Hongyi, she would definitely be the brightest star in the city.

Hu!

The carriage came to a stop and an elegant figure alighted from it.

"It is indeed the third princess..."

Upon seeing the figure, the two geniuses immediately flushed in agitation.

However, puzzlement soon replaced their agitation. "Why would she be at the academy?"

As a 1-star master teacher and an incredible genius, if Princess Mo Yu was planning to conduct a lecture in Tianwu Academy, they would have definitely heard of the news beforehand. But if she wasn't here to conduct a lecture, what other reasons could she be here for?

Perplexed, they saw her walking toward Liu laoshi classroom and bowed.

"Tianwu Kingdom's Mo Yu is here to pay respect to Liu Cheng laoshi!"

A crisp voice sounded clearly in the surroundings.

"Pay respect to Liu laoshi?"

"Princess Mo Yu is a 1-star master teacher, 2-star apothecary, and 1-star beast tamer. Despite all of these, she still has to pay respect to this Liu Cheng?"

Zhao Wuxing and Liu Changyan were stunned. They were so shocked by the sight that their lower jaw nearly fell to the floor.

In Tianwu Kingdom, Princess Mo Yu's talent was only second to Mo Hongyi and Zhang Xuan. On top of being a master teacher, she was also a Tongxuan realm pinnacle expert... Yet, she came to the academy to pay respect to an ordinary teacher?

Surely they were seeing things?

Didn't that Liu Cheng just entered the academy yesterday?

For a 1-star master teacher and the princess of the kingdom to visit him personally, who exactly was he?

Before they could recover from their shock, they saw Liu laoshi open the door, walk out, and glance at Princess Mo Yu.

"What are you doing here... Cough cough, do you need something of me?"

Putong!

Zhao Wuxing and Liu Changyan fell to the ground. A mouthful of blood welled up in their throat.

What in the world was with that attitude!

Even if you are capable, it is only right for you to bow in greetings to the princess!

At the very least, you should at least address her respectfully... To immediately say 'what are you doing here' and 'do you need something of me' upon seeing the princess...

Who do you think you are?

You aren't even a star teacher, you are just an ordinary teacher in the academy. The other party is a 1-star master teacher, but not only is your attitude completely disrespectful, there is even a questioning edge to your voice. Aren't you disregarding the other party a little too much?

Infuriated, the duo was thinking about how they should report this matter to the academy to send a strict warning to this conceited fellow so that he would learn to follow the rules of the Teacher Guild when Princess Mo Yu stepped forward and said, "My father is waiting outside for you. He hopes that Liu laoshi can spare some time for him..."

"Father? His Majesty Mo Tianxue?"

"He hopes that Liu laoshi can... spare some time? What in the world is going on? His Majesty is actually paying a visit personally to an ordinary teacher?"

Zhao Wuxing and Liu Changyan's eyes were widened to the maximum. At this moment, they really felt as though the world had gone mad.

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Chapter 341: Spirit Stone

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

The two geniuses weren't the only ones who were maddened by Zhang Xuan's casual and impertinent reaction. Mo Yu's eyebrows were also twitching and she nearly flew into a rage.

She already felt indignant for having to come over personally to invite this fellow, and yet, the other party still acted like that.

It was as if she meant nothing to him at all!

At the first meeting, others would at least greet her politely with 'paying respect to Princess Mo Yu' or 'my pleasure to meet you', trying their best to be as gentlemanly as they could be. Yet, the other party immediately came with a 'what are you doing here' as soon as he saw her...

Are we close buddies?

If not for my father nagging me, do you think that I'd be here?

I've met rude people before, but to think that you would top the list!

Breathing heavily in anger, Mo Yu gritted her teeth.

Upon recalling her father's instructions, she felt even more dismayed. Even so, knowing the identity of the man before her, she could only suppress her rage.

Her father's intentions for demanding for her presence couldn't be any clearer... He wanted the both of them to have some time with one another, and it would be best if there was any spark between them!

After all, this would be greatly beneficial to her.

The fight for the throne was callous. Even though Mo Hongyi's surname was Mo, he was neither from the main family nor was he a close kin. As a talented individual who was about to become a 2-star master teacher, if he truly set his eyes upon the throne, neither the crown prince nor the other princes would be a match for him.

Mo Yu, as a fellow master teacher, was the only one who could stand against him.

Thus, Emperor Mo Tianxue intended to groom Mo Yu for her to become the empress so as to prevent the royal insignia from falling into the hands of an outsider... And to do so, her husband would play an important role in consolidating her power.

In the entire capital, the two most talented individuals other than Mo Hongyi was Master Teacher Zhang Xuan and Liu laoshi.

Master Teacher Zhang Xuan possessed high standing and powerful cultivation. On top of that, he also had the backing of a powerful teacher. Even if some spark were to be ignited between Mo Yu and him, it would be difficult for Mo Yu to keep him in check.

But Liu laoshi was different.

Mo Tianxue had sent some men to look into his affairs and confirmed that the other party was a true-blue Tianwu Kingdom civilian. Due to the lack of talent, he was unable to take the master teacher examination... At the same time, his cultivation was also only at Tongxuan realm primary stage, which was considerably weak compared to the geniuses in the city.

Normally, this kind of person wouldn't be able to match up to Mo Yu. But no one could have imagined that he would possess divine medical skill which paved his way into becoming the head of the Physician Guild all of the sudden.

Even though physician wasn't a combat occupation, very few were willing to step on their toes. After all, no one could ensure that they wouldn't fall ill.

If some kind of relationship were to really sprout between him and Mo Yu, Mo Yu's seat on the throne would be further stabilized. At the very least, Mo Hongyi would have to think twice before vying for the top seat.

Thus, Mo Yu held back her displeasure and came here personally to invite Liu laoshi over. She thought that the other party would be flattered and overwhelmed by her presence, but in the end, the other party simply disregarded her.

She was a princess and a master teacher...

What was with this attitude toward her?

Gritting her teeth tightly, she harrumphed.

After bringing up her father, she thought that no matter how arrogant Liu Cheng was, he would at least defer to her father's standing. Yet, the other party simply frowned, "Your father? Why is he looking for me? I still have something to attend to so I don't have much time!"

Zhang Xuan wasn't too bothered with the emperor of the kingdom.

As a potential 2-star master teacher, he had the qualifications to do so as well.

However, when Mo Yu heard those words, she flew into a frenzy.

Even if you are the guild leader of the Physician Guild, your physician rank is still limited by your weak cultivation. Without a concrete rank to augment your standing, your position can only be considered to be an honorary one. What rights do you have to act so arrogantly?

Don't have much time?

How don't you just take the time to die...

On the other side, Zhao Wuxing and Liu Changyan were about to spurt blood as well.

The other party being disrespectful to the princess was already sufficient to leave them speechless. To think that he would go as far as to disregard the emperor...

Aren't you afraid of incurring Princess Mo Yu's wrath by doing this? Aren't you scared that she would kill you with a single slap?

"Father has come here specially to meet you, it wouldn't look good if you were to turn him down like that!" Gritting her silver teeth, Mo Yu harrumphed.

"Ah... Fine, bring me over!" Zhang Xuan gestured.

He wasn't intentionally trying to anger this proud princess. Rather, the days with her in the Beast Hall and Red Lotus City had made him feel relatively close to her, and thus, he forgot about his identity as Liu laoshi upon seeing her.

From the looks of it, it seemed like the mask and fake identity that the Master Teacher Pavilion prepared for the examination was truly impressive. After all, even Mo Yu was unable to find anything amiss about him.

"Hmph!"

Flinging her sleeves, Mo Yu led the way.

Seeing the two of them leave, Zhao Wuxing and Liu Changyan stared at one another in shock.

Wasn't this fellow just an ordinary teacher? Why would the emperor pay him a visit personally? Also, why would Princess Mo Yu tolerate him despite being at the peak of her anger?

Even Principal Xie didn't wield such prestige!

"Let's go over and take a look..."

Unable to hold back their curiosity, the duo hurriedly followed behind them.

...

Parked at the entrance of the academy was a massive carriage. Before Zhang Xuan and the others could reach the carriage, the yellow drape veiling the interiors of the carriage parted, and a middle-aged man carrying a majestic disposition walked down.

His eyes were filled with energy and his aura felt imposing as if a mighty dragon. Even from a distance, Zhang Xuan could already feel a strong pressure from him.

The middle-aged man was a Zongshi realm pinnacle expert, an existence who was just a step away from reaching Half-Zhizun.

"You must be Guild Leader Liu..."

Mo Tianxue walked up to Zhang Xuan with a smile.

As he proceeded forward, he examined the other party carefully.

A moment later, a commendatory gleam flashed across his eyes.

As the emperor of a country, he naturally carried a disposition which exerted immense pressure on others. Even if an expert of the same cultivation realm were to face him, the other party wouldn't be able to avoid feeling intimidated and anxious.

As expected of the person who solved nineteen questions on the Wall of Dilemma. Despite his young age, the other party was extremely composed. Just his mental fortitude in itself was something incomparable by most.

"May I know the reason behind His Majesty's visit?" Zhang Xuan asked doubtfully.

"Liu laoshi has solved nineteen questions of the Wall of Dilemma consecutively, thus becoming a legend in the kingdom. I happened to pass by here today, and out of admiration for you, I would like to invite you to the royal palace!"

Mo Tianxue said.

"Royal palace?" Zhang Xuan shook his head. "I appreciate your goodwill but I have some affairs to attend to at the Apothecary Guild today. Thus, I will have to turn down your offer!"

Zhang Xuan still had to look for pills containing spiritual energy at the Apothecary Guild before heading to the residence to impart Zhao Ya the Heaven's Path Sword Art. He truly didn't have the time to be visiting the royal palace at the moment.

"He rejected the emperor's invitation?"

Zhao Wuxing and Liu Changyan had been following behind Zhang Xuan and Mo Yu stealthily, and as soon as they caught up, they immediately heard those words and shuddered in fear.

Liu laoshi sure was daring!

It was bad enough to be disrespectful to Princess Mo Yu, but to reject the emperor's invitation to his face...

"Since Guild Leader Liu has something up, I won't impose on you then. Here is a token of my sincerity, please accept it!"

Despite the other party rejecting his goodwill, Mo Tianxue didn't fly into a rage. Instead, he simply gestured with a smile, and a eunuch quickly walked forward to present a jade box over.

As the head of the Physician Guild, the other party was worthy to be considered as a fellow peer.

Mo Tianxue waved his hand, and the eunuch opened the jade box. Concentrated spiritual energy immediately gushed out from within, stimulating one's blood.

A transparent rock of the size of a walnut was placed neatly within the jade box. Reflecting the rays of the sun, it was as brilliant as a diamond.

"Spirit stone?"

"It's a spirit stone!"

Upon seeing the object, Zhao Wuxing and Liu Changyan's body trembled. At the same time, a flame ignited in their eyes.

Spirit stone was an ore mined from regions where spiritual energy was dense, and it was a commodity rarely seen even in Conferred Kingdoms. Every single one of them was incomparably valuable and rare, and it was an unparalleled treasure in boosting a cultivator's cultivation.

According to the rumors, only higher tiered kingdoms possessed the right to trade spirit stones, but even so, the demand still severely outstripped the supply! Even a 2-star master teacher would find it hard to obtain one... To think that the emperor would give such a valuable object to this Liu laoshi!

This gift was simply too big!

If they were in his place, they would have immediately become so agitated that they might even forget their own names.

They hurriedly turned to look at Liu laoshi... and he still had the same impassive expression on, as though he was unmoved by the other party's gift.

"No wonder... Just Liu laoshi's ability to maintain his composure in such a situation itself makes him already worthy of respect!"

Upon seeing this sight, the duo suddenly found themselves in awe of Liu laoshi.

That was a spirit stone! There was no cultivator whose breathing wouldn't hasten upon seeing it. Just by how Liu laoshi could remain calm before it already made him worthy of the emperor's respect...

Just as they were lamenting the innate difference among fellow humans, they heard the young teacher ask with a doubtful tone, "What's this?"

Putong!

The duo's vision darkened, and they suddenly found themselves on the verge of tears.

To think that they felt deep respect for Liu laoshi when the truth was that... he didn't even recognize what it was!

They had wasted their respect on him...

"Cough cough!"

The proud Mo Tianxue, who was looking at Zhang Xuan expectantly in hopes of seeing the shock on the other party's face, choked on his saliva. He was rendered completely speechless by the other party.

Even if you haven't seen a spirit stone before, you should have at least heard of it!

Despite being so skilled in the Way of Medicine... how could you have never heard of spirit stones before...

Zhang Xuan had read many books in the Master Teacher Pavilion, but he had yet to assimilate the content of these books for his own. As such, he was still lacking in the common knowledge in the world.

The Library of Heaven's Path was similar to the search engines in his previous life. While one could easily search for answers on it... one had to know what to search for first. Otherwise, it would be useless!

That was to say, even though he could easily access the books in the Library of Heaven's Path, he didn't have perfect grasp over the knowledge contained within them yet.

The current situation was as such. A brilliant and extraordinary-looking stone was before him, but there were countless other stones in the world as well. How was he supposed to find this single stone among innumerable others among countless books?

"This is a spirit stone. It contains concentrated spiritual energy within it, allowing to cultivate efficiently..."

Mo Tianxue explained.

"Spirit stone?"

Upon hearing the name, Zhang Xuan immediately submerged his consciousness into the Library of Heaven's Path and a book instantaneously appeared before him. He quickly browsed through it.

A detailed description on the subject was written within the book: Spirit stones are ores formed from a dense congregation of spiritual energy, and they contain a concentrated volume of spiritual energy within it. The spiritual energy within it could be absorbed by a cultivator to increase the efficiency of his cultivation, thus solving the problem of limited spiritual energy in his environment...

"This..."

Blinking his eyes in astonishment, Zhang Xuan's face gradually reddened in agitation.

Wasn't this what he was looking for? With this, he wouldn't have to head to the Apothecary Guild anymore!

He could just absorb the spiritual energy within the stone to reach Zongshi realm pinnacle!

"Thank you!"

Knowing how valuable this object was, Zhang Xuan hurriedly grabbed the spirit stone and kept it in his storage ring without even waiting for the other party to finish his explanation.

"..."

It was just a moment that he was nonchalant to the spirit stone, but in the next instant, he swiftly snatched it away, as though afraid that someone would take it away from him. Mo Tianxue and Mo Yu immediately flew into a frenzy.

The heck, your attitude is even more fickle than the weather!

Just as they were thinking that the other party was suffering from dissociative personality disorder, they saw the young man placing his hands behind his back and looking into the distance with a deep look, as though an expert who had seen through the vicissitudes of life.

"I won't take your item for free. How about this, I can conduct a free treatment for you!"

"..." Mo Tianxue and Mo Yu.

"..." Zhao Wuxing and Liu Changyan.

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Chapter 342: Imparting Sword Art

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

The spirit stone was extremely important to Zhang Xuan at this moment. Since the other party was offering it to him, he had no reason to refuse it.

However, Zhang Xuan wouldn't accept the other party's gift for free either. Thus, he offered him to treat them once for free in return.

"Speaking of treatment, I really do require Guild Leader Liu's help!"

Recovering from his astonishment from the other party's actions, Mo Tianxue clasped his fist and said.

The main reason why he had chosen to befriend Liu laoshi was because he wanted to borrow the latter's medical skill. Since the other party had brought up the topic, he decided to grasp the opportunity.

"Execute a battle technique then!" Zhang Xuan nodded.

"Execute a battle technique?" Mo Tianxue was rendered speechless once more. Shouldn't you ask about the illness instead? What do you mean by execute a punching technique?

Laughing awkwardly, Mo Tianxue said, "It's not for me but... How about this, if Guild Leader Liu is free now, I would like to invite you to the royal palace."

"I have some matters to attend to at the moment. I'll head there after I'm done!" After hesitating for a moment, Zhang Xuan said.

"Isn't Guild Leader Liu heading to the Apothecary Guild? Xiao Yu, you should accompany him there. As a 2-star apothecary, you should be well-versed with the matters there!"

Seeing the other party agree to his request, Mo Tianxue stroked his beard with a smile. "Besides, the both of you are incredible geniuses. It'll be good for you to get acquainted and learn from one another."

Mo Tianxue thought that it was a good opportunity to give the duo some time together. If sparks were to fly from their interaction, that would be for the best.

"The emperor is asking Princess Mo Yu to accompany him?"

"Clearly, he is trying to pair the princess with Liu laoshi..."

Upon seeing this sight, tears streamed down Zhao Wuxing and Liu Changyan's faces.

Regardless of whether it was her standing, beauty, or talent, Princess Mo Yu seemed to be favored by the heavens. No man could possibly reject her accompaniment.

The emperor's intentions couldn't be clearer. If not for fear of being too abrupt, he might have even betrothed her to him at this very instant. As secret admirers of Princess Mo Yu, their hearts shattered.

Just when they thought that Liu laoshi would agree delightfully to the matter, the latter frowned and shook his head, "There's no need for that..."

"No need?" Mo Tianxue was caught by surprise by the other party's response. "Isn't Liu laoshi heading to the Apothecary Guild? Even though my daughter isn't the best apothecary there, she is still a 2-star apothecary. With her connections there, you should be spared some hassle in obtaining what you need!"

Even the most skilled apothecary in Tianwu Kingdom Apothecary Guild, the guild leader, was only at 3-star. Thus, 2-star apothecaries possessed immense say within the guild.

"Oh, I'm not heading to the Apothecary Guild anymore. I still have matters to attend to, so I'll be bidding you all farewell here. After I'm done with my business, I will definitely pay the royal palace a visit!" Zhang Xuan clasped his fist and left.

The reason why he wanted to visit the Apothecary Guild was to look for a pill concentrated in spiritual energy for his cultivation. Having obtained a spirit stone, there was no need for him to do so anymore.

His greatest priority at this moment was to return to the residence to impart sword art to Zhao Ya.

After all, she was going to duel with someone two days later.

"You aren't going there anymore?"

Mo Tianxue blinked his eyes blankly.

On the other hand, Mo Yu gritted her teeth.

Her father's intentions couldn't be made any clearer, and yet, this fellow actually rejected the offer... On top of that, it was just a moment ago that he insisted on heading to the Apothecary Guild. But upon hearing that she was tagging along, he immediately changed his mind...

Am I that ugly? Do you have to be that frightened of me?

"Farewell..."

Oblivious to the misunderstanding he had caused, Zhang Xuan turned around and left.

Master teachers did possess sufficient prestige to disregard royalty. Even though the other party was the emperor of a Tier 1 Kingdom, he still had to think twice before doing anything to even an ordinary 2-star master teacher.

Putting aside the fact that master teachers were backed by the Master Teacher Pavilion, just the ability of a 2-star master teacher to rally experts was sufficient to wreck havoc in the kingdom.

All those who had benefited from their lessons in the past could be considered as their student. With the influence they wielded, destroying the royal family was nothing more than a walk in the park.

"Father, this fellow is getting out of hand!" After the other party disappeared in the distance, Mo Yu bellowed furiously.

"It is perfectly normal for talented people like him to be proud and unruly. The Zhang shi that you spoke of seems to be even more unruly than him, isn't that so?" Mo Tianxue replied.

With superior talents, it was inevitable that geniuses would tend to be proud and unruly. Besides, they had the qualifications to act in such a manner as well.

"Zhang shi possesses true capability. He isn't someone that fellow can compare with!" Mo Yu harrumphed.

Having accompanied Zhang shi from the Beast Hall to the Red Lotus City, she had a firsthand view of the other party's capability. While she couldn't say that his talents were unparalleled, she didn't think that he was too far from it. In a sense, Mo Yu viewed him as her idol. But this Liu Cheng... He was just an insignificant figure who hadn't even seen the wider world outside. He only happened to possess outstanding medical skills, how could he compare up to her idol?

"This isn't necessarily so. Not only is that Guild Leader Liu skilled in Way of Medicine, his aptitude for teaching is also top-notch!" Mo Tianxue chuckled. With a flick of his wrist, he produced a confidential document and passed it over. "Take a look at this!"

Mo Yu took it with a doubtful expression, and with a single glance, her eyes immediately widened. "He-he... With a single day of guidance, he made all of his students achieve a breakthrough in their cultivation? On top of that, he settled Mu Xueqing's pill poison?"

Mu Xueqing's father, Apothecary Mu, was one of Mo Yu's examiner during her apothecary examination, and she had met him several times. Through their interactions, she learned that Apothecary Mu was looking for a cure for his daughter's pill poison.

Given how Liu laoshi was able to become the head of the Physician Guild, his medical skill had to be outstanding. As such, while it was amazing for him to have resolved Mu Xueqing's pill poison, it wasn't beyond expectations. However, for the other party's entire class to achieve a breakthrough in just a single day of guidance... This wasn't something that just anyone was capable of!

Even her, a 1-star master teacher, was incapable of such a feat!

"Indeed. If he wasn't that formidable, I wouldn't have tried to pair him with you!" Mo Tianxue chuckled. "You should continue on reading. There's something even more interesting beyond that!"

Princess Mo Yu continued browsing downward and her hands suddenly trembled, "Zhang shi's student, Zhao Ya, fought with Mu Xueqing in a duel, and the result is a draw? And they are fighting once more two days later?"

"Un. If Mu Xueqing wins in this duel, it would mean that Liu laoshi's teaching capability has surpassed that of Zhang shi! Even if he isn't a master teacher, he would definitely contribute greatly to the country. Try thinking about it, if he were to conduct lessons in the military... What kind of effects would there be?"

Mo Tianxue said.

"That..." Mo Yu fell silent.

In just a single day of guidance, the other party's entire class managed to achieve a breakthrough in their cultivation. The benefits of the other party lecturing in the military were unimaginable. He might just singlehandedly induce the military might of the country to rise exponentially.

"Liu laoshi possess incredible medical skills and amazing teaching capability. Even though he is unable to match up to Zhang shi in pill forging and beast taming, the extent of his talent isn't inferior to the other party. It would definitely be beneficial to you to get close to such a person. But of course, you should also try to become closer with Zhang shi as well. If he were to speak up for you, regardless of how incredible Mo Hongyi is, he wouldn't be able to shake your position anymore!"

Mo Tianxue instructed gravely.

"Yes!" Mo Yu nodded. Suddenly, she thought of something and hesitated for a moment before asking, "Since we are intending to get on close terms with the two, should we stop the duel between Mu Xueqing and Zhao Ya?"

"Why should we stop it? Not only should we not stop it, we should even propagate it. We should make everyone aware of this matter and create a huge uproar! This way, we will be able to win his goodwill!"

Mo Tianxue declared confidently.

"The other party's intentions are clear. Since he didn't attempt to stop the duel between Mu Xueqing and Zhao Ya, then clearly, he wishes to make use of this matter to strike his name out. Since that's the case, we should give him a helping hand!"

Hearing Mo Tianxue's words, Mo Yu came to a realization. To be honest, she was also curious whether Zhang shi's student, Zhao Ya, or Guild Leader Liu's student, Mu Xueqing, would win?

But regardless of who wins, the fact that the two of them came to a draw in their first fight showed that Guild Leader Liu's teaching capability was in no way inferior to Zhang shi!

"I should watch their duel two days later..."

Mo Yu made up her mind.

...

After leaving the academy, Zhang Xuan double checked that no one was following him before diving into an alley and transforming into 'Yang shi'. Then, he walked into the residence.

"Old master, a few guards came by yesterday night to seek refuge with the young master. However, young master is away now, so what should we do with them?"

Upon seeing Yang shi, Sun Qiang stepped forward and greeted him before asking.

"Seek refuge with the young master?" Zhang Xuan asked doubtfully.

"That's right. They said that they were once guards of the Ji Clan and they have come here due to a promise with the young master..."

Sun Qiang added.

"Oh!" Zhang Xuan nodded as he recalled the matter.

Two days ago, when he just arrived in the capital, he offended a painter, Ji Mo gongzi, and the latter sent his men after him. In the end, the other party's men ended up being thrashed by him instead. He then fed them poison and commanded them to teach Ji Mo gongzi a lesson.

Given that Zhang Xuan was away due to his 2-star master teacher examination... These people had no choice but to escape here to prevent themselves from being killed by the men of the Ji Clan.

"I have heard this matter from Xuan lad, and it seems like he intends to have them serve as guards. As for the trauma they are suffering for, I will resolve it for them!" Zhang Xuan shook his hands casually.

While the cultivation of these people was nothing compared to Zhang Xuan, they were still Tongxuan realm experts. The residence would be much safer under their protection.

Even though it was unlikely that anyone would cause any matter here in deference to Zhang shi's name, it would still be best to prepare for the unexpected.

"Yes!" Even though he wasn't too sure what the old master was speaking of, Sun Qiang took note of it.

"Call Zhao Ya over!"

Walking to the hall and sitting down on the center seat, Zhang Xuan instructed.

Sun Qiang nodded and left. Soon, Zhao Ya walked into the hall.

"I have found a sword art compatible with you and I will impart it to you now. Regardless of who you are fighting with two days later, I hope that you can emerge victorious. Don't let me and your teacher down!"

Looking at the girl before him, Zhang Xuan spoke impassively.

"Grandteacher, rest assured! Zhao Ya will not disappoint you!" Zhao Ya clenched her jaws in determination.

"That's good. This is the secret manual for the sword art. After you've read through it, feel free to look for me to clarify any doubts!"

Zhang Xuan passed Zhao Ya the manual of the simplified version of the Heaven's Path Sword Art.

Knowing that the battle technique imparted by the grandteacher was couldn't be ordinary, she immediately started browsing through the technique seriously.

The Heaven's Path Sword Art had condensed innumerable profound concepts into simple ones that pointed straight toward the essence of swordsmanship. As such, it wasn't too difficult to learn the technique. In two hours, Zhao Ya managed to grasp the basics of the technique. However, it would still take some time before she manages to become adept in it.

Even so, she could already feel the overwhelming strength of the sword art.

It was even superior to Zheng Yang's spear art.

"Teacher, Pavilion Master Jiang requests an audience!"

Just as Zhang Xuan was done imparting Zhao Ya the Heaven's Path Sword Art, Liu Ling walked into the room.

"Bring him in..."

Zhang Xuan shook his hands casually when he suddenly froze. Slapping his head, an idea popped into his mind.

He was too used to operating in his identity as Zhang Xuan that he neglected Yang Xuan's standing.

As a 1-star master teacher, Zhang Xuan wasn't qualified to enter the 2-star library of the Master Teacher Pavilion. However, it should be easy for 'Yang shi' to enter!

In any case, this wasn't a huge matter in itself. If Yang Xuan were to raise the idea, Pavilion Master Jiang surely wouldn't stop him!

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Chapter 343: Solution to the Innate Fetal Poison

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

Following behind Liu Ling, Pavilion Master Jiang entered the hall.

"Paying respects to teacher!" Pavilion Master Jiang clasped his fist and bowed. Before he could speak, he heard his teacher ask, "Is there any books regarding 'Empyrean Kong shi' in the Master Teacher Pavilion?"

"Empyrean Kong shi?"

Pavilion Master Jiang was taken aback. "There are some records about Kong shi in the 2-star library, but it isn't too detailed..."

"Bring me there!" Hearing the other party confirm the matter, Zhang Xuan's eyes lit up.

Even though the Innate Fetal Poison was still dormant at the moment, he couldn't rest easy knowing that there was a ticking time bomb on him.

It would be best if he could solve it as soon as possible.

"Yes!" Pavilion Master Jiang nodded.

The 2-star library of the Master Teacher Pavilion was only open to 2-star master teachers. However, given his teacher's capability, he was definitely a master teacher who surpassed 2-star. Thus, he was qualified to enter freely.

Thus, under Jiang Shu's lead, the duo headed to the Master Teacher Pavilion.

The residence wasn't too far from the residence, so it didn't take them too long before arriving at the 2-star library.

Insisting that Pavilion Master Jiang stay outside, Zhang Xuan walked in.

Even though the number of books in the 2-star library paled to that of the 1-star library, the quantity was still astonishing. Since Zhang Xuan had nothing urgent at hand, he began collecting them all into the Library of Heaven's Path.

It took him around half a day to collect all of the books in the 2-star library.

"Kong shi!"

As soon as that thought popped in his mind, two books appeared before him.

He casually flipped it open.

"Empyrean Kong shi possesses Innate Saint Soul Depth..."

A few matters concerning Kong shi were written on the two books.

Looking through the matters regarding Kong shi before he reached thirty-year-old twice, Zhang Xuan realized that something was amiss.

Not only was Kong shi talented, he was also extremely diligent in his cultivation. In order to raise his strength, he put himself in precarious situations; entering the deep sea, stepping into the wilderness, infiltrating underground caverns... At an age below thirty, he had already reached the level of a 9-star master teacher!

But after that, he seemed to have suddenly toned down. He traveled around the world to enlighten the masses, established the Master Teacher Pavilion, and brought order to the entire continent... While his deeds were still spectacular, he clearly wasn't as driven as he was in the past.

"Could... becoming a 9-star master teacher be the key to solving the Innate Fetal Poison?"

Gedeng, Zhang Xuan's heart skipped a beat.

Unlike other occupations, master teachers had a strict requirement of one's cultivation. When Zhang Xuan was still at Tongxuan realm, he was still able to receive 2-star emblems from the Beast Hall and the Painter Guild. However, in the Master Teacher Pavilion, he wasn't even eligible to take the examination.

To become a 9-star master teacher, on top of possessing overwhelming Soul Depth, Zhang Xuan's cultivation had to reach an unimaginable level as well.

If he had to reach this level to solve the Innate Fetal Poison, then this was truly terrible news!

"I should test my hypothesis!"

A blank book appeared in his palm, and fetching a brush, Zhang Xuan wrote, "Reaching 9-star master teacher can solve the Innate Fetal Poison!"

He touched the book with his finger.

Weng!

A book appeared in the Library of Heaven's Path. Quickly flipping through it, Zhang Xuan's eyebrows shot up.

There weren't any errors reflected in the book. In other words... this sentence was true!

"I have to reach 9-star master teacher to solve the Innate Fetal Poison... In other words, if I don't reach 9-star master teacher before thirty, I will die?"

Zhang Xuan's body swayed weakly and he found himself on the verge of tears.

The heck, did the world have a grudge with him?

Other cultivators like Zhao Ya and Yuan Tao possessed all kinds of amazing physical constitutions, and by awakening them, their cultivation would be raised exponentially as if riding on a rocket.

On the other hand, he was cursed with the Innate Fetal Poison which threatened to claim his life if he didn't become a 9-star master teacher before thirty!

Are you for real?

9-star master teachers were the greatest experts who could shake the entire continent with their stomp.

Every single one of them only managed to reach that realm after countless years of accumulation. To reach that level before thirty...

Even though the Library of Heaven's Path allowed him to raise his cultivation swiftly, where in the world was he supposed to find sufficient spiritual energy to sustain his cultivation? More importantly, where in the world was he supposed to find so many secret manuals for the compilation of subsequent levels of Heaven's Path Divine Art?

Dismayed, Zhang Xuan wrote another line.

"Other than becoming a 9-star master teacher, there are other solutions to solving the Innate Fetal Poison!"

He touched the book once more.

Weng!

The book refreshed, and there were still no errors on it.

"There are other solutions to it..."

Upon seeing this, Zhang Xuan immediately grew agitated.

However, his agitation only lasted for a short moment before bitterness crept onto his face.

So what if he knew that there were other solutions? If he didn't know what they were, they were no different from being non-existent.

Even if you know that transforming into a bird can allow you to soar in the skies... it doesn't mean a thing if you are unable to do so!

"Forget it. Since there are other solutions, I should be able to find them. Otherwise, I will just have to experiment slowly!"

Zhang Xuan consoled himself.

Even though the Library of Heaven's Path couldn't give him the solution to a problem, it could determine whether something was right or wrong. If it comes down to it, he would just have to try treatment methods one after another. He should at least stumble upon the right one eventually.

There was still some time before he reached thirty, so there wasn't much of a need for him to worry too much about it at the moment.

At this moment, the sun had already set. Zhang Xuan walked out of the library while stretching his back.

Leaving the Master Teacher Pavilion, he headed straight back to the academy and continued helping Lu Chong with the cultivation of the Poison Body. After which, he stepped into the small tutoring room and took out the spirit stone.

Spiritual energy flowed within the transparent and brilliant stone, and it felt warm and comfortable to the touch.

"Time to cultivate!"

With the spirit stone and the complete Zongshi realm Heaven's Path Divine Art in hand, there was no need for Zhang Xuan to hesitate.

Nothing was more concrete than strength.

Only with sufficient strength could Zhang Xuan win the deference of others without disguising as 'Yang Xuan'.

Placing the spirit stone in his palm, he closed his hands and started to cultivate according to the formula recorded in the Zongshi realm Heaven's Path Divine Art.

Gugugu!

Spiritual energy immediately gushed into his meridians and turned into pure zhenqi before slowly accumulating in his dantian.

Under the infusion of spiritual energy, Zhang Xuan's cultivation rose swiftly.

Zongshi realm primary stage!

Zongshi realm intermediate stage!

An hour later, Zhang Xuan's cultivation had already reached Zongshi realm intermediate stage, and he was only a step away from reaching Zongshi realm advanced stage.

Kacha!

Just when he was going to attempt the breakthrough to Zongshi realm advanced stage, the spirit stone in his palm suddenly cracked and crumbled into dust.

The spiritual energy in the spirit stone had been completely depleted.

"It crumbled? Just like that?" Seeing the spirit stone being depleted of its spiritual energy and crumbling into dust, Zhang Xuan scratched his head.

He thought that he should at least be able to reach Zongshi realm pinnacle with this spirit stone, but it seemed like... he was overestimating it.

There was no doubt that spirit stones were concentrated with spiritual energy, but there was still a limit to how much spiritual energy each spirit stone could contain.

If it was any other Zongshi realm cultivator, they might have been able to reach Zongshi realm pinnacle with a single spirit stone. However, Zhang Xuan was different.

The Heaven's Path zhenqi was incomparably pure, and it demanded an equal quality of the spiritual energy it absorbed as well. It would refuse spiritual energy with the slightest bit of impurity in them. Thus, almost half of the spiritual energy in the spirit stone ended up being wastes. It was already a huge blessing that Zhang Xuan was able to reach Zongshi realm intermediate stage despite the immense wastage!

"Since a single spirit stone is insufficient... Didn't the emperor ask me to treat someone's illness? Maybe I can try asking for a few more from him then..."

Having known the prowess of a spirit stone, Zhang Xuan began to devise a plan to obtain more of it.

Since the emperor was willing to gift a spirit stone to him, chances are that he had more of it. If he could lay his hands on a few more, he would be able to easily reach Zongshi realm pinnacle!

With such strength, even if he were to abandon his identity as a master teacher, no one would dare to stand in his way in Tianwu Kingdom.

When dawn arrived, he passed the bottle of poison to Lu Chong, taught him how to use it, and instructed him to continue tempering his Poison Body. After which, he left the classroom and headed toward the royal palace.

...

Tianwu royal palace.

"Emperor Tianxue, Prince Fei Xuan had traveled such a long distance to propose to Princess Mo Yu. With a matrimony occurs between Tianwu and Kunqian Kingdom, we would be able to deepen our trust and better support one another. If so, the other countries would surely dare not harbor any ambitious thoughts against us!"

In the royal court, an elder clasped his hand as he spoke to Mo Tianxue, who was sitting on the throne.

The elder was Envoy Ran Mu from Kunqian Kingdom.

A Zongshi realm pinnacle expert.

There was a twenty-four-year-old youngster standing beside him. He had a dashing appearance, but the arrogance on his face seemed to spoil the aesthetics of his features. Despite his young age, he was actually a Tongxuan realm pinnacle expert!

At the current moment, the young man was gazing at Mo Yu with unconcealed admiration.

However, Mo Yu simply frowned. It seemed like not only was she uninterested in this prince, she even carried slight abhorrence for him.

"Envoy Ran Mu, there's no need to rush things. Mo Yu is the daughter that I dote the most on, so I propose that we discuss the matter slowly!" Mo Tianxue replied with a vague answer, neither agreeing nor disagreeing to Envoy Ran Mu's proposal.

"Emperor Tianxue has already said such words many times. The very reason why I am here with the prince this time around is to facilitate this matter!"

Envoy Ran Mu smiled, "I heard that something has happened to your guardian beast and that you have been using a formation to confine it. May I know if it is true?"

Mo Tianxue's face darkened, "What do you mean by that?"

"Hehe!" Envoy Ran Mu chuckled. "Since our Kunqian Kingdom is able to obtain such news, naturally, the other kingdoms should already know of it as well! As long as His Majesty agrees to the marriage, we will present a stalk of [Spirit Beast Grass] to you! I believe that with this, you should have no reason to reject us!"

"Spirit Beast Grass?"

Mo Tianxue frowned.

Just like cultivators, savage beasts had cultivation realms as well.

Savage beasts who surpassed Zhizun realm to reach a higher level of existence were known as spirit beasts.

Spirit Beast Grass was a medicinal herb which grew in areas where spiritual energy was dense. Spirit beasts are extremely fond of it, and they often fought with one another over it.

The value of a Spirit Beast Grass was in no way inferior to a spirit stone.

But of course, its rarity and value weren't what that appealed to Mo Tianxue. What Mo Tianxue was interested in was its ability to soothe the injuries of a savage beast.

On top of that, if a Zhizun realm savage beast could consume it frequently over a period of time, there was a good possibility that it might be able to advance to a spirit beast.

The main reason why Tianwu Kingdom had been able to become a Tier 1 Kingdom and deter the aggression of surrounding Tier 1 Kingdoms was mainly due to the existence of their Half-Zhizun guardian beast.

However, the guardian beast hadn't been in good condition recently. That was also the reason why Mo Tianxue approached Liu laoshi, hoping that the latter could treat it.

Even though a stalk of Spirit Beast Grass was probably insufficient to cure the guardian beast's illness, it could alleviate its condition.

However, Mo Tianxue was grooming Mo Yu with the intention of making her inherit the throne. How could he sell the future emperor of the country for a single stalk of Spirit Beast Grass? Just as he was about to reject the other party's offer, Mo Yu stepped forward.

"Father, since Prince Fei Xuan is proposing to me, may I offer my views on this matter?"

"Feel free!" Mo Tianxue nodded.

"In truth, I don't have any objections to getting married. However..."

Glancing at Prince Fei Xuan, Mo Yu spoke impassively, "You are also aware that I am a beast tamer. My tamed beast doesn't have a good temper, and if someone were to approach me, it would immediately fly into a temper. As such, I fear for Prince Fei Xuan's life if he were to marry me. Thus, only if he is capable of defeating my tamed beast will agree to the marriage!"

"Defeat your tamed beast? Do you mean it?" Prince Fei Xuan's eyes lit up.

"Of course!"

Chuckling lightly, Mo Yu raised her hand and a massive Viridescent Eagle flew into the hall.

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Chapter 344: You Are the One Who Has a Problem With Your Head!

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

Qiu!

Tilting its head up proudly, the Viridescent Eagle stared at Prince Fei Xuan arrogantly.

"Viridescent Eagle?" Prince Fei Xuan immediately identified the savage beast.

He wasn't a beast tamer, but he had a fundamental level of understanding of savage beasts. This savage beast was relatively strong as compared to other aerial savage beasts, but due to the limitations of its talents, it had a cultivation cap of Tongxuan realm pinnacle.

Prince Fei Xuan himself was a Tongxuan realm pinnacle cultivator as well, and given his numerous trump cards, it wasn't too a difficult task for him to defeat it.

As the prince of a kingdom, he cultivated the best cultivation technique and the most profound battle techniques. If he couldn't even triumph over a savage beast who was capable of mere brute force, it would truly be a huge embarrassment.

Chuckling lightly, he turned to Mo Yu and said, "Can I hold Princess Mo Yu to her words? As long as I defeat this Viridescent Eagle, will you agree to the marriage?"

"Un!" Mo Yu nodded her head. "However, if you lose, you'll have to leave immediately!"

"Of course! If I can't even defeat your tamed beast, what rights do I have to marry you?" Prince Fei Xuan's eyes were glowing with excitement.

Mo Yu's talent and beauty were well known even in the surrounding kingdoms, and many princes desired to take her hand in marriage.

In truth, he didn't bear too much hope for this proposal, so Mo Yu's offer came as an unexpected but pleasant surprise.

He might not be confident in anything else, but it definitely wasn't a problem to subdue a Tongxuan realm pinnacle savage beast for him.

"Your Highness..."

Envoy Ran Mu frowned as he examined the Viridescent Eagle carefully.

Different from ordinary humans, the source of a savage beast's strength was mainly derived from their physical body. Thus, when they weren't in combat, it was impossible to gauge their strength. As such, despite being at Zongshi realm pinnacle, Envoy Ran Mu was unable to determine how powerful the Viridescent Eagle.

Based on what he knew, the cultivation of a Viridescent Eagle shouldn't exceed Tongxuan realm pinnacle. Thus, it shouldn't be an opponent for the prince... However, as a master teacher, Princess Mo Yu should be aware of this as well. Her inconceivable confidence in this matter made him hesitate.

"It's just a Viridescent Eagle, there's no need to worry about it!" Prince Fei Xuan shook his hands casually.

"Let's begin then!"

Chuckling softly, Mo Yu gestured to the Viridescent Eagle. With a piercing howl, the latter charged straight at Prince Fei Xuan, and its gigantic wings swooped down on him.

The thick and massive feathers of the Viridescent Eagle were no different from steel. Due to its incredible strength, even before the attack could land on Prince Fei Xuan, a huge gale had already been whipped up in the hall. Under its forceful might, cracks started appearing on the tough granite-tiled floor.

"Half-Zongshi? This..."

Sensing the incredible strength originating from the other party's wings, the confident Prince Fei Xuan nearly fell to the floor in shock.

Wasn't the strength of a mature Viridescent Eagle capped at Tongxuan realm pinnacle? How could this Viridescent Eagle possibly be at Half-Zongshi realm? Furthermore, given how adept it was at utilizing its strength, it was likely that it had already advanced to Half-Zongshi for some time already.

Even though it was only a small cultivation realm of a difference between the two realms, the difference in fighting prowess was, in fact, worlds apart.

"She got me!"

Prince Fei Xuan immediately realized that he had fallen for the other party's tricks. Alarmed, he quickly pushed against the floor and retreated.

Hu!

However, before he could get far, the Viridescent Eagle's giant body was already in midair once more. Its steel claws tore through space, headed straight for him.

Not only was this fellow strong, its adaptability also far surpassed ordinary savage beasts. Upon realizing that its attack wouldn't work, it immediately changed its course of attack.

The Viridescent Eagle had two main offensive techniques: Wing Sweep and Steel Claw.

Since the first technique fell empty, it used the momentum from its sweep to push its body into the sky to launch the second technique.

Si la!

The air moaned under the pressure, and before Prince Fei Xuan could respond, the steel claw had already struck his chest, sending him crashing into a wall. Fresh blood spurted freely from his mouth.

"You've lost!"

Mo Yu beckoned with her hands, and the Viridescent Eagle immediately flew back to her side. Then, turning to Prince Fei Xuan, she spoke nonchalantly.

"I..."

Struggling to his feet, Prince Fei Xuan's face was livid.

He knew that he wouldn't be able to subdue this Viridescent Eagle easily, but never in his dreams could he expect to be severely injured in just two moves.

This fellow was way too bizarre!

It seemed to understand the art of fighting, as though it was a human.

"You are cheating... Due to the limitations of its bloodline, the cultivation of a Viridescent Eagle can only reach Tongxuan realm pinnacle. How could this one be at Half-Zongshi realm?"

Only after consuming a recovery pill did Prince Fei Xuan's injuries alleviate slightly. Through gritted teeth, he protested.

"A loss is a loss! Why? Does Prince Fei Xuan hopes to renege on his words?" Mo Yu answered impassively.

This Viridescent Eagle was the one which Zhang Xuan tamed at the Beast Hall via his Beast Pummeling Taming Method back then. After its blood had been cleansed by Heaven's Path zhenqi, it managed to successfully advance to Half-Zongshi realm.

Not only so, due to the incredible purity of the Heaven's Path zhenqi, savage beasts whose bloodline was cleansed by it would find their primal instincts being replaced with rationality and intelligence.

This was precisely the reason why the Viridescent Eagle was able to swiftly change its course of attack in the middle of a battle and defeat Fei Xuan easily.

Back then, in Red Lotus City, as Zhang Xuan had managed to tame the Half-Zhizun Howling Firmament Beast, it no longer mattered whether he had this fellow or not. Thus, he returned it back to Mo Yu, and Mo Yu rode it back to Tianwu Royal City.

Even though she hadn't established a contract with it yet, it possessed a Trust Level of 30 with her. As such, it was extremely obedient to her.

"I..." Prince Fei Xuan's face turned scarlet. He wanted to retort, but not a single word would come out from his mouth.

He had just declared confidently that he would give up if he were to be defeated by the Viridescent Eagle. Given how he didn't even manage to withstand two blows, no matter how thick-skinned he was, he wasn't able to say anything at all.

Just as he was conflicted over how he should reply, a eunuch walked in.

"Your Majesty, Liu laoshi from Tianwu Academy requests for an audience!"

"Oh? Liu laoshi? Invite him in quickly!"

Mo Tianxue's eyes lit up.

"Yes!" The eunuch walked out of the room.

"Hmph!" Upon recalling that infuriating fellow, Mo Yu's face darkened.

She had always been the center of attention as far as she could remember, and this was the first time... Oh, second time that she had been treated like that.

Glancing at his daughter's expression, Mo Tianxue shook his head with a smile, "Xiao Yu, make sure to build a good relationship with Liu laoshi, you mustn't be that stubborn anymore! He's the ideal candidate that I have found for you!"

"Ideal candidate?"

Prince Fei Xuan and Envoy Ran Mu glanced at one another with an alarmed look.

It was no wonder why Emperor Tianxue kept turning them down with all kind of excuses. It seemed like he already found a suitable spouse for Princess Mo Yu in Tianwu Royal City.

"Hmph, I would like to see how incredible he is for Emperor Tianxue to act like that..."

Prince Fei Xuan's eyes narrowed into small slits. He immediately felt overwhelming hostility for this Liu laoshi even though he hadn't met the other party before.

A grim expression crept onto Envoy Ran Mu's face.

They had just arrived at Tianwu Royal City, so they hadn't heard of Liu laoshi's incredible feat of solving nineteen questions on the Wall of Dilemma in a single breath. Even so, to be so highly regarded by Emperor Tianxue, he couldn't help but feel a little curious about the other party.

Turning to the entrance of the hall, he saw a young man walking in beside a eunuch.

"Tongxuan realm primary stage?"

Glancing at one another, frowns appeared on Envoy Ran Mu and Prince Fei Xuan.

They were wondering what kind of talented young man this Liu laoshi would be, but contrary to the expectations they held, the other party was only a measly Tongxuan realm primary stage cultivator.

He would be considered as an exceptional genius in remote countries such as Tianxuan Kingdom, but in Tier 1 Kingdoms, his achievements could only be considered to be slightly above average.

"Your Majesty!"

Walking up, this young man known as Liu laoshi casually clasped his fist.

"Ah?"

Upon seeing his actions, the duo was even more perplexed.

Under normal circumstances, one should at least bow respectfully upon seeing the emperor. Even if the other party wasn't a subordinate of the emperor, he should at least bow in the capacity as a junior. Yet, this fellow... actually greeted him as a fellow peer?

Despite being in his twenties and possessing a cultivation realm of Tongxuan realm primary stage, he greeted the Zongshi realm pinnacle emperor as a fellow peer?

What kind of identity did he possess?

"Of the Three Great Clans in Tianwu Royal City, the high nobles, and authoritative officials... there doesn't seem to be anyone who goes with the surname of Liu?"

Envoy Ran Mu found the situation inconceivable.

Given how they were able to uncover the condition of Tianwu Kingdom's guardian beast, a classified secret, naturally, they were well aware of the various powers within the capital as well. However, they hadn't heard of any powerful figure that goes by the surname of Liu.

Even the Master Teacher Pavilion didn't seem to have any master teachers whose surname was Liu.

Besides, if he was a master teacher, he would be addressed as Liu shi instead.

"Liu laoshi, you sure kept me waiting, I thought that you would be visiting yesterday!"

Mo Tianxue smiled bitterly.

The other party was a genius physician, as well as the guild leader of the Physician Guild. Even though he was the emperor of the kingdom, he wasn't in a position to urge him into doing something. Thus, he could only wait silently in the royal palace. Even so, he didn't expect to end up waiting an entire day for the other party.

"I had urgent matters to attend to yesterday!"

Zhang Xuan nodded.

"I've said yesterday that I'll conduct one free treatment for you. Who's the one that's sick? Bring him here!"

After which, Zhang Xuan began scanning the surroundings, and soon, his eyes fell on Prince Fei Xuan and Envoy Ran Mu.

Under the other party's gaze, Prince Fei Xuan's eyebrows shot up.

He had already carried immense hostility for the other party even before his appearance, and yet, at this very moment, the other party was actually insinuating that he was ill. Infuriated, he almost exploded on the spot.

"You are Liu laoshi, right?"

Suppressing his rage, he stepped forward and asked coldly.

Zhang Xuan stared at him doubtfully.

"I am the second prince of Kunqian Kingdom. I am here to ask for Princess Mo Yu's hand in marriage..."

He emphasized on the word 'marriage' so as to see the other party's reaction to the matter. However, the other party seemed to be completely nonchalant to the matter, as though it was none of his affair.

Feeling humiliated by the other party's indifference, he harrumphed, "Since you're the candidate the emperor and the princess have decided on, do you dare to take me on in a duel?"

"Candidate the emperor and princess have decided on?"

Zhang Xuan was bewildered by the situation.

Is there something wrong with this fellow? How have I crossed you? You ask for your hand in marriage while I conduct my treatment, why in the world are you challenging me to a duel when I've only just walked into the hall?

Besides, what do you mean by I am the candidate those two have decided on'?

After a moment of contemplation, a thought suddenly flashed across Zhang Xuan's head, and he finally understood what was going on.

Didn't Mo Tianxue invite him over to treat someone?

This fellow kept rambling nonsense, so he must be that sick person...

Un, mental illness. It was harder to treat than typical illnesses plaguing the body. He should make full use of this opportunity to highlight the difficulty of the treatment as a leverage for more spirit stones. It would be best if he could obtain two more...

The very reason why he came here to conduct a treatment was to obtain spirit stones anyway. Even if the patient's symptom wasn't too severe, he would still have to exaggerate it to ask for more spirit stones.

However, judging from the complete nonsense this fellow was speaking, he was definitely severely ill. At the very least, his treatment would be worth two to three spirit stones!

After clearing up his thoughts, Zhang Xuan looked at Prince Fei Xuan with a look of satisfaction and nodded. Then, he turned to Mo Tianxue, and with a contemplative look, he said, "Your Majesty, this patient's illness is extremely severe! His illness lies in the head, and such illnesses are much more difficult to treat than ordinary illnesses. It will take me quite a bit of effort to cure him..."

"Pu..."

Prince Fei Xuan thought that the other party's nod represented his consent toward the duel, but upon hearing these words, a mouthful of fresh blood spurted from him and he nearly fainted on the spot.

You're the one who is afflicted with mental illness, your whole family is afflicted with mental illness...

--

The character of Liu laoshi's surname is different from that of Liu Ling. Also, Liu Ling isn't a master teacher of Tianwu Kingdom.

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Chapter 345: The Viridescent Eagle Who is Willing To Be Beaten Up

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

"Audacious!"

Hearing the other party directly insulting the prince as mentally ill, Envoy Ran Mu's face darkened, "Our prince is very healthy, what kind of nonsense are you spouting?"

"He is healthy?" Zhang Xuan was perplexed. "Then... are you the one who is ill?"

Mo Tianxue had invited him over to conduct a treatment for someone, so naturally, someone here had to be ill. He had just met with the emperor and Mo Yu yesterday, so it was impossible for them to be the patients. The only ones left in this hall were the two of them, so who else could it be other than them?

"You..."

Seething with rage, a mouthful of blood almost spurted from Envoy Ran Mu's mouth. With a reddened face, he flung his sleeves furiously and turned to the throne, "Emperor Tianxue, is this how your Tianwu Kingdom treats your guests? Our prince might not be the crown prince, but he's still a respected figure in our country, a king personally conferred by our emperor. To allow just anyone to insult him, isn't this a clear provocation toward our Kunqian Kingdom?"

"Envoy Ran Mu, calm down..."

Not expecting Liu laoshi to say such words, Mo Tianxue was put in an awkward position. He hurriedly explained, "Liu laoshi is a physician who I specially invited over to conduct a treatment. It is due to his failure to recognize you two that he unintentionally offended you. I hope that you can overlook this matter!"

After which, he turned to Zhang Xuan and explained, "Liu laoshi, the two of them are guests of our kingdom, not patients..."

"Oh!"

Zhang Xuan nodded before turning to look at Prince Fei Xuan doubtfully.

Since he wasn't a patient, why would he utter such gibberish? Seemed like that Kunqian Kingdom was nothing after all. To think that even a mentally ill person could be conferred a king...

Sensing his intent behind the other party's gaze, Prince Fei Xuan nearly spurted blood and fainted.

What do you mean?

Why are your eyes filled with pity?

I am a prince of Kunqian Kingdom, a person who is second only to the emperor, the figure of admiration for innumerable people! I don't need your pity!

Looking at Prince Fei Xuan's maddened look, Mo Yu widened her eyes and she nearly burst into laughter.

It was no wonder why Liu laoshi was able to make her so angry. His ability to get on the nerves on others was truly unparalleled.

With just a few words, he was able to make the calm Prince Fei Xuan seething with so much rage that he was ready to kill anyone at this moment. In a sense, this was already a wonder in itself.

She was initially rather discontented with him as well, but seeing him leaving Prince Fei Xuan on the verge of erupting, her grudge with the other party vanished and she nodded her head in satisfaction

Forcefully suppressing his anger, Prince Fei Xuan glared at Liu laoshi coldly, "If you dare not duel with me, just say so. There's no need for you to come up with such excuses!"

He had lost his dignity before the princess just a moment ago, and at this moment, he was being mocked once again by this nobody. As a prideful prince of Kunqian Kingdom, this was something he couldn't accept!

"Duel? What do you want to compete in?"

Seeing how the other party was so adamant as to compete with him, Zhang Xuan felt slightly dismayed.

I'll conduct my treatment while you ask for Mo Yu's hand in marriage, why are you so intent on fighting with me?

"Simple. Princess Mo Yu has personally said that she would only marry a person who could defeat her tamed beast. If you can defeat her tamed beast, I'll admit defeat! How about it, do you have the guts to take on the challenge?"

Sneering coldly, Prince Fei Xuan flung his sleeves.

It was just a moment ago that he lost his pride to the Viridescent Eagle. Since this fellow dared to step on his toes, he wouldn't let him off the hook easily.

In any case, Princess Mo Yu was the one who decided the rules. If you're unable to pass this test as well, let's see how Mo Tianxue will respond to this matter.

In truth, the thought of Liu laoshi defeating the Viridescent Eagle had never flashed across his mind.

Despite being a Tongxuan realm pinnacle expert, Prince Fei Xuan was defeated by the Viridescent Eagle in just two moves. Given how this young man before him was only at Tongxuan realm primary stage, how could he possibly withstand the attack of a Half-Zongshi realm savage beast?

"Defeat her savage beast?"

Turning around, Zhang Xuan finally noticed the Viridescent Eagle beside Mo Yu.

Even with the sharp senses of a savage beast, the Viridescent Eagle was unable to see through Zhang Xuan's disguise.

"That's right. If you dare not accept the challenge, I advise you to stop pestering Princess Mo Yu. She doesn't have any interest in weaklings like you!" The corners of Prince Fei Xuan's mouth curled up.

"This..."

Zhang Xuan intended to simply disregard that arrogant lad, conduct whatever treatment required of him, and leave when a thought suddenly flashed through his mind and his eyes lit up.

Wasn't the other party a prince?

Then... he should have spirit stones, right?

At this moment, Prince Fei Xuan suddenly didn't look as hateful as before. Rather, in Zhang Xuan's view, he looked like a huge treasure trove instead. "It isn't anything much for me to defeat this savage beast, but... since you wish to compete with me, there should at least be some bet involved, right?"

"Bet?" Prince Fei Xuan was stunned.

The loser loses the right to pursue Princess Mo Yu... Wasn't this the bet?

"How about this? As cultivators, spirit stones are of utmost importance to us. If I defeat this savage beast, you'll give me one spirit stone! On the other hand, if I lose, I'll give one to you. Do you dare to accept this wager?"

The corners of Zhang Xuan's mouth inched upward as he taunted the other party.

"Spirit stone?"

Prince Fei Xuan's eyes narrowed.

Spirit stones were incomparably valuable, and even as a prince, he only had one in his possession. His father had given it to him, and he intended to use it to advance to Half-Zongshi realm.

To use this spirit stone as a bet?

"Why? You don't dare? If you don't dare, let's drop this matter then. I'm not interested in dealing with that eagle anyway!"

Zhang Xuan stretched his back lazily.

"You... Why would I fear you!" Seeing the other party's casual and nonchalant attitude, Prince Fei Xuan could no longer rein himself back anymore. "Let's do just that then!"

"Your Highness..."

Envoy Ran Mu immediately tried to persuade him otherwise.

Spirit stone was a lacking resource even for Kunqian Kingdom's royal family. The only reason why Prince Fei Xuan was bestowed with one spirit stone was due to his standing as a king of the kingdom. It was a too big of a gamble to use it in a bet.

"Don't worry, he's just putting on a brave front. I don't believe that a mere Tongxuan realm primary stage cultivator can triumph against a Half-Zongshi realm savage beast!" Prince Fei Xuan harrumphed.

The difference between each small cultivation realm was vast, especially between that of a Tongxuan realm and Half-Zongshi. At Half-Zongshi, one would have already attained the disposition of a 'grandmaster'.

Usually, even four to five Tongxuan realm pinnacle cultivators working together would be unable to defeat a Half-Zongshi realm cultivator, needless to say, a mere Tongxuan realm primary stage cultivator.

Without a doubt, Liu laoshi would be destroyed in an instant.

In his opinion, the only reason why the other party had raised such a bet was to scare him off.

With a flick of his wrist, Prince Fei Xuan took out a jade box and opened it. A transparent stone could be seen in it, and in a small area around it, one could see a dense congregation of spiritual energy.

Spirit stone!

"Here is my spirit stone. May I know where is yours?"

Holding his spirit stone up, Prince Fei Xuan turned to Liu laoshi.

"Mine? Of course I have it with me. If I were to lose, I'll definitely hand it over to you!" Zhang Xuan said. "If you don't believe me, you can verify it with His Majesty!"

His spirit stone had already been reduced to dust after being absorbed dry. Naturally, he couldn't take anything out. However, if he were to say that he didn't have a spirit stone now, the other party would probably back down in this instant.

"Liu laoshi does have a spirit stone. I gave him one as a present yesterday!"

Even though Mo Tianxue didn't know where Liu laoshi's confidence comes from, he hesitated for a moment and eventually nodded.

"Alright!" Prince Fei Xuan gestured grandly. "Go on then! Princess Mo Yu, I hope that you won't get your savage beast to go easy on the other party. Otherwise, don't blame me for not obeying the rules you set just a moment ago!"

While he did have the intention to humiliate Liu laoshi by inciting him to battle with the Viridescent Eagle, he also hoped to reverse his bet with Mo Yu through this matter.

Once that fellow loses, let's see how you can still marry him...

Mo Yu frowned. She hesitated for a moment, and eventually, she felt that she should say a thing or two to persuade the other party.

"Liu laoshi, you should reconsider your decision. My Viridescent Eagle has reached Half-Zongshi realm!"

With the other party's Tongxuan realm primary stage cultivation, he would surely be unable to withstand the attacks of the Half-Zongshi realm Viridescent Eagle.

Her father intended for her to befriend the other party, and if he were to be injured by her tamed beast before she could build an intimate relationship with him, it would be difficult to mend this tear in the future.

Hearing Mo Yu's words, Prince Fei Xuan was infuriated.

When I promised to fight your tamed beast, you immediately agreed to it happily, as though you couldn't wait for me to embarrass myself. Yet, when it's his turn, you started to hesitate. What in the world do you mean by that?

"I've already taken on the wager, and if you were to take back your words now, it'll be considered as your loss. Surely Princess Mo Yu wouldn't wish to see Liu laoshi suffering a defeat without even trying?"

Harrumphing coldly, Prince Fei Xuan said.

"Princess, thank you for your advice. However, it doesn't make a difference to me!"

Zhang Xuan nodded in response to Mo Yu's goodwill before turning his attention back to Prince Fei Xuan. "I will fight with this Viridescent Eagle, but I would like to clarify your definition of defeat first."

"Defeat refers to the Viridescent Eagle being reduced to state such that it dares not make a move against you..." Placing his hands behind his back, Prince Fei Xuan said.

"Alright!"

Zhang Xuan nodded. Then, he turned to the Viridescent Eagle and beckoned with his forefinger, "Come over here and let me beat you up. I'll beat you until you are no longer able to retaliate!"

"Cough cough!"

Upon hearing those words, Princess Mo Yu and Emperor Mo Tianxue swayed from side to side and they nearly fainted.

The aggressive nature of savage beasts made them react violently to provocations. Not only did you beckon it with your finger, you even spoke such arrogant words...

Aren't you afraid that the Viridescent Eagle would kill you with a slap from its wings?

"You're courting death..."

Initially, Prince Fei Xuan was still fearful that the other party had some tricks up his sleeves. However, after hearing the other party utter such provocative words, Prince Fei Xuan's eyes immediately glowed in excitement.

Despite having not provoked the Viridescent Eagle, he was nearly beaten to his death. For the other party to actually taunt the Viridescent Eagle, wasn't he courting his own death?

He could already foresee the Viridescent Eagle going on a rampage and reducing this fellow to a lump of meat paste.

Qiu!

Just as what Prince Fei Xuan had expected, the eyes of the Viridescent Eagle immediately turned red, and it released a deafening howl which pierced through even the clouds.

Hu!

It immediately moved its thick and massive wings as it shot out from Mo Yu's back.

"Be careful..."

Despite many months of being with the Viridescent Eagle, it was her second time seeing it fly into such a rage.

The first time was in the Beast Hall, when it was taunted by Zhang shi. However, Zhang shi possessed the strength to back his words up. On the other hand, this fellow was only a Tongxuan realm primary stage cultivator, what the heck was he bragging for?

If the Viridescent Eagle were to kill him with a single flap of its wings, wouldn't the people from the Physician Guild charge in here and demand an explanation from them?

Just as Mo Yu was considering whether she should get the Viridescent Eagle to go easy to Liu laoshi, the scene that unfolded before her caused her eyes to abruptly widen in shock. Her slender frame shook, and she nearly passed out from astonishment.

Even the gleeful Prince Fei Xuan who thought that Liu laoshi was doomed had his mouth agape.

The furious Viridescent Eagle rushed up to Liu laoshi, only to use its beak to pull the latter's fist onto its body.

From the looks of it, it seemed as though it was pleading with the young man before it to beat it up.

Don't you feel insulted by him?

Don't you want to kill him?

What the heck is this then?

What was even worse was that upon seeing the other party clench his fist, the Viridescent Eagle immediately stopped moving. Spreading its wings open, it stood motionless on the spot, not attempting to dodge or retaliate at all. Instead, it looked expectantly at Liu laoshi as though it craved to be beaten up...

Despite being insulted, not only did the Viridescent Eagle not attempt to kill the other party, it was inviting the other party to hit it...

Prince Fei Xuan felt blood welling up at the back of his throat, threatening to spill out at any moment.

Can anyone tell me what is going on?

--

King conferred by our emperor (qinwang)

In this case, king refers more to a noble (such as duke and marquis) rather than the sovereign of a nation.

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Chapter 346: Zhang Xuan's Identity Exposed

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

Seeing the Viridescent Eagle's attitude, Zhang Xuan was speechless as well.

When he saw it charging at him, he immediately communicated with it through the contract and verified his identity.

And...

Such a sight occurred.

After a moment of daze, Zhang Xuan soon understood the reason behind the other party's bizarre behavior.

Back then, when Zhang Xuan pummeled it, he cleansed its bloodline, allowing it to advance to Half-Zongshi realm. Upon realizing that the man standing before it was its owner, it would be bizarre if it wasn't glad to be beaten up.

Seeing the excited expression in its eyes as it waited to be pummeled, Zhang Xuan almost choked on his saliva. He turned to Prince Fei Xuan and said helplessly.

"This... Look, it doesn't dare to stand against me. This is considered as my victory, right?"

"..."

Mo Tianxue and Mo Yu.

Prince Fei Xuan's vision turned dark.

The other party had just asked what would constitute a victory, and he replied confidently that as long as the Viridescent Eagle didn't dare to stand against him, it would be considered as his victory...

But... The battle hadn't even begun and the Viridescent Eagle had already conceded, and it was currently waiting patiently to be beaten up...

What in the world was this?

Were they putting on an act?

"I get it now!"

Just as Prince Fei Xuan was feeling gloomy over the matter, he suddenly thought of something and his eyes lit up, "You knew Princess Mo Yu beforehand so it isn't surprising for this Viridescent Eagle to be close to you. Naturally, it doesn't dare to make a move against you. You cheated!"

Just a moment ago, this Viridescent Eagle seemed as though it would tear Liu laoshi's skin off, but at this moment, it was as obedient as a dog. Clearly, it already knew of the other party beforehand.

They might even have an intimate relationship with one another.

Otherwise, why would the other party submit without retaliating at all?

Actually, he wasn't the only one who came to such a conclusion. Envoy Ran Mu and Mo Tianxue shared his view as well.

Only Mo Yu knew that it was the first time her Viridescent Eagle was meeting Liu laoshi, and it was impossible for the two to be acquainted beforehand.

"Spouts maddening words; possesses astonishing talent; incredible medical skills; able to disguise himself; a close relationship with the Viridescent Eagle... Why haven't I thought about it before?"

A thought flashed across Mo Yu's mind and her entire body trembled.

Due to her lack of doubt in the information from the Master Teacher Pavilion and her father, as well as the visible physical difference between Liu laoshi and that person, she didn't suspect the other party's identity at all.

However, upon seeing this sight, she suddenly came to a realization.

Others might not be aware of it, but she knew that that person possessed superb medical skills as well. In fact, she even saw it first-hand in Red Lotus City back then.

Given how the other party was able to solve an affliction which stumped even 3-star physicians, his means were nothing short of exceptional... Given such, it shouldn't be too difficult for him to solve the questions on the Wall of Dilemma!

She had been thinking that it was such a huge coincidence for two incredible geniuses to appear in Tianwu Royal City all of the sudden. In the end, it turned out that... they were the same person!

"You were the one who chose to take on the wager just now, I didn't force you into it..."

Oblivious to the fact that the lady before him had already guessed his true identity, Zhang Xuan turned to Prince Fei Xuan and glanced at him disdainfully, "Surely you aren't going to renege on your words just because you are unwilling to part with your spirit stone! To be unwilling to pay even a mere spirit stone, you sure are a poor bloke!"

"You..."

Prince Fei Xuan's face reddened.

No matter what, he was a prince. To be criticized as a poor bloke... He was about to explode.

But regardless of how it had occurred, it was true that he had lost.

He was the one who requested for the duel, and he agreed to the wager himself too. In fact, he was the one to state the conditions for victory in the competition as well...

There was no doubt whatsoever that he had lost, and there was no excuse he could come up with to shirk payment.

"It's just a loss, I won't go to the extent of denying it!"

With a jerk of his hands, Prince Fei Xuan passed the jade box over. Then, clenching his fist, he said, "Liu fellow, you might have triumphed over me once, but do you dare to wager with me once more? The bet will still be that spirit stone."

"Wager? What should we wager on?" Zhang Xuan turned to look at him.

"It's simple. I don't mind letting you win even though you cheated, but do you dare to have a fair duel with me?"

Prince Fei Xuan gritted his teeth.

He was truly infuriated at this point.

You might be able to get the Viridescent Eagle to be willingly be beaten up by you, but let's see how you can use the same technique on me!

As a Tongxuan realm pinnacle cultivator, he was confident of dealing with a Tongxuan realm primary stage weakling.

"I don't mind having a fair duel with you, but... are you sure you can afford the bet? If you don't have any spirit stone, let's just drop the matter!" Zhang Xuan said.

The other party was only a Tongxuan realm pinnacle cultivator. Even if Zhang Xuan were to suppress his cultivation to 'Liu laoshi's' level, he was still confident of defeating the other party easily.

However, if there were no benefits involved on his part, he wasn't willing to waste his time and effort with the other party.

"I..."

Prince Fei Xuan's face reddened.

He only had one spirit stone, and the other party had just won it from him.

Without chips for a bet, he wasn't in a place to be issuing a wager.

"If you don't have it, let's just drop the matter. I still have other things to attend to!"

From the other party's expression, Zhang Xuan could tell as much that the other party had no more spirit stone, and thus, he waved his hands impassively in rejection.

Since you have no spirit stone, why should I waste my time on you?

After all, you are just an insignificant Tongxuan realm pinnacle cultivator to me.

"I don't have a second spirit stone, but I have something of equal value!"

Seeing the other party's 'don't bother me if you don't have any money' attitude, Prince Fei Xuan gritted his teeth angrily. With a flick of his wrist, he took out a jade box and opened it. Suddenly, a gush of spiritual energy burst into the air.

The spiritual energy originated from the medicinal herb within the jade box.

It was the Spirit Beast Grass which he brought along with him!

"Your Highness..."

Not expecting Prince Fei Xuan to use this as a bet, Envoy Ran Mu hurriedly tried to persuade him.

This medicinal herb was extremely beneficial to savage beasts. If this herb were to fall into the hands of Tianwu Kingdom without confirming the matrimony, it could become a disaster to Kunqian Kingdom.

"If I don't cleanse myself of this shame, how can I meet others in the future?"

Prince Fei Xuan raised his hand, indicating for the other party to speak no further.

He had already reached the limit of his tolerance after being humiliated by a nobody teacher multiple times and even losing a spirit stone in the process.

If he didn't exact his vengeance and news of this incident were to spread to his homeland, he would surely become a laughingstock!

"How is it? Do you dare to take me on?"

Closing the jade box, Prince Fei Xuan glanced at Liu laoshi coldly.

"This is... Spirit Beast Grass?"

After hesitating for a moment, Zhang Xuan asked.

The books he had read in Tianxuan Kingdom's Apothecary Guild regarding medicinal herbs had already been assimilated into his mind through the golden page. As such, he was able to identify this valuable medicinal herb easily.

"That's right. This Spirit Beast Grass has several centuries of maturity to it, and its value is comparable to a spirit stone, exceeding it even. I will use it right now as a bet against your spirit stone. How about it, do you dare to take on the wager?"

Prince Fei Xuan said.

"This... The Spirit Beast Grass may be valuable but it's of no use to me. I only want spirit stones. If you have any other spirit stone, I'll gladly take you on your wager right now..."

Zhang Xuan said.

Spirit Beast Grass was only effective to savage beasts. Even though it was filled with spiritual energy as well, it wasn't suited for a human cultivator's absorption.

On top of that, the Spirit Beast Grass couldn't compare up to his Heaven's Path zhenqi in terms of effectiveness in cleansing a savage beast's bloodline to raise their cultivation realm. There was no need for him to go through so much trouble to obtain something he had no use for.

"You..."

Seeing the other party coming up with such excuses despite him taking out such a valuable object, Prince Fei Xuan felt as though he was boiling inside. "Emperor Tianxue, can this Spirit Beast Grass of mine be traded for two spirit stones?"

"Spirit Beast Grass is an extremely rare commodity... Of course you can!"

Mo Tianxue's eyes lit up.

This was the item he had wanted, but the other party was unwilling to trade it for anything but Mo Yu's hand in marriage. He wasn't ready to sour the relationship between both countries by taking it by force either. Thus, upon hearing that the other party was willing to pawn it for spirit stones, he immediately felt agitated.

"Did you hear that? This Spirit Beast Grass can be traded for two spirit stones. If I were to lose, you can take the herb and trade it with Emperor Tianxue. If I were to win... not only must you repay me the spirit stone you just won, you must compensate me with an additional one on top of that. Do you... dare to accept my wager?"

Prince Fei Xuan gritted his teeth.

"This grass can be traded for two spirit stones? Great!"

A smile crept onto Zhang Xuan's face.

He was just in a dilemma as to where he could obtain more spirit stones when this fellow delivered it to his door. He was truly a Samaritan!

On the other hand, Mo Yu slapped her forehead.

If her conjecture was right, the person before her was a Zongshi realm expert, not to mention, a 2-star master teacher...

For a mere Tongxuan realm pinnacle cultivator to challenge a 2-star master teacher...

Indeed, the ignorant was fearless. Without any doubt, Prince Fei Xuan would surely lose. Shaking her head, Mo Yu almost felt sorry for him.

At this moment, her father's voice suddenly sounded beside her.

"Xiao Yu, will... Guild Leader Liu be alright?"

Mo Yu had a rough idea who Liu laoshi could be, but Mo Tianxue was still kept in the dark. Given the present circumstances on the surface, it was unavoidable that he would be worried.

In his perspective, even though Liu laoshi was a talented individual, his cultivation was his greatest flaw. Possessing just a cultivation of Tongxuan realm primary stage, Mo Tianxue didn't think well of the other party's fighting prowess.

He didn't think that Liu laoshi would be a match for the Tongxuan realm pinnacle prince.

"Don't worry, just wait and see..."

Mo Yu shook her head.

If Liu laoshi was truly Zhang Xuan, then her father might not even be a match for him, needless to say, this prince.

"Un!"

Even though Mo Tianxue had no idea why Mo Yu was so confident in Liu laoshi, he trusted his daughter's judgement as a master teacher. Thus, he turned his attention to the duo below.

"Since you've agreed to it, let's begin!"

Prince Fei Xuan even prepared a long speech to shoot down all of the excuses the other party could give. Thus, when the other party agreed to it directly, Prince Fei Xuan froze for a moment. But slowly, his eyes started to glow.

Given that it was a formal duel, the other party wouldn't be able to blame him even if his blows landed heavily. He was determined to make the other party regret offending him!

"I don't have much time so let's not bother finding any other locations and just hold the duel here!" Zhang Xuan said.

"Since you're courting death, don't blame me for it!"

Prince Fei Xuan sneered coldly in his minded. Savagery painted his face as he opened up his palm and charged straight toward Zhang Xuan.

Hu hu!

Before he could even reach Zhang Xuan, his zhenqi as a Tongxuan realm pinnacle cultivator had already whipped up a powerful storm in the room, tearing apart the granite floor.

Even though Prince Fei Xuan was arrogant, he had the strength to be so. He possessed superior fighting ability even compared to those of the same cultivation realm.

"What kind of moves should I use to teach this fellow a lesson without revealing my true strength?"

Seeing the other party rush over, Zhang Xuan hesitated for a moment.

He was currently impersonating Liu Cheng, who only possessed the cultivation of Tongxuan realm primary stage. If he were to defeat the other party too easily, everyone would definitely realize that there was something amiss. Thus, he had to think of a way to defeat the other party without revealing his true strength.

Just as Zhang Xuan was in the midst of his contemplation, a gray silhouette flashed across the room. Before Prince Fei Xuan's palm could land, a giant talon suddenly appeared right before him.

Peng!

With a dull thud, Prince Fei Xuan was sent flying backward at an incredible speed.

Taken aback, Zhang Xuan lifted his head and saw the Viridescent Eagle standing in front of him. The fellow who was knocked back by its talon was currently spurting mouthful after mouthful of blood after crashing into the wall.

"The heck..."

Prince Fei Xuan really cried.

What was wrong with this Viridescent Eagle?

When you were ordered to beat Liu laoshi up, not only did you not lay your hands on it, you even closed your eyes to allow him to pummel you... Yet, when it's my turn to attack, you just had to charge up and kick me...

Are you Princess Mo Yu's tamed beast or Liu laoshi's?

Dismayed, he was just about to push himself up when he felt astonishing weight pushing against his body. The massive physique of the Viridescent Eagle suddenly crushed down on him as though a giant mountain. A continuous creaking sound echoed beneath him.

"Viridescent Eagle, what are you trying to do? This is my duel with Prince Fei Xuan, what are you interfering in it for?"

"Besides, even if you want to beat him up, you should wait until I'm done first. Can't you see that I'm trying to earn some spirit stones now? If you wreck my moneymaking plans, I will barbecue you to eat..."

"You undisciplined fellow..."

"Take note of it in the future! Don't act so rashly next time! Only operate after you are certain of my intentions..."

...

A lecturing voice sounded, and Prince Fei Xuan nearly blacked out after hearing those words. Blood trickled down from the edge of his lip, and at the same time, tears gushed down his cheeks.

Brother...

Even if you wish to teach this savage beast a lesson, can you get it off me first?

If it were to continue crushing me, before you're done lecturing it, I would have been dead already...

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Chapter 347: Grandmaster Physician?

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

"Your Highness..."

Seeing that the Viridescent Eagle was crushing on the prince, and that the prince was spurting mouthful and mouthful of blood such that his face had already turned pale and it seemed as though he would die at any moment, he bellowed and charged forward.

"Release Your Highness!"

With reddened eyes, Envoy Mu charged toward Liu laoshi and stretched out his hand, preparing to strike the latter.

The Viridescent Eagle seemed to be extremely obedient to this fellow, so he deemed it likely that the savage beast was operating under his commands.

"Envoy, what are you doing?"

Seeing the other party making a move against Liu laoshi, Mo Tianxue bellowed from the throne.

Sou!

A gray-robed man suddenly appeared from nowhere and faced the envoy's offense with a palm of his own.

Peng!

The two palms clashed together, and the duo took a step back each.

The gray-robed man was a Zongshi realm pinnacle expert as well.

A member of the royal family's Shadow Squad!

After blocking Envoy Mu's assault, the gray-robed man's body blurred and he disappeared in the hall once more, as though his appearance was just an illusion.

"This..."

Envoy Mu's eyebrows twitched.

As a Zongshi realm pinnacle expert, he didn't think very highly of the Tianwu royal palace. He thought that he would be able to escape easily even if the emperor meant them harm given his strength. But from the looks of it now, his thoughts were truly laughable.

This seemingly peaceful hall was actually filled with many experts of the gray-robed man's caliber lurking in the shadows.

"It is due to my overzealousness to save His Highness that I acted so rashly. Please pardon me, Emperor Tianxue..."

Adjusting his breathing, Envoy Mu suppressed the raging zhenqi within him and apologized.

"Don't worry, your prince is fine..."

Mo Tianxue waved his hands casually.

Envoy Ran Mu turned around and saw that the Viridescent Eagle had released its talon from Prince Fei Xuan. With a pale face and a trembling body, the latter slowly pushed himself up.

While he was severely injured, it didn't hurt his vitals so there wasn't any threat on his life.

"Your Highness..."

Envoy Ran Mu hurried forward to support the other party, but the latter simply shook him off.

"You cheated. It was supposed to be a fair duel but you got your savage beast to assault me..." Prince Fei Xuan gritted his teeth as he glared at the young man before him. If he could, he would have crushed him into mere lumps of meat at this very moment.

This was way too much.

It was supposed to be a fair duel, and they even made a wager on it. Yet, the other party secretly ordered his savage beast to assault him. How could there be such a shameless person in the world?

"This..."

Zhang Xuan scratched his head indignantly.

Upon realizing that Zhang Xuan didn't intend to beat it, the Viridescent Eagle was extremely frustrated. Thus, when it saw that someone was laying his hands on its master, all of its pent-up frustration immediately burst forth. In truth... Zhang Xuan didn't order the Viridescent Eagle to do anything at all!

"You..."

Seeing the other party's indignant look, Prince Fei Xuan felt so maddened that his wounds nearly aggravated.

I am the one who was beaten up! What in the world are you feeling indignant for?

Can you at least know some sense of shame?

He was about to explode from anger when he heard the young man speaking apologetically, "It is this Viridescent Eagle's recklessness that it unintentionally offended you. How about this, I'll get it to leave now so that we can conduct a fair duel. I promise you that this fellow won't cause any more trouble!"

Hearing those words, Prince Fei Xuan spurted another mouthful of blood.

This wasn't a problem of whether the Viridescent Eagle would cause any more trouble or not. I am already severely injured. Just the blood that I have vomited throughout the entire duration probably added up to a few liters. And yet, you still want to fight with me?"

More importantly... You still dare to use the word 'fair'.

You, in perfect health, against me, a severely injured person. How can you dare to spout the word 'fair'?

"The prince is severely injured so let's forget about the duel!"

Seeing how the prince was about to die from rage even before fighting with the other party, Envoy Ran Mu's face darkened.

If not for his fear of the powerful guards hidden in the royal court, he would have charged forward to tear this Liu laoshi into countless shreds already.

"Forget about the duel? How can we?"

Hearing that the other party intended to cancel the duel, Zhang Xuan panicked.

What kind of joke was this? That was two spirit stones! Wouldn't he be a fool if he were to allow this opportunity slip by him?

"It's just some minor injuries. Give me a moment, I'll treat him now..."

As he said so, he stepped forward.

"What are you trying to do?"

Envoy Ran Mu stared at him warily.

"Don't worry, I'm just going to treat him. These are just minor injuries so it won't take long to heal them!" Zhang Xuan nodded seriously.

"Treat him?

Envoy Ran Mu was doubtful at Zhang Xuan's words.

The corners of Prince Fei Xuan's mouth twitched as well.

It can't be that this fellow wants to deal me the final blow upon seeing how the Viridescent Eagle failed to get rid of me...

"Prince Fei Xuan and Envoy Ran Mu, there's no need to panic! Liu laoshi is the new guild leader of the Physician Guild. I can vouch for his medical skill. If he says that he is able to treat Prince Fei Xuan, he'll surely be able to do so!"

Seeing the wariness on the duo's face, Mo Tianxue smiled.

"Guild leader of the Physician Guild?" The duo was taken aback.

"Indeed! He's a grandmaster physician who had solved nineteen questions on the Wall of Dilemma in a single sitting. Since he was able to solve those difficult questions easily, your injuries shouldn't be a problem at all!" Mo Tianxue explained.

"This..."

Prince Fei Xuan and Envoy Ran Mu glanced at one another.

"There's really no need to worry, those are just minor injuries!"

Walking up, Zhang Xuan reached out to support Prince Fei Xuan.

"Envoy, there's no need to worry. Since Guild Leader Liu has said such words, Prince Fei Xuan is in good hands." Mo Tianxue stroked his beard and consoled.

No matter what, Liu laoshi was a grandmaster physician who had solved nineteen questions on the Wall of Dilemma. Mo Tianxue didn't think that this kind of superficial wound could stumble him.

"Alright then..."

Hearing the confidence in the other party's tone, Envoy Ran Mu hesitated for a moment before stepping aside.

It wasn't because he trusted Liu laoshi. What he trusted was that the Physician Guild would care for its reputation, and that Tianwu Kingdom wouldn't dare to turn against Kunqian Kingdom.

"Even though Your Highness's injuries didn't reach his vitals, it is still quite severe. I will look forward to seeing Guild Leader Liu's skills then..."

Harrumphing, Envoy Mu stared intently at Guild Leader Liu, curious to see how the other party would treat these injuries. However, before he could finish his words, the actions of the other party left his eyes widened, and he almost spewed a mouthful of blood. Vulgarities burst forth from his mouth, "The heck! What are you trying to do?"

The young man in front of him had lifted his palm, and 'pah!', struck Prince Fei Xuan's nape.

Before Prince Fei Xuan could react, he had already fainted.

"..." Mo Tianxue was stunned as well.

The ability of this Guild Leader Liu far surpassed that of the previous guild leader, Mu Hong, so Mo Tianxue gauged the other party's medical skills to be on par with a 4-star or even 5-star physician. He thought that the other party would be able to treat Prince Fei Xuan easily, and he was looking forward to seeing his medical skills as well. Yet... the other party ended up knocking Prince Fei Xuan out with a palm strike instead.

Could it be that... he wasn't satisfied with the beating the Viridescent Eagle gave him?

"Hold it right there..."

Envoy Ran Mu immediately erupted. He swiftly rushed forward, but before he could do anything, a figure appeared before him. It was Princess Mo Yu.

"Envoy, please calm down. Let Guild Leader Liu finish his work first..."

If Mo Yu was still doubtful before, upon seeing Liu laoshi knocking out Prince Fei Xuan with a single strike, she was now very certain that the latter had to be Zhang Xuan.

Back then, when he treated the Great Herb King, he also knocked the other party out first.

Since the princess had already said so, Envoy Ran Mu suppressed his rage. Calming himself down, he turned to look at Liu laoshi and he was taken aback by the sight before him.

The 'culprit' who knocked out the prince was holding dozens of silver needles between his fingers, and which a light shake, all of them pierced into Prince Fei Xuan's acupoints.

Then, with a slight movement of his hand, he retrieved all of the silver needles and tapped the prince's glabella with his forefinger.

Hu!

The unconscious Prince Fei Xuan abruptly opened his eyes and his body jolted. His entire face warped and he bellowed frenziedly.

"Liu rascal, what are you up to! If you are a man, you should face me fairly. What do you mean by conducting such sneak attacks..."

Roaring loudly, his voice echoed throughout the hall. He didn't bear any semblance to an injured patient at all.

"Your Highness..."

Envoy Ran Mu blinked in disbelief, "Your injuries..."

"Injuries?"

Prince Fei Xuan froze. He also realized that something was amiss. Trying to drive his zhenqi, he immediately felt overwhelming strength surging through him. This was a sign of a perfectly healthy body.

It was as if he had never been injured before.

"This... This..."

This time, Prince Fei Xuan was truly astounded.

It was just a few moment ago that he was still spewing mouthful after mouthful of blood. Yet, at this moment, he was as good as new... Did he really just recover that quickly?

"With just a few needles, he managed to heal His Highness's injuries?"

Envoy Ran Mu was also in a state of disbelief.

It was only at this moment that he finally understood why Emperor Tianxue valued this lad so highly even though he only possessed a cultivation of Tongxuan realm primary stage.

Just his medical skill in itself was sufficient to make any kingdom go insane for him.

"Un, it's just some minor injuries!" Zhang Xuan shook his hands casually. "Now that you've recovered, we should continue with our duel."

It was due to the huge disparity between the other party's cultivation and his true cultivation that he was able to treat him so easily. If the other party's cultivation was equal or higher than him, it would be much more troublesome than this.

"This..."

Prince Fei Xuan was taken aback for a moment before he replied, "I am in awe of Guild Leader Liu's astounding medical skills. I humbly apologize for my inability to notice your capability. If I have offended you before, I hope that you can forgive me! As for the matter regarding the duel, I have been a little too rash. Thus, I hope that you can just let the matter go!"

As a prince, he might be proud but he was no fool. He was extremely dissatisfied with this fellow, but given how the other party was able to treat his wounds so easily and swiftly, his medical skill was definitely at an astounding level.

Even if he couldn't get on good terms with the other party, it would be best not to offend him.

Otherwise, even Kunqian Kingdom wouldn't be able to protect him.

"Let the matter go?"

Zhang Xuan was stunned. "How can I just let the matter go..."

That's two spirit stones! If they don't duel, Zhang Xuan couldn't possibly steal from him, right?

"I didn't know that Liu laoshi is an outstanding physician, as well as the guild leader of the Physician Guild. If I knew earlier, I wouldn't have proposed this duel and would have admitted defeat straight..."

Prince Fei Xuan quickly added.

He finally understood why Emperor Tianxue was so lenient with the Liu laoshi. This young man was truly someone that he couldn't afford to offend.

Physicians may not possess the rallying ability on par with that of a master teacher, but one would do well not to underestimate them. In any case, as a mere prince, it would be wise for him to avoid treading on Liu laoshi's toes.

But before he could finish his words, he heard the young man before him lament, "What? You're admitting defeat straight? I do feel a little embarrassed taking this Spirit Beast Grass without competing for it..."

"..."

Prince Fei Xuan was stupefied.

Those were only pleasantries to resolve the situation, how can you take them for real?

As the guild leader of the Physician Guild, a grandmaster physician, can you at least have some sense of shame?

Panicking, Prince Fei Xuan opened his mouth to explain, but the young man before him had already taken the jade box from his hand and kept it inside his storage ring. After which, he looked at him sheepishly and said, "I'll take the medicinal herb then. Your Highness sure is generous to admit defeat so frankly. I do feel a little guilty winning the bet just like that!"

What a joke! The reason for his trip here was to procure spirit stones. Since this medicinal herb could be traded for two spirit stones, how could he let it escape from him?

"Generous? Guilty?"

The corners of Prince Fei Xuan's mouth twitched.

He had seen shameless people, but it was his first time seeing someone completely devoid of his sense of shame.

You took my medicinal herb away on your own accord and said that I am generous... Generous your head!

Guilty? Why do I only see a bright smile on your face?

If not for the overwhelming facts before him, he could have never believed that this shameless fellow could be a highly-skilled grandmaster physician...

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Chapter 348: Guardian Beast

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

"I won't take your medicinal herb for free. How about this then!"

Just as Prince Fei Xuan was dismayed over the daylight robbery, the young man before him spoke. "Just like with Emperor Tianxue, I'll offer you a free treatment!"

Even though Zhang Xuan was determined to grab the Spirit Beast Grass, which was equivalent to two pieces of spirit stones, he didn't think that it was appropriate for him to take it for free.

Placing his hands behind his back, he walked around Prince Fei Xuan and said, "When I was treating you, I realized that there are some blockages in your meridians, resulting in your zhenqi being unable to flow smoothly. While your body seems fine on the surface, it is actually a little weak! If I'm not wrong, do you find it hard to wake up early and difficult to sleep at night recently?"

"I..."

Prince Fei Xuan was seriously contemplating whether he should snatch the Spirit Beast Grass back when he heard Zhang Xuan's words. His body trembled and his face paled, "You... You... How did you know?"

He had indeed been facing such a problem recently.

The blockages in his meridian prevented his zhenqi from flowing smoothly. On top of that, the lack of quality sleep made him constantly grumpy and frustrated.

If not for the case, he would have attempted to use the spirit stone to attempt a breakthrough to Half-Zongshi realm already. He wouldn't have to keep it with him all this time, eventually resulting in him losing it to the fellow before him...

However, these were things that he had never told anyone before. Even Envoy Ran Mu beside him knew nothing about it, so how could this Liu laoshi know of it?

Did he really notice something?

"I am a physician, and I've checked on your physical condition while treating you a moment ago. Naturally, I would know it!" Zhang Xuan nodded.

"Guild leader... I beseech you to help me!"

With a pale face, Prince Fei Xuan clasped his fist respectfully. The arrogance from before had disappeared completely at this instant.

This illness had prevented him from concentrating, thus resulting in the stagnation of his cultivation. The Spirit Beast Grass was valuable, but if he could have his condition treated in exchange, it would be well worth the cost.

"Un. Actually, the problem is simple. Your talent is not bad, but under normal circumstances, it shouldn't have been possible for you to reach Tongxuan realm pinnacle at your age. If I'm not mistaken, in order to raise your cultivation, you utilized some unique methods, right? I will tell you upfront that it's precisely those methods that left you with a trauma, thus inducing such symptoms!"

Zhang Xuan said.

Prince Fei Xuan's body shuddered.

The other party was right.

His talent could only be considered as above average.

The royal family was a cold and brutal place. Without sufficient strength, he would meet with all kinds of trouble and danger. For the sake of his survival, he could only look for ways to raise his cultivation swiftly. Thus, he used a secret art, which involved the consumption of some unique medicinal herbs, to stimulate his acupoints and trigger his potential.

Even though he managed to improve swiftly, it had left traumas in his body.

Could it be that... his recent physical condition was a result of this?

"Exactly. I will prepare a prescription for you. If you follow it strictly, your trauma should be solved completely within a month. By then, it should be possible for you to attempt the breakthrough for Half-Zongshi realm!"

Smiling, Zhang Xuan walked to a nearby table, took out brush and paper from his storage ring, wrote a prescription, and passed it over.

"Thank you, Guild Leader Liu!"

Grabbing the prescription, Prince Fei Xuan's face flushed in agitation.

He had been tortured by this condition for quite a while, causing him to be lethargic, absentminded, and irritable. This was precisely the reason why he was unable to hold himself back as soon as he felt provoked by Zhang Xuan, resulting in the lack the restraint that he, as a prince, should possess.

If he could treat his condition and advance to Half-Zongshi realm, then this prescription was truly something too valuable to him.

Putting aside a spirit stone and a stalk of Spirit Beast Grass, even if he had to give in his entire fortune, he would be willing to do so!

This was because... Kunqian Kingdom hadn't chosen a crown prince yet. If he could reach Half-Zongshi, there was an extremely high chance that the seat would be his!

Waving casually, Zhang Xuan turned to Mo Tianxue and said, "Your Majesty, please bring the patient here. I still have some things to attend afterward!"

Just like the others, Mo Tianxue was also in a state of shock. After hearing those words, he quickly recovered and stood up, "Guild Leader Liu, the condition of this patient is slightly unique, so I will have to trouble you to proceed over to meet him..."

"You want me to go over? Sure, lead the way!"

Zhang Xuan nodded.

"Prince Fei Xuan and Envoy Ran Mu, you two should rest at the embassy for now..."

Mo Tianxue turned to the duo and clasped his fist.

"We will be taking our leave!"

The duo knew that it was an important matter of Tianwu Kingdom, and that they didn't want too many people to learn about it. Thus, they turned around and left as well. A eunuch hurried up to them and escorted them out.

"Guild Leader Liu, this way please!"

After the duo had left, Mo Tianxue started leading the way.

Zhang Xuan followed closely behind him, but he had barely taken a few steps before a faint aroma drifted to his nose. After which, a telepathic voice sounded.

"Zhang Xuan, Zhang shi! You sure have deceived me well..."

"Cough cough!" Zhang Xuan was taken aback. "Princess Mo Yu, you must be mistaken. I am Liu Cheng, not Zhang shi!"

"If you don't want to admit to it, so be it. I wanted to tell you about an interesting matter but since you're behaving in such a manner, let's forget about it then!"

Seeing how the other party refused to admit to it, Mo Yu harrumphed.

What she wanted to tell Zhang Xuan was the duel between Zhao Ya and Mu Xueqing. However, since this fellow was unwilling to admit to the matter, she couldn't be bothered either.

In any case, they are both your students. Whether they fight or not is none of my business!

Seeing the lady turn her head and walking away in displeasure, Zhang Xuan shook his head.

It seemed like he would have to pay careful attention being when being around those who were familiar with him. Otherwise, there was a good chance he would give his identity away.

He had been together with Mo Yu for quite a period of time, and not to mention, there was the matter with the Viridescent Eagle as well. As such, he wasn't too surprised to know that the other party had managed to figure his identity out.

"Princess Mo Yu, this is a test from the Master Teacher Pavilion so I hope that you won't leak this out!"

Knowing that the other party was already certain of his identity, Zhang Xuan felt that it was impossible to keep it hidden anymore. Thus, he replied to Mo Yu's words.

"Don't worry. I am not the type to gossip about such stuff!" Seeing Zhang Xuan admit to the matter, Mo Yu smiled. "Since you've admitted to it, I won't hide the matter from you then. Come and find me tomorrow noon, I'll bring you to see a good show!"

"Tomorrow noon? What good show?"

Zhang Xuan was perplexed.

"You'll know once you're there!"

Mo Yu grinned.

Seeing the confusion on his face, it was clear that Zhang Xuan didn't know about Zhao Ya and Mu Xueqing's duel. It would be fun to see his reaction when she brings him there tomorrow.

Honestly speaking, she was curious to see how he would react to the sight of two of his students fighting one another for his honor...

This fellow had always infuriated her, so she wanted to make use of this opportunity to get back at him.

Of course, to do so, she had to stop this fellow from returning to the academy first. Otherwise, given the many mouths there, it was extremely probable that he would find out about it in advance. If so, it wouldn't be fun anymore...

Thus, she started scheming her plan as she walked beside Zhang Xuan.

"We're here!"

Just as Zhang Xuan was about to ask matter it was that warranted her to behave so secretively, Mo Tianxue's voice sounded.

Lifting his head, Zhang Xuan realized that they were at the entrance of a vast courtyard.

The courtyard wasn't exceptionally big, but for some reason, he was unable to see the other end of the courtyard. It was as if something had sealed off the area, concealing whatever that was inside.

"Could this be... a formation?" Zhang Xuan thought.

Only a formation could possess the ability to hide the interior of a courtyard from those standing outside.

"The one who requires Guild Leader Liu's treatment isn't a human but our kingdom's... guardian beast!" Seemingly sensing the other party's bewilderment, Mo Tianxue explained.

"Guardian beast?"

"Indeed. Our Tianwu Kingdom doesn't have any powerful old ancestor so we depend heavily on our guardian beast to guard our territory and deter aggressors."

Mo Tianxue explained.

"However, along with the passing of time, our guardian beast has been growing older, and its strength and stamina is on the decline! Just some time ago, it fell severely ill and it doesn't seem like it has long to live. Thus... I thought of troubling Guild Leader Liu to diagnose it to see whether there is a cure for it or not. If not, I am hoping that you would be able to extend its lifespan, at least until Mo Yu matures!"

Zhang Xuan nodded.

If a kingdom wanted to grow peacefully, there must be a sufficiently powerful guardian present in the country to deter aggressors.

It was just like Old Ancestor Shen Hong with Tianxuan Kingdom. Without his presence serving as a deterrence, it was highly likely that other kingdoms may invade Tianxuan Kingdom to annex it.

As it was entirely impossible to avoid wars and conflicts, the Master Teacher Pavilion would usually stay out of such affairs. Unless it had really close ties with the kingdom that compelled it into action, otherwise, for most cases, it would maintain its neutrality.

After all, even if the kingdom were to switch hands, no one would dare to lay their hands on the continent's most powerful occupation.

In other words, no matter how many kingdoms were destroyed, the influence of the Master Teacher Pavilion wouldn't be rattled at all.

"This formation..."

Zhang Xuan stared at the formation doubtfully.

Since it was where the guardian beast lived, why did they set up a formation here?

"The guardian beast is already old, and due to its severe illness, it has been on a rampage recently, hurting several people. Left with no choice, I could only invite the experts of the Formation Master Guild to set this formation to confine it. Given its strength, if it were to run wild in the palace, no one would be able to stop it!"

Mo Tianxue smiled bitterly.

Hearing the other party's explanation, Zhang Xuan came to a realization.

No matter whether one was a human or a savage beast, one couldn't possibly wait idly for one's death as an illness slowly ground away on one's lifespan. At the very least, one would wish to struggle a little, even if it would be futile, in hope of earning some additional time.

However, if the guardian beast were to really struggle for its life, it would spell a calamity for Tianwu Kingdom. Thus, the emperor chose to confine it using a formation so as to avoid needless trouble.

"Guild Leader Liu, I have already invited a grandmaster of the Formation Master Guild over to bring us in. Otherwise, if we were to walk in by ourselves while the formation is still active, we might get lost..."

Mo Tianxue said.

In order to prevent the guardian beast from escaping, the formation had to be active at all moment. However, due to the complexity of the formation, even Mo Tianxue, the emperor of the kingdom, didn't know the way in. Only a grandmaster of the Formation Master Guild was able to tread through the formation freely.

"Un!" Zhang Xuan nodded.

He didn't know a thing about formations. Even though he had collected a significant number of books on the subject in the Master Teacher Pavilion, he hadn't had the time to browse through them yet. Thus, his understanding of formation was still stuck at the level of knowing its name.

"Since the formation is active, will the Library of Heaven's Path be able to see its flaws?"

Standing on the spot, a thought suddenly appeared in Zhang Xuan's mind.

The Library of Heaven's Path could see the flaws in a cultivator and his battle technique once he executed a technique.

The same also applied when observing an apothecary in the midst of forging pills. The Library of Heaven's Path could compile the flaws in his pill forging technique and determine whether the pill could be successfully forged or not.

It was also able to tell the problem when a formation master was setting up a formation.

In other words, the Library of Heaven's Path could see the flaws of any ongoing actions.

Since this formation was currently in operation, it should be able to be considered as an 'ongoing action' as well. Zhang Xuan was suddenly curious to see if he could see the flaws in it through the Library of Heaven's path.

"Flaws!"

With a thought, Zhang Xuan hurriedly dived into the Library of Heaven's Path.

Weng!

The library jolted and a book appeared.

"It works..."

Zhang Xuan's eyes lit up, and he hurriedly browsed through the book.

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Chapter 349: Lin Clan

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

"Billowing Waves Confinement Formation, grade-3 formation, flaws..."

The name and the flaws of the formation were written in the book.

Just as Zhang Xuan was browsing through the book, Mo Tianxue suddenly turned around and clasped his fist, "Grandmaster Lin Tao!"

Retracting his consciousness from his mind, he turned around and saw an elder walking toward them. The other party's chin was slightly tilted upward, and he had a proud expression on his face. With a cold and nonchalant voice, the other party replied, "Un!"

"This is Grandmaster Lin Tao, the vice guild leader of the Formation Master Guild, as well as the grand elder of the Lin Clan, one of the Three Great Clans of Tianwu Royal City!"

Seeing the confusion in Zhang Xuan's eyes, Mo Yu secretly sent a telepathic message over.

"The vice guild leader of the Formation Master Guild?" Zhang Xuan assessed the elder before him.

This elder possessed the cultivation realm of Zongshi realm pinnacle, and there was a golden emblem on his chest with two bright stars embedded on it.

2-star pinnacle formation master!

"This formation was set up by the guild leader himself so it should have no problem confining the [Gold-tailed Lion]. What happened for you to call me over so urgently all of the sudden?"

Glancing at Mo Tianxue, Vice Guild Leader Lin Tao frowned.

Not only was there not the slightest respect in his tone, and it even seemed as though he was blaming the other party for bothering him.

Zhang Xuan was perplexed.

No matter what, Mo Tianxue was the emperor of Tianwu Kingdom, and with his esteemed standing, even Pavilion Master Jiang would have to take on a respectful tone with him. Yet, wasn't this mere vice guild leader of the Formation Master Guild acting a little way too arrogant?

Even if formation master was one of the top occupation among the Upper Nine Paths, and their formations allowed them to display a might far beyond their level, their standing still couldn't possibly be above that of the number one occupation in the world!

"It's because he's from the Lin Clan... The Lin Clan is an exception in this kingdom!"

Sensing the other party's bewilderment, Mo Yu sent another message.

Having guessed Zhang Xuan's thoughts, she explained the matter, "The head of the Lin Clan is the guild leader of the Formation Master Guild. Not only has his cultivation reached Half-Zhizun realm, he is also a 3-star formation master as well!"

"Half-Zhizun realm? 3-star formation master?"

The Steelfang Howling Firmament Beast was at a Half-Zhizun realm. Zhang Xuan was well aware how fearsome experts at this level could be.

Half-Zhizun realm might only be just half a step higher than Zongshi realm pinnacle, but at this level, what one would be coming into contact with was the zenith of the Fighter realm, power incomparable to the other realms.

On top of that, he was a 3-star formation master capable of setting up grade-3 formations. Even real Zhizun realm experts would find it hard to subdue him easily.

His strength might be nothing much when placed in a Conferred Kingdom, but in a Tier 1 Kingdom like Tianwu, only the guardian beast confined within was capable of matching him.

However, the savage beast was currently ill and went on frequent rampages. It was no wonder why the Lin Clan's respect for the royal family had been on a steady decline.

"Even Pavilion Master Jiang hasn't reached Half-Zhizun yet. How did he reach that level?"

After a moment of shock, Zhang Xuan found yet another doubt in the matter.

Typically speaking, regardless of which kingdom one was in, the Master Teacher Pavilion would always possess strength that no other guilds could match up to. How could the guild leader of the Formation Master Guild possess strength superior to Pavilion Master Jiang?

"Actually, Guild Leader Lin Ruotian has only managed to achieve the breakthrough earlier this year. It can't be helped, he has an outstanding daughter after all..." Mo Yu said.

Zhang Xuan blinked his eyes.

"His daughter possesses outstanding talent in formations, and as such, she was sent to Xuanyuan Academy to study quite a long time ago. Due to some turn of events, the crown prince of Xuanyuan Kingdom ended up falling in love with her, and she went on to become the princess consort! Under the halo of her daughter, Guild Leader Lin Ruotian was bestowed with a pill which allowed him to make the breakthrough into Half-Zhizun realm!"

Mo Yu explained.

Zhang Xuan finally understood the situation.

It wasn't too difficult for the crown prince of a Conferred Kingdom, given his authority, to obtain a pill that could help a Zongshi realm pinnacle achieve a breakthrough for his father-in-law.

With such a backing, it was no wonder why the Lin Clan didn't think much of Mo Tianxue.

Even though there was only a single rank of a difference between a Tier 1 Kingdom and a Conferred Kingdom, there was a huge difference in the strength of the two.

Under Xuanyuan Kingdom's jurisdiction were at least twenty to thirty Tier 1 Kingdoms similar to Tianwu. If Tianwu were to offend Xuanyuan, the latter could easily eradicate it.

After all, Tianwu Kingdom was a country without Zhizun experts at all. Even their strongest individual, their guardian beast, was only at Half-Zhizun.

"I have specially invited Guild Leader Liu Cheng from the Physician Guild here to treat the guardian beast, Gold-tailed Lion!"

Mo Tianxue smiled awkwardly as he explained. "Thus, I'll have to ask Grandmaster Lin Tao to help remove the formation so that he could enter to take a look. If he succeeds in curing the guardian beast, the Formation Master Guild would be spared the hassle of maintaining the formation!"

"The Gold-tailed Lion isn't just sick, its lifespan is also nearing its end. Our guild leader has already taken a look at it himself and determined that there's no solution to the problem. The reason why we set up a formation for you to confine the guardian beast is so that it could die in peace... What if Guild Leader Liu fails to treat it when I remove the formation, and the latter escapes to wreak havoc in the city? Who can take responsibility for the destruction it'll cause?"

Lin Tao flung his sleeves furiously.

"This..." Mo Tianxue was unable to answer the other party's question.

The other party was right. It would be ideal if Guild Leader Liu could treat the guardian beast. However, if the treatment fails and the guardian beast charges out, it could cause a huge catastrophe outside.

By then, even as the emperor of Tianwu Kingdom, it would be hard for him to escape blame.

"Since you're able to set the formation, you should have a way for us to enter and leave it freely! If you're afraid that I'm unable to cure the guardian beast, I can just go in, take a look, and if it's beyond my means, I can simply leave!"

Zhang Xuan couldn't help but interject.

Since formation masters were capable of setting up confinement formations, then they must know of a way to enter and exit it freely. After all, there was counterproductive for one to spend their time studying a formation with limited utilization.

Initially, the reason why he had agreed to conduct a treatment for the other party was to return the favor for the spirit stone, as well as to see if it was possible for him to earn more of it for his cultivation.

Due to his gamble with Prince Fei Xuan, he had a total of three spirit stones at hand, and that should be sufficient for him to reach Zongshi realm pinnacle.

Since his second aim had been met, it was no longer important to him whether he successfully treated the guardian beast or not.

But no matter what, he felt that he should at least give guardian beast a look. Even if he was stumped by its condition, at least he had given the matter a try.

"Who are you to interfere in our conversation!"

Hearing Liu laoshi's words, Grandmaster Lin Tao's eyebrows shot up as he glanced at the other party disdainfully. "I've heard of your matter. You were lucky to solve all of the questions on the Wall of Dilemma, but your strength is only at Tongxuan realm primary stage. Given how you barely qualify as a 1-star physician... What right do you have to be the guild leader?"

"No matter what, the Physician Guild is of equal prestige with our Formation Master Guild. If you want to be the guild leader, you should at least reach the level of a Zongshi realm pinnacle first! Without sufficient strength, it'll best for you to not claim to be as the guild leader so that you don't embarrass yourself!"

"..."

Zhang Xuan was speechless. He didn't expect a few casual words he spoke would actually make the other party despise him.

It was not like he had asked others to call him Guild Leader Liu. Besides, it was only the Physician Guild of a Tier 1 Kingdom. He didn't think it was a big deal for him to become the guild leader here.

"Grandmaster, please calm down!"

Afraid that Zhang Xuan would get angry by the other party's words, Mo Tianxue anxiously stepped in to mediate. "As long as grandmaster brings us in, even if we're unable to treat the guardian beast, we can simply leave..."

"This is a grade-3 formation, do you think that you'll be able to enter and leave as you please? The formation is filled with peril, and even the slightest carelessness can place you in grave danger! It isn't a problem for me to enter alone, but you want me to bring in a Tongxuan realm primary stage burden in as well? You must be joking!"

Grandmaster Lin Tao sneered coldly.

Mo Tianxue fell silent.

Even though the other party's words were harsh and disrespectful, he was right.

A grade-3 formation was something that could trap even a Zhizun realm expert. Judging from how the Gold-tailed Tiger was confined for so many days without succeeding in breaking out, it was clear how powerful it was.

Even if one knew the pathway in, one needed to be strong enough to react quickly to the dangers within to avoid them. In this case, a Tongxuan realm primary stage cultivator was indeed a little too weak. Once he failed to keep up with their footsteps and got lost within the formation, it would be hard to save him.

Mo Tianxue had failed to consider this aspect beforehand, and he only realized the matter after hearing the other party's words. With an awkward expression, he turned to Zhang Xuan and said, "Guild Leader Liu, I apologize for this..."

He had invited the other party over, but due to the matter regarding the formation, the other party didn't even get to meet his patient. He couldn't help but feel a little apologetic over this matter.

"It's alright!"

Zhang Xuan shook his head. Just then, he suddenly thought of something and asked doubtfully, "Since you can't remove this formation, and there's no way to bring me in either, can't we pause it temporarily? As long as it's paused for a short moment, we shouldn't be in the danger of being trapped within. And after we're in, we can activate it once more. This way, the guardian beast shouldn't be able to escape from its confines!"

Since it was possible to activate the formation, then surely, there must be a way to pause it as well.

Pausing the formation temporarily to enter before activating it once more, wouldn't that solve the problem?

"Pause it?"

Mo Tianxue smiled bitterly as he shook his head.

Even though he didn't know much about formations, he found it hard to listen on to Zhang Xuan's words.

Powerful formations harnessed immense power once activated, and unless one destroyed the core of the formation, it would extremely difficult to pause it.

Even the formation master who set the formation up would find it difficult to do so.

Unless the formation master was at a much higher level as compared to the formation, thus allowing him to find and exploit the flaws of the formation to accomplish that, otherwise, it was an impossible feat.

If everyone could stop formations that easily, then formation master wouldn't be such a fearsome occupation, ranked at the upper echelons of the Upper Nine Paths.

"Ignorant!"

The disdain the Lin Tao's eyes deepened.

Pausing a grade-3 formation... Easier said than done! Even the guild leader would be incapable of such a task...

Do you even know formations?

On the other hand, Mo Yu slapped her forehead.

Brother, no matter what, you're a 2-star master teacher! Even if you don't know much about formations, you shouldn't say such amateurish words!

A grade-3 formation was something that could trap even a Zhizun expert. If it could be paused that easily, then what was the use for it?

"One has to have a profound knowledge of formations before one can pause a formation... In truth, it's much more difficult than simply destroying a formation..."

Seeing the confusion in the other party's eyes, Mo Tianxue spoke up.

"Much more difficult than destroying a formation? Alright..."

Zhang Xuan contemplated for a moment before saying, "Wait here a moment!"

"Un?"

Mo Tianxue thought that Guild Leader Liu would give up on the idea after listening to his explanation, but after everything he had said, all he could see on the other party's face was nonchalance.

Wait for a moment...

Wait for what?

Will anything happen if we wait for a moment?

Just as he was doubtful as to what was going to happen, he saw the fellow walking straight toward the courtyard in front.

"Guild Leader Liu, be careful! It'll be troublesome if you got trapped by the formation..."

Not expecting the other party to charge straight toward the formation without saying anything, Mo Tianxue was alarmed.

This is a formation which could trap even the Gold-tailed Lion. What in the world is a Tongxuan realm primary stage expert like you doing around it...

"You're courting death..."

Not expecting that arrogant fellow to rush forward, Grandmaster Lin Tao harrumphed coldly. He was prepared to see this fellow step into the formation and embarrass himself, but contrary to his expectations, the other party stopped right before the formation, lifted his leg, and kicked forcefully.

Weng!

A sound similar to a buzz echoed.

The interiors of the courtyard suddenly appeared clearly before everyone's eyes.

"Alright, I've paused the formation..."

Zhang Xuan clapped his hands.

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Chapter 350: What Illness Is It?

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

Silence loomed in the air for an instant.

Mo Tianxue rubbed his eyes blankly, and he nearly fainted.

The formation which had veiled everyone's eyes from the interiors of the courtyard had indeed disappeared.

Pausing a grade-3 formation with a kick?

Were they dreaming?

Confinement formations were unique fields aligned with the geography of the location, such as the mountains, the rivers, or even the stars. All lifeforms that step into such an area would find themselves descending in confusion, losing the ability to discern direction.

Without an extremely deep understanding of formations, it was impossible for one to find the core of a formation and stop it.

Yet, this fellow, who obviously knew nothing about formations, simply walked up and, with just a single kick, paused a grade-3 formation...

Could the situation get any more exaggerated than that?

If this was just luck, then his luck was way too overpowered!

Mo Yu was taken aback as well.

She had seen the innumerable means Zhang Xuan possessed, and she knew that he was mysterious and strong. However, she still couldn't help but keel over in fright upon seeing this sight.

The reason why the Lin Clan dared to act so arrogantly in Tianwu Royal City, even when they were before the royal family, was mainly due to their ability to set up grade-3 formations.

After all, even a Zhizun realm primary stage expert would be unable to escape from a formation of this level...

Yet, this fellow, who didn't even know what the Lin Clan was, with a single kick... actually suppressed the formation easily!

I know that you have a lot of astonishing means, but... isn't this way too much?

Could it be that on top of being a master teacher, apothecary, beast tamer, poison master... You're a formation master as well?

Those are all occupations in the Upper Nine Paths! (With the exception of poison master)

Everyone said that she was a genius for being able to grasp any occupation swiftly, but compared to this fellow... The heck, she seemed to be no different from an ignorant oaf!

Just the thought of it sent her into a frenzy.

"Y-you..."

The two was only shocked, but Grandmaster Lin Tao, who had ridiculed the other party just a moment ago, had his mouth so widely opened that his lower jaw was almost hitting the ground.

The reason why he kept refusing wasn't out of fear that the Gold-tailed Lion would escape, or that it was impossible to cure it, but rather... this grade-3 formation was set up personally by the guild leader. Being a mere 2-star pinnacle formation master, he couldn't even find where the formation core and formation flags were placed at, needless to say, remove it!

Since he couldn't even remove the formation, pausing it was completely out of question.

Who could have thought that not only would this fellow be able to pause it, he would even be able to do it so easily...

Pausing a formation would have required any other formation masters to study the area, calculate using their compass, flip through ancient records, conduct several experiments... It was a very laborious and lengthy job. Not to mention, if things go wrong, they might even end up being trapped by their own formation...

Yet, this fellow actually kicked the formation without even studying it closely, as though he was just kicking down a mere wooden plank...

If anyone else were to do so, they would definitely suffer a rebound from the formation and die on the spot.

But not only was the other party fine, the formation even freaking paused...

Isn't there something very wrong about this?

"Let's go in!"

Just as he was silenced with shock, the young man in front beckoned to the group before walking into the courtyard.

Following closely behind, Grandmaster Lin Tao examined the surroundings and confirmed that the formation truly wasn't active at the moment... It had truly paused under the other party's kick.

"It was just a moment ago that I thought that this fellow's reputation is overexaggerated. After all, this cultivation is clear to see. As such, I didn't think that he would be of any threat at all. To think that he would actually be such an incredible figure... Most probably, only that Master Teacher Zhang Xuan would be a match for him!"

With a quick examination, Grandmaster Lin Tao could tell that the formation was only paused—it wasn't damaged at all. Slowly, the disdain on his face turned into graveness.

In truth, when he first heard that Liu laoshi had solved the illnesses on the Wall of Dilemma and became the new guild leader, he didn't think highly about the other party.

After all, regardless of which occupation one was in, one's cultivation was the most important factor. Everything else was secondary.

Tongxuan realm primary stage was simply too unimpressive, so he disregarded the other party... But at this moment, the other party had actually stopped a grade-3 formation with a single kick. Even the guild leader wouldn't be capable of such a feat. It seemed like this Liu laoshi wasn't as simple as he thought him out to be.

"I've to inform the clan head about this matter as soon as possible..."

He made a decision inwardly.

...

Even Heaven's Path was imperfect, so naturally, formations had its strengths and flaws, its life gate and death gate as well.

Once one found this flaw, no matter how formidable a formation was, it could be manipulated or destroyed easily.

To put it simply, this flaw referred to the point where the flow of energy of the formation field was centered.

This flaw could be located in the direct center for some formations, and by the side for the others. Zhang Xuan was fortunate in the sense that it happened to be right in front of him, as stated in the Library of Heaven's Path.

While it might have looked like a simple kick on the surface, in truth, Zhang Xuan was actually infusing Heaven's Path zhenqi into the formation. This interrupted the flow of energy in the formation, resulting in the deactivation the formation.

Heaven's Path zhenqi was the purest spiritual energy in the world, thus allowing it to easily destroy the internal structure of a formation.

This was precisely the reason why that seemingly simple kick had such shocking effects. If it had been anyone else, even if they were to be aware of this flaw, it would take them a great deal of effort to exploit it.

The group walked around a winding pebble path.

The courtyard was tidy and clean, and after walking a short distance, a giant palace appeared before them.

Soon, they heard a deafening snore which jolted the dirt on the floor into the air, leaving one slightly dizzy-headed.

"Great! The Gold-tailed Lion is sleeping!" Mo Tianxue's eyes lit up.

He was afraid that the Gold-tailed Lion would charge out the moment the formation was paused. They were truly lucky to have come while the latter was asleep.

Following the source of the voice, they soon arrived at a giant hall. In it, they saw a gigantic savage beast lying on the floor with both of its eyes tightly shut.

It heavily resembled a normal lion, but its physique was significantly larger. Its tail was colored in gold, but there was a slight trace of white at the very end of its tail.

In comparison to the Steelfang Howling Firmament Beast, a Half-Zhizun realm savage beast as well, its muscles were loose and its hair was messy, thus giving it the appearance no different from that of an elderly. From its outer appearance, one could tell that it was in an age of decline.

"Guild Leader Liu, this is our guardian beast, Gold-tailed Lion. Its illness seems to have grown even more severe..."

Looking at the sleeping Gold-tailed Lion, Mo Tianxue shook his head.

Half-Zhizun realm savage beasts possessed strong wariness. The fact that it could remain asleep despite their arrival in its territory showed how serious its illness was.

"What conditions did it show before?" Zhang Xuan asked.

"It used to be extremely quiet and calm, but around half a month ago, its eyes suddenly turned red and it went on a rampage, biting everyone it could see. In the course of its rampage, it injured eight eunuchs and maids. Out of helplessness, I invited Guild Leader Lin here to help me trap it with a formation!"

Recalling the sight that day, Mo Tianxue couldn't help but shudder in fear.

This was a Half-Zhizun realm savage beast. If it were to really go into a frenzy, even if he would be unable to stop it.

It was fortunate that the Gold-tailed Lion was still able to curb itself. Otherwise, half of the Shadow Squad would have probably died under its rampage.

"It suddenly went on a rampage?"

Zhang Xuan turned to examine the Gold-tailed Lion.

Even if it had aged and its physical functions were failing, it was very unlikely for such a powerful savage beast to suddenly fall ill and lose its rationality.

"That's right. Even though the Gold-tailed Lion has a ferocious appearance, it is actually a rather gentle savage beast. Tamed by my ancestor, it has guarded the royal palace for more than two hundred years now. In this period of time, it has always been in a stable condition and it has never hurt anyone before. Thus, we are at a loss as to what kind of illness it is suffering from!"

Mo Tianxue continued, "Back then, I invited Guild Leader Mu Hong to take a look at it, and he said that it was getting anxious because it's reaching the end of its lifespan, and we had to find a way to placate it. After which, I found a few other physicians to diagnose the Gold-tailed Lion as well, but their diagnoses were around the same as Guild Leader Mu Hong's. They said that it is impossible to treat this kind of illness, and the Gold-tailed Lion can only slowly recover through its own means! If it can survive through this ordeal, it might still be able to live for a longer period of time. If not, it would mean that it has come to the end of its time..."

"Furthermore, regardless of whether it is able to tide through this ordeal, three months is the limit on its lifespan. In other words... regardless of whether we were able to successfully treat its illness or not, it will die within three months. There's no hope for it to achieve a complete recovery..."

"A limit of three months on its lifespan?"

Hearing those words, Zhang Xuan immediately immersed himself into the Library of Heaven's Path and swiftly searched through the physician books for similar illnesses.

And just like what he expected... he wasn't able to find a single useful thing on the matter.

Even though there were many different bizarre and rare illnesses recorded in those books, none of them seemed to fit the Gold-tailed Lion's symptoms.

But Zhang Xuan had expected this as well. If it could be found in the books, Physician Mu Hong and the others would have already treated him long ago.

"Seems like I have to find some ways to collect more books..."

Zhang Xuan shook his head.

If he had collected sufficient books, he would surely have been able to find a corresponding illness record to the Gold-tailed Lion's condition.

But since he failed to do so, this could only mean that the knowledge he had accumulated was still insufficient.

"Looks like I should find some time to collect the books of the Physician Guild..."

Even though Zhang Xuan had passed the physician examination and even became the guild leader, he hadn't been to its library yet. Most of the books he had in the Library of Heaven's Path came from the library in the Master Teacher Pavilion.

Even though the Master Teacher Pavilion's library had books on most occupations, its collection in each specific fields was still unable to compare up to that in the corresponding guild.

"Guild Leader Liu, do you need to me to bring you Physician Mu Hong and the other physicians' diagnoses so that you can study them?"

Seeing Zhang Xuan lowering his head in contemplation, Mo Tianxue asked.

"There's no need..."

Zhang Xuan shook his hands.

Since they were unable to find the cause of the Gold-tailed Lion's illness as well, their evaluation was no use to him.

"Then... Since the Gold-tailed Lion is sleeping, so you need me to wake it up so that you can better examine it?"

Usually, when a physician diagnosed a patient, the patient had to be conscious so that the physician could examine the latter's movements and pose questions to better understand his condition. Given that the guardian beast was asleep, it was unlikely that Zhang Xuan would be able to discern anything of use to treat it.

Zhang Xuan quickly shook his head.

If the Gold-tailed Lion were to awake, he would need it to launch an attack before a book could be compiled on it. If it chose not to attack or attacked too quickly, the situation could prove to be very troublesome for him.

"I'll go over there to take a better look..." Saying so, he started walking over to the massive savage beast.

"His cultivation might be lacking, but it is a fact that he solved all of the questions on the Wall of Dilemma. There should be no doubt regarding his medical skill. I should take a good look to see how he'll cure the guardian beast..."

By the side, Grandmaster Lin Tao hurriedly turned his gaze to Guild Leader Liu upon seeing him walk forward.

As the vice guild leader of the Formation Master Guild, he was acquainted with quite a few physicians, so he was aware of the fundamentals in diagnosing a patient.

Asking questions, examining the skin tone, checking the breathing, listening to the heartbeat...

There were even some who checked their patient's feces to determine the root of their illness.

Grandmaster Lin Tao was curious to see what method the person who broke the records of the Physician Guild would use.

Thus, he stared at Guild Leader Liu intently, not daring to blink at all for fear of missing out a single detail.

However, all he saw was that... the young man walking up to the savage beast, touching it, and then... returning with a bizarre expression.

"This... Just like that?"

Grandmaster Lin Tao was baffled.

--

Life Gate and Death Gate are concepts in Qi Men Dun Jia, an ancient Chinese divination technique.

Life Gate represents 'the onset of Spring, when all life blooms after the harsh winter', and it is viewed to be a symbol of prosperity.

Death Gate represents 'the death of all beings in Autumn'.

(There are a total of Eight Gates but I won't introduce them due to the complexity of it—the Eight Gates are only a small part of it. You can read it up on Wikipedia, but the information there is very limited)

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Chapter 351: Chrysanthemum

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

The process of diagnosing wasn't a child's play—one mustn't be negligent in it. All the other party did was to walk over and touch the savage beast. Without even examining the savage beast's fur, physical condition, heartbeat, or breathing rate, he came back... What was this?

Don't tell me that you are already done examining the other party's condition, and you already have a solution for the matter?

Mo Tianxue and Mo Yu were perplexed. They couldn't tell what Guild Leader Liu was up to.

After he returned to their side, they thought that he would say something, but to their frustration, he simply stood on the spot... and fell into a daze.

Without examining anything, he touched the other party and fell into a daze. Even Grandmaster Lin Tao, who had seen innumerable diagnoses from different top-notch physicians before, was perplexed.

"Cough cough, Guild Leader Liu, can the Gold-tailed Lion... be saved?"

They waited for a very long time, but the other party's face only brightened and darkened periodically. Unable to stand the anxiety any longer, Mo Tianxue asked.

You should at least tell me whether there is hope or not! Are you trying to kill us with anxiety by standing there?

"Oh. I've a few items that I need, so I'll have to trouble you to prepare them as soon as possible!"

Recovering from his daze, Zhang Xuan instructed with a grim expression.

"Yes!"

Mo Tianxue nodded.

"Boneless Flower, Gold Blood Venom, Three Thousand Worm Blood..."

Zhang Xuan casually listed a few medicinal substance.

"These... are all poison?"

Mo Tianxue thought that the other party would list out nourishing medicinal substances, but contrary to his expectations, all of the items the other party listed possessed lethal poison. Just hearing those names sent shivers down Mo Tianxue's spine.

"Un. I need them!" Zhang Xuan replied.

"Can these poisonous substance really treat the Gold-tailed Lion's illness?" Mo Tianxue was perplexed.

The Gold-tailed Lion was reaching the end of its life, and it even went on a rampage several times to express its frustration. Logically speaking, they should be feeding it nourishing medicinal herbs so that it could regain its spirit and recover.

Why would you look for these poisonous substances instead?

"Father, let's just listen to Guild Leader Liu's words. Since he asked you to obtain these material, he must have a use for them!" Sensing her father's hesitation, Mo Yu immediately urged him telepathically.

Having witnessed Zhang Xuan's treatment of the Great Herb King, she knew that the latter possessed astonishing means. Since he asked for her father to prepare these poisonous substances, he must have a plan in mind.

"Alright!" Agreeing to the matter, Mo Tianxue waved his hand. A split moment later, a gray-robed man appeared, and Mo Tianxue issued several instructions to him.

The Tianwu royal family possessed exceptional efficiency in getting things done. It didn't take them long to gather all of the required medicinal substances.

"Guild Leader Liu, what should we do now?"

Seeing the bunch of poisonous substances placed on top of a huge table, the corners of Mo Tianxue's lip twitched and he hurriedly averted his gaze.

Just any single one of these medicinal substances was sufficient to poison a Zongshi realm expert to death. But at this moment, dozens of them were piled up together. Mo Tianxue truly couldn't imagine a use for these items.

"Do you have any pikes? Prepare 36 of them for me!"

Instead of answering, Zhang Xuan listed another request.

Pikes were a common weapon used by the guards in the royal palace, so it wasn't too difficult to gather them. A few minutes later, a pile of pikes were stacked up in the courtyard.

"Prepare another forty cows and lambs. Slaughter them and fill their blood in buckets...

Zhang Xuan continued instructing.

Even though Mo Tianxue had no idea what was going on, he didn't think that Guild Leader Liu would do pointless things. Thus, he had his men prepare those as well.

Soon, when everything was in place, Zhang Xuan heaved a sigh of relief. Walking over to the table of medicinal substances that the other party had collected, he smacked on the table.

Hu!

A dozen of medicinal substances immediately flew into the air. Zhang Xuan closed his palms together, and with a burst of zhenqi, he crushed them all into medicinal powder and mixed them together one by one. The final product was a green powder which sent one's goosebumps rising.

Without a doubt, this powder which comprised more than a dozen of lethal poisons was incredibly potent. If a Half-Zhizun were to get a whiff of it, he would at least pass out for half a day.

"This is... the concoction method of a poison master? Could it be that... Guild Leader Liu is a poison master?"

As the poison powder flew around the place, they reacted with one another, causing the substance to change colors continuously. Mo Tianxue and Grandmaster Lin Tao stared at the sight warily.

Poison masters possessed the might to kill those who possessed a cultivation realm beyond them.

Liu Cheng's cultivation could be considered as negligible in comparison to theirs, but the notoriety of poison masters was simply too deeply ingrained in their minds. No one knew what kind of poison he was concocting, and there was a chance that they might end up dead if they were to be negligent at this point.

There were many such precedents, and this was also the reason why this occupation was extremely feared by many.

The fact that Guild Leader Liu was able to fuse so many lethal medicinal substances together so casually showed that he had a comprehensive knowledge over the properties of these medicinal substances, and he had an extremely high control over his concoction skills. Could he really a poison master?

"Formidable physicians dabble in poison for their treatment as well. It isn't surprising for him to know a thing or two about the properties of poisonous medicinal substances!"

Sensing the doubt of the duo, Mo Yu sent a telepathic message to them.

Physicians and poison masters were actually two sides of the same coin. Both of them utilized medicinal herbs, but one used it to save lives while the other one used it to claim lives.

It was said that the very first poison master was initially an extremely proficient physician. After his wife was killed by his enemies, his personality became warped and he started to research lethal poison to exact vengeance. Eventually, he wiped out the entire clan of his enemies, and before his death, he left behind a book—the [Art of Poison].

Of course, as it was too long in the past, no one could verify the authenticity of this legend. Even so, this legend clearly indicated that there were many points of overlap between physicians and poison masters. As such, it wasn't too surprising for formidable physicians to be capable of concocting poison either.

"I'm done..."

Just as the trio was discussing, the young man finally came to a stop. He was done concocting the poison powder, and he casually threw it into the pail by the side. The clear water within the pail immediately turned dark gray.

After doing all of these, Zhang Xuan heaved a sigh of relief. He circled around the Gold-tailed Lion before stopping finally before Grandmaster Lin Tao.

"Is there a way to activate the confinement formation quickly?"

"Activate the confinement formation quickly?" Lin Tao was stunned.

"Un!" Zhang Xuan nodded.

Back then, when he was at the Beast Hall, he had the opportunity to see a formation being activated, and it seemed to be a troublesome process requiring much preparatory work.

"It'll be best if you can do so within half a breath!" After contemplating for a moment, Zhang Xuan added.

"Half a breath?" Lin Tao nearly choked on his own saliva. "How is that possible? Given the size of this grade-3 formation, it would require a minimum eight Zongshi realm pinnacle experts infusing zhenqi into the formation simultaneously at eight different locations to activate. Only when their zhenqi has completely fused with the formation will the formation be triggered... Even with the fastest method, it'll at least take ten minutes!"

"Ten minutes?"

"Un. If one possesses the strength of a Zhizun realm cultivator, one would be able to activate it alone, and the time taken will be significantly reduced as well. Even so, it'll still be impossible to activate it without two to three minutes!"

Lin Tao was completely speechless.

Do you really know formations?

The triggering of a formation may sound simple, but it requires one to infuse zhenqi to drive and stimulate the formation. This process is extremely complex and troublesome to carry out.

Anyone who had the slightest understanding of formation would understand this. As a person capable of pausing a grade-3 formations with a single kick, how could you not know this?

"That is too long..."

Zhang Xuan frowned. "Do you have any better ideas?"

"I do, just that... I can't do it alone!" Lin Tao said hesitantly.

"Oh? Tell me about it!" Zhang Xuan hurriedly turned to look at him.

"Every single formation has a core, and that is where the entire formation is centered around. If one infuses zhenqi directly into that spot, the formation can be activated swiftly... This is also the fundamental principle behind how formation plates works!"

At this point, Lin Tao suddenly looked slightly awkward, "However, you should know that only 3-star formation masters are capable of inscribing on a formation plates. I'm only a 2-star pinnacle formation master... so I'm still a little lacking in that aspect!"

In truth, formation plates were created through using a special method to compress massive formations into a small personal object that one could bring around conveniently. When the need comes, one just has to infuse zhenqi into it. Even if one wasn't a formation master, one could still activate it easily.

While its prowess was significantly lacking as compared to a real formation, its strength lay in its ability to be activated instantaneously. Furthermore, due to its convenience in carrying around, many people use it as a survival mean.

Mo Yu had one on her as well. This was also the main reason why Mo Tianxue was willing to allow her to explore outside on her own.

"You mean that as long as I find the core of the formation... I'll be able to activate the formation quickly?"

Zhang Xuan asked.

"That's right!" Lin Tao nodded. "But while that's the case, it isn't that easy to find the core of the formation. Different from a formation plate, where the core is fixed at a certain point, the formation core of huge formations tend to change depending on the geography and time. Even I am unable to find it, lest to say... activate the formation through it!"

"Oh!"

At this moment, Zhang Xuan froze for a split moment before turning to look at a specific point in space.

Then, without any hesitation, he picked up a pike and walked up to the Gold-tailed Lion.

With a swift jerk, he dipped the pike into the bucket of lethal poison, and a sizzling sound could immediately be heard from the surface of the pike, as though the metal was being corroded.

"Go!"

Raising his eyebrows, Zhang Xuan took out the venom-soaked pike, pulled it back, and threw it with a swift motion.

Sou!

As though a javelin, the pike flew out with astonishing strength and impaled the body of the sleeping Gold-tailed Lion.

"Ah?"

They were just wondering what the other party was going to do when this sight abruptly unfolded before them. Cold sweat immediately gushed down Mo Tianxue, Lin Tao, and Mo Yu's bodies.

That was lethal poison... Putting aside whether the guardian beast would be poisoned to death for the moment, this was a direct provocation to the other party!

This fellow already had a been in an unstable condition recently, going around eating others. If it were to fly into a temper at this moment, wouldn't it slaughter everyone?

Roar!

As expected, before they could recover from their shock, a furious roar reverberated in the air. The sleeping Gold-tailed Lion abruptly opened its eyes, and its large eyes instantaneously turned scarlet.

"We're done for..."

Upon seeing this sight, their hearts turned cold.

Huala!

Lowering his head, the Gold-tailed Lion saw the pike stabbed into its body. In an instant, its fury surged and it bellowed deafeningly, tremoring the heavens. Standing up, its massive figure, reminiscent of a small hill, became even more pronounced. Even without making a move, the immense pressure that it exerted had already made their legs go weak.

"Guild Leader Liu, danger..."

Mo Yu shouted anxiously.

Even a Zongshi realm pinnacle expert like her father couldn't withstand the wrath of the Gold-tailed Lion. The other party was only at Zongshi realm primary stage, so how could he possibly survive an attack from it?

She thought that the young man would retreat immediately after hearing her voice, but contrary to her expectations, the other party simply picked up another pike, soaked it in venom, and tossed it once more.

On top of that... the area which he was aiming for... was the orifice at the end of the Gold-tailed Lion's alimentary canal.

Puhe!

The pike accurately stabbed straight into the opening, and fresh blood immediately gushed frenziedly along the body of the pike.

"Roar!"

This time, it wasn't just the Gold-tailed Lion who went into a frenzy. Mo Tianxue, Lin Tao, Mo Yu found the boundaries of their sanity being forcefully pushed on.

It had just barely opened its eyes to identify the arrogant aggressor who dared to attack it when this fellow grabbed a pike and tossed it into the end of its alimentary canal. Rage immediately clouded its mind.

Huala!

It immediately swept its massive tail straight toward Zhang Xuan. Due to its astounding speed, a sonic boom burst the air.

Seemingly aware that it would react in this manner, Zhang Xuan didn't panic. Instead, with a swift leap, he dashed to the spot around a dozen meter away where he glanced momentarily at just a moment ago and forcefully kicked at it.

Huala!

Along with the sound, the vision before Mo Tianxue, Mo Yu, and the others blurred. The formation had activated once more, concealing the interiors of the courtyard.

"The formation... has been activated?"

Grandmaster Lin Tao widened his eyes.

--

Chrysanthemum, or juhua (pronounced as jee-hwa) in hanyupinyin, is a slang referring to the opening of a human's alimentary canal...

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Chapter 352: Cured

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

To be able to activate the formation instantly, this could only mean one thing... That fellow had found the core of the formation!

During that conversation, Grandmaster Lin Tao could tell that the other party didn't even know what a formation core was. Yet, right after that, the other party immediately found the formation core and even made use of it...

Is this for real?

Grandmaster Lin Tao's body shuddered, and he felt as though he was about to faint.

The location of the formation core would change along with a change in one's surroundings. Even for a 3-star primary stage formation master like the clan head, without a compass and careful observation, it was impossible to find it. Yet, without using any tools at all, this fellow simply pranced about and... with a single kick, the formation immediately activated!

Even though he was seeing it with his own eyes, he couldn't help but doubt if he was dreaming...

He thought that he had a huge leverage as a formation grandmaster against the Tongxuan realm lad... But after seeing this sight, tears threatened to flow down from his eyes.

Guild Master Liu, are you the formation grandmaster, or am I the formation grandmaster?

Why do I feel like nothing but a fool before you?

Roar! Roar! Roar!

With the activation of the formation, Mo Tianxue and the others couldn't see the situation inside anymore. However, they could hear the infuriated roaring of the Gold-tailed Lion, as though there was something happening within which sent it into a frenzy.

Dozens of breaths later, all sound from within disappeared.

"Let's go over and take a look!"

Anxious, Mo Tianxue and the others hurried forward.

They weren't too far away from Guild Master Liu and the Gold-tailed Lion, and with Lin Tao leading the way, they were able to walk past the mist without triggering the formation on them. Soon, when they reached their destination, the sight before them left their eyebrows twitching furiously, and for a moment, they thought that they would go insane.

The Gold-tailed Lion, whom the young man was supposed to save, had pierced pikes all over its body, be it its nose, ears, end of the alimentary canal...

Fresh blood flowed furiously down each of the thirty-six pikes, dyeing the entire ground crimson. The imposing Gold-tailed Lion which was roaring non-stop a moment ago was so drained at this moment that it couldn't even open its eyes, and its breathing was nearly imperceptible.

"Guild Leader Liu..."

Mo Tianxue felt his veins popping out, and he nearly vomited a mouthful of blood.

The reason why I invited you over is to treat the guardian beast, not to kill it...

Isn't it just your first meeting with it?

Yet, you threw so many pikes toward it that it looked no different from a feather duster at this point. More importantly, every single one of these pikes was laced with lethal poison... You must be truly adamant to kill it!

What grudge do you have with it for you to kill it so mercilessly?

Rage bubbled in Mo Tianxue's chest, and he clenched his fist tightly in anger. If he didn't give his all to hold himself back, he would have surely rushed forward to crush that fellow with his fist.

Even though the guardian beast didn't have long to live and it had hurt some people when it went on a rampage previously, it had protected Tianwu Kingdom from harm for past several centuries. Mo Tianxue carried deep respect for it.

Treating the guardian beast like that was as good as an insult to him!

With a steeled face, he looked at the young man. The other party's face was slightly pale, and he seemed to be slightly sapped of energy.

Upon seeing the trio, the young man heaved a sigh of relief. He weakly sat onto the floor and said, "Its illness is extremely hard to treat, but fortunately, I managed to accomplish what that was asked of me..."

"Accomplish what that was asked of you?"

Seeing the other party's confident smile, Mo Tianxue was taken aback.

Did he misunderstand him?

Was he really treating the Gold-tailed Lion?

As this thought slowly surfaced in his head, he subconsciously turned to look at the guardian beast. However, with this glance, his rage surged once more.

The Gold-tailed Lion which was still roaring furiously a moment ago had its eyes tightly shut as it laid limply on the floor. Even its breathing seemed to have disappeared altogether.

"The Gold-tailed Lion... is dead?"

Mo Yu and Grandmaster Lin Tao also realized that something was amiss, and turning their heads to take a look, their eyeballs nearly popped out from their sockets.

You were brought here to treat the guardian beast, not to kill it...

Accomplish what that was asked of you... Accomplish your head!

You mean that you came here with the intention to kill it?"

"Guild Leader Liu, what do you mean by this?"

Suppressing his fury forcefully, Mo Tianxue glared fixedly at the fellow before him.

He had sincerely invited the other party over in hopes that the other party could create a miracle and allow the guardian beast to live a little longer. Never in his dreams did he expect that not only did the other party fail to cure it, he even went on to kill it...

If not for the considerations he held for the other party's identity, he would have ordered his men to tear this fellow into innumerable pieces already.

"What do you mean by those words? I have completed my treatment..." Seemingly oblivious to the other party's rage, Zhang Xuan answered calmly. "It's fortunate that my treatment went well!"

"Went well?"

Mo Tianxue's eyebrows twitched.

Killing your patient is a sign that things went well?

You aren't a physician but... a murderer!

"Cough cough! Guild Leader Liu, why isn't the Gold-tailed Lion... breathing? Is it dead?"

Seeing that her father was about to erupt at any moment, Mo Yu hurriedly stepped forward and intervened.

"Dead?" Only at this moment did Zhang Xuan realize why everyone had such a grim expression on their faces. Shaking his head, he said, "I'm here, how can it possibly die so easily..."

Saying so, he walked toward the Gold-tailed Lion and kicked it.

"Stop feigning death. Hurry up and get up..."

Roar!

Being kicked on its face, the seemingly dead Gold-tailed Lion seemed to be shocked into action.

With a furious roar, its golden fur trembled.

Sou sou sou sou!

All of the pikes stabbed into its body flew out, dropping onto the ground.

"Drink these pails of blood..."

Zhang Xuan casually pointed.

He had asked for Mo Tianxue to prepare the fresh blood of cows and goats beforehand, and they were stored in the wooden pails placed not too far away. The Gold-tailed Lion hurried forward and gulped them down.

Soon, after consuming the blood in those pails, the Gold-tailed Lion seemed to have recovered considerably. Compared to its withered look from before, it looked extremely spirited at the moment.

"This..."

Seeing this sight, Mo Tianxue and the others felt as though they were dreaming. For a moment, they were completely dumbfounded.

Despite having thirty-six pikes laced with lethal poison impaling it, not only did the Gold-tailed Lion manage to survive, it was even revitalized...

What in the world was going on?

Furthermore, didn't its breathing clearly stop just now?

Why did it suddenly come to life after a kick?

This Guild Leader Liu had dashed a total of three kicks. The first one, he stopped the formation. The second one, he activated the formation. And the third one... the Gold-tailed Lion came to life...

It felt as though every single one of his kicks possessed mystical powers, astonishing everyone with its fearsome might every single time.

"Guild Leader Liu..."

Seeing that the vitality of the Gold-tailed Lion had recovered significantly, Mo Tianxue couldn't help but utter with a doubtful tone.

"Are you curious about what is going on?"

Zhang Xuan chuckled, "Actually... The Gold-tailed Lion wasn't afflicted with any illness... it was poisoned!"

"Poisoned?"

Mo Tianxue was taken aback while Grandmaster Lin Tao's face distorted in terror.

Someone actually dared to poison the guardian beast of Tianwu Kingdom? Who is it?

And how did the person do it?

"Under normal circumstances, the tail of the Gold-tailed Lion should be golden. However, there are slight traces of white at the tip previously. This shows that it isn't just an ordinary illness!"

Zhang Xuan explained.

Hearing these words, Mo Tianxue and the others suddenly recalled seeing traces of white at the end of the Gold-tailed Lion's tiger.

"You said that it went on a rampage... But if it truly went on a rampage, how could it possibly stop right after eating a few eunuchs and maids? This contradicts the very idea of a rampage. Clearly, it still possesses rationality!"

Zhang Xuan continued, "Given these two factors, I deduced that it must have fallen prey to some lethal poison, and in an attempt to cope with it, it forced the poison to the tip of its tail, thus inducing the traces of white!"

"This..."

The crowd was taken aback.

That's right.

If it had truly gone on a complete rampage, it would surely attack everyone it saw. It was illogical for it to stop at just a few insignificant eunuchs and maids.

"Could it be that these maids and eunuchs were the ones who poisoned it, that's why it killed them out of anger..." A thought suddenly appeared in Mo Yu's mind.

Given the guardian beast's Half-Zhizun realm cultivation, there was no one in Tianwu Kingdom who could force poison on it. The only viable method was to spike its food.

And the most plausible culprits for it were the eunuchs and maids who served it.

"That's right!"

Zhang Xuan nodded. "Without any contractee, it is unable to express its thoughts. As such, it killed these eunuchs and maids to exact vengeance, as well as to tell you that these people are suspicious... Yet, you thought that it had gone insane and even used a formation to confine it..."

Mo Tianxue's face flushed.

When the guardian beast ate those eunuchs and maids, he was horrified, thinking that the latter had gone insane. It happened that Guild Leader Lin was beside him then, so he immediately requested for the latter to set up a formation to confine it without giving it much thought.

He didn't expect that... the other party was actually trying to express such intent.

"Even though the poison it was afflicted with was potent, it is still a powerful Half-Zhizun realm savage beast possessing centuries of lifespan. This was what that allowed it to hold on all this while. However, just like what Physician Mu Hong and the others had said, it wouldn't survive past three months at this rate!"

"It wouldn't be difficult to treat this poison in its earlier stages, but in the Gold-tailed Lion's case, the poison had already permeated through the meridians across its entire body, making treatment difficult!"

"After hesitating for a moment, I decided to counteract the poison with another poison!"

"That's why I got you to prepare all of those poisonous substances and used a pike to insert the venom into the locations where the poison was gathered.

"It is fortunate that I managed to accomplish what you asked of me and saved it..."

Zhang Xuan smiled.

After placing his hand on the other party's body, he immediately found out what poison the Gold-tailed Lion was suffering from.

He had seen this poison in the books of the Poison Hall before, and he knew that to treat it, he would have to counteract its poison with another one.

Knowing all of these, the rest was simple. He just had to neutralize the poison spread across the other party's body by inserting venom of his own.

But of course, if it was anyone else, such a feat would have been impossible.

The poison had already spread across its entire body, accumulating in many different meridians. It would be impossible to even identify the locations where the poison had settled down in, thus making it even more impossible to solve the problem.

After all, if the venom were to be injected into the wrong locations, not only would it fail to neutralize the poison in the Gold-tailed Lion's body, it would even poison it to death.

However, possessing the Library of Heaven's Path, Zhang Xuan could clearly see all thirty-six of the locations where the poison was accumulated. All he had to do was to aim the pike accurately at the right location.

As for the cow and goat blood, it was for the Gold-tailed Lion to regain its vitality after suffering such a massive loss of blood.

After hearing the explanation, Mo Tianxue and the others widened their eyes in shock. At this moment, they felt nothing but admiration for the young man before them.

It was no wonder why he could solve all of the problems on the Wall of Dilemma and become the new guild leader of the Physician Guild. His medical skill was simply too formidable!

It was hard to believe that anyone could possess such capability even though they were seeing one right before them.

"Even though I have neutralized the lethal poison it is suffering from, it is true that its lifespan is reaching its end. While it is still fine for the time being, it won't live beyond a year, unless..."

Zhang Xuan hesitated for a moment before saying, "... it achieves a breakthrough into Zhizun realm!"

"Achieves a breakthrough in Zhizun realm?"

Mo Tianxue's breathing suddenly hastened, "Does Guild Leader Liu have a solution to that?"

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