Library of Heaven's Path
Chapter 791-799

Chapter 791: Price ##

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: Millman97

“It’s not a problem of the price, but my teacher simply has no intention of selling any of these medicinal herbs. I ask for your understanding!” Sun Yuan bowed.

Hearing those words, Wei Changfeng clenched his jaws anxiously.

As long as the other party was willing to sell it, even if he had to risk bankruptcy, he would surely purchase it. But… if the other party wasn’t willing to sell it, he couldn’t possibly go to the extent of stealing it, right?

Putting aside whether he was a match for Vice School Head You or not, just the fact that they were in the Master Teacher Academy quickly dispelled such thoughts.

“I truly require this saint herb to nourish my daughter’s soul in order to save her. I beseech Vice School Head You to just do me this favor…” Taking a deep breath, Wei Changfeng kneeled onto the floor.

“Haa…” Seeing Wei Changfeng’s actions, Zhang Xuan sighed deeply.

For his daughter’s sake, he had already kneeled twice.

For a Saint realm expert to put down his dignity and everything he had for another… this is a parent!

Their love for their children is simple and innocent, noble and powerful. For their children, they are willing to do anything.

“I said that I won’t sell it! Even if you kneel to your death here, my decision will not change. You should leave!” Vice School Head You waved Wei Changfeng away impassively, unmoved by Wei Changfeng’s actions.

“Vice School Head You…” Wei Changfeng’s fingernails dug deep into his flesh.

They were all Saint realm experts, existences that stood at the top of Hongyuan City. Yet, despite kneeling down and pleading with Vice School Head You, the latter still remained unmoved.

Seeing that Vice School Head You was unwilling to relent at all, Zhang Xuan shook his head. Just as he was about to step forward to speak in Wei Changfeng’s stead, a series of knocking suddenly sounded from the gates.

Dong dong dong dong!

Sun Yuan left to get the door, and before long, he returned with a middle-aged man behind him.

The middle-aged man clasped his fist. “Vice School Head You, my teacher requires a Saint-tier Origin Harnessing Grass for his pill forging!”

“Origin Harnessing Grass?” Vice School Head Xu nodded. “Sun Yuan, go and get it for Zhuo shi!”

“Yes!” Sun Yuan nodded. He walked into the herb garden, dug out a light green-colored medicinal herb, and passed it over to the middle-aged man.

“Thank you!” The middle-aged man nodded as he flicked his wrist, taking out ten high-tier spirit stones. “Here is the payment for the medicine!”

Vice School Head You took the spirit stones, and the middle-aged man placed the Origin Harnessing Grass in his storage ring before leaving.

In just a few minutes, this deal was completed.

“Vice School Head You, didn’t you say that you aren’t going to sell any medicinal herbs? Why did you sell it to that Zhuo shi then?” Seeing how the middle-aged man was able to obtain a medicinal herb so easily from You Xu and yet he had been rejected even though he had already gotten onto his knees, Wei Changfeng clenched his fists in fury, and veins popped out from his temples.

Watching the scene, Zhang Xuan’s eyebrows also knitted together into a frown.

If it was You Xu’s principle not to sell medicinal herbs to anyone, there would be nothing that they could say… But the other party had rejected Wei Changfeng’s desperate request only to sell a medicinal herb to that Zhuo shi so easily the next moment…

This preferential treatment was way too much!

Vice School Head You harrumphed in response. “Zhuo shi’s teacher is the head of the Apothecary School, School Head Lu Feng. I have a close relationship with him, so naturally I am willing to sell my medicinal herbs to him. But on the other hand… I don’t think that you and I are so close that I need to sell my medicinal herbs to you, right?”

“I…” Wei Changfeng clenched his jaws in indignation, but there wasn’t anything he could refute about Vice School Head You’s words.

The other party was right. Considering that there was no relationship between them, there was no reason the other party had to sell the medicinal herb to him. If the other party was willing to sell it, it would be goodwill on his part. But if he wasn’t, it would be his freedom of choice to do so as well.

Unable to watch on any further, Zhang Xuan stepped forward and clasped his fist. “Vice School Head You is right, but the main use of a medicinal herb should be to save lives. Physicians should have compassion in their hearts; they shouldn’t disregard a life just because they aren’t close with the other party! The life of Boss Wei’s daughter is currently hinging on your Ten-leafed Flower, so I ask of Vice School Head You to have mercy on her!”

“Who are you to butt into our conversation?” Vice School Head You frowned in displeasure.

He was a 6-star pinnacle master teacher, a vice head of the Physician School. When had he been preached to by another before, not to mention, by a twenty-year-old brat at that?

“I am Zhang Xuan, a freshman of the academy,” Zhang Xuan replied.

“Oh, so you are that Zhang Xuan?” Vice School Head You sneered. “I’ve heard of you. You might have won School Head Mo and School Head Zhao’s favor, but before me, you are nothing more than a junior. Know your place!

“Despite being a student of this academy, you chose not to focus your efforts on your study and instead went around stirring trouble, sullying the reputation of master teachers. If you were my student, I would have long expelled you from my lineage!”

At this point, he glanced at Zhang Xuan disdainfully and said, “Before you incur my ire, you’d better leave this instant. Otherwise, don’t blame me for getting nasty with you.”

“Getting nasty with me?”

“Indeed. Since you are a freshman, you’d better act like one and obey the rules. Yet, here you are, brazen, conceited, and disrespectful… If you continue acting like this, I don’t mind teaching you a lesson in your teacher’s stead!” With his hands behind his back, Vice School Head You flung his sleeves.

“Teach me a lesson in my teacher’s stead? You?”

Sensing the other party’s hostility toward him, Zhang Xuan didn’t bother holding back either. “Who are you to talk about the reputation of the master teachers? That is something for the Master Teacher Pavilion and the Master Teacher Academy to decide! Besides, even though we are in your residence now, this is the property of the academy. Chase me away… Are you sure you are qualified to do so? If I recall correctly…”

At this point, Zhang Xuan’s lips curled up in a smirk. “You aren’t the school head yet, right?”

If others were to treat him with respect, Zhang Xuan would regard them with respect as well.

But the other party had spoken about how he’d sullied the reputation of the master teachers and that he would expel him from his lineage right from the get-go… No matter how good Zhang Xuan’s temper was, how could he tolerate this?

Reputation was extremely important to a master teacher.

Without a clear reputation, how could they earn the respect of others?

This was also one of the reasons Zhang Xuan eventually chose to transfuse his soul essence to Wei Ruyan despite the risks.

Yet, the other party had insulted him as soon as he began to speak. That was a clear provocation, and it had already crossed his bottom line.

“Audacious! Do you know who you are speaking to?” Not expecting a freshman to talk back to him, Vice School Head You’s face turned livid with rage.

“Who am I speaking to? Of course I know, 6-star master teacher You Xu, the vice school head of the Physician School! But do you know who you are speaking to?”

With an upright back, Zhang Xuan emanated an overwhelming aura of confidence.

“I am the honored guest of Pavilion Master Mo, School Head Mo, School Head Zhao, and School Head Wei, and they have entrusted their personal tokens to me as a symbol of that. On top of that, I am a 6-star blacksmith and a 6-star terpsichore. Yet, you dare to insult and threaten me… Isn’t it clear who is the one who is being audacious here?”

A master teacher couldn’t allow their dignity to be trampled upon.

That was all the more true for a Celestial Master Teacher like him!

“You…” Vice School Head You narrowed his eyes in fury.

He had heard of Zhang Xuan’s affairs as well. The latter had raised a huge storm as soon as he’d arrived in the academy, and at this point, there was probably no one in the academy, be it the freshmen, seniors, or even teachers, who didn’t know of his name.

Vice School Head You harbored a deep dislike for those who showed no regard for the rules, so he had intended to teach Zhang Xuan a lesson so as to suppress his arrogance. Who would have thought that the tables would turn on him instead?

The other party was right. The personal tokens of the three school heads represented their very presence. To chase three school heads away from his residence was a huge act of disrespect toward them, so it was indeed a faux pas on his part.

Even though he was a 6-star pinnacle master teacher as well, his standing was nowhere on par with the Ten Great Master Teachers.

“I brought my subordinate here to purchase a saint herb from you, and if you have any request for us, we are more than willing to listen. However, despite being a 6-star master teacher, you made a verbal assault on me as a person, insulting me as you pleased. If I report this matter to the academy, I wonder if they will be willing to redress my grievances!” Zhang Xuan harrumphed coldly.

“You… Good, good!” Not expecting that the words he had uttered in a moment of fury would actually be used against him, Vice School Head You’s complexion turned incredibly awful.

A master teacher should have a bearing worthy of one.

As a 6-star master teacher, it was truly unbecoming of him to insult and humiliate a 6-star blacksmith.

If this matter were to be reported to the Master Teacher Academy, while it was unlikely that he would suffer any severe punishment, it would indubitably leave a stain on his records. Furthermore, if the students were to learn of his matter, he would be unable to keep his head held high in the Physician School.

He had long heard of Zhang Xuan’s astounding deeds, but he didn’t think that his words would be so sharp as well.

Knowing that he would only corner himself further if he were to continue bickering with the other party, Vice School Head You chose to change the topic decisively. “It took me a lot of effort to cultivate the Ten-leafed Flower. However, seeing that you really need it, I can consider selling it to you.”

Vice School Head You’s abrupt change in his words left Zhang Xuan and Wei Changfeng bewildered. The duo exchanged doubtful glances.

“However, the price might be a little steep!” Vice School Head You said.

“Please speak!” Wei Changfeng clasped his fist.

Even though he had no idea what the other party was up to, it was still good news for him that the other party was willing to sell the Ten-leafed Flower to him.

“I need a stalk of Cloudmist Flower. If you can bring me a Cloudmist Flower within two days, I will trade my Ten-leafed Flower for it!” Vice School Head You said.

“Cloudmist Flower?” Zhang Xuan frowned.

Despite being a 4-star physician, he had never heard of this medicinal herb before.

Just as Zhang Xuan was going to ask what it was, he suddenly saw Wei Changfeng’s face turning pale, and his body began trembling lightly.

“You know what it is?” Zhang Xuan asked.

“The Cloudmist Flower is a unique plant that appears only in the Cloudmist Ridge of Hongyuan Mountain Range. However, it isn’t a medicinal herb… If one dries it first before boiling it in water, it will produce a stream of billowing steam reminiscent of the clouds. The Cloudmist Flower is an extremely precious tea leaf!” Wei Changfeng explained.

“Tea leaf? Exchanging a tea leaf for the Ten-leafed Flower?” Zhang Xuan was taken aback.

The Ten-leafed Flower was a Saint-tier medicinal herb. Even in the market, it would easily fetch at least ten high-tier spirit stones. To exchange it for a tea leaf… Wasn’t this too good a deal?

“Yes!” Wei Changfeng nodded. He opened his mouth once again to continue speaking, but at the very last moment, he changed his mind and turned to Vice School Head You instead. “Alright, I’ll agree to it!”

“Good. I’ll be waiting for your good news then.” Chuckling lightly, Vice School Head You waved his hands.

“Rest assured! As long as you keep the end of your promise, I’ll definitely succeed!” Wei Changfeng said with his fists clenched tightly behind his back. Taking a deep breath, he turned to Zhang Xuan and said, “Young Master, let’s go!”

Since the negotiation was over, Zhang Xuan nodded, and the duo left the residence.

Shortly after they left, Sun Yuan turned to his teacher and asked, “Teacher, the Cloudmist Ridge is filled with saint beasts. Even if a master of beast taming like School Head Mo were to venture in there, it would be hard for him to return alive… To ask Boss Wei to pick a Cloudmist Flower from there, isn’t that task a little… too dangerous?”

“Too dangerous? Of course I know! But you should have heard about Wei Changfeng’s deeds in Hongyuan City as well… Vermin like him is much better off dead! As for that conceited and disrespectful Zhang Xuan, it would be best if he went along as well. But even if not, he shall learn that a 6-star master teacher… isn’t a person whom he can offend that easily!” Vice School Head You sneered.

Chapter 792: It’s Yours! ##

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: Millman97

After leaving the residence, Zhang Xuan couldn’t help but ask Wei Changfeng, “Is there something wrong with the Cloudmist Flower?”

No matter how he thought about the matter, it was bizarre that You Xu would suddenly change his mind and sell the Ten-leafed Flower at such an inexpensive price.

“That’s not it. It’s just that it isn’t too easy to procure the Cloudmist Flower. Young Master, don’t worry about this. I’ll surely get it by hook or by crook to save my daughter!” Wei Changfeng replied with a determined glint in his eyes.

“Is that really it?” Zhang Xuan was still a little doubtful about the matter.

His impression of Vice School Head You wasn’t too good, and he didn’t think that the latter would be so kind as to let go of his Ten-leafed Flower for a stalk of tea leaf.

“Young Master, don’t worry. This issue might be a little problematic, but I’ll surely get it done!” Wei Changfeng assured.

Even to save his daughter, he couldn’t allow the young master to bear the risk along with him.

Although he wasn’t able to see how the treatment went, the fact that the young master had needed to consume a whole Miniature Restorative Pill to recuperate reflected how far he had exerted himself in order to save his daughter.

The young master had already gone this far to save his daughter, so he couldn’t allow him to worry over this matter as well.

“Alright then… If you truly need help, feel free to tell me. Even though my cultivation might be beneath yours, I do have quite a few aces up my sleeves!” Seeing that Wei Changfeng was unwilling to speak about it, Zhang Xuan decided not to probe any further.

“Thank you, Young Master!” Wei Changfeng nodded.

“The Cloudmist Ridge is quite a distance away, so I’ll have to rush a bit to make it back in two days. I will have to make some preparations as well, so I’ll be taking my leave first!”

“Okay, go on.” Zhang Xuan nodded.

Even though he still couldn’t help but feel that something was amiss, considering that Wei Changfeng was a Saint realm expert and the boss of the Spirit Emporium, he decided to put his worries aside.

Hu!

After bidding Zhang Xuan farewell, Wei Changfeng immediately leaped into the sky, and in just a few moments, he had already disappeared from sight.

Saint realm experts were capable of flight, and even without aerial spirit beasts to carry them, they could travel tens of thousands of kilometers each day.

I should return to my residence as well!

After Wei Changfeng’s departure, Zhang Xuan sighed a breath of relief. He was finally done settling the matters he had at hand, and fatigue began to set in once again.

Meeting Hu Yaoyao, browsing through the books in the Terpsichore Compendium Pavilion, cultivating, establishing a student faction, saving Wei Ruyan… Due to this whole string of events coming up one after another, he had already been awake for two days.

Fatigued, he headed right for his residence in the Elite Sector right after leaving the Physician School.

As soon as he pushed open the door to his residence, he saw Luo Qiqi walking up to him excitedly. “Teacher!”

In the time of Zhang Xuan’s coma, in order to better take care of him, Luo Qiqi had created a spare key so that she could access the residence easier.

“You’re here.” Zhang Xuan nodded.

After the establishment of the Xuanxuan Faction, while the others were discussing the various administrative and logistical matters, he had Luo Qiqi return to take a good rest.

“Teacher, Senior Hu Yaoyao has been here since this morning…” Luo Qiqi told him via zhenqi telepathy.

“I see.” Zhang Xuan nodded.

The previous night, after teaching that conceited lass a lesson, he instructed her to report at his residence in the morning. It seemed like she was at least still punctual.

Walking into the main hall, Zhang Xuan saw Hu Yaoyao waiting inside. The air of superiority she’d held before had disappeared, and instead, Zhang Xuan could see a hint of respect and deference in her eyes.

The matter yesterday had left her slightly fearful.

She had utilized all her means against Zhang Xuan, but not only were they ineffective, she even had the favor reversed on her, resulting in her being berated by her teacher… On top of that, after practicing the revised Dance of the Rippling Cloud Robe and realizing how exceptional it was, she dared not pull her weight before the other party anymore.

Walking up to Zhang Xuan, Hu Yaoyao clenched her fists tightly and bowed slightly.

“Zhang shi.”

As expected of one of the top beauties of the academy. Despite being dressed in the standard master teacher robe, the disposition she commanded, along with her movements and gestures, naturally left one’s heart fluttering.

Her barely visible curvaceous figure under the loose robe seemed to spark one’s imagination.

However, Zhang Xuan was completely impervious to all of that. He glanced at her nonchalantly and asked, “Do you know why I chose to take you in as my apprentice?”

Hu Yaoyao nodded. “You want me to tell you where Wu Yangzi’s old residence is.”

Saying those words, she couldn’t help but feel slightly frustrated.

She was the leader of the Bewitching Devil Faction, a famed beauty and genius in the academy… Yet, he seemed so reluctant to have her become his apprentice… Just the thought of it left her feeling frenzied within.

Just how could there be such an oddball in the world?

She had thought that with her charms, she would be able to make any men obey her commands. But before Zhang Xuan, she felt as if her charm was worth less than a high-tier spirit stone.

“That’s right. You can speak now.” Seeing Hu Yaoyao understand her current position, Zhang Xuan nodded in satisfaction.

Indeed. That was the sole reason he had decided for her to become his apprentice. Otherwise, why in the world would he bother getting involved with such an eccentric and problematic person? It was not as if he had a lack of subordinates.

“Even if I were to point out the location, you will probably replace it hard to believe. Instead, why don’t I take you there instead?” Hu Yaoyao offered.

“Fine by me. Lead the way then.” Zhang Xuan gestured toward the door.

Even though he was extremely exhausted at the moment, there was still some time before nightfall. Besides, it would be better to get this over and done with as soon as possible too.

“Alright then.”

Hu Yaoyao nodded and made her way out of the residence.

Zhang Xuan beckoned for Luo Qiqi, and the two of them followed closely behind her.

Leaving the Master Teacher Academy, they walked through several streets and alleys, and soon, a magnificent manor appeared before their eyes.

Its incredible size and spectacular architecture gave the manor an air of majesty around it. With just a glance, one could tell that it belonged to someone extraordinary.

“This is the place!” Hu Yaoyao came to a stop before the magnificent manor and gestured.

“Here?” Zhang Xuan was taken aback.

The courtyard, walls, bricks, and even the architecture style were all new! There was no sign of age whatsoever. This was Wu Yangzi’s old residence?

Was this for real?

As one of the greatest blacksmith in his time, even if Wu Yangzi had gone missing, there would surely have been someone to maintain his residence to serve as a historical monument for future generations to honor him.

But this residence was completely brand new. There was no sign of wear and tear at all!

It was no wonder Hu Yaoyao had declared confidently that no one other than her knew the location of Wu Yangzi’s old residence.

Even if someone managed to trace down the location to this magnificent manor, there was no way they would believe that this was it!

“This was the place where Elder Wu Yangzi lived two thousand years ago!” Hu Yaoyao nodded.

“But this entire manor is brand new; there isn’t any sign of it being Wu Yangzi’s old residence at all. How can you be certain that this is it?” Zhang Xuan couldn’t help but ask.

Luo Qiqi was also curious about this.

This matter concerned the treasures that Wu Yangzi had left behind. If they couldn’t even replace his old residence, it would be impossible for them to obtain his treasure.

“I can’t tell you how I know, but I can tell you for sure that this is it. Of the entire Hongyuan City, I am the only one who knows this!” Hu Yaoyao replied with a mysterious smile.

“Alright then.” Seeing that Hu Yaoyao was unwilling to speak, Zhang Xuan knew that it would be useless even if he probed on.

In any case, the important thing was that they had found Wu Yangzi’s old residence. Anything else was of little concern.

Thus, he turned his attention back to the manor.

The entrance had crimson doors made out of teak. Reeking of paint, it seemed like it had just been refurbished not too long ago.

The doors were tightly shut, but one could hear the sound of builders at work inside.

However, what was peculiar was even though the manor was in the midst of refurbishment, there was not a single person outside, not even a guard.

Typically speaking, manors of such a size would have guards standing at the doorway to ward off intruders and uninvited guests. However, there was nothing of that sort here. It was as if no one lived here.

“Shall I knock on the door?” Luo Qiqi asked.

“Let’s hold that off for now…” Zhang Xuan shook his head. “Let’s replace a place to take a seat first.”

For the time being, it was good enough for them to have confirmed that this manor was where Wu Yangzi’s old residence was situated.

In order to replace the treasure, it was likely that they would have to search throughout the manor, but if they were to do it recklessly, they might just make the owner suspicious, and that could complicate the matter. Thus, it was imperative that they planned this through.

For starters, it would be best for them to look into who the owner was before deciding on the next course of action.

After looking around, Zhang Xuan found a teahouse not too far away which had a clear view of the manor. Thus, beckoning the other two, the trio headed there.

Even though the teahouse was near the main street, as it was already approaching evening, there weren’t many people in there, and it was relatively tranquil.

Heading straight to the second floor, they ordered a pot of tea. Afterward, as a waiter filled their cups, Zhang Xuan tossed him a middle-tier spirit stone and asked, “Lad, I have a question to ask you!”

The waiter’s eyes lit up upon seeing the spirit stone, and he hurriedly clasped his fist. “Gongzi, feel free to speak. As long as it’s not beyond me, I will answer any question you have!”

“To whom does the manor over there belong to? It doesn’t look bad!” Zhang Xuan pointed to the manor opposite to the teahouse as he spoke.

“That manor? I’m not too sure of that either. It has been switching hands quite often recently. In the two years that I have been here, its owner has already changed thrice… no, with this, it should be the fourth time!” the waiter replied with a smile.

“It is already at its fourth owner? Why? Isn’t it situated in a prime location?” Zhang Xuan asked, puzzled.

“It is! That manor is close to the Master Teacher Academy, and it is facing the main street too. There is truly nothing to complain about its location! I’m not too sure about the details as well, but two years ago, when I first started working at this teahouse, it was a merchant who was living in there. However, I heard that two months after he bought down the manor, it seemed like an internal conflict broke out within his clan, and his business was adversely affected. Facing financial problems, the merchant had no choice but to sell the manor.

“The one whom the merchant sold the manor to was a high-ranking official of Hongyuan City. However, not too long after he got the residence, he was dispatched to another city to serve as its governor.

“Thus, the manor was then passed on to a gentleman whose surname is Zhao. He’s a friendly person, and he often comes here for tea as well. He stayed in the manor for almost a year, but just a few days ago, he sold the manor to another person. The new owner seems to be an extremely affluent person. I heard that in order to have Zhao move away as soon as possible, he even paid him an additional sum. Currently, he’s still in the midst of refurbishing the manor, so I don’t think he has moved in yet. So far, I haven’t had the chance to meet the new owner, so I’m not too sure who he is either,” the waiter said.

“It was just sold a few days ago?” Zhang Xuan fell into thought.

He couldn’t help but recall how Sun Qiang had said that he’d found a residence with an ideal location a few days ago, but another person had taken it before he could. Could it be that this manor was the residence which Sun Qiang had been talking about?

“Thank you, you may go now.” After asking a few more questions and confirming that the waiter knew nothing about the new owner, Zhang Xuan gestured for the waiter to leave.

He sent a telepathic message to the Great Violetwing Beast to have it bring Sun Qiang over before returning back to sipping on his tea.

Not too long later, the Great Violetwing Beast appeared in the vicinity of the teahouse, and Sun Qiang leaped off its back and hurried toward Zhang Xuan.

“Young Master, you were looking for me?” Sun Qiang bowed.

“Yes. Is the manor over there the one that you were talking about previously?” Zhang Xuan asked.

Sun Qiang took a look at the manor before nodding. “Indeed. That’s the residence which I wanted to purchase, but an affluent man clinched the deal instead…”

Both the size of the manor and the location which it was situated in fitted the young master’s request perfectly. However, it was a pity that they didn’t have sufficient money to outbid the other party, or else there was no way he would have given up on it.

“Do you know the details of that affluent man?” Zhang Xuan asked.

After a moment of contemplation, Sun Qiang replied, “That… I’m not too sure either. However, I think it should be possible to get his details by visiting the realtor agency where the trade was made!”

To officialize the sales of a residence, the documents regarding the exchange of deed had to be filed at a realtor agency. As such, it shouldn’t be too difficult to uncover the identity of the new owner of the manor.

“Find out who the new owner of that manor is. I want the answer within two hours!” As Sun Qiang used to be in the realtor industry as well, he was more familiar with the various proceedings in the field, so it shouldn’t take him too long.

“Yes!” Nodding affirmatively, Sun Qiang left the teahouse.

Around an hour later, he returned with a peculiar look on his face. His eyes were widened in disbelief, as if he had just seen a ghost.

“What’s wrong?” Seeing Sun Qiang’s expression, Zhang Xuan was slightly puzzled.

“Young Master, is there any other freshman in the Master Teacher Academy who goes by the name of… Zhang Xuan too?” Sun Qiang asked with a bizarre look on his face.

“I should be the only one.” Zhang Xuan frowned. “Didn’t I ask you to look into who the new owner of the manor is? Why are you asking that instead?”

Considering Zhang Xuan’s fame in the Master Teacher Academy, he should have at least heard about it if there was anyone of the thirty thousand students who shared the same name as him.

“If there is no one who shares the same name, then…”

At which, Sun Qiang took in a deep breath and said, “I think the manor belongs to you!”

Chapter 793: Zheng Yang Accepts a Disciple ##

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: Millman97

“Mine?” Zhang Xuan was stunned. His hands trembled, and tea spilled from the cup he held in his hands. “What do you mean by it belongs to me?”

“I just went to the realtor agency to look into the matter, and according to the document filed there, the new owner goes by the name of Zhang Xuan!” Sun Qiang seemed to be in a state of disbelief as well as he spoke.

“I found it weird as well, so I asked them about that Zhang Xuan’s occupation and identity. The answer I received was that he is a Grade-1 freshman of the Master Teacher Academy. This is also why I asked Young Master if there is anyone who shares the same name as you among the freshmen. If there isn’t… the only possibility left is that the owner of the manor is you!”

“This…” Zhang Xuan blinked in a daze, nearly fainting from shock.

He had never seen this manor before, and he didn’t have the money to buy such a large manor either. How could it possibly be his?

If it had been a day before, he would have been certain that it must be a freshman who just coincidentally shared the same name as him. However, Zhang Xuan had replicated a copy of the registry with the names of all of the Xuanxuan Faction’s members in it yesterday, and checking it, there was no one with the same name or even a similar sounding name to his.

What was going on?

“What about the buyer? Did you get any information on the person who bought the manor?” Zhang Xuan asked.

If he was registered in the deed, someone must have made the deal in his stead.

But… what was the motive behind doing this?

“I tried looking into it as well, but it seems like even the realtor agency has no idea who the buyer is. They left no information whatsoever with the realtor agency, only saying that the new owner will take over the house once the refurbishment is done,” Sun Qiang replied.

The more he tried to dig deeper into the matter, the more bewildered he became.

He had attempted to buy the manor, but he couldn’t outbid the other buyer. Yet, mysteriously, the manor was suddenly put under the young master’s name?

“This…” Zhang Xuan also found the situation bizarre as well.

He had heard of people giving the wrong amount of money when purchasing items, but he had never heard of people putting down the wrong name on a deed when buying a home.

Zhang Xuan couldn’t help but turn to the lady before him and ask, “Luo Qiqi, was this you?”

Of the entire Hongyuan City, the one who was most likely to do such a thing was this student of his.

Luo Qiqi shook her head. “How could it be me? Even if I wished to buy it, I don’t have the money to afford such a grand manor…”

“That’s true…” Zhang Xuan frowned.

Considering the location and size of the manor, its price could possibly reach up to a hundred high-tier spirit stones… Even with Luo Qiqi’s mysterious background, it didn’t seem likely that she would have so much money on hand with her.

“Then… could it be Yu Fei-er and the others?”

If it wasn’t Luo Qiqi, the only few he could think of were Yu Fei-er, Xing Yuan, and the others. Coming from prestigious clans, not to mention that Yu Fei-er was the Sixth Princess of Hongyuan Empire at that, it wasn’t implausible for them to be able to afford such a manor.

“Fei-er, Xing Yuan, and the others went into seclusion to cultivate after undergoing the Meridian and Bone Cleansing to attempt to make a breakthrough to the Perfect Harmonization realm. I don’t think that they have the time to bother about this matter…” Luo Qiqi shook her head.

If they had the time to do something like that, they would have long come to pay a visit to Zhang Xuan, especially since that they had parted abruptly at the underground chamber.

Since they didn’t even have the time to do so, how could they possibly have the time to buy a manor for him?

Besides, Yu Fei-er was her close friend. If she had done something like that, there was no reason she would have hidden it from her.

“Then… who could it be?” Zhang Xuan frowned.

Mo Gaoyuan, School Head Mo, and the others were plausible candidates, but Zhang Xuan didn’t think that it was likely to be them.

Even though they were interested in getting on good terms with him, there were many ways for them to do it. Purchasing a manor and refurbishing it to give it as a gift to him was going overboard, especially in view of their identities as 6-star master teachers. Such actions could easily make them the laughingstock of the city.

“Forget it. Since the other party has written my name on the deed, it should be a matter of time before they appear before me. Otherwise, won’t their money have been spent in vain?” After a moment longer of pondering, Zhang Xuan was unable to figure out who it was, so he decided to just put it aside for the time being.

Considering the amount of money invested into purchasing and renovating the manor, it would be foolish for the person in question not to claim credit for their actions.

“Teacher, are we going to move into the manor then?” Luo Qiqi asked.

“Not yet. Since the deed is registered under my name, the person behind this should come to look for me once the refurbishment is done. At that moment, we shall move into the manor openly!” Zhang Xuan gestured.

Since it was already his manor, there was no need for him to worry about the matter anymore. But just to be safe, it would be best for him to meet the person behind it first to confirm their intentions before doing anything.

“Alright!” Luo Qiqi nodded.

“Sun Qiang, tell Wang Ying, Zheng Yang, and Liu Yang that they can stop looking for a residence,” Zhang Xuan instructed.

“Yes, Young Master!” Sun Qiang replied.

“Alright, let’s return to the academy then!”

Since the owner of the manor was confirmed to be him, his job here was done. After issuing several instructions to Sun Qiang, he returned back to the academy with Luo Qiqi and Hu Yaoyao.

As soon as he returned back to his residence in the Elite Sector, he went to his room and began meditating.

After conditioning his body for around four hours, his fatigue finally vanished.

Turning his sight outside, he realized that it was already the middle of the night. The sky felt a little heavy and gloomy that night. As if someone had pulled a black veil across the sky, there was not a single star or moon to be seen.

Since I am free at the moment, I should pay the Physician School a visit to read their books! Zhang Xuan thought.

Ever since the previous treatment for Wei Ruyan, he realized that his knowledge regarding the Way of Medicine was still lacking, so he had been thinking about paying a visit to the library of the Physician School.

The more knowledge he accrued, the better chance he stood at saving Wei Ruyan.

Thus, without any hesitation, he drew out his soul, and he began making his way to the Physician School.

From the incident with Wei Ranxue, he had learned that even in his form as a soul, he still had to operate carefully due to the presence of Saint realm experts in the academy. Thus, he advanced slowly, and it took him an hour before he was able to get into the vicinity of the Tower of Physicians.

The library is over there…

While Zhang Xuan was in the Physician School earlier, he had made sure to take a look around to confirm the location of the library. Thus, it didn’t take long before he reached his destination

The gigantic building he was currently floating before emanated a solemn and academic aura.

Just like the Terpsichore Compendium Pavilion, entry into its premises required a student token and Academic Credits. Thus, Zhang Xuan waited patiently outside.

Unlike the Terpsichore School, the Physician School was ranked fifth in the academy, and it had several ten thousand students under it. As such, there were many students who visited the library each day, so the wait shouldn’t take too long.

As expected, a few minutes later, a student walked out from the entrance. Making use of this opportunity, Zhang Xuan’s soul slipped in.

Upon entering the library, an incredible collection of books immediately appeared before his eyes.

“Alright, I should begin!” Chuckling lightly, Zhang Xuan started scanning through the books with his eyes, and books began materializing in the Library of Heaven’s Path at an incredible speed.

…

When Zhang Xuan went back to the Master Teacher Academy, Sun Qiang also returned to their residence.

When night fell, he saw Wang Ying and the others returning with their heads hanging in disappointment.

It was a difficult feat, searching for a suitable residence in the vicinity of the Master Teacher Academy. Otherwise, Sun Qiang would have already found something by now.

“Where is Young Master Zheng Yang? He didn’t return with you all?”

Just as Sun Qiang was about to tell them that there was no need to search any longer, he suddenly realized that Zheng Yang was missing, and he frowned.

“We don’t know either. We separated in the morning to scour the area for a suitable residence, and I only met Wang Ying on the way back. However, there should be no need to worry. He is probably on his way back,” Liu Yang replied.

“Zheng Yang is a wary person, and he has inherited teacher’s heritage. He should be fine!” Wang Ying nodded.

Of Zhang Xuan’s direct disciples, the one who had the strongest adaptability was Yuan Tao, followed by Zheng Yang. It would already be a blessing to the world if he didn’t attempt to do anyone in; how could anything possibly happen to him?

While they were speaking, a figure walked into the courtyard.

Who else could it be if not Zheng Yang?

“Uncle Qiang!” Zheng Yang rushed up with excitement gleaming in his eyes.

Seeing Zheng Yang’s expression, Sun Qiang asked doubtfully, “Did you replace a residence?”

“That’s not it… It’s just that I encountered something today, and I wish to discuss it with you!” Zheng Yang scratched his head in embarrassment.

“Discuss with me? What is it?” Sun Qiang asked.

Zhang Xuan had left his students in Sun Qiang’s care, so they would often turn to Sun Qiang for most decisions.

“It’s like this… While I was outside, I met a person who is interested in learning spearmanship from me. I wish to take him in as my disciple and allow him to stay here for a few days. Is that fine?” Zheng Yang asked embarrassedly.

“You wish to take in a student?” Sun Qiang widened his eyes in shock.

You are still a student yourself, but you wish to accept a student?

“That’s right. I saw that that fellow possessed quite a high aptitude in spearmanship, so I gave him some pointers casually. Who would have thought that he would insist on acknowledging me as his teacher afterward? He even gave him quite a sum as a school fee… Seeing how sincere he was, I couldn’t bear to turn him down,” Zheng Yang said hesitantly.

When he was out looking for a residence earlier in the day, he coincidentally stumbled upon a bullying incident, and out of rage, he drew his spear and taught the bullies a lesson. A young man happened to catch sight of him in action, and impressed by what he saw, the other party insisted on learning spearmanship from him.

After studying diligently under Zhang shi over the past half a year, Zheng Yang’s spearmanship had already reached an unfathomable level. Upon hearing that someone was interested in learning from him, he couldn’t help but offer him a few words of guidance. To his surprise, that young man was extremely intelligent, comprehending what he imparted in an instant.

Even though his spearmanship was still a little weak, it was fortunate that his foundations were still considerably solid. As a result, Zheng Yang’s interest in taking the other party as his disciple was piqued.

However… considering that he was still a student himself, he felt that he should discuss this with his teacher first.

But since this teacher wasn’t around, the second-best option would be Uncle Qiang.

“He paid you a school fee? How much?” Sun Qiang asked.

“It is all in here!” Zheng Yang passed a storage ring over.

Perplexed, Sun Qiang took the storage ring and had a look inside. The next instant, his eyes widened in shock. “Twenty thousand middle-tier spirit stones? And so many pills as well… Is this the school fee he paid to acknowledge you as his teacher?”

Other than the twenty thousand middle-tier spirit stones, there were various herbs and other miscellaneous stuff inside as well.

Totaling the entire value of the items in the ring, there were definitely at least fifty thousand middle-tier spirit stones…

The other party had paid so much money to learn spearmanship from Zheng Yang?

Just where in the world did Zheng Yang replace such a wealthy lad?

“That’s right. I wish to take him in as my student… but I fear that Teacher will disagree with it. Uncle Qiang, please help me convince my teacher about this…”

“Don’t worry! Given the school fee… Ahem! As a master teacher, the young master surely wishes to spread his teachings far and wide, so you don’t have to worry about it!” Sun Qiang smiled.

After the time he had spent with the young master, how could he possibly not know the latter’s character?

As long as one was willing to fork out sufficient money… Putting aside a single disciple, he would even accept an army of them without any hesitation!

Chapter 794: The Excited Xue Zhenyang ##

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

“That’s great!” Hearing that there was no problem about it, Zheng Yang heaved a sigh of relief. He hurriedly turned to the entrance excitedly and said, “Come in!”

“Yes!”

Hearing those words, a young man wielding a spear walked into the residence. His aura felt condensed and sharp, reminiscent of a blade piercing into the heavens.

In his early thirties, the young man had sharp facial features which gave him a masculine appearance.

“Uncle Qiang, Wang Ying, and Liu Yang, this is the student I have accepted!” Zheng Yang introduced.

“Student Xue Zhenyang pays respect to seniors!” the young man greeted with a clasped fist.

“Xue Zhenyang? Your cultivation… seems to be considerably higher than Zhenyang, isn’t it? Why did you choose to acknowledge him as your teacher?” Sun Qiang frowned.

While he wasn’t able to gauge the exact level of the other party’s cultivation, he could tell that it was definitely far above Zheng Yang’s.

Why would an expert of his strength acknowledge a young child as his teacher?

“Even though my cultivation is higher than Zheng laoshi, my comprehension of spearmanship is far beneath him. It’s my honor to be able to learn from someone as capable as him!” Xue Zhenyang said respectfully.

Naturally, this was the same Xue Zhenyang from the Master Teacher Academy, the leader of the True Helios Faction, as well as the fellow who was determined to challenge Zhang Xuan.

Having decided to devote his heart to master the 10-dan of the Fallen Leaf Spear, he left the Master Teacher Academy to embark on a training expedition, and in the midst of doing so, he unintentionally caught sight of Zheng Yang’s spearmanship.

While the latter’s cultivation was far beneath his, his understanding of spearmanship had already achieved the level of Spear-Man Union, harnessing immense might.

In a brief conversation with the other party, he realized that the latter’s comprehension of spearmanship had already achieved the level of Distillation of the Profound, a direct interpretation of the peak of spear art. As a result, he couldn’t help but want to learn from him.

He could see that if he were to learn diligently under the other party’s tutelage, he would be able to grasp the 10-dan of the Fallen Leaf Spear perfectly very soon. By then, he would be able to destroy Zhang Xuan and restore the honor of the True Helios Faction!

It was never a humiliation for a master teacher to learn from someone weaker or younger. On the contrary, there had been many of such cases in history.

In the philosophy of master teachers, students are not necessarily inferior to their teacher, and teachers are not necessarily greater than their students. Each and every person has their own strengths, and it is the one proficient in the field that becomes the teacher.

Even Kong shi had studied under those weaker than him, needless to say, other master teachers.

“I see!” Sun Qiang nodded.

As the butler of the old master and the young master, he had a rough understanding of the various doctrines of the master teachers too.

Considering that Zheng Yang was a direct disciple of the young master, it shouldn’t be too difficult for him to teach a nobody.

“For the time being, you don’t have to look for our residence anymore, so just focus your effort on your cultivation. Zheng Yang, it’s fine if you want to impart him spearmanship. I’ll report this matter to the young master for you!” Seeing that the other fellow was sincere in wanting to acknowledge Zheng Yang as his teacher, Sun Qiang decided to let them be.

“Un!” Zheng Yang nodded before turning to Xue Zhenyang, “Study diligently for the next few days. Once you reach a satisfactory level, I will bring you to meet my teacher. His comprehension of spearmanship is at least ten times more formidable than me, so don’t you embarrass me!”

As he spoke those words, admiration gleamed in his eyes.

“Teacher, rest assured! I will study diligently so as to not disappoint grandteacher!” Xue Zhenyang nodded his head in agitation.

It was no wonder why people say that the true experts live in the streets. Just a random person he met in the streets already possessed such formidable spearmanship, and he even had a teacher who was ten times more formidable than him…

As long as he were to pursue this teacher of his, he had no doubt that he would be able to achieve the 10-dan of Fallen Spear Art soon, and perhaps… he might even replace himself reaching a level he had never thought to be possible!

“Un. I will be sparring with your Senior Aunt Wang Ying now, so do watch closely to see how I utilize my spear in the battle!” Zheng Yang said as he drew his spear.

Battle techniques weren’t just about comprehending its form and intent. More importantly, one must learn how to incorporate it into battle as well.

As such, sparring was the best way to deepen one’s understanding of battle techniques.

“Roger!” Xue Zhenyang nodded excitedly.

“Wang Ying, I’ll be troubling you…”

With a swift movement, Zheng Yang’s spear suddenly pierced right for Wang Ying with a sharp whiz.

As fellow students, they often sparred with one another, and they were extremely familiar with each other’s strength and battle techniques. Upon seeing the pierce, Wang Ying smiled lightly, and with a swift step, her figure vanished like an apparition, dodging the spear.

Hu!

Following which, as swift as lightning, Wang Ying sent a kick right for Zheng Yang’s spear. Even though she was executing a battle technique, her movements carried a peculiar elegance to them, reminiscent of a butterfly threading amongst flowers.

“What a formidable movement art and leg art…” Xue Zhenyang widened his eyes in astonishment.

His Senior Aunt Wang Ying’s cultivation might be far beneath him, but her mastery of leg art and movement art were far above those teachers of the Martial Arts School.

In fact… he even doubted whether his teacher, the head of the Martial Arts School, School Head Xu Changqing, would be able to execute such a move as well. Her movements were simple, but every single aspect of it, be it the timing, trajectory, or force, was flawless. He had never seen anything like this before!

Hu hu hu hu!

The duo soon completed their sparring. In the process, Xue Zhenyang stared at every single action they made carefully, not daring to even blink for fear of missing the slightest detail.

In this battle, both sides were incredible. The spearmanship, movement art, and leg art utilized in the battle had left his heart thumping with excitement and awe, as if a new world had opened before him.

“Zheng Yang, why don’t we give it a go too?” Liu Yang stepped in and asked with a smile.

This was the first time any of them had accepted a student, and for someone as young as they were, it was inevitable that they would be tempted to show off before the other party’s student.

“Sure!” Zheng Yang agreed to it heartily. Raising his spear once more, he charged at Liu Yang.

Xue Zhenyang hurriedly turned his attention to the duel, curious to see what his Senior Uncle Liu Yang was capable of.

Unlike Senior Aunt Wang Ying, Senior Uncle Liu Yang couldn’t move at unbelievable speed, and he didn’t seem to specialize in leg art either. However, what was incredible about him was the sheer might of his fist. Before the attack of Zheng Yang laoshi could strike him, he had already sent out a powerful punch aimed precisely to jolt away Zheng Yang’s spear.

Zhenqi burst from his acupoints, and his fist hustled forward with the roar of a tiger.

“What a formidable fist art… Given the same cultivation realm, even Yuan Gang, who specializes in fist art, wouldn’t survive a single strike from him…” Xue Zhenyang was overwhelmed by agitation.

He thought that it would take him some time before he could gain a greater insight into spearmanship and comprehend higher tier battle techniques. Who could have thought that in the very first day of his journey, he had already met so many formidable people.

Even though the teacher, Senior Uncle, and Senior Aunt whom he had just acknowledged weren’t as strong as him, their understanding of battle techniques had far surpassed most master teachers in the academy.

Perhaps, even surpassing some of the elders as well!

Unbelievable!

Soon, after his teacher and Senior Uncle Liu Yang was done sparring, the duo smiled at one another before turning to Xue Zhenyang, “How is it?”

“Teacher, Senior Uncle, and Senior Aunt, if it isn’t too much, I… have a request to ask of you.” Taking a deep breath, Xue Zhenyang suppressed his agitation and bowed with clasp fist.

“Oh?” Seeing Xue Zhenyang’s grim expression, everyone immediately pricked their ears in curiosity.

“It’s like that… I have established a faction, and most of my followers are interested in battle techniques, spending most of their life devoted to the study martial arts. If it isn’t too much, may I invite teacher, Senior Aunt, and Senior Uncle to conduct a few lectures for them to impart them the essence of battle techniques?” Xue Zhenyang asked nervously.

“Lecture?” Wang Ying, Zheng Yang, and Liu Yang glanced at one another with a distressed look on their faces. “We are not master teachers, how can we lecture?”

In the Master Teacher Continent, ‘lecture’ was a word that was usually associated with only master teachers. They might possess a deep understanding of battle techniques, but to lecture others despite not being a master teacher… Wouldn’t they be overstepping their boundaries if so?

“Even though you aren’t master teachers, you have reached a level of mastery in your field of battle techniques which most master teachers would never achieve in their lifetime. Even though it might not be much, I’ll have my followers pay a school fee for the lecture as a token of our sincerity…” After a moment of hesitation, Xue Zhenyang said.

If he could invite the three of them to his faction to lecture his followers, the fighting prowess of his followers would surely soar. If so, it would be a matter of time before the True Helios Faction became the number one faction in the academy!

With that, he would be able to cleanse the humiliation he had suffered from Zhang Xuan.

“School fee? How much?”

Before Wang Ying and the others could respond, Sun Qiang, who had been listening to the conversation by the side, asked with an excited gleam in his eyes.

As the butler of the group, he was in charge of in charge of the finances and logistics of the group. Naturally, he understood the importance of money as well.

Currently, the spirit stones earned by the young master wasn’t even enough to sustain his cultivation. It was about time for them to step up and provide for themselves.

If Wang Ying and the others could make use of this opportunity to earn a bit of money, they would be able to overcome the current financial crisis they were suffering from. The young master would surely be more than delighted to see this.

“This… I will have each of them pay a hundred middle-tier spirit stones to you. I have a total of 500 followers, so it should add up to fifty thousand middle-tier spirit stones…” Xue Zhenyang said.

The True Helios Faction was a famous faction in the academy, with over two thousand members under their command. However, the only ones whose field of specialty collided with these three probably only numbered five hundred.

“Five hundred? A hundred from each person?” Sun Qiang’s eyes lit up.

Through a single event, they could earn more than fifty thousand middle-tier spirit stones!

“I see… Why don’t we set the price a two hundred, and not only will they impart the essence of battle techniques, they will also decipher the foundation of cultivation. Don’t worry, I can guarantee you that this is a deal you won’t regret it!” After a moment of contemplation, Sun Qiang said.

“Foundation of cultivation?” Xue Zhenyang was taken aback.

“That’s right. Wang Ying, tell him a bit about the cultivation method of Prolonged Longevity realm!” Sun Qiang nodded.

“Yes!” Wang Ying nodded, and after organizing her thoughts for a moment, she began to speak.

Prolonged Longevity realm was the first dan of Transcendent Mortal, and it laid the foundation for all of the realms to come. If cultivated improperly, not only would one’s further progress slow, it might even create an invisible cap on the person’s eventual accomplishment!

Wang Ying hadn’t read many books on the topic before, but as a cultivator of a simplified version of the Heaven’s Path Divine Art and having learned directly from Zhang Xuan, her understanding of the subject had reached an astonishing level.

With just a few words from her, Xue Zhenyang’s body was already convulsing with excitement.

The proposed cultivation method allowed the cultivator to first built a strong foundation before delving deeper into the cultivation realm, creating an extremely stable base… Not even the greatest teacher in the academy could come up with something as ingenious as that!

It could be said that this cultivation method close to perfection. Just by hearing a small portion of it, Xue Zhenyang had already benefitted greatly from the impartation.

“This is wonderful! If my followers can listen to this as well, they would be able to reinforce their foundation and cultivate even faster!”

The more Xue Zhenyang thought about it, the more agitated he became. He immediately turned to look at Wang Ying and the others in agitation, as if he was looking at a mountain of gold.

Even though he had no idea what master teacher could groom such talented students, there was one thing he did know… The rise of the True Helios Faction was on the horizon!

If his followers could listen to their lecture as well, not only would the members of the True Helios Faction enjoy tremendous progress in their cultivation and understanding of battle techniques, the True Helios Faction would also be able to attract a steady stream of students applying for it!

With this, he would be able to rise over the others and reach the top!

“Hahaha, Zhang Xuan! Let’s see how you can compete with this!”

Xue Zhenyang’s eyes lit up with excitement, and for a brief moment, he could almost see the radiant future of the True Helios Faction before him.

Chapter 795: Nothing Must Happen To You! ##

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

“How is it? This decipher of the foundations of cultivation is worth two hundred middle-tier spirit stones, right?” Seeing Xue Zhenyang’s expression, Sun Qiang could immediately tell that he was drawn to the content of Wang Ying’s words, so he pushed on with a smile.

He had absolute confidence with the old master and the young master’s interpretation of cultivation.

Since the old master was able to make so many formidable master teachers submit him, surely winning over a nobody like the other party should be a walk in the park for his grandstudent?

“Worth, it is definitely worth two hundred middle-tier spirit stones!” Xue Zhenyang nodded vehemently.

“Good. So as we have agreed, each lecture conducted by Wang Ying, Zheng Yang, and Liu Yang will cost two hundred middle-tier spirit stones for each person. I will have to ask you to first prepare the spirit stones in advance before the lecture, or else… I’m afraid that we’ll have to drop the matter!”

As a true merchant, Sun Qiang was determined to wring the greatest benefit out of any deal he made.

“Two hundred middle-tier spirit stones per lecture?” Xue Zhenyang’s lips twitched violently. Nevertheless, he still nodded swiftly, “Alright!”

Master teachers did conduct public lectures from time to time, and the price they charged tended to be on the pricey side. Considering the deep comprehension of cultivation and battle techniques that the three of them possessed, charging two hundred middle-tier spirit stones could already be considered as cheap.

When Kong shi first established the Master Teacher Pavilion, while his ideology was to enlighten the masses and bring humanity to greater heights, his intent wasn’t to impart everything unreservedly to everyone.

Otherwise, he wouldn’t pass down his heritage to only the 72 Sages.

It was said that Kong shi’s initial intent regarding the Master Teacher Pavilion was indeed accessible knowledge without discrimination. However, there was an event where a student had misinterpreted his cultivation technique and imparted his flawed interpretation on to many talented geniuses, resulting in their eventual downfall.

Considering the profoundness of battle techniques, it was extremely easy for one to veer down the wrong path without proper guidance from a teacher.

Knowledge is as destructive as it is beneficial. This was also the intent behind the saying ‘knowledge is not to be divulged indiscriminately, and skills are not to be passed down easily’.

Master teachers were humans as well, they had limited time and energy on their hands. Thus, they could only focus their efforts on a few students at a time to pass their true heritage down to.

This was also the reason why there was the eventual classification of direct disciple, normal student, listening in, and half-teacher.

From that perspective, conducting public lectures could be considered as an additional service performed by master teachers, and master teachers did require money as well. Thus, it became a convention to charge a fee for such public lectures.

“Good! We’ll leave the arrangements to you then! When will the lecture be?” Seeing Xue Zhenyang agree to it, Sun Qiang nodded in satisfaction.

Just as they were frustrating over the lack of money, the other party came and delivered a carriage of it to them. He sure was a good man!

However, this was indeed a viable source of income. If they were to replace themselves tight on their finances at any moment, they could just conduct public lectures, and money would start rolling in…

“It would be best for it to be done as soon as possible! Is tomorrow morning fine?” Xue Zhenyang asked.

Since this was an opportunity for the True Helios Faction to soar, it would be best for it to be done as soon as possible!

“Morning?” Not expecting the other party to be so anxious, Sun Qiang hesitated for a moment before nodding, “That’s fine as well!”

This wasn’t a serious matter anyway, so it shouldn’t be a problem. He could just report it to the young master once it was over.

“Great! I will bring you all to the Master Teacher Academy with me tomorrow morning then!” Hearing the other party agree to it, Xue Zhenyang nodded in excitement.

“Master Teacher Academy?” Hearing those words, everyone leaped in shock. Sun Qiang asked in astonishment, “You are… a master teacher?”

“Indeed!” Xue Zhenyang nodded.

“This…” Everyone glanced at one another with a troubled look on their faces.

They had thought the other party was a nobody, but to think that he would be a student from the Master Teacher Academy…

Young master was currently in the academy as well. Wouldn’t it be bad for them to conduct a lesson there without asking for his permission?

“Uncle Qiang, what do we do?” Everyone’s gaze gathered on Sun Qiang, and Zheng Yang sent a telepathic message over.

“This… It shouldn’t be anything much, I think… So what if the ones you are going to lecture to are master teachers? There are plenty of master teachers out there who have submitted to the old master. Isn’t even Pavilion Master Mo filled with admiration for him as well? As the grandstudent of such a figure, there’s nothing for you to be afraid of! As long as you explain the concepts the young master has imparted you carefully, there shouldn’t be any problem!” After a moment of hesitation, Sun Qiang replied with gritted teeth.

What about the Master Teacher Academy? He had never feared anything before, so why should he fear it?

It was the other party who was inviting them over to conduct a lecture, not that they were forcing the other party into it.

Moreover, to allow money that was nearly in their pockets to slip away…

“Then… on teacher’s side…” Wang Ying asked worriedly.

“Leave the young master to me, you just have to focus your effort on conducting the lecture… As long as you do a good job, the young master shouldn’t have any objections to the matter!” Sun Qiang replied.

Given the dire state of their finances, surely beggars couldn’t be choosers?

It wasn’t easy for them to meet a God of Fortune. It would be a huge shame if they were to let this opportunity slip past their fingers.

The young master should be able to understand the rationale of their action.

“Alright… Teacher has been taking care of us all along, it’s time for us to do something for him!”

Wang Ying and the others clenched their fists tightly.

The resources for their cultivation had always come from their teacher. Since this was a rare opportunity to give back to him, it was natural that they would be excited to do so.

“It’s decided then. Xue Zhenyang, you should rest here tonight. Wang Ying, Zheng Yang, and Liu Yang will follow you to the Master Teacher Academy tomorrow!” Having come to a decision, Sun Qiang turned to Xue Zhenyang and said.

“Roger!” Xue Zhenyang nodded excitedly.

…

Hu!

After several hours, Zhang Xuan finally finished taking in all of the books in the library of the Physician School into the Library of Heaven’s Path, and he heaved a sigh of relief.

After which, making use of the opportunity of another student’s entrance, he slipped out of the library and returned back to his residence.

“Compile!”

With a thought, the books came together and formed six books, ranging from 1-star to 6-star.

Since he was already a 4-star physician, there was no purpose in reading the earlier books. Thus, he picked up the fifth book straight.

Huala!

The content of the book flowed into Zhang Xuan’s head, and he swiftly began assimilating the knowledge.

It took a while before he was able to fully comprehend the wisdom contained within the book.

Following which, he turned to the sixth book.

An hour later, he was done assimilating the knowledge within it as well.

After that, he went back to browse through the earlier four books, and as he had expected, their crux was similar to what he had compiled earlier.

“Right now, my knowledge in the Way of Medicine should be on par with 6-star pinnacle physicians…”

After he was finally done studying the six Heaven’s Path Physician Art manuals, Zhang Xuan exhaled deeply.

Zhang Xuan’s current knowledge in the Way of Medicine ranked at the very peak of 6-star pinnacle. Even the head of the Physician School would be no match for him, and he might even be able to rival some of the less proficient 7-star physicians too.

“Wei Ruyan’s illness…”

With the advancement in his understanding of the Way of Medicine, Zhang Xuan began pondering over Wei Ruyan’s illness once more. But after some time, he eventually shook his head.

The young lady was struck a heavy blow while she was still in the womb, resulting in her suffering from a Deficiency of Spirit, Soul, and Blood. Her condition was simply too weak that there was nothing he could do other than to nourish her soul and physical body.

“As long as I obtain the Ten-leafed Flower and pair it with some additional medicinal herb to complement its effects, I should be able to hasten the recovery of her soul.”

Vice School Head You Xu’s Ten-leafed Flower hadn’t matured yet, so its effects wouldn’t reach ideality. However, with Zhang Xuan’s newfound knowledge, he would be able to complement the Ten-leafed Flower with several other medicinal herbs to boost its effectiveness.

“Yet another night has passed!”

Putting aside those thoughts from his mind, Zhang Xuan stretched his back lazily as he walked out of his room, only to realize that the sky had already lit up.

The rays of the sun fell upon the courtyard, reflecting a brilliant gold on the ground.

“Teacher!”

After eating breakfast, Zhang Xuan was just about to head out when Luo Qiqi walked into the residence.

“You came at a good timing. There’s something that I forgot to ask you yesterday!” Zhang Xuan said with a smile as he suddenly recalled something that he had neglected yesterday.

He had been too shocked upon learning that the manor where Wu Yangzi’s old residence was situated at belonged to him that he forgot to ask Luo Qiqi about that matter.

“Teacher, please speak!” Luo Qiqi said with a perplexed expression.

“Have you heard of the Cloudmist Flower before?” Zhang Xuan asked.

He had noticed some peculiarities in Wei Changfeng yesterday, but he had shrugged it off thinking that it shouldn’t be a problem for him as a Saint realm expert. However, the more he thought about it, the more he felt that things weren’t that simple.

“Cloudmist Flower? Is teacher referring to the flowers that grow on the Cloudmist Ridge which can be processed into tea leaves?” Luo Qiqi pondered for a moment before replying.

“Yes, that’s it!”

He hadn’t heard of the Cloudmist Ridge before, but Wei Changfeng did say that the Cloudmist Flower could be dried to serve as tea leaf, and the tea brewed from it produced billowing clouds and had a refreshing fragrance, making it a sought-after product.

“According to what I have heard from Yu Fei-er, the Cloudmist Flower is a very precious commodity. Not only is it rare, it is very difficult to harvest it as well. Even if one were to take the entire Hongyuan Empire into account, there is barely a few stalks of it. Even the royal family will only use it to welcome esteemed guests of the empire!” Luo Qiqi replied after a moment of contemplation.

“It’s so rare?” Zhang Xuan was taken aback. A moment later, a frown emerged on his face as he asked, “You mentioned that it’s very difficult to harvest earlier, what does that mean?”

“The Cloudmist Ridge is located in the midst of Hongyuan Mountain Range, and it is home to countless spirit beasts and saint beasts. Any human that steps into the Cloudmist Ridge will suffer their ferocious assaults, making it a dangerous territory to tread. Even a master of beast taming such as School Head Mo wouldn’t dare to venture too deep into it!” Luo Qiqi said.

“This is also the reason why the Cloudmist Ridge is classified as a Forbidden Land!”

“Forbidden Land?” Gedeng, Zhang Xuan’s heart skipped a beat as his complexion turned awful.

“Indeed!” Seeing Zhang Xuan’s expression, Luo Qiqi asked doubtfully, “What’s wrong, teacher?”

“If a Saint realm expert were to enter the Cloudmist Ridge to harvest a Cloudmist Flower, what will happen?” Zhang Xuan asked anxiously with a sharp glint in his eyes.

“A Saint realm expert? The odds are that he won’t be able to return alive. Even the stock of Cloudmist Flowers that the Hongyuan Empire royal family possesses comes from occasional expeditions with over a dozen Saint realm experts in the team. Even so, they dare not to venture too deep to harvest more for fear of their life. How could a single Saint realm expert survive in such lands alone? He would surely be killed!” Luo Qiqi shook her head.

“Surely be killed? Damn it!” Zhang Xuan’s fists shook uncontrollably.

He finally understood why Wei Changfeng’s complexion would look so awful after hearing about the Cloudmist Flower.

It seemed like he knew the dangers associated with it!

“That explains why that darned You Xu changed his mind… So that’s what he’s going for!” Zhang Xuan said with a livid face.

An aura reminiscent of the brewing of a tempest gathered around him, ready to burst at any moment.

“Teacher…” Luo Qiqi’s body stiffened upon seeing his state.

Ever since she first met her teacher, the latter had been able to keep his calm regardless of how bad the situation before him was. Back then, in the underground chamber, when the both of them were in dire straits, he was still able to deal with it with composure. Yet, seeing him in such a state… Just what could have happened?

“I’m fine!” Seeing the worried gaze of the young lady before him, Zhang Xuan took a deep breath before asking, “Where is the Cloudmist Ridge?”

“The Cloudmist Ridge is around a thousand li 1 east from here. Its name is derived from the clouds that shroud it all year round, making it a conspicuous landmark!” Luo Qiqi said.

“I’ll be going out for a moment!”

Upon learning the location, Zhang Xuan immediately rushed out of his residence and began running.

At the same time, he sent a telepathic message out, and not too long later, the Great Violetwing Beast appeared before him. Leaping onto its back, they headed eastward.

Wei Changfeng, since you have pledged your allegiance to me, I won’t allow anything to happen to you!

Chapter 796: For What? ##

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

The Great Violetwing Beast was capable of flying at an incredible speed. The distance of a thousand li was covered swiftly.

In the meandering Hongyuan Mountain Range, a towering mountain was shrouded amidst clouds. The sun rays falling on it refracted to form a brilliant myriad of colors. Accompanied with the rich spiritual energy on the grounds and the occasional calls of beasts and fowls, it felt like a heavenly realm.

“So this is the Cloudmist Ridge!” Recalling Luo Qiqi’s introduction, Zhang Xuan stared at it with a grave expression.

Even before reaching, he could already feel the concentrated spiritual energy spilling from it, as if a natural Spirit Gathering Formation had been erected on the mountain. Without a doubt, such a blessed land would have countless powerful spirit beasts and saint beasts on it.

“I need to speed up!”

Knowing that Wei Changfeng might be in danger at this very moment, Zhang Xuan urged the Great Violetwing Beast forward. However, as they reached the foot of the mountain, the Great Violetwing Beast seemed to have felt some kind of fearsome aura which rendered it unwilling to advance forward regardless of what he said. Thus, he could only have it wait at the bottom of the mountain while he ventured up alone.

“Eye of Insight!”

Activating the Red Dust Heaven Ascending Steps, Zhang Xuan scanned his surroundings carefully as he advanced forward to search for Wei Changfeng’s trail.

The Cloudmist Ridge might only be a portion of Hongyuan Mountain Range, but nevertheless, it still extended over several hundred kilometers. On top of that, visibility here was also impaired by the clouds drifting in the area. If Zhang Xuan were to search randomly, it would be unlikely for him to replace the other party even if he were given a year.

By then, the other party would have been long dead.

“Hm? I can’t replace his trail?”

After scanning the region, Zhang Xuan was unable to replace anything at all, and his eyebrows shot up.

Logically speaking, considering that Wei Changfeng had only set off a day earlier than him, he should be able to pick up his trail through the Eye of Insight easily. Yet, to be unable to replace anything at all… what was happening?

“Wei Changfeng must have intentionally erased his trail…” After a moment of thought, the truth dawned on Zhang Xuan.

Considering that he was venturing into a land filled with saint beasts, if he were to leave behind any trail, the enemy could use it to track him, and he would be placed in an extremely dangerous position.

Realizing this, Wei Changfeng must have intentionally erased his trail so as to avoid the attention of the saint beasts.

“How do I replace him now?” Zhang Xuan frowned.

He thought that he would be able to replace the other party’s trail easily with the Eye of Insight, but given the current circumstances, how was he to save Wei Changfeng?

If he were to search aimlessly, it was more likely that he would get lost before he could even replace Wei Changfeng.

“Right!” Just as Zhang Xuan was conflicted, a thought suddenly appeared in his mind, and he took out the football-sized object from his storage ring.

Myriad Anthive Nest!

In terms of replaceing something, there was nothing more efficient than this fellow!

Hu!

The Myriad Anthive Queen appeared before Zhang Xuan. Over the past few days, it seemed to have become much thinner, and its body was distorted like a fried dough biscuit.

“What happened to you?” Seeing its state, Zhang Xuan was taken aback.

On the other hand, the Myriad Anthive Queen’s eyes flew around the place in fury.

Don’t you know very well what happened to me?

You forcefully stuffed the Byzantium Helios Beast into my nest, leaving me to squeeze with that huge fellow. If it wasn’t for the blessing of the heavens, I might have already been squeezed to death!

But as frustrated as the Myriad Anthive Queen was, she didn’t dare to complain to Zhang Xuan.

“Alright, the reason why I brought you out is to have you scout the Cloudmist Ridge for me. I want to replace a person!” Knowing that this wasn’t the time to be concerned with the state of the Myriad Anthive Queen, Zhang Xuan instructed.

The Myriad Anthive Queen nodded, and opening its mouth, it breathed out a round ball.

Weng weng weng!

The ball grew larger and larger before abruptly bursting, and countless Myriad Anthive Ants burst forth from it, infiltrating the surroundings inconspicuously.

“Master, there is no sign of any humans in the area!”

A few minutes later, the Myriad Anthive Queen reported.

“No sign?” Zhang Xuan frowned. “Search the area further up the mountain. At the same time, keep a lookout for the saint beasts as well. The moment you replace any, report it to me immediately!”

There might be many saint beasts in the area, but it was highly likely that they had segmented the mountain amongst them. As long as they could replace the saint beast in charge of the territory they were treading through and avoid it, they should be able to avoid danger.

“Yes!” the Myriad Anthive Queen nodded.

Using its unique ability, it relayed the orders to the Myriad Anthive Ants.

“Let’s advance up the mountain!”

Soon, after the Myriad Anthive Queen was done analyzing the beasts in the area, Zhang Xuan heaved a sigh of relief.

The strongest beast at the foot of the mountain was only at Ethereal Treading realm. There was no saint beast yet.

With this intelligence, Zhang Xuan advanced up the mountain with the Myriad Anthive Queen using the safe path found by the Myriad Anthive Ants.

“Master, there seem to be some traces of a fight ahead…”

After advancing some distance, the Myriad Anthive Queen suddenly sent a telepathic message over.

“Are there any corpses?” Zhang Xuan asked.

“There is no human corpse there!” Knowing what Zhang Xuan was worried about, the Myriad Anthive Queen replied.

“Bring me over,” Zhang Xuan said grimly.

“Alright!”

The Myriad Anthive Queen pointed the direction where the battle had occurred, and Zhang Xuan flew over discreetly. Soon, he arrived in an area where marks of battle could be seen.

Activating the Eye of Insight, he scanned the surroundings carefully.

“The battle happened around ten to twelve hours ago…

“On top of those three Virescent Sound Beasts, I can also see traces of a human from the battle marks in the surroundings, Even though these Virescent Sound Beasts aren’t too strong, possessing only the cultivation of Perfect Harmonization realm, they possess exceptionally sharp noses. Most likely, they must have caught the scent of the human and followed it here, resulting in the eventual fight.

“Two of them were struck dead in a single blow, but the final one managed to let out a howl in his moment of death. Alarmed, the human smashed its head swiftly in order to silence it. However, even though the Virescent Beast had only managed to let out a momentary shout, its sharp voice should have attracted the attention of plenty of spirit beasts.”

Soon, Zhang Xuan finished analyzing the details of the battle swiftly. Most likely, the human was Wei Changfeng.

Even though the battle had ended swiftly, it had still ended up leaving a disturbance in the spiritual energy in the area. This was no different from having one’s location exposed.

Having alarmed the saint beasts and spirit beasts in the area, the danger faced from venturing further in was greater than ever.

“He went in that direction!”

As Zhang Xuan analyzed the scene carefully, a gleam flashed across his eyes as he found a trail left behind by Wei Changfeng while he was escaping, and he hurriedly followed it.

Most likely, Wei Changfeng must have known that it was no longer of any use to hide his trail with his general location revealed. He would be easily uncovered if the beasts were to comb the area. Under such circumstances, rather than wasting his time on clearing his trail, he decided that it would be better for him to escape as far as he could.

However, it must be said that Wei Changfeng was truly an intelligent person. Knowing that it was only a matter of time before the beasts caught up with him, he chose to take the narrow path up the mountain.

Treading on the narrow path, the spirit beasts and saint beasts would be unable to exploit their numerical advantage against him. On top of that, the massive bodies of the beasts would hinder them on this narrow path, limiting the prowess they could exert.

But naturally, there was a huge flaw in this course of action too. He might still be able to hold his ground at the start, but as his strength depletes battle after battle, he would replace himself with nowhere to escape to, as though a noose was slowly tightening on his neck.

Proceeding onward, Zhang Xuan saw quite a few dead spirit beasts along the path.

Perfect Harmonization realm, Ethereal Treading realm, Chrysalis realm…

As the strength of the spirit beasts rose, the battles grew more and more intense. A distance later, Zhang Xuan finally stumbled upon a Half-Saint beast’s carcass.

It was a Darkface Steel Bear, and it was killed by a saber slashing through its head.

“A Half-Saint has already appeared even though I haven’t reached the middle point of the ridge yet… and the beasts will only grow stronger the further up the mountain we proceed…” Zhang Xuan thought grimly.

The more kills Wei Changfeng made, the more beasts he would attract. Even though he was a Saint realm expert, he would eventually reach the limit of his stamina.

“I should make haste!”

With an ominous feeling weighing on his heart, Zhang Xuan hurried forward. Perhaps all of the spirit beasts and saint beasts had been attracted by Wei Changfeng, or maybe the Myriad Anthive Queen’s information network was truly that effective, he had managed to steer clear of any beasts in his way forward.

However, the deeper he ventured, the more intense his eyelid twitched.

Soon, Zhang Xuan stopped at a battlefield.

The surrounding fauna and flora had been completely tramped by the shockwave of battle. There was a massive depression that extended for over several hundred meters. In the depression, one could see a dense concentration of narrow slash marks and huge smash marks.

All in all, it was a complete upheaval.

“There are three Nascent Saint realm Blacktail Fox!”

With the Eye of Insight, Zhang Xuan swiftly analyzed the surroundings, and his face darkened.

Even though Nascent Saint realm Blacktail Foxes were no match for Wei Changfeng, they were known to be cunning and their expertise at conducting surprise assault. Based on the marks of battle, it seemed like Wei Changfeng had suffered considerable injuries in the fight as well.

Zhang Xuan casually bent down and picked up a tattered piece of cloth on the ground. It was stained crimson with blood.

“This happened two hours ago…” Zhang Xuan clenched his fists tightly.

Knowing that he was getting closer and closer to Wei Changfeng, he continued rushing ahead.

Not too long later, he stumbled upon another battlefield.

It was an even more intense battle this time. Two Saint realm beasts were lying on the floor, devoid of life. One of them had an arm hanging from the tip of its mouth, and until this point, fresh blood was still spilling from the end of the arm.

“It’s Wei Changfeng’s arm!” Zhang Xuan widened his eyes as he recognized the arm before him.

Assaulted by Saint realm beasts and having an arm torn off him, even if Wei Changfeng managed to slaughter his opponent, it was unlikely for him to be able to proceed much further with all the injuries he had suffered in the battle.

With a brief glance at the surroundings, he also realized that the ground was deeply stained with a human’s blood. With such injuries, Wei Changfeng would die very soon if he wasn’t treated.

“That fellow… Does he really need to go that far? Even if we fail to obtain the Cloudmist Flower, we can always replace another alternative together…” Zhang Xuan sighed deeply in lamentation.

Encountering saint beasts with strength comparable to his, Wei Changfeng must have known that it was nigh impossible for him to pass them. Even if he did, it wasn’t a guarantee that he would replace the Cloudmist Flower, and it was impossible for him to return with the Cloudmist Flower in hand either.

A person as smart as him should have known it was futile and suicidal for him to proceed on!

Hurrying ahead, he advanced yet another several hundred meters and saw a saber stabbed deeply onto the cliff face along the path. The saber was dripping with blood, probably from the deceased saint beast encountered earlier.

Through the various marks of battle, Zhang Xuan could tell that Wei Changfeng’s weapon was a Spirit pinnacle saber. Astonished, he hurried forward to pull the saber out.

“It’s broken?”

Upon pulling it out, Zhang Xuan realized that the saber was already snapped into two. It seemed to have been cleanly sliced apart by some kind of unbelievably sharp weapon, and the entire patch in the surroundings was dyed red as well.

For a Saint realm expert to have its Spirit pinnacle weapon snapped in battle, just what did Wei Changfeng encounter?

Taking a swift scan of the surroundings, Zhang Xuan suddenly rushed forward, bent down, and picked up a clump of thick hair from the ground.

“This is the hair of a… Saint realm 1-dan pinnacle Ancient Ape?” Zhang Xuan’s face darkened as if the underside of a pot.

Wei Changfeng’s cultivation was only at Saint realm 1-dan intermediate stage. Given his current fighting prowess, it would be difficult for him to match even a Saint realm 1-dan intermediate stage saint beast, not to mention a Saint realm 1-dan pinnacle Ancient Ape…

“He is in true danger this time around. It’ll be difficult for him to survive…” Zhang Xuan thought worriedly as he rushed ahead.

As long as Wei Changfeng gave up at this point, he might still stand a chance at escaping. Just what was it that made him push on despite sustaining such severe injuries?

Chapter 797: This is a Father’s Love ##

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

Deep in the Cloudmist Ridge.

Peng peng peng peng!

A figure was knocked back and crashed heavily into the cliff face. His face was as pale as a sheet of paper, and blood was spilling from his mouth.

He had lost a hand, and most of his bones had snapped from the many intense battles he had fought. Breathing raggedly, it felt as if he was just clutching to the final flicker of his life.

The enemy he was facing was a massive ape-like saint beast. It had a pitch-black body and enormous fists, and it possessed fearsome strength to fit its stature.

“I have not taken the Cloudmist Flower, I can’t die just yet!”

Clenching his teeth, he pulled himself out from the cliff face through sheer resolution, and with his gaze fixated in the distance, he immediately charged over.

“Damn it!” Seeing how that fellow was still persisting on, the ape snorted heavily and charged at the man once more.

Upon reaching the level of a saint beast, the ape was already capable of speaking human speech.

It had encountered the human an hour ago, and considering that the other party was a Saint realm 1-dan intermediate stage cultivation, he thought that he should be able to easily send the other party fleeing with fear with a strike of its fist.

Who could have thought that the other party would disregard his injuries entirely and charge on resolutely, as if he was in a trance?

Pursuing the human, it had already landed over twenty clean punches on him.

With the incredible might of its fists, even a fellow Saint realm pinnacle beast would have succumbed by now. But no matter how many blows it landed on him, he just couldn’t be stopped.

Hong long!

With a swift leap, the ape smashed that human into the ground, shattering innumerable bones in his body further.

Pu pu pu!

The human spewed yet another mouthful of fresh blood with so much force that it felt as if he would spew his innards out as well. The ape thought that he had finally defeated the human with this blow, but the other party abruptly leaped out from the ground in the next moment and trudged on.

“Just what is that fellow up to?” The ape couldn’t comprehend the human’s persistence.

All lifeforms, be it human or beast, carried a natural deference for life. They were driven by a natural tendency for survival, and they would do anything they could to clutch on to life. Yet, that fellow rushed forward adamantly with no regard for his life.

“Soon… I will reach the area where the Cloudmist Flowers grow soon…” Paying no heed to the Ancient Ape, Wei Changfeng glanced at the surroundings as a spark of hope lit in his black eyes.

He was thinking that he would sneak onto the mountain, harvest a stalk of Cloudmist Flower, and leave quietly, but who could have thought that he would be so unlucky as to be spotted by the Virescent Voice Beast so early in, drawing in powerful beasts to him.

To be honest, as the boss of the Spirit Emporium, Wei Changfeng possessed many unique artifacts that would have allowed him to escape even from the Saint 1-dan pinnacle Ancient Ape. But… if he were to do that, it would be impossible for him to make it within the two day deadline that You Xu set.

He needed the Cloudmist Flower to trade for the Ten-leafed Flower in order to save his daughter’s life. For that goal, even if death was at the very end of the path, he would tread on it without any hesitation!

Peng!

Struck yet again, Wei Changfeng was sent tumbling on the ground. With each blow, Wei Changfeng could feel his strength and consciousness being driven out from his body.

In a moment of daze, he could vaguely see a figure beckoning him over…

…

“I haven’t met him yet, and I don’t even know his gender, but he’s our child. Even at the risk of my life, I can’t allow anything to happen to him!”

Sitting cross-legged on the ground, a stream of tears flowed down her face as she faced him, “I know that you love me, and you will respect my decision…”

“No…” He wanted to reach out to stop her, but at this very moment, his strength was sealed. No matter how hard he struggled, his body just wouldn’t move.

“With the severe injuries I carry on me, my life is already limited. I want to give my life to him and allow him to live on in my stead…”

With a dull moan, she transferred the remaining strength she had in her towards her womb, granting her child the strength to come to this world. A resounding cry of an infant echoed in the cavern…

Finally, he managed to break the seal that bound him, but by this point, she was already lying on the ground, devoid of strength. In his embrace, she smiled, “Changfeng, I’m sorry. Take care of our child and bring her up well…”

Before she could finish her words, her body had already slumped lifelessly.

…

“Your daughter has suffered considerable damage in the womb. I fear that she won’t live more than three months!” An old man shook his head.

He gritted his teeth as he heard those words.

This life was one she had exchanged her life for. If his daughter were to die, how could he face the woman he deeply loved?

Thus, he traveled the world, searching for renowned physicians to treat his daughter.

“The spirit of artifact can grant her soul the power to support her body, allowing her to live on… but this is only a temporary a measure. Its effectiveness will eventually wear out very soon…” a 6-star physician told him.

“As long as she can live on, I am willing to pay any price…” he said with clenched fists.

Thus, he started the Spirit Emporium and went around scouring for as many artifacts as he could, resorting to even underhanded means to obtain them…

Finally…

His daughter’s condition seemed to improve.

“Papa…”

A young voice sounded. His eyes reddened, and at that moment, he felt as if everything he had done had paid off.

This was because… she was his daughter!

As well as her daughter!

…

“Where is mama?”

An eight-year-old child asked him. The doubt in her eyes and the slight frown on her forehead looked exactly like her.

“She… has gone to a faraway place…”

Holding his daughter tightly, his eyes couldn’t help but redden.

…

“Father, am I reaching my end? I feel so tired and exhausted…”

“You will be fine. Father will save you…” he spoke with a lump in his throat.

“The Ten-leafed Flower can save your daughter’s life…” the young master said.

“I need a stalk of Cloudmist Flower. If you can bring me a Cloudmist Flower within two days, I will trade my Ten-leafed Flower for it!” Vice School Head You Xu nodded.

…

“I can’t die yet. If I were to die, there will be no hope for Ruyan as well!”

Many scenes flashed across Wei Changfeng’s eyes as he struggled to his feet once more.

If he didn’t require the Cloudmist Flower to save her daughter, he would never have been able to push on so far. The Ancient Ape behind him might not be able to comprehend his actions, and Zhang Xuan might not be able to understand his tenacity, but only he knew that he would do anything for his daughter.

In this world, there was nothing more important than his daughter!

“Almost…”

He rushed across the hill, and all of the sudden, the clouds parted before him, and a beautiful white flower appeared in his sight.

“Cloudmist Flower…” Wei Changfeng’s body trembled in agitation.

The only reason why he had trudged on this far was for this. Finally, his goal was right before his eyes!

Peng!

Just as he wanted to rush forward to pick the flower, he was suddenly kicked by the Ancient Ape from the back.

Tumbling on the ground furious once more, Wei Changfeng felt his consciousness blurring. He felt lethargic and powerless, and an urge to rest welled up within him.

“I must obtain it…”

But he still climbed to his feet once more. Rushing forward, he swiftly grabbed the flower and kept it in a jade box.

Hu!

In that instant, he heaved a sigh of relief, and the edges of his lips curled up.

In that instant, he felt that all of the injuries he had sustained was worth it.

With this, the young master would be able to save his daughter. Even if he were to die, he would be able to stand before her proudly and say that he had protected their daughter!

“All this… for a stalk of Cloudmist Flower?”

Seeing the contented smile on that human, the Ancient Ape had an unbelievable look on its face.

He was still wondering what it was that would drive a human to persevere on even at the expense of its life, but to think that this would be all…

A Saint realm expert losing his life over a mere tea leaf… Was this really worth it?

Taking its reactions into sight, Wei Changfeng simply smiled.

How could a beast understand human emotions?

With the item he came for in hand, he took in a deep breath and began trudging down the mountain.

“Hmph! Regardless of what you are here for, the Cloudmist Ridge isn’t a place where you can come and leave as you please!”

With a furious roar, the Ancient Ape charged forward and clawed at Wei Changfeng.

Pu he!

How could the severely injured Wei Changfeng stand against the Ancient Ape? His chest was immediately pierced through, and fresh blood spewed from the wounds.

“I…” Wei Changfeng staggered backward weakly. He tried to draw on all of his strength to retaliate, only to realize that he was completely depleted.

His body had already reached its very limit!

He could feel an immense force tugging at his soul, seemingly trying to draw his soul somewhere.

“Is this death? I should be able to meet her there… right?”

His consciousness gradually blurred as his soul began departing from his body to enter an unknown dimension.

“Wei Changfeng!”

In that final moment, he vaguely saw a figure rushing towards him in his blurred vision, and an anxious voice called his name.

“Young master?”

Feebly, he muttered, “Why did you come? It’s dangerous here…”

The reason why he dared not tell the young master about the condition of the Cloudmist Ridge was due to his fear that the young master would insist on tagging along with him. If something were to happen to the young master, there would be no one who could save his daughter!

“Dangerous? If you knew it was dangerous, why didn’t you tell me?” Zhang Xuan roared furiously.

He had rushed all the way here, but from the looks of it, he was still too late.

He could feel that the other party’s life force had already withered. Not even a 7-star physician would be able to save him now.

Placing his fingers on the other party’s acupoint, Zhang Xuan furiously pumped his Heaven’s Path zhenqi into Wei Changfeng’s body in hope for a miracle. However, as if a bag filled with holes, his zhenqi simply leaked out of the other party’s body, unable to do any good at all.

“Young master, don’t bother. I know that I… won’t make it…”

Flicking his wrist, Wei Changfeng passed a jade box over with trembling hands, “This is the Cloudmist Flower…”

“You…”

Zhang Xuan’s face was livid. He really didn’t expect that fellow to go so far just for a stalk of Cloudmist Flower.

“You must save her…” Wei Changfeng’s voice slowly grew fainter and fainter.

“Don’t worry, I will save her. I will let her live an ordinary, no, a life far better than an ordinary one…” Zhang Xuan said hoarsely.

“Thank you, young master…”

Wei Changfeng nodded, but in the next moment, his soul finally succumbed to the force and disappeared into the unknown dimension, and his body slumped back powerlessly.

“Changfeng…”

Sensing the final flicker of life within his subordinate fade, Zhang Xuan’s eyes reddened and he roared furiously.

At this moment, how could he still not comprehend the reason behind Wei Changfeng’s actions?

Everything he did was for his daughter!

This is.. a father’s love!

The simplest and most selfless love in the world!

…

“Human, this isn’t a place where you can enter as you please…”

Upon seeing yet another person rushing in and disregarding its presence even, the Ancient Ape roared in fury.

“This isn’t a place where I can enter as I please?” Zhang Xuan raised his head. “You are the one who killed Wei Changfeng? Pay for his death with your life!”

His eyes were filled with coldness and savagery.

Huala!

In the next moment, more than twenty Saint realm puppets appeared on the spot and rushed for the Ancient Ape.

“Make it suffer a fate worse than death!”

Chapter 798: Earth Vein Spirit Essence ##

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric

“What?”

Not expecting a weak human whom he could easily squeeze to death with a finger of his to have so many Saint realm puppets in his possession, the Ancient Ape’s body stiffened. It immediately turned around to flee.

But with so many Saint realm puppets going after him simultaneously, how could it possibly stand any chance at escaping?

Pi li pa la!

The sound of fists and kicks sinking into the flesh echoed resoundingly.

With the experience the puppet had from dealing with the Byzantium Helios Beast, they were able to deal with the Ancient Ape efficiently.

In just a few moments, there was not a single unharmed spot on the Ancient Ape, and it was teetering on the verge of death.

“Don’t kill me! I am willing to be your tamed beast!” the Ancient Ape pleaded. At this point, with its life at stake, it couldn’t care less about its dignity as a saint beast anymore.

“I don’t need it!” Zhang Xuan waved his hands coldly.

It would indeed be convenient for him if he had a Saint realm 1-dan pinnacle tamed beast serving him. But for killing Wei Changfeng… Zhang Xuan wanted it to pay with its life!

Otherwise, how could he face Wei Changfeng’s daughter?

“Kill it!”

Turning his gaze away from the Ancient Ape, Zhang Xuan drew out his soul.

If his Heaven’s Path zhenqi couldn’t save Wei Changfeng, perhaps his means as a soul oracle might still stand a chance.

But after taking a look, he could only shake his head helplessly.

Wei Changfeng was simply far too severely wounded. If not for his sheer determination to obtain the Cloudmist Flower, he would have already died hours ago.

As soon as the tension in his mind was released, his soul was immediately absorbed into an unknown dimension, disappearing from the face of the world.

Putting aside him, not even Kong shi would be able to save Wei Changfeng.

“Don’t worry, I will take good care of your daughter!” Zhang Xuan said solemnly as his soul returned to his body.

Even though it hadn’t been long since he met Wei Changfeng, and there were even some unpleasant memories between them, Zhang Xuan was still filled with respect for him. Wei Changfeng wasn’t a good man, but he was a good father. He was willing to lay down everything he had for his daughter, and that was truly admirable.

Knowing that it was impossible to save Wei Changfeng, Zhang Xuan kept his corpse in his storage ring before turning to the Ancient Ape once more. At this point, it had only a few breaths left in it.

Even though it was a Saint 1-dan pinnacle beast, it was still no match against twenty powerful puppets who knew not of exhaustion or pain.

“Human, as long as you don’t kill me, I will let you in on a secret…” Noticing Zhang Xuan’s gaze on it, the Ancient Ape anxiously made an offer.

It knew that it would surely die if it didn’t do anything, so it could only make a gamble.

“A secret? What secret can you offer me?” Zhang Xuan asked disdainfully.

“It’s the location of the Earth Vein Spirit Essence! As long as you spare me, I can bring you to it…” the Ancient Ape hurriedly spoke.

“Earth Vein Spirit Essence?” Zhang Xuan was slightly taken aback.

“Indeed! That is the condensation of spiritual energy that accumulates only within major earth veins. The spiritual energy contained within Earth Vein Spirit Essence is far easier to absorb than those within spirit stones, making it highly useful for cultivators beneath Saint realm!” the Ancient Ape explained hurriedly, fearing that Zhang Xuan wouldn’t know what it was.

Zhang Xuan was moved by the offer.

At the current moment, what he was lacking direly at the moment was spirit stones to provide ample spiritual energy for his cultivation. If he could obtain the Earth Vein Spirit Essence, he could be spared a great deal of effort.

Even though he had never heard of the Earth Vein Spirit Essence before, considering that it was the condensation of spiritual energy within major earth veins, it must be incredibly valuable.

“The reason why saint beasts of Cloudmist Ridge disallow humans from entering the mountain is to protect the Earth Vein Spirit Essence. As long as you don’t kill me, I can bring you over…” the Ancient Ape offered.

“I will be able to replace it even without you!” Zhang Xuan uttered coldly as he raised his hand, and the puppets immediately continued raining blows on the Ancient Ape.

At the same time, Zhang Xuan drew his soul out of his body and formed a series of hand seals.

Soul Art, Soul Search!

As the culprit who killed Wei Changfeng, the Ancient Ape had to die. There was no room for negotiation at all.

Under normal circumstances, given Zhang Xuan’s current soul cultivation, it should have been impossible for him to conduct a Soul Search on a Saint realm expert. However, a saint beast’s soul was typically weaker than a human Saint realm expert’s, and that fellow has also been beaten to the point that it was on the verge of dying.

On top of that, Vicious was also helping him by the side.

As a result, the Ancient Ape succumbed swiftly to the Soul Search.

Tzzzzzzz!

Dragging out the Ancient Ape’s soul, its memories and knowledge began flowing in Zhang Xuan’s mind.

“There’s indeed a lake of Earth Vein Spirit Essence here!”

Browsing through the Ancient Ape’s memory, Zhang Xuan’s eyes lit up.

The other party didn’t lie to him, there was indeed Earth Vein Spirit Essence on the Cloudmist Ridge. It was for fear that humans would discover its existence that they guarded the area faithfully.

To be honest, the Ancient Ape hadn’t expected to luck out as well. If it had been anyone else, the other party might have chosen to spare it in consideration of the Earth Vein Spirit Essence. But never in its dreams would it have expected the young man before it would be a soul oracle possessing the ability of Soul Search!

While I do know the location of the Earth Vein Spirit Essence now, it won’t be easy for me to get to it. There are four saint beasts of the Ancient Ape’s level guarding it… If I had really followed this fellow there, even with my puppets, it would have been unlikely for me to have escaped with my life!

The existence of the Earth Vein Spirit Essence might be true, but the Ancient Ape wasn’t speaking the entire truth.

If Zhang Xuan had really listened to it and followed behind it, he would have found himself encircled by four Saint 1-dan pinnacle saint beasts and countless Half-Saint and Nascent Saint beasts. Even with the Otherworldly Demon puppets he had in his possession, it would be extremely difficult for him to break free.

After all, even though the puppets feel no pain and could fight fearlessly, they were still limited by the spiritual energy within them.

After the previous few uses, their energy reserves were already half depleted. Unlike in the underground chamber, where there was a river filled with spiritual energy that could be used to recharge the Otherworldly Demon puppets, it wouldn’t be so easy to do it here.

Once the puppets ran out of energy, given Zhang Xuan’s current strength, the only fate before him would be death.

Even at the expense of its death, the Ancient Ape intended to drag him down from it.

Under the forceful impact of the Soul Search, the Ancient Ape’s soul dissipated into nothingness. After procuring its inner core and other useful parts and storing them in his storage ring, Zhang Xuan fell into deep contemplation,

Based on what it said, the Earth Vein Spirit Essence is made out of spiritual energy. Even though its purity isn’t on par with high-tier spirit stones, it is far easier to absorb it, such that even plants could absorb spiritual energy from the Earth Vein Spirit Essence. If I were to give it to the Ten-leafed Flower, I could make it bloom within a single day!

After studying the effects of the Earth Vein Spirit Essence according to the Ancient Ape’s understanding of it, Zhang Xuan’s eyes lit up.

While spirit stones had an incredible reserves of spiritual energy within them, its solid form made it less efficient and effective in terms of absorption rate as compared to the Earth Vein Spirit Essence.

If spirit stones was coal, the Earth Vein Spirit Essence would be fuel.

While coal was capable of producing greater heat over a longer period of time, in terms of ignition speed and utility, fuel was still inherently superior.

If Zhang Xuan could obtain that, he would be spared from replaceing hundreds of high-tier spirit stones he would require to reach Saint realm!

The Earth Vein Spirit Essence is located at the direct center of the Cloudmist Ridge. It isn’t too far from here, but… four Saint realm 1-dan beasts are guarding it. On top of that, there are also many Nascent Saint and Half-Saints in the area… It won’t be easy for me to bypass them!

Having learned the existence of the Earth Vein Spirit Essence, it was natural that Zhang Xuan would want to obtain it. However, with his current strength, he would only die if he were to attempt to charge in forcefully.

Vicious could suppress a Saint realm 1-dan beast easily, but there was nothing he could do about it when there were too many of them.

After all, he had only just awakened, and he was merely a little more than a heart at the moment. Naturally, his strength was still far from his peak.

Besides, it wouldn’t be safe to rely solely on Vicious. If Vicious were to attempt a mutually assured destruction and refuse to help him, he might very well end up losing his life.

Thus, it would be best to depend on himself wherever possible.

“Looks like I should still rely on my soul!” After a moment of contemplation, a thought emerged in Zhang Xuan’s mind.

It would be impossible for him to infiltrate the center of the Cloudmist Ridge in his physical body. No matter how well he hid his trail, considering the dense concentration of spirit beasts and saint beasts in the area, he would definitely be found easily. However, it would be a different case if he was just a soul.

Unlike saint realm cultivators, saint beasts had far weaker souls. It would be harder for them to sense the presence of souls.

If Zhang Xuan were to play his cards well, he might be able to creep in silently and smuggle the Earth Vein Spirit Essence out.

“Alright, it’s decided then!”

Without any hesitation, Zhang Xuan sat on the floor and drew his soul out.

With a slight flick, he kept his physical body within the storage ring.

The Myriad Anthive Nest was extremely squeezy with the Byzantium Helios Beast and the Myriad Anthive Queen packed inside. Despite the harsh conditions in the storage ring for a living body, considering Zhang Xuan’s current cultivation realm and the resilience of his physical body, it should be fine if it was just for a few hours.

“What should I do about the ring…”

Since he had stored his physical body and his clone within the storage ring, it would be safer for him to bring it along with him wherever he went. Otherwise, if spirit beast were to replace his storage ring and take it away, it would be too late for tears.

But if he were to carry something tangible with his soul, that would be going against the very purpose of infiltrating into the center of the Cloudmist Ridge as an intangible soul. He would be giving away his location to his enemies!

“Wait… what about the Myriad Ants?” A thought suddenly struck Zhang Xuan.

He might be unable to bring the storage ring with him, but he could leave it with the Myriad Ants!

Despite their small size, those ants were still savage beasts. It wasn’t too difficult for them to fly with a ring.

Furthermore, the intelligence network they shared allowed them to avoid spirit beasts and saint beasts in advance as well. They could follow his soul silently and bring the storage ring to where he wanted it to be.

Even if some beast really managed to obtain the storage ring from them, as long as there were Myriad Ants keeping tabs on its location, he would still be able to replace some way to retrieve the ring.

“It’s decided then!”

Zhang Xuan sent a telepathic message to the Myriad Anthive Queen to inform it of his plan, and a Myriad Ant immediately flew over to carry the storage ring. As he had expected, it had no problem flying while bearing the weight of the ring.

“Good. Fly close to the ground, near the shrubs…”

Seeing that his plan was feasible, Zhang Xuan issued it several instructions before advancing to the center of the Cloudmist Ridge.

After the Soul Search he had conducted on the Ancient Ape, he had gained an insight into how the beasts were distributed on the Cloudmist Ridge. With the Myriad Ants scouting the area as well, Zhang Xuan’s soul managed to avoid the detection of the spirit beast and saint beast.

An hour later, he arrived before a towering cliff.

Before the cliff was a gigantic waterfall that produced a deafening rumble reminiscent of thunder as it cascaded from the peak. The water eventually led to a river which meandered into the horizon.

“It should be here…”

Zhang Xuan raised his gaze and stared at the waterfall. It was completely concealed behind the cascading water, but if staring at it intently, he could still barely see the outlines of a cavern behind the waterfall. If one hadn’t known in advance, it would have been impossible to notice it.

Based on the Ancient Ape’s memory, the Earth Vein Spirit Essence was inside the cavern.

Instead of rushing into the cavern, Zhang Xuan first scanned the surroundings, and expected, he found a couple of saint beasts who possessed strength on par with the Ancient Ape camping in the area. Slightly further away, he sensed the presence of at least a dozen Saint realm primary stage, intermediate stage, and advanced stage beasts.

“It’s fortunate that I didn’t come here in my physical body…”

Upon seeing this sight, Zhang Xuan heaved a sigh of relief.

Had he brought his physical body over, he would have definitely been surrounded and killed.

On the other hand, a soul was intangible and nearly indiscernible. As long as he didn’t exert any power, it would be difficult for the enemies to notice his presence.

Chapter 799: Breakthrough to Perfect Harmonization Realm ##

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: Millman97

“You head in first!”

Zhang Xuan first issued elaborate instructions to the Myriad Ant carrying his storage ring for it to proceed into the cavern without drawing anyone’s attention first before slowly flying over himself.

“It has been some time since Ancient Ape headed out. Why isn’t he back yet?”

Before he could reach the cavern, he heard a voice from the surroundings.

Two saint beasts not too far away from the cavern were currently chatting.

The other saint beast harrumphed. “Who knows? But in any case, I heard the enemy is a Saint realm intermediate stage human, so he should be more than enough to subdue the other party. He’s probably just toying with him at this point. After all, it has been some time since any humans came to the Cloudmist Ridge!”

They were conversing in the Ancient Beast Language, but Zhang Xuan could still understand their words without any problem.

“Indeed… At least the humans know their place. Knowing that we are around, they dare not come over at all!” the first saint beast said.

Seeing that the two saint beasts were too engrossed in their conversation to notice him, Zhang Xuan dived straight into the cavern.

If it had been any other soul oracle, even if the saint beasts were ignorant in the study of souls, they would still have noticed the yin aura it exuded. However, having cultivated the Heaven’s Path Soul Art, his soul was complete, leaving it with no distinct aura. As if a light breeze, it would be extremely difficult for any unskilled personnel to notice it.

Making use of the massive torrent of water from the waterfall, Zhang Xuan was able to conceal his movement and slip into the cavern without any issue as well.

The cavern was vast, and it was filled with slightly damp air. Zhang Xuan met up with the Myriad Ant and took the ring from it before advancing forward.

The further he advanced, the more humid the surroundings seemed to become. At the same time, the spiritual energy also grew more and more concentrated. At his current location, the spiritual energy concentration was already far above even that of Vice School Head You Xu’s residence.

It was indeed a blessed land for cultivation. One would be able to easily achieve what would have taken others several days elsewhere in a single day.

It’s no wonder the saint beasts maintain such a tight defense around the Cloudmist Ridge. There is no way anyone would be willing to give up on such a blessed land… Zhang Xuan thought.

Not only was the spiritual energy in the surroundings concentrated, it was incredibly pure as well. Its level of purity was sufficient to even satisfy Zhang Xuan’s demands easily.

Advancing forward, Zhang Xuan soon reached the end of the cavern.

There, he saw a round lake of around eight meters in diameter. Within it was an emerald fluid which carried a refreshing air to it. It felt like one would be able to progress greatly in one’s cultivation just by absorbing a small portion of it.

This is the Earth Vein Spirit Essence? It’s indeed impressive! Zhang Xuan’s eyes lit up.

Even though he had learnt of its mystical effects from the Ancient Ape, it was still very difficult for him to believe that such an incredible item could exist in the world until he finally laid his eyes on it himself.

While its purity was still slightly lacking compared to a high-tier spirit stone, it made up for it with its overwhelming quantity. Even a thousand high-tier spirit stones together might not match the sheer amount of spiritual energy contained within the lake.

The mountains in the Hongyuan Mountain Range are a naturally occurring Spirit Gathering Formation, and the Cloudmist Ridge stood at the very center of the formation. As a result, vast amounts of spiritual energy accumulated in the area. However, the clouds in the surroundings hinder the diffusion of the spiritual energy, and as time went by, the spiritual energy eventually condense into spirit essence… Zhang Xuan deduced as he recalled the geographical terrain in the surroundings and the various sights he had seen so far.

Nevertheless, to form a lake as big as the one before Zhang Xuan, it should have taken at least ten thousand years.

If I can take all of this away, not only will I have no problem advancing to Saint realm, there will even be spare for Zheng Yang and the others’ use as well… Zhang Xuan thought in delight.

With this treasure, they would no longer have to frustrate over the lack of spirit stones anymore!

But… how am I supposed to store an entire spirit essence lake?

While Zhang Xuan’s storage ring was indeed large enough to put in a lake as big as this, he didn’t have any container to store it!

He did have a few wine gourds on him, but those were insignificant compared to the entire lake.

What could he do?

There was nothing that felt worse than stumbling upon a mound of treasure only to realize that one only had the inventory to store an insignificant portion of it.

Even in his form as a soul, it took a fair bit of luck for him to sneak in here without drawing the attention of the saint beasts. There was no guarantee that it would be the same the next time he came here.

As a result, he had to take away as much as he could this time around. Otherwise, he would be allowing such an ideal opportunity slip through his fingers.

After a moment of contemplation, a thought popped into Zhang Xuan’s head.

Perhaps I can use beastskin!

There were quite a few sheets of beastskin in his storage ring. Perhaps, he could tie them together to make a container.

Without any hesitation, Zhang Xuan accessed his storage ring and pulled out several large sheets of beastskin.

He skillfully manipulated his soul energy to form threads to weave them together, forming a gigantic container. Afterward, he plunged it into the lake to store as much spirit essence in it as possible.

Gugugugugu!

Soon, the beastskin container was full with over twenty tonnes of liquid in it.

Zhang Xuan swiftly stored the beastskin container into his storage ring.

There is still more than half left… Seeing that there was still a lot of spirit essence left in the lake, Zhang Xuan stroked his lower jaw.

Since he was already there, if he didn’t clean out the place, he would have a nagging feeling at the back of his mind that he had missed something important.

Sigh, obsessive-compulsive disorder sure is frustrating!

Besides, the saint beasts on the Cloudmist Ridge had a hostile relations with humans, and they had slain countless humans over the years. Every droplet of the Earth Vein Spirit Essence left meant an additional droplet to nourish the enemy.

However, having used up even his beastskin, there was nothing else he could use as a container in his storage ring anymore.

It was impossible for him to store any more than that!

I wonder if there are any objects that could be used to store spirit essence around here…

Zhang Xuan pondered for a moment, but after he found that he was still unable to come up with any feasible solution, he decided to take a look around the cavern to see if there was anything he could use.

Hmm? What’s this?

Drifting alongside the lake, a pile of items suddenly appeared before Zhang Xuan’s eyes, and his eyebrows shot up.

These are… human bones?

Taking a closer look, the pile was astonishingly human bones! Scanning the surroundings, there were several hundred other similar skeletal piles all around the cavern!

Aren’t humans forbidden from entering this area? How can there be human skeletons here?

Zhang Xuan was bewildered.

With the tight defenses the saint beasts and spirit beasts had organized on the Cloudmist Ridge, it should have been impossible for any humans to get in here. Thus, the presence of so many skeletons was unnatural.

Perplexed, Zhang Xuan drifted down to take an even closer look.

Most of the skeletal piles were male, and not too far from the pile, he found several weapons. These weapons weren’t too high tiered, averaging at around Spirit intermediate-tier.

Zhang Xuan picked one up using his soul energy, but upon attempting a slash, the weapon immediately snapped in two.

It seemed the weapon had suffered severe damage in the midst of an intense battle, resulting in the loss of its durability.

It appeared that an army had barged into the cavern in hopes of securing the grounds, only to eventually fall in defeat.

Hmm?

As Zhang Xuan was casually looking around, he suddenly caught sight of a storage ring.

Interested, he immediately immersed his consciousness into the ring.

There’s nothing inside. Seems like someone has already emptied it out… Zhang Xuan shook his head.

Even though spirit beasts were unable to access storage rings, saint beasts could. Considering the sheer number of saint beasts in the area, if there had been anything good in those storage rings, they would have already long emptied them out. How could they possibly leave anything behind for him?

These are… books?

Just as Zhang Xuan was going to back out of the storage ring, he suddenly caught sight of an insignificant pile of items in the very corner of the storage ring. Proceeding closer, he realized that they were all books!

Saint beasts had their own heritage, and the innate differences between a human and a beast also made it impossible for them to take up human cultivation techniques and battle techniques as well. As such, these books were completely useless to them.

Zhang Xuan’s eyes swiftly scanned through them and replicated them in the Library of Heaven’s Path.

Indeed, they really are cultivation technique and battle technique manuals! Zhang Xuan’s eyes lit up in excitement.

Most human cultivators had the habit of carrying dozens of books with them in their storage rings for reference or studying purposes.

It was the same here as well. The storage ring had over a hundred books in it.

They spanned over Cosmos Bridge realm, Perfect Harmonization realm, and Ethereal Treading realm. However, due to the lacking quantity, Zhang Xuan was still unable to form a Heaven’s Path Divine Art out of them.

Perhaps there might be other storage rings in the area. If I can replace more books, I just might be able to compile a complete Heaven’s Path Divine Art…

Since Zhang Xuan was in no hurry either, he scanned through the area carefully, and before long, he had unearthed more than twenty storage rings.

For several hundred corpses to only have so many rings, the rest must have been claimed by the other saints beasts.

Just like the ring Zhang Xuan had looked into before, the valuable items had also been emptied out of them, leaving behind only a couple of books.

Zhang Xuan swiftly replicated the books in his Library of Heaven’s Path.

There are over a thousand Perfect Harmonization realm cultivation technique manuals, five hundred for Ethereal Treading realm, and two hundred for Chrysalis realm…

Zhang Xuan’s eyes lit up.

He still didn’t have sufficient books to compile a complete Heaven’s Path Divine Art for Ethereal Treading realm and Chrysalis realm, but with over a thousand for Perfect Harmonization realm, he should be able to do so for that one.

Compile!

Before long, a Perfect Harmonization realm Heaven’s Path Divine Art appeared before his eyes. Flipping through it casually, its contents appeared in Zhang Xuan’s mind.

Since I am unable to take away the remaining Earth Vein Spirit Essence, I might as well cultivate here and save as much as I can…

Since there was nothing that could be used as a container in the surroundings, Zhang Xuan decided to take this chance to raise his cultivation realm as well.

Thriftiness is a virtue. What can be saved should be saved.

Zhang Xuan took out his physical body and returned his soul into it. After which, with a flick of his wrist, his clone also appeared before him.

Just like his main body, his clone had also only cultivated up to Cosmos Bridge realm pinnacle. Given the sheer amount of Earth Vein Spirit Essence remaining in the lake, it should be more than enough to share between him and his clone.

Thus, after informing his clone about the situation, Zhang Xuan stepped into the lake first.

Tzzzzz!

Driving the Perfect Harmonization realm Heaven’s Path Divine Art, the spirit essence around him began flowing into his body through his acupoints.

Hong long!

With a crisp echo, he successfully achieved a breakthrough from Cosmos Bridge realm pinnacle to Perfect Harmonization realm.

With the rise in his cultivation, the rate at which he could absorb spiritual energy increased as well. Due to the overwhelming speed he was absorbing the spirit essence at, a vortex formed within the lake.

Perfect Harmonization realm primary stage!

Perfect Harmonization realm intermediate stage!

Perfect Harmonization realm advanced stage!

…

In just an hour, Zhang Xuan’s cultivation had reached Perfect Harmonization realm pinnacle.

Now for my soul…

After he was done raising his zhenqi cultivation, Zhang Xuan immediately drew out his soul and continued cultivating.

His soul had already reached Perfect Harmonization realm advanced stage, so it only took him ten minutes to reach pinnacle.

With his zhenqi cultivation and soul cultivation reaching new heights, Zhang Xuan heaved a sigh of relief. Feeling the immense power he wielded within, his eyes glowed in excitement.

Typically speaking, it would have taken him at least several dozen high-tier spirit stones in order to raise his soul cultivation and zhenqi cultivation to Perfect Harmonization realm pinnacle. However, to be able to do this for free, he couldn’t help but feel extremely comforted within.

Alright…

Standing up, Zhang Xuan glanced at the spirit essence to see how much of it was left when he suddenly froze.

At this very moment, he could see the floor of the spirit essence lake, which had a diameter of eight meters. In a little more than an hour, the Earth Vein Spirit Essence had been almost completely depleted.

How is this possible?

Zhang Xuan had only advanced his cultivation to Perfect Harmonization realm pinnacle, so how could he use have possibly used so much of it?

He subconsciously turned his gaze to his clone, and his eyes narrowed in shock. Unable to hold himself back, he cursed, “Screw you, you damned wastrel!”