316-320
Chapter 316: The True Test of the House of Trust
Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric
"Accept students on the spot?"
"Have their Trust Level reach 40 within ten days?"
Mo Hongyi frowned.
Compared to the passing criteria of accumulating Trust Level of 50 for the 1-star master teacher examination, Trust Level of 40 sounds easier. However, in actual fact, the difficulty was several times greater.
For the 1-star master teacher examination, many examinees brought in young students whom they have taught for a minimum of three years to meet the Trust Level of 50.
But to pass the 2-star master teacher examination, they only had ten days to establish a Trust Level of 40 with their students. The difficulty of the matter was unimaginable.
"The House of Trust examination will be placed at the very last. Both of you can start with the other four tests now!"
After introducing the rules, Elder Zhu turned to Zhang Xuan and Mo Hongyi.
"Alright!"
Zhang Xuan nodded and took a step forward to enter the hall. However, he had barely taken two steps when Elder Zhu stopped him.
"Zhang shi, wait a moment..."
Intrigued, Zhang Xuan turned around.
"Ah... It's like this. Can you take the examination after Mo shi? I'm afraid that... after you enter, something might happen to the puppets. If so... Mo shi wouldn't be able to take the test!" Elder Zhu said awkwardly.
This fellow broke almost all of the puppets during his examination. Who knows how long it would take before those puppets could recover.
Elder Zhu was already dreading the aftermath. He was afraid that Zhang Xuan would wreak havoc and damage the 2-star master teacher equipment as well.
If that was the case, Mo Hongyi wouldn't be able to take the examination.
"Ah... Alright!"
Zhang Xuan answered in embarrassment.
He didn't think that he would leave such a bad impression on the other party after just one examination.
Of course, if he were to know that everyone thought of his act of taking the examination equivalent to challenging and wrecking a dojo, he would be even more speechless.
Mo Hongyi was indeed worthy of his title as a genius of Tianwu Kingdom. He managed to storm through all of the examinations within a mere two hours.
Even though he didn't achieve astonishing results like Zhang Xuan, he did break several of the past records.
Then, it was Zhang Xuan's turn.
It was a total mess. Almost all of the tests mechanisms were wrecked by the time Zhang Xuan walked out.
Looking at the destroyed Master Teacher Pavilion, Pavilion Master Jiang, Elder Zhu, Wu shi, and the others were on the verge of tears... Even though the Master Teacher Pavilion puppets had the ability of self-regeneration, resources had to be devoted to it. Considering all the puppets for the 1-star and 2-star master teacher examinations were destroyed, who knows what kind of heavy price they had to pay before they could revert them back to their original state.
"You have both passed the first four tests. For the final one, House of Trust, I will give both of you ten days to complete the task. You are allowed to accept one or several students, and as long as the Trust Level for any one of them in you is forty and above, you will officially become a 2-star master teacher!"
Elder Zhu began explaining the procedures for the final segment now that the duo had passed the other tests.
"One student is enough?" Zhang Xuan asked doubtfully.
"That's right!" Elder Zhu stroked his beard.
"Ten days..." Zhang Xuan contemplated for a moment. "Can I just accept a student right now?"
Ten days for a 2-star master teacher examination was simply too long for him. If possible, he wanted to accept a student on the spot and raise his Trust Level to 40. Zhang Xuan had the confidence to do so.
"Calm down, there are some requirements to the student you accept!"
Elder Zhu shook his head. He quickly surveyed the surroundings and said, "For the 2-star master teacher examination, I have another mission to assign to Zhang shi and Mo shi so I will have to trouble all of you to return for now. In addition, they will be leaving Tianwu Kingdom and will be uncontactable for a short period of time! However, please be at ease, there isn't any danger to this mission!"
"Another mission?"
"They need to leave the kingdom? Why haven't I heard of it before?"
"It's fine as long as there's no danger to it!"
Not expecting the 2-star master teacher examination to be so complicated, the crowd was stunned with the additional mission that even required the duo to leave the kingdom. Nonetheless, despite their urge to inquire more about it, they could only shake their heads while leaving the examination hall with Elder Zhu having no intention to shed light on the matter.
Zhao Ya and the others also glanced at Zhang Xuan before walking out.
Soon, only Zhang Xuan, Mo Hongyi, and the three 2-star master teachers were left in the room.
"Alright, Elder Zhu, you should tell them about it now!" Pavilion Master Jiang gestured.
"Un!" Elder Zhu nodded. Turning to Zhang Xuan and Mo Hongyi, he said, "Actually, what I just told to the others about you having to go out of the city to complete a mission is a lie. This is so that the both of you can complete the House of Trust test without causing unnecessary trouble!"
Confused by the situation, Zhang Xuan and Mo Hongyi exchanged glances."
"Just like what I previously mentioned, the House of Trust test requires you to accept new students and induce a Trust Level of 40 with them. However, both of you can't use your current identity to carry out the test. Otherwise, there will surely be countless people who will be willing to come under your tutelage, and it won't be difficult for you to reach the required Trust Level either!"
Elder Zhu said.
"This..."
The duo nodded.
Even though they didn't want to admit to it, but what the other party said was true.
Having passed the four previous tests for the 2-star master teacher examination, they were currently potential 2-star master teachers. If they were to accept students now, countless people would definitely rush up to them, begging to be their students. It would then be a walk in the park for the two of them to induce a Trust Level of 40 in their new students.
"If we can't use our current identity, then..."
Mo Hongyi asked doubtfully. He didn't seem to be well-versed in the rules of the 2-star master teacher examination either.
"The Master Teacher Pavilion will assign you two new identities and alter your appearances before sending you two into Tianwu Academy as ordinary teachers. Within ten days, the two of you have to use your new identity to recruit students and bring their Trust Level up to 40 to pass the test. In this period of time, you two are not to reveal your identity or contact anyone. Otherwise... it will be taken as a fail!"
Elder Zhu said strictly.
"Hiding our identities and become ordinary teachers?"
"We are not to reveal our identities or contact anyone?"
Zhang Xuan and Mo Hongyi were taken aback.
They didn't expect the 2-star master teacher House of Trust test to be so bizarre.
But after giving it some thought, it made sense.
The identity of a master teacher was a huge trust booster in itself. If they were to accept students using their current identity, it wouldn't be too hard for them to pass the examination.
This was even more so for Mo Hongyi. As the number one genius of the kingdom, he would surely have many supporters. It would be a breeze for him to find a few people who had a Trust Level of 40 in him.
However, if they were to assume another identity for this task, it would be a whole new story.
If they were to start from scratch and still be able to raise their students' trust in them to 40, it would show that they truly possessed outstanding aptitude toward teaching and that they were worthy of the position of a 2-star master teacher."The reason why I intentionally told the others that you have to leave the city to accomplish a mission is so that no one will suspect anything even if two new teachers were to appear in the academy!"
Elder Zhu explained with a smile.
The duo immediately came to a realization.
With Elder Zhu announcing it, it probably wouldn't take long before the entire capital knew that they had to leave the city to accomplish a mission. In that case, little doubt would be cast on their new identities when they enter Tianwu Academy.
If no one carries any doubt toward their new identity, naturally, their previous identity would be completely useless.
It would be no different from starting anew.
"Alright, the Master Teacher Pavilion had already prepared your new identities, and these new identities would be able to pass any identity check in the city. Tomorrow morning, following the departure of a few teachers, Tianwu Academy will be conducting a public recruitment to add new blood to their team. Both of you shall attend the recruitment... Just a heads up, none of the staff in the academy, including the principal, is aware of your true identities. Therefore, the two of you can only depend on yourselves. After ten days, you will bring your newly accepted students here. As long as their Trust Level reaches 40, you will be considered to have passed the examination, and we will present the 2-star master teacher emblem to you straight away. There won't be any Question Symposium for the 2-star master teacher examination."
Elder Zhu said as he passed two books over.
Grabbing one of the books, Zhang Xuan started browsing through it.
"Liu Cheng, an ordinary teacher who passed the teacher examination in Tianwu Kingdom's Quanhai City. Twenty-four-year-old, Tongxuan realm primary cultivation, served as a relief teacher in Quanhai City for a year..."
The information of the person he had to disguise himself as was written in the book, all the way from his birth to his present state. The person he was disguising as couldn't be considered as a genius, but he wasn't mediocre either. He barely made it as a teacher, and even though there weren't any fatal flaws on him, there weren't any glorious achievements either.
Soon, he finished reading through the entire book and memorized everything regarding his assigned new identity.
The preparation made for the Master Teacher Pavilion examination cannot be underestimated. Liu Cheng was a true existent figure and anyone could easily uncover his background with little effort. However, no one knew where the real Liu laoshi was at the moment.
He probably signed some kind of agreement with the Teacher Guild, and in order to allow smooth progression of the examination, he hid himself up.
Turning to Mo Hongyi, the other party had also finished browsing through the book. The content of his book was probably also the identity and the history of the person he would be disguised as.
"Alright, here is a mask from our Master Teacher Pavilion. After wearing this, you will take on the appearance of the person you will be disguised as. The examination will start tomorrow. Within ten days, you must bring your students here to take the Trust Level test. Otherwise, it will be considered as a fail!"
Elder Zhu passed the duo a human skin mask each.
The moment Zhang Xuan placed the mask on his face, he felt a surge of coolness as the mask fuse fully into his skin, making it impossible to touch or see it.
Zhang Xuan didn't know what his current appearance was like, but when he turned to Mo Hongyi, he realized that the other party's outer appearance was completely different from before. It was as though he was an entirely different person. Even his aura had changed.
As expected of an object from the Master Teacher Pavilion, it was indeed formidable!
"There is still some time left today for both of you to make any necessary preparations. You can use this time to tie up any loose ends on your side. However, you mustn't tell anyone where you are going and who you are disguising as!"
After which, Elder Zhu reminded them once more.
The duo nodded.
They were two potential 2-star master teachers for their Master Teacher Pavilion, and naturally, Elder Zhu hoped that they wouldn't be disqualified due to their carelessness.
Zhang Xuan had no qualms on the requirements of this test. Instead, he felt thrilled.
It just so happened that his original plan was to head to Tianwu Kingdom to accept a few students and earn their gratitude so as to form the golden page. In a sense, this examination coincidentally aligned with his goals.
"Elder Zhu, I would like to read some books regarding master teachers. May I know where they are?"
Before heading to Tianwu Kingdom, he wanted to visit the library of the Master Teacher Pavilion to look for information on Empyrean Kong shi, as well as Fighter 8-dan Zongshi realm cultivation technique manuals.
Previously in Red Lotus City, he had already collected quite a number of Zongshi realm secret manuals. At this point, he only needed a few hundred more books to form the Heaven's Path Divine Art before he could start cultivating.
In any case, he had ten days to spare. As long as he accesses sufficient cultivation technique manuals, he would be able to use this period of time to reach Zongshi realm pinnacle.
"You wish to browse through the books? The library is over there. However, you are only a 1-star master teacher, so you are only entitled to look through the 1-star library. The 2-star library is still out of limits to you!"
Elder Zhu casually pointed.
"Alright!" Zhang Xuan replied. Then, he started walking toward the Master Teacher Pavilion 1-star library.
.
.
.
Chapter 317: Respectful Bai Chan [2in1]
Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric
The 1-star library was vast. The colossal amount of information and techniques recorded in this extensive collection, spanning across the various occupations, was unimaginable.
With a mere glance, Zhang Xuan was filled with amazement.
This library was much larger than that of Tianxuan Kingdom's Book Collection Vault. Not only were there significantly more books, the knowledge contained within them was also spread over a wider range. Geography, savage beast pills, secret realms, artifacts... It felt as though everything that one could know was in here.
"So many books! I have to finish reading through them before tomorrow morning..."
Zhang Xuan sighed.
Previously, he had spent five entire days to finish duplicating all of the books in Tianxuan Kingdom's Book Collection Vault. Now, even with his new book duplicating method, it would take at least half a day of effort to finish copying the books in the 1-star library.
"Let's begin!"
Knowing that he was lacking on time, he started into a sprint.
With the increase of his Soul Depth and attainment of Zongshi realm cultivation, his endurance was much higher than before. Unlike before, he was able to collect books at a faster speed for a longer period of time before needing to rest.
Hualalala!
Rows after rows of books formed in his mind. Slowly, Zhang Xuan lost track of time.
...
...
Physician Bai Chan was on the brink of a mental breakdown.
He had found a residence near the Master Teacher Pavilion, but the price was terrifying. He had to devote almost all of the money he earned in his lifetime for it.
However, in comparison to his life, what did these material possessions count as?
"Young Master Zhang Xuan is at the Master Teacher Pavilion? Is he taking the master teacher examination?"
After finding a residence, he followed his supervisor, Sun Qiang, to the Master Teacher Pavilion.
"Un! The young master is the direct disciple of the old master. Naturally, there is no occupation more fitting for him than a master teacher..." Sun Qiang nodded. "Let's hurry. Perhaps, we might even see the young master amaze the crowd!"
"Amaze the crowd?"
Physician Bai Chan shook his head, "The master teacher examination isn't easy. Each of the five tests is harder than the previous. Your young master may be incredible, but he's still young. He may be able to pass the tests successfully, but it will be difficult for him to amaze the crowd, especially after Mo Hongyi had broken all of the previous records!"
"Mo Hongyi?" Sun Qiang glanced at Physician Bai Chan.
Yesterday, right after they arrived at Tianwu Kingdom, they had coincidentally bumped into this fellow. After which, he had busied himself the entire night looking for a suitable residence for the group. Thus, he hadn't caught wind of the reputation of this famous genius before.
"That's right. Mo Hongyi is the number one genius of our Tianwu Kingdom. When he took the master teacher examination, he broke all of the records, earning him the title of a 'Once in a Millennium Genius'!"
Reverence was reflected in Physician Bai Chan's eyes. "His Soul Depth even reached an unparalleled level of 6.0! Pavilion Master Jiang once said that it would be impossible for anyone capable of surpassing him to appear in a century."
"Soul Depth of 6.0? Once in a Millennium Genius?" Sun Qiang was astonished.
He didn't expect there to be such a genius in the kingdom..
The two chatted while they walked and soon, they arrived at the Master Teacher Pavilion. Just as they were about to enter, a guard walked over.
"Physician Bai..."
Upon seeing the duo, the guard's eyes lit up and he hurried over to them.
"Squadron Leader Yao, you're here as well!" Physician Bai Chan nodded.
The identity of the guard was Squadron Leader Yao whom they just met last night.
However, at this moment, Squadron Leader Yao didn't have the authoritative aura he had yesterday. His face was still swollen, but in his eyes, one could see the irrepressible shock.
Putong!
Kneeling to the floor, Squadron Leader Yao said, "Thank you, Physician Bai, for saving my life!"
"Saving your life?" Physician Bai Chan was bewildered. He couldn't understand what was going on. "Squadron Leader Yao, what's wrong?"
When did he save the other party?
"If not for your advice, I might have arrogantly and foolishly tried to seek vengeance on Zhang shi. It's thanks to your words that I avoided a crisis..."
Squadron Leader Yao said.
As the guard of the princess, he was able to witness the entire process of Zhang Xuan's master teacher examination and he nearly fainted from shock.
Zhang Xuan was half a teacher to the princess, Pavilion Master Jiang's senior, the direct disciple of a master teacher who was likely to be ranked above 3-star, an existence who was about to become a 2-star master teacher...
None of those identities was something a mere guard like him could offend.
If not for Physician Bai Chan's advice, he might have really tried to wreak havoc with the other party. Moreover, even if he were killed by the other party, probably no one would cry for him.
This was too frightening!
"Zhang shi?"
Bai Chan was confused, "You mean... Young Master Zhang Xuan?"
"That's right! Zhang shi is too incredible. Not only did he break all of Mo Hongyi's 1-star master teacher test records, he even broke all of the records of the 2-star examination as well. How could I be so blind to even think of wanting to exact vengeance on such a genius? I must be tired of living..."
"Breaking Mo Hongyi's records? What happened?" Physician Bai Chan was stunned.
"You don't know? Oh, you weren't at the Master Teacher Pavilion so it's natural for you not to know of it. Today, I came under the orders to protect the princess..."
Squadron Leader Yao hurriedly recounted what he saw and heard.
"Trust Level of 85, a score of 130 at the Supporting Occupation Hall, defeating the puppet in the Puppet Hall with a single move... reaching Zongshi realm on the spot, passing the four tests of the 2-star master teacher examination, Pavilion Master Jiang's senior..."
After hearing the other party's story, Physician Bai Chan's eyes reddened, and his body trembled. He was on the verge of crying.
What kind of monster did he offend?
He had just said that it would be difficult for the other party to break Mo Hongyi's record... Not only did the other party did, he even did so with such gusto...
He had intended to immediately turn against the other party once he purged the lethal poison from his body. Given his connections, it should be easy to teach that fellow a lesson. But after hearing Squadron Leader Yao's words, he realized that his connections meant nothing compared to Zhang Xuan!
With his 2-star master teacher and Pavilion Master Jiang's senior statuses, even the emperor would have no choice but to obey his commands.
It was laughable that he even tried to take advantage of the other party's student...
He had truly tightened the noose on himself... He must be tired of living!
"Zhang shi... Where is he now?"
With a tearful face, Physician Bai Chan asked.
"The Master Teacher Pavilion had assigned him a mission that might require him to leave the capital for a period of time!" Squadron Leader Yao contemplated for a moment before clasping his fist. "In gratitude for your assistance, I will treat you to a meal some other time. I still have something to attend to, so I'll take my leave now!"
After which, he turned around and left.
"I told you that young master would amaze everyone in the examination, see?" Sun Qiang lifted his head proudly.
"Yes, yes!"
Physician Bai Chan suddenly thought of something, and his eyes lit up, "Since Zhang shi has a mission to attend to, his students will be free. I should bring them to the residence and... serve them properly!"
After hearing Zhang Xuan's affairs, all thoughts of rebellion vanished from his mind. The tear in his relationship with the other party came from him trying to take advantage of his student, so he was considering of making use of this opportunity to mend the relationship.
"Ah, alright!"
Sun Qiang nodded and the duo walked into the Master Teacher Pavilion.
...
...
"Liu shi, Zhang shi told me to tell you all to find a place to rest first and take care of his students first. He might take some time for his 2-star master teacher examination!"
In the Master Teacher Pavilion, an apprentice walked up to Liu Ling.
"Thank you for relaying the message!"
After the apprentice left, Liu Ling turned to the crowd. "Since senior will still take some time, why don't we look for a lodging first!"
"Alright. But... where should we live at? We aren't too familiar with Tianwu Royal City and if we were to live in an area too remote, what if teacher is unable to find us after he returns?" Zhao Ya asked.
"This..."
Liu Ling frowned. "If nothing else works, we should just stay at the inn we stayed at yesterday..."
Before he could finish his words, a shout sounded behind them.
"Liu shi, young masters, and young mistresses, I have already prepared a residence for all of you. Please follow me..."
Turning around, they saw Physician Bai Chan, the person who had taken advantage of Zhao Ya and even acted haughtily in front of them the night before. Nonetheless, at this moment, he had assumed a subservient attitude of a servant, as though he was afraid he would incur their displeasure.
"..."
"..."
"What in the world is going on?"
Liu Ling and the others were stunned.
...
...
"What did you say?"
"Someone broke Mo Hongyi's records consecutively?"
"Pavilion Master Jiang's senior? His teacher is a master teacher ranked above 3-star?"
"Passed the 2-star master teacher examination?"
Like a hurricane, the events in the Master Teacher Pavilion swiftly blew onto the streets, and into the ears of the clan heads of the prestigious clans.
Master teachers were the foundation of a country.
And 2-star master teacher was an existence which stood at the zenith of Tianwu Kingdom.
Having passed the examination and broken all of Genius Mo Hongyi's record, it would be impossible to conceal the news even if the Master Teacher Pavilion wanted to.
"Such a formidable figure actually existed in our kingdom? Men, send an edict to bestow this Zhang shi the name of King Xuan. He will be permitted to enter the royal palace freely without requiring a summon..."
At the topmost throne in the royal palace, a middle-aged man declared after reading the report in his hands.
However, before he could finish his words, he shook his hands hastily. "Wait, these seem too crude. Send someone to stand guard at the Master Teacher Pavilion, and as soon as Zhang shi appears, inform me. I want to greet him personally!"
"Greet him personally? Your Majesty, this..."
The officials were taken aback by the emperor's words.
Regardless of the situation, he was the emperor of a Tier 1 Kingdom. To personally pay respects to a youngster who wasn't even twenty yet... Wasn't this making a big fuss out of nothing?
"Say no more, I have made up my mind!"
The middle-aged man harrumphed.
Even though this Zhang Xuan hadn't passed the 2-star master teacher examination yet, given his potential, it was only a matter of time before he reached 3-star or even higher.
Such a figure would be a strong existence who wielded the power to reign supreme no matter where he goes. Therefore, despite him being an emperor, he didn't dare to be impolite to him.
"Yes!"
The crowd could only nod in agreement.
...
...
"With such splendid results, he would surely pass the 2-star master teacher examination. Help me prepare a luxurious gift! Send it over to Zhang shi as soon as he appears..."
In a luxurious residence in the capital, a middle-aged man, too, caught wind of the news and quickly instructed.
Seconds later, he slammed on the table and added, "No, I will send the gift over myself!"
"Yes!"
The guard before him nodded.
"Right, have you found the young master yet?"
After issuing his instructions, the middle-aged man asked.
"Reporting to the old master, we had found the young master. Someone had stripped him naked and hung him on a tree outside the city..." The guard hesitated for a moment before clasping his fist and reporting on the matter.
"What? Someone dared to strip my son bare and hang him on a tree? Who is it? He is courting death..."
With a steeled face, the middle-aged man's face turned crimson and looked as though he was about to burst into flames.
For the son of the clan head of one of the Three Great Clans of the capital to be humiliated like that, the person was disregarding the prestige of their Ji Clan and challenging their authority!
"Young master didn't speak of it, so I don't know!"
Frightened by the clan head's sudden outburst, the guard bowed fearfully in haste.
"Bring him to me!"
The middle-aged man waved his hand.
"Yes!" The guard hurried out. Soon, a young man with a swollen red face walked in.
If Zhang Xuan was here, he would surely recognize the other party. He was the 1-star painter who had challenged him, Ji Mo gongzi.
However, the current Ji Mo was stripped of his carefree and dashing look. His body, covered with red swells, was only covered by a thin layer of clothes, draped over him. If he were to claim that he had just returned from begging for food on the streets, people would definitely believe him.
"Father, you have to exact revenge for me..."
Upon entering, tears immediately streamed down Ji Mo gongzi's face. Kneeling on the ground, he wailed sorrowfully.
"Rest assured! Whoever it was who dared to challenge the authority of our Ji Clan and humiliate my son, even if he is a god from the heavens, I will make sure to leave holes in him!" Upon seeing the state his son was in, the middle-aged man roared furiously. A frenzied and powerful aura gushed out from him.
"Thank you, father, for standing up for me!"
Hearing his father's words, Ji Mo gongzi's eyes reddened.
"Speak, who is the one who left you in such a state? I will send my men over to tear him apart now!"
Waving his hands grandly, the middle-aged man displayed the majestic disposition of the clan head of one of the Three Great Clans.
"It's those subordinates of mine. Oh, no, they aren't the mastermind. The mastermind is a fellow who had just passed the painter examination. I have no idea what he did, but he made my subordinates betray me and hang me on a tree. I want him dead..."
Ji Mo gongzi howled furiously.
"A painter? Hmph! A mere member of the Lower Nine Paths occupation dares to challenge our Ji Clan? I will find their guild leader right now and have him hand this fellow over!" A furious gleam shone in the middle-aged man's eyes as he exuded a domineering aura. "Has our Ji Clan has been keeping a low profile for too long that people are climbing over our heads? It's time to show them our might!"
"Indeed..." Hearing father's words, Ji Mo gongzi suddenly felt a gush of hot blood stream through his body. The excitement left his eyes red once more.
It had been long since the Ji Clan made a move in public and many people had already forgotten about its existence.
It was time to let them know that Ji Clan was still a huge existence in Tianwu Royal City. No matter how powerful the Painter Guild was, it was just an occupation of the Lower Nine Paths. What could they do to them?
"Right, what's the name of the person who did you in?"
The middle-aged man asked.
"Reporting to father, that person is called Zhang Xuan. Despite having just passed the painter examination, he dares to call himself a genius!" Ji Mo gongzi's eyes turned red. "Wait until I get my hands on him. I will show him what does suffering worse than death feels like..."
However, as he was howling ferociously, he suddenly felt that something was amiss. The room was too quiet. Turning around, he saw his father who was still shouting passionately a moment ago stare at him with widened eyes.
"Father, what's wrong..."
He was perplexed.
Before he could finish his words, a gigantic foot came flying at him. The middle-aged man roared.
"What's wrong your head! You profligate son, why don't you die outside..."
Peng!
Before Ji Mo gongzi could react, he was already sent flying.
"Men, tie this beast up. Present him to Zhang shi as an apology!"
The middle-aged man's lips quivered.
"Apology?"
The corners of Ji Mo gongzi's mouth twitched. His vision turned dark and unable to hold himself back, he cried.
Didn't you say that you would exact revenge for me? Didn't you say that you would show them the might of the Ji Clan?
What did kicking me and apologize mean?
Can anyone tell me... What in the world is going on?
...
...
After half a day and an entire night of effort, Zhang Xuan finally managed to duplicate all of the books in the 1-star library of the Master Teacher Pavilion into the Library of Heaven's Path.
Zhang Xuan was in a state of extreme fatigue.
He had expended his mental strength too vigorously. Despite his Soul Depth reaching 10.1, he still found himself on the brink of collapsing.
He had to rest on the spot for an hour before his fatigue alleviated.
Browsing through the Library of Heaven's Path, Zhang Xuan frowned.
"To think that there isn't any information on Empyrean Kong shi nor any Zongshi realm cultivation technique manuals..."
These were the two main purposes for Zhang Xuan's visit to the library. Yet... he didn't accomplish a single one of them.
"It must be because 1-star master teachers didn't have the right to come into contact with a figure of Kong shi's level yet. As for cultivation technique, 1-star master teachers mainly possesses Tongxuan realm cultivation. Half-Zongshi and Zongshi realm cultivation technique manuals are useless to them..."
After a short while of pondering, Zhang Xuan shook his head.
Seemed like he was expecting too much.
1-star master teachers stood at the very bottom of the master teacher occupation so it was natural that many secrets were out of their reach. After all, Kong shi was known as the greatest teacher in the world, the leader of all master teachers. How could the background of such an incredible figure be placed casually in such a place for the browsing of others?
Even if there were such books, it would only record his general details. It was impossible for the matter regarding Innate Fetal Poison to be recorded in it.
"Forget it. Even if I don't have any Zongshi realm cultivation technique secret manuals, there are still quite a number of Tongxuan realm and Half-Zongshi realm cultivation technique secret manuals. I can modify them slightly and pass them to Zhao Ya and the others to cultivate."
While there were no Zongshi realm cultivation technique secret manuals, there were thousands of manuals on the other cultivation realm. As long as he was given sufficient time to arrange the information, he would surely be able to create a set of cultivation techniques suited for Zhao Ya and the others to cultivate.
After which, Zhang Xuan turned his focus onto the books on master teachers.
After a brief look, Zhang Xuan finally understood why master teachers were able to stand at the zenith of all occupations.
Seeing through flaws and weaknesses in one's cultivation technique weren't abilities that a master teacher was born with. It was developed through continuous hard work and study.
According to the books, there were several hundred thousand of methods to determine whether there was a problem in a person's cultivation technique. Similar to how a physician diagnosed his patients, there was a need for master teachers to know of all these to peer into what others couldn't see and solve the problem.
Due to the high difficulty level of the occupation, they were granted utmost respect.
"I should study them in the next ten days..."
While Zhang Xuan had assumed the status of a master teacher and solved many problems, he mainly relied on his Library of Heaven's Path to do so. In truth, he didn't know much about the techniques a master teacher used. Thus, it would be good to use the next ten days to learn more about master teacher as an occupation and augment his knowledge, so that he could be more fitting of his position as a 2-star master teacher.
After glancing through the books on master teachers, he proceeded to scan through the various other genres as well.
Even though there were many types of books in the Master Teacher Pavilion, they were mainly focused on the common occupations. There were very few books on the sidelined occupations such as poison master.
Seemed like the Master Teacher Pavilion wasn't omnipotent. Despite master teachers possessing the State of Insight, allowing them to learn and memorize things better than the average cultivator, it was impossible to them to be adept on every single occupation in the world.
"While there aren't many books on the other occupations, there are quite a few of them on blacksmiths here!"
His eyes fell on a pile of books.
They were books regarding equipment forging and they added up to several ten thousands.
Zhang Xuan could be said to be completely ignorant to the field of smithing.
There was a Blacksmith Guild in Tianxuan Kingdom, but he hadn't been there, so naturally, he hadn't read any books on it.
"All equipment can be divided into five levels, God, Saint, Spirit, Phantom, and Mortal. Each of these levels can be split further down to four tiers, low-tier, intermediate-tier, high-tier, and pinnacle..."
Casually flipping open the book, Zhang Xuan read through the introduction.
"Cultivators of the 9 dans of a Fighter would usually use only Mortal and Phantom equipment. On the other hand, only blacksmiths of 4-star and above are capable of forging spirit equipment..."
Zhang Xuan swiftly browsed through the book.
"I didn't know that there are so many levels for equipment..."
He had seen the puppet in the Master Teacher Pavilion, and he was perplexed over it as it was unlike any other equipment he had seen before. However, at this moment, he finally realized that it was a Spirit equipment.
Spirit equipment meant that the equipment possessed a soul.
For example, if there was a sword soul within a saber, it would be considered as a Spirit equipment.
The strength of this kind of equipment far surpasses that of any ordinary weapons.
However, due to their prohibitive value, there might not be more than a handful of them in the entire Tianwu Kingdom.
"This isn't just applicable for equipment. Even cultivation techniques and battle techniques have different levels as well!"
After browsing through the books on equipment, he was reminded of the book he just read about cultivation techniques.
Cultivation techniques were also divided into five levels, God, Saint, Spirit, Phantom and Mortal, and they were divided into four tiers as well, low-tier, intermediate-tier, high-tier, and pinnacle.
For example, the Hongtian Nine Dan Formula of the Hongtian Academy was only a low-tier Mortal cultivation technique.
Most of the cultivation techniques of the Tianxuan Kingdom royal family were only at intermediate-tier Mortal as well.
Due to the low level of these cultivation techniques, the speed of cultivation would be slow, and the purity of the zhenqi would be poor as well.
As Tianxuan Kingdom didn't possess higher level cultivation techniques, the differentiation between the tiers wasn't apparent. Only after reading through these books did Zhang Xuan gain enlightenment on this issue.
"I wonder what level the Heaven's Path Divine Art is at!"
Knowing that the cultivation techniques he had encountered in the past were lacking, Zhang Xuan suddenly thought about the Heaven's Path Divine Art which he was cultivating.
This Heaven's Path Divine Art was formed through the compilation of the correct cultivation method contained in innumerable books by the Library of Heaven's Path. Regardless of whether it was his cultivation speed or the quality of his zhenqi, it was far superior to that of any ordinary cultivation technique.
Even though Zhang Xuan wasn't too sure what level it was at, it was probably at minimum Saint level, or perhaps even God level!
It was because of this incredible cultivation technique that allowed him to cultivate the incomparably pure Heaven's Path zhenqi, allowing him to easily clear up blocked meridians.
"Alright, since I've already duplicated these books in the Library of Heaven's Path, I can slowly browse through them later on. It's getting late now, I should make my way to Tianwu Academy!"
Glancing outside, the night had already passed, and the sun had risen. Stretching his back, Zhang Xuan walked out with widened strides.
His priority now was to pass the final test of the 2-star master teacher examination. He could take his time to browse through those books later on.
"Zhang shi, the public recruitment exercise of Tianwu Academy is about to start. Let's hurry!"
The moment he stepped out of the library, he was approached by Mo Hongyi.
The Mo Hongyi at this moment looked like a completely different person. Around twenty-six to twenty-seven-year-old, his face was slightly ashen. There was a stark difference between his original cold but dashing face.
"Alright!"
Knowing that it would be hard to get into Tianwu Academy once he missed the public recruitment today, Zhang Xuan nodded.
After stepping out of the Master Teacher Pavilion, they walked along the streets for an hour before a majestic campus appeared before their eyes.
Built against the mountain and encompassed by a river, the academy was vast and grand! Countless students walked to and fro the gates, and the harmonious reciting could be heard. It had a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.
In comparison to this academy, Hongtian Academy seemed no different from a countryside academy.
The duo stopped before the gates.
They had arrived at Tianwu Academy!
.
.
.
Chapter 318: Hell Mode
Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric
"Doesn't the academy usually only recruit new teachers at the start of the term? For a public recruitment to be conducted now, is it an intentional action of the Master Teacher Pavilion?"
Upon entering the academy, Zhang Xuan saw innumerable passionate students studying and training peacefully on the campus. Seemingly influenced by the environment, he suddenly felt relaxed. Turning to Mo Hongyi, he asked.
Most academies accept students at the start or the end of the term so that when new students arrive, they would get to choose among the teachers.
Judging from the current point in time, it had already been two months since the start of the term. If they were to accept teachers now, who would they teach? Were the other teachers expected to 'donate' students to them?
This didn't seem practical.
Probably, only the Master Teacher Pavilion wielded such influence.
"That's not it!"
Mo Hongyi shook his head. "Some teachers of the academy have left for some unknown reasons, resulting in vacancies for their classes. Thus, they decided to recruit new teachers to take charge of these classes so as to not delay their lessons."
"Vacancies for their classes? You mean that... once hired, we'll take over their classes? It's not a schoolwide student and teacher selection exercise?"
Zhang Xuan was taken aback.
Taking a class straight and having a student choose you were two different concepts.
Taking a class meant that everything was already decided beforehand, and one had no choice even if one was displeased with the students. As for the latter, one was allowed to choose freely and take in students of one's liking.
"Student and teacher selection exercise? How can that be possible? It is not the start of the term, so there's no student for you to choose. Besides, given our current identity, it is unlikely that students will choose us either!"
Mo Hongyi rolled his eyes.
Knowing that it was impossible for him to surpass this monster before him, he no longer viewed his hostilely. As such, his attitude became much more amiable than before.
He wouldn't live up to his reputation as a genius if he couldn't even adjust his state of mind.
"That's true..."
Zhang Xuan scratched his head.
He was currently in disguise as a person named Liu Cheng. He didn't have a striking reputation and didn't have any impressive qualifications either. Even if it was at the start of the year, it was unlikely that any students would want to come under his tutelage.
But even so, this was already a much higher starting point as compared to his experience in Hongtian Academy.
Back then, he had to shoulder the notoriety as the worst teacher in the academy. In any case, he still managed to accept a few outstanding students.
"How are the grades divided in Tianwu Academy?" After pondering for a moment, Zhang Xuan asked.
"You don't even know that?" Mo Hongyi looked at Zhang Xuan as though he had lived under a rock all this time.
At times, this fellow seemed so monstrous that it made others despair. Other times, he seemed so innocent and pure, knowing nothing at all, as though a newborn infant.
Tianwu Academy was the kingdom's number one academy! All of the teachers know about it, so how could a master teacher like you not know such elementary knowledge?
"To enter Tianwu Academy, one's cultivation must at least be at Fighter 3-dan Zhenqi realm! There are a total of four grades, and they correspond to Zhenqi, Pigu, Dingli, and Pixue respectively. Upon reaching Pixue realm, one can apply for graduation."
After hesitating for a moment, Mo Hongyi continued explaining. "Teachers are allowed to accept new students every year. As such, most teachers will have students of all four grades."
Zhang Xuan nodded.
These rules were similar to those of Hongtian Academy. If his previous self hadn't caused his student's cultivation to go berserk, Zhang Xuan would have had old students as well.
"We're here!"
Just as Zhang Xuan was musing over this matter, Mo Hongyi's voice sounded. Lifting his head, he realized he had arrived right before Tianwu Academy Elder Hall.
New teachers had to be approved by the elders to be recruited.
An entire row of around a dozen elders was seated in the center of the courtyard. The weakest of them was at Half-Zongshi while the strongest one had reached Zongshi realm pinnacle.
"The one sitting at the center is Principal Xie Bi, one of the top ten experts of our Tianwu Kingdom. He is a 1-star master teacher and is extremely famous in our kingdom. Even I would find it hard to defeat him in a duel!"
Mo Hongyi discreetly pointed across and sent a telepathic message to Zhang Xuan.
His finger was pointed toward a white-bearded old man seated at the very center of the row. His eyes were large like a ferocious tiger. Even though he wasn't young, it didn't seem his vigor had declined in the least. On the contrary, he exuded a spirited and powerful aura.
This was a Zongshi realm pinnacle expert!
However, Zhang Xuan didn't see him in Mo Yu's Question Symposium yesterday.
Standing before the white-bearded elder was a row of people lined up in order, the numbers seeming to exceed a hundred.
"If you two are here for the teacher interview, please write down your personal details here and line up over there!"
Upon entering, a student immediately walked up to them.
The both of them walked in and filled up a form.
The content was simple. They only had to fill up their name, gender, cultivation, and their qualifications as a teacher.
They had memorized the background of the person they were impersonating yesterday, so it didn't take them long to fill the form up.
"May I ask if everyone here is for the teacher interview?"
After passing the form over, Zhang Xuan pointed to the hundred people lining up and asked.
"That's right!" The student nodded.
"So many people?" Zhang Xuan was astonished. "Then... how many teachers is Tianwu Academy recruiting?"
If they were recruiting a sizeable amount, it shouldn't be a problem for Zhang Xuan and Mo Hongyi to get in. Otherwise, they would have to fight with the others for the placing.
"Oh. We are accepting a total of five teachers. Three had already passed the interview, so there are only two slots remaining!" The student said.
"Only two slots remaining?"
Zhang Xuan and Mo Hongyi glanced at one another.
Over a hundred teachers were competing for two slots...
Wasn't the test supposed to be on increasing the Trust Level of the students we accept? Why did it suddenly become a recruitment test instead?
If we were to fail the interview, does that count as an immediate failure?
"Yes!" The student nodded.
"Aren't these teachers still queuing up? Why had three of them passed already? What are the prerequisites for the recruitment of these teachers?" Zhang Xuan continued asking.
The others were still queuing, but three of them had passed already?
Shouldn't they go through everyone before choosing carefully?
"Oh, the principal looked over their interview, and after determining that they are suitable, he immediately brought them in. Those three who were accepted are Half-Zongshi experts, so they are more than qualified to become teachers!"
The student smiled.
"Half-Zongshi?"
Zhang Xuan and Mo Hongyi smiled bitterly.
With that level of cultivation, one was already qualified to become an elder at Tianwu Academy. It wasn't surprising that they would be accepted immediately.
On the other hand, the Liu Cheng whom Zhang Xuan was impersonating as only possessed a cultivation of Tongxuan realm primary stage, which was significantly much weaker than them.
A Half-Zongshi cultivator against a Tongxuan realm primary stage cultivator, no matter how foolish one was, it was clear which one would be chosen.
The person Mo Hongyi was impersonating also only possessed a cultivation of Tongxuan realm primary stage. Thus, they were both on the same starting line.
Initially, Zhang Xuan thought that once he became a teacher, he just had to lead a few students so it wouldn't be too difficult. He didn't expect to be thrown into a 'Hard Mode' stage which one might die even before seeing the dungeon.
One of them was the number one genius of Tianwu Kingdom while the other one was a rising star who broke numerous records of the Master Teacher Pavilion...
For the 2-star master teacher examination, they actually had to compete with a bunch of normal teachers... Just the thought in itself felt bizarre.
"Alright, you two should queue up as well. If you meet the criteria, the academy will pick you!" The student urged them on.
Nodding, Zhang Xuan and Mo Hongyi proceeded forward.
"You two are here for the interview as well? Tongxuan realm primary stage, I think the both of you should just leave. Even the worst of the lot here have reached Tongxuan realm intermediate stage!"
The moment they walked over, a young man turned to look at them disdainfully. At the same time, he revealed his cultivation. Tongxuan realm advanced stage!
Due to the disguise, they had to suppress their cultivation to be visibly at Tongxuan realm primary stage.
Otherwise, given how pure Zhang Xuan's Heaven's Path zhenqi was, even Pavilion Master Jiang would be unable to discern his cultivation realm, needless to say, this fellow.
"The ability to impart knowledge is the most important ability of a teacher. If a teacher is incapable of doing so, what's the use of having a high cultivation?"
Mo Hongyi harrumphed.
As a top-notch genius, he had been admired by others from young. Other than suffering a setback inflicted by Zhang Xuan, he had never been underestimated before. Yet, this fellow spoke such words to him the moment they met. Mo Hongyi's blood boiled with anger.
"Despite your young age, you sure have a fiery temper!"
The young man harrumphed, "I am saying these words for your welfare. I'm afraid that you will just waste your time!"
After which, he turned around haughtily.
Disregarded by the other party, Mo Hongyi's face turned pale. On the other hand, Zhang Xuan chuckled.
To be able to send the number one genius into a fit of anger, that person could also be considered a talent.
Just as he was about to say something, the voice of an elder sounded from the front.
"I, Xie Bi, thank the teachers here for attending this public recruitment!"
Everyone immediately fell silent upon hearing the principal's voice and focused their attention on the front.
"I believe everyone here had heard about the shortage of teachers in the academy. Since all of you are here for the recruitment, I believe all of you are informed of the situation of the classes in question."
Principal Xie Bi surveyed the surroundings, "However, I should still say a few things about these two classes in advance. Their previous teachers were Hu Yi laoshi and Bai Fang laoshi. Thus, the students of these classes are outstanding. I hope to recruit a worthy teacher so that their talents don't go to waste."
"Hu Yi and Bai Fang?"
Upon hearing those names, Mo Hongyi frowned.
"You know them?" Zhang Xuan turned to look at Mo Hongyi.
"They are famous star teachers in Tianwu Academy and their teaching skills are outstanding. Furthermore... They are Pavilion Master Jiang's apprentices!" Mo Hongyi told him through telepathy.
"Pavilion Master Jiang's apprentice?"
To be capable of becoming the apprentice of a 2-star pinnacle master teacher, it was impossible for their teaching skills to be mediocre.
"That's right. I've heard that their classes are the two most outstanding classes in the entire Tianwu Academy. The students they accept are also top-notch. Seems like our test isn't as easy as we thought!"
Mo Hongyi rubbed his glabella.
An outstanding student had a tendency to be complacent and as a result, they often would feel less attached to a teacher.
It was just like if one taught a genius and a normal student. Assuming that you helped the both of them advance from Zhenqi realm to Dingli realm, the latter would be thankful to you while the former might think that you were merely a mediocre teacher who was impeding his talent.
Giving a rich man a thousand gold coins was a completely different notion of giving a beggar a thousand gold coins.
Delivering charcoal in winter was a completely different concept from gifting blankets in summer. It would be hard for Zhang Xuan and Mo Hongyi to win the favor of their students.
These two classes were the most outstanding classes of the academy and their students were also top-notch. If one was more talented than them, one might still be able to win their respect... However, given that they had to carry out this test with their fake identity, keeping them in control was already a challenge, needless to say, winning their trust...
How could those geniuses be willing to submit to two average teachers?
The heck!
Zhang Xuan had thought it would be a piece of a cake. He had thought that what was required of him was merely to come here to teach a couple of students. He had thought that the ten days was more than enough for him to win their trust. But what he hadn't expected was that it wasn't just 'Hard Mode', but 'Hell Mode'.
As expected, the 2-star master teacher examination... wasn't as easy as he thought.
.
.
.
Chapter 319: Aversion Toward Studying?
Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric
"I know that all of you present here have an extensive amount of teaching experience and are official teachers qualified by the guild. If I were to make a decision based on your resume by asking a few questions, no matter who I choose, it will be hard for all of you to accept the result."
Principal Xie Bi glanced at the surroundings before continuing. "Since that's the case, I'll choose based on your teaching standards."
"Choose based on our teaching standards?"
Everyone looked at Principal Xie Bi in bewilderment.
"That's right! A teacher is responsible for imparting knowledge and clarifying the doubts of the students! The fundamental responsibility of a teacher is to guide a student onto the right path so that he will be able to reach greater heights! I have two students here and each of them are facing some problems. The academy will recruit whoever who manages to solve their problems. If two people were to solve their problem, the one who does it better will have the priority!"
Principal Xie Bi said.
"The fundamental responsibility of a teacher is to teach. If one is inept in teaching, then it is useless even if he is proficient in everything else!"
"No matter how high a person's cultivation is, if he is unable to verbalize it, he will still be an inept teacher!"
Upon hearing the selection criteria, the crowd nodded their heads.
"This kind of test is indeed fitting for a teacher interview!"
A satisfied expression appeared on Mo Hongyi's face.
There were different types of expertise required for different occupations. Without the experience of teaching students and comprehension of teaching theories, no matter how high one's cultivation may be, it would be difficult for them to impart their insights to their students.
Many scholars who stood at the top of their fields had conducted lessons. Although they were able to go on and on, at the end of the lesson... the students ended up learning nothing at all.
"Bring them in!"
Principal Xie Bi shouted and two fifteen to sixteen-year-old students were brought in.
A male and a female.
The female had a cold and haughty expression whereas the male had sharp eyes reminiscent of an eagle.
Despite standing before a huge crowd, there wasn't any sign of fear present in the two students' eyes. Seeming to know the reason why they were here, they remained extremely quiet.
"These are the two students. Who wants to take a look first?" Xie Bi surveyed the crowd.
"Me!"
The young man standing in front of Zhang Xuan and Mo Hongyi shouted and stepped forward haughtily.
"Not bad. A teacher should have this kind of adventurous attitude. It is impossible to bring up good students by cowering fearfully!"
Xie Bi nodded his head in satisfaction.
Upon hearing those words, a wave of regret struck the crowd.
If only they knew that was the case, they would have definitely rushed up. That fellow had managed to win himself some brownie points from Principal Xie. If things go well, he might even pass the examination.
Having been complimented, the young man's eyes lit up brightly. He strode up to the two students and circled around them before instructing, "Show me your battle techniques!"
"Yes!"
With a casual expression, the female student began first.
Her movements were exceptionally precise, forceful and nimble, hinting of superior talent. Soon, she finished displaying her battle technique. After which, the male student took her place to demonstrate his.
His movements weren't as nimble as the former but they were straightforward, swift and was executed with overwhelming strength. In fact, one could sense a slight killing intent behind his actions.
While the duo was executing their battle techniques, the other candidates looked on intently by the side and contemplated silently over the matter.
It wasn't long before the both of them finished demonstrating their battle techniques. Clasping their fist, they bowed and went back to standing upright.
"Alright, you can give your evaluation now!"
Xie Bi gestured.
"Alright!" The young man replied. Placing his hands behind his back, he explained haughtily, "The battle technique that this lady executed was [Clear Water Fleeting Cloud Hands]that prided itself on its nimble and smooth movements. Although her demonstration of the movements exuded elegance and also displayed her solid foundation in that technique... she is lacking in zhenqi. When she was moving about, her movements seemed slightly strained. If I'm not wrong, it hadn't been long since she attained the Zhenqi realm. As such, she isn't too adept with the utilization of zhenqi!"
After which, he turned to the female student and asked, "May I know if I am right?"
"I just reached Zhenqi realm three months ago!" The female student nodded.
"It is clear that she had trained hard to perfect the battle technique. Her movements are skilled, beautiful and precise, but due to her lack of zhenqi, they are just empty movements. If she is my student, I will ask her to immerse herself in her cultivation and try her best to gather zhenqi first. Only after her zhenqi fills up will she be able to execute the full might of the techniques!"
The young man smiled, "She has an elegant, refined figure and a pure aura so I will recommend her to cultivate the academy's [Lucid Jade Technique]. It is in line with her disposition, so it should be easy for her to cultivate it!"
"The technique I am cultivating is Lucid Jade Technique!" Hearing his words, the female student said in surprise.
"Hehe!"
Gleeful, the young man then turned to the male student. "You possess great brute might. As such, you have good affinity with strength-based cultivation technique and battle technique. I think that [Searing Bamboo Art] is the most suitable for you!"
"Teacher, the cultivation technique I am currently training with is Searing Bamboo Art!"
The male student nodded his head.
"Alright, I'm done with my evaluation..."
Flinging his sleeves, the young man walked back to the crowd with a gleeful expression. When he returned to his original position and saw Zhang Xuan and Mo Hongyi, he intentionally tilted his head upward haughtily.
"I have also seen through all of that. I should had volunteered myself earlier!"
"Indeed! He got the opportunity to step up first. If I were to go up now, it would just look forced and this will just look bad on me!"
"Damn it..."
...
...
Hearing the young man's words, the crowd felt regretful.
As official teachers who passed the examination, they were able to see this much. However, since someone else had already spoken for them, others would just suspect one to be copying his words if one were to come up with a similar analysis, and that would look bad on one.
"Un!"
Contrary to the others' expressions, Principal Xue Bi seemed to be indifferent to the situation and a sliver of disappointment even flashed across his face. Surveying the crowd, he continued, "Is there anyone who wants to add on?"
"Allow me!"
After hesitating for a moment, another man walked up.
It was a middle-aged man in his forties.
"It is Tianquan Academy's Du Xun laoshi!"
"I heard that he is a star teacher and is already accepted as an apprentice by a master teacher!"
"Indeed! I've attended his lessons before. He is truly incredible..."
"Seems like we will lose another slot!"
...
...
A commotion burst out as soon as the middle-aged man walked out. Everyone couldn't help but feel tense.
He didn't stand out much from the crowd. However, the moment he walked out, quite a handful of people immediately recognized him.
To be able to become a star teacher and a master teacher apprentice, he was bound to possess capability that surpassed others.
Moreover, those who answered the public recruitment were mostly ordinary teachers, so there was a huge gap between them and him.
"I have seen the battle techniques they executed and I can also tell that the movements of this female student here are nimble. The teacher before is right to say that she is suited to cultivate Lucid Jade Technique... However, he neglected a point. This female student has only reached zhenqi realm for three months, yet she was able to master such a powerful battle technique. Given how she is able to complement her body and zhenqi so well... this shows that she is talented and that she possesses aptitude far surpassing the others! In other words, she is a... genius!"
Du Xun laoshi walked up to the duo, examined them for a moment before giving his evaluation.
"The Lucid Jade Technique can only be considered an ordinary cultivation technique for the ladies. If one's talent is mediocre, there is no problem cultivating it. However, given her high aptitude, cultivating such a technique is a waste. I think that it will be better if she cultivates[Maiden Method] instead!"
"As for this male student, his movements are forceful. Indeed, strength-based techniques such as [Searing Bamboo Art] are more suitable for him. However, his moves are direct, sharp and pointed straight toward one's vitals. This shows that he has outstanding battle experience. While Searing Bamboo Art is still acceptable in terms of raising one's cultivation, it causes one's zhenqi to move slowly. For someone like him who is skilled in the offense, it isn't the best skill for him to learn. I think that it will be more suitable for him to cultivate [Domineering Heaven's Might] instead. This cultivation technique allows one's zhenqi to burst at short intervals and this better augments his strengths!"
At which, Du Xun laoshi clasped his fists and said, "I'm done!"
"Good!"
After hearing his words, Xie Bi nodded his head in satisfaction.
When the other young man before him spoke, he flashed a look of disappointment. On the other hand, he actually complimented Du Xun. It was clear that he regarded Du Xun higher than the young man before.
"Damn it!"
Taking the other party's expression into sight, the young man's gleeful face darkened and he clenched his fists tightly.
As expected of an expert. There was nothing wrong with the young man's analysis, but compared to Du Xun, it was clear that he was lacking. He could tell that Du Xun's solution was at a much higher level than his.
"Alright, is there anyone who wants to add on?" Xie Bi glanced at the crowd once more.
A few more people walked up, but what they spoke of was mostly similar to that of the first two teachers, demonstrating a lack of novelty in their words.
"If no one has anything else to add on, the slots will be given to the first two teachers!"
With a slightly disappointed expression, Xie Bi said.
"Allow me!"
Mo Hongyi walked up.
Surprised that someone would still volunteer himself when there was already nothing to be said, everyone's gazes immediately gathered toward the source of the voice. However, when they saw his cultivation realm, they immediately shook their heads in disappointment.
Many Tongxuan realm advanced stage and pinnacle teachers had spoken, but they weren't able to come up with anything new. How could a mere Tongxuan realm primary stage be more insightful than them?
Even Xie Bi and the other elders didn't have much hope in him.
Even though cultivation didn't necessarily relate to one's teaching abilities, there were still some links between them.
The higher one's cultivation, the deeper the understanding of cultivation one has, the more knowledge one could impart to one's students.
Ignoring everyone's gazes, Mo Hongyi walked up to the two students, examined them carefully before turning to the principal, "Principal, if I'm not wrong, the problem you spoke of earlier wasn't referring to their cultivation, but something else!"
"Something else?"
"What can a teacher teach other than cultivation?"
"Ridiculous! Don't spout nonsense if you know nothing at all..."
...
...
Hearing his words, the faces of the other teachers darkened. The young man who spoke up first earlier looked at him disdainfully.
What else could the students' problems be other than their cultivation? Their background?
"Oh? Tell me about it!"
The disappointed Principal Xie Bi abruptly raised his head up.
"Regardless of whether this female student cultivates the Lucid Jade Technique or Maiden Method, there isn't too much of a difference. Just like what Du Xun laoshi said, she possesses great talent, so the difference in cultivation technique won't affect her too much."
Mo Hongyi glanced at the female student, "Besides, even if the Lucid Jade Technique is slightly weaker, she has already cultivated it for many years and is already familiar with it. Changing it abruptly will just impede her progress. Besides, as long as she is given proper guidance, there isn't too much of a difference between the two cultivation techniques!"
"Thus... In my opinion, her greatest problem isn't her cultivation technique or the need to reinforce her Zhenqi realm cultivation. It is instead her... aversion to studying!"
"Aversion to studying?"
Principal Xie's eyes lit up and he hurriedly turned to look at Mo Hongyi, "That's right, continue on!"
"This..."
Hearing the principal admit to the matter, everyone widened their eyes.
Aversion to studying?
What the heck! How in the world can one tell such a matter?
.
.
.
Chapter 320: I Can Solve Their Problems
Translator: StarveCleric Editor: StarveCleric
Contrary to everyone's reaction, Zhang Xuan nodded his head.
As expected of the number one genius of Tianwu Kingdom and a potential 2-star master teacher, he was able to grasp the essence of the matter instantly.
"Yes!"
Reverting to the aura of a genius, he gestured grandly, "This female student possesses superior talent, but she has a cold disposition and she seems unwilling to interact with others. Since her talent is not bad, how can she still be at Zhenqi realm given her age? Clearly, she isn't serious about her training!"
Everyone was taken aback.
That was indeed the case! Everyone had said that her talent was good, but reaching Zhenqi realm primary stage at sixteen to seventeen-year-old, she barely even met the prerequisites to enter the academy. Theoretically, it didn't make sense at all.
The only possibility was that she was talented, but she wasn't interested in training.
Despite her reluctance to cultivate, she was confined to the academy. It couldn't be helped that she would grow an aversion towards studying as time goes by.
To deduce this based on the mere difference between her aptitude and cultivation level…
Your discernment ability is way too incredible!
The face of the arrogant young man from before immediately turned ghastly white.
As a teacher, he knew that such situations were common.
Cultivation is an extremely boring process and it isn't uncommon for one to detest it. Even in this world where strength reigned mighty, there were still a lot of people who were unwilling to cultivate.
As a teacher, one would hope for all of his students to be outstanding. However, if a student is unwilling to cultivate, there's no way that a teacher could cultivate in his stead!
Teaching is a two-way thing. It is one thing for a teacher to teach well, and it is another thing for a student to learn seriously. This female student's aversion toward studying was probably the problem that Principal Xie was talking about previously.
All of the teachers here had been tackling the wrong problem from the very start. It was no wonder why the principal wasn't happy.
"What about him?"
Hearing Mo Hongyi's rational and clear analysis on the situation, Principal Xie stroked his beard and pointed to the male student.
"If I'm not wrong, he's probably a problematic youth who often gets engaged in battle, causing him to face the threat of expulsion!" Mo Hongyi chuckled.
"Oh?" Principal Xie looked at Mo Hongyi with interest. "The reason for thinking so?"
"Simple. I have examined the battle techniques he displayed just now and even though it is modeled from the knowledge one learns in a classroom, his movements were aimed straight for the vitals. Clearly, he had undergone quite a few battles, refining his movements to be swift and precise."
Mo Hongyi spoke casually, "But of course, that isn't the main point. More importantly, when he executes the battle techniques, there is a savage gleam in his eyes and one could easily feel killing intent from him. Given his personality, it is normal for him to fall out with his classmates easily... This kind of problematic youth often causes trouble for an academy and it is within expectations for him to be facing the threat of expulsion."
Everyone was stunned again.
Musing over his words, his analysis seemed to be correct.
To deduce so much from a mere battle technique, the fellow's eye of discernment and analysis ability was beyond that of an ordinary teacher.
"Good, good!" Principal Xie's eyes shone with admiration.
Mo Hongyi was right. This was exactly the test he was posing to all of the teachers here. If it was just guiding those students on their cultivation, any single teacher would be capable of it. There would be no need to conduct a selection exercise at all.
A truly outstanding teacher would be capable of seeing what others overlook.
"How can that problem be solved then?" An elder asked.
"Since she has an aversion toward studying, we have to look for a way to invoke her interest in cultivating. On the other hand, since the male student faces the threat of expulsion, we just have to suppress his urge to fight with other students... However, this isn't something that can be accomplished in a day or two. It requires continuous hard work over a period of time!"
Mo Hongyi said.
"Un!"
"Good, you've been recruited!"
Principal Xie and many other elders nodded their heads.
To be capable of seeing through the problem in the students' attitude through their battle techniques bore testimony to his eye of discernment.
A teacher had to first find the root of a problem before he could deal with them specifically.
If they didn't recruit such a talent, who else would they recruit?
"Is there anyone who still has anything to say? If so, then the ones recruited for this selection exercise will be this Sun Cheng laoshi and Du Xun laoshi."
Principal Xie gestured as he confirmed the names.
Sun Cheng was the name of the identity Mo Hongyi was impersonating as.
"I don't have any objections!"
"There is nothing more we can say, so we might as well not humiliate ourselves!"
Even though the other teachers felt reluctant to give up, it was true that the analysis of the two were the best. They had no choice but to give up. They weren't able to value add to their answers anymore, so there was no point in saying anything else.
"Un, good. Then I announce the ones who have passed this selection exercise to be..."
Just as Principal Xie was about to declare his decision, a voice interjected, "Wait a moment! Why don't I... say something as well!"
After which, the young man who came with 'Sun Cheng laoshi' walked up.
Zhang Xuan.
He would had failed the examination if he were to remain silent. Thus, he had no choice but to step up.
Seeing him walk over, Mo Hongyi chuckled.
He had already said all that he could see, making it impossible for Zhang Xuan to say anything else. If this genius who had exceeded him was unable to say anything deeper than that, he would surely fail this selection exercise.
Knowing his thoughts, Zhang Xuan shook his head.
This fellow sure had no sense of camaraderie.
He could have left something for him to say, but he chose to touch on everything, leaving Zhang Xuan in a spot.
"This Sun laoshi and Principal Xie had already revealed the purpose of the test, so there's no use for me to repeat their words once more!"
Suppressing his dismal, Zhang Xuan said, "Since there's no use in repeating their words, why don't I... solve the problems of these two students on the spot!"
"Solve their problems on the spot?"
"What kind of joke is this!"
"One of them has an aversion toward studying while the other one is facing expulsion. These are the two most difficult problems for a teacher to solve, what kind of solution can you have?"
"Even if there is a solution, it has to be done over a long period of time, just as Sun Cheng laoshi has said. Solving it now? How arrogant!"
...
...
An uproar broke out.
As a teacher, the greatest problem one could face was an unmotivated student and a student who often engages in fights.
These two problems had occurred on these two students and even if one knew the problem, it wasn't an easy feat to solve them. One would have to invest quite a bit of time into it.
Yet, this fellow claimed that he was able to solve it on the spot. This made most of the crowd think that he was being overly boastful.
Even Principal Xie and the other elders frowned upon hearing Zhang Xuan's words.
Even they were helpless before them. Yet, this young fellow dared to utter such big words. Wasn't he being too arrogant?
"Why don't you tell us your solution to their problems?"
With a darkened face, Principal Xie looked at him with a face of displeasure.
"Simple!"
Zhang Xuan walked forward to the female student and whispered a few words in her ears. The female student was first stunned, then a bright shade of red began creeping over her face. After which, she kneeled to the floor and clasped her fist, "Teacher, please accept me as your student. I am willing to learn seriously under your tutelage!"
"Ah?"
"What is going on?"
Upon seeing this sight, the crowd, who thought that he couldn't possibly succeed, nearly keeled over.
They had just said that this fellow wouldn't be able to solve this problem when he whispered a few words in her ears and the attitude of the female student immediately changed, even kneeling on the floor and pleaded with him to accept her as his student....
I thought you have an aversion toward studying?
Your attitude sure changed faster than the weather!
The displeased Principal Xie and the elders widened their eyes in shock, as though they had seen a ghost.
Since they found these two students to serve as the topic of the test, it was natural that they knew of their conditions beforehand. This female student's aversion toward studying was exceptionally severe. She was unwilling to listen to her teacher regardless of what her teacher said, needless to say, study.
They had thought that it would be impossible to change her attitude in the short term, yet with a mere few words by the teacher before them, she immediately kneeled down. What in the world happened?
If not for the fact that they knew it was impossible for Zhang Xuan to have cheated, they would have truly suspected that the two of them knew each other in advance and intentionally played out this show.
"That... What did you just say to make her attitude change so abruptly?"
Unable to hold himself back anymore, one of the teachers asked.
Instantaneously, everyone's gazes gathered on Zhang Xuan. Even Mo Hongyi couldn't help but look over with a perplexed expression as well.
He could discern that the other party has an aversion toward studying, so naturally, he knew that it was difficult to alter such a mindset. Yet, to change the other party's attitude with just a few words... He, too, wanted to know what kind of words it was that possessed such magical powers.
"She does have an aversion toward studying, but it isn't because of her disinterest. It is because of her physical condition."
Zhang Xuan smiled. "I saw through her problem and promised her that I will solve it for her, so naturally, she is willing to study under me!"
The reason why this female student was averse to studying was that of a physical condition. Every time she tried to cultivate, an intense pain would torture her entire body. It is natural that no one would be willing to suffer pain willingly, so eventually, she became averse towards the idea of cultivating that culminated into her disinterest.
Given that Zhang Xuan was able to see through her condition and even promised to solve it for her, it wasn't surprising for the female student to bow down to him immediately.
"That simple?"
"If she has a physical condition, why didn't she mention it before? Why did she keep it to herself?"
Another doubt flashed through everyone's mind.
If she had incurred a problem in her cultivation, she could have discussed it with her teacher. Yet, this female student had never brought the matter up before...
"This is a matter regarding her privacy, so how could she be willing to speak of it?" Zhang Xuan shook his head.
The other party's condition was similar to Zhao Ya's affliction, making it difficult for her to speak of it. Naturally, she found it hard to raise the subject to her teacher.
"If that's the case, then I won't ask any further!"
Even though he was curious, Principal Xie knew that it would be inappropriate for Zhang Xuan to divulge the other party's private condition, thus he chose not to ask any further. Instead, he turned to the male student and said, "What about his problem? If you can make him promise not to fight with other students anymore, we will take it as you have passed this selection exercise and the academy will recruit you as an official teacher!"
"Alright!" Zhang Xuan smiled.
Everyone immediately turned to him once more.
If it was really that easy to get that male student to make such a promise, Principal Xie wouldn't be so troubled over this issue and wouldn't have set it as the test question for the selection exercise either.
They wanted to see what tricks the young man who had just dispelled the female student's aversion toward studying had up his sleeves to stop the male student from fighting with others.
Under the watchful gaze of the crowd, Zhang Xuan walked up to the male student with a smile, "Do you like fighting with others?"
"Yes!"
The male student nodded.
"That's simple!"
With a narrow smile on his face, Zhang Xuan suddenly slapped the other party.
Peng!
Before the male student could react, he felt an ache on his face before he was sent flying upward.
"The heck!"
"Beating up a student? Doesn't he know that it is forbidden to get physical with a student..."
"What the heck is this fellow up to?"
Just when they thought that the young man had some good idea to deal with the problem, he suddenly started getting physical. Shocked by the sight before them, they nearly blacked out.
Peng peng peng peng!
Despite the criticisms, the young man continued delivering punches and kicks onto the other party. Every single move of his was brutal and he didn't hold back at all.
Principal Xie's face darkened. However, just as he was about to step forward to stop him, the pummeled student suddenly kneeled onto the floor.
"Teacher, I.. promise to never fight with anyone ever again..."
"Ah?"
Everyone was stunned. Had the world gone insane?