Chapter 143
Chapter 143: Fetching Money
“Did you hear? When Lord Ling sought the old master to treat his wife, he took out a million gold coins in one go, he sure is generous!”
At this moment, suppressed mutterings could be heard in the courtyard.
It appeared to be the guards of the mansion. After seeing the old master leave the mansion, they started to gossip among themselves.
“A million? Is that for real?” The other guard was clearly skeptical.
“Of course it’s real, I saw it myself. It is definitely real! A million gold coins might be an astronomical sum to us, but it means nothing to a master teacher like the old master. I heard Brother Sun say that the old master only accepted it to ease the other party’s mind. He didn’t want him to feel like he owed him a favor.” The first guard said.
“Now that you mention it, I recall that Lord Ling had also kneeled here for a night. Initially, the old master was unwilling to bother with him, but after he stuffed a sum to Brother Sun, Brother Sun, out of benevolence, helped to speak up for him, and only then did he manage to enter…” The second guard replied.
The words of the two were hushed, but they were separated by only a small gate from the street. Du Yuan’s cultivation realm was low, so he could be unable to hear their conversation clearly, but those words echoed in Du Miaoxuan’s ears distinctly.
“Yuan-er, get up. Return to the clan now and bring all my savings here…”
Du Miaoxuan’s eyes lit up.
He was streetwise and full of experience, but that was limited to sparring, battles and logical debates. In terms of bribery and gifting, he was could not compare to a businessman. Previously, he hadn’t thought of offering the other party money, but hearing those words, he was immediately enlightened.
That’s right! Even though master teachers don’t accept money because of their identity, butlers are willing to accept it!
The mansion, the servants, food, and drink; which of it didn’t require money?
Even a physician had to be paid after consulting him. It would be weird if the other party was welcoming since he had come empty-handed.
“Alright!”
Du Yuan did not understand what was going on, but hearing father’s words, he stood up immediately.
“I’ve heard that Brother Sun was reprimanded by the old master because of the matter. It seems that Lord Ling had offended the old master by doubting his identity previously. A master teacher’s prestige must not be sullied. To plead with him using just a million gold coins, how would he be able to uphold his reputation in the future? The old master said that that was a one time off matter, and it mustn’t happen again. Truthfully speaking, a million gold coins is truly like the heavens to us. Yet, to the old master, it wasn’t even worth a plea!”
The first guard spoke.
“Indeed! When I passed by the front courtyard, I heard some people talking about it. I thought that they were lying…” The second one continued.
Outside.
“Wait a moment!” Before Du Yuan could leave, his father’s voice echoed in his ear once more. “Dig out those precious pills that I bought recently and sell them all. Also, bring over those savage beast skins that I had accumulated over the years together with the money…”
“Father…” Du Yuan was taken aback.
What was going on with father?
Bringing the money, selling his possessions…
“Of course it’s real! I have asked Brother Sun on the matter personally. He said that when Lord Ling passed the million gold coins over, the old master didn’t even take a glance at it. The reason why he treated her was because Lord Ling’s wife was on the verge of death and saving someone brings one good karma. If the one who came over to plead with him was healthy, lively, and able to execute battle techniques, he definitely would ignore him…”
The voice of the first guard sounded.
“Ah?” Du Miaoxuan began to shake. Clenching his jaws, he continued to command Du Yuan, “Sell that sword of mine as well. Also… Wasn’t the Third Elder interested in taking over my businesses? Talk to him. As long as he is willing to pay, all of those businesses shall be his!”
“Father…”
Those were already father’s greatest chips within the clan. If he were to sell them all, what will happen in the future?
Du Yuan was stupefied.
“Hurry up!” Du Miaoxuan urged him.
Observing the stern expression on his father’s face, Du Yuan dared not to retort. He turned around to leave at once.
“The fact that he was able to execute a battle technique showed that his body is alright. He definitely has a screw loose to doubt a master teacher!” The second guard chastised. “Even though the old master didn’t care not for wealth, that person didn’t even bring a single gold coin with him. Without offering anything, he wanted the old master to exert effort to offer him pointers, wasn’t he daydreaming?”
Du Miaoxuan gritted his teeth. “Also, bring you and your mother’s savings over as well…”
“…”
Du Yuan staggered in his footsteps, nearly bursting into tears.
From the looks of it, his father’s is already completely deranged.
……………………………………
The conversation between the two guards was exactly what Zhang Xuan delegated Sun Qiang.
Without ‘reminding’ the other party, how long would it take for them to send the money over?
In any case, those were words of the guards and it had nothing to do with him at all. They did not dare to accuse a master teacher of being a money-grubber either.
“As expected of the old master. Even after doing someone in, he wants him to pay up…” Back when Sun Qiang received the task from the old master, he also was speechless.
From the very start, the other party would have given substantial rewards to the old master to thank him for offering him his guidance. However, it was uncertain how much the sum would be. After hearing the conversation between the two guards, who would dare to be stingy?
To be able to think of a way to earn more money without sullying his prestige; to scam others without dirtying his hands… Too scheming!
Initially, just like other people, he thought that the old master did not care for money. From the looks of it… A master teacher is still human and had their own expenses to upkeep.
……………………………………
Leaving the residence and darting into a remote alley, Zhang Xuan removed his disguise completely.
It was exhausting to have kept the disguise on for the entire day.
“The guild should be done preparing the Meridian Rejuvenation Pill and the Body Nourishment Medicinal Solution. I should first get them for Wang Ying and Liu Yang!”
His purpose for disguising himself as a master teacher to earn money was for this. For the time being, he is unable to obtain the Unravel Yin Pill and the Colossal Rhinoceros Blood, but these other two items were easy to obtain.
Stepping into the Apothecary Guild, the two items were indeed ready. As for the remaining two, Guild Leader Ouyang had already sent an application and the headquarters would send it over from another branch.
Apothecary Guilds can be found in all large kingdoms. There were pills and treasures that Tianxuan Kingdom didn’t possess, but that didn’t mean that the other kingdoms didn’t have them. As long as they send a request to the headquarters, the goods would be transported from the closest kingdom with stocks. This way, the delivery process was sped up. Otherwise, given how far the headquarter is from here, ten days are too short for them to bring it here!
Paying a million as a deposit, he obtained the two items successfully.
“Right, Guild Leader Ouyang, do you have Breath Forging Pills? Can you get me some?”
After housing the two objects in his storage ring, Zhang Xuan asked.
Breath Forging Pill is something extremely useful for Fighter 1-dan Juxi realm initiates. If Wang Ying and the others were to consume it, their training speed should be boosted significantly.
“I forged quite a bit of them previously and I still have a few remaining. I can give them to you right away!” Guild Leader Ouyang smiled and passed two jade bottles over.
Upon receiving the jade bottle, he looked inside and saw that there were dozens of pills in each bottle. Zhang Xuan understood that the other party was expressing his goodwill and it wasn’t pleasant to reject him. As such, he nodded his head and accepted it.
Even though the quality of the Breath Forging Pill wasn’t exceptionally high, it was nevertheless a grade-1 pill. Every single pill costs tens of thousand, yet Guild Leader Ouyang shared dozens of them in a single go generously.
Chapter 144: Spear Expert
If it were any other 1-star apothecaries, even if they were friends, it was impossible for him to be so generous. However, Zhang Xuan was simply too incredible. He was able to rival all the other apothecaries with his words and regardless of whether it was pill forging, herbs… He was perfect in nearly every single aspect, as though there was no way whatsoever to defeat him in the Pill Debate, leaving everyone speechless in his wake.
Relying on just this ability, he would surely be able to rise to incredible heights if granted sufficient time. This gesture of goodwill was, in a way, an investment for the future.
After keeping the Breath Forging Pills, Zhang Xuan suddenly recalled something and inquired, “Guild Leader Ouyang, do you know anywhere that sells secret manuals on spearmanship?”
Wang Ying had the Body Nourishing Medicinal Solution whereas Liu Yang had the Meridian Rejuvenation Pill. The Unravel Yin Pill and the Colossus Rhinoceros Blood had not arrived, but when Zhao Ya and Yuan Tao consume it and awaken their constitution, their cultivation realm would definitely soar significantly.
Of his five students, he only lacked a solution for Zheng Yang.
Zheng Yang specialized in the way of the spear, and Lu Xun had looked for someone who was even more proficient than him to be his opponent. If he doesn’t search for some powerful moves to impart to him, he could possibly become the weakest link.
He had looked through the books in the teacher’s Compendium Pavilion and there were some books on battle techniques, but very few relating to spears. That was also the reason why Wang Chao laoshi was so popular. Countless spear practitioners come applying to the academy in admiration of his name.
Since Wang Chao was able to ‘give’ Mo Xiao to Lu Xun, the two must share an exceptional relationship. In that case, it wasn’t a viable option for him to visit him to ask him about the way of the spear. At the same time, he did not know anything about the spear. Thus, he could only ask around to see if there were any secret manuals on spearmanship sold in the capital.
“Secret manuals on spearmanship? You wish to learn the way of the spear?” Guild Leader looked at Zhang Xuan in astonishment.
Apothecaries are highly esteemed in society. Instead of learning pill forging, why are you learning the way of the spear instead?
“Un!” Zhang Xuan nodded his head.
“Spearmanship is relatively uncommon compared to swordsmanship and there are significantly fewer people who learn it. There are even fewer who manage to become masters of the art. I just happen to be acquainted with one. His family heritage is of the spear and his skills are incredibly powerful and profound. He is famous for his spearmanship, even when considering the entire capital!”
Ouyang Cheng stroked his beard and chuckled.
“Oh? Can you bring me to learn from him?” Zhang Xuan’s eyes lit up.
“This person is often holed up inside his house, he rarely meets with outsiders and doesn’t easily impart his spearmanship to others. However, I am a good friend of his, so perhaps he might sell me this favor!”
Ouyang Cheng said.
“Then I’ll be troubling Guild Leader Ouyang for this.” Knowing that the other party was trying to strike up connections, Zhang Xuan nodded his head and secretly decided to guide him in his pill forging whenever he gets the chance to.
“Let’s go, I’ll bring you to meet with this old friend of mine.”
Seeing that the other person understood his intent, Ouyang Cheng nodded his head in satisfaction.
After leaving the Apothecary Guild, the two of them walked for nearly an hour before arriving at a residence.
As Ouyang Cheng was good buddies with the master of the residence, the guards did not obstruct his path and they were able to enter the residence smoothly.
“Guild Leader Ouyang, please wait a moment. My old master is still training, he will be out in a moment!”
The butler brought them to a small gazebo and said.
“Un, it’ll do for him to look for me after he finishes his training!” Guild Leader Ouyang knew of the other party’s habits and gestured with his hand to show that he wasn’t bothered by it. Then, he beckoned to Zhang Xuan, “Apothecary Zhang, come and sit!”
“Alright!” Zhang Xuan sat down and surveyed the surroundings.
The courtyard was large and the renovations were simple but elegant, creating a tranquil atmosphere. There were no servants or attendants in sight in the entire courtyard. It seemed like the owner of the residence wasn’t an extravagant person.
“My friend is called Wang Chong. We were acquainted over twenty years ago and he had immersed himself in the way of the spear for his entire life. In terms of spearmanship, he is definitely one of the top figures in the entire Tianxuan Kingdom. Emperor Shen Zhui had even once complimented his as spearmanship as peerless.”
Sipping on his tea, Ouyang Cheng introduced the owner of the residence.
“Incredible!” Zhang Xuan had always held respect toward those who were able to reach the pinnacle of their occupation.
Regardless of the occupation, to be able to emerge on top of thousands and thousands of people showed their determination and talent.
“Old Ouyang, are you talking bad about me behind my back again?”
Halfway through their conversation, a bright voice sounded. Then, an elderly walked over with widened strides.
Even though he looked fifty or so, his body nevertheless appeared to be brimming with strength, as though he had a boundless supply of energy. He was dressed in a training robe and grabbed a spear in one hand. Just like the butler said, he was probably in the midst of his training and came over without even changing his clothes.
“Talking bad behind your bad? I’m not that bored so as to do so!” Ouyang Cheng stood up smiling.
Judging from their tones, Zhang Xuan could tell that they were close friends.
“That’s more like it. How do you have the time to look for me today?” Wang Chong stepped into the gazebo and caught sight of Zhang Xuan. Perplexed, he asked, “Is this your junior?”
“Cough cough!” Ouyang Cheng nearly spat his tea out. An awkward expression appeared on his face.
The heck he is my junior!
I want to fawn over him so that he can guide me with my pill forging. You saying that he is my junior nearly sent all of my efforts down the drain…
Secretly sneaking Zhang Xuan a glance and confirming that he wasn’t angry, he heaved a sigh of relief. Afraid that his old friend would say anything worse, he hurriedly introduced, “Let me introduce you to him. This is the newest 1-star apothecary of our guild, Zhang Xuan!”
“1-star apothecary?”
Wang Chong was surprised for a moment before feeling shocked.
As an old friend of Ouyang Cheng, he knew very well how difficult the apothecary examination was. Seeing how young the other party was, he initially thought that Zhang Xuan was Ouyang Cheng’s junior. The thought that he was an official apothecary didn’t even occur to him.
It was something inconceivable to him.
Even the butler by the side was astonished.
“Not just so, Apothecary Zhang got promoted through Pill Debate. Singlehandedly, he left ten apothecaries speechless. In the field of pill forging, there isn’t a single person in the entire capital who is more knowledgeable than him!”
Ouyang Cheng continued.
“Pill Debate?” Wang Chong was flabbergasted.
Even though he wasn’t an apothecary, he had heard of such an examination method from Guild Leader Ouyang’s himself. For a fellow who wasn’t even twenty years of age to become an apothecary through Pill Debate, even though the fact was lying right before him, he found it difficult to accept.
“Guild Leader Ouyang is being too generous, I just happen to possess a little bit of knowledge. In terms of pill forging, I am still a rookie…”
Zhang Xuan hurriedly said.
He was speaking of the truth. The reason why he was able to succeed in the Pill Debate was because of the Library of Heaven’s Path. If he were to really dabble in pill forging, it was likely that he would be unable to forge even the easiest pills.
The three men chatted for awhile longer after that. Zhang Xuan knew that Ouyang Cheng was complimenting him before Wang Chong intentionally to leave a good impression of him on Wang Chong. This way, it would be more likely for the Wang Chong to impart him the way of the spear.
Indeed, after the banter, Ouyang Cheng smiled, “Actually, I have something I need to trouble you with!”
“Oh?” Wang Chong’s looked at Ouyang Cheng.
“It’s like that. Apothecary Zhang highly appreciates the way of the spear. If Brother Wang has the time, you two can exchange views!”
Ouyang Cheng said.
“Oh? So Apothecary Zhang is a spear expert as well? That’s great…”
Hearing those words, Wang Chong’s eyes lit up in excitement.
He was a spear fanatic and loved pitting himself against other spear experts. For Zhang Xuan to have become an official apothecary at such a young age, he probably possessed superior talent. How could he not be excited to spar with him?
“I… Cough cough, I have never learned spearmanship before…”
Upon seeing that the other party was determined to duel with him, an awkward look appeared on Zhang Xuan’s face.
Chapter 145: Heaven’s Path Spear Art
His previous self had expended all of his effort and attention into raising his cultivation realm, allowing him to reach the Zhenqi realm at an exceptionally young age. As such, he had never come into contact with spearmanship.
Naturally, the current him who was a true-blue earthling had never come into contact with it either.
“Have never learned before?” Wang Chong was taken aback.
If he had never learned spearmanship, what views could they exchange?
A strange expression also appeared on Ouyang Cheng’s face.
Hearing that Zhang Xuan wanted to learn spearmanship, he thought that he possessed at least a certain level of foundation in the art. That was also the reason why he termed it exchanging views instead of learning from him. In that way, Zhang Xuan would be able to retain some dignity, just… To think that he had never learned spearmanship!
Awkward!
If only he knew that he hadn’t learned spearmanship previously, he would have just directed him to any random spearmanship teacher. There wouldn’t be a need to trouble his old friend.
“The situation is like this. I have a student who wants to study spearmanship, so I would like to learn a few moves now and teach him…” Seeing that everyone’s gaze was on him, Zhang Xuan could only reveal his motive.
“Learn a few moves now? Teach someone else?” Wang Chong staggered backward and nearly fainted from astonishment.
Are you joking?
As the saying goes, a month with the stave, a year with the saber, and a lifetime with the spear!
Countless people had embarked on spearmanship from young, only to be unable to become a true initiate for their entire life. You haven’t even learned the slightest thing, yet you intend to teach your student…
Aren’t you being too gutsy? Or do you think that spearmanship is easy?
In an instant, Wang Chong’s face darkened. The favorable impression he had of Zhang Xuan fell apart.
He had been training in the way of the spear for his entire life and already regarded the spear as an essential part of his life. He hated it when others belittled his art. Yet, this fellow hadn’t even learned a single about it but intended to go about muddling his students… That was truly an insult to the way of the spear!
If not for his respect for the other party’s identity as a 1-star apothecary and for his old friend Ouyang’s dignity, he would have thrown him out.
Suppressing his displeasure, he stated, “Spearmanship is hard to practice and learn. It is an impossible task to achieve anything significant in a short period of time. If you were to teach others without fully grasping the art, it is likely that you misguide them!”
His voice was steeled.
“Er…” Noticing the displeasure on the other party’s face, Zhang Xuan knew that it was probably impossible for him to learn spearmanship directly from the other party. After a moment of hesitation, he asked, “How about this, does Brother Wang have any books regarding spearmanship here? If so, can you allow me to browse through them?”
“Browse through books?” Wang Chong frowned.
Spearmanship is a type of battle technique and every single movement requires the guidance and correction of an expert, as well as the refinement over a lengthy period of time. If one could learn that easily by reading books, one wouldn’t have to train that hard.
However, even though he was skeptical of Zhang Xuan’s purpose, upon witnessing him give up on his previous intentions, he heaved a sigh of relief and said, “Sure, I have a lot of such books here. It is also good for you to learn about how profound spearmanship is so that you won’t be so reckless. I’ll bring you over!”
As a spear master, nearly every single book on spearmanship that was in the kingdom was in his possession. As long as his family’s secret spear technique wasn’t leaked, it wasn’t really a big deal for him to allow outsiders to browse through those fundamental books.
“Thank you!”
Zhang Xuan hurriedly nodded his head.
Spear arts, just like all other battle techniques, needed long hours of refinement in order for the form and the essence of the skill to shine through. However, Zhang Xuan was different. As long as he had sufficient books, he was able to create a powerful and concise spear art that was easy to learn.
“This is my study. I have almost all spear related books in Tianxuan Kingdom in here, as well as some exclusive collections!”
As the trio reached the study, Wang Chong gestured majestically with a proud expression.
He had paid quite a hefty sum to gather all of these books. These books had also helped to augment his spearmanship, bringing it to greater heights.
Looking inward, Zhang Xuan saw seven to eight entire bookshelves filled with all kinds of books elaborating on every single aspect of spearmanship.
“Ouyang, it has been long since you last came. Let’s go grab a drink!”
Knowing that Zhang Xuan would take some time to read through some books, Wang Chong did not intend to wait here for him. Instead, he beckoned Ouyang Cheng toward another room.
“Alright!” Ouyang Cheng said and the two of them walked out.
“I should begin!”
Watching them leave, Zhang Xuan heaved a sigh of relief, walked up to a bookshelf and started flipping through the books.
Hualalala!
The sound of books flipping started to echo in the room and all sort of books on spearmanship formed in his mind.
Some of these books were on the very fundamentals, some of them detailed common moves and some of them were just basic introductions… All in all, there were truly all kinds of books on spearmanship that one could possibly imagine in here.
As expected of a spear master, his collection was truly abundant.
Flipping through the books continuously, he soon imprinted into his mind all the eight bookshelves of books in the study, which added up to a total of a few thousand books, within an hour.
Standing quietly on the spot, Zhang Xuan started to digest the newly compiled books in his mind.
“The correct training method…”
His mind jolted and all of the books on spearmanship melded together to form a single book before him.
He started flipping through it.
“Weapons are an extension of the arm. Only by training it to become a part of your arm can one be considered to be a true initiate. Spearmanship is the same as well…”
The spear art created by the Library of Heaven’s Path through compiling so many books was incredibly profound and gave one the feeling of enlightenment. While looking through it, Zhang Xuan used his finger in place of a spear to practice its moves.
Huhuhu!
From time to time, with the augmentation of zhenqi, his finger would pierce through the air menacingly. It was as though his body had become the spear itself, and at any moment now, he would pierce through the heavens.
The spear was termed as the king of weapons. To become a true expert, one had to have the disposition of one capable of piercing through the heavens.
Without numerous storms and the accumulation of experiences over time, it was impossible to forge such a disposition!
If someone were to notice the current Zhang Xuan, they would definitely yell in exclamation.
That was because the current Zhang Xuan already possessed the disposition. Even though it couldn’t be determined whether his spearmanship had reached a high level of mastery, just the aura he was exuding was sufficient to crush the confidence of countless cultivators, destroying their will to fight.
Fully immersed in the book, Zhang Xuan was completely oblivious to these changes. Instead, he continued emulating the movements with his hands.
Tzzzzz!
Burst after burst of zhenqi shot out along the trajectory of his fingers and impacted the floor, creating countless holes on it.
It was fortunate that he had kept his strength in check. Otherwise, Wang Chong’s study would probably be wrecked just like Master Lu Chen’s.
After an unknown period of time, Zhang Xuan finally stopped and exhaled turbid air.
“I’m already done cultivating it?”
His eyes lit up.
In just a moment’s time, he had already practiced the entire sequence of the spear art compiled in the library once.
“I’ll call it Heaven’s Path Spear Art!”
Weng!
The book jolted and a name appeared on it… Heaven’s Path Spear Art!
“It’s a pity that there are too few books and too many mistakes in them. I only managed to create a single move!”
Zhang Xuan lamented.
The books were all on the basics of spearmanship. The Library of Heaven’s Path compiled all of the correct theories and created a spear art from it.
“I wonder to what extent will this move augment my strength, and how much strength I would be able to execute through it!”
Even though it was just a single move, he knew that it was impossible for it to be anything simple, especially after experiencing the Heaven’s Path Divine Art and the Heaven’s Path Golden Body.
His fighting prowess would definitely be boosted significantly if he were to execute it.
“I’ll impart this to Zheng Yang when I return!”
The reason why he was here specially to learn spear art was so that he could impart it to Zheng Yang. Even though it was just a single move, at the very least, the journey he made here wasn’t in vain.
It could be imagined that if Zheng Yang were to fully grasp the skill, his spearmanship would definitely improve by leaps and bounds. By then, defeating that Mo Xiao wouldn’t pose any problem.
All that came from the Heaven’s Path had to be exceptional. There was no doubt about this.
“Time to go!”
After reading all the books and obtaining what he wanted, Zhang Xuan did not dawdle in the study excessively and walked out with big strides.
Chapter 146: Spear Intent
Under the gazebo, Wang Chong and Ouyang Chong were seated across one another, drinking.
“You say that this Apothecary Zhang… passed the Pill Debate examination?”
Even until now, Wang Chong found it hard to believe.
Pill Debate is virtually a special privilege for master teachers, something that is meant for only the very best. Yet, a young man who wasn’t even twenty managed to pass this examination. Even though he was hearing it firsthand from a reliable source, he nevertheless dares not to believe it to be possible.
“Indeed, Apothecary Zhang’s knowledge on herbs and pills is superior even to that of mine. He is bound to reach great heights!” Ouyang Cheng couldn’t help but be impressed whenever he recalled Zhang Xuan’s deeds.
“Even though he is incredible in pills and herbs, his understanding of the spear is too shallow. Spearmanship isn’t a game, one can’t learn just by looking. If it were that easy, I wouldn’t have had to immerse myself in it for my whole life thus far.”
Wang Chong’s face shone with pride and overwhelming confidence reflected in his eyes.
“Indeed, the spear is the most complicated among all weapons. How could it be easy to achieve mastery?”
Of the numerous weapons, the spear was the hardest weapon to master. Countless cultivators had taken on the challenge only to end up locked out of the gates of success.
Sighing, Ouyang Cheng suddenly remembered something and glanced at Wang Chong, “There aren’t any exclusive spear art secret manuals in your study, are there?”
He brought Zhang Xuan here. If his old friend were to accidentally reveal some family heirloom secret manuals to him, he truly would have to feel apologetic.
“Of course not. The spear arts that I created, as well as my family’s secret manuals, are all kept in my mind. They are only passed down by word, other people are unable to learn it even if they wanted to!”
Wang Chong chuckled, “Those that are in the study are all regarding the basics and fundamentals of spearmanship. It is useful for those who have just come into contact with the spear. It’s not a big deal to allow Apothecary Zhang to browse through them. Besides, letting him read through them is a good idea, he should realize how difficult spearmanship is and drop his immature thoughts!”
To be thinking about teaching spearmanship when you know nothing at all, what a joke!
If spearmanship were that easy, he wouldn’t have possessed the fame that he has now, such that even Emperor Shen Zhui complimented him personally.
The Spear Master wasn’t a title that came out of nowhere.
For this matter, he had absolute confidence and pride!
“Indeed…” Ouyang Cheng nodded his head.
There isn’t a single weapon or battle technique that can be mastered easily. They require continuous training to refine every single move to the very perfection. If it could be grasped that easily, experts would be worth nothing at all.
“Apothecary Zhang is still young and it is natural for him to be ambitious. After he’s done browsing through those books, I will reveal a spear art to him so that he would realize the difficulty and give up on those ludicrous thoughts!”
Even though Wang Chong was unsatisfied with Zhang Xuan’s actions, he dared not to underestimate him, especially after knowing his talent in pill forging.
“Alright, I guess he should probably give up after that and focus on pill forging. I am still looking forward to our first 2-star apothecary in our Apothecary Guild…”
Ouyang Cheng chuckled. Just as he was about to continue speaking, he saw Wang Chong’s body stiffen abruptly before trembling uncontrollably.
Dang lang!
He was oblivious to the fact that the wine cup he held in his hand had dropped to the floor and shattered into pieces.
“Wang Chong…”
Looking at the spear master, whose strength was top-notch in the entire Tianxuan City, acting so strangely all of the sudden, Ouyang Cheng was horrified.
He had never heard that his old friend was sick!
Why did he start convulsing all of the sudden?
“It’s Spear Intent, Spear Intent!”
Just when he was considering what pill he should pop into his friend’s mouth to save him, the latter suddenly recovered. His eyes glowed as though a priceless treasure was right before him.
“Spear Intent? What is that?”
Seeing that he was fine, Ouyang Cheng heaved a sigh of relief and looked at him curiously.
What could it be, for it to be able to make his friend, who was as steady as a mountain, behave in such a manner?
“Those who reach a certain level of mastery in the sword can form the Sword Intent. Similarly, those who are able to exude Spear Intent are the true spear masters. These few years, the reason why I had confined myself to the residence was so that I can temper my mind to enter such a state. However, it is a pity that I had been unable to achieve a breakthrough… When did such an expert appear in the residence? Or did someone manage to achieve a breakthrough before I did? Let’s go over to take a look!”
He stood up abruptly and proceeded toward the origin of the Spear Intent.
After developing Spear Intent, whatever one did with the spear would be a spear art.
He had always strived for this goal, but he had managed to find the way. He never imagined that someone who could form Spear Intent would suddenly appear in his residence. Who could it be?
The two of them rushed toward the source of Spear Intent. On the way, they happened to see Zhang Xuan strolling leisurely out of the study.
“Where is he?” Before Zhang Xuan could say anything, Wang Chong asked hurriedly.
“He? Who do you mean?” Zhang Xuan had no idea what the other party was talking about.
He had been immersed in reading and practicing the Heaven’s Path Spear Art, so he hadn’t paid much attention to the situation outside. What happened? Did an enemy invade?
“I felt an astonishing wave of Spear Intent here, why is there no one?”
Seeing that Zhang Xuan was clueless, Wang Chong looked around hastily. However, the surrounding was completely empty and there weren’t any other people in sight.
“Could it be that you’ve been thinking of it so much that you began to imagine things?” Ouyang Cheng asked.
His old friend had been dreaming about Spear Intent day and night. Could it be that his longing had finally turned into delusions?
Otherwise, why was he unable to sense anything himself?
“At my level, I am just a step away from forming Spear Intent. Just a moment ago, I had clearly felt a Spear Intent surging into the skies. I am positive of that!”
Wang Chong was very confident.
He had been exploring the secrets of the spear everyday fanatically, and it would be truly embarrassing if he had mistaken Spear Intent as something else.
“Wait, wait. What is that Spear Intent you both are talking about?”
Looking at the heated discussion between the two, Zhang Xuan could not hold back his curiosity.
All the books that he had read were on the bare fundamentals. Spear Intent is an extremely advanced topic and it wasn’t recorded in any of the books. As such, Zhang Xuan was ignorant.
“Spear Intent is a special state of mind which a practitioner can reach only if his understanding of the spear reaches the extreme…”
Wang Chong tried explaining before shaking his head, “You have never learned spearmanship. You won’t understand it even if I explain it to you…”
Even though the other party did not go into details, Zhang Xuan got a brief grasp on the situation. “So, the reason why you are looking around here is because someone had released Spear Intent here just a moment ago?”
“I’m not very sure as well. I felt it vaguely just now and it should be in the vicinity…” Wang Chong nodded his head.
The appearance of the Spear Intent was only for the briefest moment, as though a flash of lightning. Even Wang Chong could only sense it vaguely, and as such, he was unable to ascertain the exact location. Otherwise, he would have rushed forward directly rather than to stay distressed over here.
“Right, you were here just now. You should be clear about where the person is!”
Suddenly recalling something, Wang Chong turned around to look at him with glowing eyes.
He was a distance away, so he was unable to sense the exact location. However, Apothecary Zhang had been here all along. With his help, he would surely be able to find the master!
At the very least, after they confirm the location, they would know whether the person is a member of the clan or an outsider.
As a clan specializing in spear, all members of the clan immersed themselves in the way of the spear. Even the guards were skilled in spearmanship. Even though Wang Chong could summon all of the guards here to question them one by one, if the person in question simply kept mum or was unaware of it himself, it would be much simpler to pinpoint the exact location.
“But… I don’t know what Spear Intent is?” Zhang Xuan hesitated.
“That’s simple. Even though I have yet to fully comprehend Spear Intent, I am able to imitate with it a 70% to 80% likeness. It should feel something like this!”
Wang Chong exerted and a sharp piercing aura gushed straight toward Zhang Xuan. It felt as though it was capable of piercing through anything.
“So this is Spear Intent?” A bizarre expression appeared on Zhang Xuan’s face.
“Indeed, it should feel something like this. Do you know where it came from?” Dispelling the aura, sweat droplets streamed down Wang Chong’s forehead. Still gasping for air, he inquired.
Even though he only imitated the aura for a brief moment, it took a toll on his body and weakened him.
“This…” Zhang Xuan felt slightly embarrassed. “Is the Spear Intent you spoke of… this?”
The next instant, Zhang Xuan’s entire body seemed to have turned into a spear and exuded a frighteningly piercing aura, as though he would pierce through the heavens at any moment.
Contrasting the two, Wang Chong’s Spear Intent was like a blade of grass before a towering ancient tree.
Incomparable.
Chapter 147: Can I Learn From You?
“Ah? Spear… Spear Intent?”
Wang Chong’s body swayed and he nearly fainted.
Are you for real?
How can you display Spear Intent? Furthermore, such a pure Spear Intent!
He was astonished. Noticing Zhang Xuan’s embarrassed look, he nearly threw up blood.
Embarrassed? Embarrassed your head!
Brother, can you not fool others like that? Didn’t you say that you never learned the way of the spear? Didn’t you say that you didn’t know what spear arts were?
I have started learning the way of the spear since eight and I had spent forty years since then dedicating my life to it. Even so, I am still a long way from achieving Spear Intent… Can you explain to me roughly, what is with that overwhelming Spear Intent of yours?
Didn’t you say that you do not know what Spear Intent is? Then what in the world is this?
Tears streamed down Wang Cong’s face.
You shouldn’t play with someone like that!
It was laughable that he had reprimanded the other party so brazenly earlier on, saying that he wouldn’t understand it even if he explained it…
Where did this self-confidence come from?
Or rather, the one who didn’t understand was he himself…
He hated the fact that there wasn’t a hole here for him to dive into.
“This is Spear Intent?”
Ouyang Cheng was stunned.
Right after displaying a moment of Spear Intent, his old friend was already sweating profusely and panting for air, as though he had been constipated for a few days straight. Yet, this fellow was able to execute it easily as and when he liked, as though it were merely eating and drinking…
Are you the spear master, or Wang Chong is?
“You… Didn’t you say that you have never learned about spears?”
Overwhelmed with shock, Ouyang Cheng asked. Wang Chong also hurriedly shifted his attention to hear how the other party would explain it.
“It is true that I haven’t learned it before!” Zhang Xuan replied truthfully.
“If you have never learned it before, how can you have such a powerful Spear Intent?” Wang Chong was about to go mad.
If you were able to display such powerful Spear Intent without any prior experience, given my achievement despite how I have spent my life immersing myself in the art, I must have been spending my time on learning nonsense…
“Oh, I was just reading the books in the study and an epiphany struck me. I realized that executing spear art in this form felt the most comfortable, so I got into the form. I didn’t know that this is Spear Intent!”
Zhang Xuan said after a short moment of contemplation.
Zhang Xuan wasn’t trying to feign ignorance. Rather, the books in the study were truly only about the very basics of spearmanship, so there wasn’t a single one that detailed Spear Intent. He only happened to grow such a disposition due to the Heaven’s Path Spear Art formed through these books.
As for how Spear Intent could be used and how useful it was to a spear wielder, he had no idea at all.
Wang Chong’s tears continued streaming down his face.
You described it as though it were as easy as eating and drinking, do you know how much effort I have put into the matter, only to fail time and time again?
For the past decade, I had been building my mental fortitude, entering desolate lands, overcoming the frost and withstanding the heat. Even so, I have yet to succeed. Yet, you simply came to the study, read some books and unintentionally… managed to reach such a level!
My heart! My liver! My youth!
If there were a huge pit before him, he would have definitely jumped in to bury himself alive.
Can you not destroy my confidence like that?
If you said that you had put in a lot of effort, trained daily and simply happened to achieve a breakthrough, I would feel a little better. But you have only spent two hours reading through books, and… and yet you have already achieved a breakthrough…
Furthermore, what you were reading weren’t profound secret manuals. They were just elementary books on spearmanship…
If word were to spread out, all spear masters in the capital would definitely die from shame.
“Wang Chong, humans aren’t born with equal talents. Perhaps, Apothecary Zhang… may truly be gifted in the way of the spear!” Seeing his despondent old friend who had been struck a heavy blow, Ouyang Cheng tried to console him.
“Alright, I can only take it as that!”
As expected of an expert spear practitioner, he had already forged his will to become as resilient as steel. Even though he was dispirited, he soon readjusted his mental state. Just as he was about to speak, he heard a young man’s perplexed voice echo in the air.
“You say that I have comprehended Spear Intent, but what does Spear Intent do?”
Wang Chong’s staggered once more. Enduring his crumbling heart, he explained, “Spear Intent refers to one’s understanding of the spear; reaching Spear Intent means that the spear has already become an extension of the practitioner’s arms. Under such a state, any movement he makes can be considered as a spear art. This is something that can only be achieved when one reaches the pinnacle of spearmanship!”
“Any movement made can be considered as spear art?” Zhang Xuan’s eyes lit up. “Great! If my student can comprehend Spear Intent, he would be able to achieve victory in the Freshmen Tournament!”
Since Spear Intent is that formidable, Zhang Xuan decided to give Zheng Yang a good lesson when he returned. As long as he is able to achieve such a state, even if he didn’t possess profound spear arts in his arsenal, it is unlikely for him to lose to his opponent.
“You want to help your student comprehend it as well?” Wang Chong trembled.
Spear Intent is a person’s understanding toward the spear. Do you think that everyone is as overpowered as you so as to be able to achieve a breakthrough just by looking at some books?
He wanted to convince the other party to drop the idea, but he didn’t know where he should start from.
“Right, I have learned a technique when I was looking through the books earlier back, but I have no idea how powerful it would be. Since Brother Wang is a spear master, can you offer me some pointers?”
Zhang Xuan had no concept of Spear Intent, so he wasn’t as shocked as the other party. Recalling the move that the Heaven’s Path Library created, he couldn’t help but speak up.
The person before him was a renowned spear master in the entire kingdom. He would definitely be able to point out the strengths and weaknesses of the move.
“You even comprehended a technique? Fine, I am also interested to see what kind of move a genius like you is able to comprehend!”
Wang Chong nodded his head and sent a subordinate to fetch a spear over.
Soon, he returned carrying two spears.
“The best way to test the strength of a move is through sparring! Apothecary Zhang, show me the move you have just comprehended!” It was as though Wang Chong had transformed the moment a spear was grasped in his hands. His aura was ferocious, as though a savage ancient beast had awakened from his sleep.
In his view, even though the other party had comprehended Spear Intent, his absolute strength and ability to wield the spear should still be inferior to him. Even if the other party has any special moves, he should be able to handle it with ease.
“Alright!” It just happened that Zhang Xuan wanted to try out his move. Thus, he casually grabbed the other spear.
He had never once grabbed a spear in his life. However, after comprehending Spear Intent, the spear felt like a perfect fit in his hands.
“Let’s begin!”
The moment Zhang Xuan felt so, his aura evolved immediately, as though the ordinary young man from before had become a domineering conqueror.
Hu!
Charging forward, his spear shot out explosively from his palms.
This technique was something he created after compiling the essence of thousands of manuals. All of the complexities had been simplified into this one single concise move. The zhenqi in his entire body churned and the spear flew out as though a massive rising from the ocean, soaring into the skies.
“What?”
Initially, he didn’t pay much heed to Wang Chong, but upon witnessing the spear piercing straight at him, goosebumps were raised on his body immediately and he was almost scared witless.
The move may look simple, inelegant and even ugly, but it focused all of the cultivator’s strength and spirit into a single point. This… This… This was supreme spear art!
Boom!
Without much time to think, Wang Chong’s exerted all his strength in one stroke and met Zhang Xuan’s blow with one of his own.
Unleashing his full strength, his cultivation realm was also revealed… Fighter 7-dan, Tongxuan realm!
Ding!
The two spears met in the air and a massive shock wave was generated, sending intense gusts to the surroundings.
Deng deng deng deng!
Zhang Xuan retreated seven to eight steps before stopping. On the other hand, Wang Chong was still rooted to his spot.
It was clear who the victor was in the simple face-off.
Zhang Xuan didn’t use his full strength. He had limited it to 40 ding and naturally, wouldn’t be able to withstand a full strength attack by a Tongxuan realm advanced stage expert.
However, due to the incredible resilience of his body and his pure zhenqi, even though he was forced back, he wasn’t injured at all.
“As expected of a spear master, incredible!”
Seeing that the other party had managed to easily deal with a move derived by the Library of Heaven’s Path, Zhang Xuan was impressed.
On the other hand, Wang Chong nearly fainted from fear.
The other party’s seemingly simple spear art had forced him to execute his trump card. Furthermore… Even though he didn’t retreat a single step and it looked as though he had the upper hand, there was a dull pain in his chest and his blood flow had become erratic. He had been wounded considerably in the face-off.
If not for him suppressing forcefully, he would have spurted a mouthful of blood.
No matter what, he was a Tongxuan realm advanced stage expert… For him to be unable to match up to a Pixue realm opponent… It was a difference of an entire cultivation realm between them.
Normally, it would be impossible for one to defeat an opponent who had a higher cultivation realm.
It was hard to tell what he would think if he were to know that the young man before him had only used half of his strength in this face-off.
“This move is truly incredible…”
After taking a long time to adjust his breathing, Wang Chong couldn’t help but compliment.
The move was simply too amazing!
He had always thought that he was a genius, and he had also created quite a few spear techniques. However, compared to this move, they were all trash. The difference between the two was like comparing dirt to gem.
“That’s great. I want to impart this move to my student. Can Brother Wang offer me some pointers so that I can improve it?”
Zhang Xuan asked.
“Pointers…” Wang Chong’s face flushed.
Apothecary Zhang, are you here to slap my face?
Putting aside the fact that you have achieved Spear Intent and that every single move of yours is a spear art, this move… I can’t even comprehend the move, how can I offer you pointers?
Even though he was a spear master, he wasn’t able to tell how his opponent executed the move and how the attack came at him… He felt so embarrassed that he could commit suicide.
“This move… has no problems. You can impart it to your student like this!”
After saying those words, Wang Chong’s face felt a burning sensation on his face.
An hour ago, he had thought that the young man didn’t understand spearmanship, and that he was insulting the way of the spear. But now… He felt that he was the one insulting the way of the spear.
The other party had only read two hours of books, and not only did he comprehend Spear Intent, he had even created such an incredible technique. On the other hand, he had practiced spearmanship for more than forty years, but had only reached such a nonsensical level…
In an instant, he felt blood welling up in his chest, ready to spurt out at any moment.
After the embarrassment, a daring thought suddenly emerged in his mind.
The essence of the other party’s technique was to concentrate one’s entire strength to one single point. In this aspect, it resembled Spear Intent greatly. If he were to learn the move, he might be able to break through the final barrier obstructing him and achieve Spear Intent.
“Apothecary Zhang, can you… teach me this move?”
After a moment of hesitation, he asked red-faced.
“You wish to learn? Sure, I can teach you!”
After a moment of surprise, Zhang Xuan agreed to his request with a smile.
Hearing the conversation between the two, Ouyang Cheng staggered.
Wasn’t Zhang Xuan the one who came here today to learn spearmanship from Wang Chong?
How did… their roles… get swapped?
Chapter 148: Student Dueling Platform
Without the Heaven’s Path Divine Art to complement the Heaven’s Path Spear Art, even if the other party learned it, it would be significantly weaker than his.
Furthermore, it was a move he had devised through the other party’s books, so teaching the other party wasn’t a big deal.
Thus, Zhang Xuan agreed to Wang Chong’s request without much hesitation.
Of course, it was impossible for him to impart him the full version. After all, the Heaven’s Path Spear Art was too fearsome. It would be unparalleled even if he were to just impart a portion of it.
“I…”
Wang Chong had raised this request without harboring much hope. Upon hearing Zhang Xuan agree to it, his entire body trembled in agitation and his eyes reddened.
Experts usually only imparted the moves they created to their children and disciple, never allowing it to leak out. Putting others aside, he was one of them as well. Other than his son, he had never taught anyone else the moves that he had created.
Yet, Apothecary Zhang was willing to impart such a profound move to him so easily. This magnanimity and personality…
“This move is extremely profound, I can’t learn it for free…” Hesitating for a moment, Wang Chong said.
Even though the other party was willing to impart him the move, it wasn’t appropriate for him to take something without giving anything back in return.
It was just like how one had to send betrothal gifts when marrying other’s daughter. How could there be free lunch in this world?
“Apothecary Zhang is lacking gold coins to purchase some pills. I think it would be best for you to pay him some money to serve as the tuition fee!” Ouyang Cheng interjected.
Zhang Xuan had yet to pay him for the pills he had bought in his stead. He knew the other party was definitely looking for a way to earn money to repay him, and since his old friend wished to repay the favor, it was best for him to simply give Zhang Xuan money.
Furthermore, after imparting the battle technique to Wang Chong, Zhang Xuan would be considered as half a teacher to Wang Cong. If Zhang Xuan turned out to be very demanding thereafter, he might be unable to repay this favor and this would put him in a very difficult position.
Putting others aside, what if Zhang Xuan wanted to learn the spear arts Wang Chong had created… Should he teach it to him?
“Alright!”
Understanding the intentions behind his old friend’s words, Wang Chong hurriedly nodded his head. He turned around to delegate some tasks to the butler.
Not long later, the butler came in with a stack of bills and passed it over to Zhang Xuan.
“This is the tuition fee. I hope that Apothecary Zhang can accept it. It would be inappropriate for me to learn your spear art for free…”
“Hm?” Zhang Xuan’s eyes widened.
Am I dreaming?
I came here to learn spear art, but… why did I become the one teaching… Furthermore, I am even earning money?
However, Zhang Xuan found it hard to reject his money, looking at that stack of bills which was worth at least two million.
Upon keeping the money, Zhang Xuan began to display the technique slowly and explained the concept and workings behind it in detail.
As expected of a spear master, although Wang Chong had not yet achieved Spear Intent, his knowledge of spears had already permeated deep into his bones. With a single demonstration, he had already almost fully grasped the concept. Even though his might was still far from Zhang Xuan’s original version, there were no problem with his form and his movements.
“Apothecary Zhang, thank you for imparting me the move!”
Only after learning this move did Wang Chong truly understand how powerful it was. He was astounded by its might. He could already foresee that if he were to continue practicing the skill, in less than a year, he would be able to achieve Spear Intent and grow even stronger.
Regardless of whether he had paid the school fee or not, Zhang Xuan had already become half a teacher to him.
By ‘half a teacher’, it meant that one had learned a move or two from another person, or had been granted pointers from him.
Since he had already grasped the move, there was no need for Zhang Xuan to remain here. Along with Ouyang Cheng, he bided farewell and left.
“Guild Leader Ouyang, help me keep an eye on those pills. I will claim them from you when the time comes!”
Leaving Spear Master Wang Chong’s residence, Zhang Xuan said.
“Rest easy!” Ouyang Cheng nodded his head.
Previously, he simply thought that as long as this young man studied diligently, he could become the first 2-star apothecary of Tianxuan Kingdom. However, such thoughts had vanished altogether from his mind.
From a complete beginner, just by reading two hours of books, he was able to easily create a move that even Wang Chong revered, furthermore achieving Spear Intent… Such a person would surely strike it big and his name would ring across the world.
“Return to the academy!”
The Body Nourishment Medicinal Solution and Meridian Rejuvenation Pill were already in his possession, so he thought that he should pass them over to his students so that they could cultivate even faster.
After bidding Ouyang Cheng farewell, he returned to his classroom swiftly. However, when he arrived, he only saw Wang Ying in the classroom; the rest were absent.
“Where are the others?”
Zhang Xuan frowned.
He had been finding all means to help them raise their strength swiftly, yet this bunch of fellows didn’t even come for training.
“They… They…”
Not expecting Zhang laoshi to appear at such a moment, Wang Ying was terrified. Cowering backward in fear, she stuttered.
Zhang laoshi had said when he left class yesterday that he would be busy, and he might be unable to make it for lessons for the time being. Why is he back so soon?
“Speak!”
Zhang Xuan’s complexion darkened.
In order to awaken their unique constitution and heal their wounds, he went through the trouble of undertaking the apothecary examination and disguised himself as a master teacher. Yet, they were skipping out on lessons. He was truly infuriated.
If he knew that this would happen, he would never have bothered expending such effort on them. Was he giving them dowry?
If students didn’t working hard themselves, no matter how much assistance the teacher provides them, it would still be difficult for them to achieve great heights in the future. After all, rotten mud would just slide down no matter how high you carry them up.
The more he thought about it, the angrier he got. At the point, Zhang Xuan’s face was completely cold.
“Teacher…” Wang Ying shivered.
She had a weak character, and upon seeing Zhang laoshi’s rage, she was scared speechless.
Jiyaa!
At this point, the door opened. Before anyone could walk in, a voice echoed, “Wang Ying, hurry up and come. They have started fighting…”
Halfway through his words, the owner of the voice saw the icy-faced Zhang Xuan and the remaining words cluttered in his throats.
“Zhang laoshi…”
The owner of the voice shuddered.
Fatty Yuan Tao.
“Started fighting? Getting someone to help? Did I get you here to cultivate or to fight?” Zhang Xuan’s voice was icy.
“I…” Yuan Tao’s face paled.
“You have barely learnt a thing or two and you are already out fighting others. Is it that you don’t need me as your teacher anymore?”
Truthfully, Zhang Xuan wasn’t angry, his heart simple ached.
Even though he hadn’t gotten along with these students of his for long, he had already treated them as his closest kin and had worked hard for their sake. Yet, they went out to engage in a group fight, running back to call for backup when they found themselves in a bad position…
He felt frustrated over how they simply had not matured.
“Zhang laoshi, that’s not it…” Anxiety appeared on Yuan Tao’s plump face.
“That’s not it? Then tell me, what does fighting and you calling Wang Ying to help means? If I were to hear of any false words from your mouth today, I will expel you. Don’t even dream of calling me teacher ever again!”
Zhang Xuan flung his robe backward furiously.
If these children were not worth grooming, he wouldn’t want to waste his effort as well. The most that could happen was for him to lose and leave Tianxuan Kingdom and Hongtian Academy.
With the Library of Heaven’s Path in his possession, where else could he not go in this vast world?
The reason why he stayed was because his previous self’s longing for this place and his sense of responsibility toward his students.
“It’s…” Yuan Tao shivered for a moment before gritting his teeth. “It’s like this. Today, the academy is allocating cultivation resources and they said that you are… the worst teacher in the academy, so you don’t have any rights to claim it! We felt furious with their words and went over to argue it out with them. As such, a conflict broke out…”
“Allocating cultivation resources?”
Zhang Xuan was stunned for a moment before he recalled.
Every month, the academy would allocate cultivation resources to each teacher. The amount of resources a teacher received depended on the amount of students the teacher had, the results of his Teacher Qualification Examination, as well as his overall evaluation.
The teachers could use these resources themselves or to reward the better students in order to encourage them to work harder. Usually, these cultivation resources were allocated by the 【Student Bureau】.
Student Bureau was the department that was responsible for managing and conducting examinations for students, as well as to distribute cultivation resources to the students and teachers.
Zhao Ya had scored within the top ten of the freshmen and did not have to share a dormitory with the others. It was the department which allocated her dormitory to her.
“Bring me over!” Knowing that they were standing up for him, Zhang Xuan felt a surge of warmth in his heart. His rage had also quelled significantly.
Those lads…
“Yes!”
Yuan Tao did not dare to say anything else. He immediately led the way, with Wang Ying also tagging along. The three of them started to walk toward the Student Bureau.
…………………………
Student Bureau.
“The Teacher Guild had already endorsed Zhang laoshi’s innocence on the affair, Zhou laoshi, why do you still refuse to allocate the resources belonging to him?”
Zheng Yang glared at the young man before him furiously.
That was a previous student who had become a teacher in the school, Zhou Tian.
“Innocence? Are the documents here? Did they any notify us?” Zhou Tian lifted his eyebrows and a hint of mockery appeared on his face. “Since there’s nothing at all, Zhang Xuan remains the worst teacher in the school who scored a zero for his Teacher Qualification Examination. It is a waste to grant him resources. Don’t blame me for having not allocated resources to you, blame yourselves for acknowledging the wrong teacher!”
As the ancient saying goes, wealth, peers, teachings, and land. Of which, wealth came first, and from this, it was clear to see how important it was for one’s cultivation.
TL: This is a Buddhism term that states the four things one need to achieve enlightenment. Without sufficient wealth, one is unable to immerse himself in his cultivation. Without peers, it is difficult for one to reach great heights. Without teachings, it is likely for one to stray from the correct path. Without a suitable land, it is likely for one to be affected by his surroundings.
This was precisely the reason why Wang Ying hesitated back then when Zhang Xuan said that she might face a shortage of cultivation resources.
Every month, Hongtian Academy would allocate some cultivation resources to its students and teachers. Most of them were low-level pills. Even though it wasn’t of much use to the teachers, it was excellent tonic for students who had just started cultivating.
This was the reason why many people were able to improve rapidly.
Today was the day of the allocation, but they were not informed. Naturally, they took the initiative to inquire about the matter.
“Even if the documents from the Teacher Guild had yet to be passed down, I recall that all teachers of Hongtian Academy, regardless of how terrible their results are, as long as they had students, they would qualify to claim the Breath Forging Powder! What rights do you have to not even give that to us?”
Zhao Ya stepped forward.
Breath Forging Powder was the most common cultivation resources used by the lower grade students. It allowed the students in Juxi realm to better sense the spiritual energy in the air.
The Breath Forging Powder couldn’t be considered as a pill and even Wen Xue, who hadn’t qualified as an apprentice apothecary could make it, thus making it inexpensive. According to the school rules, any teacher with students was entitled to it.
You may be able to find excuses to avoid allocating the expensive cultivation resource to us, but if you refuse to give this to us as well, it would be clear that you are trying to make things difficult for us!
“There’s such a rule, but there’s also a clause stating that if the students weren’t worth grooming, the Student Bureau could choose not to allocate any to the students. You all refused to follow by the Student Bureau’s arrangement and made a fuss here. Hence, it is logical that I would reject your request!”
Zhou Tian said arrogantly.
“You…”
Seeing that the other party was determined not to give it to them, Zhao Ya’s breathing hastened and her face flushed.
“Why? Are you unsatisfied with my arrangements?”
The corners of Zhou Tian’s lips crept up. “If you are not satisfied, that is a 【Student Dueling Platform】 over there. You can challenge my students and if you are able to defeat all of them, not only will I give you the Breath Forging Powder, I can even give you the Breath Forging Bead! Remember, this is a Breath Forging Bead. Weren’t you all causing a ruckus demanding for me to give Zhang Xuan his resources? Even though this isn’t a true pill, it isn’t far from that. It is effective even for Pixue realm experts. An ordinary teacher could only claim one every month. If you dare to take on the challenge and succeed, I will give you all three of it!”
The Student Dueling Platform was one of the means to settle a conflict between students and teachers. Of all methods, it was only second to the 【Teacher Dueling Platform】. The way it operated was simple. As long as the one challenging the teacher was able to defeat all of the students under him, that teacher would have to apologize to the student.
Chapter 149: Zhang Xuan’s Decision
“Breath Forging Bead?”
“Three of it?”
Hearing those words, Zhao Ya and the others’ breaths started to hasten.
Breath Forging Bead was something unique to the Hongtian Academy. It was something that couldn’t be bought even at the Apothecary Guild. It increased the pace at which fighters absorb spiritual energy, allowing them to improve quickly.
“Zhang laoshi had done so much for us without expecting any returns. As his students, it’s time for us to repay the favor!” Zheng Yang’s gaze was resolute.
Since young, he had been training diligently alone, trying to fumble his way through his cultivation. He thought that even in school, his teacher would only clarify his doubts and solve some problems… However, the warmth that Zhang laoshi had given him was much more than that.
He created a cultivation technique just for him and pointed out his flaws. Just so for their sake, he even took the risk to partake in a Pill Debate…
As he thought about everything that had occurred, he couldn’t help but feel moved. Motivation welled up in him.
“Zhang laoshi may care not for these resources, but… every teacher is allocated some of them. If he becomes the only teacher who doesn’t get any, his prestige and reputation will be sullied. As his students, we have to fight for his sake, no matter what it takes!” Zhao Ya gritted her teeth.
Zhang laoshi casually gave her the Frigid Sun Mother Grass which was worth a hundred thousand gold coins. Even though the Breath Forging Bead wasn’t bad as well, it was unlikely that he would care much for it. However… This is no longer a problem over the resource allocation, but dignity.
Of so many teachers in the academy, he was the only one who wasn’t given the resources. If word were to spread out, people would look down on him.
Since he isn’t at the academy, then… Teacher, we will protect your dignity in your stead!
We shall guard your prestige!
Determination filled Zhao Ya, Zheng Yang and Liu Yang’s eyes. Not a hint of hesitation could be seen.
“Fine, we’ll challenge the Student Dueling Platform!”
Nodding their heads in agreement, Zheng Yang retrieved the spear at his back and started fitting it together. Then, with a flick of his wrist, the air moaned under the pressure of the spear.
“This is what you have chosen for yourself, don’t regret it!”
Zhou Tian sneered coldly. He raised his hand and beckoned, “Everyone come out, someone is challenging you. It’s time to teach them a lesson. As long as you defeat them, I will give every one of you some Breath Forging Powder!”
Hualala!
Accompanied by a roar, a group of people came out. They were all freshmen and there were around forty to fifty of them.
“I have a total of 47 students. No matter how many of you go at them, as long as you can defeat all 47, I will consider it your victory!” The corners of Zhou Tian’s lips crept upward.
“47…”
Zhao Ya and the others’ mouths twitched.
They didn’t think that a new teacher who just joined this year would be able to recruit so many students.
“Let’s fight. We mustn’t embarrass ourselves and Zhang laoshi!”
There were rules for the Student Dueling Platform. One could choose to fight their opponents one by one or to take on all of them at once. As long as they were able to defeat all of the students under the teacher, it would be their victory.
Since they had already made up their minds, there was nothing for them to hesitate about.
With a leap, Zheng Yang first stepped into the ring.
Hu! One of Zhou Tian’s students leaped up as well.
The duel began immediately.
……
…
“Zhou Tian?”
On their way over to the Student Bureau, Yuan Tao explained the situation to Zhang Xuan. Hearing so, Zhang Xuan frowned.
He had never offended this teacher, be it his previous self or after he reincarnated over. Why is he picking on him?
Even though the academy appeared to be calm on the outside, it was filled with internal strife. Many rivalries and schemes went on in the shadows. However, he didn’t recall any conflict with that teacher from the Student Bureau. Teachers of the Student Bureau rarely did such things as it would incur the ire of the other teachers.
Furthermore, Zhang Xuan had just toppled the head of the Education Bureau. Even though the students were unaware of it, as a teacher, he should have heard the news. To pit himself against him despite knowing it, was he asking for a beating?
“I’ve heard some rumors that… he was once Elder Shang Chen’s disciple. The reason why he was able to remain at the school as a teacher was because of the elder’s arrangements…” Yuan Tao said.
“So that’s the case!”
If so, the situation made sense.
He had caused Elder Shang Chen to be stripped of his position as the head of the Education Bureau, and even now, he was at risk of being punished by the Teacher Guild. As his student, he had to stand up for his own teacher.
“However, my face… isn’t that easy to be slapped!”
Knowing the reason, Zhang Xuan shook his head.
It’s not impossible to slap my face, but… your hand has to be strong enough so as to not hurt yourself!
……
…
Peng! Peng! Peng!
After a few fists landed on his back consecutively, Zheng Yang felt a tinge of sweetness in his mouth and he seemed to be unable to bend the hand which wielded the spear anymore.
In the past few days, his cultivation had improved tremendously. Zhou Tian laoshi’s students were not a match for him, but they were too numerous!
That was already the fifth opponent, and he was on the verge of collapsing.
If it were an ordinary dueling match, Zheng Yang wouldn’t have been so tired. However, the other party seemed to have planned it out beforehand and was hopping around the battlefield intentionally, refusing to face him head on, with the goal of draining his stamina.
“Persevere! You have to persevere on!”
Zheng Yang bit the bullet. With the last sliver of energy he had remaining, his spear shook and he defeated his fifth opponent.
“Haha, can’t withstand it anymore?”
With a loud chuckle, the sixth student leaped onto the stage and kicked Zheng Yang’s chest. The latter staggered seven to eight steps backward. If not for his dogged tenacity, he would have fallen off the ring.
“If you can’t take it, stop putting on a show here. To dare to challenge Zhou laoshi’s prestige, scram!”
The sixth student sneered and sent his stave straight at him.
Given the speed of the stave, if Zheng Yang were to be hit, he would definitely be injured severely.
“I have to block it…”
With a ferocious expression on his face, Zheng Yang tried to raise his spear for a block. However, he realized that he was one move too slow, he wouldn’t be able to make it in time.
Knowing that the stave would surely hit him, Zheng Yang closed his eyes and braced for the impact.
He thought that he would fall off the Student Dueling Platform immediately spurting fresh blood, but for a long time, nothing happened. He opened his eyes hurriedly and saw a figure before him. That person wasn’t of a tall stature, but his back view looked extremely reliable.
The stave that the sixth opponent brandished was grasped between the person’s fingers. No matter how much strength the former exerted, he was unable to shake his weapon out of the latter’s hand.
“Zhang laoshi…”
With a single glance, he recognized the person.
That figure before him is his teacher, Zhang Xuan laoshi.
He… isn’t he out? Why is he here…
The one who stopped the stave was indeed Zhang Xuan. Arriving with Yuan Tao, upon witnessing the situation, he immediately dashed forward and jumped onto the ring.
It was just ten days before the battle with Lu Xun laoshi. If these students of his were to get injured at such a time, Zhang Xuan would have to surrender for the Teacher Evaluation duel.
As Shang Chen was overthrown by Zhang Xuan, Zhou Tian harbored resentment for him. Knowing that he wasn’t a match for Zhang Xuan, he intentionally provoked his students, Zheng Yang and the others, for this purpose.
As long as Zheng Yang and the rest were injured, he calculated that they would not stand a chance in the Teacher Evaluation.
Seeing that it was too late to stop the duel through any other means, Zhang Xuan leaped onto the stage himself.
“Zhang Xuan, what do you mean by this? Your students are competing in the Student Dueling Platform. Why? Do you intend to make a move on my students despite being a teacher?”
Seeing him rush over, Zhou Tian wasn’t too surprised. A menacing gleam flashed through his eyes.
“Make a move on your students? You sure are thinking too much!”
With a flick of his finger, the other party’s stave broke into many pieces. Patting his hands, he glanced over.
“Then what do your actions mean? Do you wish to take back your words? However, it seems like it is too late. Your students have already agreed to challenge the Student Dueling Platform, and they have already injured five of my students. No matter what, the challenge must go on! This matter isn’t up to you! Unless…”
At this point, Zhou Tian’s lips curled up into a cold smile, “Unless… you concede defeat and admit that your students are inferior to mine!”
“We mustn’t admit defeat!”
“Even if we have to give it our all, we will definitely win…”
Hearing the plain mockery in the other party’s voice, Zheng Yang and the others clenched their fists and their faces flushed red.
If they were to really admit defeat like that, they wouldn’t be able to uphold their pride in the academy in future.
“Admit that my students are inferior to yours?” Zhang Xuan shook his head. “You must still be dreaming!”
“Hmph! Since that’s the case, let’s continue. I request that you get down from the ring!” Zhou Tian flung his robe. “For a teacher like you to interfere in a battle among students, aren’t you bullying the weak?”
“Don’t be in such a hurry!’ Zhang Xuan smiled. “I am not admitting defeat, but I didn’t say that I will allow our students to continue competing!”
“You wish to stop the duel? The Student Dueling Platform has already begun, and you don’t have the right to stop it. It is too late to regret.” Zhou Tian harrumphed.
“My students’ decision is my decision. Since they decided to challenge the Student Dueling Platform, there’s nothing for me to regret!” Zhang Xuan looked over. “However… I think that a mere Student Dueling Platform is too uninteresting. Why don’t we conduct a 【Teacher Dueling Platform】? Just that… do you dare to accept the challenge?”
“What? Challenge the Teacher Dueling Platform? Is that fellow insane?”
“Is there something wrong with his head?”
“Teacher Dueling Platform means that the students challenge the teacher. It is already difficult for those students of his to achieve victory in the Student Dueling Platform, yet he wants to challenge the Teacher Dueling Platform? Isn’t he daydreaming?”
……
…
Upon hearing Zhang Xuan’s words, the teachers and students present in the Student Bureau were dumbfounded.
When a student is dissatisfied with a teacher, he can challenge all of the students under him via a Student Dueling Platform to force him to admit his mistakes. On the other hand, Teacher Dueling Platform meant that a student would be challenging the teacher directly. If he were to lose, admitting defeat would be one thing, but the dignity of the teacher would be sullied.
Of course, given that the cultivation realms of the students are far beneath that of teachers, it is impossible for students to win in a normal duel. For the sake of fairness, the teacher has to lower his cultivation realm down to that of the student in a Teacher Dueling Platform.
Even so, the fight could not be considered to be totally fair.
Being able to become teachers, their experience and grasp over the flow of battle are obviously far superior to that of mere students. Even if they were to duel at the same power realm, it was impossible for a student to emerge victorious over a teacher.
Zhao Ya and the others all staggered and nearly fainted on the spot.
They thought that they had been audacious to challenge the Student Dueling Platform. Yet, Zhang laoshi managed to top them and requested for the Teacher Dueling Platform instead…
You… must be joking!
Even though this Zhou Tian laoshi wasn’t exceptionally powerful among the teachers, barely reaching Fighter 4-dan Pigu realm primary stage, he was still a true teacher of the academy. He wasn’t someone a bunch of Juxi realms could defeat.
“Teacher Dueling Platform? You want your students to challenge me?” Zhou Tian looked as though he had heard the most hilarious joke in the world.
“Why? Don’t dare to?” Zhang Xuan looked at him.
“Haha, you are truly courting death!” Zhou Tian burst into laughter. “Fine, I’ll agree then. If you win, I will give you ten Breath Forging Beads. However, if you were to lose… Hehe, I won’t demand any items, you just have to kneel down before me!”