286-290

Chapter 286: Tianwu Royal City

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: GaiaNove

The vast lands of Tianwu Kingdom span tens of thousands of kilometers.

Due to the backing of 2-star master teachers, it is classified as a Tier 1 Kingdom.

Tianxuan, Beiwu, Hanwu, Beichen, Qianyuan, Anyuan, Baili... With Tianwu located right at the center of twelve other neighboring kingdoms, Tianwu Kingdom became the cultivation and trading hub in the area, a sacred land where countless people yearned to traveled to.

Princess Mo Yu had long left on her Viridescent Eagle, and thus, Zhang Xuan was the only person on the Howling Firmament Beast's back. Out of boredom, Zhang Xuan worked on increasing his knowledge in the Library of Heaven's Path and, at the same time, reinforced his cultivation and evaluated his current condition.

"Along with the rise of my cultivation, the effect of the Heaven's Path Golden Body is becoming increasingly insignificant..."

When Zhang Xuan was at Tongxuan realm, the Heaven's Path Golden Body had allowed him to easily subdue cultivators of the same realm. Upon reaching Half-Zongshi, the effects had become less apparent. Eventually, when he reaches Zongshi realm, its potency would be reduced further.

To the point that it becomes insignificant.

It appeared there was a need for him to look for additional physical body cultivation techniques for further upgrade and training.

As for Heaven's Path Fist Art, Heaven's Path Leg Art, Heaven's Path Movement Art... Even though they were simple moves, they wielded incredible strength. From the looks of it, before he reached Zhizun, it was unlikely for him to be outdone in terms of battle technique. Thus, there was no hurry for him to look for new books.

"I'll have to take the master teacher examination as soon as possible after reaching Tianwu Kingdom. Only after becoming a master teacher will I gain the rights to enter the Master Teacher Pavilion and browse through records on Kong shi..."

On the way here, he had written what Gu Mu told him about Kong shi on a blank piece of paper and confirmed the matter using the Library of Heaven's Path. It was true that Celestial Kong shi was afflicted with the Innate Fetal Poison just like him and that he was later cured of the poison.

That was to say, the Innate Fetal Poison wasn't without a cure. It was just that at his current standard, he was unable to identify the correct method to cure it.

After coming to this conclusion, Zhang Xuan felt reassured. However, at the same time, doubts emerged in his mind. His previous self was only an orphan, so why would an 8-star or 9-star poison master go so far as to poison him himself?

Could it be possible that he possessed an incredible background and came from a powerful family?

Even though Zhang Xuan was perplexed, he decided not to think too much about the matter. Putting aside the fact that his previous self was an abandoned orphan, he, as a transcender, felt uncomfortable at the thought of abruptly stumbling upon people claiming to be his parents or one of his kins.

Rather than to feel distressed, it was much wiser to just ignore it altogether.

In any case, with the Library of Heaven's Path in his grasp, Zhang Xuan could only grow stronger. The world is vast, and there was nowhere that he couldn't go!

After traveling for another two days, when the sun was about to set in the west, a towering city appeared before Zhang Xuan's eyes. Under the orange glow of the evening sun, the city appeared just like a vast mountain range which extended into the horizon.

The city was more than several dozen times larger than Tianxuan Royal City. Its infrastructures were beautiful and elegant and the ancient city walls which stood dozens of meters tall were comparable to relics of history and were altogether an imposing sight.

Staring down from above, the streets in the city were well-connected and filled with crowds walking to and fro. All kinds of carriages and horses were traveling in and out of the city, creating an image of a lively painting.

As the trading hub of thirteen kingdoms, Tianwu Royal City was extraordinarily grand. It simply wasn't something that any of the cities Zhang Xuan had seen could compare to.

"Let's go down!"

Knowing that a city of such scale would surely have restrictions on massive savage beasts such as the Howling Firmament Beast, Zhang Xuan decided not to cause a ruckus. Thus, he landed at a location in the mountains not too far from the city, where the Howling Firmament Beast could behave freely, before walking toward the grand city with big strides.

"Please wait a moment! You've to pay the entrance fee to enter the city!"

He was about to walk through the gates when a group of guards stopped him.

"Entrance fee?"

Only upon looking around him did he realize that all visitors had to pay a certain sum to enter the city. If there wasn't such a restriction, the Tianwu Royal City's population would surely suffer from an uncontrollable population growth, possibly to the point that even the Tianwu royal family would be unable to manage the situation.

"That's right! Unless you're a master teacher or apprentice, you'll have to pay the toll fee!"

The guard said.

Master teachers were the foundation to the progress of the world, and thus, they possessed a high status in society. No matter where they went, they would be granted special privileges. This was something that the other occupations can never enjoy.

"Enough, what's the use of wasting your breath on him? Given his age, how could he be a master teacher or a master teacher apprentice?"

"That's right. Hurry up, there is a huge crowd waiting behind you!"

Seeing that the fellow was wasting their times, the two guards became impatient. The crowd behind which was waiting to enter the city was also urging them to hurry up.

What are you putting an act for?

Since its establishment several thousand years ago, a toll had been imposed on all entries into the city. For you to not even know such a basic fact, which backward place did you come from?

"How much does it cost?"

Ignoring their irritated gazes, Zhang Xuan asked.

"100 gold coins!" A guard replied.

"100?" Zhang Xuan was astonished.

Even a star teacher in Hongtian Academy earn only two thousand gold coins per month. Hundred gold coins for an entrance fee was indeed exorbitant.

"That's right!"

Seeing the shocked expression on the other party's face, it was clear that he was someone who had never seen the world. The guards stared at him contemptuously.

To make such a huge fuss over a hundred gold coins, it is clear that he is a poor bloke.

"I don't have money..."

Zhang Xuan shook his head.

Upon hearing those words, the guards revealed an expression that screamed 'I knew that you would say that' and bellowed, "If you don't have money, don't waste our time here! For you to think that you can enter the city like that, you must be dreaming..."

However, before he could finish his words, the irksome fellow before him lifted up a token in his hand and looked at him with an excited expression, "But with this, I shouldn't have to pay any money, right..."

"No matter what you have, it doesn't make a difference... Ah? A master teacher apprentice identity token..."

Halfway through his words, the guard recognized the token in the other party's hands. His entire body trembled in shock, and all of the words that he was about to speak choked in his mouth. At this point, he was already on the verge of tears.

"Are you... a master teacher apprentice?"

Those guards who were criticizing him just a moment ago turned pale upon seeing the token.

They had thought that he was a countryside bumpkin, but to think that he would be a formidable figure.

Brother, if you're a master teacher apprentice, you could have just entered straight away. Why do you have to go through all the trouble to ask us about the toll fee? Aren't you intentionally making things difficult for us...

"Please enter..."

Suppressing the stifling sensation in their chests, the guards stepped aside immediately to open up a path for him...

If the royal family were to find out that they had troubled a master teacher apprentice, their heads might be lopped off their necks.

Upon seeing that the token Liu shi and the others could allow him to enter freely, Zhang Xuan nodded in satisfaction. "To think that this toy would be this useful, saving me a hundred gold coins so easily..."

"..." The guards.

They had seen misers, but they had never seen such a scrooge.

For a master teacher apprentice, a figure who induces respect no matter where he goes, to be so happy just because he saved a hundred gold coins...

Behaving like that, aren't you doing injustice to your prestigious identity?

Ignoring the stifled guards, Zhang Xuan walked right into the city.

Even though he had several ten million gold coins in his storage ring, he nevertheless maintained the mindset of a spendthrift. After all, gold coin saved is a gold coin earned. As for the opinions of others...

What does it have to do with me!

...

The streets within the city were wide, shops could be seen all around and vendors shouted passionately to gather customers. The remaining sunlight from the setting sun reflected off the towering buildings, inducing in oneself a warm feeling.

"As expected of Tianwu Royal City, an object picked at random from any vendor is of much higher grade than those in Tianxuan Kingdom!"

Walking along the street, Zhang Xuan glanced at the various products sold in the stores and he could not help but feel astonished.

Him right now was like Granny Liu stepping into the Prospect Gardens, curious about everything around him.

Even though he had read about most of the objects present here in the books, it was a different thing to see them in person.

"So you're a master teacher apprentice as well?"

Zhang Xuan was looking around his surroundings when a voice sounded behind him. Turning around, he saw a lady in her twenties looking at him with a perplexed expression.

This lady was dressed in a light green robe. Even though her appearance paled in comparison to amazing beauties like Shen Bi Ru and the others, she had an amiable face which felt pleasant to the sight.

An elder dressed in an obvious bodyguard outfit stood beside her, and the aura he exuded felt deep. From time to time, a spark of light would flash across his eyes.

He was a Zongshi realm expert!

To be able to hire a Zongshi realm expert as her bodyguard, this lady was likely to be of an extraordinary standing.

"Un!"

Zhang Xuan replied casually. It was likely that these two saw his apprentice token when he entered the city, so they gave chase to ask him about it.

"Me too!"

With a laughter, the lady flipped her hand and a token appeared in her palm.

To think that she would be a master teacher apprentice as well.

"Incredible!" Zhang Xuan was impressed.

In Tianxuan Kingdom, even someone as outstanding as Lu Xun was unable to become a master teacher apprentice, but a random lady he met on the streets turned out to be one. The disparity between both kingdoms was indeed huge.

The lady was clearly satisfied with Zhang Xuan's response, and her attitude toward him improved significantly. "My teacher is 1-star Master Teacher Cheng Xuan. May I know who you're studying under?"

"My teacher isn't well-known, and I doubt you would have heard of him!" Zhang Xuan shook his head.

He didn't actually have a teacher, and this token was given to him by Liu shi and the others. As such, he could only beat around the bush.

Seeing that the other party was unwilling to disclose anything, the lady also didn't pursue this any further. Instead, she looked at him with a doubtful expression and asked, "For you to arrive at the capital at such a time... can you be here for the [Question Symposium] as well?

"Question Symposium?" Zhang Xuan was bewildered. "What's that?"

"You don't know?" The lady stared at Zhang Xuan as though he was a monster. "The Question Symposium is the final test for the master teacher examination. Only those who have passed the Question Symposium can become a true master teacher. Since you're a master teacher apprentice, how can you not even know about it?"

Zhang Xuan was confused.

He only obtained the apprentice token by impersonating as 'Yang shi's' disciple, so there wasn't anyone to explain to him the process of the master teacher examination. Previously, Liu shi and the others had only spoken briefly about the eligibility for the examination, and they hadn't touched on anything else in detail. Thus, he didn't know about the Question Symposium.

"That's right!" The lady hesitated for a moment, and a thought seemed to have flashed into her head. Coming to an epiphany, she said, "I get it, you must have just become an apprentice not too long ago! As a new apprentice, it is a long way before you can take the master teacher examination. Naturally, your teacher wouldn't have told you about the examination yet!"

Zhang Xuan nodded in agreement.

Putting aside how long it had been since he became a master teacher apprentice, it wasn't even two months since he arrived in this world. Besides, there wasn't even a single master teacher in Tianxuan Kingdom, and there wasn't a single book on master teachers. Thus, it would be a wonder if Zhang Xuan knew about the examination process.

"Since you've just become an apprentice, you need not be so anxious. Study hard, and as long as you pass the examination within ten years, you will bring glory to your ancestors!"

Hearing that the other party had just become an apprentice, the lady's attitude became even more amiable. "After all, we can't expect ourselves to be as talented as Princess Mo Yu and pass the master teacher examination at twenty-two!"

Upon speaking of Princess Mo Yu, her eyes began to glow in reverence.

---

Granny Liu stepping into the Prospect Gardens

Reference to the Dream of the Red Chamber. It is similar to Alice walking into Wonderland.

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Chapter 287: Painter Guild

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: GaiaNove

"Princess Mo Yu passed the master teacher examination?"

Zhang Xuan asked with doubt. Wasn't her still an apprentice when they were at Red Lotus City?

He had spent only twenty days in the Poison Hall. Could it be that the princess began the master teacher examination the moment she arrived in Tianwu Kingdom and had passed it?

"Princess Mo Yu is one of the most renowned geniuses in Tianwu Kingdom. She has just returned from her training half a month ago and, upon her return, passed the 2-star apothecary examination before taking on the master teacher examination. In a single breath, she overcame countless tests, and all that is left is the Question Symposium tomorrow. As long as she conquers the Question Symposium, she will become a true 1-star master teacher!"

The lady's eyes shone with excitement. "The only one who can outdo her feat of becoming a 1-star master teacher at twenty-two would be the number one genius in Tianwu Kingdom, Mo Hongyi!"

"Mo Hongyi?"

Despite being a 2-star apothecary, 1-star beast tamer, 1-star master teacher, and apprentice physician at twenty-two, she actually isn't the number one genius?

"You don't know about him?"

Seeing the confusion on the other party's face, the lady became speechless.

If she hadn't witnessed his apprentice token for herself, she would have thought that he was a fake.

It is one thing for you not to know about the various tests in the master teacher examination and the [Question Symposium]...

But to not even know Mo Hongyi... Which corner of the world did you pop out from?

"Is he famous?" Zhang Xuan asked.

Upon hearing those words, the lady suppressed the stifling sensation in her chest and asked, "It can't be that... is this is your first time coming to Tianwu Royal City?"

"Un!" Zhang Xuan nodded.

"Fine!"

Seeing how the other party admitted to the matter so frankly without the slightest bit of embarrassment, the lady rolled her eyes.

Anyone else would surely be filled with embarrassment and a sense of inferiority upon being asked such a question, but this fellow answered it so boldly.

It is as though coming to Tianwu Kingdom for the first time is a glorious affair...

It is truly a wonder how he has such confidence.

"Since you don't know about him, let me tell you!"

The lady explained, "Mo Hongyi is reputed as the number one genius in Tianwu Kingdom in the past thousand years of history and his name is known throughout the surrounding thirteen countries. Despite being just twenty-six this year, he is already a 1-star pinnacle master teacher, 2-star apothecary, 2-star formation master, and 2-star blacksmith!"

Zhang Xuan widened his eyes in shock.

1-star pinnacle master teacher, 2-star apothecary, 2-star formation master, and 2-star blacksmith...

Despite being just twenty-six, he was shouldering four great occupations of the Upper Nine Paths!

From the looks of it, he is on a totally different level from Lu Xun, who is also reputed as a genius in Tianxuan Kingdom. In fact, even Mo Yu is far from his match.

Seeing the change in the other party's expression, the lady nodded her head in satisfaction before continuing on, "Not only so, this Great Genius Mo's talent in cultivation is also outstanding. Three years ago, he achieved Zongshi realm and defeated the Zongshi realm intermediate stage General Tie Shu. After which, with a single sword, he slaughtered the Five Northern Warriors who have been plaguing the northern regions! One must know all five of them were Zongshi realm experts, and three of them had even reached Zongshi realm intermediate stage! For him to kill all five of them single-handedly, I would not have dared to believe it if I had not heard it from a reliable source."

"At the start of this year, he reached Zongshi realm advanced stage. Just a while ago, at the Heaven Spring Peak, he battled the Zongshi realm pinnacle Master Hong Ruo, defeating him within a hundred blows. Furthermore, in the midst of the battle, he successfully achieved a breakthrough in his cultivation, reaching Zongshi realm pinnacle. Even the emperor had complimented him as a genius who appears only once in a thousand years, and that his future accomplishments would be limitless!"

"Zongshi realm pinnacle at twenty-six? Furthermore, he is capable of battling those with cultivation above his?" Zhang Xuan was astounded.

It was no wonder why he could be reputed as the number one genius in the past thousand years. This Mo Hongyi was indeed a fearsome figure.

In comparison to him, all of the so-called 'geniuses' he had seen were as though fireflies before the sun, too insignificant to mention.

"Since this Mo Hongyi's surname is Mo, does it mean that he is part of the Tianwu royal family as well?"

Suddenly, Zhang Xuan noticed a peculiarity and asked.

Princess Mo Yu's surname is Mo, so this means that the royal family of Tianwu Kingdom goes by this surname. Can this Mo Hongyi be a member of royalty as well?

"That's right!" The lady nodded her head. "He is a son of one of the princes but he isn't favored by the emperor. Although he is Princess Mo Yu's elder brother in terms of seniority, his standing pales far in comparison to hers. Even so, given his talent, no one dares to underestimate him!"

"Un!" Zhang Xuan agreed.

In this world, even though one's birth determines his nobility, as long as one is willing to work hard, he can nevertheless earn respect.

Mo Hongyi was an example. Even though he wasn't in line for the throne, given his current prestige, if he truly wanted the crown, the other princes were not likely to be a match for him.

When one's capabilities exceed a certain level, schemes and ploys become laughable deeds that are comparable to playing house.

Seeing the other party enter into contemplation, the lady continued, "However, even though he's an incredible figure, I revere Princess Mo Yu more. Not only is she beautiful, she's talented as well. I want to be like her, polite, humble and possesses an earnest desire for knowledge. Just like her, I'll work hard and make a name for myself with my own capabilities!"

"Polite, humble, and possessing an earnest desire for knowledge?"

Zhang Xuan had been with this Princess Mo Yu for many days, but why hadn't he notice these strengths of hers?

Shaking his head, he chose not to dwell on this question. Recalling all that the other party had said before, he asked, "The Question Symposium that you spoke of... Other than Princess Mo Yu, how many other people are taking it?"

Upon hearing his question, the lady rolled her eyes once more.

"Do you think master teachers are like cabbages in the market, available whenever you want it? There might not even be a single person who successfully passes every test in the master teacher examination in the whole of a year! I've specially traveled here from Quanhai City just to spectate the princess's master teacher inauguration ceremony, so how can there be anyone else?"

"Quanhai City?" A book appeared in Zhang Xuan's mind, and within it was a map of Tianwu Kingdom.

For example, if Tianwu Royal City were Tianxuan Royal City, Quanhai City would be similar to Baiyu City, the second largest city in Tianwu Kindom. Given that this talkative and extroverted lady was escorted by a Zongshi realm bodyguard, it was likely that her standing wasn't ordinary.

But that is to be expected as well. It is impossible for one to become a master teacher without sufficient connections to search for a good teacher to guide them.

After another short exchange, Zhang Xuan learned that her name was Ling Xiaoxiao and that she had just become a master teacher apprentice during the year.

The reason why she spoke so much to him was that they were fellow apprentices and that she thought that they should look out for one another.

"The Question Symposium will be carried out tomorrow afternoon at the Master Teacher Pavilion. If you wish to take the master teacher examination, you should take a look. I'll be leaving now, farewell!"

After speaking for a short while longer, Ling Xiaoxiao realized that this apprentice known as Zhang Xuan seemed to be completely ignorant of the master teacher examination. As such, she lost her interest to chat with him.

In her opinion, it would be several decades before he would be eligible to take the master teacher examination, and they were of two completely different standards.

"I should first find a restaurant to dine in before looking for lodging!"

Biding the lady farewell, Zhang Xuan stretched his back lazily.

He had already obtained a clear idea of the Master Teacher Pavilion's location and it was getting late. Furthermore, after seven consecutive days of consuming dry rations on the back of the Howling Firmament Beast, Zhang Xuan had gotten sick of that food.

After eating his dinner, just as Zhang Xuan was about to look for an inn to settle in, he saw a massive building before him. On the plaque hung above its entrance were two majestic words which felt vigorous and soulful, as if it would soar out from the board at any time.

"Painter Guild?"

Recognizing the words on it, Zhang Xuan's eyes lit up.

The Painter, just like Apothecary, is an occupation of the Nine Paths and there is a guild to oversee its affairs. However, Tianxuan Kingdom was too small and remote, so it didn't possess the qualifications to build a branch.

Zhang Xuan didn't expect to see the Painter Guild right after entering Tianwu Royal City.

"I should take a look!"

Of the numerous skills that Zhang Xuan possessed, after pill forging and beast taming, the one he was the most skilled at was painting, and he was capable of even producing a painting of the fifth level. Since he managed to chance on the guild, it was a good chance for him to take the examination to become an official painter.

After all, he had only acquired the emblems of a 2-star beast tamer and 1-star apothecary at the moment and this looked rather plain.

As for poison master, even though his mastery in poison had also reached the level of a 2-star, he was in disguise as the envoy's 'senior granduncle' then, so it was impossible for him to take the poison master examination. Naturally, he didn't manage to obtain the corresponding emblem.

But even if he were to have successfully acquired it, given how hostile the other occupations were toward poison masters, he wouldn't dare to take it out either.

As such thoughts flashed through his mind, Zhang Xuan stepped into the Painter Guild.

As expected of the Painter Guild. Its vast hall was arranged in an orderly and artistic manner, making one feel as though he has stepped into a painting.

Slowly walking inward, Zhang Xuan felt as if he were walking leisurely in the midst of a book, and an indescribable sensation of comfort embraced him.

Hung on the walls around him were all kinds of art pieces, and every single one of them was astonishingly lifelike, having reached the first level of paintings, Reality Depiction.

A painter has to grasp the first four realms of a painting, Reality Depiction, Spiritual Canvas, Infused Intentions, and Breathtaking Verisimilitude before he can be qualified as a 1-star. Even though a painting of the first level sounds unexceptional, several years of effort is required before one can produce such a painting.

Without sufficient experience and comprehension, it is no simple task to depict a scenery realistically.

Those who are capable of drawing these paintings are at minimum apprentice painters.

"Gongzi, may I know what kind of painting you are looking for? I can bring you around!"

As Zhang Xuan slowly browsed through the paintings, a green-robed attendant suddenly walked up to him politely.

"Are these paintings for sale?"

Zhang Xuan pointed to those pieces hung on the wall.

"Indeed! Isn't gongzi here to buy a painting? The attendant nodded.

If the Painter Guild doesn't sell paintings, where else can one buy them?

"Oh..." After giving the matter some thought, Zhang Xuan felt embarrassed for asking this question. It was similar to how the Apothecary Guild sold pills. It was absurd to think that the Painter Guild doesn't sell paintings.

Nodding his head, Zhang Xuan asked, "These are all paintings of the first level. Are there any higher level paintings?"

"Please follow me upstairs! In the guild, the paintings on the first floor are mainly those of the first level, the paintings on the second floor are mainly those of the second level, and so on. Gongzi, what level of painting are you interested in buying? I'll bring you up right now!" The attendant's eyes lit up.

The higher the level of the painting, the more expensive it was. As an attendant, he received a commission based on the price of the painting sold. The more expensive the painting Zhang Xuan bought, the more money the attendant would earn.

"Is there..."

Just as he was about to ask if there was any painting of the fifth level for him to look through, he saw a crowd charge forward.

"Hurry up, Ji Mo gongzi is out!"

"He passed the 1-star painter examination?"

"Indeed! The examination has just ended and in order to thank the crowd for their support, he intends to conduct an open painting, and will auction the finished art piece on the spot!"

"Open painting? Great! I will get his painting for sure..."

...

People in the crowed started to discuss among themselves.

They were mostly young ladies and, walking slightly forward, Zhang Xuan could see a few middle-aged men. Judging by the clothes on them, they were likely to possess great wealth.

"Ji Mo gongzi, painting?"

Zhang Xuan looked at them contemptuously.

"Ji Mo is the young master of the capital's Ji Clan. Despite just being in his teens, he is already an official painter of the guild..." Upon speaking of Ji Mo gongzi, the attendant's face grew red in agitation as well. "Gongzi, if you intend to purchase a painting, you should take a look at the open painting too. If you can buy Young Master Ji's painting, you will have made your trip here worth it."

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Chapter 288: Ji Mo gongzi

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: GaiaNove

"Oh? Let's go over then!"

Since Zhang Xuan was free, he decided to take the opportunity to learn more about how the painter examination was conducted. Thus, he followed behind the green-robed attendant into the crowd.

Right at the front, before a dark green table lined against the wall, an eighteen or nineteen-year-old youngster, dressed in white, was sitting on a wooden chair, and his eyes were tightly closed.

"Ji Mo gongzi, I love you! I want to bear your babies!"

"How shameless can you get? Ji gongzi is mine! Whoever who dares to vie with me, I'll rip off her clothes!"

"Young mistress, a beautiful lady over there is intent on vying with you. Go and rip off her clothes, we'll cheer you on from here!"

"..."

Even though Ji Mo gongzi's eyes were still tightly shut, many ladies in the surroundings had already gone into a frenzy.

"Ji gongzi may be young, but he's extremely gentle toward ladies. More importantly, he has a suave appearance. Thus, he became the idol of ladies in the capital!" The green-robed attendant explained with a hushed voice.

Zhang Xuan nodded. Turning to look at Ji Mo gongzi, his skin was indeed fair and smooth, and he had a dashing face. Even though his eyes were closed, his lips were slightly curled upward and vaguely, it seemed as if he was smiling. Zhang Xuan could understand why he was able to win the fancy of these ladies.

Talented, capable, a good background and most importantly, he was dashing. It was no wonder why so many ladies went insane for him.

"This is... What is he doing?"

Seeing the other party seated with his eyes shut, ignoring the ruckus around him, Zhang Xuan inquired.

"Ji Mo gongzi is about to paint, he is probably calming his brain and adjusting his mental state!" The green-robed fellow said.

"Adjusting his state of mind? Here?" Zhang Xuan was puzzled.

It was just a painting. Zhang Xuan would usually grab a brush and start on his work right away... Is there a need to adjust any state of mind?

Besides, even if he truly needs to adjust his state of mind, he should have gone somewhere quiet and peaceful. With so many people causing a huge ruckus here, how in the world does he expect to adjust his state of mind?

"Ji gongzi possesses incredible talents, having reached the level of a master painter before even reaching twenty. Every single action that he makes has its own profound purpose, this isn't something a countryside bumpkin like you can comprehend!"

Before the green-robed attendant could reply, a lady turned around and glared at Zhang Xuan furiously.

"Indeed, where did this amateur come from? Scram aside, don't taint Ji gongzi's painting!" Another lady harrumphed angrily.

Hualala!

The ladies in the surroundings turned to glare at Zhang Xuan with disdainful eyes.

"Ah?"

Not expecting to meet with so much hostility just by raising a simple doubt, Zhang Xuan became speechless.

"A lot of civilians in Tianwu Kingdom are interested in painting, thus raising the status of painters here greatly. Ji gongzi, as one of the most talented painters of the younger generation, has countless fans. Thus, it is best for you not to say anything here. Otherwise, you might really drown from the criticisms of his die-hard fans!"

With a bitter smile, the green-robed attendant whispered to him

Zhang Xuan nodded. Just as he was about to speak, Ji gongzi abrupt opened his eyes and stood up.

"Look, Ji gongzi is about to begin painting!"

"I wonder what level of painting will he create!"

"Does it have to be said? Ji gongzi is an official painter, his works are definitely at least of the second level!"

...

Upon seeing Ji gongzi move, those who were glaring at Zhang Xuan previously turned to look forward immediately, their eyes twinkling with adoration.

The first four realms of painting are Reality Depiction, Spiritual Canvas, Infused Intentions, and Breathtaking Verisimilitude.

Just like in the case of Lu Chen and Yuanyu, official painters, otherwise known as master painters, are capable of producing a painting of the second level or third level with ease. As for whether the painting can reach Breathtaking Verisimilitude, it would depend on his luck and condition.

"Me, Ji Mo, will now display my humble skills!"

Ji Mo stood before the table and with a flick of his wrist, a Chinese fan appeared in his hand. Gently fanning himself twice, his black hair and white robe danced along with the light breeze. "The painting that I create will be sold on the spot. However, I will not claim a single cent of the money, and instead, I'll be using it to build a Painting Hall. I'll invite apprentice painters to conduct lessons there so as to propagate the comprehension and passion for painting!"

"As expected of Ji gongzi, he truly doesn't care for material wealth..."

"A character befitting of a master painter, I am impressed!"

...

Hearing his words, the crowd burst into commotion once more. Numerous ladies screamed fanatically.

"This fellow sure knows how to win the hearts!" Zhang Xuan shook his head.

This Ji Mo gongzi might be young but he was obviously skilled in politics, knowing how to attract attention.

That was similar to the charity auctions conducted by celebrities in his previous life. In plain honesty, they were just gimmicks.

If he truly wanted to build a Painter Hall and propagate the passion and understanding of painting, he could have done so silently. There was no need for him to create such a huge ruckus. More importantly... It was already late autumn, and not to mention, night time. It felt cold just to stand on the spot and yet he was fanning himself...

"Silence!"

Shutting his fan, Ji Mo gongzi gestured grandly, "Alright, not to waste everyone's time, I shall begin painting now. I hope that everyone can remain silent while I am at work!"

Hearing his words, the screaming crowd quietened down all of a sudden.

Smiling lightly, Ji Mo gongzi flung his sleeves and picked up a brush.

After opening a xuan paper on the table, Ji Mo struck the table lightly with his left hand, and under the tremor of his zhenqi, a droplet of ink leaped into the air from the ink slab and landed precisely on the tip of his brush. Then, with a grand movement of his right hand, the brush fell on the surface of the paper.

The brush flew around the paper gracefully, creating an imposing sight.

Hualala!

The brush danced about on the paper, reminiscent of a fish swimming freely in a pond. Accompanying the passing of time, and the painting gradually took shape.

It was a painting of a mountain and a stream.

On the tall and towering mountain was a combination of mystical forests and mysterious boulders, divided by a stream that flowed through them. Ding dang, one could almost hear the sound of the stream striking the surface of the boulder, and the leaves were dancing toward a certain direction, as though a gentle breeze was caressing them.

"This is a painting of the second level!"

With a single glance, Zhang Xuan nodded his head silently in approval.

The Heaven's Path Painting Art which Zhang Xuan compiled using the books in Master Lu Chen's house had given him a profound understanding of paintings. Even without the Library of Heaven's Path, Zhang Xuan was capable of appraising paintings to a certain standard.

This mountain stream painting was detailed, allowing people to feel as if it were a true mountain right before them. There was a spiritual touch to the painting which gave it bizarre but wonderful aesthetics. This was proof that it has reached the level of Spiritual Canvas.

However, even though the contents were outstanding, the mountain and stream were lacking artistic conception and a personal touch. In other words, it did not reach the level of Infused Intentions.

"It is a pity. If he wasn't overly focused on showing off his skills, and instead, had carved out his painting slowly and calmly, he might have been able to achieve the level of Infused Intentions!" Zhang Xuan sighed after a moment

Even though this Ji Mo gongzi was a braggart, his painting fundamentals were in place. Logically speaking, as long as he were to paint calmly, producing a painting of the third level shouldn't be a problem.

However, his obsession with graceful and exaggerated movements had caused him to neglect the essence of the painting. Thus, this painting had only managed to reach Spiritual Canvas pinnacle, just a small step away from Infused Intentions.

Even though Zhang Xuan thought that it was a pity, he didn't voice out his thoughts.

He was only here to see how the master painter examination was conducted and he wasn't related to this Ji Mo gongzi in any way. Besides, he had been criticized by the crowd just moments ago for expressing his doubts on Ji Mo's actions, and he didn't want to be berated by this bunch of women before him.

Soon, the painting was completed.

Ji Mo gongzi threw the brush into the brush holder and hung the painting on the wall.

"This is a painting that has reached the second level pinnacle, and it is called Breeze By the Mountain and Stream. The auction will start now. The starting price is one million gold coins, and every raise must be a hundred thousand gold coins at the minimum."

At which, the edges of Li Ji gongzi's lips shot up, and a mesmerizing smile appeared on his face. Waving the fan in his hands, he brought out the disposition of a dashing scholar. "I'll accompany anyone who manages to purchase this painting for dinner, for free!"

"Accompany for dinner? This painting is mine!"

"Don't compete with me, I'll offer one million and a hundred thousand!"

"You wish to buy Ji Mo gongzi's painting for one million and a hundred thousand? Stop joking! A million and three hundred thousand!"

"I offer two million!"

...

Upon hearing the additional service that came with the painting, the ladies' eyes reddened with excitement immediately. As they competed wildly against one another, the price soared rapidly.

"Two million and four hundred thousand?"

Seeing the price reach two million in the blink of an eye, Zhang Xuan was flabbergasted.

He sold the fifth level painting he created to Lu Chen, Huang Yu, and the others for merely two million each and this mediocre second level painting has exceeded that sum..."

This is way too damned!

"That... How much is a painting of the fifth level, Spirit Creation, worth?"

Feeling dismayed, Zhang Xuan could not help but ask the attendant beside him.

"A painting of the fifth level? That would be a treasure left behind by a 2-star grandmaster painter! Furthermore, even such a painter wouldn't be able to produce a fifth level painting as when he pleases. It depends heavily on his condition and luck... A painting of that level will easily become the treasure of our Painter Guild, and one can say that it is... priceless!"

The green-robed attendant hesitated for a moment before answering.

"Priceless?" Zhang Xuan's body swayed violently.

"Indeed! If one has no choice but to assign it a price, this starting price would likely be at minimum ten million gold coins. As for how high it can rise, I can't give a concrete answer to that. However, half a year ago, an auction for a painting of the fifth level was conducted here, and the final price was thirty-four million gold coins."

The green-robed attendant replied.

Zhang Xuan's mouth twitched and he was on the verge of tears.

Thirty-four million for a single painting and he sold four of it at two million each... Why is the world be so cruel to him?

"The Painter Guild has been established in the capital for less than thirty years, and it was only from then that the price of paintings had been on the rise. If it was thirty years ago, when no one held paintings in high regard, a painting of the fifth level would only be worth one or two million." The attendant said. "If it were any higher than that, no one would be willing to spend their money!"

"One or two million, thirty years ago?"

Zhang Xuan shook.

"That's right!" The attendant nodded.

After hearing the other party's verification, Zhang Xuan finally recovered, and his aching heart was soothed.

Tianxuan Kingdom was remote and there wasn't the presence of a Painter Guild. It seemed that what Huang Yu and the others reported to him was the thirty-year historical price, and two million... could already be considered as a huge sum for a painting of the fifth level then.

"Does Gongzi want to buy a painting of the fifth level?" The green-robed attendant looked at him. "Only our guild leader is capable of drawing a painting of the fifth level, but he had gone out half a month ago in search of inspiration and isn't back yet..."

"I am just making a casual inquiry..."

Suppressing his vexation, Zhang Xuan shook his head.

"That..."

Staring at Zhang Xuan, the attendant asked, "Then, gongzi... why don't you buy Ji Mo gongzi's Breeze by the Mountain and Stream? It is second level pinnacle and, not to mention, Ji gongzi's work. Its value will definitely rocket in the future!"

"Forget it!" Zhang Xuan shook his head. "I'm not here to buy paintings... Besides, it's just a painting of the second level. I'm not interested in it!"

"Just a painting of the second level? How arrogant!"

Before the green-robed attendant could reply to Zhang Xuan's words, a cold harrumph sounded. Lifting his head, Zhang Xuan saw Ji Mo gongzi staring coldly at him.

"Hm?"

Zhang Xuan didn't expect the other party to hear his words when he had already spoken so softly. Zhang Xuan replied with embarrassment, "I apologize, I was just speaking casually, so please do not be offended by my words!"

Every painting is created painstakingly and saying such words before a painter is indeed inappropriate.

"Hmph, do you think this can be settled with just an apology?"

Ji Mo gongzi flung his sleeves, and his eyebrows shot up, "This action of interrupting the auction and treating my painting with contempt, you are insulting the occupation and belittling all official painters!"

"Then... What do you think I should do?"

Zhang Xuan had only made a casual comment and had already apologized for his disrespect. Yet, the other party went on and claimed that he was insulting the occupation and him. Feeling helpless, Zhang Xuan shook his head.

"Simple, buy my painting at five million gold coins!"

Placing his hands behind his back, Ji Mo gongzi glanced at him impassively. "Don't worry, I won't take a single cent of that money. I'll donate all of it to build the Painter Hall so you can consider it as atonement for your mistake!"

"Five million gold coins?"

Zhang Xuan was stunned.

He had merely come to take a look, making a comment in passing, but the other party actually wanted to force a deal upon him. What a joke!

There are so many people who worship you present, can't you get them to buy it for you...

"Why? Are you unwilling to buy it?"

Ji Mo gongzi sneered coldly. Waving his hands casually, he said, "You can refuse, but you must apologize now and swear not to step into the guild ever again! Our Painter Guild doesn't welcome people like you!"

"Never step into the guild ever again?" Zhang Xuan was speechless.

Kindness doesn't beget kindness. Other people will simply take advantage of you.

It was just a casual comment and he had already made an apology, yet the other party refused to let the matter go.

"I can apologize, and never stepping into the Painter Guild is fine by me as well. In fact, I can even buy your painting for five million gold coins. However... Your painting has to be worth that price first!"

Zhang Xuan shook his head, "Do you think that this toy, which any apprentice painter can create, is worthy of that price?"

---

Xuan paper -> a kind of high quality paper.

.

.

.

Chapter 289: Painting Through a Savage Beast [3in1]

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: GaiaNove

After the uproar that Zhang Xuan created with the ladies, the crowd had cleared the area around him, causing him and the attendant to stand out with exceptional conspicuity.

While everyone was busy placing their bids, the two of them were chatting incessantly about something else, and upon witnessing this, Ji Mo gongzi felt displeased and disrespected. Then, when he listened carefully to their conversation, it turned out that they were belittling his work. How could he tolerate this? Thus, he bellowed at them immediately.

They were clearly challenging his prestige and authority.

He had thought that the other party would apologize immediately upon being questioned like that, but contrary to his expectations, the other party spoke such words in return.

A toy which any apprentice painter can create...

Becoming infuriated, his face turned crimson red immediately.

"What did you say?"

Clenching his fists tightly, a surge of power gushed out from him, causing the air in the surroundings to howl. He was actually a Pixue realm expert!

To be able to attain Pixue realm below twenty years of age, it seemed that this Ji Mi gongzi's talent in cultivation was no way inferior to his flair for painting.

The green-robed attendant didn't expect Zhang Xuan to say such words, and his face paled immediately.

Putting aside the fact that the Ji Clan was one of the Three Great Clans in the capital, this Ji gongzi himself was a highly respected 1-star painter with incredible rallying abilities. Provoking him like that... Wasn't that equivalent to courting death?

Angering the other party and receiving a beating were no big deals, but it was highly likely that Zhang Xuan would be banned from the Painter Guild. If so, he wouldn't be able to buy a single painting no matter how much money he offered.

"Gongzi, calm down. It's best that... you apologize and give in..."

He tugged on the clothes of the young man beside him involuntarily and sent a telepathic message.

After which, the young man before him nodded and spoke, "Oh, it's my mistake to say that any apprentice painter can create such a painting!"

"That's more like it..."

Hearing Zhang Xuan admit his mistake, the attendant was just about to heave a sigh of relief when he heard the second half of his words. His eyes shot upward and he nearly passed out from shock.

"... This is an insult to apprentice painters! Given the standard of this painting, even a random savage beast is able to do better than that! Five million you say? I won't even buy it for five gold coins!" Zhang Xuan uttered.

He didn't wish to cause trouble, but that didn't mean that he would allow anyone to climb all over his head.

Trying to take advantage of me? You must be joking!

It's already good enough that I'm not trying to take advantage of you.

While the other party was drawing, without using the Library of Heaven's Path, he was able to see seven to eight flaws with just his own judgment. He wouldn't want this mediocre drawing even if the other party were to give it to him for free. To pay for it... You must be pulling my leg!

Savage beast? Five gold coins?

Zhang Xuan spoke calmly and the crowd became tongue-tied, beginning to stare at him as if they were looking at a monster.

To insult a painter right at home in the Painter Guild, where did you get such confidence?

"You..."

Ji Mo gongzi was so angry that he nearly vomited blood.

Even a random savage beast would be able to do better than him... Won't buy it even for five gold coins...

The other party was clearly doubting his professionalism!

"Alright, there's nothing much to see about this clown. Let's go up and take a look at the other paintings!" Disregarding the infuriated Ji Mo, Zhang Xuan turned around impassively and prepared to leave.

Even though he had just arrived at Tianwu Kingdom and didn't possess any standing in the capital, he was someone who was about to take the master teacher examination and should carry a befitting disposition.

If the other party were to dare to say such words to him after he becomes a master teacher, he would lash him to death on the spot instead of wasting any breath on him!

This is the authority and power unique to a master teacher.

Master teachers mustn't be sullied, and those who dare to desecrate one has to die!

He was just a boastful painter and yet he dared to force a sale upon him. Zhang Xuan was already behaving very respectfully to him, having merely criticized his piece.

"Hold it right there!"

Seeing how that fellow intended to leave straight after humiliating him, Ji Mo gongzi's face warped in anger and he almost flew into a rage.

However, even though he was infuriated, he didn't lose his rationality. Taking a deep breath, he suppressed his anger and stared at Zhang Xuan coldly.

"Since you spoke so confidently, you must be rather confident in your knowledge of painting. Then, do you dare to compete with me?"

"Compete?"

"That's right! We'll start painting simultaneously and after we're done, we'll find someone to appraise our work. The person whose painting is superior and attains the higher level wins! The losing side will have to kneel down and apologize, and swear to never enter the Painter Guild ever again..."

Ji Mo gongzi's eyes were filled savagery, "How about it, do you dare to take on the challenge?"

"Start painting simultaneously? Find someone to appraise our work? Are you certain?"

Seeing how confident the other party was, Zhang Xuan shook his head.

He didn't mind competing with the other party. In any case, he had nothing else to do today apart from exploring the Painter Guild and, from the looks of it, the other party wouldn't let this matter slip if he were to reject his challenge.

"Why? Do you not dare to take me on?" Ji Mo gongzi sneered.

"That's not it, it's just that..." Placing his hands behind his back, Zhang Xuan looked at him with a helpless expression, "I'm afraid that... you'll cry!"

Gudong!

Everyone fell to the ground, the entire room falling into silence.

Huala!

Then, the entire room burst into an uproar.

"What in the world are you bragging about?"

"Ji Mo gongzi is an official painter! How dare a nobody like you spout such arrogant words!"

"Compete with him! Let him know the capability of a true master painter!"

...

The ladies present stared at Zhang Xuan furiously. With arms akimbo, each and every one of them felt a strong urge to tear Zhang Xuan into pieces.

We've seen arrogant people, but we've never seen such an arrogant person. You dare say that Ji Mo gongzi will cry?

Do you know who he is?

He is the first person in Tianwu Royal City to pass the painter examination before having reached twenty years of age, a person who possesses unparalleled talent in painting...

Afraid that he will cry?

Who do you think you are?

The guild leader of the Painter Guild?

"You..."

Ji Mo gongzi's body swayed, and blood nearly burst forth from his mouth.

The other party's words were way too vicious!

He knew that the more he quarreled with the other party, the more likely he would die from anger. Thus, he waved his hands and said, "Then let's not waste any time then, let our skills do the speaking!"

After which, as if he was afraid that the other party might back out, he turned around and issued instructions to an attendant behind him immediately.

The attendant then turned around and left, returning with two elders in no time.

"This is Vice Guild Leader Cheng and Vice Guild Leader Wu. They are 2-star grandmaster painters, so there shouldn't be a problem having them act as the judges, right?"

Hearing that the two were vice guild leaders, Zhang Xuan directed his attention to them immediately.

These two seemed to be around Master Lu Chen's age and snowy beards hung on their chins. Perhaps due to years of immersion in painting, both of them carried unique and refined dispositions.

"I'm fine with it!"

It made no difference to Zhang Xuan whoever the judge was. Thus, he nodded to indicate his approval.

"Do the two of you wish to compete?" Walking forward, Vice Guild Leader Cheng asked with a frown.

The attendant had explained to them about the conflict on their way here; a youngster of unknown background suddenly appeared and spoke arrogantly before Ji Mo, resulting in a conflict between them... The two vice guild leaders were curious to see how that youngster could be so confident.

"Yes!" Ji Mo gongzi bowed.

"May I ask from whom did you learn painting?"

Vice Guild Leader Cheng turned to Zhang Xuan and asked.

"I am acquainted with master and grandmaster painters in the thirteen surrounding kingdoms, so I might just happen to know your teacher!"

"I merely possess an interest in painting, I do not have a teacher!" Zhang Xuan said.

His understanding of painting came from books, so it was true that he did not have a teacher.

"An interest? Do not have a teacher?"

Both Vice Guild Leader Cheng and Vice Guild Leader Wu exchanged gazes, and they felt baffled at the situation.

Even though painting ranked among the lowest in the Nine Upper Paths, it was impossible to learn true skills without guidance from a teacher.

The other party dares to compete with a 1-star painter just because he is somewhat interested in painting?

Is he unaware of a master painter's capabilities, or did his arrogance blind his rationality?

"Painting is an elegant art and such a contest would be a breach of decorum. If the both of you have any arguments, it would be best to settle it privately. There's no need to settle it through a competition!"

After hesitating for a moment, Vice Guild Leader Wu tried to persuade the duo.

Painting is a refined activity, and using it for a competition is unbefitting of a refined painter.

"I beseech the two grandmasters to persuade us no further. Academics get to know each other through literature. On top of that, I believe that there's a need to uphold our pride as painters. This fellow dared to insult painting, if I do not have a showdown with him today, I will not be able to lying down!"

Before Zhang Xuan could speak, Ji Mo gongzi had already spoken up.

This fellow claimed that even apprentice painters and savage beasts could do better than him. If he didn't teach him a lesson today, his reputation would fall to the gutters, and he would be too embarrassed to meet anyone in the future.

"This..." Seeing that Ji Mo was adamant on the matter, the two vice guild leaders turned to Zhang Xuan, only to see him nod his head casually. "If he wishes to compete, so be it!"

"Alright then!"

Seeing that both parties had agreed to the competition and that it was impossible to persuade them otherwise, the two vice guild leaders could only agree to the matter. "Since the both of you have decided to compete with one another, we'll serve as judges then! The rules are simple; the time limit is two hours, and the person whose painting is at the higher level will be declared victorious! If both paintings are of the same level, the one who took the least time will be the winner."

There's nothing such as superior or inferior in art, and everyone has different tastes and interest. Thus, it is impossible to decide which artwork is 'superior' or 'inferior'.

However, since there were different levels to painting, they could use it as a benchmark to assess their painting skills objectively.

"Let's begin!"

With the rules set and no disagreements from both parties involved in the competition, a few apprentice painters began to lay out two tables with brushes, ink slabs, and paper.

"There are no restrictions to the topic, feel free to paint anything you desire to!"

Seeing that the both of them had taken their positions, Vice Guild Leader Wu said.

"Yes!"

Ji Mo gongzi nodded his head.

Since there were no restrictions, he could choose to paint what he was best at.

The mountains and streams that he drew before were not what he was good at. If he were to draw what he was the most adept in, he would surely be able to produce a painting of the third level.

He had just become a 1-star painter and was looking for an opportunity to increase his reputation when this fellow appeared from nowhere. The idiom 'delivering a pillow when one is craving for a nap' fitted the situation perfectly, Zhang Xuan's appearance was simply too timely!

Otherwise, Ji Mo wouldn't have gone to the extent of blowing the matter up.

"Alright, since there aren't any objections, you may begin now!"

Since the duo wasn't objectionable to the rules, Vice Guild Leader Wu waved his hands, gesturing for them to start.

"Alright!"

Ji Mo gongzi harrumphed coldly. With a swift movement, he picked up the brush, dipped it in the ink, and began drawing.

This time, in order to obtain a more convincing victory, he chose to use plenty of flamboyant techniques, winning him the loud cheers from the crowd.

"Do all of you think that Ji Mo gongzi will win?"

"Of course! Ji gongzi is the most talented painter in the younger generation. Even the guild leader has said that it is highly possible that he will take over his position in the future. How can he possibly lose to a countryside bumpkin?"

"That's true..."

"Un? Ji gongzi has already begun drawing, but why is that countryside bumpkin still standing idly? It can't be that his words are louder than his actions and that he doesn't know how to paint at all?"

"That may really be true... Look, he is totally motionless..."

Mesmerized by Ji Mo gongzi's graceful brush strokes, everyone had been discussing Ji Mo gongzi excitedly, and only at this moment did they realize that the youngster he was competing against was standing motionlessly on the spot, his expression seeming to indicate a dilemma within.

"Is there anything wrong? Do you have any problem that you find hard to voice out? Feel free to speak."

Seeing him in such a state, Vice Guild Leader Wu asked.

"Oh, it's like that..."

Zhang Xuan scratched his head in embarrassment, "I've been thinking about it. If I were to simply paint and win him like that, I would be bullying him. Since I claimed that even a savage beast can paint better than him, may I ask... are there any savage beasts here? Can I borrow one to use? Rest assured, after it's done with the painting... I'll return it to you!"

"What?"

"He intends to use a savage beast to... compete against Ji Mo gongzi?"

"The heck, surely I am hearing things!"

Everyone was dumbfounded, and they stared at the man as if he were a lunatic.

Even though savage beasts possess intelligence, it is insignificant in comparison to human thoughts. As such, it is impossible for a savage beast to be capable of painting.

Pitting a savage beast against an official painter in a painting contest...

How is that possible!

You must be pulling our legs!

Even if they weren't here, being able to see and hear it in person, they would have thought that the fellow was insane.

In fact, even though they were actually here in person witnessing the situation, they were doubting his sanity.

While everyone was just shocked, Ji Mo gongzi's body was already convulsing. Ten thousand imaginary divine beasts flew around his head and he nearly threw his brush at the other party's face.

Finding a savage beast to compete with him...

The heck, do you mean that I am not worthy of being your opponent?

He thought that he would be able to humiliate the other party once the results were out, but... the painting had barely started, and the other party's contempt had by now seared his skin.

If that fellow were to really win with a savage beast, doesn't that mean that I am inferior to a beast?

Even I win, it would only mean that I am better than a beast...

The heck!

Ji Mo gongzi felt blood welling up in his mouth and that he was about to break down.

"Cough cough, even though savage beasts possess intelligence, they are incapable of painting. Are you... certain of this?" Vice Guild Leader Wu was also astonished at the youngster's request. He couldn't help but ask him once more.

He had seen people request for a longer duration, better quality paper, a better standard of ink... Of all of these innumerable requests, he had never come across someone requesting for a savage beast!

Are you sure this isn't a joke?

"Yes, I am certain!"

Zhang Xuan nodded his head with a serious expression.

He could easily paint a fifth level work. If he were to take the painter examination, even if it wasn't sufficient for him to reach 3-star, he would be a 2-star pinnacle at the minimum.

With such a capability, for him to compete with a young fellow who had just passed the 1-star painter examination would be akin to bullying the weak.

Even if he were to win, it wouldn't be honorable!

However, even after he had affirmed his request, the other party didn't make a move. Therefore, Zhang Xuan asked, "Can it be that... there aren't any savage beasts here? Or is looking for a savage beast too difficult a request?"

After all, this is the Painter Guild, not the Beast Hall. Can it be that savage beasts are difficult to find in Tianwu Royal City?

"Difficult..."

Everyone staggered.

This isn't the main point at all!

The main point is... how can a savage beast be capable of drawing?

"Arrogant!"

While Vice Guild Leader Wu was at a loss, Vice Guild Leader Cheng's face darkened, and he flung his sleeves angrily.

He had immersed himself in painting for several decades now and he was well aware of the difficulty of this art. To wish to outdo an official painter at painting using a savage beast?

That was an incredibly arrogant thought.

Initially, he thought that this would be a valiant battle between two outstanding youths, but to think that the youngster before him would be such a conceited fellow!

"Why not... I go out and look around? I know of a wild savage beast in the vicinity..."

Recognizing the persisting awkwardness, the green-robed attendant hesitated for a moment before speaking up.

"Go on!"

Zhang Xuan gestured.

"Yes!" The green-robed attendant rushed out immediately and in a short while, came running back with a savage beast in his embrace.

Rather than a savage beast, it was more appropriate to call it an undomesticated animal. Similar to dogs and cats that households kept, it didn't possess any fighting prowess. Oblivious to the reason why it was brought here, it had a confused look on its face.

Upon receiving the savage beast, Zhang Xuan took a quick look at it. Even though he wasn't very satisfied, the competition had long begun, and there wasn't time for him to be picky.

"Time to try out the abilities of a poison master!"

With the savage beast in his embrace, Zhang Xuan thought.

As for why he dared to make such a bet with his opponent, in claiming that he would use a savage beast to create his painting, it wasn't because he was arrogant, but rather because he had aces up his sleeves.

Even if a savage beast is tamed, it is impossible for it to obey exactly the thoughts of its owner. If one desires to create a painting that surpasses the second level, he cannot place his hopes on something beyond his control. One has to have absolute control over the painting process.

As a 2-star beast tamer, it would have been impossible for him to control the actions of a savage beast precisely. However, after the trip to the Poison Hall, the situation had changed.

After ten days of studying in the Poison Hall, not only did Zhang Xuan manage to cultivate the Poison Body, his mastery of poison had also reached the level of a 2-star poison master.

More importantly, he had also gained an additional use for the Heaven's Path zhenqi. He is now able to convert it into tonic with a single thought and transform it into deadly poison with another.

The Heaven's Path zhenqi happened to be the ideal tool that allows him to control movements of a savage beast precisely using just his mind.

Stretching out his hands, he sent a surge of Heaven's Path zhenqi into the meridians of the savage beast that was in his embrace. Then, with a simple will, he distributed it into the various acupoints all over its body immediately.

"Time to start!"

Now that the preparations were in place, he had the savage beast roll around in the ink before casually throwing it onto the large piece of xuan paper.

"Is he really having the savage beast draw for him?"

"I would like to see what kind of painting he can create!"

"I've seen this savage beast and it does not possess any intelligence. What kind of painting can it possibly draw?"

...

Seeing that Zhang Xuan wasn't joking and that he had soaked the savage beast in ink and had it step onto the xuan paper, the crowd burst into an uproar.

To have a savage beast paint...

And win against an official painter?

Brother, are you daydreaming, or are you just pulling a prank?

"Preposterous!"

Vice Guild Leader Cheng's face steeled.

Painting is a respectable and refined occupation; to actually call a savage beast splashing ink around as painting is clearly an act of provocation.

He had decided to chase this fellow out the moment the competition ended.

He couldn't allow the art of painting to be insulted like that.

Feeling displeased within, he was glaring at Zhang Xuan in fury when Vice Guild Leader Wu's words rang beside his ear.

"Something is wrong. Cheng Feng, look!"

"What's wrong?" He turned around to look at his old friend, only to see him staring at the youngster's painting in bewilderment.

Frowning, Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng turned his head over as well, and with a single glance, he became stupefied.

"How... How is this possible?"

The savage beast on the xuan paper hesitated for a moment before beginning to saunter on the paper, leaving behind one plum flower after another in its wake.

There wasn't a specific pattern to those plum flower marks, but they went along a straight line and seemed as if they were held hanging by a formless vine.

Shouldn't an unintelligent savage beast, who was splashed with ink all over, run away the moment it was released? Why would it walk on the paper slowly without the slightest repetition in its footsteps?

"It's a type of beast taming technique!"

Vice Guild Leader Wu's voice sounded in his ears.

"That's right!"

Hearing his old friend's words, Cheng Feng came to a realization.

Not only did the savage beast not escape or run about, it walked in a straight line on the paper. This showed that it was listening to someone's orders, and to be able to get a savage beast to obey his commands immediately... It had to be an extremely advanced beast taming technique!

Can it be that... this extremely young fellow is a beast tamer?

"However, so what if he has the ability to tame a savage beast? No matter how neat these footsteps are, it isn't a painting. Naturally, it is impossible for it to reach the level of Reality Depiction and, not to mention, Spiritual Canvas."

Cheng Feng was surprised but he shook his head nevertheless.

Even though Reality Depiction was merely the first level of painting, countless apprentices and painting fanatics had to be locked out from its gates for several years, and sometimes, even several decades before it could be achieved.

So what if that youngster can control movements of a savage beast using techniques belonging to beast tamers?

Savage beasts being savage beasts, it is impossible for them to devote any emotion or artistic conception to the painting. It is just like controlling a puppet, it is impossible to instill spirit into the work!

"You're right!" Vice Guild Leader nodded in agreement.

He was also curious what the fellow was up to.

Padah!

Just as they were pondering what kind of painting the youngster would show them, the savage beast, which was advancing on the xuan paper, fell down abruptly and the ink on its body blotted an area of the paper black.

"Seems like we had been overthinking..."

Initially, the plum blossoms that the savage beast created with its footstep looked satisfactory, appearing to be a proper piece of painting. Even though Cheng Feng didn't think that the youngster could achieve much with the savage beast, it was nonetheless a novelty. However, with the fall, the entire painting was ruined immediately.

That was to say... the painting had been turned into scrap.

"Indeed, how is it possible that a savage beast can create a painting?" Cheng Feng harrumphed.

"You're right!" Vice Guild Leader Wu agreed.

Shaking their heads, they chose to ignore this attention-seeking fellow and turned to Ji Mo gongzi instead.

As expected of a genius. Even though he was infuriated just a moment ago, he hadn't allowed those emotions to interfere with his painting. With swift brushstrokes, the outline of the painting was already in sight.

It was a peony that stood proudly amidst a cluster of flowers. It carried a powerful disposition which made the other flowers pale in comparison, resembling a monarch.

"The King of Flowers is the peony, and his painting has brought out the refined and prideful nature of the peony that causes surrounding floras to bow in deference. His painting will probably attain the third level, Infused Intentions, the moment it is completed!"

Cheng Feng's eyes lit up.

"That's right. Ji Mo is indeed a promising bud. As long as we do a good job grooming him, we might have a legendary figure emerge in our guild!"

Vice Guild Master Wu nodded in agreement.

As 2-star painters, they were well-versed in paintings. Although Ji Mo gongzi's work had yet to be completed, they were nevertheless able to tell a thing or two just from its outline.

This painting was clearly of a much higher grade than that of the Breeze By the Mountain and Stream, the conception behind the painting being at a much higher level as well. As long as there weren't any large deviations, it would surely reach the level of Infused Intentions.

Even if it were the most basic standard under Infused Intentions, to be able to create a painting of the third level despite having just become a 1-star painter showed that Ji Mo gongzi was indeed talented.

"Look, Ji Mo gongzi's painting is about to be done..."

"What a beautiful peony, I like this painting!"

"This is too beautiful..."

...

The two vice guild leaders were still conversing when Ji Mo gongzi had already begun the final touches on his painting. His brush flew about the xuan paper, and an alluring peony appeared before everyone's eyes.

Hu!

Then, with a light jerk of his hands, the last stroke was completed.

Huala!

The moment the painting was completed, a sweet scent of flowers struck everyone's nose, as if they had stepped into a garden of flowers. A single peony stood out proudly from amidst the crowd, outshining every single other surrounding flora.

"This is a painting of the third level!"

"It has reached the level of Infused Intentions, incredible!"

"I've already said so, how can Ji Mo gongzi possibly lose..."

...

Most of the people present were either here to purchase paintings or were a fan of Ji Mo, and naturally, would have some understanding of paintings as well. They might not have been able to estimate the level of the painting when he was still working on it, but the effects that occurred upon completion allowed them to recognize it immediately.

Even a 1-star painter would be incapable of producing a painting of the level of Infused Intentions every single time he paints.

It was even rarer to see one being created in a public setting and, furthermore, in a competition.

"I've completed my painting!"

Throwing his brush aside, Ji Mo gongzi looked at his completed work and nodded in satisfaction.

The best way to win a lady's fancy was to paint flowers. The peony was the king of the flowers, so he spent a huge effort to practice it. He might not be able to ensure that any other of his works would be able to reach the third level, but he had practiced painting this for more than a thousand times. If he were to paint it, nine out of ten times, it would be a painting of Infused Intentions.

Clearly, it didn't disappoint him this time as well, having reached the level he desired.

Even some 1-star painters who had immersed themselves in painting for more than a decade would find it hard to produce a painting of the third level. To have produced a painting of this level so easily despite just becoming a 1-star painter, regardless of the duel's outcome, his goal of making a name for himself had already been accomplished.

"You acted so arrogantly just now, let's see what you are capable of painting."

Harrumphing coldly, Mo Ji put down his artwork and turned toward Zhang Xuan.

At this moment, the savage beast finally jumped off the xuan paper.

Because the savage beast was soaked with excessive ink, the painting, from the plum blossom footsteps which the savage beast imprinted, to the blotch caused by its fall, was smudged heavily. Even until now, the ink had yet to dry and the entire piece was glistening with ink water.

Especially for the patch which was created due to the fall earlier, because of the savage beast's tough fur, a chaotic mess was created.

"Is this the savage beast painting you spoke of? Haha! How hilarious!"

Ji Mo gongzi nearly laughed his lower jaw off.

He thought that since the other party acted so high and mighty just now, he would really be able to create some impressive painting through a savage beast. Yet, to think that this was all he was capable of...

Do you call this a painting?

Even random flinging of ink onto a paper would be much better than this!

"What nonsense is he painting? To dare to compete with Ji gongzi, he sure is laughable!"

"If you call this a painting, won't I be considered a painter as well?"

"Ignorant fellow, let's see how you embarrass yourself later on!"

Hearing Ji Mo's laughter, the crowd turned their gazes to Zhang Xuan, and a scornful expression appeared on their faces.

Can the random spilling of ink be considered a painting?

What a joke!

"Are you done with your... painting?"

Lifting his hand to interrupt the crowd's discussion, Vice Guild Leader Wu turned to look at Zhang Xuan.

"Un, I'm almost done..."

At this point, Zhang Xuan heaved a sigh of relief.

If someone were to pay careful attention, the person would notice that his body was trembling and that his face had become pale.

After browsing through books on poison in the Poison Hall, Zhang Xuan had gained the ability to convert the Heaven's Path zhenqi into tonic or poison with a single thought.

He had been secretly controlling the savage beast using the zhenqi he left inside its body, making it behave as he desired on the paper. Even though it had only been ten minutes or so, it was sufficient to wear out his spirit, sending him into a state of weakness.

"Seems like my cultivation is still too weak..."

Zhang Xuan lamented. Taking a deep breath, he started to pump his zhenqi to rejuvenate his body.

He had been converting the zhenqi he deposited in the savage beast into either poison or tonic to stimulate its acupoints, so as to induce the savage beast to act the way he intended. Even though it sounded simple, it had a high requirement on one's Soul Depth.

If not for Zhang Xuan's Soul Depth exceeding 5.0, it would have been an impossible task.

But more importantly, the savage beast was of an extremely low tier, making it easy to manipulate. If it were any stronger savage beast, given Zhang Xuan's current cultivation, it would have been an impossible task to manipulate them.

"Almost done?"

Disappointment surfaced on Vice Guild Leader Wu's face.

He was wondering what formidable painting the youngster could create, but to think that this would just be it...

"Alright, since Ji Mo's painting is completed, and this youngster's painting is roughly done, let's just announce the results right away!"

Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng said.

"Alright!"

Vice Guild Leader Wu nodded. Pointing to Ji Mo gongzi's work, he appraised, "Painter Ji's peony creates ripples in the surrounding spiritual energy and it has a deep artistic conception. Undoubtedly, it has reached the third level of painting, Infused Intentions."

After which, he turned to Zhang Xuan's work and said, "As for this painting, I am unable to understand its meaning. In my opinion... it is nothing at all..."

After hesitating for a moment, Vice Guild Leader Wu continued, "Thus, my verdict is that... it is Painter Ji's victory!"

"I share the same opinion as Vice Guild Leader Wu!"

Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng nodded in agreement.

"I've won..."

Hearing the results from the judges, Ji Mo gongzi turned to Zhang Xuan and sneered, "Since the results are out, are you going to kneel down and then scram on your own two feets, or do you want me to break your legs before throwing you out of the Painter Guild?"

Before the competition, they had decided to have the loser kneel down and apologize to the other party before leaving the Painter Guild, never to return.

Now that Zhang Xuan had lost, how could he simply allow this matter to slip by?

"This..."

Seeing the savage expression on Ji Mo's face as he pressurized Zhang Xuan, the two vice guild leaders glanced at each another. Initially, they had intended to mediate between the two, but eventually, they simply shook their heads and chose to stay out of this matter.

This foreign lad had shown blatant disrespect for painting by having a savage beast paint in his stead, and the both of them thought that he should be taught a lesson. Otherwise, wouldn't it signify there are no consequences for desecrating the Painter Guild?

"Ah? You've made a verdict just like that?"

After resting for a moment, Zhang Xuan finally regained some strength. Upon hearing Ji Mo gongzi's gleeful words, he lifted his head.

"Why? Do you refuse to acknowledge the verdict by the two vice guild leaders?"

Ji Mo harrumphed coldly.

"The two vice guild leaders are 2-star painters and I believe in their eye for painting. Just that... I had only mentioned that my work was almost done, I have never said that it was done..."

Zhang Xuan shook his head.

"Are you claiming that your work is incomplete? What do you want to do then? Do you intend to lift your brush and continue painting?"

Ji Mo gongzi was taken aback.

"Since I said that this is a savage beast painting, naturally, I won't use my brush. Just that, this painting is still lacking one final step..."

Zhang Xuan smiled.

"One final step?"

The entire crowd was startled.

The painting that you created through the savage beast is such rubbish, do you think that adding some final touches will make any difference?

Under the situation that you aren't going to use the brush, do you think that the conclusion can really be changed?

"I think that he's just unwilling to admit defeat!"

"To be bragging despite the fact that he has lost, how can there be such a person in the world!"

"Shameless!"

Everyone began to clamor and looks of disgust fell on Zhang Xuan from all around.

Weren't you behaving very arrogantly?

You're already nearing your end, why are you still putting on an act?

Even Vice Guild Leader Cheng and Vice Guild Leader Wu were perplexed.

It is just a layer of ink water on top of the paper. Without using a brush, is there really a way to turn it into a painting?

"You say that there's a final step before its completion. Fine, let's see what you have to say after this then!"

Ji Mo gongzi laughed coldly.

"Alright, I'll start then!"

Disregarding the commotion around him, Zhang Xuan walked up to the painting, grabbed the xuan paper by the corner and gave it a gentle shake.

Hualala!

The ink water on the surface of the painting flowed down, dyeing the entire painting.

"Alright, I've completed my final step!"

Placing the xuan paper back on the table casually, Zhang Xuan smiled.

"That's all?"

Everyone was taken aback. They thought that the youngster's final step would be some incredible move, but to think that it would be just a gentle shake. For a moment, they were completely dumbfounded.

"Wait, something's not right... look!"

Just as they were wondering what that fellow was up to, a person from the crowd suddenly shouted.

Upon hearing the voice, Vice Guild Leader Cheng and Vice Guild Leader Wu turned to look at the xuan paper. Instantly, their bodies began to tremble uncontrollably, with their faces turning pale and their eyes widening.

A moment later, words of disbelief escaped through their mouth.

"How... how... is this possible?"

.

.

.

Chapter 290: A Draw?

Translator:StarveCleric

Editor:GaiaNova

With a gentle shake from Zhang Xuan, the ink on the xuan paper flowed down. The many footsteps left behind by the savage beast were linked together by a dark stroke, forming a painting of haughty and unyielding plum blossoms.

The portion where the ink flowed through formed a black dry tree bark, on which, plum blossoms bloomed sporadically. Looking rather desolate from afar, one could feel bone-chilling intent from the painting, as if the bitter winter had struck.

The location where the savage beast fell formed two glaring boulders, and the marks left behind by its fur formed ridges of differing depths on the surface of the boulder.

Plum blossoms grew from the crevices within the boulders, standing proudly in the frigid weather. Ji Mo gongzi made use of a field of flowers to accentuate the nobility of the peony. On the other hand, these plum blossoms didn't have any other flowers to compare to, but one couldn't help but sense its haughtiness, with nothing that dared to vie with it, that there was no one that did not fear to stand beside it.

Even without the intention to vie for supremacy, it was able to surpass the radiance of all other flowers.

Upon seeing this flower, one could almost see the painter standing lonelily by the edge of the world. So what if they disregard me? So what if they don't understand me? All I desire is to stand proud and remain true to my conscience!

"I... Why am I crying?"

"I feel as though I saw a man uncomprehended by the world, but even so, he continued to step forward bravely, without the slightest intention to retreat!"

"Is this... the third level of painting, Infused Intentions?"

"That must be it! Otherwise, it is impossible for our emotions to resonate with it with just a single glance..."

...

The surroundings fell silent.

In that moment, many people's emotions were influenced by the desolate mood in the painting, and their eyes reddened in agitation.

A painting with high artistic conception is able to influence the state of mind in its viewers. Clearly, this painting is one such masterpiece.

"A painting that was drawn by a savage beast... has reached the third level, Infused Intentions?"

Seeing the crowd being influenced by the desolate beauty of the winter plum blossoms, Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng's mouth quivered, and his body trembled.

Since others were able to tell the level of the painting, naturally, he did so quickly. With just a shake of the painting, the other party was able to turn a nothing into a masterpiece. Not only was the spirit of the painting overwhelming, its artistic conception shone through in an instant.

Even they, as 2-star painters, would need a long period of preparation before they can create a painting of such level.

Yet, for a savage beast to create such a painting by walking a few steps, rolling about, followed by a mere shake...

Even though it happened right before their eyes, they nevertheless couldn't help but suspect that it was a dream.

It was inconceivable.

"The crux to the painting is that final shake!"

Vice Guild Leader Wu contemplated for a moment before saying, "How much ink is left on the xuan paper, how one should shake it, and how much force should one use, one has to take all of these into account to determine the flow of the ink to form the tree branch to finish the painting... One has to imprint and remember all of these details perfectly into mind before one can create this painting. Even the slightest error could spell failure!"

"Indeed. It may seem simple, but it is actually a profound movement. With different ink and paper, the effects would be different. To be able to reach such a state with a mere shake, his eye of discernment and mastery of painting... Even I would be unable to do it..."

Even though he was reluctant to admit it, Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng nodded in agreement.

Previously, it was the savage beast who was in charge of painting; the youngster didn't do anything at all. However, the most important part of the painting was the final shake. It was just like adding the eyes to a painted dragon; with the slightest error, the result would be completely different. If not for Zhang Xuan's perfect control over the final shake, this painting of the third level would be nothing at all.

And for him to find the ideal strength and method to shake off the ink on the painting...

This meant that he had absolute control over the painting! He knew what the product would be, and what level it would reach...

This required a profound understanding of painting! For one to picture what the complete painting would be like down to the minor details... Even their guild leader, a 3-star painter, would be incapable of such a feat!

"This... impossible..."

Upon witnessing the stalk of plum blossoms appear with the shake, Ji Mo gongzi, who was gleefully waiting for Zhang Xuan to make a fool of himself, staggered backward in shock. His face paled and looked as if he were going insane.

The other party had just randomly dipped a savage beast into a pool of ink and threw it on a xuan paper, and it became a painting of the third level...

When did a painting of the third level become so easy to create?

He had worked so hard, to the point that he almost vomited blood, just so that he could refine his painting to reach this level. Yet, the other party easily...

It can't be that my talents are inferior to a savage beast?

The green-robed attendant who had brought Zhang Xuan in was also yanking at his ears. If not for the inappropriate occasion, he would have gone on a rampage by now.

As an attendant of the Painter Guild, he earned a mere several thousand gold coins a month, and even at best, his wages would only reach ten thousand. Yet, the other party was able to create a painting which was worth several million just by throwing a savage beast on a paper....

The heck!

Why was he working so hard then! If he were to capture the savage beast to draw for him, wouldn't he have long become a millionaire?

The numerous apprentices who carried the tables before also felt tears welling up in their eyes.

Of them, there were those who had spent more than a decade on painting, but even so, their painting could only reach the level of Reality Depiction at best. Spiritual Canvas and Infused Intentions were way out of their reach, and they didn't dare to think about it.

Seeing a savage beast produce a better painting that they could, in that instant, they felt that all of their hard work in the past few years had been... completely useless.

It was already a miracle that they didn't break down on the spot.

"The two vice guild leaders, may I know whether it is my victory or my loss with this painting?" Seeing the painting take the shape as he had planned, Zhang Xuan turned to the two elders with a smile.

It was just as the two vice guild leaders thought, the crux to the painting was his final shake.

Even if he was able to control the savage beast perfectly, how could this create a painting of the third level?

In order to turn the ink-filled paper into a complete painting with his final shake, he had to make use of the ability of the Library of Heaven's Path to avoid all mistakes.

Since there were no mistakes in his movements, it had to be correct.

The timing, the strength, the shaking method, grasping the paper... All of these had to be paid attention to. A single error would cause the entire painting to fall apart.

It was fortunate that he succeeded.

"This..."

The two vice guild leaders glanced at one another.

"Your Winter Plum Blossoms Painting and Painter Ji's Peony Painting have both reached the third level. Even though the two paintings are of completely different style, they are both on the same level. Thus, I announce that..." Hesitating for a moment, Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng declared, "... it is a draw!"

"Draw?"

Zhang Xuan shook his head, although he had expected such a situation.

In terms of quality, his painting was clearly of a much higher standard than Ji Mo gongzi's Peony Painting. However, as their competition had a wager at stake, and the latter would be a future elite of the Painter Guild if he were declared to be the loser, wouldn't that mean that he has to kneel down, apologize, and leave the guild for good?

If that really happened, they would have to lose a valuable talent.

Declaring that it was a draw could avoid offending any of the two parties. In a sense, it was the perfect conclusion.

Of course, this Ji Mo gongzi wouldn't appear as dashing as he was before. Even though it was a draw, it was with a savage beast. In other words, he was no different from a beast... No matter where he went, people would definitely be gossiping about him.

Even so, Zhang Xuan was indifferent to his plight. The other party had it coming.

"A draw? To think that it would be a draw!"

"This is for the best..."

"That's right, it's best not to sully the harmonious spirit among fellow painters..."

...

Hearing the verdict, the crowd broke into a commotion.

"That's good. The two of you are genius painters, so you both should try to get along..."

After the declaration, Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng smiled in an attempt to mediate the conflict. However, Ji Mo gongzi took a deep breath and stepped forward. "Vice guild leaders, hold it for a moment!"

The crowd immediately turned to look at him.

"Everyone has seen the painting just now. The crux of the painting lies in his final shake. If not for that, it wouldn't even reach Reality Depiction, needless to say, Infused Intentions!"

Ji Mo gongzi turned to look at Zhang Xuan and sneered coldly, "That's to say, his drawing was completed with the effort of a human and a beast. It was only with a combined effort from them that they were able to match up to my standard, so how can he be worthy of becoming my equal?"

Everyone was taken aback.

It was obvious that having a savage beast in a painting process would only drag one down. To be capable of creating a painting of Infused Intentions under such circumstances bore testimony to the incredible painting mastery that the other party possessed.

This fact couldn't be any clearer on everyone's mind, yet he dared to spout such words. He has truly thrown away his dignity for this competition.

But even so, there was a sliver of truth to his words. It was indeed a collaboration between Zhang Xuan and the savage beast!

Since this was a competition between Zhang Xuan and Ji Mo, there should just be a single person painting. No one else should be allowed to touch the painting; even a single word of guidance cannot be accepted.

The plum blossoms by the savage beast's footsteps and the tree bark from Zhang Xuan's shake... These two were essential to forming this art piece, and without any of them, it would have been incomplete.

Given that this was a collaboration work against an individual, it was indeed... an infringement of fairness.

"Oh, so you mean that..."

Seeing how shameless the other party was, Zhang Xuan didn't get angry. Instead, he turned to gaze at the person squarely.

"Simple, I've won this competition. Since you have only managed to reach my standard through a collaboration, your skills can only be said to be inferior to mine!" Ji Mo gongzi smiled coldly.

"Painter Ji, a draw isn't a bad conclusion either..."

Not expecting the other party to be so lacking in sportsmanship, Vice Guild Leader Wu felt rather displeased.

Can a savage beast really know how to paint?

It is clearly that it was through the sole efforts of the painter that a painting of such quality could be created.

Even though it could be said to be a collaboration by a human and a beast, it was due to the incredible painting mastery of this youngster that this painting could reach such a level. We are already giving you leeway to back down by declaring a draw, yet you don't know how to be contented?

Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng was also incensed by the other party's actions. Just as he was about to speak up, Zhang Xuan shook his hands casually and looked over with a faint smile, "Ji gongzi's words make sense. Since you believe that this is a collaboration between me and the savage beast, we'll take it as that. However, since you don't consider this a draw, I would like to ask... under what kind of circumstances will you be willing to admit defeat?"

"Want me to admit defeat?"

Ji Mo gongzi sneered coldly, "I am a fair person, so I will not use your collaboration as a reason to proclaim my victory. If your painting had reached the fourth level of Breathtaking Verisimilitude, I would have admitted my defeat immediately. However, it's a pity... that it isn't! Given that your collaboration has barely reached my level, how can I consider this a draw?"

"Your words are logical, I can't find any words to refute them!" Zhang Xuan didn't seem to be vexed by the other party's words. Instead, he shook his head with a smile.

"Since you've nothing to say, just admit defeat..."

Ji Mo gongzi's eyes shone brightly. Just as he was about to continue speaking, the edges of the lips of the youngster before him curled up, and he looked at him pitifully, "Are you that certain that... this painting has only reached the third level?"

"What do you mean?"

Ji Mo gongzi glanced at the xuan paper on the table. As it was just a moment ago that the painting had been completed, the ink on it had yet to dry. The painting was outstanding, but it was clear that it had only reached the third level. Thus, he sneered coldly, "Stop putting on an act here. If you wish to admit defeat, hurry up. Even if you were to argue about it the entire day, it's impossible for the painting to reach the fourth level..."

"That might not necessarily be the case..."

Zhang Xuan calmly turned around and said, "Vice Guild Leader Wu, I've something which I need to trouble you with!"

"Feel free to speak!" Vice Guild Leader Wu nodded.

"May I know if there are any fire torches in the guild? May I borrow one?" Zhang Xuan asked.

The Painter Guild used Night Illumination Pearls as the source of light for its interiors. Its radiance was gentle as bright as the morning sky.

But despite the brightness, it didn't provide any warmth. Furthermore, it was in the middle of the autumn, and the room was slightly cold. As everyone present was a cultivator, they didn't pay the matter any heed.

"There is!"

Vice Guild Leader Wu glanced at the youngster doubtfully for a moment before waving his hands. An apprentice stepped out from the room, and soon, returned with a fire torch in his hands.

"Bring it to the painting to warm it!" Instead of receiving the fire torch, Zhang Xuan instructed the apprentice.

"Yes!"

The apprentice glanced at Vice Guild Leader Wu, and upon seeing him nod, walked to the Winter Plum Blossoms Painting.

Under the heat of the fire, the wet ink began to coagulate.

Hong long!

Under the warmth of the torch, a change occurred in the ink, inducing a vastly different sensation in the painting from before.

A slight trace of white appeared in the four corners of the inky black flower buds, as though the flower was beginning to bloom. For a moment, the crowd could smell the aroma of plum blossoms in the air.

Wu wu wu!

A few butterflies flew into the room from nowhere and landed on the painting, as if they were attracted by the aroma of flowers, then lingering on the surface for an extremely long time.

"Is this... Breathtaking Verisimilitude?"

"How is this possible?"

...

Everyone's body shuddered. They felt that they were about to go insane.

Before the ink dried, it was clearly only at the level of Infused Intentions. Yet, the moment it dried, it became a fourth level painting. How did this situation happen?

However, if the painting hadn't reached the level of Breathtaking Verisimilitude, how could those butterflies be attracted to it? And how could they catch the faint aroma of plum blossoms in the air?

Deng deng deng deng!

Ji Mo gongzi staggered backward with a pale face.

He had just claimed that he would admit defeat if the other party's painting reached the fourth level, and never in his dreams did he expect that it would become one the moment it was dried with a burning torch...

Are you for real?

He has examined the painting multiple times to ascertain that it was only at Infused Intentions. How could the heat from a fire torch raise, so easily, the level of the painting?

"This can't be true... You must have cheated!"

Shaking his head vehemently, he was unable to believe the sight before him. He howled in a frenzy.

"Cheated?"

Zhang Xuan shook his head. His gaze swept through the surroundings and finally, fell on Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng. "Vice guild leader, are you able to tell the reason?"

"I can roughly see a thing or two, but I'm unsure whether my judgment is correct!"

With a grim face, Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng spoke of his conjecture, "The savage beast which did the painting just now is known as the Verdant Alacrity Beast, and it likes to build its nest in the mud. On the other hand, our ink originates from the Black Inkstone and mud carries substances that neutralize the Black Inkstone. That's why, upon the heat of the fire torch, the color of the ink became lighter."

"The Verdant Alacrity Beast that was brought here is likely to have just been caught, so there are traces of mud still on its body. The mud is mixed into the ink ground from the Black Inkstone, and after some heating, the effects were displayed immediately, creating the sight of the flowers blooming, thus... inducing a rise in the level of the painting!"

"To be able to do this requires a profound understanding of beast taming, as well as the properties of the various materials. You..."

At this point, Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng stared at Zhang Xuan with eyes filled with disbelief.

The sight before seemed magical; a painting of the third level was brought up by an entire level just using the heat from a torch. However, it was actually a fusion of numerous knowledge to create that exact outcome.

In fact, even without the heat of the torch, this painting would automatically rise to the level of Breathtaking Verisimilitude in a day's time.

And to do this, one has to have a deep understanding of beast taming, the properties of the substances involved... And numerous other matters. Everything must be fully within grasp, and this youngster who hasn't even reached twenty yet has managed to achieve this...

The heck!

Is it the world that's mad, or have I gone mad?